For most of my daughter’s life, I was a single parent. So, on her first Christmas, I wanted everything to be perfect.
Even though we were living in a basement studio apartment, I was determined to make it festive, or at least make it look festive on Facebook.
I had to work Christmas Day, but not until 3:00, so I made huge plans and spent way too much money that I didn't have on things that a baby did not really need.
That's what first-time parents do.
I could've just bought myself presents and let her look at the wrapping paper in awe and wonder, but that wouldn't be very fun to post on social media.
I worried about appearances.
It was my baby's first Christmas, and I had to work (I also worked her 2nd and 3rd, but by then I was used to it.)
What kind of parent has to work on Christmas? I felt like a jerk and overcompensated with gifts that sat in a corner until she outgrew them, and they went to Goodwill.
Meanwhile, my little muffin was enthralled by the packaging.
All kids want is our attention and the ability to grow and explore the world. As I watched her crawl in, out, and on the boxes, I wondered... Why didn't I just wrap empty boxes? Why are we so obsessed with gifts? Don't those gifts rob kids of imagination?
Most toys tell kids how to play.
Whatever happened to making mud pies, climbing trees, and catching frogs?
I must admit. I watched a lot of DuckTales (Woo Oooh!) in my childhood, but I would argue that even watching cartoons in the 80s triggered activity and imagination.
Not to mention, they were only on for an hour per afternoon and also had to compete with my mom's desire to watch Donahue or Oprah.
That meant I had plenty of opportunities to enjoy my favorite show in alternative ways.
For instance, I once tore apart every bean bag we owned and poured all the tiny, elusive, static-filled spheres into one room, closed the door, and swam through them like I was Scrooge McDuck.
Best. Day. Ever.
As you can imagine, my mom was quite impressed with my creativity.
Keep it Simple
None of us really needs the latest gadget to live a good life. We need imagination, creativity, and maybe something we can tear apart and swim in.
Life doesn't have to be complicated or expensive to be joyous.
In fact, I'm positive that I'll be singing the DuckTales theme song all day, and that alone brings a giggle to my heart.