It’s always a good thing to be a good neighbor. If you know a couple that has just moved in next door or down the street, a great gift idea is a basket full of things they might need in their new or not-so-new home!
A good selection for this type of basket is a laundry hamper, clothes basket, utility bucket or even a tall kitchen trash can. Remember, the basket or container itself should always be useful. Next think of things the couple will need to make their home more comfortable or safe. Light bulbs could be first on the list. Most new homes don’t always come with them and older homes usually have some missing! Now, how about cleaning supplies? Everyone likes to clean up a bit before arranging furniture. All-purpose cleaner, sponges, utility cloths and a good broom could fit just perfect in a tall laundry hamper or trash can! And don’t forget the dust mop and dust pan. Other items for a laundry basket or hamper could be laundry detergent, dryer sheets, lint brushes, a bottle of bleach and some plastic clothes hangers. In a utility bucket you could toss items that are needed to clean up the automobile such as sponges, drying cloth, whisk broom, polishing cloths, window cleaner and an air freshener. You could go a step further and get them a garden hose. Most couples moving into their first home don’t have one!
Here’s a cute and clever idea! They probably don’t have much food in the house yet and a romantic picnic for two would be fun. The basket could be a picnic basket complete with tablecloth, napkins, cups, plates and plastic ware. Add a jar of pickles, a bag of chips and several snack packs of lunch meat with crackers. Or you could include a gift certificate from a take-out restaurant that offers fried chicken and the trimmings. Add candles and you have a quiet dinner for the special couple. On the flip side of this gift could be a crate container loaded with staples for their pantry. It could contain sugar, salt, flour, oatmeal or grits, rice, canned veggies, bags of dried peas or beans and condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo). These items would help build a foundation for a pantry that you could add to on other occasions as you visit them. Include a map of the town featuring the public library, churches, shopping areas and a newspaper!
Here’s a handy idea. Obtain a double-sided hard plastic basket and place repair items every couple will need. You could choose one for the inside of the house that would contain small wire, screws, small nails and tacks, tape, a small hammer, household epoxy, masking tape and a ruler or measuring tape. Outside for the garage one with larger nails, hooks, a large hammer, electrical tape, duct tape, a larger flashlight and carpenter pencils.
With these gifts, the new couple will definitely feel welcomed and you may find some new friends!
