Shopping and a Stocking Stuffer

Brad and I tried to get some last-minute Christmas shopping in this evening. We had planned to buy Noah a REAL guitar. Like one-from-the-guitar-shop-where-all-the-workers-have-tats-and-mohawks type of real. Maybe I just like going into that store? It makes me feel rebellious and muscially talented. Both of which, I am not. 

But, after debating on spending a large chunk of change on a guitar for a two year old, we decide to wait another year (or two). We ended up just replacing his junior acoustic guitar from Wal-Mart that broke a few months ago. I have been so impressed by his patience in waiting until Christmas for a new guitar. Honestly, I wanted to run out and buy him a new one the day his bit the dust, but then the make-every-moment-count conviction got the best of me. I felt like this was a great time to begin teaching him about holding out for greater things and the joy of waiting. Surprisingly, he has been super patient, which makes me all the more excited for Christmas morning. 

About 30 minutes into our shopping rendezvous, Brad made the comment that he could just keep the kids and I could get back out and finish everything on my own.  No way, Jose. I do agree with him though. Shopping always sounds more fun that it actually is. He hung in there with me and at least finished helping me with the kid's gifts. Since we didn't get Noah the expensive guitar, we got him a few other things that I think he will love. All of the new additions were Brad's idea. I was surprised when he said, "follow me" and took the initiative to lead me to all the things he wanted to get for his boy. Who knew he had so many wonderful ideas? Brad and Noah have been talking for months about camping out in the living room. I cannot wait to see Noah's reaction on Christmas morning when he walks into the living room and finds his new tent set up, with a sleeping bag inside. Oh the joy!

As you can read, I've only talked about Noah. I have no clue what to get Kayt. We got her a few outfits and one of those things that you push and the balls start popping. I remember having one when I was little. I think she will like it. I didn't necessarily think that it was worth $11, but who am I anyway? I mean, come on. They have been making those things since 1970. I am sure it costs one whole dollar to make. 

Back to the story.

I feel bad that we have not bought equal gifts for the kids, but I'm sure we will make up for it when Kayt is sixteen years old and wanting cloths that cost four times that of her brothers. When that time comes, will someone point me back to this post where I was complaining about spending $11 on a popper toy? 

And just to clarify, I have bought an equal number of gifts, we just have not spent an equal amount of money. 

She's one. What do you get a one year old that another family member isn't already getting? Nothing. That is what we bought Noah last year, nothing. The only problem is that now we are buying for one and not the other. Okay, I'll stop. 

Last order of business...

This is one of Noah's favorite CD. 

My dad gave it to him, and to be honest, the first time I heard it I started laughing, but it has actually kind of grown on me over the past nine months. The only way I can describe it is: Mother Goose meets Hip Hop.  I know, cheesy. But he loves it. I just thought I would tell you about it in case someone needs a little, last minute stocking stuffer for a wee one. It has proven to be quite popular with the tykes. You can listen to the songs here.

Don't blame me if you buy it and it leaves you wanting to pluck your eyeballs out. I am just the middle man.