BabyLuxe {daily}

We've moved!

2008-05-19T10:10:00.001-04:00

Same great content, brand new& improved web site!!

Please visit our new site for more exciting reviews & shopping tips!
www.babyluxedaily.com

Happy Mother's Day to..... 3 lucky winners!

2008-05-10T21:26:00.007-04:00

It's finally here! Our new site is up, and we have a fabulous Mother's Day gift for three lucky winners!!! Click on our new link to find out if it's you!

www.babyluxedaily.com

Delightfully preppy photo & non-photo cards!

2008-05-08T22:30:00.004-04:00

Some of you may already know this about me, but if not, I am obsessed with the latest craze: giraffes... Call me crazy, but I designed my younger son's nursery around them as well as his 1st birthday party. I am currently on the hunt for the perfect giraffe print handbag & anything with those unique, wild-kingdom-like spots catches my eye! So of course, when I found out about this new stationery company & when I saw her giraffe-print party invitations, I was hooked!
This brand new company, known as littleday press, was started by Carrie Eckert, owner of Pen & Parchment, an online stationery boutique. The littleday press collection includes birth announcements & party invitations in a delightful assortment of preppy photo & non-photo designs {including the famous giraffe-print pictured above}. All cards are professionally printed on premium quality felt card stock, that looks and feels like watercolor.The most recent addition to the collection, that hasn't even been added to the site, but can be seen on the Stationery Scoop Blog {also by Carrie Eckert}, is the custom framed prints collection. These can be special ordered through the contact form on the littleday press site, at $22 unframed and $56 framed, plus shipping.Currently, all orders are taken directly through the Pen & Parchment web site, but custom orders are gladly accepted through the littleday press contact page.

BabyLuxe readers take 15% off your order with coupon code "babyluxe15" {not available on the custom framed prints}.

Trendy completion to any outfit!

2008-05-07T16:19:00.009-04:00

Spring is here, Summer just around the corner, and the perfect time for your little ones to show off the cutest styles out there, including trendy hats! Not only do these precious little hats shield the sun from their heads and faces, they complete any ensemble!
The Purple Alex Collection has some of the sweetest, most playful hat designs! We are in the season and in the times when stylish hats are the “in”, for adults and for children {including newborns}. These hats are casual and fun; perfect for most any playful occasion, and with so many designs to choose from, they’re perfect for any little girl ready to look her best!
The entire collection of Purple Alex is hand made of the highest quality material and extremely durable to with stand a day at the beach! OR if you prefer the colder seasons, fleece scarf and hat sets are also available.
Babyluxe {daily} has one adorable Positive Vide hat to giveaway to one lucky winner! Please check out all the great designs on the Purple Alex Collection website, and while you are there look to see who the inspiration was for the Purple Alex Collection. Comment back to us your answer for your chance to win!
Also, special discounted price given to Babyluxe readers of $7 off any summer hats! {Price already changed and shipping is included}

Healthy, happy & easy baking with your kids!

2008-05-07T00:30:00.004-04:00

KidLuxe Edition

I am so excited to share with you, this amazing find for quality "baking" time with your kids! With one extremely picky eater, and quite possibly a second one, in time, I was at my wits end trying to come up with fun & creative treats for my kids that were not only healthy & easy to make, but delicious too! Apparently, Mark and Maureen, founders of Kids Central Kitchen, were in the same boat. They began experimenting with different ingredients in the kitchen, and after months of trial and error, they came up with a winning combination of flavor, ease & nutrition.

We recently had the opportunity to try out some of the baking kits by Kids Central Kitchen, and I am totally in love with the company and concept! For the non-baker than I am, these kits are SO easy! Colin and I spent about 5 minutes together in the kitchen, mixing the dry ingredients that come in the package, along with some yogurt and some applesauce, and then pouring it into a pan, and popping it in the oven. Yes, that's it. So simple even a 3 year old could do it, nearly alone!Not even thirty minutes later, out came our reward; chocolate chip Propeller Energy Bars! The bars were chewy & chocolaty, and Colin even thought he was eating a "cookie"! The best part about the Kids Central Kitchen mixes is that they contain NO trans fats, NO hydrogenated oils, NO high fructose corn syrup and NO artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

We also received the Swinging Monkey banana bread {just add a banana and some oil} and the Mudslinger Chocolate brownie mixes {just add yogurt}, which we are so excited to try out, once our Propeller bars are gone. With seven different flavor mixes, there is sure to be something for everyone.
So check them out, and take 15% off with the code "BABYLUXE"!

Mealtime mess, no more!

