Dear Annie: When do I stop giving gifts to my grandchildren?

Dear Annie: I enjoy your column and read it every day.

I have been blessed with several grandchildren and was wondering if I could get some ideas on when to stop with birthday gifts. I am thinking that after their 18th birthday, I will just go with Christmas gifts.

I have heard stories where grandparents end up buying gifts for the spouses of their grandchildren and then the great-grandchildren.

I truly can afford the gifts, but I would like to get out of this constant whirlwind. Do you have any suggestions? — Confused Grandmother

Dear Confused Grandmother: My suggestion for you is to stop giving gifts when you feel like not giving gifts. It really doesn’t matter if it’s birthday or Christmas or both. It truly is the thought that counts. But if you are going to start to feel resentful because it is a burden, then don’t give the gifts. Rather, if you love the idea of your grandchildren — even grown grandchildren — opening something from you, then keep giving. In this case, to each his own makes the most sense.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].