There is a growing movement sweeping the nation... registering for gifts beyond weddings and babies.  These registries are given out in lieu of lists, and it makes for an interesting debate. Personally I really like the idea of people registering.  We should just keep registries all year long; they would work for Christmas, birthday, Mother/Father's Day, etc. Registries are after all an electronic list, so really there shouldn't be any gripe about it. 

Registries are good for the giver and receiver.  The giver, really just wants to give the receiver something that they will use, that will fit, and something that they are excited about.  And the receiver... well I KNOW we have ALL received "that" sweater.  I think that registries are considerate; especially in this electronic age where most like to shop online anyway.

I hope I am not overstepping by telling this, but I'll keep it anonymous... this year some family members gave their Christmas lists to the parents via e-mail with hyperlinks. At first I laughed about it, because it seemed to totally take the "gift giving" spirit out of the gift giving. But I thought about it and no, it is making the season easier, less stressful, and more pleasant. The giver knows exactly what the receiver wants, but maintains the ability to choose whatever they want/ can afford from the list.  And really if they want to get you something that is not on the list, they are going to whether your list is on a piece of paper, or stored on-line as a registry.  I mean really, has "that" sweater EVER been on your list?

Thoughts?