I'm no supermom.

Good Earth Fairy

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:05:00 +0000

This fall Disney released a new Tinkerbell movie and of course we had to have it. Tinkerbell is the only girly movie my daughter is into (she's a total tomboy, cars all the way). And while I love both Tinkerbell movies I can't say I am too enthusiastic with the dolls that are available. Maybe its all the plastic or maybe they're just lacking the magic but they just don't do it for me.

Whatever the case may be there is one doll out there that has captured both my and my daughter's hearts. While it isn't a "Tinkerbell" doll, it is all fairy and totally tops any fairy doll I have seen. It's called the Good Earth Fairy by MiYim and was just released this past fall.

Made from non-toxic all-natural cotton this rag doll is something that I can totally see Santa putting in a young girl's stocking this year. From her leaf wings and skirt to her pointed ears and blushing cheeks, this 12 inch Good Earth Fairy is well detailed and crafted.

If you are worried about the yarn hair coming out, you don't have to. We put her through the toughest test (a 2 year old's hands) and she came out looking as good as ever. Not a piece of hair was missing (which I can't say about one of my daughter's other rag dolls).

So if you have a young girl into fairies this holiday season, I totally suggest checking out the Good Earth Fairy. I'm sure it would be top on her wish list. The price for this magical doll is around $25, which I don't think is too bad considering you are getting a well made, adorable, natural doll that is sure to be well loved.

Check out the Good Earth Fairy and other natural toys at http://www.miyim.com/ or visit a store near you.

I received a sample of this doll to review for free. All opinions of this product are my own and do no reflect those of the company or anyone else

CSN Rugs

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:45:00 +0000

Finding a place to purchase quality area rugs is one of the biggest challenges my husband and I have faced since buying our house 2 years ago. It has been virtually impossible to find anything we like. So you can imagine my excitement when I recieved an email from CSN Rugs requesting a review. I immediately poured over the website for hours before agreeing to review them. Honestly, I just got sucked into their large selection of area rugs and childrens rugs and couldn't stop looking. Within the next few weeks, I will be posting my review on CSN Rugs and their Farm Play Rug, but for now feel free to check out the rest of their huge selection of area rugs.

My Lifesaver: The Picture Keeper & Giveaway

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:57:00 +0000

If you asked me what one thing I would save if my house was burning down I would probably tell you my photos. I am without a doubt a sentimental person and hang on to anything and everything that has memories attached to it. Especially photos.

Unfortunately, I also have really, really bad luck with storing my digital photos on my computer. I cannot count the number of times I have lost photos due to the fact that my computer crashed. The most recent episode happened when my old computer decided to die. Yea, it just decided it didn't want to charge anymore. I was in tears because I had so many photos stored on it. Photos of my daughter when she was just born all the way up to her first birthday. I eventually managed to get enough juice into my laptop to burn most of the photos. It was a tough day for me but the photos were eventually salvaged. Of course, when I went to print some of those old photos I couldn't find the CDs anywhere! Oi. I panicked and tore apart the house. Luckily, I remembered most of the photographs of my daughter got backed up onto the desktop computer as well. But I know I am still missing some and that makes me sad.

So when I was asked to review the Picture Keeper my heart lept. Could this be what I was looking for? A quick and easy way of storing my precious photos? Would I be able to keep up with backing them up and not lose the device? The answer to all of the questions is simply yes.

The Picture Keeper, winner of a Dr. Toy Best Product for Summer Vacation 2009 Award, is a small USB device that automatically stores all your photos. My husband asked why don't I just use a flash drive. When I told him that it has a program built in that will automatically detect any new photos on my computer, he understood. No need to go through and find the photos and even better I don't have to figure out which ones I last backed up because it finds the new ones for me. Since there is no need to download the program to your computer you can use it on any computer in your house, Mac or PC. My 8 GB Picture Keeper is already packed full with over 500 photos. And since it is so small, I placed it in our lock box in order not to lose it with a sticker attached with the dates of the photos so I know what is on it.

Picture Keeper is currently available in 4 GB, 8 GB, and most recently, 16 GB. The developers at Picture Keeper are even working on an external hard drive version, which would be able to hold 100 to 300+GB. I am super excited about that because I could totally fill that baby up!

Contest Closed. Winner has been contacted.

Win it!! One reader will win either a 4 or 8 GB Picture Keeper. Winner's Choice.

To Enter: Visit Picture Keeper and let me know what size you would need to back up your photos.

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Giveaway ends on Friday, June 26, 11:59 PM. Winner will be chosen randomly and emailed. Be sure your email is included in your comment or that it is easily accessible through your blog. Winners will have 3 days to respond before a new winner is picked. Good Luck!

