joy bucket

Nothing Beats the Heat Like a Dragon Pool

2010-06-30T20:21:00.001-07:00

Well according to the manufacturer it's a crocodile, but my little one calls it her "dragona" pool. I think a dragon is more exotic and fun, so that's what it is. She's having lots of fun climbing her dragon's tail and sliding in. I think she is a little disappointed that I won't follow her lead but the manufacturer states that no one over 110 pounds should use the blow up slides and I'm taking their word on that point.

What a Difference a Year Makes

2010-06-30T20:15:00.000-07:00

Last year she wouldn't even get in her tiny wading pool. She would help fill it with water and then put her hands in and play with the water from the side of the pool or maybe if she was feeling brave walk in it. This year she is not only more than happy to be in the pool, she is taking up most of the pool. When she tries to get down and swim she has to scrunch up her legs and gets frustrated. Not to fear, we are upgrading to Wading Pool 2.0! See next post.

The middle photo is the little one showing me how to dive. Opps! No diving in the shallow end! I really don't know where she learns certain things.

Home Is Where the Heart Is

2010-05-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

This embroidery by Ana Ventura would make a lovely Mother's Day or house warming gift. N'est pas? Visit her shop to see more lovely gift ideas.

On a personal note, I've been drawing a lot of houses lately. The little one insists I put a house in each of our drawings. I always put a little heart in the eaves of the house, so this piece makes me think of our time drawing together. I draw, Little Miss Bossy dictates content. I'll have to post one of our creations.

For Your Little Dreamer

2010-05-05T21:57:00.000-07:00

I think this print would be so sweet in a small child's room. I know I want my little one to be surrounded with affirmative and uplifting thoughts. In fact, I think the little one inside all of us could use more positive messaging in our lives.

There's plenty of positive and loving messages at The Love Shop.

My Little Helper

2010-05-02T19:21:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud of my little one, for many reasons, but what stood out today is what a good little helper she is. She helps me when I empty the dishwasher, she helps me when I clean and when I cook. She can assemble the dinner salads by herself. She helps dry the lettuce in the spinner and then divies up the ingedients I give her. Sometimes the salads are a little uneven but extra delicious because of the love that goes in to them.

Today she out did herself and helped me mulch the garden. I was filling a big bucket and she wanted to help carry it. The bucket was practically as big as she is, so I gave her a little plastic pot to fill. She went back and forth from the mulch pile to the garden beds as many times as I did. Finally she got tired and retired to the porch for some ice tea with Grandma. Despite the over-sized hat she insisted on wearing, she was red from the heat and covered with dust from the mulch. It broke our hearts. After a nice cooling shower we went out for ice cream. A little reward for a very good girl.

Teeny Tiny Fashion

2010-05-02T19:16:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure if kids designed their own clothing it would look very much like JK Lange's designs for her Teenytini line. All of the pieces are crocheted using natural fibers to be super comfy for the little ones. Teenytini sizes run from 0-24 months. Hmm, I bet there are a lot of jealous three year olds out there.

Flower Shopping & Puddles

2010-04-27T20:22:00.000-07:00

I realize a two and a half year old can have fun anywhere as long as there are puddles to walk through. I want to be a two year old at heart and for my little one to keep her sense of joy and love of little things as she grows up.

Cool Paper Plate Weaving

2010-04-27T16:49:00.000-07:00

It's really amazing what kids can do when you give them a great project and cool materials. I want to try this paper plate weaving project from Fem Manuel with my little one when she gets a bit older. In the meantime I could see giving it a try myself.

There is a downloadable pdf with instructions at Fine Little Day and a more photo's on Fem Manuel's flicker stream.

Earth Day

2010-04-23T19:35:00.000-07:00

Our Earth Day was quiet and included a drive through Califon NJ. Here's a bit of what we saw as we hit the back roads. We took a turn down the Raritan River Road and enjoyed an up close view of the river. I got a kick out of seeing how residents hang hammocks on the river side of the road. A nice benefit of river front property.

Sleepy Snake and Mischievous Mouse by Mochimochi

2010-04-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

I'd like to think snake and mouse have an agreement and nobody gets hurt in this relationship. I'm also betting that their matching toupees are a sign of a true and lasting friendship.

These two characters are just a few of the wonderful and imaginative creatures created by Anna of Mochimochi. Luckily you can purchase patterns from the Mochimochi shop and knit your own menagerie. You can also see more of Anna's creations and see what's she is up to on her blog.

Violets are Blooming in the Lawn

2010-04-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year when violets are scattered throughout the lawn. Soon they will disappear and the regular lawn mowing will prevent them from coming back until next spring. Every year I dig a few patches up and try and establish them in the rock garden or a pot in our back garden. I'm having some success and a bunch that I planted in an herb pot have come back along with a few patches in our front rock garden. I hope they just keep spreading.

Spring on a String

2010-04-08T13:09:00.000-07:00

This mushroom and butterfly necklace by Woodland Belle perfectly captures spring for me and the magic of miniature worlds. I like the way she describes how each necklace is made by hand and how she carefully paints the dots on the mushrooms. You can tell a lot of love goes into these necklaces.

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2010-04-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

We have begun our gardening for the year. We started by planting some seeds for our sunflower garden. We still have another little green house to fill. Our sunflowers were so beautiful last year that I want to double their number this summer.

As we were working on this project together yesterday, I was struck by how much my little one has grown in the past year. Last year I did all the planting by myself and she helped with watering and making mud puddles. This year I have a full blown helper. She helped poke the holes for the seeds and put all the seeds in the soil. And who knows maybe she will really mow the lawn one day. Oh how our children grow.

