Hobo Mama Reviews

50% off at Roots athletic wear

2012-02-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

Roots has cabin fever! Select items are now up to 50% off* for a limited time only.

Offer ends 2.29.12.

*Some conditions may apply. See site for details.

Free Shipping* on all orders $100+ to the USA. Shop Now at Roots!

Roots USA has fashionable daytime fashions for casual and work clothes as well as its iconic athletic wear.

Roots Active Athletics Clothes. Shop Now at Roots!

Roots offers casual and workout athletic gear for both men and women, including yoga wear.

Disclosure: Roots links are affiliate links.
See my full disclosure policy here.

50% off at momAgenda.com for planners

2012-02-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

momAgenda — home of the planners made for moms — has some clearance deals going on right now:

We are making room in our warehouse for a brand new season, and that's great news for our customers. Because right now, our most popular 2011-2012 momAgenda and myAgenda planners, including Desktops and Spirals, are 50% off + FREE Shipping on orders over $50!

Plus, shop these coupons:

Take 10% off all orders of $65+ at momAgenda!
Code: MOM10OFF65 Offer Expires 2.29

Take $10 off all orders of $75+ at momAgenda!
Code: MOM10OFF75 Offer Expires 2.29

The unique momAgenda products help organize the lives of mothers and others, including day planners (myAgenda, mom Agenda and Personal Portfolio), home organizers (Kitchen Folio, School Years, Wall Calendar), and helpful pads (Weekly Menu/Grocery Pad, Permission Slip, Honey Do List and Babysitter Info).

Disclosure: momAgenda links are affiliate links.
See my full disclosure policy here.

FREE engraving over $100 at Heartsmith

2012-02-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

Heartsmith Jewelry offers custom engraved jewelry perfect for yourself or as a gift. Right now, they're offering their engraving service for FREE:

FREE engraving for all orders over $100.
Simply enter code "PRESIDENT12" when checking out.
A $15.00 Value.
Expires 2/29/12.

Wouldn't this four-photo delicate locket be a perfect gift for a proud mother or grandmother?

And this I just want for myself!

Shop now for your free engraving!

Disclosure: Heartsmith links are affiliate links.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Sunny Patch Rain Gear from MelissaandDoug.com: Keeps kids stylish during showers

2012-02-22T05:00:00.001-08:00

MelissaAndDoug.com wants kids to step out in style on those rainy days with their Sunny Patch Rain Gear. So when the forecast calls for scattered showers, we call for stylish kids!

With raincoats, umbrellas and easy-pull-on boots, kids can keep dry and stylish and customers can save BIG!

Save 25% on your entire purchase
at MelissaAndDoug.com.
Use promo code: FB25,
valid through February 29, 2012.
Not stackable with any other offer.

Or take advantage of Free Shipping:

Free shipping on all orders over $50!
Use Code: FREESHIPFIFTY

If you choose this deal, you will have any order over $50 Shipped FREE. Use promo code: FREESHIPFIFTY. Who doesn't like FREE? Save big on shipping charges by getting your order delivered to your door for FREE! The free shipping offer excludes Alaska, Hawaii and other non-contiguous U.S. locations. Expires midnight EST 2/29/12.

Disclosure: MelissaandDoug.com links are affiliate links.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Save big on fresh air & more at Drugstore.com!

2012-02-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

Lots of great deals at Drugstore.com:

Save 20% on products in the air care category at drugstore.com! Offer ends 02.25.2012. Get 20% off humidifiers, air purifiers, filters, and more! But only until 02.25.2012, so hurry!

Spend $15 on method products and get a free 50-load method Fresh Air Laundry Detergent ($15 value)! Method's Fresh Air Laundry Detergent targets dirt and stains for beautifully clean clothes. It is also biodegradable, and hypo-allergenic—not to mention super highly rated by customers! Offer good while supplies last or 02.29.2012.

Save up to 30% on strollers and car seats! Offer ends 03.30.2012.

Instant Coupon: Get the Sonicare Diamond Clean for only $179.99 ($40 savings!) The Diamond Clean gives you Sonicare's best plaque removal! It improves gum health in just two weeks and whitens teeth 2X better than a manual toothbrush. Offer ends 02.28.2012.

California Baby Calendula Cream
Nature's first aid: Safe, natural, fun

Never shopped at Drugstore.com before? Grab a new customer discount deal:

New Customers: spend $50 at drugstore.com and get free shipping + a $100 Restaurant.com gift code! Offer ends 12.31.2012.

New Customers: spend $25 at drugstore.com and get free shipping + a $50 Restaurant.com gift code! Offer ends 12.31.2012.

New Customers: Receive $5 off $30 or $10 off $50 on your first non-prescription order! Offer ends 12.31.2012.

Disclosure: Drugstore.com links are affiliate links.
See my full disclosure policy here.

15% off TODAY ONLY at Kelly's Closet for cloth diapers!

2012-02-20T10:51:00.000-08:00

Save 15% off today only at Kelly's Closet!

Save 15% off today only!
Enter coupon code PRESDAY at checkout.
Expires 2.20.

And the other deal:

Free one-size diaper valued at $19+
with your order of $69 or more
when you use code BEMINE.
Expires soon.

Rules:
Limit 1 code/order.
Limit 2 uses/customer.
Excludes the purchase of gift certificates.
Not valid on pending or previous orders.

Shop Kelly's Closet for these deals and more!

Connect with other cloth diaper fans for great cloth diapering info, more coupons, and other giveaways!

DiaperShops.com — The blog
DiaperShops on Facebook — Great place to find out about coupons, new products, and latest stocking news.
The Cloth Diaper Whisperer on Facebook — Join the new cloth diaper community!
DiaperShops on Twitter — Join in a weekly Twitter Chat Thursdays at 1:30-2:30 pm ET using #clothdiapers hashtag.
The Cloth Diaper Whisperer on Twitter
The Cloth Diaper Whisperer Blog — Home of the Fluff Friday Giveaway!