Vote. Again. And. Again.

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:27:00 +0000

Nicole at Momtrends just informed me that she was able to vote in the Best Western Retro to Now Roadtrip Contest again today... so perhaps you are allowed to vote once per day which would be wicked cool... I would absolutely love if you would try to vote everyday until June 19th, if it's possible! It only takes like a millisecond. Thanks everyone who has already voted and thanks to Nicole for letting me know she was able to vote again! Yay!

Please Vote for Us!

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:18:00 +0000

I just found out that I am a finalist in the Best Western Road Trip Photo Contest! SQUEE!! I would soooo love it if all of you would support me and vote. And get your readers and friends to vote too. I mean if you wanted to. No pressure though!

The photo I submitted is of my husband and daughter when she was 3 months old. We went away for a week to celebrate our first anniversary and were out hiking. Of course, Kate needed her diaper changed mid way through (typical baby) so we had to find a rock to change her on (which wasn't hard). It is one of my favorite photos because you can see the lake in the distance. Just a beautiful view. It was just one of those moments I will never forget.

Wanna know what we get if we win? Well, we would get to go on a Retro to Now Road Trip in August!

The trip will start in "retro" style, complete with an old station wagon, paper maps, and other supplies of yesteryear. Mid-way through the trip, we'll fast-forward to "now" and be equipped with a hybrid vehicle, GPS device and all the conveniences of modern day.

Sounds like fun huh? Or it could be torture especially with a 2 year old...who lets just say doesn't sleep in the car anymore. :) But this exhausted mom will take either. I just want to get away from cleaning and cooking and spend time with my family!

So please vote for me! Please? Please? Voting ends June 19th!! Thanks!

http://www.bestwestern.com/programs/roadtrip_vote.asp

UPDATED: You might be able to vote at least 1x per day (I've been able to at least... yea that's right. I voted for myself :) )

Mamapedia: Google for Mom Wisdom

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Wed, 27 May 2009 14:00:00 +0000

I told you I was taking a break from blogging and I would post every so often when I found something that was worth sharing. That time has come and it has come in the form of a website especially for moms searching for answers.

The site I'm referring to is appropriately named Mamapedia. This site is a great site to go to when you have a question or concern about your child and don't know who or where to ask. There have been plenty of times I have searched the internet for answers to my questions. And let me tell you this takes a long time. Mostly, I just want to hear other moms experiences. Moms who have been there, survived that. I want to know I am not the only one dealing with something in particular. Mamapedia allows you to type in a search, anything from potty training to language delays and get results.

This is a great resource for moms with kids of all ages. And you don't have to just have a child related question. You can search for quick dinner ideas or money saving tips. Anything. I even searched to find a way to get my tile grout clean! So before you head out on a google search, try Mamapedia and see if you can find what you are looking for there. It might save you some time sifting through websites.

Thank you Mom Central for sharing this website with all of us!

Crib no more.

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Wed, 06 May 2009 21:42:00 +0000

Wow. It's been a 2 days since I said I was taking a break and here I am posting! But I have to. In order to keep my sanity. See, Kate's crib has been recalled which means I had to move her to a big girl bed. Which means lots of screaming. Yea. I know. And I know she wasn't quite ready. But what choice did I have. I mean I could let her sleep in her Pack N Play until we get a new crib but as it is the Pack N Play is getting small on her and I can't imagine it being comfortable enough to sleep in until we get a new crib. Which won't be for at least a month, maybe two. Especially since there are no Babies R Us near us.

Fortunately, we have a few twin beds that we use as guest beds so I set one up in her room. Two of the beds were part of a bunk bed so I was able to use the railing from it to help keep her from falling off. Then I put her old crib mattress next to bed to use as a step stool and to protect her a bit if she fell.

So yea. Transistion is not fun. Not at all. Screaming. And getting out of bed. Running to the door. While screaming. Trying to open the door (thank goodness she hasn't mastered that yet). Three times. Three times I went in there to put her back in bed.

What's that's I hear? Nothing? Did she fall asleep? Is she on the bed or on the floor? I don't dare open her door to find out. I will just *knock on wood* that she goes to sleep until morning.

Sanity restored. Thanks for bearing with me. Until tomorrow when I have to do it all over again.

Oh. And Husband was not here for this event. He knew it was gonna go down so he opted to stay at work until she was screaming. Men.

Time for a break.

