When my wife and I give each other gifts on our respective birthdays, we always set a modest budget. However, even though we never spend that much, we always—well, Sidney at least (😂)—stretch every penny to purchase practical and meaningful presents.

As is the custom for Don’t Blink, I like to share what I received for my birthday. Also, per usual, I will share what my kids gave me as well.

Sloan and Beau – My daughter sent me on the cutest scavenger hunt throughout the house that eventually led me to the pantry. When I opened it up, there was a pack of Colossal Clusters waiting for me. Any type of snack mix that includes peanuts and chocolate is a winner for me. Beau gave me a gift bag that contained a card and green apple licorice. If you are a licorice fan like me, you must try the Wiley Wallaby line—the vines are thick and flavorful!

My kids gave me some treats for snacking!

Sidney – As she normally does, my wife searches long and hard for items that I will get plenty of use out of. Let’s begin with the duffel bag. When I travel—both via car and plane—I usually take a duffel bag instead of a traditional roller bag. However, the duffel I have used for the last several years was on its last leg. I literally had to cover up rips with duct tape. Sidney fixed the situation by getting me a brand new Under Armour duffel bag from a local sporting goods store called Big 5. With a couple back-to-back weekend trips lined up, it will come in handy real soon.

My wife got me a brand new duffel bag to replace the one I currently have that is falling apart.

I have trashed Target in the past and I still don’t really like the store. But there is one aspect of the chain that I look forward to each year: its men’s line of fall clothes. They come out with thermals and sweaters that are beyond comfortable and handsomely designed. Sid bought me the below top that fits my “style” perfectly and will keep me comfy on cool autumn weekend days.

I really like the Target autmun clothing by Goodfellow. Sid nailed it by getting me this shirt.

A few years ago, my boss at WSU gave me a pair of goodr sunglasses as a Christmas gift. I wore them like they were going out of style but unfortunately they broke this past summer. Thanks to Sidney, I have a new pair!

After my first pair of goodr sunglasses broke this past summer, Sid got me a new pair for my birthday.

And finally, my wife wanted to make sure I was set in the licorice department. She added to the supply that Beau started me with my giving me classic red and classic black packs of Wiley Wallaby licorice.

Seriously, if you haven’t tried Wiley Wallaby licorice yet you need to give it a shot!

Thank you to my wife and kids for the awesome birthday gifts. Although the licorice won’t last that long, the rest of the items will. Don’t Blink.