Buying Moratoriums

I received an e-mail from Kristin last week. She started her Christmas shopping early (for obvious reasons) and wanted to let me know that the buying moratorium had begun. We have a deal that once one person starts their Christmas shopping a moratorium on all purchases for oneself is called to prevent the accidental purchasing of an item that the other has as a gift idea. This all started with Kristin's birthday a few years ago.

I always struggle with what to purchase Kristin for Christmas and birthdays. I like to get her something that she'll like and use, but is not too expensive. There is definitely a place for the $2000 pearls, but gifts that show creativity and attention to her likes and needs at the moment are oft times better received. One birthday I agonized for a month, consulted with her friends, and finally came up with the perfect gift: a set of make-up brushes. Our friend Paige gave me a lecture covering synthetic vs. natural, angled vs. straight, and the brand I should buy. Two weeks before her birthday Kristin is getting ready and pulls out ... wait for it ... wait for it ... a set of make-up brushes.

To prevent future occurrances anyone can call a buying moratorium whenever gifts are to be purchased. I asked my coworkers if any of them have a similar concept. Most looked at me like I was crazy, but Jen said, "Absolutely." I recommend the practice to all.