Wrapping paper (Photo by Amanda Krotki)

There are certain gifts nobody wants to find themselves on the receiving end of – socks from the in-laws, a poorly fitting item of clothing from an ill-informed grandparent, some dusty relic from someone’s attic, a re-gifted novelty mug with the original wrapping paper creased and re-taped. We’ve all been there – or at least heard the stories – and while we know the meaning of The Festival of Lights is not to collect presents for eight nights, we’re still human. We like giving and getting!

In the spirit of the holiday season, the Jmore staff and contributor Michael Olesker share stories about some of their favorite, best, worst and most touching gifts. Grab a cup of cocoa and unwrap the goodies.

A True Hero’s Gift by Michael Olesker

Little Things Mean a Lot by Alan Feiler

A Teddy Bear Adventure by Amanda Krotki

My Sweetest Gift Ever by Molly Blosse

Ungifted! By Simone Ellin

Speaking of unique gifts, also see: 8 Crazy Shopping Events

[box type=”shadow”]Holidays 2017: How to Survive the Season

Jmore’s holiday guide includes Chanukah recipes, holiday event ideas, seasonal traditions, party dresses, gift ideas and lots more. Get festive here.[/box]

You May Also Like
Making a Racket about Racquetball
Park Heights JCC

A group of longtime racquetball players is upset about the JCC's decision to remove its courts, writes Michael Olesker.

Hiring People With Disabilities is a Win-Win for Everyone
woman at desk

People with disabilities bring the same assets and qualities to a job as any other perspective employee, writes Stanley Stith of Jewish Community Services.

Three Case Studies of Keeping Extremely Bad Company
Rally for Israel

Several local mainstream groups and organizations are aligning themselves with radical, anti-Israel elements, writes Jay Bernstein.

Greek Life in a Haze
University of Maryland College Park

For generations, fraternities and sororities have been set up to give certain young people the power and authority to humiliate their peers, writes Michael Olesker.