Blogmas Day 6 - Wish Lists and Charities

When you were little nothing was easier than providing your parents and siblings with a wishlist for Christmas. These days I find it a little more challenging. Mainly because I usually end up buying the things I really want myself. 

Growing up also gives you an idea of all the money that goes into Christmas presents. So you don’t want to make a wishlist brimming with expensive things. Of course you can put it on there, just don’t expect to get it ;) You can also put it on there and say you just wish for money to put towards it, if it is way over everyone’s budget. But I always find wishing for money is a little bit of a cop out. 

It is really down to the gift-giving traditions in your circle of family and friends. Maybe you buy expensive gifts for each other, maybe you are doing strictly homemade things or maybe you are doing the Secret Santa thing. Whatever floats your Christmas tree. 

This year I have new pajamas, an expensive eye cream, and a ton of books on my list. That should give everyone the opportunity to find something within budget. I also like surprises so I usually tell people they are free to come up with something themselves. I just know that I like some sort of list to start from when I am shopping for people’ gifts. It helps decrease the stress of having to find the perfect gift for everyone if you have a list of ideas from the person to begin with. 

I also have a section on my list devoted to charities; specifically the Red Cross and Medecins Sans Frontieres. On their websites you can buy gift certificates, mosquito nets, goats, kitchen garden starter kits etc. As I mentioned above I usually end up buying the things I want on my own, and I feel like if I can afford that, then I should spread the love, and give something to those who can’t afford it. I think it is a nice way to remember the essence of Christmas, which for me is sharing with the less fortunate. That sounds really pious and stuck-up somehow, but I don’t know how else to describe it. And I AM fortunate, that I can afford to buy things for myself and my family and friends, so I think it is only right to share what I can. 

If you feel like you want to share the love too, check around your area for charities or find some online. You can pick a specific one close to your heart, or let people decide where they want to donate money in your name.