Christmas gifts can be challenging—sometimes they’re a success, and other times they fall flat, whether you’re giving or receiving them. However, every now and then, you receive a gift so unexpected or extraordinary that it creates a memorable impact for years.

My MIL handed me a beautifully wrapped gift, and when I opened it, I found a sweater that was several sizes too small. “I thought this might motivate you to get in shape,” she said with a sweet but cutting smile. The room went silent as I sat there, humiliated.

Then my husband took the sweater, held it up, and said, “Wow, Mom, you didn’t have to get Max a present!” Then he tossed it onto the couch where our golden retriever, Max, was lying. Everyone laughed nervously, and her smug expression disappeared.

Story 2
My boyfriend’s grandma had a really unique diamond ring, and I complimented the setting. Later, we met up for lunch, and she gave me my Christmas present. I opened the box and was really confused because there were only little plastic rings. I thought it was something craft-related, she knows I crochet.

No, turns out it was for sizing a ring. And a piece of paper under it showed me the ring that was being custom-made. She bought me my own diamond ring.

Story 5
I got a mini jewelry box for traveling from my mother. She gets me cheap jewelry every Christmas (because she likes it), and the only jewelry I wear is my wedding ring and occasional necklace. And I never travel.

Story 6
When my wife and I first got married, her parents hated me. One year, they got me a woman’s sweater. The next Christmas, I wore it over, and my MIL asked my wife why I was wearing a woman’s sweater. © RichLyons*** / Reddit

Story 7
My brother gave me a bright orange wallet. “Because you like orange so much,” he said while flashing the wallet I gave him a few years ago. It’s red. He’s color-blind.

Story 8
My MIL got me an ugly purse with the clearance sticker still attached. The box it came in was dusty and damaged. © Bottle_Sweaty / Reddit

Story 9

Story 10
When I was 10 years old, my grandparents gave me an unwrapped suitcase for Christmas. In the interests of convenience, they used that suitcase for the wrapped presents for my sisters.