Everything Mom and Baby

A chat with Andrea from FITMOM on Abdominal Separation: Enter to win FITMOMS PostNatal DVD Workout

2012-01-26T13:43:00.000-05:00

I have been having the utmost, brilliant time working out with FitMom. What is so fabulous about FitMom besides the great lady behind FitMom?

You can work out with your infant.toddler.preschooler. You can even wear baby!

I have been in a rut and had no idea FitMom even existed. I needed to have Charlie with me and options were limited. With no family to babysit and not wanting to bother friends I found myself getting a tad fuller lets say ;)

I first came across FitMom at the BabyTime Show in Toronto while checking out Cosy Baby Happy Mom carriers, a brand that FitMom endorses and that moms use while working out. From what I hear CBHM is coming out with an exclusive carrier just for FitMom!

CBHM and I had been twittering and told me her carriers will be there at the FitMom booth and I guess I should thank Erin for introducing me to Andrea of FitMom. Erin thank you!!!

I had never heard of FitMom and being an avid toddlerwearer I had to see what this exciting exercise class that incorporates babywearing is all about!

I've attended 3 classes so far and it is amazing, classes are twice a week and I have a postnatal DVD to use as well. It's hard, it pushes your limits and gets your body working to repair those post partum muscles.

Especially the abdominals. Something I did not know about was how they stay stretched out and my caregiver never checked them when I went in for my postpartum check up. This is something to think about especially if you plan on getting pregnant again. Core support is so vital!

I asked Andrea of FitMom to contribute to this post. I care about my health and I care about all my mama's here. So please give this a read and below we will have a giveaway for FitMom Post Natal DVD. Stay tuned we have lots more to come with EM&B and FitMom. I am going to tranform my body through FitMom and share it with you.

Pregnancy and Postpartum - Restore Your Core
by Andrea Page

Are you concerned about abdominal separation? Do you know how to address it? Do you know what it is? Why did my caregiver not check for this?
During pregnancy, most woman separate down the middle of their rectus abdominus (the six pack) a small amount or more. A small amount of separation is normal but pregnant women should take a preventative approach to prevent further separation that can lead to complete separation.
At Fitmom, we recommend having your abdominals checked by a trained expert or caregiver one time in the first trimester, twice in the second, and three times in the third. By doing so, you and a trained expert can decide how to approach abdominals throughout pregnancy.
Postpartum women should have their abdominals checked to assess the remaining separation to determine how to best rehabilitate or close the opening. In some cases referral to a physiotherapist is necessary.

Stay tuned for Andreas next post on the MUST DOS and DO NOT exercises during pregnancy and beyond to stabilize your core and protect it from severe separation and rebuilding a stable core in the postpartum phase.

Enter to Win FitMoms Post Natal DVDFinally a postnatal workout that really works. North Americas premiere pre and postnatal fitness specialist whips beginners up to athletes into shape with guaranteed success!

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A review on Cottonkind Diapers ~ Enter to win!

2012-01-24T13:30:00.000-05:00

Eco friendly, affordable cloth diapers made in Canada.

Follow Cottonkind on {Twitter}
Friend Cottonkind on {Facebook} Check out their basics on cloth diapering link!

I had these diapers reviewed by Mandy. A loyal and wonderful fan, friend, shopper and follower of Everything Mom and Baby.

Theses are Mandy's words on her review of Cottonkinds, Fitted Diaper and Cover.

The fitted diaper had the most adorable "wise owls" print it was very retro. According to the CottonKind website, the fitted diapers are made with 5 layers of cotton flannel and have a matching doubler with an additional 4 layers. A total of 9 layers in the wet zone. They are made with a higher rise in the back area to keep in "poo-spolsions" and adjust with a hook and loop closure that also contains laundry tabs to help eliminate the tangling of diapers. I personally found the laundry tabs to be slightly smaller in size and therefore they would not keep closed/secured in the wash. As a daytime diaper, they worked well. The absorbancy was fine when changing every 2-3 hours. While using them overnight, they didn't contain well. My little one sleeps through the nights and therefore is a super soaker because of that. The 9 layers of flannel were saturated in the morning.

Fitted Diapers Features: $18

5 layers of super soft, absorbent 100% cotton flannel
Snug fitting elastic legs and back to prevent leaks and blowouts
Laundry tabs keep velcro closed during washing
Each Diaper comes with a matching doubler for 4 extra layers of absorbancy
Generous velcro tabs adjust to fit as baby grows
Higher back rise keeps explosions contained
Requires a waterproof Cover
See our Cloth Diaper Basics page for care instructions and more
Choose from 3 sizes: Size 1 (up to 15 lbs), Size 2 (15 – 25 lbs), Size 3 (25 lbs+)

Diaper Cover
While she was wearing the fitted diaper, we used the cottonkind cover in "bubblegum". I really liked this cover! It fit very well and had the generous rise in the back. I prefer the higher rise diapers for more coverage, but that is just my personal opinion. The cover also has the velcro closures that the fitted diaper has. I really like this for grandparents or daddies that are inclined to put snap diapers on incorrectly. The laundry tabs were again, slightly smaller than normal and therefore caused some issues in the washing process. The cover was easily wipe able so that I could reuse it over again with a fresh diaper. I also used the cover with prefolds and flats and it worked wonderfully!
Cover Features: $15

Made of 2 layers of waterproof PUL (polyurethane laminate) fabric. PUL is the most popular fabric for cloth diaper covers because of its softness and ability to stop leaks in their tracks
Fits perfectly over our Diapers for the complete cloth diapering package
Snug fitting elastic legs and back to prevent leaks and blowouts
Laundry tabs keep velcro closed during washing
Generous velcro tabs adjust to fit as baby grows
Higher back rise keeps explosions contained
Covers dry in about 10 minutes in the dryer. Less drying time keeps covers in excellent condition for longer
See our Cloth Diaper Basics page for care instructions and more
Choose from 3 sizes: Size 1 (up to 15 lbs), Size 2 (15 – 25 lbs), Size 3 (25 lbs+)

After many uses and laundering, the diapers have essentially held up quite well. The stitching is quite strong and the workmanship is very well done. Although they diapers are not the first ones we reach for, they have remained in our daytime rotation. The cover has been used many times during the day and night, without issue. I hope to use it again in the future on more little ones!

~ Mandy

Disclosure: Cottonkinds provided Everything Mom and Baby with samples for the purpose of this review.

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Fun idea's to do when it's too chilly outside!

2012-01-18T11:20:00.003-05:00

Brrrr..baby it's cold outside!

You're home, you look around at think what to do? Well you could put the TV on, you could pop in little one's favorite movie that you've seen for the umpteenth time....give them the iPad to play with...
Well if you do the app thing you have to check out Fisher Prices free apps for the iPad and iPhone.
We did this yesterday and just download some fabulous books from Laugh and Learn and my son has a kick playing with it. Best part....it's F-R-E-E! When you go to iTune just type in Fisher Price or click {here}. I had no idea such apps existed. Win!

But we're also good about turning everything off and having some fun, one on one time.

Some of the things we enjoy doing together is baking and cooking. My little chef loves to stand the stool and stir the pot(no pun intended) You know a great book for those kids that love to help and love to be in the kitchen is Cook School by Amy Grant. It has more than 50 fun and easy recipes to suit your child's age and ability.
See what we made {here}

We love to be creative, it's a nice stimulation so we love arts and crafts.

But what's a super cool book to get is Paper Toy Monsters.
I love books and I love getting idea's from books for fun things to do.
All you need is this fantastic book and glue!
The monsters pop out, you fold and glue. Plus you get 10 blank templates so you can design your own paper toy monsters.
With this fun book you can make 50 paper toy. I bet you have a little boy that would like this.

Why not embrace winter?

Get outside! So tobogganing! Make snow angels! Make Snowmen! Be a kid again yourself!

What you could also do is have your friends kids over to have a snow ball fight, build igloo's and give those moms a break and when the next cold freeze comes, switch it up so you send the kids to their place and you can have a nice quiet afternoon at home...or the spa!

