MomToBeDepot Blog

MamaDoc's Bamboo Belly Belt - Belly UpIt - alleviates discomfort and pain

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 16:52:00 +0000

MamaDoc was founded by Dr. Somi Javaid, OB/GYN and all products were designed to address patient complaints as well as to relieve pains she experienced during her own pregnancies.

Bamboo Belly Belt (Belly UpIt) alleviates lower back pain and provides support as your baby bump grows during pregnancy. The product's best feature is the hidden pock that holds a standard sized ice/heat pack. Bye bye pain! Retails for $49.95. Our product reviewer in her 2nd trimester absolutely loves this product!

Transitioning from breastfeeding to the bottle? Check out the Mimijumi Baby Bottle!

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 16:23:00 +0000

It's inevitable to transition your baby from nursing to the bottle, so why not let the process be easier? We recommend Mimijumi for the most natural experience possible for your baby.

Since I finished nursing my son 4 years ago, I couldn't personally use the product (however my sister will use it in about a year, stay tuned for her testimonial). I'll let Mimijumi's creative marketing folks describe why this is the best product to use when transitioning.....

"Manufactured in Austria, the bottles are made from Swiss polyamide plastic and German medical grade silicone to ensure a toxin free feeding experience without BPA, lead or other contaminants. The nylon bottle is easy to clean and has a wide mouth for easy filling, a screw on one piece nipple, and a non-skid base. The soft silicon nipple is textured and colored to resemble skin, and includes an integrated ventilation system to aid in the baby's digestion."

A team of psychiatrists and designers with a goal of creating infant care products that revolutionize the parenting process are the creators of this product. Learn more at Mimijumi.com. 8 oz "Very Hungry" bottle retails for $14.99 and "Not So Hungry" 3 oz bottle is $13.99. Both are sold nationwide and online at thenewmomshop.com.

Entrepreneur profile: Mary Apple, founder of Pretty Pushers hospital gowns

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 02:02:00 +0000

I'm so excited that my sister is not only having her 4th baby, but she and my niece Iliana (Ili for short) have launched their own blog.

She writes about anything and everything, but has decided to add a parent entrepreneur profile section. Mary Apple, founder of Pretty Pushers is the first to be featured. Her pretty hospital labor and delivery gowns (as shown to the left) are selling like hot cakes and we can see why! They look more like a comfortable dress than an ugly hospital gown. I wish I had one of those when I delivered my little Sam nearly 5 years ago.

Rather than do our own write-up, we're pointing our readers directly to Christine's post. Enjoy!

Wearing a seatbelt during pregnancy can be uncomfortable. Now there's relief with the Owie Pillow

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 19:04:00 +0000

Why didn't I think of that?

The question I ask myself everytime I hear about another great product created by a mom. San Diego entrepreneur, Kristine Currier invented The Owie Pillow during her own pregnancy, frustrated that there was nothing to relieve the pressure on her baby bump when driving.

Since its inception, The Owie Pillow has been selling like hot cakes and provided great comfort to pregnant women and those suffering from abdominal injuries, wounds, surgery, and pain. The Owie Pillow provides comfort for those who have had a hysterectomy, hernia, Appendix removal, Gallbladder surgery, bypass surgery, and even kids who have had abdominal surgery. Check it out!

Teething Help Has Arrived with Spiffies and Molar Munchers

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 18:48:00 +0000

It's not always easy to get into a routine with your toddlers to take care of their teeth and gums. Particularly if they are teething. Now you can make things safer, healthier and easier with three new products:

Spiffies Cleaning and Teething Wipes
Individually packaged towelettes containing a xylitol rich formula, Spiffies Cleaning and Teething Wipes have been shown to be therapeutic for reducing bacteria in the mouth, as lower bacteria levels means fewer or no cavities! Great for using on-the-go or when baby is asleep, and especially after night time feedings. Invented by pediatrician Ray Wagner, MD, parents have claimed that they also soothe inflamed gums when cooled in the fridge much like the cool compress and massage recommended by the AAP.www.spiffies.com

