Gift Guide: What to buy your favorite animal sign

Even for people who love shopping, the holidays can be a minefield. You want to give something personal, but how can you guess the hearts' desires of the ones you wish to spoil? Is little Susie a Mac or a PC? Does your man want kitchen knives or a weed whacker? Can't remember if your guy even wears cuff links? The animal sign of your recipient can give you helpful hints about the presents they really want, and steer you clear of items likely to be re-gifted. Here's an easy cheat sheet identifying what's sure to please the animals in your life!

Rat
Self improvement is a Rat's motto. Anything that helps them be (or look like) an expert is appreciated. Gift suggestions: how-to books, embossed stationery, monogrammed accessories, executive accoutrements, personal grooming products.

Ox
Generous Ox genuinely enjoys sharing their gifts with others. Gift suggestions: homemade pie or desserts, specialty coffee or tea, a fruit-of-the-month club membership, a fresh wreath or seasonal decor, herb garden.

Tiger
Any gift that raises adrenalin levels makes the Tiger's year. Gift suggestions: extreme sport classes (scuba diving, surfing, skydiving or bungee jumping), mystery dinner theater, a thriller novel or movie, ski lift tickets, snowboarding gear.

Rabbit
Refined and sensual, the Rabbit appreciates presents that are simple and elegant. Gift suggestions: a solitaire pendant, a silk scarf, scented candles, soothing soaps or lotions, art for the home.


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Dragon
Modern and cutting edge, the Dragon wants the things that no one else has. Gift suggestions: the newest gadgetry on the shelves, a gift certificate, a karaoke machine, maps of the world, distinctive fashion accessories.

Snake
Organized and sophisticated, Snakes are very particular. They know exactly what they want and usually get it for themselves first! Gift suggestions: sunglasses, fine wine, a calligraphy set, a gift in their name to a favorite charity.

Horse
The hot gift of the season is likely to miss the mark for this rebel. Pay attention to quirky clues. Gift suggestions: a screenplay of a movie they quote, tickets to a concert, a picture book about their favorite pastime, a flask, a magazine subscription.

Sheep
Sheep long to be pleasured and pampered, body and soul. If it feels good, they like it. Gift suggestions: a spa treatment, a certificate to the salon, a massage, a cashmere scarf, mittens, down pillows, a soft robe.


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Monkey
Remember when all you could think about was toys? The Monkey's motto is: What good is a present if it isn't fun? Gift suggestions: brain teasers, party tricks or practical jokes, do-it-yourself kits, a toolset, video games.

Rooster
Roosters flaunt their gifts with pride. If it's impressive, don't worry about being over the top. Gift suggestions: a flashy wallet, a sexy clutch, sparkly jewelry, a state-of-the-art watch, a bestselling novel, a complete DVD set of a TV series, an engraved business-card holder.

Dog
Dogs value most what comes from the heart, so gifts that conjure nostalgia and happy memories will be treasured. Gift suggestions: framed pictures, an heirloom or antique keepsake, a bound journal, a personalized playlist of music -- and don't forget the handwritten card!

Pig
No one appreciates luxury more than the Pig. Go the extra step and get all the trimmings. Gift suggestions: VIP entry to an event, custom home appliances, theater tickets, an upgraded flight or hotel, a meal at a gourmet restaurant.


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