What are you asking for?

what are you giving? i think that christmas is more about giving than asking for stuff. i will be giving money to people that are in need in places such as Africa and Asia this year. they need food more than i need 'things'.

Oh my. A few of my relatives just asked me for Christmas lists, and I had to turn them down.. I really don't know! I'm turning into one of those people who are all like, "No, don't get me anything" (but still enjoy receiving random gifts). I still want to make a list, but I really honestly have no idea what I want or need. I want to say boring things like toiletries: eyeliner, shampoo, and the like - but I know people don't like buying that kind of stuff as gifts. But hey, I could really use some nice shampoo right around this time!

I am really thankful that we decided a few years ago only to get the children in the family a gift. What a relief! There used to be so much stress. I am always asked by my kids what I want but I don't really tell them I would like a pair of socks for diabetics, or some lovely lavender body wash or face cream because they think I should buy those things myself because they are too practical. So I tell them a new book would be nice. I still like to get the adults a little thing just as a little treat so I usually get them a new ornament for the tree.

Mine is quite simple this year. I only want peace of mind. We have so many things in our home. I lack for nothing, except maybe a winning lottery ticket that will bag me $500,000!

I have not given a Christmas gift or received one for over 40 years, and my life has changed for the better. (I am much happier now.) Anyone over 12 can understand this, if they will give it a bit of thought. How silly (and expensive) this gifting has become. How can anyone be expected to know what someone else needs or wants in his or her life? And how can the other person be expected to understand your wants and needs? When you give a gift there is an 80% chance the recipient will take it back. What a hassle this gift has caused! What an inconvenience in your life and the lives of your relatives and friends!

I really want a charm bracelet and a skillet. Other than that I am not sure what else to ask for. I am not sure if I will be getting anything at all because the economy has really hit us hard. I am sure it is hard to write out three different lists.