When someone gives Me a gift out of the blue, I often make a sad face and ask, “Why?”. Despite the part of Me that knows I’m worthy of nice things, there’s always that bit of Me that thinks I’m not, or simply feels guilty.

I’m a “materialistic” woman or whatever. I like stuff, but I’m also aware of the time someone had to sacrifice in order to obtain said gift. Some people make bank during their coffee break, and others make it in a month or two. Sure, I have various gifts on My Throne/wishlist, but the inexpensive and sentimental ones can hit just as hard as those that are more than one’s rent.

Gifts show you’ve been listening. They’re My love language. I love gifts. I love giving them, and I love receiving them (as long as the environment is safe). I love the smug feeling I get when I think it’ll make the recipient’s day. I’m selfish like that.

I don’t really expect gifts, unless it’s: for an application, for an occasion, for babygirl/Goddess validation, or an apology. The last one can’t necessarily be fixed with a gift, but I appreciate it as an ice breaker. I don’t accept gifts from people who’ve hurt Me beyond repair.

For women, we have to be cautious at times when it comes to showing thanks. Simply thanking someone for a drink we (women) did/didn’t ask for, could lead to a misconception of where we’d be spending the rest of our night. The same goes for a stranger complimenting us when we’re on our own.

If I’m too grateful, I’ll be taken advantage of. If I’m not grateful enough, I’m a bitch, lose trust, or could find Myself in danger. It’s hard to find a balance at times, so I try to do whatever is the safest/respects My boundaries, rather than what is the most likeable/honest. I’m easily excitable, but I’m also easily overwhelmed.

I don’t really accept gifts from people I do not respect. I’ve refused money/gifts from 4 men in My life so far, including My dad. If a man disappoints Me, I won’t accept anything. This is for two reasons; one being that men are taught that they are providers, and refusing them of that makes them feel lost, and 2, because when I say it’s a privilege to be in My circle, I mean it. If I ask for a gift, I’m usually saying I need something from you to proceed. I don’t expect gifts with a paid bookings unless I’ve requested it, but My requests are valid. Should pride get in the way, it’s your perogative to decline, but it’s a shame that providing a small act of validation for someone is enough to derail you from a once in a lifetime experience. Still – it’s your perogative.

Oh – I forgot to say, good morning. I’m writing this in London from the bed, on My phone. I’m looking over at My open suitcase and scattered items. So far, I have gifts for 5 people. The least expensive is a set of 3 postcards from an exhibition I know My hairstylist is dying to visit, but is dependent on her visa. Another is a limited-edition plush toy from Japan that My husband mentioned a year ago, but he couldn’t justify the $100 reseller price tag. It’s not that much when you have a shop-savvy wife who often orders from Japan.

Not including these in the gift count, but I’m not sure if the new Honey Birdette stockings are gifts for Myself or My companions. I’m sure they’ll be enjoyed, regardless. I have a couple of sets on My Wishlist to pair them with, should you feel so generous. Just make sure I know who to send thanks to.

Have a lovely weekend. Be good.

– GOOD GRIEF / DXXXRK