Super-cool trucks

I'm finding it more difficult to wow my son as he gets older. He really likes character-based toys (Cars, Buzz Lightyear, Batman) and weapons. Not my favorites. He's not always immediately thrilled with my picks, although they often prove their worth in the long run.

When I saw these Fagus wooden trucks, I was cautiously optimistic. Both sets of grandparents were kind enough to buy one. Now, he's the proud owner of the Unimog truck with conveyor belt and the car transporter.

The photo is of Ronan sending the fish up the conveyor belt and into the Unimog's box.

Fagus trucks are handmade in Germany and are the recipient of many "Spiel Gut" toy awards (more on that later). They're pricey, but the kind of play they inspire, and the amazing quality of them, makes them worth it to our family.

I'd love to know if there are any American craftspeople making these kind of wooden vehicles. Let me know if you have any leads.

To Playmobil

I was so excited when my son turned four, all because of you. Sure, we had delved into the 1-2-3 line, and it's great. But oh, the big kid sets. Castles, pirates, construction vehicles, submarines and so much more! The level of detail is amazing, and the workmanship is fantastic. I love the ka-chunk, ka-chunk sound as my son rolls up the drawbridge on his new castle.

I'm glad we didn't jump the gun, though, as frustration can come easily to a little one who can't quite make the ATV guy's hands clip on to the handlebars.

The fact that your line is mostly still produced in Europe is fantastic in these lead-fearing days.

Now I just need to get a bunch of bins to hold the numerous, tiny accessories. And then head back to eavesdrop outside my son's door: "Dragon, you need to wait until everyone has their swords to attack." Thanks for making such nice, polite dragons!

Lovey?

To the left you'll see a pile of rejected lovies. I don't know why I've always wanted my kids to adopt a special comfort item. I think I'm probably projecting my own desire -- how lovely to have one special, cozy, snuggly item that makes you feel better!

On the flip side, you have the risk of loss or damage. I still remember the family vacation when my younger brother's yellow quilted blanket was lost forever.

But still I persist. Here's the latest attempt. Baby Jayne's is owned by an acquaintance of mine, and this blanket is scrumptious. If Bea ends up discarding it, it's destined to become my lovey!