Kids Haus

Amber Alexander

I had admired Amber Alexander's paintings in the past as I would peruse Etsy and loved the way she would dress up stoic animals in bonnets or ruffled collars. As I was checking out Etsy today, I came across Amber's painting of a bear sitting on a loveseat...so charming! Well, now I'm at a loss because I can't seem to figure out which one to purchase with over 180 pieces to choose from. There are about a dozen that have made me smile and I want to bring them all home with me...

Jen Talbot Designs

I began following Jen's blog, Cup of Coco, about 4 years ago and was enamored with her creativity and sewing skills. I remember falling in love with a felt birch tree that she was making for someone because it reminded me of something I would dream of wanting in my room as a child but it was always a distant dream {sigh}. Jen has managed to take those childlike dreams and turn them into a whimsical reality - it's a feast for the eyes and imagination, truly beautiful. Jen has recently launched her new website, Jen Talbot Designs, and has been designing custom rooms for kids amongst other interesting projects. I'm seriously contemplating hiring Jen to make something for our newly remodeled basement. Enjoy looking through her projects here.

Strawberry Penguin Blanket by Isak

One of my long-time favorite companies has been ISAK. Sandra Isaksson is an incredibly talented designer of so many beautiful and inspiring things and she recently just came out with her Strawberry Penguin Blanket made of 100% pure new Norwegian wool that comes from sheep on fresh Norwegian mountain pastures (how good does that sound?). Just for a little trivia, did you know that wool can absorb moisture without losing its ability to insulate, is naturally flame retardant and is dirt repellent? I can't think of anything more perfectly suitable for kids!

Oh, I'm not done yet! While I was taking a peek at ISAK's shop, I saw that she's got water-resistant table cloths that are too cool! Too adorable to pass up!

New House Project: Childrens Mugs

Look what I just bought! Two beautifully handmade children's mugs by New House Project. Oh, if I told you how much cocoa we made around here - you might shudder. I'm what you might consider a hot cocoa snob since I only like using Valrhona cocoa, sweetened with agave nectar and topped with a mound of homemade whipped cream or (not homemade) marshmallows. I think we'll unwrap these beautiful mugs on Christmas Eve so the girls can have hot cocoa in anticipation of Christmas morning.

Oh, and if you are a fan of Charley Harper, you have to read Kristen's post about unearthing this signed "Lucky Ladybug" print from from Goodwill - now there's some fantastic good fortune!

WOOLi HOP Floor Mat

One of my favorite little Etsy shop discoveries is WOOLi - I absolutely fell in love with their soft toy boxes. Out of curiosity, I took a peek into their shop this evening to see if they might be up to something new and found this undeniable fantastic baby floor mat! I think it's the construction and choice of materials that has me giddy - who doesn't love thick wool and organic cotton for baby to sit and play on? (or is it just me?). The cover comes off for easy washing - and you know that will happen more times than you care to imagine.

Hana Blomst

I know it may not be all that practical to give a child a porcelain cup or bowl but how could anyone possibly resist these simply beautiful porcelain bowls, cups and dishes from Hana Blomst? I let Bean start using "breakable" dishes when she was about 5 while we sat at the dinner table and, so far, we haven't broken anything (crossing my fingers). Of course, when they're dashing around the house in need of a snack or drink - I go for the plastic or stainless steel bottles! Blomst's porcelain dishware is very special though and would make a fantastic gift.

The Power...

Wow! I don't know what to say other than that I continue to be amazed by the power of blogs and friends! My thoughtful friend, Esther, at Babyccino blog read my post about the "Under Her Wing" whale print that I created in honor of my friend Marge. All of the proceeds will go to Kylie's college fund (scroll down for the full story). So far, I've sold 14 whales out of 50 - so we're inching our way up there! Thank you to all who have shown your support and love in my effort to let Kylie know that we're here to help her along the way. xo Michelle

Risom Rocker

Just yesterday, I was reading my newest Dwell magazine and read the most inspiring story about mid-century furniture designer Jens Risom. Out of the big names such as Knolls, Eames, Nelson, Bertoia and a few others, Jens is the only surviving designer. At the age of 93, Risom continues to design furniture for DWR and Pucci and hasn't skipped a beat in designing his classicly beautiful pieces. In fact, I think his newest works are possibly my favorite of his designs. All of this led me to find the gorgeous Risom Rocker designed exclusively for DWR. Now if I were to have a third child, I wouldn't hesitate to find the excuse to buy one for myself (not that I ever felt the need to own a rocker with my two girls) - it would undoubtedly wind up being a classic piece, don't you think?