2008-05-05T23:46:00.003-04:00

Many of you have probably witnessed by now {with complete dismay} the first few months of a self-feeding toddler. You know how it goes; the food generally winds up everywhere but where it should go; in his mouth! You spend countless hours in the kitchen, daily, cleaning up your baby, your table, the high chair or booster seat, the floor, and in extreme cases, the walls!

Now, there is a way to avoid all the aggravation of cleaning up messes, while teaching your child how to self-feed more effectively!

Introducing My Plate-Mate, an innovative feeding aid that easily attaches to any 8"-10" plate. It serves as a "spill guard" to prevent food from spilling onto the table. Its unique design also assists in "scooping" food by guiding food onto the fork or spoon.

This one has been toddler-tested and approved by our 15 month old tester, Alex. Both Mommy and Alex give it two thumbs up!

I am sure we could all appreciate a little less kitchen floor mopping, right?

To buy My Plate-Mate in any of 3 colors, check out their web site today!

Few more hours left in the Fresh Baby giveaway!

2008-05-05T20:31:00.002-04:00

We will pick a winner tomorrow morning for the So Easy Baby Food Kit so get your comment in now! {See April 28th post for details} Good luck to all!

A keepsake displayed for all to see!

2008-05-02T21:21:00.008-04:00

Mamaluxe Edition

As you have children and watch them grow, you will always wish you had more keepsakes and treasures to remember the special day of their birth; no matter how many pictures were taken. Why not display your precious child’s name and important birth information on you at all times to show how proud you are to be “Mommy of …!”

For me, it’s “Mommy of Timothy and Connor” and I’m beyond proud to wear my gorgeous Birth Necklace from Julian & Co. How truly amazing it is to be able to fit so much personalized, treasured information on to one piece of custom made jewelry and still remain beautiful and eye catching!

Made from high quality sterling silver {or gold}, and personalized with baby’s name, birth date, time of birth, weight, and length, The Birth Necklace is an easy, fashionable way to brag about your baby! You can chose from going all out with all the info on the Birth Necklace or just baby’s name and birth date on the Mom Necklace, or a personalized Nursing Necklace, add more charms or a gemstone, endless possibilities to make your piece as special as your child! Dad can have one too! Or baby can have their very own ID bracelet!

Julian & Co. was built from an uplifting story of love and family; with that strong family bond shining through in their jewelry collection. Tania, mom of Julian, is inspiring with her work. In the short amount of time I have worn The Birth Necklace from Julian & Co., I can not count how many times it’s been complimented on. Again, a treasured keepsake for any mom to display for all to see!

Julian & Co. are also generous sponsors in our Mother’s Day giveaway!

Posted By Dana

Mother's Day Contest ending soon!!!

2008-05-01T20:36:00.005-04:00

Counting down the days until Babyluxe {daily} launches a new and improved website AND the end to our Mother’s Day Contest {could be any day now}! If you have not completed our survey yet do so quickly to be entered to win one of 3 fabulous gift sets filled with a mixture of donations from our generous sponsors listed below:

Fresh Baby is a website, newsletter and products all in one for making baby food quick & easy! Their products and tips are must haves for any household trying to live a more “Green” and healthy lifestyle. You are less than 30 minutes a week away from being a satisfied, money saving, baby making food Mama! {So Easy Baby Food Kit}

Matilda Jane’s unpredictable, trendy children’s clothing line has recently launched their new women’s collection! These funky, inspiring designs will surely get mommy noticed along with her children! How can you resist such a sweet and modern addition to your child’s {and now your own} wardrobe! {Women’s collection}

SmartMom Jewelry is pretty and practical; it’s just what you’ve been looking for to be stylish AND pacify your teething child whenever and wherever needed! What an ingenious and “Smart” idea; and did we mention stylish, with those amazing real gemstone looks, but the feel and make of a teething product! {Teething Bling}

Preggers N’ Proud offers fresh look maternity slogan design tees. Look no further for the perfect way for you to express how “proud” you are to be pregnant or to just be Mom! Don’t forget about Daddy and Baby too; signature slogan designs to show off your “Hot Daddy” or “Buddha Baby”. {Happy Mother’s Day tank or tee}

Laugh & Learn DVDs take that stress out of childbirth and throws in the fun and silliness! The modern way to learn about childbirth, breastfeeding, and baby care is not from a classroom setting, but from the comfort of your own home! This 3 DVD set is perfect for any expecting parent who wants to know the ins and outs of what to expect, from an expert. {Laugh & Learn DVD sets}

Mango Ink brings out your individual personality through photos on hand mounted cards and invitations. Capture your next announcement with these beautifully crafted cards! Mango Ink also offers photo keepsakes and high quality homemade wrapping paper. {Gift certificate}

