Now What Baby: 4/1/08

4.30.2008

Belli - for you and your baby

Why do I like Belli? I love that they have put so much time and research into making sure that their products are safe for Mom and Baby. They screen their products to be certain that there are no ingredients linked to birth defects or harmful effects during breastfeeding. When you are pregnant or a new mom there is already so much to worry about without wondering if your face wash is going to be harmful to your child. When you buy skincare from Belli - you don't have to worry (at least that is one thing you can cross of your list).

Belli has products that cater to three categories - Belli Pregnancy, Belli Motherhood, and Belli Baby. I tried out the Belli Motherhood Eye Brightening Cream. This cream not only refreshes tired eyes (if only toddlers slept in I might not have this problem!), but it also hydrates your skin. This cream will help brighten your dark circles and minimize fine lines around your eyes. Now mom has a new secret weapon to looking well rested.

I also played around with Belli Baby's Talc Free Powder. Why talc free? Recent studies have shown that talc can be harmful when inhaled into a baby lungs. I'm sure your newborn won't be caught in a closet sniffing baby powder but it can fill the air when you apply it. Better safe than sorry. Besides - this product is great at keeping your baby's bottom dry and diaper rash free. All that and it smells good too! Belli Baby also offers great products like Hair/Body Wash, Lotion, and Diaper Rash Cream.

4.29.2008

The Sippy Cup of Kiddie Bowls?

Can I please just say "thank you" to the brilliant mom and dad team who invented this out of this world product. I'm going to have to throw out all my other kiddie bowls because to me the Loopa Bowl can't be beat. I feel like all I do is follow my son around and pick up his trail of snacks. I know he is little and accidents happen but do they have to happen all day long? They don't anymore!

The Loopa Bowl looks like a UFO to me and Connor thinks it is a toy. It's really easy for him to hold on to the sides that looks kinda like a ring encircling a planet. The inside of the bowl flips and spins with your child's movements and keeps the snacks from spilling out. We played around with this neat-o dining device and found you could actually turn it upside down and it would not spill. The only way to dump your snacks out of this bowl is to toss it up in the air and even sometimes that fails to make a mess. The bowl also comes with a lid, so you can toss it in your diaper bag and say "bye-bye" to picking up the snacks your kid spills at wherever you might go.

Watch the video below to see the Loopa Bowl in action - this is one of those products you have to really watch to understand!

23 Weeks - With my Inner Child

If you haven't gotten the chance to see the tees and onesies at Baby and Momma - you are missing out. Not only do all the tees guarantee at the very least a smile (although most got a good laugh from me), but they are really so comfortable. Comfort is really important to me. I really liked the cotton/spandex blend they used to make the maternity tees. They feel lightweight and cool but I can tell they have the power of stretch in them.

Here are a few of the laugh-out-loud sayings you can find on Baby & Momma's tees & onesies -(I put the baby ones first, so don't get confused):

"Clone"
"Who is my daddy?"
"Are you really my relatives?"

Maternity tees:

"Our future lies within"
"Who's your mommy?"

My "I'm with my inner child" tee -

4.28.2008

Kids can eat ice cream inside again!

I'm not sure about you but ice cream has been up there as one of my no-no's for inside our home. I really don't know how he does it but even under direct supervision the majority of an ice cream cone's contents end up on my floor. Popsicles are just as bad because they drip all over his face, hands, shirt, then onto his shoes, and my floor.

The Dripstik definitely earns the label of a sanity saver for me. I love how it contains the drips. No more sticky hands!! I am actually allowing ice cream back inside the house which means it's not just for summer anymore. I'm sure you can figure out that my son is really happy about this.

The Dripstik is two products in one. On one side you can insert an ice cream cone and when you flip it to the other side it will hold a Popsicle stick. How come no one has thought of this before? I let him eat his ice-cream and then we just toss the Dripstik in the dishwasher. No mess! As any mother knows - there will never be an end to the messes your child makes but it is so nice to find one way to prevent some!

Here is the Dripstik in action:

One of a kind at Alli's Originals

Alli's Originals are so beautiful and the tiny details are incredible. Alli sent me a necklace like the one above but mine said "Connor" and had a "?" to represent our currently nameless soon to be new addition. I was so amazing at how well crafted the necklace was and that she could fit Connor's name on that little square. I personally love this little trophy necklace because of it's simplicity. It looks great with everything!

Alli has many different styles of jewelery and they can all be customized to meet your desires. Her handcrafted designs are the perfect way to celebrate your most treasured relationships, whether it be your husband, grandparents, kids, pets, etc... They would also make a really good mother's day gift (coming up rather soon)!

