Back in the days when I worked in retail, I used to take off the days immediately following Christmas. Why? Because as crazy as the shopping could be in the weeks leading up to the big day, it was nothing compared to the crush that happened after Christmas when everyone mobbed the store to return or exchange the gifts they had received.
We’ve all received presents that didn’t quite hit the mark in size or color – and some that missed the mark entirely. But some presents are so anonymous in their origins that there is no way to return them. What to do?
I admit it: on occasion I regift.
There are some of you who will shake your head at me, say it’s tacky, but why not regift? It’s a form of recycling. And so long as you have standards and criteria I don’t see a thing wrong with it.
In order to pass into regifting territory for me the item not only has to be new, but also an item I might have chosen myself if I had gone shopping. And the item has to be given on the appropriate occasion to a person who would appreciate such an item – a person outside the circle of the original gifter.
I’ve done this more recently with gifts my children receive – duplicates or things that aren’t their taste. I save them for future birthday party invites.
So, fess up – what’s the worst gift you’ve gotten this year or in the past? And what did you do with it?
Don’t forget to stop by tomorrow for the Friday Feature when Cerridwen author J. L. Wilson will
come by to talk about her book If Not for You.
Turquoise suede jacket with matching tire tread print trousers. Aesthetics aside, all too big. Bought on clearance so I can’t return them.
Thanks, mom. Not.
Next year, I’m asking her to buy “me” livestock from Heifer Organization.
by Susan December 28th, 2007 at 1:19 amPoor Susan – you know you inspired this post, don’t you?
I see ebay in your future – or maybe a local consignment shop? Surely *someone* would love your too big suede jacket?
Is there really a Heifer Organization?
by Jenyfer Matthews December 28th, 2007 at 6:19 amYes, there really is a Heifer Organization. You purchase “shares” of animals and irrigation systems to be used in Developing Nations to bolster the economy or living circumstances.
http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.204586/k.9430/Gift_Catalog.htm?msource=kw866&source=google&campaign=Holiday_General&group=heifer&gclid=CP-Y4-WCy5ACFRuhFQodBTLrXA
Or
https://www.oxfamamericaunwrapped.com/giftideas/
I’ve asked for this before, but they all think I’m daft. She could have bought a Knitting Basket in my name! She knits. I’m a Bleeding Heart. Or a medical kit…or can of worms! See, it works!
by Susan December 28th, 2007 at 1:12 pmIt’s funny – there was an article on regifting a couple of days ago on our local news. Evidently there’s a website especially for those who want to regift. http://www.regiftable.com
I’ll admit I gave away my Secret Santa gift to my father, but only because it was chocolates and I knew I’d end up eating them!
by Shelley Munro December 29th, 2007 at 3:49 amShelley – I’ll bet your dad enjoyed the chocolate, no matter their origin!
I’m going to have to check out that website too!
by Jenyfer Matthews December 30th, 2007 at 10:39 am