I’ve mentioned before that the store where I work has already launched into the holidays with a full head of (very organized and color-coordinated) steam. All of the wrap and ribbons and bows (oh my!) have started me thinking in earnest about how I’m going to give gifts this year. I’m ashamed to admit that in the past, I’ve rarely had a plan. I would shop and buy gifts for people, almost at random, and stop when either a: Christmas arrived, b: I ran out of money or c: I couldn’t think of anything else for a specific person. I’m going to do things differently this year. I’ll probably buy fewer gifts, but I hope that they will be thoughtfully chosen and received in love.

This system isn’t terribly complicated…it involves making a list. Who loves lists more than me? Well, I’m sure someone does, but I do love a good list. Something that does complicate matters slightly is the recipient list itself. Do I give gifts to the people with whom I work? I think there are 55 people at the store! How about a nice holiday card? And how do I handle surprise gifts? You know, those gifts from people who I didn’t anticipate? I can’t very well give them something from the store, now can I? I just need to have a plan, that’s all.

I’m figuring out my list, now it’s time to work on the budget. Ooh, looky there. Suddenly I’ve got a headache. Let’s move on to Troublesome Giftees.

What do you buy for the person who truly has everything he needs? My Dad is one who fits into that category…he’s got what he needs and most of what he wants. The standard answer is to give the gift of an experience instead. Like what? I mean, I want to go skydiving, but I’m almost certain that he’s not going to want to do that, nor is a day at the spa his cup of tea. He might surprise me on one or both of those accounts. He’s wild and crazy and unpredictable like that.

There are a few other folks who fit into the Troublesome Giftee category (I’m looking at you!). Do I give a gift at all? One of my love languages is giving gifts…I think that weirds people out sometimes. I have to remember that it’s not about me, it’s about the recipient and how the gift makes them feel. If they feel anything other than treasured and loved, I’ve made a misstep, even if it was in good faith. But when I do give a gift, it’s out of pure joy and affection for a person, and not intended to elicit any sort of reciprocal response. Ugh…it gives me a headache! See? This is why the holidays are most definitely NOT the most wonderful time of year. If I think you’re rad and I see something that I think you might like and it’s July, I’m getting it for you. (I’m just following the orders issued in Avalon’s terrific song “Don’t Save It All For Christmas Day.” A hug is warmer when you’re in it/ooh baby, that’s a fact.) All of this mess gets dumped on top of what we truly believe, and know in our heart of hearts, what Christmas is about.

Ham.*
Ham and pie.

*In our family, we’ve started a steaks-on-the-grill tradition, but feel free to substitute your favorite meat product here. The pie is non-negotiable.