Oct. 19, 2005 Dear Annie,
Like many retired folks, my wife and I have got more time than money. The last few years, we've wanted to do more than we felt financially able to for our kids and grandkids for Christmas.
My wife had a wonderful idea we wanted to share with you and the Shopper readers. For anyone who wants to do it, this will take time, so we hoped you could print it before the holidays.
Reminiscing about your children and grandchildren, think of things they held dear as a child. Look at old pictures to jog your memory. For example, our daughter liked horses, and had all those plastic models of horses all over her room. Our eldest son was really interested in insects of all kinds. We've shopped all year at yard sales and even on eBay for the exact same kind of things they had as kids, horses for her and books and bug-related items for him. My wife knows what kind of cookies they liked best, too, so each child (they're in their fifties now) will get a basket of "toys" and a big jar of their own favorite cookies for Christmas.
No, these gifts aren't expensive, but they're something money can't buy. We can't wait for the holidays this year.
Santa and Mrs. Claus, Mineral, WA
Dear Santa,
When did you relocate? Just kidding.
Wonderful idea, you two! I'll modify it a bit for my twenty-something nieces and nephews. We're a huge family, but I like to give presents! Using your cues, I'll give simple toys like silly putty, slinkies and bubbles to those who may seem to old for them, but will play with them as soon as no one's watching! And maybe some cookies if I can get time to bake! You kind elves take care of yourselves!
Annie
Please write to:
Annie, P.O. Box 1084, Eatonville,WA 98328
E-mail: letters_annie@hotmail.com
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