Oh Orla!

Any mom knows that you need a good bag that you can carry everything in. I often find toys, hair elastics, books just roaming around in my purse. I learned from day one that I am not someone who can carry a small purse or bag. I like room, and I love being able to carry everything. I also learned that my child makes it her mission to get sticky fingerprints and pen, marker, crayon (you name it) on everything I own. I cannot do much about most of those things, but I have it in the bag with my Orla Kiely Shoulder Bag and Zip Around Wallet. Orla Kiely makes fabulous clothing, bags and accessories. Her prints are known around the world and they give you the pop of color you need. I am especially in love with her coated canvas items. If you own an Orla Kiely coated bag, you know it is a cinch to clean, and chances are you will have it for years. Orla Kiely bags and accessories look like new 10 years on.
My Orla Kiely Shoulder Bag has a pocket for everything, and even a key chain so my always-lost keys are now easy to find. Try as she might, my daughter cannot stickify this bag. It cleans up so easily! It is amazing the amount I can fit in this bag.

If I am feeling brave enough to leave the house with only my wallet, I never leave without the Orla Kiely Zip Wallet. It is big enough to fit my checkbook, all cards and change, but slim and sturdy enough to take out on its on.
If you are a mom, and you have kids, you owe it to yourself and your sanity to throw some major style, color and convenience into your life and snap up an Orla Kiely product. Who knows, you may be passing it on to your child when their own kids are chasing them with sticky fingers!

B.I.C. Bands

It seems that I am always running around these days. I am frantic to get my holiday things done before my daughter is home again full-time for her vacation. To add to the fun, I have taken up exercising again. That means my wavy hair goes haywire. I sometimes have mere minutes to grab something to tame my Rosanna Dana hair and get out the door. I choose BIC Bands. They actually stay in (no slipping) and keep my hair looking cute and tame. I can even exercise in them!

BIC Bands were started as a fundraiser by Sandy for her run with Team In Training. She was looking for a way to raise the necessary funds to run her first half marathon. She donated the profits to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. OVER $1000 was raised through the sale of B.I.C. Bands!
Sandy now makes B.I.C. Bands to give back to people in need.

B.I.C. Bands~ Because I Can Bands ~We raise funds because we can…for those who can’t so that one day they will!

Each month they donate from the sale of every band to a different charity.
How amazing is that?! My daughter loves her B.I.C. Band (which Sandy kindly made smaller-sized for my little one). It is is literally the only hair accessory she ever walks out of school still wearing at the end of the day. No more slipping, or frustration, and you are helping to give back. Everyone wins with B.I.C. Bands.

They also make a fabulous stocking stuffer (just saying).

Crocodile Creek Takes a Peek into the Mind of a Child

Crocodile Creek has been a staple brand in our house since we brought home our daughter. We use their place mats, puzzles and even balls. It was not until recently that we were in the market for a backpack. My daughter started school, and I was pretty uninspired by all of the licensed character items out there. We have them in our home, sure, but I like to avoid certain licensed characters when possible. They feel too over-done and I wanted to make her first day of school a little special.

We happened to take a stroll through a local shop and saw the Crocodile Creek line of backpacks and lunch boxes. My daughter was immediately pulled to the super-unique princess backpack. This was not the usual deal. I saw her eyes light up. She even said "I bet no one will have this backpack mama." She loved that this princess was so special and different from everything we had seen. I loved that is was a BPA, PVC and phthalate-free backpack. It was a match made in heaven. It was like Crocodile Creek designed it just for her. Of course we had to grab the lunch box too (it is also BPA, PVC and phthalate-free). My baby got her fairy tale theme. I love the durable quality of all Crocodile Creek products, and these items are the best! I love how special they are.








I think her first day of school photo really speaks for itself. She is beyond thrilled, and so am I.

Stephen Joseph

Are you sick of the hundreds of children's items out there with the same old characters? Me too! I love certain children's characters (like the Sesame St. gang), but if I had to see one more princess backpack while shopping for my pre-k kid, I might have gone nuts. I was thrilled when I found Stephen Joseph products. The entire line has the perfect amount of whimsy and fun that kids love, while also allowing your child to be unique.

What began as a small company started by Alexandra "Alix" Buckley when she started making fabric frames to earn a little extra Christmas money and turned into Alexandra and Company, has sparked Stephen Joseph.