Or.......make puppets and have a puppet show! If you wanna switch it up a bit when the moms come back to pick the kids up put on a Puppet Show for them. Have the kids make fun paper puppets or materials that can be found around your home like socks and gloves.
I got loads of idea's from this awesome book, 10-Minute Puppets.

And if you get some time yourself like swapping as suggested above or when it's nap time, check out Craft Mama!
49 fun, easy no sew craft ideas that aren't expensive and that is easy.
Or just put your feet up, blog, facebook, catch up on emails, sleep whatever!

Need more ideas? Check our Fisher Prices' Play and Learn Family Activities!

Winter only comes once a year, I hope you liked some of my idea's. What's yours? Post below on the comment section of this post :)

Disclosure: I am a Fisher-Price Mom and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

The Bonne Femme CookBook ~ Simple, Spendid Food That French Women Cook Every Day

2012-01-17T14:46:00.001-05:00

Looking for fresh, fabulous food to cook? This book is for you! Intimidated to cook like the French?
Please don't be. It is not as hard nor intimidating as I thought it was when I first started cooking French Cuisine. I love cooking French and it is my preferred and favorite way to cook.
I am all about using butter and cream but it's not all about the richness that one associates with French cuisine.

I have made so many recipes from this book and one recipe that I want to share with you is Ratatouille.
A gorgeous medley of vegetables in this Provencal dish.
I chose Ratatouille because it is something you can make for the whole family including your infant who is starting solids. Just don't add salt if you want to share with your infant. Salt is not recommend in baby's food as it is too hard for their little kidneys to process.
Packed with fresh tasty vegetables it is also friendly on our waist lines. As a mom I know some of struggle with baby weight and eating more vegetables is a nice way to help shed pounds.

I have eaten Ratatouille with eggs in the morning, last night after Charlie went to bed I pulled my left overs out and had them with pita chips.
When I made my first batch I thought how lovely this would be to serve as an appetizer or cheese platter.
I pictured olives, Lappi Cheese, feta, crackers, nuts, some nice thin slices of german cured meats...... Mmmm...
Or just get a fabulous baguette and serve it as first course or side dish.

Okay here's the recipe:
6 tbsp of Olive Oil
2 Medium thinly sliced onions
2 Red Bell peppers, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks
4 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt & pepper to taste
5 Medium-size tomatoes (about 1 pound) cored, seeded and chopped
1 Bouquet Garni (fresh Herbs de Provence) or teaspoon of the dried herbs, crushed
* use a kitchen string to tie together 3 sprigs of fresh thyme, 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, and 1 sprig of fresh Sage (or tie these herbs in a piece of cheese cloth)
2 Small Eggplants cut into 1-inch cubes
2 Medium Sized Zucchini's cut int 2 1/2 or 1/2 inch strips

1. In a Dutch Oven heat 2 tbsp of the oil over medium-low heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally until tender and starting to turn golden, 15-20 minutes. Add the bell peppers, garlic, salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally until the peppers soften a bit, about 10 minutes.
Add the tomatoes and bouquet garni(I just used Herbs de Provence and sprinkled it in). Increase the heat to medium-low and cook stirring occasionally.

2. Meanwhile heat 3 tbsp of oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook, stirring, for 8 minutes. Add the zucchini and remaining 1 tbsp on oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant and zucchini are crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Add the eggplant and zucchini mixture to the tomato mixture and simmer gently until the liquid is reduced to a tablespoon or two, 5-10 minutes. Check the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed. Remove and discard the bouquet garni.

4. Serve warm or at room temperature. Or chill overnight and bring to room temperature to serve.

Get your own copy of this cook book {here}
Visit Chez Bonne Femme on the internet {here}

Main description

250 recipes that focus on simple, fresh ingredients prepared well.

Wini Moranville draws on years of traveling to and living in France and serves up a hip, user-friendly volume that brings a wealth of up-to-date French recipes and time-saving techniques seamlessly into the American kitchen. Two main-dish chapters, "Saute, Deglaze, and Serve" and "Roast, Stew, or Braise," show readers how to turn out robust and delicious entrees in a genuine French style with ease. Soups that range from light to substantial; salads, both simple and complex; and, of course, desserts round out the picture. In her recipes, wine suggestions, tips and shortcuts, and sidebars brimming with local color, Moranville gives French cooking an accessible and casual spin.

Read more about this cook book {here}

We are giving one copy of The Bonne Femme Cook Book to one cooking EM&B FAN!
*Canadian entries only as per the publisher, click on read more for the Rafflecopter to download.

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2 years ago my life changed with a little recipe...... Happy 2nd Birthday EM&B

2012-01-12T17:31:00.009-05:00

2 years ago I had a little dude just over the age of 1 years. I've never read a blog or knew too much about them. The only time I thought of it or learned about blogs was in the movie Julie & Julia. I love Julia Child, I love French cooking, wine and baking.

I was a part of local mom groups and I always got complimented on the accessories and things I had for my son as well comments on the food I made for him. Most of the moms were at a loss on making baby/toddler food and I didn't understand why they were struggling.
I mean it's just puree's and some chunkier foods. It's not challenging to steam and puree so I gave them recipes and resources that I used.

I was inspired to share recipes like weelicious (she creates all those fabulous recipes, I had this recipe from somewhere else and I can't remember where I got it!) after she asked: "What did you make for lunch" on her Facebook page.
So I posted what I made on her Facebook page and there were a lot of responses from moms wanting that recipe. So with that instead of messaging everyone I went to different sites like Blogger, TypePad, Wordpress etc and decided to go with Blogger and started a blog!

It all happened by flook so I created my blog, Everything Mom and Baby and this was the recipe....Chicken and Apple Fingers

So then my posts became a mix of skin care postpartum, my skin has never been so dry! Surely I wasn't the only one to be sucked dry even after a year of having dear son.
I am an esthetician and aromatherapist so I shared my breast feeding massage method and oils to increase or decrease milk flow. I tied all of them in to the posts before I even knew about reviewing and hosting giveaways. Wait, I forgot to mention I am a product junkie. Big time! So I wrote about my favorite products and pissed off a couple of brands I am sure....

As my blog grew companies started to contact me and I was getting lovely products to review I also declined a lot of media events and products that weren't a fit for me or what I am all about which is:
organic, cloth diapers, baby carriers, skin care, natural health/medicine, food etc.....

I am ever thankful to blogging and weelicious for posting that question one day. I am so thankful for the products I've been introduced to so and I can share them with you and give to you!

It's very fulfilling to be able to share all the wonderful products I come across. 10 years ago no one would be able to access the information I share and information from all the other wonderful bloggers out there.
I've absorbed and learned that I've never thought possible via the web. I learned all of this on my own and am flattered when new moms want to become bloggers and ask me for me advice!
I've met fabulous bloggers and made new friends. I vow to comment more your blogs!

I created an online business within the year of my blog(please check it out!) that I am still learning step by step. I love recommending products and helping parents shop for their new baby. It's a passion of mine as there are so many lines I want to write about tell you about.

Thank you for being a part of Everything Mom and Baby and for following, subscribing, tweeting and liking me on Facebook. I am growing because of you dear moms, dads, friends, cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents. All of you!

What would a birthday blog post be without a goodie bag?

Well I have some of my favorite companies participating in this post that I've blogged about and some of my favorite WAHM's businesses. Here are just a few of my favorite reviews from 2011 and new favorites for 2012!

All giveaways are open to Canada and USA!

One of my passions is baby wearing or I should say toddler wearing. A remarkable company that I do hold in high regard is Boba. The family behind the brand are wonderful, the creators articles on baby wearing are beautiful and I've seen the growth of their carriers over the 2 years.
Boba is generously going to sponsor a carrier for one lucky fan of Everything Mom and Baby!
Read my review {here}.

The Giveaway!

A Boba Baby Carrier

Links you need to know:
Boba's Website
Boba on Facebook
(let them know you entered here on the blog or say Hi!)

