[lrjohnson]

I know what you mean, in some areas. I have a strong aversion to new books. Not only are they expensive, but I'm just always nervous about "messing them up." People seem to get me patterned things a lot; I have never liked anything patterned in my kitchcen.

I have a few items that if someone asked, I could offer as a want. Sometimes these are items that aren't actually expensive, but I won't spring for them, like a nice $7 silicon rubber scraper. Look around your house and you might see a few items you might like to replace but won't yet. Pick out a couple of cd's you want, or other items.

If some one asked me for cash they'd be guaranteed to not only get
nothing but to offend me as well. If someone is not doing so well economically I can help buy buying needs more than wants. But to ask for
cash? Just beyond tacky. And if someone is being thrifty, they might be getting you a $20 gift for $3, by shopping exremely well or finding an amazing item at a garage sale. I'd rather have the nice gift that the $3.

So yes, it is rude to ask for cash or gift cards.