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“What Is The Worst Gift You Ever Received?”: 45 Undeniably Bad Gifts, As Shared By The Bored Panda Community
Receiving a gift is generally thought to be a pleasant experience. However, certain gifts can be a disaster rather than a delight and might leave you with feelings of sadness, anger, or disappointment. Sometimes it's the circumstances surrounding the presentation of a gift that can change its meaning from exciting to hurtful.
I decided to learn more about what makes an awful gift and asked our Panda community to share their worst experiences yet.
To learn more about gift giving, bad gifts, and the importance of gift wrapping, Bored Panda got in touch with a gift wrapping expert, aka The Gift Wrapping Queen, Jane Means. Read the full interview below.
More info: Instagram | janemeans.com
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
When I was 10, I lost my cat to the road because my mother didn't believe in indoor cats, I was devastated. A few weeks later for x-mas, my aunt gave me a book called 101 Things To Do With A Dead Cat. I spent the rest of the evening crying.
20 years later, I sang Ding Dong the Witch is Dead in my head at her funeral. She was a hateful woman.
Final score:
389points
Michael Largey 3 years ago
You need to check Amazon for a book titled "101 Things To Do With A Dead B***h".
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ItsJess 3 years ago
What a horrid, cruel, heartless woman. I hope she got the afterlife she deserved.
idrow1 (Submission author) 3 years ago
She was the only religious one in the family and thought she was holier than thou. All I can say is that she better hope her religion isn't real because she's not going where she thinks she is if it is. She did give us all one final FU by having a bunch of people playing bagpipes at her funeral.
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prettygirl25 3 years ago
sorry, I cant stop laughing!!! lol about the song/not the cat p.s I have 7 cats and 2 died from the road ...so I feal for you...
idrow1 (Submission author) 3 years ago
What's funny is that I was singing the version that Homer sings while he's on the way to Marge's aunt's funeral, so it was Homer's voice in my head singing it, lol. It almost made me chuckle a few times.
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Alina Mihai 3 years ago
As an adult who has lost a beloved furbaby, if some did that to me, I would go to prison for murder.
Debby Keir 3 years ago
Daughter bought that for my husband a coupla Christmasses ago - inventive and enjoyable book, but only if you hadn't just lost your kitty.
If you have ever had trouble choosing a gift, you are not alone. These things can get tricky and time-consuming, but Jane might have a solution for you.“We often rush buying gifts during those time-poor occasions, such as Christmas and the holidays. You spend your well-earned cash on gifts that leave the recipients disappointed. A good idea is to buy gifts throughout the year and place post-it notes on them. Keep them ready in a bottom drawer. Gifts don’t have to be valuable, but it’s important to think about the recipient when buying.”
RELATED:
#2
Nothing. My family forgot to get me anything at all for Christmas one year. The husband and kids all forgot. I was in my 40s but felt like a child that had been kicked. I've never forgotten how it felt.
Final score:
301points
SparkleFarts 3 years ago
My MOTHER has forgotten my birthday a few times. I don't care about not getting a gift, but at least tell me happy birthday. And I'm an only child, it's not like she has a bunch to remember
Hagen Radcliffe 3 years ago
Not surprised most of these are from women. We do the remembering & planning & shopping & wrapping & mailing & decorating & cooking. There would BE no celebrations if we didn’t pull them together. And then… nada. It sucks.
Kay Gee 3 years ago
I feel you. It's terrible to be ignored. I often get nothing from my spouse or am told to buy my own and wrap it (uhhh, no thanks). I can count on one hand the number of times he has bought me a Xmas or birthday gift on his own. Everyone in my family and extended family get gifts plus I do 9 stockings altogether (spouse, adult child and their spouse, grandkids (gransdkids live with us), pets and my mom).
Grey Blue 3 years ago
Feel you on this. Was in my… age that is younger than I am now, and bought everyone gifts! My mom and stepdad, my two siblings and sister-in-law, my five nieces and nephews. Everyone is excited Xmas morning opening gifts (I’d pretty much gotten everyone what they asked for). I had nothing under the tree to unwrap at all. What I got was a coffee maker that my mom got from the casino, WHILE I WAS WITH HER. There was a red bow slapped on it. I don’t drink coffee.
T J R 2 years ago
Christmas morning with my then boyfriend: He kept mentioning how he needed new clothes. I spent close to $300 on a bunch of new clothes for him. Presents under the tree are all for him, nothing for me. He opens all of gifts and thanks me for everything. I'm sitting and waiting for my gift from him (we discussed beforehand we'd get each other presents). After 20 minutes of awkward silence, while I sipped my coffee, he says, "Oh yeah, here." He reaches into his pocket, pulls out a $100 bill, puts it on the table, and says, "just give me $25 back from that." It hurt. I cried (not in front of him).
Libstak 3 years ago
One Christmas my sister and her loser partner were broke so mum gave them the $800 rent I paid her so they could supposedly by gifts just for their combined 5 kids. Naturally mum and I footed the entire Christmas food bill, same as every year. I also bought everyone a gift, not large but nice. Bottle of whiskey or port for the adults, toys and games for all the kids. Welp Christmas day they show up with a bunch of gifts to add to the tree. When we opened them it turns out they bought gifts for each other and their kids, expensive wallets, handbag etc but nothing for us. My parents only bought for the kids and each other too. As a single adult I sat there while everyone oohed and aahed until the last gift was opened. I got nothing, nada. My parents extra Christmas money would have come from my rent so they got me nothing. My sister and partner should only have had enough for kids but also made got gifts worth 100s of dollars. I was alone in a crowd of family on Christmas day.
#3
My mother bought me a dress from a high-end fashion catalog that I had been drooling over for weeks. I was ecstatic until I noticed it was the wrong size. I was about to tell her the seller made a mistake, but she cut me off, saying "Something to work towards will motivate you to lose weight." She intentionally ordered a medium, I wear XL. My Christmas gift was just a new way to fat-shame me.
She told me about her plans to buy an expensive NFL team jacket for my brother's birthday... Something he and my father had both admired.
She said she was ordering a size medium. He wore an XXL. She said she refused to buy a larger size "so he'll get off his lazy butt and do something about his weight."
I told her she was psychotic and cruel and that she shouldn't bother buying it since neither of us would be coming home for any more celebrations.
She told me I was disgusting and selfish and an embarrassment.
Nice, huh?
Final score:
259points
DinosEatNoods 3 years ago
I was never overweight but even then my mom would always make comments like “oh be careful you’re looking kind of heavy in the back” or “your husband likes women who look like dolls so be careful what you eat” (he is now my ex btw)… and I now tell her to be careful what she says because it makes her face ugly when she says things like that. She stopped and my new husband cooks me delicious food that I enjoy to the fullest.
Epona 3 years ago
Why was your mom telling you what your ex-husband liked in a woman instead of your ex telling you (ideally in a supportive and loving way, not a controlling and abusive way)? That's upsetting and weird. It's not only her face that is ugly when she says things like that, it's her personality too. I'm glad your current husband is an improvement to the ex!
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Error 404 3 years ago
Wow how nice of her 😒 It's like buying shoes for someone who doesn't have legs and tell them to "stop being lazy and sitting down all day"
Bugzz 2 years ago
Well.... no. It isn't like that unless they truly have a disability that is preventing them or making weight loss harder. It is still cruel though
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Jon Steensen 3 years ago
goalsetting can be a nice thing to do, and a good way to motivate yourself to achieve something you have always wanted. But goalsetting on other people's behalf? That is just telling them that you don't think they are not good enough as they are and that what you want is more important than what they themselves want to be.
We all have been in a place where re-gifting might have been the best option. Whether you went with it or not, gift wrapping is also part of a gift, and it might change how the recipient will perceive your gift.“The whole point of gifting is to make the recipient feel valued and special so the gift is as important as the wrapping. If you do re-gift items, it’s crucial that you make a note so you aren’t giving the gift back. If you received a gift that’s not likely to be appreciated, you may be better off selling it on an online marketplace, such as eBay, and buying something you or they want with the proceeds.
The other suggestion is to gift something completely unsuitable as a joke, and then take the recipient out for coffee and cake in their favorite café.
If you are re-gifting anything, the wrapping can look amazing, which heightens the senses, only for the recipient to be disappointed at the final stage. When re-gifting anything, choose carefully who it goes to,” wrote Jane.
#4
At the time I was mortified my great-aunt gave me underwear for Christmas, but now that I realize she was very poor but a complete sweetheart, it was actually the best present I have ever received. It's not a coincidence she was born on Valentine's Day, and I miss her every day.
Final score:
219points
*Displayname*=idk 3 years ago
I love when I get underwear and more happy when it's socks. But I guess it can get embarrassing sometimes 😇
ItsJess 3 years ago
I love socks and underwear as well. I appreciate getting practical gifts over a useless fad gift I'll use for a week and then never think of again until I'm donating or tossing it.
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The Redhead 3 years ago
When my daughter was born a woman from my mom's church (my mother lived in a different state), I didn't know the woman sent a congratulations card and $5. In the card she apologized for not being able to send more. It was such a sweet gesture.
Epona 3 years ago (edited)
There needs to be a comma after the word born. It reads more like you meant your daughter was born a woman from your mom's church and that you didn't know the woman sent the congratulations card. I don't mean to be critical, but your comment is a little hard to read without proper punctuation. I had to re-read your comment a few times before I understood it. Or at least I think I understood it. Again, I do not mean to offend! The card and $5 was a sweet gesture!
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Stannous Flouride 3 years ago
When you're a kid it's "Oh. Socks. Thanks." When you're a grown-up it's "Oh boy, socks! THANKS!"
Hagen Radcliffe 3 years ago
My very very wealthy aunt ( think limo & chauffeur ) gave me a plastic wallet with $1.00 for my 16th b’day. But at least she remembered !
Robert Trebor 2 years ago
My 40th birthday everyone brought me socks and/or elephants. I always need socks, and I love elephants.
Isabel Care 2 years ago
I discovered glue to turn ordinary socks into slipper (non slip) socks. Got some for myself and a friend who has very swollen feet and has special socks. Also useful for making rugs grip to the floor. Got thigh high bed socks too (from Snag) in sizes for big or huge thighs. Can be tied up round thinner legs too.
Onion Patch Petunia 2 years ago
Our church youth group held a Christmas party where we exchanged gifts. The boy who gave me my gift had filled a box with eggshells and other garbage!
#5
Our Christmas gift at work was a chocolate-covered apple. For the Christmas potluck (yes, we had to provide for our own party) I sliced mine up and brought it. The boss's face!
Final score:
202points
If you happen to always struggle with gift-giving and worry about choosing a bad gift, here is what Jane suggests to you.
“It’s always a good idea to find out and note down anything your friends and family like. It’s easy to engage in conversation to find out what they love, what their hobbies are and what is their favorite color, etc.
The best place to get feedback is to go on a shopping trip with that person as you quickly hear their desires and feedback. (I have often run back to the shop to buy something when a friend has commented how gorgeous a particular item is and not bought it!)
Anything personalized or with some humor is always well received… for instance, you could have a T-shirt made up with ‘Gardening Guru’ if they are green-fingered, or subscribe to a magazine they are likely to enjoy reading with a box of their favorite tea. This makes their leisure time enjoyable throughout the year, and it’s the thought that counts.
Although I’m not a personal shopper, I love to take my time buying gifts and always put a lot of thought into the process. As we are so busy with our gift-wrapping service at Christmas, it’s vital that I buy early and be organized. Gifts do not need to be valuable, but it’s the thought and first impressions that count, and presentation is everything.”
#6
My weirdo father gave us 3 boys each a special present one year. He gave me a dirt bike (imagine my excitement), my brother the key (to my dirt bike, and I didn't get one), and my other brother - he gave all the gas. Apparently, nothing worked without something from my brothers. We all had to get along to make it go . . . . I'm not sure if my pop was genius or demented. (Probably both)
Final score:
181points
Darth Daddy (Submission author) 3 years ago
He was something else. One year as a punishment he made us pick up all the acorns on the farm and plant them in neat rows. That wasn't too bad, but then he had us un-plant them and put them all back. It took forever ! ! ! ! ! ! !
*Displayname*=idk 3 years ago
What did you do to get that punishment? (Just curious)
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Florence O'Grady 3 years ago
Do you and your brothers have a good relationship with each other or do you have nothing to do with each other?
Darth Daddy (Submission author) 3 years ago
It was me and my brother and a step brother. My brother and I are EXTREMELY close to this day. My father and his wife at that time separated not long after the summer I mentioned in my post. We didn't see my step brother again for many years. My little brother found him on line as an adult and they keep in touch. I mean there are no hard feelings on our end or anything, but like friends that come and go in your life, it just kind of happened that way. We all live in different parts of the country, but my baby brother and me talk weekly if not daily. We are huge Saints fans and when they play, we call each other and talk through the entire game like we are sitting there together. Love that ugly little bratty weirdo brother of mine. He's the best.
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Whalen With An N 3 years ago
This was a bad gift? He was literally trying to get you to work together.
Rhomel Republica 3 years ago
He's Confucius in his previous life. You'll get his intentions later in life...
Michael Largey 3 years ago
Remember that it's your dirt bike. When it comes to sell it, you get the money for the bike and you brothers get whatever is offered for the key and gas.
Populus tremuloides(they/them) 3 years ago
If you try to sell a dirt bike without a key everyone will think you stole it
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#7
My inlaws expected a gift for every single holiday (including birthdays, retirements, and anniversaries) even when we were struggling, but when my birthday came around they gave me a card without anything written inside except their names. A gift isn’t necessary, but you can’t even say something nice?
