AimeeM Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 DH is out of ideas and he's irritated (not really irritated, just frustrated) :P We DO exchange gifts on Christmas (I know not everyone does, but we do, typically). He wants an idea for a gift, with the following stipulations: 1. It needs to be at least $100 2. Not something he or I would typically buy for myself on a daily basis. I suggested more yarn for my crochet projects and a book, but he's right when he says that these are things I would usually just pop in and buy, or call him at work to ask him to pick up on his way home. MY problem is that there is legitimately zero that I want or need. He loves electronics, so we all already have phones, laptops, and e-readers. Any time I need new clothing, he never has a problem with me buying clothing, etc. I don't wear jewelry, other than my wedding band. I did tell him that I would wear a small necklace, but I'm not being entirely truthful there, because I probably wouldn't. He has bought me jewelry in the past, but it is never really worn. I love Harry Potter -- but he has bought me almost all typical "fan" items in that arena, in years past. I love books -- but we have a ton and he's right when he says that I buy books consistently, and I don't collect special editions or anything. I enjoy crochet -- but he doesn't find yarn to be a suitable gift. I love, love, love coffee -- but we have a keurig and there's a starbucks right up the road that I frequent. I have zero ideas. I don't want him to put him in the position of not having anything to give me -- I've been in that position with him before (not knowing what to give him), and it is discomforting. Any ideas? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cinder Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 Harry Potter--do you already have the illustrated editions? Getting all three would be a big and fun gift. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OrganicJen Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 Since you don't want or need anything then why not a donation to a charity of your choosing? 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JudoMom Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 Fitbit Blaze? Ninja coffee bar? New chair to replace the hideous recliner that just won't fall apart? (Maybe that last one is too specific :P ). 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OrganicJen Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 Ooohh..you mentioned crochet...he could make a donation in your name to one of these... http://www.crochet.org/?page=charity Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 17, 2017 Author Share Posted December 17, 2017 Harry Potter--do you already have the illustrated editions? Getting all three would be a big and fun gift. We do have all three :P Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 17, 2017 Author Share Posted December 17, 2017 Since you don't want or need anything then why not a donation to a charity of your choosing? He donates pretty regularly and never argues when I want to donate elsewhere, so I think this would fall under something that I would regularly do or buy. I think he really wants something to wrap and put under the tree. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hornblower Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 how about a gift certificate for a massage therapist 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hyacinth Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 Any interest in a subscription service? Book a month? Stitch Fix? One of those meal planning things? Or some kind of luxury brand of cosmetics or lotion/bubble bath/body spray? A gift certificate for a professional massage? Tickets to an upcoming concert or musical? 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 17, 2017 Author Share Posted December 17, 2017 Fitbit Blaze? Ninja coffee bar? New chair to replace the hideous recliner that just won't fall apart? (Maybe that last one is too specific :p ). I'll have to google the Fitbit Blaze. I don't workout regularly, lol. I do have a gym membership, and I'd like to use it more, but it seems like every time we go, the boys end up sick from the gym childcare :( I'll have to think about the furniture. I hadn't considered it, and we moved a couple years ago to a new home and bought new furniture -- but a nice new chair to read or craft on might be a great idea. Especially one that could go in the bedroom. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 17, 2017 Author Share Posted December 17, 2017 Any interest in a subscription service? Book a month? Stitch Fix? One of those meal planning things? Or some kind of luxury brand of cosmetics or lotion/bubble bath/body spray? A gift certificate for a professional massage? Tickets to an upcoming concert or musical? I think he wants something to physically wrap and put under the tree, so I'm not sure a subscription would work. I have wanted to try one of the meal planning services, though, and I'm trying to find one that would match our dietary needs (paleo for me, him, and DD16). If I could find one that did, he might actually go for that, though. I just use Walgreens cosmetics and I use the same Burberry perfume he hooked me on years ago and don't deviate from that. I'm not a fan of massages from strangers, and we have a spa at our gym if I did want one. The tickets are a great idea, though. I'll have to look at our local halls to see what's coming up. I'm not a huge music fan (much to his dismay, since he loves concerts), but I haven't been to a musical since I was a kid. My stepmother used to take us religiously. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mmasc Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 With those parameters, I’d probably go with a purse or coat/jacket. I don’t ‘need’ any of those things, but I could find something I like in those categories. :) Like this: https://www.rriveter.com/collections/view-all/products/otto-riverside-canvas-brown-leather-handbag-2 Or this: https://m.llbean.com/product.html?bc=12-27-610&skCatId=88143&csp=f#88143 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
