Last week I had the pleasure of getting together with some terrific blogger friends of mine for a night filled with good food, great wine, lots of laughter and toys. Yes, toys.

The stars aligned last week as I was in Toronto for a cheer competition with my daughter’s on the same weekend that the lovely Lena from Listen to Lena was hosting a small group of bloggers in her home to preview the hottest toys from Fisher-Price this holiday season.

For me it was a can’t miss opportunity to connect with some old friends I don’t see near enough of and to forge a few new “in real life” friendships. Blogging can be an isolating job at times, so it’s important to jump at the chances to connect as often as possible. Especially when it’s over good food and wine. Tuna Tartare anyone? I am still obsessing over this fabulous appetizer from L-Eat Catering. I may have hip-checked Deborah from Raising My Boys as she tried to move in on the action.

Never one to pass up good food or wine I basically ate and drank until I had to unbutton the top of my pleather pants. What can I say? I was very relaxed amongst friends in Lena’s magazine-worthy home and judging by the level of noise within those four walls, everyone else was too.

Of course we were there to learn about the toys and it was fun to listen to all the oohs and aaahs as grown women played with the Fisher Price toys. It was clear that this brand we had all played with when we were children and had trusted enough to give to our own children, was well loved. For me it was a fantastic trip down memory lane as I reminisced about all the great Fisher Price toys my girls had played and grown with over the years. Christmas gifts were SO much easier when they were at that stage. Trust me.

So what toys do I recommend to my readers who are either looking for great gifts for their own children or someone else’s this year?

Here’s My Top 3

1) You can never go wrong with the Fisher Price Corn Popper. Around since 1957, this classic toy even made me giggle as a kid. Unlike me, it never gets old.
2) Next I would say the Ocean Wonders Aquarium. Both of my girls had this attached to their crib and it provided countless hours of soothing comfort for them. Of course, now it’s even better since it comes with a remote control that allows you to control it without disturbing your baby.
3) Finally, a swing will save any new mom’s sanity. There were many laughs as we all recalled placing our babies in the swing so we could cook, work, or even shower! The baby will love it too.

At the end of the day though, there is really no wrong gift for children when it comes from Fisher Price. They’ve been a trusted part of the holidays for over eighty years now.

Happy Holidays!