My new fave baby store

We first went into a Magic Beans baby store after our fancy schmancy 3-D ultrasound back in November of last year. Remember that? Anyway, we popped in to Magic Beans, which was just down the street in Brookline, to check out our stroller--the fantastic UPPAbaby--since we wouldn't be getting our own until the new year. Some of you know that I'm not a fan of the big-box national baby store (that will remain nameless), despite the fact that I buy diapers there. I'll avoid a long rant but my reasons are simple: It's overwhelming, the rewards program is bunk, and the quality of 90% of the stuff they sell is marginal at best.

I love Magic Beans, on the other hand, for so many reasons. Here are a few:

1. It's locally owned (but their website kicks butt so you can shop there from anywhere...and get free shipping on orders over $99).

2. They carry unique, high quality products made by the companies I (already!) know and love, such as Manhattan Toy Company, aden + anais, boon, Skip Hop, and UPPAbaby.

3. The products I haven't tried, I know I'll probably like since they carefully select each item they sell.

4. They have a great rewards program based on how much you spend--10% off a future purchase (you pick when) when you spend $100, 20% off for a $250+ purchase, and so on.

5. The stores are fresh, bright, and fun. As an added bonus, older kids can kick it in a nice play area.

I went down to treat myself (or should I say, Sam) to some baby gear on tax-free weekend at the Hingham location, and man, did I enjoy myself. Perhaps a bit too much, but I told myself that it was cool because I was going to be saving 16.25% due to the rewards discount and tax-free deal. Here's what I bought: an organic teething book, some eco-friendly stacking rings (made from recycled milk jugs), a Beaba Babycook for when Sam's ready for some home-cooked meals (I admit this is a luxury item, but I'm hoping it will make my life so much easier since it multitasks as a steamer, blender, warmer, and defroster), a set of Skip Hop palette bowls (which are perfect for Sam's rice/breastmilk lunches and better than the glass custard cups we were using), a nursing bra tank, Sam's first wooden car, and a mini knit Gund horse that neighs. Fantastic stuff. Happy shopping!