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Mon, 04 May 2009 21:31:00 +0000

You may have noticed I haven't been posting as often. Truth is I haven't really had time. Kate is now awake for most of the day and the weather has been so beautiful that it is hard to find the time to hop on the computer to post. We have been spending our days going on walks, playing outside and eating ice cream. By the time I put her to bed at night I am so tired that I just want to spend the rest of my day relaxing on the couch with my husband and not worrying about getting something up on here.

So with that I have decided to take a break from the blog. For a little bit. I will post every so often (especially when I find something that I just have to share) but it just won't be as frequently as before.

BRIDE WARS and Paper Shouts Giveaway

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 17:08:00 +0000

To help celebrate the April 28th release of BRIDE WARS on dvd and blueray, 20th Century Fox and Paper Shouts have teamed up for an incredible giveaway! When I say incredible, I mean incredible.

One lucky reader will win a BRIDE WARS dvd and a $25 gift certificate to Paper Shouts!!

In addition to that, the winner of this giveaway (along with the winners from other participating blogs) will be entered into a Grand Prize drawing on the Paper Shouts website. Prizes include movie memorabilia such as the sunglasses worn in the movie by Kate Hudson and a movie one-sheet signed by Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway and the Grand Prize is a great Mexican vacation—6 nights at the CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort and airfare for 2 on AirTran airlines.

About BRIDE WARS in case you were unable to catch in the theaters, like me :

Liv (Kate Hudson) and Emma (Anne Hathaway), best friends since childhood, are always there for each other, through good times and bad. They even become engaged to be married within a few hours of one another. Together they plan their respective weddings, each to take place at New York’s ultimate bridal destination, the Plaza Hotel. But a clerical error and subsequent clash in wedding dates pits the two brides – neither of whom will step aside – against each other, in a competition that quickly escalates into all-out war.

Sounds good right?!? I've totally wanted to see it since I saw the previews and finally next week I can! Hurrah!

A little bit about Paper Shouts from their website (with which I ordered my awesome Christmas cards this year!!):

As we journey through our lives from the finding that special someone to announcing new additions to the family to celebrating momentous birthdays and everything in between we find ourselves looking for just the right way to shout out our exciting news. Paper Shouts wants to be a part of life's big moments by making the creation of your announcements and invitations a fun and easy process.

Paper Shouts is a family owned business located in the Santa Cruz California area. We created Paper Shouts with the mission of giving people a way to share their family news that is not only easy and cost effective but with an end result that is as fabulous and personal as the events themselves.

In addition, all our designer shouts are printed on 100% PCW recycled, heavyweight (110#), uncoated paper and are shipped with 50% recycled envelopes (30% PCW/20% VF). Our customer can now feel good about sharing their news with family and friends in a very personal way while still being environmentally friendly.

Deal! Use coupon code SUPERMOM at the checkout for 15% off your Paper Shouts order. Good until May 15th.

Contest Closed. Winner has been emailed.

Win it!! One reader will win a copy of BRIDE WARS on dvd and a $25 Paper Shouts gift certificate, as well as be entered into the Grand Prize giveaway on the Paper Shouts website.

To Enter: Post a comment about which characters style you relate to more — Emma’s traditional, romantic style or Liv’s couture, “only the best” approach. Also, let us know which is your favorite Paper Shouts card from the Bridal Shouts section. You must answer both questions in order to win.

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Giveaway ends on April 29th, 11:59 PM. Winner will be chosen randomly and emailed. Be sure your email is included in your comment or that it is easily accessible through your blog. Winners will have 3 days to respond before a new winner is picked. Good Luck! US residents only.

Don't forget, if you want to up your chances on winning, do a google search and check out all the other blogs hosting a BRIDE WARS/Paper Shouts giveaway!

Celebrate Earth Day with a Xeko Giveaway!

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 23:34:00 +0000

Earth Day is only one week away and to celebrate we are teaming up with Xeko to give away a wicked adorable hairy eared dwarf lemur! Seriously isn't he cute?!

Hairy (that's his name due to his hairy ears) is made of a soy-based fabric and filled with soy stuffing (instead of the usual polyester). If you remember, I reviewed another Xeko Pal, the Giant Panda, a few months ago and my daughter loved him! In fact he is still one of her top 5 stuffed animals (and she has a lot of stuffed animals). I think she loves him so much because he is incredibly soft and squishy! Hairy looks equally as cuddly and oh those adorable eyes and ears! I just want to squeeze him!

Unfortunately, real hairy eared dwarf lemurs, which are found in Madagascar, are endangered and there are estimated to be only between 100 and 1,000 left! Purchasing a Xeko Pal for your child will not only help you teach your child about endangered species but it will also help in saving these and other animals. You see Conservation International will receive a donation to help save threatened habitats such as Madagascar with each purchase of a Xeko Pal. I mean how awesome is that?

