For starters, think about what she likes, not what's easiest for you to do. Really figure out what her interests and hobbies are. At the same time don't worry about what you are going to do next year "to top this year". It's not about that. It's about making memories, like when you were a kid and you hand crafted that lovely macaroni necklace for mom. She loved it and I'll bet anything still has it. Probably on display no less. This is not because it is an exquisite piece of jewelry, it is because it was given from the heart. So this year let's get to thinking about what's going to make a great memory for your sweetie, not because of how extravagant, but because of how thoughtful the gift is.

Here's a list of things/ideas that you can do for her, based on her likes.

• Adventure seeker: take her rock climbing, backpacking, surfing, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, etc. This is not a tangible gift, but she will love it.


• Wine enthusiast: go to a near by vineyard and pick out a bottle or two then go on a picnic together to enjoy it.


• Into shows/concerts: Look for online for one that's coming to town or near your town.


• Stressful job: treat her to an all day spa treatment, she will love it. Make sure you have a babysitter for the kids, and have a day off work for her to do.


• Food lover: Take her to a nice new restaurant or hire a chef to teach you both some new really great recipes.


• Sports watcher: take her to a college game and have then make a special announcement.

See what I'm getting at here? It doesn't have to be this huge extravagant gift, come in a box or have to be gift wrapped. The best presents are the ones you put thought into as well as your heart. Nowadays we are all too caught up in the quick easy way to do things. This gives you an opportunity to slow yourself down as well. Take advantage of the fact that the anniversary is not just for her but you as well. Treat yourselves to a nice weekend getaway. Don't limit yourself to what you have to do for just her, but you as well. It's a yearly chance to save up and both of you go have fun.

So see the point I'm making here? Make it something for the two of you. Just don't be boring and old fashioned. Try something new and exciting. Find something you are both into and give it a whirl. What have you got to lose? All that's going to happen is she tells you she didn't like it. Well lesson learned.

She may just like a gift, so make sure you do what she likes. Hopefully she is not going to just want flowers or chocolates though, because you can look at it this way: you and she will have a story to tell. Either she can tell the kids and grandkids who you flubbed up a certain anniversary or she will have great things to tell the kids and grandkids about how amazing and thoughtful you are. It also teaches your kids (especially the young men) how to properly treat the person you love. Also if you have kids you can have them help you with gift ideas. That way it shows that they are just as much a part as the anniversary and you and your sweetie are.

So this year use your head and heart, not the easy store on your way home. Give her something really special, something to cherish forever. Remember you're not just celebrating your lives together but making memories as well.