The Office Gift Exchange

*** SHUDDER ***

Why has the office gift exchange become a tradition? And, why does it always have to be for only $10!?! What are you supposed to buy for only $10 that appeals to men and women of any age?

I bought wine. Somebody else bought wine. Somebody took a ridiculous photo of themselves in a Santa hat and put it in a frame. Just what *everyone* wants to see on her desk everyday. There was a gift certificate, a ninja movie and a bunch of chocolates.

But, seriously, I never buy wine for less than $12.61. That is the cheapest bottle I ever buy. It's Lindeman's Bin 65 Chardonnay. I like it. It's cheapish. And, it's a good standby to have in the fridge. I couldn't even buy that with the $10 restriction.

I had to buy something that I have never tried before. I have no idea if it is actually good. I felt uncomfortable with that. I stressed about it. I tried to think of something other than wine. I couldn't. I splurged and spent $1.95 on a bag and bow to wrap it with. After I bought the wine, I thought of a movie gift certificate. But, $10 doesn't even cover admission. I suppose it might buy popcorn.

After the fact, I thought of a lottery ticket. One of those fancy ones ... that comes in the foil wrapper. That seems like a good gift to me. For $10, you get the *chance* to win $1 million. Or a car. A fancy car. That would be fun! That would be the most exciting Christmas party ever!

<note to self>
Remember to buy fancy lottery scratch ticket for next year's gift exchange.
</note to self>

Yeah. I am glad that's over. I mean I like my coworkers and all. But, I have a hard enough time finding *the perfect* gift for my friends and family.