Geeky Find Friday - Science Teethers!

Mad Scientist Laboratory Teething Set by WillametteHerring on Etsy

Why oh why have we been letting Carina gnaw on cheap ugly plastic instead of getting these eco-friendly flask and  microscope hardwood teethers?

Here's the description:
There's a little mad scientist somewhere inside your favorite baby genius and this microscope and beaker teether set is sure to inspire those painful teeth to finally break through - and they'll look smart doing it!

Our handcrafted non-splintering hardwood teethers are an excellent first toy for your baby genius to grasp, chew, and grow. All of our wood toys are made from locally and sustainably harvested maple. Wood is naturally anti-bacterial, non-toxic, and non-allergenic and is a great alternative for today’s eco baby.


Who else was a Biology or Chemistry major in college?

Have a geeky find to share? E-mail me at growingupgeeky@gmail.com

Return of Geeky Find Friday! Quantum Physics Dress

Last summer I posted my favorite "geeky find" on Fridays. I had so much fun scouring the interwebz for all things geek. Due to popular demand, I'll be bringing it back! It probably won't be weekly because most of the time I find myself with too many things to post about, but I'll try my best to give it a go at least once a month.

Quantum Physics Toddler Ruffle Dress by Waycooltshirts on Etsy

Here's the description:
Can you say "How adorable and brainy!" in the same breath?! Your little darling will light up the room with this bright and precocious dress with curly edges at bottoms of ruffles and sleeves.
This is our “Kids Chic-Ghic™”!

It’s never too soon to start teaching your kid about atoms and quantum physics—not if you would like the little tyke to grow up to become the next Albert Einstein (ok, the next Carl Sagan…ok, ok, the next Neil deGrasse Tyson)! So instead of warbling the usual macabre Mother Goose version of “Ring Around the Rosy” with those mysterious lines (what do they mean anyway? and what’s with the “ashes”?), you could be singing this 21st century version of "Rings Surround the Rosy" just as easily and your child will have just as much fun pretending to be the collapsing wave function! (Better than crumpling of the plague…no?) And then you can begin: “Now, Honey, everything, including you and me, are made of these tiny little bits called atoms….”

Cheat Sheet for Parents:
Rings surround the rosy: We are calling the center (nucleus) of the atom, where most of the stuff is (neutrons, protons, etc), the “rosy”. Elections swirl around the center in rings of differing energy levels (also called shells), creating a cloud of electron rings.

Electrons are supposy: The big change from Newton’s classical physics to quantum physics is that scientists can no longer predict the specific outcome of an experiment. At the sub-atomic level, all that can be predicted is the overall resulting pattern of elementary particles and the probabilities of where electrons will land, but not the actual destination of just one particle.

Dashes – Crashes: In an experiment, the particle, maybe an electron or a photon or an ion, is emitted from a source ("dashes"), like a flashlight or um, a Large Hadron Collider, and sent “crashing” onto some sort of measuring device, like a cardboard screen (our particle detector).

Wave function collapses: Once the particle has crashed onto the measuring device and we can measure its position, all the other possibilities of where it could have landed vanish. The wave function is an equation that represents all the possible places the particle could have landed, and has now “collapsed” into one reality.

OK, you real physicists out there, maybe this is simplified and controversial, but good enough to get the kids’ interest? Parents, this process is usually illustrated via the famous grade school double slit light experiment which I’m sure none of us properly respected when we first saw it. If we did, we would have spent our childhoods wondering how that other photon KNEW there was a second slit open?!


I love that Waycooltshirts goes so far as to explain the whole thing! I just might have to get this because I agree, it's never to soon to start teaching your toddler about atoms and electrons ;)


Have a geeky find to share? E-mail me at growingupgeeky@gmail.com

Geeky Find Friday - Lab Geek BabyLegs

Lab Geek BabyLegs by LadyBeez on Etsy

Complete with flasks, goggles, molecules, microscopes. and more, these leg warmers are a science geek's dream.  How could you not want test tubes to adorn your baby's legs?

Here's the description:
BABIES, TODDLERS, & CHILDREN:
Keep baby legs warm
Make diaper changing easy.
Protect your crawling baby's legs.
Jazz up your little girl's outfit.
Potty Train without Pants!
Wear them as arm warmers.

I think these are ridiculously cute.  We have quite a few sets of BabyLegs for Carina, but they are all pink and girly, or seasonal (I think we got a set of Santa ones for free with an order of cloth diapers last winter).  I love these because they are unique and a fun conversation starter!