I Can Brush
A non-gritty and a non-foaming gel, I Can Brush contains a xylitol rich formula that is safe for both babies and toddlers! It is also safe to swallow for those little ones who are not able to spit out. Created by pediatrician Ray Wagner, MD, I Can Brush is fluoride free, tastes great and kids love it!www.spiffies.com

Molar Muncher
Gnaw, chomp and drool - the Molar Muncher was invented when young mom, Devin Reed, was trying to find a solution to soothe her son’s molars. After researching the available products without any luck, the mompreneur came up with a hands-free way to soothe the entire gum line, safely and effectively! Combining the traditional pacifier construction with a soft, BPA-free U-shaped tab, the Molar Muncher is placed in the mouth and reaches all the way back to the molars. This not only comforts the entire mouth all at once, but the unique shape prevents any choking hazards! This innovative design prevents the possibility of affecting the positioning of the teeth or causing what is commonly known as “buck teeth." Made of BPA-free silicone, the Molar Muncher design is lightweight, hands-free and can completely replace the need for your child's pacifier!www.molarmuncher.com

Communicating With Your Baby in the First Six Months

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 03:11:00 +0000

By Jamell Andrews, MomToBeDepot Guest Blogger

During the first six months of a child’s life, parents go through virtually every conceivable emotion, from elation, to frustration, to hope, to terror. But there is one that stands above all the rest: The pure elation you feel when you begin to truly communicate with their little one. During the very early weeks of the baby’s life, parents are busy taking care of all the baby’s needs, but it is not until a little later that the back-and-forth, loving communication becomes tangible. And when this happens, it is one of the highlights of any parent’s life.

For first-time parents, it can be difficult to know exactly what to expect from a child during the first six months. Every child is different. Plus, new parents who have limited experience with infants often imagine that back-and-forth communication begins immediately after birth. Many are surprised to discover that a newborn cannot make eye contact and barely responds to stimuli. This phase is short-lived, however, and the magic of parent-child communication comes soon.

The first three months

Of course, newborn babies do communicate, as new parents quickly learn. Newborns cry for several reasons, including hunger, sleepiness, hot, cold, stomachache, and discomfort. And while the crying tends to be rather subdued right after birth, it tends to pick up after a couple of days-usually right around the time baby comes from the hospital. From this point, the baby’s communication is steady crescendo of crying that usually peaks after two or three months. For many parents this is the period of greatest frustration and lost sleep. But it passes.

The second month is when the magic really begins. That is when you can expect to see your child smile for the first time, and if you are lucky she may even begin to smile in response to you. Around the same time, the baby will begin to make non-crying vocalizations. By the third month these vocalizations will become recognizable speechlike sounds (lots of “boos,” “goos,” “ha’s”), and soon she will begin to make these sounds in response to your speech. Meanwhile, she will no longer have trouble making eye contact with you.

During this time, the best thing to do is follow your baby’s lead. Whenever the baby is in the mood to smile and baby talk, go along with her. Get close, make eye contact (she will see you best if you place your face 1-2 feet from hers), and talk to her. You can say real words to her, sing her songs, or even imitate her vocalizations. The key is to make it a communicative activity. When she is in the mood, she will love it.

The second three months

If you thought those first smiles and early baby talk were exciting, wait until you experience what happens next. Around the fourth month, you can expect your baby’s first laugh. Younger babies often make laugh-like sounds, but these sounds are generally not in response to anything in particular. In these later months, however, your baby will begin to laugh at things you do. And when he is in the mood to be entertained, it is your job to be the entertainer. Let go of your inhibitions and figure out what makes him happy. You may sometimes feel you are making a fool of yourself, but it is worth it.

The other exciting development in these months is that your child will begin to understand speech a little better. He will not be able to understand sentences or make words himself, but he will definitely learn his name along with a few basic words. Meanwhile, his own vocalizations will begin to sound more like real speech. Do not expect real words, though. That will take another year or so.

