Gifts Gone "Wild"

Last week I received an e-mail from Susan over at BlaBla Kids, saying she'd love to send Huxley a gift. I was unfamiliar with the brand, so I took a minute to check out their website. I've been contacted many times in the past by companies interested in sending me their products, and, typically, I thank them for their interest and politely turn them down. BlaBla was an exception, however, and one I'm willing to make for any small enterprise working towards ethical production of goods that resonates with me.

Based out of Atlanta, BlaBla's entire collection, including those adorable dolls (named "Bandit"-the raccoon-"McNuttie"-the squirrel-and "Wink"-the owl), is designed by Florence Wetterwald and handcrafted by Peruvian artisans using cotton and other fibers grown in Peru. Florence and her staff maintain a close relationship with their Peruvian production team, ensuring each other's mutual satisfaction and continued ethical livelihood.

As you can see from their site, BlaBla's products are creative, colorful, whimsical, playful, and very well made. Naturally, it was impossible for me to choose anything, so I wrote back, thanking them for their generous offer and simply mentioning that Huxley's nursery had a "Forest" theme, to reflect the setting of our home (as well as his middle name, "Wild", which, friends, let me tell you, he is; oh is he EVER! He already literally "ROARS!!!" to get our attention). I hardly expected the immensely generous package of goodies that arrived yesterday. Along with the dolls, Susan set the hat and booties Huxley is wearing above, as well as the adorable sweater and pants, which he'll fit into around 12 months of age (next October; the timing is perfect for such an outfit!).

Thank you Susan, Florence, and everyone at BlaBla. I am beyond appreciative for the items you sent Huxley. Furthermore, I'm so very grateful for businesses such as yours, working towards offering ethical, fulfilling livelihoods for all of those involved in the items you offer. It's a business model to be both lauded and emulated.