Stone Soup by Jan Eliot for December 22, 2010

Have to admire their efficiency. But I bet Val wishes they’d show that much diligence with their homework …

Their to-be husbands best watch it…..

wish lists on Amazon are easier,

I wonder when the Gimme List became “give me EVERYTHING on the list!” It used to be you’d get ONE item from your list. And before that (i.e. in my day), there were no lists – it never would have occurred to me to ASK for a present! My parents had fun choosing something nice to surprise me with. And my presents were always a delightful surprise!

She could have in turn, says what have they earned to get these things on their list.

In my day, our year’s supply of socks, underwear and school supplies were wrapped up. One toy and one item of clothing that was not “just the basics” if we were extra good.

My boys still get socks and underwear for Christmas but it is harder to know what kind they like.

When my oldest was young I would put coins mixed in with his clothes so when he picked them up to show them, coins would fall out.

When he was first living in another state I sent him socks with $1s, $5s and $10s tucked in them for Christmas. I wish I could have seen him open them.

You all had great parents and you as parents did your kids great. My sister and I didn’t have it that great. I don’t even remember what we received as Christmas gifts too many years ago. Then with grandchildren for our mom wouldn’t you know it grandparents changed ways of giving.