The Stapler of Christmas 2009

In the category of 'funniest thing ever'- Carter got very into the whole season this year and wrapped up, by himself, many household items to give to people.  Like last week he insisted I open 'my' present, which turned out to be a wooden toy train from the playroom.  This has made Garrett FURIOUS.  He'll say things like, "THAT IS NOT A PRESENT!"  or he will roll his eyes.  Carter just kind of grins through it all, and keeps going.  I think he kind of likes making Garrett crazy.

Well the day before we left for Idaho, I realized that Carter was very quiet (never a good sign) and that I heard the ripping of paper.  I ran into the family room to see what he was doing, and he was working diligently to wrap this stapler for . . . Garrett.  Keep in mind, this is not a new stapler.  This is our family stapler- that Garrett, and all of us, use ALL the time.

He had used about a pound of tape, and torn wrapping paper into little bits to cover it all.  The 'damage' was done, and I still had a ton of baking, wrapping, and laundry to do before I left, so I let him have at it!  (After a few photos, naturally.)

So come Christmas morning, this 'present' was put into Garrett's pile.  He ignored it and ignored it, and at the very end, when this pitiful package was the last thing unopened, he flat out refused to do it.  I had him come close to me for one of my famous 'Come to Jesus' talks which included words like 'grateful' and phrases like, "How would you feel?" and "Let him be three!"  After which, Garrett sat down and with as much tact as he could muster (more than you'd expect for G, but not quite an appropriate amount), he opened the present.

Carter was thrilled.  I personally think that smile was more of an "I won!" face than an "I just gave my brother the perfect gift!" face, but either way, it was pretty hilarious.