I saw Ali's thread just now, showing some stocking stuffer ideas from Nordstrom that have a tartan motif.... That's cool n' all, unfortunately that just isn't gonna cut it for a main gift.

I don't know about everyone else, but I am at a LOSS what to get the wife for Christmas... Usually I'm pretty good at this sort of thing, but this year just isn't easy. The standard fare won't really do it. Jewelry? She doesn't wear much (and has enough)... Clothes? Size is critical because we can't easily return or exchange items, so it's not my first choice. Electronics? She is not a geek. She's happy that her iPhone 4 just WORKS - little more. Gift certificates to the spa? Ain't many in the Japanese countryside... Kitchen items? I'm the family cook. Bath items? Japanese bathtub (i.e. VERY utilitarian and VERY small)...

Anyway, in hopes of helping me out, here's a list of things I've gotten her in Christmases past. It may also help inspire some of y'all who may find yourselves in the same boat as me.

- ballet tickets (Nutcracker) complete with hotel stay in Tokyo
- a mini-kilt (absolutely loves it but never worn because it's the wrong size)
- tartan scarves (she really likes those)
- a goat (charitable donation on her behalf to Africa; she got a stuffed toy goat)
- intimate apparel (Good, but not exactly original... It's a good backup plan if anything)
- Assorted jewelry and watches (usually decent quality - but she rarely ever wears it, or it breaks, or she loses it)
- Assorted, random books (kinda in the same class as stocking stuffers though)
- chocolate (and other food-related items) also in the stocking stuffer category