Julian & Co. was built on an amazing story about the love of family and cherished moments and items. They have custom made jewelry for all members of the family, especially for mom! From adorable Mother’s necklaces to cuff links for Dad to ID bracelets for the little ones, there’s something unique and personal for everyone! {Gift certificate}

CuddleBee offers unique and luxurious gifts for pampering baby! Bibs and burpies, blankets and belts, choose from some fabulous fabric designs, handmade from the softest material, perfect for any stylish baby or toddler! {Gift certificate}

Preppymommy baby and mommy products were created to make life a bit easier for baby and more stylish for mommy! Designed from some unexplored patterns, baby’s Bibkins and Binky Clips truly were made to make life out and about simpler! Plus, Lucky Lanyard and Ribbon Belt accessories for Mom to add a bit of style to Mom’s hectic lifestyle! {Lucky Lanyard}

Boon Inc. is know for bringing innovated products to your home and your life! Modern must have items from bath products like the well know Frog Pod to feeding and storage accessories. And just recently a new launched layette line for babies and toddlers! {Snack Ball}

AJaron jewelry creates exceptional fine jewelry for mom and baby, plus accessories for the home! Add a treasured piece to your collection from their extensive selection of beautifully crafted items! AJaron would also like to offer Babyluxe {daily} readers 15% off Rocks To Buy Baby in stock merchandise {with promo code MOM15} and 10% off SoHo Stack special order rings {with promo code MOM10}. {25% off coupon}

Girlie Gowns are a must have for any expecting mommy for her hospital stay! Why be frumpy in those old, worn hospital gowns when you can be “girlie” and pretty in your own! Just making baby’s birth a bit more special! {Girlie Gown}

Bellazandra has beautifully handcraft gifts for yourself or a loved one! They have some of the most amazing custom designed Mother’s and birthstone bracelets that any women would cherish for a lifetime! {Gift certificate}

Babystar, at Baby Star, a star is born everyday! They offer high quality, essential products for baby from bedding to bath {with a new line of hooded towels}. If you’re a parent who loves great moderns designs with a stylish baby, this shop is for you! {Gift certificate}

Kids Central Kitchen offers natural, whole grain baking mixes for today’s active kids and their families! Easy to make! NO trans fats, NO hydrogenated oils, NO high fructose corn syrup and NO artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. Also available are fun & colorful baking utensils, pans & accessories. {Baking mix & utensils}

Tots on the Go brings you the finest in quality strollers and travel baby products, for the active family. They carry top brand name items such as the innovative Phil and Teds Sports buggy, baby backpack carriers, high end diaper bags and great travel gear. Looking for advice on traveling with your kids? Search Tots on the Go for great travel ideas or contact them directly. {Rowdy diaper bag}

Paperluxe Studio offers a wide range of simplistic, classic paper designs, including personalized stationery, invitations, announcements, matching thank-you notes, calling cards (for moms, nannies & teachers) & coordinating labels. Paperluxe Studio’s specialty product offering is personalized stationery for women; and more particularly, stationery that can be given in lieu of traditional party favors at baby & bridal showers, and other similar events. {Gift certificate}

momAgenda was founded by a busy mother of four who was constantly struggling to keep up with all of her children’s appointments & lessons, while still managing to keep herself pulled together, momAgenda combines style & functionality. The original mom’s day planner, momAgenda, has a smart collection of organization tools including the famous momAgenda Desktop, Kitchen Folio, myAgenda: for everyone, and a wide assortment of pads & accessories. {momAgenda Desktop}

Let’s Go Strolling offers the best selection of high-quality strollers, designer diaper bags, new baby gifts and all best baby and new mom products. With outstanding customer service that exceeds your expectations, their mission is to make your shopping experience both easy and fun and help you buy the best products for your lifestyle. {Ju-Ju-Be diaper bag}

The Polkadot Platypus offers top picks for maternity, babies and kids. Their collection of stylish apparel, hip baby gear, designer crib bedding, fun accessories and unique baby gifts is like no other. Whether you are looking for cowboy baby bedding, paisley play tents, novelty tees, girly tutus or polka dot toddler backpacks ... they have something for everyone! {SaraBear diaper caddy}

Made by Angie: Clean up in style with a Made by Angie wipes case! Choose from a beautiful assortment of fun, quirky & stylish fabrics to suit every mood you’re in. Having kids is a dirty job. Made By Angie handmade baby wipe containers make it easy to have fun while doing your dirty work! {Gift certificate}.