Their Beach Totes are perfect for a fabulous day of summertime fun. The netted bags come with beach toys and allow for easy clean-up because the sand stays on the beach where it belongs.

The Bottle Buddies are a fun way to make sure your child has their water with them. It fits perfectly around our reusable stainless steel bottles, and my daughter even uses hers as a purse when the mood strikes.

The wallets are a great way to get kids to learn about money and save their pennies. My daughter even brings her saved money with her and is learning how to contribute to get the things she wants. They are also wonderful for children bringing lunch money to school, or carrying identification. They velcro shut and there is a spot for everything.

My favorite item we own is the Quilted Backpack. It is super soft and my daughter is over-the-moon for the monkey design she chose. It is the perfect size for her pre-k school days, and even for traveling. The style is unique, just like her.
Stephen Joseph has everything you and your child need for all areas of being a kid. They bring a smile to your face, and the quality cannot be surpassed.

Shi Shu Baby

Did you know that most of the baby blankets our there are made from polyester and microfiber? Often, these fibers can cause rashes or young delicate skin. SHI SHU BABY™ blankets were designed by a mom with her son in mind. Her son was getting rashes from his favorite blanket, so she researched natural fibers. SHI SHU BABY blankets are made from Bamboo. Bamboo is naturally antibacterial, soft as silk, keeps you cool in the Summer, keeps you warm in the Winter and breathes. SHI SHU even makes larger versions for adults. The blankets are hand-woven and totally unique. They are 60% cotton and 40% bamboo with 100% bamboo sateen trim and measure 30" x 40" .

We got a SHI SHU BABY Blanket to try out recently and it has become a new favorite. It becomes even softer with every wash, and a certain little baby cousin we watch has tried to take it home with him more than once. I am so glad more companies are realizing that we have to be more careful with what we put near our children. I also love that the designs of these blankets are so unique, and as special as the child who is lucky enough to have one.

Happy Blankie

I am a huge fan of baby blankies. I think they bring a sense of security and love to a child. With a toddler who will soon be entering preschool, I have come to realize even more, how much that little comfort items means. Happy Blankie was founded by David Holdridge. He created Happy Blankie with a mission based on the simplest, but hardest childhood lesson…sharing! For each Happy Blankie you purchase, a blanket is donated to a child in need. The program is called “ONE to Love, ONE to Share”, You even get to decide where you would like to give a blankie. . When you receive your blankie you will be able to follow the instructions on the "giving is cool" tag in order to donate your second blanket.

There are currently four designs (and many sizes) to choose from.

So whether you want a dog, pig, frog or bear, remember one for you and one to share. What a wonderful way to comfort your little one, while making a difference. We got a Chase the Happy Dog blankie and it currently is doing a wonderful job of chasing away Product Baby’s bad dreams. They are so soft, and so adorable! I have to say, the best thing about them, is knowing another blanket went to a child in need.

Zid Zid Kids Gives Back

I have written about Zid Zid Kids before. Zid Zid Kids is a wonderful company that bases their toys and accessories for children and parents on the rich culture and materials of Morocco. Zid Zid Kids has a large array of handmade items that are sure to become family favorites. Two of their newest items are about giving back.

The new eco-friendly Poof! is the perfect place to sit and read with your little one. The Poofs are shipped flat and then you can use whatever material you want to stuff them. Zid Zid did this to reduce their carbon foot print. You can use durable recycled goods, such as magazines, newspapers, paper and plastic grocery bags, old clothes or even old stuffed animals to stuff your Poof. This also helps teach children that what is old becomes new again, and the many uses of recyling an item. The Poof is made from phthalate-free vinyl and has a 100% reclaimed fabric interior lining. We are big on reading together, and storytelling in my home, and our poof is the perfect spot. I love the modern funky design, and we stuffed ours with an old comforter we were reluctant to get rid of, but did not use anymore.

Our other new favorite Zid Zid item is the new line of Education For All Tote Bags. These bags are functional and funky. They carry everything from books, to groceries (and I personally made mine the new baby bag for summer). Zid Zid donates 10% of the sale of each tote to Education for All, a non-profit that assists girls in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco to continue their education. They are 100% hand-dyed cotton canvas with a 100% leather handle, and phthalate-free appliqué with cool embroidery. I fit everything but the kitchen sink into mine. I am officially naming them a summer must-have accessory. Product Mommy hath spoken.
I am so enchanted with this company. They bring funky handmade items to a different level of fun!

