setting holiday expectations...

each year as a parent makes you a little more assertive.  this year i am tying to be proactive with the holiday gift giving and giving some ideas.  don't get me wrong, i appreciate all the gifts, but i'm trying a new approach this year so that we can get things we actually need or could use.  this was my email to the family today...

Hi family,

Starting to think about the holidays, please don't buy for Jarad and I but if you want to get something for Bowie, I put together some ideas on Amazon. Some of her favorite toys these days are Fisher-Price Little People, pretend food, puzzles, books and arts and crafts. She does really well in the Cat and Jack clothing line from Target. She's currently in a size 2T pant, a 3T pajama and a 4T shirt. Please buy big (or include gift receipt) and remember we can wear long sleeves year round here ;-) and that summer doesn't really begin until mid July.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/28U9J0VNAHVSX/ref=nav_wishlist_lists_2

If you prefer an experience type gift, please consider adding to her toddler time punch card which is $3 a visit, or I will be enrolling her in The Little Gym this winter which is $19 a visit. I'm also planning on swim lessons as well.

But please know that gifts are never expected!!! Our most favorite gift is the time spent with family! Our goal is to make holidays less about gift-giving and more about family, traditions, experiences, making memories and giving to those less fortunate.

And if anyone asks you about gift ideas, please feel free to share this email.

Love,

Erin & Jarad