Christmas Gift Ideas

Practically any magazine or newspaper you pick up lately most likely had something in it about great gift ideas. A lot of magazines do have really good ideas but I think my rules when it comes to buying gifts may be the best. Rule 1: When in doubt go with a gift card. If you really have no idea what someone would like, or for some reason got stuck in a gift raffle with a co-worker or person you don't know very well in my eyes it's always smart to go with a gift card. No matter who this person is or what they like they could always find something they like if you just give a gift card to Dick's or Victoria's Secret. Rule 2: Don't buy someone clothes unless you know their exact size. Nothing can be more insulting to a person than receiving pants or a shirt that are a size too small. Another big problem with buying clothes is that just because you love Obey sweatshirts doesn't mean your grandma will. Rule 3: Be cautious of who you are buying for. My grandparents have lived on the same farm for over 40 years with no internet, no cable tv, and no cell phones. So when on their 50th wedding anniversary an aunt of mine bought them a brand new thousand dollar computer I was shocked. "What the hell are they going to do with that?" I immediately thought and sure enough as soon as all of the extended family left my grandparents had no idea what to do with it and to this day it is still in the box. Rule 4: Unless the person has specifically requested it or you know them very well, don't just only give cash. Giving someone just straight up cash while it may seem really good to you can occasionally come off as a bit un-thoughtful or rushed at the last second. Rule 5: This is my last and most important rule. The price of your gift is not what matters the most and if anyone ever tells you that than they are a very selfish materialistic person. Some of the best gifts I have ever received were things that my dad handed down to me that his dad handed down to him. As cliché as it sounds the thought in your gift really is what counts. (397)