kid prezzies

In my resolve to stay ahead with gift-giving, I'm going to have to buy some things, too.  So here's my kid list.  I know we're coming off the heels of major holiday gift giving lists, but whatever.  That seems, like, ages ago. It's soooo 2007. 

   

Sarah sent me (er, I mean August and Sam) one of her Celebration Candle Kids.  This is big.  BIG.  It is such a good shower/birthday gift and perfect for people like me, who don't do yearly traditions so well.  Anyway, while you're there you should pick up  this print, too.  The alphabet will never go out of style.  In the same vein, I have a serious crush on these Ida Pearle Alphabet cards from the every lovin' Mahar Dry Goods-- a big fat mushy crush.

The great thing about prints and paper is that they transcend the baby time (say, if you're giving it as a shower gift or something) and they make great accompaniments to more practical things like homemade bibs and clothes. 

Amy already wrote about them, but it's true so I'll say it again. Mudpuppy has some really beautiful things for kids.  The puzzles are especially good seeing as my mom had a heckuva time finding age appropriate puzzles in boxes for Sam.  For around 8 dollars I can pick them up at New Seasons in the kiddie aisle (I love buying gifts at the same time as my groceries). I hope they start carrying the vinyl sticker sets, too.  I've got my eye on these Beleduc layer puzzles after seeing the Sadie got for her birthday. 

Clothes... You know I make them, but my kids are at the age where they mostly wear cotton knits (especially Sam, who is waaaay too picky} and I'm still not whipping that crap up.  The everyday collection from Tea is so cute.  They are having a sale right now which is really tempting, especially considering I might get to buy girl clothes for some incoming babies.  I got some stuff on store credit in town.  Augie has also been wearing a kimono onesie  and an infant saque from Kate Quinn Organics a whole bunch.  The sizing is a little wonky (runs big), but the quality and colours are really good.   

So you know, I'm not going crazy (yet) but I'm trying to get prepared.  I think it saves money in the long run.  So along with a small stockpile of Playmobil, I say bring it.  What's your favourite go-to birthday gift?  Even better, can you buy it at the grocery store?