Experiences to Give Your Family this Christmas

He wrote:

1. Research from San Francisco State University found that people who spend money on experiences, rather than things, “were happier and felt the money was better spent.” Memories last longer than things!

2. Dr. Thomas Gilovich of Cornell University conducted a study spanning 20 years and discovered, among other things, that “anticipation of an experience causes excitement and enjoyment, while anticipation of obtaining a possession causes impatience. Experiences are enjoyable from the very first moments of planning, all the way through to the memories you cherish forever.” The anticipation is half the fun of the experience!

3. Research has revealed some surprising things about how much stuff we own:

   • The average American home has 300,000 items in it.

   • 1 in 10 Americans rent a storage unit to store more stuff.

   • The average 10-year-old owns 238 toys, but plays with just 12 each day.

   • The typical American throws away 65 pounds of clothing each year.

   We own a lot of stuff!

Experiences You Can Give

Dan suggested that parents (or grandparents) register their academically curious young person for Camp Infinity as their Christmas gift. I think this is a great idea—I love Camp Infinity and their mission to raise a generation of scientists and researchers who think biblically and love God’s Word.

Now, here are some ideas for others on your gift list.

• Answers for Women is a great gift experience for the moms, wives, daughters, aunts, or other women on your list. This conference, taking place April 6–7, 2018, half way between the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter, features talented speakers sharing on the theme Contending for Life. Attendees receive a complimentary seven-day pass to both the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter (a $99 value), adding to the fun and excitement of this weekend getaway. And register before February 1, 2018, for a special early bird discount.

• Equipping Families to Stand is a unique family conference to be held in the 2,500-seat auditorium under construction at the Ark Encounter. This will be our first conference inside this facility. Taking place July 16–20, 2018, this family conference features FamilyLife’s Dennis and Barbara Rainey as well as AiG speakers and me. Your family will be equipped with answers to the challenges families are facing today.

  Each attendee receives a complimentary seven-day pass to both the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum, giving you lots of time to explore everything offered at both attractions. Register your family today to receive the super early bird discount.

• Gift cards. We now offer gift cards redeemable at either the Creation Museum or Ark Encounter. These gift cards can be used toward admission, live animal rides, zip line tickets, various delicious food options, resources or souvenirs in our gift shops, and more. What better way to encourage others to visit these faith-affirming attractions than with a gift card?

Cyber Monday Sale

Want to put some Answers in Genesis books, DVDs, or other resources into the hands of friends and family (or maybe expand your own library) this year? Take advantage of our special Cyber Monday sale. We’re offering 25%–80% off nearly everything in the online store. Plus, receive free gift offers and free shipping on orders over $35. (Free shipping applies to the continental United States only.)

See all our special sales, learn about our upcoming conferences, and more at AnswersinGenesis.org.

Thanks for stopping by and thanks for praying,
Ken

This item was written with the assistance of AiG’s research team.

*STEM=Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics