DEAR ABBY: How do I respond to a gift when I don't know whether or not it's a gag gift? My sister sent a present that appears to be expensive, but is not only awful, it's also tacky and weird. She has a great sense of humor, but added no card or message that would give us a clue how to appropriately thank her. -- NOT SURE IN NEW JERSEY
DEAR NOT SURE: I recommend you use the old stand-by: "How sweet of you to remember (me, us, our special day, etc.). Thank you for being such a generous sister!"