Looking for gift ideas

[Sib2of11]

My aunt will be 80 years old and we're planning a huge family party next month. I'm looking for suggestions for birthday gifts. My aunt lives alone, and I'm sure she doesn't want to be cluttering up her apartment with "things".

I thought of a couple of things that would make good gifts....phone card (700 minutes for $20) or a gift certificate for a favorite store, but I can't think of anything else that would work. Any ideas?

[spasmo]

You might consider flowers or a gift certificate to a nice restraurant.

[geniann]

I guess I would suggest instant gratification things-like preparing a nice meal for her (on another day, say when it is gloomy out)- or a nice pedicure( if she would enjoy that). Personalized items are nice too- like a blanket with her name on it, or a nice photo of the two of you in a nice frame. Just my :twocents: Happy birthday to her!!!! She is lucky to have someone like you who cares so much!

[Charger]

I sent my aunt a rhinestone tiara and a purple boa on her 90th birthday! She loved it!!! Have fun! *party*

[spasmo]

I sent my aunt a rhinestone tiara and a purple boa on her 90th birthday! She loved it!!! Have fun! *party*

I LOVE IT! That is something that most people wont buy themselves and it will be somthing that her friends wont have and she will have LOTS of fun showing it off! Great idea Charger!

[Louisianagal]

How about a nice gown and slippers. That would be practical. However I do love the tiara idea. That would make her feel special and beautiful.

[Mykhal Jaems]

When I read the post about the tiara I thought I was reading Anna's post, that is so her. :)

What about a simple beaded bracelet or earrings. She probably has all the jewelry she needs but when someone compliments her on it, she can smile and say proudly, 'yes, it is pretty, my niece gave it to me for my birthday.'

[Autumn Moon]

When I read the post about the tiara I thought I was reading Anna's post, that is so her. :)
'
I thought the same thing.....sounds like Anna....


How about taking some time to take her out for a little while, go get her hair and nails done, take her out for lunch/dinner etc. Sometimes just spending some time together is 'priceless'.
Not to get morbid...but..a few years back, we celebrated our parents' 70th birthdays with a huge dinner with friends and family. I live out of town so I tried to talk to all the relatives. I did manage to talk to one particular aunt for about 15 minutes. Not even a week later, that aunt very suddenly passed away. I was so glad I had that chance to spend a bit time with her.
So put some 'time' thought into your gift. If it's not possible to spend time with her, I think a phone card with your number (and maybe the best time to call) included is the next best thing...and make sure you call her on her special day!
Autumn

[Sib2of11]

These are all great ideas. My siblings and I are close to this Aunt. She's my late father's only remaining family member and we see her often even though she lives in a different State. She is coming to RI because she's been invited to a family get together, but she doesn't know it's for her own birthday. Her birthday is in July, but the party is in June. Shhhh, don't tell LOL .

I love the month of August, because every August she rents the same summer cottage here in RI, so we get to spend lots of time with her. She also visits several times a year.

I think I'll definitely get her a phone card, but I'll mull over these suggestions because I also want to get her something nice.

Thanks everyone for the suggestions.

[spasmo]

A tiara goes with everything... no matter what else you decide to do, I DEFINATELY vote for a tiara! I have let several people borrow mine... and they ALWAYS enjoy it (and I am always relieved to get it back)!

Whooppeeee!!!!