2009 Holiday Guide

Personalized Picture Book from YourPictureBook.com

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:01:00 +0000

We love story time in our house, but sometimes it can be a struggle to get my toddler to sit still long enough to finish the story. Instead of getting bored reading about the same old characters, how cool would it be for your child to read about their own adventures? YourPictureBook.com provides personalized storybooks and coloring books - where your child is the star! Your child's photo and name will be prominently displayed on every single page in one of three stories. You child can learn to count, travel to outer space or even help Noah to build his famous biblical ark! With beautiful illustrations and rhyming prose, your child will see story time in a fun, new, exciting way.

Website: http://www.yourpicturebook.com

ARV: $34.95

California Baby Overtired & Cranky Aromatherapy Bubble Bath

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:59:00 +0000

It's much too easy for your adorable little infant to turn from sweet to sour like the flip of a switch. When the holding, shushing and swaying isn't stopping your little one from exercising his or her lungs, try California Baby's Overtired & Cranky Aromatherapy Bubble Bath. With a natural scent of tangerine, sweet orange and chamomile, and the enclosed bubble wand, you can quickly divert that tantrum. California Baby uses only organic ingredients and non-irritating, biodegradable formulas. No numbing agents or synthetic fragrances will even turn our frowns upside down.

Website: www.californiababy.com

ARV: $13.99

Dwell Studio Lunchbox

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:44:00 +0000

Remember the days of the plastic lunchboxes with your favorite character splashed across the front. Boy, those bring back some memories. You weren't anyone unless you had something to show off come lunchtime. We've sure come a long way since the brown bag lunch. Now your child be the envy of daycare or school with Dwell Studio's eye-catching lunch boxes. Made of cotton-coated canvas with insulated interior, your little one's nutritious meal can be kept cool or warm. With durable construction and trendy designs, this is one lunch pack that won't be accidentally left in the cafeteria. Now that's yummy.

Website: http://www.dwellshop.com

ARV: $36.00

Earthlust Reusable Water Bottle

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:32:00 +0000

Plastic water bottles not only clutter our landfills but they can also leach chemicals like BPA. Yuck! What if you could have the convenience of a plastic bottle in a pretty, environmentally-friendly package? Enter Earthlust. Earthlust's stainless steel reusable water bottles are perfect for the fit or busy mom. With their beautiful, sleek design and optional sports top, it's easy to reduce your carbon footprint. Bottles come in 13 oz, 20 oz, 1 liter sizes. Insulated mugs also available for you coffee lovers.

Website: www.earthlust.com

ARV: $16-$23, depending on size and style

Ugly Dolls

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:17:00 +0000

Children are drawn to the strange and unorthodox. Things that adults consider to be ugly, children consider to be treasures. So its no surprise that cuddly teddy bears, bunnies and puppies are being replaced by unique creatures known as Ugly Dolls. Ugly Dolls are unique, flat plush characters with their own little history. What began as as a drawing on the bottom of love letters, is now a children's collectible phenomenon. Babies, toddlers, preschoolers - even older kids - are gaga for these weird "monsters". With their simple, silly designs, Ugly Dolls hold their own special place in the toybox.

Website: www.uglydolls.com

ARV: $10-$50, depending on size

Geek Gear

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 17:05:00 +0000

If you have a techie husband (a.k.a. nerd, dork or geek) like I do, you'll know how they have their own little language and culture. When he spouts off about Ruby on Rails or DotNetNuke, I feel as if we live in separate worlds. I often feel over my head when it comes to electronics, since he is the expert on gadgets, but thanks to Geek Gear, I can find funky, cool gifts my lovable engineer. From desk organizers made out of floppy disks to clocks made out of circuit boards, there's something to wow even the geekiest of the geeks. And bonus: the recycled materials make these presents eco-friendly too!

