For example, my friends Stephanie and Russell. (Here’s a pic of them enjoying a bite to eat.)

They have received the brunt of my horrific, er… “creative” gift giving. Sometimes, I’ve been good to them and given them something really nice, like a new computer. But most of the time, not so. It could be a giant refrigerator box full of small things, or other things, such as…

A box of one hundred $1 bills, …

A giant novelty check, …

and a bag of 1500 pennies.

They decided enough was enough. It was time to finally seek revenge. But just how would they get me?

Just one prob. I’m not Jewish. Too bad they constantly insist that I am. I mean, sure, I try to be good with my money and like to save a buck here and there, but that doesn’t necessarily mean I’m Jewish. Not that there’s anything wrong with that. I just don’t want to pretend to be something I’m not. It’s not right. But, I guess you gotta keep a gag of some sort going.

Nonetheless, I was then presented with the many gifts and traditions of Hanukkah, as interpreted by my friends. First, I was required to put on my Yamaka, as modeled here by the Abominable Snowman.

Once the preparations were set, it was time for me to unwrapped my gifts, one for each day of Hanukkah! (Not necessarily given in this order.)

First, we must begin a piece of Hanukkah tradition: the Dreidel! But not just any Dreidel would do for Steph and Russ. Oh no.

They had to get a dog toy dreidel. That’s right. A good ol’ fashion doggy squeak toy. Henry enjoys it!

We’re off to a great start! But it’s time to move on, and what could you possibly do next?

You gotta make cookies! Doesn’t the Star of David look so much better with a big smile on it? By the way… these are kosher, right?

We got cookies to munch on now, so how about we play a game as we enjoy them? And since I’m so good with money, why not play the game…

That’s right! It’s “the fun way to learn how to count money and make change!” I’m a shoe-in for this game, right kids?

Since Exact Change is “great for parents, teachers, and homeschoolers”, it only makes sense that they move on to something of greater responsibility.

It’s the “real” fake deal! Look at that! It has real fake dollar bills this time!

At this point, I’m suffering. Just how much more of this could they possibly do to me?

Okay… this isn’t so bad. At least they are acknowledging the actual holiday I celebrate. And isn’t it fun to count down the days until Kermit the Frog is going to ransack your house? Pfft… yeah… like he’s actually coming to GIVE gifts.

I feel a little bit safer at this point. Or is this just something to throw me off? Are they making me THINK it’s the end?

What’s this? Recycled Circuit Board Casters? Well, that’s not bad. That’s not bad at all. In fact, it’s a lot better than what I was using for a coaster before! (a wash cloth) I’m feeling good. I think the torture is over.

And it is, as they finally get to the final gift, a Yoshi / Mario Kart Micro Remote Control Car, to go along nicely with all my Mario Kart goodies.

I have to admit, Steph and Russ really did do a good job with this sorta “revenge” gift presentation. I hate the for it, but it was a job well done. Mind you, this is just one year. I’m still ahead by a bunch. They have a bit of catching up to do and I have a LOT of planning to do.