The Giver

Eric's birthday was yesterday.

Eric is the world's most thoughtful gift giver, hands down.

He has my birthday, Christmas, anniversay, Valentine's gifts planned months in advance.

And they never disappoint.

Like the one time we were in Borders looking at art books and I randomly pointed and mentioned that I loved this one early picasso painting, "Embrace in the Street (Les Amants Dans La Rue)". And he secretly wrote it down. And months later, on our anniversary, I received a gorgeous oil reproduction of the picasso with a certificate to buy a worthy frame. There are other times when "priceless" is his theme and he presents me with his sketches, or writes cheezy poems or, for instance, sings home-made lyrics to The Sound of Music's "These are a few of my favorite things"....about Carly.

Evidently, I sort of struggle with his days of honor.

This time I tried to mimic his tactics.

I planned months, (or rather, a month) in advance. I listened carefully for subtle interests of his. I wrote them down. I even made sure he couldn't witness what I bought through our online accounts.

So what was his thoughtful, fabulous, unique gift?

I bought him Basketball Shoes.

In a nutshell: they were a bust.

"Too small, doesn't even play basketball anymore, not even 'real' Jordan's, get him shoes every year...."

Not like he said all of those things, but I knew it.

I had totally failed, yet again.

And to tell the truth, I was far more dissapointed than him.

So Eric, here's my second attempt at your birthday gift:

I now solemnly hand over to you the throne of all rockin gift giving.

I will never out-do or even match your skills ;

i'll remain the surprised, enthusiastic, grateful

gift receiver.

p.s. Emmett finally let Eric eat a piece of his birthday cake, thanks Emmett.

And

Margot went mobile for Eric's birthday.