to tell dh that I want to take the present back that he bought me

[startofnewterm]

It was my birthday yesterday, and for ages now dh has been trying to get ideas on what to buy me, he's not very good at presents and I usually pick something for myself (which I dont mind doing).

Anyway, as it was a special birthday, he's been asking for ideas from me and dropping hints about getting me a new laptop. I didnt really want or need a new laptop and told him that I was happy with my current one.

His workmates are into all techy stuff and get the latest all singing /dancing technology and I think they have talked him into getting me one. I dont want it and although there is nothing else that I really wish for, I would rather spend the money on new clothes, bit of jewellry, nice bag.

Its not even as it dh has bought it thinking he can use it because he's hopeless on computers.

Is it awful of me to gently explain this to him and return it?

Sometimes you cannot return laptops, if the seal is not broken you might be able to, but they are hard to return as unwanted gifts I don't think they are governed by the same rules.

I can never understand why couples faff about when it comes to birthdays and Xmas etc. Dropping hints, mentioning things you like, and yet ending up with stuff you don't want. Why don't you just tell each other what you want. It would save a lot of trouble, money, arguments and upset on the day. Let's face it nowadays if you want something you can generally afford to go out and buy it for yourself. The idea that your partner will think of something magnificent and unique will only set you up for a fall and put a downer on the day. Talking to each other about what you want will make the day so much happier don't you think.

I would rather spend the money on new clothes, bit of jewellry, nice bag.

so why didnt you just tell him that, laptops are £300 plus would have saved him a few quid tbh