Do you have any fun patterns of BabyLegs?

Have a baby or child related geeky find to share?  E-mail me at growingupgeeky@gmail.com!

Geeky Find Friday - baby can wear Polonium in her hair

Periodic Table Barrettes by ShopGibberish on Etsy

Since we will likely teach Carina the Periodic Table of Elements shortly after she learns her ABCs, these barrettes couldn't be more perfect.

Here's the description:
These barrettes are sure to guarantee you a place on the coolest and hippest list on your campus, in your lab, or pretty much anywhere. Of course they are practical, in that they actually will hold your hair back, but more importantly, they are just the geekiest hair accessory EVER.

They are made from scrabble tiles and have a nice shiny glaze on top. The sample in this picture is of OK, or KO (the effect they will have on friends as well as complete strangers) but you can order them in any combination of elements that you would like. So, they make great monograms as well!

Available in the following elements: Ac, Ag, Al, Am, Ar, As, At, Au, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Bk, Br, C, Ca, Cd, Ce, Cf, Cl, Cm, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Dy, Er, Es, Eu, F, Fe, Fm, Fr, Ga, Gd, Ge, H, He, Hf, Hg, Ho, I, In, Ir, K, Kr, La, Li, Lr, Lu, Md, Mg, Mn, Mo, Mt, N, Na, Nb, Nd, Ne, Ni, No, Np, O, Os, P, Pa, Pd, Pm, Po, Pr, Pt, Pu, Ra, Rb, Re, Rh, Rn, Ru, S, Sb, Sc, Se, Si, Sm, Sn, Sr, Ta, Tb, Tc, Te, Th, Ti, Tl, Tm, U, Unh, Uno, Unp, Unq, Uns, V, W, Xe, Y, Yb, Zn, Zr


I am kind of sad that we can't do a monogram, as there is no element that has a symbol of "G".  And there isn't an "Ri" or else we could have done "Ca", that, and "Na".  Oh well.  I'm clearly having too much fun with these...

Geeky Find Friday - Baby can spit up on subtraction!

Math Test Baby Burp Cloth by laundrymonster on Etsy

When I was in Elementary School I was always that kid who finished their math "Mad Minute" way before a minute was up.  I rushed through it with 2 goals:

1. To be the first person done
2. To get all of the answers correct

I usually accomplished both.  Yes...I have always been this geeky.

Here's the description:
A very cute blackboard print with math equations is zig zag stitched to a hand dyed school bus yellow burp cloth. Great for math geeks, and the color couldn't be brighter.

I love that some of the print looks like little flashcards.  If you think baby will love Math, this is perfect!  If you think that he/she would rather eat brussel sprouts covered in cod liver oil, than do long division, then this might also be perfect...that is, for letting baby spit up on. 

Are there any Math lovers out there?  Did anyone do the "Mad Minute" when they were younger?  Bonus points if you rushed through it, too...

Geeky Find Friday - Solar System Mobile

Solar System Mobile by Serendipitee Design on Etsy

Growing up I was fascinated by the night sky.  I had books and books about the planets, stars, and constellations.  When I got straight A's in 3rd grade, my parents bought me a telescope as a reward and I vividly remember dragging it out onto our deck and oohing and ahhing at planets and lunar eclipses.

Here's the description:
This colorful solar system mobile is a stylish addition to any nursery and an excellent way to introduce older children to the planets. The mobile's base is an 18-inch lighted star form that plugs into the wall.

Forget our mobile with little animals and lullabies, this is so much prettier!

Geeky Find Friday - Baby's First Microbiology Book

Baby's First Microbiology Book by Verdant Violet on Etsy

I was a biology major back in college and really enjoyed my Microbiology class.  Except for the smell in the lab, of course.  Yuck.  I only hope that Carina will share a fervent love of bacteriophages and gram positive cocci.



Here's the description:
Microbiology for babies!

Cover: A microscope
Page 1: Amoeba!
Page 2: Bacteriophage
Page 3: Bacterial cell shapes and arrangements: bacilli (top) and cocci


The bacteriophage is my favorite.  Doesn't it almost look cute?  This shop has a whole bunch of different "Baby's First" subject books.  The molecular genetics one is pretty awesome, too.

Geeky Find Friday - the force is strong with this one!

