I'll bet you won't be surprised to learn that I think gifts of food and drink (and even flowers) are terrific gift ideas all the time. I like to give them because I never have to worry about whether it will fit! Plus there are so many to choose from, that there is something for every one I know.

Of course, we all enjoy giving at all the obvious times: Christmas, Easter, New Years, Chanukah, Weddings, Anniversaries and Birthdays.

I'll bet we can all think of some other times that most people overlook:

* For example, Memorial Day is a great time to remember the recent death of a friend's loved one by sending a fruit basket.  Or you may want to send a nice flower arrangement to the departed's place of worship.

* In fact, any three day weekend holiday is a good excuse to give something thoughtful.  July 4th, Labor Day, etc.  If someone you know has invited you to a picnic, why not send them some professionally prepared appetizers?  Or...a decorative bouquet or plant?

* Do you know someone who's retiring or has recently retired? Send them a basket with gourmet foods and a fine bottle of wine. After all, the company is going to give a watch to someone who no longer needs to worry about the time. Everyone always "needs" great drink and food.

* For a funeral, instead or in addition to a thoughtful gift of flowers at the time of the service, wait a month to send something to let the family know you're thinking of them. Be sure to follow that up with a phone call every so often.

* Housewarming.  A new plant is ideal for someone who has recently moved, including someone who has moved into an assisted living environment and may be a little depressed about it.  (Actually, when I move there, I would prefer a food gift basket! I love to eat and hope that I always will.)

* Those of us in the north often get a bit of cabin fever during the winter months. Raise the spirits of a friend with some cheery flowers, preferably sunshine yellow. Alternatively, you could send them a basket of fresh fruit during those times when the world might seem so barren.

* Recently married couple might find it to be something of an anti-climax to come back from the honeymoon. They could be finding themselves overwhelmed at work with less free time than they would like to have for their new spouse. Help them out by sending them some professionally prepared gift meals.

Surprising someone with a gift at a random time is great fun! I invite you to give it a try, too. I'll bet it even puts a smile on your face.

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You can find Greg Porter sampling the delicious goods at www.99GiftBaskets.US, where he concentrates on the variety of offerings of gourmet meals, fine desserts and gift baskets of all kinds.