Deal! Use coupon code GOGREEN at the Xeko Store for 15% off entire order; can be used more than once. Expires 10/31/09

Contest Closed. Winner has been notified.

Win it!! One reader will win their very own Hairy courtesy of Xeko!

To Enter: Since this is an Earth Day giveaway leave a comment stating your favorite eco-friendly tip. That's it. Easy Peasy.

Extra Entries:

Subscribe to our feed. Leave an additional comment letting us know.
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Giveaway ends on Earth Day, April 22, 11:59 PM. Winner will be chosen randomly and emailed. Be sure your email is included in your comment or that it is easily accessible through your blog. Winners will have 3 days to respond before a new winner is picked. Good Luck!

Little Learners: Leapfrog Fridge Phonics Magnetic Set

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 17:24:00 +0000

My daughter loves magnets, puzzles and music, so the Leapfrog Fridge Phonics Magnetic Set was a no brainer gift to get her for her birthday. That and the fact that her friend had one and Kate had loved playing with it at her house.

Originally, I had thought of getting Kate regular magnetic letters to help learn her alphabet since she loved playing with our magnets. But once I saw this at her friends house I knew it would be perfect for her.

The set comes with all 26 letters. When the letter is placed into the reader you can hear the letter name, sound and a catchy little song. The song goes a little something like this " 'B' says "ba", 'B' says "ba". Every letter makes a sound and 'B' says "ba" and I have to tell you that it will get stuck in your head and you will find yourself singing it while doing dishes. So don't be alarmed when it happens to you.

There is also a button that plays the entire alphabet song. This little button is Kate's favorite and she will push it over and over and over and over again. But you know what? I don't care. Why? Because just this morning she started singing the alphabet song into her toy microphone. Sure nobody else would of noticed what she was saying, but I did. And since Kate is a late talker I was thrilled! So we sang the song back and forth each taking a line. And you know what? That singing I am positive had to do with the Leapfrog Fridge Phonics. No Doubt.

Since getting this awesome product Kate is also now able to identify A, B, C, D (which are the letters she has available on the fridge right now) and also say the letters. Sure we work on those letters without the Leapfrog Fridge Phonics but it makes a great reinforcer when I am otherwise busy and she takes advantage of it being there. She can just go up to the fridge whenever she wants and practice her letters.

So basically what I am saying is that the Leapfrog Fridge Magnetic Set is totally worth the $20.

Celebrate Good Times, Come on!

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 16:47:00 +0000

Metropolitan Mama recently posted a link to an article about second baby showers and it got me thinking. Are baby showers for second babies appropriate? Should you only have a shower if it is your first baby?

I have to admit that even very recently I thought it was tacky to have a baby shower when it isn't your first. I figured those who had a second showers were greedy. But then I have always thought that wedding and baby showers should be about celebrating a marriage or a baby, not getting gifts or money. If you give gifts, have them be thoughtful and from the heart. I never understood why people expected others to purchase huge items like a crib, when it is your baby. Which is why I told everyone I did not want a shower for either events in my life. However, I have to say I am so glad my bestest girlfriends ignored me and did throw a small intimate shower for both my wedding and baby.

Sure there were gifts, but it wasn't about that. It was about celebrating a new life with the friends who knew it should be celebrated. At least that is how I viewed it. I could of cared less if they had brought gifts. To me it was more of acknowledging this amazing thing happening in my life and it felt good to have that recognized. I hadn't realized that I wanted that.

So as I think more and more about it, why shouldn't you celebrate the birth of a second or third baby. I am not saying go out and register because, well, I still think that would be greedy. Instead, have a small, intimate get together with close friends. Celebrate the upcoming birth of a new baby. Sit around , chat and pig out on some yummy food. If your friends want to give gifts, let them. But don't make that what the celebration is about. It should be about celebrating the little miracle in your belly.

First Impressions gives a great list of ideas for showers for second babies if you are interested. Also, my suggestion, if you do decide to give a gift for the new baby and the sibling is going be at the event, I suggest giving them a small something too. Like a book they can read to their baby brother or sister. This way they feel somewhat involved and well, you don't want the sibling rivalry to begin already!

Point is if you are pregnant with your second child don't be afraid to celebrate and have a good time (but please don't ask your family and friends to buy you a $300 stroller. That's just tacky!)

