Gift Ideas

Gift Ideas for a Sagittarius

Leave a Comment / Gift Ideas, Sagittarius / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Sagittarius: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Sagg the Zebra Looking for gift ideas for a Sagittarius? Buying for a Sagittarius (22 November – 21 December) means buying for someone who’s already halfway out of the door. They’d love to stay and open your present. They’d just love it more if your present was somewhere else. Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, the biggest planet, and thinks accordingly: big trips, big ideas, big laughs. Their Astrominal is Sagg the Zebra, whose stripes are unlike any other zebra’s, and who’d quite like to see the rest of the world before deciding where to stand still. We asked Sagg to review twelve gift ideas. Sagg did it from a train. We’re not sure where the train was going. Neither was Sagg. 1. A scratch-off world map Scratch away every country they’ve visited. Then plan the rest. Sagg says: “I’ve scratched off France, Spain and a bit of the sea. The sea counts. I swam in it.” 2. A really good rucksack The Sagittarius suitcase. Packed at all times, just in case. Sagg says: “Mine’s already packed. It’s always packed. I just change the socks.” 3. A compass Old-fashioned, brass, and mostly symbolic. Sagg says: “I don’t always use it to find my way. Sometimes I use it to find a new way. Sometimes that’s the same as getting lost. I’m fine with that.” 4. A travel journal For tickets, sketches and stories nobody back home quite believes. Sagg says: “Page one: ‘Got on the wrong bus.’ Page two: ‘Best day ever.’” 5. A camping weekend A tent, a fire, and a sky full of stars. Sagg says: “Stars are just the world’s way of saying ‘there’s more out there’. I’ve heard them. I’m going.” 6. A telescope Sagittarius is the Archer, aiming at the stars. Now they can see them properly. Sagg says: “Is that Jupiter? That’s my planet. Hi, Jupiter. Big fan. Literally, you’re enormous.” 7. Walking boots Tough, comfortable, and ready for the long way round. Sagg says: “The short way is for people who want to get there. I want to go there. Different thing.” 8. A snack box from another country A taste of somewhere new, without the airport. Sagg says: “I don’t know what this one is. I’m eating it anyway. That’s how you learn.” 9. A phrasebook For ordering lunch in five languages, slightly wrongly. Sagg says: “I can say ‘hello’, ‘thank you’ and ‘is it far?’ in eleven languages. The answer’s always yes. I always go anyway.” 10. A hammock For the rare moments a Sagittarius stops moving. Very rare. Sagg says: “I’ll lie in it. For ages. Probably eight minutes. Then I’ll take it on a trip.” 11. A mystery day out They don’t know where they’re going until they get there. Sagg says: “Best kind of plan. No plan. Just a ticket and a grin.” 12. An Astrominals Sagittarius birthday card Whatever you choose, put it with a card that gets them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Sagg as a treasure-hunting explorer, framed by a border of true-to-sign Sagittarius traits. Sagg says: “Hat, map, adventure. That’s not a card. That’s a holiday I haven’t booked yet.” Sagg’s three rules for buying a Sagittarius a present Experiences beat things. “Things go in a cupboard. Stories go everywhere.” Don’t tie them down. “Anything that needs feeding, dusting or plugging in every night needs a different owner.” Keep it cheerful. “If it makes me laugh, it’s already the best present. If it makes me laugh on a mountain, even better.” So, which present would Sagg choose? Sagg says: “The rucksack. Then I’ll put the other eleven in it and go.” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Sagg the Zebra and the rest of Team Fire. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift Ideas for a Sagittarius Read More »

