This week we’re celebrating Huancayo’s 439th birthday and the festivities started off with a fashion show in the main plaza, displaying and commemorating typical Huanca attire and regional costumes of the Andes.
This was the typical Huanca attire before the Spanish conquistadors arrived.As part of Huanca clothing before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, sleeves (maquitos) were not only practical, but also a decorative addition to the daily outfit. Maquitos were attached to the shirt by a strip of material and easily removable, which made it convenient for the drastic weather changes in the Andes. A local university professor explained that in those times, women would knit elaborate maquitos for their partners to show their love.
How are gifts important to your relationships with loved ones, if they are at all? Do you make a point to give meaningful gifts? Why or why not?
I love your blogs Samantha, not only do I learn something I didnt know, but I am taken on a journey to consider a deeper level of my being.
Your wrist bracelets are lovely..,,,and very special. Gifts which are solely meaningful to the receiver are indeed very special and something that I believe are so important. Anyone can buy a gift, but not everyone can buy a gift that means something very special to the person they are giving it to. Those special gifts that signify a bond or in some way are individually crafted to that person, are a lovingly gifted expression of love and caring.
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Wow, Maureen. Thank you so much for appreciating my blog posts! I can only hope that I can continue sharing value.
I love how you describe them: "gifts which are solely meaningful to the receiver." These are exactly the special gifts that transcend monetary value! In fact, for these bracelets, the effort of "individually crafting" them was what made them especially meaningful. You have put such beautiful words to my thoughts, Maureen. Thank you!!
Wow, Maureen. Thank you so much for appreciating my blog posts! I can only hope that I can continue sharing value. I love how you describe them: "gifts which are solely meaningful to the receiver." These are exactly the special gifts that transcend monetary value! In fact, for these bracelets, the effort of "individually crafting" them was what made them especially meaningful. You have put such beautiful words to my thoughts, Maureen. Thank you!!
I found your blog. 🙂 And, let me say again that I am really glad we connect. I love your blog and the topics you have been writing about. I am especially mystified by Rosario and Ciro's story. Just went through it in a glance though, but I will be heading there after here.
I have been with my husband for almost 15 years and during this time, we have exchanged a number of gifts. A lot of them didn't have price tags attached to them like the seashell and stone we gave to each other from a beach we went to and the message in a bottle we made ourselves. These are the kinds of gifts that hold more meaning than the store-bought ones. And, for me, giving such meaningful gifts should be done more because they keep the love between a couple alive and holds memories together.
Great post, Sam. Thanks for sharing!
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Kim, thank you so much for reaching out here on my blog! =) I'm also really glad to have connected with such a warm and friendly person. =)
Rosario and Ciro's story is certainly a mystery. It's *still* topping the headlines even though there hasn't been much new information these days. Rosario has promised to retrace her route through the mountains, but not for another couple of weeks! In the meantime, hope of finding Ciro is waning. =(
Wow! It's so great to hear a love story like yours and your husband's. =) I love the idea of gifting a beach seashell and stone. It sounds perfectly romantic. =) Wow! And the message in a bottle idea is so Hollywood. I hope you don't mind if I try that with my partner when we head to Lima's beaches sometime. =)
Thank you so much for sharing your symbols of love, Kim! =) Let's keep in touch! =) Hugs!
I love learning interesting little tidbits about other cultures! Thanks 🙂 And the bracelets are awesome!
I'm not big on giving gifts at tradional times (birthdays, Christmas, etc.), with the exception of for the the lil ones (sorry, but I can't pass up an opportunity to go shopping for my neices, nephews, and baby sister . . . and of course, my daughter :p). I do, however, love giving impromptu gifts. Whether it's something I've made or something I see in a store and just think, "Wow! so and so would LOVE this!" I think it just means so much more than getting a gift when you're supposed to.
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Ooh!! I love your approach and reminder, Dayle! The impromptu gifts are often the most meaningful of all because we aren't being forced to think of something the other person would like. I think it's why it's easier and most enjoyable with children because they seem to like almost everything. They're way easier to buy for. =)
Now that I think about, I also really like joint gifts where we go shopping and find the perfect addition to the household and decide to "gift" it to ourselves. Hehe! =) Thanks so much for reminding me, Dayle!! =)
Hi Samantha! Those macrame bracelets remind me of the friendship bracelets that were a fad (at least in the Phils, as far as I know) in the late 80s or early 90s??…not sure, I'm getting too old to remember. But of course I think the ones you have are more beautiful and meaningful. I love meaningful gifts and yes, they don't have to be expensive. I think most times they are the least expensive ones but oddly, they're the ones I really really keep…even greeting cards from my husband…those are the best!
Joy, thank you so much for reminiscing with me! I remember making "friendship bracelets" back in the day too, but you're right that the bracelets I wear now and so much more special to me. =)
Isn't it funny that the things (and people) most special to us never actually have to do with money? =) Great point about greeting cards! I keep all of mine as well!! =)
In my Italian culture, food is an ever pervasive expression of love. Italian mothers ,for example,present their meals to family members as love gestures, but increasingly, material objects are exchanged and given for that purpose. My preferred way to show love is by caring and considerate acts of kindness , treating others in a respectful manner, and being tolerant of the differences between myself and others .
