That's a good way to do it, Brian. My wife and I really don't exchange big/expensive gifts we just go buy what we want. I told her I wanted to revamp Gear-Monkey to better software that has more user friendly options... so we all win here.
But for musical equipment, I've been eying those Tascam recorders. I thought it'd be nice (and easy to use) for recording riffs on. It'll keep me involved since I'm not in a band.
I am also thinking about getting a bass guitar. In my area guitarists are a dime-per-dozen, but bassists are rare. (so are drummers) but I'm thinking bass would be fun.