Grandma, Grandpa - What my Kids Really Want this Christmas

Here it is, almost Christmas and my kids' grandparents, (my parents, my in-laws) are asking what do the boys want for Christmas. I am not sure who enjoys the gift opening more, them or my boys. But truth be told, on Christmas day I don't want the focus on toys. I want it on spending time together, building experiences, making memories.

Toys will break

batteries will burn out,

years will pass by,

grandparents will pass on,

but memories will last forever.

Grandma, Pop Pop, Oma, if you are reading this, this Christmas my kids -- please don't be hurt-- don't need another toy; what they really want is YOU!

• Instead of buying a movie, have a movie date together.
• Instead of a big box of animals, take them to the zoo.
• Instead of race cars, build a race car model together.
• Instead of toy dinosaurs, dig up dinosaur fossils at a museum.
• Instead of an electronic toy that teaches, stop over on an afternoon to help with homework.
• Instead of the newest video game, share your favorite board game with them.
• Instead of buying a kite, make one you can fly together.
• Don't just buy a book; take time to read it together.
• Don't just buy them building blocks; build something amazing together.
• Don't just buy a butterfly habitat; schedule a picnic in the park for the butterfly release.
• Don't just buy a princess dress and tiara; plan a coronation ceremony.
• Don't just buy a bike; make a date to take a bike ride together.
• Don't just buy light sabers and swords; challenge them to a duel.
• Don't just buy roller skates; take them out for a spin.
• Don't just buy them a music instrument; help them learn to play.
• Don't just buy them a tent; embark on a camping adventure.
• Don't just buy colors and paints; create a masterpiece together.

This Christmas don't just buy toys, make memories.

If you are a mom and dad, do you agree? What would you add to the list?