by Kathleen Richardson

Created on: July 18, 2008   Last Updated: December 15, 2010

My initial reaction to the idea of "Top ten gifts you'd like to receive" was that I'd really like more wisdom, greater wit and a quicker response time to others' comments. On further thought, I realized that these particular gifts need to be learned and earned.

What I also discovered is that I don't want gifts that change the core of ME. I've worked at becoming who I am for over sixty years, and I know now that the best of me comes from within; it can't be handed over in a gift-wrapped package.

So, with that thought in mind, I've made my list of top ten gifts I'd like to receive. Rather than changing me, these items would support who I am.

1. Kitchen Aid mixer

I always loved to cook, but wasn't particularly good at it. Then, in the 1990s, I worked in a small cafe. Every food item was made from scratch, many with a Kitchen Aid mixer. It made food preparation quicker easier. It's more difficult for me to mix batters and to knead dough now, so I don't do it often. A Kitchen Aid would allow me to continue doing what I do well.

2. Restaurant gift certificates

As much as I love to cook, I enjoy eating out. Restaurants offer community. A place to eat, meet and greet. I'm particularly fond of ethnic restaurants where I can meet people originally from other countries and sample the foods they love.

3. Treadmill

After all this eating - at home and in restaurants - I'll need to exercise. When I walk outdoors, it's for pleasure and it's typically at a leisurely pace. I stop and look, stop and talk. I don't get very far, very fast. Combine a treadmill with movie watching, and I'll avoid becoming a coach potato.

4. Spa retreat

I've spent my life taking care of others. It's only in recent years that I've realized self-care is an important foundation to my living a long life as well as to enabling me to care for others. One recent step I've taken is monthly half-hour massages to relax muscles and lessen stress. Spa time would be an extension of my quest for extreme self-care.

5. Laptop computer

I have a desktop and when I travel, I miss the familiarity of my own computer. Plus, how nice it would be to have a computer that doesn't take up much office space.

6. Eileen Fisher wardrobe

Eileen Fisher clothes are not divided into one style for the young and one for the old. Any woman can wear any style. I love the cozy, simple, yet elegant look of her clothing.

7. Japan vacation

The country I've always dreamed of visiting. Although I'm sure there are many historic locations for

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