Oh yes, it’s that time of year. Again.

The thing is, it so much easier to not buy shoes for ourselves, because we can technically make do with what we’ve already got. But for kids? Unless they plan on going barefoot, there isn’t much of a choice. New footwear is a must at some point during the year. Here are some suggestions in time for the start of the new school year.

Vans Kids – Classic Slip-On Timeless styling that the kids of today just happen to love.

Converse Kids – Chuck Taylor All Star Slip and
Converse Kids – Chuck Taylor All Star Ox Whether they like the version with or without shoelaces, this classic is always in style.

Aster Kids – Aster USA This cute and well-made Mary Jane will probably outlast her ability to fit into it. Comes in lots of colors!

Roxy Kids – Princeton Fun and funky, this fashionable sneaker will be sure to make her happy.

Born Kids – Luna A well-constructed, sturdy shoe that doesn’t sacrifice on looks.

Jumping Jacks – Cheerleader III Who doesn’t love a saddle shoe? Goes perfectly with school uniforms!

Kenneth Cole Reaction Kids – Jump-Ster Comfortable, and goes with just about any outfit!

Puma Kids – Espera Glitter FS For the fashionista who isn’t averse to taking a little risk, these shoes have a big payoff.

Superga Kids – Genova Hook and Loop Available in some very cute prints, these canvas shoes are a favorite of Violet Affleck!

Roxy Kids – Bella I personally love these shoes, they were given unanimous five-star ratings from all reviewers!

Ecco Kids – Jade A bit spendy, but worth the price. On sale, too!

God, I hope his name was James. He bought me lunch, you’d think I could make a point of remembering. At this point in Blogathon, however, 20 hours in, I’m lucky if I can remember how to use the alphabet.

In any case, James, while appreciating a good snark and laugh as much as the next man, specifically requested that I post something genuinely moving tonight, and as I was sifting through my Tumblr for blog fodder, I found this video, and played it.

And I started to cry.

So here, James. This aught to do it even if you HAVEN’T stayed up all night. Behold one of the living natural treasures of the West Coast, Shane Koyczan, performing his spoken word poetry on Beethoven.

This is a Blogathon post. Don’t just sit there, SPONSOR ME!