A washed and waxed car

When my husband and I were dating he often borrowed my car, since his sixteen-year-old “tank” was unreliable and not air-conditioned. I’ll never forget the afternoon he “borrowed” it to take to a friend’s house for a wash and wax. He even vacuumed out the inside! This small act of service was a precious gift for a girl who values a clean car but rarely has time to wash it. Acts of service require a keen eye and a servant’s heart. Is there a chore in particular that your beloved has neglected due to lack of time or inclination? Do it for them, thoroughly and in secret, and you will find their undying gratitude in return for your labors.

Ideas for Gifts of Service: Washing dirty laundry, dusting, washing dishes, cooking, vacuuming, ironing… The list goes on and on and on…

Cost: $0-$5 Depending upon cleaning supplies, laundromat charges, car wash price, etc.

ticklefight!

Gifts of affection are of highest value for my husband and me. I love that I married a “cuddler.” I treasure crawling back into bed with my husband for five minutes in the morning just before I leave for work. I love giving him a back rub or foot massage after he has had a stressful day. These acts of affection communicate volumes of tenderness and attraction. And we’ve quickly learned that nothing ends a small argument faster than an all-out tickle war.

Ideas for Gifts of Physical Affection: These need not be limited to hugs and kisses, Tickling and other playful touch, back rubs, foot massages, even good old-fashioned hand holding are all gifts that you can give your loved one. Slowly, gently brush your beloved’s hair. A bottle of lightly scented massage oil or lotion makes a great accompaniment.

Cost: $0 -15 (For lotion or massage oil.)

Material Gifts

These items are what you most likely envisioned when you caught sight of this article’s title. Yet the experienced giver knows that finding a material gift is not as simple as just going to the store and selecting something. This category involves as much (if not more) creativity as the other four. The sentimental meaning attached to certain objects is what makes material gifts so special.

Ideas for Material Gifts: Give your love a copy of O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi (first read it yourself if you have not already.) Write them a special note on the inside of the cover. Express your desire to give them things not as an end in itself, but a means of sharing your deep love for them.

Cost: $6-15

Remember that a little bit of creativity and time often go further than a lot of money. Good luck as you seek to give your sweetheart gifts with meaning, gifts that symbolize the special love that you share.