You can help by continuing your conversations with your baby. Again, these can involve real words, baby talk, or even songs. Supplement the speech learning with books. He may not be very engaged with them, but he will enjoy your voice, and the activity will get him used to hearing a variety of words. Outside your reading, though, it is best to keep speech simple. Speak with simple words and sentences, and be sure to enunciate everything clearly. This will help your baby get a grasp on speech a little more quickly.

Jamell Andrews is an accomplished writer who believes in the power ofhomeopathic medicine. She is a regular contributor to Baby Care Journals.

Ideas for Naturally Inducing Labor

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 03:08:00 +0000

Premature birth may worry you as it worries most expectant parents but becoming overdue can also bring its own concerns and difficulties. As you become larger, sleeping can become more challenging. It becomes increasingly more difficult to get into a comfortable position as does breathing as your lungs become more crowded due to your overgrown uterus. If your baby stays in too long then there are risks associated with this, most commonly that your baby could pass meconium. If you find yourself overdue and are seeking advice to naturally help induce labour then the following is a list of ideas to do exactly that.

Sex- is often prescribed by doctors to help induce labour because the prostaglandins in semen help soften and prepare the cervix to dilate.

Herbs – hundreds of years ago midwives used herbs to prepare mothers for pregnancy, labour and birth. This was before the invention of pitocin. You must be very cautious with herbs of any kind as they can cause great damage if the correct dosage is not administered. Black cohosh, available in capsules or teas is commonly used to induce labour and can be with or without alcohol. During birth, black cohosh can help strengthen and regulate uterine contractions. Other herbs which have similar effects are red raspberry leaf and false unicorn root. These particular herbs have natural chemicals which are released into the woman’s body and stimulate the baby to encourage her to move and get positioned for birth. Herbs should not be used until the cervix is ready to open as they will not work until then. Beware of some herbs which can be dangerous to you or your baby such as aloe vera, bungleweed and pokeroot as these are some of the herbs that can cause premature birth or birth defects. Always consult a doctor before self-medicating with herbs. Primrose oil is used to induce labour as it has a comparable effect to semen in the cervix by softening and ripening it.

Castor Oil – is taken by some women as a natural method of bringing on labour. The theory being that the diarrhoea and cramping it causes also causes contractions that can induce labour. It is unpleasant to taste but two tablespoons can be mixed into another drink such as a juice. It is advised to consume castor oil in the morning as you will be woken in the night with the cramping and diarrhoea if you take it in the evening. There are risks with taking castor oil such as the expectant mother becoming dehydrated because she has diarrhoea and also it increases the risk of the baby passing meconium while still in the uterus.

Nipple Stimulation – for hundreds of years nipple stimulation has been used by women to help induce labour. It has an effect of releasing a natural form of pitocin called oxytocin. Similarly to pitocin, oxytocin triggers contractions that can bring on labour. This method for naturally inducing labour is only effective near to your due date and when you are ready to give birth. Before forty weeks, it is not advisable to induce labour. The nipples can be stimulated manually or a breast pump can be used. Care needs to be taken as your uterus can become hyperstimulated. Only stimulate one nipple at a time and rest immediately once you notice contractions. Wait at least fifteen minutes after the contractions have stopped before resuming. If you do not get any rest between contractions other problems can arise.

Be Active – whilst most doctors advise you to slow down and reduce your activities as you approach your due date, it is also helpful to remain active as long as you do not cause yourself any stress. Walking a wee bit more than usual and slowly swinging your hips from side to side can help induce labour by stimulating your baby and getting her moving into the birthing position. If you fancy some fun, sex is always a good idea as I mentioned before because along with semen helping the cervix to soften, the female orgasm produces a hormone which aids childbirth.

Other methods women have used include acupressure and eating spicy foods, but watch out for possible nausea with spicy food and medical research has not yet supported this idea as definitely being beneficial.

Eirian Hallinan has written numerous articles in the baby care field. She believes in healing naturally, first, especially when it comes to infant reflux.

Why buy when you can rent kid's snow clothes?