Disclosure: Kelly's Closet links are affiliate links.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Limited Edition Camp Combo at Mabel's Labels: Get the early-bird pricing!

2012-02-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

Mabel's Labels' value-packed collection of UV resistant, waterproof labels and tags was designed especially for everything that goes to summer camp.

Identify clothes, footwear, toiletries, swim gear, backpacks and more with this seasonal essential.

Includes:

10 Sticky Labels
24 Skinny-Minis™
8 Shoe Labels
50 Tag Mates™
2 Bag Tags

Extra: Two FREE friendship bracelets included with every combo!

Bonus offer: Add a sheet of 40 Iron-Ons for only $14.95.

$37.95 early bird price in February. This price expires 2.29.12.

This combo is available only until June 22, 2012.

Disclosure: Mabel's Labels links are affiliate links.
See my full disclosure policy here.

25%-off Presidents' Day Sale at Robeez baby shoes

2012-02-18T11:15:00.000-08:00

Robeez is celebrating stars, stripes and savings with a Presidents' Day Sale. Pick up our newest offer and get an additional 25% off Sale items for 4 days only!

There's no code required and discount will be taken at checkout. This sale is going on now and ends Tuesday, February 20, 2012.

Receive an additional 25% off all sale items at Robeez.com.
No code necessary,
discount applied at checkout.
Expires 2/20.

Disclosure: Robeez links are affiliate links.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Presidents' Day coupons: Deals & steals!

2012-02-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

Here are a bunch of great coupons available at RetailMeNot, my favorite coupon-finding website (no joke — that's why I signed up for the affiliate program!).

The first bunch are current sales at mainstream stores for Presidents' Day, and the second batch are ongoing coupons (non-affiliate) at natural parenting stores. Just click on any text to go straight to the store. Enjoy!

Shutterfly.com Free shipping on orders greater than $30

Zulily $5 Off orders of $50 or more ...

Turbo Tax 10% off TurboTax Online

Snapfish Save 25% off your order

Get 15% Off with coupon code PRES at Macys.com! Valid Through 2/20/12.

$10 off $69, $25 off $139 or $40 off $199, till 2/26/12. PLUS, Free Shipping on $35+ for DSW Rewards Members when you use coupon code SHIPR

President's Day Sale! Up to 30% Off Appliances, Up to 40% Off Spring Fashions, Up to 50-60% Off Mattresses, Up to 50% Off Tools and more! Get Free Shipping on Orders of $99+ with Code SHIP4FREE.

25% off already reduced styles at Banana Republic with coupon code: BRPRES$25. Ends 2/20.

Select iPods on Sale, 15-30% Off Major Appliances, 25% Off and Free Shipping on Select HDTVs, and Get a Free $20 Gift Card When You Purchase a Nook at BestBuy.com!

Use Code 1090 to Take $15 Off $60, $30 Off $120, $45 Off $180, or $60 Off $240 at Express.com! Valid Through 2/20/12.

Up to 40% Off Select Styles for President's Day Sale, Get an Extra 15% Off with Gap Card Code, and Get Free Shipping on Orders Over $50! Valid Through 2/20/12

Get 20% Off Full Price Merchandise with Code ASFEB20 at AshleyStewart.com! Valid Through 2/20/12.

30% OFF $999 or more (before taxes & shipping at hpdirect.com. Hurry! Expires FEB 18, 2012

Nicki's Diapers — 5% off with code FIVE

Kelly's Closet Free $19 diaper with purchase of $69 or more with code BEMINE

Go Go Natural 10% off total with purchase of any wipes with code cleantush

Thanks Mama 5% off entire order width code MAMA

Cotton Babies 5% off with code BESTDEAL

Nurtured Family $10 off $100+ with code NEWS3792483
Not valid on these brands: Rump-a-rooz, Thirsties, bumGenius, Flip, Econobum, ERGO or Beco

Cloth Diaper Outlet 10% off $150+ with code Growing150

The Sling Station 5% off width code WLECOMEBACK

Natural Fertility Shop 5% off width code TJNSF5

Disclosure: Some RetailMeNot links are affiliate links.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Days of deals at Beau-coup elegant party favors!

2012-02-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

There are a lot of excellent coupon codes coming up for use at Beau-coup party favors. Beau-coup's products are perfect for baby showers, weddings and wedding showers, mama blessings, tea parties, baptisms, birthdays, anniversaries, and mom get-togethers — any party you want to elevate into elegance.

Please note codes are only valid on days indicated.
2/18 - 2/20 - Free Shipping on orders over $99 @ Beau-coup.com (JAM)
2/21 Only - Save 10% with a $50 purchase @ Beau-coup.com (code:TEA)
2/22 - 2/23 - Save $10 when you spend $75 @ Beau-coup.com (code:ALMOND)
2/24 - 2/26 - Save 10% NO MINIMUM @ Beau-coup.com (code:4YOU) (extended thru 2/27)
2/28 - 2/29 - Save 10% when you spend $50 @ Beau-coup.com (code:ROCKYROAD)

And here are some of the latest, chicest products available for party favors and decorations:


Mini Wire Vases	Laser Cut Table Number Cards	Rustic Birdcage Place Card Tea Light Holder

Mini Picture Frame Magnets	Mini Classic Gumball Machines	Personalized Vellum Table Luminaries

Your party will be sure to stand out with Beau-coup!

Disclosure: Beau-coup links are affiliate links.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Coupons and new cloth diapers at Kelly's Closet

2012-02-17T18:52:00.000-08:00

Here are some Weekend Updates, Coupons, and Stock Updates on cloth diapers at Kelly's Closet!

Just arrived!

The new Swaddlebees Capri covers and inserts. These brand new covers are available in both snaps and hook & loop in the same great Swaddlebees colors and prints that you already know and love. The inserts are double-sided to allow parents to chose whether you place stay-dry microterry or cotton next to their babies skin.

Final Weekend!

The FLIP4U coupon expires on Sunday night (2/19/12 @ midnight ET). Receive a free zinnia or noodle Flip cover when you purchase a zinnia or noodle Flip cover. Limited to inventory in-stock.

