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Gifts of the Season

Dec 06, 2017

 

It’s gift-giving season. And I have a confession to make.

 

I’m a terrible gift giver. 

 

I was born this way.

 

I’m just not the best shopper.  If it can’t be found on Amazon, I’m not finding it. 

 

I’m ecstatic when someone tells me what they want.  I’m great at getting things done.  Checked off the list!  You got it. 

 

I know, I know, it’s not that romantic or surprising or fun.  And it can take away from the gift receiving experience.  I have some mild guilt about that.

 

It has taken me a long time to realize and accept that I have my strengths, and . . .

 

I have my weaknesses. Gift giving is one.

 

So I’m a whole-hearted believer in the wisdom, “It’s the thought that counts”.

 

My thought is pure, well intentioned and filled with love. Even if the actual item misses the mark.

 

Because I am giftedly challenged, I’m sensitive to the whole gift giving process.  I genuinely appreciate the offering of any gift.  I’m wowed by the time someone puts into the acquisition of it: the mental effort to think of something, the energy to purchase (or make) it.

 

I see each offering as a true expression of love. 

 

What does this have to do with preventing weight gain?

 

‘Tis the season, and you may be the recipient of many presents.  With the backdrop of gift giving=love giving, I want to talk about the ever-present edible gift. 

 

Edible gifts are pretty, sweet, people pleasers.  Relatively inexpensive, they can be a great way to show appreciation.  Especially if it’s homemade—there is love baked right into the cookies! 

 

But here’s the thing, you don’t have to eat them.

 

I’m not saying don’t.  I’m just saying you don’t have to.

 

If it fits into your overall weight plan for the holidays—enjoy!  But if this is one of your challenges during December, consider this:

 

Acknowledging the sentiment of the gift—the time, thought and energy on your behalf—is necessary if you are really going to receive the love. 

 

But, you do not need to consume every last crumb to prove your appreciation. 

 

In fact, you don’t even have to take one bite.

 

You can revel in the love, write your thank you note and enjoy the rest of the season.

 

The muffin is the love delivery system.  Accept the love, but toss of the muffin. 

 

Some of you may have gasped audibly just now.  I understand.

 

“Throw away a gift/food!?!”, you say.  “But someone got/made it for me!”

 

Yes.  They did.  And you are lucky because you’re treasured.  But that doesn’t mean you have to bust out of your pants before New Year’s Eve even rolls around. 

 

Feel the love, appreciate the appreciation, even sample the goods.  But you do not get extra “brownie” points for finishing the whole thing. 

 

Edible gifts are an offering not a mandate. 

 

 

I have a feeling I just blew my chance at getting any peanut butter squares this holiday :)