There's Some Bunny for Everyone

2010-04-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

I'm not a big fan of pass along emails, but leave it to my friend Susie to send one that actually made me smile. The title was "Beware of Identity Theft This Easter", but I prefer "There's Some Bunny for Everyone". These pairings are so cute, I fear I could find myself at a pet store. Must repeat "No bunnies, no bunnies, bunnies bite, no bunnies."

Hunting for Easter Eggs

2010-04-06T10:11:00.000-07:00

"Eggs!". That's what my little one said when she looked out the front door and saw that the Easter Bunny had stopped by. I was so happy she was happy and also that the weather was so great, we were able to take the hunt outdoors. It was so much prettier seeing the eggs tucked in the plants and around the yard. And it was nice not to have to run around like mad trying to clean the house. Yeah for warm weather and living outdoors again.

Lost in the Pattern

2010-03-30T21:37:00.000-07:00

When I was little I had a summer blanket with a pattern of children and kites on it. I really loved that blanket. It was like another world. I can remember being in my bed one summer afternoon, I had been crying for some reason, and I lost myself in the pattern of my blanket. I remember carefully studying all of the little children and different kite styles and wondering what it would be like to be in that blanket's little world before floating off to sleep.

These fabrics from the children's fabric section of Super Buzzy remind me of my blanket and also that I need to get a sewing machine. I could spend hours going through the Super Buzzy site, not to mention spend a fortune on all the great fabric and notions.
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The Easter Bunny Needs to Get Her Act Together

2010-03-30T10:12:00.000-07:00

I should be using this rainy day to get my Easter Bunny act together and dye some eggs and assemble the little one's basket. I've already made a little basket of flowers for our Easter table (top two photos) which just needs an egg or two as the finishing touch.

Unfortunately, the idea of blowing out a dozen eggs right now has zero appeal. Said little one shows no sign of napping yet and I want her basket to be a surprise. It's amazing how hard it is to get anything past a two and half year old.

The beautiful red and white eggs in the bottom photo are from Hungary. I'm hoping they will inspire me to rally and take on those eggs later this afternoon. Now I'm thinking a rainy day nap may be in order.

Stuck Inside

2010-03-30T09:57:00.001-07:00

One of my daughter's favorite words right now is "stuck". When she wants me to do something and starts pushing and pulling me she says "stuck". When she tries to steal my diet ice tea and can't take off the top she says "stuck". When she tries to unzip my makeup bag and get a hold of my lipsticks and eye shadows she says "stuck". Thank goodness for "stuck", especially when it comes to the makeup.

As I'm writing this, she just announced she is "stuck" in her bin of books. Unfortunately, it continues to pour outside and we are "stuck" inside. Rain, rain go away and take the mud with you so we can get unstuck and play outside.

Creature Love

2010-03-18T21:19:00.000-07:00

These creatures from Donna Wilson just make me happy. It would be hard not to smile more and have lots of fun with these guys around. I want the whole lot of them. You can see more of Donna's wonderful creatures here.

123 We Love Our Numbers

2010-03-12T16:07:00.000-08:00

My two and a half year old is suddenly very into numbers and gets excited whenever or where ever she sees them. The other day we ended up taking multiple tickets at the deli counter because of course they have numbers on them. She made me take all of the returned tickets from a little bin where you can put your number after it's been called. So we happily headed off with our cold cuts and a whole bunch of numbers. She loves her numbers and I love this origami number project by Kristen Sutcliffe and want to make a version for my daughter.

You can get how to info on how to make your own framed numbers here and find full instructions on how to fold the numbers at the Origami Club website. Origami Club is such a fun site and has easy to understand instructions. There also animations to help clarify the diagrams and lots of categories including numbers, letters, classic origami patterns and holiday related patterns. I've already tried folding a couple of the numbers and my daughter really loved them.

Grow Games Can Really Grow On You

2010-03-11T18:46:00.000-08:00

I introduced my nieces and nephew to Grow Games a few years ago after someone at work emailed the link around. I was surprised how much they enjoyed these quirky flash games. They are not your typical kid games where characters go through an obstacle course and shoot at or get shot at. Instead you simply chose objects in various orders and see what kinds of reactions are generated. If you find the optimal order more happens or grows. They are simple yet hard to explain.

The other day my niece reminded me of them and wanted to play one on my computer. We chose Grow Cube. After her visit I found myself still playing. I took this screen capture so I could show her how far I got next time she visits.

Little Liberty of London

2010-03-09T15:03:00.000-08:00

I can't wait to see the newest Target collaboration with Liberty of London. I've been scouting the web for previews of the line and found this little bathing suit. I'm adding it to the list of items I'll hopefully be dropping in my basket on March 14th!

Spring Starts Indoors

2010-03-05T12:29:00.000-08:00

While we wait for winter to release its hold, we are cultivating a little spring indoors. We have two oxalis plants which now have little flowers. The purple one is about fifteen years old and the green one is new this year. They each have there own little mushrooms courtesy of Target. As much as I try and resist adding more stuff to our house, these little mushrooms found their way into my cart. I rationalized that it was okay to get them because they would live in the planters and not take up any additional space. Sketchy reasoning but I think they are pretty magical.

I'm Melting or Goodbye Snowman 2010

2010-03-05T12:21:00.000-08:00

Here is the last little bit of our snowman of 2010. If you look closely you can see the carrot from his nose and the black rocks from his eyes and buttons. Goodbye little guy. You were an oddly shaped but excellent snowman. We'll miss you.

Two Cute Acorns

2010-03-04T15:21:00.000-08:00

More amigurumi adorableness from PlanetJune. I must learn how to make amigurumi. I must. These little acorns are over-the-top cute and how perfect is it that they slip out of their caps? There is a free pattern to follow at PlanetJune's great site for those of you already versed in the ways of amigurumi.

