CraftSanity with Jennifer Ackerman-Haywood

I'm so tired of plastic, battery powered children's toys. With all the recalls following reports of toxic paints, it was a relief when a story I'm reporting led me to Hop Scotch, a great little shop on Cherry Street in Grand Rapids that sells children's toys and clothing.

It was inspiring to visit a place that offers some fantastic alternatives to the toys I always seem to be tripping over in my living room. Most of the goods are locally made, which is extremely cool. The place was filled to the brim with hats, diaper soakers, diaper bags, sweaters fashioned from recycled wool, blankets, softies, and sets of beautiful blocks made by the Grand Rapids toy company, Uncle Goose Toys.

I zoomed in on the pita (pictured above) made from wool felt by Grand Rapids maker Hilary Seabolt. I had seen her work online previously and was very excited to buy this ham, cheese and lettuce pita for my daughters. Usually, I can't wait to unveil any new handmade toy purchase, but I seem to be coveting this fabric pita. Hmm. Maybe I'm worried my girls (ages 2 and 3) will fight over a single pita sandwich? Or, maybe on a subconscious level, I bought it for me.