Ooh! That's my classic image of Italians too! =) In fact, it's kind of the same way in my life. Dinnertime together is one of the most important moments of the day and celebrations always have to do with food! =)
I really like your personal ways of showing love. =) Those are great life lessons and points that I want to be conscious of daily. Thanks as always for your insights, Vinny! =)
The bracelets are so beautiful. Though I have always been very thoughtful with gifts and their meanings in everyday lives, the bracelets reminded me of friendship band we used to make as kids.My sisters and I made specific ones each other and though they don't serve as bracelets anymore, they serve as key rings!
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Aw thanks, Hajra! =) I'll let Roy know that you like them. =)
Ooh! Great idea to turn friendship bracelets into key rings. Roy once made me a macrame ring and I've seen people make macrame earrings too! I hope I'll be able to learn — although you should see the bracelet I made for Roy. I didn't take a picture of it because it's so ugly. HAHA! =P
Your bracelets are so beautiful! What a lovely gift to each other. Like Vinny, our Italian backgrounds have taught us that food is the extension of love. All celebrations center around food. When you're sad, you eat. When you're happy, you eat.
Aw thank you so much, Lalia! =) Ooh! Lucky you for having an Italian background — and I really mean that! =) Food means a lot in my Chinese-Filipino culture too, which means I'm often exposed to really yummy food and I try to enjoy it as much as I can! You should too!
Food was one of the first things I really missed when I moved to Peru. =P I even videotaped my dad cooking my favorite Chinese-Filipino recipes, so I can learn to make them here. =)
Thanks so much for showing us your bracelets! They are gorgeous! I've been married for over 30 years and I can say we still try to give gifts that have meaning. I can tell you most every piece of jewelry my husband has given me and the meaning behind it. There is just something about giving something concrete that continues to enhance the significance of the relationship. Thanks for sharing 🙂
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Wow! Now that's something, Martha! =) I know plenty of couples who exchange jewelry without meaning, so it's truly amazing that you can remember the meaning behind each of your pieces. =) Just goes to show how different things are meaningful for different people!
Thanks so much for sharing your experiences, Martha! =)
Wow, Samantha, beautiful bracelet! How lovely that your partner crafted those for you and you wear them proudly. I have done macrame before and know how skilled your partner is at the craft.
My favorite gifts are the ones from my girls that are handmade. They will give the gifts to me proudly as they have always worked hard on them.
Aw thank you so much, Carolyn! It seems so easy, but I couldn't get the hang of making my knots consistent — you should see the bracelet I made for my partner. It's been all curled up for two years. =P
I can imagine how meaningful those handmade gifts are from your girls! =) The hard work really does make all the difference. I hope you share some pictures of them one day! =)
Enjoyed your post Samantha. It was nice to think about how gifts with my husband, our son, family and friends provide an extension of our love for one another. I enjoy leaving little gifts of notes of encouragement to our son and little notes to put a smile on my husbands face.
Gifts are wonderful, touching and meaningful when they are from those that truly matter.
Yes, exactly, Lynn! =) I love how you describe it as "an extension of our love." What a great idea to leave little notes! Since I'm always at home, I never get the chance to leave little notes on my partner's desk, but maybe I can leave them in his backpack when he goes out. What a beautiful idea! Thank you for adding to this conversation, Lynn! =)
Beautiful insights, Marco. Thank you for expressing your thoughts so eloquently. In fact, *nothing* should ever "replace the caring gestures and the words." =) I'll remember this the next time I'm tempted to spend money on a random meaningless gift for somewhere. =P
You know, Deeone, I wish I had the skill too. =P You should see the one I made for Roy — it's all twisted because I didn't knot it properly and I used the only material we had at the time, which was yellow and pink. I can't believe he's had it on for over two years. =P And you can probably now understand why I didn't take a picture of it. Haha! =)
I absolutely love the idea of "small gestures throughout the year." It's definitely the little things that really count. =) Great point about souvenirs as well! Roy and I have been thinking about what we should collect from the places we travel to together. =) Ideas?
Well, since we're both lushes and drink a lot; I've found us collecting shot glasses from different locations. When I became a flight attendant, you can imagine the number of airports I frequented. Each one that I would have a decent layover at I would get one and add to our destinations. We've also found some cool freezer magnets and cup coasters. Figurines can be good memorable gifts as well.
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WOW!! That's my dream! Maybe I should be a flight attendant for a while. My mom works for an airline as an accountant. =P Roy and I don't drink too much and I've already broken a magnet that fell off of the fridge, but cup coasters would be PERFECT!! Thanks so much!! =) This is what blogging's all about. Haha! =P
You should go for it! It's an awesome job that I miss tremendously. You get to meet tons of people, travel, and consecutive days off. It would be the perfect job for a blogger. I wish I had blogged while I was flying.
