Ideal Bite

Ready to think outside the gift-giving box?

06.18.2007

Submitted by tmeronek on Mon, 06/18/2007 - 12:08am.

The Bite:

We are too. We've all given and received gifts out of obligation - but let's face it, many gifts are really unwanted (read: junk). Stop the madness, and make a pact with your friends 'n' fam to get each other a gift only when you are moved to give, not obligated.

The Benefits:

Getting gifts you actually want. The thought really does count.
More space. No whatchamacallits collecting dust and creating clutter.
Consuming fewer resources. If everyone in the world lived like an American, we'd need five Earths to support our highly consumptive habits.
Getting gifts when you least expect them (say, a Christmas gift in July) is fun, especially because you'll know the gifter was truly inspired to give.

Personally Speaking:

Note of advice to future love interests of Heather's: Don't give her a bong as a gag gift. They're really hard to regift, and Goodwill's not particularly keen on them as donations.

Wanna Try:

Make the Pact - agree that less is more among friends and fam.
freecycle and craigslist - post stuff you don't want online. Your trash may be someone else's treasure.
Clear Some Closet Space - in case you need to store those perfect gifts you find while you hunt down recycled wrapping paper.