December 2009

I am the parent of 2 Lego heads!!  I’m sure, in the end, it will probably be 3.  O. has already been playing with some big Legos, and he loves them!  I. started playing with them when he was around 4 – he’s 9 now, and 5 years later he loves them even more.  And K. was around 2 when he started….and of course, he too thinks Legos are about the best toy around!

As I write this, both I. and K. are perusing Lego.com in search of the perfect way to spend the cash and Lego gift card they’ve been given for Christmas – and they’re practically flipping their lids because there are new kits out.  They just enjoy building  with the bricks and playing with the mini figures so much…. they can’t help themselves.

My guys aren’t the only ones who love these little building blocks though.  I know many moms of boys, and some of girls too, who say their kids are simply “gaga” for Legos.  And, there are even adult fans.

I can’t say I blame them.  Lego has got some great themes (Star Wars, MindStorms, etc) – but more importantly, these simple bricks can make almost anything…..only imagination is required.

Now lego has begun branching out into more than just models and bricks.  They’ve got video games (and they really are awesome!) and movies, even comic books.  And my kids enjoy those a lot too.

While I’m not the most fond of plastic, and I’d love to see Lego come out with say, recycled plastic bricks and pieces – I can think of a wide variety of other things my kids might spend their time and money on that aren’t nearly as creative or the kind of quality toy that legos are.

I’m going to wager Legos are going to be around for generations of kids to play with  – so, we’ll be keeping ours and hopefully, we’ll be able to pass them on to the grandchildren ( no pressure boys :  )  )

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My favorite game so far, Super Mario Bros. was one we had when I was a kid. Brings back lots of memories!!

The big gift the boys got from us this Christmas was a Wii.  I know that’s nothing all that amazing for many families, but for Mr T. and I, this was a big step.

We’ve not had a video game machine yet as a family.  We’ve had some computer games, but nothing like this.

And, we’ve come a long way from when I. was a baby.  There was no TV or computers of any kind around him.  But now, with O. as a baby, there’s regular TV time, 2 computers, and a Wii in the house.

We’ve tried to grow and change with our kids, and, more importantly, tried to find a way to create balance between what’s available to kids and keeping our kids…..well, kids.  And media has always been a difficult thing for us.  There’s quite a bit of research that shows too much TV/computer/video games is not good for children; or anyone really.  But, we’ve also come to see that there is a lot that these things have to offer us…when used in moderation that is.

So, we now have a Wii.  The kids love it, and so does Mr T.  And, if I’m being honest – I like it a lot too.  It’s been a long time since I’ve played a video game – and man is it fun!!

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There’s only 2 more days until Christmas – and my boys (and probably most children!) are about ready to burst!  All the sugar in the house doesn’t help the situation either – but “Tis the Season”.

I remember being the young one, counting down the days.  It was so magical – still is…just different now that I’m on the other side.

We’re all extra excited too because it’s our first Christmas with O.  Of course he’s only 8 mo old – so he has no idea what awaits him – but his brothers are looking forward to showing him….in just 2 more days!

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