Why so many gifts!?

My family doesn't give many gifts at all, even for special occasions and holidays. I think it's just his family. But that's very nice!
If they are drinkers, then maybe bring some nice tequila or whiskey / bourbon that isn't widely available here in UK (Patron Silver, Makers Mark, Knob Creek, etc.) or a great  wine from California or Oregon.

Charity shops *need* nice things!  I work in one and you wouldn't believe the gorgeous things that get donated (Especially after Christmas!) which is a good thing. 

Which charity shop do you work in, Andee?  I should check that one out when I'm back in Leeds!     Seriously, it always surprised me to find some American items in those shops.

A friend sent me a Hawkins Bazaar catalogue.  Most of the stuff was naff, but there were some dead funny birthday cake candles in there that spelled out, 'Yer auld' and 'Lost Count'.  How can you pass that up for hte cheeky auld cudger in your life?  I got them both and sent them to my dad.
Spread the joy!

Yer Auld!!!! LMAO!!!!!!!!!! I sooooooo have to find some of those!    My grandma would crease up!

Midnight - thanks for your pence/cents!  If its just my in-laws, then I will go with the flow.  I was mostly wondering if it was an across the board cultural thing and if perhaps I was missing the "point" of it.  Sometimes I am far too logical, as it seems there isnt a point, its just NICE. Go figure.

Thanks for the suggestions Karin - I can handle hostess gifts.  Its trying to find a personal gift every time that was stressing me out!!

If they are drinkers, then maybe bring some nice tequila or whiskey / bourbon that isn't widely available here in UK (Patron Silver, Makers Mark, Knob Creek, etc.) or a great  wine from California or Oregon.

Does it count if I'm a drinker???  Maybe I will stock them up with liquor so that whenever I go over there, I know there are reinforcements!

Midnight - thanks for your pence/cents!  If its just my in-laws, then I will go with the flow.  I was mostly wondering if it was an across the board cultural thing and if perhaps I was missing the "point" of it.  Sometimes I am far too logical, as it seems there isnt a point, its just NICE. Go figure.

Thanks for the suggestions Karin - I can handle hostess gifts.  Its trying to find a personal gift every time that was stressing me out!!

Does it count if I'm a drinker???  Maybe I will stock them up with liquor so that whenever I go over there, I know there are reinforcements!

Oh I don't know that my pence/cents were worth much, but you're welcome! 

I agree about generically "hostess" type gifts -- you can never go wrong with wine or food items (as long as all guests' allergies are known), and it does take the stress out of trying to find something personal.

We give (and receive) nice things, though! Usually not things that would go to a charity shop! I mean, if it's family and they know you well enough, they'll get you something you'll appreciate, right?

In general, I wouldn't trust most of my family to buy me a gift I'd really like or find useful. With the in-laws, it would only come from MIL and a) her taste is really random and b) she forgets things easily. So, while it's well-known I hate all things coffee, she's bought me coffee chocolates. Ditto with strong-smelling soaps, etc. I'm allergic but can't count the number of times I've received them.

My own family is a bit better. But not always.

Which charity shop do you work in, Andee?  I should check that one out when I'm back in Leeds!     Seriously, it always surprised me to find some American items in those shops.

You must come see me if you are planning on a visit to Leeds.  (pm-ing you)