Rick,
My first recommendation is to save the shipping box. This will be a time saver later.
I recommend, first, the environmental approach. "But sweetheart, the cork tape is actually 42% urea based foam. Foam contributes to polluting the environment. In addition, it will take 365 million years for it to become dirt matter. What if 6 billion people (the approximate population of the world) did the same thing? I have enough personal issues without adding guilt".
Then follow through with distraction -- before she has time to nix the whole thing: "Oh, by the way, honey (add the endearment for best results), I got you a little gift today...here". This is where you hand her the box (that's right, the box you picked up earlier, days before the handlebar tape arrives so you're ready, with the earrings).
If these methods fail, then casually mention the stress you've felt at work. "Providing can be so wearing at times". Then follow up with "I get so much relaxation from riding, I think I'll go out now for a spin -- I'm really (italics here indicates that this word should be drawn out for emphasis) going to enjoy this new, all natural leather bar tape".
Again, if this doesn't work, you're reaching the point of desperation. Therefore I recommend that you pull out the stops. The following are suggestions, but don't feel restricted -- anything goes at this point. "But I stopped drinking with the boys...and I'll never bring home another woman...I'll fix the flat on your car next time...I'll help carry in the groceries so you'll only have to make two trips...prison for me, is a thing of the past...I'll let stop making you go to the barber to get your hair cut?"
If none of the above works, then here is where the shipping box comes in. Place the tape package back into the box. Now seal. Label and address. Drive to the post and return for credit.
The best to you...
Steve Dahlquist Velochrome Frameset Painting V 559-592-6367 F 559-592-2585 C 559-967-3318 steve@velochrome.com 22582 Carson Avenue Exeter, California 93221 http://www.Velochrome.com
----- Original Message ----- From: Richard Reno To: Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org Sent: Sunday, November 09, 2003 11:35 AM Subject: [CR]Handle bar wrap
Thanks to everybody who sent info on the Fujita leather handle bar wrap! I'm going to order some...then I'll probably need advice on how to convince my wife that $50.00 wrap is a good idea when cork tape is $8.00! Thanks again, Rick Reno Green Bay, WI.
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