Baby Yoda Hat by Chaos & Love on Etsy

For those who love Star Wars, even if they can't actually watch the movie yet ;)

Here's the description:
Made to order Yoda hat. These hats are made from 100% acrylic yarn and polyester fiberfill.

If we had done professional newborn photos, I would probably have looked for a geeky prop like this.  Such a photo would definitely be one to show future boyfriends or girlfriends!

Geeky Find Friday - Teeny tiny jellyfish, squeee!

Baby jellyfish by MochiQtie on Etsy

This miniature jellyfish makes me want to squee all over the place. And then buy the rest of the cute tiny things in the Etsy shop. I seriously need all of these.

Here's the description:

A little baby jellyfish is dancing happily ! Try to catch him.....

This MochiQtie is hand crocheted stitch by stitch with various types of yarn, filled with premium quality and non- allergenic fiberfill. Safety eyes attached.

Not edible, but MochiQtie will be a fun pal to keep around!

MochiQtie can be hanging around your bag, home, desk, trees, anywhere!

I had every intention of buying this little guy, but as soon as I pinned him on Pinterest he was gone!  I think this little unicorn is a good runner up.  Or maybe this lion. Crap. Having a PayPal balance is dangerous...

Geeky Find Friday - Mad Scientist in Training Bib

Kitty Mad Scientist in Training Baby Bib by MorningTempest on Etsy

I just about died when I first saw this bib! My family has always called M a "Mad Scientist" (lovingly, of course) so this is just perfect.  While growing up, M's Dad, who is also a chemist, regularly did chemistry demonstrations for him and his friends.  I have no doubt that M will do the same once Carina is old enough to know not to try these things on her own appreciate it :)

Here's the description:
This adorable baby bib is perfect for any Mad Scientist in Training. Custom colors available upon request. Bib colors - blue, green, white,pink,yellow. These bibs have a easy velcro closer to make it easy on and off.

You can even customize it with baby's name for just $2 more haha.  I'm sold.

Geeky Find Friday - Baby Genius Periodic Table Onesie

Baby Genius Period Table Onesie by Periodically Inspired on Etsy

M gets a little upset whenever I joke about Carina possibly being a genius.  He's convinced that I'm going to be disappointed if she isn't smart.  Of course I won't be; I'm going to love her whether she wants to play with a chemistry set or line up her boogers on the wall in descending size order.

Here's the description:
Is your baby a genius? If you think so, the little he or she needs a BABY GENIUS onesie inspired by Dmitri Mendeleev, creator of the Periodic Table of Elements!

Maybe this onesie would be a self-fulfilling propechy?  ;)

Geeky Find Friday - DNA Baby Blanket

Stroller Size Minky Baby Blanket - DNA Baby Genius by BoCoBaby on Etsy

I was a Biology major back in college and for many a semester I lived and breathed genetics.  This really takes me back...I am so in love with this blanket.

Here's the description:
Every mom wants to wrap her baby in the softest blanket possible. And it doesn't hurt if its stylish too! The Boco Strollin' blanket combines the luxury of minky with the latest designer cotton fabric for the ultimate baby blanket. This blanket is perfect for the brilliant mama who has taken time away from her cutting-edge research to have a baby.

Was anyone else a science major back in college?
P.S. Please help me get back in the top 30 on Top Baby Blogs!  Just click here -->  to vote, and then the owl on the left, that's it!  It just takes 5 seconds.  I will love you as much as I love CATAGGTTAAC :)

Geeky Find Friday - Carina's namesake

Ok so this isn't actually Carina's namesake, but one of our friends told us shortly after we announced that we were going to name our daughter Carina, that there exists a nebula with the same name.  And we think it's super cool.

Carina Nebula Astronomy Print by Deep Space Photography on Etsy

Here's the description:
This image, taken in visible light, shows the tip of a 3-light-year-long pillar, bathed in the glow of light from hot, massive stars off the top of the image. Scorching radiation and fast winds (streams of charged particles) from these stars are sculpting the pillar and causing new stars to form within it. Streamers of gas and dust can be seen flowing off the top of the structure.


I bet you're wishing that your name was Carina right now so you could have such a badass namesake.  She's a lucky girl, isn't she? ;)

Geeky Find Friday - Computer Code Baby Bib

Computer Code Chenille Baby Bib by Colby Lane Designs on Etsy

I made the picture large so you can hopefully see some of the code details.  While I'm not a programmer, I do see code like this on a daily basis as a software tester.  Both NULL and timeout are near and dear to my heart (ha!)  I don't have to read or write code, thankfully; all I have to do is try to break it.