Final score:
158points
girlsrock4ever 3 years ago (edited)
Give them what they give you for their birthday. Then see how they react.
Kate Jones 3 years ago
Lol, since they didn't write in the card I'd send back the same card and just cross out their names and write yours, lol.
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Pizzagirl 91 3 years ago
My grandma-in-law (husband's father's mother) was really mad at us for not inviting her other son and his third wife, whom I have never met, to our wedding. She actually complained about it to my great-aunt, whom she had never met before, at the wedding. That third wife and my husband's uncle have been bullying my mother-in-law until she went no contact (my FIL still sees his brother occasionally, and we all still visit GMIL when she's alone), have never tried to contact my husband to meet me or his daughter, and instigate toxic backstabbing wherever they can. Then, they sent a pre-written wedding card and expected us to feel guilty about not inviting them. I'm always for giving family a second chance, but they are so far gone...
Michael Largey 3 years ago
I think they did - better than any words could.
Load More Replies... michele mbennett1010@att.net 2 years ago
Why in the world would you get these a******s anything other than a very cheap card for any occasion 🤔
Whether you are experienced with gift wrapping or not, Jane runs an online gift wrapping course “Wrap with Jane” where you can learn or improve your skills. Luckily for you, dear Pandas, this course is now 20% off with promo code BOREDPANDA.
And here is just one of the tips Jane has for you today on difficult gifts to wrap. “Usually, this depends on the size and shape. For instance, if you’re trying to wrap something huge like a bicycle, a roll of paper won’t be wide enough and will not mold around the item well. For extra-large items that are a weird shape, I always opt for a paper tablecloth or some fabric. It is larger in size and can mold easily around the gift.”
“We recently gift-wrapped a drum kit for a well-known celebrity with 32 meters of fabric!”
#8
A birthday card from my dad, three months late, and he spelled my name wrong.
Final score:
150points
Amy Taylor 3 years ago
My mother in law consistently spells my daughter's name wrong. She even embroidered her a tooth fairy pillow as a child with it spelled wrong. She's 13 now. I've repeatedly corrected her. My daughter's name is Sofia and she keeps spelling it Sophia. I'm Italian and she's named after one of my relatives. It's so infuriating.
JustAddWater 2 years ago
My name is Mary. It's 4 letters and one of the most common female names in the history of ever. You wouldn't believe the number of times people have spelled my name Merry like Christmas 🤦
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Kate Jones 3 years ago
hahahaaha sorry but that's kind of funny at how horrible it is. How do you spell your own kid's name wrong?
Dizavid 2 years ago
I'd have bought him a first grade spelling book, a crappy calendar, and a set of sewing needles to make sure he gets all the points.
Hagen Radcliffe 3 years ago
Yup. Why even bother, unless as an insult meant to hurt? Mean old jer*off.
Dee 3 years ago
Maybe he's getting dementia. My mom was on the floor for 3 days after breaking her ankle. I didn't realize this had happened after wondering selfishly, "Where's my card?" 😩
Tamra (Submission author) 3 years ago
Nah, he didn't have dementia. He only remembered my birthday when he thought it might butter me up so he could ask for money, otherwise I never heard from him. It wasn't unusual for him to misspell my name, either. But it was kind of you to give him the benefit of the doubt.
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#9
Over the years I have collected quite a stash of gifts that I have never used for one reason or another. Someone once gave me a nose hair trimmer in the shape of a great, big, yellow finger, for example. So I understand the motivation behind this thread. I just don't agree with it.
Every time I have chosen and given a gift to anyone, it has been done with the intention of improving that person's day, even if it only raises a brief smile. When I receive a gift I only consider what is in the giver's heart rather than what is in the parcel before me. So even if the gift is a great, big, yellow finger, I am grateful for it, because it shows that the giver cares enough to go out, choose it, buy it, and wrap it. And great, big, yellow fingers can't be that easy to wrap.
Final score:
149points
Whalen With An N 3 years ago
I'm gay and every time a straight male friend buy's me a gift, it's d**k-shape. No thanks. I give thoughtful gifts, but enough with the d**k-shaped gifts and rainbow flags. Every gift doesn't have to speak to me being gay.
Lemonflower 2 years ago (edited)
fr tho 😭 (Edit: I'm not gay but I've had friends in this situation before)
Load More Replies... Dizavid 2 years ago (edited)
"So I understand the motivation behind this thread. I just don't agree with it." This is early in the list (currently for me) and we've seen an aunt who bought a book about activities to do with your dead cat for a kid whose cat got run over, and a mom who intentionally bought smaller sizes to fat shame her kids. YOU may buy stuff with the intent of making people's day better, but unfortunately humanity figured out gift giving was yet another way we can make people psychologically bleed. This is the "even the c**p is drowning in c**p" timeline, after all. However...keep being you as it's sorely needed. There's just too few people with that good of a heart out here. :-/
DinosEatNoods 3 years ago
Sometimes gift giving is a manipulative form to keep you hanging around someone… [walk in borderlines]
Wood Carver 3 years ago
I'm that terrible combo of hard to buy for and not good at asking for what I want, which means that I usually at best get those gifts that you get from grandma, like I know you've been something something Harry Potter, so I got you Harold's book of Pottery. But at the same time I picture my mother standing inside a tool store or something and trying to figure out what in the heck a that thing is for and getting me something she genuinely hopes I'll love, and I cannot be mad that its not even close to what I was hoping to unwrap that day in my heart of hearts, instead sometimes I end up with the funniest gifts, like some wildly specialized tool for an industry I've never heard of, that after years I've never seen in a tool store.... I once got a set of brass French curves, which at the time I had never encountered but I use all the time today. I have never figured out where she got them because they are way better than the plastic ones. Her answer, I don't remember but I'm glad you like
#10
No one wished me Happy Birthday when I turned 11. They completely forgot about it because it was on a Monday and we had to celebrate it on the weekend (which was fine by me). I just wanted someone to say something nice to me on the very day I was born, even if I wouldn't get a present. Instead, I got yelled at for "being selfish".
For me, it wasn't the worst birthday present, but the worst birthday "day".
Final score:
142points
DinosEatNoods 3 years ago
That’s terrible!!! Say Happy Birthday to that little 11 year old girl for me… hugs!
Error 404 (Submission author) 3 years ago
Actually I'm non binary but hey, thank you anyway :)
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Michael Largey 3 years ago
I don't mind when people forget my birthday. What hurts is when Nature remembers it.
Error 404 (He/They) (Submission author) 3 years ago
Bruh now that I look back at it I realize I forgot to mention this was actually 6 years ago. I'm 17 now 😳
SheamusFanFrom1987 3 years ago
Happy 17th Birthday, or belated one in that case. Hopefully better late than never in my case.
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ThatOmniCapybara(she/they) 2 years ago
It's probably many, many years too late, but I'll do it anyway: 🎵Happy birthday to you, Happy birthday to you, Happy birthday Error 404, Happy birthday to you!🎵
michele mbennett1010@att.net 2 years ago
Sorry for your unfortunate childhood, some people should never have children.
#11
I'm not religious, but my grandparents are. When I was 14 they gave me a copy of The Purpose Driven Life, a Christian book. I stuck it on my shelf and was like, oh well, whatever, not gonna read it. I felt kinda crappy about it because they made it clear they thought I was going to hell.
Six months later my best friend pulled it off the shelf and started flipping through it, reading passages ironically, and found $20 bills tucked into the pages randomly.
Like. They were trying to pay me to convert? It was pretty funny at the time. We shook the cash out and spent it on pizza. That part of the present was great actually. But the book, not so much.
In hindsight, I laugh about it. I thought this list could use a laugh, a lot of these are sad.
Final score:
124points
Populus tremuloides(they/them) 3 years ago
In the psych ward right after being diagnosed as autistic (I am not saying that is a bad thing pls don't construe it as such) someone sent me a copy of a room called earth, this book about an autistic woman, all about how she was one of the good ones because she could socialize and go to parties and flirt with men and dress fancy. I don't know who it was from, but the 3 people that were sending me books are all really kind and accepting so I think they just hadn't read it. In contrast, one of my favorite staff lent me a copy of the curious incident of the dog in the night time. I loved it, and bought a copy when I got out. Ms. Nat if you somehow see this you made my time there a lot better
𝓚𝓮𝓲𝓽𝓱 2 years ago
I LOVE the curious incident of the dog in the night time - such a good book
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Boreddd🇺🇦 3 years ago
I turned 14 a few months ago and my grandparents gave me a Bible in which they put money. For reference, I am an atheist and they did know that.
DC 3 years ago
... they might want to see how you react prior to seeing any money...?
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Lee Henderson 3 years ago
I doubt if they were trying to convert you. They probably thought you would consider they money a surprise gift.
SobyKay 3 years ago
The Purpose-Driven Life is actually very good, too bad you never got around to reading it 🤷♀️
Choco 3 years ago
Don't think a Christian book is good for an atheist lol
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#12
This text for me from my mother.
"Your uncle died today, happy birthday".
Final score:
121points
Mykidsartrocks (Submission author) 3 years ago
It is an all around tense relationship.
Load More Replies... Minath 3 years ago
My ex MIL decided that the best time to inform my partner that an uncle had died was on my birthday during my party. It was before social media and my ex really wasn't close with the uncle who had actually died the day before. It was just another way she showed me how much she hated me.
Mykidsartrocks (Submission author) 3 years ago
I was super close to my uncle and he did really die on my birthday. I just feel like she could have waited till the next morning instead of telling me in the middle of my dinner.
Load More Replies... michele mbennett1010@att.net 2 years ago
Holy s**t! Why do so many idiots insist on having children when they clearly don't have a clue 🤔
Gwenn Kuhns 2 years ago
I had an uncle pass on mine and my sisters birthday. We share one. Our uncle was very nice. Still hard for my aunt.
Mykidsartrocks (Submission author) 3 years ago
It wasn't her brother. It was my dad's brother in law that she was not even close to. It wouldn't have bothered me to get the news like that if it were her brother.
Load More Replies... #13
My family went on vacation to Disney World while I was in school and sent me complementary hotel toiletries as a gift.
Final score:
117points
Weirdest Bi You’ll Ever Meet 3 years ago
Oh dear god! I might as well bring you to Busch Gardens, down here in Florida. Don’t worry. My family has a annual pass 😉
Sunshine Daydream 3 years ago
You have Disney World labels on soap and tiny shampoo bottles? Cool
Amy Taylor 3 years ago
I actually started saving them, putting them in ziplock bags and handing them out to the homeless here. They are always super grateful!!
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#14
My mother-in-law came to visit us for Christmas. Our relationship was already rocky as she would wait for my husband to leave the room and then start berating me about my weight.
(I was hit by a car when I was walking while pregnant, so I put on a lot of weight from bed rest and just haven't been able to lose it.) And when she wasn't making me feel self-conscious, she was talking down to her partner and generally treating him badly.
She's also a hoarder who lives on attending and doing yard sales. Lives. For. It.
I didn't have high hopes for Christmas. I wasn't expecting any gifts from her, and I was okay with that. Four or five gifts in for my husband she tossed me a small package.
Inside? A rusted angel ornament.
"I hope you like it, I couldn't sell it at the yard sale for a nickel."
The trash gained an angel that year, and now she doesn't gift me anything at all anymore.
Bonus, she doesn't come to visit anymore either. Merry Christmas to me!
Final score:
109points
miss no-way 2 years ago
I think we have a real Karen here! At least you'll enjoy a serene life without her now. ;)
OmBoyGanesh 3 years ago
It weirds me out when parents resent their own children so much they treat them like this. I’m so sorry. I’m certain you’ll make a beautiful family without her.
Geoffrey Zaun 3 years ago
Had the same, though MIL not evil. Years and years of MIL free xmas, thanksgiving etc.. It wis 20 yrs of sheer bliss. Welp, don't count your chickens. She fell and is now living with us... Now we can't go anywhere (empty nesters finally) and we got saddled with her psycho dog.. So... enjoy whilst you can...
#15
My mom has received some pretty awful gifts. One year, my dad got her a pedometer for her birthday and nothing else. For mother's day, my grandparents gave her a broom. I still feel bad for her.
Final score:
108points
MJLstrd 3 years ago
One Christmas in the 60s Dad gave Mom formal elbow length gloves that you'd wear to a gala of some sort. They had never done anything like that and they were never going to do anything like that. Turns out Dad was seeing the mother of one of my classmates. Did he get the gifts mixed up?
Veronica Rabbit (Submission author) 3 years ago
Nah, there wasn't any kind of mix-up. My dad is just not the greatest at gift giving. He couldn't understand why my mom was upset and kept saying, "But you love running! I just wanted to make it easier for you!" I believe he meant well...
Load More Replies... Kathy Rayborn 3 years ago
I would have given it back to granny saying “Thanks, I already have transportation, you need this more.”
Gourdeous 2 years ago
My dad gave mum a 4-slice toaster for her birthday 'to make it easier for you to make us all breakfast'. She threw it out the kitchen window
Kate Jones 3 years ago (edited)
My dad almost never bought the gifts, which isn't completely unusual. My mom did all the holiday shopping so he was often just as surprised to see what we got as we were, lol. However, one year when we were little we had gone to bed on xmas eve and my parents and grandparents (dad's parents) were there and my dad surprised her with a big box, only to open it and find he had bought her a bunch of sex toys as a gag and she opened it in front of the grandparents. They weren't prudish, but they didn't use sex toys and even if they did, it was so crazy that he did it in front of his own parents on xmas eve. And for this to be the only gift he ever actually went out and got her (and nothing since, in 50 years of marriage) it was a little hurtful. She was so excited that he'd finally gotten her something and she teared up, for it to end up being this. He just thought it was funny but he's never even gotten her anniversary or birthday presents. To this day she has no idea what possessed him.
