More Than Just a Gift: It’s a Memory

My parents' anniversary is always a big celebration and every year I stressed about what to get each of my parents for their special day. Many years ago I decided to start a tradition by giving them a gift with real meaning that they can pass down to the next generation. So many times people give gifts that seem useful at the time but often those gifts get put up on the shelf and never used. I decided I wanted to commemorate my parents' anniversary with something that would last, not only for their lifetime, but for many generations to come.

For my dad I gave him pocket watches every year. Each one is unique and engraved with the date it was given and the number of years the anniversary marked. He rarely carried any of the watches I gave him, but he does display them in a glass case and takes them out often to remember when they were given.

For my mother I wanted to give her something she would treasure. I decided to give her vintage lockets every year for their anniversary. Each locket holds a special inscription, the date it was given, and the year the anniversary marked. I also had tiny pictures placed inside each locket. These vintage lockets have become a very special collection for my mother and she always looks forward to each anniversary to see what she will be adding to her collection next.

To date, they each have twenty-seven items in their collections. Recently we were discussing their collections during a family meal and they informed my brothers and me that they have put the pocket watches and vintage lockets in their will to be divided among the grandchildren. I was very pleased to know how much these collections meant to them and am very proud to know that one day my children and grandchildren will be honored with one of these special gifts.

My first grandchild will be born the first of the year and I’ve decided to start this same tradition with her. I will give her cameo lockets for special birthday gifts. I will have them inscribed and have a tiny picture of her inside each locket. I think it’s important to give gifts that have meaning and allowing a person to attach a special memory to that gift. Those are truly the gifts that keep on giving.

5 Reasons to Buy a Pocket Watch, Not an Ordinary One!

Pocket watches, along with two-piece telephones, waxed moustaches, Brylcreem and snuff, are seen as relics of the early 20th century … certainly not something that could still have value in these days of one-piece telephones, hair gel and prescription medicine! However there are still plenty of reasons why something that is older is actually superior to our modern products. There is a reason that the phrase "They don’t make them like they used to" is so true! So why should you consider replacing your ordinary watch with a classic pocket watch? Here are five reasons.

1. You do jarring work

Watches are commonly known to fail when their wearers do repetitive, jarring work. Activities like building homes, laying pavers, and even picking fruit can all jar your hands repeatedly and throw out the tiny mechanisms that make watches work. What's worse is that most manufacturers do not consider this ordinary use for the purposes of having your watch replaced under warranty … so you foot the bill! The classic pocket watch design still has that enormous advantage.

2. You do any other sort of manual work

Accidental damage to your watch won't be covered by warranty … and often if you break the glass face or do any sort of internal damage to your watch, it can cost almost as much to repair it as it would to replace it. Pocket watches are much more protected.

3. Your ordinary watch isn't waterproof

There is not only the problem of sweating with a non-waterproof watch (those without at least a 50-meter water resistance rating), but the fact that we are busy busy people … and we aren’t always thinking about our watch when we have to do the dishes, take a child out of the bath, or move the sprinkler. Classic pocket watches are just that bit safer

4. If you’re not an ordinary person, why get an ordinary watch?

Your watch can be an extension of your personality, and part of what creates a first impression of you. Classic pocket watches are elegant and opulent -- and for many of you, that matches your personality perfectly!

5. Your eyesight is not perfect

Pocket watches are usually made with considerably bigger faces than ordinary watches. It is preferable to have something with a bit of substance to it in your pocket. If you think back to the feeling of changing from an old, clunky mobile phone to a newer model, and panicking when you can’t feel it in your pocket, you'll know what I mean! Classic pocket watches help you avoid eyestrain … and prevent you misreading the time. No more excuses!

Zodiac Lockets -- What Do Those Creatures Mean?

Zodiac lockets are a sweet, elegant type of jewelry with the class of a cameo but much more variety. People don't necessarily always identify with their zodiac sign, so why not broaden your gift-giving scope and pick a zodiac symbol that most represents their personality? Today we are looking at the symbolism of each of the zodiac signs to help you pick the perfect one for a friend.

The Ram (Aries)

The ancient symbolism of the ram is transferred to those born under Aries … or anybody who is competitive, fiery, stubborn, and a born leader! If you know someone as strong and stubborn as the ram (but in a good way!), grab an Aries zodiac pendant for them.

The Bull (Taurus)

The symbol for Taureans is the bull, but it applies equally to anybody that is strong, grounded, and earthy. The bull is also a very sexual symbol, both for females and males -- a good romantic gift.

The Twins (Gemini)

The twins represent the duality of life, and the duality within each of us. You probably know at least one person who sees the world in terms of black or white, wonderful or terrible … and Geminis do too. This zodiac sign is also especially communicative and sociable.

The Crab (Cancer)

Cancer's aren't necessarily always crabby -- you certainly wouldn’t want that to be the hidden message of your zodiac locket jewelry gift, anyway! The crab lives under the water, which is a symbol for the emotions. These are very emotional people, also very loyal and shy.

The Lion (Leo)

Leo the lion is the king of the jungle … and people represented by the lion are the king of whatever room they enter! They are bold, dramatic, and sociable, yet very down to earth. There is some truth in the expression lion-hearted, also!

The Virgin (Virgo)

Again, this need not be a literal interpretation. The symbolism relates to the quest for perfection and purity, and Virgos are traditionally seen as tidy, meticulous, and detail-oriented. The perfect zodiac locket for any accountants in your life!

The Scales (Libra)

The scales can represent balance, or they can represent justice -- two very closely related concepts that are important to many. If you know someone in constant search of balance in their lives, why not bring it to them in zodiac locket form?

The Scorpion (Scorpio)

The scorpion is tiny but has a mighty sting in its tail … in since this is symbolism, that sting can be used for good as well as harm! Scorpios are very artistic, romantic and sexual souls -- if you’re lucky, that will sound like someone you know!

The Centaur (Sagittarius)

A piercing intellect and logical mind are the main characteristics of Sagittarians, symbolized by the archer or the centaur.

The Water Carrier (Aquarius)

Aquarians are unconventional, eclectic souls that tend to do things just because others don’t … or because others said not to!

The Fish (Pisces)

Fish live in water, a symbol strongly associated with the spirit and subconscious. Pisces people are thought to be especially considerate and empathetic, good at understanding how others are feeling. They tend towards the dreamy side … just like their zodiac locket does.