Alli's Originals specializes in made-to-order hand stamped, personalized sterling silver jewelry. Alli works closely with each client to design a piece that is truly unique, special and one of a kind. Her clients have a big part in the design and creative process so their vision can become a reality. {Gift certificate}

Seabands are the new wave hair bands that stay in place & stay comfortable all day! They offer a variety of fabric and jacquard ribbon options, as well as personalization. They even do special orders for clubs, schools and businesses. {Mother/daughter set}

momspit: Inspired by the original, momspit is the universal no-rinse cleanser for hands & face, and not just for kids. Available in a 7 oz desk size bottle and a convenient 2 oz bottle, designed to effectively fit into the smallest of bags, including your handbag, gymbag & even the kids’ backpacks; take some momspit with you wherever you go. {2 oz bottles of momspit}

The Baby Planners are a Los Angeles-based concierge and consulting service that caters to the needs of expectant parents. No matter what stage you are at in your pregnancy, they are available to meet your needs. Whether you are registering for the first time, need a special service, or just have some important {or silly, for that matter} questions, Ellie & Melissa are your go-to ladies. {Gift certificate for ½ hour phone consultation}

sheppard girls: Handmade, vintage-inspired goods for moms, kids & babies. A one woman business, Lisa Sheppard designs and produces baby bibs, burp cloths, headbands & unique hand-painted vintage doorknob hangers. All of her products are made using the finest selection of vintage fabrics, wool felt & rickrack ribbons. {Headbands}

Keep an eye out for some upcoming {or previous} features from some of these gracious sponsors and their “luxe” products! {A special note to the winners once they are randomly chosen, not all these products will be in the gift set you receive, each set is a mixture and combination of the above} Each gift set is valued at over $500! Thank you to all our sponsors and our {daily} readers! We appreciate you all and Happy Mother’s Day to some of the best moms out there!

Last 24 hours for Laugh and Learn giveaway!

2008-05-01T18:35:00.004-04:00

Laugh and Learn giveaway ends tomorrow night May 2nd so get your comment in soon! This DVD set is such a great giveaway, don't miss out! Good luck to all! {See April 24th post for details}

Stylish, unique, and different

2008-04-30T20:50:00.008-04:00

Written by guest editor Shannon

I am always looking for clothing that is “different” for my girls. Designs and fashions that are comfortable, stylish, unique and really make any girl standout in the crowd. I got exactly what I was looking for with Denise DeMarchis's Matilda Jane clothing line!

Denise basically started "designing" clothing as a young, adventurous fifth grader. To this day Denise still loves what she does and is committed to the unique clothing combinations she envisions and creates with the support of her children and husband.

What makes Matilda Jane unique is their use of colorful fabrics and trendy styles. Each item my youngest daughter wore was truly eye-popping. The different patterns and colors used to make the clothing help to create an almost mosaic-like garment. The small details, like flower shaped buttons, add to the uniqueness of the line.

The fabrics are remarkably soft and durable. One of the outfits my 2 year old wore survived a full morning of park activities with no complaints. Each item is sized perfectly too. There were no droops, sags, nor the ever-dreaded peeking belly from a top that continues to rise in the front.

This stylish line is great for any mom who likes for her children to be a little different; and it's not only for the girls! Matilda Jane also has a limited time boys selection; Mighty Acorns! AND, a women's collection as well! I cannot wait to see more from Matilda Jane!

You could be a winner of a piece of Matilda Jane's women's collection in our Mother's Day giveaway!

Style on the go {for kids}!

2008-04-29T16:58:00.005-04:00

KidLuxe Edition

After having been on many {many} a weekend jaunt, day trips, and morning of errands with both kids in the past several months, I was desperately searching for the perfect, easy-access solution to all of those "But Mommy, can I bring just three toys?" instances. Fortunately, just in time for our recent road trip to NY, my dilemma was solved; with an Ellie Bellie Kids Mini-Messenger bag of course!

The EBK Mini-Messenger bags are a stylish & practical accessory for children ages 3 and up, to carry all of their prized possessions and necessities. Colin loves to tote around his 3 favorite "shake and go" cars practically everywhere we go. For times that we need quiet entertainment, he packs up his bag with paper, crayons & his favorite stamps. And of course, we can't go anywhere without packing him some fruit snacks & a drink. All of this and more, fit perfectly inside his Mini-Messenger.Other products under the EBK label: the Cape & the Tutu. We also have a personalized cape in our house, which is a welcome alternative to the party-store plastic capes only available during Halloween season; perfect for your little super hero! Sadly, we may never have the chance at a Tutu in our house, but knowing the attention to detail and quality that I see in the Cape and Mini-Messenger, I can only imagine that the Tutu's are nothing short of fabulous!

