Wednesday, October 1, 2008

..and it all comes back full circle.

A few thoughts on the customs of gift giving..
Remember when people were beating each other black and blue for tickle-me-elmos? When I give something to someone, it's usually because I'm thankful for their influence in my life. I do really cheesy things, especially when I'm interested in getting to know a person..I have a terrible mix-tape[cd? ha.] habit. At this point, I couldn't even count on my hands how many times I've made people these very purposeful mixes..and most of the time, upon receipt of this gift, they seem genuinely surprised that I went to such lengths on something seemingly simple. [I usually include a little background information on each carefully selected song, a favorite quote or lyric, and a really elaborate collage fashioned into a cover of sorts.] Now, keep in mind that not just anyone can receive one of these things. It's generally a gift of nerdy romantic sorts, and if you're looking at succuss rates..well, just don't look at those.

You know what's like a gift these days? Getting something in the mail. A personal letter makes the entire day seem different. Maybe that's just it though. Gifts are at their very best when unexpected. Who wants to expect a gift anyway? That's terrible. Things that tie two people together, take a person back to a certain time or place, anything of that nature is perfect. Also, to recieve something you have a real need for. ex: Taking a friend grocery shopping during a rough financial time. That is a gift.

Summary: How much are the retro tickle-me-elmos going for on Ebay?

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