Bun bun holy pug 3 years ago
My husband gave me an apron that he bought at the supermarket on Christmas day. I gave him a cool watch that has a built-in cigarette lighter
Jane Hower 2 years ago
Had a husband like that - got a toaster, or a kitchen rug, etc. Hardly ever a sweet gift for a female lover/wife, etc. Glad I finally dumped him and bought MYSELF nice jewelry and perfume, fur coats, etc.
Isabel Care 2 years ago
Dad bought mum (who is lactose intolerant) a Dolly Duck butter dish. She nearly used the set of kitchen knives he got her the year before.
michele mbennett1010@att.net 2 years ago
Egads the whole family's a bunch of thoughtless douchebags.
#16
Almost all the gifts I received from my late aunt. Old-fashioned, worn-out bags or clutches that she wouldn't wear anymore; stained clothes (which sometimes had holes too); outdated touristic guides from the '60s; any object that she wanted to get rid of; useless flyers and ads that she'd collect from her vacations. I felt angry and humiliated, and all the "gifts" ended out in the trash bin after her visits.
There is a lesson I learned from this - never treat people like that. Get a proper gift. A flower or some fresh fruits are rather cheap and will always be better than your personal trash. And if you still decide to give personal items, make sure they have some value (such as a useful book, a jewel, or an old painting).
Final score:
107points
2x4b523p 3 years ago
I was gonna say that. I started getting used dirty clothes, makeup and cosmetics and grandma was soon diagnosed with Alzheimers.
Load More Replies... girlsrock4ever 3 years ago
Did you give her trash as gifts, too? Because while I'd high-five you for that, it's still not proper etiquette (like 7773989 said).
Alexia (Submission author) 3 years ago
No. I'd say it's common sense (I didn't know about etiquette back then). I was in college at the time and my family was really struggling financially, so we couldn't afford anything expensive. But we did offer her home-made cakes and dishes (my mom is an excellent cook), wine and grapes from my grandfather's vineyard, and I offered hand made decorations for holidays (one of my hobbies). And she genuinely appreciated everything.
Load More Replies... Michael Largey 3 years ago
Advance warning of what a person is like can be one of the more useful gifts in life.
Jillian 2 years ago
My aunt does something similar she makes a lot of money and her company often buys clothes for events that she won’t wear plus her step daughter is a designer and will give her clothes that don’t fit. I’ve gotten a Mary Kay dress along with some other fancy dresses, purses, and jewelry. I’m very lucky that she did this but for years I was given unicorn things like up until I was 15.
michele mbennett1010@att.net 2 years ago
No, just no. I would have gone to the kitchen, gotten the trash bin and chucked them in there in front of her and told her to quit bringing her garbage here. Don't care if she's a relative or not.
Cheryl Ramsay 2 years ago
I once read somewhere that a gift ought to be something that you would like to receive. Of course, the giftee's personality, colors, preferences should be thought of too. A gift doesn't have to be expensive.
#17
The same distinctive bottle of alcohol I gifted them 2 years earlier.
Final score:
105points
Nikki Sevven 2 years ago
While there's nothing wrong with re-gifting a decent item that you can't use, it's considered bad form to re-gift it to the person who originally gave it to you. (Also, exactly like gifting, re-gifting should be thoughtful, not a random "I had to buy you something" afterthought.)
#18
When I was a kid I had a favorite Barbie doll with long hair. I loved her so much and brought her with me everywhere. I had an Aunt who told me she was going to do something for my doll for my birthday and so I thought she was making her a little outfit or something, so I gave her the doll and on my birthday she gave her back to me with her hair chopped short and she said, "isn't it so chic? She looks so modern and pretty!!" I was legit so upset about it. It's not like her hair will grow back you jerk! I'm 43 and still salty about it. I was talking to my mom just the other day because the aunt had called for the first time in a while and I just squinted my eye and she knew I was thinking about what she did to my doll, lol.
Final score:
104points
Amanduh 2 years ago
My grandma did the same to my actual hair, only by the time she was done it was neither chic nor pretty
Bubs623 2 years ago
I'm glad someone else stays salty. When I was little girl, my great grandmother was almost 100. (She died at 104- still sharp.) She had long, beautiful silver hair. Every morning my grandmother would brush it and braid it. Took about 5 minutes, so it wasn't a big deal. Great grandma lived with my grandparents. My g-parents were gifted a cruise for their anniversary so when they went, they asked my g-ma's sister- great g-ma's daughter) to care for her mother for a week. Seven days. And she was so damn lazy, she couldn't be bothered to take five minutes to brush and braid my great g-ma's hair. So she chopped it off. Great g-ma cried & cried. Obviously at her age, her hair isn't growing much. I was so angry on my g-ma and great g-ma's behalf that I refused to greet or talk to Aunt Butthead. That was over 45'years ago. Still holding the grudge
Elizabeth Tayler 2 years ago
Good. How incredibly cruel & disrespectful, I hope she felt disgusting when her poor mother cried.
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ScarletRos 2 years ago
My younger sister drew on the faces of my Barbies and cut their hair because she was giving them makeovers. Not long later those Bratz dolls came out that did have the heavy makeup look.
Catherine Spencer-Mills 2 years ago
I hated dolls. Despised them. The year I was given a "Chatty Cathy" by my own parents I was certain I was born to the wrong family.
SmooshyFries 2 years ago
I am with you on this one. Time heals all, my a&&! You can't take the salt out of something that hurt you feelings as a kid. I still get upset thinking about my favorite little ball that popped. I put a face on it making the tear in it a mouth with red marker and carried it around, named it Snorky. One day my dad said let me see it so I gave it to him. He proceeded to rip open Snorky mouth and put it on my brother's head and said now its a hat! My brother knew how much I loved that stupid ball , took it off his head, saw that Snorky had been basically killed and gently gave him back to me. I took
SmooshyFries 2 years ago
Off my brother , ran to my room and cried and cried at the death of my dear Snorky
Load More Replies... #19
A bottle of wine with the price tag still attached - $1.00.
Final score:
97points
KY dog mom (Submission author) 3 years ago
Nope. I threw it in the trash. I don't want to know what a $1.00 bottle of wine tastes like.
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BirFromHH 2 years ago
I have given a (rather good) bottle of wine to a friend once with a price tag of 2€. I had taken great care when removing it from something cheap and attaching it to the bottom of the bottle. Gave it to him in front of an audience of guests who certainly knew this wine(they had quite enjoyed it on my birthday, where the recipient of the moment was missing) There we're quite mixed reactions upon detecting of the price tag. A lesson in: how to distinguish the snobs from the people who just enjoy life!
Ginger Ghost 2 years ago
I was gonna say, it depends on their relationship with the gifter, but it could have been a fake label, idk but I would do that to my friend. love that you actually have done it b4 Bir
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Ruth Harper 3 years ago
My dad would love that gift. He takes great pride in buying and drinking the cheapest wine possible.
#20
After 25 years of marriage, husband forgot my birthday. When I reminded him, he insisted I was wrong, but said he had my card in his car. He came back with a sloppy stupid note written on trash from his car. We're divorced, of course. Maybe he remembers his new wife's birthday, I don't know, as long as he remembers my support check, I'm very happy.
Final score:
96points
OmBoyGanesh 3 years ago
He gaslit you by claiming you were wrong about which day you were born??? Wow!!!!
Yettichild 2 years ago
Had a guy argue with me yesterday about a building where I work. He had been there exactly 1 time before and absolutely insisted the building had loading docks and you could drive around the back. My building doesn't have loading docks and the back fence actually attaches to the building. But he still insisted he knew better than the person who had been working in that building multiple days per week for the last 7 years... I've also had arguments with people over my hair color. It's a very very dark brown, and it does look black in bad lighting, but people insist it is actually black. Like I don't know my own hair color.
Load More Replies... censorshipsucks 2 years ago
after 25 years?!?!?! that's unacceptable, I mean I never got on well with my ex but I always remembered our anniversaries and such.
Jane Hower 2 years ago
For yrs in WA state I had asked my then hubby to go to see the tulips - never happened. Found out one of the first things he did with his NEXT wife was take her there. POS
#21
A metal strap watch. From my ex. Despite him knowing that I absolutely hate metallic stuff. I don't wear even any kind of jewelry. I despise wearing any. All this after 6 years of being together. The added insult was him saying 'giving you gifts has become an obligation'
Final score:
95points
Dip thong 3 years ago
I don't like jewelry. When I did wear it. It was the first thing that came off when I walked through the door at home. Even before my shoes. Wearing jewelry gives me anxiety. I can't keep my hands off of it. I'm married but retired my wedding ban years ago. I would fidget with it all day.
Nikki Sevven 2 years ago
I love jewelry, but can't wear it anymore because I developed a nickel allergy.
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Amy Taylor 3 years ago
My ex bought me, a vegetarian, anti-fur person with a pet rabbit a rabbit fur vest. UGH.
T J R 2 years ago
I bought my now ex a fancy electric saw that he wanted. He gave me a set of books by an author he knew I didn't like. The books had been gifted to him, which was obvious by the inscription in the cover of the 1st book. He never opened it, so he had no clue. I was so sad as I sat there and didn't let on that I knew it was a regift.
#22
Trust issues! At Christmas when I was 7 or 8 I was on the phone with my auntie who lived abroad and she said she would send me something for my birthday (which was a few weeks later). I was excited - what kid wouldn't be? My birthday came, but the gift didn‘t. I thought nothing of it....maybe it takes so long, because the package comes from abroad (neighboring country). I checked the mailbox every day after school - it was long after Easter when I finally stopped. It didn‘t get lost in the mail, she simply forgot. Moral of the story: Never promise something you can't or won't keep - especially to a child.
Final score:
95points
#23
A book on how to handle my introverted mindset.
Final score:
91points
Error 404 3 years ago
That's... A very mean thing to do actually... I'm introverted, and I LIKE being introverted, so what's the problem ?😐
Charlotte Stackhouse 2 years ago
Yeah, wtf extroverts who think they’re better than us!
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girlsrock4ever 3 years ago
My parents act this way. Since I don't talk a lot in classes (even though I know the answers, I don't raise my hand), they put me in a "speaking class" that's actually a "How to speak basic English" class for non-native speakers who are very poor at speaking English, even though everyone says I speak English nicely. And they don't listen when I tell them that either, and just say I'm self-conceited and actually at their level. (Sorry for the rant, I've told this to multiple people and only one person thinks my parents are in the wrong)(I was 95th percentile in English ranked among native speakers, so...)
miss no-way 2 years ago
I can't believe it... As an introvert, I feel very upset myself, this is so tactless. Introverts are treated like they are wrong and need to change in order to be more likable to extroverts - who are considered "normal people". I'm so sick tired of this and I feel sorry for you. Please know that you are not wrong, lot of these people just lack empathy and are unable to accept others as they are. Hugs
Load More Replies... A_Reddit_User (Submission author) 3 years ago
"Shut up, and stop whining: a book on how to stop forcing introverts to become extroverts"
Populus tremuloides(they/them) 3 years ago
I want to write a book on how to stop being an extrovert
Jon Steensen 3 years ago
Title should be something along the lines of: "Extrovert ... Why you can't shut up, and stop disturbing people"
Load More Replies... A_Reddit_User (Submission author) 3 years ago (edited)
For some reason I cannot wear a hoodie anywhere without getting called out and made fun of. It's really makes life harder.
williamszita 2 years ago
Wow! Don't you just love it that because your quite and still folks who are loud and push themselves on the world decide you need to be "fixed"
A_Reddit_User (Submission author) 3 years ago
wheels of genius going slowly Screenshot...54-png.jpg 
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
I think that's ok personally, as a former introvert, i would have liked to have someone offer me a way to get away from it, my life was miserable till I overcame it. So... it depends on whether you like being an introvert or not.
miss no-way 2 years ago
I think it's ok with something that is presented as a way to tackle basic situations and going uot of our comfort zone, that would be positiv. Anyway, by the title of the book, I sense a critic and negative approach to introversion (that is not a sickness or a immoral way of life), that just upsets me.
Load More Replies... #24
I grew up in a rural area. Neighbors were miles away. I was the youngest of 3 and we were many years apart in age.
In other words, I only had “school” friends.
Yet, my parents got me multi-player board games. Like, sorry, you won’t be getting to the Head Of The Class in this Game Of Life.
Final score:
87points
ItsJess 3 years ago
I was an only child and very shy - I had SO MANY board games. I had to play by myself, just playing as different players.
DennyS (denzoren) 3 years ago
Yesssss. I did this too. I was the dog, hat and thimble in monopoly. Lol
Load More Replies... Amy Taylor 3 years ago
My brother always refused to play board games with me so I would play with my stuffed animals, lol
over it already 2 years ago (edited)
Oh. Sad self-reflection. As a parent who has multiple times given board games to any/all of my 3 kids (never as the only gift) and said game has sat unused, I will say that I always do that with the desire and intention of sitting down together and playing a board game. Truth is though, life gets in the way, schedules are crazy, and the games that are enjoyable and easy enough for the youngest are boring to the oldest. *shrug - I tried.
#25
Suddenly a lot of makeup... Right after I came out as nonbinary. I got back at her by using it to do goth makeup, clown makeup, and sfx stuff and sending her pictures.
