thing-free holidays

I've found this lovely "one less gift" certificate over at miss minimalist and I have to say, that is exactly what I could use right now. I've always had troubles with people giving me stuff for all kinds of occasions and while some things were really useful and needed (or perishable, like food), a lot of things only have burdened me.  Not because I didn't like them, no, but more that — most times — really DID like them and thus became totally attached to them and got used to piling up more an more stuff out of nostalgic feelings. What burdens me is having so much stuff that I don't even get to use or appreciate every single one of them in a lifetime.

So this goes out to anyone with a known propensity for giving material gifts to me:

I'm really touched that you want to show your affection with something that stays visible and takes up space, thus reminding me of your sympathy for me, but please... I currently have everything I want and more, and if there may be something that is still missing, I will let you know if there's a way you can do something about that.

Really, I won't take "no gifts" as an insult, but as a sign of you caring enough to take this message into account. If you want to give SOMETHING, let's just have a great time together, go out, cook, see the world... anything. I'd love that!

Also, don't feel bad if I give you a gift (we probably will have discussed what would really make you happy beforehand) and you give "nothing" in return. The gift of "nothing" actually means very much to me. If you care about me, I'll probably know without any material proof, anyway, no?

This great certificate comes from miss minimalist and you can download the pdf here, if you like the message :) Also, great ideas on what to give instead of things can be found here.

Have a great christmas you all, with exactly the right amount of gifts for you :)