I put this saying into practise recently for my daughter's 6th birthday. I asked Emeline what she would like for her birthday (first mistake) and she rattled off a list a mile long. Seems that Squinkies, Zhu Zhu's, Barbies and princesses are on her mind...a lot. She also requested a pretty dress from Target. I don't know why it had to come from that particular store, but she was pretty adamant. Armed with this information, I started formulating a shopping list in accordance with this saying.
Off to Target I went (second mistake). I keep forgetting that Shellharbour Square is undergoing MAJOR renovations and its impossible to get parking...but I was on a mission. Eme is still in the size 1-6 range of clothing at Target, so a lot of the stuff is still very junior. I managed to find the cutest coral coloured dress with frills on the skirt and a cute belt. Next to the toy section. I did look at the Squinkies and Zhu Zhu's, but decided to cut back...afterall, Christmas is coming and Santa can bring them...and let's face it, she has toys coming out the yahzoo! I scoured the book section for age/reading level appropriate books and decided that she's definitely beyond the big picture book phase. All in all, I had finished my shopping trip in 1/2 hour. Pretty happy with that!
This is what we bought Eme for her birthday.
- something they want - Barbie Princess Charm School dvd
- something they need - new summer sandals
- something to wear - the dress, plus a couple of t-shirts, tights and a skirt (all coordinating of course)
- something to read - a box set of "Pearlie" books 1-6
Eme loved each of her presents, and she wasn't upset at all that she didn't get everything off her wish list. Using the little saying above meant that she got a little of what she wanted, what she needed, and something educational. It works every time.
Feel free to use it on your next gift shopping expedition and to share/pin. Let me know how you go...
