The husband buys me gifts that I would never pick for myself – from the practical to the unusual. A grey cream dress which wins me compliments every time that I wear it. Eyebrow-shaping scissors for rushed days when I haven’t been able to make my monthly trip to the salon. He is usually thoughtful, sometimes even contemplative as he enters stores — refusing to buy online. With or without an occasion, I love the way he mulls over what is to be given – down to the note and the wrapping paper.
There is nothing more thrilling in getting a gift right for someone – both for the person receiving it and the one giving it. But it’s becoming tougher and tougher! After all what do you gift someone they don’t already have? Especially in this season of lights, where impersonal gifts become the norm – from wine bottles to chocolates becoming de rigueur.
I got the answer from the mother-in-law and her group of friends. They send each other gifts of food especially over this festive season! Last weekend, we got to sample Yogini’s mom’s khandvi or a sadhya made freshly by Daksha Masi. The drivers ferry each one’s specialty to each other’s doorstep adding a zing to their day and of course, giving them a reason to discuss recipes and what they liked over telephone calls! Sometimes, it’s also produce from the organic market that is bought in bulk and sent across… Be it green peas to be blanched and stored or even avocados for dip.
It’s also much reason to remember their old friends for them and us too. We miss Rohit Uncle ever so often, but this Dassera we missed his early morning tradition of savouring his custom-made jalebi-gathiya even more and hoped his indefatigable spirit was happy wherever he was!
I loved the green apple soap a friend and his son made for me. Another dear friend sent me hand-made decoupage coasters in pink and green – which are now displayed proudly at home. Or a friend made sure her name was all-consuming without being present at a dinner do by baking the yummiest chocolate cake for the birthday girl.
So this Diwali, may be it’s time to cook up a storm and make those your prezzies! Give your time and energy to make something someone would want or like! Make it about your hands and heart rather than your wallet doing the talking – because there is nothing more special than home-made or hand crafted!
My picks of the week:
Traditional with a twist! Looking for decorations that are traditional? Add these festoons and buntings from Coppre along with marigolds!
Compelling Throwback: It may have been published in 2012 but Indi Design’s Pune and Beyond still makes for a compelling read and a gift! This travel guide with 650 photos, 24 maps and 200 places of interest, still makes for a good buy, especially if you are new to the city.
Suave Spotlight! Clearly the Punekars are making waves! Did you catch Ajinkya Firodia, Khodu Irani and Sagar Chordia in the latest GQ looking all dapper? If not, here’s a look.
- 8 Great ‘Shop-talk’ Coffee Shops’ in Pune - May 29, 2017
- Diary of a Weekend Puneite: Why Osho is no longer Pune’s Pride… - November 19, 2016
- Diary of a Weekend Puneite: Breaking away to celebrate the November nip - November 12, 2016