You're welcome for the help, and your right, that is what blogging is all about; and so, so, much more. 🙂
.
Patricia, thank you so much for stopping by my blog! I'm so excited to see you here! =)
Ooh! I could learn a lot from you as a gift giver. I want to give meaningful gifts, but it always takes so long to think of something. Lately, I've been trying to compile an Excel sheet of gift ideas, so I don't have to procrastinate in the last week. =)
Thanks so much for being in touch, Patricia! =) Heading over to your blog right now! =)
Thank you so much for reaching out, Gabriella! =) Are you "Shaneo" (the user in the link you posted) or do you own Central E-Commerce? =) Whatever the case, I'd love to connect further! =)
Thank you so much for the kind comment about my bracelets. I'll let my partner, Roy, know that you admire them! =)
That is interesting. Can you imagine wearing something like that back then. Boy are we ever spoiled.
I will say that my Mom knits and crochets. She also quilts so I'm blessed to have such beautiful work hand done by my Mom. I bet I have close to 10 afghans she's made for me since I was a child. She makes baby afghans as gifts whenever someone is expecting a child. They are just so beautiful and something to definitely cherish forever.
As for me, the only thing I personally make are candles. I love candles so I eventually went and took a class so I could learn to make my own. My friends and family love getting those from me because they do smell good and they were made with love. I'm not as talented as my Mom but I think everyone appreciates receiving something created from love.
As always, wonderful post and another education for us all. I'm glad you moved to Peru. I'm learning so much from you. Thanks Samantha!
Adrienne
My recent post Why The Heck Are You Really Here
Haha! =) I know what you mean! You should have seen some of the other more elaborate costumes, especially the elaborate ones that are designed for certain dances. In fact, some of the people in the rural zones who farm still dress like this. What was so beautiful was to see young people wear it down the aisle like modern fashion and be proud of it! =)
Wow! You are so lucky to have such a multi-talented mommy! Homemade clothes seem to be the warmest, in more ways than one, because they are made with such love. =)
Adrienne, what a lovely idea! I'm a candle-lover too, but I had no idea that I could take classes to learn to make them! I filled my luggage with candles when I came back to Peru in January because they help me focus when I need to work.
Thanks so much for sharing, Adrienne! I always learn tons from you. =)
Hey there,
OMG those are lovely bracelets. If you can't take them off, how do you put them on?
Is there an online store where I could buy one for myself and one for my fiance?
I been with my fiance for two years, and we want something to symbolize our love for each other. We were thinking about tatoo, but I think these bracelet would be less painful
xoxo
~Hilda
My recent post Bluefly- High Fashion at a Discount
Hehe! Actually, there are two strings at the end, so you can tie them together, but I didn't want the strings hanging, so we burned the ends together. The material melts to each other, so it can no longer be untied. =P
Wow! I had no idea that you have a fiance! =) You should try to make him one! =) I've never heard of an online store for macrame bracelets, but there are tons of video tutorials on YouTube to make them for yourself. =)
Haha! =) Bracelets are definitely less painful than tattoos!! =)
Great! I like your bracelets… Anyway, in every couple, there are things to consider on how they carry their relationship and develop it. Some are enjoying traveling together, some couple like watching movies and such things that they are fond to work together.
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It's so great to meet you, Cherry! =) I'll head over to comment on your website in just a bit. Do you have Facebook as well? =)
You bring up some really good points! There are a lot of different ways to express love to and with another person. What do you like to do with the people you love? =)
Hey Sam,
I love that idea. The way we do it here is by gaining a little weight after getting married so that our wedding rings are unable to come off:)
My daughter knits and crochets and has tried hard to teach her father (but, he isn't the best of students). If we are ever in that neck of the woods, you must teach her that. How long do they take to make?
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Haha!! Rob, you are the best! That's such a great idea to keep the wedding rings on. =)
I just asked my partner, Roy, and he says that it usually takes him about 3 hours in one sitting to get one done, but he usually spreads out his time. Mine took two days. =P Haha! =) Now you know who's the expert. =)
Wow! Your daughter is so talented! I hope to learn to knit and crochet one day too. =) Maybe we can exchange skills and arts one day! =)
Found you via my friend Penelope! I am fascinated with Peru (an anthropology major who has yet to visit Peru or anywhere else in S. America.) and hope to get to MP in the near future. Keep ending up in Europe for some reason.
Anyway, cool site, like what you say about less predictability and letting go – I enjoy both of those things. Nice macrame bracelets. Pretty. In art class in high school, I made a macrame bridle for my horse. Haven't thought about it in years. Rather humorous because the reins were too short when I finally put it on my horse Willie. Had to always be in "jumping" position!
