ditto - the parents are the most difficult, but for opposite reasons - mine are simple old-schoolers from the old country (a tiny place in Italy).

Everything I've purchased for them has been returned or exchanged. Now, I get them gift cards and they love them.
I do often hear from peeps how "boring" that is, but they seem to forget the gift is not for me (not for my entertainment).

My ma gets gift cards for anything that has to do with the kitchen, which typically one is for groceries and one for kitchenware. Also, since she is 80+yo, I add trips to the pool and credit for DATS (basically cab rides for the disabled).

My dad loves spending time in the garden (yah I know - how unusual) and the garage, as well his traditional vino, so he gets gift cards for the various places that cater to his addictions.

Both love my cat, Gangster#1, so I also let them look after porkchop since I won't be able to ('gone skiing').


Lee - does Gary have a habit that you do not support or care much for (aside from smoking)? If yes, and since it is Yule tide time, how about treating him by giving him some of his naughty favourites.

I for one do not like getting or giving clothes for many reasons (wrong size; poor choice; not a trend’oid etc), but the main one is I do not like it when people try to dress me in that which they like or want to see me in &/or the opposite.
Sure, I'll put those ewie D&G slacks (made for guys with no bum & toothpick thighs) on but only after you've adorned your body with these wool long underwear, top, socks and toque!
(My closet is filled with useless clothes, which I take to the men’s shelter - somebody out there is stylin', that's for sure.)