by Julie Michael

Created on: December 30, 2008   Last Updated: February 12, 2009

We've all recieved those gifts that make us wonder "What in the world was this person thinking?" Or, does this person know me at all?

You know the kind I'm talking about, the gift that you just can't refuse- either for fear of hurting someone's feelings or because you just don't want to be viewed as ungracious. These are the types of gifts that aren't usually given with a receipt, and there's no way to return or exchange them without a major fuss.

Or perhaps you've recieved a hand-made gift that you just don't like, can't appreciate, and you don't want to hurt the person's feelings because they went out of their way to make something for you. Like the tacky Christmas sweater with real bells sewn onto the hideously padded shoulders, or the bright pink and orange rug that your Aunt Nettie crocheted for you.

So what's a person to do with these types of gifts?

If it's a store-bought gift and there's simply no way to return or exchange it, this certainly does pose a problem- especially if you don't feel comfortable mentioning it to the giver. If it's a hand-made gift, it's understandable that you'd be loath to give it back to the giver or even "re-gift" it at a later date.

However, there are a few options that you can use to do something with holiday gifts you don't want and avoid hurting the gift-giver's feelings.

If it's a hand-made gift, this can be a real issue- especially if you see the person periodically, or if they are likely to ask you if you're using the gift. For example, if Aunt Nettie crochets you that bright pink and orange rug, and she stays with you a few times a year, then it's likely going to be noticed if you don't use it.

In this instance, you have the option of storing the hideous gift in a closet or storage container during the rest of the time, and only bringing it out and using it whenever she's around. This works best if you don't expect the gift-giver to show up unexpectedly at any point.

If you absolutely can't abide with keeping the rug or whatever the hideous hand-made gift is, then you can find someone you know (who doesn't know the giver) that adores the item and give it to them.

Or, you can donate the item to a local thrift-shop or charity. Of course, be ready for an excuse (such as, my dog ate it, I gave it to a homeless person standing on the corner, or, my all-time favorite- OOPS, I didn't realize it wasn't machine-washable!) if Aunt Petunia asks why you aren't wearing the sweater with the bells and padded shoulders!

For store-bought gifts,

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