Final score:
87points
#26
I got a rotten pumpkin... Worst. Birthday. EVER.
Final score:
82points
girlsrock4ever 3 years ago
Who gave it to you? I'm just curious, because- Well, come on! Who'd give someone a ROTTEN. PUMPKIN.
Ranger Kanootsen (Submission author) 3 years ago
It was my grandfather. I have no idea why he gave me that, and he hasn't ever bothered to explain it. Another of the universe's mysteries, I suppose.
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Tamra 3 years ago
A rotten pumpkin...what...why? What sort of message is that sending? Would have been great if you'd planted the seeds from that pumpkin, grown a huge, prize-winning pumpkin, and had your picture posted in the local paper, standing next to the monster pumpkin, with middle fingers raised. Then sent the article to your grandfather. 🙂
Ranger Kanootsen (Submission author) 3 years ago
Heh. I wish I knew why! Maybe he just doesn't like me & this is how he says it? Wish I'd thought of planting it, but it smelled REALLY bad so I chucked it out right quick.
Load More Replies... #27
Spoons. My dad thought it would be a fun joke to give his son, fresh home from college after having eaten nothing but soup for a month...spoons. For Christmas. This was after I had told them all about what I had been going through. It was the first present I opened. I was so heart broken while he just giggled like he'd done something clever. I just dropped them and went back to my room and locked the door sobbing. Both me and Mom were so upset by that Christmas and the lack of effort he put into getting us anything that we actually didn't celebrate Christmas the next year. I don't know if he ever learned anything from the experience. I've given up caring about people who don't even know me...
Final score:
81points
Nene Miu Miu 3 years ago
that's what I'm trying to do too, not care about people who don't even know me or care about me! Good for you for figuring this out! I appreciate the brilliant way you put this so that the lightbulb went off in my head and I completely understand what I need to do now! Thank you very much Let's try and fill our lifes with people who do care about us
Karen Philpott 2 years ago
I think you and your Mom should go shopping together and buy each other what you want. And together buy your Dad, her husband a bag of air.
#28
For my 17th birthday, my mother gave me a carton of cigarettes. This was about a month after my stepfather and I had a knock-down drag-out fight, which I lost. She made her choice as to which one of us was more important. I was living with my father at the time. The worst part? Christmas was three weeks later and guess what I got for that one?
Another carton of Marlboros.
Final score:
79points
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
wait, but did you smoke at the time? if not, that is super bizarre.
Doc Thissen (Submission author) 3 years ago
EDIT: I realize the similarities to Breakfast Club. In fact, the film came out the year after this happened. so, art imitates life?
Anaïs Grobin 2 years ago
It might be similar, but true stuff. People reading this- back in the 70s & 80s it was sadly common. My mom got a carton of cigarettes as a wedding present from a relative! A lot of people have had this unfortunate experience like John Bender.
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Mykidsartrocks 3 years ago
They got cigarettes and sent to live with their dad because mom chose stepdad over kid.
Load More Replies... #29
There was a year when one sister got a scrapbook set (complete with scissors, paper books, embellishments, etc). Another sister got a new TV, brother got tires for his truck... I got a pair of $7 earrings that were hideous. Husband: sister and brother had tons of presents, beautifully wrapped, including new PlayStation... He received a black garbage bag of clothes- not in his size, with the clearance Kmart sticker on them. Nothing wrapped nicely. Just the trash bag.
Final score:
79points
OmBoyGanesh 3 years ago
Passive-aggressive favoritism. Hopefully this only allowed you two to grow closer. Still, that sucks and I’m sorry.
Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago
Next time, give to reputable charities in the names of those creeps. Preferably ones that support causes they hate.
#30
For my 35th birthday, my mother gave me absolutely nothing, not even a card. I wouldn't have cared, but 6 days earlier, she gave my husband a card, $100 and a beautiful cake. One of the many reasons she is no longer allowed in my life.
Final score:
78points
OmBoyGanesh 3 years ago
This sounds like a narcissist who was always trying to compete with you. I’m so so sorry regardless of her intention.
Miz Lil (Submission author) 3 years ago
You got it in one! And thank you.
Load More Replies... #31
A birthday card, wishing me a Happy 30th Birthday. On my 29th birthday. From my mother.
Final score:
76points
Susanne B 3 years ago
I understand your disappointment, but my mother never can remember, how old any of us are.
Rosemary Booth 3 years ago
My mom has five daughters and can never remember our names. She'll call me two or three of my sister's names before she finally gets to mine. The craziest thing is that I'm actually named after her!
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Ruth Harper 3 years ago
I have to count sometimes to remember my own age. Not everyone is good with years and dates.
Hagen Radcliffe 3 years ago
Please say you are from a really large family with lots of sisters!
MelFunction 2 years ago
My mom and I once argued about how old I was. She turned out to be right. She just laughed and shook her head and said "Don't argue with me. I was there when it happened."
Karen Philpott 2 years ago
I don't always remember what age my stepkids are, but I damned well remember their birthdays.
Not-a-Clue-What-to-Call-Myself 2 years ago
My mum thought I was 20 on my 30th birthday, despite having my 9year-old sitting next to me. 🤷🏼♀️
Pizzagirl 91 3 years ago
Don't these people have calendars? Like, even if I'm pretty sure someone is turning 30 or 40, I'd check twice before I get the card!
#32
Not a gift for me, but my in-laws gave my son a trash can a few birthdays ago.
Final score:
73points
girlsrock4ever 3 years ago
These gifts are getting worse and worse... I'm losing faith in humanity's ability to give good gifts...
Cheryl Ramsay 3 years ago
I got a trash can for Christmas once from my stepdaughter. It has an automated cover that opens when your hands are near it. I. LOVE. IT. No more dropping dirty, wet or dusty cloths. Just go to the can and the top opens for you. Best gift I've gotten in quite awhile!
Kate Jones 3 years ago
As an adult who is really into home goods, if it was a nice metal/silver trash can, I'd be pretty psyched as they are like 80-120 dollars and are pretty fancy. I suspect that isn't the case here but I'm going to just think positively, lol.
girlsrock4ever 3 years ago
The world needs more optimists, my friend (although it makes sense there aren't that many because of this post, global warming, deforestation, this post, poverty, war, child labor, child abuse, this post, racism/sexism/homophobia/etc, this post, etc.)
Load More Replies... Isabel Care 2 years ago
Fine, it he needed one. Ok if it was full of other stuff he wanted. A small bin without holes in can be useful for a soon to be partying student. Otherwise...NO.
#33
Used soap! My grandparents were poor farmers and never gave gifts to my brother and me. Except for one year, I received a gift in the mail, wrapped and everything! I was 9 and felt so special. Inside was a large, pink, scented heart soap. Okay .. then I noticed a line around the middle, it opened up and there was a key made of soap inside. It had been used a few times already. I was so sad!! It took me years to realize how poor they really were and had probably gotten it from their church not knowing that it had been used! But at 9…
Final score:
73points
Susanne B 3 years ago
It is hard for children in poor families, because it is only many years later they realise, that the sad or non coming gifts was not out of ill will, but necessity.
William Bennett 3 years ago
My family grew up pretty poor. Must I guess came from charity organizations. But one thing we will talk very young is it doesn't matter what to give was, it was the thought behind it. And presents are not everything is better to have your family then nothing at all. I'm going with a lot of nieces and nephews and my family still poor. But I lived on a fixed income so I'm able to save a little and buy them each at least one nice birthday present and Christmas present. each year. But nine times out of 10 I put their parents name on it. I don't do it for the recognition I do it to see them smile. My siblings thank you very much and tell me I don't have to do it just put my name on it but I'd rather have the parents have the recognition and myself
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Billie Templeton 2 years ago
I imagine your grandmother smelling that soap (not realizing it was used....who gives used soap to a church charity?) and when she smelled how nice it smelled thought you would like it.
#34
Everything my mom and stepdad bought me as a kid. Literally, everything felt like it was designed to remind me that they had no idea who I was or were intentionally ignoring what they should have known about me.
Usually, really girly/feminine gifts when I was an overt tomboy (trans but we didn't have the verbage for that in the 90s), but not as like a manipulative tactic, they didn't care that I was a tomboy at all, they weren't trying to change me, they just didn't bother to notice anything about my personality. I kept just asking to go to the library more often or get new books, and the closest thing they did was get me American Girl books which were waaay below my reading level and not my preferred genre. I pointed out a cheap boys' bike at a thrift shop, and they got me a more expensive one that was a brand new heavy pastel pink cruiser with streamers. Even when they'd ask what I wanted they just didn't listen.
To their credit I never told them I didn't like the things they got me, that felt like it would be super rude, but it was hurtful and uncomfortable enough over the years that I stopped talking about my birthdays in hopes they would just forget.
Final score:
72points
Ray Arani (Submission author) 3 years ago
I'm aware now, obviously, but in 1996 I'd never even heard the term transgender so I identified as a tomboy. Also, since I'm trans and non binary, I still feel that identity was valid at the time as it was the closet verbage we had to that back then. Gender can be somewhat fluid. I was actually quite lucky that my parents never tried to pressure me to confirm to gender norms. My mom had me young and assumed all kids were like me and sort of genderless until society pressured them one way or the other. Then my siblings came along and are pretty cis gender, and clearly put themselves in the roles of boy and girl without being pressured and she started to realize I was actually kind of different. But by then I was an adult so...
Load More Replies... Susanne B 3 years ago
It is nice to read, that you were much kinder, than your parents and didn't tell them.
Ray Arani (Submission author) 3 years ago (edited)
Thanks, I always strove for kindness. Part of it though was that I was raised to be accommodating. It's one of the things my mom now says she regrets about my early childhood, teaching me to put others emotions and needs above my own to a detriment. Raising kids is a c**p shoot, you think your teaching them to be kind and considerate, but you might accidentally teach them not to value their own needs. I don't blame her at all, I face those challenges now with my own kid.
Load More Replies... Margot Moser 2 years ago
You say it was "to their credit I never told them I didn't like the things they got me" but, in fact, it was to YOUR credit, showing you to be respectful and classy despite their being disrespectful and rude towards you.
Populus tremuloides(they/them) 3 years ago
The verbage was there in the 90's, we've been around for a very long time. That being said I'm aware it was taboo and not talked about by many people, and if you guys didn't grow up with the internet like we are I absolutely don't blame you for not having known. I remember being a tomboy kid but I learned all the pride flags I could find when I was 12, being a teenager like that sounds rough, I'm glad you know now.
Catherine Spencer-Mills 2 years ago
I'm a tomboy, always have been. I never wanted to be anything else. I wanted a train set for christmas. My brother got the train set, refused to let me play with it. I got yet another doll and a paint by number.
Got Myself 4 Pandas 2 years ago
I grew up kinda similar in the way - my parents always managed to get things that were close to what I wanted yet so very very far - like when I desperately wanted knee high black boots in the 90's but ended up with these ugly beige canvas ones instead - so close yet so far! And I would be torn to shreds at school for being so uncool - but I never said anything as I didn't want to seem ungrateful. Would also buy me clothes much too big for me by a good few sizes - I never figured out if it was that they were a bit clueless or went for what was cheaper but I've no doubt it was never intended to be hurtful.
MJLstrd 3 years ago
I hope in the intervening years you've come into your true self and . . . even, perhaps developed some sort of positive relationship with your mom and step dad
Ray Arani (Submission author) 3 years ago (edited)
My step dad is no longer in any of our lives thank goodness. He was a horrible person. My mom and I are fine now. She's learned to just ask me what she should get for my son on his birthday and holidays and just listen. As a result she's been quite the favorite because her gifts are always exactly what he wants. Last Xmas was a year long monthly subscription to a international snack/candy box and it's seriously his favorite thing ever.
Load More Replies... #35
When I was seven, my great-grandma bought my 2 cousins hundreds of dollars worth of toys, which I got to see them open. Then I was given my gift, volume 1 of an animal encyclopedia that you got for free with any purchase at the grocery store. I was pretty excited at first thinking about all the books I was going to have to read when the rest of the series came, until I found out volume 1 was the entirety of my present.
Final score:
70points
Silent Hill 2 years ago
When I was around fourteen my present, to myself, was to call my grandmother and tell her I never wanted to see her again, and that she was a lousy person. Good memory.
#36
The Evil Goat Puzzle. My uncle took a photo of some mountain goats, got the photo turned into a 2,000-piece puzzle, and gave it to my grandparents. It would've been cool, but the resolution of the photo was so bad, and the colors were all the same (just gray, black, brown, and white) so it took us MONTHS to finish. Every time anyone visited my grandparents, they'd have to work on the Evil Goat Puzzle. My grandparents just couldn't manage it on their own.
(Oh, I forgot to mention! When my grandparents first started working on the Evil Goat Puzzle, my uncle decided to help them. They made a lot of progress in the first couple of days. Unfortunately, they'd started it on the kitchen counter, so they had to move it to another table. My grandma was about to move it using some cardboard, but my uncle got frustrated and took the whole thing apart. It was a bad, bad day.)
Final score:
69points
Veronica Rabbit (Submission author) 3 years ago
It's okay to laugh, it's funny!
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#37
Used foot lotion. It was a secret Santa in the family that year. My youngest sister gave it to me. I guess she was too young to realize she could spend money instead of stealing it from our mom's closet 🤷♀️
Final score:
68points
Sarah K 3 years ago
How old was your sister at the time? It sounds like she was very young if she didn't understand how it worked
*Displayname*=idk (Submission author) 3 years ago
She was 7 or 8. Long time ago.
