Usually I have to settle for getting something novel and useless from my family, as they are not inclined to proffer anything in a gendre I could use, despite the many years I've confided my expertise to them. So I've accumulated ties, cheap hand tools, throw away flashlights, and bottle openers.

This year my wife suggested I get on her account at Amazon and stuff her cart with items I would like. Then she can pick the things she wants to get for me, without having to vet them first. I reciprocated the idea, and suggested she share the notion with our children.

I have been informed that everything I put in her cart has been ordered.

I've never been one for surprises. So knowing what I am getting for Christmas, especially since I also know now it will things I actually desire, is a pleasant, if not wholly materialistic, experience.

Life has just become one order of magnitude easier.

Nice, I already bought myself some nice Christmas presents. I strongly encourage my wife, and anybody else, to put their name on my gifts that I don't open before Christmas.

I make very specific lists: names, model numbers, pictures, store location, and other trifles. It has worked so far. I do not really receive anything from anyone except my wife and son, so it is easy. I will say, that I have a brother who will occasionally "wrap" a hand tool of some sort.

I have my wife do the same. I got tired of trying to remember the right sweater to buy. What is it about wive's and sweaters? Is it like guys and tools?

This year, I am going to give him a basketball named "Brian" to keep him company (movie reference).

It also prevents the problem of if you don't know what's coming as a gift and buying it for yourself already.

Is this really any different than marking the old Sears Christmas catalog?

A great idea.

I think amazon also has a wish list function. It's a better option for us gear snobs since we want exactly what we want, and it's easier then explaining why to others.