Are we really out shopping for the ones we love, or are we just out shopping for ourselves?

This notion came about with a simple purchase on a simple day in a simple store.  I was shopping at my local Anthropologie when I found the most splendid sweater that would have looked absolutely perfect on my adorable new mother of a sister. After my initial ‘yes’ moment, I saw the same sweater in a different size; my size.  Commence conversation with self:

‘Well, I have been looking for something similar for myself… should I?  Would it be cheesy to have  the same adorable sweater as my sister?  She does live half way across the country, after all—well, that is all the convincing I need!’

Off to the cashier I went with two of the same sweaters in my hand!  Of course I confirmed my rationale with the sales woman up front, who adamantly agreed with my justification.

This question of gifting intention was later confirmed by a simple P.S. on a card that accompanied the gifts I sent to my parents, my sister, and my brother-in-law:

‘PS: If anything does not fit let me know.  I bought these items knowing you do not have the same store in your area, but they were too stylish to pass up.  It isn’t my fault that my taste is impeccable and not available nation-wide!’

After that note came the reflection (imagine little me sitting peacefully at my writing table, gifts strewn across the floor, while I peer out the corner of my eyes looking up toward the ceiling. Ahhh…) for after I found my mothers gift I proclaimed out loud; “Oh I wish there was one for me!” 

After purchasing the gifts for my father and brother-in-law, I knew that if I had a man and he showed up wearing what I got them for the holidays, I would have no problem claiming him as mine!  Not only do I love the items I am to give away, the process of shopping, purchasing and packing them to arrive at the doorsteps of my loved ones across the country is such a great feeling! Shoot, maybe I am out there shopping for myself after all—does that make me a bad person?  Will Hanukah Harry ever forgive me?