Trades just don't happen in the professional sports realm. Or at a used car lot.

According to some married friends, trades happen all the time.

Rumor has it that relationships are a lot about give and take.

And compromising.

And, well, sometimes having to do things you'd rather not, just to even things out.

If you haven't heard of the scenarios already, you've probably experienced them yourself. I'll give you some examples I've heard recently from some married friends.

However, names will be withheld to protect the innocent. And from physical assaults involving frying pans.

He wants to buy a new sander. And he's got to get it this week, as it's $75 off the regular price. He's only been eyeing the price for the last, oh, 72 weeks.

Upon hearing this plea, she counters by wanting new cabinets. And a kitchen floor. The green linoleum that's been there for the past 28 years doesn't bother him.

But to her, it's atrocious.

Here's where the negotiations begin.

The man considers his options. Does he purchase the sander that's on sale for $100, knowing it will end up costing $750 after throwing in a side of cabinets and a new kitchen floor?

As in life, some battles just aren't worth fighting.

Consider another option. It's Sunday and you want to go golfing. She wants to take a walk at the Nature Center.

Here's the best approach for the man.

Take the walk. Then afterwards, go to a Bath and Body Works-type shop. Really get into it.

Then, when it comes time for you and some buddies to head up to the Twins game next weekend, you've got the goods.

The man's made the sacrifice. Undoubtedly, without discussion. Anytime a man walks into a store where they sell peach lotion, that's dedication.

Movies are another topic. He wants to see "Terminator 2."

Again.

She wants to see "You've Got Mail" or "Sleepless in Seattle."

The man cringes while in the video store. He look over his shoulder to make sure his pals aren't watching or listening.

"OK, honey. We'll watch that."

But the man is smart in this regard. He could care less what movie to get.

That's because he knows two hours of Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks will earn him a round of golf next Sunday.

Trades are very important in relationships.

Of course, there's some things that just aren't negotiable to men.

Like the favorite white T-shirt with three gaping holes.

"Don't throw it away. It's comfy," he says.

She knows better.

Before leaving on his well-deserved golf game, she wishes him luck.

He drives off. She dumps the shirt into the garbage, then covers it up with the other trash.

Apparently, some things just aren't negotiable with women, either.

Dan Fields can be reached at 434-2230 or by e-mail at :mailto:dan.fields@austindailyherald.com