Happiness is Homemade - I Steal my Kids Toys...

In our house, we have many signs speaking words of truth, kindness, and inspiration. In our kitchen, one of these signs states "Happiness is Homemade" (get it).

One day a couple of summers ago my son had a major bail on his balance bike and what made him feel better and get a smile on his face was a little toy my daughter found on the side of the road, which I quickly named as "Chief KukaMahalaMahalaMaha" (say that 5 times fast)

Meet the Chief

A few days later I happened to step on the chief, following a series of expletives I'm sure, I decided to place the chief in the middle of the sign in the kitchen. I promptly let my spawn know that this is what happens with any little toys I find laying on the floor...they will become mine and live on the sign for eternity.

Well...over the years the sign has accumulated a number of small toys received through Kinder Surprises, Happy Meals, Birthday Party Loot Bags, Dollar Store Hauls...who knows...

Of course, I can make some fun scenes with these little gems...

Sometimes I catch my kids longingly staring at the sign, I feel bad, and give them one back knowing very well it will end up on the floor within minutes anyway and can take its rightful place back.

Just to think, none of this would be possible if my son hadn't injured himself. Everything happens for a reason :)

Looks like I need a bigger sign.....