I’m really not a very materialistic person. My mum’s nagging at me for what I want for my 21st but I really don’t know what I should do because, being the traditionalist she is, she wants it to be something that will last a long time which I can keep for years.
She even came out with an officer’s sword (ex-forces family friend’s idea) but I’m not an officer so that’s a null one :ohmy:
Erm. I don’t know? I even thought about a GoPro but my Sqn has several of those and since the only activities worth filming on a GoPro will be done through the Sqn there isn’t much point getting a personal one.
My interests are pretty boring to be fair, I’m a politics uni student, interests in the military/RAF, flying etc.
Maybe a tailored suit would be a good idea? :?
Anyway yeah so this has been a bit of a rambling post but if anyone could think of any ideas I’d really appreciate it. It’s more for my Mum’s sake than mine I think!
I wouldn’t worry too much it doesn’t get any easier as you pass each decade and people think you should do something.
When I was 21 we went out for a meal with the extended family and I still treasure those memories. I also got an expensive fountain pen, a watch and a ring. I’ve still got them. I also went out with my mates and got totally bladdered and went for Chinese another set of memories, not quite so treasured and unfortunately two of my mates, don’t let me forget. I’m only thankful it’s not like today where everyone has a camera.
So I would suggest doing something special with your family and going out with your mates for good old-fashioned p$ss up and food of your choosing. People will still buy the traditional presents.
You say you’re interested in flying, get yourself a flying lesson, you may get truly bitten by the bug and go on to do something daft like getting a licence.
As a keepsake (albeit not for my 21st birthday) my parents had my pass-out photo framed with my medals mounted beneath, maybe something similar to that with some cadet memorabilia?
Thanks so much for the replies so far gents, I appreciate them all.
I can do flying for free (well, I will be able to when the Tutors are ungrounded ) so flying lessons may be a little wasted. I did consider it though.
As for the watch suggestion, I already have a very nice watch but it’s not a “top-drawer” brand watch, in fact it’s French! So yes I’ll look into that.
A nice idea indeed, but sadly I left the ATC over 2 years ago now and other than my 3822 and some old rank slides, there’s not really much worth framing.
And don’t worry, I’ve been a bit greedy and organised three different “sensible drinking sessions” in different corners of the country. Stand Out, coming to a city near you to drink your vodka, beer, cider, tequila and sambuca soon!
When I turned 21, my mum bought me a Victorinox Swisstool. It’s awesome and I use it everywhere. (I don’t tote it about illegaly, though…before somebody feels the need to mention it…)
or…
) so flying lessons may be a little wasted. I did consider it though.