Day 13: Gift mistakes I have made

Sure, sure it is the thought that counts.  It is better to give than receive.  It is all in the spirit of the holiday season.

Um, OK.  If you say so.

We can't all be Oprah and give that perfect gift every single time.  Sometimes we really don't want to pass out cash or gift cards. We want people to open something on Christmas day.  We want them to see it from time to time and think, "Hey-Billy Joe gave me that two Christmases ago."  And they can say that about something perfect, or something that was a complete flop.

Here is a list of things to think about when buying gifts, and I have made these mistakes.  I don't bash anyone but myself:

1. If you are buying kids markers, make sure they are washable. 
2. If you are buying a big toy that makes noise or lights up, check to see if the batteries are included.
3. An anorexic vegetarian isn't going to appreciate McDonald's giftcards.
4. Little girls love makeup, but they smear it all over everything-from their clothes to a Barbie doll's hair.
5. Some people are allergic to peanuts. Ditto on alcoholics and wine, or diabetics and chocolate.
6. People that live in the south don't need heavy sweaters.
7. People that live in the north don't need flip flops
8. Toys that make lots of noise aren't going to be appreciated by the Mom and Dad.
9. Mini tool kits can be used by smart kids to unscrew every screw in the house they can reach.
10. Children aren't as excited about clothes as Mom and Dad are-that doesn't mean it's a bad idea, just don't be put out if the kids don't jump up and down.
11. Christmas decorations are best given before Christmas.
12. If you are going to buy a "gag" gift, make sure the person can take a joke.
13. Don't buy a Steelers jersey for an Eagles fan because, "Pennsylvania is Pennsylvania." 
14. If you buy a bunch of things and keep them in a closet, keep track of who you give what to, so you don't give someone the same coffee mug five years in a row.

Tomorrow, I'll give you a list of my successes!