Q:
A: In some families there is a tradition that when the girl turns 16 she gets a "hope chest". It's a chest of varying sizes that you put things for their future in. It used to be for when the girl went off and got married. But these days it can just be when she is out on her own. China sets, decent linens, household items, etc. You can add to the chest on each special day or whenever you'd like. Whatever it is, I think it should be something special to mark a milestone. This does not mean going out and buying her a car though. A piece of jewelery perhaps with an inscription that she will have always. A handmade custom journal can be interesting for a girl who likes to write in a journal. Also, it really depends on her own interests. If you know what she cares about, you might be able to find something unique for her. Ebay is a good source for some unique hard to find collectables for example. If she is an avid reader, a first edition book of her fave author would be nice. I know a lot of people put a lot of value on material things, but I sincerely believe that the item would be so much more precious if a lot of thought is put into it. Knowing that someone cares enough to think about what would be the best gift is priceless. In any case, I hope you are successful in finding something special for her. Try to remember that money spent does not always translate into the best gift.