fawn doll / tricycle / book / bunny night light / bubbles / tee / blocks / truck / paint set / booties

It's that time of year again! The time for gifts and gift guides. There's plenty of them to go around these days and I really don't want to add to the noise. But, I myself fancy them and often find them helpful so I thought I would share a few here. I always try to think long and hard over what gifts to get the kids. The have to check off so many boxes - they must be fun, a little special, useful and long-lasting. We also try to keep things simple, not over-the-top. I really try to ensure that our children learn that christmas is about enjoying the season and all the wonderful things that come with it instead of fixating on the presents aspect of it. 

One way that we try and accomplish this is to incorporate special and out of the ordinary activities with your kids to commemorate the season. You can't put a price tag on a memory and it will always outlast any trinket or toy. Here are a few ideas for making this christmas memorable for your whole family:

1. Light the fire, make some hot cocoa and read christmas books by the glow of the tree

2. Take everyone ice skating!

3. Bake cookies together. It will be messy and imperfect but something you and the kids will never forget! And you can't beat the smell of gingerbread! 

4. Go see the Nutcracker ballet! It doesn't need to be expensive, local theaters and colleges are always putting on shows and usually kids are free and you can score an adult ticket for under $30.

5. Make some popcorn and watch all your favorite christmas movies. It doesn't hurt to add some christmas jammies either! ;)

6. Visit a christmas tree farm. Even if you don't plan on buying a real tree it's fun to get bundled up and trot about the farm. You might even score a wagon ride at some!

happy holidays friends!!

xx