solascriptura Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 A really nice cashmere sweater? High quality skin balms or lotions? Fitbit? I usually hate spending money on myself, but my dh likes to buy me clothing that I wouldn't normally just go and buy for myself. For example, Lululemon or Athleta. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OrganicJen Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 If it were me and I didn't need anything and a donation wasn't an option, then instead of giving a list I think it would be easier for me to just go shopping and purchase a few things I found that I liked while shopping, then give them to my husband to wrap etc. I find if I don't really have specific needs or wants that it's easier to go browse around and get what strikes my fancy than to make a list for someone. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
solascriptura Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 Designer purse or wallet? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bocky Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 What about a basket for your yarn and crochet things? This one includes the donation idea - Blessing baskets, but the baskets are not $100 http://www.prosperityshop.com/product-category/baskets/ This one is from etsy www.etsy.com/listing/112751281/craft-basket-10x16x11h?ref=shop_home_active_13 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 17, 2017 Author Share Posted December 17, 2017 What about a basket for your yarn and crochet things? This one includes the donation idea - Blessing baskets, but the baskets are not $100 http://www.prosperityshop.com/product-category/baskets/ This one is from etsy www.etsy.com/listing/112751281/craft-basket-10x16x11h?ref=shop_home_active_13 Oh, wow. Those are really pretty. I want one! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 17, 2017 Author Share Posted December 17, 2017 Designer purse or wallet? I recently bought a new purse. Designer purses and me don't get along well. He's bought them for me before, but my purses typically double as a bag for the kids and they end up destroyed by random markers, snacks that escape from the bags, and punctured juice boxes. :P Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 17, 2017 Author Share Posted December 17, 2017 If it were me and I didn't need anything and a donation wasn't an option, then instead of giving a list I think it would be easier for me to just go shopping and purchase a few things I found that I liked while shopping, then give them to my husband to wrap etc. I find if I don't really have specific needs or wants that it's easier to go browse around and get what strikes my fancy than to make a list for someone. I agree completely. I would be perfectly happy with purchasing my own gifts. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Selkie Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 A puppy. :) 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rockhopper Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 I bookmarked this company a few years ago -- The Mystery Experience. I think maybe I saw it mentioned here? It looks like a totally fun gift *I'd* never get myself. It doesn't lend itself to something to unwrap under the tree -- but he could get one of those at-home escape room board games to wrap... Or maybe there's another similar sort of "crate" you'd like? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
teachermom2834 Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 I would have a hard time with those parameters too. I might ask for some ridiculously expensive pajamas and/or slippers. I would never spend that on loungewear but I bet if I did I would find something super cozy that I loved. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
happypamama Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 Nice light for reading/crocheting Bluetooth headphones Towel warmer (DH surprised me with one of these many years ago. I thought it was slightly strange, but thoughtful, at the time. Now I feel totally spoiled any time we travel and don't have warmed towels.) Mini-fridge for your bedroom Upgrade for your electronics (more RAM or something) Handmade pottery from a local potter Automatic starter for your vehicle if you live in a cold area Electronics setup for your vehicle Ninja coffee bar 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
happi duck Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 I would actually love a $100 Starbucks card! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rosie_0801 Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 A donation to your superannuation fund? That's very romantic if you squint at it the right way. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris in VA Posted December 17, 2017 Share Posted December 17, 2017 Could he get a hotel for the night for the two of you and you could get away for a night? 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KatieJ Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 My DD gave me a wooden yarn bowl recently. She didn’t know I have been wanting one. I love it and use it all th time. https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Wood+yarn+bowl Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mama Geek Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 (edited) A romantic night out after the holidays...hotels are in that price range. ETA saw that someone beat me to it. Edited December 18, 2017 by Mama Geek 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Terabith Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 Subscription to a newspaper or magazine? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
