Tiny Iron Fists

Gift Guide: Toys for Girls Who Want to Have Fun

A friend surveyed Facebook friends for toy recommendations for his five-year-old daughter, "Ok... I need some good toy recommendations here...M and I aren't in to buying a bunch of random toys for S. Lately, we've focused more on crafts/art sets, sports/outdoor items, and on games that we can play together (Apples to Apples, UNO, Sorry). For girls turning 5, what have you found to be meaningfully engaging toys?? (S doesn't watch much TV so she has no real advertising generated requests except for Disney Princesses stuff). Thoughts??"

I responded with three suggestions:

1. Gears! Gears! Gears! Super Set. Connect gears. Encourage creativity. It's hours of fun and learning. And much to my surprise, while referencing it for my inquiring-friend, I was pleasantly surprised by the photo of the young girl in the advertisement. This is the kind of play and company I am stoked to support!

2. Secondly, we recently supported this inspirational venture, GoldieBlox via a Kickstarter project. Although the first toy won't be ready this winter holiday season, GoldieBlox gets me giddy. The tagline is so best: Goldie, the girl inventor who loves to build. And the mission, to create really fun toys that develop spatial skills and teach basic engineering principles, is something I am excited for.

3. Lastly, we subscribe to Kiwi Crate (on-and-off). Every box we have received is brill, engaging, and surprising. Lulu loved watching her plants grow. And we often recycle crate materials for other craft projects. Everyone I've ever recommended this out-of-the-box present to, always thanks me for it.

While many toys inspire me and give joy to Lulu, here are a few to start with. I'd love to hear what your family has been having great fun with recently too!

Beach Day With Cousin Ava

"Milk in my Sippy Cup!"

Sesame Street: Kids Talk About Artwork

Daww. I love this wonderful Sesame Street video of kids explaining their artwork. Share this adorable clip with your little ones! And afterwards, I hope it inspires you to craft with your kid!

Eggcellent Easter!

Pre-Lulu, I wasn't much for celebrating holidays at all. It just wasn't something we did in my immigrant household. But now with Lulu in my life, I find myself looking for reasons to get crafty around the holidays. 

I searched for something fun for the family to do for Easter Sunday. And I didn't feel like rolling up to the local Farmers' Market, again. So I took matters into my own hand and decided to teach Lulu how to dye Easter eggs. I called the local drugstore, checked that they had egg coloring kits and sent Silvio out on errands. I asked him to pick up a dozen white eggs too. Our conversation is worth repeating:

Me: Silvio can you pick up a dozen white eggs too?

Silvio: What are white eggs?

Me: You see, there's an animal called a chicken. And an oval object falls out of its butt and that's a white egg.

Silvio: [Unable to keep a straight face] I know what eggs are!

Me: Then why did you ask?

Silvio: Because you were specifically asked for white eggs so I wanted to be sure! Do the boxes says brown or white eggs on them?

Me: Yes. They. Do. [Pissing in my pants]

Silvio left and returned with a beautiful dozen and two PAAS kits.

Someone could barely wait to dye eggs! Pleading doe-eyes greeted me from the kitchen as Lulu patiently waited for our friends to arrive.

Lulu helped me boil perfect eggs and when Miyuki showed up, we quickly got the PAAS-ty started (pardon the pun, I couldn't help myself). The girls had so much fun prepping and mixing colors.

Lulu was very proud of her pinkish-purplish egg.

And her yellow one too!

Coloring the eggs was a messy spectacle. But it was fun for all of us. Lulu loved to double and triple dip the eggs in the different dyes and in the end, gave up using her little egg dipper altogether. She had chubby little Hulk-hands and they were cute.

In the end, the eggs disappeared as quickly as they came. Creating art worked up Lulu's appetite and no more than five minutes passed since she finished coloring her last egg before she started eating them. While I hoped to have enjoyed the colored jewels a bit longer, the fun was in making them.