~ Enter my boba giveaway {here}! ~

One of my favorites for 2012 baby wearing!
Spring is around the corner and with that fabulous carrier of yours you and baby still need to be cozy. A Kowalli Carrier Cover is what you'll need!
Kowalli has been a favorite of mine that I had the honour to review because from one mother to another, it's nice to support fellow moms in business and Alizah is the fabulous mom behind this brand. All carrier covers are made in beautiful Rhode Island, USA. Quality and material are fantastic! I love my Kowalli! It is such a fabulous baby carrier cover. The cover repels snow, rain and wind (a Toronto winter!). It's made of weather treated fleece so no need to worry about tears and rips. It is a high quality cover.
Use Kowalli in the Fall, Winter and Spring! It fits over your coat, you can unzip your coat and pop baby on the breast if hungry. Makes for discreet baby/toddler wearing nursing as well!

The Giveaway!
A Kowalli Cover of your own!
Links you need to know:
Kowalli's Website
Kowalli on Facebook
Let Kowalli know how you found them on Facebook!

~ Enter my Kowalli Giveaway {here}~

Mama has a carrier what about the toddler in your life? As you know I am a huge fan of Natural Mother Productions. See our current giveaway here for her carriers.
Well Michelle Dunn is graciously sponsoring a Dolly Tai for EM&B Birthday Bash Giveaway!

Natural Mother Productions is based in Ontario and all products are hand made by Michelle Dunn. Carry your baby the natural way!

The Giveaway: A Dolly Tai

Links to know:

NMP Website
NMP on Facebook
Let NMP know you entered!

Enter the NMP Dolly Tai Giveaway {here}

Have you sweetened your laundry? The Laundry Tarts are making a name for themselves everywhere and especially in the cloth diaper community. Again, one of the things I love about blogging are the new friends I have made and it would not be right to not include The Laundry Tarts. Jess and I have connected on line and is one of the geniuses behind the company. We've had many giggles on Facebook. Jess, if you're reading this we have to get together! Jess and her business partner Tanja have brought dessert inspired laundry detergent that is loaded with all the good stuff! No yucky synthetic chemicals! You can read my review from 2010 {here}!

The Giveaway!

The Laundry Tarts are generously giveaway a 10 sample pack of their detergent along with their coveted Sweet Spot Stain Remover.

Links to know:

The Laundry Tarts Website
The Laundry Tarts on Facebook
Let them know I sent you!

~ Enter The Laundry Tarts Giveaway {here} ~

OM by Miquette....This is a new favorite for 2012. I foresee a collection of OM's that I want and will pass them on to my grandchildren once my collection is complete. My Chara OM arrived today. They are beyond cute. Hand made by a talented woman and mother named Miquette. Her family inspires her, she has a love to create all things natural and beautiful and it comes through in her OM's.

What is an OM?

"OMs are peaceful little creatures with big dreams and even bigger hearts. They are collected and treasured by happy people around the globe, but many people don’t know where they come from or why they’re here. Until now…
OMs are the products of wishes." Read more here.....

Magical indeed, made with good intent and love. Miquette the lady behind these is such a beautiful person that it's amazing how you can sense one's energy via internet and emails. Twitter brought us together which is how I came to find out about OM. It's funny how things touch us and what a product can mean to someone.
These are really special gifts and something to think about for 2012.

It fits in my hand perfectly, I feel the love and make my wish.
Each OM comes nicely packaged and with a little card. My beloved Chara is very fitting for me as it stated:

Chara is a caring, nurturing soul…

A Mother and a symbol of the first, beautiful connection we make in life.

She holds her baby OM and knows that someday he’ll grow up to walk beside her on the journey.

Until then, he is peaceful in the arms that were made to hold him, warm in a blanket of love.

Chara and her baby OM celebrate family and motherhood… and all true connections of the soul.

The Giveaway: A $25 Gift Voucher to OM by Miquette
Links to know for the giveaway:
OM by Miquette Website
OM Facebook page
Let her know I sent you!

~ Enter OM giveaway {here} ~

Another favorite item I've reviewed is a product called Healing Hazel.
Who knew the magical properties of hazelwood. The Natives in Quebec did.
I know Hazelwood nuts are delicious as I love Nutella, LOL! But therapeutic jewellery from the wood of the tree?!
YES! I've had many readers vouch on the effectiveness with their teething babies.

I love the look of Healing Hazel brand compared to other hazelwood lines. I like the feel of quality and the look of the Hazelwood used in this line. They are slightly larger/wider and have now incorporated Amber, their newest addition to their necklaces.
It's used for treating teething, eczema and other skin disorders and conditions.

It's alkaline properties is where all the magic happens.

The Giveaway: A Hazelwood necklace of your choice
Links to know:
Healing Hazel Website
Healing Hazel on Facebook
Let them know I sent you :)

~ Enter the Healing Hazel Giveaway {here} ~

Zin Frames is a new find for Everything Mom and Baby. With a love for photography and design I am in love with the vintage inspired picture frames from new Canadian business Zin Frames.
I can't wait to get some gorgeous photography done by Diana Nazareth(check out our 1000 Fan giveaway) and have our picture's beautifully displayed in Zin Frames.
With their new launch of their website, Zin Frames has a fabulous giveaway for our EM&B Birthday Bash! With a great selection of colours you can choose from have fun browsing all the different design options.

The Giveaway: a 8 x 10 frame (you pick the design and colour!)

Links to know:
Zin Frames Website
Zin Frames on Facebook, let them know how you heard about them since they are brand new!

Enter the Zin Frames Giveaway {here}

MiaBebe.
I love supporting WAHM's mom so when I received an email from this lovely fan of my blog I was more than happy to have her participate in my EM&B Birthday Bash giveaway and have her share her love for handmade.
Lynda is a busy mom of two girls and has a passion for making baby clothes.

The Giveaway: A onesie and beanie

Links to know:
MiaBebe Website

Enter the MiaBebe Giveaway {here}

A new line for Everything Mom and Baby to discover is Pearl and Daisy Natural Soap Company.

Snuggle Bunny is what we love for 2012!

I recently had the pleasure to review this line...well I benefited by the soothing aroma of Lavender and Chamomile as my son received a lovely massage after his bath. We used the soap and it gave a lovely lather and moisturizing bath for my sons sensitive skin.

I love the Snuggle Bunny Massage Oil. Apricot oil is the carrier oil and infused with Lavender and Chamomile. It provided a great slip for the massage and the benefits of Apricot Oil are that it provides relief for dry, itchy eczemic skin. The lipid levels of the oil are similar to the skins natural oils. My son has dry. itchy skin so this is a another must have for Everything Mom and Baby.

The Snuggle Bunny Balm is a great product to have handy and to keep in your diaper bag. Great for preventing nappy rash I love it to soothe and hydrate my dry elbows and sons cheeks before the cold air slaps us in the face.

The Giveaway: Snuggle Bunny Gift Set (pictured above)

Links to know:
Pearl & Daisy Natural Soap Company

Pearl & Daisy on Facebook
Let them know I sent you!

~ Enter the Pear & Daisy Giveaway {here} ~

Oh how I love honeydumplings! It is such a gorgeous line. All of the material are harvested and made in Canada as well as the products. What we have for you is their swaddle blankets.

Baby will be snugly warm in their organic swaddle blankets. They have a great stretch to them and is designed with a unique fold down swaddle corner.
You can read my reviews on the line {here}. It is my favorite line to give at baby showers.

100% organic cotton pointelle with natural bamboo swaddle corner. Handmade in Canada. Love, love, love and so luxurious! You have to check out their buckwheat collection.

The Giveaway: Organic Swaddle Blanket
Links to know:
honeydumplings website

honeydumplings on Facebook
Let them know I sent you!

Enter the honeydumplings giveaway {here}

So this is my Everything Mom and Baby Birthday Giveaway! Good luck in your entries and thank you for being a fan of my blog! Welcome new fans!

{ Check out the Current Giveaways on the right side panel here and enter some more fabulous giveaways!}

I do want to hear from you! How can I make my blog better? What else would you like to see on my blog in the future?
Do you have any favorite blog posts or reviews I've done? Tell me!

Has my blog helped you in product purchases in any way? Tell me!

Thank you to my fabulous sponsors and fans for a great 2 years! I look forward to many more!
Please share this post, tweet the giveaways and suggest my page to your friends and family.

Click on the little heart below where it says "Share this post"

Blessed Be! Many Thanks!

