The gift giving experience

The other day I listened to the d.schools one hour challenge of the gift giving experience and it had me thinking when I went shopping this weekend: Am I shopping for myself or am I shopping for the other person. Growing up my aunt and uncles were the ones that lavished us with gifts. My mom always provided us with what we needed. Over the past few years I haven't been involved in the gift giving. I don't make a huge list of people to go shopping for. Typically I'll get something for my mom and something for my boyfriend. This weekend I thought of the in expected gift I got in the mail. It was from my business coach. I thought what would I get her? Should I get something I like or something she likes? Should I spend a certain amount? Is there anything she really needs? I like to gift things people can use rather than give a gift that will sit and not be used. In the spirit of this holiday season (while I don't believe that's what Christmas is about) I want to be intentional with the gifts I give and experiment with the gift giving experience. What's been your favorite gift and why?