Ambajam Jamboree!

Ambajam is known for making some of the softest blankets out there! I love the bright colors, and the soft feel. The Ambajam line has expanded from blankets and clothing and now includes everything from hooded towels and washcloths to accessory bags. We got to try one of the new hooded towels. The Plush Hooded Towel we got is in the same great bubblegum pink as the blankets. The little octopus embroidered on top is so funky without being too babyish (a complaint we often get from “big girl” Product Baby). My daughter loves the bright pink, and I adore the softness of this towel. The towel is edged in a funky fabric and we cannot wait to use ours at the beach this summer!

Aden + Anais Giveaway!

You may have noticed that when I really like a company and the products they have, I write about them when they bring out new items. Aden + Anais is one of those favorites of mine. I have yet to find a product from Aden + Anais that we do not like. We started with their Swaddle Blankets and have become true devotees of their Dream Blankets (again, please make them for adults too!).
When my daughter was a baby, she would gnaw on anything she could. Because we used Aden + Anais blankets so much, she was usually cuddling and gnawing on one of her Swaddle Blankets or on one of their washcloths (Must be something about that muslin fabric!). I am so excited that Aden + Anais has come out with Issie. Issie is the name for the new line of security blankies for little ones. They are made of the same natural cotton muslin as their other wonderful pieces, but smaller (measuring 16x16) and perfect for taking with you. Because Aden + Anais are so smart, they give you a set, so while one is getting a much-needed wash, baby has their other security blanket friend. Product Baby is beyond teething now, but she likes to cuddle her Issie and also use it as a little blanket for her dolls. I think Issie’s are also perfect to send with your child for overnights, and even to preschool for nap-time. Nothing beats the comforting smell and feel of home, and now there is an easy way to give your child that comfort.
Aden + Anais is giving one lucky Product Mommy reader a chance to win their own Issie in their choice of pattern!

Giveaway Rules:
This contest is only open to US readers. All entries must be received by 11:59pm on July 8, 2010. Please include your email address in each entry. A winner will be chosen at random. I will notify the winner on July 9, 2010 via email (please respond within 48 hours) and the Aden + Anais Issie of your choice will be mailed to you from Aden and Anais(you must specify to me which piece you would like).

How to Enter: Become a fan of Aden + Anais on Facebook and leave a comment here under this post and be sure to include your email address.

Extra Entries:
You must do the "How to Enter" first and be sure you leave a "comment" for each extra entry and tell me which one you did. Don't forget your email address too.
1. Become a follower of Product Mommy
2. Become a fan of Product Mommy on Facebook
3. Become a fan of Product Mommy on Twitter
4. Subscribe to Product Mommy by email (top left of blog page)
5. Twitter about this contest (and leave a link to the Tweet)
6. Post this giveaway on Facebook (and leave a link)

Inspired by Finn Giveaway!

You would think growing up a Polish girl with tons of Amber, I would know the healing properties it holds, but alas I never did. Good thing I came across Inspired by Finn! Inspired by Finn sells necklaces and jewelry made from Baltic Amber and Hazelwood. Hazelwood is made from Hazelwood Branches from a Hazelwood tree and have been used by the aboriginal people for many years for its multiple healing properties. Hazelwood helps in the healing of ulcers, acid reflux, heartburn, skin problems (psoriasis, eczema, acne), arthritis, constipation, migraines, sensitive & bleeding gums, helps reduce dental cavities and more. These necklaces are a great remedy for heartburn and nausea during pregnancy!

Baltic Amber is fossilized tree resin and has been used in Europe as a healer and curative for centuries. When baltic amber is worn on the skin, the skin’s warmth releases trace amounts of healing oils from the amber. These oils contain succinic acid and are absorbed into the skin.
Baltic Amber has some of the highest concentrations of succinic Acid found in nature, and this is what makes it so special. Succinic Acid is a natural component of plant and animal tissues, and it's presence in the human body is beneficial in many ways.
Baltic Amber is used for pain relief, strengthening the immune system, restoring energy and maintaining wellness. The lighter colored (closer to white) and milky the Amber, the stronger the succinic acid which is the beneficial component of Amber.

