Q: I've got a problem. I need to buy something for a special someone, and I don't know what to get her.

She's a big fan of parks (Even the skateboard kind!) and spends a whole lotta money making sure the kids have the very best of everything. Fitness is her thing; she's into bike trails, equestrian trails, marathons and Olympic-style swimming. She's a do-gooder, too. My gal actively supports literacy, farmers' markets, and going green.

She's given me so much. How do I show my appreciation?

Signed, Mr. Clueless in Clarita

A: Dear Clueless,
I'm going to be blunt. Your lady's after your money.

Now, before you start screaming about Gold Diggers (though, historically, that would be accurate), let me explain.
You see, she's not asking for a fat check. She doesn't crave your credit card.

Instead, she wants you to go Mom and Pop shopping with her. Take her out to a nice meal. Spoil her with a massage.
Because what you failed to mention in your letter is that Mrs. Clarita believes you might be seeing someone on the side. You think she wouldn't notice when you came home late, with a gas tank on empty?

Fool. She saw the bags from Nordstrom stuffed in the closet. And all this time you've told her that you loved her department store selection just the way it was.

And don't get me started about that stuff you did on the internet. How's she supposed to feel knowing that you fulfill your desires for top-quality denim with some anonymous source online? You make me sick.

Look, this stepping out has got to stop. When you spend your hard-earned cash in some lesser city that's all flash and no substance, you need to think about the gal you get to come home to every night.

Remember how she makes you feel safe. When's the last time you even bothered to lock your door? Think about what a great job she does taking care of the kids, about how hard she works to make sure you have everything you need and want.

Just because you've been together for a long time doesn't mean you should take her for granted. I mean, look. She keeps it fresh, right? She hasn't let herself go. If anything, she looks better than she did 20 years ago.

So, she's been feeling a little glum lately. Who hasn't? How would you feel if some of your best friends and greatest supporters went out of business? And instead of holding her hand, you turn your back and sneak off 25 miles or more to hang out with a city that's only after your wallet.

Here's how you can make it right. The holidays are right around the corner, and now is a fantastic time to put your money where your mouth is. You say that you appreciate everything Mrs. Clarita has done for you. So, start "Thinking" Santa Clarita when you plan your parties, buy your gifts, order your flowers, purchase your take-out and shop for a car.

PS: That little homewrecker you've been visiting? I heard she has a bad case of smog. Let's hope it's not contagious.

Small Decisions Create Big Impacts in your Community
When we all work together, seemingly small acts can have a big impact on our community. Consider family spending on everyday items, special occasion dinners, children's essentials, services and more. While you may think shopping and dining out is just an avenue to fulfill your family's wants and needs, you should "think" again.

Making choices for your family - such as where to spend your money - can make a big difference to the local Santa Clarita community. By spending your dollars locally, you directly contribute to the health and well-being of our local economy and help keep independently-owned small businesses, as well as our local large retailers, thriving. This is just one example of how our community benefits. Spending locally also aids in building more parks, better roads and attracting more businesses and jobs to the Santa Clarita Valley.

When thinking about the simple things in life, such as when and where to spend your hard-earned cash, Think Santa Clarita Valley and support your local community. Learn more at www.thinksantaclaritavalley.com.