i give him hints. he ignors them. nothing to do with cash (or lack of). he just doesn't get it.
for example
i ask for an ipod - i get a mobile.
i ask for a wii fit - i get a handbag.
i ask for diamonds - i get a jumper.
he is a numpty. i agonise and go out of my way to get him what he wants. to the point that i scour rubbish train memorabilia shops for months pre-christmas. and he buys me a jumper. would it be unreasonable to seve said jumper up in a pie?