Take some time to explore Alli's Originals and look at all the beautiful pieces she makes herself - by hand! She even has bracelets for babies - too cute! Below is a picture of her new hand cut pendants. They are really unique and adorable.

I tried really hard to get a picture of my necklace but I couldn't capture the great detail. I put a pic below of me wearing it but remember it looks like the photo above but is personalized with engravings that celebrate my family!

4.25.2008

The Korbie - lighten your load

This is by far one of the coolest baby products on the market! The Korbie all-in-one baby bag is not only incredibly useful but the design is so stylish and well-made. The Korbie was invented by one creative and smart Grandma who noticed a need for easier traveling while watching her daughter struggle at the airport. The Korbie bag is not only a roomy place to store your baby needs but it also becomes a bassinet and a changing pad.

The best thing about this bag is it's versatility. As your child grows and you no longer have a need for a bassinet, you can simply remove that from the bag and it is a great diaper bag. Without the bassinet inside the Korbie becomes a saddle bag that you can easily throw over the back of a chair or a bathroom door (which I found to be quite useful - I think Purse hooks on a bathroom door should be mandatory!). The diaper bag has several different compartments, making organization a breeze and it has insulated pockets for your bottles.

The bassinet/changing pad just amazed me. It zips open to reveal a comfy place for baby complete with a canopy sun shield and straps to secure your baby inside. The removable pad is made of machine washable material. Surprisingly, while this bag is not lightweight - it wasn't anywhere near as heavy as those infant car seats we tote everywhere. I just loved this bag. It was the 1st big innovation to diaper bags I have seen in years and who doesn't need an extra hand when toting around a baby? Babies come with a lot of baggage.

Watch the demo video to get a better understanding of the Korbie and to see the bassinet!

Natural - Refreshing - Confident

Giving up my Coca-Cola was so hard for me when I got pregnant. It was a big addiction for me. I am really glad to have found a happy alternative to my daily caffeine fix. Glow Mama is a drink made for pregnant moms, nursing moms, really any moms and it's good for you but I found it refreshing. Maybe it's all of the of the nutrients and natural ingredients. I love that I have found a drink that I not only like but that also includes folic acid. Any mom to be knows that folic acid is so important to their growing child.

The kiwi juice gives the drink a nice flavor that is not too sweet and naturally flavored. Glow Mama uses no preservatives. I really like having a drink that I know is healthy for me and my child. I get tired of drinking water all day and Glow Mama has replaced my morning coke as a healthy tasty alternative.

Visit Glow Mama's page to find fun mocktail recipes to make using your Glow Mama. Also be sure to check out the Glow Mama Blogs which are made by real moms who have useful advice from many different perspectives!

4.24.2008

MediBuddy

The MediBuddy can save you when an accident occurs. This easy to toss in your purse kit is great when you have an unexpected boo-boo. I'm not really sure why a band aid and a sticker makes everything better but to my kid - it heals all wounds. I'm amazed that they could cram 40 quality first aid items into a case this small. I have one in my car and one in my diaper bag.

I will never forget the time we were out shopping and Connor tripped and hit scraped his head on the concrete. It wasn't a bad wound but it was a skinned spot on his forehead that was bleeding. We frantically ran into the dollar store to get antiseptic and band aids to put on his head. I felt so bad for not being prepared and having to shop for supplies when he was hurt and upset like that. I'm really glad to feel prepared for the next skinned knee situation. I know with an active boy like mine that a boo-boo is never far in the future.

Me4kidzs also has a great MediBag (with almost anything you could need in a boo-boo crisis) and a MediBag for pets - be sure to look at them too when you visit their site.

A quick video of us using the MediBuddy on a pretend Boo-Boo:

Sweet Leaf Baby

Thymes has a great collection of products for you little angel called Sweet Leaf Baby. I am a obsessed with their Baby Blanket Wash. I don't know about you but I washed everything that might touch my newborn in Baby Laundry Detergent before he was born. After he was born I also started washing most of my stuff in the same detergent because his face would touch my clothing and my sheets too. I was never a big fan of the baby detergents offered at my local stores so I am thrilled to find a Laundry Detergent for babies that I really like!

I started out testing out the Baby Blanket Wash on some of my son's clothing but I liked it so much I am now using it on mine too! It leaves my clothing so soft and I really like the light, fresh scent. Although I'm obviously not a baby anymore - I find that so many detergents will make my skin itch when I put on my freshly laundered clothing. Baby Blanket Wash leaves me itch free!

Sweet Leaf Baby also has the cutest nursery kit basket with a light jasmine scent. It includes a super soft wash cloth, diaper balm, instant hand cleanser, and nursery mist. I think I will be giving this at a lot of baby showers. I love the little basket that it comes in. The set looks so nice sitting on my changing table and it includes everything you need. I have loved spraying the nursery mist after changing a diaper - it helps cover up the not so pleasant odor but is not overpowering.

