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I'm sure you've seen the news stories about all of the toy recalls due to lead paint. It seems like nearly anything plastic is worth casting suspicion at now. I've had to throw out several of our toys due to recalls, and I worry that others in the toy box will eventually find their way to the recall lists, too.

So this Christmas I've decided that we're going to be pickier when buying toys for the girls. And I've found several great gift ideas at two of my favorite online stores, Craftsbury Kids and Mahar Drygoods. Many of their toys are made of wood or fabric, and most toys are made in the US, Canada or Europe. You really can't go wrong with anything from either of these shops.

Some of my favorites:

Lacing beads - I'm buying Cordy a set of these for Christmas. At school she loves to put any kind of bead on a string, so this will keep her busy for hours.

 Train set - Got a kid who loves Thomas but you worry about the recalled Thomas toys? This little engine is lead-free and guaranteed to last through lots of adventures.

Stacking rings - These are the old-fashioned, wooden alternative to the plastic ones that are so readily available. I love the vibrant colors and the lack of music and flashing lights.

Blabla doll (pictured) - If you haven't seen these dolls, you should make sure to look at the entire collection. Hand-knit and 100% cotton, these dolls are soft, cuddly, and full of whimsy.

Knit veggies - Leave the plastic play food on the shelf and get these hand-knit ones instead! Just as cute, and safe to put in little mouths, too.

ABC magnets - These beautiful magnets not only teach letters but also animals, too. And they're much prettier than those cheap plastic letters you can buy for a dollar.

Felt gingerbread house - If you're lacking in cooking ability, or know that frosting in the hands of your children would be a disaster, try this felt gingerbread house. They can change the decorations as much as they like, and there's no powdered sugar to clean up.