Coupon!

Free one-size diaper valued at $19+ with your order of $69 or more when you use code BEMINE. (Limit 1 code/order. Limit 2 uses/customer. Excludes the purchase of gift certificates. Not valid on pending or previous orders.)

On Sale!

Select itti bitti limited edition prints from the fall collection (Ayannah, Carnivale, Ponder, and Zeebra) are on sale for 25% off while supplies last. Includes the one-size tutto, wet bags, change mats, and blankets.

FREE shipping on orders over $49!

Shop Kelly's Closet for these deals and more!

Connect with other cloth diaper fans for great cloth diapering info, more coupons, and other giveaways!

DiaperShops on Facebook — Great place to find out about coupons, new products, and latest stocking news.
The Cloth Diaper Whisperer on Facebook — Join the new cloth diaper community!
DiaperShops on Twitter — Join in a weekly Twitter Chat Thursdays at 1:30-2:30 pm ET using #clothdiapers hashtag.
The Cloth Diaper Whisperer on Twitter
The Cloth Diaper Whisperer Blog — Home of the Fluff Friday Giveaway!

10% off the Tea Collection spring 2012 clothing line!

2012-02-16T15:20:00.000-08:00

You know I love me some Tea Collection. Spring is right around the corner, and Tea Collection has put together the most enchanting Spring 2012 Collection designed and influenced by the island of Bali.

Shop the new collection now and take advantage of Tea Collection's 10% off coupon (no minimum required) with promo code SS12SAS valid through 3/31/12:

Take 10% off your total purchase
(no minimum required)
with promo code SS12SAS!
Expires 3/31/12.

Although I love the entire collection, below are a few stunners:

For girls, I absolutely adore the Dancing Fern Dress. The colors and design make this the perfect dress for a school picture or a casual family gathering.

Boys will love the Monkey King Tee inspired by the Ramayana Monkey Chant dance in Bali.

Who could resist a baby in a Lotus Batik Romper? Tea Collection clothing is both stylish and child-friendly in terms of comfort and washability.

Feeling left out, mamas? Don't despair. Tea Collection has even designed a Bali collection for women. I love the Artisan Ikat Tunic. It's lightweight and goes perfect with a pair of jeans.

Be sure to check out the entire Bali Collection. Happy Shopping!

Disclosure: Tea Collection links are affiliate links,
and this is an affiliate post.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Umi Shoes: Free shipping & free returns on any order!

2012-02-15T04:57:00.000-08:00

Free Shipping on ANY order at UmiShoes.com!

Take 15% off any purchase at UmiShoes.com plus free shipping and returns! Use code Link15 at checkout!

Save 10% on your order at UmiShoes.com! Use code umi10.

Disclosure: Umi Shoes links are affiliate links.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Valentine's Day coupons at Robeez

2012-02-14T16:56:00.000-08:00

Get some adorable baby shoes at Robeez with these Valentine's Day deals:

Share the love this Valentine's Day with 20% off orders of $50 or more with code LOVE20 at Robeez.com

Share the love this Valentine's Day with 25% off orders of $75 or more with code LOVE25 at Robeez.com

Both expire today, Feb. 14, so shop now!

Free Valentine's deals + Planet Wise giveaway ending!

2012-02-14T12:21:00.000-08:00

Hurry and enter the giveaway for a Planet Wise Hanging Wet/Dry Bag $30 ARV {2.14; Cont. US/Can}. This fabulous contest ends TONIGHT!

You can get FREE Bamboobies nursing pads in honor of Valentine's Day. You must pay only the shipping of $3.96 to the U.S. or Canada.

The regular price of Bamboobies is $8.50 plus s/h, so this is a nice way to try them out!

I have a pair and love how discreet they are in a bra, and I never had any problems with leaks (after leaking through previous pads I had)!

To celebrate Valentine's Day and Get the Dough Out (of politics) and the 5th anniversary of Stephen Colbert's Americone Dream flavor (this sounds silly, but I can't believe it's been five years!), participating Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shops are giving away a free cone of Americone Dream from 5-8 p.m.

Want to make this a family or hot-date movie night? Redbox is offering a free movie rental code. You have to like them on Facebook and send the code to your friends.

Did you forget to send your Valentines to the grandparents in time? Go to Hallmark's Smilebox to send a free e-card with your kids' photos!

The free account has ads, and you can upgrade to an ad-free version that allows some extra features. I'm fine with the ads, though, and it's a same-day way to mail those greetings!

Leave any other deals you know about in the comments, and enjoy!

Disclosure: I am not affiliated with any of these companies
except for the giveaway sponsor.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Giveaway: Earth Mama Angel Baby Postpartum Care — 2 Winners $55 ARV {3.4; US}

2012-02-04T05:00:00.000-08:00

This is a joint giveaway with Code Name: Mama, Hobo Mama, and Natural Parents Network. I'm posting it here at Hobo Mama Reviews as well. You may enter at one site only. Please find the section marked "Win it!" for the mandatory entry and optional bonus entries.

This is a combined giveaway of two gifts from Earth Mama Angel Baby: our first-prize winner wiill receive the Mama's Postpartum Recovery Essentials Bundle, a $49 set; a second-prize winner will receive the Postpartum Bath Herbs from the bundle, available for $5.95. Two lucky readers will win one gift each, making this giveaway's total value $55!

Earth Angel Mama Baby's postpartum products are gentle and organic herbal blends that help soothe you back into health after a birth.

From our reviewer, Dionna at Code Name: Mama:

About Earth Mama Angel Baby

Earth Mama Angel Baby's (EMAB) beliefs about pregnancy and birth will resonate with my readers - they are guided by a "sincere faith in the natural process of birthing babies." Their products are created to support mamas and babies naturally with nature's gifts. EMAB uses "the highest-quality, certified-organic or organically grown herbs and oils for our teas, bath herbs, gentle handmade soaps, salves, lotions and massage oils. [Their] products are 100% toxin-free, cruelty-free, vegan, and free from all artificial preservatives, fragrances and dyes." EMAB does everything it can to "honor the earth and her valuable resources…. [They] use only eco-friendly recyclable or reused/reusable packaging and packing materials." They have even won an award from the Business Recycling Award Group for their green practices.