Natural Mother Productions ~ Made in Canada Baby Carriers

2012-01-09T19:06:00.003-05:00

I'm going to tell you something right off the bat. I love my custom made toddler buckle carrier by Natural Mother Productions as much as my Manduca carrier. Yes. I said it. It is really comfortable. Really comfortable.

I was jumping with glee when I got this as I have never had a carrier made exclusively for me and made in Canada. The attention to detail Michelle puts into the carriers are amazing. No loose threads hanging off, each seam is made straight and with love.
It is a high quality carrier at first glance when I held it and inspected I knew I had something good. The padding in the upper back offers support and can be folded down for even more support. Dear son is in the optimal sitting position and he loves this carrier as much as I do as he makes sure I have our NMP.
"NMP, momma..bring it" too cute for words and when we're out and about "Momma, hold a me".

I know my baby carrying days are numbered, thank god for toddler/preschooler carriers. If you think I am nuts to carry my son then you have never baby worn, sorry if that sounds bold.
I get lots of looks when people see me toddlerwearing so my bold statement is not directed to you as you know what it means to babywear. That's why you're here!
There is nothing more to complete the connection you have with your child when your child is on you. I feel something is missing when I am not carrying my son and when he is close to me, feeling those sweet breaths on me when he's asleep I feel complete. It's like a hug.

It is the carrier that I reach for first because:

Size(from the waist belt it's length it's 20inches) it is high to offer the support of my 3 yr old, yup when my tot is tired of walking I still carry him. My arms are saved! He's super comfortable and falls asleep within minutes.
It fits around my wait comfortably and extends to out 45 inches
The straps are squishy soft, I love it! Awesome padding.
Width of body across, 16 inches.
It is the only carrier I can criss cross on the back and feel comfortable for my frame. I am 5'9"-5'10" and busty so it is really comfortable for me and nice to have the extra support for criss crossing.
The only con and it is easily resolved is it needs a chest strap and Michelle Dunn the fabulous creator of her carriers can send one out to you or specify you want one in your order which I didn't do or think of so I guess it's not really con :)
My kid was too big for the hoody! LOL! However it is the only carrier I have that has built in UV protection, the white material sewn on the hood...that's the UV protector!

Here is my photo gallery of us out and about in our NMP carrier.


Passed out within 20 minutes!

LOVE

Natural Mother Production is going to generously sponsor a giveaway for one lucky EM&B fan!

When you like her on Facebook let her know how you came across her page.

Natural Mother Productions also does wrap conversions... a MUST HAVE as well a MUST SEE.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dick & Jane Cloth Diapers ~ Made in Canada

2012-01-07T13:30:00.007-05:00

I stumbled upon a fabulous site while looking for Canadian made cloth diapers and I am pleased to bring to you an up and coming cloth diapering company called Dick & Jane Cloth Diapers.

What caught my eye was her unique and different varieties of materials which I love. My weakness is textiles and they are so refreshing to look at compared to the usual PUL that cloth diapers are made of.
Because her diapers are natural fibres, there is a hidden inside layer of PUL so the beautiful material that she makes her diapers with stay nice and dry.
They fit from 8-35+pds.

Nice right? Well the inside is even better!

The Inserts:

Snap-in soakers are included the 2 soakers are serged together and an additional bamboo fleece booster soaker is included for extra absorbency when needed.

The Fit: It's a generous fit thanks to the stretchy elastics used. I love the fit! Great for chunky baby thighs and even skinny legs and long torso. The snaps are high quality and the diaper has washed well; I've tossed them in the wash and it comes out perfect every time, no loose threads or fraying.

You do have to prep the diaper between 4-6 times.

The diaper has front snap-closure with crossover snaps for a trim fit. Snap-down rise to adjust size.

So how did they hold up over night? My reviewer sung it's praises. No leaking from her 9 month old daughter and she loved the wide elastic and snap closures; no fumbling or snaps coming undone or apart. When you stretch for the fit the elastic feels super stretchy and comfortable.

Her baby was nice and dry and this was her fist time using a cloth diaper with suedecloth inner liner and she loved it. No rash, no irritation just a happy baby with no night time leaking. She would buy more and loved that she can fold the extra booster in half for extra absorbency, love the trim fit and no red marks around her daughters thighs. My reviewer could not find any cons in this diaper.

I love this print as it reminds me of the folk art we had in my home of my German heritage

Who is behind this wonderful line?

Annie Allen is originally from British Columbia and now resides in Kitchener,Ontario where she makes every single one of these beautiful diapers. With a passion for hand made and cloth diapers it only seemed natural that she would create her own fluff for her children.

Get your credit cards out and shop {here}
UPDATE: Get free shipping within Canada & US with code: MOMANDBABY

Enter to win here! I am doing this via Google Docs because I am having issues loading Facebook pages on to the Raffle. This is nice, quick and easy too.

Visit these links when entering:

* Which diaper would you pick if you won? Visit site {here} MANDATORY

* Like Dick&Jane Cloth Diapers on Facebook, let her know how you heard her line {here}

* New to Everything Mom and Baby? Like us on Facebook too! {here}
* You can tweet daily! " Win gorgeous #clothdiapers from Dick&Jane Cloth diapers on @MamaAsh77 blog. Enter here: http://t.co/YXDENOC1

* Share this post. Click on the little heart and share on whatever social network you are a part of!

{GIVEAWAY IS NOW OVER}

Winner is Crystal Stewart!

Winner was selected via Random.Org
and has 48 hrs to claim this prize

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Mom's Family Calendar - Get one!

2012-01-03T15:40:00.001-05:00

So is being more organized a part of your News Year Resolution? Well, then this is for you and your busy family.

I present to you dear busy Mother, the Jack of all trades Mom, the Schedule Master Mother Extraordinaire the Sandra Boynton Moms Calendar.

There's just the 3 of us, so here is my sad attempt of a busy schedule using a marker that didn't write so well so I got annoyed and came up with this, you get the idea!

What I really, really, really like from my new 2012 Moms Calendar....

Stickers! It has great stickers to mark important dates. 500 of them!
The grids run vertically, with five columns across the top (one for each family member) and the days of the month running down the left-hand side
A pocket on the last where I can store the stickers or um.....bills!
a write-on, wipe-off magnetic phone list to hang on the fridge

Here's what my busy January Month looks like now, ha ha!

Since I don't have enough space since we only have Charlie(we've been TTC for 3 months...sigh) I've added the star sticker for his #1's (for standing up) and the rock stars for his #2's...because , well... we're all moms here so we can speak quite openly about bowel movements our kids make, it's remarkable how once you become a mother this happens. But I'll share my little issue that recently got resolved.
DS was scared to go #2, it freaked him out and grossed him out. Well, he loves stickers and like over night(might have been a flook and he got over the fear) but he has gotten over it because he loves the rock star sticker and we praise the heck out it and him as he is our little rock star.

But this is just my example as to what you can use this calendar for as there's room for each family member(if you're a family of 5). Of course hockey practice, birthday reminders, band rehearsals, art, dance classes everything your family does can all be added and used with the stickers from this classic story teller and keep you in check!

But as a family of 3 and with a great calendar like this sometimes you have to come up with other ways to make use of things when there's empty spaces that need filling up.

Get it {here}

1st 2012 Product we love: Blanket 212 Evolution fron 7 A.M. Enfant

2012-01-02T19:10:00.007-05:00

If there is one stroller accessory you will ever need it is the hip, stylish Blanket 212 Evolution from
7 A.M Enfant.

I was most impressed with the quality of the product, how cleverly it is made to fit from infancy all the way up to Preschool! It grows with you and it will last you along the years. If you are creating a Baby Shower Registry it retails for $199, find a store near you and order. Trust me, you will love it as much as I do and I wish I had known of this efficient stroller cover sooner.

I have never gotten so much attention walking down the street these days. I thought okay, I got my sexy back, I am sure people were wondering "who is that hot mom?". Umm...No. LOL!
Everyone is checking out how cute, warm and cozy my son is in his 7 A.M Enfant.
I swear 90% of the time people stop me and ask:

* where did I get it?

* how much?

* and I want to be one (coming from strangers with no kids!) Yes it is that luxurious.


