My dad was a big model railway guy. His interests were pretty niche, though. He was only really interested in the latter years of The London and South Western Railway. He possibly knew more about this railway than almost anyone else alive, and had pretty much every book ever written on the subject.
When I was very young, I used to get him Thomas the Tank Engine stuff as presents because I knew he 'liked trains'. He'd give me a slightly fixed smile as he opened another pair of Thomas socks (which he would never wear because he just wasn't a novelty sock kind of man).
Eventually, we came to an understanding. He would buy himself an incredibly obscure book about the railways that was actually something he'd like to receive, and I'd just wrap it and give it to him. He'd be happy, I'd be happy, it worked.
My interests are somewhat different. The photo is of a board game called Dragon Pass (this edition from 1980), the first published material relating to the world Glorantha which was eventually explored through the Runequest role-playing game.
But I wouldn't dream of expecting my kids to know, or understand, that this is a thing I've been after for years. I found it this week on eBay, at an acceptable price, and snapped it up. It'll be a birthday present from one of my kids. I'll be happy, they'll be happy.
Does anyone else do this?
I can imagine.
“Hey, Lembot_0002, I got you something!”
“What, for me? Thanks, Lembot_0002!”
“Oh, this is amazing, Lembot_0002, I’ve always wanted one!”
“You’re welcome, Lembot_0002.”
“Love you!”
“Love you, too!”
I’d do the same.
You should have a word with yourself!