My sister-in-law Brittany is obsessed with neutrals—her whole world is beige, gray, oatmeal, and “greige.” From her living room to her wardrobe to her Instagram feed, everything looks like it was dipped in a soft filter. But her five-year-old son, Evan, is the complete opposite—full of life, energy, and a love for bright, joyful colors. So when I spotted a bold red, yellow, and blue toy car that Evan had pointed out in a toy store, I knew it was the perfect birthday gift. He lit up when he saw it, but Brittany?

Her face went stiff. No smile, no thank you. Just a cold, dismissive, “It doesn’t really match our home’s aesthetic.” She set the car aside like it was a mistake. Evan’s little face fell, and it broke my heart. That night, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. Evan deserved better. So I made a plan: for Christmas,