I love the idea of a two-person hammock. Sorry the shipping is so high.
I usually give several small gifts -- a book, a CD, a beautiful shirt or sweater, some favorite food, some cool tool, and a funny trinket if I can find one.
We have so much stuff that trips, parties, and events are more fun and have the bonus that they can be shared. Season tickets to the local theater, special plans to hear a jazz group, short trips (or long ones) to favorite places. Even a bottle of wine or a favorite kind of single-malt can become an event if offered in the right way.
Here are some other ideas: Baskets of related stuff that he'd like -- possibly sport-related. Fishing trips. A ride in a plane or a helicoptor or a hot-air balloon. Your willing participation in events that you normally drag your feet on like a boat show, a car show or a camping trip.
Princessp--
You and your beloved are still in the courting stages as opposed to a staid and settled relationship.
Still, he might appreciate a day of his very own; a day without chores or any other requirements.
As for space. Does he have a place to keep his beloved junk, aside from his top bureau drawer? Does he have a hobby with paraphernalia that tend to wander and sprawl?
As a woman in a staid and settled relationship, I have a man who appreciates storage space.
Piffka--
I'm flattered.
Couldn't help myself, Noddy. That quote spoke to me.
I actually got a lump of coal for Christmas once. I also got a proper present, some nice books, but I did get the message.
I generally like gifts that are practical, but I do have a small collection of Oriental tea cups, small vases and perfume bottles. I have received a couple of items like that as gifts as well.
My sweetie's birthday is coming up soon and while it's not hard to figure out what he wants it is hard for me to obtain said items. He is a lifelong martial artist with most of his training in Japanese sword arts. Dropping anywhere from 1,200 to 60,000 grand on a sword for him is just not gonna happen on my budget no matter how much I would love to do it. I'm an artist so I try to give paintings or drawings or such things, but time is not always permitting.
If you ever become stumped just take the whole day of your loved ones birthday (or any other occasion you would be giving a gift) and make it a complete day all about them.
Start out with a favorite breakfast served up to him/her. Wait on them hand and foot (it's only one day), take them out to an activity that they like (rollerblading, a walk, auto show, etc.) dinner and a movie (they get to pick) make reservations for the dinner and call ahead to have their favorite appetizer waiting. You could always end the day by going to a hotel for the night. Sometimes a night away from home (even a hotel thats just down the road) can spice up the romance.
None of this stuff is anything that will set you back to far financially, it's all just the little things that let your significant other know that you care enough to pay attention to their likes and dislikes and that for one day they were the center of your universe.