What does all that mean for you? It means that Earth Mama Angel Baby is committed to creating products that are good for you and your baby. I happen to know one of the mamas who works with EMAB - Alicia of The Soft Landing - and I am confident that she and the rest of EMAB are genuinely passionate about mamas and babies!

Postpartum Recovery Essentials Bundle

"Mama’s Postpartum Recovery Essentials safely and naturally addresses all the unpleasantries a new mama might be experiencing, like prenatal and postpartum hemorrhoids, episiotomies, cramping, postpartum vaginal swelling and bruising."

The bundle includes Mama Bottom Balm, New Mama Bottom Spray, Postpartum Bath Herbs, Happy Mama Spray, and Monthly Comfort Tea. I felt so pampered with these products!

Mama Bottom Balm

Of everything included in the bundle, this was my absolute favorite. Admittedly, Ailia's birth was pretty easy on my body. I had no tears and only minor bruising and skid marks. For those of you who have it worse (and I remember how bad it can be from my extensive bruising, swelling and skid marks with Kieran!), the balm helps everything: prenatal and postpartum hemorrhoids, postpartum vaginal swelling and bruising, episiotomies. My postpartum pain was made infinitely better when I used the Mama Bottom Balm. It soothes and cools your nether regions and promotes healing.

Mama Bottom Balm contains an organic olive oil base infused with healing organic herbs - St. Johns wort, yarrow, Witch hazel, Calendula, Shea butter, and more. You can keep it in the fridge for added coolness and relief.

Mama Bottom Balm should be on every expectant mama's must have list!

New Mama Bottom Spray

The bottom spray is also soothing, but it is a much lighter version of the balm. The spray is made with all-natural ingredients, including astringent witch hazel, antibacterial lavender, and cooling peppermint pure essential oils. I kept it on my toilet and sprayed it on each time I used the bathroom.

Bonus - both the spray and the balm should also work on diaper rash for little ones!

Postpartum Bath Herbs

Here's a tip: give yourself a day or two after birth, then put a kid's floatie on the bottom of the tub, run some hot water, and throw in one or two of EMAB's bath herb pads. Climb in, sit back, and say ahhhhhhh.

"100% Organic Postpartum Bath Herbs is a soothing, comforting blend includes salts, oatmeal and organic herbs that have historically been used to support postpartum women. Wound-healing, styptic and antibacterial herbs and salts help reduce swelling and speed healing of vaginal soreness, episiotomy and perineal bruising. Great for both prenatal and postpartum hemorrhoids too."

Happy Mama Spray

Happy Mama Spray is a light, refreshing spray that will surely be a hit to both pregnant and new mamas, as well as their little ones. The blend includes lime and ginger pure essential oils, and "there are no chemical fixatives to make the fragrance last an artificially long time." That means you can put a spritz on your wrist (or your toddler's) for a quick pick-me-up and inhale without worrying about artificial ingredients.

I've often used this spray to freshen up our bedroom and sheets - it makes climbing under the covers that much more enjoyable.

Monthly Comfort Tea

This tea's "100% Organic and Certified Kosher blend [was] created to jumpstart recovery immediately after childbirth, and for "that time of the month" when hormones are raging and your uterus and you could use some extra care!"

The flavor is delicious! It contains, Cinnamon bark, Lemon Balm, Nettles, Alfalfa, and Ginger. The combination is made to both help ease cramping and chase away the baby blues.

Take some of this into that bathtub for a little slice of heaven.

A Few More Thoughts on the Postpartum Recovery Essentials Bundle

Ailia's birth was much easier on me physically than Kieran's birth, and the same was true for my postpartum period. I'm sure part of that was because of the differences in their births - Ailia's labor and delivery were at home (Kieran's was at a birth center with a medically-minded midwife); my labor was shorter with Ailia, and I felt better prepared; Kieran ended up spending 5 days in the NICU, Ailia has been at home from the beginning. But another difference was that with Kieran, I did not have the benefit of any of the natural herbs and oils found in the EMAB products. The balm, spray, and bath herbs helped me heal faster, and the Happy Mama Spray and tea helped me emotionally. (Well, the placenta smoothies also played a big role!)

This set would make a wonderful gift for any expectant mama, but if your budget is more limited, I'd highly suggest the Mama Bottom Balm.

From our reviewer, Lauren at Hobo Mama:

I received the Postpartum Bath Herbs to try, just before the birth of my second son, Alrik.

After the birth of my firstborn, Mikko, I felt very tender down there, both physically and emotionally, even though I hadn't sustained much damage. I knew I wanted to have sitz bath herbs on hand, because soaking in a warm, herb-steeped tub every day with newborn Mikko helped heal me in both aspects. I believed the warm water and gentle herbal concoction the midwives had recommended sped blood flow to the tender area, and knowing I was doing something helped reassure me that everything would knit back together in time. (It did.)

With Alrik's pregnancy, I was a little frantic when his birth was approaching and I didn't have any herbs ready for postpartum use. Earth Mama Angel Baby to the rescue!

These pads were really interesting. I had thought you'd just use them in the bath, and you could — but the directions actually recommend putting them right against your skin. I liked that thought, having the beneficial herbs making direct contact, so my sister-in-law helped brew some up for me in the first few days after the birth.

Once again, I didn't have extensive damage, but I did have one unfortunately jagged tear that required stitching. Plus, everything just felt a bit out of place for awhile, so I was glad to have time to rest and heal.

You steep the herbal pads like you would tea bags, and then you can either use them slightly cooled, or freeze them to give your bottom even more of an "ahh" sensation.

