Hanukkah wrap up

Another Hanukkah has come and gone.  This was one of our better Hanukkahs for the kids. Neither child had any complaints, they showed appreciation and genuinely enjoyed what we picked out. 

Ian had been asking for the Xbox One for quite a while now.  I can't believe it, but we got him one.  This was a bigger extravagance than we normally do for one child.  It was Ian's main gift and he was thrilled.  For Samantha we got her things she had been asking for -- easy presents like books, more magnatile blocks, puzzles, etc.  Sam didn't care that her gifts didn't add up to as much as what we spent on the Xbox; she was just thrilled that she had more wrapped presents to open then Ian. 

Ian opened the present, saw it was the Xbox and instantly jumped into Jeff's arms. 

 

 Ian couldn't stop thanking us for days.  It was a really cool surprise. Gosh, I love being able to make that kid happy.  He brings so much joy to our lives, it's nice to do something a little over-the-top extravagant for him. 

I still prefer to have us do experiences as a family instead of giving presents -- especially when the kids don't lack toys, electronics or need anything.  It just didn't work out that way this year.  

I heard a really cool idea a little too late to do anything about it this year, but I think I am going to try it next Hanukkah.  Each night is a different theme and both kids get the same.  One night is pajamas, one night is books, one night is giving back and doing something charity related, one night is movie night, etc.   And maybe one night can be a special outing as a family.  I've got a whole year to figure out and make it meaningful.