Gift Ideas for a Scorpio

Leave a Comment / Gift Ideas, Scorpio / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Scorpio: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Score the Lobster Looking for gift ideas for a Scorpio? Buying for a Scorpio (23 October – 21 November) is tricky, because a Scorpio will never tell you what they want. They’ll know exactly what they want. They’ve known for months. They’re just waiting to see if you’ve been paying attention. Scorpios are intense, loyal and private, with a gift for finding out secrets while keeping all of their own. Their Astrominal is Score the Lobster, who wears a diving helmet, a pair of wellies and an expression that says she already knows what you got her. We asked Score to review twelve gift ideas. She agreed, on the condition that nothing she said could be used as evidence. 1. An escape room Locked doors, hidden clues and a ticking clock. Score says: “I’ll be out in twenty minutes. The record is forty. I’d like the record to know I’m coming.” 2. A lockable diary With a real key. Which the Scorpio will hide somewhere you’ll never find. Score says: “What’s in it? Nothing. Just thoughts. Some of them are about you. Most of them are fine.” 3. A murder mystery game A dinner party where everyone’s a suspect. Score says: “I knew who did it at the starter. I let the game run to dessert. It seemed rude not to.” 4. A detective novel One with a twist they won’t see coming. Good luck. Score says: “I read the last page first. Not to spoil it. To see if the author could still surprise me. The author could not.” 5. Noise-cancelling headphones For a sign that loves the deep, quiet places. Score says: “Silence. Like the bottom of the ocean, but with better snacks.” 6. Very dark chocolate The darker and more intense, the better. Score says: “Ninety per cent cocoa. Anyone who says it’s bitter just isn’t ready.” 7. A spy kit Invisible ink, a magnifying glass, a fingerprint set. Score says: “I’m not saying I’ll use it. I’m saying I’ve already found out who ate the last biscuit. It was Taur. It’s always Taur.” 8. A magic set Scorpios love knowing how a trick works, and never telling. Score says: “I know how every trick works. I’ll never tell you. That’s the trick.” 9. A mystery subscription box A puzzle or a case to crack, delivered every month. Score says: “Monthly is good. It gives me time to solve it, and a further three weeks to look smug.” 10. A smoky, mysterious candle Sandalwood, amber, a little bit of dark forest. Score says: “It smells like a secret. I’m not telling you which one.” 11. A deep-sea documentary night A box set about the ocean floor, and blankets for two. Score says: “Ah. Home. That’s my cousin at nine minutes. We don’t talk.” 12. An Astrominals Scorpio birthday card Whatever you choose, put it with a card that understands them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Score cracking an escape room, framed by a border of true-to-sign Scorpio traits. Score says: “I found it before you gave it to me. It was in the third drawer. Under the tea towels. Bold choice.” Score’s three rules for buying a Scorpio a present Pay attention. “I mentioned what I wanted once, in March. Quietly. That was the test.” Go deep, not big. “One meaningful thing beats a pile of shiny ones. I can see through shiny.” Never re-gift. “I’ll know. I always know. I’m keeping score. It’s in the name.” So, which present would Score choose? Score says: “I’ll never tell. But if the escape room happened to be booked for Saturday, I’d be there. In my wellies.” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Score the Lobster and the rest of Team Water. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift Ideas for a Scorpio Read More »

Gift Ideas for a Libra

Leave a Comment / Gift Ideas, Libra / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Libra: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Libby the Flamingo Looking for gift ideas for a Libra? Buying for a Libra (23 September – 22 October) is easy in one way. Whatever you give them, they’ll say they love it. They’ll say it warmly. They’ll say it while admiring the ribbon. They’ll say it even if you’ve given them a novelty toilet-roll holder shaped like a goose. So we asked an expert. Libby the Flamingo is the Libra Astrominal: graceful, sociable, and able to stand on one leg for hours, mostly because she can’t decide which leg to put down. We showed her twelve gift ideas and asked for her honest opinion. That went about as well as you’d expect. But we got there. 1. A beautiful candle, scent already chosen Never ask a Libra to pick between three scents. Libby says: “The fig one is lovely. But the linen one is also lovely. Although the rose one is— no. Don’t make me. Just choose. I’ll love whichever. That’s not a test. Or is it? It’s not.” 2. A notebook worth writing in Libras weigh everything up. Give them somewhere handsome to do it. Libby says: “I’ll use it for a list of pros and cons. Then a list of pros and cons about that list. It’s a two-notebook situation, really.” 3. A watercolour set Libras have a natural eye for colour, even if they’ve never painted a thing. Libby says: “I mostly paint sunsets. They’re the only thing in nature that’s as pink as I am. We understand each other.” 4. Tickets for two Theatre, a gallery, a concert. The second ticket is the real present. Libby says: “Going on your own is fine. Going with a friend means you can spend the interval agreeing with each other. That’s the best bit.” 5. Afternoon tea Tiny sandwiches, matching cups, everything arranged in tiers. Libby says: “Symmetrical scones. Three of each. I will not be explaining what happens if there are four.” 6. A flamingo-pink plant An anthurium or a pink calathea brings a little Libby into the house. Libby says: “Choose one that’s forgiving. I’ll love it. I’ll just move it to four different windowsills before it settles. We all need to find our light.” 7. A silk pillowcase Soft, elegant, quietly luxurious. Libby says: “I don’t need beauty sleep. But I wouldn’t say no to it either. That’s very Libra of me, isn’t it.” 8. A matching pair of bookends Symmetry, but useful. Libby says: “One on each side. Equal. Fair. Lovely. If you give me one bookend I will spend the evening worrying about the books on the other end.” 9. A record, or a playlist you made Libras love music best when it’s shared. Libby says: “A playlist is the nicer present, because it means you were thinking of me for at least forty minutes. Possibly an hour, with the bonus tracks.” 10. Simple, elegant jewellery Nothing loud. Libra style is about proportion. Libby says: “Earrings, because they come in pairs. Bracelets make me nervous. Which wrist? It’s not fair on the other one.” 11. A class to do together Pottery, baking, flower arranging. Libby says: “I’d love to learn something new, as long as there’s someone next to me to say ‘ooh, yours is nice’ to. And they say it back. That’s the whole hobby.” 12. An Astrominals Libra birthday card Whatever else you choose, put it with a card that understands them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Libby herself, framed by a border of true-to-sign Libra traits. Libby says: “I’ve seen it. I look wonderful. I’m not saying that because it’s me. I’m saying it because it’s balanced, and the pink is correct.” Libby’s three rules for buying a Libra a present Don’t make them choose. “A voucher means I have to decide. A voucher is homework.” Wrap it nicely. “Matching paper and ribbon. I’ll notice. I’ll probably keep the ribbon. I’ve got a drawer.” Nothing garish. “I’ll still say I love it. I’ll mean it kindly. It will live in a cupboard, kindly, forever.” So, which present will Libby choose for herself? Libby says: “All of them are lovely. Can I get back to you?” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Libby the Flamingo and the rest of Team Air. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift Ideas for a Libra Read More »

