Since leaving my 9-5 job two years ago in favor of taking care of my daughter, my offline shopping time has dwindled to almost nothing. When I was working out of the home, I would often take a lunchtime or after-work sojourn to wander local stores, collect my thoughts and search for the best birthday present, new kitchen gadget, or perfect pair of shoes to add to my wardrobe. Now I wear clogs and sneakers almost exclusively, mostly for practicality; my new job doesn’t require a fashionable wardrobe, and more importantly, shopping with a toddler in tow is not exactly relaxing retail therapy. On a recent shopping trip, I spent about 20 minutes in a Macy’s dressing room trying to coerce my daughter into trying on a holiday dress, only for the trip to end in tears (hers and mine!)

If she weren’t so darn cute, there’s no way that I would have put myself through that ordeal. Shopping for a baby/toddler can be so much fun if you don’t have to involve them in the process. First of all, clothing is so adorable in miniature sizes. Secondly, toys are cool. And thirdly, decorating for a baby or toddler is so much more fun than remodeling a bathroom (a project from which I am currently procrastinating by re-doing my daughter’s baby room with new funky toddler style).

I spend way more time looking at toys/clothes/accessories and kiddie decor than I’d like to admit—I think partially because I’m a little indecisive, but also because we’re on a one-income budget and I like to get the best bang for my buck. IKEA = definitely, Pottery Barn Kids = notsomuch unless I hit my lotto number. I look forward to joining the fray, sharing my finds, and hearing from you about your great finds too!

Via Toy Box from Portland, Oregon, understands the need for storage! Mothers are always asking for better storage options for all the toys but also want something that is stylish! As does this designer!! Here it is!

These 15 x 15 x 15 boxes are made in fun pastel and primary colors. The Geometric shapes are really what makes them stand out as something different. They are also so much easier for kids to grab toys out of than lifting a heavy storage box top. There are so many ways to use them, the options are endless. You can be as creative as your imagination will let you…. a nightstand, storage under their platform bed or tucked neatly along a living room wall where it blends in with the décor.

I especially like the fact you can mix door cubes with the geometric cubes, sometimes you just want the toys hidden! The above “6 pack” sells for $329; it’s a great deal and you can customize the shapes and colors to fit within your rooms color scheme. Very fun for you and the tiny tots who will fill them up quickly!