I can be difficult to shop for. I am a bit of a minimalist, and hate when my belongings get too cluttered. If I don’t need it then I probably don’t want it (unless it’s a camera..totally need that.) When my mom asked me what I wanted for Christmas this year and I said nothing, I meant it. I know she gets joy in buying things for her kids, so I obliged and went on a hunt for things I wanted, but that were also useful. Think workout clothes, future house decorations, and of course…coffee. Always coffee.
I want to share a gift that I bought for myself, that my mom paid me back for, that is safely kept in my room, but will be given to me for Christmas….Don’t ask. If you have read my blog for a while you will know I ADORE a good, solid, wood box. Think wine box..hence the wine box garden. When I saw this at Starbucks I knew I had to have it, simply for the box..and for the adorable burlap bags. Reusable gifts are my favorite.
I plan to decorate my future house with this adorable box and reuse the bags for something. I’m not sure what, but I will find something! Do I need these things? No..not really, so when something new comes in, something old must go out. I am constantly donating my slightly used items to others in order to justify my new items. Clutter makes me anxious and I don’t see the use in holding onto things that aren’t being used.
All in all, I just love to give. I get a bit overwhelmed by the commercializing of the Christmas holiday. I think Christmas is about spending time with those that you love, and sharing what you have. Sharing your time, sharing your skills, sharing your money, all of it. I get the most joy in giving to those that are in need. While helping others is something I like to do year round, something about the holidays makes it that much easier to give.

I bought this for my fellow cat loving friend. It’s a picture holder, and a fat cat..enough said. Small, yet meaningful.
Don’t get me wrong, I love to receive gifts and I am very thankful when I do, but I get more joy when I give them. I also appreciate totally unnecessary gifts once in a while, but like all things in my life-balance is bliss.
I challenge you to give something to someone in need this week. Give your time, give your skills (which includes time too, double whammy!), or share your wealth with someone less fortunate. If you need some ideas on how to give back this week, check out this website! It has some fun ideas! I guarantee that when you give big, you will get back even bigger!
Q: What’s your favorite way to give back? I love new ideas!