Another Snowy Day and King's Cake

2010-02-16T18:36:00.000-08:00

My daughter woke me up today and announced it was snowing. This winter reminds me of the winters from my childhood which seemed longer and colder and just more wintry than those of recent years. I'm enjoying having snow on the ground for days and the fact that our snowman is still standing after almost a week (all though a little worse for the wear). Also, I love how different details stand out in a snow covered environment.

Tufted Titmice and Chickadees, which might go unseen by us in the summer, are putting on a show of aerial acrobatics outside our window as they jockey for position at the bird feeder. The branches of the trees are like large abstract line drawings against the sky and the deer are moving in tiny herds through the woods. Sometimes they are just tiny silhouettes in the distance and other moments they are suddenly up close peering out of the bushes with giant brown eyes. I'm trying to soak it all in and enjoy this deep winter. We ate King's Cake today to celebrate Mardi Gras which means spring is really just around the corner. Lent starts tomorrow and by the time it ends in forty six days we will be watching the daffodil bloom.

Small Blocks and Desktop Travel

2010-02-12T20:50:00.001-08:00

These house shaped blocks from The Small Object made me think of one of my all time favorites places - Iceland. I would like to have them on my desk to play with and let my mind travel when I need a moment to escape. The Lines + Patterns Blocks tuck neatly away in a tiny tin box making it easy to store what ever worlds you conjure up when you need more room on your desk. It should be noted they are not intended for small children.

Photo of Reykjavik via Need Beer, Will Travel.

Our Snowman 2010

2010-02-11T20:51:00.001-08:00

After shoveling a path out of the house today, I cleaned off the car and used the snow to build Snowman 2010. Despite having plenty of material to work with, I think he turned out a bit on the stubby side. The snow wasn't packing very well but I was determined. I think my persistence and frozen knees paid off. What he lacks in height he certainly makes up for in girth and personality. I even lent him my hat. My daughter was certainly pleased with him. I'm curious to see if he still has his carrot nose tomorrow.

Amigurumi Love Birds

2010-02-09T22:40:00.001-08:00

Oh no! I looked in my email today and found yet another craft project to tempt me. I've been meaning to try and make an amigurumi creature for over two years now and have yet to get up the courage. I get as far as reading the first few lines of the instructions and give up. Something about crochet instructions always intimidates me. I wish I could find a one day class somewhere to get started. For those with no fear of crochet instructions there is a free pattern for these love birds on the Lion Brand Yarn website.

Sore Throats and Bedtime Reading

2010-02-08T11:50:00.000-08:00

My little one is just recovering from a couple of days of fever and sore throat. It was the first time she ever had a really bad sore throat and it was terrible to see her in pain and having difficulty swallowing. It was also the first time we made an emergency visit to the doctor's office. All that did was confirm she does not like the doctor's office and that trying to give an hysterical child a respiratory treatment is useless. I was somewhat relieved that the doctor did not think the situation was serious. So we headed home and managed with "cine" and "sona"and "book, book". That's Baby Tylenol, soda and bedtime reading in adult speak.

Now, that she's almost back to normal and has the energy to get in trouble, I am truly relieved. I was kicking myself that we never got the N1H1 vaccine and for not being a hand sanitizer junkie. So, when I caught her drawing with chalk on the wall behind her art easel, I just smiled and grabbed the spray cleaner. I also thought while I'm happy that she now wants to read a book at bedtime, that our nighttime reading and her new favorite book "No, David!" might be influencing her in undesirable ways!

Despite having blue chalk all over the wall, I have to highly recommend David Shannon's "No, David!". I think David looks a little scary with his sharp teeth but my daughter loves him and the book. Maybe it is because he does everything naughty imaginable and his mommy still loves him. Go figure.

Sweet as A Rose

2010-02-04T12:16:00.000-08:00

These rose barrettes by Molly at Purl Bee would make a lovely Valentine's gift for all the sweet little and not so little girls I know. Unfortunately, the last thing I need is another craft project, especially since taking on The Babette Blanket. These pretty felt roses look a lot more doable than the blanket right now. I have miles to go on it!

I've downloaded the free PDF pattern for the barrettes, so who knows, maybe I'll break down and dig out the felt I know is in the closet and try one. It certainly couldn't take as long as the blanket.

Sore Throats and Legos

2010-02-04T10:01:00.000-08:00

Our plans were derailed today by sore throats. We missed our swim class because of the frog in the little ones throat. Instead we are playing with a crazy assortment of inherited Mega Bloks and Lego Duplo Blocks. There are definitely some Dora the Explorer and Bob the Builder pieces mixed in. We don't have the original boxes or all of the pieces so we are using our imaginations to create our own wild creations. I think we're doing just fine.

Learning to Love Bob Bob

2010-01-18T19:22:00.000-08:00

Bob Bob or Spongebob as he is known to most of the world somehow has gotten a hold of my two year old's heart. I am not even sure how this happened. It may have been the kids meal toys I collected for her cousin. I ate all the trans fat, he ended up with a full collection of the Spongebob crew. Truthfully, I bought most of them without having to eat the miniature hamburger and fries and of course my little one got some of the toys too. The toys are cute, but I never thought they would lead her into a life of "Bob Bob".

It's not that I don't like Spongebob. I think it is a creative show, however certainly not the educational program of any two year old's parents dreams. Granted she still loves Dora and Elmo (whose name she pronounces "Mono!") Yes, her pronunciation includes the exclamation mark. I think that is a good sign. The fact that she asks, no demands, I draw "Bob Bob" for her may not be. She loves Dora but has never asked me to draw her. What is it about "Bob Bob"?

This new stage may just be remembered as the "Bob Bob Phase". It's symptoms include:
Bossiness
Whining instead of asking
Demanding attention
Hating it when mommy pays attention to anything other than me
Grabbing things out of mommy's hands
Pulling mommy towards what I want
Frustration and mini temper tantrums when things don't go in just the right order
And new favorite phrases "I try, I try" and "I try, I can't, I try."

