Holiday Wish List

Hello. This is Yoshi's mom writing a guest-blogger entry. I know that some of you want to give Yoshimi something to celebrate the holidays, and although it truly is not necessary, there will be some who insist on giving presents. So this post is about letting you know what would be welcome in our household.

First and foremost, Yoshimi loves experiences. She enjoys running around outside, playing at the park, cooking, and climbing things. She has gobs and gobs of "stuff" that eventually just gets overlooked and overcrowded in her room. She is a very creative child (as most kids are) and can create an imaginary world out of ordinary household objects like wooden spoons and a cardboard box, and actually seems to prefer this to a store bought toy. Seriously, she needs no more toys. And if you give her a toy it most likely will be donated.

Still, if you feel compelled to get her something, please follow these guidelines:

Please do NOT get her anything that...
-has licensed characters (including Disney, My Little Pony, etc)
-is electronic, makes a lot of sound or uses batteries
-is made in China (we've had to toss a lot of things due to lead recalls and just poor craftsmanship)
-is made with a lot of sugar (even the fake sugar) or artificial ingredients
-has a lot of plastic
-is arts/crafts related (she got a slew of crafty supplies for her birthday)
-is a video or computer game

Please DO consider:
-supporting local shops (not the big box stores) and artisans
-giving to a charity/non-profit (like Toys For Tots) in Yoshimi's name
-donating to her elementary school (email me for more info)
-giving something that has a lot of meaning
-donating to her college fund
-simply spending time with her


Further, there are some specific things we know she would enjoy:
-a visit or membership to the Academy of Sciences
-a visit or membership to the Exploratorium
-finis swimming goggles
-flowers
-art for her walls
-your favorite childhood book
-something hand made by you (art, baked goods, sewing, knitting, woodworking, etc.)


And although small, Yoshimi is a growing child. Clothing is always welcome.
-She wears a size 5
-Shoes (she plays hard, so durable shoes are much appreciated): kids size 10.5 or 11
-Socks that aren't thick. She's a fan of kneehighs in funky patterns.
-Underwear
-She doesn't wear jeans or clothes that are stiff ("crunchy" as she describes them) or scratchy.
-She likes skirts and dresses that flair out when she twirls around.

Her favorite clothing stores:
Tea Collection (this is a local SF-based company that I have done work for)
Zara Kids (there is a store located at 250 Post St, in Union Square in SF)
H&M Kids
Gap Kids

Believe me, I know it's hard not to get sucked in to the consumerism of the Holidays, but let's remember that this is not the season of celebrating stuff, but rather celebrating life and love. So think hard about the gifts you give. Not just for my daughter, but for everyone you give gifts to. They say it's the thought that counts, so let us all put thought into the gifts we give to represent the true holiday spirit.

Many thanks. And happy holidays to you all. May you and yours be healthy in mind, body, and soul.