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#38
I still laugh about this. I absolutely do not like cake. Don't like the texture. Don't like the sweetness. Just not a fan. Never was. For my birthday I always ask for a pie instead of a cake. My wife and I were together for several years at this point and she knows my unusual dislike of cake and had always gotten me some type of pie. I loved every one. One year. She gets me a chocolate cake. I'm weird and don't like chocolate either. The wife and kids were happy to finish the cake. I bought myself a pie during my lunch break.
Final score:
62points
Joshua Moon (Submission author) 3 years ago
I am thinking it was because she was pregnant with our youngest and I think she was craving chocolate cake.
Load More Replies... Quentin ingulfumble 3 years ago
im the same. every year i get both a cake and a cheese board. i dont like cake, and the kids dont like stilton. everybody wins!
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
I hate this birthday cake c**p. In SA (my country) we do it as well, even though it is definitely a eurocentric/USA thing. I really really hate it. I do not want sugary bread with your spit on it from blowing out candles. My kids insist on it. I always refuse for myself. I haven't had a b/day cake in like 5 years, and the last one was also because the kids insisted and made it themselves, which was really cute of them, and that at least was meaningful. But buying one from the store? ugh. I'd rather have a quiche or something.
Samyan Elrod 2 years ago
I'm with you. Chocolate = unsustainably produced and also gross, cake / sweet stuff gross and unhealthy.
#39
I got a sponge with a face drawn on it for my birthday, courtesy of my Uncle Corey. He didn't get any birthday cake.
Final score:
60points
*Displayname*=idk 3 years ago (edited)
My dad got a potato dressed like him. He was "El Papa" because dad in Spanish is "papa" and so is potato. He lasted two years in the freezer. We threw him out once we moved because he went bad on the trip.
Worst Cop in Britain 2 years ago
You threw out the *potato*, right?.... Right?
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#40
Got a trip to spain from my mother. As soon as we took of, she told me I have to pay for it.
Final score:
58points
Richard Smith 3 years ago
Tell her, "Yeah, that's OK. I'll just have to save up for it." Then write her a check and put it in her casket.
OmBoyGanesh 3 years ago
How is this a gift? Did she buy the tickets or just plan the trip? Were you to pay her back? How would you have taken off if it wasn’t paid for and couldn’t just tell her that’s not how gifts work so you’re not paying her back? I’m a little confused.
Merenwen Alcarin (Submission author) 3 years ago
She wanted me to pay her back. In the end I didn't. Just could not afford it.
Load More Replies... #41
A baby pink, polyester pants suit with a matching bejeweled sweater. For my 30th birthday. Apparently I was a “grown up” now and expected to dress as such. Shrug.
Final score:
56points
Rachel Reynolds 3 years ago
I'm 40 and currently wearing a Boba Fett sweatshirt over a Bad Batch tanktop. And socks with pumpkins on them.
ItsJess 3 years ago
45, wearing a Buffy the Vampire Slayer tshirt with leggings printed with anthropomorphic sushi rolls.
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Brandy P (Submission author) 3 years ago
Nice, Rachel! Im all for whatever anyone wants to wear! Pink polyester just wasn't for me.
SMom 3 years ago
Way back when I was married my MIL would get me some ill-fitting clothing every xmas. And everything went back, usually for cash so I could spend it where I wanted.
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Hagen Radcliffe 3 years ago
Scrub pants (tie waist) a 20 year old sweatshirt from my sons high school, and fuzzy tie-dye socks. I look goooood !
Got Myself 4 Pandas 2 years ago
Haha, I still dress in the same grungy way I did in my 20's and I'm 41 a week on Saturday- I will be a pensioner still wearing knee high boots with several buckles and ripped jeans - I will never be a "grown up"
Show thyself 3 years ago
36 - self"designed" (of 16y/o me) x-japan-shirt, zebra print harem pants, mismatched socks & an old, well worn hoodie with paws, cat ears and a pouch for the cat itself
A Basketcase castaway 2 years ago (edited)
I'm 45 and wearing a Dookie T shirt, tie dyed leggings and my Supernatural socks. Lol
#42
my dad gave me a pizza pan he originally bought to try out on a frozen pizza because he forgot to buy me an actual gift
Final score:
53points
Bun bun holy pug 3 years ago
today my husband tried to give me a bread he bought for his dinner as a gift because he forgot my birthday... again!
#43
not me, but my husband. my mother didn't like him, but then again, she didn't like anyone. she gave my husband a mcdonalds happy meal toy one year. and another year, she gave my brother cans of slimfast, all wrapped individually.
Final score:
53points
Loud Frog 3 years ago
Now that's just cruel, it's somewhat understandable when it comes to inlaws, but your own brother?
A. Starhawk Hunt 2 years ago
A disordered mind. The best help you can give that woman is a subscription to “Shoot Yourself in the Face!” For lifetime.
Load More Replies... #44
One year, I gave lovely gifts to my brother, his wife and two kids for Christmas - but all I got was a fake potatohead with watercress for hair. I kept waiting for the 'real' gift, but none came...
Final score:
47points
#45
nothing at all! any and all gifts are appreciated here
Final score:
46points
A. Starhawk Hunt 2 years ago
Really? Me neither, actually. No one cares. Just cause I’m going to be 60 doesn’t mean I’ve quit having birthdays. Bad enough it’s on Dec 26, and it’s so often “oh, I thought you’d prefer quality over quantity!” No thanks. Quality breaks just as easily as quantity! The worst part is that my kids either do nothing, or combine gifts too. Honestly? It still hurts. I’m 60, and it still hurts.
Load More Replies... Karen Philpott 2 years ago
Sometimes you just have to get your own gift for yourself. Whether it's flowers or a takeaway meal, or a book you want to read.
Weirdest Bi You’ll Ever Meet 3 years ago
Of course! What do you like? Books? Video games? I can get you a gift card. I don’t have that mush money because I legally can’t work. Anything under 10$, I’ll buy for you. If you live in Florida, I help donate stuff like essentials for the recovery of the hurricane. 😊
Weirdest Bi You’ll Ever Meet 3 years ago
Actually, I’m sorry I can get you anything. I’m sorry. 😢
Load More Replies... #46
A coupon for an online dating service... At a time when I wasn't even halfway my divorce and my children didn't want anything to do eith me under the influence of their father. So I was absolutely NOT feeling like a new relationship. Thank god my children eventually reached out to me and we were reconnected after 2 years :)
Final score:
25points
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
I dunno, I'd have kept the coupon for use later on. I've found that it takes me about a year to recover from a breakup.
#47
Every year on Christmas morning I have to sit and watch as my kids, husband, and mother in law open gifts that I have spent a lot of time and thought into getting while I'll be lucky to even receive one gift. Also, this year on my birthday I didn't receive anything.
Final score:
24points
CatchTheWind 3 years ago
You don't have to give gifts to other adults when it's not reciprocal. If your husband and inlaws don't buy gifts for you, there's no reason for you to give to them.
Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago
Or you can give to charity in their names. That'll show 'em!
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Chickens are fluffy 3 years ago
I remember that on Christmas my dad doesn't get a lot of good gifts. So one year I supprised him with a 30 dollar thermos. (We works outside a lot and I thought we would want to have something to keep his food warm while outside) he looked like he was going to cry after getting it! And he isn't much of a crier either
#48
my cousin once gave me a plus-sized catalog to banana republic. for my birthday. needless to say, it made me feel terrible. i love making him feel bad about it though :)
Final score:
23points
Rosemary Booth 3 years ago
It's a clothing store where all sizes are measured in bananas (for scale).
Load More Replies... #49
When I was 15, I went to my boyfriends family for Xmas, his mother gave me dish cloths “For when we get our first place together”
Final score:
23points
Kate Jones 3 years ago
This isn't too bad, it's just a little old fashioned. A lot of women gave dish towels or aprons as gifts for a new place way back in the day.
AsexualShrimp 3 years ago
that's not a bad gift... honestly i think i'd appreciate a couple of tablecloths
Awkward Lady 3 years ago
They were dishcloths, for doing dishes, not tablecloths!
Load More Replies... Michael Largey 3 years ago
I notice that it was you, not your boyfriend, that got the dish towels. Thanks for assigning gender roles, "Mom".
#50
Coal in a iPhone box...
Final score:
23points
#51
my birth
Final score:
21points
Mykidsartrocks 3 years ago
I am sending you ten hugs and ten kisses. Just know that world isn't all bad. Sometimes we have to really search for the good but it is there. Please know that even though I don't know you, I care about all human beings. So someone cares about you.
Amy Taylor 3 years ago
Cole...this community of Pandas are here. We may not know you, but we care :)
Weirdest Bi You’ll Ever Meet 3 years ago
I give hugs for every year you’ve lived. Matter a fact, I’ll just give 1 million hugs!
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
Hey Cole. If you feel depressed please come here, this is a caring community and I am sure many people here would be happy to do video calls etc.
#52
A pair of used socks from my aunt and uncle. The icing on the cake is my sister got an adorable fluffy deer plush while being told she was their favorite niece. They didn't even try to whisper. -_-
Final score:
21points
#53
In the Netherlands we have a holiday called Sinterklaas where it's costum to give kids a big bag filled with gifts on December the 5th. When i was 10, someone (i assume my moms abusive ex) left a huge "present bag" filled with just trash. He also told me i would probably grow up to become a red district worker. Once again, i was only 10 years old.
Final score:
20points
#54
A pair of China pig figurines. One was in a baseball uniform, one was in workout gear. I do not play baseball, nor am I a gym person; I don’t like pigs and I don’t collect figurines of any type. This was from a boyfriend for whom I’d bought clothing from his favourite store and a game he’d been in raptures over. China frigging pigs.
Final score:
19points
Chickens are fluffy 3 years ago
Me and my boyfriend have only been through one Christmas together. He gave me brownies! Yeah it's a cheap gift, but I love brownies and they were homemade! It was very very nice of him! He was struggling with some family relationships at the time, so I bought him a card game (Uno) so him and his family could play together and bond over it. He loves it!
Michael Largey 3 years ago
You should have assumed the role of the third little piggie - and run all the way home.
#55
I've had my share of forgotten birthdays and hideous gifts (I love you, Gran, but Hulk-green, hairy winter boots, reminiscent of Mr Burns' gorilla vest or artificial grass with long, stiff, 4cm long bristles?! Where did you even find those?) But the worst gift, and I say this with a heavy heart as a lover of all books, came from my mother. A few weeks before my 24th birthday, I told her my boyfriend and I were getting married. My birthday came and I received a small stack of books (not wrapped, no card, just handed over to me) which as a bookworm, I was excited about until I saw what they were. My mom being a devout catholic (me, not so much) gave me: 1. book on the evils of premarital sex (well, that boat had sailed already and you had me out of wedlock, mother!), 2. pamphlet on how the more children one has the better and a refresher on how sex works (I'm 24, mother! Also, your only child?) and the top prize goes to number 3: oversized, fully illustrated encyclopedia-size tome on procreation, family planning, etc. One of the chapters featured a series of full-page images of a woman, stripped naked, on a table with her legs open among blood, faeces and other unidentified gore, at various stages of giving birth. She was surrounded by men, fully dressed in black and wearing masks (mind you, I didn't particularly expect them to be naked as well!) somehow giving the feeling that this was a ritual performed by a cult and not a normal hospital birth. I was traumatised that day enough that I never wanted to have children. The books *somehow* were lost when I moved in with my husband. Never read any of them.
Final score:
19points
#56
QUARANTINE ON MY SWEET SIXTEENTH... thanks to my lovely friend who gave it to me.🤣 I was not really ready to deal with that at the time so I just slept the entire day. At one point I got up because I got hungry and Im sitting on the couch having tea when my little sister (13) comes up to me and asks " So, you're 16 now...how does it feel?" And I, still half asleep replied " I'm too old for my age' then put my cup away and crept back into bed. One year later, it still remains one of our family inside jokes. I got an e-poster my little sister designed this year with this "quote" on it🤣
Final score:
18points
#57
My brother once got me to wrap my own Christmas present, saying it was for his girlfriend's parents. I was so careful to do a nice job and make it look perfect for them. Then to my surprise the gift that I had been so happy to help wrap and make special had my name on it... I guess I should have been happy for the present - it was a cassette tape of my new fave band at the time (I know, I am dating myself) but I felt so let down that he would trick me like that when I put so much effort into what I thought was helping him do something nice for someone else.
Final score:
18points
#58
I was about 12. I desperately wanted to learn to play the guitar but I didn’t possess the instrument. One day my dad came home with a toy guitar. I was so disappointed and so angry that I tossed it in the closet. I never did learn guitar.
Final score:
17points
Richard Smith 3 years ago
My advice: Learn guitar, become a wealthy rock star, and don't give him any of it.
Chrissyfox (Submission author) 3 years ago
My allowance didn't stretch that far.
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Chrissyfox (Submission author) 3 years ago
Awww... faith in humanity restored. Hugs.
Load More Replies... #59
For my 21st, my mother gave me a bunch of flowers (carnations). Not great for a milestone birthday, but not the worst... until she told me that she was going to give me a family bracelet, but after she had it valued, decided to keep it! I think, actually telling me that, was one of the meanest things she could have done... To this day I can't even look at carnations without being reminded of that. And yes, she's very well off. And no, I won't get that bracelet when she dies, as 1) she eventually sold it and 2) I'm pretty sure I'm not in the will anymore.
