YES!
Which vendor would you like?
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Is there a list to pick from?
I was not given a list.
Take it and tear it up and throw the confetti in her stupid face.
I would just say, firmly, “Thank you, but I’m not into exchanging birthday or holiday gifts at work.” Fair warning when they don’t receive anything in return.
See, this is why I never let slip at work any hint of what my birth date is in the first place. In over 15 years of working with them, none of my co-workers have a clue what it is. I neither want to get them gifts, nor receive any from them. They’ve tried to organize social events outside of work, but I’ve always managed to evade them. Not because they’re not worth socializing with, but because I like to keep my work life and private life separate. By now, they’ve gotten the hint.
Tell her your birthday is February 29th.
“I’m really not in a position where I can exchange gifts. I really appreciate this gift, but I want to be fair and up front about this. Thank you so very much - I appreciate the thought”.
Or
Just buy shitty dollar store gifts and I promise next year it won’t be a thing.
Perhaps say “I appreciate the thought but please don’t get me a gift. I don’t like bothering with all the gift exchange stuff.”
Then if she gives it to you anyway, spend it and enjoy it and don’t reciprocate. You warned her.
What store is it for? If it’s appropriate, buy something the whole office can use, and forget about it.
Ah, but the thermostat…
They’re the dummies with whom you work. If it’s not about the financial burden, suck it up and engage in office feel-good activities. You’ll be happier for it in the long run.
Update?
Ideally you’d be able to decline the gift in a gracious way that didn’t piss her off, and that would be the end of it. Easier said than done.
If you wind up being intimidated into accepting the gift, do not reciprocate on her birthday. That way lies an unending tradition. If possible, use the gift card for something for your whole group, and, on her birthday, send her electronic good wishes.
I responded that I’ve quit celebrating birthdays, and the thermostat remains at a comfortable level.
Use it to buy a gift for the office, like a box of chocolates or a fruit basket. Now you look generous, and you didn’t spend a dime.
Just say, “I would prefer not to.”
Does this mean I get nothin’?
I’ll save you a doughnut Monday morning. Plain or chocolate covered?
Nerd.
Best make it February 30th otherwise you’re just deferring the problem 3 years.