DEAR SOMEONE ELSE’S MOM: I put a lot of time and effort into choosing and purchasing gifts for my son and daughter and their spouses. Next thing I know, at least half of the gifts have been either exchanged or returned and all my effort is for nothing. For all I know, they’ve already begun getting rid of this Christmas’ gifts. Give me one good reason not to be hurt. --- EXCHANGED GIVER
DEAR EXCHANGED GIVER: No need to feel hurt. Gift-giving is often a hit-or-miss proposition.
In the future, although many people feel they’re impersonal, I say go with cash or gift cards. They’re the one-size-fits-all option that only gets exchanged for something the receiver really wants.