Birthday shopping in the model kit aisle

On the wish list ... for next year

Just before Halloween, the kids and I were in Hobby Lobby for costume shopping, when we were sidetracked by my son's preferred location in the store -- the model kit aisle. (Revisit that moment here.) Today I was back looking for birthday party activity ideas -- "Can it be an Egypt theme, Mom?" -- when I stopped in the same aisle for present buying. The beloved Big Boy locomotive kit is still there, but, honestly, I'm just not ready for the many, many, many pieces. So, it's going to be a Power Trains birthday, and I'm thrilled to report, not only does Hobby Lobby stock Power Trains, but they also accept the 40-percent off coupon from their weekly ad for them. Joy! There's hope that my budget may survive the Christmas season! 

Itasca: America's Best Train shop

This Christmas elf had some shopping to do at America's Best Train, Toy & Hobby Shop in Itasca today. It's half model-railroad hobby shop, half uber-toy store. Absolutely wonderful. While I was pondering my purchases, my daughter was delighting in the playroom, which is filled -- truly filled -- with play tables: Thomas, Chugginton, Calico Corners, and several high-end European toys all there for fun. Worth a stop!