[LaurenAshley85]

Okay, so today is my birthday. It's been a pretty wild month for me. I graduated college on the 11th, then came Christmas on the 25th, and then today is my birthday. So needless to say, I really felt bad for all the cash my parents plunked out on me between the three events.

For my birthday my mother got me the new iPod touch that I was lusting over. She got me a lot of the things I wanted for Christmas, and for my birthday is taking me out to my favorite restaurant, The Melting Pot. It's a pretty expensive place but my parents offered. They ALSO offered to buy me a few new outfits for my new job that I'm starting next week.

So, fast forward to a few minutes ago. My mom gave me a card with a gift certificate in it for the nail salon around the corner from me. I used to get my toes done regularly but I'm a bit leery of that place and how it may be a tad bit unsanitary. Although I'd get my toes done all the time, I NEVER let anybody touch my fingernails. There was a time when I was younger where I'd get my nails done (acrylic), but I'd never do that anymore. I told my mother nicely that I did not want the certificate because I didn't want anybody touching my fingernails. It was just the right amount for a manicure which was what she intended it for, so I gave it to my little sister for her to use. I just feel really bad because it was a nice gesture!! I think in a way I also felt that she had gotten so much for me already that she shouldn't have gotten me the certificate, but I just feel really horrible that I told her I didn't want it.

Sigh.

[dallas]

Perhaps you could have given the gift certificate to your mother and she could have used it? Really though, it sounds to me like your parents are giving you these gifts because they want to. Don't feel guilty, accept them with love and gratitude...and return the kindness when it's their birthday, anniversary, etc.

[wordpast]

^^ I agree with Dallas.

Happy B-Day!!

[boxermom]

Your parents (and realistically, Mom prob. picked out the gifts) sound very loving and sweet. They want to give you things that make you happy. so don't spend much time feeling badly about it. The time in your life right now is a big transition and typically parents will shell out with gifts to get you started on the next stage of your life.

You're smart to be careful about manicures and safety.

[dallas]

And please forgive my rudeness

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

[TnC]

Don't feel bad. I would do the same too because I don't like other people doing my fingernails. Especially where I live the nail salons don't seem sanitary. It's totally understandable if you didn't use it. At least you didn't let it go to waste and just gave it to your sister. Happy b-day by the way!

[Speedy]

I also agree with Dalls. And there is nothing wrong with being honest! Please tell your Mom it's not that you don't appreciate it, you do, but you feel she gave you more than enough this month and you feel guilty.

AND... HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

[SimplyMe]

Don't worry a bit about it! It's your sister that you gave it to! You guys are both her sweethearts and trust me, she wouldn't mind. My mom is more than happy when I share with my sister, whether it was intentionally for me or not. Don't stress over the little things..you graduated and it's your birthday..go have fun!!!

[TejasMama]

Happy birthday!

It sounds like your parents are wanting to treat you and it's great that you're being responsible. Have you told her how grateful you are to them and that you really just don't want them to spend any more right now considering how generous they've been? i'm sure they'd appreciate hearing it!

good luck!

[Demosthenes]

Awww... I love your Mom and Dad. :) I don't really like receiving certificates for mani/pedi's either... usually I just stock up on OPI when I get them, or if it's a full-service spa I'll get a massage or a haircut. I'm sure your Mom wouldn't mind that you "shared it" with your sister. She seems very loving and understanding.