The gift that bombed!

My husband and I like to give each other little gifts when the other least expects it. When we first got together I asked him NOT to send me flowers when expected, for example birthdays or anniversaries.  To me such flower arrangements feel obligatory. 

I love it when I come home from work to find fresh flowers.  I can't help but to ask what prompted him to buy me flowers, and his usual response is "It's been a long time since I brought you flowers my love".  Such a response makes my heart skip a beat! 

My husband is relatively easy to shop for.  He can easily get excited over a gift card to a craft supplies store that he can use for his miniature building hobby. I admit that I miss the mark when I come home with clothes for him for example.  He really could care less to have a new shirt, tie or belt, but since HE WON'T keep up with updating his wardrobe someone has to.. 

Earlier in the year I gave him a gift certificate to a boot shop so he could replace his beat up cowboy boots, but it's been almost 7 months and that gift card is still in his wallet.  I don't know if it's because he doesn't want to replace his boots and keeps putting it off  or because he hates to shop.

Last week out of the blue I got him jewelry.  He really doesn't wear anything other than his class ring from AT&M and his wedding band, so why exactly I thought it would be a good idea it's beyond me!

I am sorry to say his reaction to the gift was less than I hoped for.  You see, my honey has been a bit stressed with work. Like most spouses he vents for a while and that is that.  He is very diplomatic with dealing with people though in his mind he mostly thinks "I am crushing your head, I am crushing your head".  I thought this charm would be a reminder to keep calm and be wise about his actions.  It is inspired by the serenity prayer which I love.

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, And the wisdom to know the difference.

Funny thing is my husband pointed that out to me as if to ask if I realized it.  "Well, I do realize that"  was my response. His was, spelling out that it was the prayer that has been adopted by alcoholics anonymous..and other programs for substance abuse.  "Oh, so people will think you are an "alchie" or something?" - Wheels quickly turning in my head.

Still trying to salvage the gift and my reasoning for choosing the gift..  "I am sorry, but I don't have a problem with substance abuse (if you don't count my addiction to Cheetos) so I don't relate the prayer to 12 step programs".

I felt bad about my gift, but had to laugh!  I offered to return the charm and chain, but he insisted on keeping it.  I again presented my case. "Since there have been several incidents where you've had to keep your cool, I thought this would be a nice reminder".

His response "Like George Costanza? Serenity now, SERENITY NOW!!!"  I tell you, the man makes me laugh!!