Around the second week of December, I always sit down and compile what ends up being a very short list of "stuff I want for Christmas." This is usually done at the insistence of someone trying to cross me off their list. And every year, it's met by at least one person giving me what's almost become a traditional reaction:

"Well, that's boring."

For years now, my wish list has consisted almost entirely of DVDs, CDs and books. Yes, I am that impossible-to-buy-for person whose list requires no imagination or considerate thought.

I can see where my gift-giving friends and family are coming from. Referencing an itemized list is predictable and takes all the fun out of putting together something cute and meaningful. I'll also freely admit that I feel bad picking from a list when I'm doing the giving, too, so I get the rationale.

What I think is funny, however, is when I get questions along the lines of "C'mon, what do you really want?" as though they think this is some elaborate exercise I've orchestrated to test them into seeking out the Perfect Heartfelt Christmas Present.

Don't get me wrong, I truly appreciate the thought and effort that goes into this yearly debacle. I love my friends and family. I love that they stubbornly defy me every year and always succeed in getting me something I'd never think to get myself. I'm simply pleading a case for myself and those like me who could be bought for in a very similar method to going down the grocery list and hitting the "10 Items or Less" lane.

Since my toy-and-stuffed animals phase as a kid wore off, I've never been much for wanting "stuff." I've pretty much hit my quota on decor, clothes and other what-nots, but movies, books and music are always a great source of constant and usable entertainment for me. What little of these media I ask for are on my list for a reason.

I don't think less of a friend or family member that decides to check something off the list, just as I definitely don't for those who choose to think I'm boring and do their own thing. Some of the best gifts I've received have been the result of rebelling from the list, so to speak.

But those who choose to use the list -- and this goes for those of you who are in similar boats with your loved ones -- should not feel at all bad about doing so. After all, if one of the movies I've been anxiously holding out on turns up under the tree Christmas morning, it'll be exactly what I was hoping for.