When the weather starts to cool and Christmas draws near, my thoughts go something like this:  what cool toys or clothes should we get the kids?  What on earth should I tell the Grandparents?  They don’t really need any MORE toys! So as summer wore on and turned to fall, I tried my hardest to write down those gift ideas- more practical in nature- that I was sure to forget by the time winter arrived.  On this list I tried to include fun but practical gifts, often the things my kids were begging for on our camping or climbing trips. I also included some of my favorite outdoor items, as this maybe the time to get them! Maybe this list will only be helpful for me but I figured I would share it in case there is another struggling holiday shopper out there… 10. New Ski/Snow Pants 9. Compressible camping pillows 8. New backpack for bringing all those toys hiking! 7. Sleeping bags 6. Base layers - for skiing in the winter and camping in the summer 5. Camelbak Kid’s Water Bottle 4. Kids Climbing Harness 3. Climbing Chalk Bag 2. Slippers 1. Headlamps And here are a few sites I have found some great deals at: www.backcountry.com www.mountaingear.com www.departmentofgoods.com