The organic, herbal ingredients were all that my midwife would have suggested, in one easy purchase:

Sea salt, Avena sativa (organic oatmeal) kernel meal, Achillea millefolium (organic yarrow) flower, Hamamelis virginiana (organic witch hazel) leaf, Plantago major (organic plantain) leaf, Calendula officinalis (organic calendula) flowers

My one complaint was that the pads are very delicate, particularly once they've been steeped. I tried to reuse one that had been in my underpants by tossing it into the bath, and it immediately burst apart. That was all right — there's nothing wrong with an herb-strewn bath (except for the cleanup). You have to be extremely gentle not to burst the pads when handling them, so warn any postpartum helpers.

Other than that, I enjoyed them a lot and liked the convenience of bundled and beneficial herbs in pad form.

BUY IT!

You can order the Postpartum Recovery Essentials Bundle, or any of EMAB's pampering products at their website. You can also find EMAB products on Amazon.

Besides postpartum care, Earth Mama Angel Baby also offers lines of products for pregnancy, breastfeeding, and baby, to pamper yourself and your little ones in all stages of birth and babyhood.

WIN IT!

For your own chance to win one of these two prizes from Earth Mama Angel Baby, enter by leaving a comment and using our Rafflecopter system below.

One winner will receive the Postpartum Recovery Essentials Bundle; a second winner will receive the Postpartum Bath Herbs. Contest is open to UNITED STATES mailing addresses only.

MANDATORY ENTRY: Link to one product you would like to try from Earth Mama Angel Baby. You must enter your name and email address in the Rafflecopter entry system for your entry to count, after leaving a comment on this blog post.

Leave a valid email address so we can contact you if you win. Email addresses in Rafflecopter are not made publicly visible. Please leave the same valid email address in your mandatory comment so we can verify entries. If on Blogger, you can enter it like this to foil spambots: mail {at} naturalparentsnetwork {dot} com

This is a joint giveaway with Code Name: Mama, Hobo Mama, and Natural Parents Network. You may enter at one site only, and we'll be recording IP addresses to ensure that there are no duplicate entries. That said, please do visit and enjoy all three sites!

BONUS ENTRIES:
See the Rafflecopter entry system for bonus entries to increase your chance of winning after completing the mandatory entry. All bonus entries are entered directly into Rafflecopter. Give it a try, and email or leave a comment if you have any questions!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest closes March 4, 2012 at 11.59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Disclosure: Our reviewers received sample products for review purposes.
Amazon links and some Earth Mama Angel Baby links are affiliate links.
We try to seek out only products we think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If we don't like a product, we won't be recommending it to you.
See our full disclosure policy here.

_________________________

Information About Our Reviewers:

Dionna Ford, Author of Code Name: Mama

Dionna is a lawyer turned work at home mama of two amazing kids, Kieran and Ailia. You can normally find Dionna over at Code Name: Mama where she shares information, resources, and her thoughts on natural parenting and life with little ones. She is passionate about issues regarding attachment parenting, breastfeeding (particularly breastfeeding beyond infancy), RIC, and gentle discipline. Dionna also co-founded NursingFreedom.org (a site dedicated to normalizing breastfeeding), is a regular contributor on API Speaks (the blog sponsored by Attachment Parenting International), and co-hosts the monthly Carnival of Natural Parenting.

Lauren Wayne, Author of Hobo Mama

Lauren works and writes at home with her husband, Crackerdog Sam, their preschool son, Mikko, and hobo baby Alrik. At Hobo Mama, Lauren blogs about natural and attachment parenting, breastfeeding, babywearing, cloth diapering, green living, and more. Lauren offers reviews and giveaways of natural parenting products at Hobo Mama Reviews and gives a behind-the scenes look at blogging and novel writing at LaurenWayne.com. Lauren co-hosts the monthly Carnival of Natural Parenting and has been featured on Eco Baby Steps, Knickernappies, NursingFreedom.org, Catapult Magazine, and BlogHer.

NPN giveaway ends TODAY: Until the Light of Morning CD and Panel $52 ARV {1.18; US/Can}

2012-01-18T04:49:00.000-08:00

Essie Jain is offering Natural Parents Network readers a giveaway of Until the Light of Morning CD and Art Panel, a value of $52.

The giveaway ends today, January 18, and is open to the U.S. and Canada.

This record is made for every parent and every baby (and anyone else) who needs to rest and head off into the land of sleep. A perfect panel for a nursery wall, the artwork is a dreamlike creation by Iker Spozio.

From our reviewer, Laura at WaldenMommy: Life Behind the Red Front Door:

As a parent, I know how hard it can be to find calm, soothing music that both parents and babies love. …

I wish I had had Essie Jain’s lullaby album, “Until the Light of Morning.” Her CD is a collection of eight original, soothing tracks, meant to be played at night, or anytime baby needs to relax and sleep. Inspired by friends who, like me, needed something new to listen to, her music “is designed to unwind itself as it goes along, as the music becomes softer and more relaxed, eventually becoming as instrumental as the heart beat.”

Read more and enter to win at the giveaway post TODAY!

Disclosure: The reviewer received sample products for review.
I help coordinate giveaways at Natural Parents Network.
See NPN's full disclosure policy here.

Giveaway ends TODAY: $100 Tea Collection Children's Clothing GC {1.18; US}

2012-01-18T01:10:00.000-08:00

Tea Collection is offering my readers a giveaway of a $100 Gift Certificate.

The giveaway ends today, January 18, and is open to the U.S. only.

Tea Collection offers high-quality, modern children's clothes that are internationally inspired, wearable, and unique.

I'm a little bit drooly when it comes to Tea Collection children's clothing. I admired them from afar for a couple years before finally getting my greedy paws on some pieces. I entered giveaways like this (but didn't win, sigh). I was nearly giddy when Tea offered to let me do a review and giveaway of their precious boys' clothing. (Clothes for girls, women, and babies are also available.)

…

My first impression of the stripe and polo jersey shirts was "Oh! Sooo soft." I kept reaching out to rub Mikko's tummy and hug Alrik tight as they were wearing their shirts!

The material felt substantial and comfortable, just the way quality children's clothes should feel.

Read more and enter to win at the giveaway post TODAY!

