Everything Mom and Baby

Retailer Feature of the Day: BooginHead featuring Squeeze 'Ems-The Re-Usable Pouch

2013-06-17T15:24:00.003-04:00

About:
Squeez’Ems are the newest creation from the popular line of ingenious children’s products, BooginHead. Designed with on the go families in mind, Squeez’Ems are travel and lunchbox ready and easily filled with baby food, applesauce, yogurt, smoothies or any other pureed food. The one-piece pouch comes with an attached lid, eliminating potentially lost parts, and allows parents to feed the perfect portion to their child. Great for all ages, Squeez’Ems are also environmentally friendly, cost conscious and safe. Squeez’Ems are BPA, PVC and Phthalate-free.

Does Everything Mom and Baby like them?

Actually yes I do. I like that I can put smoothies in them as most re-usable pouches only allow for puree's but it does leak a little. I found them really easy to use and clean. The only thing I found is that you have to make sure it's really securely shut closed all the way. I've had a couple of accidents and it's truly my fault for not securing them properly. Even with my puree's.

However using reusable pouches such as BooginHead gets a thumbs up from me. It's the only way I can sneak my concoction of veggies and all that good, healthy stuff.

photo courtesy of Squeeze 'Ems

BPA, PVC & Phthalate Free
One piece to eliminate lost parts
Freezer, microwave and top rack dishwasher safe
Environmentally friendly and cost conscious
Perfect for lunch boxes and travel

But don't take my word for it. I had a another mom from my sons school review one too! Here are her words.

Patricia's Review:With a kid who's always on the go, I was looking for a replacement for the single-use squeezable packs, as they were not only expensive, but not environmentally friendly. Enter Squeeze'Ems: a reusable, refillable squeeze pack that makes both kid and mom happy! During my week of testing, I tried it with various products, and had the most success with purees that had the consistency of applesauce or slightly thicker. Anything runnier would leak out of the nozzle, as the closure seems to be designed for semi-solids rather than liquids. I had some doubts about the ease of use, but my little guy was able to unscrew the cap on his own and needed no assistance using the pouch. Refilling it is mostly easy- using a coffee spoon, I was able to get the product in with minimal mess, though I did find that the puree tended to fall out of the sides of the pouch when being filled and necessitated a wipe-down each time.
I had only one leak during the week of testing, and that was attributed to me not having screwed the top on firmly enough. If I were to give a caveat for this product, it would be to double-check the seal of the top after filling each time, as even a very slightly loose fit will result in a leak. Cleaning is a breeze- I was fine to rinse the pouch with water after a few uses, and ran it through the dishwasher mid-week with no problems. Overall, I found this product to be kid-friendly, easy to use and clean, and a good value. I would definitely recommend it to any parent looking for a safe, easy, cost-effective solution to fruit or healthy purees on the go!

To find a store near you, visit Boogin Head.

A #FathersDay Post for @SearsCA #SearsBabysRoom

2013-06-16T11:50:00.000-04:00

This month as a SearsBabysRoom ambassador we were asked for dad to step in and write a guest post for Fathers Day. We were given options and one was to use a favourite photo. Well, here is my favourite pic of my husband holding our little girl, Isla. Can you see why I love it? I have converted him into being a lover of wraps(this is his favourite), he loves having his babies close to his heart and here's what he has to say!
PS: Sears Days(4 days only and savings are up to 50%! Please click on the link) is a great time to pick something up for Dad to let him know how much his time with kids is appreciated. Spend $50 between June.13-16 or June.21-23 and get $10 in Sears Bucks to spend on your next purchase (between June.24-27) See in store for more details!
xo ~ Erica, Everything Mom and Baby

Before I met my beautiful wife and long before I had my cool and marvelous babies, I was, or so I thought, a pretty snazzy dude. I was a bartender with glorious strawberry blond locks and I hit the gym on a regular basis. Certainly family life and baby wearing were not even a blip on my radar.

Actually, I was the perfect example of the typical male who thought men shouldn't have to be too involved in baby-type things. Changing diapers? You're daft! The idea of wearing a baby carrier or wrap was decidedly unmasculine and completely out of the question. Heck, I was convinced I wouldn't even be in the delivery room!
Then I met my wife.
This photo speaks volumes. I would never have known in Jay B.E. (Before Erica) that wearing my babies would not only strengthen my bond and physical connection to them, but that it could look so darn good. It took me a little while to build up to this realization however.
When my son was born, I was not only in the delivery room, I held my wife's leg, urged her on, and cut the umbilical cord. Believe me, I still am not sure how she convinced me to do this. I owe her big time for that.
Charlie came out with the cord around his neck. The doctor quickly removed it and explained that, although it can sometimes be a cause for concern, it wasn't that uncommon. What was uncommon, however, was what he showed me next.
The cord had a knot in it.
I couldn't believe my eyes. Even the doctor was amazed. Charlie was perfectly healthy and beautiful with no issues. It could have been very different.
'You have a very special boy there,' the doctor said to me.
Charlie is 4 years old now, and has 2 gorgeous sisters now who are just over 2 months old.
Just before the girls were born, the ultrasound suggested that one would be significantly smaller than the other, and hadn't gained weight in 2 weeks. Erica was already dilated 4 centimetres and fully effaced, so the doctors decided we should proceed with the delivery right away.
I was there this time with no hesitation!
I held my beautiful wife's leg again and she pushed both babies out eleven minutes apart!
6 pounds each! Healthy and lovely!
Isla (the first born) had the cord around her neck too!
No knot thank heaven.
I am so thankful every day that I witnessed the birth of my babies, and that despite some obstacles, everything turned out perfectly.
I am here to say that my wife is an amazing woman who handles twins and a 4 year old and a 46 year old with such assurance and maternal grace that it swells me with pride and awe.
The relationship and connection I have with my little ones has been nurtured and guided by her.
When she started her blog all by herself, I never questioned her, nor did I have any doubt that she would have a big impact on other moms and dads.
When I look at that photo it says that I am proud to wear my babies and feel that unbreakable paternal bond that is richer and more satisfying than if I chose not to.
I have come a long way as a dad.
Still look snazzy too! Happy Fathers Day!

Disclosure: I am part of the Sears – The Baby’s Room Ambassador program with Mom Central Canada and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. However the opinions on this blog are my own.

Disney Junior Fans! Win a Toyota Prius and this Fathers Day on Disney Junior Canada, lets celebrate by watching Finding Nemo! #disneyjuniormom

2013-06-10T19:18:00.003-04:00

This June, Junior Canada has a great contest right now and it's a chance to win a Toyota Prius! It's simple to enter.

Here are the details!
Disney Junior is giving away a brand-new family-sized 2013 Toyota Prius v! The prize is valued at $33,000 and you can enter at DisneyJunior.ca and then increase your chances of winning by watching Disney Junior!

Here’s how YOU can earn up to 100 bonus entries:

1.   Watch Disney Junior weekdays in June, between 5-7pm ET.
2.   Spot the Toyota Prius v with a different Bonus Code each day, and enter that code at http://www.disneyjunior.ca/en/contests/toyota/ before the contest is over.
3.   Each correct Bonus Code is worth 5 extra entries - and there are 20 different codes - a new one each weekday between 5-7pm ET!

LETS CELEBRATE!

This Saturday, June.15, 6pm ET

Watch Finding Nemo!

This Fathers Day weekend on Disney Junior Canada starting Saturday at 6pm ET the catch of the day will be watching Finding Nemo and in addition to the Disney's Fathers Day theme you and the family can enjoy watching your favourite shows on Sunday June 16th in their regular time slots, featuring male role models throughout the day.

Are you extra creative? Will you plan a Finding Nemo Party for the family? I might shape my husbands gift as a fish. It's an amber necklace. With twins and a rambunctious 4 yr old, that's all I can do right now in the creativity despartment, lol!

Disclosure: I’m part of the Disney Junior Mom program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

MAM Perfect and Mini Air Pacifiers, MAM Trainer Named 2013 National Parenting Publications Award Winners‏

2013-06-10T15:50:00.001-04:00

“Each year, the experts and parent testers on our jury dive in and review, play with and meticulously test each entry we receive,” says Julie Kertes, NAPPA General Manager. “The products honored with the NAPPA seal this year stood out because of their innovation, quality, and the creative ways they help make parents’ lives easier.”

Since having the twins I can finally understand how wonderful pacifiers are and they do come in handy. These are the only one's Sugar(my sons nickname for Isla) will use and although Banana(Gwen) doesn't care for the paci that much but like her older sister this is the one she prefers when she does choose to soothe.

We're big fans of MAM products.

MAM products including the MAM Mini Air Pacifier, MAM Perfect Pacifier 0-6 months and 6+ months and the MAM Trainer training cup have been named 2013 National Parenting Publications Award (NAPPA) winners.

The Perfect Pacifier was a Gold Winner in the Maternity/Breastfeeding category and MAM’s Mini-Air pacifier and Trainer cup were Silver Winners in the Maternity/Breastfeeding category. See more here...

NAPPA’s independent, expert judges and parent testers evaluated hundreds of submissions for their innovation, safety, quality and the degree to which they make parenting easier. After weeks of stringent testing, 25 products were selected to receive the coveted Gold Award while 60 received Silver and 41 were chosen as Honors.

