Another Christmas of Sweaters, Underwear and More Sweaters

Even before we got married my wife started buying her own Christmas gifts from me. I’d get her the wrong size, something too tacky, or something I was more interested in than her (I though chicks dug Sony Playstation… who knew?). So I let Ursula get herself something she really wants, and she tells me “I’ll act surprised.”

To make sure I’m going through the motions, I’ll get Ursula some stuff for a dollar store or a discount store that I know she regularly uses or needs. A lot of times, it’s even “clearance crap.” And this year, if a recent survey by the National Retail Federation is dead on, it looks like I won’t be the only person out there scavenging the bargain bins this season.

The NRF says sales of gift cards will be down 6% this year. It’s going to be a holiday season of value over cost. Shoppers are going to look for the best bang for their buck – like that sweater that originally cost $100 and in on sale at a closeout store for $9.95.

One big reason: Consumers have put their credit cards away. Instead of going over budget and worrying about paying the credit card two months later, consumers are concerned about job security, personal finances, and what’s going on overseas.

And even crashing gasoline prices aren’t going to make up for it.

I like getting gift cards. My theory: I always feel pressure by my in-laws to give them a Christmas list, and then get something I never use (like the turkey fryer I got in 2001 that I still haven’t opened). This way, if I ask for a Best Buy card, I can put it towards some sort of software. Target, I can stock up on Chef Boyardee or buy myself underwear. Home Depot, I can get materials for my next project.

Heck, buying someone a gas card these days is like buying lottery tickets. You don’t know if gas is going to keep plummeting, or if a bizarre twist of fate sends it back about $3 a gallon.

But I wouldn’t complain one but if my cash-strapped family members were to give me a $9.95 sweater for Christmas. After all, it’s the thought that counts.