I got a Butter Round necklace and have been wearing it for the past few days. During allergy season I get terrible sinus pain which then affects my upper teeth and makes them hurt. I decided to give the Amber a try. I have to say, the first few hours I noticed nothing, and then by nighttime, I realized my sinus headache was gone, and I was able to chew normally again. Amber is also a great toothing remedy, as your child can bite on it. I have worn my necklace every day since and knock on wood, I have had positive results.
Inspired by Finn is giving one lucky Product Mommy reader a chance to win a piece of their choice (in stock pieces only, and it must measure 16” or less) from their website.
Giveaway Rules:
This contest is only open to US readers. All entries must be received by 11:59pm on June 29, 2010. Please include your email address in each entry. A winner will be chosen at random. I will notify the winner on June 30, 2010 via email (please respond within 48 hours) and the Inspired by Finn necklace of your choice will be mailed to you from Inspired by Finn (you must specify to me which piece you would like).

How to Enter: Leave a comment and be sure to include your email address.

Extra Entries:
You must do the "How to Enter" first and be sure you leave a "comment" for each extra entry and tell me which one you did. Don't forget your email address too.
1. Go to Inspired by Finn and tell me two facts about Baltic Amber or Hazelwood.
2. Become a fan of Inspired by Finn on Facebook
3.Become a follower of Product Mommy
4. Become a fan of Product Mommy on Facebook
5. Become a fan of Product Mommy on Twitter
6. Subscribe to Product Mommy by email (top left of blog page)
7. Twitter about this contest (and leave a link to the Tweet)
8. Post this giveaway on Facebook (and leave a link)

Stylish Girls

Emi-Jay Hairties were created by two teenage girls. They decided they wanted a fabulous hair accessory that would not leave dents in hair, but also could be worn as bracelet when you just do not feel like a ponytail. These two fashionistas have created a line of Hair Ties and headbands that are fun and functional. They even donate a portion of their proceeds to Locks of Love. These two ladies have taken Hollywood by storm, and have top hair stylists and celebrities using their line. I was pretty impressed when I got my Hair Ties. They were so colorful and Product Baby who usually cries about having to put up her hair was game for a ponytail that day. She then proceeded to put each hair tie on her wrist and wore them all day long as bracelets. I love that they do not snag her hair when I take them out. That is a huge bonus!
I love the entreprenauing (yes, I made that word up) spirit of Emi-Jay and I love that these two young girls are giving back! I am a huge fan of the Hair Ties with a Crystal Bead, which dress up my outfit in such an easy and fuss-free way. Be sure to check Emi-Jay out!

blabla...Making Dreams Come True

I have written about blabla a few times now. I love this company! blabla make the best toys and accessories for children. I love that the toys are all so colorful without being overdone. Each expression on each toy is simple and fun! Our blabla Anemone still comes everywhere with us. I was psyched to see the new Dream Rings. The large selection of Dream Rings are a literal dream come true. As my toddler is becoming more independent she still has some nightmares and can be afraid to go to sleep. We use the Mermaid Dream Ring to help with this. Every night we tell her that the Mermaid is taking all of her bad dreams to put into the ocean and sending her happy dreams (I swear it helps!). The Dream Rings have smaller versions of the stuffed toys inside, and they are super soft!
We have so many blabla toys and accessories, but I had never really checked out their clothing line. I am in love! Take the softness of their other items and make them wearable! Heaven! We got the Anemone Umbrella tee, because it has, you guessed it, a mermaid on it! My daughter had to have it pried off of her to let us wash it, and it washed like a dream too!

I cannot wait to get her more Tees from this line. We also got her a pair of the Chinese Pants. They are so comfortable and go with everything! I am a big fan of play clothes for kids, and these more than stand up the job. I especially loved how chic the designs were! I wish blabla would make their clothes in adult sizes too (hint, hint).

Dante Beatrix - Bringing Style Back!

I love modern designs for Product Baby. I wrote about Dante Beatrix a while back . My daughter always wears her T-shirt from Dante Beatrix. Our wish finally came true and we got a Little Kids Backpack for her.