Speaking of fabulous, if not for anything else, I suggest you head on over to Ellie Bellie Kids, just to witness their gorgeous new web site! You will surely be blown away by the imagery on the site, and some of you may even recognize the soda shop where the home page was filmed.

Ellie Bellie Kids is one very special company dedicated to enriching the lives of children with classic play products that spark creativity, individualism & a whole lot of fun. Mom & founder of EBK, Jennifer Cooper, is also dedicated to supporting several wonderful causes. Therefore, a portion of their sales are donated to Autism Service Dogs of America.

So if you are in the mood to give your child or a child you care about, the chance to enjoy these wonderful classics, definitely head over to the Ellie Bellie Kids site where you can take 20% off all orders between now and May 15th with the coupon code luxe20.

Give baby a "Green" lifestyle {Giveaway}

2008-04-28T20:34:00.009-04:00

As “D Day” approaches for baby boy #3, I find myself searching for ways to cut our budget but still find great products and services that were not available or I didn’t know about with the older boys. So of course, making my own baby food fits under cutting the budget and a new idea that I have not tried before. {Well, with Connor I mashed up some bananas and I think crushed some apples in the blender a few times, does that count?}I’m sure some of you have already tried this concept, but for the ones like me who have no clue {or think you don’t have the time} or even for you veteran baby food making mamas, I have a great find for you all! Fresh Baby website, newsletter, and products make this process so unbelievable simple! This one site contains all you need to start as soon as baby is old enough, answers all your questions, and provide continuous tips for healthy “eating & feeding” for you and baby. Did you know it should really only take you less than 30 minutes a week to make your baby food? Can you believe it! I’m so excited to get started!

The So Easy Baby Food Kit has taught me a ton already! The So Easy Baby Food Cookbook is full of some extremely important information, from safety basics when making your own baby food, to managing your time correctly so you truly can stay within 30 minutes a week, and of course plenty of recipes {starting with how to shop for the best food product, how to prep and cook it, what variations to serve with it, and storing tips}. This kit also comes with 2 freezer trays, a How-To DVD, and a fabulous little nutrition card. Everything you need to get started OR to make things easier than what you are already doing.

With the “Green”, organic society we live in today, start teaching your children the earth friendly way of eating, before they even talk, with this “so much easier than I thought, money saving, waste cutting, HEALTHY” lifestyle!

Fresh Baby has been extremely generous to not only donate 3 So Easy Baby Food Kits to our Mother’s Day giveaway but to also include 1 So Easy Baby Food Kit giveaway with this feature! Please leave us a comment with at least 2 “Green Facts” for the environment and/or baby when making your own baby food. {Hint: see the “It’s SO EASY being Green” section of the Fresh Baby home page}. Good luck to all!

Posted By Dana

Congrats to Melissa, our Fresh Baby winner!! Check your email Melissa! And thank you to everyone, keep reading for more exciting giveaways!

Handmade and customized just for you!

2008-04-27T19:28:00.004-04:00

Mamaluxe Edition

When you are looking for a gift to give or a little splurge on yourself, jewelry should always be at the top of the list. And better yet, custom design jewelry made just for the recipient is a gift any woman would love and cherish! So as Mother’s Day approaches and you continue to look for the perfect gift {for yourself, and as you leave those little hints around the house for your kids and husband to pick up on}, look no further than the Swedish designs of Zandra Faulkner.
I received my very own handmade Bellazandra birthstone bracelet, with Mother charm, recently and have not stopped raving about it! Knowing that it was made just for me, and looks so fabulous and stylish, makes this one of the most prized pieces of jewelry I own.

Whether you’re looking for an actual Mother’s bracelet, with children’s names and birthstones, personalized awareness bracelets such as Breast Cancer, or even adorable children bracelets (great First Communion gift as that time approaches), Bellazandra has a wide selection for that perfect gift. From birthstones, to specific clasps, to charms, and sterling silver, take your time browsing and choosing the most exceptional design for yourself or your loved one.

Even more exciting, Bellazandra is offering Babyluxe readers 10% off with the promo code BABYLUXE {valid thru May 31^st}. AND, Bellazandra is also one of our sponsors with a fabulous gift certificate in our Mother’s Day giveaway!

Posted by Dana

Making childbirth stress free and entertaining! {Giveaway}

2008-04-24T19:55:00.012-04:00

Written by guest {pregnant with twins} editor Lisa

During my prerequisite hospital tour to orient myself with the maternity ward, I was excited to sign up for some of the classes the hospital offered. As I approached each table, I was disappointed to find that I needed to sign up for the classes the day I first saw that 2^nd pink line! All of the classes were full well past my due date!

