Tip #7 - 16 days until Christmas. If you LOVE the gift giving part of Christmas, you might be thinking, "Well, that's not very nice Sheldon!" But...if you have ever struggled with gift giving, might you confess that you've thought those same sentiments at some point in your gift giving career, or maybe you're getting to that stage now?? Maybe there are still people on your list that you haven't found the "perfect" gift for yet. Who are they and why are they tough to buy for? Is it because you're not sure you should buy a gift for them? Is it because you know they buy everything they need/want when they need/want it so they really don't need anything? (That's my dad! I love him dearly, but he has been that way my whole life. When I do find a gift for him, I know he keeps it just 'cuz its from me, not because he really wanted or needed it!) Is it because you are really short on money and shouldn't buy gifts, but heard so-and-so is getting you one so you feel obligated? Talk about unneeded stress for everyone involved! Gift giving is supposed to be about the thought behind it, not like Sheldon's quote above.The entire institution of gift giving makes no sense. Let’s say that I go out, and I spend 50 dollars on you, it’s a laborious activity, because I have to imagine what you need, where as you know what you need. Now I could simplify things, just give you the 50 dollars directly, and you could give me 50 dollars on my birthday, and so on, until one of us dies, leaving the other one old and 50 dollars richer. And I ask, is it worth it? - Sheldon Cooper (The Big Bang Theory)
16 days before Christmas might not be the best time to tell everyone you're taking a break from the gift giving task, but...if they are in the same boat, maybe taking a risk and asking them if they want to take a break too might just be a blessing in disguise? Or...as you close up the festivities this year and begin talking about what the New Year will be like, take a chance and bring up "what should we do next year about gift giving...what do you think about only buying gifts for the kids, or how about just having a potluck and sharing stories or games?" Creating memories around the camaraderie versus the gift giving might just be the best gift ever!
5 Simple gifts for anyone on your list:
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| Guess I'm taking away the "surprise" factor on these gifts this year! Don't worry, the wrapping will definitely disguise these gifts! |
- Gas gift cards - every driver will definitely use these! - They'll appreciate you for the "free" ride around town.
- Restaurant gift cards - Everyone would enjoy a "free" meal to their favorite restaurant.
- Homemade treats or their favorite "sweet treat" - Baked goods are always a perfect gift for someone who loves them, but hasn't the time or the culinary skills themselves.
- Beverages - their favorite of course, be it coffee, cocoa, wine or liquor, they'll think of you as they share a toast to the New Year.
- Cash - I can't think of anyone who doesn't appreciate cash to buy something special or save it for a rainy day. I think every Sheldon likes cash. Even if they do just save it until they have someone to give it to...
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