I was watching a segment on morning television that was offering suggestions for Father’s Day gifts. Who doesn’t have a difficult time coming up with the perfect gift for Dad that doesn’t involve a tie, cologne, or socks? Which, by the way, are not perfect! My dad passed away a long time ago and though I no longer stress over the perfect Father’s Day gift, I still have men in my life that present a challenge a couple of times a year, like birthdays and Christmas. Women are much easier to shop for. Don’t believe me, head to your local mall. My son once quipped that you could knock down the walls between stores in a mall and they would all look the same. Just rack after rack of women’s clothing. Men’s clothes are sandwiched between children’s and home goods. Last time I was at the mall, I looked. He’s right.
So, this morning when this segment came on I paid attention and noticed their suggestions, which consisted of tools, like a drill or a lawn mower. They even had a suggestion for gym equipment, like a treadmill, free weights, or even a gym membership. I raised my eyebrows. Really? That’s the best you’ve got?
In my house we have a rule. If I don’t ask for an appliance such as a vacuum or a blender as a gift, don’t get me one, and gym equipment is off-limits. My husband once gave me a treadmill for Christmas. I had always wanted one, but I had not asked for it, and since I didn’t ask for it, I assumed there was an underlying meaning attached to the gift. He thought he was being thoughtful. I thought he was being brazen. And a gym membership? A bold move I would not suggest anyone make.
I assume men have similar rules. Getting a yard tool as a gift translates to weekend “honey do” projects. Besides, you give your dad a drill for Father’s Day and he knows your mom put you up to it. Gym equipment screams, “Mom thinks you’re packing on the pounds”. Tools are great gifts, but make sure the man in your life wants them, needs them, and more importantly “asks” for them. Otherwise, stick to the fishing rod, the golf club, the paddle board, and if you must, the tie.