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]
Only when we see the bigger picture do we understand that God has a bigger plan, writes Rabbi Dr. Eli Yoggev.
Former Baltimorean Mindy Sager Dickler, who made aliyah in 2021, writes about the experience of living in Israel over the past week.
The city’s not a winner when little girls can’t walk through a shopping mall with their mothers without getting shot, writes Michael Olesker.
When interviewing for a job, focus on everything you have to offer a prospective employer, advises Karen Hammer of the Ignite Career Center.