I wanted to share a few of my favorite books for gift giving.  And, hopefully, you’ll have a sales person as terrific as Rufus to wrap them up for you.

First, Dinner:  A Love Story by Jenny Rosenstrach.  Mr. Bee gave me this book three years ago for Christmas with the inscription “You are my Love Story.”  I cook from it at least once a week.  It’s the perfect blend of recipes and autobiography on how Jenny lovingly prepares simple food for her family with the motto “It all begins at the family table.”  And, her daughter is named Phoebe which happens to be one of my favorite names…

Next, the New York Times #1 Best SellerThe Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo.  It’s perfect for the person who loves to be organized or at least wants to start the New Year off organizing.  The first chapter is entitled “Why Can’t I Keep my House in Order?”  If that doesn’t hook you, I don’t know what will.  It’s a small book, perfect for a stocking stuffer and covers everything from organizing kitchen spices to controlling the clutter on your closet floor.  

This book is on my Christmas list…

The Inspired Room by Melissa Michaels.  She has a beautiful blog and is the author of two books Love the Home You Have and her latest The Inspired Room Coffee Table Book.  I have the former on my Nook.  It’s full of simple ideas to embrace your style, get organized and delight in where you are.  Her newest book is a full-color book offering accessible tips to create a pretty room starting with what you already have and can gather over time.

Lastly, Ann Voskamp’s One Thousand Gifts.

Ann’s writing make me delight in spending time with the Lord.  She has a beautiful website A Holy Experience with free downloadable art work, study guide companions for her books and spiritual comfort.  A friend once described Ann’s writings as “it’s like taking a warm bath.”  She has a lovely Advent study book for adults and a coffee table version Unwrapping the Greatest Gift for families.  Members of a grief support group I led last Christmas gave me an inscribed copy and I treasure it.

Be sure to inscribe your books with a special message and date so every time the recipient opens it, they will remember the kindness and love that came from you.  Have a splendid Sunday!