My fondest childhood memories tend to center around experiences and people. I do remember some favorite toys,  but when I think back on special Christmas memories, in particular, they are more about the situation than opening presents.

I remember taking turns hanging the special German ornaments on the tree, getting picked as “Santa” to pass out presents on Christmas morning and watching my mom cook in the kitchen. I remember long road trips to visit family. Even my memories of the most special gifts – like my Cabbage Patch Kid doll named “Shelly” – are embedded with other important details like my cousin Shana visiting that Christmas.

I guess that’s why I enjoy taking the boys to go and do things. I like to think that we are building lifelong memories right now. These outings are the makings of “remember when” tales years down the road. Right now, it doesn’t matter to them if the ticket price is $5 or $35 – or free! – they just enjoy exploring and doing something new. That’s why I’m taking the older three to the Dr Pepper Museum tomorrow for a special morning just for kids. They’ll get to make crafts, play games, have snacks and even mix their own soda concoction. What better way for three boys to bond on a Saturday morning? The little two and I will go to the Mayborn Museum and see the huge train exhibit on display for the holidays. Everyone is excited about it, and that makes me happy.

Besides, it’s not just about exposing them to things that will build happy memories. That’s a big part of it, of course, but there’s another reason. The more they have the chance to do/touch/hear/see, the more open they might be to decisions they have to make as they grow up. If they’ve seen science in action, then it’s not as intimidating! If they’ve touched a fossil imprint, then they can imagine digging it up. If they’ve talked to an astronaut via radio while they were in space, then it’s easier to envision being the one up there. If they can walk up to a jet and touch it, they might want to fly one. If they can mix and match soda syrups to create their own soft drink … well, who knows? But it’ll be fun.