Gifts

[fredericks]

My dad's birthday is coming up soon, and I've been racking my brain trying to come up with some present for him. My problem is this: I usually end up giving people a present that I would want, not necessarily something that they'd be wild for. Story of my life. I've given friends and loved ones expensive music boxes, pricey figurines, and music kits and have been met with non-responses from them. At this point I'm not sure whether it's because I'm a self-centered prick or if I'm just horrible at reading people. I think it might be a little bit of both. Which also may explain why I have have so few friends (loved ones can't just up and leave when one's prickdom becomes clear). One year I put a lot of effort into getting mom a day at a spa for her birthday. I managed to get my uncle to get the same thing for my aunt as well (twins). I figured she'd like it because, hells, it's a spa day. A day of leisure and pampering. When I spoke to her about it afterwards, though (wasn't home to see her reaction on opening the envelope) she seemed...blah. Needless to say it popped my balloon. But it's the thought that counts, right? So why do I never seem to get anything in return in comparison to what I give? Wait. I *am* a selfish prick, aren't I? *sigh* Again, story of my life.