Gift Ideas for a Virgo

Leave a Comment / Gift Ideas, Virgo / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Virgo: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Virgo the Sheep Looking for gift ideas for a Virgo? Buying for a Virgo (23 August – 22 September) can feel like sitting an exam. Relax. A Virgo will be kind about any present. They’ll just also notice the wrapping paper is slightly crooked at one corner, and they’ll fix it while thanking you. Virgo is ruled by Mercury, planet of thinking, and Virgos think about everything: how it works, how it could work better, and whether it’s been put back in the right drawer. Their Astrominal is Virgo the Sheep: quiet, clever and secretly running everything. We asked Virgo to review twelve gifts. Virgo was a bit shy about it at first. Then Virgo sent us notes. Then Virgo sent us notes on our notes. 1. A label maker The most exciting gift a Virgo can receive. This is not a joke. Virgo says: “I’ve labelled the drawer. And the shelf. And the label maker. Just so it knows where it lives.” 2. A beautiful planner Dated pages, tidy columns, room for lists about lists. Virgo says: “Page one is my plan for using the planner. It’s colour-coded. Green is for plans. Blue is for plans about plans.” 3. A really good pen Smooth, reliable, doesn’t smudge. Virgo says: “Nobody ever thinks about pens until a pen lets them down. I think about pens all the time. I’ve never been let down.” 4. A desk organiser Little compartments. Lots of them. Virgo says: “Paper clips here. Rubbers here. Spare paper clips over here, in case the first ones get ideas.” 5. A 1,000-piece jigsaw A Virgo starts with the edges, sorts by colour and finishes in silence. Virgo says: “If a piece is missing, I’ll find it. If it’s still missing, I’ll write to the company. Politely. With a diagram.” 6. A selection of herbal teas Calm, wholesome, and boxed in neat rows. Virgo says: “Chamomile for evenings. Peppermint for afternoons. I’ve made a chart. The chart is also calm.” 7. A bento lunch box A place for everything, even at lunchtime. Virgo says: “Peas never touch the rice. That’s not fussy. That’s respect.” 8. A bonsai tree A tiny, patient project. Very Earth sign. Virgo says: “It needs careful trimming, regular attention and the right light. We’re going to get on very well.” 9. A book about something very specific The history of maps, how bridges work, a field guide to clouds. Virgo says: “Most people skim. I read the footnotes. The footnotes are where the good stuff hides.” 10. A woolly jumper, in green Green is a Virgo lucky colour. Wool is, frankly, a sensitive subject. Virgo says: “I’ve checked the label. It’s from a sheep I don’t know. That’s fine. I’m not going to ask.” 11. A clever cleaning gadget A handheld vacuum, a screen-cleaning kit, a lint roller. Virgo says: “Other people get excited about holidays. I get excited about a really good crumb brush. We’re all different.” 12. An Astrominals Virgo birthday card Whatever you choose, put it with a card that gets them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Virgo busily organising and helping, framed by a border of true-to-sign Virgo traits. Virgo says: “I’ve checked it. Everything’s spelled correctly. That’s the nicest thing anyone’s ever done for me.” Virgo’s three rules for buying a Virgo a present Make it useful. “A present I can use every day is a present I’ll think about every day.” Don’t add clutter. “If it’s an ornament, it needs a reason. If it hasn’t got a reason, it needs a drawer.” Notice the details. “Remember the small thing I mentioned once. That’s what we notice. We notice everything. Sorry.” So, which present would Virgo choose? Virgo says: “The label maker. Obviously. I’ve already made a label for it that says ‘Favourite’.” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Virgo the Sheep and the rest of Team Earth. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift Ideas for a Virgo Read More »