Wordless Wednesday: April Showers

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 13:10:00 +0000

The Cake That Took Forever

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 23:13:00 +0000

You know you really love your kid when you stay up past midnight trying to frost a cake for them and then get up early the next morning to finish it. Especially when you take into account that they are only 2 years old and could really care less what it looks like. But I think it came out really cute. Perfect for my Cars loving daughter.

Here she is trying to dig into the large cake even though she has plenty of untouched cake on her plate. Also, take a close look at her plate. She has a pile of cars on it. Apparently, she now thinks Cars and cake go together. I gave her another piece of cake the day after her party and before she could eat it she had to run and get her cars to go on the plate. Duh!

Bookshelf: The Perfect Baby Handbook & Giveaway!

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 18:06:00 +0000

The Perfect Baby Handbook by Dale Hrabi is unlike any other baby book I have ever seen. It is by far the funniest book I have read in a while and such a breath of fresh air.

About the book:

New parents are hipper, more educated, and more sophisticated than ever, but they're also highly competitive--a lethal combination when turbocharged by the anxieties of raising a baby. And for many couples, it's not just any baby, but the perfect baby. These “excessively motivated” parents will not sabotage Junior's future by denying him Mandarin lessons, a nursery chandelier (just like the one Gwyneth's kids enjoy), or advanced infant yoga. A hilarious, highly visual satire of childrearing manuals, The Perfect Baby Handbook provides much-needed comic relief from the pressures of modern parenting, and gives comfort to moms and dads who can say with a sigh of relief, “At least, we're not this bad.”

The Perfect Baby Handbook is filled with so many hilarious sections that I don't even know where to begin. So, instead I am just going to list a few of my favorites.

Rating Teething Toys: Your Friend's Cell Phone, Father-in-laws credit card, Your Cousin's Designer Sunglasses
Two in One Inventions: Pacifier/Tape Dispenser, Breast Pump/Fog Horn (does kinda look like one huh?), Bjorn/Jet Pack, Bouncer/Cocktail Shaker
Competitive Breast Feeding. I would totally lose that competition.
Perfect Baby Names. Or more like if you really love your child don't name them after something from the Ikea catalog.
Baby Milestones. Apparently my daughter should be able to re-gift packages by now. I'll have to check to see if she wants to re-gift any of her birthday gifts this weekend. I have a feeling she is a bit delayed in this area. I guess I don't do enough modeling.
Beyond Co-Sleeping. Sure we did co-sleeping with our daughter for the first month, but co-pooping, co-unicycling, or Co-composing. Nah. Think we will pass. But Co-Being Adorable? That just happens naturally!

I could really go on and on but I would just end up listing the entire contents of this book and I am pretty sure I can't do that. It is definitely a book to have if you have become overly obsessed with what your child has or how they are developing. It will force you to relax a bit. And when you are pregnant you seriously need to be relaxing. The point of this book is that nobody is perfect. Whether or not your child has the most expensive stroller isn't going to determine what kind of person they will grow up to be. All your child needs is your unconditional love and he will be just fine.

For more information visit The Perfect Baby Handbook website, where you can take a peek inside the book or check out the other Perfect Baby videos on You Tube. Also, have a look at the blog, if only to read "the 10 sad things Malia Obama can buy with her measly $1 allowance".

Contest Closed. Winners have been notified.

Win it!! Five (5) readers will win their own copy of The Perfect Baby Handbook.

To Enter: Leave a comment letting me know what makes you an "excessively motivated" parent or you can just leave a funny parenting story.

Extra Entries:

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Giveaway ends April 9, 11:59 PM. Winners will be chosen randomly and emailed. Be sure your email is included in your comment or that it is easily accessible through your blog. Winners will have 3 days to respond before a new winner is picked. Good Luck!

Open to US residents only.

Create the Ultimate Baby Registry

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:33:00 +0000

Attention Mamas-to-be: Serena & Lily has recently partnered with MyRegistry.com to help you create the ultimate baby registry!!! I mean why be limited to what Babies R Us carries. With MyRegistry.com you have the ability to register for your crib bedding from Serena & Lily and get a sling from Parenting By Nature. How cool is that!! I mean you can have anything from any store in the world put onto one registry! You simply just favorite their "Add to MyRegistry" link and then click it when you find an item online that you want. Then, when someone visits your registry they can click on an item they want to get you. If it is from a store that is partnered with MyRegistry they can order it straight from there. If not, they will be taken to the store's website in a new window where they can order your gift. Back at the MyRegisty.com page, it will ask whether or not they purchased the item in order to keep the registry up to date. It may sound confusing but trust me it is not. After you check it out you will know what I mean. I think this is a wonderful idea instead of dealing with multiple registries....plus you get to add awesome things from stores like Serena and Lily!

