A few years ago, my dad came up with an interesting idea.

In addition to pulling names for Secret Santa, our family buys one more gift: one for ourselves.

There’s no price limit. There are no restrictions. And you have to open it on Christmas morning.

At first, I thought it was a crazy idea. I wrapped something I already had and feigned surprise when I opened it that morning.

But over the years, I started to get it.

We spent a lot of time, effort and money buying things for other people — often buying things we want and would never get ourselves. So with my dad’s idea, we could actually buy something for ourselves — and not feel guilty about it.

So this year I splurged on myself. I got a Canon EOS 60D digital SLR — one that I’ve wanted for awhile now. I figured it was something I needed — I use some kind of camera several times a day — and really wanted.

So I did it. And I’m excited.

So if you could buy yourself a gift — you have to pay for it, remember! — what would you get yourself?

***

#TodaysGift

The Travel Hammock

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Days left: 13

The Travel Hammock from Jams World

Price: $54.99 from Surf Line Hawaii (www.surflinehawaii.com)

The gist: Sometimes you wish you had a hammock. Well, Jams World is bringing back its signature travel hammock, sold only at the newly open Surf Line Hawaii in Kalihi. It's made of strong, quick-drying parachute nylon silk — mildew-resistant and anti-rot — and comes with stainless steel S hooks for easy hanging. And it supposedly can hold up to 400 pounds. (But we didn't test it.)

Best for: Travelers, nappers, anyone who just bought a house with a backyard.