We were at Target the other day and I decided to stroll through the toy section to get ideas for Mabes' upcoming birthday. In the past, Mabes has been content to look at toys, so "getting ideas" for birthdays and Christmas was fun and easy. This time, however, as we started down the doll aisle with the dolls that make the creepy cooing, squawking, and chirping as you walk by, Mabes saw a doll accessory box she decided she needed. Right then. I calmly explained to her that no, she didn't need it, while silently deciding that it was so cute that she did need it, but not for another few weeks.
I tried the usual diversionary tactics and started to head to the cleaning section, when Mabes decided to throw a fit. "I need that doll seat! Put it in the cart, mommy! I NEEEEEEEED it NOOOOOOWWWWWW!" I should have let her scream. I should have taken her out of the store. But for some reason, instead, I decided to tell her that her birthday was coming up soon and maybe someone would get it for her for her birthday. As I'm saying this, the intelligent side of my brain is screaming "No no no, stop talking idiot!" while the idiot side, which I thought had been in charge up to this point, was just laughing and saying "Um, yeah, I'm not even dumb enough to think this is a good idea." (Yes, I have many voices in my head. But that's not today's issue.)
It worked though, and Mabes quickly quieted down, her eyes huge, and said, "My birthday? My birthday! My birthday's coming! Let's get some cake and candles and balloons! Yay!" I tried to explain that it was still weeks away when she said that she needed the doll toys for her birthday. Remembering that Aunt Nancy had already sent birthday money for Mabes, I told her that maybe Aunt Nancy would get that for her. If she's a good girl. Phew. Problem solved.
We got home and she was still talking about her birthday, so yesterday afternoon, we made one of the paper chain things you made in 1st grade to count down to Christmas. I tried to explain the concept that each link symbolized one day, and that it wouldn't be her birthday until we had ripped off one piece of paper each morning. I don't know that she got it, but it distracted her enough. Until later when I was checking a recipe online and Mabes came over and matter-of-factly asked, "Mommy, are you emailing Aunt Nancy? To tell her about the doll seat for my birthday? I think she wants to get it for me."
So I guess I know what Aunt Nancy is going to get her, but we're still deciding what we'll get her. You'll notice a poll on the right, and any input would be appreciated. She was having fun on a neighbor's tricycle yesterday, though she can't quite figure out pedaling. I figure that's something she needs to practice. The neighbor also said that they got the tricycle for their daughter's third birthday, and now she's almost 4 and close to outgrowing it. So should we get her a small bike with training wheels? Or a Big Wheel? Target has them and I'm tempted just for nostalgia's sake. Thoughts?
Monterey revisited
8 years ago
6 comments:
You got your first big wheel when you were 2! At first you just coasted down the driveway, but soon you were pedaling. And when I say coasted, I mean flew down the steep driveway into the street. It probably helped(?)that you had an older sister that you insisted on keeping up with.
I voted for the big wheel because Emaline is no sissy and I can totally see her plowing that thing down the street!
I got Jonas a big wheel but he out grew is within a year. I still have it for Bella but we have no place for her to ride it.
Be aware that the big wheel track in our new backyard is now finished. It's a winding and picturesque 90-yard circuit that wends past mini-gardens, a gazebo, a small waterfall, spa, firepit and three patios. The first grandchild to visit will receive his or her own Big Wheel for use in California. Be sure to tell Emaline (I'm counting on your ultradumb side for this one).
Dad
Well, I'm glad to know that at least my present is something she really wants. That's the easiest birthday shopping I've ever done.
OH, that Target toy aisle! At least you didn't give into the screams. I'd say a tricycle first, one you can push. Kody just now got a big boy bike and is getting the hang of it.
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