Background information:
I've had this plan, which started a couple weeks ago with my birthday, of
making sure everyone in the family knows that if they are feeling generous
in my general direction for any particular reason, gift certificates at the
fly shop would eventually add up to a new 8 wt. rod and large arbor reel
(everyone is also aware that this is a long term project).

Today:
After my wife and I spent all day registering for baby shower presents, I
decided to take her shopping at the local fly shop. I was mainly there to
pick up some marabou, but I was also going to show her what the whole gift
certificate scheme was about. First thing I notice is all the flies are 25%
off. I've never seen a sale at this shop before so I was kinda surprised,
but didn't think much of it. We began talking to the owner about various
rods and such when he happens to mention he has some rods on sale....50%
off. While it's not Father's Day, nor am I officially a Dad (production
schedule due to end in Sept.), I got my first Father's Day present today.
It wasn't the Sage rod initially envisioned, but I'm not complaining about
an Orvis Clearwater 4 pc. 9' 8 wt. for only $112 either. The reel is now
clearly in sight. Only a couple more of these 'holidays' to go. When
exactly is Sweetest Day, anyway? That's not just a chick holiday, is it???