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 02:48:00 +0000

We recently heard from new business owner Melissa Black, the mom of two kids, and happens to be a snowboarder too! She recently launched a new business RentSnowClothes.com, which offers head-to-toe ski clothing rentals for kids. Brilliant!

The idea for this business came from a problem many living in warm climates face each year - outfitting our kids for skiing and snowboarding. When your kids can make it through the winter with nothing more than a light windbreaker or raincoat, why spend hundreds of dollars on ski clothing and accessories they'll use a few times and outgrow by next year? By renting, you will save money, plus loads of time and frustration shopping all over town and the internet searching for the right gear. You will also have peace of mind knowing your kids will be in warm, waterproof clothing designed with the latest technology for snow sports.

All of their clothing is from top-of-the-line name brands and is in pristine condition. Renting is EASY and affordable! Get all the details at RentSnowClothes.com and reserve your kids' ski clothes today!

Disney's Phineas and Ferb - The Best Live Tour Ever! Comes to Denver February 3-4

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 01:30:00 +0000

Ferb create their biggest invention yet -- Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Best LIVE Tour Ever! Phineas, Ferb, and the
whole tri-state area gang embark on a bold escape jumping out from behind your TV and onto the stage in a live action
adventure – right here in Denver!

From Feld Entertainment, the producers of Disney On Ice, families can experience the witty humor and upbeat music of
the hit Disney Channel series live at the Wells Fargo Theatre February 3 and 4, 2012.

Get whisked on a wild ride as Phineas and Ferb build their way to another over the top, extraordinary adventure. And, before anyone can wonder, “Hey, where’s Perry?” the beloved pet platypus shifts to his secret double life as Agent P to foil another one of Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s evil plans. Musical madness abounds in an escapade so awesome that even Candace can’t help but join the hilarious hijinks. It’s the ultimate end to summer vacation, so seize the day ‘cause Phineas and Ferb are gonna do it all!

MomToBeDepot readers can save $3 per ticket for the Friday, February 3rd show by using promo code FFAPF. (Excludes VIP and stage seating seats; multiple discounts are not allowed). Redeem at Ticketmaster or call 800-745-3000.

3in1 Travel Bassinet by QuickSmart is a Must Have for New Parents

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 17:09:00 +0000

The QuickSmart 3in1 Travel Bassinet is a bassinet, diaper bag and change station all rolled into one. Brilliant!

When you're on-the-go, this is the ideal product to have with you. Forget about cramming everything into a diaper bag or tote and hope you have everything you need. This little beauty gives you instant ability to change your baby no matter where you may be. No worries about the baby rolling over either. Baby is completely contained. There are plenty of side pockets all around to store diapers, wipes, change of clothes and other items.

Last week I attended the Disney On Ice show at the Pepsi Center with my 4 year old. We walked into the women's restroom and saw 4 or 5 moms with their 1 and 2 year old kids standing up in the middle of the bathroom as their diapers were being changed. I guess it was more sanitary than being on the floor. However, when you are in crowded places with people using the diaper changing stations, you have to make it work the best you can. If the moms had a 3in1 Travel Bassinnet they would have been all set!

$74.99 at QuickSmartGo.com

Photos courtesy of QuickSmartGo.com.

Ken and Barbie steal the show in Disney On Ice presents Toy Story 3

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:38:00 +0000

My 4-year old son Sam and I truly enjoyed the movie Toy Story 3. The story line just happened to coincide with what was going on with my own family. Sam’s big sister was heading off to college, just like Andy. It was bitter sweet for me to watch the end when he says goodbye to his toys and ventures off to college.

Now that the story has hit the ice with a live production by Disney On Ice, it was exciting for Sam to see the toys come to life.

Sarge and the Bucket O’ Soldiers kicked off the adventure with their drill team routines. The costumes were so realistic, they all truly looked like they were made of plastic.

