Holiday

[Sooner]

I can be very honest here.  I am older, I have things I want and don't want to replace them with things someone else wants.  I don't want pictures in frames--I am very picky about who I want to see, loved ones or not.

I don't want scented things or things I have to dust, display or eat.  Stuff.  I sure don't want clothing.  And I've been "throwed" to death.

So is that just because I'm old, or a trend in this time and place?  I'm being very honest here.  I wonder if the days of gifting are changing or is it me?  Which is usually is. . . 

Seems gifting could be replaced with a visit, drop by during the holidays and see the friend's kids or younger relatives, out to lunch, just a nice visit and you bring the agreed on snacks, etc.  A phone call, card, or zoom. Gift card for books and music. Things like that.

And of course, I'm someone not fond of baked things. . .   Always too much of that during holidays. 

My gift giving rule?  Ask.  You won't be disappointed and neither will the giftee if you ASK and do as they respond.  

[deepwaterdotter]

I agree.

[Kachina624]

@Sooner    I feel the same way about gifts, don't need anything and don't want anything.  Getting rid of "stuff". I only exchanged gifts with my sister in recent years and, with postage so expensive, we agreed to discontinue the practice.  She was in the same situation.

[kitcat51]

I gift what I know they'll use...gift cards to their fav grocery, deli, bakery & always a big box of Godiva for my son's family....I lucked out yesterday & found it on sale on Macy's website. Gifts for me, family pictures & ornaments.

[jackthebear]

don't tell Q, they think every customer buys gifts for everyone 

[ThinkingOutLoud]

I think gifts should be based on 2 things...

> the person's love language (quality time, service, affection, words of affirmation, physical items)

> their type

    - loves surprises/something to anticipate (ie concert, movie, etc)

    - appreciates sentimental things

    - practical (things to use)

    - intellectually interesting (ie books, museum tickets, games, etc)

[Biftu]

I don't want any gifts UNLESS someone can give me a new bathroom remodel ~$15,000, a new driveway $8,000, or a new mattress ~$2,000, a new car ~$30,000.  I'm good.

[rockygems123]

@Sooner 

I think it is both, the days of gifting has changed generally and also at this age we have accumulated enough stuff.

Over the years I've noticed some gift givers do it for themselves.   Not saying they're selfish by any means as it is a good feeling to give and feel like you have made the other person happy.

It's hard for some to stop buying and gifting I've seen it with some of my friends.  And it's hard to ask your friends to stop as the gifts could be unwanted.  Tough position but with good communication usually it works out.   

As with some of the younger group who like experiences over things we within our age group enjoy our lunches and dinners together.  Lots of fun and no need for a gift closet haha.

[geezerette]

For me, the only gift I want now is help when I need it.  

[Q-Checker]

I also do not want most gifts at this point in my life. A gift card, with which I can buy books is appreciated but what is valued and appreciated the most is a donation to a charity in my name.