MACON, Ga. — It's the day after Christmas- that means it's a big day for spending holiday gift cards, and returning gifts people didn't love so much.
The National Retail Federation says almost 20% of gifts will be returned or exchanged after Christmas.
Richard Madison got to spend Christmas with his grandnieces and nephews this year, who he's trying to teach the value of thankfulness.
"I think it's important that people learn how to give, but also when they give to make sure they are thankful for what they get," Madison said.
In Madison's family, they try their best to avoid making holiday gift returns.
"We make sure we ask them what they would like to have for Christmas you know. It's important to get somebody the thing that they way, so that's what we do," he said.
And that's why his family isn't big on surprise gifts, because he said making returns is always a hassle.
"The crowds you know, it seems like everybody wants to return something so you have to get in line, you have to wait," he said.
But sometimes returns are inevitable. Emily Coley and Josh Barbee had twin girls 11 months ago. The children got lots of gifts, like a toy from Coley's stepmother.
"Didn't wanna hurt her feelings, but we had one. So we're bringing it back for some things we need," Coley said.
The stress of the holidays and the added stress of making returns after the holidays can get overwhelming, but Coley said it's important to not get caught up in that.
"Remember the reason for the season. It's not about the gifts, it's about the Lord," she said.
The National Retail Federation said they expect people to return $173 billion in holiday gifts this year.