What a silly thread, but I just can't help myself. My GREAT wife and I did something that makes good sense--and it was HER idea.

She said the size of the rock should be directly proportional to the success of the marriage. Therefore, she wanted only the smallest diamond engagement ring--can't remember how much it cost but it was less than 200 smackeroos (which is what I could afford [do NOT go in debt]). Then, after five years of mariage, she got a bigger diamond. Same thing at 10 years. 15 will be here this spring. Pretty cool huh?

And, by the way, the deal is reciprocal--she gets me something that is about the same value, that suits my needs/wants--which was a used Hobie 17 at the five year point--which was because she didn't want to sail much anymore; the 17 would allow me to sail when I wanted on a uni rig (well, OK, the boat was a combo christmas/birthday/anniversary gift).

Eat yer hearts out guys!

RickO