Sunday Funday at... Speckled Frog Toys & Books

Every Sunday, since I stepped back from nursing, we've made it a priority to do something fun with the kids, we've been calling it Sunday Funday! Don't get me wrong, it's not a full day carnival, but it usually involves donuts for breakfast and some sort of fun outing! 

This morning Henry came running into our room, sometime between the unlivable hours of 5-6 AM, and said, "Is today Sunday Funday, Mom?!" As much as I loathe a 5 AM wake up call, I couldn't help but smile at his enthusiasm. 

After a couple hours, a Starbucks run and a donut stop at Harold's, we found our way to Alley A! Here's our thoughts on Speckled Frog Toys & Books... 

The Location - 906 Alley A, Columbia MO

In a little alley, connecting 9th and 10th street, sits a speckled frog welcoming customers into the cutest little toy store! A true retreat for parents and children, alike, as handpicked toys are displayed in a way that begs children to touch and play their way through the entire shop. With just enough room to provide a great selection, but not too much, as to overwhelm. We played with no less than 25 different toys and books while we were there

The Owners - #GirlPower

The shop is owned by Mother/Daughter duo, Shelly Cassiday-Riesenmy and Erin Babb! Shelly was at the shop while we were there and was incredibly welcoming and helpful! She was also super patient for the token-toy-store-meltown, can't leave without one of those, right Henry? 

The Selection 

My kids haven't met a toy they don't like, basically if it doesn't belong to them, they love it! So the question is never if they're going to enjoy a new toy, the question is how long will the enjoyment last - both their interest and the toy's ability to survive in our home. I can't control the toys that others buy for them, but I do try to be mindful of the ones we spend our own money on. Generally I prefer to purchase toys that don't require batteries, don't have a million pieces (errr besides Legos, ugh) and will grow with them. We had no trouble finding toys that fit the bill throughout Speckled Frog. We considered a magnetic US map puzzle, an ice cream stand for the dollhouse and a Snow White hand puppet, before Nellie ultimately insisted on a wooden animal press up toy. Henry's pick? Ek. Bad news. Remember the meltdown from above? Actions have consequences, even on Sunday Funday. 

My Fair Ellie @ Speckled Frog Toys & Books

We are so excited to begin offering pickup at the Speckled Frog! Simply complete checkout on the website, and when you arrive at the method of delivery page, select "The Speckled Frog" from the options. You'll receive a notification when your order is ready for pickup, so you'll know exactly when to stop in! It is my sincere hope that this is more than just a drop in for you and your kiddos! Take the time to walk the block, talk to your child about their day and spend some time in the toy shop playing and reading! While you're there, be sure to snap a photo, it's word of mouth from mommas like you that ensure the survival of adorable shops like this one! 

Have questions about My Fair Ellie? E-Mail us at hello@myfairellie.com 

Have questions about The Speckled Frog? Reach out, HERE!