I am 32 years old. I've always had a descent job, so I'm not like sleeping-on-the-floor poor or anything. But I earn in the $30,000-$40,000 range.
5 months ago I started dating this fantastic woman. We actually knew each other when we were children, but then didn't see each other for like 20 years. She was in a relationship for 7 years (4 of which were married) to an extremely wealthy man. He turned out to be a real jerk, so she divorced him 10 months before I started dating her.
Now she herself is a successful business woman even without the wealthy husband. She earns probably twice what I do... and in addition to that, she's spent the last 7 years drinking Champagne, partying on yachts, driving a Mercedes, and wearing designer clothes that cost a fortune.
I am a very upfront person, and I discussed with her from day one exactly what my financial situation is. She was VERY adamant in saying that she does not care about the money. She says that she loves me, and that we have the time of our lives together (I agree), and that all she ever wanted was to be truly cared for, and not just insulated with money. So believe me... I get what she means, and I am proud of her for being so grounded and mature. But... (BIIIIG BUT.....) I still think there is a difference between what she thinks she wants and how she acts.
For example, she knows that I cannot afford 3-star Michelin Guide restaurants, but she always suggests or takes us to these places that are so out of my price range. Or she wants to go to the Symphony where tickets are $75 each. So I have to constantly reiterate that I just can't go there. It works out okay in the end, because I make it work, but sometimes she really does get a chip on her shoulder, I can tell, about how she has given up so much by divorcing her ex.
So anyway... Christmas is coming up... and I have no idea what to get her. We have set a Max. gift price at $175. What can I get her? I am the world's WORST gift giver. She's used to getting everything, and I just can't provide that.
Thanks!