Final score:
17points
#60
A funeral plot for my 18th birthday
Final score:
17points
#61
My old boss gave me a gift card for a restaurant I don't enjoy, Swiss Chalet, and worked for only one restaurant in the entire franchise. Said store was on the other side of town, which I never go to. I don't remember the amount specifically, but I think it was either $25 or $50.
Final score:
16points
Michael Largey 3 years ago
I got a gift card for a chain of Chinese restaurants. The closest one was three hours away.
Rachel Reynolds 3 years ago
I had just switched jobs from working at a pizza place to working in a office. My office boss gave us gift cards to various restaurants and I got one to...the pizza place I just left.
#62
Everything that I was given from my MIL.
Final score:
16points
Tamra 3 years ago
Yeeaaahhh...I have some experience with this. My MIL once gave me an old colander covered with chipping lead-based enamel. 🙄
OmBoyGanesh 3 years ago (edited)
Mine ex-MIL was like this and once gave me a very used & very old Kitchen Aid stand mixer (an otherwise awesome gift) after repeatedly commenting on not liking the color (cobalt) of my Kitchen Aid stand mixer every time she’d visit our home. As with several of her gifts, which were clearly spiteful, I’d leave them right where I opened them. On her living room coffee table. At the restaurant table where I opened it. I never once took them with me. She never mentioned this little game to me or my ex. I stood my ground and played fair.
Load More Replies... Dip thong (Submission author) 3 years ago
Tacky clothes. Costume jewelry. Homemade dress. She always wanted me to model the clothes for her. None of it was to my taste. And, she probably didn't like my presents to her either. TBH
Load More Replies... The Redhead 3 years ago
My ex MIL seemed to think I was a young child. She'd get me coloring books, velvet art coloring, Lisa frank stickers.
Mykidsartrocks 3 years ago
Mine gave me a pen, calendar, and notebook. It made planning the family activities easier. Guess who planned all of their family activities?
#63
I lived with my boyfriend in college, and we had to walk 7-8 blocks to the laundromat from our apartment. For Valentine’s Day one year, he bought me a folding cart, so I didn’t have to wait for his help to do “our” laundry. I could do it all by myself.
Final score:
16points
Michael Largey 3 years ago
Your response should have been "Great, now that doing the laundry only requires one of us, we can take turns!"
Mrs S 3 years ago
Never let someone else do your laundry unless they can be trusted not to ruin your stuff.
Load More Replies... Pizzagirl 91 3 years ago
Why is it so common for people to do their laundry at a laundromat in (what I assume is usually) the USA? Here in Germany, it is highly unusual to not have your own washer, and I couldn't even tell you where the next cleaner would be! Even in college, I had a used washing machine about 2 days after moving in.
#64
I was once given a button-up furry coat… without the buttons.
Final score:
15points
#65
I got a cheap Christmas decoration from a great aunt I don’t really know. She had me for the family secret Santa. She got it for me because apparently “I was too old for toys” I was 10 at the time.
Final score:
15points
Michael Largey 3 years ago
As the age changes, so do the toys (and their price).
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Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago
Friends of my mom's - I forget who, now - gave me this stupid-looking doll that looked like a cross between Santa Claus and a court jester. I thanked them for it, then tossed it into the back of my closet. A couple years later I donated it to a charity thrift store.
#66
Three offcuts sawn off a log and varnished for a wedding gift. Apparently the person was trying to pass them off as high-end 'plates. We passed them off as high-end bin fodder
Final score:
15points
#67
My ex MIL once got me a tomato red blouse with a high neck & had long streams that were to be tied to make a large bow at the neck. It was hideous. To top it off she got me a size 12 (I've always been a petite person). 🙄
Final score:
14points
Ruth Harper 3 years ago
That sounds cute to me. The wrong size thing sucks, though. My grandmother used to do that: buy me clothes (pink clothes, even though I hated and still hate pink) in sizes way to small for me.
#68
Not me but my grandmother. I was the oldest of all her grandchildren and from the time I was 4 until her last grandchild turned 18 about 25 years later, every grandchild gave her chocolate covered cherries for every special occasion. I have 12 siblings and cousins. Turns out grandma was allergic to cherries but my 12 year old uncle who took me shopping that first time wasn't. Grandma was too polite to tell her progeny until all of us were out of school.
Final score:
14points
Pizzagirl 91 3 years ago
I HATE how so many people, especially grandmas, feel like their feelings and wishes are not as relevant or important as other's. My grandma rarely ever used to say how she feels, but recently, she found the courage not only to tell US, but even to return a sweater in a store and ask for her money back. I will never delete my voice mail, because she once called me from the hospital, to proudly tell me that she did after all ask the nurse for a tea when she felt like it. She had been thirsty for an hour, but didn't "want to be a bother", until I told her that it's absolutely valid to ask, even if they might not get around to it immediately. It's possible to change things, even past 80!
#69
This is going to sound ungrateful. A sewing machine. I had saved up and bought myself a basic but reliable sewing machine which I loved and used all the time. My MIL had a fancy sewing machine and was upgrading to an even fancier one so for my birthday gave me the one she was replacing, saying now I could sell my old one. I appreciated the kind thought but preferred my own trusty machine. I knew it would sound ungrateful so I sold my machine as instructed. The gift machine was "temperamental" and I never really enjoyed sewing as much as I had before.
Final score:
11points
Eunice Probert 3 years ago
I wonder if she did that deliberately. Perhaps she felt you were stealing her thunder by also sewing. Perhaps you were better at it and she wanted to stop you.
Pizzagirl 91 3 years ago
That might have been meant well, though. Like that time my MIL gave us a Roomba, which made me feel like I wasn't doing a good job cleaning, but she was probably trying to lessen the weight of cleaning the flat while I was pregnant... It depends on your overall relationship with her. I'm sorry you sold your trusty machine. I've got two sewing machines, and I'd take the one I chose myself over the one I was handed down any time - but mine is an Overlock and the hand-me-down is a "regular", so they both have their uses. Could you find "your" model again and sell the gifted one? I'm sure your MIL won't notice, she probably won't be watching you sew regularly, right?
#70
For a wedding gift in 1970, my Dad presented me with a 1968 Mercury Colony Park with a 390 Cubic Inch engine, seating for 6 adults, 4 kids in back, got about 12 mpg. Similar to the family wagon in the movie Summer Vacation. Perfect for a A1C (E-3) stationed in Marysville, CA, traveling to Tacoma, WA frequently (sarcasm font needed).
Final score:
11points
Rick Olson (Submission author) 3 years ago
This is can be a tutorial on why you should proof read your post before posting it, they cannot be edited nor deleted. The important data is the wedding gift was in June 1973, with the Oil crisis starting, with gasoline rationing and lines for refueling your car. Thanks, Dad!
#71
A few years ago I finished writing my PhD after years of work. My supervisor gave me a chocolate biscuit past its sell date for months. I never had the chance to defend my PhD so I gave up a few months later
Final score:
11points
Caroline Sinclair 3 years ago
It's not too late. You have done the work, go back and get the certificate!
Michael Largey 3 years ago
I agree, but in academia phd theses have a "sell by" date, too. I know people who have had to start over after an interruption because their research wasn't "fresh".
Load More Replies... #72
When I was 5 my mom told us 3 kids that my dad would be coming home from work with a big surprise. He was going to be bringing home some big present. She got us pumped up. I was so excited and my mind went crazy imagining all the wonderful things he could be bringing home. Sure enough, he had a big cardboard box with him when he came home and he put it on the floor for us kids to open. When we opened it, it was a filled with plastic closet hangers. What a let down.
Final score:
11points
Kate Jones 3 years ago
I don't know why but this reminds me of comedian John Mulaney talking about how his dad took him and his brother to McDonald's drive thru one day and then only got a small black coffee and left.
resting-witch-face 3 years ago
my parents do that all the time. one time they ligit took us to a sweet shop just to get some coffee for them, me at 5 and my brother around 7. like what in the actual f**k people.
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#73
Not me, but a friend of mine... she received a box of condoms from her husband on Christmas after purchasing him a nice gift. It broke her heart and was the last straw in their failed marriage. I still feel bad for her when I think about this.
Final score:
11points
#74
Oh, I have another. One year, my now ex-husband didn’t get me any gifts, and instead told me he’d buy me any plastic storage containers I wanted… because he wanted more space in our shared dresser and wanted me to put my clothes under our bed.
Final score:
10points
#75
I had a guy "friend" who was jealous of my relationship with one of his friends. So on my birthday, he gave me a large box filled with cow manure, and on top of it was a small box contain a uterine bolus (which is a medication for a prolapsed uterus of a cow).... we all worked together in a cattle feedyard. Needless to say, we were not friends after this.
Final score:
10points
#76
The cheapest weaving loom my rich aunt could buy.
Final score:
9points
#77
For my high school graduation, now many years ago, my aunt hand sewed me a polyester caftan that looked like something Mrs Roper from "Three's Company" would wear. It was basically a tent with a hole for my head and two holes for my arms and made with hideous fabric. I know she meant well, but seriously, what 18 year old would wear something that looked like it belonged to a 55 year old - no me.
Final score:
9points
OmBoyGanesh 3 years ago
This is why I hate getting gifts. The people I share life with know this about me and I’m always so individually grateful to each other them who acknowledge my special moments but don’t gift anything to me. Because since I was young I felt tortured by what I’ve felt to be disingenuous & dishonest reactions to things I genuinely don’t care for. And I just hate having things for the sake things. There have been times I’ve been resentful for having to pretend I appreciate something I don’t, all because I love their intention and sentiment. But if they really want to show me appreciation or consideration, words work better than things. This social construct of gift obligation and pretend appreciation for me is an example of the shallowness we allow in order to spare feelings. Gifting works when it’s unexpected & personalized. Otherwise, it just feel forced & obligatory.
Mary Hammett 3 years ago
This is why I love giving or getting gift cards/certificates. They get a bad rap, but then we get something we genuinely want or need.
Load More Replies... #78
My mother told me she would buy my wedding dress. I didn’t know she ‘forgot’ until the dress shop called to say there were only a few days left if I still wanted it. I felt so embarrassed calling to remind her. In retrospect, I wish I would have bought my own dress and waited to see if she would notice.
Final score:
9points
#79
A coffee bean candle for my 30th birthday, from some "friends" who commented sarcastically that the gift could help me "chill a bit". It was a dreaded birthday for me, I felt old and done, and I was going through a rough time in my life. The last thing I needed was sarcasm. But 10 years later I gave one of these friends for his 40th a Yankee candle called "Sweet nothings", so... 🤷🏼♀️😚
Final score:
8points
#80
A biiiiig pack of white paper napkins. I know they're given with a good heart, but I don't even use paper napkins. My grandma is convinced we need a lot of Christmas gifts because we enjoy opening them so much (the youngest of the siblings is 25) so instead of getting one good one or just not giving us anything, she buys a bunch of like, two dollar items and wraps them instead. It's annoying and a waste, but she insists so we deal.
Final score:
7points
#81
A bible, received for Christmas when I was in 9th grade.
Final score:
7points
Samyan Elrod 2 years ago
I love my Bible. Went to a Catholic youth camp in year 7, now I read it when I'm sad and it reminds me of how fun that was (caving, abseiling, mountain biking, river games) and that Jesus still loves me 🥰
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
I'd say thanks for this but actually I'm muslim (or something like that).
Michael Largey 3 years ago
At that age, you've developed some independent judgement and critical thinking skills. So that might be a good time to really read it.
DC 3 years ago
How do you call people who read the entire bible? Atheist. How do you call people who read the entire Koran? Atheist. Long list of books fancying atrocities and ignorance, yet being treated with undue respect and undue reservation on most critics' part...
Load More Replies... Isabel Care 2 years ago
Got a posh one with gold on the edges of the see through pages. Lots of coloured illustrations and a presentation box. I was 12, attended a Catholic school that issued us with a specific Bible and had no use for one (other than school work). I was getting confirmed (had little choice in the matter) and only agreed to it to have one afternoon a week off to travel to the city to attend confirmation classes. The person giving me a lift had to be there 2 hours before the class started, so I sat by the sea and watched the boats. 35 years later I met a friend that wanted/needed a Bible, so I gave it to her. She cried. It reached it's intended owner
#82
My brother and sister-in-law (SIL hated me) gave me a Christmas gift that was the free gift that came with the cologne purchased for someone else.
Final score:
7points
#83
My grandpa got me a really cheap piano keyboard and spelt my name wrong. I was disappointed, but then a few months after he died. Now I keep a wrapping paper with my name he spelt wrong and the keyboard in safe places. I miss him.
Final score:
7points
#84
My mother, a woman I do love very much, is a horrible gift giver. For my 25th birthday (which she forgot) she presented me with a recycled tin (think of a decorative container to hold fancy soaps) and pasted my god-awful 8th grade school photo on the lid and then filled the tin witch Q-tips. Why Q-tips? I have no idea!!! For the second and final gift (and I should preface this by saying my birthday is a few days after Christmas and I despise getting Christmas themed gifts, which she knows) she presented me with a set of the ugliest, tackiest snowman dishes. They still had the heavily marked down price tag, which meant she found them on super sale and then kept them in her “gift closet” until unloading them on me. It was horrible. She spent a total of 6 minutes and $9 on the whole catastrophe. I am very much a “thought that counts” person so it was the fact that she put not a modicum of thought into those gifts. Between forgetting my birthday and the gifts, my feelings were so hurt I sat in the parking lot of the restaurant and cried before driving home. I have asked my mother about this a few times. Her responses vary from “that never happened” to “I was trying to be funny” to “you were too selfish to appreciate the kind gesture” She has never apologized My mom does not struggle with mental illness, she is not in the early stages of dementia, and she really does put a lot of thought into the gifts she gives other people, just not her children apparently…
Final score:
7points
#85
My boyfriend died on my 25th birthday. Self inflicted.