Giuletta, it's so great to meet you! Anyone who is a friend of Penelope's is a friend of mine! =) I'm so ecstatic to meet an anthropology major. Where in Europe did you do your project or thesis? I have a BSc in biopsychology, but found the field too specific for me, so I recently started taking anthropology classes at the local university! =)
Thank you so much for the comments on my site. =) Haha! =) And I loved the story about the macrame bridle you made for your horse. =) At least he looked stylish! =)
Heading over to your blog right, Giuletta! Can't wait! =)
For years I felt that a gift with meaning had a price attached to it. I always feltthat the gift I was giving would be enjoyed more if it were purchased at a store and it was something really wanted by the person I was giving it to. How wrong I was!!!! In 1995 my family was endurring some really tough times and I was unable to provide gifts for the kids for Christmas. It was then I realized that it would mean more to give a piece of who I am then to buy something from a store. It was at that point I started building gifts rather then buying them. I have found that the gift is more appreciated by the person I give it to.
Me too, Abe! When I started making money, I thought that gift-giving was all about larger and larger portions of my earnings. =P
And you know what? I thought you were going to say that you realized that cheaper presents were okay, but what a pleasant surprise to be reminded of the value of giving "who I am." The gifts you build sound like the most valuable of all! =)
As a side note — I just met a friend who lives in Alaska and says that she sees moose outside of her window sometimes. Do you?! =)
Great question, Diana! The bracelets were difficult *for me* to make! =P Haha! All you really have to do are knots, but when I tried to make one for my partner, it curled up because my knots weren't consistent, so it definitely takes skill! =) Can you imagine that Roy continues to wear that curled up bracelet to this day? =P
What a great idea, Diana! I love the concept of *not* giving a gift if it isn't going to be meaningful. Roy and I aren't much for exchanging gifts at all. For his birthday a couple weeks ago, we got a gift for the apartment instead. It was a gift for both of us. =)
Wow! I completely see you as someone who is meaningful and purposeful in everything she does too. =) Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, friend! =)
Susan, it's so great to meet you! Thank you so much for stopping by and for your kind words. My partner is very Latin American indeed when it comes to being romantic. =)
Susan, I really wanted to connect with you on your blog as well, but I couldn't find a way to leave a comment! In the meantime, I want to let you know that I love your blog's fresh design and that the information on yeast infection is so useful. Glad to now know an expert on the topic. =)
I believe in and practice the giving and exchange of symbols of love or appreciation with acquaintances, friends and family members. Different societies express love differently. I found it interesting that one of my friends from India told me that they don't practice saying, "I love you" in their culture. Instead, she said they show it. In most cultures throughout the U.S., authentic relationships express love verbally and in behavior. Other cultures, perform certain ceremonies and may even perceive the behavior we exhibit in the U.S. as ceremonial in nature. It's always interesting to discover how others express commitment in relationships. Very nice bracelets. It's a good thing your life companion is talented at macramé. Can you imagine wearing goofy ones the rest of your life?! What would you say to others who noticed them on your wrists, and how would you respond if they commented on them. Now, that's food for thought — a little off topic, but it made ME think, anyway! Okay … way off topic, but that's how I roll late at night — 😉
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Wow! I love that Indian practice of showing love rather than saying it! =) In the Chinese culture I grew up in, love was never mentioned and rarely expressed because people feared that children would become arrogant. =(
You have such a vast knowledge on expressions of love, Sherry! =) I'm leaning toward calling you a love expert in addition to a freelance writing expert! =)
Haha! Speaking of goofy macrame bracelets, the ones I made for my partner are exactly that — goofy. We used the only material we had at the time (pink and yellow) and I didn't knot properly, so half of the bracelet is curled up. =P Can you believe he's worn that bracelet for two years?! =P
Oh, Sam, you're hilarious – LOL! Now, wait a minute. I saw the bracelet you made for your partner in some other picture and it looked nice. I realize it was from a distance, but still … If anyone wants to know what loves looks like they should take notice of your partner's behavior in wearing that curly pink and yellow (that's funny) bracelet you made for him that he's worn for the past two years. Now, that is love!
Maureen Hunter
I love your blogs Samantha, not only do I learn something I didnt know, but I am taken on a journey to consider a deeper level of my being.
Your wrist bracelets are lovely..,,,and very special. Gifts which are solely meaningful to the receiver are indeed very special and something that I believe are so important. Anyone can buy a gift, but not everyone can buy a gift that means something very special to the person they are giving it to. Those special gifts that signify a bond or in some way are individually crafted to that person, are a lovingly gifted expression of love and caring.
My recent post Claim your Courage
Samantha Bangayan
Wow, Maureen. Thank you so much for appreciating my blog posts! I can only hope that I can continue sharing value.
I love how you describe them: "gifts which are solely meaningful to the receiver." These are exactly the special gifts that transcend monetary value! In fact, for these bracelets, the effort of "individually crafting" them was what made them especially meaningful. You have put such beautiful words to my thoughts, Maureen. Thank you!!