Violet Coccoon Sleeping Bag

Hi again...oh, where do I begin? Perhaps you've noticed a lapse in my blog posts and honestly, I haven't been reading any of my favorite blogs either - haven't had a stitch of time. My Google Reader is almost foreign to me. For some who know, we've been opening a restaurant here in Seattle called Bastille Cafe & Bar that just opened this evening. My part in the restaurant conception was almost null except for the fact that I've been trying to stabilize the home while my husband spends nearly every waking (and sleeping) minute consumed by designing and opening his dream restaurant on schedule. Our normal routine has been shaken up in recent weeks, so that is my reason for pausing briefly - sometime it's just necessary.

I received a nice email from Cécile at Smallable who introduced me to a new-to-me French shop that is loaded with beautiful, beautiful things for children. I actually thought this cozy goose down Violet Coccoon Sleeping Bag by Swedish designer, Margot Barolo, was so appropriate after a whirlwind week. I would love nothing more than to curl up in a cozy little nest, surrounded by warmth and comfort tonight...sounds perfectly wonderfu, doesn't it? (or is it just me?)

 

Knoll Kids

One of my all-time favorite chairs is the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen which was designed for Knoll in 1948. If you've never had the fortune to sit in one, it would be impossible to understand just how comfortable it really is and why it was so appropriately named. I got an email from the marketing folks at Knoll today introducing their recently launched line of Knoll Kids furniture that includes reduced versions of the Womb chair, the Barcelona chair, Cyclone side table, the Diamond chair and several others - and they're all made of the same quality as their bigger counterparts. 

WOOLI storage by Babies Breath

Funny thing, one of the most common questions I've received from Kids Haus readers in my nearly 2 years of writing this blog has been, "...where can I find a good toy box or toy storage?". I've written about several very cool toy storage options but maybe none as cool and beautiful as the WOOLI by Babies Breath (in my humble opinion). Designed and handmade by a mom, the entire toy storage box is made of wool felt so it's literally impossible for tiny fingers to get smashed. They also have full draping closure to hide everything inside and you could easily keep these (particularly the grey version) in your living room without being conspicuous. Custom orders are also available. Did I mention how much I love the WOOLI?

Kireei Cosas Bella

One thing I love about writing this blog is the wonderful connections I've made. A couple of weeks back, I Twittered (yes, I have a Twitter account that I'm just beginning to warm up to) about a logo that I needed to work on for my husband's current project. It's been a long while since I'd done a logo and I was feeling rusty and grumpy about the whole thing. For some reason, I was compelled to Twitter about this and from that tiny message came a warm response from Elena, who lives ALL the way in Spain, who offered to help me with the logo. I was so overwhelmed and touched by her generosity and then came to find out that she's got 4 children and was working on starting a blog with 4 other people, Kireei Cosas Bella, which just launched this week (congratulations!). It's all about crafts, photography, decor, children, and more. Elena designed the logo and graphics for the blog as well. How does she do it all? Anyhow, I can't speak or read a bit of Spanish but the pictures practically speak for themselves, you'll have to see for yourself. There's a fun Easter egg project worth a peek. Enjoy!

Petite Picasso

I wish I could have gotten better photographs of this awesome art tube that Donna from Petite Picasso graciously sent Bean for Christmas but the girls were too anxious to break into the paint tubes and markers without further ado. When I first received it, I had assumed that it was an empty art tube to store our larger masterpieces. Upon opening, I was thrilled to find an entire set of markers, colored pencils, paints, brushes, crayons, eraser, sharpener all rolled up inside the nicely compartmentalized plastic case. Needless to say, our art tube is already jammed with past & present works and it's sitting pretty in the corner of the girls' room. She even had the tube customized with Bean's name on the outside which made the whole surprise extra special. I wrote about Donna's business, Petite Picasso, back in December but if you missed it, you'll have to read about her beautifully customized books for your child's art. Thanks again, Donna!

INQUISITIVEkid

I'm completely smitten with INQUISITIVEkid! They have described themselves so well, "Our toys are reduced to the essential, are pure in form and colour, and do not have a predetermined way to play." I was thrilled to see the variety of beautiful toys, thoughtfully categorized into areas such as "Cable Cars, Playing with Air and Playing with Water" -- doesn't that just capture the essence of child's play? It actually provokes such strong childhood memories as my brother and I played outdoors many a summer trying to make our own versions of these sorts of things, of course not nearly as fancy!

LMNOP Online Magazine and Kids Haus

The beautifully produced and designed LMNOP Online Magazine has just come out with their 5th issue and it's overflowing with fabulous holiday gift finds. I am completely honored to have my "Aye, Matey!" print included amongst all of the beautiful things (hanging on the yellow fish clip below). You might find it interesting that they photograph over 90% of the products for each issue -- presentation is a huge factor, isn't it? Download it and enjoy!