Gift Ideas for a Leo

Gift Ideas, Leo / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Leo: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Leo the Lion Looking for gift ideas for a Leo? Buying for a Leo (23 July – 22 August) is a joy, because a Leo appreciates a present properly. They gasp. They hold it up. They thank you in a voice designed to reach the back row. Leo is ruled by the Sun, which tells you most of what you need to know. Everything revolves around it, and it’s quite comfortable with that. Leos are warm, generous, loyal and very good at being looked at. We asked Leo the Lion, the Leo Astrominal, to review twelve gift ideas. Leo asked if there’d be an audience. We said no. Leo said that was a shame, but would do it anyway, as a favour. 1. A portrait of them Painted, drawn, or a caricature. Large is fine. Larger is better. Leo says: “It captures my good side beautifully. Both of them.” 2. A karaoke microphone For the Leo who’s already performing, just without the volume. Leo says: “One song. Maybe two. Seven at the outside. It depends on the crowd. The crowd will want seven.” 3. Front-row theatre tickets Not the circle. Not the stalls. The front row, where the stars can see them. Leo says: “It’s good to sit near the stage. In case they need someone to step in.” 4. Something with their name on it A monogrammed towel, an engraved pen, a personalised anything. Leo says: “It’s important things are labelled. Otherwise how would people know they’re mine?” 5. A spa day A Leo works hard at being magnificent. Let them rest. Leo says: “The mane doesn’t maintain itself. Well, it does. But it’s nice to be helped.” 6. Statement sunglasses Big, bold, and slightly too fabulous for a normal Tuesday. Leo says: “For the sun. Not to hide. A lion doesn’t hide. A lion protects the public from being dazzled.” 7. Something golden Yellow and gold are Leo colours. A gold watch, a sunny scarf, a golden mug. Leo says: “Gold matches my personality. Warm, glowing, and slightly hard to look at directly.” 8. A cake with their face on it Yes, they can buy these. Yes, a Leo will love it. Leo says: “I’ll cut it from the tail end. Nobody’s slicing my face. Not on my birthday.” 9. A light-up mirror Good lighting is a Leo essential. Leo says: “I don’t look in mirrors much. Mirrors look at me. There’s a difference.” 10. A party, with them in the middle The surprise isn’t essential. The guests are. Leo says: “I love a surprise party. Especially when I’ve been told the date, the time and the dress code in advance.” 11. A trophy For anything: best cook, best dancer, best at being themselves. Leo says: “I’ve cleared a space on the shelf. I clear a space every year. Just in case.” 12. An Astrominals Leo birthday card Whatever you choose, put it with a card that’s worthy of them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Leo as a Vegas headliner on comeback night, framed by a border of true-to-sign Leo traits. Leo says: “Now that’s a card. I’d like a second one, for the other side of the mantelpiece.” Leo’s three rules for buying a Leo a present Go big. “Nobody ever said ‘that present was far too impressive’.” Make a moment of it. “Hand it over in front of people. Small applause is acceptable. Large applause is preferred.” Mean it. “Under all the glitter, a Leo just wants to know you think they’re wonderful. And you do. Don’t you?” So, which present would Leo choose? Leo says: “The portrait. Hung above the party. Where the trophy can see it.” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Leo the Lion and the rest of Team Fire. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift Ideas for a Leo Read More »

