To be surprised by the number of needing high value or "present pile" threads

52 replies

Breadcat24 · 10/11/2025 17:46

Bearing in mind most people are being hit by the increase in cost of living I am really surprised by the amount of threads around the following-
I want a present pile
They do not want to spend on my presents
I am being expected to spend more than I can afford
They are prioritising something else over buying presents

Christmas has become so transactional, with people just buying stuff. Fine if you can afford it but do not pressure other people. And also it is a shame about all the bulking up with plastic tat.
I am really surprised because I thought most people were moving to less but higher value/ sentiment.
Expecting a load of flack. End of the day do Christmas your way, but I am surprised bulk and high expenditure is still the goal

OP posts:

JennyForeigner · 11/11/2025 07:23

Rescuedogblues · 10/11/2025 22:05

This year ive decided to do things a bit differently. My kids have ASD and ADHD so I dont know if this is why I decided to change. Previously ive got them stuff, but money is a bit tighter this year so I want to spend it wisely.

My eldest is 13, very much an introvert, likes to be in her room, doing art, chilling with her cats and listening to music. But she really struggles with organisation, doesnt like clutter but also likes "her" clutter. So ive spoken to her and im going to do her room, in the gothic/vampire theme she wants, ive got her an old dark mahogany bureau with so many little draws 2nd hand for £65!, and im looking for the next peice of furniture. I will organise "zones" so that her clutter is semi organised and im adapting a few bits too. That will make her happier and her life a little easier. Obviously she will have things to open on Christmas, art bits, books etc.

Then my youngest, im going to turn his bedroom into a sensory room as that will benefit him the most and hopefully help transition him into using his room more and fingers crossed sleeping in his own bed. Ive found him some sensory stuff on vinted. His presents on Christmas will be around his special interest.

I feel excited to do this, I know they will love it more than tat

This is lovely. I wish you and your children joy of the projects and much joy with the wonderful rooms that will result!

ViaRia01 · 11/11/2025 07:45

I agree with you OP and yesterday I almost posted pretty much the same thread as this one.

If you feel resentful after giving or receiving any gift, you’re doing it wrong.

Plus, one thing that I think Christmas has in its favour (compared to gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, wedding etc) is that it is quite usually to receive some really random stuff. A beautiful, soft leather gloves, and a usb mug to keep you tea hot, and a dinner table game about replicating bird calls, and a packet of biscuits, and a jumper that fits two people inside. Literally anything goes!

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