labug, I do mind read! But I've been trying to be really aware of it - how did I mind read this sitch? By assuming he was hurt with no gift attention since he left? I'm not being contrary, I really want to learn.
Your point about punishing is mostly true. I would have encouraged girls to get gift for dad's day and H's upcoming bday and would have paid for it. The presumptousness and expense in his request is where the awkwardness comes from. We presume with close friends and with those that we are in a R with, but when that person leaves the R it's kind of like they don't have that right anymore. Time to be happy with what you get, right?
But I can see how this attitude wouldn't help me towards my goal... it's just odd. I would never in a million years have suggested or asked for anything from him at this point. And ordering this belt is another complicated process, as it takes specific measurements etc. The website is not easy to navigate and there are no pictures so I have no idea what the technical specs are the written description is referring to - I can see actually why he would send that request my way because no one else in his life would go through this much effort to figure this stuff out... stopping the spiral of bad feelings...
I just thought it was bizarre and was truly interested if any other LBS have had this experience.
