And while she hopes to eliminate a couple of Secret Santas from her holidays, this is not the time to take those who she usually gifts with a tip or cash off her list. Certainly she can tame her generous and indulgent impulses, but they work hard all year, whether providing a service to Girlawhirl, like her trainer or hair stylist, or, like her doorman, they hold a position that puts them in her path daily.
Her book club, however, is a different story. Girlawhirl intends to propose that their usual gift exchange be replaced this year with a $5 or $10 dollar donation from all members. Together they can choose where to donate it.
Instead of the dreaded office grab bag, Girlawhirl will ask everyone to bring in an unwrapped toy that will then be donated to Toys for Tots. 
With so many wonderful friends in her life, Girlawhirl’s usually online for hours clicking, filling up shopping carts and sending gifts to all corners of the Earth. This year she’s just telling it straight, with a simple, “we’ve all got so much already, and to be honest, there’s nothing I need or want this year. Can we forgo our gift exchange? Would you mind if I donated something to insert the name of an appealing charity here in your name?” Really, what animal lover wouldn’t want a little something sent to the ASPCA in their name?