It’s not an unfamiliar scene on Convivia. It’s the night before a present giving event, and Vick and I are wondering if we should run out and get one or two more things. “We have Ruby’s presents (the most substantial expenditures this year at $24), and my 6” handmade felt pterodactyl, and… that’s it."
Our cultural programming was going haywire. I pretty much assume that a birthday or christmas is going to run ~$300/kid when it’s all said and done. Was this going to be the worst birthday ever?
We’ve told our kids over and over that it’s experience, connection, and purpose that make us most happy. Stuff, we assure them, only gives you a temporary boost, but it comes at a price. This birthday was going to be the ultimate test of whether Olive buys into this part of the family ethos. And if Olive has a love language, it’s gifts!
And there you have it. It’s hard to say whether or not this was the “best birthday ever” but when Vick and I saw this little girl’s unqualified joy, any thoughts of gift inadequacy evaporated. For Olive, it seems, the thought and love that went into her tiny hand made presents outstripped all other considerations.