Let’s face it. He’s the one person in your life you know better than anyone else. So why are you stumped at Christmas time? You should instinctively know what to get him, right?
Well, it’s not always the case in my house. While there are some things that scream “perfect gift” for my husband, they usually scream at someone else rather than at me. Like the electric nose hair trimmers. Or the audio books gift certificate. I usually scratch my head and ask “Why didn’t I think of that?”
And that’s because I am trying to find the not so practical on a budget. Would he like the 52″ flat panel TV, so he could see Peter Griffith’s nose hairs? Sure he would. I’d like to look like Heidi Klum, too. We can see how that worked out.
So, for the man in your life who doesn’t want another tie, another pair of Simpsons boxer shorts, or anything that you find in the $10 Christmas gift display at Target, here are some thoughts.
The Homemade Coupon Book – Go ahead and laugh. I think this may have been the most popular gift I ever gave my husband. You can fill it with practical things if you have a practical guy – like a coupon for you to take the trash out one week, or you’ll take the car in for an oil change. Or you can fill it with things that benefit you – like a date night that you do all the planning for, including lining up a sitter. My husband prefers the coupons that offer back rubs and foot massages, which usually works out well for me as well, as he often reciprocates!
Something from the Kids – There are some adorable things your kids can make for dad! How about a t-shirt with your kids painted footprints on it, with the words “My Kids Walk All Over Me” written on it? Or a t-shirt with their hand prints and their names that says “Daddy’s Little Helpers” or “Best Dad – Hands Down”.
Never under estimate the power of baked goods. The dad in our house would be thrilled with some white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. They are by far his favorite, and the bonus here is that he’ll share them with the kids. It’s a win/win!
Other options are plans for an inexpensive day out. Take dad to mini-golf and for an ice cream, or take the football to the park and treat him to a hot dog after a game of catch.
Dad will be thrilled to have a gift that won’t take up space in his closet or collect dust on his desk, but he’ll be even happier that you’ve kept the budget in mind!