Toy Box!

So I was on Craig's List the other day, looking through posts people had made for baby items, when I came across a gentleman who was selling these toy boxes. I emailed him to see how much they were and Ben and I went and picked one up.

Steve, the man who makes them, lives locally and does custom wood furniture. He has some other pieces that are absolutely beautiful. When we met him, he was in his garage with saws going and wood everywhere. It completely took me back to childhood and hearing my dad in our garage working with his saws on wood projects. Even the smell brought up memories. Steve even reminded me a little of my dad. He was super sweet and gave us a great deal on the toy box, since it was one of several left over from Christmas. He apparently gets a lot of requests for them around that time. I was excited to get a handmade toy box, rather than just buying one at a store. I think so much more love goes into them and I would always much rather support someone local who has a passion for what they do.

I love the thought that went into it. He rounded all the corners for safety, put a locking hinge so that when the lid is up it won't fall down on someone unexpectedly, and put a little cut-out just under the lid, so that if it does slip while not open all the way, little fingers won't get pinched. The toy box is made of all pine and is a fairly good size and depth. So it should hold all those toys the grandparents are sure to spoil our son with! ;)

We are hoping to put a light stain on it, just to preserve it from water damage. I was originally thinking of painting it, but the wood is so beautiful I just can't bring myself to do it. I am hoping it will be something our son can use as a toy box and then keep as a chest growing up. Who knows, maybe he will use it for his own children someday.