Right now if you start a baby gift registry with Serena & Lily, you will receive a $50 coupon toward any purchase of $200 or more. Offer only redeemable on phone orders; not valid on website or in retail stores. Gift Coupon is for one time use and non- transferable. Coupon expires 12/31/09

Diaper Bag Essentials: Me4kidz

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:04:00 +0000

Sure we all have diapers and wipes in our diaper bag. Most likely a change of clothes, snacks and some toys too. But what about band-aids or something for cuts and burns? A thermometer? Doubt it. We rarely think about carrying things like that when we are out and about but the fact of the matter is kids can get hurt or sick anytime regardless of where they are. And as moms we should be prepared.

Needless to say I was thrilled when I was approached to review the Me4kidz (medical emergencies for kids) line of products. Me4kidz is a family owned and operated first aid kit company. All of their products are made in the USA (Hurrah!) and the plastic is 100% recycled and US/EU lead free. On top of that all of their products are assembled by the disabled so each purchase gives back to help rehabilitate people in need. Awesome right?

So what products do they offer you ask? Well, everything you never knew you needed, that's what! My favorite item is the Diaper Bag Buddy, which Me4kidz was kind enough to send me. As soon as I got it I thought- man why didn't I have this before. It sure could of come in handy when Kate fell on our walk last week and scraped her knee. At least I have it for the future because there will be a next time. Enclosed in the white hard plastic case are band-aids, a disposable thermometer, 2 packets of Aloe Vera, diaper rash cream, face and body moisterizer, shampoo and body wash and 3 wipes. The shampoo, body wash and moisterizer are perfect for traveling when you don't want nor do you need to carry large bottles. All the products are organic and natural too! One thing that I wish that they had included though would be some sunscreen because that is one item I seem to forget about until its too late. Overall this is a great product and something that you should get for yourself and also gift it to new moms!

For moms with bigger kids, you totally need to get the Medibuddy for your purse. This little kit has everything from bandages to antibiotic ointment. These are products that no mom should be without because you never can predict when your kid will get hurt next. Click on the link to get the full list!

And if you don't already have a first aid kit at home (which I am ashamed to admit I don't really have anything), take a look at the Medibag 4 Kids. Included in the kid friendly doctor bag is everything you need in case of an emergency.

As Me4kidz so rightly says "part of growing up is falling down" and we as parents should be prepared for that.

Spring and Summer Travel Products

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 23:21:00 +0000

Whether it's during spring break or the coming summer months, chances are many of us will be packing up the kids and heading on a vacation, even if it is just for a short trip a few hours away. However, sometimes traveling with kids can seem more like work than relaxing time away. Don't fret though because Little Jet Set has you covered with all your travel needs to help make it go as smoothly as possible.

One of the products that is sure to be a hit this travel season is the Chalk 'N Doodle, which Little Jet Set sent to me to try out. I have to say right off the bat that Kate is loving it! It is the perfect travel companion for little artists. The Chalk 'N Doodle is very well made and downright adorable. The underside of the Chalk 'N Doodle is made up of a thick, padded foam so that it is sturdy enough to use on your lap (or on the floor like Kate is doing) and there are even 2 side flaps that fold under to hold chalk and crayons (it even fits the thick crayons!). You don't have to worry about the chalk and crayons coming loose either because they are securely held in place.

The Chalk N' Doodle comes with a pack of chalk, a coordinating tablet, and a little story book. Oh and did I mention the attached eraser? Awesome! What makes this product even better is that it is compact enough to fit into your diaper bag for trips to restaurants! Available in Piggy Pirates, Piggy Mermaids, Doggie Diary, Cow Print, Piggy Fairy (shown), Spring Fling, What’s a Dragon and Pretty Princess. $18.95

Here’s a sampling of a few other awesome travel products from Little Jet Set that are sure to keep your kids entertained and organized when traveling:

Games & Activities

Flip to Win Hangman Travel Game ($12.95) - Both kids and parents will love this classic word game with a twist. Think of a word and try to stump your opponent. Includes one game board with erasable whiteboard, self-storing dry-erase marker and eraser. No loose pieces. Perfect for car trips, airplane rides or at restaurants. Other Flip to Win Games: Memory, Four-in-a-Row, Travel Bingo and Bear Hunt.

I Never Forget a Face Travel Matching Game ($9.95) This travel size version of the classic game of memory is perfect for passing time while waiting for a flight, or for winding down at the end of a long day of activities and site seeing. Players will be challenged while having fun searching for matching faces of children from around the world. Conveniently packaged in a sturdy box measuring only 4 in. x 4 in., this travel game fits easily in a child's backpack, carry-on, or mom's purse. Other Travel Matching Games: Once Upon a Time, Life on Earth and Color Dominoes.