If you already have children, hearken back to the days before delivery: there were some things that were slightly uncomfortable to discuss, things that you may have felt silly asking. I’ve heard that all of that modesty flies out the window after giving birth, but not having navigated that path yet, there were those things that even when asking my closest friends I preface it with “ok, I have a labor question”. Even after reading a half a dozen books, I still had some questions. Thank goodness for the Laugh and Learn series! Sheri Bayles makes the answers to all of those questions feel like the most natural thing in the world. She ties in humor with direct factual information. Sheri truly is an expert childbirth coach!

The first video I watched was Laugh and Learn About Childbirth which covered signs of labor, labor & comfort measures, delivery, medications, inductions, Cesarean Delivery and postpartum. This was a welcome change from getting caught up on the internet every time a Braxton Hicks contraction hit me {“am in labor? How long did that last? Was that a cramp or something I ate?”} Sheri’s many credentials prepared her to answer all of the questions you either forgot to ask your doctor during your last appointment {placenta brain?} or just felt ridiculous asking. What I found most helpful was that this video answered all of the “what ifs?” Even though every woman may not have a forceps or vacuum delivery, understanding what they are and the risks and safety surrounding them would put any expectant mom at ease.

The next video I tackled was Laugh and Learn About Breastfeeding. This covered the typical stuff: feeding positions, burping, breastfeeding twins {of special interest to me}, as well as overcoming obstacles & pumping. If you are entertaining breastfeeding your baby, you probably have a certain comfort level with the whole concept of it, but again there are some things that you may not think of until you encounter them or just don’t want to ask. Sheri’s experience as a lactation consultant made her able to describe the process in a pragmatic way, while still making me laugh. After all, if you can’t laugh about a lot of this stuff, how can you possibly make it through? Also, having some visual examples of the “how to’s” is much more helpful than reading about it. While all women can grasp the concept of latching on {for better or worse}, actually seeing it and having it described simultaneously makes it a little less daunting.

The last video I watched was Laugh and Learn About Newborn Baby Care. This short video covered bathing, changing & swaddling. Again, watching all of those things done, while Sheri talks through each step, made me feel that each was a feasible task. When watching friends or relatives take care of their children, I find myself often in awe at how easily they handle it & then I immediately think “how am I going to get a onesie off of a teeny baby?” {After putting my nephew’s diaper on backwards, I had lost all confidence}. However, Sheri’s step by step guide and clear comfort with the babies made it seem definitely do-able!

The added bonus to all of this is that I was able to convince my husband to watch them. I think that alone speaks volumes of this series. After all, expectant moms are voracious for knowledge & dads kind of sit back, figuring either that we have it covered or that somehow this knowledge will appear in their brains. Read a book? Come on! The Laugh and Learn Series both held his attention & even prompted a few questions!

I can understand why so many people rave about Sheri’s videos. They truly are a find!

Win your own Laugh and Learn DVD set here at Babyluxe! When visiting the Laugh and Learn site, which of Sheri's DVDs in the series would help you out the most and why? Please leave your comment by May 2nd! Good luck! ALSO, these great DVD sets were generously donated to our Mother's Day contest as well! So if you don't win now, you may just win later!

Congrats to our Laugh and Learn winner Jordan! Check your email Jordan! Thanks to all!

Few hours left in Bling Baby giveaway AND {website issues}

2008-04-23T17:00:00.002-04:00

You have til midnight to get your comment in for the Bling Baby giveaway! Good luck! {See the April 16th post for details}
And, a quick comment from Sarah and I on a couple issues with the site lately that we hope the new site {less than 2 weeks left til launch} will correct. I'm sure you all have noticed a strange log in pop up when you first visit our site, please just cancel this and hold tight. This will go away once we switch over to the new site, we're not sure where it came from or how to get rid of it at this point. Also, we are working out some issues with the "morning" email {I'm sure you've noticed that some of our emails are not coming in the morning as they should be OR they come 2 or 3 times a day}. Again, so sorry, this should be corrected shortly as well to a once a day email feature.
Sorry for any inconvenience these issues may have caused you! Thank you for your support!

One small creation goes a long way!

2008-04-22T19:46:00.007-04:00

Kidluxe Edition

Every once in a while you’ll come across that one product that makes you think, “Why didn’t I think of that”? I had been pulling my hair out for years, scrubbing the carpets, mopping the floors, trying to get rid of the juice stains from those overfilled juice boxes that my kids just have to have! Not anymore! The juice never reaches the floor now!

