I'll bet you won't be surprised to know that I think gifts of food and drink (and even flowers) are terrific gift ideas all the time. I like to give them because I never have to worry about whether it will fit! Plus there are plenty of options to choose from, that there is something for every one I know.

Of course, we all enjoy giving at all the typical times: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Christmas, Chanakuh and New Years.

Giving at those usual times is fun, but it's even more exciting to give at some of those forgotten times:

* Memorial Day is a time when many of our veterans remember those friends lost a long (or a short) time ago. Why not send a fruit basket to your favorite veteran and send another to a veterans' home.

* In fact, any three day weekend holiday is a good excuse to give something thoughtful.  July 4th, Labor Day, etc.  If someone you know has invited you to a barbeque, why not send them a selection of professionally prepared appetizers?  Or...a decorative bouquet or plant?

* Do you know someone who's retiring or has recently retired? Send them a basket with gourmet foods and a fine bottle of wine. After all, the company is going to give a watch to someone who no longer needs to worry about the time. Everyone always "needs" great food and beverage.

* For a funeral, instead or in addition to a thoughtful gift of flowers at the time of the service, wait a couple weeks to send something to let the family know you're thinking of them. And don't forget to call every once in a while, too. Write it on your calendar so it doesn't slip your mind.

* A lovely gift plant makes a wonderful traditional housewarming gift. On the other hand, if they are still in the process of putting things away and discarding boxes, take them some gourmet, easily prepared food. After all, they probably don't have much time to cook, especially if they can't find their pots and pans!

* Many of us get a touch of cabin fever during the winter months. Send a loved one a fresh fruit basket or some beautiful yellow flowers to brighten those grey days.

* Recently married couple might find it to be something of an anti-climax to come back from the honeymoon. They could be finding themselves overwhelmed at work with less free time than they would like to have for their new spouse. Help them out by sending them some professionally prepared gift meals.

Being kind and thoughtful to someone when they least expect it is even more fun than giving that perfect birthday gift! Try it, I'll bet you enjoy it, too.

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Greg Porter helps operate www.99GiftBaskets.US. In addition to gourmet and wine gift baskets, the online store also carries gourmet meals, baby gift baskets, fruit baskets, fine desserts and much more, including gorgeous roses.