The Gift of Time: Cherishing Moments Through Three Special Watches
The Gift of Time: Cherishing Moments Through Three Special Watches
By Karen Loiterstein
The beginning of a school year is a time filled with nostalgia for parents, especially those of us witnessing a child embark on a new chapter—whether it’s the first day of kindergarten or the exciting leap to college. These milestones, while joyful, also remind us of the fleeting nature of time and the preciousness of each moment. Certain gifts have the unique ability to capture these emotions and mark these significant occasions, serving as tangible reminders of the love, care, and relationships that define our lives.
As a guest blogger here on my son Sam’s blog, I want to share a personal reflection on three cherished watches that have become more than just timepieces to me. For me, three watches—each a gift from incredibly special people—have become more than just timepieces. They symbolize treasured moments, lasting memories, and the deep connections I share with those who mean the most to me. This blog is a personal reflection on these three cherished watches, gifted by my closest friends, my son Sam, and my husband Andrew.
Michele Watch: A Timeless Bond of Friendship
When I turned 35, I was surrounded by the love and support of my closest and dearest friends. To mark the occasion, they gifted me a beautiful Michele watch. Now, nearly 15 years later, this watch remains a cherished part of my life—still in style and as elegant as the day I received it. But its value goes far beyond its physical appearance; it represents the enduring bond I share with my friends, a bond that has grown and evolved over the years.
This watch serves as a daily reminder of the importance of time spent with dear friends. Like the watch itself, these friendships are timeless. As we navigate the twists and turns of life, our bonds with old and dear friends remain unshaken. The years may bring changes, but the foundation of these relationships—much like a classic timepiece—never goes out of style. This watch is a symbol of the friendships that have shaped me, and every time I glance at it, I’m reminded of the love and laughter we’ve shared.
Swatch: A Mother’s Day Gift from Sam
This past Mother’s Day, my son Sam surprised me with a Swatch watch. The moment he gave it to me was one of overwhelming emotion. It wasn’t just the thoughtfulness of the gift that touched me, but the deep meaning it carried—a reflection of our relationship, and of the journey we’ve been on together.
As a mother, watching your child grow is one of life’s greatest joys, and yet it’s bittersweet. I can still picture Sam as a little boy, full of energy and curiosity, and now, he’s grown into a thoughtful young man with his own passions and pursuits. The fact that Sam chose this watch for me, knowing my style and understanding our shared moments, makes it incredibly special. It’s even more meaningful because Sam is now a watch enthusiast with his own blog dedicated to the art of timepieces.
This watch, to me, symbolizes the preciousness of time spent with Sam. It’s a reminder of how quickly the years have passed and how important it is to cherish each moment. Every time I wear it, I think of the memories we’ve made, and the countless more we have yet to create.
Movado: A Memory from St. Thomas with Andrew
Long before we had kids, my husband Andrew and I took a trip to St. Thomas—a place where we began to build the foundation of our life together. We were in our mid-20s, just starting out as a married couple, and every experience felt like a new adventure. One rainy day, instead of lounging by the pool, we decided to explore the local tourist market. That’s where we spontaneously decided to purchase a Movado watch, a symbol of our young love and shared experiences.
This watch, now worn for years, carries with it the memories of that trip and the countless moments we’ve shared since. It represents the early days of our marriage when everything was new and exciting, and we were just beginning to accumulate our memories together. As the years have passed, this watch has become a symbol of the life we’ve built—a life filled with love, challenges, triumphs, and countless shared moments.
When I look at this watch, I’m reminded of the journey Andrew and I have been on together. It’s a journey that has shaped us, both as individuals and as a couple, and one that I wouldn’t trade for anything. This watch is a piece of our history, a reminder of the time we’ve spent together, and the many more memories we’ll create in the years to come.
Conclusion: Time is a Gift to Cherish
Time is a gift—one that we must cherish. The watches I’ve been given are not just accessories; they are daily reminders to live in the moment and to appreciate the relationships that enrich our lives. They remind me that time, though it may pass quickly, is filled with moments that define who we are and who we love.
As a guest on Sam’s blog, I’m grateful for the opportunity to share these personal stories with you. Time is fleeting, but the memories we create and the relationships we nurture are what make it truly valuable. Share your stories of special timepieces or gifts that have touched your heart—I’d love to hear about the moments that you hold dear.
