Graduation Gift Selections…For My Mary
I must admit, this article is bittersweet, as my own daughter, Mary, will be graduating college in a few days. As I packed my bags for Blacksburg earlier today, there were moments of unequivocal joy combined with moments where I caught myself wiping away a few tears. I had these same feelings four short years ago when she graduated from high school and then again when I had to drop her off in Lugano, Switzerland, where she attended her freshman year of college. It was the scariest feeling, seeing her leave home for the first time and being so far away. Thankfully, she thrived and had the time of her life - meeting new friends, studying abroad, and traveling all over the world. I must admit that her return to Virginia the following year to complete her undergraduate studies at Virginia Tech brought us some much-needed peace and comfort - knowing she was so much closer to home and just a few short hours down I-81.
Mary has worked so hard to get to this place, and now that we're preparing for her graduation, I want to go back in time. I want to go back just to watch that little girl dance in the living room pretending she was Hannah Montana, to see her on stage performing in her little pink tutu, to watch her pick flowers on the soccer field during a game as the soccer ball goes whizzing past her, to have one more Girl Scout camp out with her and her troop, and to see her cheer on the field at one her high school football games. I could go on and on for just one more day of her childhood.
Looking at her today, she's all grown up and ready for the next chapter in her life. Just like it was when we dropped her off her freshman year of college, I know she'll thrive in this big old crazy world. She's so ready for her next adventure. Now go on, my young, little "cheever." Be strong, always inquisitive, be giving, and always optimistic, and above all else, stay safe. Know that we are always here if you need us.
As I walked through Boxwood identifying graduation gifts to promote, I realized I was only searching out items that Mary will need for her new apartment, or her new job, her new adult life; note… that is the reasoning of the title for this article. But no sweat! Our staff members at Boxwood did add more stylish items to the list - so if you have a graduate in your life, I'm sure you'll find the perfect something in our selection of gifts. Congratulations, Grads!
Boxwood's Picks for Graduation Gifts
Is your graduate continuing their education by going to college or grad school next year? These portable, cordless, and rechargeable table lamps will add to their study with style! We love how these small but mighty lamps give plenty of light without taking up too much space and come in several sizes and colors. (Pina PRO Table Lamp, $149; Poldina L Floor-Table Lamp, $325; Poldina PRO Mini Lamp, $159; Poldina PRO Tall Lamp, $169)
When our sons or daughters leave home for college, we hope they won't forget about us! Might it be too obvious that we want them to remember to call home if we gift a map print of Alexandria? Whether your grad is moving far from home or not, these colorful prints may make the perfect gift of a little piece of home. (Map Art Prints, $33)
Perfect for dorm keys or new car keys, these bangle bracelet key rings are our staff's favorite colorful and chic "extra" to add to your gift closet, ready to give to your graduating neighbor, friend, or relative. They are durable, easy to clean, and flexible to slip onto a wrist or throw in a bag or pocket. (Bangle Bracelet Key Ring, $20)
For your graduate who is moving into a new apartment this year, we suggest these thoughtful and colorful lucite trays. We love how unique these are to make any space feel special. As a little extra, add a candle or diffuser to set on top to create an attractive coffee table display. (Trays, $86-$122; candles, $33; diffusers, $54; throws, $195)
Congratulations to the class of 2022 and their families. We are so lucky to share in your celebration and wish you many successes as you graduate your next chapter, wherever that may take you!
