As kids, we know Christmas is all about the toys. What did you get, what did your siblings get, what did your friends get? The anticipation to present opening was overwhelming to me. Fortunately, my family opened presents on Christmas Eve, so I didn't have to spend a sleepless night, although it made for an anxious day. Occasionally, my mom would break down and let us open one present early.
But let's take a step back from the actual day (or eve). Christmas really started for me around September when the Sears and J.C. Penney's catalogs arrived in the mail.
I immediately perused their contents, flipping quickly to the back where all the treasures awaited. With pen in hand, I began circling what I wanted, never considering the price, size or age-appropriateness. I'll admit, I aimed high, many times knowing I wouldn't get my circled desires. There was always the largest slot car set, a train, or the latest electronic gadget. But Christmas is about dreams, right?
I hit a sale this summer that didn't show much promise and to be honest, I almost didn't go in. But I know "you never know", so I committed to it. I found a few things of passing interest before heading to the basement. It was a cluttered, dark space, but there was enough down there to pique my interest.
At the end of the basement, I found a closet door. Opening it, I was stunned to see stacks of vintage games and toys. Among those were some I recalled circling in a catalog long ago. I built my pile and took it to the owner. He charged me $2 a piece and I was delighted to pay.
I've paired up some of the toys from that sale along with their catalog entry that I had once circled.
Shoot Out in Space:
