I love this time of the year.  I sit around thinking about those I love and what would make them happy…then I get to buy them that item! 

It doesn’t matter how much it costs. 

I am not one of those bargain shoppers hunting around for the best price; I’m an impulse shopper.  My friends and family only advocate my behavior at this time of year when they benefit from it!

So, I’m looking for comments on my purchases thus far.  As I’ve mentioned, I’m pre-engaged.  I think, hope, dream, pray, wish that the ring will come around Christmas or New Years.  I think that is a good bet.  Since this is our first Christmas (yes, we met, fell in love, and will get engaged in under one year), I asked for ground rules.  Without them, I would have spent one million dollars and he would have married me and my debt.  We decided about four gifts would be appropriate. 

We have planned a trip to Florida in January.  This is one of my Christmas presents.  Since he is in Iraq, I planned the trip and used his card (with permission!) to pay for it.  Thus, I know exactly how much this ONE present cost him (around $650 for my part).  Not to mention I know he is purchasing the engagement ring as we speak…but that’s another story. 

So, here are my ideas.  I’m trying to keep it within the 4ish present limit:

• Humidor for the house and a travel case for three cigars (to take on trips or golfing)
• Digital camera and a photobook made on Shutterfly using his pictures from the last two trips to Iraq
• A belt (this is the ONLY thing he asked for), tie, and dress shirt
• Wine chiller and something that goes with wine (ideas???)
• Travel alarm clock with built-in digital photo frame (for those long nights in a tent) and pajama pants
  

  Alarm clock from Brookstone. This is the BEST!

You’ll notice each gift is really a combination gift.  I feel bad because with all of the above purchases I’ve only spent about $550.  We agreed it wasn’t about the money…but I just feel bad.  I think he’ll like each of them, and I know it is really the “thought that counts.” 

Please, pass along your comments and ideas for something to go with the wine chiller.  We have a nice wine opener, but could use a wine stopper of sorts.  Does that work?  Anyone have a nice wine stopper?