Final score:
7points
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
Wow that is shocking, sorry to hear. Please reach out to people here, we are a caring community and are happy to engage and support.
#86
My then husband presented me with a broken watch that he’d picked up in one of the charity shops he ran. This is the same man that would give me a detailed and long list of items he wanted. If I didn’t/couldn’t buy the entire list he would go out after Christmas and buy the missing gifts for himself.
Final score:
7points
#87
A puzzle 😭 I just don’t like puzzles and I can barely do them-
Final score:
6points
OmBoyGanesh 3 years ago
I love puzzles. Yet, I can see that if one doesn’t it would make for a crappy gift. It’s too specific of an activity to just take a guess with.
#88
A store had a stack of Mystery Gifts and my dad decided to buy one for each of us kids. My sisters pulled from the "Girls" pile while I, a boy, hesitated. My dad shot me an angry look and, as usual, said something abusive while he took something from the "Boys" pile for me. With no excitement whatsoever, I unwrapped it -- and found a weird baseball-themed board game. I didn't like baseball then and I don't like baseball now. But the important thing is, gender stereotypes weren't upset. Thanks, dad!
Final score:
6points
#89
My high school graduation 1992. Our family priest gave me $20, which was a huge deal! My godfather who was an international pilot for a major airline got me a novelty pencil.
Final score:
6points
#90
On Christmas day, I received a $10 gift certificate to Super America (gas station) from my older brother, his wife & 2 adult kids (all 4 working full time, youngest kid was 28). Dinner was at 1p & the gift certificate was date-stamped “December 25, 11am”. I think I said something snarcastic like “way to go all out & really put an effort in”…🙄 This is the same brother who got me a ‘mug tree’ w/4 coffee mugs when I was in 5th grade. Worst gift giver EVER 😹…every Christmas we all took bets for who was gonna get the worst or most insulting thing.
Final score:
6points
#91
At the time they were suspect at best but over the years they became legendary. My aunt bought for my new wife and I a hand blown glass boar Xmas or ornament and a monkey (with his arms out holding two candles, wearing some sort of military garb) lamp. This lamp still sits beside my now wife of 16 years chair, sadly the boar only made it a couple years. The lamp holds a significant amount of sentimental value as my Aunt Linda had since passed. She was definitely one of a kind.
Final score:
6points
#93
My grandmother asked my mom what I wanted for Christmas. (I was maybe 8?) I said I wanted a treasure chest like books talked about. Nothing inside, just a wooden chest. My mother came back to say to my grandmother thought it too expensive. I was bummed, but let it go. Same Christmas, I got something small, but my cousin Zack got a wooden chest filled with toys.
Final score:
6points
#94
My MIL gave my 15 yr(F) daughter a sweater comb to pick off the lint balls from her sweaters. We had a big laugh and chalked it up to, “Oh, Grandma…”. Bless her heart.
Final score:
5points
#95
Several years ago my elderly next door neighbour died of colon cancer in October. At Christmas his widow gave me his used underwear. (At least they were clean)
Final score:
5points
#96
im bout 14 and they completley forgot :(
Final score:
5points
#97
We used to babysit my brothers kids lot. there's a large age gap between him and my husband and I. Anyway, he said the two girls every year Christmas week wouldn't pay bills or skip rent or something so we could buy all of them some nice things for Christmas and do it invariably get us some leftover lotion or bubble bath from Bath and Bodyworks, or something. It was left over from a gift someone else gave them. even when my brother remarried we would give everyone something nice and also pitched in most of the money for a karaoke machine for his two daughters. no one got us anything except his wife managed to find us a pasta serving dish from the 99 Cents store before we went home that afternoon. We always helped them out with babysitting etc. And then I had a baby and I couldn't give bothered to come to our welcome, baby party much less send a card or even make a phone call. it's terrible to say that I am so sad and angry after all we did for them, but I am. I stopped talking to them for several years, because I just felt so sad that they never cared and never would. My sister and brother clean out my dad's house when my brother graciously moved my father into a retirement home. My brother takes great care of my dad. But this tiny thing to me is it didn't ask me if I wanted to help nor did they save so much as a photograph which is really all I would've wanted; some pictures. The sad thing is, I can't seem to make myself not care about them, even though they don't care about me. it's the same with my sister; she will send some cheap crappy gift like the tiniest all over the basket with five chocolates in it for Alex my son for Christmas. we always try and send her something nice. but the reality is she doesn't care either. for a while, my husband and I weren't getting along and I told my sister about it, but she never called to check on me, I had cancer and I told my brother and sister about it they never called to see if I was OK. I just broke my leg two months ago. Do you think that is one of them can call and see how I'm doing nope I'm astounded that I still care about people that don't care about me at all. I'm not sure how to fill that void with other people sigh what do you do to not miss what is supposed to exist?
Final score:
5points
Wendy Kubas 2 years ago
Sadly, you could be explaining my life/family. My mom was the ONLY one, who cared about me. When she passed, it's like I have no family left, except I do, and I love them...but, unless I insirt myself, I don't exist, to them.
#98
When i was a kid, people would ask me what i wanted for Christmas, and i would quote Lucy from Peanuts, answering “real estate.” Around age 14 i got a box of gift wrapped dirt from a cousin. It spilled on me as i was tearing the paper. I was too mortified to appreciate the joke back then, but now it’s funny
Final score:
5points
#99
Growing up in Alaska my moms side of the family was really upset that My mother would get with a white man SMH Every Christmas my cousins would get 3 to 4 gifts a piece. My brother and I would get 1 gift to share. Usually like the smallest box of Legos or one year we had to share I think it's called Pick up sticks ?? The game with the colorful plastic sticks that you take turns to pick them up with out moving any other stick. And all because we were half white. She used to have the letter from them telling her how bad a idea it would be to marry a white man. My parents tried to make it up to us but we were poor as heck and most of the time if we didn't get adopted by a family for Christmas we didn't get any gifts. I was always so happy to be adopted by a family because 99% of the time they dropped off a big box of food along with the gifts and they normally got everything on your wishlist.
Final score:
5points
#100
While in college, my boyfriend handed me a gift for my birthday. When I peeled off the wrapping paper, I found a jewelry gift box underneath. I was not looking for an engagement ring, but I do like jewelry! Inside the box was a membership to a gym. Not a thing that had been discussed at all! Then he proudly told me that he got a gym membership also and when he signed up, he got a free membership.( my gift )
Final score:
5points
#101
A coconut monkey, A coconut turtle missing a leg & A vase with a hole in the side of it. All from the same person, different years...
Final score:
4points
MCathenaE (Submission author) 3 years ago
😆 The hole was in the wrong place for a bong. It was just a broken vase that couldn't even be made into a bong.
Load More Replies... #102
Life
Final score:
4points
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
If you are depressed please reach out to people here, we are a caring community and are happy to engage and support.
#103
A mug in which my face was so badly photoshopped that it looked like I didn't have a nose.
Final score:
4points
#104
Cancer
Final score:
4points
#105
When I was 6 my grandma stopped over during my birthday party. Not even getting out of the car, she handed me my gift which was in a brown paper bag. It was a box of tissue with a fuzzy pink dog cover. Since it was the only gift I can ever remember her giving me, I use to brush the dog and put barrettes in its fur, while of course still being on the box of tissue.
Final score:
4points
#106
As adults, we siblings and our spouses really didn't expect gifts anymore from "Mom" . But when she decided to stop and gave us her reasons, it was bizarre. Because she didn't like one siblings spouse, (and they have since divorced) she didn't want to give gifts to him, so she wouldn't give any to anyone because she didn't want to be caught singling him out. But didn't start back up after the divorce, so as not to make the divorced sibling feel bad. She also took down all wedding photos, again to not make the one sibling feel bad. She kept giving her grandkids money till they turned eighteen, then cut them off too. Not for lack of funds either, and gifts had always been money, because she couldn't be bothered. Now that the grandkids are getting married and having babies, she's saying she doesn't have to give them gifts because she's the grandma? And she never acknowledges anyones birthday or anniversary anymore, not a card not a call not a word. Not even the grandkids. Quote unquote, I can't be bothered. And to be clear, it's not the material thing that matters, but the complete lack of caring. An example we are intending make sure is not passed down thru the generations
Final score:
4points
#107
30th birthday. Half a doz wrapped gifts. All IOUs. The worst part? I never received any of them
Final score:
4points
#108
Shortly after our father died from multiple illnesses directly related to alcoholism, my brother bought me a very large bottle of brandy. I didn’t drink then, and I still don’t. The same year, my mother bought me (a tomboy) three pairs of old lady tights, giant flowery underwear and microwave dishes for the microwave I didn’t own.
Final score:
4points
#109
A box full of Avon lipstick SAMPLES. My brother got family heirlooms the same Christmas.
Final score:
4points
#110
Super rich girl, lived in like a three story house and was my best friend at the time. It was Valentines day and I spent like $15 on this over-priced little stuffed animal she really wanted, plus the price of a big box of chocolates. This girl gets like, an actual $20 a week for allowance and is allowed to ask her parents for money. But she got me a $1.99 box of stale chocolates and a card that was 50¢ that she quickly wrote her name very large in the blank. The worst part is that when she gave me the card my name was spelt wrong on the cheap envelope. I thanked her and didn't much care until about a year later when she gave me the same stuffed animal I gave her last year and claimed she spent $30 dollars on it "so I better like it." She looked super embarrassed when I reminded her that was the gift I got her last year. Needless to say we are no longer friends.
Final score:
4points
#111
Not receiving a gift at all. I realize that is not exactly what the question was supposed to mean. However, if they gave you any gift, they gave you the gift of thinking about you. No gift means they were not thinking of you and/or they couldn't be bothered to get you anything. I did once receive a book from goodwill that had pages missing. Though, the person was not well off and it was a book he thought I would like. His heart was in the good place. I also once received Squatty Potty. You are supposed to place your feet on it so you can poop easier. It was an office Christmas gift that I opened in front of the whole office.
Final score:
4points
#112
My husband and I have a contemporary home, almost modern compared to the homes my in-laws have. Their tastes are very conservative and traditional - nothing wrong with that, but our home has bold colors, clean simple lines, etc. I have received many gifts over the years I would never use or have chosen for myself, but the best/worst one was a ceramic rooster, about 18 inches tall, for holding cooking utensils. I cannot fathom why anyone in the world who knew us or had ever been to our home would think that was a good gift.
Final score:
3points
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
people buy what they like, not what you like. If someone buys something that YOU like, then that shows that they actually got their heads out their own asses. I make an effort to do this (buy people stuff that is their style rather than mine).
Niki A 2 years ago
That is my biggest gripe against my in-laws. I like horses, the same as my SIL and I collect them. Every year I have to share a gift with my husband while she gets several or I get to share a gift, and everyone else gets several, as I am "difficult to shop for and no one knows what I like." I would like to add everyone knows I love horses and my house is covered in them.
Load More Replies... #113
My wife pre-paid for a weight loss consultation and program with a medical clinic. That one really hurt. ...despite the fact that I needed it and it started me down the road towards significant weight loss...
Final score:
3points
Pizzagirl 91 3 years ago
I'm both overweight myself and wife of an overweight husband. I don't know if there's any way to nicely handle the fact that your SO needs to lose weight. I can't stop him from snacking, even though I've turned our basic diet around and started cooking. I can't make him move if he doesn't want to (I, at least, walk everyday to the daycare and back). I feel like, if I lost weight without him, there'd be a distance between us, but I can't see a way to do it together, with twin toddlers at home and two full-time jobs... I'm waiting for a miracle, basically...
censorshipsucks 2 years ago (edited)
You have to be direct. There's no other way. Men specifically do not understand hints at all. Give him an ultimatum. Either he loses it, or you. I realise people are onto this "fat shaming" and "body shaming" high horse but actually no, the science is pretty damn clear. You are overweight, you will die. Even under covid, overweight people were hit hardest.
Load More Replies... #114
My Grandma always gave me things that I already had or clothes that were at least one size too small. However, for my 13th birthday, I got an NBA tank top and athletic short pair. Sounds good, right? The problem is, they looked ugly AF and they were three sizes too small. Also, I’m not a tank top kind of person.
Final score:
3points
#115
We got a gift certificate for beef printed on color copy paper. No bar code. No code of any kind. It was a serious gift that literally said it was good for 10 dollars worth of beef wherever beef is sold. WTF? At least my in-laws were able to use it where they live. Also my grandma would always buy me clothes in the wrong size, for the wrong season, with no tags attached.
Final score:
3points
#116
Peanut butter cookies from my grandmother. I'm deathly allergic.
Final score:
3points
#117
My husband has given me bath towels for my birthday… not once, not twice, but three (3) times lol!
Final score:
3points
#118
Porcelain dolls, I have a fear of porcelain dolls, and the dolls gave me nightmares, and I’m pretty sure they were cursed, because I couldn’t look at them without being scared, but the story has a happy ending, my mom got rid of the demonic dolls from hell, and I slept soundly knowing that the dolls are gone, hopefully forever.
Final score:
3points
#119
For my sweet sixteen, my dad got me a book on how to be a better person. When I got upset he said, "Well, I told you I wasn't buying you a car." (Because he bought my sister a car for her 16th.) Suffice to say I still have to work on my self-esteem.
