Since I am being contacted to share specific posts from other weblogs, such as this one from summernannyjobs.com, I am happy to re-post the below article in the interest of my readers. I hope you enjoy it and are looking forward to a fun-filled summer! “As summer approaches, the party invites will begin to appear. The first major celebration of the season is generally an Independence Day bash, and you want to make sure you show up with an appropriate gift for the hostess. Finding a great gift doesn’t have to be a chore, though. Consider who your hostess is, and the things she likes or things in which she is interested. If you know your hostess fairly well, you will probably be able to decide on a gift she would enjoy without much fuss. No matter who your hostess is, though, there are some gifts that are sure to be appreciated.” Gift Basket – Remember the fun things you played with as a child on the 4th of July? Fill a basket with sparklers, firecrackers, noise makers and other fun things of past Independence Day celebrations. You may also want to assemble a basket filled with snack items, or wine and high-end beers if your hostess occasionally imbibes. If you decide to create one yourself, think about using patriotic colors and items that are red, white and blue. Spices and Marinades – Consider an array of unique spices that would beef up a barbecue. There are many types of sauces, marinades and meat rubs that the hostess who loves to grill would enjoy trying. You don’t necessarily need to go to a gourmet store to assemble a tasty collection, either. Larger grocery stores usually have a wide selection of specialty spices, sauces and marinades to choose from. Grilling Cookbook – Many cookbooks on grilling have recipes that you wouldn’t normally think of using. If your hostess is one who loves to experiment with cooking, look for a book that goes beyond the usual fare. Choose one that has mouth-watering photographs, wrap it in red white or blue and tuck a little flag in the bow. Flowering Plant– This time of year should provide a vast selection of pretty plants for your hostess. If you know her favorite color, you can choose a plant with flowers in that color. The nice thing about a plant is that it will last longer than cut flowers, and if your hostess has a green thumb, it will be a gift that she will appreciate for a while to come. If the flowering plants don’t grab you, there are a variety of beautiful green plants available, including vines, cacti, ferns and small trees. Yard Art – Your hostess may enjoy a cute little statue to go in the garden or maybe a banner to go on the porch. There are so many interesting things to choose from. Take your hostess’ personality into account when you are choosing the piece you will give her. She may like a soft wind chime or a sun catcher. Keep her tastes in mind and you’re sure to have a hit on your hands. Playing Cards – If your hostess enjoys a good game of cards, this will make a perfect gift. Some specialty shops may even have cards that have a patriotic flair to them. Consider getting a couple of sets, one to use at the party and one to use later. Dessert in a Gifted Dish – Guests usually bring their donation to the party in disposable dishes, or their own dishes which they end up taking home – or forgetting and picking up later. Consider purchasing a pretty dish to make or put a dessert in. You will be contributing to the party and giving your hostess a special keepsake at the same time. Patriotic Apron – Aprons are making a comeback, and they range from plain to super fancy. If you are creative, you can whip up a cute apron with some patriotic fabric. If not, check out a boutique or a kitchen store. Wine Glass Charms – In a party situation it’s easy to lose your glass if you aren’t constantly holding on to it. A set of wine charms will make it easy for guests to keep track of their glasses, and your hostess will appreciate your thoughtfulness. Picnic Basket – A picnic basket is a wonderful gift for the hostess who enjoys outdoor dining. Some picnic baskets are actually baskets, but there are also some that are back-packs. These can get a little pricey, but they make a superb gift if you really want to impress your hostess. Bringing a gift for your hostess is a gracious thing to do. It shows your appreciation for her efforts. Even if you opt out of bringing a nicer gift, a special bar of soap, scented candle or nice box of stationery or note cards will work well. Your gift is just a small token to say thank you to your hostess.