Here's how we roll!

Some things you should know about the Blanket 212 Evolution:

It is especially designed to offer protection in extreme weather conditions
With it's heat retention insulation, fleece lining and ergonomic hood it can replace having suit up baby, toddler or preschooler in a snow suit.
This can be used from car to stroller
The cover itself has length and width extensions and a convertible hood!
Fits with most strollers and car seats

What Everything Mom and Baby loved:

Quality, function, material and feeling good knowing my son was warm in the cold brisk air
We also loved that the slits were long so the strollers straps go in nice and easy. You don't have to remove the shoulder straps from the waist belt and then put it back on. I have struggled with this in the past but not with 7 A.M. Enfant. The slits are big enough for the shoulder straps and waist straps to fit together (5 point harness)
Around the hood (interior between the lining) there is an elastic and button so you can cinch up and make the hood fit a bit snuggier and the same goes for the shoulders!
Fleece lined, large pocket in the front
Double zippers and the snaps and velcro closures.
Anti slip back panel! Absolutely brilliant.
There are NO CONS! I could not find anything wrong with this product :)

And what would a review be with out a giveaway to kick in the New Year? Thank you 7 A.M. Enfant for providing me with a sample and for sponsoring this fabulous giveaway!

Here's what you have to do to enter, click on Read More or the actual blog title to get the raffle and let 7 A.M Enfant know how you heard about them on Facebook!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Kobo Touch ~ Great gift for new moms & any avid reader

2011-12-25T18:53:00.001-05:00

The Kobo has been an amazing gift to give this Christmas and here's why you should consider one.

My husband has been an avid book reader his whole life and has never been receptive to the idea of an e-reader. However the new Kobo Touch seems to have changed all that. Now he is anxious to explore e-books.

When I showed it to him, and he finally saw it in person, he was knocked out by how small and portable it was. He loves to have a book in his hands, and he takes them with him wherever he goes. The problem always is that the books can be large and awkward, and it can become banged up if it's in his bag. The Kobo is a perfect size and weight, and he can store many books at once, so he's never having to carry more than one book!

Our living room has a wall of books and to be honest when it comes to moving packing those books can be a pain. He finally got rid of hundreds of books on our last move, and it still didn't seem to make a dent. I'm not going to lie to you, I like to read, but he is voracious! He would be happy if we went out and sat together and read. I'm a woman for heaven's sake, I'm verbal! Anyway, enough about my husband's quirks, we don't have all day.

The convenience of Kobo Touch is he reads numerous books at one time and he can easily switch between books rather than carrying one. He commutes via TTC(Toronto's public transportation) so his life is made easier with one handy little e-reader. It certainly helps that the prices for ebooks seem substantially less than actual books. Even my husband can understand that! This will make both our lives that much easier. Everyone can relate to that!

I do however think this is a brilliant gift for a mom to be or the new mom who loves to read. Have you tried reading a book while breast feeding, bottle feeding or while baby is sleeping in your arms? Reading is not so easy. What is great about e-readers is you need one hand to tap the page and voila...reading just got a touch easier. The battery level is fantastic and can last a month(well 10,000 page turns) before having to give a charge, it also has built in Wi-Fi. See more {here}

Switching to e-reading is something we are new too because of our love for books, we still enjoy going to Indigo and Chapters and looking through books. A good book is a good book whether you have an appreciation for literature in paper back or electronically. We are no longer e-reader snobs.

Kobo Touch is remarkable.
Indigo has free shipping on orders over $25. This would be an amazing baby shower gift and it's still the Christmas season(we also celebrate Ukrainian Christmas, Jan.7) so...that last minute gift you need...well here you go!

Everything Mom and Baby's Year End Contest

2011-12-20T21:36:00.012-05:00

Toronto-based lifestyle family photographer, Diana Nazareth, works mainly on-location to create images that are often described as natural, modern, candid and real. Her latest venture is weddings, a natural extension of her affinity for all things family, love and connections that matter.
She is also a proud member of National Association of Professional Child Photographer (NAPCP), a member of the HELPING HEARTS photography team and the official photographer for Children's Art Theatre School (CATS DRAMA).

Diana serves Toronto and surrounding areas including North, York, Scarborough, Mississauga, Etobicoke, Markham, Oakville, Brampton, Richmond Hill, London, Milton, Whitby, Hamilton and Newmarket and ladies do I have something for you! See her beautiful photography {here}, and she is not only beautiful on the outside but inside as well. A truly genuine soul who is amazing at what she does and she offering.....

a Family Photo Session and Exclusive Digital Collection (all session photo's!): valued at $1075.00

Get your friends and family over to Diana Nazareth Photography to like her page, we need to know who referred them to her page. So ask them to leave a comment. Then add your comment to Everything Mom and Baby's Blog post as to who you referred. This can lead to numerous points! So the more people you get to Like the more entries you get!

*Once that person has liked her page and commented your entry will only count then so we can verify.

~ It's simple to enter ~
(* mandatory)

* For a chance to win simply "Like" Diana Nazareth Photography on {Facebook} that is all that is required!

If you're new to Everything Mom and Baby you can like me on {Facebook} too!

* Leave a comment on this post saying that you liked her page. mandatory

{Diana Nazareth Photography has to reach 1000 likes before the drawing can take place}

To increase your chance of winning, share the news on twitter or your Facebook page(you can click on the heart below where it says share this post) and then leave a comment here (my blog post) telling us you did so. Your name can be entered up to 3 times.

The winner will be selected randomly on January 1, 2012.

A few details ~

1. Winner must reside in Toronto or anywhere in the GTA, and including Markham, Newmarket, Oshawa, Pickering, Brampton, Richmond Hill, Whitby, London, Hamilton, Milton and Burlington.

2. Winner must agree to book their Family Photo Session date by March 31, 2012. Session date must occur by November 30, 2012. No exceptions.

3. Session covers up to 5 family members only. Each additional member is charged an additional fee of $25. Winner agrees to pay for shipping cost of Digital Collection (estimated at $25).

4. Giveaway has no cash value and can not be combined with any other promotion or offers. No transfers permitted.

5. Winner must agree to sign a model release form allowing photographer Diana Nazareth and Everything Mom and Baby to feature winner’s session images on their respective websites and blogs.

If I get her to 1000 Likes I get a Family Photo Session too so please Like!

GOOD LUCK!

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

2011-12-20T14:41:00.004-05:00

Whatever your faith, may you find joy and happiness this Christmas Season as we celebrate the Winter Solstice and one another.

Turn the volume up on your computer to listen.

This ecard personalized with Smilebox

Hexbug by Nano ~ Micro Robotic Creatures

2011-12-19T11:24:00.003-05:00

Okay these are super cool from HexBug. To be honest when I got this to review I didn't think I would think much of it but I do! I love them. The scatter around, my son gets excited when we pull this out and we all play with them...as a family.

I must say it again, these are super cool. I highly recommend them.
I gave a Nano bug to my son, I was thinking okay maybe this will help us get over our fear of bugs which I had passed on to him as we were up North this passed Summer. It has helped :) but they are more of a fun toy to get your preschoolers into early robotics.

This Nano bug moves like a real bug, it flips over and zips around like a beetle. These robotic bugs run for about $5. These make great little gifts and stocking stuffers for the 3+. If you see these, get one. You'll get hooked and get the whole collection which is what we are now into, LOL! You can become a collector online. There are so many ramps to use as well such as a Glow in the Dark Habitat, The Nano Starter Kit is pretty fun too and only $12!

The Hexbug Nano Bridge Battle Habitat Set
The Nano's(bugs) move all over the place and go in circles sometimes. My son was talking to it asking "Do you like going in circles, little bug?" then I pulled this out and the look of amazement swept across his face. We put some more Nano's in it and watched them move around...let the swarming begin! Nano owners would place their bugs on either side of the elevated
arena where they must scurry over an orange bridge, through one-way gates and meet in the center battle platform. HEXBUG Nanos nudge and knock their competitor out of the battle arena
until only one bug is left standing and reigned champion.

The Hexbug Spiral Starter Set and the Elevation Habitat is our favorite and only $20.

