It happens every year. We vow to start holiday shopping in September. Next thing we know, we’re knee deep in turkey leftovers.

So we asked the pros at Gift Hero for a wish list any kid would love. And wouldn’t you know it? They saved the day.

Apple Park Organic Soft Blocks, $30
We’ve got a soft spot for the ecofriendly blocks you can mush, smash, and stack. Plus, when you jiggle, shake, or squeeze it, each block makes a different sound.

Green Toys Fire Truck, $25
This fire engine may look red, but it’s as green as they come: It’s made entirely of recycled milk containers.

Butterfly Alphabet Puzzle, $37
Your hungry caterpillar will fly across the room to interlock the colorful puzzle pieces, some with letters.

Zoob Jr. Express, $35
Building planes, trains, and automobiles is a snap with the easy-to-use construction set. Instructions for 28 vehicles are included or just let his imagination soar.

Recycled Cardboard Dollhouse, $30
Little designers (and bossy types) can decorate their dream houses with markers, stickers, and punch out furniture.

Zolo Blanko, $24
With this toy that is part construction set, part art project, kids can paint, draw on, and otherwise decorate plastic pieces and use them to build anything they want. It’s a blanko slate.

Find more gifts online at gifthero.com.

BUY
Satsuma Designs
What: Locally designed line of bamboo blankets, clothing, and other snuggly baby gear ($8-$85).
Why: Wrap your little tiger in a hooded Wild Friends towel after a bath.
When: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Tottini, 259 Yale Ave. N. (206-254-0400); online at satsumadesigns.com.

SPARKLE
I’m Dreaming of a Pink Christmas
What: Moms and tykes learn to make magnets and feather trees, then snack on cupcakes with Entertaining at Home author Alexandra Hedin.
Why: Easy tips on decking the halls without having to go all Martha.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Albert Lee Appliance, 1038 116th Ave. NE, ste. 370, Bellevue (425-451-1110). Participation is free.

REWIND
19th-Century Christmas Celebration
What: Get a look back in time with stories and old-fashioned dances.
Why: Freshly baked cookies never go out of style.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, Point Defiance Park, 5400 N. Pearl St., Tacoma (253-591-5339). Adults, $6; children 13-17, $4; children 4-12, $3.

Photo: Courtesy of Gifthero