Thymes offers many other products besides their adorable Sweet Leaf Baby Collection. Stop by and visit their site and let me know what your favorites are. You never know when I might feel like giving out a freebie!

4.23.2008

What's a Fortamajig?

Fortamajig: the best way to build a fort for your kids without creating a mess or dealing with the constant problem of having your fort loosen and fall apart

Of all the product we have been lucky enough to test out - the Fortamajig was pretty high on both my husband and son's favorite list. I guess it's one of those "manly" things but they love to build forts. The Fortamajig has gone far towards keeping me sane because a typical fort building session at my home leads to quite the disaster zone. Somehow they will manage to use every blanket we own, move all the furniture, and take out all our books to use as weights. I wonder who ends up cleaning up that mess and folding up all the blankets?

The fortamajig is great! It's made of nylon fabric and all around the edges of this large piece of fabric are adjustable velcro loops. You can secure the edges of your Fortamajig using the stretchy loops to whatever your mind can dream up . Inside we used things like chairs, stair railings, bar stools, the feet on our couch and so on... Outside they we used his jungle gym poles, but I think next time we will try the tree branches. The possibilities are endless and I love that the Fortamajig even has a window built in to the design.

The best part for me was the easy clean up - it folds up and fits right into the bag they provide. It's also really easy for my son to take to his playdates, the park or a stay at Grandma's.

Here is our video of the forts we constructed and how my son feels about the Fortamajig:

22 Weeks - I found a tee to match my art

I really like the tees available at Bumpstyle. They are all on size fits all and that makes me feel certain that no matter what size my baby bump may grow to - they will always fit me. The stretchy fabric on the tops is so comfy but it still looks cute and stylish.

My favorite thing about Bumpstyle was the designs they offered on their tees. My favorite was the dandelion design but they also have lily's and blossoms - just to name a few. I like the simplicity of the designs and the fit of the tees so much. I love how long they are - maternity pants either ride low or have a band so it's really good to have a top you won't have to worry about exposing your expanding parts.

Check out Bumpstyle's great cap sleeve tees and long sleeve tees. This is a top that you can wear pregnant or not and it will definitely stay in style for a long time. Do dandelions ever go out of style? I would consider them to be artsy not trendy. Here is a pick of me wearing my Dandelion Cap sleeve tee (notice it goes really well with the painting on my wall - weird huh?)

4.22.2008

MD Moms got it right!!

Md Moms products are developed by pediatrician moms and maybe that is why they work so well! I really like their line of products called Baby Silk. I love their on the go set because it is so easy for my to toss in my diaper bag and then I'm always prepared. The on the go set includes everything a mom needs like silky liquid powder, hair and body wash, moisturizing balm (which I keep using for myself), and diaper rash cream. MD moms have made their products to prevent skin irritation - they use high quality ingredients like marine silk (increases moisture retention) and licorice extract (calms irritated skin) - and all of their products have a great scent.

I think my favorite Baby Silk product is the sunscreen towelettes. Putting on sunscreen is a huge, squirmy battle at my home. We are pretty hard core about sunscreen ever since we had a skin cancer scare. Whenever we go outside I put sunscreen on Connor. You would think he would have gotten used to this idea but he has just gotten better at hiding and escaping my grip. The sunscreen towelettes are not only quick and easy for me to use but Connor can do it himself. In his never-ending "me do it" phase this product is saving my mind and time. My husband really likes the towelettes as well. They don't irritate his skin and they are really convenient. It's easy for him to apply sunscreen in the car on his way to work.

Celebs are singing the praises of Baby Silk. When you go to MD Moms page you can see an impressive list of celebrities who love to use Baby Silk. Big names like Jennifer Garner, Christina Aquilera, and Nicole Richie. So if you don't just take my word for how great Baby Silk is - you can also see what the famous momma think!

In the video you can see how easy it is for Connor to use the sunscreen towelettes:

A better way to make them stay in bed

Since we finally convinced Connor to stay in his bed at night and out of ours - we have only had one problem. I can't stop him from running into our room as soon as the sun comes up! It seems like the sun just keeps coming up earlier and earlier. It would be one thing if he wanted to lay in bed with us, but he wants breakfast and to play trains. I am not a morning person.

Enter the KID'Sleep clock - a sanity saver for sure. This clock is so cool. I love that it has so many uses. When your child is smaller you can use it as a night light only. When your kid is a toddler it is great because they don't have to be able to tell time to learn you can't come in Mommy's room until 7:30. You simply program the clock like you would an alarm clock and select the option that does not ring like an alarm. At night the bottom half of the clock will be lit up providing a soft night light and at 7:30 (or whatever time you have selected) the top half of the clock will light up. A toddler CAN grasp this concept.