Samantha Bangayan
Wow, Maureen. Thank you so much for appreciating my blog posts! I can only hope that I can continue sharing value. I love how you describe them: "gifts which are solely meaningful to the receiver." These are exactly the special gifts that transcend monetary value! In fact, for these bracelets, the effort of "individually crafting" them was what made them especially meaningful. You have put such beautiful words to my thoughts, Maureen. Thank you!!
@The3DRenderer
Hi, Samantha.
I found your blog. 🙂 And, let me say again that I am really glad we connect. I love your blog and the topics you have been writing about. I am especially mystified by Rosario and Ciro's story. Just went through it in a glance though, but I will be heading there after here.
I have been with my husband for almost 15 years and during this time, we have exchanged a number of gifts. A lot of them didn't have price tags attached to them like the seashell and stone we gave to each other from a beach we went to and the message in a bottle we made ourselves. These are the kinds of gifts that hold more meaning than the store-bought ones. And, for me, giving such meaningful gifts should be done more because they keep the love between a couple alive and holds memories together.
Great post, Sam. Thanks for sharing!
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Samantha Bangayan
Kim, thank you so much for reaching out here on my blog! =) I'm also really glad to have connected with such a warm and friendly person. =)
Rosario and Ciro's story is certainly a mystery. It's *still* topping the headlines even though there hasn't been much new information these days. Rosario has promised to retrace her route through the mountains, but not for another couple of weeks! In the meantime, hope of finding Ciro is waning. =(
Wow! It's so great to hear a love story like yours and your husband's. =) I love the idea of gifting a beach seashell and stone. It sounds perfectly romantic. =) Wow! And the message in a bottle idea is so Hollywood. I hope you don't mind if I try that with my partner when we head to Lima's beaches sometime. =)
Thank you so much for sharing your symbols of love, Kim! =) Let's keep in touch! =) Hugs!
Nyxzie
I love learning interesting little tidbits about other cultures! Thanks 🙂 And the bracelets are awesome!
I'm not big on giving gifts at tradional times (birthdays, Christmas, etc.), with the exception of for the the lil ones (sorry, but I can't pass up an opportunity to go shopping for my neices, nephews, and baby sister . . . and of course, my daughter :p). I do, however, love giving impromptu gifts. Whether it's something I've made or something I see in a store and just think, "Wow! so and so would LOVE this!" I think it just means so much more than getting a gift when you're supposed to.
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Samantha Bangayan
Ooh!! I love your approach and reminder, Dayle! The impromptu gifts are often the most meaningful of all because we aren't being forced to think of something the other person would like. I think it's why it's easier and most enjoyable with children because they seem to like almost everything. They're way easier to buy for. =)
Now that I think about, I also really like joint gifts where we go shopping and find the perfect addition to the household and decide to "gift" it to ourselves. Hehe! =) Thanks so much for reminding me, Dayle!! =)
Joy Page Manuel
Hi Samantha! Those macrame bracelets remind me of the friendship bracelets that were a fad (at least in the Phils, as far as I know) in the late 80s or early 90s??…not sure, I'm getting too old to remember. But of course I think the ones you have are more beautiful and meaningful. I love meaningful gifts and yes, they don't have to be expensive. I think most times they are the least expensive ones but oddly, they're the ones I really really keep…even greeting cards from my husband…those are the best!
Samantha Bangayan
Joy, thank you so much for reminiscing with me! I remember making "friendship bracelets" back in the day too, but you're right that the bracelets I wear now and so much more special to me. =)
Isn't it funny that the things (and people) most special to us never actually have to do with money? =) Great point about greeting cards! I keep all of mine as well!! =)
jyoti
wow really a gift( no matter small or big) gives u a sweet feeling which is indescribable !!
My recent post Empty Hearts !!!
Samantha Bangayan
That's such a beautiful way to explain the sensation, Jyoti! You are such a woman of words! =)
Vinny T
In my Italian culture, food is an ever pervasive expression of love. Italian mothers ,for example,present their meals to family members as love gestures, but increasingly, material objects are exchanged and given for that purpose. My preferred way to show love is by caring and considerate acts of kindness , treating others in a respectful manner, and being tolerant of the differences between myself and others .
Samantha Bangayan
Ooh! That's my classic image of Italians too! =) In fact, it's kind of the same way in my life. Dinnertime together is one of the most important moments of the day and celebrations always have to do with food! =)
I really like your personal ways of showing love. =) Those are great life lessons and points that I want to be conscious of daily. Thanks as always for your insights, Vinny! =)
Hajra
Hey Samantha,
The bracelets are so beautiful. Though I have always been very thoughtful with gifts and their meanings in everyday lives, the bracelets reminded me of friendship band we used to make as kids.My sisters and I made specific ones each other and though they don't serve as bracelets anymore, they serve as key rings!
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Samantha Bangayan
Aw thanks, Hajra! =) I'll let Roy know that you like them. =)
Ooh! Great idea to turn friendship bracelets into key rings. Roy once made me a macrame ring and I've seen people make macrame earrings too! I hope I'll be able to learn — although you should see the bracelet I made for Roy. I didn't take a picture of it because it's so ugly. HAHA! =P
Lalia
Hi Samantha!
