Toys, lollies or candies

I've been looking online for educational kids toys. I was thinking, instead of a lot of kid stuff for giveaways on my daughter's birthday, maybe it will be worth it if it's just one item, but really educational. I'd rather give a child just one gift than six, knowing that they'll learn something from it.

I know the purpose of toys is for enjoyment, but if the correct toys are used, the enjoy and learn at the same time. I've seen a lot of ideas from other bloggers. The linkies I join every week enables me to meet a lot of great moms with great ideas. In fact, I'm also leaning at doing some educational giveaways myself. I could print out some of her pictures, or those that are memorable for her and make them out as coloring books or something like that.

Also, when I did a post for birthday ideas, Mel at themeaparty.com also left a comment for a great idea on the cake and food to go with the theme. I blogged about a cowboy-themed party then. I'm browsing her site as I type since her ideas are great!! She has suggestions from invitations to drink, to games... I'm getting excited all over again.

Blogging and joining groups and linkies have really helped me a lot. There are truly a lot of great moms (and some dads) out there who put their artistic side to use and save lots and lots of money. I'm so happy that I've come to know and learn all this now that I have my own little princess. DIYs will probably become my next hobby... well, when I get a helper that is, and if our funds allow me.

Perhaps I'd still have to buy some toys, educational of course. But it would be extra special if instead of free candies and lollies, I can make a keepsake that's unique and would remind the guests of my little tot. As parents, we're not keen on really big celebrations. We can have a small one but make sure that everyone and everything in it is memorable for everybody.