GIFT BASKETS

Dear Abby,
Please help me. I'm perplexed, bothered, and bewildered by this highly unusual conundrum. You'll probably find this hard to believe, but the source of my perpetual perplexity can easily be summarized in two words: gift baskets. That's right - gift baskets.

Here's my dilemma: Up until recently, I considered gift baskets just plain tacky. Granted, a gift basket is a splendid gift idea if one is offering the bereaved condolences after their pet or loved one has departed to greener pastures.

Also, a gift basket is a splendid gift idea when used as a peace offering to make amends.

I