Gift guide: Baby + New Parents

1. KidO Animal Homes - Durable wooden book with beautiful illustrations. (image kido)

2. Sassy mesh teether - An easy way to give babies really food for teething without the choking hazard. (image sassy)

3. Paper boy 'Hand Made' wallpaper - Beautiful wallpaper that's sure to spark imagination. (image paperboy)

4. Moby spout cover - A sweet little whale to protect little ones from bumping their heads in the bath. (image MoMA)

5. Wee gallery Art cards - Black and white cards for a dose of graphic. It's never too early to teach good design. (image Wee gallery)

6. Juvenile solutions baby cubes - An easy way to make and store baby food in the fridge or freezer. (image juvenile solutions)

7. Notneutral wooden blocks - A pretty collection of fonts and alphabet that is multiple puzzles in one. (image Notneutral)

8. Vulli Sophie la Giraffe teether - The iconic French teether that I'm told babies love to gnaw on. (image Vulli)

9. L.L. Bean Sunbuster shelter - Perfect for sunny days at the beach, park, or for building a quiet little den. (image L.L. Bean)

10. Baby Emi jingle anklet - A Cambodian tradition that helps babies become aware of their movements. (image Baby Emi)

11. Milkstars nursing shirt - A shirt that looks normal, but has a hidden panel to allow for easy feedings. (image milkstars)

12. Petit Collage mirror - An acrylic mirror that's safe for babies, who always love staring at themselves. (image petit collage)

Happy Mother's Day!

We spent Mother's Day at the biergarten once again. I guess it's becoming a bit of tradition even, since we've been every year that I've lived here.

The weather even cooperated, too! That was nice after a drizzly week. A little sunshine for the mamas - and those that are remembering theirs.

I'll get to celebrate my Mom for a full 2 weeks when I get to see her next month. I'm already looking forward to her hugs, fantastic foods, and simply spending time together. See you soon, Mom!

In other 'mom' related things, I'm really anxious to see the new documentary 'Babies'.

I'm probably one of few people that's not baby crazed (I think toddlers are more fun), but this movie looks so fascinating.

They follow 4 babies through their first year in various places around the world (Tokyo, San Francisco, Mongolia, and Namibia). Seeing the different ways of rearing children has to be interesting!

Check out the trailer - I promise you won't regret it!

Moms are amazing! Hope you had a great time remembering yours.

(Babies poster courtesy of Focus Films)

Gift guide: Babies + New Parents

It seems as though even more of my friends are having babies. I guess that's what getting older will do. There are a lot of really adorable gifts on the market that make shopping a bit more of a challenge. These are some that I love.



1. Baby Dam - This an economical and ecological solution to bath time. The only downside is that it fits only in straight sided bathtubs. (image Baby Dam)

2. Mr. Sneeze Forehead Thermometer - My sister and I had this thermometer when we were younger and absolutely loved it. It's less invasive and easy to take along in a bag. (image spoon sisters)

3. Etsy SuperSweetCreations - The t-shirts and onesies with ties are hysterical and a bit sophisticated - not to mention handmade. I love supporting local artisans. (image etsy)

4. The Weanmachine - This is a portable food grinder that helps to feed little ones table food. It quickly enables parents to make a nutritious meal on the go. (image weanmachine)

5. present time monkey door hangers - I first saw these in Paris and fell in love with them. Since then I gift them to anyone I know having a baby or with young children. They come in a variety of colors and are simple, yet modern.

6. Puppy Dog shoes - washable leather shoes that help protect little feet that are learning to walk. (image patina stores)

7. Billy Bob Pacifier - a large array of unique and specialty pacifiers that are sure to get a lot of laughs. (image billy bob products)

8. Knock knock medical organizer - a great place to store all of those new documents from checkups and doctor visits. (image knock knock)

9. Construction Tools - A lot of parents complain about getting their children to eat, so this may be a fun solution. (image flying peas)

10. Hushamok baby hammock - Who doesn't love a hammock? These are made for babies as a stylish option to a bassinet or swing. (image hushamok)

11. etsy Hipoart - This gorgeous rocking horse is made by hand in Kentucky. Undoubtedly it would make a treasured heirloom. (image etsy / HIPo Necessities)

12. etsy allthenumbers - A modern / retro handmade quilt with beautiful colors. (image etsy / all the numbers)

Hamburg + Hafencity

Our first stop was to visit little Moritz and his parents. We had a great time with tons of friends, conversation, and lots of babies. We were the only couple without children. I can't say I envied people when it was time to eat and I didn't have a baby whining or wanting food from my plate. Eating in peace must be such a luxury once children are in the picture.

