In a classic time when the “Clapper” was still something you could buy via a toll-free number and Empire Carpet ads still featured real people, the Chia Pet was really that gift that supposedly everyone got, but no one really wanted-like an 80′s equivalent to the fruit cake. However, one small Hoosier always dreamed of having her own Chia Pet, but never received one from Santa.
UNTIL THIS YEAR
My mom totally pulled out all the stops and got me for Christmas not one, but TWO Chia Pets. She found a ChiaElephant at a thift store (just the planter, no seeds), and then, at the “never say die” retail chain that is Kmart, we totally found a ChiaKitten on sale for $7, fulfilling two-fold my childhood dreams of plant-pet ownership.
Happy Birthday, Baby Jesus! And a Happy New Year!