You brought up a number of additional good reasons why I dislike the Christmas gift season. I rarely get gifts I really like and can usually think of something else I would much rather have spent the money on, if it were left to me.

I know I'll hear it from people who enjoy the challenge of trying to pick "the perfect gift" for someone they know, but the only perfect gifts I have ever gotten were things I expressly requested.

Therefore I would much rather be given a gift certificate or cash, if one absolutely insists on giving me something. Still, I'd rather just spend some money on myself and know that everyone I know about is doing the same -- pampering themselves. It's a good self-esteem boost.

You also mentioned "pissed off family members." That's another aspect about this I really dislike. Gifts are never really given selflessly, and if they come without reciprocation or what might be deemed a 'proper' level of gratitude the gift-giver is almost certain to get upset.

Why do we put ourselves through all this?