A bit early for Christmas gifts ideas, but....

[moosmom]

Kim,

How about an American Express giftcard?? They sell them at banks and retails stores. This way Heather can spend it wherever she decides to buy her laptop.

[catnapper]

Mom looked into that last year and was told they have an activation fee.... did they change that? She didn't want to give a $50 gift card only to have them end up with $45 to spend (or something like that)

[Rachel]

Hey, Personally I'm fan of good giving good old hard currency. I guess some people don't think that's enough of an effort but I too want all my gift put to use and none wasted. I've seen too many purchased gifts tossed aside with indifference and since the $$ used in gift giving are hard earned, I just can't get excited about buying presents unless I'm certain of what the recipient wants or needs.

[catnapper]

Thats the tough question, isn't it? Mom (and I) want to put some thought and effort into a gift. After all, if we all just exchange cash or gift cards, then why bother? I mean, I could hand mom $50 cash and she could hand me the same. I think gifts should include some thought. Not just a last minute stop at WaWa to pick up a gift card at the counter on your way to someone's house... have you seen how many gift cards they offer? Best Buy, Barnes and Nobles, AmEx, etc. They have them all!

Then again, at least a gift card is almost certain to be used. Unless of course its like my uncle who gave us a card to the candle store when we're allergic to all the scents. Then I feel guilty not using it.

The big exciting gift that I asked mom for myself and hubby? New feather pillows for our bed. She must think I've lost my marbles, but its what I want! LOL Its something I'd never buy for myself but will be useful every night!

[jennielynn1970]

What about a nice set of portable speakers for the laptop?? Or a flash drive so she can save things to it and use it on other computers at school if she can't take her computer with her that day (WP docs etc...).

[AbbyMom]

How about one of those backpacks designed specifically for holding laptops for students? They're heavy and if she ends up hauling it around, her shoulder will begin hurting. (Speaking from experience here).


P.S. When I started giving cash instead of purchased gifts to the nieces and nephews, I suddenly became the most popular aunt.

[anna_66]

My brother sent us a MC gift card and there was no activation fee on it. I used it to buy a corless mouse for our lap, I love it!