Final score:
3points
#120
my pet fish died and the day after my friend gave me a book on how to make sushi. i think it was meant to be funny but it wasnt to 10 year old me
Final score:
3points
#121
Makeup from my sister in law.
Final score:
2points
Kate Jones 3 years ago
There are some things you just shouldn't buy for people unless you are absolutely sure you know what they want because they are usually very specific to who you are. Makeup, jewelry, perfume, even some clothes/shoes, and knick-knacks for the house come to mind. I got this ugly neon green painting as a gift once to decorate my new apartment and it's just about the ugliest thing I've ever seen. I like to look for certain ingredients before I buy makeup. And I know it's a little ungrateful but I wouldn't want to be stuck wearing some hideous jewelry.
#122
A clock, that tells me what day it is. Great gift as an adult, but I got it when I was 12...
Final score:
2points
#123
It's a tie! 1. My brother in law gifted everyone a brand new pair of sneakers one Christmas. He got me a necklace repair kit. 2. For our first wedding anniversary, I got my husband a wooden box with some of our first dance song lyrics engraved on the inside. One of my gifts from him was a sign for my desk at work that said "You don't have to be crazy to work here, we'll train you."
Final score:
2points
#124
I was especially excited that day and my rival was too jealous, so he popped two tarantulas in a box, wrapped it and gave them to me. I was happy to recieve it but when I opened it, it ruined the day somehow, 'cause I'm arachnophobic.
Final score:
2points
#125
My dad had gotten sick in spring and spent a week in hospital. My mother was more ashamed than worried about him because he slept in underwear at home and he had no pyjamas the first day until she bought some. So for Christmas, we all got “hospital stuff”: robe, pyjamas, slippers, and the like. We were 13 and 8 years old. She may as well as given us a card that said “Merry Christmas. You’ll be dead soon.” The following year she bought us each one big gift: skis! I was over the moon! Definitely did not expect a gift like that. Then she decided they were too high-maintenance and decided to get cheap, plastic “backyard skis”. She brought the others back, only found one cheap pair, and gave them to my brother. She chose not to get me another gift because it was too much hassle.
Final score:
2points
#126
The first is a weird gift... An old friend gifted me a squash for my 13th birthday. It was in a box on the porch. Nothing was said about it. The second is the gift of life :'}
Final score:
2points
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
If you are depressed please reach out to people here, we are a caring community and are happy to engage and support.
#127
An axe and a saw.
Final score:
1point
#128
My little brother was born on Christmas and he's really annoying. He also digs his nails into my skin when he gets angry at me, which is technically domestic abuse, but he only does it because I'm so much bigger than him, so his punches and kicks don't hurt me. DISCLAIMER: I do not physically hurt him until he hurts me, and I only do it to stop him.
Final score:
1point
censorshipsucks 2 years ago (edited)
It will stop when he's older, he's just frustrated and/or jealous. Try engage with him and play with him etc., in games he likes/understands. He just wants attention. Source: parent of two kids who do this. When he's an adult, assuming you don't kill him, he will be a friend for life and the one person you can count on. Source: my siblings are awesome, and I hated them as a kid. But they are the go-to people when I am in trouble.
#129
Life.
Final score:
1point
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
If you are depressed please reach out to people here, we are a caring community and are happy to engage and support.
Detroit Citizen 2 years ago
Anyone else reading @censorshipsucks two comments, I will whole heartedly concur. The Bored Panda, my fellow pandas are THE nicest group of random internet strangers. When Im down I have an entire world, so many, many different people, with different beliefs, lives all cheering me up. I am indebted to my fellow pandas, never did i think I would find true friendship and love from all over the world. Please reach out to us, we are here for you. Always
Load More Replies... 
Lisa-Marie Dhondt (Submission author) 3 years ago
Probably too close for comfort
Load More Replies... #130
A bowling ball. Parents promised that if I graduated they would get me a car. I graduated and got a bowling ball. No I didn't bowl but always told parents we were going to bowling alley when we went out causing trouble. Guess I deserved the bowling ball lol
Final score:
1point
#131
The worst gift I ever got Was A some socks that weren't for me
Final score:
1point
#132
This happened to my grandfather. One year my mother was wrapping Christmas presents in boxes we had around the house. My mom got my grandfather something he wanted (I don't remember what) and wrapped it in a cereal box. My papa tried so hard to be thankful "Is this what you eat every morning," until we told him his gift was in the box. We were all chagrined. Even worse incident that same Christmas was when we bought my uncle fairly something on his list but wrapped it in an apple iPad box
Final score:
1point
#133
I was 7 when my grandma gave me one of those bad watches that break immediately, it broke in 6 seconds. I was so sad but my grandma got me a really cool one, so it all works out. -_(")_/-
Final score:
1point
#134
My aunt and uncle gave me a toilet light… I like them and they’re nice but still.
Final score:
0points
#135
The gift of life.
Final score:
0points
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
If you are depressed please reach out to people here, we are a caring community and are happy to engage and support.
#136
A toilet bowl cleaner shaped like a penguin. The gift giver thought it whimsical.
Final score:
0points
#137
A bowling ball. Parents promised that if I graduated they would get me a car. I graduated and got a bowling ball. No I didn't bowl but always told parents we were going to bowling alley when we went out causing trouble. Guess I deserved the bowling ball lol
Final score:
-1point
Hypoxia Smurf 3 years ago
My sister-in-law, a retired senior corporate executive, gave me a Cherokee language course. Not real useful here in our rural California mountain area.
#138
A fellow teacher I met my first year at the second campus of my private school in NY. She told me she had forgotten to buy a secret Santa gift and asked if I could pick one up for her. I bought a nice bottle of wine and a gift bag and gave it to her in her classroom. For some reason while we were out that night she started yelling at me, I left and went back to the school party. I had no idea what triggered her (still don't). The last day of school before break I found a gift from her on my chair with a card written out from her, I was surprised to say the least. It wasn't until I got home that I saw it was the same bottle of wine I had bought for her. So a) she didn't turn in her secret Santa, someone was left without a gift and b) she decided to be petty about it. We both kept working at the school but I would go the long way between classes so I could avoid seeing her. Still have no idea what I did to annoy her. I assume she went back to her home country or elsewhere, not sure.
Final score:
-2points
What do you think ?
Whalen With An N 3 years ago
As a gay man, people always think I want a gift that speaks to me being gay. Every time straight male friends of ours go on vacation and bring us back a souvenir, it's something d**k-shaped. Bottle opener, wine opener, squirt gun, soap, etc. I have a d**k and so does my husband, but everything isn't d**k-shaped in our house. Also, we don't fly a gay flag on our house, we fly an American flag, but man do we get tons of gay flag stuff as well. Just buy us thoughtful gifts that represent us and not just gay s**t. Geez.
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
Yeah being treated as one-dimensional is f*****g tedious. I used to do a lot of IT work and people always assumed I wanted s**t like windows installer disks. Like, really? No thanks. (a) I hate it, (b) I am not just IT. But TBH even tho I am "straight" I'd love a soap squirt gun shaped like a penis, so please feel free to regift. That sounds hilarious.
Load More Replies... 
Christopher Bashimoto 3 years ago
Got a wedding present from an old boss. It was a $20.00 Starbucks gift card that had about $7.00 remaining on it.
Karen Philpott 2 years ago
Buy the coffee, and send him the empty cup for his birthday.
Load More Replies... censorshipsucks 2 years ago
Either give a person what they want (ask them!) or give cash. Anything else is probably a waste of your time, your money, and their soul.
Samantha Mitchell 3 years ago
When I was 13 (already an ungrateful age) I'd asked for a refurbished laptop for Christmas (this was in the 90s, I knew I wasn't getting a new one). Christmas morning came, and under the tree was a box the size and shape of a laptop. I saved that box til last to open. I got lots of nice gifts, but I was super excited about this one. My mom was really excited too, had the camera all ready and everything. She caught the exact moment my face fell in disappointment when I saw the paper cutter staring back up at me. To this day I honestly do not know why my mom would think that a 13 year old would be thrilled with a paper cutter for Christmas 🤣
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
a paper cutter? oh one of those. We call that a guillotine here. It's more dramatic. I am guessing she nicked it from work.
Load More Replies...
Stay Off My Lawn 2 years ago
I used to go all out for christmas. I would save all year to have enough money to buy christmas presents. Well when I was 33 I had to spend that year’s savings to get my roof fixed, so I ended up getting decent gifts for all the kids and I bought a pack of greeting cards to give to the adults. The adults spent the entire day trash-talking me for giving them all identical cards. Mind you, it had been ten years since the one and only christmas that they had gotten me anything. Okay. Duly noted. I haven’t been to a family gathering, nor have I spent so much as a wooden nickel on them since then.
Mona 2 years ago
My husband got a jewelry kit before Christmas and he and the kids made me jewelry. It was probably a fun craft for them to do together. But none of it - including the one my husband made - was remotely wearable. Like, not that it was kid-made, (I like random beads put together if it's my kids doing it, and will gladly wear that!), but the bracelets were twice as large as my wrist and would've just slipped right off, or too small and with no fastener, that kind of thing. My husband said he'd modify them, but he never did. I appreciated the thought that went into it, but I was also a bit sad not to get a real gift. I realize I shouldn't be that petty though.
Vallen 2 years ago
The worst gift I've ever received was a super heartfelt cars from my at the time best friend. Only to find out a couple months down the road that she didn't jeep her promise of always being by my side and instead decided to bully me. It's gotten really ugly, and we've told the principle and everything, but they don't care. I also recently just found out from tiktok that she was posting horrible things about me the exact same day and before she gave me that card. I noticed one of the backgrounds of one of the tiktoks qas in my mom's car from when she drove us to do stuff for my birthday.
Gwendoline Blotiau 2 years ago
I did and I'm still sorry about it. I had a secret santa and not fully speaking english at that time. I thought I understood the list... If this person reads it: please forgive me!
Whalen With An N 3 years ago
As a gay man, people always think I want a gift that speaks to me being gay. Every time straight male friends of ours go on vacation and bring us back a souvenir, it's something d**k-shaped. Bottle opener, wine opener, squirt gun, soap, etc. I have a d**k and so does my husband, but everything isn't d**k-shaped in our house. Also, we don't fly a gay flag on our house, we fly an American flag, but man do we get tons of gay flag stuff as well. Just buy us thoughtful gifts that represent us and not just gay s**t. Geez.
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
Yeah being treated as one-dimensional is f*****g tedious. I used to do a lot of IT work and people always assumed I wanted s**t like windows installer disks. Like, really? No thanks. (a) I hate it, (b) I am not just IT. But TBH even tho I am "straight" I'd love a soap squirt gun shaped like a penis, so please feel free to regift. That sounds hilarious.
Load More Replies... Christopher Bashimoto 3 years ago
Got a wedding present from an old boss. It was a $20.00 Starbucks gift card that had about $7.00 remaining on it.
Karen Philpott 2 years ago
Buy the coffee, and send him the empty cup for his birthday.
Load More Replies... censorshipsucks 2 years ago
Either give a person what they want (ask them!) or give cash. Anything else is probably a waste of your time, your money, and their soul.
Samantha Mitchell 3 years ago
When I was 13 (already an ungrateful age) I'd asked for a refurbished laptop for Christmas (this was in the 90s, I knew I wasn't getting a new one). Christmas morning came, and under the tree was a box the size and shape of a laptop. I saved that box til last to open. I got lots of nice gifts, but I was super excited about this one. My mom was really excited too, had the camera all ready and everything. She caught the exact moment my face fell in disappointment when I saw the paper cutter staring back up at me. To this day I honestly do not know why my mom would think that a 13 year old would be thrilled with a paper cutter for Christmas 🤣
censorshipsucks 2 years ago
a paper cutter? oh one of those. We call that a guillotine here. It's more dramatic. I am guessing she nicked it from work.
Load More Replies... Stay Off My Lawn 2 years ago
I used to go all out for christmas. I would save all year to have enough money to buy christmas presents. Well when I was 33 I had to spend that year’s savings to get my roof fixed, so I ended up getting decent gifts for all the kids and I bought a pack of greeting cards to give to the adults. The adults spent the entire day trash-talking me for giving them all identical cards. Mind you, it had been ten years since the one and only christmas that they had gotten me anything. Okay. Duly noted. I haven’t been to a family gathering, nor have I spent so much as a wooden nickel on them since then.
Mona 2 years ago
My husband got a jewelry kit before Christmas and he and the kids made me jewelry. It was probably a fun craft for them to do together. But none of it - including the one my husband made - was remotely wearable. Like, not that it was kid-made, (I like random beads put together if it's my kids doing it, and will gladly wear that!), but the bracelets were twice as large as my wrist and would've just slipped right off, or too small and with no fastener, that kind of thing. My husband said he'd modify them, but he never did. I appreciated the thought that went into it, but I was also a bit sad not to get a real gift. I realize I shouldn't be that petty though.
Vallen 2 years ago
The worst gift I've ever received was a super heartfelt cars from my at the time best friend. Only to find out a couple months down the road that she didn't jeep her promise of always being by my side and instead decided to bully me. It's gotten really ugly, and we've told the principle and everything, but they don't care. I also recently just found out from tiktok that she was posting horrible things about me the exact same day and before she gave me that card. I noticed one of the backgrounds of one of the tiktoks qas in my mom's car from when she drove us to do stuff for my birthday.
Gwendoline Blotiau 2 years ago
I did and I'm still sorry about it. I had a secret santa and not fully speaking english at that time. I thought I understood the list... If this person reads it: please forgive me!
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