Cash. Just send money.

I don't need or expect anything. I'd rather whoever is giving the gift to just keep their money and pay their bills.

And I'm a guy. Homemade free things are only cute from my children....and maybe the wife in certain situations. *wink*

AMMUNITION!!!

Money.

Every year people complain that I'm impossible to buy for. Every year I put up an Amazon wish list with dozens of suggestions for things I would like, in a wide range of prices. They refuse to use it, saying that if they got me something from my list, it wouldn't be a "surprise." Then they give me something I didn't want, and complain that I'm impossible to buy for. In all honesty, if somebody did get me something from my list, that would be a huge surprise. A pleasant one.

I'm happy enough to get something utilitarian that I need... but the next time I get body wash or a soap, I am going to lose my mind! Also, I'm pretty set on pajamas for the next twenty years, so scratch that off your list, too, please.

I'll use the online wish list, sorted by price, one for other people... Hey, you never said it had to be sorted highest Summer's Over!

I hear so many people say that cash is so impersonal. Really? Its the gift that always fits - right size, right color, and won't take up space because I need to take it out to display every time you come over, otherwise it would never see the light of day. Please, your gift is more about you than my wants or needs. Cash is king!

RWoodward wrote:Every year people complain that I'm impossible to buy for. Every year I put up an Amazon wish list with dozens of suggestions for things I would like, in a wide range of prices. They refuse to use it, saying that if they got me something from my list, it wouldn't be a "surprise." Then they give me something I didn't want, and complain that I'm impossible to buy for. In all honesty, if somebody did get me something from my list, that would be a huge surprise. A pleasant one.

Do they not realize from all the past practice they will predictably buy you something you have not mentioned, hinted for, or even shown an ounce of interest in and therefore, IF THEY BROKE THE BAD HABIT AND PURCHASED FROM YOUR LIST, YOU WOULD INDEED BE SURPRISED! Run That little thought past them. Most likely instead of seeing the rationale they will either act hurt or mad that you do not appreciate the gifts they have given you. Or put another way, you do not appreciate their way of thinking as it is fine for them not to consider yours. Do what I do. Either exchange it if possible or, re-gift to someone that would really like the article. You could always re-gift to the giver saying, 'I know you must have really liked this so I got you one.' lol

Eltinwe wrote:I'm happy enough to get something utilitarian that I need... but the next time I get body wash or a soap, I am going to lose my mind!

In some countries, giving soap as a gift is an insult. The implication is that its use is needed.