Gift Ideas for a Cancerian

Leave a Comment / ., Cancer, Gift Ideas / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Cancerian: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Canny the Crab Looking for gift ideas for a Cancerian? Buying for a Cancer (21 June – 22 July) is lovely, because they’ll treasure whatever you give them. Literally. They have a drawer of treasured things. It includes a cinema ticket from 2009 and a pebble from a nice afternoon. Cancer is ruled by the Moon, and feels things deeply. Home, family, friends and memories matter more to a Cancer than anything with a price tag. Their Astrominal is Canny the Crab, who takes home everywhere and has feelings in both claws. We asked Canny to review twelve gift ideas. Canny cried at four of them. Happy tears. Mostly. 1. A photo album of you two Printed photos, real pages, captions in your handwriting. Canny says: “Oh no. Oh no, that’s the beach day. I’m fine. I’ve got something in my eye. It’s a feeling.” 2. A blank family recipe book Somewhere to keep Nan’s crumble and the soup that fixes everything. Canny says: “Recipes are just love with measurements. Some of Nan’s measurements were ‘a bit’. I’ve written down ‘a bit’.” 3. A really soft throw For wrapping up in, and for wrapping other people up in. Canny says: “Is this for me? Or is it for when someone visits and they look cold? It’s both. It’s always both.” 4. A star map of a special night A print of the sky as it looked on a birthday, a wedding, or the day you met. Canny says: “That’s the actual Moon? From that actual night? I’m going to need a minute. And a frame. And another minute.” 5. A memory jar A jar of folded notes, each one a favourite moment you’ve shared. Canny says: “I’ll read one a day. No. I’ll read them all tonight. Then I’ll read them again. Then I’ll ring you.” 6. A houseplant that needs looking after Cancers like caring for things. Give them something to care for. Canny says: “I’ve named it already. It’s called Gerald. Gerald is doing very well, and I’m proud of him.” 7. A slow cooker For the Cancer who feeds everyone who walks through the door. Canny says: “Stew for six. There are three of us. That’s fine. Someone always turns up.” 8. A family games night box Board games, snacks and an evening with everyone round one table. Canny says: “I don’t mind who wins. I mind that everyone’s here. Also I’m quite good at it. Also I mind a little bit who wins.” 9. Something handmade A drawing, a knitted thing, a wonky clay bowl. Canny says: “You made this? With your hands? It’s going on the shelf. It’s going on the GOOD shelf.” 10. A candle that smells like home Cotton, fresh bread, warm vanilla. Canny says: “Home already smells like home. But now it can smell like home twice.” 11. A day out for the whole family A picnic, a seaside trip, anywhere everyone can come. Canny says: “I’ll bring sandwiches. I’ll bring a spare cardigan for whoever forgets theirs. Someone always forgets theirs.” 12. An Astrominals Cancer birthday card Whatever you choose, put it with a card that understands them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Canny, making a cosy space for everyone Canny loves, framed by a border of true-to-sign Cancer traits. Canny says: “I’m keeping it forever. In the drawer. With the pebble.” Canny’s three rules for buying a Cancer a present Make it personal. “I’d rather have a note you wrote than a voucher you bought.” Remember things. “If you remember something I said once, that’s the present. The rest is wrapping.” Hand it over in person. “Then I can hug you. You’ll be hugged. Prepare yourself.” So, which present would Canny choose? Canny says: “Honestly? I’d just like everyone round for tea. And maybe the photo album. And maybe a tissue.” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Canny the Crab and the rest of Team Water. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift Ideas for a Cancerian Read More »