Your bracelets are so beautiful! What a lovely gift to each other. Like Vinny, our Italian backgrounds have taught us that food is the extension of love. All celebrations center around food. When you're sad, you eat. When you're happy, you eat.
I've been doomed since I was born! LOL
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Samantha Bangayan
Aw thank you so much, Lalia! =) Ooh! Lucky you for having an Italian background — and I really mean that! =) Food means a lot in my Chinese-Filipino culture too, which means I'm often exposed to really yummy food and I try to enjoy it as much as I can! You should too!
Food was one of the first things I really missed when I moved to Peru. =P I even videotaped my dad cooking my favorite Chinese-Filipino recipes, so I can learn to make them here. =)
Martha Giffen
Thanks so much for showing us your bracelets! They are gorgeous! I've been married for over 30 years and I can say we still try to give gifts that have meaning. I can tell you most every piece of jewelry my husband has given me and the meaning behind it. There is just something about giving something concrete that continues to enhance the significance of the relationship. Thanks for sharing 🙂
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Samantha Bangayan
Wow! Now that's something, Martha! =) I know plenty of couples who exchange jewelry without meaning, so it's truly amazing that you can remember the meaning behind each of your pieces. =) Just goes to show how different things are meaningful for different people!
Thanks so much for sharing your experiences, Martha! =)
Carolyn Nicander Mohr
Wow, Samantha, beautiful bracelet! How lovely that your partner crafted those for you and you wear them proudly. I have done macrame before and know how skilled your partner is at the craft.
My favorite gifts are the ones from my girls that are handmade. They will give the gifts to me proudly as they have always worked hard on them.
These works of love are keepsakes and heirlooms to be treasured forever. Thank you for sharing yours with us!
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Samantha Bangayan
Aw thank you so much, Carolyn! It seems so easy, but I couldn't get the hang of making my knots consistent — you should see the bracelet I made for my partner. It's been all curled up for two years. =P
I can imagine how meaningful those handmade gifts are from your girls! =) The hard work really does make all the difference. I hope you share some pictures of them one day! =)
Lynn Brown
Enjoyed your post Samantha. It was nice to think about how gifts with my husband, our son, family and friends provide an extension of our love for one another. I enjoy leaving little gifts of notes of encouragement to our son and little notes to put a smile on my husbands face.
Gifts are wonderful, touching and meaningful when they are from those that truly matter.
Samantha Bangayan
Yes, exactly, Lynn! =) I love how you describe it as "an extension of our love." What a great idea to leave little notes! Since I'm always at home, I never get the chance to leave little notes on my partner's desk, but maybe I can leave them in his backpack when he goes out. What a beautiful idea! Thank you for adding to this conversation, Lynn! =)
Samantha Bangayan
Beautiful insights, Marco. Thank you for expressing your thoughts so eloquently. In fact, *nothing* should ever "replace the caring gestures and the words." =) I'll remember this the next time I'm tempted to spend money on a random meaningless gift for somewhere. =P
Thanks, Marco the poet! =)
Samantha Bangayan
You know, Deeone, I wish I had the skill too. =P You should see the one I made for Roy — it's all twisted because I didn't knot it properly and I used the only material we had at the time, which was yellow and pink. I can't believe he's had it on for over two years. =P And you can probably now understand why I didn't take a picture of it. Haha! =)
I absolutely love the idea of "small gestures throughout the year." It's definitely the little things that really count. =) Great point about souvenirs as well! Roy and I have been thinking about what we should collect from the places we travel to together. =) Ideas?
Deeone
Well, since we're both lushes and drink a lot; I've found us collecting shot glasses from different locations. When I became a flight attendant, you can imagine the number of airports I frequented. Each one that I would have a decent layover at I would get one and add to our destinations. We've also found some cool freezer magnets and cup coasters. Figurines can be good memorable gifts as well.
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Samantha Bangayan
WOW!! That's my dream! Maybe I should be a flight attendant for a while. My mom works for an airline as an accountant. =P Roy and I don't drink too much and I've already broken a magnet that fell off of the fridge, but cup coasters would be PERFECT!! Thanks so much!! =) This is what blogging's all about. Haha! =P
Deeone
You should go for it! It's an awesome job that I miss tremendously. You get to meet tons of people, travel, and consecutive days off. It would be the perfect job for a blogger. I wish I had blogged while I was flying.
You're welcome for the help, and your right, that is what blogging is all about; and so, so, much more. 🙂
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Patricia
Hi Samantha
What an interesting post. Always interesting to read about other cultures. And I love the gift idea.
I put a lot of thought into gifts for family and friends. Like to buy personal gifts that they wouldn't buy for themselves.