Elodie & Naomi Thoughtful Girls Paper Dolls Play Set ($15) – Elodie loves to play the piano and guitar and visits her school’s conservatory everyday to practice and talk with friends. Naomi loves her art studio where she spends her free time painting and drawing. Play set includes two dolls constructed of heavy paper board, two sheets of re-usable electrostatic vinyl clothes and accessories and a two-sided standup scene. Conveniently packaged in a beautifully illustrated re-closable flat box with rope carrying handle. Other sets: Sasha & Jasmine (Explorer and Naturalist); Phoebe & Iris (Poet and Astronomer)

Sand Goh ($39.95) This innovative beach toy provides a unique and exciting twist on classic building blocks and sand castle construction. The toy consists of sturdy plastic molds that interlock and that can be combined, stacked and mixed and matched to create various three-dimensional sea creatures. Sand Goh inspires imaginative and creative fun for kids of all ages and is conveniently packaged in a travel tote with handle making it the perfect take along toy for a day or a week at the beach.

Travel Gear & Accessories

Tray Bien In Flight Organizer ($39.95) - This in-flight organizer that fits over most standard economy class tray tables keeps all your baby's necessities in one place and within easy reach, putting an end to getting up, ducking down and knocking into the seat in front of you. With multiple pockets and two drink holders, there's room for bottles, diapers, wipes, pacifiers, toys, and even a celebrity gossip magazine (or Pulitzer Prize winning novel if that's your thing). Available in Flower Power, Classic Polka Dot, and Kids.

Airplane Backpack Tray Table Playmat ($29.95) - Going on a trip with your kids? You need the must-have solution for family travel! Pack up the toys. Fold up the backpack. On the airplane, turn it into a playmat designed to fit the tray table. Adjustable straps secure the playmat to the tray table providing a clean space for children to play and eat. Also available in Enchanted Journey, Plane Fun and Princess Adventure.

XCase Mini Rolling Suitcase ($99.95) - The XCase® Mini is the smaller version of Heys’ famous XCase®, designed especially for children. Featuring special LED LIGHTS within its wheels that light up when the case is rolled, this suitcase will surely keep your kids within sight. The Mini is also ideal for anyone traveling on a particular airline that has very stringent carry-on restrictions, as some charter airlines restrict carry-ons to only 18", instead of the industry-standard of 20". Available in several colors.

Mariona Duffel ($59.95) - Founded in Barcelona, Spain in 1922, Busquets’ distinctly European designed children’s bags and accessories are now available in the United States. The design details are sure to impress even the most discerning and stylish of little jet setters. If you don't already have a trip planned, you will want to book something just to have this bag. Adorned with sweet flower appliqués, this chocolate brown bag is not just beautiful, but incredibly functional. Also available: Wash Bag, Rolling Duffel, Backpack, Lunch Bag and Messenger Bag.

ToddlerSparewear Travel Kit ($38) - The idea is simple, yet sophisticated. ToddlerSparewear is the modern solution to the essential spare outfit for toddlers, designed to ease on-the-go spills and leaks. This stylish ready-to-go pack takes the stress out of common potty-training accidents and is perfect for preschool, day care or on-the-go! This designated spare outfit comes in a durable clear bag featuring a zippered section, a hanging loop, plus a kid-sized write-on rubber I.D. tag. A back pocket is sized for dirty duds, notes from the teacher or that special show-and-tell toy. Available in a variety of colors and sizes; BabySparewear also available. Travel Kit includes a 100% cotton jersey short sleeve tee and cozy cotton karate-style pull-on pants

Modern Pirate Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 23:56:00 +0000

Head on over to Grosgrain to enter her Modern Pirate Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

Say So Long to Unnecessary Bumps On the Head

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 02:18:00 +0000

I seriously have to stop looking at the Skip Hop website because it is going to make me spend money I shouldn't. Yesterday, I showed you the Hare comb and bush set that I am trying with all my might to resist. Today, let me introduce you to Moby! For only $13, you can say so long to worrying about your child bumping her head on the faucet when playing in the tub. See Moby is a wicked cute bath spout cover. Made of soft, tough rubber, Moby slides over your faucet. The blowhole of the whale even allows easy access to shower diverter. What is more, the tail allows you to hang the whale up when not in use and the fin secures and tightens on most spouts. And who can resist that adorable smile?

Style Your Tots Hair with Hare from Skip Hop!

