Holiday Gifts that Leave a Lasting Impression

Giving a gift is an act of generosity and selflessness that shows others around you how much you care about them and value their presence in your life. Taking time to choose a gift that will leave a lasting impression shows you truly appreciate the people on your gift list.

The following list will provide you with some ideas for gift-giving that will let your friends and loved ones know how much you truly care for them.

One of the best ways to leave an impression is to give a gift that reminds your recipient of you each time he or she uses it. Photo gifts are an ideal way to convey your appreciation. Add some of your own photos to remind them of how special they are to you. The Wood Photo Box stylishly displays eight photos on the outside of the box while storing eight individual albums on the inside. Each album offers space for 24 photos, and each photo is protected in its own laminated sleeve, and the design allows for easy access to each of the albums stored inside. The Lighted Photo Cube shows off five special photos and keeps them in view even in the dark with its special backlit illumination feature. The specially designed base allows the cube to rotate 360 degrees to ensure that every photo is clearly visible.

Or consider the Flip Through Photo Album, that offers space for up to 200 photos of friends, families, vacations, and more. The easy-load pockets of the leather-like album keep photos clean and easy to view. The Multi-frame Organizing Cabinet does double-duty by prominently displaying up to six photos on its door. Open the door to find a useful storage area ideal for keeping everyday items close at hand. The back of the door features a chalkboard offering a great space for messages, as well as a corkboard, four mail slots, three compartments, and four hooks for keys. This attractive case is an ideal family message center, keeping everything neat and tidy with its magnetic closure door.

Another great organizer that will make any recipient happy, the Mahogany Mirror Wall Mount Jewelry Armoire keeps jewelry tucked safely inside while offering a stylish mirror on the outside of the door. The floral appliqué makes this piece feel at home in any décor, and the keyed lock ensures your jewelry stays safe and secure.

For a truly timeless gift, the Crystal Grandfather Clock is s sparkling gift that is as useful as it is beautiful. Featuring Roman numerals on its silver dial, the transparent crystal case reveals a swing-arm mechanism just like the ones used by the full-size versions. Battery operation means this clock can be used anywhere, in any room.

For sports enthusiasts, Limited Edition Commemorative Baseballs feature printed designs that recall the opening day of some of the most famous ballparks, including Wrigley Field, Fenway Park, and Old Yankee Stadium. Each regulation-size baseball comes in its own clear acrylic collector's case for protection from dust and wear, and includes a certificate of authenticity.

Pet lovers will appreciate the Dog and Cat Sounds Clocks, featuring colorful illustrations of 12 different dog or cat breeds at each numeral location on the clock face. And when the hour strikes, this clock emits realistic barks or meows to remind you of the time. A built-in light sensor ensures the clock is quiet once it gets dark.

Shed some light on your loved ones with the Flameless Remote Control Candles set. These realistic candles glow softly with all the magical ambience of candlelight, but without the risk of fire. Used indoors or outdoors, this set of three pillar candles even flicker and emit a light vanilla scent. With LEDs that last up to 100,000 hours, the included remote control can be sued to turn on or off one or more candles to create just the right amount of lighting for any occasion.

If your loved ones are the lucky sort, or maybe if they aren't, the Talking Lottery Number Picker is a fun gift that actually chooses lottery numbers. The magical fortuneteller chooses numbers for Pick 3, Pick 4, Mega Millions, Powerball and Hot Lotto, all at the touch of a button. The random number generator chooses the numbers, and the fortuneteller speaks them aloud while moving his animated mouth.

Provide instant companionship with Life-like Puppies that actually look like they're breathing. Soft and fluffy, just like a real puppy, the furry sides of these snoozing pooches rhythmically move up and down, and soft sounds are emitted, creating the illusion of breathing. Each puppy comes complete with collar, bed, carrying case, and adoption certificate, making it perfect for kids and seniors alike.

By taking some time and effort, you can choose the perfect, thoughtful gift that will show any recipient just how special they are, and leave an impression that will be sure to last for years to come.

Karen Zabel is a freelance writer who writes about the holidays, family and novelty gifts.