The Christmas Shopping Begins

October is a super late start for me.  However, it is time to begin that beloved process. This year we are scaling back majorly.  The kids getting to attend a private school should be considered a big enough gift ;-)

I find it enjoyable looking back on previous years lists and seeing how much the kiddos have changed in their "wants", so that's 1/2 the purpose of this blog :-)

We will buy for each of our parents, one sibling (we draw names), teachers at school.
I had to eliminate all the kids friends as it isn't in the budget, instead we will plan a playdate and share memories instead of gifts.

In the car rides home from school this week we discussed coming up w/ a realistic list of wants and needs as opposed to Jayna's typical 30 mile long list of everything in the universe... honestly Ant doesn't usually ask for much so I needed to just gear him into considering his needs- things he needs for school activities- like skiing and camping.  And so they each came up with 10 items that they'd like between Christmas and their birthdays.

Family members who buy for the kids, perhaps you could lean towards something on this list instead of a toy or clothes as they have more than an adequate number of those!  (used is always fine and appreciated)

Anthony:

(the links are just examples)
1. tablet (Daddy will likely find a deal on craigslist)
2.  winter coat for skiing (G'ma Joy bought it)
3. twin size air mattress w/ pump
4. mp3 player
5. sleeping bag for cold tempertures
6. ski helmet
7. rollerskates (not blades)- size 12 men
8. new shoes- size 12 men
9.  good flashlight for camping
10. thick gloves (waterproof) for  skiing

Jayna:

1. computer (Daddy is building it)
2. baby doll (G'ma Joy bought it)
3. twin size air mattress w/ pump
4. mp3 player w/ headphones that cover your ears
5. sleeping bag for cold tempertures
6. ski helmet
7. good flashlight for camping
8. thick gloves for skiing
9. art supplies
10. snow boots- size 7 or 8 women