Just had my first business related holiday present walk in the door (1/2 Gal of Crown). Which is actually my 2nd "tip" or bonus in the past couple of weeks. Which in itself is odd, because people generally don't give tips to someone like me who is charging them so much per hour. I would like to think it is because I did a good job for them, but it is more likely they feel sorry for me or I didn't charge them enough.

But it got me thinking about all the people we give tips, or little presents to over the coming month both for our businesses and personal life. I was astounded when my wife told me how much we were giving to certain people that we were already paying.

Would like to hear your opinions on this. Who? How Much? etc.

Here is my personal:
Garbage Man? - Occasionally give them a $20 if I see them.
Mail Carrier? - Kids give home made stuff, plus ?
Day Care Provider? - Huge Tip or small bonus (not sure what to call it).
Who is missing?

Don't get me started on the whole list of palm greasing, glad handing and bribery (I mean providing Holiday Cheer) surrounding the business end of things. Although, it has taken a back seat with the economy backing off.

I like to give gifts as tokens of appreciation, but some like the Garbage Man seems a little akward and forced. What are your opinions on this stuff?