And seconds after showing this brilliant Crazy Fort to my husband, he insisted we get it for Ms. Bean for Christmas. It's perfectly suited after we've built at least a dozen forts in the last 4 months out of every sheet, blanket, clothespin, rubberband and pillow in the house. There was one weekend where our couch had been transformed into a fort and I was given strict instructions not to take it down. The Crazy Fort allows children to construct their own structure with the balls and sticks and, even smarter, you can now purchase lights that shut off after 20 minutes of use.

A Few of My Favorite Things: Part II

TO PLAY
Left: Bag of Apples
Right: Felt River Rocks

TO WEAR:
Left: Marie Monster Hat
Right: Comfy Boots

TO DECORATE:
Left: Mushrooms Chalkals
Right: Letterpress Alphabet Poster

Mimi Mouse

Nathalie Ducaud was originally a web designer based in London but after having her daughter three years ago she had to find some ways to fit freelance work around childcare. She has always been interested in fashion and graphic illustration and decided to set up her own design and screen printing business called Mimi Mouse...and I'm so glad she did! We could own all of Nathalie's shirts...I think the simplicity is part of their wonderful character. Nathalie also has a blog, though written in French, is very visually entertaining.

Rosie Goa

Rosie Goa is a new Etsy shop that perked my interest the minute I laid my eyes on her Kurta tunics. Rosie is Australian-born and is fortunate enough to spend her time between Paris, France and Goa, India. The fabrics are gorgeous and they are hunted out locally, meaning very small runs, sometimes even just one piece. The quality is impeccable and she packages everything in a nice little pouch...

LeiLiLaLoo

LeiLiLaLoo is spilling over with creativity. She's doing what I aspire to do...making artful things, constantly. I adore the whimsical approach to all of her pieces. LeiLiLaLoo makes everything from paintings, to home decoration, to clothing. She's not afraid to layer, add new textures and use a wide range of mediums. Very inspiring...

Ann Wood Handmade Sailboat

I first saw these handmade boats by Ann Wood when Hazelwood Children opened their virtual doors last year. I was stunned at the level of detail that goes into each of her boats. You can choose from 1 or 2 bird passengers (how cute is that?) made of vintage fabric and stuffed with 100% wool. Each boat is made entirely by hand by Ann from recycled cardboard (mostly cereal boxes), newspaper, vintage buttons and found and salvaged fabric. This would be such a wonderful center piece hanging from the ceiling in a child's room -- just watch the imagination go.

Talisman Knit Necklace

I love it when I find something unexpected like these whimsical Talisman necklaces by the unique company, Redspottedpurple. The name "Talisman" means it will bring you good luck. You can collect tiny (lucky) treasures and button them up in the 100% alpaca wool pouches hand knitted by Turkish farmers (EKO certified).

Patterns

My sleep schedule is still off kilter but it also means that I'm enjoying the morning, so far, quietly sipping my espresso and writing a blog post in peace and quiet while everyone is still sleeping -- it's only a matter of time though. I was just sifting through some photos of our trip and wanted to share some cheerful patterns that we came across. It's getting my blood moving for Monday. Also, while I'm recalling our travels, I wanted to thank Erika from Mikodesign for giving me some terrific recommendations for restaurants and shops in Amsterdam and Esther from Babyccino for sharing her babysitter with us so my husband and I could have an evening out...which only turned out to be one glorious hour since a new person in a strange city didn't agree with the Mini...oh well...

Clothespin People

It's the second time in one week that I've mentioned The Small Object but I couldn't resist these handmade, limited edition clothespin people. There are only 10 available and I have a feeling they won't last long...

Lapin & Me

Lapin & Me is a nostalgic little shop that has carefully chosen items with an emphasis on design, quality, style and imagination. There are wonderful things gathered from around the world all in one spot...

 

Spring Giveaway! Quiet Hours Toys

Spring is on the heels of winter and I'm already feeling a little bounce in my step. In honor of spring and the impending sunshine, Carey from Quiet Hours Toys has graciously opened her doors to a special KidsHaus spring giveaway. If you've never peeked into Quiet Hours Toys, it's definitely worth a visit. It is a mother-owned and operated business that offers a continuously changing array of hand-crafted toys and wares from artisans around the world (remember the crocheted crowns by Jess Nicole?). Quiet Hours Toys consists of a community of creative people from around the world and each of them does the work he or she loves in home studios or shops. I'm a huge fan and am always peeking in to see what Carey has added to her collection of unique goods. Quiet Hours Toys has put together two wonderful packages geared towards spring...

Spring 1 includes:
1 cotton girl bunny by Maileg (designed in Denmark)
2 felt hair clips by One Girlie Girl (USA)
1 set of bunny paper dolls
1 sparrow bag kit by Sparrowkids (London)

Spring 2 includes:
1 cotton boy bunny by Maileg (designed by Denmark)
1 set of bath fizzies by Daisycakes Soap (USA)
1 wooden red sports car by Spiel & Holz (Germany)
1 container of rainbow soft dough by Mary's Soft Dough (USA)

How this works: We'll select 1 winner for each package. Please mention if you would prefer a specific package. All you need to do is leave a comment, no anonymous comments please, from now until midnight PST on Monday, March 24th. I will announce the winners on Tuesday morning, March 25th. One entry per person please! Thanks to Quiet Hours Toys!

