[SuziQ]

Just do what I do. Buy something I like and tell SSQ to have the kids wrap it up for me. He doesn't mind; he knows I'll get what I want, and the kids never used to know. He usually surprises me with something, though. at least no one is clueless about what I want. Another way is to make your own list, just like the kids do. Put specific things on it; at least no one is clueless about what you want.

A few years ago, I went out to T. J. Maxx and found several things I liked. I noted where they were in the store and described them in a note. I gave it to our two older sons and they were able to go out there and get something within their budget that they KNEW I would like, and I was somewhat surprised on Christmas morning because I didn't know exactly what they would get for me.

[Corin Stormhands]

Another way is to make your own list, just like the kids do. Put specific things on it; at least no one is clueless about what you want.

But see, that's the problem, I've done that. I've pointed it out in the store, in the advertisements and so forth.

Biggest problem is that while I absolutely detest surprises...just about any kind, wife loves them. So she loves trying to surprise me.

I do think I'm at least beginning to get the message across that if it's not practical or usable don't get it for me. I don't want anything that has a sole purpose of being looked at.

It's helped that we've been de-cluttering the house. I'm able to say on a regular basis that wife needs to educate her siblings that Nana needs nothing that isn't functional. No trinkets, no knick knacks, etc. I've been able to convey that regarding the whole house, so I think the message is getting through.