I've heard there is going to be a toy shortage this Christmas due to the issues with toys coming out of China. Has anyone else heard this theory?

Sorry, no.  Heck, if China's gonna be sending us tainted products, then I'm glad there will be a shortage.  I'm all for personalized giving for Christmas anyway.  Make it an "I Made It" holiday.

I like that idea. My roommate in college said that her family was completely broke one year. so, they drew names and had to make something for the person they made and then tell each person in the family why they were special to them. She said it was the best Christmas ever!

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Little teacup

I have defintiely heard of the recall, but, as far as I know, my children don't lick their toys! I'm not too concerned about it.

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What a wonderful world

I hate to be cynical, but our kids don't really need that many toys anyway. Have you heard of the Three Wisemen philosophy? It goes something like this: if three gifts were good enough for Jesus, they'll be good enough for you!

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Old Glory

I have heard that one, but I don't know how my kids would take it. I wish I'd heard about it when they were younger. I'm afraid it may put a serious damper on Christmas if I went that route at this point.

I haven't heard that but I know it is a little trick they play every year.  They find out what is most popular and send "not enough" Remember Tickle Me Elmo that is now every where you look?  Once the holiday is over they suddenly have a ton of them.  Why??  So you will spend more money.  Chances are you bought them a ton of gifts to replace that popular item so now you are just buying more.  I buy my present through out the year so I don't have to worry about the holiday rush.

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"We Need more Monkeys!!"