So you’re going to a party and you need to bring “something” for the hosts. Often we defer to a bottle of wine. Some folks lean toward a box of chocolates. Then there are times when you come home from a vacation and feel the need to bring “something” for special friends and relatives. Sometimes it’s a pen that has little things floating in water. Or a paperweight that says “Tucson.” Or maybe a t-shirt that says “I’ve been to Weller Creek!” Right. . . .

Think about it. The wine will be consumed. The chocolates eaten. The pen will dry up and tossed. And the t-shirts will. . . .”Scott, I can’t wear that t-shirt.” All will be forgotten. So what to bring – that will provide a lasting impression? I have an answer. The perfect gift!

Donna and I have a kitchen drawer that is chock full of. . . . dish towels. They are from all over the world. And we use them all. Some days, it’s London. Some days Africa. Some days it’s the Berghoff Restaurant in Chicago. And some days it’s just a towel full of flowers. The point is — they all get used, they never get tossed, and they all tell a story. I think one towel is from my parents – 60 years ago. So if you’re off to some fun or exotic place and you need to bring the Petersen family something from far away, skip the cab. Forget the chocolate. Think dish towel. We’ll use it forever. And we’ll always silently thank you when we pull it out of the drawer.