So the holidays are upon us, and hopefully if you aren’t a slacker like I am your shopping is all taken care of and the gifts are wrapped and ready to go. If you haven’t, there’s still time to brave the cold and the wind (or your computer desk) to get that special something for that special someone. I know I am.
Inevitably when one has finished shopping for everyone else, sometimes there are one or two things that you are tempted to treat yourself to off of your own wish list. Now, I’ve found that there are wish lists, and then there are geek wish lists. There is a distinct difference, and if you’re ever in doubt that your list is a geek list, show the list to a non-geek. If their reaction is one of confusion, a raised eyebrow, and nervous laughter followed by the “you’re getting a gift card” grin, then your list is a geek wish list.
On geek lists, I’ve seen tons of different things. Obscure comic book issues, figurines or merchandise from old and dear geek classics, or items advancing some long-forgotten hobby (basket weaving anyone?) seem to be a part of some of these lists. Others include things like the latest in cutting edge technology, or accessories augmenting such technology that would require a translator to a normal person (have you ever tried to explain to the uninitiated why you specifically need dual-channel supported 766mhz DIMMs that are 4GB and paired for greater speed? Then you know what I’m talking about). Yet other items on the geekery list include non-traditional gift types that sometimes don’t even have physical form (yay for gift and game codes, right).
The point is, maybe you have friends or fellow geeks who know what you like on your wish list and who can tell that you’ll appreciate a Final Fantasy gunblade replica. But even if they don’t be sure to think a little bit of your self after you think of others these next couple days. After all, taking care of yourself, especially on the holidays, can provide a much needed boost to all your geekery activities later.