Birthdays, TV ads, and "That's it?"

Ethan turns 4 years old today, and his understanding an

d expectations for his birthday have matured along with his discerning television viewing habit. This morning, he was allowed to open one small present (which, admittedly, was something left over from a "going out of business" sale at a now defunct toy store). To suggest he was underwhelmed by the dual guns that shoot foam discs is an understatment ("That's it?") but also a testament to the effectiveness of television marketing during his favorite shows. He wants the Lego Miner (pictured). He also wants a remote control dinosaur because a classmate brought his $300 Christmas dinosaur to school

this week for "D" week. Ethan's $3.99 dinosaur (hey it does roar) that I got at an airport gift shop didn't really compare. So, he will get a little bigger and a bit more expensive present later today. In addition, he will get his birthday party next Sunday at Chuck E Cheese. But, I guess "that's it."

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