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 18:02:00 +0000

Did you know Skip Hop sells more than just diaper bags? Well they do. And my absolute favorite product of theirs is the Hare comb and brush set ($20)! This very cute and unique all-in-one grooming set would be a perfect addition to any nursery. Forget tucking that boring old baby brush into a drawer somewhere and then forgeting where you put it like me. With this brush set you can set it on the dresser for all to admire, especially your little one. The Hare is sure to make your child squeal with delight as you brush their hair instead of them trying to run in the opposite direction. The bunny ears double as a useful brush and comb, each with a soft-grip handle sized perfectly for grown-ups' hands. When you are done styling your child's hair they can check themselves out in the round mirror on the bunny's base (or you can use the mirror as a distraction as you brush their hair, cause what kid doesn't love mirrors?). How cool is that!! Perhaps I should loose my daughter's brush for good so I can go out and get one of these! Hmm. That's a thought.

Craft Time: Make Your Own Tutu!

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 19:10:00 +0000

I have been dying to make a tutu for my daughter. However, seeing as though I have yet to get around to making her birthday crown yet, the chances of me making a tutu are slim. That and the fact that she has hated wearing dresses and skirts this winter...but hopefully that changes with the warmer weather.

This is a great project to do while sitting in front of the tv since it basically takes no brain power (well, at least I am assuming it doesn't take much). From what I have gathered from the sites on the internet you basically you just tie strips of tulle on a string, ribbon or elastic. Whatever you have. And Voila! A tutu that is very inexpensive to make and that takes no time at all! Woo!

MomDot has a wonderful list of information on how to make tutus and if you are visual person and like to watch videos you can check this one out. You can also click here for instructions and photo of a very pretty pink tutu!

Ok, now which one of my friends wants to make Kate a poufy pink tutu?? Takers? Anyone?

Serena & Lily Book Signing and Trunk Show

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:02:00 +0000

I love Serena & Lily. I mean who doesn't? Their linens are just absolutely gorgeous. I actually got their catalogue the other day and sat looking at it dreaming of what I would buy if I had the money. Well, if you love them too and are in NY this weekend you can head on over to Bloomingdales for a book signing of Nursery Style and also a Serena & Lily trunk show. Here is the information I received regarding it.

WHO: Serena Dugan and Lily Kanter, co-founders of Serena & Lily, the premier linens and homewares company, will host a book signing for Nursery Style, an inspiring guide to creating a one-of-a-kind nursery. Customers will be able to shop a trunk show of Serena & Lily‘s baby line including elegant crib sets and chic giftables as well as their adult collection, which includes twin to king size bedding. In addition, Serena & Lily will be donating a quantity of their gorgeous and soft stroller blankets to the non-profit charity organization, Fertile Hope.

WHEN: Saturday March 14, 2009
2:00 -4:00 PM

WHERE: Bloomingdale’s 59th Street
1000 Third Avenue, 7th Floor
New York, NY

Wake Up!

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 22:42:00 +0000

Are you the type of person to hit the snooze button repeatedly in the morning? Well, I came across a solution for that today. Clocky. It calls itself the funniest alarm clock ever. I would add most annoying to that description after watching the videos on their site. But boy would this clock get the job done.

From the site:

The patented alarm clock that runs away and hides to get you out of bed. Clocky gives you one chance to get up. But if you snooze, Clocky will jump off your nightstand and wheel around your room looking for a place to hide, beeping all the while. You'll have to get out of bed to silence his alarm. Clocky is kind of like a misbehaving pet, only he will get up at the right time.

Totally worth the $50 if you always find yourself running late. I would get it for my husband if I didn't have to live with it as well. I think it would drive me insane, but I also can't deny its cuteness!

Feel Secure with The Mommy Cover

katebeth45@gmail.com (Heather) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:40:00 +0000

I don't know about you but when I was breastfeeding one of the things I hated was feeling exposed. And well, I was. This was one of the reasons why I breastfed for only 2 months. I felt so disconnected and insecure even when I was breastfeeding in my own house. I left the room to nurse my daughter when friends were over. And when they came over it usually was when she was hungry seeing as though she nursed what seemed like every two hours. It made me feel depressed not being able to hang out with my friends while feeding my daughter. I wish I had known about The Mommy Cover then perhaps it could of helped me feel better about myself and breastfed longer.

The Mommy Cover is a nursing cover ($48) that comes in a selection of beautiful prints. What's so different about this cover from others you might of heard of is that is has a retractable cord and velcro tab that fastens the cover around you to keep it in place. And while I haven't tested it out, I can't help but think that is a great idea for those of us who don't want to feel exposed all the time even in our own home.