The day was absolutely sweltering, but everyone had a great time playing yard games after brunch. Later in the afternoon was a big potluck style cookout, which felt so similar to the American cookouts I'm accustomed to. It was really nice. Moritz enjoyed feeding Stefan and everyone was happy. (side note: he doesn't quite fit the lederhosen yet... hopefully next year - in time for Oktoberfest!)

Early Monday we went to explore Hamburg. I immediately loved that it's a decently large city (6th largest in the EU). It seemed like there was a lot more variety in terms of stores and products available.

Right by the train station was Mutterland, which was on my list of places to stop. It's a bit of an upscale grocery / deli / restaurant. Everything is absolutely beautiful - from the displays and product packaging to the food at the restaurant.

It melted my heart when we saw a dog come in and lay near our table while his owner went to get something. I couldn't help but pet him. I desperately need a dog! Instead of leaving with a dog, I left with a full stomach and some beautiful silver decorating sugar from a company called Zucceroo.

The salad was one of the best I've had in a long time. And what I loved most was that everything felt like you were visiting a friend - a friend that makes delicious homemade organic foods. If only we had a Mutterland in Munich.

We also got ice cream - you know I had to sample that. I love Stefan's expression of anticipation (and his Midwest fo Life shirt, being an Ohio girl and all).

After eating quite a large lunch we decided to walk around town and discover some of the sites, particularly near the water. I love cities that have distinct character and Hamburg is certainly one of those.

I noticed these stamps in a shop window - and the lovely handwriting on the card. So pretty! It reminded me of the ones I saw just the other day in Munich.

Once visiting Speicherstadt / Hafencity (warehouse district) it was official this was a charming place. Speicherstadt is the area where the warehouses and the beautiful architecture are surrounded by little canals and new construction.

There are tons of new apartments and lofts and it really integrates new and old very well. Oh, what I wouldn't give to have a beautiful loft in that area! It's one of the big rebuilding projects in Europe, and I can only imagine how cool it will be upon completion, but I was so happy to see it in progress as well.

It's really neat to think about all the produce and goods that are stored within these walls, including the largest storage of Oriental carpets in the world - worth over €1 Billion!

There's always something going on in the harbor and it's really quite fun to watch the ships at work. We stood in awe of how many containers many of them were capable of transporting. Funny to think the containers themselves also occasionally are turned into homes. I'd take one of those too, you know if the loft doesn't work out.

After being adequately worn out we stopped at Engelke for dinner. Throughout this trip I was constantly impressed with the quality, variety, and how reasonably priced food was. I think I need to move to a bigger city... I could really get used to these little luxuries.

Another blessing of being in a shipping town is the availability of products, including some delicious macaroons from Ladurée - direct from Paris.

Tomorrow I'll post about the port tour, the infamous St. Paul district, and the interesting urban details.

Haba Recall

Since I am constantly saying how much I adore the toy brand Haba, I thought it would be important to note today I learned that some of their toys have been recalled since August. You can see which toys are affected below and by clicking here. The link includes a form for postage paid refunds and exchanges.

No children have been injured, but it appears the problems are mainly with the toys that have prism and mirrors attached. Unfortunately some of my favorites are included in this recall - like the Bonita rattle.

While I assume the recall is global, I'm still not sure. The German site does not refer to the recall, but earlier this month despite picked over shelves, I was still able to purchase several of these recalled toys in Munich. Regardless, if you buy Haba toys I thought I would spread the word.

(images Haba)

Gift guide: Babies + New Parents

So many of my friends are having babies, so don't get too excited that I've been more aware about baby things that are now on the market. I love finding the perfect gift for people - little ones who aren't even born yet are included.

1. Candleloo lanterns by Vessel Inc.- These are so cute and come in a variety of shapes and colors. They work automatically when taken off the charging base to provide a flame free lantern and a bit of light. (image vessel inc.)

2. Itzbeen - a multifunctional timer that allows parents to keep track of important times - how long it's been since the last feeding, changing, medication dose or how long the baby has been sleeping. It's probably good for sleep deprived parents. (image itzbeen)

3. Goosie cards - I am always on the watch for things that pertain to education and that can bridge distances. These are great for teaching about the rest of the family, who might not always be near by. I've read they are also great for children with autism. (image Goosie cards)

4. Coocoose - an apron for parents givings baths, and it doubles as a towel (provided your child isn't a splasher). (image coochico)

5. Babyprints keepsake - A timeless and simple reminder of how fast children grow. (image amazon)

6. Orbit labels - make it easy to identify cups, bottles, and cups. They are reusable and can be personalized. (image inchbug)

7. RaZbaby Silicone teether - The entire pacifier is a teething toy with various textures. It can also be frozen. (image RaZbaby)

8. Beaba babycook - French baby food maker that steams, dices, and blends food. It also works as a warmer. (image Williams Sonoma)

9. Mimi Lou wall stickers - these are so simple and so adorable. It's even possible to have them custom made into portraits. (image Mimi Lou)

10. Blurb books - You can design a book telling a personal story, creating a family tree, or simply to contain photos of the new baby. The possibilities are endless and you can really get creative with these. Besides, it's never too early to start loving books!