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/GeekGear

ARV: $3.99 - $44.99, depending on item

Ties from Cyberoptix Tie Lab

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:36:00 +0000

Another overdone Christmas gift is a tie for dad. Admit it: he probably has dozens in his closet that look identical, save for the color scheme. Some are probably hideously outdated and have been banished from his wardrobe. But if the businessman in your life likes to look his best, get him a tie that doesn't suck from Cyberoptix Tie Lab. In fabrics like silk or microfiber, and modern, edgy designs that stand out from the traditional, this is one gift that will make Dad the envy of his office.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/toybreaker

ARV: $30-$40

Purses from Christy Studio

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:10:00 +0000

I know full well how a purse can make or break an outfit. But I have a hard time finding something that fits my needs, my style and my budget. It's either too big or too small or too expensive or too cheap looking. That's why I'm glad I discovered Christy Studio. This Etsy shop offers fasionable yet functional handbags and totes for half the price you'd find in a department store. In luxurious fabrics such as grained leather, brushed cotton twill or flannel wool and adorable styles like the Lydia (shown above), you'll find the perfect accessory this holiday season for an affordable price.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/christystudio

ARV: $28.00 - $98.00, depending on size and style

Grumpy Girl Candles

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:58:00 +0000

Candles are probably one of the most generic holiday gifts. Many of them sit on a shelf, never to be used. Some are so boring that they probably don't even make it to the shelf. But Grumpy Girl candles are ones you won't want to re-gift. In adorable designs like this Eggnog mug or Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows, you can indulge in your holiday favorites without gaining that dreaded weight. She also makes some delicious holiday soaps - with names like Frosty the Pervert or Lump of Coal, how could you not unwrap a smile on Christmas morning?

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/GrumpyGirl

ARV: $15.00

Trunki

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:56:00 +0000

Travelling with a toddler can be a trying ordeal. Either they are rambunctious and running around mad, throwing a fit due to boredom or they grow tired and lag behind. When you're in an airport, the last thing you want to worry about is how to carry your child along with all your luggage. Now you can make travel fun with the Trunki. Trunki is an award-winning, lightweight, 5-gallon suitcase for kids that is airport carry-on approved. It features an ID label to prevent loss and is fitted with a rubber rim to keep fingers safe. And best yet, your child can ride on Trunki or you can pull them along when they lose their momentum! When not in use, Trunki can be shoulder carried. And with its contemporary, eye-catching design, you won't mind lugging it along.

Website: http://www.trunki.co.uk/

ARV: $49.99-$59.99, depending on design

I-Spy Blankets from Baby Love Blankies

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:41:00 +0000

Babies and toddlers love to explore and discover new things. And most of the time, it's the very things you are trying to keep out of their reach. Feed their need to play and learn safely with these adorable I-Spy Blankets from Baby Love Blankies. These handmade, flannel bags measure 4" x 4" or 7" x 8" and contain 20-40 tiny treasures that your baby can find. All they have to do is use their fingers to move the pellets and look through the window to find all the hidden trinkets. It's the perfect activity to keep in the diaper bag or tote for when your little one grows restless at the restaurant.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/Babyloveblankies

ARV: $8-$16, depending on size

Tiny Tillia Magic Cream

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:51:00 +0000

When you have a toddler, you have to be prepared for accidents to happen. Falls, bumps and bruises are inevitable territory, especially for adventurous boy mommies. Since gluing a helmet to his head is probably not a viable long-term solution, I have to find a way to ease the pain when these ouchies occur. This magic cream from Tiny Tillia is a topical salve that soothes minor bumps and scrapes. Its all-natural formula contains shea butter, tea tree and Vitamin E to help heal your little boos boos. Best of all, its paraben-free. For ages 2 & up.

Website: www.tinytillia.com

ARV: $14.99

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Farm

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:33:00 +0000

It's difficult to find toys that will grow with your child. Either they are too advanced and overstimulating for a baby or beloved toys become too simple to please a busy toddler. But Fisher-Price's Laugh & Learn series of toys are fun for infants and toddlers alike. Most recently, just in time for the holidays, they've released the Laugh & Learn Farm. This 2-sided play center has a crop full of activities so your little one will never grow bored. They can sort vegetable shapes or crawl through the gate to the other side to count chicken eggs as they drop through the chute. There are songs, animal sounds, greetings and fun phrases to encourage role play. Children can learn the alphabet, numbers, shapes, colors, opposites and more. There is also a handle on top for easy transport from room to room. And knowing that it will get more face time than that pricey bouncy seat makes it totally worth the cost.

