Agony Aunt

Santa's little helper

Dear Lilu

Any ideas what I can get "the Mrs" for Christmas? Don't think my credit card will extend to a fancy handbag from Princesshay. She deserves something nice though after looking after the kids all year and washing my socks.

Looking to spend £8 - £9.50 if that's of any help.

Yours in anticipation

Capn Ahab.
(I've asked Santa for a bit of peace and quiet this year. Fat chance.)

Dear Capn Ahab,

Well what can I say? Most woman would appreciate a nice handbag from Princesshay, but with kids around would it stay nice? I don't think so somehow.

Now I don't know about your missus, but I appreciate the simple things. Maybe make her something that she would appreciate or something that holds some sentimental value? A special photo album or a nice collage of photos of the kids. As all women say "its the thought that counts", although when the majority of woman say that it just means that you gave her a shit present and its the most polite thing she can think of to say at the time.

Ooh, another idea is that you could take the load off of her feet and take over the cooking on Christmas day, or make her breakfast in bed... Or maybe you could wash your own socks for a year, I'm sure she would love that as a present.

The nicest presents are the one's you've thought about and put a little time and effort into, even if your budget is somewhat poor. With a little imagination you could stretch it quite far, either that or you can try your local Poundland.

Good luck and have a good Christmas.

- Lilu