Luckily it also includes a lot of good stuff like:
Dancing
Sitting and reading books all by myself
Trying to count (Favorite number - two)
Helping mommy with chores.

As frustrating as the terrible twos are, being a parent still just keeps getting better. It breaks my heart when she helps me empty the dishwasher or tries to set the table. Today I was down scrubbing the floor and she got wipes from under the sink and started to help me. That's when I realize her nine year old cousin is probably right when she says "I think B is going to grow up to be a very sweet little girl". She already is. The baby is not a baby anymore, she's a little girl. All sugar and spice and everything nice with a couple of puppy dog tails thrown in.

The Toddler Sensibility: Christmas Tree Decorating

2010-01-15T16:42:00.001-08:00

I was a little lazy when it came to decoraring the Christmas tree this year. In part because I knew from experience that nothing I was going to put together would survive my two year old. Last year at only a year she managed to completely undo the lower branches. I am happy to say this year she did not disappoint. Between piling up pillows from the couch to steal candy canes she managed to get in a little rearranging and even made a few additions. Yes those are plastic french fries tucked in among the branches. I have to say I admire her creativity.

For the Love of Lists

2010-01-13T10:39:00.000-08:00

I have a love hate relationship with lists. I love it when I cross things off my list and hate when it seems things just won't budge. But not all lists have to be "To Do Lists". I gave each of my nieces a copy of "My Listography, My Amazing Life in Lists" by Lisa Nola and Nathaniel Russell for their birthdays. The journal style book provides a series of topics for personalized lists such as "List Your Favorite Things You Own" or "List All The Places You'd Like To Go Someday". Space is provide below each topic and fun illustrations encourage creativity and spark the imagination.

I hope my nieces enjoy the book and take the time to fill the pages. Someday they can look back and peek in on a tiny snap shot of who they were and what they liked, hated, feared, loved and wanted as young girls.

The Corporate Alphabet

2010-01-11T15:58:00.000-08:00

I hate to admit it but my two year old would love this version of the ABCs by Jason Dean. She has yet to learn her alphabet but she is very fluent when it comes to logos. McDonald's is a no brainer. More bizarre is her love of the Optimum logo. She becomes ecstatic every time she sees it. I blame that on the Reggaeton commercials that played incessantly after she was born. But it goes beyond that, the other day she saw my AT&T phone bill and lovingly said "TT!" Should I be upset that she is so fond of our wireless phone carrier or says "car" when she sees a Ford logo? I wonder sometimes if my working in advertising effected her in utero. Was she branded in brands? I'm not going to worry, I'm just hoping her enthusiasm for symbols extends to the alphabet.

The poster is available in two colorways at the The Best Part.

New Year and the Rebirth of Joy Bucket

2010-01-08T09:30:00.001-08:00

It's been more than a little while since I took time to muse here on all good things for and related to children, childhood and the spirit of being young. Now after a nice long healthy break and lots of time spent with my own little one, I'm ready to dive in again and explore through Joy Bucket.

The lovely image Hank above is by the very talented artist Carson Ellis. I think the image would be lovely on a birth announcement or make a wonderful memento of a birth. Checkout her fantastic site where you can browse her portfolio or visit her shop for a selection of cards, tees and cute onesies.

A Word Cloud for My little One

2009-04-22T17:09:00.000-07:00

Here's a word cloud I created using all the words that came to mind about my little one. I realize I forgot "willful" but I had to hurry as she was trying to shut the computer on me while I typed. I guess some "Mommy and Me time" is in order. So I better run, but you can create a word cloud based on your own little one at Wordle.

Sew Cute

2009-04-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

The adorable dress patterns available at Oliver + S may have provided the final inspiration I need to get my sewing machine fixed. I'm in love with the Birthday Party Dress and variations there of. You can see a bunch of versions on the Oliver + S flickr group. Pictured above is the dress pattern completed by Brooke Reynolds of Inchmark.

Gone Fishing with More Good Wood

2009-04-13T07:43:00.000-07:00

One thing I really like about this magnetic fishing set by Jae Keun Song is that no worms are hurt! I used to love fishing as a kid but never really got over having to use worms for our catch and release activities. My brother used to have to bait my line for me and come to think of it, remove the sunfish and catfish I'd reel in. Perhaps, I was never cut out for real fishing.

The set is available at the MoMAstore.

Good Wood by Miller Goodman

2009-04-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous set of puzzle blocks prove wooden toys don't have to be boring and that great toys are ageless. I personally don't think wooden toys are boring in the first place and hate when people say they are. My nephew has outgrown plenty of his plastic toys but one thing he still plays with is a set of wooden blocks. I'm adding these beauties by Miller Goodman to my wish list for my daughter.

The photo above is a promotional photo for the blocks, but may be even more amazing are the images people have created with the blocks and posted on this flickr stream!

Tiny Dancer Tulle Skirts

2009-03-25T12:26:00.000-07:00

These tiered tulle skirts from Gap's Tiny Dancer Collection made me want to dance when I saw them on a recent run through my local Gap. The peep like colors are so happy and sure to suit the color aesthetic of any true toddler. Why do kids get to have all the fun?

Meet Jelly and Wink

2009-03-25T11:50:00.000-07:00

These two tiny bunnies Jelly and Wink and ten tiny bunny friends are waiting at Danielleorama's Etsy shop to find their way into some lucky kids' Easter baskets. I say hurry up while supplies last!

Sweetest Toadstool Tea Set

2009-03-23T18:13:00.000-07:00

This Toadstool Tea Set by Giana Eden reminds me why childhood is so magical. What a lovely centerpiece this set would be for a make believe or real tea party. The set is available exclusively through Mahar Drygoods.