Disclosure: I received sample products for review.
Tea Collection links are affiliate links.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Giveaway: Planet Wise Hanging Wet/Dry Bag $30 ARV {2.14; Cont. US/Can}

2012-01-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

This is a joint giveaway with Hobo Mama and Natural Parents Network. I'm also cross-posting it here at Hobo Mama Reviews. You may enter at one site only. Please find the section marked "Win it!" for the mandatory main entry and optional bonus entries.

Planet Wise is offering our readers a giveaway of a Hanging Wet/Dry Bag.

The Hanging Wet/Dry Bag is the perfect portable solution for a selection of both dry and wet cloth diapers, clothes, towels, or swimsuits. One side is a zippered waterproof bag for wet or dirty items, and the other is a dry zippered pouch. It can hold 20-24 cloth diapers, and the handles make it portable and easy to hang over a doorknob or hook.

I was so excited to get to review the Planet Wise Hanging Wet/Dry Bag. I'd seen their products before — they have an assortment of wet bags in different sizes and configurations, and in lots of attractive fabric choices. But the hanging style that was for both wet and dry items? So appealing.

We mostly use a diaper service, and we have a service-rented pail for our prefolds to go in. However, every week we have some undersupply and need to wash some of our own diapers. I wanted something that could hold a few days' worth of cloth diapers and conveniently hang from our bathroom doorknob.

Features

I've been very pleased with the Planet Wise bag. The first thing you notice is the vibrant print in a quality cotton. Mine is Daisy Dream. I love all the prints they offer — you're sure to find one that fits your style and decor.

The Hanging Wet/Dry Bag is divided into two zippered sections. The "wet" section is completely waterproofed with a PVC-free, hidden-seam, sealed liner.

The waterproof "wet" side of the bag, for dirty or wet cloth diapers, clothing, towels, swimsuits, etc. The lining color coordinates with the print and is PVC-free.

I realize this is kind of a pointless picture, but I wanted to show that I tested out the wet section thoroughly by just pouring some water in there straight. After all, if I'm going to be hanging this bag over my bedroom carpet with a whole load of sopping diapers inside, I want to make sure it doesn't leak! I swished the water around and even squeezed the bag for good measure: Not a drop came out. The dry side stayed completely dry.

The "dry" section is just a normal, zippered pouch in the featured fabric. At first I was thinking it looked sort of insubstantial, but now that I've used it to store dry items, I've found it's quite capacious and sturdy. The zippers, by the way, are lead-free and coordinate with the bags, and they lock tight when zipped so they won't open by themselves (but are easy for you to open).

The dry side is ideal for storing fresh and unused cloth diapers, clothing, towels, and so forth. They will be kept completely separate and dry from the wet items.

Use and Care

I've been using this Hanging Wet/Dry Bag for seven months now, and it still looks gorgeous and functions just as I'd hoped. It's obviously very well constructed, from quality materials. I hang it from our bathroom doorknob and use it for (now) two primary functions: holding our dry and unused family cloth (don't knock it till you've tried it) and holding our wet cloth diapers, family cloth, cloth menstrual pads, particularly dirty clothing courtesy of my kids — anything I don't want to put into our regular laundry pile but do want to remember to clean, pronto!

It works perfectly. Even with the zipper open, there's very little odor that emerges from the wet side (none at all for peed-on items, a potential temporary smell for particularly stinky things), and the dry items on their own side stay dry and easily accessible. I haven't had any problems with mildewing, which is also due to the fact that I wash those items pretty quickly, but it's nice to know that the lining is antimicrobial and, in my experience, leaving the zipper open seems to allow some airflow to cut down on any odors or festering.

When it comes time for laundry day, I can either shake out the items from the wet side or, if it's time for a good wash, shake out the items plus toss the bag itself into the machine. The bag can be machine laundered at any temperature and machine dried, with no damage to the bag or dye transfer to other clothing, which is great when you know for a fact there's been some rank stuff stored inside it.

The cloth of the bag dries fairly quickly in the dryer. The waterproof area sometimes retains moisture, which is to be expected, but I just flip it all back into place and hang the bag up to use again. It hasn't been a problem.

The bag is a very roomy 16.5" x 27". (Realize that this is not a bag that would fit in a diaper bag; it's its own entity.) It holds about two or three days of dirty diapers comfortably, depending on whether they're of a bulkier or more streamlined sort, and that's about how often I want to wash them, anyway. Planet Wise suggests it can hold 20-24 diapers total, though I can imagine it would be rather squishy at that point. I haven't pushed it to its limits in that respect.

I've seen a friend traveling with the Hanging Wet/Dry Bag, and I think it must be brilliant for that use. (I think it's even more brilliant for me in particular not to travel with young kids…) You can put your dry diapers/clothes on the dry side, then transfer them to the wet as they become dirty. You can hang the bag from the doorknob of whatever room you're staying in so it's always conveniently accessible, then pick it up by the handles when it's time to move on.

It would also work really well as a beach, gym, or swim bag. Even if your swimsuits or towels are dripping wet, they won't leak all over as you carry the bag back home.

About Planet Wise

Planet Wise is a family company, run by mama Nicki Maynard and her husband, Jesse. Planet Wise offers many sizes and styles of wet bags, diapering and breastfeeding accessories, reusable snack bags, and the Best Bottom Diapers system. The company prioritizes being environmentally and socially conscious.

They've sourced as many USA-made materials as possible and made sure that they meet the highest safety standards, and their products are all manufactured in a local, women-owned facility. Employees are encouraged to prioritize family time through flexible schedules and bringing young children to work. All the products are reusable and have been designed to replace disposable items which help to reduce waste that ends up in the landfills.

BUY IT!

You can purchase Planet Wise wet bags, wet/dry bags, reusable snack bags, and cloth diapering and breastfeeding accessories online at PlanetWiseInc.com or at other stores locally and online using the international store locator.

Wet bags start at $9.50 for the small size. The Hanging Wet/Dry Bag is $29.99.

