I admit it, I hate Toys-R-Us. I was driven to going there this year, not once, not twice, but three times. Each time I walked out with nothing in my hand and a headache for my troubles. In the end I ordered what I wanted online. Did you know Toys-R-Us has a Dora doll with a definite raise in the chest area. Isn’t she supposed to be all of six years old? Really, why can’t little kid dolls resemble little kids? Okay, a little off track. Sorry.

It is unusual for me to be driven to Toys-R-Us as there are awesome toy stores in Tucson. If, I’d had enough lead time I know several of them would have ordered what I wanted for me too. I like Yikes for the quirky stuff (I’m going there for a few stocking fillers for everyone in the family) Ms. Tiggy Winkles for the really fanciful stuff, music and events and Kids Center for their incredible book collection, wide toy selection, musical toys, and dolls. I love the incredible customer service and that all three are locally owned. I also love Kids Center and Ms. Tiggy Winkles because they’re easy biking distance for me. I hear Mildred and Dildred’s is awesome too, but that is in La Encantada, the fancy shopping center and a bit of a drive.

Every year Kids Center, located just North of Pima on the west side of Swan (Oh, how I love this store), has a countdown to Christmas sale. Today it is 20% of all games and puzzles, tomorrow 20% of Calico Critters (I personally don’t get this, but my daughter loves them). Wednesday is 20% of all Playmobil products. Thursday 40%, yes you read that right, 40% of all Christmas books, seasonal items and 2011 calendars and finally on Friday 20% of EVERYTHING in the store. So if you’re looking for last minute gifts my advice is to skip the Toys-R-Us headache and get ye over to one of our fabulous local toy stores.

Happy Holidays,

TucsonMama’s Sidekick