We started off setting the clock for 7:00 and then each night pushing it back a little more. I'm hoping to someday get to 8:00. He understands that while he does not have to stay in bed, he must play quietly in his room until the top half of the clock lights up. It took about three mornings of walking him back to his room and explaining this concept but he has it down now. I am so thankful for this clock!

It will grow with your child too. As they get older you can use it as a normal alarm clock. It also comes with changeable face plates. They include one extra plate with your clock and you can purchase additional options should you want to change things up. The extra one they include is a plate that pictures only night time - so you would want to use this one if you were using the clock as a night light only. If you are struggling with the early riser try this clock out. It might get you the extra sleep that you really need. I know it has for me.

4.21.2008

A potty with style and function

If you're a regular reader of Now What Baby then you probably have noticed that I love Boon Products. I love the design, style and pretty much everything else. I have been playing around with their Potty Bench and I really wish I had this before I bought 3 other potties for my son.

Let me make you a list of why this potty is better than my other potties:

It becomes a bench when you are not using it. So you can use this potty long after your child has started using the "big" potty and it makes a great bench to sit on when you are bathing your kids. Already this potty is 3 products in one.
I love the little orange thing on the potty - I'm not sure what the technical name for it is but I can tell you what it prevents - pee all over the toilet seat and the floor. I like to call it the "urine blocker". None of the other potties I purchased had that useful little detail.
It has storage on the sides of the potty. So smart - I love anything that provides me with a way to hide the ever accumulating clutter in my home. Right now we are using the handy toilet paper roll on one of the side storage pockets for it's rightful use - toilet paper. However, I have big plans of using it to store bath products (shampoo, soap, etc..) when my son no longer uses it for a potty. On the other storage pocket we have wet wipes and a couple little books Connor believes must be read while using the toilet. I will not tell you where he got that idea - I'm sure you can assume.
It is really easy to dispose of the contents your child will leave in the potty - you simply pull out the bowl (which is designed to pull out just like a drawer) dump it out, rinse, and you are done. So much easier than changing diapers!!!! Too bad I'm about to start all over again in a few months.
I can't stress enough how much I think this is a stylish potty - it doesn't light up and sing (thank goodness) - it looks sleek. Trust me, check out the other available potties and you will come back saying "yes, the potty bench is the best looking option". I don't rush to hide this when guests come over. You can turn it quickly into a bench and it won't gross anyone out.
It's very affordable- pretty much the same price as all the other potties and you can use it as a bench too.

Ok- I'm done and I have a little video of the Potty Bench in action for you:

Wipe away your boogie problems

"Snot your average wipe" is their slogan and they are telling the truth. Boogie Wipes have been a lifesaver in my home. I'm not sure if it is just because he's two but my son is in love with his boogies. You might think love is a strong word to use with boogies but I am not kidding. They are really special to him. He saves them and it causes tears when I make him use a tissue.

I am so tired of seeing that familiar snot trail smeared across my little angel's face (sorry, this might be a little nasty for the non-mommies). When I use the regular baby wipes on his face I have to scrub and scrub - Boogie Wipes are different. They have a unique saline formula that instantly gets that stubborn mucous trail to hit the road.

I've somehow convinced my trusting little man that Boogie Wipes are a secret place for his Boogies to go. He thinks he is special when he uses a Boogie Wipe. I have put a pack in his room and other locations around our house to give him an alternative to his finger and hands. I think his acceptance of Boogie Wipes over the baby wipes and tissues has to do with two things:
1- They are quick and mommy only needs to do one wipe to clean him off - no pain for Connor and much less time he has to stand still
2- They are for Boogies and he knows it - he just thinks they are special (although I have
found that they work great on a peanut butter and jelly face too)

I am glad to have reached a boogie truce. It is so nice not to have to chase my boy around the house just the wipe his nose. I am also thrilled to see the end of the boogie storage on the part of my son. He just gets a Boogie Wipe and says goodbye. Thank heavens for the little blessings in our lives.

4.18.2008

Chocolate Cake Anyone?

The Chocolate Cake Club is a great website for finding gifts or products that you need as a parent. I absolutely love the Sugar Booger Diaper Bag Organizer Pouches that they sell at the Chocolate Cake Club. I can't wait to use these with the new baby but they have actually been really useful for a toddler as well. The Organizer Pouches come labeled dirty, clean, extras, and goodies. It is really nice to be able to toss the dirty clothing into a pouch instead of my diaper bag allowing it to mingle with the other clean clothing. I love the clean pouch mainly because it eliminates any confusion for whoever is in possession of the overnight/diaper bag. I'm using the goodies pouch to store my lip gloss and the extras for a few of Connor's trains. I know that these pouches will be filled with pacis, rash cream, lotions, and much more when I have a baby but I like that I can use them for lots of items. The clean and dirty bags are big enough to fit a whole outfit in - I was really pleased with the size when they arrived. Oh- and lets not forget how cute they are!