The 3 primary stars of the show, Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Jessie didn’t disappoint. They had routines that were fun to watch, particularly Woody’s Round Up. The supporting characters such as Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head, Rex, Hamm, Slinky Dog, Aliens, Bullseye, Barbie and Ken, were also terrific. Similar to how Jack and Karen often stole the show in sitcom “Will and Grace”, Barbie and Ken did so in Toy Story 3. Ken’s costume changes in the ‘Dream House’ were just as hilarious as in the movie. However it was the skating routines by the duo that were truly fantastic. They had the more technical and daring moves that definitely showcased just how flexible Barbie truly is.

I wasn’t sure if Disney On Ice would be able to portray the entire story in the timeframe for an ice show, particularly going through the incinerator scene. But they pulled it off, all the way through the end. With special appearances by Mickey, Minnie and Donald, the show wrapped up making all of us feel like we had gone to infinity and beyond in a 2-hour time period. Plenty of moms sitting around me were laughing so hard throughout the show, just as I was. Another great show to be enjoyed by the whole family.

I am a Feld Family Activator and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows. Even though I receive these benefits, I always provide my own honest opinion about the shows.

JP Lizzy Peppermint Satchel is the ideal accessory for the Holidays!

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 16:35:00 +0000

Wendy Barry, owner of JP Lizzy, has added a new collection to her line-up of diaper bags, totes, purses, etc.

Check out this sassy red new "Peppermint" satchel that comes with all the usual JP Lizzy goodies, such as the diaper changing pad, adjustable interior bottle pockets, side pockets and more.

The magnetic closure is ideal so you can quickly get in, and get out of your satchel to grab whatever you (or you baby) will need. How about having this under your Christmas Tree this holiday season? I hope it's under mine! Available for $78 at JPLizzy.com.

Elf On The Shelf is a GREAT motivator for Naughty vs Nice!

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 21:09:00 +0000

A few friends told me about the "miraculous" way to motivate toddlers and young children throughout the holiday season. It sounded too good to be true. So I tested the waters with my 4-year old, Sam, to see if perhaps it could work for him too.

I casually mentioned that we may be receiving a special book and Elf from the North Pole. The Elf is Santa's helper to let him know if Sam was naughty or nice, each and every day.

Sam's eyes grew wider as I spoke about it. So I went to the ElfontheShelf website and showed him the videos. He was so excited that he could have his very own elf, that I convinced my mother-in-law to buy one at a local retailer so I didn't have to wait for the box to arrive via mail.

How does it work? The Elf sits on a shelf in your house, and uses his magic to fly to the North Pole every night to give Santa a report on whether the kid has been naughty or nice. He flies back before everyone wakes up, and sits on a different shelf. Kids wake up wondering if the Elf came back from the North Pole, and they look around the house for him. The Elf's magic goes away if kids play with him, so there's no chance of it getting tattered, torn or worn.

Elves come either light-skinned or dark-skinned, and as a boy or girl. Once your Elf arrives, you name him and then register "the adoption" of the elf at the ElfontheShelf website. You will receive news and updates from the North Pole.

The book is a quick read and the elf is a little small, but it IS effective with my little Sam.
We'll see how it goes through the holiday season. The Elf is a great behavior modifier for 4 year olds.

Our Holiday Gift Favorites for 2011

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 04:29:00 +0000

It's that time for us to recommend our favorite holiday gift ideas for Mom!

Whether she's pregnant for the first time, or the third time, there's something for her (and her kids!) to enjoy! From a handy stocking stuffer to help her get organized, an iPhone app to keep her kids in line, to magical playhouses that transform backyards, to the traditional "must have's" for a new mom (diaper bag, baby carrier, blankets, baby bottle dispenser). We gathered them all here for you to consider for your holiday gift giving.

Read our entire list at our parent site MomToBeDepot.com.

Disney on Ice Winner Selected!

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:14:00 +0000

Congratulations to Bobbie U - winner of the family 4-pack of tickets to opening night of Disney on Ice at the Pepsi Center!

Win a Family 4-Pack to Denver's Disney on Ice Toy Story 3 show @ Pepsi Center

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 19:16:00 +0000

I always look forward to this time of year. It starts off with my birthday during the 2nd week of November, continues with the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend, and of course rolling right into the Christmas season. Smack dab in the middle of all that, is the annual Disney On Ice show.