I'm looking forward to next year's eggcellent adventure already. I plan to hatch a more eventful afternoon. One that might include a ham, creamy chocolates, Peeps, pastel outfits, searching for compostable plastic eggs, adorable baskets with chocolate bunnies, and decorating and dyeing eggs, naturally.

Happy Easter, I hope you had as bright and colorful day as we did!

My Beatboxing Babe

I have always had high hopes for Lulu to master beatboxing -- a skill I wish I'd pursued more seriously as a young 'un. She seemed to have a knack for it as an infant. Sort of. Now that she's 2.75, I'm thinking I should shape that raw talent into something real. See me try to teach her a thing or two.

The female (or male) Asian rap icon role hasn't been filled yet. Does my kid have the potential to be the next big vocal percussion protege?!

LA - Etel Leit Event (03.24.12)

Let's Read, Sing, & Sign with Etel Leit

Saturday, March 24
10:30 a.m
Ages 3 to 7 
 
This special program is filled with signing, singing, story-telling, rhymes, movement, games, puppet shows, bubbles and more! Not only will the kids have fun, but also adults will learn how to incorporate sign language into child's favorite books and songs.

Children's Book World | 10580 1/2 W. Pico Blvd | Los Angeles | CA | 90064

Hey Kid! {Kenney Rome} is Hello, Awesome!

I love these portraits shot by photography/styling team, Hey Kid! {Kenney Rome}. They specialize in "creating unique images for children's clothing lines and editorial work as well as styled children and family sessions".  These photos were taken at the Little Warrior boutique opening and I think they are my favorite photos ever shot of Lulu and I together.

Jessie, the photographer was amazing at capturing Lulu's attention, which made for capturing a great moment. Look no further for party pros and special occasions. Let Jessie help transform your memories into art. Check out Juneberry Photos and learn more about her commercial site here.

For Commercial or Portrait inquiries or to request a media kit please email kenney.rome@yahoo.com

Jessie Kenney {co-owner/photographer}
760.580.6286

Heather Rome {co-owner/fashion}
949.290.4055

Aerospace Engineering

Building a Mic-O-Mic airplane with Papa. Thanks to Tata Jean for the present!

Fun at Gary's Fun House!

We visited Lulu's uncle, Gary Baseman's studio and home this beautiful Sunday to check out his nearly finished paintings for "Vicious", a show soon shipping to Milan, Italy. And Lulu enjoyed every minute of it. There was so much to look at (but not touch) and while temptation presented itself at every turn, Lulu did very well. There was great snacking, lots of laughs, lots to explore, and much to learn from Gary. We're looking forward to the next studio Funday!

Lulu wanted to wear a "mask" like all her play-friends.

Hugging herself with excitement.

Gary painted with a smile on his face, all afternoon.

Blackie came out to say, hi. Lulu was excited by his visit.

Hands On The Future

We met up with Carlyn of Crash Space, Tod of ThingM, and Jean and Shawn of NOTCOT today and this little prototype ended up in Lulu's hand. After we all received a turn with the not-yet-manufactured gadget, Lulu got a chance at figuring out what it was. Not sure what to make of it, she did what we did -- she turned it around, shook it a little, and tapped on it. I can't say yet what this object's going to be, but I do hope it gets produced so the rest of you can check out how cool it is! As you can see on Lulu's face, it's mesmerizing!

Farmers' Market Farm Animals

The Santa Monica Farmers' Market on Sunday has a little petting zoo and for $5, you and your little one can feed and visit with the animals. The vendor is really kind and there is no time limit. You can stay however long or short. Pro tip: visit early in the morning for more animal engagement. By noon, they're "stuffed" and have less of an appetite. Today there were lots of new baby goats who were adorable and energetic.

More information about the market can be found here.

Woohoo, Little Warrior!

We attended the boutique launch for our friends' fashionable kids' label, Little Warrior. It was delightful, colorful, creative, and our family had lots of fun. Between bites of delicious macaroons and organic snacks, we painted a bird house, shot a family portrait, and shopped in comfort. As you can see, Lulu couldn't resist wearing her new digs out the door (100% cotton Eyelet Bib Dress available for $36)!

