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I do not think it insulting at all to give a give that pokes fun at a person's age at all. Humor can only be a good thing, but taken too far then it becomes a problem. One should always think about the temperament of the recipient and account for it when selecting an appropriate gift. Some people feel rotten about turning another year old, and this is most likely due to some important goal that they wanted to fulfill but could not for whatever reason and reminding them of turning another year old might make for bad feelings. Birthdays can be a fun occasion for some and an excuse to party hearty, others may not want to make a big deal out of it. It all depends on how well you know the person as well, if they would find your gift humorous or if it would lead to tear jerk fest and leave them thinking that you are a real jerk for giving them something that they do not find amusing. Others, might have a sense of humor about it and take it for what it is, gift from the heart. Either way, whether your gift is humorous or not meant to be taken in that way, make sure that your gift is in good taste at least as you never know who is going to be at the party. Some folks are sensitive about their age, whether they are feeling insecure about their age or their fading good looks, be sensitive and try not to bring up the fact that are older now. Emphasize instead how age brings wisdom eventually and increase respect in their community that enjoy and point out all their wonderful qualities instead of focusing on the age thing. It makes for a better party anyway. Myself, I am only 33 but bringing it up constantly gets on my nerves and sometimes brings on a crying jag as that time of year brings up awful memories that do not surface until that time of year, at least for that day anyway. The rest of the year, those reflections do not bug me as much. Heaven only knows why that is. Best things about a birthday, is the presents of course, so give something that keeps on giving or something truly useful. Someone who is into charity work would probably like a donation to their favorite charities in their name would be a good idea for a gift, a trip to a day spa would be good for another friend. Another friend may like their favorite author's books in paperback or a hardbound book of classics would be good for book enthusiasts on your gift list. Gift certificates are perfectly okay for those people who are so hard to buy for and if you know what their favorite store is, then customize a certificate just for them.

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