My grandparents return gifts, even plants. Their excuses for returning our gifts ranged from too large, too tight, wrong color, useless, costly, confusing or purchased under the wrong zodiac sign. All our presents had been returned for 40 years. It was good etiquette to accept a gift graciously but my grandparents were the exception. “Return it, dear. We don’t need it,” Grandmother said in her girlish voice. “Save your money. You keep it,” growled Grandpa, tugging up his baggy trousers. Each year, my mother continued to be disappointed and surprised by their insensitivity. “Mom, they do this every time,” I said. “They hate everything we give them. Stop buying them stuff. Give gift … [Read more...]
How to Rewrap Christmas Gifts
December 16, 2012 By 6 Comments
As Christmas barreled towards me like a supernova, my armpits got as sweaty as the Shoe Bomber going through customs. My fear, receiving a present that I despised and having to fake my approval. Opening a gaily-wrapped box with yards of ribbon heightened my anxiety to Code Red. Last Christmas, my family watched with baited breath and I tried to camouflage my true feelings. “Oh, thanks. What is it?” I said. “It’s that thing you asked for,” said my son. I didn’t have a clue if this was something I had wanted as a gift. I understand that I’m difficult to buy for at birthdays and holidays. I don’t wear a lot of jewelry. I have bottles and bottles of perfume on my bureau … [Read more...]
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