Freckled Past

Unique gift ideas and thoughtful reflections on how to enjoy what you have and find what you need without sacrificing what you want.

Wrapped Up In Clovers March 2, 2009

To be in love, also known as being in clover, can bring a carefree happiness similar to that enjoyed by babies. Why not let baby be wrapped up in clovers too with Cuddle Up’s Smiling Shamrock Blanket ($24.95 incl. S&H). It is 100% soft cotton and completely washable, as anything for baby should be. It measures 30″ x 35″. For something a little girlier, check out the Shamrocks & Hearts Blanket ($24.95 incl. S&H), also 100% soft cotton and machine washable.

This blog also has many other posts featuring lovely Gifts for Baby as well as one all about Baby Blankets. as well as many posts featuring blankets for baby, kid, or kid at-heart.

Smiling Shamrock Blanket (close-up of fabric) from Cuddle Up!

Smiling Shamrock Blanket (close-up of fabric) from Cuddle Up!

 

Not Your Mother’s Pacifier February 3, 2009

The days of only basic pacifiers is long gone with lively, innovative, and silly soothers popping up in the mouths of babes worldwide. If you want to bring a bit of humor into your day, Billy Bob Teeth Pacifiers can help you out with its funky teeth and designs. For teething infants, try the RazBaby Pacifier. Babies on-the-go will appreciate the Keep-It-Kleen which covers the nipple if released from the mouth so it won’t touch the ground. The ladybug version, shown below, is $3.99 from Bed, Bath & Beyond. YaYaRocks also has a wide selection of novel and useful soothers.

Keep-It-Kleen Ladybug Pacifier

Keep-It-Kleen Ladybug Pacifier

 

For On-The-Go Babies January 25, 2009

With many friends who are new and seasoned mothers (and fathers), I’ve seen so many diaper bags and baby accessories to know that most are best described as “cute” or “sweet” and also usually “washable”. One friend has a nifty bag that looks more hip than traditional, but is a dedicated diaper bag! Skip*Hop’s Via Messenger Bag ($79) carries your parenting essentials, but also can transition into all-around bag as baby grows. Available in five classic hues (black, red, grey, green, and brown), this bag has some pretty amazing features. From its antimicrobial lining to its 18 pockets to its unique strap and fastening system, this bag is not your mother’s diaper bag. I saw it in action and was amazed when she snapped it around her stroller so it hung there for easy access and less bulk. It was comfortable to carry with its cushioned shoulder strap and has net sleeves on the sides for bottles or whatever odds and ends.

Skip Hop VIA MESSENGER

Skip Hop VIA MESSENGER

 

Fair Isle Warmth for Baby January 6, 2009

It is the time of year that offers a regained appreciation for and love of sweaters! Slip one on and feel that cozy forcefield take action to guard you from winter. Some of the most recognizable sweaters are from the Aran Islands in Ireland and the Fair Isle in Scotland. Fair Isle actually takes its name from the wool itself – its name means “sheep island” (Norse). Let the littlest member of your clan don a cozy Fair Isle-style sweater that is machine washable (dry flat). After all, shouldn’t 99% of the things a baby or toddler wears be machine washable?

Lands End has a Baby Boys’ Fair Isle Sweater ($12.99) in Red or Blue with side buttons on the left shoulder for easier putting on. Available in sizes 0-3 months, 3-6 months, 6-9 months, or 12 months.

Baby Boys' Fair Isle Sweater from Lands' End

Baby Boys' Fair Isle Sweater from Lands' End

 

Twelve Drummers Drumming January 5, 2009

It is the twelfth day of Christmas and the last in the dozen “gifts” (look back at all 12). Today, my true love gave me 12 drummers drumming. It made quite a lot of noise actually, so I am sharing slightly quieter drummer goodies with you. No drums though since I wouldn’t know a great set from a Fisher-Price toy version (sorry) and wouldn’t dare insult my readers with uneducated guesses. But I do know tees and fun things, so here we go…

Everyone’s favorite fuzzy drummer is Animal from the Muppets. Bring him everywhere with a classic-style tin Muppets Animal Lunch Box ($14.95) from Drum Bum.

For your little drummer boy or girl, what could be more rockin’ than a hand screen printed Drum Kit Tee from Salmon Street Studio ($15 to $26). Or for a thoughtful shower gift, one of LOWLEEPOP’s Punk Rock 80’s Drum Design Items. The gift set pictured below includes a onesie, bib, and cap all packaged ready to be gifted. LOWLEEPOP’s drummer-minded goodies range in price from $28 to $36, including some thoughtful gift sets. Perfect for your budding rock star or a baby shower gift for someone who can’t stand pastels!