***note*** this was written by my mother:
There is a lot of thought this time of
year about gift giving.
I really never thought about all the rules I have
created in my life, some from watching reactions to those in my life
and others developed over time and experience. Lastly those from
necessity.
So here it
goes…
1. The gift is always
what the receiver would like, NOT what you think is neat, cool or with
an emotional attachment from your past. Hence NEVER give something for
your purpose but for theirs.
Example: tools for someone that would never uses them
but you will. A football to a computer
geek.
2. It should be
something that can be used or played with right
then.
3. It should be
something they really want or dream about. Simply, something that would
give them pleasure or add a smile to their faces. Never something they
need.
Example tires for the
car or the all time classic socks .Just a no
no
4. Clothes… What can I say here not
everyday things, There are extra rules here.
A. Sweaters NO, a holiday sweater to a
Christmasholic YES.
B. Tee shirts NO, Specialty tee shirts
YES
Ones about a hobby or subject of
interest.
Example: “fighting
elves” shirt, like the one worn in the movie or TV show “Firefly”.
a astrological shirt for those
addicted to their horoscope.
a SCA tee shirt from your kingdom, you sure can’t find
that down at Wal-mart.
C. Shoes NO, but that pair they point out in the window
and just think it would be a treat to own,
yes.
D. PJ’s No, Lingerie
YES or once again ones that says something fun about their
personality.
Need I say
more?????
5. It can be a hobby
item that when used, gives them pleasure, even if they do not, keep the
end product.
6. The gift doesn’t
have to cost anything. They are made from the heart or a act of
caring.
A homemade gift card to
mow the yard. A coupon booklet that you will make a pie, help with
everyday things, they do not like to do, or a promises of a simple
dinner in the future. But remember you MUST follow-up and deliver. It
is always nice to remind the receiver if they forget once the holiday
has passed.
A poem or story written
just for them.
Once you think about
it, it makes things easier and the person that receives the gift happy
and isn’t that what it is all about.
I’m sure their are more but, these are a few basics to
live by. Myself I like giving in threes. One for or appeals to the
physical, spiritual and emotional nature. And what is wrong with, just
plain fun in nature.