I still have my childhood china tea set with tiny yellow roses and a little white china cabinet to hold it. They were my mother's and she passed them on to me. In a couple of years it will be time for me to pass them down another generation. What a lovely way to give up a possession.

Leprechaun Traps

2009-03-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

I hardly know what we would do with a leprechaun if we caught one, but today is the perfect day to try. Leprechauns are really just naughty little things, more likely to make a mess of your house than to show you where they keep their pot of gold. If however you think you are smart enough to trick one, here's some inspiration for making a leprechaun trap.

The traps pictured were devised by first graders at the Holy Trinity School in Georgetown. The bottom trap has a sticky glue strip next to the gold necklace. A leprechaun glue trap! How diabolical are the minds of first graders.

For further inspiration visit FamilyFun.com which has instructions for making three great traps including the Rainbow Cage Drop. That sounds like a sure fire bet.

Home Sewn Goodness From Smallville

2009-03-11T17:24:00.000-07:00

I wish I had the time to sew clothing for my daughter. Sadly, even if I did set aside the time, I have hopelessly messed up my sewing machine. Sewing machines and art projects have a way of ruining the tension on your machine forever. So, until I have the extra cash to buy a new machine, I'm pretty much limited to sewing buttons on shirts.

Luckily that doesn't mean we can't enjoy some home sewn goodness in our lives. I have my eye on several adorable hand sewn items from the etsy shop Smallville. The pieces are cool and sweet at the same time and have lovely little details. To find out more about the designer Jimin Mannick check out this interview and house tour at BloesemKids.

Italian Lace Hairband by Le Bouton

2009-03-03T07:09:00.000-08:00

I found this photograph from Le Bouton's etsy shop so charming. The combination of the little girl's pose, the lighting and the dove colored lace hairband remind me of a Vermeer painting. The stretch lace hairbands are also available in charcoal and black. The black looks perfect for keeping a little ballerina's hair back during class.

You can find more lovely Le Bouton designs at Le Bouton Catalog.

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

2009-03-02T13:19:00.000-08:00

While everybody loves a snow day, I'm sure my niece is a little upset about missing school today . She was supposed to be celebrating Dr. Seuss's birthday with her entire school. Her grade was assigned to bring in one of their Dr. Seuss books. They were hoping be able to come up with at least one copy of each of his books. The younger kids were getting to wear hats in honor of "The Cat in the Hat".

Speaking of which, my mother bought my daughter "The Cat in the Hat" yesterday for our own little Dr. Seuss celebration. She wanted to get her "Oh, The Places You'll Go", unfortunately they only had the game. Too bad, I loved the hope for her future that choice represented. Maybe Grandma can give it to her for her birthday.

In the meantime, "The Cat in the Hat" is perhaps the perfect introduction to Dr. Seuss since she calls every animal a kitty cat. Oddly enough, if I ask her to bring me her froggy or her duck she does, so some distinction is being made. Who knows, maybe in her world it is species: kitty cat, subspecies: froggy.

The image above is today's Google's masthead in honor of Dr. Seuss.

Real Life Skills For Your Toddler

2009-02-23T11:29:00.000-08:00

Sick of friends bragging about their precocious offspring's foreign language abilities or advanced yoga training? (Guilty yourself?) How about fighting back with some real life skills. Lisa Brown's hysterical Baby Be Useful series includes titles that will have your little one making your breakfast, cleaning the car, doing your banking, and best of all mixing your cocktails! So next time someone brags "My toddler can speak French, Spanish and Mandarin", simply respond, "Great, but can he mix a dirty martini?"

The series is published by McSweeney's and available at The McSweeney's Store and Candy Store Collective.

More Loveliness from Rob Ryan

2009-02-19T13:02:00.000-08:00

Oh, I wish this tile had been available when I was pregnant with my little one! Alas, I'm now gearing up for the terrible twos (I'm already getting a preview at 17 months) and this work by Mr. Ryan is definitely more appropriate for my current situation.

I think this would make a lovely gift for some expectant couple. I wish someone I knew would hurry and get pregnant, so I'd have an excuse to buy one. For those of you who do, the tile is available here.

Legos Make Me Happy

2009-02-19T09:41:00.000-08:00

These sweet Lego cakes made me smile today and I needed it. It's nice to see fun stuff for kids that doesn't cost a fortune to buy or make for that matter.

Found via the inspiration packed Lolita. The recipe is available here at Betty Crocker. Thanks Lolita! Thanks Betty!

A Perfect Little Skirt

2009-02-18T13:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my birthday so it seems perfectly logical that I ended up buying a gift for my daughter, right? Well, I couldn't resist when I saw this vintage looking watercolor skirt at Janie and Jack. (The barrettes also proved irresistible.) I was at the local mall for the sole purpose of exchanging a too small outfit for my niece at Justice and had every intention of just getting in and out as fast as possible. Justice is the kind of store that makes me glad I am the mother of an 17 month old and not a nine year old!

So, when I saw the Janie and Jack store, I happily strayed. I was introduced to the brand by my friend Caryn who bought my daughter a gorgeous coat and beret for her birthday. The quality of everything from the design, to the construction, to the wrapping is lovely. And no logos spelled out in rhinestones. How refreshing!

Signs of Spring

2009-02-16T12:02:00.000-08:00

I'm finding the displays of seed packets in the stores a much needed sign of Spring and uplifting. I'm a sucker for them and can never resist buying a few packets despite my bad luck with raising plants from seed. Last summer I tried in vain to create a sunflower garden for my daughter, only to have my local chipmunk dig up all the seeds and eat them. My second attempt of planting tiny sunflower sprouts, that I had raised in little mini plastic greenhouses, only confirmed that chipmunks like sunflower sprouts as much as they like sunflower seeds.

