He Said…

Every Christmas, each member of my family makes it a goal to out-present their relatives. This is not necessarily determined by the number of presents given, but the quality of them. This lets everyone create and receive a present designed for them and them alone. I love this tradition, because present-giving shouldn’t be about giving friends and relatives what they want, but rather a gift that actually means something to them and would only make sense to give to them. Sure, I would love to have that new video game that just came out, but I would be more appreciative of a gift that someone who knows me well actually made for me.

Most people have ideas as to what an ideal present for them  would be: a certain jacket, a new book, a tablet, et cetera . But those are things that those people are likely to buy on their own anyways, so why not surprise them instead? Make something that is meaningful to that person and that person alone, because they are more likely to remember it and keep it in the long run.

So would I want for Christmas? Surprise me. Give me something I won’t expect, because those kinds of presents are more meaningful.

Joseph Alcala, staff writer

She said…

Winter means Christmas, and Christmas means presents, and presents means stress. Trying to buy a gift for people can be so difficult. Even the people you’re closest to can be the most difficult to buy presents for. A present for your best friend, boyfriend, girlfriend, or even your parents is probably the most stressful part of the season because it feels like the present reflects your relationship. Anything too small seems like you do not care but something too big makes it seem like you’re trying too hard.

Most of the time when people ask “What do you want for Christmas?” there will be the quick reaction of “I don’t know,” or “whatever you think I’d like.” Many, if not all,  girls would say they just want new clothes or maybe a new pair of shoes. Guys might say a new video game or maybe a new sweatshirt. Those presents are just so basic, though. The more personal the gift, the better it is. If your best friend loves giraffes, get her something to do with giraffes. If they love something odd like cheese, get them a block of gouda. Personalize a fruit basket. Make a tie-dyed shirt. Do something fun!

I know I would want something fun and personal. A lot of others would too. However, Christmas is not all about the gifts, so make sure to show people you care in little ways too. Shopping for presents is not all bad, and for anyone who cares, I like whales.

Faith Lingle, photographer