Friend buys presents even though we agreed not to

Whoops you said diary! I use my electronic diary too!

I agree with those who say accept graciously. Don't deny her the pleasure of choosing and giving.

Couple of posts saying she was probably trying a bit of one up man ship seem a little harsh. Surely not or perhaps I'm being naive.

I received an expected gift from a friend this year. Just gave her a big hug and thank you. It was a lovely surprise ....

I think after 12 months we sometimes forget what we agreed the previous year. The same with cards. We used to give/post loads but with the postage going up so much, many of our friends in groups agreed to put to one of the local charities instead. We still give to "special" friends and family of course but sometimes get given one from others. I just say thank you very much and a happy Christmas to you too and explain why we don't do it any more. They seem fine with that. Well they're still talking to us Lol.

My God there's some miserable posts here..one upmanship, emotional blackmail,return the present!..whatever happened to just being glad you're still friends after all these years despite the others' little quirks? Have a laugh and move on. True friends are too valuable to lose, appreciate the qualities which make her a friend in the first place.

thanks for the comments everyone

First of all I would not have agreed not to send presents. A bunch of flowers out of the garden or something you make yourself costs nothing. Secondly I would not return the gift I would just say thank you. She has probably forgotten that you agreed not to send presents last year. There is joy in giving as well as receiving imo. Next time you see her treat her to a fancy cake and a cup of tea.

Wonder if she has forgotten what you decided. I know I would also have felt annoyed. Though once visiting my Mums friend I took her some homemade mince pies which I thought was a lovely thing to do and she said ' you shouldn't have bothered" over and over THAT I wish I hadn't.