Now I am looking at a bunch of beautiful seed packets, sunflowers included, and plotting my anti-chipmunk strategies. I know all to well that I'll end up buying ready-to-plant flats at the local nursery, but one can still plant seeds and dream too!

A Playhouse of One's Own

2009-02-10T07:46:00.000-08:00

Wow, talk about any little girl's dream! This rose covered playhouse looks as if it is right out of a fairy tale. My Grandmother had a little playhouse in her back yard that sadly, she used as a shed to store the push lawn mower, etc. It always seemed like such a waste to me.

On my list of things to do for my daughter is to create a real playhouse (no plastic or primary colors) and little garden for her. I'm sure I will need to buy the playhouse (so expensive!) but this photo makes me think that I could take a fairly simple hose and transform it with roses.

There are more wonderful rose covered cottages here.

For the Love of Hedgehogs, Otters and Owls ...

2009-02-04T05:43:00.001-08:00

Hedgehogs kept popping up during my internet travels yesterday. Funny how themes sometimes emerge. I was delighted to find this little hedgehog and his felt animal brooch pals by Kate Broughton. I love how they are more realistic than cute. There's a full menagerie at her Etsy shop.

Punxsutawney Phil vs. the Hedgehogs

2009-02-03T12:07:00.000-08:00

Well it looks as if Punxsutawney Phil was correct in his prediction of six more weeks of winter. It must be nice to put in just one good day of work a year and enjoy job security! However, it turns out this cushy job was not always held by Phil or even a groundhog, but his wee little cousin the hedgehog. According to Hedgehog Central, February 2nd was originally Hedgehog Day, if you go back to Roman Times that is. I'm not sure who to believe, the Hedgehog Day page on Wikipedia has been deleted and now resides on deletionpedia. So while hedgehogs may win in a battle of cuteness, it would appear that Punxsutawney Phil is at no risk of losing his job any time soon.

I Heart TED

2009-01-30T07:44:00.000-08:00

Any parent knows that while their little ones are bundles of joy, they are also the most time consuming things ever invented. A free evening is a rare thing when it comes along and most likely to be spent on catching up with friends or the long list of movies that never get seen. So what about higher culture? I was thinking when was the last time I had time to see a talk or go to a conference? I literally drew a blank. Maybe while I was pregnant.

I actually can't remember which is why I love the TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) website. I don't think I'll be traveling to a TED Conference anytime soon, but I'm still able to engage my thinking brain with their video archive of talks. There is a wonderful selection of topics and speakers all published under a Creative Commons License so they can be reposted and shared at will. TED lives up to its slogan Ideas Worth Spreading.

Best of all, a lot of the videos run about 15 - 20 minutes which means you can squeeze some higher thinking into your day. Thanks TED!

A Little Privacy Please

2009-01-27T20:09:00.000-08:00

Anyone who has every spent any time in the children's section of an IKEA store knows that kids love the PS Lömsk chair. It's almost as popular as the Ball Room. There is always a line of little ones waiting to take their turn in this peek-a-boo enabled seat. I'm looking for some tot sized furniture for my own little one and this is definitely a contender. I might take it personally though if she spent too much time with the hood down.

V is for Vintage Valentines

2009-01-27T08:52:00.000-08:00

I've been looking for some sweet Valentines Day cards to send to friends from me and my daughter and am horrified at the selection in stores. Who thinks Hannah Montana and Spiderman are appropriate symbols for a holiday that centers around the expression of love and friendship? Argh! I miss the cute and yes corny cards from my childhood.

If you prefer vintage cards too, here's a couple of links you'll enjoy.

Add a Vintage Valentine to your web page with cut and paste code from Zwani.

Take a walk down memory lane with the great sampling of vintage cards at 7deadlysinners.

I found the cards above via Curly Wurly.

Obama Nation

2009-01-20T20:41:00.000-08:00

If Shepard Fairey's iconic Hope poster epitomized perfectly the tone of the Obama campaign, then I think Lance Wyman's poster captures the sheer joy and energy surrounding his election. Unfortunately both poster's are sold out. Too bad, I think this one would look great in any kids room.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Through the Eyes of Children

2009-01-19T09:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a charming slideshow of children's drawings of Martin Luther King, Jr. from the Poughkeepsie Journal. Priceless!

The drawing above is from Charlie Gower's flickr stream. Visit it to see other terrific portraits of MLK.

Kokeshi Doll Dos

2009-01-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

I love the hairdos on these little Kokeshi Dolls from Japanese Zakka. Wouldn't life be more fun if everyone at the office had a hairdo like one of these? I think I'd opt for the two little buns. Happy Friday!

Sweet Reads #2

2009-01-13T09:15:00.000-08:00

I bought Stranger in the Woods for my niece two Christmases ago. When I get a chance I'm going to pick up a copy to add to my daughter's little library. It may be a bit beyond her 15 months, so I'll set it aside for later. I'll add it to the stash of books I would like to survive. Let's face it toddlers are not kind to their books.

The book tells the story of a special snowman who provides the woodland creatures with a little extra sustenance through the coldest days. I love the subtle message of living in harmony with nature and giving a tiny bit in the process. We've been putting out some carrots and apples for the deer in our backyard. Now, I'm hoping for a really good snow so I can build my little one a true snowman.

A Little Space for Imagination

2009-01-12T18:54:00.000-08:00

I'm so taken by this tiny felted playscape by asherjasper. I love the little animal pals, the hedgehog is especially sweet. I could see a lot of great make believe being sparked by this wee world. I think this is a brilliant use of felting.

The asherjasper Etsy shop also has a wonderful menagerie of felted animal balls. I can feel the beginning of an obsession starting and maybe a new collection too!

No Time to Knit Baby Booties and Mitts

2009-01-12T11:25:00.000-08:00

Any one who is hopelessly behind on their knitting projects will appreciate these lovely lambswool booties and mitts from Papa Stour. They would would make a lovely present for the winter babies on you gift list. Baby it's cold outside!

