Curating the Perfect Christmas List: Gift Exchanges and Traditions

Christmas is just around the corner and for many of us, that means finalizing the perfect gift list. If you haven't started yet, now is the perfect time to get going! In the past, I have filled my list with things I did not really need, just items I thought I might want. But this year, I decided to focus on things that I can actually use and enjoy in the future. 

This year, after graduation, my friends and I are planning an exciting backpacking trip across Europe. We will be traveling for about a month, so my Christmas list is centered around a few key items that will help me prepare and fund this trip. I asked for both some money to go directly towards my plane ticket and a 40-liter backpacking bag to avoid having to buy it myself in the future. I aso included a pair of Osprey Tiger sneakers, a sephora gift card, a new set of headphones and a new skirt. These last few items are things I am reluctant to buy myself, as I try not to spend money on shoes, makeup and new clothing items. When I was younger, my Christmas list seemed endless, filled with all kinds of thing's that I did not really need. Now, I make a conscious effort to add only the things I truly want or will use. 

Of course, Christmas is not just about making our own lists, it's also about giving. Every year, my sibling and I do a gift exchange. With five of us, plus our significant others, it would be too expensive to buy gifts for everyone individually. So, we keep it affordable with this exchange. We also do a gift exchange with the entire extended family, including aunts, uncles and cousins. I absolutley love the tradition of gift giving, which is one of my favorite things about the season. 

At the end of the day, Christmas is my favorite time of the year, not just because of the gifts (though they are appreciated), but because it is a time of year to spend with family and to show love through thoughtful present. It's about creating memories and enjoying the company of friends and family. 

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