We're in the midst of decluttering before our move & I've come across a dilemma, what do you do about gifts, particularly for younger children, that you're just not sure they're going to enjoy when they're older. My grandmother is a very sweet woman, she has very good intentions and LOVES my kids. She has a curious eye for unusual things. For example she found a pillow for dd (20 months) that has a doll head sewn into it. Personally, it kind of creeps me out, but it's not mine, it's dd's. WWYD?

I have some things like that. Dh actually built a large sturdy shelf into the top of my bedroom closet. I store them far in the back for 'just in case' and now that shelf has also become where I store my Christmas gifts since I buy all year. It is almost full already actually with items I've been purchasing since the after christmas sales in January lol. That shelf is designated for things being saved for gifts at a later date so I don't consider it 'clutter'. It is the space set aside for those things.
does that help at all?

I'm ruthless. I have donated things with tags still on them. Other people can enjoy them even if we do not. When kids are little and don't know, it's gone. Clothes, toys, stuffies etc. Believe me, when they get older and know what grandma gave, you'll at least be glad you don't have all the stuff from years gone by.

Also, start getting her name on the mailing lists for stuff you do like. Lots of people would buy more natural, classic, and fewer items, if they knew they existed. And always, always, talk about how much an aquarium, zoo or children's museum membership would be appreciated. "Zen loves to watch the turtles at the aquarium. He wishes he could go every day! We're saving up for a membership" etc. Give the names of books your child *loved* when you went to the library etc.

The doll head goes, imo. If it's asked for , a simple, "It's here somewhere' will suffice.

Out out out **** spot.

"Other people can enjoy them even if we do not."

I totally agree!!!

"Lots of people would buy more natural, classic, and fewer items, if they knew they existed."

Not my family! They say "Why should I buy this natural item for too much money in their opinion when I could buy tons more junk made in China?" Bwa ha ha ha!

I can't imagine looking at a Nova Natural or Magic Cabin catalogue and not feel "Wow, what beautiful stuff". lol People who aren't like us are crazy. ;)

Laurie~ You crack me up! :heart:

Thanks for all the suggestions, Mamas! I think I'm going to part w. the doll head & get Grandma on some mailing lists LOL :p