How do I say no to family members asking to give money to buy others Christmas presents? And is it really okay?

by Niki
(Minden, NV)

Christmas is just around the corner and I love, love to get gifts for my family and friends. I guess you could say I am the ultimate gift giver. I place a lot of thought into the presents I choose and put just as much thought into the wrapping of the presents.

I have been confronted with a situation that I am unable to turn into a positive light. My husband's family has asked us to "chip in" for presents for other family members. We have said that we have already thought of an idea and would like to buy our own gifts for others and yet, we get the begging and "please, oh please give us money to buy so and so a present".

Now I am giving money for a present for my mother-in-law and other family members that will not come from my heart. I do not even get the joy of picking out the present. I am having a hard time with this and am wondering if this is an okay practice? Why do I feel angry and sad?