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I have this notebook, you see (one of a gazillion because I like
lists and such), and in it are ideas for gifts. Our closest family and
friends are in there, as well as some random gift ideas I thought would
be cool for anyone. And, starting right after my birthday at the end
of August I begin deciding who will get what for CHRISTMAS. Last year,
I actually handmade every. single. gift. And, it took me every day up
until December 25th to finish them all. Then, there was Christmas.
And, as I handed out the gifts that I had poured my heart and soul into
- and even weeks - I watched every single facial expression as each
gift was opened.
And, then I almost cried.
Because while my Father In Law loved the idea that I had made
something just for him, and while my brother does NOT wear scarves but
wouldn’t trade his to his best friend because his sister had made it
for him and he loved it for that reason, and while my father couldn’t
wait to tear into the homemade bread I baked him…there were some people
whose faces dropped, who shoved the gift aside as if it was nothing
more than a cotton ball among ribbons.
And, my heart broke. Because, last year… I made a LOT of gifts,
each one of them were carefully thought into existence and then
lovingly and painstakingly made. A lot of heart and soul went into
each one. A lot of thought. And yet, by the end of Christmas I had
sworn that NEXT YEAR, besides a few select people…everyone else could
have Walmart gifts. It’s what they wanted, isn’t it? Some
mass-produced unthoughtful gift that I threw into my cart on the way to
the checkout line?
But, then this year came and went and I’m making gifts again…but,
mostly because if I don’t use the talents I have and be creative, I
can’t give gifts at all. So, I’ve planned the gifts I want to give
very carefully, all the while thinking how the recipients would
probably much rather have a store bought sparkly bracelet and earrings
or a cool new gadget. And, then I pause for a moment wishing I had
that to give to you…because I want you to have the things your heart
desires.
I know Christmas isn’t all about gifts…it’s all about so much more,
and it’s different for everyone. But, when money is tight…it’s the
gifts you seem to think about. Not the ones for you, but how you will
be able to bless others this year, without feeling like a total failure.
So, when I started getting crafty emails, designed to sneakily get my “wishlist,” I paused.
I don’t really have a wishlist.
Beyond an iPhone, BlogHer09, a vacation, and the luxury to afford
the medical bills that are coming in from my latest hospital stays and
health insurance without having to worry whether we’ll be able to pay
for the necessities…
Beyond that, I have no clue what my wishlist would look like.
Because, quite frankly…wishing means dreaming for things I know I can’t
have right now. Things I wouldn’t dare ask my family for when there
are more important things that must be taken care of.
It’s not that I’m indecisive or trying to be a pain in your ass
while you’re trying to take care of holiday shopping/gift making…I just
haven’t thought about *ME* in that regard lately.
On the flip-side, if you need a gift for almost anyone else, I could probably provide you with ideas out the wazoo.
I realize that gifts are a huge part of most Christmas traditions,
and while I require nothing (and expect nothing), I also realize you
still want a list.
So, here’s a list of the things I could think of, somethings specific and some not.
- I like certified organic shower gels in yummy scents.
- Bella B’s All Over Body Lotion (I think it’s by Mother’s Intuition)? - It’s on Amazon.
- Really great books that you loved - used is okay too.
- Cold hard cash. I would love to make a dent in the “7 K medical bills” or to start a BlogHer09 Fund
- Make me something. I’m trying to use only organic bodycare and I
don’t wear bracelets, but beyond that…I’m sure I’ll adore it.
- Craft “Lessons” - Not that I need lessons on being crafty or artsy,
but I love getting together with others and crafting, and getting new
ideas. (The Stampin Up events where you do projects counts.) Pay for
one of these, and it’ll mean I also get to get out of the house!
- Pampered Chef Giftcard. Because then, I could have my favorite
Pampered Chef lady over to do another “cooking party” and can use the
gift card