Fun is as Simple as a Ball

2009-01-10T11:30:00.000-08:00

It's easy to forget in the frenzy to find the coolest toys that sometimes the simplest things are the best. This Christmas at my brother's, after the kids had opened their gifts, we ended up in the basement which already houses a considerable toy collection. To my surprise the thing that captured my 15 month olds' attention was a giant pink ball. Giant in that it was almost as big as she is. My niece informed me she has seen a truly "giant" ball at Disney World, so there!

Anyway, I suddenly realized that my daughter with all the toys she's amassed to date, also a considerable collection, does not have a bouncy ball. So much for making a list and checking it twice. It's back to the store and back to basics.

The sweet dotted bouncers pictured above are made in Germany by Togu and available at Moolka.com.

Je T'aime Brooklyn

2009-01-06T08:15:00.000-08:00

Yes, I love Brooklyn, French, sweat shirts, shopping and my little one. So buying this cute little top from Atsuyo et Akiko should be a no-brainer. (Damn this recession!) I spotted it at Sweet William, a super sweet kids store in Williamsburg, just before Christmas. Sweet William has a great selection of mostly organic clothing made by designers who use ethical manufacturing standards. That's the good news. The bad, the prices are as the French would say "une peu cher".

I did end up buying an adorable hat by Entertaining Elephants. The hat proved irresistible because it had little ears and tied under the chin. Now she looks too cute for words and can't rip her hat off two seconds after I put it on! I conveniently justified the expense thinking it would keep her own little ears warm. When I'm feeling a bit more flush maybe I can justify the sweat shirt on the grounds she'll learn French.

For the Birds

2009-01-03T07:39:00.000-08:00

This sleek bird feeder is sure to be a hit with your feathered friends. I could see the pale blue color would be particularly popular with the local robins. It's available from J Schatz in 7 additional colors including bright orange. If you're on a budget there are less expensive options available in most grocery stores including simple suet block feeders. It may take a day or two for your neighborhood birds to discover your offering, but once they do you'll be amazed how many different species are living right in your yard. It may not be television but it's sure to engross the kids.

More Animal Cuteness

2008-11-26T19:25:00.000-08:00

I'm really taken by Sharon Montrose's portraits of animals. They are sweet and formally beautiful at the same time. They would be great in a nursery but equally at home in any room. I really love this set of four together, but would honestly have a difficult time choosing from the fantastic menagerie available at her Etsy shop.

Beyond Cute

2008-11-24T08:56:00.000-08:00

Cute Overload goes in to high gear with this picture. This puppy would be irresistible, I’m sure, even without the bun. The photo makes me want a dog, but thankfully only this one because the last thing I need to add to my To Do List is walk the dog. Maybe when my daughter is old enough to ask for one, I’ll remember this photo and happily breakdown and say yes.

Moving Forward with Hope

2008-11-20T13:06:00.000-08:00

It’s hard to believe it’s been eight years since a recount in Florida sent George W. Bush to the White House and Al Gore on a path to greatness. I remember the disbelief and distrust when the election was finally called. Four years later, I remember being in a hotel room watching Kerry and Bush debate while on a business trip to Milwaukee. I was amazed how every lawn in the city seemed to have a campaign sign and how evenly split they were. I remember a sense of personal disbelief that Bush managed to get re-elected and a sense of resignation about what we were in for. Cynically, I felt that the country deserved whatever it got. So how amazing it was to watch the election results pour in last week, to hear that Pennsylvania had not fallen to the Republicans, that Ohio went blue and at the 11 PM witching hour (EST) to hear the stations were finally willing to call what the math was making obvious. Watching the images of the crowds cheering in Grant Park, Harlem, Times Square, and around the world was moving and testament that hope is back. This time around, as the mother of a 14 month old, I want the US to have a chance at what we deserve.

Yes we can. Yes we can.

ABC3D Ships!

2008-10-14T13:11:00.000-07:00

Yeah, my copies of Marion Bataille's ABC3D are finally on their way to me. Thanks Amazon! I pre-ordered them months ago and had basically forgotten all about them. So the email saying they shipped was a nice surprise and now they will be on the doorstep any day now. I bought three copies, one for my little one (yummy, books are delicious!), one for safe keeping and one for some lucky friend. Check out the video here to fully appreciate just how cool ABCs can be!

Naughty is Nice

2008-10-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

I love Rob Ryan’s work. My recent favorite image is “Why are you so naughty?” It makes me think of my daughter and the devilish looks she gives me when she is ripping off her diaper or peering out from her hiding spot behind the chair. The tile version is sold out but now there’s a children’s T-shirt available at his new store Ryantown in sizes 12-18 months, 18-24 months and 24-36 months. A size for every naughty little stage! I want to get one for the upcoming terrible twos!

Wee and Wonderful Worlds

2008-10-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

Wee Gallery's wall graphics are a great and affordable way to add interest to your little ones' room. As an added benefit they are designed to be seen by the littlest of babies and sure to stimulate even the youngest imaginations. My favorite's are the Jungle and Woodlands with its own little hedge hog.

A Good Hair Day Makes Me Giddy

2008-10-07T11:59:00.000-07:00

Or rather giddy giddy. I love this mom-owned company's sweet line of hairclips for little and big girls. As the mother of a little girl who arrived in the world with a full head of hair containment is a big issue and hairclips an everyday essential. So, I was thrilled to find these cute clips while browsing small magazine's site which consistently showcases great stuff for kids along with amazing photography and illustrations. I loved the small flower clip they featured (like the orange one above) and went to giddy giddy's site in search of it. Instead, I found even more great clips and now can't decide which I like best. Here are some of my favorites.

