Family photo albums give the gift of shared memories

There was a time when photographs were treasured objects. When having one’s photograph taken was a rare treat, done by a traveling photographer who only came around now and then. Families gathered, posed in their Sunday best, and recorded for posterity one unique moment. The family photo album was given an honored place in the home. It was placed where visitors could open it and view the family’s photos. Of course, that was before cameras became commonplace and then, eventually, disposable. Now, most families never bother to print or display most of their photos. Instead, someone will pull out a cell phone and scroll through images until they find the one they want to show you. And that, in the usual roundabout way, brings me to shopping for holiday gifts. This year, instead of spending hours trolling racks of clothing or looking at objects I suspect will be used once or twice and then put away and forgotten, I’ve been going through photographs stored on my computer. I will be giving certain people on my list the gift of memories. I’m going to give them photo books. I’m a frequent traveler for both my work and for my pleasure. Fortunately, although their schedules are not as flexible, my family loves to travel, too. We’ve had some good fun this last year and I want to record it forever. The best news is that the books can be created and purchased on my computer. No driving. No worrying about sizes. No exchanges. On Christmas morning they’ll open a gift that will honor an experience that we’ll never forget. And the best part? I didn’t get behind the wheel. I didn’t stand in line. And I know it will be a perfect fit.