Here's the description:
Brand-new, handmade cotton and chenille baby bib from colbylanedesigns! The front is a cool computer code print on a white background and reverses to plush chenille.


I don't know if I've ever heard computer code referred to as "cool" before!  Is anyone else out there a computer geek?

Geeky Find Friday - Nerdy Pi Guy Catnip Toy

Catnip Cat Toy - Nerdy Pi Guy by heartfeltwool on Etsy

I don't give my other babies - my cats, much face time on here.  This geeky find is for them.  Pi + glasses = epitome of geek.

Here's the description:
This catnip cat toy would be the perfect gift for the geek in your life or for kitty math enthusiasts. This cat toy was hand stitched and is ready to be loved by your feline companion. Catnip is in pellet form. No glues are used to attach embellishments.

This Etsy seller even donates a portion of the sale of this toy to the humane society. How nice!





Here are my snuggly kitties: Rufus and Layla.  They are just begging for some catnip.  For more kitty cuteness, check out my lame attempt at making LOL catz.

Geeky Find Friday - Molecules Baby Crib Shoes

Blue Molecules Baby Crib Shoes by whimbrella on Etsy

Baby will be able to get up and atom! (haha I'm so lame) with these nerdy shoes. :)

Here is the description:
Booties featuring tiny colorful molecule symbols on lovely blue cotton fabric. Inside sole of coordinating double-helix/dna design. Darker blue accent completes these fun shoes. Easily machine washable.

Completely interfaced for durability and stability. Soft elastic at ankle means these booties will stay on little tootsies. (According to my test market, aka "The Granny Patrol," these are the only shoes to stay on tiny happy feet!) Exact fabric placement may vary slightly. 

Carina has enough pairs of pink and sparkly shoes.  I think she might need these.

Geeky Find Friday - Princess Peach Quilt

Lil Geek Princess Peach Mario Quilt by GeekUnique on Etsy

I have fantastic memories of playing Super Mario Bros 3 with my sisters when we were young.  During rainy days we would spend hours working together to beat the game.

Here is the description:

Start their love of Classic Video Games while they are young with a handmade 36x36 crib sized quilt!

Sorry Mario but your Princess is in a different castle!

The incredibly cute Princess Peach quilt will look adorable in your daughter's bedroom!

Handmade and Customized for the Littlest Geek in your life, these durable one piece 36x36 crib sized quilts feature:

100% Cotton Tops
Polyester Batting
Machine Quilted Classic Game Character


I really wish I could find our old Nintendo system.  Oh good old 16-bit Nintendo...how I miss thee.  Did anyone else play Super Mario Bros 3?  My favorite world was Ice Land.  Oh to be Tanooki Mario again...

Geeky Find Friday - Mr. Methane

Mr. Methane by Primandplush on Etsy

Much more fun than teddy bears or stuffed puppies!

Here is the description:
The simplest of all organic compounds, methane or CH4, in a cute and plush form!

He measures approximately 5.5 inches tall and is handmade from 100% cotton yarn, 100% polyester fiberfill, and plastic eyes.

The Etsy shop actually has a whole collection of different molecules.  There is also a Mrs. Methane, in pink and purple.  I think Carina would prefer her over another pink bunny, what do you think?

Geeky Find Friday - Periodic Table Baby Pillow

Minky Fleece Periodic Table Element Pink Baby Pillow by YellowBugBoutique on Etsy

For the baby who wants to dream about Chemistry :)

Here's the description:

Here at Yellow Bug Boutique, we can clearly remember the day our parents had "the Talk" with us. By the time they finished all the clinical explanations about the birds and the bees, we were thoroughly grossed out. Seriously, you put what, where? On purpose?

So later in life, as we were introduced to the wonders of organic chemistry, we had a sudden realization. If you mixed up a batch of barium, boron and yttrium in just the right quantities, and at just the right temperature, the result was a Little Bundle of Joy. For real! It cries and poops and everything!

We're just kidding, of course. It turns out Mom and Dad's explanation was correct, and after a little practice we got used to it (got to kind of like it, actually). But that combination of BA, B and Y was too cute to ignore, so we whipped up a batch in pillow form. They would make a lovely baby shower gift for the scientifically inclined mom-to-be.

I think I might actually buy this.  M would get a kick out of it.