Inside Filth Mart, 1038 N. Fairfax Avenue, West Hollywood (323) 848-8613

To Lulu: David Choe's Munko

Nearly everything art-related in Lulu's room is a gift from the amazing artists who surround us daily. I haven't been good about documenting everything she's received but was recently reminded of the many colorful people who've gifted Lulu presents when crazy art pal David Choe splashed headlines last week for the much speculated $200 million he may bank when Facebook IPO's. Upon hearing the news, I thought, "Good for David!!! I can't wait to see what incredible art he will make with his new found F-YOU money," and then remembered the Munko (his signature whale), Michelle picked up for Lulu awhile back [THANKS, again both of you]!

Get your own Munko Blind Box Figure at Giant Robot for $11.

Goes Down Smoothie...

If your home is anything like ours, your toddler's probably not finishing all the fruit you've been chopping, slicing, and dicing. Favorite fruits from last month are this month's bore and too many peeled apples, half eaten bananas, and ripe mangoes are going to waste. My solution? Throw fruit in a blender or immersion hand blender (seen above), add scoops of yogurt, crushed ice, and blend until smooth. The result -- a nutritious and delicious fruit shake.

Lulu's never consumed so much fruit and while I used to worry about her intake or appetite, I don't anymore. And I'm annoyed I never thought to do this earlier! Making smoothies is fun for Lulu (she loves prepping and adding the fruit into the blender and pushing the button to see the blade whirl) and was definitely an ah-ha moment for me in the kitchen.

Added bonus, it helps keep the kid regular (if you know what I mean).

A few tasty recipes from our friends at Simply Recipes:

Berry Banana Smoothie Recipe

Mango Lassi

Little Scooter!

Surprise! Courtesy of Ba Ngoai for the Chinese Lunar New Year, Lulu received a Kickboard MiniKick today. And it's everything she ever wanted. We quickly scooted down to the beach so Lulu could take her new wheels for a test drive. And after hours of pushing around, she happily passed out at home.

'Under the Big Black Sun' With A Little One

I wasn't sure how kid-friendly MOCA's 'Under the Big Black Sun: California Art 1974–1981' was going to be compared to the wildly colorful and blockbuster success of 'Art in the Streets'. Aside from a few exhibits guards advised I steer her away from, Lulu seemed to really enjoy the survey exhibition, stopping a long time to observe French artist, Guy de Cointet's installation. The performance video captured her attention and she stood to watch and listen for awhile. I'm not sure she understood any of it, but who's to guess? Lulu also openly enjoyed the punk-rock segment.

Even though a lot of the work was young-spirited, it really wasn't for the young. Needless to say, I'll keep bringing Lulu back to the museum until she doesn't want to go on her own accord.

Outfit: DPAM top, American Apparel kids shiny leggings, and Native Corrados.

"Lulu's Art-Filled Dogtown Digs" on Apartment Therapy

One of my greatest pleasures is to get lost in other people's homes on Apartment Therapy. So it was very exciting and an honor to have Gregory interview me and showcase our home office/bedroom for Unplggd back in May of last year.

Fast forward a few seasons and Lulu's art and beach-inspired nursery is live on AT today. It's been a long work-in-progress and I'm happy it's done. I hope you enjoy noseying around her room as much as I've enjoyed doing the same for so many other homes!

Looking for items in Lulu's room? Check out Lulu's bedroom board or the following links (a million thanks again to our generous friends who've gifted Lulu art over the years):

Lighting

Buddha Buddha Love Light

Pigeon Light by Ed Carpenter for Thorsten van Elten

Sticky Lamp by Chris Kabel for Droog

Sun Jar by Tobias Wong for Suck UK

The Panto Beam by Verner Panton

 

Decorative Items

Flensted Mobile Cheese Mice

Flensted Mobile Shoal of Fish

Flor Metadoodle (Sassy Silver) Carpet Tiles

George Nelson Omar the Owl Clock for Vitra

Hysteric Glamour Pillow

“Jeff Koons” inflatable toys

KleinReid vase

Les Dames (Gift from France)

