The Thought that Counts takes a broad look at the nature of gift giving.

This series was developed after flipping through the dozens of gift catalogs that I´ve collected over the past few years. I keep them because they are full of enticing, beautifully photographed items. The catalogs are fun to peruse for their visual value and for their psychological aspects. You can practically see Mrs. Fields teasing you with that Supreme Brownie Lovers Basket (only $39.95, plus shipping).

Today´s gift industry is a multi-billion dollar machine dependant on our somewhat guilt driven spending. Constant pressure is applied by the media (ads, catalogs and the like) urging us to purchase gifts for the ones we care about. During the holiday season, we can watch the news reports about the expectations and sales data of area retailers on a daily basis. If we don´t go out and buy presents, people lose their jobs. If you don´t spend enough money on gifts, your friends may think you don´t like them. You might disappoint your family. Go ahead; send the Hickory Basket of Treats for only $39.95 plus shipping instead of a greeting card. It´s the right thing to do isn´t it? If we don´t give expensive gifts, are we bad people? If you don´t support your national economy, are you unpatriotic?

Isn´t it the thought that counts?