I've been accused (many times) of being outspoken, radical, even weird. Of course, I deny the allegations (ha ha).

But I sometimes question my so-called rational thinking. Case in point:
I was chastised by my ex-wife at my (our) grandson's first birthday celebration the other day. The reason was that I did not give him a gift or even a card. "If you loved your grandson, you would give him a present", she said. (This is deja vu all over again. We had these battles with our own children. I supplied the money--she bought the gifts. Then she walked out of their lives.)

My ex may be right, but I have my reasons. First, my own children, sisters, father, etc., know that I don't buy birthday or Christmas gifts for them. I've told them I don't need or want anything from them, and in return, they shouldn't expect anything from me. Fair enough? I suppose I "inherited" this from my father (not a good sign.)

Secondly, I asked my daughter what her little boy needed, and I would be happy to get it for him/them. She said "nothing--and no toys!" When the time comes where they need something that's out of their budget, she knows I'll be happy to help them out.

It's not that I'm cheap. I'm just practical. Other party attendees gave him all the toys and clothes he needs (or doesn't need). He'll soon outgrow both, and they'll be discarded. I realize that's not the point (or a logical reason).

I would rather give my grandson my time, my interest, my love. I want to fly a kite with him, go golfing, walk in the woods, teach him guitar. Buying him a little toy John Deere tractor isn't, in my way of thinking, the path to his heart. ("Can't buy me love".)

So, is there anything wrong with that, I ask? Am I rationalizing, just because I don't like to shop? Is there something the matter with me? Or am I just getting old and set in my ways? Dear Abby?