you know some one is going to get you a Christmas gift? I am trying to control my gift giving. I love these ladies and last year I did not give them a gift hoping they would stop giving also. They are not the type to give with the thoughts of recieving. I just feel bad as I can not afford to give to everyone like I used to.

Second question: I got a T shirt as a gift from a close friend. First the shirt is way to big even if it fit I don't like it. Should I offer to give it back bc it's to big so she can give it so someone else or give it to Good Will?

1. Thank them and just tell them that although you really appreciate it that you are seriously trying to cut back on your gift giving and that you hope this doesn't offend them.

2. Say thank you and use it for a nightshirt.

I have one of those - my sister in law (once removed), divorced from my brother, but lives in the area, gives me a gift. I've decided to make her place mats...easy, neutral, and cheap. That's what I'm giving this year for unexpected gift givers.

1. Say thank you.

2. Makes a great nightshirt.

People give gifts because they want to and since you know they don't want/expect anything in return then thank you is most appropriate. Also inviting them for a chat and some "tea" now and then may mean a lot more to them.

Merry Christmas.

I would thank your friends for the gifts and not feel guilty about not getting them something. Most people give a gift not expecting anything in return. As for the T-shirt, I would keep it and wear it around the house or as a nightshirt. Sometimes a nice big oversized shirt is sooo comfy to wear. I wouldn't give it back as it might hurt her feelings.

My advice as well.

Use the T-shirt and make yourself a big throw pillow. My son had a Dallas Cowboy shirt since he was in high school. It was coming apart at the seams. I took it right off his back a few weeks ago. This morning I turned it into a beautiful throw pillow for his TV football watcing days.