As Hanukkah winds down, I thought it would be fun to discuss gifts. Around here, it’s pretty low key. Growing up, I never received a bunch of gifts, and as an adult I’ve never gone overboard either. That said, I do appreciate a nice surprise! Hungry Bear is an enthusiastic gift-giver, but he doesn’t always quite hit the mark, as these gifts demonstrate…

Gift #1 – Air purifier

Since I suffer from mild allergies and asthma, this was a very practical idea, but none too exciting. I slept with it the first night, only to wake up with a sore throat. Evidently, the Ion feature can have this effect. I used it twice more without any relief. It’s now back in the box and will be returned shortly. So much for that…

Gift # 2 – Mini flashlight & tactical knife set

I thought the air purifier was bad until I received my second gift! This one truly was a head-scratcher, because I’ve never expressed a desire for something remotely like it. When I asked Hungry Bear what possessed him to buy it, he replied: “In case you ever drive off a bridge, into a river, you can break the windshield and survive!” I almost died laughing! This gift is still in the package, in my glove box, and will probably remain there indefinitely.

Instead of the roses, chocolates, and jewelry I was hoping for, I ended up with the least romantic Hanukkah gifts ever. I guess it’s just the age-old difference between men and women. He may not be a very lovey-dovey guy, but at least he tries, and for that, I’m grateful.

Ever received a gift that was really unromantic? Do tell!