Over lunch today I caught up with the last two (ever) episodes of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, actually getting teary-eyed over the father-son reunion that took place during the final episode. I also had to laugh, however, because Carson was pitching gift cards as the best present to get when you’re not completely certain of someone’s taste.

I’m not one to argue with Carson Kressley, but even if I were, I wouldn’t argue with his assessment of gift cards. Not only do they always fit, and always come in the right color, but the ability to buy gift cards for stores as varied as Nordstrom and The Sharper Image has saved my life – or at least my sanity – more than once.

One year, when, as an experiment I did all of my Christmas shopping online in two hours, I was even able to buy gift cards online, something I still do throughout the year, when I want to spring a surprise on my friends, or offer a giveaway on my blog.

Now, I realize that it’s only November 1st, but let me tell you, it’s never too early to buy a gift card. Carson says so.