Lez Keep It Real

The holidays are upon us. It’s officially 12 days before Christmas. Have you gotten all of your shopping done? Or are you the type of person who waits until the 23rd to get out to the mall? I like to do a little at a time, so that I don’t feel too overwhelmed. This year has gone quite smoothly actually. All I have left to do is get the rest of the gifts I have on my list for my girlfriend.

I don’t know about you, but my girlfriend is annoyingly picky. I like for her to give me certain “hints” about what she wants. (And by “hints” I mean, she tells me exactly what she wants). That way I save us both the aggravation of having to return something. Additionally, I save her from utter disappointment and save myself from looking like a schmuck for getting my girlfriend something she would A., never wear, or B., never buy in the first place.

If your girlfriend, or friend for that matter, is like mine and you have absolutely no idea what to get her for Christmas – I’ve got some ideas.

Following is a list of 12 things (in honor of the 12 days of Christmas) that any lesbian would love to find under her tree.

(Click on any of the gifts mentioned for direct links to purchase them!)

1. Different Daughters, A Book by Mothers of Lesbians

This is the perfect book for any lesbian who hasn’t come out to her mother yet. I was armed with this when I first came out to my parents, and it really did help my mother understand me better. It also gave her a point of reference and something to relate to. I truly believe it made a huge difference in her acceptance and understanding of me.

2. Best Lesbian Love Stories: Summer Flings

Get cozy by the fire (or the heater if the case may be) with your girlfriend or special someone as you read through these sizzling stories. You may have to go and play outside in the snow to cool off!
And, um, by the way – I have a story included in this steaming anthology.

3. An Indigo Girls CD

Any lesbian who doesn’t own an Indigo Girls CD isn’t really a lesbian. Listening to “Closer to Fine,” is a right of passage and the anthem of the national lesbian association. What? You didn’t know that?

4. The L Word - The Complete First Season

The best season of the L Word was the first season, hands down. Every lesbian should own a copy. And if you haven’t seen it yet - shame on you.

5. Saving Face

This movie is by far the best lesbian-themed movie I have ever seen. It’s believable, well-written, well-acted and doesn’t center on sex. There’s a story here, one that I think all lesbians can relate to.

6. A pair of Cargo Pants

Name me one lesbian who doesn’t own a pair of cargo pants. They are as vital to any lesbian wardrobe as a pair of Birkenstocks.

7. A subscription to Curve Magazine

This is the best-selling lesbian magazine in America, and well-deserving of the title. And I’m not just saying that because I write for them … if you’re craving articles on Lauren Collins from Degrassi or a possible article on Mariska Hargitay of Law & Order SVU … get your subscription for 2008 ASAP!

8. A set of Tools

This is just common sense really, because we all know that every lesbian needs a good set of tools!

9. A cruise with Rosie

If you really want to do it up big this Christmas, you can always get your girl a cruise on the most affordable lesbian cruise ship out there. Rosie’s cruises are always set up with family and fun in mind, so if you have some youngins’ this gift would be perfect for the entire family.

10. A cool (not corny) lesbian-themed T-shirt

These are perfect for hitting up the club with, for Pride parades or just for fun in general. The one rule of thumb when purchasing a lesbian-themed T-shirt however is “the less corny - the better!”

11. Tickets to a WNBA game

Whether you are a basketball fan or not, it doesn’t matter. The WNBA puts together game packages that are enjoyable for everyone. It’s almost guaranteed that when you go to a WNBA game, you’ll find that you are surrounded by “family” … if you know what I mean.

12. Gaydar: The Ultimate Insider Guide to the Gay Sixth Sense

If you have a single friend out there who’s gaydar is like mine (about as effective as a snowball in 100 degree heat), then this book is the perfect gift. This book is also a “must have” for anyone who is coming out, has just come out or is planning to come out. Gaydar takes a playful look at the ins and outs of gay life while serving as an indispensable guide to shopping, traveling, nightclubbing, dining, working, and what it means to be “part of the team.”

I hope this list helps you finish off your Christmas shopping for every lesbian on your list!