Christmas Shopping

Last year I started taking the boys out one at a time to buy gifts for each other for Christmas. Today was our shopping day.

I love spending one on one time with each of the boys, even if it is just for 30 minutes. Lucas and I went to the store first. It's always such a pleasure being with Lucas alone, because he gets to shine. Whenever Nico is around, Lucas is quiet and reserved, as a result of always being hushed by his brother. Alone with Lucas, he is very talkative, and extremely silly. It's like you get to see a glimpse of the real Lucas, and I wish I could find a way to let him shine all the time.

Nico is Nico, whether other people are around or not. But, it's easier to deal with him one on one, because he has what he's always seeking; your undivided attention.

I walked along the toy aisle with each of the boys, and of course they both had to stop and push every demo button in the store. They both wanted to pick out the most awesome toy ever for their brother, which made me very proud. Lucas picked a black knight on a horse for Nico, and Nico picked the game Operation for Lucas. I think both boys will be happy come Christmas morning. Nico insisted on hiding Lucas's present until Christmas morning, so he wouldn't even be able to guess that it was a game. He wants it to be a complete surprise.

Last year the boys told each other before Christmas what they had picked out. This year I think they will do better at keeping the secret. For one, they only have to hold out for two more days, versus last years two weeks. Also, they have clever cover stories. If asked, Lucas will tell Nico that he bought him Ice, and Nico will tell Lucas he bought him a Nerf gun.

Woo-Hoo, only two more days until Christmas. I think I'm probably more excited than the boys.