S: Hi, Jim. How are you getting on?

J: Oh, hi, Sandra, it's so nice to see you. I'm OK, more or less.

S: You look so deep in thought. What's up? Can I help you with something?

J: Actually, that might be not that bad of an idea. You know, it's my sister Anna's birthday next week.

S: Don't I know it, we're best friends.

J: That's why I need your expertise. I really want to give her a good present, a really good one, but I don't know, what I can give her.

S: Right. So you've stopped quarreling over every little thing, I'm happy to hear that.

J: Yeah, you know, all these conflicts were because of me. I'm a stubborn guy, you know, but I have finally realised I've been doing the wrong thing and I just want to say sorry.

S: Why don't you just say so?

J: I have, it's just I wanted to do something more to make up for my behavior. You know, she's been grounded several times because of me, and staying at home for weeks is not a nice thing.

S: OK, it's a good decision anyway. So how much money have you got?

J: Enough. I'd been saving pocket money. Besides, you know I have jobs now and then and I get paid.

S: I see. Well, she's short on cosmetics and she'd be happy to get some. I can help you choose or you can just give her a gift certificate and she'll go shopping herself.

J: No, I don't think it's a good idea. It won't leave a lasting memory. Eventually she'll throw these things away because they've expired or just finished.

S: Hmm. So maybe you can give her a collection of her favourite films or books or CDs? That would be a memorable present.

J: Yeah, that sounds like a great idea. The only problem is I don't know which ones are her favourites and these shops don't have gift certificates as a rule.

S: You forgot about me. I can go shopping with you or I can write a list and you'll be fine shopping on your own.

J: I'd be grateful if you made up a list. Shopping can be time-consuming and you've already helped me so much. I don't want to take up more of your time.

S: It's not for you, it's for my best friend, remember? Besides, I need to go shopping anyway. I've got to buy a present too.

J: OK, I give up on that, when shall we go?

S: How about tomorrow night?

J: Sounds good to me. Give me a ring, OK?