[In my family we celebrate Christmas. I'm not trying to offend those who celebrate their own traditional holidays such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and other events. I was raised in an Italian & Irish household - so it was Roman Catholic traditions for me. I'm not trying to push the envelope and be politically incorrect. I like using the term Christmas that I have enjoyed for 40+ years now.]

Let's get back to the main point of this post. Toy Story 3 is this year's theme for Disney On Ice and once again it will be held at the Pepsi Center in Denver. Lucky for me, I work right next door! Tickets will definitely sell out quickly since the show only runs from December 8th - 11th. Don't wait until the event is here to buy your tickets. You and your kids will be disappointed. Buy your tickets here! Save $4 per ticket with the code FFA! (Valid only Fri, Dec. 9 and Sat, Dec. 10 at 11am & 7pm; and Sun, Dec. 11 at 11am; excludes Front Row and VIP seats.)

Donate a new, unwrapped toy to Toys for Tots in the Pepsi Center Box Office lobby December 1 - 11 to receive a $5 savings coupon for a Disney On Ice presents Disney Pixar's Toy Story 3 ticket!

(Excludes Front Row and VIP seating. Not valid on previously purchased tickets. No refunds or exchanges. Promotional period December 1-11, 2011 only. One coupon per ticket.)

My 4 year old son has enjoyed this event since he was a baby. He looks forward to it as much as we do every year. We are never disappointed with the show. It truly is a spectacular show for all ages.

I'm happy to announce that one lucky MomToBeDepot.com reader will WIN a Family 4-pack of tickets for the Thursday, December 8th 7pm show at the Pepsi Center. (Rules and restrictions do apply, see below.)

How do you win the Family 4-pack?

Simply email lauri@momtobedepot.com with "DISNEY ON ICE" in the subject.
Respond to this question: What phrase do the Aliens say to Mr. Potato Head both in Toy Story 2 and Toy Story 3?
Please include a phone # in the body of the email so we can reach you if you win. Phone #'s will NOT be stored in our database. They are for notification of this contest only and will be discarded when the contest ends and a winner has been notified.

Rules & Restrictions - Please review carefully.....

Tickets will be available at WILL CALL at the Pepsi Center. They will not be available for pick-up or to be mailed in advance of the show.
Winner must be the person picking up the tickets at the Will Call window, present a Photo ID and be 18 years of age.
Tickets are non-transferrable and are only available for the Thursday, December 8, 2011 7pm show.
Tickets can not be exchanged for cash or for other shows or events.
If tickets are not utilized, they are forfeited. Compensation will not be provided for unused tickets.
Please do not enter to win if you are unable to abide by these rules and restrictions.

One lucky reader will be randomly selected from the pool of submissions. How will that random selection actually happen?

All winner names will be put in a spreadsheet and assigned a number.
On November 28th, my 4-year old son Sam will pull a number out of a hat and we'll match that up to the number in the spreadsheet and select the winner's name.
The winner will be contacted via phone and email on November 28th.
Failure to respond within 48 hours (12 am December 1st) will forfeit the Family 4-pack and another winner will be selected.

MomToBeDepot.com is the sponsor of this contest. Feld Entertainment is neither a sponsor nor endorser of this promotion.

Lauri Harrison, founder of MomToBeDepot.com is proud to be a Feld Family Activator. In exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog and the parent blog MomToBeDepot.com, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows. Although I receive benefits for being a Feld Family Activator, I always provide my honest and objective opinion. I'm not persuaded by the benefits to report anything other than the truth.

"Fully Charged" Circus at Denver Coliseum a HUGE Hit

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 05:16:00 +0000

It's that time of year again. Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey circus are back in town.

September 29 - October 9
Denver Coliseum

Tickets available - get them before they're sold out. Kids tickets just $10.

I took Sam and his Gamma to opening night tonight, and we had a blast!
Read all about it and see our photos.