Populated by the adorable creatures of Maakun Forest, these sturdy little packs hold everything a tot needs for a busy day. Constructed from durable nylon and easy-to-clean laminated canvas. The large interior space contains a smaller zipped pocket. Padded back panel and padded shoulder straps. Designed for ages 2 to 5. PVC free, lead free, & phthalate free. (9 x 12 x 5.5”)

The Little Kids Backpacks are not only super cute, but super sturdy. Unlike most backpacks for smaller children, you can fit a plethora of goods in these! Product Baby is much like Product Mommy and likes to bring everything but the kitchen sink with her when we go out. She is finally able to do that with this one bag instead of her ten purses. We got the Monkey “dieter” backpack. Product Baby is monkey crazy and she squealed with delight when she got this. It is so sturdy and she loves it! We bring it everywhere. I am so excited to have the bag of her dreams (and mine), and now we will not be cursed with a character backpack when she begins nursery school next fall. Run, run, run and get one of these cool bags for your little one (or big one, there are Big Kid Backpacks too . Gotta love a kid with real style!

Petunia Pickle Bottom Organic Stroller Blanket Giveaway!

Petunia Pickle Bottom is synonymous with stylish yet functional diaper bags and accessories. The prints are always gorgeous and no cartoonish characters or fluffy bunnies are anywhere to be found. Petunia Pickle Bottom understands that mommies want fun prints that are modern on bags and accessories that are useful for them and their babies. The newest Petunia Pickle Bottom accessory is the Organic Stroller Blanket. These blankets are super soft organic cotton and are wonderful to coordinate with your Petunia Pickle Bottom bag. One lucky reader will win an Organic Stroller Blanket in the Picnic in Provence print.

Chocolate/Citrus/Grey/Sky blooming fleur-de-lis. Reversible to sky solid knit.
A soft, stretchy blanket that features double layer organic cotton knit with print on one side and solid on the other, finished with coordinating solid color binding.

This blanket it light enough for cooler summer nights, but also warm enough for a brisk fall or winter day!

Giveaway Rules:
You must be a Product Mommy follower!
This contest is only open to US readers. All entries must be received by 11:59pm on May June 3, 2010 . Please include your email address in each entry. A winner will be chosen at random. I will notify the winner on June 4, 2010 via email (please respond within 48 hours) and the Organic Stroller Blanket will be mailed directly from Product Mommy. If you do not respond within 48 Hours, I will pick another winner.

How to Enter: You must be a Product Mommy Follower. Click on "Comments" and be sure to leave your email address.

Extra Entries:
You must do the "How to Enter" first and be sure you leave a "comment" for each extra entry and tell me which one you did. Don't forget your email address too.
1. Become a fan of Petunia Pickle Bottom on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/petuniapicklebottom?v=wall&ref=ts
2.Become a fan of Product Mommy on Facebook
3. Become a fan of Product Mommy on Twitter
4. Subscribe to Product Mommy by email (top left of blog page)
5. Twitter about this contest (and leave a link to the Tweet)
6. Post this giveaway on Facebook (and leave a link)

Sprout...It is TIME to be Eco-friendlly

Lately a lot more companies are taking a look at the product they make or want to make, and are wisely finding ways to make things more environmentally friendly. I was pretty excited to read about Sprout. Sprout makes eco-friendly watches! Yes, you read that right! With 50 years of making timepieces, Sprout asked how they could make a difference, and a greener timepiece was created.
The small watches are 80% eco-friendly and the large size is 86% eco-friendly. How is a watch eco-friendly? Pay attention dear readers, this is how:
The watches are lead and phthalate free. The Caseback, Bezel, Reflector Ring and Movement Holder and the Buckle Closure are all made with Corn Resin. The Strap is certified organic cotton. The dial is bamboo. It has mineral crystal and used a mercury-free battery.
The watch will not break down during regular wear and use, but in a composite environment, the corn resin is 99% biodegradable to carbon dioxide and water within a year. Corn is a renewable resource. Bamboo is a natural fiber with many environmental benefits, and, Mineral crystal is made from sand and recyclable. Even the packaging is made from at least 80% post consumer fibers. It is both recycled and recyclable. One of the coolest features of the packaging is that it comes with a square that can be watered and set in the sun to grow real grass!
I was skeptical, but I instantly fell in love with my watch. I got the larger size, which is perfect for my needs. These watches retail for a very nice $30, so you can afford to have more than one. Product Baby kept begging me to wear it and we plan on getting her a smaller one. I think these little steps are so important to the overall big picture. You get something sturdy and environmentally friendly. Isn’t is “Time” to make a change?