You can also check out the Best Bottom diapering system at BestBottomDiapers.com. It features snap-in inserts with a colorful PUL shell.

Some of my favorite Planet Wise items I'd love to try:

Mini Wet/Dry Bag — perfect for bringing cloth menstrual pads on the go or using as a travel pouch for cosmetics and personal care items.
Clear Snack Bags — reusable and see-through! The quart size is the approved one for U.S. airplane travel.
Shoulder Wet/Dry Bag — talk about a chic diaper bag! Functional, too, since it holds both fresh and dirty dipes in separate compartments.
Cloth Wipes and Pouch — I love the look of these colorful and sustainable flannel wipes, for diapering, hankies, and family cloth.

So many fun things! I'd also love to get a second hanging bag for downstairs, and some smaller wet bags to use in our diaper bag (or one of the wet/dry totes to replace it entirely!).

WIN IT!

For your own chance to win a Planet Wise Hanging Wet/Dry Bag in your choice of fabric print, enter by leaving a comment and using our Rafflecopter system below.

Contest is open to continental United States and Canadian addresses only.

MANDATORY ENTRY: Visit Planet Wise's website and tell us one other item you would love! You must enter your name and email address in the Rafflecopter entry system for your entry to count, after leaving a comment on the blog post.

Leave a valid email address so we can contact you if you win. Email addresses in Rafflecopter are not made publicly visible. Please leave the same valid email address in your mandatory comment so we can verify entries. If on Blogger, you can enter it like this to foil spambots: mail {at} naturalparentsnetwork {dot} com

This is a joint giveaway with Hobo Mama and Natural Parents Network. You may enter at one site only, and we'll be recording IP addresses to ensure that there are no duplicate entries. That said, please do visit and enjoy both sites!

BONUS ENTRIES:
See the Rafflecopter entry system for bonus entries to increase your chance of winning after completing the mandatory entry. All bonus entries are entered into Rafflecopter. Give it a try, and email or leave a comment if you have any questions!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest closes February 14, 2012, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Giveaway ends TOMORROW: EasyLunchboxes Bento Lunch Box Set $22 ARV {1.11; US/Can}

2012-01-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

EasyLunchboxes is offering our readers a giveaway of a Bento Lunch Box System: a container set and one cooler lunch bag (winner chooses color), a value of $21.90.

This system is a sustainable and eco-friendly way to carry meals and snacks on the go! EasyLunchboxes are the perfect solution for packing lunches and snacks for school, preschool, daycare, work, playdates, family outings, or any time you need to bring your own healthy meal — without a lot of waste.

Get a jump on your New Year's resolution to stop brown bagging it or paying too much for lunch out, and enter to win one of these fun and environmentally conscious bento lunch box sets!

No matter what you put in them, you'll know you're giving your family the benefit of your healthy, homemade meals — and saving money to boot! You're also creating less waste by opting for a reusable lunch container over plastic baggies, and portioning out your own family-size foods and leftovers over store-bought single-serve items.

Read more and enter to win at the giveaway post TODAY!

Disclosure: I received a product in a giveaway win.
EasyLunchboxes links are affiliate links.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Huge sale at Tea Collection for kids' clothes: Take an extra 25% off!

2012-01-06T02:10:00.000-08:00

What better way to ring in the New Year than with a great sale? It's Tea Collection's Semi-Annual Sale, offering stylish, modern kids' clothes at 50% off or more.

Plus, till January 8 only, Tea Collection is offering an EXTRA 25% off already marked-down clothes with promo code 25OFFSALE. This extra savings is good while supplies last.

Promo Code: 25OFFSALE
Offer: 25% Off Sale Items
Expires: 1/8/12 at 11:59 p.m. PST

Remember, I'm hosting a Tea Collection giveaway right now worth $100, so enter that too while you're at it, and read my raves for Tea Collection's fabulous, kid-friendly clothes. They have options for babies, boys, girls, and women, too!

Here are some of my favorites that are on sale:

Tea Collection Wildflower Mini Dress - $28.50
Retail Price: $38.50
You Save: $10.00

Tea Collection Flor de Papel Wrap Dress - $21.50
Retail Price: $31.50
You Save: $10.00

Tea Collection Alebrije Layered Tee - $24.50
Retail Price: $34.50
You Save: $10.00

Tea Collection Ernesto Stripe Romper - $28.50
Retail Price: $38.50
You Save: $10.00

Tea Collection Chiapas Tunic Dress - $68.50
Retail Price: $78.50
You Save: $10.00

Now's the best time to shop Tea Collection and save on cool clothes for your kids. Happy New Year!

Disclosure: Tea Collection links are affiliate links.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

NPN Giveaway: Custom Nursing Necklace from Monkey Mama Necklaces $19 ARV {1.3, Worldwide}

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Monkey Mama Necklaces is offering NPN readers a giveaway of a custom nursing necklace, a value of $19.

Monkey Mama nursing necklaces are made with beautiful, fairly traded, and nontoxic handmade resin beads. This sophisticated and safe jewelry is perfect for busting twiddling while feeding babies or toddlers.

From our reviewer, Jenn at Monkey Butt Junction:

The brilliance of the Monkey Mama necklaces is the "twiddle busters" - the beads that little fingers can turn and fiddle with while they nurse or snuggle. My son was immediately drawn to the big, colorful beads and immediately took to the task of turning them, examining them, and, well, "twiddling" them.

Read more and enter to win at Natural Parents Network!

Disclosure: I help coordinate giveaways at NPN.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
See my full disclosure policy here.

75% off $75 at BabyLegs!

2011-12-21T03:50:00.000-08:00

Holy moly! Can you believe this deal? That's 75% OFF, not 25% off, as your mind might trick you into thinking.

All you have to do is put $75 or more into your cart. Then pop in the discount code — JOLLY75 — and your order will be only 1/4 of what it once was ($18.75 if you had exactly $75 to start with).

After the discount, if your order is at least $30 (aim for $120 original in that case), then you get free shipping. If not, shipping is just $3.95 flat rate.