“Careful, don’t squeeze it, DON’T SQUEEZE IT”! How many times have you said that in reference too a child grabbing hold of a juice box and squeezing it before it reaches their mouths? That is exactly what Yvonne, founder of My Dwink Box, had said to her kids over and over again until she created this ingenious product!

Dwink holds most juice pouches and boxes including soy milk and those extra small boxes. It’s dishwasher safe; and its cute little design {with perfect sized handles} is great for any age {young toddlers just starting out up to the elementary kids who just don’t pay attention}. It’s just one of those must have products that you’ll wonder how you lived so long without! And, your house and your children’s shirts will stay a bit cleaner!

With 4 bright colors to choose from and an amazing price, stock up on you’re My Dwink Boxes now…you’ll need one for home, the car, grandma’s house, daycare, lunchboxes, etc…

Posted by Dana

Few hours left in K'NEX giveaway!

2008-04-22T19:43:00.002-04:00

K'NEX contest ends Wednesday night at midnight so get your comment and answer to us soon to win the Dueling Racers! {See April 15th post for details}
Good luck to all!

The one-hand-reaches-all, new parent necessity!

2008-04-21T21:01:00.006-04:00

Just as every expecting mom does, with each of my pregnancies, I spent countless hours preparing for the baby's arrival. When I was pregnant with Alex however, I tried to think about all the things that I could re-use, before deciding what new gadgets and gear would become my practical necessities. After all, I am practical by nature...

One such practical necessity that I definitely should have considered, but didn't, was the SaraBear diaper caddy. When our first baby Colin was a newborn, we lived in a quaint & cozy ranch, with all rooms within ear-shot & quick walking distance. So naturally, Colin's nursery was the main "changing" hub. It was just as quick to get to his room, as it was to go anywhere else in the house. However, by the time Alex came along, we had moved in to a larger, two story home. Why I never even considered the thought of just how many times I would go up and down the stairs each day, in those early months, just to change a diaper, grab a burp cloth, pacifier, etc; looking back, I chalk it all up to momnesia.

Eventually, I did set up a changing station downstairs, but let me tell you, it was anything but attractive. A pile of diapers, a wipes case, some ointment, and other basic necessities, all thrown together in an old, dingy white plastic coated wire organizer bin. It actually came from our college apartment, 10 years ago... Ick!

So that being said, should I ever travel down that path again; the path of preparing for yet another baby, I will for certain be using a SaraBear diaper caddy!

Each SaraBear diaper caddy is made with 100% cotton fabric liner, in a shaker style wood basket. There are 4 cubbies, perfect for a full size wipes container, diapers, burp cloths & bibs, and four additional pockets; one shallow one for smaller items. With the beautiful fabric choices they offer, you are sure to find a caddy that suits your home decor perfectly!

SaraBear diaper caddies are available for retail at one of BabyLuxe's favorite online boutiques, The Polkadot Platypus. You can take 15% off your entire order with the code "polkadot"!

Or maybe you would like to wait and try your luck at the Mother's Day contest... BabyLuxe will be giving away one SaraBear diaper caddy, generously donated by The Polkadot Platypus, as part of one of our amazing giveaway gift sets!

Proud to Mom!

2008-04-20T15:17:00.014-04:00

Mamaluxe Edition

There has been one amazing little maternity tee circling our group of friends as we pass along our maternity clothes from one pregnant lady to the next. {Seriously, I think these clothes have gone through well over 10 pregnancies and counting}. This one tee stands out, we’ve all worn it, and it still looks as cute as it did with the first mama!

Preggers n' Proud slogan tees and tanks are so perfect for Mommies and Daddies who want to make a statement! My girlfriends and I made our first “prego” statements with the “Lovin’ My Budda Belly” maternity tee. Now we can add the “Happy Mother’s Day to Me” tee to the pack! What a great design from Preggers n' Proud for the up coming holiday! I’m sure you all agree that Mother’s Day is our day to shine {and relax, and be pampered, and be spoiled, and so on} so make that statement, pregnant or not, that you are MOM and you are proud!

Get free shipping on your Preggers n' Proud purchases with the code BABYLUXE (not to be combined with any other offers). Stock up for Mother’s and Father’s Day, and don’t forget to check out the baby tees and nursing necklaces!

Preggers n' Proud is also one of our many sponsors for the Mother’s Day giveaway! And stayed tuned for another feature from Preggers n' Proud next month for those Daddies on your list for Father’s Day!

Posted by Dana

Few hours left for Dino 5 giveaway!

2008-04-17T20:21:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow morning we'll pick 3 lucky Babyluxe winners to receive the Dino 5 CD/sticker sets. See the April 10th feature for details! Hurry and good luck!
{See April 10th post for winners!}

For your sparkly little princess {GIVEAWAY}!

