I call it like I see it. And that, kids, means that I have to call this Yahoo article about what gifts not to give total crap. Well, almost total crap. Let’s break it down, shall we?
Household Appliances According to Yahoo, no woman (or man) wants to feel like they’re nothing more than the maid service or cook, and therefore, you should never ever under any circumstances give a vacuum or Kitchen Aid mixer as a gift. I disagree (with the never ever gift a vacuum or Kitchen Aid mixer part – I am in no way shape or form saying it’s okay to make anyone feel like the maid or cook). I was ecstatic the year I got a vacuum for my birthday, and I would be elated if I received a Kitchen Aid mixer (as long as it’s red). I would pick that box up, do a happy dance around the living room, declare it the best Christmas ever, make a list of what to make with it, and dispose of my dishes in order to give it a home. But I also realize not everyone would have that reaction. So here’s the bottom line on this category – don’t go for it out of desperation. Go for it because a) they asked for it or b) you know the reaction would match mine.
A Pet Yeahhhhh. . .Yahoo got this one right. Don’t ever get someone a pet for a gift. Ever. And if you do, don’t be surprised if it’s regifted to you in the next 5 minutes.
Jewelry from TV Commercials I half agree with this. Granted most women don’t want a necklace that half the women of the world have and will only remind them of some super cheesy TV spot. But at the same time, choosing something from Etsy can be a crapshoot. Plus, what girl’s going to turn down diamonds? Bottom line – go to Helzberg. Preferably the one in Joplin. And look for the redhead. (Okay, I may not be able to give an entirely unbiased opinion on this one.)
Gift Baskets If you bestow me with a basket of chocolate or wine, I will be your new best friend. If, however, you force a basket full of sausage and cheese on me, I will hate you for life. Choose wisely.
A Sweater No, Yahoo, no. I would much rather get a sweater than a pair of gloves. I’m way more particular about my gloves than I am about my sweaters. I would, however, appreciate a gift receipt with either.
Credit Card Gift Cards Oh, Yahoo. Did you even do your research? Here’s how buying something that costs more than what’s on the card works: you swipe the gift card, then pay the remaining balance with cash, debit card, or credit card (never a check because this is 2011). It’s really not that difficult of a process. I know because I’ve done it. I do, however, agree that it’s a bad gift. But that’s just because well, it’s a gift card. And gift cards say nothing more than, “I didn’t really feel like putting any thought or effort into finding you a gift so here!”
Lingerie The only thing Yahoo got wrong here is “the gift is as much for you as it is for her”. No. This gift is all for you. No respectable woman wants lingerie for Christmas.
So there you have it, kids. 7 gifts that won’t ruin Christmas despite what Yahoo tells you. Well, actually 5 gifts. I stand behind them on the puppy and lingerie. And no, puppy lingerie is not an acceptable option either.
