It's The Thought That Counts....

So I have been struggling with 'commercialism'... and how Christmas seems all about 'just more stuff.'  Not wanting to shop, being stressed about it, not even wanting anything really....  Then I received two surprise birthday gifts from two friends....

I realized it wasn't of course about the gift.  But being thought of.  The mug was actually something I have wanted..one of those ceramic traveler jobbies.  This is a friend I only see a couple of times a year and she did not know I had wanted one! But it was so sweet and warmed my heart.

The earrings I spied last summer at an art fair when I was with a friend.  I loved them but couldn't see buying them.  My friend had gone back and purchased the earrings..and held on to them for many months.  She had wanted to give them to me several times since but held on to them to surprise me for my birthday.

Both of these are friends who I don't generally exchange gifts with.  It was fun to be thought of.  (Perhaps one of my love languages IS 'gifts.')  So I guess I am not 'anti-giving' anymore.  Because it isn't about the gift.  It truly IS the thought that counts.  Off to make a list and check it twice.....

Merry Christmas!