"Recycling" Christmas

[limewave]

We bought some presents for DD (5) but DS (19mos) really needed a winter coat/boots etc. We ran out of $ to get DS toys. While I was up in the attic last night, I found a bunch of DDs toys from when she was a toddler. They've been in the attic for 2.5 years. Perfect!

I'm going to clean 'em up, make sure all the batteries work and wrap them up for DS so Santa can deliver them

However, a lot of these toys were given to DD from grandparents/aunts/uncles. And some of them come over Christmas morning. I have no idea how to approach them about this. I don't want them to be offended, the gifts were from them--not us, they aren't for us to "re-gift." And I know some of them will be upset about this.

However, I do feel good about not buying a bunch more plastic toys that will be used for a few weeks then stashed in the attic for eternity.

[maillotpois]

I think it is a great idea - think of the reduction in waste, not to mention the $. I would hope people would not be upset about this - their well-intended gifts are going to be enjoyed even longer.

[sfa]

a) They ARE yours to re-gift--that's what re-gifting is.

b) Most likely the relatives won't remember exactly what they gave to who. I don't have a lot of nieces and nephews, and I have a good memory, but I couldn't tell you what I gave to who even a year ago, let alone three or more.

c) If they do remember and lack the sense to keep their mouths shut, you could always go with the not-quite-a-lie: "DD loved that toy so much, we wanted DS to have the fun of the same toy." That's true, as far as it goes, but leaves open the possibility that the one DD had is long gone and this one is brand new.

[tulip]

What a great idea, Limewave. Just smile and offer more eggnog to whoever gets uppity about it.

[NbyNW]

You could also say that the gifts are from DD to DS. Could be a good lesson in sharing/passing our precious things on to siblings or others who will enjoy/love them.

Maybe you could get DD in on it, too. Yes, we get gifts from Santa. But we also give gifts to those we love.

[Biciclista]

I don't expect the adults will mind. It's not like you are throwing out gifts or selling them on ebay! you are using them for your second child.