11. Etsy baby leather Moks - This website has beautiful handmade gifts, clothes, and shoes for adults and children for sale by independent sellers. These little shoes are so sweet. (image etsy seller scandeez)

12. Haba - one of my favorite things in made in Germany. Please read this post before purchasing! Several items have been recalled.
These wooden toys are simply stunning. Best of all - they are all natural. They have a large array ranging from clutching toys to architectural building blocks. Make sure you check out the grocery items! (image Haba)

Other fantastic baby / parent gift websites:
Red Envelope
Zac and Zoé
Oompa
Baby Geared
Modern Nursery
Boon
Modern Tots
Baby Wit
Eden Home
Noonoo Design

The Emilys go shopping

When I'm home I really notice the contrast and how much America is a consumer culture. The shopping areas are landscaped, organized, and inviting. A newer concept here is a type of shopping village. These areas try really hard to make a community feeling, taking cues from older architecture and creating plazas to relax or watch children splash about in the square's fountain.

My sister and I visited the Easton Town Center and although I have been there many times, I had to laugh because while most of the mall carries this outdoor village atmosphere, there is one large indoor mall that they have tried to make into something like a train station. The train station ambiance is tailored to American desires and houses a movie theatre and more stores. I experienced a bit of reverse culture shock as I took it all in.

I found a few interesting things on our day of shopping... books, Moroccan lanterns, and clothes. The variety in the US always astounds me.

Yesterday we met up with two of my old roommates (Emily + Emily... yes, three Emilys lived together!) to take part in one of America's favorite hobbies - shopping. The US seems to take things to a new level of socializing by bonding over spending money. These aesthetically pleasing villages definitely don't hurt in luring money out of patrons.

One of the Emilys also brought her daughter, Claire, for a visit. It would have been nice for Stefan to see everyone again. He always asks if Claire is in college yet. She's definitely growing quickly and starting to talk. We had a great time, and it made me appreciate having the ability to hang out with the girls. Now I'll have a lot of great things to take back to Germany... and maybe even a few surprises for Stefan.

Gifts for Moritz

Our friend Sven and his wife just had a baby. We've been debating what to get him and today I found the answer... an adorable pair of tiny lederhosen, some Bayern München gear, and one of my favorite rattles from Haba.

Before we learned that Sven was having a son, Stefan was constantly badgering him and telling him if he had a boy he should name him Stefan... and a girl, Stefanie, of course.

It looks like Sven had a little Moritz instead. We're looking forward to meeting him and I know he's going to look adorable in his Bavarian wear.

Book Love

Imagine my surprise and happiness when I read about Good Stock custom books this morning on Oh Happy Day, one of my favorite blogs.

I've written about my obsession with books and making books, but this has been taken to an entirely new level. The website is beautiful and the limitless options are beyond comparison for a beautiful and personal heirloom. And the first year baby book? - It's stunning.

It makes me think about the boxes and boxes of letters that Stefan and I have written to each other, in addition to all of the family mementos, photos, and old letters that can be beautifully preserved.

As soon as family gets involved I get so nostalgic. What an excellent job it would be helping people preserve their memories.

Babies Man

Stefan and I had a fun filled weekend visiting friends and family. Whenever he comes to town, my cousins come out of the wood work wanting to hang out and spend time with us. My Grandma made an entire cake to celebrate us coming to town, and we had a house full of family to visit with, including my cousin's two week old baby.

I was surprised to see how eager Stefan was to get involved with all things children, especially tiny babies. My family is rather large, which is a contrast from his. There is always a lot of noise and constant motion, which can take some getting used to - even for me.

Stefan was was petting a dog and then asked if he needed to wash his hands before holding the newest addition - then he held him until we had to leave for a basketball game. Most men who aren't used to being around children aren't usually so antsy to hold them, but I was pleasantly surprised to see how much the kids love him.

At the basketball game we met up with my old roommate, her husband, and 9 month old. I was surprised to see how Claire wanted to be held by Stefan after just meeting him. She also enjoyed giving him kisses.



All of the babies were so well behaved that I think Stefan now has a skewed idea as to how easy they are to deal with. I guess he has that special touch. It's especially sweet to see my husband in a new light and have another reason to adore him. I think every woman melts seeing her husband have an interest and ease of interacting with little ones.