Gifts for the Non-Mom

_{Image above courtesy rockycanyonroom at morguefile.com.}

There have been many women in modern and historical times who did amazing things in their lifetimes - but those things did not include having children. So how about give a gift of one of their stories, to provide inspiration and assurance that every woman's life matters and can make a difference? Here are just a few great examples.

Who else is an inspiring not-mom role model? Check out Gateway Women's wonderful Childless & Childfree Women Role Models board on Pinterest. Many of these women have been spotlighted in biographies or written their own memoirs.

Many women without children enjoy putting their time and energies into creative, fulfilling pursuits: writing, crafting, painting, dancing, knitting...you name it! So a gift related to any of these activities - whether just hobbies or professional careers - are sure to be welcome.

Does she love to cook, for instance? Then how about a new cookbook that's been getting lots of praise (check out this extensive list of best cookbooks by year for some ideas).

Is she an artist? Then a gift card to a local art store, or an on-line retailer like Dick Blick, is sure to be appreciated.

A knitter? Then how about some beautiful, unusual yarn that she can use in a special project.

You don't have to be an expert about a particular hobby or craft yourself in order to come up with some good gift ideas. Or maybe you've heard her talk about wanting to learn a new skill or explore a different hobby, in which case a starter's kit would be a great way to go.

Need a few ideas?

A Travel Journal

Travelon Luggage and Purses

A woman traveling by herself - or perhaps with other women - may feel she is an easy target for pickpockets and other thieves. Travelon produces great anti-theft purses of various styles designed to carry essentials (wallet, ID, phone) securely. They also feature cut-proof straps and RFID blocking cards to help prevent identity theft.

I purchased one of their purses before my trip to Naples and other areas of Italy and it was perfect - one of the best travel purses I've found to date. After that I bought the carry-on bag pictured above and I also love it - plenty of room for clothing and electronic accessories while still lightweight and sturdy.

There are many wonderful books written about the subject of living childfree, or accepting a life without children if that had been a woman's plan in life. However, I would only recommend getting one of these books as a gift for someone you know well, someone who has been open in talking about her situation being a non-mom. You don't want to be presumptive - for instance, getting a book about coping with infertility for a woman who is childfree by choice. But if you've shared some heart-to-hearts about the challenges faced by non-moms versus mothers, getting her one of these titles could be a good way of showing that you care and appreciate her. Maybe you can get a copy of the book for yourself as well and offer to read it together so you can talk about your thoughts and feelings afterward.

Hopefully this gift guide has given you a few ideas for creative, fun, and inspiring presents for that special someone your shopping for. Got any other ideas to add to the list? Feel free to leave a comment below.