WHEN it comes to Christmas presents, sometimes we score, other times…not so much. From thoughtful surprises that knocked our Santa socks off to head-scratching duds that missed the mark, exchanging gifts creates indelible memories, especially when humor gets involved!
In keeping with the season’s spirit of giving, we asked our Saipan neighbors to unwrap stories of their most cherished, creative, hilarious, and even regrettable holiday gifts received on island. One thing they all agree on is this: no matter the wrap job, it’s the presence of loved ones that truly makes a Christmas gift “the best” after all.
So, toss another ornament on the tree, have some eggnog, and enjoy these locals candidly recounting gift gems that made them glow or chuckle along the way. Hopefully their special stories inspire us to embrace the silly and sincerely heartfelt presents that make the season bright!
Joshua Villagomez
Joshua Villagomez
“During the holidays I’m definitely one to enjoy gifting others! And I enjoy the holiday shopping rush and the chaos of getting everyone a special gift! One of my all-time favorite thoughtful gifts was this holiday being able to spend time with my twin brother this Christmas, being that he lives in California most holidays I’d have to go without so it’s definitely one of my favorites. A gift fail would have to be getting gifted the wrong size clothes from my relatives 😂 I’m like “dalai I’m not a kids size xl”😂😂
Hapi Canezares Gabriel
“The best holiday gift I have ever received was a 16-inch MacBook Pro. I would have never expected such an expensive gift from anyone – except maybe a wealthy, generous suitor! But this was gifted to me by a dear friend.
We were at a kid’s birthday party chatting together when I mentioned my MacBook Air had fallen off my bed and broken beyond repair. “So how are you editing your YouTube videos and Facebook reels now?” my friend asked, since they loved watching my funny videos. I explained it was taking longer on my phone and it kept filling up.
HapiCanezares Gabriel
Then on Thanksgiving Day, the same friend invited me over for a family dinner. I was the only non-family member, but it felt special since all my friends are like family anyway. We enjoyed a lovely meal, played games and bingo – just having fun.
After the party with everyone leaving, my friend called me over and handed me a gift bag. She thanked me for my support for her and her family over the years and said not to post about it publicly. When I got home and unpacked the new MacBook Pro, I literally cried tears of joy! No one had ever gifted me something so meaningful and valuable. More than the expense, her thoughtfulness and love touched my heart profoundly.
I keep my friend’s note on my refrigerator to remember how grateful I felt in that moment, which stayed with me. As for the “worst” gift, I can’t really think of any. All gifts given and received should be appreciated. This wonderful gift taught me that being thankful attracts even more blessings into our lives.”
Delbert Pua
“The best gifts I have ever received can’t be wrapped up with a bow, but fill my heart every day – my wonderful significant other, my precious son, and all the supportive family and friends who have helped me on my journey. Having loving people to share life’s ups and downs provides a sense of meaning and richness that success alone could never fulfill.
Delbert Pua
My family keeps me grounded through stressful times and cheers louder than anyone during celebrations. My ever-loyal friends offer shoulders to lean on and hands to lift me higher. And my soulmate and child remind me of unconditional love and the joy found in little moments. The comfort and unwavering belief from those closest to me – that’s what I’m most grateful for.
Josiah Villagomez and Sofia Giner
Now clothes on the other hand – there’s always one less-than-ideal gift! It’s the thought that counts, but sweaters and slipper socks tend to collect dust in my closet. Perhaps it’s my dislike of laundry and reorganizing that sparks my fashion apathy. Though I still have the reindeer jumper from a few Christmases ago, of course more as a memento. At the end of the day, time spent with loved ones is the present I most treasure, no gift wrap required.”
Josiah Villagomez and Sofia Giner
“As a couple the best gift we have given ourselves has been our first trip to Seattle, WA together last year, where we enjoyed a white snowy Christmas. But we’re also loving spending this holiday season on Saipan with a tropical Christmas!”