So, you might say my mom raised me right.

She was a big believer of tipping well for exceptional service. She also believed in tipping a minimum amount even for average service because service folks need to make a living.

But, do you tip extra during the holidays?

The answer, it seems, is yes. At least for those who provide services all year 'round (i.e. Hair Stylist, Postal worker, etc.)

But where do you draw the line?

Today, the pizza I ordered for lunch was nearly an hour late arriving. It was too late for me to eat right away.. and ended up being cold as a Vermont icicle in January by the time I was able to make more time.

Keep in mind that another co-worker (a very nice woman) took delivery for me and gave the driver a $4.00 tip. That amounts to a 40% tip for a late delivery. She said "Well, it's Christmas!"

True.

Don't get me wrong, the guy would have gotten *something* for his trouble.

But for as much as we yearn sometimes for better customer service, is it right to reward someone for poor performance--even if it's the holiday season?

If you'd like to read the suggested amounts for holiday tipping check out this article:
http://money.cnn.com/2005/11/17/pf/holiday_tipping/index.htm