Choosing a Great Gift Whether it's a Birthday or Christmas.

I've heard these two saying all my life, "It's better to give than receive" or "It's the thought that counts." I got one better, It would have been alright with me If I didn't get anything, I'm just happy to be alive. These are good thoughts. In most cases these terms are used to loosely with no meaning. Give a really cheap gift or a crappy gift there's a chance you may get a "that's all look" or find out later you were called a cheap %ss. In some instances you may hear this from someone that didn't give you anything.
Exchanging gifts should be a pleasant and joyful occasion whether it's Christmas, valentines day or a birthday. It should not put you in a bind. People say a true gift comes from the heart. Not knowing what to get or fearing someone may not like your gift can add a little frustration when selecting an item for someone you don't know anything about. Don't let that stop you from participating in the activities. Making a good confident purchase can be really simple and usually take a short amount of time. When selecting a gift under such circumstances set a limit or price range. Make a wish list. Using these steps allows the receiver to be surprised and get something they really wanted. When drawing names at Christmas, my siblings and I have a price range, and wish list placed on my mothers refrigerator. No one knows who has their name until gifts are exchanged on Christmas day. This system works well for us. With my husband it's entirely different. Whether it's his birthday, or Christmas, he always says, "don't make a big deal over me." So when he tells me he nearly purchased a new tool set, shoes, etc. but didn't because he felt they were to expensive, or just changed his mind I know where to start. That's worked so far. It's also okay to ask the recipient what they would like or get ideas from others.
Buying a really expensive gift for someone you barely know can be awkward. Hearing the words I can't accept this gift could be really embarrassing. When buying gifts for some one in a hospital be careful with live flowers. People with their compromised immune system should not receive live flowers due to germs. Check with their doctor or nursing staff.
When making purchases for children always check with their parents. Buying a Wii or Playstation3 may seem like a noble thing to do for a child because their parents could not afford to do so. Such actions may cause the parents to feel uneasy. Always check for parts that may become loose or detachable with small children. This could cause a choking problem.
Try not to just assume with your purchase. Most women like jewelry and clothes a few of us don't. In some cases if you can't afford the real thing with jewelry it may be better not to go that route. My favorite gift from my husband was a Shakespeare Saltwater Combo. That's my baby. I love fishing so much I've done it day and night. Buy within your means. Consider a persons hobbies. A friend of mine likes to go four wheeling. Her husband bought her pink ATV and she loves it.
Gift cards are usually a big hit. They also serve the purpose for people that just want to open something up and be a little surprised. Some folks may feel forgotten or like a last minute thought when they are only given cash. These cards may be purchased with a value anywhere from $10-$100. Gift card are available at for restaurants, department stores, online games, gas stores, movie theaters etc. Before purchasing department store cards check to see if these stores are located near the intended receiver.
When receiving your gift always say thanks even if you don't have a clue what it is or just don't like it. Hopefully it came with a gift receipt. Exchange it later. If you decide to give it away try not to give to anyone that may come in contact with the giver.

Dirty Santa and Secret Santa are nice games to play at the office or with your church group.

Finally, some of us have it twisted it's the gift that counts.