At least six people have asked me what I want, which leads to the central issue: I want something that you want to give me. I don't really like holidays because people get all consumed by getting someone something because it's a holiday and they're supposed to get someone something for that holiday. It's part of why I have so many problems with birthdays, particularly my own: I don't like the expectation inherent in the system.
Of course, informing people on good ideas sort of causes problems with my general preference of not telling people to get me things, or telling them exactly what to get, but hell, I figure I'll make a general post that includes some ideas in particular and some definite no-no's.
Things I might be interested in:
- A subscription to Oak Leaves. Mine ran out and I couldn't afford to re-up. (My membership # is 2328.)
- A subscription to The Clergy Journal. It's a really good journal that deals with the practicalities of running a church and being clergy. I read articles from the journal online (we have them in OSU's Journal archive), but of course the archive isn't up to date.
- Something from my Amazon.Com wishlist.
- More time with the paid acct. on LJ. It's nice to have, I admit.
- Cash, of course, is always welcome ;)
- Stuff for my altar. I know you mean well, but whatever it is, unless I've specifically asked for it (and I have done that once), I don't want it. No, really: I don't want it. I don't care how cool it is, I'll never use it.
- Things that are more expensive (or look more expensive) than you can afford. The gift will just make me feel guilty.
- LJ userpics or storage space addons. I'll never use them.
- Things that stink, like candles and cologne.
Example of an excellent gift?
Hope that helps some :)