By GABRIELLE CALISE, Palm Harbor University High

Along with ugly sweaters and cheesy Christmas music, Secret Santa is one of my favorite holiday traditions. This year, two of my classes are doing Secret Santa, so I’m happy times two.
Hard as it is for me to believe, some people hate Secret Santa. But I think ol’ S.S. has gotten a bad rap.

With a little attitude adjustment, and the following advice, your Secret Santa experience could be wonderful.

The worst feeling is getting a wonderful present and seeing the person you gave a gift to look disappointed. Instead, try to spoil your Secret Santa like a carton of week old eggnog. Even gag gifts (like heads of cabbage or Barbie dolls for boys) can be hilarious if given to the right person.  

I know not everyone loves Secret Santa as much as I do, but seriously, people need to stop being such Scrooges. There are worse holiday traditions out there (if you’ve ever spent Christmas dinner exiled at the kid’s table, you’re probably all too aware of this). You may not like — or even know — the person you’re stuck with, but suck it up for one day and prepare something nice. This is a perfect time of year to embrace the spirit of giving and goodwill.
 

Tips for being a successful Santa
1. A few small items (candy bars, nail polish, etc.) are safer than just one $10 present — if there is a variety of little gifts, the recipient is bound to like at least one of them.
2. A little Facebook stalking can be helpful if you’re stumped. A post on the recipient’s timeline or a quick glance through their likes could spark a brilliant idea.
3. You can always ask the recipient’s friends for advice, but be careful. You might not get reliable suggestions from everyone, so it’s a good idea to ask a few buddies for ideas — as long as they promise not to tell.
4. If you’re worried about spending a lot of money, head to the dollar store. You can buy snacks, stickers and novelty items for a lot cheaper than you would find them elsewhere. Spend the cash that you saved on some fancy bows and festive wrapping paper.
5. It’s hard to come up with a brilliant gift, so it’s important to start early, especially if this is your first time putting on the red suit.