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Clever ways to connect across the miles
It’s not always possible to be with our loved ones over the holidays. When video chats and phone calls aren’t enough, consider one of these thoughtful gifts to stay connected and bring smiles all around.
Click the arrows above the image to scroll through these some sweet ideas.
Let them know you’re thinking about them
Show someone you are thinking of them from a distance with a pair of Long Distance Friendship Lamps. Each lamp needs to be connected to Wi-Fi and then to each other. When you think of your loved one, touch your lamp, and theirs will light up, cycling through a rainbow of colors. You can even set up a special color for each person or connect multiple lamps. There are several versions of these special lamps on the market, so shop around for one that suits your style.
Collect family memories
Storyworth is a service that helps collect memories and write a family history. When you sign up for a loved one, that person will receive a weekly question meant to help them dig up memories — and help you get to know the people and events that made them who they are today. You can change the frequency of the questions and even write your own. After a year, all of the stories sparked by the questions are printed in a hardcover book with pictures. The chronicler can also share their weekly stories along the way, which could spark more meaningful conversations.
Send a delicious surprise
Want to send someone a sweet treat for a birthday, winter holidays or just because? Send a Cake offers many options to do just that, including its super cute mini cakes. Choose an explosion box for your loved one, and when they remove the lid, the sides fall down revealing a surprise such as tiny toys, photos, music or even flying butterflies!
Send a comforting “hug”
Send your favorite relative some comfort with this sweet gift pack from Etsy. Choose from a neck wrap, comfort pillow and lavender spray or another combo of items. The heat packs are custom made with a choice of colors and patterns, and are filled with flax and rice. Heat in the microwave for a substitute comforting hug until you can hug for real, in person.
Keep kids and grandparents connected
Relatives love to view their grandkids’ artwork and photos. A clever app called Keepy allows parents to photograph and store kids’ creations. Then grandparents and other relatives can view them by becoming a “fan.” There is also an option for your kid to record a message talking about their art or photo. Grandparents can respond with a voice or text message. Less paper clutter for the parents and a connection for relatives: Now that’s a win-win!
Send a keepsake to remind them of your love
This small, engraved pewter keepsake from Etsy is perfect for keeping on a nightstand or in a pocket or purse. Whenever your loved one sees or touches the pocket hug, they will know you love them. Choose a circle or heart shape and your personalized message.
Share photos and interact
This Skylight digital photo frame allows families to easily send photos from a distance. The recipient simply connects the frame to Wi-Fi and creates a unique skylight email. Then, anyone can send photos from their phone via a free app or from their computer. The photos appear in the frame within seconds and the recipient can “like” the photo by tapping on the heart button. What a great way to stay in touch!
Share and appreciate family recipes
Nothing says family like grandma’s cooking. When you can’t gather to share family favorites, creating a book of family favorite recipes is second best. This service from Create My Cookbook allows you to snap a photo of an old recipe card and they type it up for you. You can send invitations around the world so that even far-flung families can collaborate. Add dedications, photos and more for a treasured gift.
Give a taste of Seattle
For friends and relatives who are missing Seattle, send them a special care package from Seattle Chocolate. This cute pack contains truffle bars and chocolates made with local ingredients like Rainier cherries and Pike Place espresso.
If they prefer a savory gift, try this smoked salmon gift box from the Seabear Smoke House. It comes with three vacuum-sealed smoked salmon fillets packaged up in a pretty box, making this shelf-stable offering perfect for shipping far and wide.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in December 2020, and updated in 2023.