Gift Ideas for a Gemini

., Gemini, Gift Ideas / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Gemini: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Gem & Eye the Toucans Looking for gift ideas for a Gemini? Buying for a Gemini (21 May – 20 June) means buying for someone curious about everything. They’ll love your present. They’ll also love the box it came in, the story of where you bought it, and a fact about cardboard they read last Tuesday. Gemini is ruled by Mercury, planet of talking, thinking and talking about thinking. Its symbol is the Twins, so its Astrominal is two characters: Gem & Eye, a pair of toucans who finish each other’s sentences, and occasionally start each other’s. We asked them to review twelve gifts. We got roughly forty opinions. 1. A pair of walkie-talkies For the sign that’s never off the phone, a phone that’s twice as fun. Gem: “Over.” Eye: “You don’t say ‘over’ after every—” Gem: “Over.” 2. A giant book of facts Geminis collect facts the way other people collect stamps. Eye: “Did you know a group of flamingos is called a flamboyance?” Gem: “Libby told us. Libby’s told everyone. Libby had it printed on a mug.” 3. A two-player game Chess, battleships, anything with a rematch built in. Gem: “Best of three.” Eye: “Best of five.” Gem: “Best of whoever’s winning.” 4. A podcast microphone A Gemini already has a lot to say. Give them a way to say it to more people. Eye: “Episode one: ‘Things We Noticed Today.’” Gem: “It’s going to be a long episode.” 5. A magazine subscription Something new arriving every month: the perfect pace for a Gemini attention span. Gem: “We’ll read every page.” Eye: “We’ll read the first page of every article.” Gem: “Same thing.” 6. Tickets to a comedy show Geminis love quick wit, and they’ll repeat the best lines for a month. Eye: “We’ll do the whole show again for you in the car.” Gem: “Both parts.” 7. A language-learning course A new language means new words, new jokes and new people to talk to. Gem: “We’re learning Spanish.” Eye: “And Italian.” Gem: “At the same time. It’s going brilliantly. Mostly.” 8. A puzzle book Crosswords, riddles, logic grids: a workout for the busiest brain in the zodiac. Eye: “I do the across.” Gem: “I do the down.” Eye: “We meet in the middle and argue.” 9. Matching mugs One gift, two personalities. Gem: “Mine says Gem.” Eye: “Mine says Eye.” Gem: “We swap them every morning to keep things interesting.” 10. A clever little gadget Anything that lights up, folds out or does something unexpected. Eye: “What does this button do?” Gem: “Don’t press—” Eye: “Well, now we know.” 11. A day trip somewhere new A city they haven’t explored, a museum they haven’t been round. Gem: “New place, new people, new facts.” Eye: “New snacks.” Gem: “Mainly new snacks.” 12. An Astrominals Gemini birthday card Whatever you choose, put it with a card that gets them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Gem & Eye as DJs, framed by a border of true-to-sign Gemini traits. Eye: “That’s us!” Gem: “That’s mostly me.” Eye: “It’s exactly half each.” Gem: “I’ve got the better half.” Gem & Eye’s three rules for buying a Gemini a present Make it interesting. Gem: “Anything boring, we’ll re-gift.” Eye: “Politely.” Keep it moving. Eye: “We like new things.” Gem: “And then newer things.” Buy for both. Gem: “Every Gemini has two sides.” Eye: “Ours just have separate beaks.” So, which present would Gem & Eye choose for themselves? Gem: “The walkie-talkies.” Eye: “The comedy tickets.” Gem: “Both.” Eye: “Over.” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Gem & Eye the Toucans and the rest of Team Air. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift Ideas for a Gemini Read More »

Gift Ideas for a Taurus

Gift Ideas, Taurus / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Taurus: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Taur the Bull Looking for gift ideas for a Taurus? A Taurus (20 April – 20 May) knows what they like. They have liked it for years. They will go on liking it, calmly and completely, long after everyone else has moved on to something new. So the trick with a Taurus present is not surprise. It’s quality. Taurus is ruled by Venus, planet of comfort and pleasure, and the Taurus idea of a great day involves a soft chair, a good snack and nobody asking them to move. We asked Taur the Bull, the Taurus Astrominal, to review twelve gifts. He took his time. He’d like that noted. He took exactly the right amount of time. 1. Really, really good slippers Not novelty ones. Proper ones, with soles and sheepskin. Taur says: “These are going on now. I’ll take them off in about three years.” 2. A hamper of nice food Cheeses, crackers, chutney, chocolate, a jar of something you can’t pronounce. Taur says: “I don’t share my hamper. I’ll let you look at my hamper. That’s generous, for a bull.” 3. A cookbook from their favourite restaurant A Taurus will cook every recipe, in order, and then go back to the one they liked best. Taur says: “Page 47. I’ve found my lasagne. The other 200 pages are lovely. I won’t be needing them.” 4. A weighted blanket Like a hug, but it doesn’t want to talk. Taur says: “I’m under it now. I live here now. Please forward my post.” 5. A proper mug Heavy, handmade, holds exactly the right amount of tea. Taur says: “This is my mug. If anyone else uses my mug, I’ll know. I won’t say anything. I’ll just know.” 6. A herb garden kit Earth signs like growing things, and Taurus likes eating the things they’ve grown. Taur says: “Basil, mint and patience. I’ve got loads of patience. The basil’s going to have to keep up.” 7. A bakery subscription Fresh bread or pastries, delivered regularly. Taur says: “Regularly. That’s my favourite word. After ‘croissant’.” 8. Luxury hand cream Taurus notices textures, smells and quality. Cheap stuff gets found out. Taur says: “It smells like a garden that’s been told it’s doing very well.” 9. Cosy pyjamas, in purple Purple is the Taurus lucky colour. Pyjamas are the Taurus lucky outfit. Taur says: “Daywear, nightwear. I don’t see why it has to be two different things.” 10. A classic record on vinyl An old favourite, not something new and confusing. Taur says: “I already know every word. That’s the point. Why would I listen to music I don’t know? It might change.” 11. A gardening day with no deadline Tools, a sunny afternoon, and nobody rushing them. Taur says: “Dig a bit. Sit a bit. Have a biscuit. Dig a bit more. That’s gardening. Anyone who says it’s faster than that is selling something.” 12. An Astrominals Taurus birthday card Put your present with a card that understands them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Taur himself, surrounded by luxury and comfort, framed by a border of true-to-sign Taurus traits. Taur says: “That’s me in my favourite chair. I didn’t pose. I was just there. I’m usually there.” Taur’s three rules for buying a Taurus a present Quality over quantity. “One good thing beats five cheap things. Five good things beats one good thing. I’m not unreasonable.” Don’t surprise them. “I like surprises I already know about.” Food always counts. “If you’re not sure, bring cake. Nobody has ever regretted bringing cake to a Taurus.” So, which present would Taur choose for himself? Taur says: “I’ll have the slippers, the blanket and the hamper. I’ll decide about the rest from the sofa. Don’t wait up.” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Taur the Bull and the rest of Team Earth. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift Ideas for a Taurus Read More »

