All I want for Christmas is a cardboard box

Did you know that the lowly cardboard box is a member of the National Toy Hall of Fame? Jason at Dad-o-Matic says the cardboard box is the best gift "Because it leaves a little to the imagination." The box is a palette for possibility.

Slane does have toys that flash and beep, but lately she has been most interested in art, dolls, physical play (dancing and climbing) and reading. Yes, she requests Yo Gabba Gabba!, Sesame Street, and hockey, but those seem to the soundtrack to her play. 

Because Slane does not know this blog exists, I can share that she will get gifts that encourage her creativity and curiosity: building blocks, duplos, and art supplies will be coming Christmas morning. I don't think we will give her a cardboard box for Christmas, but we did save the large box from her new car seat. It's a Slane-sized playhouse. With the latest blast of cold and the arrival of plastic sheeting, our other Christmas gift, a backyard rink, just needs water.

(Photo credit: Buddhalabs.)