Thursday, January 01, 2009

Happy New Year


Happy New Year! It has been a whirlwind this past month, as I am sure it has been for everyone else. On top of our regular holiday activities, Brady set off a week of sickness beginning Christmas Eve that spread to everyone in our house, plus my parents, my sister, my brother, my father-in-law, two of my sister-in-laws, and my brother-in-law. Now, while we can't be certain that Brady was the original culprit (it IS December in New England, germs are everywhere!) there is a lot of finger pointing at the two-and-a-half foot tall cutie. Everyone is on the mend now, and after going a little cabin fever we are moving into the new year with open arms.
We're always talking about what to give the kids for gifts - I have to say we did well with Brady this year. He didn't need a lot of clothes, but he did get a few outfits that are adorable and pajamas and socks that he did need. He received music CDs and a Veggie Tales Silly Songs DVD that is a hit (with Michael too - he loves "Oh where, is my hairbrush?"). He received Pampers, wipes, Easie Eaters (bent forks and spoons so he can feed himself easier), a few toys but nothing insane. A new backpack for school. The Wiggles toy car (see in pic), a wave drum (loves!), puzzles with big handles (by Melissa & Doug - found cheapest at AC Moore) a music table, a new swing for the swingset and a trampoline that we played with at the WSA Christmas party that he LOVED. Tom did not love putting it together, but I know Brady will love it and it will be good for him.
A friend and I were discussing how Christmas was pared down this year with the economy the way it is and all. She noted that she gave her son just a couple of the items on his list and he was extremely pleased with them and didn't mind that he didn't get the entire list. She said, "I realized right then that we've been doing too much; he was happy with what he got." Something to remember and stick too, even if the economy turns around. I am sure that we're all being taught a lesson by someone above because it seems we all seem to overkill. I think I have a good head on my shoulders, but I know places where we can cut back that would be good for our minds, never mind our wallet.
OK, soapbox #1 is over! Here's a toast to my fellow WS moms and friends out there to a fabulous and healthy New Year -- clink, clink!

6 comments:

Michelle said...

First, I've got to tell you that I LOVE LOVE LOVE the new picture at the top of your blog....that couldn't be any cuter! Your kids are so beautiful and amazing. Yes, I agree about the "overkill"...it's true..my motto is we do what we can when we can and if we can't....we can't... Wishing you all a happy, healthy, amazing 2009!
xo
ps...I won't be at Laura's we will be in Disney!

Heather said...

Happy New Year. You are right. We could never afford to go overboard, but the kids do appreciate what they have. Very important!
I think that is a good New year's resolution. To take a step back and think about what we all really need and not go crazy thinking about everything we want.
Your boys are so cute :)
Happy '09
clink, clink

Noel said...

I too have to say that the picture at the top of your blog is my new favortie:)
Abi is so hard to buy for but she is so happy with so little really. I think the things she loved most was Moon Sand, she can make a huge mess with it but it is fun.
I start shopping for stuff for Christmas the end of January when they mark everything down by 75% or more! With four kids and one income you learn the tricks of when everything goes on sale and what you can buy ahead of time!

Happy New Year

Julie said...

Happy new year. Hey we cut way back this year and I don't think my kids had a less exciting Christmas. My husbands boss and his wife are great people, but they are so into eating healthy and exercise that they didn't go visiting or eat anything bad, or bake cookies etc. He told me she got a Hummer for Christmas. I wasn't jealous at all. I would much rather have all the traditions of the holiday, (and the food :)) than any gift he could buy me.

Dawn Low said...

I had heard that putting that trampoline together is a bear-- I actually looked at getting it for Sawyer as well after the WS Holiday party. Let me know how Brady does with it and maybe I can convince Greg.

Happy New Year!!

Kerry said...

The trampoline was not just a bear to put together, it was a friggin' grizzly and a half. ALl worth it now - but we stayed out of the room while Tom did it - safer for us! LOL

He just started moving on it because he was sick for awhile but I think it will be GREAT!