One of my favorite little boys just turned 2 and for his birthday we decided to do something a little different for his gift. So if you have a toddler birthday coming up here is an idea for a fun, easy and to quote the lovely Sandra Lee, semi-homemade.
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Elmo ABC book, Animal flashcards, washable markers, paint set, colored pencils, crayons and a
tub of sidewalk chalk |
We made him a craft tub filled with goodies that were all washable or erasable, aka the only type of colored writing item to have in the house. The awesome part of this all is that stores like Target have a plethora of these items beginning in mid-July and lasting through the middle of September. So stock up during this time! There are more options and they are usually less expensive during this period as well. And don't forget Target's discount section near the front of the store. I ALWAYS stop in there and add to my secret stash of fun items. Great for coloring books, containers, stickers, etc...
We found a shower caddy and added puff paint to snazz it up and make it clear just
who these treasures belong to <wink>.
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| My tools |
The homemade part was my favorite, so of course I saved it for last! We have a roll of paper from Ikea that we use for all our craft times and I LOVE. I decided to use some of this durable paper and create spaces for this little one's masterpieces. To make the frames as uniform as possible I used an 8x10 picture frame's backing and traced it with a thick black marker, then decorated away. This way whenever he is done with an original piece his mommy can cut it off and hang it on the wall. I must say that by the end of this project, aka nap time coming to a close, I knew I needed to make some for Baby Love.
Total cost for this gift was $13.75, easily $15 dollars less than if these items had been purchased elsewhere. Absolutely love being able to give a gift for less
without compromising any of the quality!
To our sweet Aedan, we have loved being able to love on you this last year and
can't wait to see what this next year brings. You are a very special little boy and we are so glad to have you in our lives. Happiest of Birthdays!
Those that know me well know that when I find something I love I tell everyone I know about it, and usually convince them to purchase one, or two, or three as well! I am a great sales person. Well I have a new little love: Indestructible books! Yes, you heard me. Is this possible? I think that it truly is and that the answer is inexpensive and accessible. Let me share with you our new find:
I was hesitant to say the least but had read some reviews in various parenting magazines. I read through the information on their website, considered the costs then had a thought. What if Amazon has them? I have had great success with their book selection and prices. And am a Mom member so I get free 2-day shipping (I will post more information on that next week, promise!). Well lo and behold they had them and they are currently a part of their 4 for 3 deal. Purchase 4 qualifying items (all of the books qualify) and you don't pay for the least expensive item. Since they are the same price I essentially got a free book and free 2-day shipping! In addition this price is lower than our local shops had them listed. So it was a win, win all around!
They arrived today and I am so incredibly pleased with each one. There aren't any words on the pages, just breathtaking art depicting a story. They are multi-cultural; Old McDonald is a farm in Bolivia and Humpty Dumpty fell off the great wall of China. And I truly think these little gems will outlast Baby Bean's most eager attempts at book destruction. In truth I might order a few more for gifts. So if you are having a baby, maybe you should take a peek and make a vote for the one you love. <wink> Happy Friday Friends!