I just bought 10 pairs of BabyLegs leg warmers for $3 each! I'm going to stash them away for baby gifts. Yea!

Details:

What: 75% off $75 or more sale
Sale: Customer must have $75 in merchandise BEFORE discount for code to apply. FREE Shipping on orders $30 or more after discount. Need it by Christmas? Order by 12:00pm PST on 12/21 for 2-Day or 12/22 for Overnight.
When: Starts 12/20/11 and ends 12/28/11
Coupon code: JOLLY75
Where: www.BabyLegs.com

I love BabyLegs for keeping little legs warm when my baby's pants hike up while babywearing and for a convenient diaper changing or EC outfit (tee or onesie + BabyLegs around the house). My little guy will be crawling any day now, so they also pad the knees. Also, they're dang cute!

The one thing I'll warn you about is to HURRY. So many of the items are already out of stock. They're obviously clearing out the old merchandise, so rush in now to get some good ones before they're all gone!

Disclosure: BabyLegs links are affiliate links.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
If I don't like a product, I won't be recommending it to you.
See my full disclosure policy here.

NPN Giveaway: The No-Cry Picky Eater Solution $17 ARV {12.26; Worldwide}

2011-12-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth Pantley is offering NPN readers a giveaway of The No-Cry Picky Eater Solution, a value of $17.

From our reviewer, Jennifer at Hybrid Rasta Mama:

Parenting expert Elizabeth Pantley is back with her newest book, The No-Cry Picky Eater Solution. This book is designed to provide parents with ways to get their children of all ages to eat a healthy, balanced diet as often as possible without battles, threats, or tears. Elizabeth draws ideas from her readers around the world for getting children to eat nutritious food. She then had hundreds of parents test the ideas, so you can trust that one of these solutions that fits your situation best will work for you too. With Elizabeth's advice, you can help your fussy eater have nutritious meals and bring peace back to the dining table.

Read more and enter to win at Natural Parents Network!

Disclosure: I help coordinate giveaways at NPN.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
See my full disclosure policy here.

Buy Poetry of a Hobo Mama — last day for free shipping by Christmas!

2011-12-19T17:54:00.000-08:00

My book of parenting poetry, Poetry of a Hobo Mama: The First Three Years, would make a thoughtful holiday gift for a fellow mama. Today is the last day for FREE Super-Saver Shipping if you order the book on Amazon — you can have it shipped directly to your lucky recipient.

I compiled all my parenting-related poetry, from my first pregnancy and miscarriage, then Mikko's story from conception through pregnancy through the newborn phase and all the way up to toddlerhood.

If you're a fan of attachment-style parenting, you'll enjoy reading poems written for your experience: breastfeeding, babywearing, cosleeping, gentle discipline, and more. And if you're a fan of truth in parenting, you'll appreciate my honesty as I detail the highs and the lows of three years of getting used to this roller coaster ride.

Plus, it has a pretty nursing-in-public cover, no? (I'm all about judging books by their covers…)

You want a million copies? Great!

It's set up everywhere for your browsing and buying ease.

Poetry of a Hobo Mama is available on Amazon.com for $11.99 and eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on U.S. orders over $25.

The Kindle version (DRM-free for you ebook-o-philes) is up for $9.99. It's also available at Amazon UK for £7.15, Amazon Canada for $11.54, Amazon Germany for €8,99, etc.

And if you want a DEAL, I've got a personal discount code set up at my CreateSpace store (CreateSpace is the print-on-demand publisher¹ printing the book):

Save 20% off the cover price at CreateSpace
with coupon code SAP84AYJ
(limited time only)

This is my Hobo Mama exclusive, set up just for you! It brings the price down to $9.59.²

This code works only at CreateSpace (unfortunately I have no options to offer discounts on Amazon), and you do have to pay shipping. I've found the cheapest shipping doesn't take as long as they threaten, so I would go with that, personally! (Of course, it wouldn't get to you by Christmas, but if you're not picky.)

One book to the U.S. is $3.61 economy shipping (or, at any rate, that's what it is for me). If you buy, say, 3 copies, the shipping increases only to $4.04, so you save on multiple purchases if you wanted to buy a couple extra copies for baby shower or new parent gifts.

CreateSpace will ship internationally as well, though you can't see any shipping rates till you're in the checkout.

I've even set it up so that libraries can order a copy, though I imagine you'd have to put in a request or three!

If you want a free, autographed copy, contact me about setting up a blog review.

But what's in it for you?

Glad you asked! For some samples of the fabulousness contained therein, take a gander:

First of all, I've signed up for Search Inside The Book with Amazon.com, so you can browse a few sample pages as well as enter search terms to see more. (Just click on the cover image on Amazon.com to start your look-see.)

Secondly, there are several examples contained on my sites already:

And here's a bonus one for ya, written just for the book:

Hobo Baby

I sling my baby like a bindle on my back,
tramping along the tracks
countless feet have worn before.

We collect the hand-me-downs,
and we gather food as we find it,
and we bed down when it suits.

We walk in all weather,
and bum a ride when luck smiles,
learning our secret language
and pointing out signs along the way.

Hand in my hair,
babble in my ear,
the wind our lullaby
and the summer sun a blanket.

Down where the trains thunder past
and my baby laughs.

I hope you enjoy reading these poems as much as I enjoyed writing them!

Eternal smoochies to Sam
for designing the cover and
photographing Mikko and me in the first place!

Disclosure: Amazon links are affiliate links.
I get a tiny amount of money if you buy my book new from anywhere.
I try to seek out only products I think you would find
relevant and useful to your life as a natural parent.
See my full disclosure policy here.

1 When you order a copy from Amazon or the CreateSpace store, CreateSpace prints one right then and there from their stored digital files. This means the shipping (for non-Kindle purchases) takes a bit longer, fyi. See more on how to set this up for your own books at LaurenWayne.com: "Self-publishing your personal writing."^↩
2 Assuming I'm doing the math right. I'm an English major, after all. That's why I do pretentious things like self-publish poetry books.^↩