"Oh, that's a sweet sentiment," you might say, "but can it really substitute for latest videogame or hot toy?" Very few children raised in this materialistic culture would say, "Gee mom, thanks for making my favorite meal. What a great Christmas gift!"

Yet 20 years from now, these same children probably won't remember items that they got for current Christmas. They will, however, recall special games that their family played together, time that their older brother took them to a movie, or way their parents tucked them in at night.

These are little moments, which over time, have a huge impact. Unfortunately people tend to take them for granted. With so much emphasis on holiday shopping, and on buying perfect gift, we can lose sight of importance of less flashy, but "priceless" gifts: gifts such as thoughtfulness and gratitude that we can give to one another all year round. A diamond may be forever, but its value is nothing compared to a lifetime of moments that money can't buy.

A. You are absolutely right to be nervous. Moving without a job gives you thinnest identity of all. Banks and landlords like to see a number in block marked "Salary." And socially you're identified by that "What do you do" question.

1. If you're entry level, you may have to move without a job. But if you're senior, companies may conduct national searches to fill your position. They may not give preference to local hires.