Giving and recieving gifts

I find it really difficult as I hate surprises and I don’t know how to react. I try to provide the expected response but as it’s dependent on the type of present, I don’t think I always get it right.

I find it really difficult as I hate surprises and I don’t know how to react. I try to provide the expected response but as it’s dependent on the type of present, I don’t think I always get it right.

Same for me- I hate being surprised! I’ve found over the years that giving my friends/ family a list of exactly what I want is so helpful, and being told if they got it or not. It’s taken a while but now they know not to get me things that aren’t on the list, as they understand that it’s stressful for me. 

On the other hand, I love giving gifts, but only if I know the person is going to like it. I find I make a lot of gifts for people because I want them to know I value them, and so putting time into making something is my way of doing that and showing appreciation.