The Chocolate Cake Club offers so much more than just diaper bag organizers! They have really great toys and it's easy to find what you need because they allow you to search for gifts by age and recipient. They don't just have stuff for moms and kids - they have gifts for teachers, grandparents, father's day and so on. They also allow you to search for products by need. I love the products they have to help teach kids good habits.

We found the Feel Better Frog at the Chocolate Cake Club. My son has had so much fun playing with this adorable little frog. He comes with a bottle, soup & spoon, thermometer, band-aid, blanket, and a tissue. The frog tells your child how he is feeling. When you put the tissue up to his nose he sneezes. When you put the spoon to his mouth he makes an eating sound. I really like the idea that this little frog lets your child play doctor but also learn to help care for someone else. It has made Connor want to run around with a tissue trying to get everyone to blow their nose.

I plan on using the Chocolate Cake Club as a one stop shopping destination for my gift giving needs. I might also use it to get myself a gift every now and then too (shhhhh...)

A little video of Connor playing with the Feel Better Frog:

21 Weeks - My maternity wardrobe in a box

The Maggie Box is perfect for a maternity wardrobe. It came with all the basics you need when you become pregnant. The clothing is made of breathable, stretchable, jersey material. It really is just as comfortable to me as my favorite sweat pants!

The Maggie Box will work for you from your first trimester on to post-pregnancy. I know I sure didn't snap back to my pre-pregnancy size clothing for many months after giving birth. All I wanted to wear was comfy and easy to put together clothing.

This box has all your options covered - you get pants, a skirt, a tank and a 3 quarter sleeve top. It gives you options that you can wear to work, out to dinner or just to relax around the house. I love that all the pieces are black because it's not only slimming but it will go with everything.

I have found limitless outfit combinations using my Maggie Box. I really like just wearing the pieces together because they truly are so comfortable - I can't stress that enough! If you don't want to spend a lot of money or buy lots of maternity clothing buy the Maggie Box, with that and a pair of maternity jeans you would be pretty much good to go. If you want to have lots of clothing the Maggie Box is a great way to make sure you get all your basics covered. Maggie Maternity also has lots of other great clothing on their site. I'm loving the Jersey Jumper!

Here are pics of me wearing the contents of my Maggie Box - the pants, skirt, top, and tank are all inside the Maggie Box!

4.17.2008

Tummy Honey by Bella B

I just love trying out anything that will help get rid of my stretch marks! I wasn't aware of stretch mark prevention products when I was pregnant with Connor and unfortunately I have the stretch marks to prove it. Bella B has a great line of products to help moms-to-be or moms who already have the stretch marks. I love their Tummy Honey Line!

I have probably been over-applying their Tummy Honey Cream but I want to get rid of those stretch marks! It has a unique plant extract that is proven to fade stretch marks typically 30 -50% or more. I would love to see a 30% fading on mine - especially before swimsuit season.

I also really like that the Tummy Honey comes in a stick form. It is so quick and easy for me to rub on my tummy. I'm bad about making time in my day for beauty rituals and it's easy for me to leave this in my purse and apply it anytime I have a minute. The Honey Butter isn't greasy and it has been great at moisturizing my skin.

Bella B products are made up of natural ingredients - so no fear - they are safe for you and baby. They also make products for so much more than just stretch marks. I love their Bright Eyes Triple Action Eye Cream. I suffer from dark circles that never go away. It is great to find a product to help me attack them! Visit Bella B and check out their nursing line, body products and their face products. You can find something for your head, tummy, and toes at Bella B!

4.16.2008

The ultimate in luxury changing stations

Ah Goo Baby's Portable Diaper Changing Station is so luxurious I want one my size to relax on. The changing station is made with contouring memory foam. It is really amazing because it is just like my memory foam mattress pad and yet it's still machine washable. I'd say baby's living the high life.

Celebs like Naomi Watts, Amanda Peet, Marcia Cross and Patrick Dempsey are all owners of the Portable Diaper Changing Station and I can understand why. It really is so soft and the pad is really thick. The patterns the pad is available in are chic and stylish. Then there is the easy way it rolls up and fits into your diaper bag.

I have decided to leave mine downstairs as an alternate changing spot. The pad is really contemporary and it fits right in with my decor. I'm not even going to roll it up! I also think it would be perfect to leave one at grandma's house and one in my car. I think I just need one of these everywhere! Lucky for me it is really easy to tote with you.