Like the name suggests it's a nice starter set and the price is right if you are looking for a little extra something to give this Christmas Season. I would recommend to all my friends as it is a fun toy and the bugs are really neat.

HEXBUG was designed to give children a positive experience with robotics at a young age. Their Everyone is drawn to the HEXBUG intelligent bug-like attributes and eye-catching packaging. Some of the products are so animated, they have fooled my cat dogs and my husbands friends have fun playing with this as well.

I think I'll have to get the Hexbug Spider next....I wonder if that will help get over my fear of those 8 legged creatures! You can buy online and I have seen these at Toys R Us.

{Share this post(click below where you see the little heart) and pass along if you know some one looking for something cool, fun and affordable this Holiday/Christmas Season.}

Recipe of the Day: Cheese-Puff Crowns a la Julia Child

2011-12-17T15:48:00.000-05:00

Oh my god I am in love with these buns!!!!!!!!
They sort of remind me of the buns you get at Red Lobster but these are better..... because these are so easy to make and made by you. If you're looking for appetizers to make this Christmas or buns to have with dinner make a few batches. I love Julia Child and this is my first Julia Child recipe. How do I not have her cookbooks?! I'll add it to my Christmas list for hubby!

I got this recipe from my mother. It's out of a April.4/27, 1992 First Magazine

All I did was follow the super easy instructions.

In a nutshell, preheat oven to 425F. Makes 8-9 buns.

Boil water, butter and salt, remove from heat and throw in a cup of flour. It will look like clumpy at first but will smooth out quickly and look like mashed potatoes.

Transfer to a bowl and while still warm, make a well in the middle, add 1 cup of beaten eggs, about 4. Add the eggs at a 1/4 cup at time (my consistency was perfect at just about a half cup of beaten eggs rather than the cup recommended) It's like a puff pastry formed into a ball and with swiss cheese in the end. So once the egg is added the dough should hold its shape when scooped up on a spoon. That's why it's important to add a 1/4 cup at a time, you don't want it too loose or you'll have to start all over. I used an electric beater when adding the egg.

Beat in 1 cup of the cheese ( I just stirred it in) and form a ring by dropping mounds of the dough in a circle (pictured below) *make sure the pan is lightly buttered and floured.

Cook at 425F for 20 minutes than reduce to 400F for another 20 minutes ( I baked mine for about 50min)

It's crisp outside and moist and savory within. DIVINE!

Ingredients:

1 cup of water
3oz of butter
1 tsp of salt
1 cup of flour
1 cup of lightly beaten eggs(about 5, I was good with 4)
1 cup + 2 tbsp of Swiss cheese.

Win Donny from Monster Factory

2011-12-16T12:34:00.000-05:00

Kyle Mini Monster

Need a last minute gift idea? Cute stocking stuffer's needed? Monster Factory just brought back the mini's priced at $12.95 and these mini's make a cute little gift. I'd like another :)

I first came across the Monster Factory at the One of a Kind Christmas Show. I fell in love with the look, quality, loved that it is a local company made by talented artisans and well....my son could not get enough of them as we were about to leave.
From the corner of his eye he saw the Monster Factory and immediately ran towards the booth.

He saw a whole bunch but we he liked most was Donny.
Donny is part of the Buddy and Friends and we are need of another "companion" for Donny so we are debating which one to get next? I might need your help with choosing!

Donny

This is Donny, he is so cute and goofy looking, he is my son's favorite.

"Donny is ever the opportunist, Donny always has a get rich quick scheme in the works."

Monster Factory is based in Toronto, ON where their studio is located on 471 Richmond Street West, Suite 102. I love supporting local businesses.

All Monsters are made on the premises.
The Monster Factory "is a character toy brand run by Adam Dunn, Rhya Tamasauskas, and Bliss Man. Together they design and create engaging monster characters who live in a strangely familiar world. Combining their backgrounds in film, art, and fashion, the creators have developed a strong sense of collaboration that affects every aspect of their process from storytelling to product design. Their efforts have produced countless monster characters who, despite their appearances, are just like you and me."

With Christmas around the corner take advantage of their Colin Sale and visit their website to see what they are all about.

Monster Factory would like to give you a Donny of your own ( I bought mine!) so ONE lucky subscriber is in for a treat!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Pong ~ The leader in radiation reducing cell phone covers and iPad covers

2011-12-14T15:01:00.001-05:00

I recently just got this to review and while I turn down a lot of companies I couldn't refuse this as a new iPad2 owner.
I have to tell you about it because I think it's important for your pregnant bellies if you sit with your iPad propped on the beautiful belly and for your family members and friends.
I have friends with iPhone's, my husband has a Blackberry and these will be under the tree for them.

With almost every household using/having cell phones and iPads it only makes sense that this Holiday Season one should receive a Pong. I feel much better with my son handling our iPad2. Why? Read below.

Sweet boy playing with my iPad with the pong cover in place

What is Pong?
Developed by scientists out of MIT, Princeton, UCLA and Harvard, Pong cases have been scientifically proven in independent, FCC-certified labs to reduce cellular radiation by up to 95% below the FCC target.

It protects your phone's signal strength too.

Thinking of gifting a child an iPad or cellphone?

An article published last month in the scientific journal, Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine, reported that children absorb twice as much radiation from cell phones as adults do and more than FCC guidelines permit.

Most vulnerable are a child’s brain, eyes and bone marrow, which can absorb as much as 10 times the amount of radiation an adult’s body does.

These findings come just 4 months after the World Health Organization classified cell phone radiation as a potential carcinogen based on a large, global research study.

Pong for iPad2 comes in a nice sleek box with a polishing cloth(loved how it cleaned my iPad2), it has openings around the hard shell case you never have to remove pong. I can easily recharge, turn it off and on and download photo's and apps no problem without having to remove this awesome case.

You can prop it up, the cover itself has a faux leather that easily flips open and closes it can also configure into a horizontal and vertical position. As it's shut the iPad2 goes into sleep mode.

This is the only iPad cover you'll ever need!

and one can feel better using their cellphone or when your kids are using them. It reduces SAR up to 95% below FCC limits while protecting the signals strength.

Get one for yourself, your friends & family. Please share this post, click where you see my little heart below for links.

It is a great product and more should know about it.

To learn how Pong works look {here}

Buy {here}

Elephoto ~ Give the gift of memories

2011-12-10T13:09:00.001-05:00

This Christmas season I've had the pleasure to use a more personal approach to holiday gift giving by using elephoto. I loved all the options for personalized Yuletide gifts....I can't say what I got or everyone will know. But 2012 will look a lot better for the grandparents.

Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Have you thought of creating baby's first calendar? You could with elephoto.

If you want to make affordable options to make your own personalized holiday cards you well they are just a click away.

You can also make lovely poster calendars which is a nice touch with your custom photo's for the grandparents and other family members for 2012 or you can get the photo books which is another great gift where you can add those sweet newborn pictures or other special memories that you hold dear to you.

How easy is it to do?

Simply select your product, theme and upload your photo's. You can easily edit and zoom in to see your creation clearly.

Not only can you use elephoto for personal use but they even have a Business selection for you!
If you are a WAHM and would like to create a catalog, click {here} to see your options.

Elephoto is a Canadian company based in Toronto, Ontario where you can turn memories into magic and they are offering a lovely gift for one lucky Everything Mom and Baby subscriber of a $50 gift voucher.

Why wait to win? You still have time to get this in time for Christmas! Shop now and use this code: MOMBABY15
to save 15%, code is valid until January.31/2012. Start shopping {here}

*Just give it a moment to download or click on Read More for the rafflecopter entry form for the giveaway*

More unique Christmas present ideas: Dolly Tai's and Gumdrop Kids

2011-12-09T11:03:00.000-05:00

Move over Cabbage Patch Kids there's a new heirloom in town to give this Holiday Season and they are handmade in Canada by the very talented Sarah Shaw of Crazy Baby Accessories.

Buy {here}

Her Waldorf inspired dolls are called Gumdrop Kids and they are one of kind and sure to give the little girl in your life one great big smile. She a numerous different styles you can choose from for these gorgeous dolls.
To see what else Crazy Baby Accessories has please visit her Etsy shop for the most adorable doll clothes, hand knit hats for girls and boys and stylish clothing.