Lourdes Sanchez Coral Pillow

Lourdes Sanchez Whales Pillow

Momeni Lil Mo Hipster in Surf

Mongolian Dream Catcher (Gift from Mongolia)

Native American Dream Catcher (Gift from Arizona)

Tokion x Bathing Ape Pillow

Upper Playground Joystick Pillow

 

Art

Adam Wallacavage “Alyona”

Adrian Tomine “Shortcomings”

Albert Reyes “She’s Gone”

Alexander Girard “Love Heart” panel

Amanda Vissell “We Are All Kings”

Christy Thomas Untitled “Kittens”

Dave Kinsey “Headspace”

Deanne Cheuk "Mushroom Girls Virus"

Edwin Ushiro Untitled “Lizard Man”

Enjoi Jerry Hsu Cat Collage

Gary Baseman “Giggle and Pop!” Serigraph

Gary Baseman “Hint Mint”

Gary Baseman “La Noche De La Fusion” Letter Press Poster 

Gary Baseman “Lulu”

Gary Baseman “Pink HotChaChaCha”

Geoff McFetridge “Fang Frame Pack”

Hanna-Barbera Studio “Wilma Flinstone” Cel

James Mattison “A B Sea”

Jane Mount “Ideal Bookshelf 1, JMM”

Jim Houser “Stormfront”

Kozyndan “Atari Godzuki”

Kozyndan “Fishy Greetings”

Little Ballerinas (Gift from Souris’ Childhood)

LostArt Untitled “Boy” Photograph

Mike + Doug Starn “alleverythingthatisyou sno7.1_003”

Nikki McClure “Surrender”

Obey Giant “Tony Alva”

Os Gemeos Nike Brazil Invitation

Paper Culture “Counting Sea Creatures 1 - 9”

Penny People 13 x 19 Alphabet Print

Punta Cometa Print (Gift from Mexico)

Rostarr “Mothers Milk (5,4,3,2,1)”

Ryan McGinness “Growing Handplants” Skateboard

Ryan McGinness “Pathetic Lucky Ryan Charms of the Hipster Doofus”

Sharon Rubin Untitled “Sand Wave”

Super Rural “For Like Ever”

Tiffany Bozic “Key”

Todd St. John “Wave Fade”

Tony Hawk’s Birdhouse Skateboard

Uglydolls (Handsewn by Sun-Min)

Uglydolls x Giant Robot – Uglycon II Skate Deck

 

Furniture

DwellStudio Storage Bins

Eames Elephant

Eames Molded Plywood Children’s Chair

Ecotot Book Shelf

Educo Gourmet Chef Kitchen

Ikea Expedit Shelving Unit

Itso Full Size Fabric Bin

Kalon Studios Hut-Hut Resin Rocker

Kalon Studios Stump

Oeuf Sparrow Crib

 

Room in progress: LMPP's Dogtown Digs

Happy 2012!

This New Year's Day we participated in the Japanese tradition, Takoage, in which children in Japan fly kites on the first day of the year. Thanks to Lulu's godparents, Theresa and Bod, we were able to head to the beach for a sunset kite flying session. A first for both Lulu and Silvio, fun was had by all. I hope you will join us next year for what looks like a new family tradition.

Happy 2012, dear Tiny Iron Fists readers and supporters! I wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Architecture and Offspring

We recently visited the Eames House aka Case Study House #8 with our Parisian family and I shot a few videos of Lulu enjoying the grounds. She was naturally attracted to the swing and ran to it immediately upon entry:

French translation:

Lulu: Look, a swing.
Silvio: Are you happy?
Lulu: Look, a big tree!

Here's Lulu waving a big stick she found in the meadow. She decided to have fun and poke me with it.

Lulu running around the meadow singing her "boobies" song.

And a sweet clip of Lulu laughing with her cousins at the swing.