Gift ideas for an Aries

Aries, Gift Ideas / Astro

Gift Ideas for an Aries: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Arri the Rhino Looking for gift ideas for an Aries? Buying for an Aries (21 March – 19 April) is simple. Get them something exciting, and get it to them fast. An Aries who has to wait for their present is an Aries already wondering if they should go and buy it themselves. We asked Arri the Rhino, the Aries Astrominal, to review twelve gift ideas. He agreed before we’d finished the question. He’d reviewed three of them before we’d finished the list. 1. A gift bag, not wrapping paper The first gift is the packaging. Aries do not peel tape carefully. Arri says: “Bag. Good. Hand in, present out, done. Paper is just a wall between me and my stuff.” 2. A really good pair of trainers Aries are always on their way somewhere, usually at speed. Arri says: “Are they fast? They look fast. I’ll find out on the way home. I won’t be walking.” 3. Go-karting A track, a helmet and other people to overtake. Arri says: “I don’t need to win. I just need to be in front the whole time. That’s different.” 4. An indoor climbing session A wall, a goal at the top, and no queue for the lift. Arri says: “Someone said ‘plan your route’. I planned it. The route is UP.” 5. A stopwatch Aries love a challenge, especially one with a number on it. Arri says: “Now I can time everything. How fast I eat breakfast. How fast I tie my shoes. How long you take to answer a question. Too long, usually.” 6. A red hoodie Red is the Aries lucky colour, and it hides a lot of mud. Arri says: “Red is the colour of GO. I’ve never seen a red that said ‘maybe later’.” 7. A seriously spicy hot sauce set Aries are ruled by Mars, the fiery planet. They like their food to fight back. Arri says: “The label says start with one drop. I respect the label. I disagree with the label.” 8. A fast-paced card game Anything with the word “snap” or “speed” in it. Arri says: “Board games are fine if they’re quick. If there’s a rulebook thicker than my horn, I’m making up my own rules.” 9. A scooter or skateboard Wheels. That’s the whole pitch. Arri says: “Comes with a helmet? Good. I’ll wear the helmet. I am brave, not daft.” 10. A self-assembly kit A model, a robot, a flat-pack anything. Arri says: “There are instructions? Interesting. I’ll look at them after I’ve finished. If there are pieces left over, those were spares.” 11. A Yes Day One day where they’re in charge of the plan. Arri says: “Breakfast at seven. Football at eight. Climbing at nine. Lunch is a sandwich we eat while running. You’re welcome.” 12. An Astrominals Aries birthday card Whatever else you give them, put it with a card that gets them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Arri himself, in full action-hero mode, framed by a border of true-to-sign Aries traits. Arri says: “I’ve already opened it. Sorry. It’s very good. It’s me, so obviously.” Arri’s three rules for buying an Aries a present Don’t make them wait. “Early is good. On time is fine. Late is a crime.” Make it exciting. “Socks are not a present. Socks are what you wear on the way to the present.” Let them go first. “Whatever it is, I want to try it before anyone else. That’s not greedy. That’s leadership.” So, which present would Arri choose for himself? Arri says: “All of them. In order. Starting now. Why are you still reading this?” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Arri the Rhino and the rest of Team Fire. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift ideas for an Aries Read More »

