Of course we’ve argued it: the differences between a "gift" and a "present." One’s more selfish than the other, Phil says. One is something you’d like but give to another; it’s something you want them to have vs. something they’d want to have. It’s like giving a child cute clothes instead of a drum set. You know what I say? Beggars can’t be choosers, so shut the hell up. Enjoy your gift or your present, or just return the thing or re-gift it.
FYI from the Oxford American Dictionary: What’s the difference between a birthday present and a Christmas gift ? Both words refer to something given as an expression of friendship, affection, esteem, etc. But gift is a more formal term, often suggesting something of monetary value that is formally bestowed on an individual, group, or institution (: a gift to the university). Present, on the other hand, implies something of less value that is an expression of goodwill (: a housewarming present; a present for the teacher).
Largesse is a somewhat pompous term for a very generous gift that is conferred in an ostentatious or condescending way, often on many recipients (: the king’s largesse; the largesse of our government). A gratuity is associated with tipping and other forms of voluntary compensation for special attention or service above and beyond what is included in a charge (: known for her generous gratuities, the duchess enjoyed watching the waiters compete with each other to serve her), while a lagniappe is a Southern word, used chiefly in Louisiana and southeast Texas, for either a gratuity or a small gift given to a customer along with a purchase.
That said, Valentine’s Day is soon upon us. To all the men who refuse to acknowledge the holiday, let me say this: be original. "It’s such a commercial holiday…" And your point is what exactly? "It’s just so manufactured. I show you I love you all the time. This holiday shouldn’t have to apply to us." Bore to the ing, my friend. You think it’s a cliche joke of a holiday, do you? Well not nearly as cliche as protesting it.
Lucas and Abigail are getting 100% cotton PJ from Yiya. I know this because last time she was here, she remarked how disgusting all those polyester sleep clothes are. I completely concur. They’ve outgrown all the sweet pima cotton jammies and are in need of fine cotton cuddle wear. I’m off to Neiman Marcus LAST CALL today to dig for some. And also to pick up a birthday gift for Avery, a sweet girl in their class. I’ll be sure to get her a gift or a present, whichever of the two says "what a two-year-old would want."
A YEAR AGO: 4 BUCKS, 4 MOVIES
2 YEARS AGO: RIDING BITCH
3 YEARS AGO: ALL THAT HAS COME BEFORE
4 YEARS AGO: GIRL TALKERATI
5 YEARS AGO: FOREIGN AFFAIRS
