I have been toying (pun intended) with not actually giving my children “toys”, the kind most people picture when they hear the word. Nothing purchased in brightly colored packaging and probably made by a small child in another country who will never be able to play with one themselves. Instead opting to give them something made by myself, put together by myself, or just with a little more thought. Clearly my children ask for normal things, but they have also been taught that “things” don’t just come to you. As it is my kids don’t have all that much when it comes to traditional toys, but walking by their rooms I feel like it is still too much. Maybe it’s the summer spent with nothing but nature to play with, but I am even more over plastic then I already was.
For the girls I feel like I can make some super cute felt headbands. You can find them everywhere on ebay, and great ideas on pinterest. I do feel like I’m at least a little crafty, and I’m fairly certain I can make a couple of cute ones. Although this won’t be their entire present, it’s a start. Maybe some new clothes as well? They both have a funky fun style and love getting new clothes. For Tay my idea came fast, a fort kit. Obviously we have plenty of blankets and other fort building materials, but a kit of everything that is just for him? The kid will love it! Some fun blankets (maybe from goodwill), cloth pins, and a bunch of PVC pipe with all the attachments to put them together, what else does a little boy want? I can even throw in some more “outdoorsy” things (new flashlight?) and I think he will be a pretty happy camper.
So I’m left with Tajh and Tru. what does a 2-year-old really need? A ball? Even as I type that I have that overwhelming guilt, “but it’s christmas, a ball isn’t enough!” The reality is, what does it matter? Nothing would make him happier then a ball and a box, well except a puppy… No puppy. So Tajh, what does he need? Nothing at all. He reads, more books? Ugh… for this one I will need a little more thought. Ideas?
The kids all get 1 present from the parents, the stocking is all from santa (small toys and the like), and they draw names and get each other a small present. My mom will get them something they don’t necessarily “need”, and maybe a couple of other family members too. I enjoy our small present Christmas, it gives the opportunity to enjoy special time together with our traditions and not get too caught up in the chaos of want. We go ice skating, go to lights at a couple of venues, have an ugly sweater bike parade, and go to the snow on Christmas Eve. If only I could add going to Disneyland on there every year… hmmm…
I suppose it’s time to get crafting!
Oh and we go to the park, because the park is awesome.
Seven Wild And Free 