Happy shopping and wish me luck

I’m trying to stay ahead of holiday shopping for my three grandsons. I pick things up here and there and stash them away. As it gets closer to Christmas I analyze what I have left to buy and I find myself counting each boy’s gift pile, trying to keep them as even as possible.

That must be a hold over from having four siblings and measuring “fairness” on Christmas mornings. It’s sure not the message I want to give to the little guys, but even my daughter admits that she eyed her brother’s pile of presents and measured it against her own. I am considering getting a pretty pricey Wii game bundle for the older two, but then their little brother’s stash will look much heavier than theirs. As much as I hate it, that concerns me. Will they understand that they have less to unwrap because the cost was much greater?

Why did I think this was over when my children moved into adulthood? Truth be told, I still count their packages!

Chicago Parent Editorial Team
Chicago Parent Editorial Team
Since 1984, the Chicago Parent editorial team is trained to be the go-to source for Chicagoland families, offering a rich blend of expert advice, compelling stories, and the top local activities for kids. Renowned for their award-winning content, the team of editors and writers are dedicated to enriching family life by connecting parents with the finest resources and experiences our community has to offer.
- Advertisement -

LATEST STORIES

Top 10 Chicagoland Public Schools for Athletes

Explore the top Chicagoland schools for athletes, ranked by Niche based on education data and parent feedback.

Is Your School on the List? 2025’s Most Diverse Districts in Lake County Unveiled

Discover the most diverse school districts in Lake County for 2025, ranked by Niche based on ethnic and economic diversity data.

5 Totally Free Splash Pads for Families in Chicago

Cool off with your kids at these amazing, free splash pads in Chicago—safe, fun and perfect for hot summer days.

Fatherhood Shrinks the Brain? Shocking New Study Reveals the Cost of Being a Devoted Dad

New parenthood changes the brain—literally. Studies show brain volume loss may reflect both care and stress in new dads.
- Advertisement -


- Advertisement -