scrapbookbuzz Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 What if he bought you an experience instead of a tangible item? I'm thinking along the lines of: SCUBA lessons, or at least an introductory one; a hot air balloon ride; an afternoon trailride, a treatment at a high-end spa, something like that? Or go to the zoo together and have lunch at the cafe, stopping to buy a souvenir at the gift shop on the way out. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Storygirl Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 Do you cook? Could he upgrade some kitchen equipment? A LeCrueset pot, Vitamix blender, KitchenAid mixer or attachments? A lovely butcher block cutting board can be expensive but wonderful to have. Better knives? A piece of furniture? Lamp? Chandelier for your bedroom or bath? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
creekland Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 I'd go with an experience you'd like (but maybe that's just because those are what I like): A weekend trip An expensive dinner to a nice restaurant Tickets to a great show A day at the aquarium Or anything similar that appeals to you. Or... you could always ask for a pony. ;) 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Garga Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 (edited) A Miracurl curling iron if you have flat hair (like I do, sigh). About $150. A memory foam mattress topper or heated mattress pad. I run cold, so I have 3 robes from Woman Within that are ankle length, zip-up, and hooded. I am so warm in those robes. Sari silk wrap skirts--these are wrap skirts made by women in India out of old saris and they are gorgeous. It's a way to help women in India have some work and not be exploited. Since they're wrap skirts, you pick out of two sizes. They pick what designs to give to you, though you can request certain colors. I got some this year and they're soooo pretty. They're having a sale, 3 for $99 right now. https://www.darngoodyarn.com/collections/skirts/products/sari-silk-wrap-skirts-3-pack. Edited: the kitten killing apostrophe got me. Edited December 18, 2017 by Garga 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carol in Cal. Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 I like Nespresso coffee far more than Keurig, so to me a Nespresso would be an upgrade. A ceramic yarn bowl would be nice. https://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Sun-Pottery-Yarn-Bowl/dp/B00S3FNJKW/ref=sr_1_24?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1513559406&sr=1-24&keywords=yarn+bowl How about an Ott lamp for hand work? Or an umbrella swift? http://www.knitpicks.com/accessories/Knitting_Yarn_Swift__D82008.html A pendant shaped like a ball of yarn might be appropriate: https://www.schoolhousepress.com/tools/jewelry/ball-of-yarn-pendant.html I've always liked this artist's work. She has prints of initials. Maybe you want one for your wall? https://www.etsy.com/shop/AliceandCompanyArt?section_id=19922034 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 18, 2017 Author Share Posted December 18, 2017 I was just looking at some lamps, actually! He likes it dark in the living room when we watch television as a family, but I'm often trying to crochet at the same time, so one of those adjustable lamps would be great. Nice light for reading/crocheting Bluetooth headphones Towel warmer (DH surprised me with one of these many years ago. I thought it was slightly strange, but thoughtful, at the time. Now I feel totally spoiled any time we travel and don't have warmed towels.) Mini-fridge for your bedroom Upgrade for your electronics (more RAM or something) Handmade pottery from a local potter Automatic starter for your vehicle if you live in a cold area Electronics setup for your vehicle Ninja coffee bar Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted December 18, 2017 Author Share Posted December 18, 2017 (edited) Could he get a hotel for the night for the two of you and you could get away for a night? We don't have anybody local who could stay with the children overnight :( Because of the extent of our younger two boys' special needs, we typically hire a couple teenage guys (DD's friends) just to help DD16 with the boys so we can go out for even a few hours. So, three sitters for two boys. They are actually fantastic with our boys, but I'm not sure they're old enough that I would feel comfortable leaving them overnight with the kids (or that their mom would be comfortable with it -- and she's a great friend, but has five kids of her own, so I won't ask her to stay, lol). We have only one family member that lives within an hour of us (the rest are 10+ hours from us) and she has a farm she takes care of and can't be away from overnight. Trust me, I've thought about it :p Edited December 18, 2017 by AimeeM Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hjffkj Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 Oh, wow. Those are really pretty. I want one! Bolga baskets, the type in the link, are great baskets. We have a large one that holds our large wooden blocks and it still looks like new after 5 years of heavy use. