That's Fit

There will be a shortage of toys this coming holiday season due to underestimated demand and the whole toy recall thing -- you know, because of the lead paint and toxic plastic used in the production of some children's play things. "Say it isn't so," you might be saying. Me? I say this is the best news I've heard in a while.

I'm always looking for excuses to not buy toys. We already have a house full and in my opinion, they are a grand waste of money. Most toys, with the exception of imagination-builders like blocks, puzzles, and games, have a shelf life of a few hours for my two guys. I can't begin to list off all the trinkets we've brought home that ended up swiftly stuffed into some toy bin without a second thought. So yes, I like that the toys shelves may be a little bare this year. "See kids, no toys, sorry."

Now don't think I'm a Grinchy old mom or anything. I love presenting my kids with gifts that make them happy, and Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year. Learning about this trouble with toys just gives me more motivation to be creative, to purchase items for my kids that have a little more staying power and really matter in the long run. I'm thinking physical fitness here. Just imagine the possibilities.

My six-year-old's PE teacher told my husband last year that jumping rope is a really good activity for growing boys. I think I'll get Joey his own jump rope. For Danny, my four-year-old, I might buy various balls. That way he can throw a football, kick a soccer ball, or hit a baseball. We already have a garage stocked with bikes, skateboards, scooters, and roller blades so we're all set with our transportation goodies. But we could start playing tennis as a family -- there's lots of gear we could acquire for this sport -- and perhaps after we compete in the Reindeer Run, we'll be pumped up for more running. I'll have to check our running shoes and make sure we're good on this front. There's also gift certificates for bowling -- Joey loves bowling -- and opportunities for miniature golf and more. The options are endless, even with toys completely out of the picture.

What will you buy for your little ones this holiday season?