What Do You Want Most For Christmas?

Why is it such a loaded question for me to answer?

I know. You're going to scream "first world problem" at me here, but the struggle is real this time of year when I get asked "what do you want for Christmas?"

Most of the time, I say "nothing". I am not being passive-aggressive or intentionally vague when I say that. I really truly do not want anything, yet that won't be accepted as an answer.

I mean sure, there ARE things I "want": an iron (too practical, think of something else), a new laptop, a vacation, a raise, a promotion, a new studio to work in, a date with Emma Stone, world peace and for everyone to stop hating each other, but as you can see as that list went on, the requests kept getting more unreasonable and unrealistic, which is why I don't bother asking.

I've also discovered over time, I prefer experiences, or time spent with the people I love, a lot more than "things".

I love the act of giving, too, but it's the same problem on that end. Either people get the things they want for themselves, before I have to chance to get it for them, or they know my financial situation doesn't permit anything really substantial, so they don't ask, which in turn makes me feel bad.

"It's the thought that counts" is very true. You thought about me, you asked, and I told you. So even though you mean well, and I appreciate it, please accept my answer. It puts too much pressure on both of us if you don't. This is not to say I won't even accept thoughtful gifts if you surprised me, but giving and receiving shouldn't be so stressful.

Actually, calendars and planners may be useful to me this year, as discussed in a previous blog.

What do YOU want for Christmas? Am I alone here? Are you in the same boat as me and have a problem asking for it? Share your thoughts in the comments.