Green Treehouse

I just finished decking out my mantle with one of those holiday-themed greenery garlands–sure, the greens are artificial, but the glittery Pine Cones look quite elegant. My kids aren’t the only ones excited that the holiday season “officially” rings in this week with the arrival of Turkey Day. I’m also ecstatic, especially knowing that I can now count the number of days until Black Friday on one hand.

There’s no doubt, I love shopping. But, I’m also smart about it. I don’t like to clutter my closets with things I won’t ever use. I tend to think most people on my shopping list share similar thoughts. So, when the holidays come, I try to buy practical gifts.

This shopping approach gets me into trouble sometimes–because I’ve discovered that it’s really hard to keep a gift a surprise when I’ve bought something that someone could use right away.

When it comes to my own kids, I’m tempted to pull out whatever gift I’ve purchased and let them start using it. That’s why I’m nearly certain I will fail at keeping the puzzles I’m going to buy my toddler this week a secret. My toddler is completely ready for puzzles (btw, puzzles make great gifts at this age)–and, I know they would make for hours of entertainment during the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations.   

Do you shop and tell, too? If not, what’s your strategy for keeping holiday gifts for your children a surprise?

Tags: baby-wise.com, gifts, Holiday Shopping, Melissa and Doug, Monkey Business, preschooler, Puzzles, shopping, surprises, toddler