Ok, maybe that’s a bit harsh. But still, I’m frustrated.

I’ve spent the last few weeks (and will spend the next few) thinking up nice, original presents for friends and family. A silly DVD set for one friend, a mini-keg of Root Beer for my brother (don’t read this, Curran). Although it is work, I enjoy it because it’s worth them getting something they they truly like.

I appreciate this treatment as well…I’d much rather be surprised than get something that is “exactly” what I want…most of the time “exactly” is actually “approximately” and requires numerous trips to the store to return and exchange stuff.

I respect that many people don’t have the time/interest/capability to come up with a unique and fulfilling present, especially family (after all, presents from family are required, whereas they’re opted into with friends). I usually try to come up with a short list of things I would like that I wouldn’t buy myself. This year, there’s just one thing on that list: A Nintendo Wii.

I used to be a big-time gamer (even developed levels for Myth II), but I have since run out of time and money to keep up with games. However, the Wii really eliminates the time factor. I’ve played it a few times and it’s easy to pick up, play with friends, and have a great short session (unlike the long shooters and strategy games I played back in the day). I’m not going to buy it for myself; I need to save money and any splurging goes towards instruments for Monsters are not Myths or brief vacations. Thus, it is a perfect gift.

I understand that the Wii is not cheap, but my birthday is right after Christmas and I figured all the family presents could combine into it. If not, that’s fine…find out where you can find a Wii and give some gift certificates.

However, this seems not to be the case and I’m now being hounded for more present ideas from my own family. As stated above, I ALREADY spent my creative juices figuring out presents for THEM.

In short, I don’t care anymore. What I want is to be left alone. I spend enough time working at work and on music that I should not need to spend time coming up with my own present. If they can’t, then my present should be not having to deal with the hassle of presents. Honestly, that would be fine with me. Let me enjoy the holidays and give presents without having to write even one more Christmas list or go to any stores to return lame presents. Give me the gift of not having to be stressed about a PRESENT for MYSELF.

Merry Christmas.

Update: My friend Victoria Potter just wrote a great post looking at the larger, less selfish picture of why Christmas/December is no longer cool. Scope it on her blog.

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Tags: EvanHamilton, Christmas, presents, Monsters are not Myths, MANM, Myth II, family, returns, curmudgeon, Victoria Potter