2008-04-16T22:04:00.008-04:00

It's review opportunities like this that really make me wish I had a little girl... Of course you know I am kidding, and that I would never wish for anything but the sweet boys that I have! Even so, I can dream. With these sweet little shoes, I picture "my imaginary little princess", frolicking around in her tu-tu & leotard. Or maybe just a pretty little pink dress.

Perfect for that newborn princess photo-op, check out these adorable shoes, by Bling Baby! A sweet little ballet slipper, with satin tie-bow, these shoes are adorned with perfect little bling princess crowns. Bling-Baby uses only the finest quality swarovski crystals on all of their products, to ensure the ultimate in sparkle.

BabyLuxe is excited to have the opportunity to give away one set of these sweet little bling shoes, to one lucky princess "newborn"! To enter the contest, simply check out the Bling Baby site, and let us know the name of the little baby girl that inspired Bling Baby to become what it is! Make sure you leave your comment by April 23rd, and be sure to leave your email address, so that we can contact you if you win!

And for those of you in the market for some other great bling, take 20% off your order, just by following up your order with an email to Jen, at Bling Baby. Tell her about BabyLuxe, and she will refund your purchase by 20%!

Congratulations to Sara on winning these precious slippers! Sara, please check your email!

Happy Building!

2008-04-15T20:14:00.013-04:00

Kidluxe Edition

There are not many ways to keep a young elementary age child quiet, still, and occupied for an extended period of time, except of course with some type of stimulating building toy. Something to keep their little fingers and minds going!

A favorite brand among young builders everywhere, K’NEX has a new Spring line that includes Cool Construction, Rescue Assortment, and Dueling Racers! My 6 year recently got a couple new sets to construct with; and construct he did! With the easy to follow direction books that came with each set, he was on his way to an imaginative afternoon. It’s an amazing sight to watch a child play so intently and so focused on the task of building their creation just right. K’NEX are truly not just toys; but innovated, educational products as well.

Let me comment on a great feature with the New Dueling Racers we received. Once the construction is complete, these cars turn into battery operated, motorized racers! So the fun continues on! The components on the Spring K’NEX product line are of course compatible with all other K’NEX parts, and also compatible with other leading building systems too! You can see why this brand is “the world’s most innovative construction toy company”; they make and sell age appropriate, mind building, imaginative fun!

Babyluxe has a Dueling Racers set to giveaway to one lucky child! As you are browsing through all the great offers and sections of the K'NEX site, can you comment back to us what simple drinking product started it all? {Hint: About Us, K'NEX history} Good luck!

And the winner is: Bunny B! Congrats! Check your email Bunny B! Thanks everyone!

Make the announcement special for all!

2008-04-14T18:49:00.009-04:00

It’s so hard to find just the right way to tell your child or children that your family will be expanding soon! And even harder to prepare them over the next few months for what to expect when the new baby arrives but still make them feel special and loved through the entire process. The best product to accomplish ALL of the above arrived on my doorstep last week!

My 2 year old has been thrilled with his Big Brother Keepsake Album from Budding Family. With so many pages to personalize with his name and picture, and plenty of details to read him on what will happen with Mommy and Daddy and new baby before and after the hospital stay, this album is one to cherish! My son adores all the pictures of himself and the “story” of our family as we all prepare for the new little baby to join us. What a life saver this has been in explaining the changes both my children will experience over the next couple months.

With such a creative design and durable quality, Big Brother {or Big Sister} Keepsake Albums will last through the most curious child. Budding Family also has the cutest “Look who’s going to be a Big Brother/Sister” announcement cards! What an amazing way to spread the joy to friends and family while still including the older sibling! And this personalized card does not get thrown in the trash; it’s the perfect size to be placed in a 5 x 7 frame for viewing years to come!

This “gift” to our son was a noticeable reassurance to him that even though Mommy is changing and the house is changing with all the new “little” stuff and “baby” items, he’s still loved and the times to come with the new baby are going to be exciting and fun for him, plus he’ll have a new role, Big Brother! Yes, surprisingly, with an album like this, even a 2 year old starts to understand the concept!

Share and cherish one of your own {also check out the “Look who’s moving to a New Home” Keepsake Album}. Enjoy free shipping on your purchase with the promo code BLUXE for all Babyluxe readers.

Posted by Dana

Last day for L'ovedbaby Giveaway!

2008-04-14T18:42:00.003-04:00

You have about 24 hours left to enter your answer for the L'ovedbaby 4-in-1 Nursing Shawl giveaway!
What a fabulous prize to win! Get your entry in now!
Good luck to all!
{See the April 7th feature for details}