Buy {here}

Another great find to go with your Gumdrop Kid is a Natural Mother Productions Doll Slings, pictured to the right.
Handmade in Canada by the uber babywearing mom and carrier maker, Michelle Dunn.

Do you love baby wearing? Well your child can enjoy it as well!
This Dolly-Tai is perfect for your little one to carry his/her dolls or toys. Comes in your choice of prints and featuring the safety and convinence of velro straps, your child will love this early introduction to the benefits of babywearing!

My great finds at the One of a Kind Christmas Show: Holiday gift idea's

2011-12-08T10:51:00.000-05:00

Although this just ended a lot of the venders can be found online and I'd like to share with you some of my favorite finds.

Donny is a monster from Monster Factory, I had forgotten how nice it is to support local, hand made items.

There are lots of monsters to choose from and my little guy clearly stated:
" I don't like real monsters, just pretend ones like Donny"

Well Christmas came a tad early for my guy. I had to get this for him as the girls at Monster Factory could not get enough of Charlie and Charlie could not get enough of this sweet monster who is named "Donny:
Ever the opportunist, Donny always has a get rich quick scheme in the works"

All are Monsters are made in Toronto!
Check out their monster of the week Colin and save!

Another great find was this baby carrier cover from GogoMama Designs.

gogomama

The look of it gorgeous and priced at $120. All made in Toronto by the lovely mama, Jennifer.

It is made from a canvas type material that is a blend of cotton and linen and lined with fleece. The stitching was very nice and looks like a great functional cover. I did not get a chance to try it on due to time (so I do not know if the strap pulls around the neck) but it does fit over most carriers and you can do a hip carry as well as front and back.
It has one strap that goes around your neck and the sides have pullies so you can cinch it up.

See what else gogomama designs {here}

Tapochki

Tapochki

Super cute little booties. They are a handmade wool blend with leather soles and the inside is made of a cozy wool fleece. I wish I had a little girl to get these for! They also come in a brushed twill material as well.

Vintage Baby Revival
Do you love knits for gifts and have your little one bundled up in handmade goodness?
If your little girl loves Little Red Riding Hood this is the {poncho} for her.

Melissa also makes adorable slippers and leg warmers.

See more from her shop {here} I have my eye on her Dijon Organic Cotton scarf!

Something for Mom? I love jewellery personally and knits myself but check out Luxe Design.
Create your own look and design from this Vancouver based company.
Sentimental gifts go a long way and here are some of their designs for mom, sisters, the adopted mama to be and for animal lovers.
I love their idea for bridesmaids! The site has so much for inspiration and the price point for every budget. A must see :)

I love candles and in particular beeswax, the smell reminds me of church and the melting beeswax scent also reminds me of making Ukrainian Easter eggs.

One of the best brands for beeswax candles is Pheylonian. Their candles, including the natural plant fibre wicking remain a handmade craft, utilizing the purest cappings beeswax. Since inception, the Pheylonian's have worked in conjunction with eco-conscious beekeepers who guarantee the finest quality of pure cappings beeswax and bee products. Their family of beekeepers employ integral holistic bee keeping practices, which ensure the exclusion of any artificial honeycomb foundation being used. All Pheylonian wax, honey and bee pollen is sourced from the Northern Canadian Prairies, from a region free from pesticide, fertilizer and GMO crops that have had no commercial activity for over fifteen years.

The Clay Cauldron use non toxic glazes and her beautiful pottery is made in Toronto,ON
Do you have a baker in the family? One will love this bake stack.

All Things Jill.I have a good nose and I know quality when I smell it, after all I started out working with essential oils and was trained and worked with one of the best in city.
I love All Things Jill soaps, the lavender soap was heaven as was just about everything else!
They have you covered from pet care to hand and body care to even baby and male skin care.

Sooth dry itchy skin in a nice warm Oat Milk bath.
The Milky Way, Organic Oats & milk, with petals of Lavender, Calendula, Rose, Chamomile and pure Essential Oil of Lavender combine to create a milky bath to soothe even the most sensitive skin.

Finish off by moisturizing your skin with their delicious body butters and check out their Holiday Gift Sets.

Book Reviews: Potty Training & Bedwetting

2011-12-05T13:18:00.000-05:00

Potty training can be a daunting task. To reward or not to reward? How can we get our kids interested in learning to potty train? How are they going react to their bodies signals?

Well I found Potty Training you Baby by Katie Warren to be a very helpful read.

Babies are smart and one of the quotes that I love from this book is this:

"There is really no need to put off potty training until a child is old enough to tell you he's tired of a wet baby.

Realize that babies aren't incompetent beings, they simply lack experience. While a baby may not to totally control his little system, he can easily grasp the concept."

I thought myself, oh he's not ready, I'll start when he's ready to tell me. Well, he got trained at 2 1/2 yrs old. I got him super excited about wearing Lightning McQueen underwear and well...I did the rewards thing and it got us on the right step.

Potty training takes time and the baby must learn what it feels like to be wet, to associate wetting and the muscles involved to recognize that feeling. It will happen in due time for you but I highly suggest this book to read before you start. Kids get motivated to learn a new skills naturally and you can't force potty training.
Buy it {here}

Another book for the parents here of older kids who are going through bedwetting check out this book
Getting to Dry by Max Maizels, Diane Rosenbaum and Barbara Keating.

I truly had no idea what issue's can arise from night time training. My son usually gets up at night to go and I am there to help him.
But we'll see what happens next year!
This is book is aimed for older children (about 4+yrs.)
This book is a great read and a great learning tool for all parents.

The book starts off asking you/caregivers to respect the dignity of those who wet; they do so not because they choose to be wet, but because they haven't yet learned how to be dry.

Pretty powerful words as I know I've gotten ticked off once or twice when we missed the potty, after reading this I had to change my attitude. So what if I had to do more laundry, so what I had to mop up the accidents.

You'll also learn about enuresis vs incontinence, everyday stresses and what is causing bed wetting? This book covers the pro's and con's of wetting alarms, drug therapies and changes in diet and sleep schedules.
Replace punishment with praise.
Buy it {here}

Bakebook Review: The Rosie's Bakery "All-Butter, Cream-Filled, Sugar-Packing Baking Book"

2011-12-01T14:46:00.000-05:00

Do I have your attention? I mean with a book title like that how can one not have visions of delicious cakes, stacks of cookies and sugar plum fairies?

A brief excerpt:

Throw moderation out the window. When you want that real homemade flavor, from-scratch frosted layer cakes, brownies that taste like brownies, and cookies that taste like the ones your grandma used to make, only real ingredients will do: real butter, real cream, real chocolate, and lots of it.
Thats how Rosies has been baking its award-winning treats for over thirty years, and why the Rosies Bakery All-Butter, Fresh Cream, Sugar-Packed, No-Holds-Barred Baking Book won an IACP/Julia Child Cookbook Award.
Visit Rosie's website {here}

What I loved...well everything but here's what I baked: Rosie's Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

This book is my baking must have. As a SAHM I do have the time to bake and cook from scratch.
I was getting so tired of reading bag labels and ingredients of pre-made cookie dough, pre-made cookies....yuck. I am sick of artificial, Soy by products and other ingredients found in commercial made products.
Kick it old school with me and bake! It is so easy and thanks to mixers really all you have to do is add dry to wet ingredients and mix. Plus it's a lot cheaper, kids are eating "better" and the house smells amazing.

Get a copy of the book {here} it's on special!

Make a batch!

2 cups plus + 1 tbsp of all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
2 sticks of butter, unsalted room temperature
1 cup + plus 1 tbsp of packed brown sugar
1/2 cup + 2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 1/4 cups semi sweet chocolate chips

1. Preheat oven to 385F and line your baking sheets
2. Sift flour, salt & baking powder
3. Cream butter, vanilla and sugars until light and fluffy. Medium speed 1 1/2 - 2minutes, stop the mixer twice to scrape the bowl.
4. Add the eggs to the butter mixture and beat on medium speed until they are blended. About 30 seconds, scrape the bowl.
5. Add the dry ingredients and mix on low speed for 15 seconds, scrape the bowl.
6. Add the chocolate chips ( I used milk chocolate chunks!)
7. Drop by heaping tablespoons. 2 inches apart on the baking sheets
8. Bake until golden and center is light and slightly puffed up. 11-12 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
* Note: This dough is great if you refrigerate first, I did for about 4 hours as suggested in the book. It produces a thicker, chewier cookies with crisp edges.