What do Zumba parties and Sharpie have in common?? Vibrant colors, creativity and fun!

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 21:41:00 +0000

Zumba parties and Stained by Sharpie are the perfect match. If you are unfamiliar with what Zumba parties are all about, it's a work out sensation that has taken America by storm over the past couple of years. Pitbull set the tone for more than 1200 Zumba fitness instructors in Orlando not too long ago. It was hot, steamy, with a lot of calories being burned. Zumba primarily has a salsa and Latin America base to it, but add in hip-hop and you find yourself moving like you've never moved before. 8,000 steps in 1 hour can burn up to 1,000 calories.

Here in Denver, what do we do to get ready for a Zumba party? We take out our supply of Stained markers by Sharpie and make our own t-shirts for the event. Not only that, we get the kids into it too!

Why are the Stained markers ideal to use? They don't bleed through the fabric or smudge. You don't need to wash them before wearing, and you can make any type of design you would like. Let's just say in my house my teenage daughter has used Stained markers for her sneakers, backpack, tote bag and even her beanbag chair! The sky is the limit to how you want to add some color into your life. The next time your daughter asks to buy art supplies to make pep rally shirts, grab Stained markers by Sharpie instead. You'll be glad you did! Visit Sharpie.com to learn more!

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Fully Charged Hits Denver Sept 29th

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 21:18:00 +0000

It's not just back to school and the end of summer. It's time for our favorite circus to return to Denver. That's right. Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Fully Charged will be performing at the Denver Coliseum from Sept 29th - October 9th. It's more affordable than ever with kids tickets being just $10.

Each year I get to write about the show as a Feld Family Activator. In exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my review in my blog, as well as promoting discount prices and offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to the show and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-show events.

Does that mean I'm biased to report only positive aspects of the show? Absolutely not. If I see something I don't like or think is inappropriate, I'll let you know.

I wholeheartedly raise my hand to say "pick me!" each year to attend and write about the show. It's a great way for my family to get out without breaking the bank, and enjoy some real "live" entertainment together. Stay tuned - I'll be attending and will keep you informed.

To order use code FFAKID at Ticketmaster.com/RinglingDenver or call 1-800-745-3000.

Regular Ticket Prices:

$15.50, $20.50, $26.50, $40.50 VIP, $60.50 Front Row, $80.50 Circus Celebrity

Learn more at Ringling.com.

Summer Travel Safety Tips while Pregnant

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 01:44:00 +0000

Thanks to the Mayo Clinic Guide for a Healthy Pregnancy for providing our readers with summer travel safety tips!

You don't want to take any chances this summer - read the tips on our main site!

Win a Pre-natal work out DVD - The Bar Method! Enter now!

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 01:30:00 +0000

Hey Mom-To-Be Depot readers - we'll pick one lucky reader to win a Bar Method Pregnancy Workout DVD, worth $20! All you have to do is send us an email with PICK ME FOR THE DVD in the subject area. We'll randomly pick one of the emails as our winner and you will be notified by 6/15!

GOOD LUCK!

Master teacher Lee Potter in her third trimester with twins adds her own special wit and playfulness to the Bar Method’s pre-natal workout, a long-standing and popular class at its flagship studio in San Francisco. Lee leads you through this 45-minute long series of gentle, safe and challenging moves, including free-weight work, thigh exercises, standing seat-work, and abdominal strengthening exercises performed while propped up on pillows. Lee’s fellow performers are Hannah Blue, co-owner of the Downtown San Francisco studio and Lauren Dunning, a teacher at the Downtown San Francisco studio, both appearing in this DVD in their second trimester. As Lee puts it, this DVD “will help you feel strong during your pregnancy, will assist you in delivering your baby, and will snap you right back into shape.”

