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We don't really have that issue- everybody in my family gives gifts. Parent's gifts are always more expensive because they make more money. I would still probably send a card and something little, even if they didn't get us much.

I am not a big gift giver in the sense that I like to find perfect gifts for people and so on. I usually just set a limit and go from there. I try to use a "fairness" rule, like if they spent $50, we will spend about the same, if that makes sense.

We don't do gifts beyond Christmas and milestone birthdays/anniversaries for either of our parents. I really think cards are fine, unless there is just something so perfect for them, YKWIM?

I really get a lot of enjoyment out of giving gifts but have started to scale back with some relatives who never give anything. I started feeling like they didn't appreciate the thought behind the gifts that I was giving them and that was more troubling than not receiving gifts.

I don't care if they give me a gift of equal value, but I would like to feel like they cared that I gave them something.

I also really enjoy gift giving, but often times, it's not reciprocated. In the past, I'd spend a lot of time and money on thoughtful gifts, but when a birthday or other celebration comes around my way, I usually don't celebrate, so I don't end up with any gifts. I know gifts aren't what count but I'd settle for "the thought" aspect - but I haven't gotten that either.

Now that I'm expecting, I've decided to pull all my energy on my family. It's not about the gifts - but when it comes down to it, I'd rather spend money on us as opposed to people that expect (and sometimes ask) for things, yet don't bother to put in the fraction of the effort to reciprocate the gesture in return.

If I were you, I'd give more thoughtful, handcrafted gifts (made by your LO). Save your money for travel or accessories ;D