Website: http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3502224

ARV: $69.99

Japanese Flower Hair Clips by Petal Mix

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:24:00 +0000

Say goodbye to bobby pins, scrunchies, alligator clips and little plastic teeth. I'd like to introduce you to the handcrafted Japanese Flower Hair Clips by Petal Mix. Petal Mix accessories are a modern twist on the time-honored Japanese art of tsumami kanzashi, blending new world designs with traditional technique. These stunning, unique barrettes are feminine and sophisticated, perfect for the workplace or a night out on the town.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/PetalMix

ARV: $10-29

E.L.F. Cosmetics

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:04:00 +0000

I may wear yoga pants and tees most days but when I go out, I do like to look my best. I hate paying $20 or more for some fancy brand-name foundation. Not to mention moisturizer, concealer, powder, eyeshadow, lipstick, gloss, blush, mascara, etc. I could go on and on. It quickly adds up and I just don't have it in the budget these days to splurge on makeup. Thanks to E.L.F. Cosmetics, you no longer have to break the bank to look amazing. With products starting at just $1, you can afford to stuff your stocking with an entire collection and still have cash left over for a new outfit.

Website: www.eyeslipsface.com

ARV: $1.00/1 product - $150.00/master set

BabyLegs

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:49:00 +0000

I used to think that leg warmers belonged back in 1984 with banana clips and tuck-n-roll cuffs. But that all changed when I discovered BabyLegs. Fashionable yet functional, BabyLegs leg warmers spruce up onesies, keep chunky legs warm and protect little crawlers' knees from hard floors. Diaper changes are a breeze since you don't have to unbutton, unzip or fumble with a gazillion snaps. In styles ranging from argyle to sporty to girly to punk , and even seasonal designs, there is a pair to fit your baby or toddler's personality. They fit newborns all the way through school-age and can be worn on arms too! So, however you wear them, you're sure to get your money's worth year after year.

Website: www.babylegs.com

ARV: $7-$12/1 pair - $36.00/gift set

Time Out Pad from Keen Distribution

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:37:00 +0000

Toddlerdom can be a fun, yet challenging time. My 15-month old is strong-willed, and is already testing his limits. The temper tantrums are just beginning and I know there's going to be more in the future. I don't care for the idea of spankings and punishment but I do believe in the time-out technique for behavior management. Thanks to the Time Out Pad from Keen Distribution, time outs can be simple and effective. The Time Out Pad is a pressure-sensitive pad with a built-in timer and visual countdown so children and parents alike can simmer down. Suitable for ages 2 and older, this would be a great gift for the mom of a spirited child like myself.

Website: http://www.keendistribution.com/timeOutPad.php

ARV: $34.99

Beaba BabyCook

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:08:00 +0000

When my son started solids, I found the idea of homemade baby food appealing for many reasons. I wanted to know exactly what was going in his belly and I wanted to take pride in providing wholesome meals for my baby. I could also be environmentally-friendly by avoiding glass jars that would end up in my local dump. But the process itself seemed daunting. The multiple devices. The prep time. The cleanup. It was enough to turn me off completely. That is, until I discovered the magnificent Beaba BabyCook. Thanks to the BabyCook, I could steam, puree and reheat all in one small appliance. It's modern, clean design is pretty enough to make its home atop my countertop. And since it is dishwasher-safe, cleanup is a snap. Who knew homemade meals for baby could be made in just minutes? Or be this much fun?!

Website: http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/beaba-babycook/?pkey=x|4|1||4|beaba||0&cm_src=SCH

ARV: $149.95

Dirty A$$ Soaps

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:39:00 +0000

The name may be filthy but these handmade, vegan soaps are anything but. As a matter of fact, I don't think I've ever seen soap look so incredibly realistic. I don't know whether to bathe with it or sit it on my dining room table as if it were a work of art. From cheese and crackers to sushi to smores to a vintage Nintendo controller, there's a soap to clean even the dirtiest of bodies - and minds. For this holiday season, get a gag gift that will hardly make them gag.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/DirtyAssSoaps

ARV: $5-$30, depending on style and quantity

Baltic Amber Teething Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:22:00 +0000