EARTH DAY ALERT: Sprout has signed on as an official sponsor of Earth Day 2010 (40th Anniversary) and will be in Washington D.C, San Diego and NYC promoting sustainability and environmental awareness with dozens of other eco-related brands and organizations. These events are perfect for families and spending time together for an educational and good cause!

Klean Kanteen

We have been using Klean Kanteen containers for quite a while. Klean Kanteen changed their materials in 2004 to create the first food-grade stainless steel bottle on the market. Klean Kanteen® are made from high quality, 18/8, food-grade stainless steel, a metal with no harmful toxins. They are super durable and easy to clean (dishwasher safe). They also have no coating on the inside which other bottles contain. They use food-grade stainless steel that doesn't need to be lined with plastic or baked-on epoxy like aluminum bottles, so you'll never have to check to make sure the inside of your Klean Kanteen® is still safe and intact. No linings means no flavor retains in the bottle, so you water never tastes like the juice that might have been in it the day before.

Our first Klean Kanteen were a few Kid Kanteen Sippy for my daughter. She was not a fan of a sippy cup top, but we resolved that with a few Sport Caps. I soon realized we were not using her other cups, and were solely using the Klean Kanteen. My daughter is very rough with her belongings and these stand up to that roughness. After over a year, there is not one scratch on the bottles. I decided to convert my and my husband's bottles to Klean Kanteen as well. I own a 27 oz. Klean Kanteen Classic in a lovely pink color! I use it almost every single day, until I steal my husbands so I can wash mine.

I was recently fortunate enough to get one of the new 20 oz. Klean Kanteen Wide Insulated Bottles. They have double-walled vacuum insulation with a wide mouth, and the same great Klean Kanteen features. You can use it as a mug for your coffee, a thermos or an insulated food container. It keeps contents hot or cold for up to 6 hours, and iced drinks stay cold for more than 24 hours. What I especially love, is that once again, they were able to make a superior bottle with no lining! Product Baby is especially picky after a day at the playground, and likes her drinks cold. She has been known to throw her water cup if the water is too warm. I decided to test this out. Product Baby is not a fan of juices, but she adores water. I filled our Klean Kanteen Wide Insulated with water, no ice. After a full day, it was still nice and cold. Happy Baby and Happy Mommy! I cannot wait to try packing picnic soups and stews next winter!

Say goodbye to your plastic bottles and grab a few Klean Kanteen Bottles. You will not only save money, you will be saving the environment each time you fill your Klean Kanteen instead of grabbing a plastic bottle!

Kinderville, a Kinder Way to Store Food

Kinderville is a collection of amazing food storage products created by two parents who were tired of the plastic only options available. They offer safe products including feeding and food storage systems, bowls, bottles, sippy cups, utensils etc.. They are all safety-tested and are BPA, Phthalate and Lead Free. All of the items are made from a high grade silicone. They can be used in the freezer, microwave and refrigerator and are dishwasher safe. Each item is also bacteria resistant! You can literally go from fridge, right to heating up your child’s food and then popping it into the microwave. We were lucky enough to try a few items from this amazing line. I am now a fan forever!

The Little Bites Storage Jars are perfect for storing baby food and snacks alike. We are out of the baby food stage in this house, but we use ours to store berries for days at the beach or the playground. The unique design makes the jar stay closed so well, and keeps the item inside hot or cold.
The Bigger Bites Storage Jars are wonderful for larger meals for kids who are in school all day, or even sending your significant other to work with a healthy lunch. I found these to be perfect for sending pasta dinners to work with my husband. I cannot get enough of how easy they are to use, and how wonderful it is to not use plastic containers. Our Bigger Bites Jar recently stored a wonderful fruit salad that refreshed us on our very unseasonal 90 Degree beach day this week.
The Little Bites Bowls are wonderful for morning cereal or oatmeal. If you ever took a real look at most of the dishes for children, you realize you cannot microwave them. I often have to heat up my daughter’s food, then switch it to a kid-sized bowl for her –what a waste of resources! These bowls totally changed that!
The Little Bites Cups are just as fantastic. I like bringing this cup for picnics because it will not break in the bag and it allows my daughter to be “like a grown-up.” I also noticed that it stays put on the dinner table, so she has less spilling accidents.
My daughter’s favorite is probably the Little Bites Popscicle Molds. You can make your own freezer pops that make it easy for your child to eat. No need to try and pop them out, the container becomes the holder. We also use ours filled with yogurt for a nice, mess-free treat.
I cannot say enough good things about Kinderville. The products are wonderful, and they have gone through multiple uses and washes. Stop using plastic that does more harm than good, and have fun with Kinderville!