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lynn Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 (edited) Do you like to workout or try new workouts? Then maybe a one year beach body on demand membership. Edited December 18, 2017 by lynn 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peaceseeker Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 I asked for a couple of 'luxury' items I rarely buy myself. A pair of really nice leather driving gloves lined in cashmere and a bottle of nice perfume since I am out. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OrganicJen Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 I asked for a couple of 'luxury' items I rarely buy myself. A pair of really nice leather driving gloves lined in cashmere and a bottle of nice perfume since I am out. I once had this very expensive pair of leather gloves wth cashmere lining. Then one day my husband and son were doing some yard work and when they came in I discovered that my husband had given our son those gloves to wear for yard work thinking they were just some random pair of gloves that looked like they would fit him. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carol in Cal. Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 I once had this very expensive pair of leather gloves wth cashmere lining. Then one day my husband and son were doing some yard work and when they came in I discovered that my husband had given our son those gloves to wear for yard work thinking they were just some random pair of gloves that looked like they would fit him. Ugh. This reminds me of a story. A handwoven Irish linen towel was involved. It became a rag immediately. And permanently. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OrganicJen Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 Ugh. This reminds me of a story. A handwoven Irish linen towel was involved. It became a rag immediately. And permanently. Yep, my son got to keep his cashmere lined gardening gloves as they were beyond recovery. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
school17777 Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 What about a wireless speaker? I got one for my birthday and everyone is using it (and getting their own for Christmas). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 (edited) I'm getting new hiking boots..... The current pair is fine but I'd like something lighter weight. I probably wouldn't buy at this point otherwise though. Edited December 18, 2017 by Laura Corin 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Loesje22000 Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 A ticket for a performance of my taste (normally we attend only performances the whole family will like) 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris in VA Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 Honey, I could spend $100 without even thinking about it. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SamanthaCarter Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 I don’t know if this is anything you are interested in, but I want a clock that chimes. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spryte Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 I like tickets to plays and concerts, massage gift certificates, experiences. DH gave me a massage table once, with a year of weekly massage. Best. Gift. Ever. (I had a lot of pain at the time.) How about a Sonos speaker - the one through amazon that’s voice activated? If you have an Amazon Echo, it’s maybe similar. If you’re thinking practical-ish, how about a Ring for your doorbell so when you’re busy with school or kids you can see/talk to anyone at the door? This is great when the kids get older, if you have neighbor kids coming to play a lot. My DH flew my mom out for a visit, not really tangible, but appreciated. Can you think of anything like that? This year I know there are tickets for our whole family to see a band we love. It will mean a train trip and a night in a hotel for all. More than $100, but fun for all. Is he open to a group of smaller items? I am a bath girl, and stuff for baths really makes me happy. I always ask for my favorite scrubs and potions. Battery operate candles are nice, a good robe, and for after - tray for cheese and olives and wine glasses for that specific purpose (ahem, 2 glasses would be ideal). What about something for the two of you? (Ok, the tray part of the above idea was for the two of you, too.). What do you enjoy together? A game, a project, a book to read aloud, a trip, tickets. Good luck! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Carol in Cal. Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 Things I would like to have that I probably wouldn't buy for myself: 1. An alarm clock that slowly lights up, like a sunrise 2. A pair of trail running shoes with the new Vibram that grabs both wet ice and dry ice. (Saucony Razor Ice) 3. The new Cuisineart food processor from Williams Sonoma that dices as well as chops. 4. A Russian samovar Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hannah Posted December 18, 2017 Share Posted December 18, 2017 He can put the tickets or description in a box to unwrap :). Its nice to receive the gift and there's something to look forward to. Mystery date night (I organise most of our family outings and vacations, so getting dh to do this is great) Mystery weekend away A cooking class A craft lesson - mosaic, pewter work, advanced crochet or knitting class, etc (with a friend or with dh if he's willing) Tickets to a show Hot-air balloon ride Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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