My son loved the pad. He was pretty good when I changed his diaper on it -as good as any toddler boy is when having his diaper changed. But he really liked it as a nap spot. He actually put it in the shopping cart when we ran an errand and used it to nap on. It must be pretty comfy if you can use it to sleep in a shopping cart!

Ah Goo Baby has a given my lucky readers a discount of 15% when you use the code NWB530 at the checkout!

Here is a little video we made:

Uncommonly Cute Tees

Connor had so much fun posing in his Uncommonly Cute tee. I really enjoyed checking out their line of fun tees. Uncommonly Cute lets you pick the design you want on the tee and then pick the tee thats best for you (onesie, short sleeve, long sleeve). It's really nice to be able to customize your t-shirt wants that way and it makes it easy to do matching sibling shirts. I want to get the tee that says "word to big bird" in a onesie and then let Connor and his soon to be lil' bro wear them together.

Uncommonly Cute has designs for girls, boys, and twins. It's a great place to find some baby clothes! They even have republican & democratic tees for your little one. I adore the twin tees that say "copy" on one and "paste" on the other. Now if I only had some twins to put those on...

Here are is a slideshow of the C-man wearing his new tee:

The Intelligender Results are in...

Intelligender was a gender prediction test I took at 9 weeks pregnant. Yesterday we found out the sex of the baby and Intelligender got it right! We are having a baby boy!

I know that it did have a 50/50 chance of giving me the right answer but I am still a little impressed. We did a quick drawing for the winner of their own intelligender test...drumroll please....the winner is Danielle!

Danielle said "I wish it were that easy, but its doubtful... Can't wait to see the results, hopefully it will work and I can test it out too!" Hopefully Danielle will keep us updated as to whether or not this test ends up working for her.

Do you think it was just good odds on the side of Intelligender or do you think it has a real science about it? I would love to know what you think!

4.14.2008

You can clean well today!

Wait -nobody panic! I wasn't talking about cleaning your house today. I was talking about cleaning your hands. You don't have to worry, I despise anything to do with cleaning my house. Clean Well offers great natural hand sanitzers and foaming hand wash - thats all I was talking about.

I really like the Clean Well hand sanitzer because it is so easy to use on me and my son. It kind of reminds me of binaca for your hands. It sprays like a mist, a great alternative to rubbing gel in until it evaporates. The hand sanitizer is much quicker and easier to use on a fidgety child.

The foaming hand wash comes in three savory scents. I am partial to the orange vanilla scent. But the main reason I like Clean Well products is their commitment to getting rid of dirt and germs without using harsh chemicals. You don't have to worry about your kids ingesting this germ killing product. Its amazing to me that Clean Well has found a way to kill 99% of harmful germs and to do it 100% poison free & 100% green.

You can pick up Clean Well at your local Target and it is really affordable. The foaming hand wash was under $5. See you can Clean Well Today!

4.13.2008

Blue Zoo Boutique

I am a self admitted shop-a-holic and the Internet is my biggest enemy. It is so tempting for me to spend hours shopping for anything and everything, especially when I can do it from my comfy couch. It was during one of my online shopping searches that I stumbled upon the Blue Zoo Boutique.

Blue Zoo Boutique had lots of really cute stuff for your kids. I love the swaddle wraps. The prints were so cute and contemporary and they have easy ties to keep you little bambino swaddled tightly.

The Buggy Bags and Baby Slings at Blue Zoo also have adorable, bright prints. I found myself wanting a couple because deciding on one print was just too hard.

I just wanted to let you know about this cute online boutique. They also have funny tees for your little one and so much more. They have blankets, babylegs, and paci clips....I could go on and on. But my favorite thing about this site was the swaddle wraps - so make sure you check them out. I know I want to order one for my upcoming arrival!

4.12.2008

"Sensuously aromatic organic body oil"

I must sing the praises of Mama Belly Oil from the Baby Bear Shop! For starters it smells amazing. It has a scent a mixture of lavender and mandarin, the combination leads to an exotic scent. Secondly - it's organic - composed of various oils like sunflower oil, olive oil, lavender oil, and rosehip oil to name a few.

Third - It has so many uses! It provides protection from stretch marks, so you can use it for a belly rub on an expecting mom. I love it as a massage oil for both your baby or yourself. The scent is so relaxing and soothing. The best thing about it for me was adding a few capfuls to my baths. The tub became a relaxing spa and it really hydrated my skin. You can also apply it after a shower to help avoid dry skin and add some glow!

Baby Bear Shop has several products that both mom and baby can share. All of their products are organic and made from natural ingredients - so have no fear - these are safe for you and your kids!

