Blog 3338 – 12.23.2024

Trying to Play Santa

I, personally, do not like to receive nor to give gift cards. They just do not seem personal enough. I prefer the traditional Christmas gifts that actually require a little thought. We used to say, “It is the thought that counts.” We have all received gifts that caused us to wonder why would anyone would think we wanted that. Still that someone would make the effort to pick something out hoping that we would like it makes us feel like we are important to them.

I like to give away things that have had some significance to me. On Christmas Day the family that I have in Houston will be gathering for Christmas dinner at my niece Michelle’s house. She is my wife’s sister Sarah’s daughter and she, her brother Greg and Sarah rotate on hosting our family gatherings. My son Jay, his wife Lauren and their baby, Emma, are hoping to be there providing everyone in attendance is cold free. Little Emma had a rough bout with a cold a few weeks ago and Jay and Lauren want very much to avoid that if possible.

Yesterday, I started going through things that I have held on to with a list of fifteen people that Sarah told me yesterday are expected to be there besides my wife Linda and myself. So I had to come up with fifteen gifts and try to match them with the person. First of all everyone of the tings I picked, I had held on to for a reason, and secondly I really tried to think of a reason that the person I intend the gift for might want it. I have done this a few times in the past and been quite successful at pleasantly surprising most if not all of the recipients.

We shall see if I do as well this time. It is a thrill to see that “How did you know look in their eyes?” rather that the obviously perplexed look that says, “Why on earth would you every think I would want that?”

I hope every one of you receives at least one of the former and none of the latter gifts this year. If anyone does give me a gift card I will graciously accept it and try as soon as possible to use it up. The ones you can use anywhere are the easiest to cash in. I still think they are too much like giving people cash. That is expensive and still feels pretty impersonal to me.

Your friend and fellow traveler,

David White