PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

My most memorable gift was also the most horrid, to where I will never stop reminding him about it…it was a laundry basket! To this day, whenever I see the ragged thing, I am thrown into the memory of where it came from. When my guy gave it to me, with the grocery check out sticker still adhered to its side, I nearly threw it at him! But no, I decided to express my rage through sarcasm instead, thereby adding a chapter of legendary proportions to our relationship.

"Oh honey! You really shouldn’t have! I just loooove it! Every time I wash your putrid, crusty, stinky socks, I will be so thinking of youuuuuu! And wow – the color! Fecal brown! How wonderfully delightful! Thank you, thank you, Thank You!"

I understand the why’s behind the laundry basket, which immediately erupted in an apologetic fashion: I needed a new one, and so that’s what I got. Most guys I know tend to think in this utilitarian sort of way, and having three brothers of my own, I understand this. However, no matter how useful an item, a gift it does not make. Thoughtful gifts are the best, because it expresses how hard you worked at bringing joy to someone. There you have it – what makes the other truly happy! And, just as important, what can you find that he or she can’t casually pick up anywhere and at any time?

I’ve had the best luck with finding unique, romantic gifts by shopping on online auction sites. I type in an interest, and lo and behold, a million results come my way, usually at a terrific bargain, and without ever having to set foot outside! Of course, narrowing down your choices is where the difficulty begins, but once you eliminate the bad ideas, the fantastic ones are right there for the bidding!

First off, buy what you can afford to spend. I know this sounds basic, but too many people equate price with love, and think buying a new car or a rock the size of a golf ball best expresses your feelings. Also, avoid clothing, since your idea of fashion very rarely ends up being on time with your partner’s. And finally, unless he or she is a collector of a specific breed and you know for a fact what you see before you is on the "Must Have List", take a pass on the baubles, collectibles and knick knacks. This includes buying up DVDs and CDs, unless you plan on using it for setting the mood later on!