The Gift that Keeps Giving

Hello and happy holiday season! As warm and merry as this season is meant to be, I know it can be stressful and costly for many of us. I want to acknowledge that and reassure you that not everything has to be perfect or extravagant.

This year, I've noticed many mom influencers advocating for thrifted toys as Christmas gifts. I wholeheartedly support this notion. Check out my 'Thrifty Toy Treasures For Toddlers' blog for compelling reasons to consider thrifted gifts. As a child, most of my toys were thrifted and I cherished them just as much, if not more, than brand-new ones. For kids, it's not about the packaging or condition—it's about the heartfelt intention behind the gift and how much fun they can have with it.

During my recent shopping trip, I stumbled upon some books about historical dolls on clearance for just $1 each while waiting in line. I couldn't resist! While they're newer editions, they evoke a sense of nostalgia for me. Growing up, I read all the classic historical doll books from the library and have made it a mission to collect these books for my daughter. She's only a year old so I'm pre-wrapping them for her to enjoy when she's older.

The temperatures are dropping and your kids are growing. If you're seeking affordable solutions for children's jackets, I highly recommend starting your search at Once Upon A Child. As a parent, I've found that accumulating a variety of jackets for my kids has been a game-changer, especially during those hectic laundry days. It's unbelievable—I found all of Myles' outerwear at Once Upon A Child, and they're in near-perfect condition. He's currently sporting these jackets, and I've also secured a couple for when he grows a bit more. Kids grow faster than we anticipate, so shopping ahead for sizes is a smart move.

I also want to share with you some of my favorite finds for Jesslyn. She's been adorably cozy in a cat-sleeve sweater paired with leggings, and she recently rocked a charming pink sweater dress with little boots. I've also prepared a couple of outfits for spring, like a heart-print top matched with black leggings and a gauzy floral dress. These pieces hail from my favorite brands, and while I'd happily pay full price for them, Once Upon A Child made it a win-win for my wallet.

I hope this inspires you to visit your local Once Upon A Child. While you’re out holiday shopping, consider stopping by to see what treasures you’ll find to treat your kids and your budget!

Blog By: Jenny Nguyen | @jenny8carrots