Have you visited Studio Cherie?

If you haven't been there already you should check out Studio Cherie. I have really been enjoying using the Studio Cherie Compact Travel Pad/Bag. It is perfect for diaper changing on the go! Every since my son entered his toddler years I have been tossing a few diapers in my purse and heading out the door. The Compact Travel Pad/Bag is so convenient because it's small and perfect for taking just the necessities. It fits right in my purse.

I have to admit it has been nice to have a pad to change my son on again (I really like that it is machine washable!) But the best part about it is the way your wipes are secure and easy to get to. You are no longer rummaging in your bag to find them and trying to keep them out of your child's reach while holding their legs in the air. When you need a wipe for their face or hands, you don't have to open the bag - the wipes are right on the front - easy to get to!

I would recommend this for moms who don't really need the whole diaper bag of stuff anymore. It's quick, easy, cute, soft, and really affordable. However, If you are still taking the big diaper bag, it would be really easy to toss this pad/bag in. I also love the idea of leaving this gem in your car or stroller. It would always be there in a pinch.

When you check out Studio Cherie - don't miss the Crypton Bags. They are super cute and really functional! Also pay notice to the many adorable options available for the Compact Travel Pad/Bag, it comes in lots of other prints besides zebra.

You can get your own bag at Studio Cherie and receive 10% off when you use the code NWBB. The Compact Changing Pad/Bag is only $34 and with 10% off thats a deal!

I did a little demo of me showing how to use the pad/bag:

4.10.2008

Week 20 - Discovering Boob Design!

The maternity line from Boob Design is amazing. I was fortunate enough to get to try out a dress, pants and a tank! I was extremely happy with all three items. Boob Design's clothing is made from soft quality material. I love the cut of both the dress and tank. I still feel attractive and I don't feel like I was forced to compromise my style because I'm pregnant.

The jeans I tried were free from a maternity band, instead they are cut very low and adjust on the inside as you grow. They use the same elastic button system moms are familiar with in their toddlers pants. I strongly suggest taking a look at all Boob Design has to offer. They have a stylish but classic look and I know that these clothes will look just as good should I try for baby number three! Also - Boob Design has a nursing line of clothing that is equally stylish!

Here is some photos of me wearing the clothing - the gray tank, white jeans, and purple dress are all from Boob Design.

Have Crocodile - Will Travel

Zoobie Pets are not only adorable but they are perfect for traveling. The various animals are so very soft and have a cuddly blanket inside their bellies. They also become a pillow. My son loves his crocodile Zoobie Pet. He takes it everywhere and it has quickly become his comfort blanket. It is so easy to use that he can take the blanket out himself!

The colorful pets are available from their Zoo Collection or their Safari Collection. Some of my favorite animals are the Baboon, Giraffe, and Rhino. Zoobie Pets certainly have something for everyone!

And....the video review!

4.09.2008

Bath Time is best shared with your Circle-of-Friends!

Ok - I am so excited about Circle-of-Friends Bath and Hair Products! I love the around the world style theme! All the different scents come from your various friends living all over the globe. For example - Shamrock Suds are from your Irish buddy Lachlan and have a great pear scent. All of the different Circle-of-Friends have a little story all about them on their products.

Where do I even begin? I am such a kid at heart but I love all the fun scents. I am crazy about the mint chocolate, root beer and banana. I think my son will constantly be finding his shampoo in my shower!

The Sudsy Soaps look like little duck sponges and are filled with soap. I really enjoyed using these because the soap wasn't sliding out of my hands and my son could actually wash himself. If you prefer a normal bar of soap but want a twist - the soap we tried out had a coin inside of it. My son is dying to get to that coin so I no longer have to beg him to wash. He is actually trying to use up his soap.

My very favorite product was the Lemon Lime Hair Slicker. I have been searching for a child inspired hair product to spike my son's hair up with. I'm not sure if it is the scent or the bright green color but my son is pretty easy going about me doing his hair with it. The best part- it actually works!

Circle-or-Friends offers so many other great products for your family. They have a line of products for eczema, shampoos to help prevent lice, lotions, and hair paints - to name a few!

Here is our video review:

Get organized and in style!

Aster & Sage has become my new favorite destination for stylish accessory storage. I have been using my Annie Organizer to store my cell phone and money. It's perfect to throw your ID, check card & cell phone in - then toss it in your diaper bag or purse for to grab for a quick dash here and there. It has a dog leash style strap so you can hook it on your bag and it won't disappear. I'm not sure what your purse or diaper bags look like but mine are a deep, dark hole full of everything I could need and then some! The Annie Organizer has been a big help, not to mention I love the fabrics!

