Usually by this time of the year I’m just about done with shopping. You see, I would rather walk on hot coals than go to any sort of shopping center between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I hate crowds, I hate the forced cheerfulness, I hate the glut of it all. Two days ago I made a quick run into Trader Joe’s and came out in a bitter mood. The place was jam packed and I know it’s just a sign of things to come.
But this year, due to the fact that my maternity-leave pay got screwed up things are kind of tight for another few weeks and this means there has been no shopping. And, I don’t really know what to get the kids which is making it no fun.
We’re a “one big gift, 2 medium gifts + stocking stuffers” kind of family but this year I really have any ideas of where to start. For MAD, well, he’ll be 8 months at Christmas so he doesn’t really need anything. Plus we still have all the toys from M’s babyhood and the last thing we need is more plastic crap in this house. I’m at a total loss. I want him to get something special, being his first Christmas and all, but I’m stumped.
As for M she already has so. much. stuff. 2 years ago she got her doll house, last year it was the trampoline. And honestly there just isn’t room for any more physically big gifts. My mom is taking her (and I!) to the Nutcracker in December so that may count as her big gift/memory from this year. Of course we’ll get her a special nutcracker to commemorate the occasion. I’ve toyed with the idea of getting her a Leapster or some other gaming device but….gah…she’s only 4. I’m not sure I want to go down the path of video games just yet.
I have a feeling this will be a pretty low-key year. New books, a couple of puzzles, maybe some new clothes and a DVD or 2 (all purchased online, natch) . I’m already feeling kind of bah humbug about it all because I’m not done.
What about you? Are you excited for the holidays? Done shopping? Haven’t even thought past next week? Do you live for Black Friday? And if you have any great gift ideas for an 8 month old and 4 year old, please pass them my way.
Ka-Ka-Ka-Katy 
My nieces loved their WowWee Alive stuffed animals. I bought the koala and the seal. Both were a big hit with the 3-6 set. My sister even bought one for their friend for her birthday because she was always playing with theirs.
This is so unlike me, but I haven’t really started my Christmas shopping yet. I know it’s not even December, and I do love last-minute shopping (I know, call me crazy!) but I’m surprised I haven’t had the desire to start shopping yet. What is wrong with me? Perhaps it’s because my boys have it all, anyway… and really, I don’t want any more clutter in my house!
Truth be told, though, yes, I’m excited for the holidays! And I’m sure my desire to shop will re-appear within days!