As the holidays rolled around this year, I (Suzie) told my husband (James) not to buy me anything. While I didn’t want to sound “bah humbug,” I already have too much stuff. I certainly don’t need another knick-knack.

Nor do I desire anything additional. I have no room for yet another item that will take up cherished space in our city home.

However, I mentioned there is one caveat: I will accept anything that can be consumed, like wine, chocolate, or flowers. Something that doesn’t leave a footprint and that I don’t have to maneuver around worrying about breaking, losing, or maintaining.

Our son chimed in to wisely suggest I add “experiences” to my list since they are more meaningful than things and are something that our family all enjoyed. I couldn’t agree more and was happy he brought this up.

The memories of experiences live on in our hearts and uplift us, which is in stark contrast to the dust that collects and resides on the numerous items we acquire over the years that often end up stressing us........

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