Mom and I (folks are divorced) had the discussion when she broached the subject about donating to charity instead. She had some questions about what charities I support, then said she'd surprise me. On my end, y'all helped me find a charity in her area. So we're both happy. This year I gifted a pair of goats to someone in Africa. Then environmentalist in me hopes that said kids go somewhere with nice grass to munch on and water to drink. Last year the same charity planted some trees - I liked this one better - somewhere out there is a small forest in my name.

It's Dad that's the problem. This is a man that would tell me that if he wanted my opionion, he'd tell me what it is. Why yes, he is retired military. I suppose I'll word my thank you note carefully - there was also a check to me in the same card, so I can't ignore the whole thing.