Aster & Sage also offers storage solutions like:

jewelry envelopes
eyeglass bags
Ipod bags
Change purses
Makeup bags

Make sure that you also check out their cute bags - they have messenger bags, shoulder bags, tote bags and zip bags. There is definitely something for everyone!

Punk Rock Lullaby

Punk Rock Lullaby offers an alternative to the typical mom-2-be tees and gives you the perfect comfy tanks. The material on these tanks is perfect whether you're expecting a new addition or not. They instantly snap back to their original shape as soon as you take them out of the dryer and they stretch as far as you need them too!

The Mom created clothing line has just been added to the celebrity Bump Bags - full of fun merchandise for the famous expectant mommies. Another great reason to check out Punk Rock Lullaby is for your baby or your dog - yes, your dog! Punk Rock Lullaby offers cute tees for your canine prince or princess with witty sayings like "1st born" and "scratch me".

I got to try out the turntable tank and I love it! I have already gotten so many compliments about the design. It's hard to still feel hip and in this tank - I feel like I'm not a boring mommy. I know I will be wearing this long after the baby arrives!

My modeling pic :)

A Swimming Pool in a Can?

Splash Cool is a great way to escape from your day. When I first received my Swimming Pool in a Can, I was amazed at how refreshing it is. You spritz your face or whatever you so desire with sterilized water. It is instantly hydrating and because it contains no chemicals, simply water, it won't irritate your skin!

Here are some of the many uses we have found for this delightful new product in our home:

A great way to wake up in the morning - it certainly helps me get up and going
It calms down my son when he's throwing a tantrum
A great help to me in cooling off when I wake up overheated at night
I can't wait to use this when I'm at the pool or beach
It will definitely be in my overnight bag for when I go into the hospital to have our new addition - I think the mist will be so refreshing when in labor
It would be perfect to use after you workout - maybe it will motivate me to exercise
I've tossed the small size into my purse and even used it to help rehydrate my always too dry skin

You should definitely give this little product a try. Who wouldn't like an easy way to feel refreshed and hydrated?

4.08.2008

Freshly Baked - Georgie Tees

Georgie Tees have the motto "Humor. the only way to survive." and they have certainly got the humor aspect covered. The line was created by two friends who have a total of eight kids between them. Something tells me they know a lot about how to survive.

They offer tees for pregnant mamas and infants both guaranteed to make you smile. Here are a few of my favorite maternity & infant tees:

"no longer childproof"

"made it past third base"

"jack was nimble, jack was quick"

"I wasn't born yesterday" - this is for infants

"heavy drinker" - this is for infants too - it has a bottle on it

My son got to try out their "Sharp Shooter" tee and we were very happy with the quality of the shirt. He had a lot of fun posing for these photos:

Love, to the moon and back

The Blessed Nest has a great, versatile pillow for any mom. The Organic Nesting Pillow begins as a pregnancy pillow and then becomes your nursing or feeding pillow. I loved the shape of this pillow and the way you could adjust it to meet whatever position you needed. The cover is made of lightweight 100% cotton and the top and bottom of the pillow are covered in 100% organic cotton French Terry. The fabric on this pillow is so soft and the slipcover is removable for easy machine washing. They also offer the slipcovers in so many cute but contemporary fabrics so you won't be embarrassed to have this pillow lying around.

The inside of the pillow is filled with organic buckwheat hulls. It reminds me a little of a bean bag but it is much more lightweight. When I first received the pillow I thought it would be uncomfortable because of the buckwheat fill. I stand corrected. This pillow is so comfortable because it easily conforms to the position you need it in but it also provides firm support.

We have found several uses for this pillow already. I love using it as a pregnancy pillow. It provides me just the right amount of support and has been a great help with getting comfy at night. I love the soft material! My son has decided it should double as his pillow for watching movies or reading books. But I can't wait to use it as a nursing pillow!

The Blessed Nest also has a great new pillow called the Nest Egg. Similar to their Organic Nesting Pillow, the Nest Egg is made from 100% organic cotton terry or sateen fabrics and is filled with organic buckwheat hulls. The Blessed Nest is great for any eco-minded parent. The Nest Egg is there to help you with any extra support you might need. You can use it for your head or to give your baby's head some extra height. You could use it to rest your arm or for whatever your heart desires and it's the perfect size to take on the go with you.

My son really enjoyed using this pillow. He likes to take it in the car with him to rest his head on. He also likes to use it for his stuffed animals to sleep on and it is just the right size for a pillow for his head. I have found it useful when on the computer to use for a little back support in my chair. I'm fairly certain when the new baby comes we will find tons of uses for this handy little pillow!

Here is a little video of my son's experiments with the Organic Nesting Pillow and the Nest Egg:

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