About this time of year, I think most people get into a little bit of holiday stress mode, trying to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. Even the people that really love holiday shopping probably feel a little pressure when they have found the perfect gifts for Billy, Sally, and Sue, but little Johnny still has nothing. Of course, lists make things a little easier for everyone and take away the wonder of "will they like this?". But then there are no surprises.
I like coming up with ideas that people didn't ask for, but I think they might like. It's hard. And it doesn't come easily. And I am pretty sure I have bought a few things that have never made it out of the box. But I think some of them are gems also! But there's the pressure....
So which is better? Buying something unexpected and having your loved ones be truly surprised when they open their gifts, or buying what a person wants, and knowing you made them happy with something they can actually use?
And what's on your holiday wish list this year?
This is tricky!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about getting people things on their lists; practical, but not fun. I <3 giving people gifts they didn't ask for, but it's a gamble so I just stopped giving gifts to most people.
I know it sounds a little "bah-humbug", but if I miss the mark, the person is stuck finding somewhere to put a cardboard moose head and I'm out $30.
With my immediate family we cut gift giving down to just stocking stuffers. We realized we were essentially just trading equal amounts of gifts/cash so we said to heck with it.
It's been about two years and it's actually really nice. We're able to focus on enjoying each other's company rather than cursing each other while we're running around a crowded shopping center looking for "the perfect gift".