A Really Useful Baby Gift!

So we have recently had a second child (yes another boy), and so many people have given us delightful gifts. I have been shocked at how much the “baby world” has changed since our first was born. When we went back to one of those huge baby stores I hardly recognized anything. There were so many new designs, fads, and ideas, that we felt almost as overwhelmed as we did the first time around. One item that stuck out, and that we were given by several people were Angel Dears, a lovely cuddly friend that our son keeps hugging, loving, and grabbing. We love them so much we are happy we were given two!

A Special Set of ABC Blocks

Last month our son’s Godmother was visiting from Australia.  She has a one year old and we wanted to send a special toy home for him. After asking his mother what she would want for him, she said “a really good set of alphabet blocks.” Seeing that we are on a budget and trying not to buy too many products made in China, I went on one of my “researching sprees” to look for alphabet blocks made in the USA. I am pleased to say that she took home for her son a set of Uncle Goose ABC Blocks in a Canvas Bag. These blocks are produced in the good old USA out of non-toxic materials and sustainable basswood by Lindewood in Michigan. They are quite reasonable for the quality of item, and they are like a good old-fashioned toy, but they are even better because of the way (and place) they are produced.

These Really Are the Sweetest Gifts for Baby

At Mom’s Favorite, we are always on the look-out for good, wholesome, organic, sustainable companies. We recently stumbled upon My Sweetest Muffin, which boasts “The Sweetest Gifts For Baby” and after lots of research and perusing, we agree. This company has tons of items made in Europe & the USA, and what is amazing, is although they are more of “boutique” company, they really have reasonable prices. So when you are looking for that special “perfect” gift or item - check out My Sweetest Muffin.

The Cutest Bunny Family Baby Gift

People are always asking me what baby gifts I recommend. I understand their problem, because when you have to buy a baby gift you might not know what the family wants, desires, or needs. I have numerous suggestions for baby gifts (I have a lot of friends having babies!). One that sticks out, is one that we received two years ago and is still going. It is a Bunny Family enamel dish set from the Golden Rabbit. This has withstood washing, throwing, dropping, banging, and having food left on it for long periods of time. The Golden Rabbit carries various children’s dish-sets in their Babyware line and all of them are proven to be lead-free, come gift wrapped, and are unique. Any gift that keeps giving has got to be one of mom’s favorites!

Sleek, Durable, and Portable Baby Gear

We recently went on vacation with one of those moms that I know other people are, but I am not - a cool mom. This post is a shout out to this mom, LSS, her her little red head cutie of a son. Not too long ago we were “holidaying” with them and they introduced us to the wonderful world of Phil & Teds. When my “cool mom” friend asked me if I knew of their products I sheepishly said no. As I watched her easily put up the Phil & Teds Pack and Play or simply attach the Phil & Teds highchair to the counter, I realized I just might be missing something here. She had with her these two portable, sleek, and durable items which seemed to just “appear” from nowhere. After struggling with the bulky items we had brought with us, I knew that my little green eyed monster was spouting out as I longingly coveted each and every Phil & Teds item she had. So although we don’t own any yet, I know these might just have to make it onto Mom’s Favorite Wish-list!

A Darling Toy With a Not So “PC” Name

We recently received a lovely, plush, unique toy from Blue Tulip. It was an immediate hit in our house, as it is multi-functional. It seems to act as a ball, cuddly toy, and punching bag all at the same time. I never really knew what the toy was called, so when I saw it in a store, I went up to the clerk and asked “Excuse me, does this toy have a name?” She laughed “Yes, it is called “Chubby Wubby.” Our toddler was with me during this exchange and since then screams “CHUBBY, CHUBBY, CHUBBY” every time he sees his new found friend. We can’t help cringing in horror that he might say this about anything (or anyone) this shape. We have tried re-branding the toy, “Fuzzy Wuzzy” or “Bubba Bear” - but to no avail. I am sorry to say Chubby Wubby it is and ever shall be. Great toy, maybe not so great a name.

Great Baby & Toddler Books from Begin Smart

Some of Mom’s Favorite things are toys & books that are educationally sound. We recently received a package of books in the mail from Begin Smart and were intrigued to see if these would pass this mom (and her family’s) muster. After tearing apart the box, our toddler fell into deep concentration with what he obviously was claiming as “his new” book, Moo! Moo! What Are You? - a book that emphasizes the names of animals and textures.

When I first heard of the company Begin Smart, I liked the idea behind it - that kids (and their parents) read books that encourage a child’s development. They publish books for infants and toddlers, and a DVD accompanies many of their books, which reminds parents of the different developmental capacities the child has at a particular age. This company has received a lot of positive publicity lately, with a recent article in Reuters and numerous other reviews. At Mom’s Favorite, we think this is a company with promise, and a great way to start your child’s learning in a “smart way.”

A Beautiful Personalized Gift for Mom

As a result of our recent family budgeting, we have a new found appreciation for gifts that we receive. I almost wept when I opened the mail from a friend and discovered something I had always secretly wanted - a lovely sterling silver necklace with my son’s name engraved on it. It really was such a beautiful gift that showed that extra bit of thought and consideration. The necklace is from a small boutique called Tiny Tag Designs. They produce “handmade jewelry with love”  and that is evident from the packaging, delivery, and quality of the item.  After doing a bit of investigation, I discovered that this company also produces personalized bracelets and additional disks can be added to the bracelets or necklaces if mom has an expanding family.  I know that Tiny Tag Designs is going to become one of this mom’s favorite places to buy that ”just right” gift for a baby shower, birthday, or other special occasion.