I just returned from a bridal shower. Everyone there was sharing tips on how to maintain a marriage. Somehow, we got onto the topic of how to get a guy to give you what you want for your birthday, Christmas and other occasions. One of the women has had her eye on some pearl necklaces for the longest time. She’s hinted to her husband about them every holiday that comes up. He never takes the hint. I shared with her my strategy, which has landed me plenty of jewelry, all hand-picked by myself.

You have to have a son to make this work, though. My kiddo loves to one-up his dad, and if he can give the “best” gift, he will. So when I want something, I point it out to him and say, “THIS is what Mommy wants for Valentine’s Day.” He’ll nod and wink. When the holiday approaches, he and his dad go shopping. He’s still at the age where his dad pays for my gifts. So he takes his dad to the jewelry store and tells him, “This is what she wants.” And of course he’s always right!

My husband gets off the hook, and I get what I want. I would have totally had those pearls by now!