I’ll never forget the time my best friend described me as “someone who loves to create moments.” Moments meaning memories. I had never thought of it that way but she was SO on point! I love throwing parties, taking trips & of course going over the top with the holidays. The past few years I’ve read 100’s of posts on minimalism. How we as a society are spoiling our children and the effects of too much stuff. I usually end up having massive mom guilt after reading. This post isn’t meant to be one of those guilt inducing reads. I’m all for a Christmas with lots of fun gifts under the tree. You can be sure our Christmas morning will be filled Hatchimals, Ninja Turtles & LOL Dolls. Santa is even bringing each kiddo a Cuddle & Kind friend.

That being said I can’t deny the big let down 20 minutes into Christmas morning as the last gift is unwrapped and unceremoniously dropped to the ground. Dang, it’s over already? I love the idea of giving the gift of time & precious memories. It’s especially fun when our extended family gets involved. Last year my sister & brother in law got our family a yearly pass to COSI for Christmas. Our visits have been some of my favorite days!! My husband won’t wear any clothes that I buy him and hates to read. I’ve given up buying him “things.” Instead he is getting tickets to see his favorite comedian Jeff Dunham who is coming to CBUS in January. I’d love to splurge for a nite at The Meridian Hotel downtown.

Some Memory Making Gifts for Kiddos:

Columbus Zoo Membership (duh).

Gift Cards to their favorite indoor play cafe. We love Picadilly, Firefly & Peapod.

Certificate for a special event at Party Like It’s Your Birthday. They have everything from Princess Tea Parties to Star Wars Celebrations. SO FUN!!!!!!

Tickets to a show at Columbus Children’s Theater. Grandma is treating my 4 & 6 year olds tickets to The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe.

Register for coding classes at Simplr Steam.

A subscription to Highlights for Children. Put the little card in their stocking!!!

COSI Membership

For your Spouse, Sibling, BFF, Dad, Mom & any other adult you know:

Put down the fuzzy robe and slippers. They love you and want your TIME.

Brunch at Zen Cha or Matt the Miller.

Movie Tickets

Tickets to sporting event. Check out a lady Buckeyes basketball game with your bestie!!

Book a climbing class at Vertical Adventures.

Blue Jackets Family Pack.

Certificate for a wine tasting at Meza or at The Market Italian Village.

Weekend getaway to a cabin in Hocking Hills. Wrap marshmallows, Hershey bars & graham crackers to put under the tree!!

Concert Tickets to the Bluestone.

Whatever gifts you give, just do what feels right for your family. For us its a little materialistic magic & lots of year round memory making. And I’m totally ok with that!!