What's on your Christmas list?
 

My DH and son love to give me gadgets that they think I "need." After getting a few that I really didn't need, I decided to make a "wish list" on Amazon so they could choose something I actually wanted. This year, I have put a couple of donut baking pans on my list. I'm curious what you all might put on yours?

Can't think of anything I really want that can be purchased at a store.

It did take me a ridiculously long time to figure out that it was okay - practical - smart - to actually make a detailed, very specific, wish list for something I wanted. Also include approximate prices and where it can be purchased/obtained.

For example: I wanted a manual Hiker Grommet Press with a #1 die and nickel, brass, and black grommets.

How would anyone know I wanted that without being told?

Not many stores in my area have them available at 11:30 PM on Christmas eve.

I did get money to apply to that purchase!

At one time, my thinking was "If 'they" love me, 'they' will know what I want.

Well, if I did not know exactly what 'they' might want - it finally dawned on me that 'they' might not know exatly what I might want.

I do kind of want to get the size 0 die and grommets to go with it, but I haven't really used the grommet press all that much - but I am happy to have it

PS - If money is in short supply, be reasonable /sensible- both in what one wants - and in what one can spend on others.

PPS - I do like to get something that is not on the list that shows thoughtfulness on the part of the giver.

Example: A drawing of my cat that could be framed.

Not so appreciated: a coffee maker when I do not drink coffee.

As long as I am on a roll here -

I think it might even be helpful to list what you do not want or need -

or if it's something you want, that you would prefer to pick out for yourself.

I also think it's okay - in some circumstances, only - to ask for money towards a big ticket item.

Well that sounds like a good idea. Then you get what you want. I’m hoping for a Nespresso machine - I’ve already dropped hints.

I send emails to "Santa" and will include links. They are usually small stocking stuffer items. I do need some sewing machine bobbins this year. I'm sure he can handle that.

I also requested a mini blue-tooth speaker that can be used for cell phone calls. Some of them can't be used with calls for whatever techy reason.

It seems like I have already asked for something else, but I don't remember what, so if/when I get it, I will be surprised!

Bear, I do agree with your points, but I have a hang-up about wish lists, registries and gifts. When did wish lists become shopping lists and not suggestions? When did gifts become receiver decides what they receive? I miss the thoughtfulness and caring that is put into gift selection. To me, the expectation that you will receive everything from your wish list, decreases the joy of giving.

I also agree with what you say. When I look at a gift registry, I can sometimes get more of an idea of what the people are like. But that does not mean that I will get anything that is on the list. If they want Pattern A for dishes, and I can't afford it, they won't get any of it. But I might try to get something that has a similar feel/flavor/color that might coordinate with it.

Any ideas of how to make both points of view "work"?

That's a good idea. My kids had a list on Amazon before my granddaughter was born and it made buying what she needed a lot easier for people, me included!

Myty- your point is a good one. I guess it depends on the situation. With our granddaughter it just made sense. But that doesn't mean she didn't get other things. I especially can't stop making her things!! :)

My daughter loves her pasta maker and attachments!