I’ve started seeing the Christmas wish lists trickle in, which are incredibly helpful because (a) I’m lazy and (b) everyone is happier with their presents when they know they’re getting what they want. But today somebody sent out the first e-mail of the season asking me what I want. Aw, crap. Thinking and decision making. Blargh.

Just yesterday I finally finished putting away the last of my boxes and took a last load to Goodwill. I am finally at a point where I can say that I am honest to goodness “crap-free” in that everything I own is something I use, need, or value. Everything has a place and everything is in its place. I’m very excited about that. This also means that I really don’t need stuff. I can afford everything I need. The hobbies I have don’t require accessories, or I have all the accessories I need. I was just looking around my room right before my sister arrived for her visit last weekend and thought, “this is perfect. I have everything I need right here.”

This year for Christmas, I don’t want “stuff” because I have everything that I need and plenty of things I want. I’d rather have your good company and friendship than material objects. I am way blessed with an awesome job that hooks me up with my favorite magazines, events, food, games, and all of the little luxuries that most people never get to experience. If you feel compelled to spend cash, what would make me really happy this year is to help out my favorite charity, Heifer International. Because of the poor economic situation, donations to charities are very low this year. I would much rather get a present that helps other people have a better life. Plus hey — how often is Christmas shopping tax-deductible? That’s pretty win-win. Sometimes people feel that a gift like this isn’t a “real present” but it is! I wish I could afford to donate more, so you helping me do something I care about is the best present I can get.