Patricia Perth Australia
Samantha Bangayan
Patricia, thank you so much for stopping by my blog! I'm so excited to see you here! =)
Ooh! I could learn a lot from you as a gift giver. I want to give meaningful gifts, but it always takes so long to think of something. Lately, I've been trying to compile an Excel sheet of gift ideas, so I don't have to procrastinate in the last week. =)
Thanks so much for being in touch, Patricia! =) Heading over to your blog right now! =)
Gabriella
Hi Sam1 Those bracelets are so beautiful – I think the entire concept behind it is such a lovely one.
Gabriella
correction 'Hi Sam!' – sill keyboard. 🙂 keep well
My recent post It’s All About Image- Really
Samantha Bangayan
Thank you so much for reaching out, Gabriella! =) Are you "Shaneo" (the user in the link you posted) or do you own Central E-Commerce? =) Whatever the case, I'd love to connect further! =)
Thank you so much for the kind comment about my bracelets. I'll let my partner, Roy, know that you admire them! =)
Adrienne
That is interesting. Can you imagine wearing something like that back then. Boy are we ever spoiled.
I will say that my Mom knits and crochets. She also quilts so I'm blessed to have such beautiful work hand done by my Mom. I bet I have close to 10 afghans she's made for me since I was a child. She makes baby afghans as gifts whenever someone is expecting a child. They are just so beautiful and something to definitely cherish forever.
As for me, the only thing I personally make are candles. I love candles so I eventually went and took a class so I could learn to make my own. My friends and family love getting those from me because they do smell good and they were made with love. I'm not as talented as my Mom but I think everyone appreciates receiving something created from love.
As always, wonderful post and another education for us all. I'm glad you moved to Peru. I'm learning so much from you. Thanks Samantha!
Adrienne
My recent post Why The Heck Are You Really Here
Samantha Bangayan
Haha! =) I know what you mean! You should have seen some of the other more elaborate costumes, especially the elaborate ones that are designed for certain dances. In fact, some of the people in the rural zones who farm still dress like this. What was so beautiful was to see young people wear it down the aisle like modern fashion and be proud of it! =)
Wow! You are so lucky to have such a multi-talented mommy! Homemade clothes seem to be the warmest, in more ways than one, because they are made with such love. =)
Adrienne, what a lovely idea! I'm a candle-lover too, but I had no idea that I could take classes to learn to make them! I filled my luggage with candles when I came back to Peru in January because they help me focus when I need to work.
Thanks so much for sharing, Adrienne! I always learn tons from you. =)
Hilda
Hey there,
OMG those are lovely bracelets. If you can't take them off, how do you put them on?
Is there an online store where I could buy one for myself and one for my fiance?
I been with my fiance for two years, and we want something to symbolize our love for each other. We were thinking about tatoo, but I think these bracelet would be less painful
xoxo
~Hilda
My recent post Bluefly- High Fashion at a Discount
Samantha Bangayan
Hehe! Actually, there are two strings at the end, so you can tie them together, but I didn't want the strings hanging, so we burned the ends together. The material melts to each other, so it can no longer be untied. =P
Wow! I had no idea that you have a fiance! =) You should try to make him one! =) I've never heard of an online store for macrame bracelets, but there are tons of video tutorials on YouTube to make them for yourself. =)
Haha! =) Bracelets are definitely less painful than tattoos!! =)
Cherry
Great! I like your bracelets… Anyway, in every couple, there are things to consider on how they carry their relationship and develop it. Some are enjoying traveling together, some couple like watching movies and such things that they are fond to work together.
My recent post Does Big Butt Prolongs Life
Samantha Bangayan
It's so great to meet you, Cherry! =) I'll head over to comment on your website in just a bit. Do you have Facebook as well? =)
You bring up some really good points! There are a lot of different ways to express love to and with another person. What do you like to do with the people you love? =)
Rob
Hey Sam,
I love that idea. The way we do it here is by gaining a little weight after getting married so that our wedding rings are unable to come off:)
My daughter knits and crochets and has tried hard to teach her father (but, he isn't the best of students). If we are ever in that neck of the woods, you must teach her that. How long do they take to make?
My recent post Waiting
Samantha Bangayan
Haha!! Rob, you are the best! That's such a great idea to keep the wedding rings on. =)
I just asked my partner, Roy, and he says that it usually takes him about 3 hours in one sitting to get one done, but he usually spreads out his time. Mine took two days. =P Haha! =) Now you know who's the expert. =)
Wow! Your daughter is so talented! I hope to learn to knit and crochet one day too. =) Maybe we can exchange skills and arts one day! =)
giulietta nardone
Hi Samantha,
Found you via my friend Penelope! I am fascinated with Peru (an anthropology major who has yet to visit Peru or anywhere else in S. America.) and hope to get to MP in the near future. Keep ending up in Europe for some reason.
Anyway, cool site, like what you say about less predictability and letting go – I enjoy both of those things. Nice macrame bracelets. Pretty. In art class in high school, I made a macrame bridle for my horse. Haven't thought about it in years. Rather humorous because the reins were too short when I finally put it on my horse Willie. Had to always be in "jumping" position!
