My 13-year-old and I read the Marie Kondo book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up this past summer. The book was absolutely what it claimed to be – life changing and in the best way! If you have not read it – you really need to. If you don’t have time to read it, buy the audio book.
After cleaning out my own storage and closets I have come to realize it is amazing the amount of JUNK we hold on to.
As we approach the holiday season, I emailed my family a list of what my kids want and need for Christmas – mostly gift cards to activities around Columbia and their favorite stores. My kids don’t need anymore toys they will never play with; pieces of plastic to collect dust in their closets. We certainly appreciate everything we are given anytime of the year but I wanted to offer ideas of what wouldn’t add to the clutter in our already clutter filled homes. Here is a list local ideas for you and your family!
Memberships
Instead of buying your children or grandchildren gifts they will play with a handful of times, why not purchase them gifts that keep on giving? Memberships to museums and the zoo are a perfect Christmas gift! My kids love our zoo membership and we go several times a month. Memberships are a gift that are well worth the money! Here are some of our favorites:
Class Activities
Have a child who loves horses or swimming? The Lexington YMCA pony rides and the Jeep Rogers YMCA offers aquatics. Or if drawing and creativity is more of interest, how about a week of summer art class?
Family Fun
My kids love, love, love Hi-Wire trampoline park, and it’s definitely a TREAT when we all get to go! And with a big family it can put a strain on the family budget. Why not gift it? There are several places around the Columbia area for family fun.
Pampering
Having trouble knowing what to get your teenage daughter or your wife? Everyone loves to be pampered! Consider a gift certificate to a salon or spa.
Movie Theaters
With the weather getting colder, indoor activities are the way to go. My family enjoys going to the movies this time of year. And, really, who doesn’t? With the price of movie tickets getting more expensive each year, why not give the gift of free movies? Here is a list of some of our local movie theaters!
Sandhill Stadium 16 IMAX & RPX
Love this list! Gifted experiences are my favorite.