Gift ideas for a Pisces

., Gift Ideas, Pisces / Astro

Gift Ideas for a Pisces: 12 Presents, Reviewed by Pike the Pike Looking for gift ideas for a Pisces? Buying for a Pisces (19 February – 20 March) is a lovely thing to do, because a Pisces will feel your present as much as open it. They’ll understand what you meant by it. Sometimes they’ll understand things you didn’t know you meant. Pisces is ruled by Neptune, planet of dreams, imagination and the deep blue sea. Pisceans are gentle, kind and creative, and they live partly in this world and partly in a much more interesting one. Their Astrominal is Pike the Pike, who plays the saxophone, paints in her head and occasionally swims off mid-sentence. We asked Pike to review twelve gift ideas. It took a while. Not because she was slow. Because she kept seeing pictures in the clouds. 1. A sketchbook and good pencils Somewhere for all those daydreams to land. Pike says: “I drew a fish. Then the fish turned into a cloud. Then the cloud turned into a song. I’ve no idea what the sketchbook thinks.” 2. A ukulele An easy instrument for a musical soul. Pike says: “Four strings. Very sensible. I usually play the saxophone, but this one fits in a rucksack, and the neighbours seem happier.” 3. A book of poems Short, beautiful, and best read slowly by a window. Pike says: “I read one poem. Then I looked out of the window for an hour. That’s the right way to read a poem.” 4. An ocean sounds machine Waves, rain, distant whales: the soundtrack of home. Pike says: “Oh, that’s the deep bit near the reef. I’d know that hum anywhere. I’ve gone a bit misty-eyed. It’s fine. I’m a fish. Nobody can tell.” 5. A trip to an aquarium A day out among the relatives. Pike says: “That’s my auntie behind the glass. She doesn’t wave. She’s very shy. And also behind glass.” 6. Fairy lights A little soft magic for the bedroom ceiling. Pike says: “Now my room looks like the inside of a daydream. Which saves me a journey.” 7. A dream journal For writing down last night’s adventures before they swim away. Pike says: “Last night I was a lighthouse. A lonely lighthouse, but a happy one. Write that down. I’ve already forgotten it.” 8. A watercolour paint set For colours that blend into each other, like everything a Pisces feels. Pike says: “I don’t paint lines. Lines are for maps. I paint feelings that happen to be blue.” 9. A movie night with a big soppy film Blankets, snacks and a story that needs tissues. Pike says: “I cried at the beginning, the middle and the end. Also at the adverts. That’s how you know it’s a good night.” 10. A sea-glass necklace A small piece of the ocean, smoothed by a long journey. Pike says: “It’s been tumbling around in the sea for years, getting gentler. I relate to that.” 11. A cosy, oversized hoodie For floating around the house and pretending to be a jellyfish. Pike says: “Hood up. Sleeves down. Totally invisible. That’s not hiding. That’s resting in plain sight.” 12. An Astrominals Pisces birthday card Whatever you choose, put it with a card that gets them. The Astrominals zodiac birthday cards feature Pike as an artist lost in her work, framed by a border of true-to-sign Pisces traits. Pike says: “That’s me painting. I don’t remember sitting for it. I’m often somewhere else when things happen.” Pike’s three rules for buying a Pisces a present Make it feel like something. “I don’t mind what it costs. I mind what it means.” Leave room for imagining. “Give me a blank page, a song, a story. I’ll do the rest. Possibly at three in the morning.” Be gentle. “No loud surprises, please. A quiet surprise is perfect. A quiet surprise with a biscuit is perfect-er.” So, which present would Pike choose for herself? Pike says: “The dream journal. Then tonight I’ll dream about the other eleven. That’s the same as having them, if you ask me. Which you did.” Not sure which Astrominal you’re buying for? Take the quiz, or meet Pike the Pike and the rest of Team Water. Astrological and zoological. Illogically logical.

Gift ideas for a Pisces Read More »