A gift that gently accompanies them as they grow.

Reunion with a Little Friend

One afternoon, as I listened to the sound of boiling water, I found myself repeatedly checking the clock.
My little friend Rikkun, who had just turned two, came to visit.

The last time I saw him was about six months ago, I think.
Six months might fly by for adults, but for a small child, it's probably long enough to turn their world upside down.
"Will he remember me?"
"What if he cries?"
As I waited with these small anxieties, the doorbell rang.

When I opened the door, there he was, looking like a brave "big boy" that I hardly recognized. His once unsteady steps were now firm, as he walked confidently on his own two feet.
He had grown so much in such a short time.
Seeing his growth, my heart swelled with warmth, along with the joy of our reunion.

Happy 2nd Birthday

Rikkun seemed a little nervous at first in our unfamiliar home. He stayed close to his mother, but as he ate snacks and drank tea, he gradually began to relax. Seizing the right moment, I gave him the birthday present I had prepared.

Choosing a gift for a small child was more difficult than usual, and I struggled. Toys are the first thing that comes to mind, but for a boy who is developing a strong sense of self, it's hard to accurately grasp his current preferences.
So, I decided on something he could use every day without hesitation.
That's how I chose the vest and bath towel set from tiny mame.

At two years old, children are probably very active. They can't stay still even after a bath, and even in bed, they likely toss and turn a lot.
So, to keep his precious tummy warm and prevent him from getting a chill after a bath.
It might not be as flashy as a toy, but I hoped it would gently accompany Rikkun in his daily life. That was the thought I put into choosing it.

A Vest He Can Wear Until He's Five

As soon as I opened the package, he looked at it with keen interest.

"Want to try it on?" I asked, taking out the vest. Without any hesitation, he put his little arms through the sleeves himself.

Yes, the size was perfect. It still reached his knees, so it would definitely protect his precious tummy even if he moved around energetically.

This is from the "play" series.

It's inspired by an orange tree, and the little bumpy texture, like tiny fruits, is so adorable. When you touch it with your fingertips, it has a fun texture that subtly feels rhythmic.

"The world is your playground. Let’s have fun."

I felt that this design, with such a concept, was perfect for him now, a bundle of curiosity.

He seemed to like the feel of it, as he started playing with the vest still on. He brought his favorite picture book, saying "This!", and settled beside my knee. As I read to him, he would enthusiastically join in and read his favorite parts aloud.

Hooded Bath Towel

"Since you're here, want to try this on too?"
As I finished reading the picture book, I draped the bath towel over his head.

He looked surprised for a moment, but with the large triangular hood completely covering him, he looked just like a "little goblin." It was so adorable that my friend and I couldn't help but exchange glances and laugh.

For the bath towel, I chose the "swim" textile.
The "swim" design is said to be inspired by the Seto Inland Sea, a pattern characteristic of tiny mame, born in Imabari.

"Happiness comes in waves to find you."

This concept is wonderful too.
Like the incoming and outgoing waves, I hope many waves of happiness will wash over Rikkun every day.
With that wish in mind, I chose this pattern.

Until We Meet Again

Rikkun continued to wear the bath towel for a while. When I peeked at his face, his eyes looked a little sleepy.

It seemed like it was almost naptime. The softness of the towel might have made him sleepy. Reluctantly, it was time to say goodbye for today.

The room was quiet but warm after seeing him off with a wave.
What should I get him for his third birthday?
It might be too soon, but I look forward to the day we meet again, thinking about that.