Friends by gift

I wanted to buy a birthday present for a woman at work. I’ve known her less than three months but I like her a lot. So, she needs more than a box of chockies but probably not, say, beads or a book.

This got me thinking about the types of friends we all have.

1. The e-card friend
You have drifted apart but you stay Facebook friends. You want to keep in touch in case you ever need accommodation in Uraguay. Don’t feel bad. Why do you think she stays in touch with you?

2. The foot scrub and moisturiser friend
She’s more of an acquaintance, really. You don’t know her that well but she has a huge network and always comes through if you need a discount on carpet or a part time job for your neighbour’s son - not to mention class A gossip. And you’re happy to edit her job applications in return.

3. The let’s not start buying each other presents friend
You’ve known each other for ages and you have a few basic interests in common (sport, children or a previous job). A coffee meet twice a year is perfect to sustain things.

4. The don't send chockies friend
An online buddy you’ve never met is rare and precious and can add a certain je ne sais quoi to your life – especially if you really click. Just don’t try sending chocolates internationally. Major headache.

5. The joke gift followed by a bottle of his fav friend
Great for one-on-one or group dinners, laughing at shared memories, catching a show together and offering a helping hand if you’re moving house – he is what you call a close friend. He keeps in touch because he actually does miss you, wants to spend time with you and genuinely cares what’s happening in your life. He will even remember your birthday - unfortunately, he'll also remember the time you peed your pants (but he won't tell too many people).

6. The gorgeous funky handbag friend
Forget speed dial - you know all her phone numbers off by heart. You’ve grown up and thrown up together. You share everything from teabags to tiaras. You finish each others’ sentences. Sometimes, you laugh until your bellies ache and you've been each other's shoulders plenty of times, too. Being with this type of friend is fun and fulfilling. When you’re with her, you’re happy to be alive.

(Btw, I settled on a scarf – plain but quality, somewhere between khaki and olive – definitely her colour – with a small, thin fringe, designer but discounted. Perfect. Maybe next year we'll graduate to pranks and personalised poison.)

Image: graur razvan ionut