by Moe Zilla

Created on: July 22, 2010

I'll never forget the best birthday gift I ever received. There's a service called Hollywood is Calling where, for $20, a former celebrity will phone your boyfriend on his birthday. Imagine your boyfriend's excitement when he gets a phone call from world heavyweight champion Larry Holmes, Lou Ferrigno (the Incredible Hulk), or Joseph Gannascoli from The Sopranos. When your boyfriend is new, it's the time for just having fun.  So whatever you do, just take it easy, and don't over-think that first present!

Most guys would be fine with a home-cooked meal - along with the possibility of a romantic evening at home! The fresh excitement of being together is what really matters to both of you, and that's more important than any individual birthday gift. Two tickets to a comedy club? Rent a limousine for the evening? Even gift certificates for his favorite restaurant might be appreciated, not because of the gift but because of the sentiment they imply.  This is really a case where it's the thought that counts, and you're only trying to show that you remembered, and that you cared.

Just pay a little attention in the weeks leading up to his birthday, and think about the things that you know he enjoys. (If he has a favorite singer or author, maybe you could go on eBay and try to find some special memorabilia, or even a cheap autograph!) But ultimately the birthday present is an excuse to share a little honest affection in the form of a gift. If you think of if that way, you'll realize that the present is only the second piece of the puzzle. The first and most important piece is you, showing up with it!

I learned a very valuable lesson about gifts from watching reality TV. On an episode of "Joe Millionaire," one contestant offered what she thought was a very romantic gesture. She'd written a heartfelt poem, and then cut it up into little pieces like a jigsaw puzzle. Unfortunately, the blue-collar bachelor was just confused and frustrated when he tried to put it together - and then her cryptic hints about the future of their relationship made him run in the other direction!

The best gifts don't get in the way, so you can continue enjoying each other's company and getting to know each other better. But if all else fails - bake him a cake!

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