How to answer this question---

wagirl · ‎03-09-2010

My 45 year old son, yesterday, asked me what I wanted for Xmas this year---and I honestly couldn't think of one thing to tell him so I told him--nothing. And that is completely true--I don't need a thing. But it made me stop an think----- In this day and age, when I want something--I get it. Already bought myself my to-me from-me xmas gift----what would you have said? I think the thing I appreciated was that he actually asked.

PinkyPetunia · ‎03-09-2010

My response is take me out to lunch (or dinner) so we can spend some time together. That's the best gift for me.

My son is 44 and was sending me flowers, chocolates, etc. for my birthday & Mother's day. I told him I appreciate the thought, but a meal out with him, DIL & grands is the best!

Dusty1 · ‎03-10-2010

@wagirl It's true. Amazon & online ordering has made it very easy.

And I am too dang picky!

I usually tell them something easy like a selection of teas or a nice mug for my tea.

Something that is nice but not too expensive or too hard to find.

Carmie · ‎10-25-2010

I am in the same boat. I don't want or need anything. I tell my kids not to get me anything. Most of the time, they don't, but sometimes I might get a bag of macadamia nuts or chocolate or some other food item. I appreciate it.

IMO, No one should need to ask what you want. That's not how gifting works. When you get to a certain age or status, if you want something, you just get it yourself.

@wagirl if your son insists, maybe suggest he take you to have dinner, or to see a movie or do something with you that you enjoy.

The gift of time and presence is most welcoming for most people.

LindaSal · ‎05-15-2014

I agree with the others I tell my kids not to buy us anything, we have everything we need.

I also buy what I want and don't need or want anything from anyone else.......they will show up usually with a nice bottle of wine though as DH and I still enjoy some of that at times.

I tell them this........ it's their company that is my gift always.

DREAMON · ‎03-09-2010

I write things down throughout the year that we want or need and don't purchase those items so my children and grandchildren can have something to buy for me. Same for my husband.

We have small grandchildren and they like giving presents plus we get together on Christmas morning and it's fun to exchange a gift even if it is something very small.

We like to keep the tradition going.

JeanLouiseFinch · ‎10-03-2011

We are at a point in life where we are able to pay our bills, get things we want when we want them, eat out, travel a little, etc., within reason. But we remember what it was like in the beginning and during the years we were raising our kids. That's where our kids are now, not to mention things being more expensive than ever. We will still buy for everyone but we already told our kids not to buy us anything. We, too, appreciate the face to face times more than a wrapped gift.

KittySoftPaws · ‎07-21-2020

@wagirl It's very nice that he asked, I would have made something up so as not to take away from his joy of giving. Doesn't have to be anything big, but maybe throw him a hint or something.

"Have a heart that never hardens, and a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts." Charles Dickens

brandiwine · ‎03-11-2010

Many years ago my DH and I told our son and DIL to make a small donation to a local charity for our gift. We need nothing, but so many others are in need. They have done a local food bank, an organization that helps provide clothes and shoes for those in need. Animal shelters or helping a police department with support for their canine unit are also wonderful ideas. Happy Holidays