10 holiday gifts that keep you connected to your family

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Although it would be nice to have close friends and family nearby, that’s not always possible. Staying connected takes effort, whether that’s calling more often or sending thoughtful gifts during the holidays. This year, send something that honors your bond, whether it’s for an adult child living in another state, a grandchild you rarely see or a lifelong friend who recently moved away. These 10 options will help keep you connected, no matter how far apart you are.

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“Easy Tech” Gift Ideas

Long-Distance Relationship Bracelets

Rarely seeing the person you love is difficult, so why not add some fun and anticipation to your relationship with a pair of Long-Distance Relationship Bracelets? Touch your bracelet, and it will send vibrations (touches) and lights to your significant other’s matching bracelet. You can also customize the light color and assign certain meanings to your touches.

Friendship Lamps

All you need is an internet connection and an app to use these Friendship Lamps. Simply touch your lamp to light up the other person’s lamp, no matter the distance, and let them know you’re thinking of them. Connect the Luv Link app and unlock features such as optional color meanings and adjustable brightness. You can also link together as many lamps as you want. They come in singles or packs of two, three, four, five or six. When you can’t give the lamp in person, send a single one so it arrives ready to sync with yours.

Lovebox Photo Messenger

Connect the Lovebox Photo Messenger to the Lovebox app and send as many photos, messages, drawings and stickers as you want to each other. The three-dimensional heart spins to alert the recipient that a message has been received, and when the recipient lifts the box lid, they’ll be greeted with a special message. In turn, they can twist the heart manually to send a shower of hearts back to the sender.

Digital Picture Frame

Although the Digital Picture Frame has been around for a while, it’s still one of the easiest ways to stay connected. This one features a 10.1-inch immersive color touchscreen display. Send one to each family member so everyone can continuously share new photos and videos via the companion app. The frame has a 32 GB internal memory and can store up to 60,000 photos.

Meta Portal Go

If seeing your long-distance loved ones face to face is important, the Meta Portal Go is a great solution. The 10-inch touch screen delivers a clear picture, and the long-lasting battery and built-in handle make it easy to move from room to room or on the go. Feel free to move around the room while connected; the portal features Smart Camera and Smart Sound that adjust as needed. Loved ones don’t have to have their own unit either. They can connect via Zoom, WhatsApp or Messenger.

Thoughtful Gifts That Send a Personal Message

Looking for holiday gifts that keep you connected beyond tech? These picks focus on thoughtful words, whether prewritten or penned.

‘I Wish You Lived Next Door’ Affirmation Cards

Stay connected to your bestie with these ‘I Wish You Lived Next Door’ Affirmation Cards. The gift jar comes with 60 house-shaped cards that contain motivational messages, such as “You’re a tiny piece of magic in my big world!” There’s also a bracelet included that users can tap with their phone to receive instant motivational messages — no app needed.

‘Open When’ Envelopes

The ‘Open When’ Envelopes are more of a do-it-yourself gift because they’re simply labeled envelopes with no card or inner messages; it’s up to you to fill them. Use it as a fun holiday gift idea for college students or grandchildren. The envelopes include labels such as “Open when you need a laugh,” “Open when you face a tough challenge” and “Open when you want to reminisce.”

Symbolic Mementos To Celebrate Your Special Connection

If you prefer a more symbolic gift, these options celebrate connections in creative ways.

Long-Distance Map

A Long-Distance Map makes a thoughtful keepsake for anyone separated by miles, whether it’s grown children in another state or grandparents who can’t be there for every milestone. At the top of the U.S. map, it states, “If distance was measured in terms of the heart, we would never be more than a minute apart.” On the map, a heart is placed in each state you specify, with a line connecting them. Personalize the gift by adding your name(s) and a brief special message underneath the map.

DIY Long-Distance Family Ornament Kit

Craft a holiday ornament keepsake with the DIY Long-Distance Family Ornament Kit. The 3.9-inch layered wood ornament reads, “When you are family, the miles don’t matter,” and comes with 50 small state cutouts, also made of layered wood. Choose the states you want to include, and arrange them to represent where each family member lives. The ornament has room for multiple states, which makes it a meaningful way to connect everyone — no matter the distance.

Personalized Long-Distance Grandparent’s Pillow

Looking for a gift for your grandchildren? The Personalized Long-Distance Grandparent’s Pillow is a simple, yet symbolic choice. It reads, “The love between Grandparents and Grandchildren knows no distance,” and features two states of your choosing. Select from blue, green or wine for state colors. Pillow covers without inserts or smaller covers with inserts are available for a cheaper price.