Episode 56 - It's better to give than receive

It's 9 days post op.  I got the bandage off my foot this morning (replaced with a band aid) and my stitches come out next week.  It's been a long week maneuvering with the clompy velcro shoe (at times, in the snow) and trying to do Christmas things as well.  Gift wrapping was one of the more 'foot friendly' feats and with just more than a day away until Christmas, I've got most things done.

Grandma and I have been having ongoing discussions regarding her gift-giving, for several weeks now.  I assure her I will take care of her 'shopping,' as I have for more than ten years now.  She was somewhat hard to please then and she's no better now.  A few years ago, I convinced her that it would be best to give her grand kids money.  I had enough trouble buying for them myself and it would be easier on all of us if she did.  I thought we had settled this but apparently not.  Even when she would write checks, she wanted a Brinks truck to 'guard the cards' until which time she could ceremoniously distribute them. 

G:  OK, if I give them money, I still want to give them a little something.  Something special that they'd really like.  Can you find something like that?

Me:  Probably not.  Why can't we call it good with the check?

G:  I just want them to have something from me.

Me:  The check is from you.  It has your name on it and everything.

G:  So you're not going to help me?

Me:  Tell me what you want to get.

G:  I don't know... I thought you could think of something.

Because I always do.... uh ... did.  The last couple years, the money has been sufficient.  This year it is a whole new set of questions, concerns and frustration (mostly mine).  Usually I can walk away simply annoyed... this year, I'm stomping away angry.  (Note: since she's living with us - there's not much "away" to go to and when you are recovering from foot surgery, 'stomping' takes painful  effort.)

I have purchased her cards... I have been to the bank (not even going to bother with writing checks - cash works).  All I need to do is suck it up, go downstairs (I'm now hold up in my room) and make her sign the cards.  It sounds so simple.  Why can't it just be simple?

Oh yeah... I had better call the Brinks truck too.

So ends Episode 56