In the event you end up being a BAD friend like I was this past trip, and wait until you're at the airport (oops!), I bought a set of 4 travel size perfumes for girlfriends. I've forgotten the brand, but I had never seen it in the U.S. I normally wouldn't buy perfume for a woman, but since I will be giving to them at the same time, I figure they can sniff and swap, as needed. Have fun!

I buy myself a yearly day planner from a book store. It does help to recognize the months and days in French. I'm reminded daily of France! Also I buy coffee table books, in French of course. I collect old leather books, so I'm always on the lookout at antique fairs and shops. They are getting harder to find. As for the friends, I buy whatever they ask for. Yes, I have those kinds of friends who are bold enough to tell me.