Has this happened to anyone?

[jennifers399]

My exchange is tomorrow. I just checked my Evite responses and I have several people who are coming, but will not be bringing cookies to exchange. They want to participate but for loads of stupid reasons, will not bake or buy anything to exchange. I've heard "I don't have time to bake" or "I don't want cookies, but I want to come anyway."

I have no patience for my friends who think they don't have time to bake. I have less 'time' than anyone I know--two kids, currently pregnant, graduate student working on two theses, I cook and bake from scratch EVERYDAY, I am involved with my daughter's school, etc...and I don't have childcare!!!!! Oh, and I own my own little cottage business, too!

Isn't is a little odd that people would want to attend an exchange, but not exchange???

Sorry, I'm a little annoyed. I just bought prizes and favors for a specific number of guests and I will not be giving favors to people who do not participate.

Jennifer, grrgrrgrrgrr

[Cathie in PA]

Hi Jennifer:

I think like you we are so very excited about our exchanges that it hard to believe that some are not as anxious. I have had complainers that hate to make "all those cookies too."

Being that you have purchased a certain amount of prizes or thank you gifts I would announce that they are for the participants of the "exchange only. " A thank you for "baking." I am sure the others will join in the refreshments so it is not like they are being left out.

You appear extremely busy, and please don't let the non participants bring you down. They still want to attend so they must enjoy your company. Iam still learning at the ripe old age of 52, that not all folks feel the same way.

Have a wonderful exchange, and Happy Holidays

Cathie in PA

[bonnieb]

I agree - this is your exchange and if they are not going to participate then they should not come. I am going to one on Tuesday and participating with cookies and a gift to exchange. There are a few ladies that are not but said they would drop by later to visit. I think that is fine as long as they don't show up at the get go and then stay the entire time. If they are not participating they should stop by at a time they belive the swap and gift exchange has ended. The hostess seems ok with this and I guess that's her call.

I've never done both a cookie swap and gift exchange. I have to say the gift thing put me off a little only because I just don't need on more gift for the "gift closet." I would rather purchase something for the homeless (blanket, gloves, scarf, etc.) or a toy for a donation.

Last week I was involved in a candle swap and the price was set at $10. I purchased a lovely candle at Bath and Body (the cranberry - so nice) that cost exactly $10. The one I received looked like it came from the dollar store and so did many of the others. I was shocked! Not everyone puts in the same thought for gifts.