About The Bar Method
The Bar Method is full-body exercise program created by Burr Leonard. The workout utilizes a ballet bar fitness technique and draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training, and physical therapy. The result is a noticeable “Bar Method” sculpted body featuring:
· Firm, elongated muscles
· Reduced body fat
· High muscle definition in the chest
· Improved posture
· Long, narrow thighs
· A lifted seat and defined hamstrings
· Strong, flat abdominals
· Increased stamina and energy
· Extended youthfulness

About Burr Leonard, Founder of The Bar Method
Burr Leonard is the founder and creator of The Bar Method, a full-body exercise workout that utilizes a ballet bar technique. The method draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training, and physical therapy. With 19 years of experience in the fitness field, she and her business partner have turned their one Bar Method studio into a franchise operation with 30+ studios and a media company selling exercise DVDs and accessories. Huffington Post, ABC News, KUSI TV, and KUSA-TV have featured Burr Leonard’s The Bar Method.

NCWIT Bestows Award on Nicole Blake of Denver's TJ High School

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 23:49:00 +0000

I have a blog and I talk about parenting and kids - and I'm mostly proud that I get to announce that the National Center for Women In Technology (NCWIT) awarded my daughter, Nicole, with an award for her, her school and her teacher Jerry Esparza.

There were only 26 girls in Colorado who received this award. More than 250 corporations specifically provide scholarships and internships for this elite group of girls across the country.

As posted on the TJJournal website, written by Becca Hansen: "NCWIT awards female students at the high school level with the Award for Aspirations in Computing, based on four criteria: computing and IT aptitude, leadership ability, academic history, and plans for post-secondary education. In order to be eligible to receive the award Seniors Nicole Blake and Madison Bennett filled out an online application pertaining to their involvement in the CCT program and future academic plans."

I'm a proud Mom! :)

Denver Baby Store, ecoPOLITAN, Aims to Set Cloth Diapering World Record on April 23

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:03:00 +0000

This Earth Week, thousands of parents around the globe will unite to change the world – and their babies’ diapers – during the Great Cloth Diaper Change 2011. Hundreds of local parents and babies will join the international effort to set a Guinness World Record™ for the most cloth diapers changed simultaneously. Green baby gear retailer eco•POLITAN will host local festivities, with a full day of events for both cloth diaper enthusiasts, and novices interested in learning about the practice.

One of the largest local Great Cloth Diaper Change events will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 23 at the Lakewood Cultural Center community room just steps from eco•POLITAN, one of 10 official host locations in Colorado. Located at 470 S. Allison Pkwy., the center is in Lakewood City Commons near the corner of Wadsworth Blvd. and Alameda Ave. All other events will be held at the eco•POLITAN store at 437B S. Wadsworth Blvd., in the same complex.

The Great Cloth Diaper Change is free and open to the public, and registration is required. To view official rules and pre-register, visit www.eco-politan.com . The event will raise money for the Real Diaper Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to help families across the U.S. and Canada find and use reusable cloth diapers. Participants are encouraged to donate $1 or more to the fundraising effort.

Sprout Sends Birthday Wishes to your Sproutlet!

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 01:34:00 +0000

Today is my son Sammy's 4th birthday and he got a very special birthday wish from Sprout today - and it definitely made his day.

It's easy to do for your kids too! Just go to SproutOnline.com to submit your child's birthday wish - and that's it. We missed the "live" airing of the announcement but that's ok - they emailed one to us! How cool is that?!

Free Pancakes at IHOP on Tues 3/1 to raise money for Shriners Hospitals

noreply@blogger.com (MomToBeDepot Blog) — Sat, 26 Feb 2011 17:27:00 +0000

Did you know that Tuesday, March 1st is National Pancake Day? IHOP restaurants nationwide will offer each guest a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes in an effort to raise awareness and funds for Shriners Hospitals.

IHOP hopes to raise $2.3 million, for a total of more than $7.65 million six years with its National Pancake Day fundraising effort. Last year more than 4 million pancakes were served and IHOP raised $2.1 million.

The fundraiser is 7am to 10pm at participating IHOP's nationwide. To find a local IHOP or to donate online, visit www.ihoppancakeday.com. Get out there and have some pancakes and help raise money for Shriners Hospitals!