Cat Adoption

2008-10-06T13:40:00.001-07:00

A friend sent me a lovely email today inquiring if I wouldn't be interested in adopting her cat. Said kitty is a pedigree, has a lovely disposition and is cuddly. Unfortunately my cat Lola is mutt from Brooklyn with a mean streak! But very lovable and cute in her own right. So adoption is out, although I'd be happy to give these two lovelies from little love blue a home. Cary Walker crafts lovely little creatures and flora too. Her mushrooms and pumpkins are a perfect fall gift for someone you really like.

Magic Walls

2008-09-26T10:27:00.001-07:00

Studio Printworks produced this beautiful hand-screened wall paper “Maiden and Moonflower” by Kiki Smith for her show Her Home, at the Museum Esters, Krefeld Germany. I think this would be so magical in a child’s room or a special nook of one’s own. The creatures that populate this nocturnal world would be perfect companions for a sweet slumber or lazy daydream. Even the color names spark one’s imagination. Twilight, Dawn and Winterfrost are my favorites.

Sweet Reads #1

2008-09-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

No No Yes Yes is full of clever drawings by Leslie Patricelli of all the adorable noes and yeses that fill toddler’s lives. Use it to explain why eating the dog’s food & pulling the cats tail are in the No, No category, or just take comfort in knowing that the pet’s dish holds universal appeal with the toddler set.

Setting up House

2008-08-19T12:14:00.000-07:00

My nieces & nephew were playing with a large cardboard box this past weekend and trying to get the baby to crawl in. My nephew was extolling its virtues, saying it was a "secret place". He may have had more luck selling her on one of the sweet cardboard Houses from Kids on Roof. It's great right out of the box but maybe even more fun with a little personalization.

Pirates are Sweet

2008-07-24T13:11:00.001-07:00

At least when they are covered with icing. A project at work has me looking at all things pirate related, including cupcakes. Here’s some I found irresistible. I think they’d be perfect for some little scallywag’s birthday. They make me want to throw a party and make the guests walk the plank. I mean eat cupcakes of course!

You can see more goodies here.

ABCs with an Edge

2008-07-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

Being a huge fan of Tony Fitzpatrick, I’m convinced there couldn’t be a more fun way for little ones to learn their ABCs and get in a little art appreciation at the same time than a copy of Max and Gaby’s Alphabet. Copies are a little tricky to find but well worth it.

Ride 'em Cowboy

2008-07-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

Gymnic's stylized Rody horses would be a perfect addition to any child's room, not to mention how great a few of them would look hanging around your personal teepee. See my last post. The question is not whether your tot needs one, but which of the 13 available colors to choose. Now if they just came in adult size.

A Teepee of One's Own

2008-07-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

We had a tepee in my kindergarten class and there was always a line of kids waiting to get inside. Seeing these fantastic teepees (or tipis) from Candy Mill reminded me how much fun it is to be small and made me wish I was five years old again! There are three models available, the Chief Crazy Horse and the Lakota Teepees shown above and a pink version called the Pow Wow. What a great space for little ones to hang out, read a book or get a little privacy.

Around the World with Haba Blocks

2008-07-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

Inspire their inner builder and your own with Haba's collection of famous historical structures from around the world. My personal favorite is the pagoda but you can venture to Egypt and build a pyramid or take on ancient Rome with an awesome coliseum. And no kids, it is not nice to feed people to the lions!

Happy Rooms Happy Kids

2008-06-25T10:05:00.000-07:00

I can't get enough of the Cookie House Tours. So much great inspiration for the home and a wonderful resource for ideas on how to make your child's room more magical. Here are two photos of children's rooms with details I really loved. The tree bed posts are such a nice touch for a city bedroom.

Little Mermaids

2008-06-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

What a great photo by Piotr Redlinski from this year's Coney Island Mermaid Parade. I think it really captures a certain nostalgic quality that is so much a part of the parade and Coney Island as it exists today. Hopefully the plans to rezone the area for high rises will be defeated so that little mermaids can still romp on Surf Ave.

Kitchen Remodeling

2008-06-23T09:16:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has watched even an hours worth of programming on HGTV knows it's all about granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances when it comes to the kitchen! Or is it? I just love this wooden stove from momoll. Ah to be five years old and busy in the kitchening mixing up some delicious make believe goodness. Yes it's almost as expensive as the real thing but definitely adorable and on top of the wishlist.

Treasured Objects #1: Our Photo

2008-06-20T09:55:00.000-07:00

Here's Brigid and I together about a month before her birth. My friend Alyssa took this picture. I wasn't in the mood to be photographed that day but now I am so glad we took photos. This turns out to be my favorite photo taken while I was pregnant. Thanks Alyssa!

Invest in Art

2008-06-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

Yes a onesie is more practical and plastic car keys are more likely to please the little one - but someday they'll thank you for getting their art collection started. Here's a beautiful little print titled San Shui: 06 Cherry blossom from designer Yu I Chan that won't break the bank and is sure to be treasured. It's available at The Shiny Squirrel which has a great collection of affordable art. For more about Yu I Chan, visit her blog Ah-Yi, a personal favorite of mine.

Out of Africa via Target

2008-06-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with this zebra rug by DwellStudio for Target as soon as I saw it. I had already created a sweet rug with Flor carpet tiles for my daughter's nursery but couldn't resist and finally broke down and bought it! It arrived yesterday, it's adorable and I'm thrilled no zebras were harmed in the making. Yeah Target for coming up with another great design partnership.

Who Knew - Whoozit

2008-06-17T11:03:00.000-07:00

When I first saw this little guy at my baby shower I thought how bizarre and how bright! Nine months into motherhood I have embraced the notion that neutral colors will not be playing a huge role in my life for a while. And of course Whoozit was one of the first toys that scored big smiles from the little one. So now it's a big thumbs up and rates a "must have"