the whole is greater than the sum of its parts

I remember hearing this saying about a band once, in the 80's and thought it was a pretty interesting saying.

I think it applies to the strong willed girl's christmas gifts this year.  A few years ago, Grandpa and Grandma got her a little kitchen.  It had plates, cups and bowls, but that's it.  She really only started playing with it seriously this year.  This Christmas, Grandpa and Grandma got the kids a small table and chairs.  Santa brought them cooking utensils, pots and pans and wooden food.  All were very much enjoyed.

However, the thing that brought them all together was the tent cafe complete with door and awning that Nonna gave the kids.  We took the tent upstairs, put it over the kitchen (so now the tent has an indoor kitchen) and put the table and chairs under the awning.  The strong willed girl and the little red haired boy both proceeded to cook, serve meals (even espresso!) and generally entertain themselves in their bedroom without me having to be there!  Brilliant!  While the other gifts were great on their own, the tent/cafe really brought everything together.  I will have to thank Nonna profusely the next time I see her.  This gift just hit it out of the ballpark.