How to avoid duplicate gifts

Dear Answer Angel: Can you help me avoid a problem that has bugged me for the last couple of Christmases? I've bought the "big" present for my boyfriend (a splurge, I might add). Then there we are on Christmas morning in his parents' living room, and he opens his present from his mom and stepfather. Have you already guessed? It's the same present I bought him that is sitting under the tree, waiting for the oooohs and ahhhhs that won't come now. How do I avoid this duplication and disappointment all around?

Ellen Warren

December 31, 2010