Dear Natalie,

I have been dating my boyfriend for six months and everything has been going great. We really like each other and we always have a great time together; except when any sort of holiday rolls around. I have gotten him a gift on his birthday, Christmas and I even made him brownies on our six month. However, things have not been reciprocated. I am not a high maintenance girlfriend but come on, not even a present on my birthday?! I am just so sick of looking forward to holidays in hopes that maybe he’ll get me something but I am constantly let down. I’m not even asking for anything big, a simple card or home cooked meal would be nice. How can I communicate to him how I feel without sounding snobby?

— Empty Handed

Dear Empty Handed,

I can assure you that you are not the only one going through this problem. Many times girls get so overly excited for holidays, only to face a huge let down. However, you have every right to feel this way. You have been dating for a good amount of time, therefore that should not be an excuse as to why he did not get you anything. I would not assume that he does not care for you; he could just not know that you deserve a gift for the holidays.

Try telling him that you love spending time with him but that it is important to you that on holidays or anniversaries he give you something that you can cherish whether that be a dinner, a card or a gift. Tell him that it upsets you that when you take the time to pick out something thoughtful for him, he does not reciprocate the favor. Being open and honest in a relationship is vital and this is the perfect time to do so. Tell him what is on your mind and I can assure you he will not make this mistake again.

— Natalie

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