See you. G.
Samantha Bangayan
Giuletta, it's so great to meet you! Anyone who is a friend of Penelope's is a friend of mine! =) I'm so ecstatic to meet an anthropology major. Where in Europe did you do your project or thesis? I have a BSc in biopsychology, but found the field too specific for me, so I recently started taking anthropology classes at the local university! =)
Thank you so much for the comments on my site. =) Haha! =) And I loved the story about the macrame bridle you made for your horse. =) At least he looked stylish! =)
Heading over to your blog right, Giuletta! Can't wait! =)
Abe
For years I felt that a gift with meaning had a price attached to it. I always feltthat the gift I was giving would be enjoyed more if it were purchased at a store and it was something really wanted by the person I was giving it to. How wrong I was!!!! In 1995 my family was endurring some really tough times and I was unable to provide gifts for the kids for Christmas. It was then I realized that it would mean more to give a piece of who I am then to buy something from a store. It was at that point I started building gifts rather then buying them. I have found that the gift is more appreciated by the person I give it to.
Samantha Bangayan
Me too, Abe! When I started making money, I thought that gift-giving was all about larger and larger portions of my earnings. =P
And you know what? I thought you were going to say that you realized that cheaper presents were okay, but what a pleasant surprise to be reminded of the value of giving "who I am." The gifts you build sound like the most valuable of all! =)
As a side note — I just met a friend who lives in Alaska and says that she sees moose outside of her window sometimes. Do you?! =)
Samantha Bangayan
Great question, Diana! The bracelets were difficult *for me* to make! =P Haha! All you really have to do are knots, but when I tried to make one for my partner, it curled up because my knots weren't consistent, so it definitely takes skill! =) Can you imagine that Roy continues to wear that curled up bracelet to this day? =P
What a great idea, Diana! I love the concept of *not* giving a gift if it isn't going to be meaningful. Roy and I aren't much for exchanging gifts at all. For his birthday a couple weeks ago, we got a gift for the apartment instead. It was a gift for both of us. =)
Wow! I completely see you as someone who is meaningful and purposeful in everything she does too. =) Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, friend! =)
Susane
Hey, those bracelets are so nice 🙂 I find the idea immensely romantic 🙂
My recent post Yeast Infection Medication
Samantha Bangayan
Susan, it's so great to meet you! Thank you so much for stopping by and for your kind words. My partner is very Latin American indeed when it comes to being romantic. =)
Susan, I really wanted to connect with you on your blog as well, but I couldn't find a way to leave a comment! In the meantime, I want to let you know that I love your blog's fresh design and that the information on yeast infection is so useful. Glad to now know an expert on the topic. =)
Sherry Zander
I believe in and practice the giving and exchange of symbols of love or appreciation with acquaintances, friends and family members. Different societies express love differently. I found it interesting that one of my friends from India told me that they don't practice saying, "I love you" in their culture. Instead, she said they show it. In most cultures throughout the U.S., authentic relationships express love verbally and in behavior. Other cultures, perform certain ceremonies and may even perceive the behavior we exhibit in the U.S. as ceremonial in nature. It's always interesting to discover how others express commitment in relationships. Very nice bracelets. It's a good thing your life companion is talented at macramé. Can you imagine wearing goofy ones the rest of your life?! What would you say to others who noticed them on your wrists, and how would you respond if they commented on them. Now, that's food for thought — a little off topic, but it made ME think, anyway! Okay … way off topic, but that's how I roll late at night — 😉
My recent post 8 Easy Steps to Warm up Cold Calls
Samantha Bangayan
Wow! I love that Indian practice of showing love rather than saying it! =) In the Chinese culture I grew up in, love was never mentioned and rarely expressed because people feared that children would become arrogant. =(
You have such a vast knowledge on expressions of love, Sherry! =) I'm leaning toward calling you a love expert in addition to a freelance writing expert! =)
Haha! Speaking of goofy macrame bracelets, the ones I made for my partner are exactly that — goofy. We used the only material we had at the time (pink and yellow) and I didn't knot properly, so half of the bracelet is curled up. =P Can you believe he's worn that bracelet for two years?! =P
Sherry Zander
Oh, Sam, you're hilarious – LOL! Now, wait a minute. I saw the bracelet you made for your partner in some other picture and it looked nice. I realize it was from a distance, but still … If anyone wants to know what loves looks like they should take notice of your partner's behavior in wearing that curly pink and yellow (that's funny) bracelet you made for him that he's worn for the past two years. Now, that is love!
Samantha Bangayan
Haha! Aww, thanks for saying so, Sherry! =) Maybe I should post a picture of it! =) You make me feel proud of my "love art"! =P
Pearl Jewelry
Wow, maquitos (sleeves) made for your man. I had no clue about any such tradition. Thanks for sharing. Your bracelets look beautiful.
Samantha Bangayan
Thanks so much for your kind comments, friend! =) Great to meet you!