(NC) Those holiday mailing deadlines just seem to get earlier every year. Many of us know the frustration of missing them, and the pain of knowing our far-away friend or family member won’t have a gift to open on Christmas.  

Don’t let that missed mailing deadline be a missed opportunity, as there’s still plenty of time to show them how much you care. Best of all, some of these suggestions lead to time spent together and can even start a whole new tradition.  

Have a coffee date. Invite your loved one to have tea, coffee or a glass of holiday cheer with you – remotely. Pick a time that works for both of you. Ring them up or FaceTime. Then sip your drinks, share memories and sing a carol or two.  

Send a gift locally. Send flowers to your mother in Mumbai, or cookies to your brother in Berlin. Many international companies deliver globally, while many local companies have websites.  

Honour them online. Perhaps your loved one is a teacher, farmer or passionate gardener. Give a gift in their honour to a family in need overseas. The World Vision Gift Catalogue is a personal way to make a difference together. 

Write that letter. You know, the one you’ve always wanted to write. Perhaps you’ve never shared how much they mean to you. If that’s too mushy, share some of your favourite memories. An email is just fine — it’s the words that matter.   

Consider a plane ticket. Perhaps the best gift of all would be seeing you in the New Year – whether they travel to you, or you to them.