The Eames House, located in the Pacific Palisades, is a wonderful and magical place for families to visit. There's lots to explore outdoors and the lush meadow brings joy to visitors of all ages. Plan a visit today!

She Will, She Will... Glock You!

My mom spammed us last year with a link to this child xylophonist prodigy...

The three year old Korean kid is amazing. She's quite a performer! I love her illuminated expressions. She has perfected smizing at such a young age!

Lulu received a glockenspiel this Christmas from our Parisian family. This is her first experience with it...

It is safe to assume we do not have a child prodigy xylophonist living in our home. But you should see what fun we're all having dodging the percussion wands!

Fort Lulu

I'm a great big fan of forts. I remember building and living in them fondly as a child and was once known to have slept under a little desk for years. I remember the makeshift camp well. It was simple and white and had an arch between the legs that reminded me of a Hobbit-house door. I stuffed it with pillows and my favorite blanket, Boogie. I loved hanging out in my little cove and would play and read books and eventually fall asleep underneath the old wooden table. My name, Souris, means "mouse" in French and I referred to that little table as, "Mouse's house". I think I may have even written this on one side of the desk.

My fun memories of playing with my makeshift fort and with future living room forts with my four siblings are so vivid that I wish for Lulu to have as much fun hanging out under unstable architecture as I once did.

Shortly after Lulu turned two, I started assembling our living room furniture together so that she would have a place to hide and play. A place to rest quietly or escape from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. She was initially curious about my pushing and pulling furniture together but it only took her a second to make herself at home. Lulu immediately knew what to do. She is, after all, an expert in cardboard box-pretend-play. She quickly settled in and claimed her space.

Now when I start pushing furniture around, Lulu runs to help me assemble her fortress of fun. If you own pillows, blankets, and furniture, you have all the makings for a fun afternoon or all day activity. If you're serious about keeping your shelter intact, you might want clip your blankets, especially if your four-legged roommates are big fans of the canopies too (our one cat loves forts too).

For further fort-inspiration, check out Living Room Fort, a site my grown-up-kid-cousin Wendy recently shared with me. And please, do yourself a favor and build yourself an indoor/outdoor tent. Take time to hang in it and I promise it'll make you smile.

Next up (eventually), the tire swing and a tree house... a kid can dream!

Leaves Happy

I grew up on the Eastern Seaboard with a forest as a backyard. It was natural that every Fall, I raked leaves and made piles taller than myself to jump into. Discovering and collecting Wooly Mammoth Caterpillars was a right of passage. Here in sunny SoCal, I miss trees. Real trees. So when Lulu found this sad pile of leaves in a neighborhood parking lot and wanted to run through them, I had to let her. I'd prefer to take her to the Hudson Valley someday, but this'll do for now. Lulu doesn't know what she's missing, she only sees what she has. And she is happy.

Outfit: DPAM top and bottom.

Construction Lurker

I'm proud my lil girl is as much a fan of heavy earth moving machinery as I am! Every time we pass this truck in our neighborhood, Lulu asks to sit on it. I happily oblige. Thanks, Tata Manu for Lulu's construction helmet!

Sparky's for Spunky

Nearly every week we take Lulu to visit Sparky, our neighborhood FroYo vendor. He's been around for 28 years and is truly, one of the nicest Dogtown locals you will ever meet. We've seen the trendy yogurt/ice cream competitors come and go and time and again, Sparky's un-fancy joint outshines them all. Why? Because Sparky's Frozen Yogurt Shop is an original. Sparky is sincerely friendly and kind and has just enough of a personal touch without being weird. After a few visits he'll remember your name and although I always insist on fruit toppings for Lulu, she always insists on candy and I will then have to insist on very little of it, to which, Sparky meets both of our demands (siding more with Lulu of course). No wonder his customers leave satisfied!

Sparky's Frozen Yogurt Shop
3110 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 399-4513

Outfit: Knitted hat a gift from Alanna, Circo top, and Keiki Kruisers Mo'o Lio t-shirt.