The wife exhaled a sigh of relief that the hunting season was wrapping up for 2007, but I said, "Not so fast! A lot of things are happening after Christmas."

With one look, I decided that it was best to help out with the holidays and come back to the outdoors in a week or so. Somehow I couldn't leave well enough alone and started thinking of the perfect gifts for under the tree.

Big gifts are easy to pick because, well, they're big, expensive and usually bring about months of hints and discussion.

I'm talking about the gifts that run in the $25 to $75 range and can bring a smile to the face of the sports lover in your family.

Guys, I'm going to help you out first: don't buy her that black iron man skillet that will feed the entire camp home fries and bacon in one batch. Not that it's a bad purchase, just do it as a neutral, "I think we need this" choice, not an "I love you, honey!" gift.

Instead, let's go with some of these ideas that are especially for women who love the outdoors.

• Fleece wraps, woolly slippers, moccasins and robes are winners because if she isn't comfortable, you won't be either. Make sure that the colors, textures and styles are something that she will like. Do not get her that camo lingerie — if you know what's good for you.

• Small flashlights, mug and Thermos sets and scented candles are nice additions because women like to see in the dark, have a hot drink and want to smell something better than your wet boots.

• Let's talk about jewelry — not big-ticket items, but things that are pleasing to the eye and can be worn outdoors without insurance coverage concerns. Bracelets, earrings and watches come in all kinds of attractive themes. Silver, turquoise and natural stone-like gems can look very good with denim. Take a close look at your female counterpart and notice what she looks over at a display case or wears when you're out

Don't worry, I didn't forget the men for Christmas.

Ladies, don't try to buy your man any expensive items unless you know for sure that it's what he always wanted and has left numerous hints about. Instead, think of items that he grumbles about wishing he had after a day afield.

• Good thermal underclothing, heavy socks, gloves that are warm, waterproof and still flexible, and rain gear are always needed.

• A good hunting knife, fillet knife and sharpener are always welcome.

• Waders, hunting or fishing vests, polarized glasses and waterproof wallets are nice. Things like wader dryers, field glasses and outdoor watches are useful, as well as good flashlights and lanterns.

• This year, I often used a new Thermos I bought and really appreciated it.

• Fishing gear like landing nets, tape measures and coolers are always useful, as well as a set of really good personal flotation vests for the boat.

• Field guides with all types of animal, plant and nature information are available for about $20 a book. They are handy, educational references. Just think of how amazed your friends and husband will be when you say, "Hey that bird looks like a rufous-sided towhee".

• One other thing that I might want this year is to keep a daily outdoor journal for the fun of it.

Until we meet again, have a wonderful holiday season. Now I have to get back to finding the perfect Christmas tree.