It's the holiday season and that means gift giving for many people. What makes a good gift? What makes a bad gift?

Good gifts are easy. If the gifter can afford it, and the giftee likes it, then it's a good gift. What about bad gifts for your true love?

Jewelry is good, unless you're a single guy thinking of a last minute gift for your girl. Jewelry, especially a ring that glitters, might have repercussions. She may view the glitter as a signal to settle down. Or, not. Either way, think before you leap.

What about kitchen appliances? Good for gals, not so for most guys, unless they're gay and love the kitchen. Kitchen trinkets are impersonal, however necessary they may be.

Lingerie? The implication is strong so know what you're getting into. Literally.

How about tickets to the Rose Bowl? Or the Lion King? See the difference? One is for the guy, the other for the girl. Either way, it's not much of a thoughtful gift.

More thoughtful and full of trouble is a pet as gift. Puppies and kittens carry a maintenance requirement. Goldfish are crummy pets, should be grown to about 18 inches long, then deep fat fried.

Regifting is bad, no matter who it is. Somehow those gifts always come back to bite. Chocolate and flowers this time of year do not make a guy as popular with the ladies as the guy might think. That's the point. Think. Chocolate and flowers have their own holiday seasons anyway.

How about a one year subscription to Jenny Craig or a Bowflex? Only if each gets the other at the same time. O. Henry would be proud.