‘No, I Really Love It’ – What to do with a Terrible Gift?

Remember the wonderful scene from a Christmas Story where Ralphie received the fantastic bunny costume from his aunt.  And his mom insisted he try the lovely outfit on?   Classic!

I personally have received some dozy gifts (I am a great actress!); as well as ‘showered’ a ‘so-called’ boyfriend with presents and received a weird fluffy ball ink pen in return.

But what happens when you get the ugly Christmas sweater, a strange creation, or something a bit unexpected?  Or what if you give to a significant other, and they, well, give you a card?

Situation:  The Ugly Christmas Sweater from your aunt

Reaction:  Swallow your pride and wear that sweater!  You are a confident lady!  Take pictures!  Post on Facebook!  (Just a note, I have some ugly Christmas sweaters).  Donate to a local Goodwill or save for an Ugly Christmas Sweater party.

Situation:  A Strange Creation, IE – scary looking troll

Reaction:  No matter how strange, how ugly, or how unexpected – thank the person who gave you the present.  The big question is ‘Should you throw away the present, donate, or use in the next White Elephant Game?’ Any CL Lady knows to be classy – I always suggest donating to Goodwill – a great organization.  Just be very careful – your giver may see the item at a local Goodwill or ask about the gift.  Again, always thank the giver.

Situation:  You showered a ‘so-called’ significant other, you received very little.

Reaction:  A little down.  (Yes, this happened to me – tear!).  But we must remember that giving for each of us may be different (some shower with gifts, others do not).  A good rule of thumb is to do something very simple – ask what the other would like for Christmas.  It is still fun to make a Christmas list!  But if this does happen to you, and it is quite hurtful, re-asses how you discussed Christmas with your significant other and think of their current money situation.  But if they showered their buddies with awesome I-Tune cards and you received lip balm, then you may want to think about this fellow!

Shelly A Marie, MS, RD, LDN is the Executive Director of College Lifestyles.  She loves giving and receiving presents!  It is completely hard for her to keep a Christmas presents a secret!  And yes, she has giving great presents to a ‘so-called’ boyfriend, and he gave her a fluffy ink pen.