Happy December.1st!

2011-12-01T10:14:00.002-05:00

Traditions, Eatons, A Christmas Story and Advent Calendars

Oh the Christmas Season. The excitement I had of Santa, presents, going to Eatons to see the Christmas Floor (how I miss the 9th floor of Eatons, those from Winnipeg may remember what I am talking about) and always eating today's and the next day of my Chocolate Advent calendars. Such bliss when you're a little one.
Now, I'm going to get a little sentimental because Hudsons Bay and Sears should be ashamed of themselves. Where's the magic and fun of window displays? HBC does have a nice set up on Queen St. But I am still bitter one cannot buy toys there anymore because Lord and Taylor took over. I miss Eatons, it was my childhood and fond memories of Santa and their toy display.
Every toy that was available was in that window on Portage Ave. Think a Christmas Story (of course I had to include my favorite movie clip, watch it) when all of Alphie and his friends run up to the Christmas window.
Eatons went from 5000 employees to 17000 employee's at Christmas time and those lovely decorations in Eatons? The puppets, the ornate window displays were made by Eatons. Built in house by Neil Cooper who also made the parade floats. I don't know why I found that so cool, maybe if you knew what the 9th floor looked like in Winnipeg with the displays of Disney Vignette puppets, the Fairy Tails as you walked through Santa's Village was amazing and all made in house. Again. Cool.

On display from November 12, 2011 to January 8, 2012 at the Children’s Museum.

If I was in Winnipeg or could come home for Christmas, The Children's Museum is where I would head first with Charlie just so I can see this again. Yes, as a kid and because I am a sentimental fool I miss this and I'd love to see the excitement and wonder on his face that every kid in Winnipeg had seeing this.

Please click {here} to see more, it is magical. I think this will mean more to Winnipegger's. : )

History of the Advent Calendar:

The origin of the calendar, like so many of our Christmas traditions, started in Germany in the 19th century. Different methods of counting down the days to the celebration of Christmas were used.
They used to draw a line with chalk to count the days to Christmas....thankfully things got yummier and is more based towards kids and chocolate.

Some of favorite Advent Calendars.

Well my son is a huge Kinder Surprise fan (please note this not a sponsored post from Kinder) and there's a Kinder Advent Calendar I might have to run and get.
Why I like Kinder? When I was doing blogging for them I had some questions about the plastic being used in the eggs.
I was delighted and want to tell you in case you are curious or didn't even think about the plastic used in Kinder Eggs this:

Both capsules & toys are made with new (non-recycled) material
Capsules & toys ARE recyclable
Capsules & toys are free of PVC and of phthalates
Capsules are free of BPA

I also love the German brands of chocolates that come out so it's a toss up?!

But what inspired me to write this post was what I came across on MomsNet.
Here you can find printable Advent Calendars. You can make it healthy if you wish I guess. Once it's coloured in maybe give them a Christmas Orange, you know those cute little Mandarins that you can buy by the box.
Or whatever else you'd like?

Here are some fun print outs!
Click {here} to print out your own Advent Calendars.
Click {here} to print out the Eatons Christmas Parade Colouring Book!

I hope you liked this post. My blog has been taken over by reviews and giveaways for the past year so this is a nice change for me.

MumMe: Your feet would smile if they could

2011-11-30T10:44:00.003-05:00

(Warning: These socks may cause compulsive smiling and bring unsolicited compliments and attention from random strangers. Wear at your own risk).

I have never had so much fun with a pair of socks. I mean who knew how cute matching socks could be? In fact I want to have more matching clothing for my son and I..wait and my husband. We'll be that family, LOL!
I am impressed with the quality, they have kept up with a lot of washes and they our favorite. When we had guests over we both got a lot of compliments on how cute they were. A great gift indeed!
How did I get them?
Being a contributor blogger for PTPA I had the opportunity to review a MumMe gift set of these fun, cute, quality made socks.

Charlie and I got this pair!

Here are our cozy, happy, fun feet

Where you can get them?
This make for a great gift and stocking stuffer, see their fun styles. Shop {here}

What else I like about them?
They are soft and made of organic cotton, the grips of the socks are PVC free, they are slightly longer so they fit active babies perfectly(no slipping off!).
Learn more here and see who the Mom is behind this fun line {here}

Enter to win a $30 Giftcard from MumMe Wear!

Monkey Foot Designs: My favorite wet bag

2011-11-29T12:44:00.003-05:00

My first impression on my Monkey Foot Designs double pocket wet bag was...LOVE!
I loved the print, the quality, the material and the double pockets so one section can be used for clean diapers and the other for dirty.
It's made of cotton on the outside where as most use the same PUL as the diapers I found this to be a nice change in design and function. The inner material is stronger a and touch different as well, it is called ProCare.

Here are some more distinct features:

ProCare lining seams are sealed to provide even more "wet proofing"! Most other wet bags are just stitched together - the holes created when stitching can cause wicking / leaking if you carry a water-logged item. I double-stitch and zig-zag the seams, and also seal the seams to prevent water from reaching the sewn areas.
Inner and outer layers are sewn separately to avoid wicking
Bags feature a ~ 40" strap with swivel clips at the end and a slide (to allow the strap to be adjusted in length)

What does my fabulous Wet bag look like?

Talk about fun! So many uses for this bag

What I used it for:

love this size for toys!

To be honest I wanted this and the super cute matching small wet bag to use for my sons Leap Pad and use the smaller one for the Leap Frog cartridges. I can fit my iPad2 in it perfectly!
You can use this in numerous ways, in fact I use it as my go to bag when all I need is my wallet, phone, some toys, and wear it around my hip when I am toddlerwearing so I am truly hands free.
It washes easily and I can even use it alone for potty training on the go as it fits our toilet seat cover perfectly.

WIN IT!

Monkey Foot Design is generously giving a fan of Everything Mom and Baby a Medium Double Size Wet Bag of their own so you can use it anyway you like, like me!

Sustainable baby products from Hevea

2011-11-25T12:31:00.011-05:00

The name "Hevea" originates from the Latin name for a genus of rubber trees, Hevea Brasiliensis.

Some of you may already know the Danish line Hevea, but did you know it was created by a mom looking for natural, sustainable products herself? I didn't and I love the line even more knowing a mom is behind the Hevea brand.

These guys from the bath collection Pond is what my son had fun playing with and are his new favorite bath toys and mine as well.

Why it's our new favorite?
Did you know that most rubber ducks are made with PVC which does contain BPA so with warm water BPA leaches into the water and our skin absorbs that water as we splash away.

What we love:
Hevea is free of PVC, BPA and pthlates, also no synthetic is added. What I especially love is there is no silly hole to collect mold!
Imagine your little one squirting that dingy water back into the bath. I love how Hevea has made their toys whole to avoid the grime and mold. These rubber toys are made of 100% natural rubber. No knowing all this I highly recommend Hevea to all new moms looking for the best for their babies.

From the Hevea Website:

The Pond, contains three squidgy tiddly toys - duck, fish and frog - just right for tiny babies and tots. Hevea bathing toys are soft and malleable, yet durable. It’s easy to grasp and squeeze for even the tiniest hands, encouraging baby’s all-important early development skills.

· 100% natural rubber - sustainably produced
· BPA, phthalates and PVC free,
· No added colours or synthetics
· No perforations/hole in the bottom - eliminates grime and mold build up inside
· Soft and tactile to the touch
· No squeaky noise
· The stylish packaging is made from recycled and biodegradable materials
with Hevea signature graphics printed in soy ink
· Handmade in Spain.

Meets EU standard EN71

We'd like to give you a Pond of your own. We have 3 sets of The Pond up for grabs!
Because this giveaway is sponsored through Bug In a Rug Canada this is only open to Canadians.


$39.99