When it comes to my son's pain relief, I try to stick with homeopathic or natural methods as much as I can. I just don't like the idea of pumping him full of medication. When he started teething, I felt as though I was administering Tylenol and Motrin around the clock. It made me uneasy but I didn't think there was any other option. Our teething days are almost behind us, but my friends have clued me in to the benefits of baltic amber teething jewelry. Worn around your baby's neck neck, amber reacts with his/her skin to release its natural analgesic properties and prevent pain and inflammation from teething. Worn regularly, it is said to build immunity to infections and promote overall wellness. The unique necklaces at the Amber Jewelry shop feature knotting between beads to prevent scattering if broken (they will break if necessary). Of course, you should always supervise your baby and never allow them to sleep with the necklace. But if worn properly it is a safe alternative to traditional pain relief. There are a variety of gender-neutral styles and colors to choose from so you can assure Dad that its a good thing for his son to wear a necklace.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/amberjewelryshop

ARV: $17 - $63, depending on length and style

Knit Hats by Baby Melons

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 15:08:00 +0000

I love fall for many reasons. The brisk chill of the air. The changing and falling of the leaves. The excuse to eat ungodly amounts of food, namely pumpkin pie. But one of my favorite things to do is dress my son up in the cutest seasonal hats. Last year, I had a family friend knit him a pumpkin hat for Thanksgiving and an elf hat for Christmas. They really made his holiday photos extra special. If you don't have a crafty friend - or if that crafty friend is unavailable this year - you will definitely want to check out the variety of knit hats at Baby Melons. In adorable styles and themes from animal to sports to food, you'll find the perfect accessory for your munchkin. If only they made an adult size...

Website: www.babymelons.com

ARV: $16 - $36, depending on style and size

Cloth Blocks from Knitstyle

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:56:00 +0000

No matter how many expensive, flashy toys I buy, my son just keeps going back to the simple things. Sure, the lights and sounds might keep him busy for a little while but he quickly gets bored. He'd much rather play with a pot and a spoon. That's why these cloth blocks from Knitstyle are so fantastic. Handmade with beautiful, aesthetic fabrics and stuffed with non-allergenic Poly or Bamboo-fill, they are soft and pleasing to the eye and touch. Baby can stack, play catch, roll or simply slobber on them - wherever their imaginations take them. There are also tags sewn onto random edges for tons of pulling and tugging fun.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitstyle

ARV: $9.00/ 1 medium block - $28.00/ 3-block set (sm, med, lg)

Custom Children's Silhouette Print by Nella Designs

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:57:00 +0000

Any proud mom will want to display her child or children's photos on the wall or on the shelf. This year, instead of yet another gaudy, ornamental frame, get mom a contemporary silhouette print from Nella Designs. Completely customized with your child or children's names and a selection of adorable graphics to choose from, they are sure to win over mom - and dad! There are also family silhouettes to include the entire clan or you can have a print made from your very own favorite photo.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/nelladesigns

ARV: $20.00 - $28.00

Ruffled Diaper Cover from KuttinUp

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:46:00 +0000

I may have a baby boy but I still love pink, frills and lace. I dream of the day I can dress my own little baby girl in adorable ensembles. Until then, I'll just have to file my favorite girly finds in a special folder for a rainy day. One item I'll surely be filing in there is this ruffled diaper cover from KuttinUp. This sweet handmade cover with bows, marabou and ruffles will be the perfect accessory for those treasured photo ops. Whether its a first birthday or holiday, your little princess will be hearing the "oohs" and "aahs" from miles away.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33637482

ARV: $27.00

Coffee Corset by Jenn Gee

noreply@blogger.com (Kristen) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:18:00 +0000

I, like many a mom, love my coffee. There's no better start to my day than with a trip to Starbucks. But instead of adding to landfills with a dull cardboard cozy, you can now add a flair of fashion and eco-friendly touch to your coffee cup with a Coffee Corset by Jenn Gee. These adorable, reusable cozies are stylish and functional, and are sure to be the envy of everyone in the coffee shop. And I bet you never thought a commodity could turn heads.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5218284

ARV: $12.00