 

The Gnome Shop

I'm completely enthralled with these felted wool eggs from The Gnome Shop. The most creative alternative to plastic Easter eggs, you can stuff them with sweet treasures and will be fun to use all year round. Heather is a stay-at-home mom of two children and has been crafting these eggs for her kids for the last few years. She also makes darling forest fairies, mushroom houses and furniture. Really...have you seen anything cuter?

Art: Amber Alexander

I'm absolutely in love with Amber Alexander's watercolor paintings of animals that are reminiscent of fairy tales. They're both romantic and whimsical. I love the golden retriever wearing her bonnet and ruffled collar.

Wool Comes Alive

There's something about this squirrel's big eyes staring back at me! These unique, little wooly creations by Wool Comes Alive are handmade with care and they're all beautiful. Squirrel or bunny would fit nicely into a little pocket too.

Windswept Photography

It was almost a year ago today that I hired Alexandra from Windswept Photography to take photographs of our li'l family (these aren't pictures of our family but Ms. Bean is on Windswept's splash page). I'd never gotten professional photographs taken and thought it would be a novel idea to give someone else control of the camera. Let me just say it was some of the best money I've spent! I Google'd into the wee hours trying to find a photographer that oozed of natural style, no stiff poses or cheesy grins. As soon as I stumbled onto Alex's site and saw her photographs of babies, I started to cry which, by the way, was the surest sign that I wanted to hire her on the spot. Alex was incredibly professional and conscientious. So, if by any chance you're in or around the Seattle area, you should consider a little session with Alex.

Catherine Campbell

I remember playing with my friend Paige and her large collection of paper dolls when I was about 8 years old. We would sit for hours and hours! When I saw this beautiful update of the classic paper dolls by Catherine Campbell of My Folk Lover, I was in love. Alternatively, you could frame them and display as art.

Catherine Campbell also has a lovely array of illustrated artwork on her Etsy shop. I'm in love-love with these Little Papercuts...

Old School Prints

If you're in the market for some whimsical and affordable art, these Old School letter press wall prints are fantastic. Hazel Wood Children has plenty to choose from but these were the ones I took notice of.

Kragh Rosenberg

Periodically, I like to peek at nonchalantmom's wonderful blog and peruse her online shop -- I have yet to purchase anything but this tantalizing Kragh Rosenberg dress might be my first. The print and silhouette of the dress are pretty darn perfect.

Mahar Drygoods: One Stop Shopping!

If you're looking for unique, hand-made holiday gifts then I have no doubt you'll find that perfect something at Mahar Drygoods. They have pooled together some of the most talented artisans. I'm completely infatuated with the shadow puppets and Ms. Bean was instantly smitten with the bumble bee mittens.

Introducing: Hazel Wood Children

Today was one of those days where I was a little uncertain of what I was going to write about. I had a few things up my sleeve but nothing that felt very compelling. That was, until I checked my inbox and found a lovely email from Jennifer of Hazel Wood Children, a new online children's store that's quite compelling and worth celebrating. Jennifer has pooled together a unique range of designers, small businesses, artists and craftsmen with an overarching philosophy of environmental consciousness (yes, including lots of organic products!). You will discover things that you have probably never seen before (I certainly did) and find items exclusively made for Hazel Wood -- note the adorable coats pictured below. Great products and great philosophy, this is my kind of store! Thanks Jennifer.

Baby Books

So, I'm in a position where I desperately need to buy a baby book for Mini or I will lead a life of regret. Okay, it's not all doomed but she's already had her first birthday and my memory isn't as sharp as it used to be. How will I ever remember the date when she first crawled? Her first giggle? Panic is starting to set in! I have a baby book for Ms. Bean that is probably half full and I don't have anything to show for the Mini as of yet! So, I managed to drum up a couple of lovely choices, plus stumbled upon a gorgeous book especially for adopted babies.

First off, there's Binth! Need I say more? Everything they do is absolutely beautiful. It's just a bit pricier than I was intending to spend but I may end up springing for it (as the guilt settles in)...

May Papers created this lovely baby book with photographs that tug at the heart strings. Seeing some of the photos brought many of those fleeting baby memories back. Love it...

boygirlparty illustrated an utterly gorgeous baby book for an adopted child. The pictures speak for themselves (shhhh...)

Then there's Nikki McClure's "Baby's First 1000 Days" baby journal which might be a good idea for me since I'm already behind on baby's first 365 days!