Things!

Yes! I think that’s the thing they do gain pleasure in the act of giving that’s right Shandy57! Oh what a great idea Jaxjacky garden vouchers! Solved!

I feel the same. It was my husband's birthday last week. He said he didn't want 'things' and could he have foody bits. He loves cooking and was bought nice olive oil, cheeses, crackers, wine and gin. He was happy

Yes and I have to get firm, I donated one Christmas presents to charity, a couple to my daughter, both from the same couple, I’ve known him for 30 odd years, her for 20. They will never have seen a scented candle or diffuser in my house, but they bought me some!
The only way I can see for me to get round it is to ask for garden vouchers, I’ll always use them, I’ll do that via MrJ who goes for a drink with him weekly.

I know some people deal with this by regifting - and unfortunately some people have received the gifts they've given back as presents.

I think the people giving you these things gain pleasure from the act of giving, and want to show you they've thought of you. I'd put another shelf up!