a gypsy caravan

holgate toys

I was at a loss as to what to buy for little Tess last Christmas. I wanted to buy her a few, excellent quality toys that would stand the test of time so I searched for some nice gifts online.  I had never heard of Holgate Toys until that day but they have fast become one of my favorite companies.  I purchased the colored wooden stacking rings  and Classic Bingo Bed (wooden hammer and peg toy). Both arrived promptly, are well packaged and of wonderful quality.  They are sanded smooth and painted attractively. The best part is that they are made here in the United States! Even my bigger children took a turn hammering the colorful wooden "nails" just for fun. 

There aren't any paid sponsors on this little blog, but I do like to tell people about quality products and services when I run across them. You might want to check out Holgate Toys if you are looking for well made, American toys. Tess has played with the ring stacker several times a day since Christmas.  I think that's the best "consumer satisfaction". :)

 

American Made Toys

In our attempt to buy more products made in the USA, I thought I would compile a list of some companies that produce quality toys for children.

Down to Earth Toys sells a toy that has been a longtime favorite in our family, the Ball Tracker.  We bought one of these for Benjamin when he was a year old.  It is still good as new and gets plenty of use from our kids as well as from those who come to visit.  I did replace the rubber balls with some wooden ones after a few years.  Down to Earth Toys also has many other toys made in the USA here. 

A real gem of a company is Maple Landmark Woodcraft .  They are located in Vermont, home of many things lovely.  They sell something for the entire family: wooden trains, ornaments, blocks, train whistles, puzzles, games, cutting boards, trivets, bookends, baby rattles, and yo-yos.  I have bought some of the baby rattles and pull toys and have been so pleased with the items.  Also, there is no fear of lead paint, poor construction or worrying about the labor conditions of the people working there.  

Speaking of Vermont, the Vermont Teddy Bear Company makes some lovely stuffed bears.  They even offer tours of their factory if you happen to be in the area.

If you have a train loving child in your family, check out the Whittle Wooden Train Company  They make some beautiful wooden trains that will certainly outlast any childhood.  An interesting history of their company can be read here.  I am particularly fond of their Little Engine that Could railroad line.

Many of you mothers of little ones may be familiar with Lauri Products.  Made of crepe rubber, their products are manufactured in Smethport, Pennsylvania.  Our family has enjoyed their color and shape stackers, lacing products, alphabet puzzles and more.

I stumbled upon Fractiles the other day.  I think they look like such a fun toy!  I plan to order some for Ben for Christmas (Shhh!).  They magnetic fun for any geometry fan made in Colorado, USA.

Have fun shopping!

Toasty Toes

I wanted to show you my slippers.  This pair is three years old and replaces an identical pair that I wore for seventeen years. I mention that so you know just how long they last.

The best thing about these slippers, aside from their cozy, longlasting toastiness is that they are made in the U.S.A.  (Shameless plug: You can buy a pair for yourself or order one as a Christmas gift from the Sheepskin Shoppe.)  They are 100% wool but not a bit itchy or scratchy.  My babies have all worn the little slippers with the cord.  When I bought them, they did not come with a cord and I added one myself to keep them on their wiggly feet.  The price of the slippers is not cheap but they last for many, many years. 

I also own one of these wool capes (mine is black) which I received as a gift 13 years ago when I was pregnant with Benjamin.  It looks almost brand new despite being worn for four pregnancies and as a dress coat when not pregnant.   I emailed the Sheepskin Shoppe and asked whether all of their products are made in the USA.  I understand that the soft soled slippers, mittens and capes are all made in Pennsylvania but that the hard soled slippers are imported. The mittens are beautiful and I have seen them in person.  If you live in a very cold climate, you would appreciate the warmth they deliver.

Last Christmas we attempted to have a Handmade Christmas.  We did fairly well though we did purchase some store bought gifts near the end. This year, in addition to making gifts, I'd like to purchase things that are made in our country. It feels good to support American families.