Shake it up!

It is fabulous that lots of companies are making fashionable car seat covers. I have to say, it is a relief that you can express yourself and take a boring car seat to the next level. However, I have had a few issues. We have a Britax Marathon Car Seat, which we adore. As soon as my daughter was out of her infant carrier, she went straight into this car seat. Unfortunately so did every thing she ate and drank. I found myself having to wash the cover, then get it back into the car, while juggling a toddler. I bought a car seat cover and wah wahhh, it was not a good experience. Because it came with no padding, I put it over the existing Marathon cover. It kept slipping and was generally not a good experience. Then I realized, Britax sells their own car seat covers! You can buy a replacement car seat cover with shoulder and belly pad in your choice of pattern. We chose Cowmooflage because I knew it would hold my daughter’s attention and be useful for a boy or girl. It is not only adorable, but so much better than using another cover over the perfection of Britax one. She loves it, we love it! Britax has this option to get other car seat covers for most of their infant-toddler car seats. It is fun to change things up, and if you have a fussy toddler, it is a nice way to make the car seat seem exciting again!

The Fresh Snack Pack!

I write quite often about using cloth or lunch sacks that you do not have to throw away. I believe that it is such a waste to use plastic bags for your food on the go. Not only are they horrible for the environment, but they also flavor the food…and not in a good way. I use cloth lunch sacks and sandwich sacks, but I came upon another conundrum. Cloth is not always perfect for foods that are more moist – veggies, fruits, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches! So I did some research and found the Reusable Fresh Snack Pack. The Reusable Fresh Snack Pack was created by mommy Crystal Figlietti. These wonderful Snack Packs are PVC-Free, Non-Toxic, and super useful! They not only hold your food for you, but fold out to a placemat for eating on the go!

The Fresh Snack Pack is made of 4mm thick EVA (Ethylene-vinyl acetate) and is made to be reusable and thus reduce lunch and snack waste. EVA is the same material that has been recently used for baby teethers and for a variety of vinyl and foam products. According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) website and the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) website - EVA is safe for storage and contact with food.

EVA is a type of plastic that does not require a plasticizer and is bisphenol-A (BPA) free and phthalate free, so it is considered to be non-toxic. And tested lead-free.

Crystal was nice enough to send us some to try out, and they have become indispensable to us. We use them whenever we are on the go. Instead of having to pack bulky tins for fruit and veggies, we take the Reusable Fresh Snack Pack. Free yourself for the plastic baggie prison and join the Earth Movement!

Let's All Go For A Walk Outside Now...

You might not know this, but even in the spring, the East Coast still gets pretty darn cold. Even a nice little walk around usually means a light coat and a blanket for Product Baby in the stroller. We have a Maclaren Techno, and we love it. It is super light-weight, easy to use, and accommodates a taller child with ease.

Our only issue was that every time we have used a regular blanket in a stroller of any kind, we either lose it, or end up completely destroying it because it slips and we run it over. After being burned one too many times with using a blanket to cover my daughter, I finally decided a footmuff was the way to go. I knew I wanted something super warm, but easy to use. Of course, I had to go back to Maclaren. There is a reason people have been buying the Maclaren brand for years…they are a name you can trust for top-quality items that are made with your child in mind. We got a Techno XT Footmuff to match our stroller, and we love it. It is fleece lined and super comfy for my child. It keeps her warm, and if she does not want it covering her, we can easily unzip it. You can also buy many different colors in the Universal Footmuff selection-to match or spruce up your stroller. There is even a lighter-weight Universal Packaway Footmuff that is better for milder weather when a little something is needed to cover your little one.

As the news is spreading about the torrential downpours the East Coast keeps getting hammered with, I feel lucky to have our wonderful stroller, and the Footmuff to keep my daughter safe and warm. All Maclaren strollers come with rain covers and they can be used to protect little ones from rain and even sand-storms. And if you really want to take your Maclaren stroller to the next level, grab one of the Comfort Packs which are a head rest and shoulder packs. The make it a lot more comfortable if you child wants a nap in the stroller, and yes vainly, they make the strollers look even more amazing.