How do you handle duplicate gifts?

We got a big package in the mail the other day. I haven't opened it yet, but the contents as well as the purchaser are listed on the package.
It is a picnic table for my kids ordered by my step-mother. They already have a picnic table. And I'm unsure about how to handle this. My dad and his wife live out of state and have no way of knowing that we already have one.
What do I say to my Dad when he calls? Do I tell him we already have one and risk hurting his feelings?

2010-12-22T11:31:35Z

I can't get rid or the old one because it was also a gift.

2010-12-22T11:37:34Z

Again.... I CAN'T get rid or the old one!!! It was a gift from his other grandparents.

2010-12-22T11:38:56Z

And I can't just not mention it. It would be terribly rude to not thank them for it either way.

2010-12-22T11:53:02Z

shadowtalker1- I really can't get rid of the old one. My Mother got the other one for my son last year at my suggestion along with the matching sandbox. I think she would be _very_ hurt if I just got rid of it.

shadowtalker12010-12-22T11:30:03Z

Favorite Answer

Could you use the one the step-mother bought and then donate their 'old' one to charity?

ETA: Meh. I'd still go ahead and donate the old one. Unless the grandparents are emotionally tied to the darn thing, I think most people realize that kids' toys get replaced at an alarming rate either due to the toy being broken or lost - or in your case - a new "toy" being bought.

ETA: Ohhh, okay. Well, then it's still a case of 'no harm - no foul'. The other grandparents didn't know so when they call just let them know you truly appreciate their gift, but unfortunately, they have already have a picnic table and see if they have some suggestions for how it can be best used (my guess is you might be able to take it to the store - or chain of stores - it was bought at and get a credit).

Again, I think toy duplications are a very common occurance and most people would (should) understand that.

60

Mom³2010-12-22T20:04:33Z

Call your dad now and ask him if it is a picnic table, for sure. Then tell him they have one and you could go exchange the gift before christmas OR keep it as an extra or have th one your mom bought taken to her house for when they are there. Thats what I would do.

01

Xxfrozen-teardropsxX2010-12-22T19:32:59Z

can you use one at a grandparents house?
i would tell him thanks for the gift and some how let him know that you have one maybe they will call and see what the kids have before buying stuff next time?

00

?2010-12-22T19:39:05Z

Just fess up and tell them if it is a duplicate - they would be hurt if you don't use it & didn't say anything. Wait until after Christmas and you open it.

00

☆RN Student-n-Mom☆2010-12-22T19:35:18Z

I wouldn't mention it.. I would just keep the new and do something with the old such as donating.. or sell it.

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