MAM Perfect

The MAM Perfect Pacifier was recognized as it provides a perfect start, especially for newborns. These are the ones we use. It's thin, super-soft and flexible nipple specially engineered to reduce the risk of misaligned teeth. The unique Dento-Flex™ nipple neck is 60% thinner and 3 times softer than those of comparable pacifiers*; the thinner, softer nipple provides less pressure on baby’s jaw and teeth to help reduce the risk of jaw deformations and malocclusions. Extra small and lightweight, MAM Perfect is available for babies age 0-6 months and age 6 + months. Suggested retail price: $5.99 each.

MAM Mini Air

A mini version of the award winning MAM Air pacifier, the MAM Mini Air features a lightweight shield curved for maximum comfort, Ultra Soft Silicone Nipple to stay securely and comfortably in baby’s mouth due to the anti-slip texture and symmetrical nipple ideal for baby’s jaw development. Wide openings in the shield provide extra air flow allowing for baby’s skin to breathe and the Mini Air comes in a reusable storage case that can be placed in the microwave to sterilize pacifiers.

Suggested retail price: $5.99

About MAM

Our mission is to combine the best in technological innovation, medically sound function and contemporary design to help give babies the best start in life. Founded in Vienna, Austria in 1976, MAM is a leader in providing families with innovative baby care products essential for a child’s early years. A trusted brand for over 25 years, MAM is sold in over 30 countries and five continents. For more information about MAM products, please visit mambaby.com. Follow MAM on Facebook at facebook.com/MAM USA and on Twitter @MAMBABY.

Win a gift pack from MAMbaby.com that will include MAM Trends and MAM Animals Pacifiers. It's simple to enter. Tweet and share it!
Enter your name and email address here.
Please comment with the urls to your tweets on this blog post.
Thank you for entering and good luck! You can tweet up to 3x a day.
Giveaway ends June.17, 2013. Open to USA and Canada

RT: @MamBaby wins @NappaAwards for their MAM Pacifiers! Read more and win on EverythingMomandBaby, @MamaAsh77 http://goo.gl/GVGn8

It's an "Ubbi" wonderful diaper pail! See why this is a Must Have for your baby's nursery.

2013-06-07T14:33:00.001-04:00

"Use a cloth bag or ANY regular bag" do I have your attention? If you're diapering I sure think so!

I've been using Ubbi since the girls were born but boy let me tell ya. I sure wish I'd known about Ubbi with my first born. I like this 10x more than DiaperGenie. Sorry my friends at Playtex!

Right off the bat I'll tell the first 3 things I love about Ubbi.

Made of stainless steel...yes. It's eco friendly, visit Ubbi to learn more.
Keeps the stink out
Can be used with disposable diapers or cloth diapers.

Pertaining to my comment #3, as a new mom of multiples I thought I would be cloth diapering from the get go. Reality came quickly and I admire those who do cloth diaper multiples but I'll be a more disposable diapering mom with the girls I think. Less laundry but I have been really happy with Mabu Baby.

I have some great cloth diapers to review that the girls are only now almost able to fit into but what I like about Ubbi is I can go from disposable to cloth with this pail and not have to purchase another diaper pail to suit our cloth diapering needs if and when that day comes.

What else do I love?

You don't need to buy extra diaper bags! Just use a regular plastic shopping bag!

No more having to venture out to the toy stores to search the isles for that one particular bag to use for that diaper pail. I think we know who we're talking about ;) However you can buy Ubbi bags if that's your thing but I suggest you get their cloth bag, toss it in the wash when needed and for fun dress up your own Ubbi with their fun decals.

This a baby registry Must Have and is one of my most recommended products I share with new families to get and with that I give it my Seal of Mama Approval.

and.......

There's no smell! I had to say it twice.

I've tried this with both disposable biodegradable diapers and cloth diapers. Thanks to its powdered coated steel it doesn't absorb odours like plastic diaper pails.

Easy to use! No small hole to stuff your hand!

It's baby proof! There's a little knob you turn to lock it so your curious tot can't open and throw god knows what it!

WHERE TO BUY:
Want to buy your own Ubbi? Visit http://www.ubbiworld.com/shop.php in the USA and for Canadians please visit www.oyaco.com

Win an ubbi of your very own or win it and give it as a gift.

Giveaway is open to Canada Only

Please visit my sponsor Oyaco.com website for a retailer near you. Oyaco has a wonderful selection of the most innovative parenting products on the market and is located in my favourite Canadian city, Calgary, AB. Pull out your credit cards!

Giveaway ends June.21, 2013

Please click on Read More to enter the Rafflecopter.
*do not enter under anonymous or unknown, it will be automatically moved to the spam folder.
Good Luck!

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Retail Therapy: Shopping on Etsy and finding great handmade items; FlippinPiggies

2013-06-06T22:40:00.003-04:00

Since the girls have arrived I've been dealing with my lack of sleep by going online and doing a little retail therapy. I came across a great Canadian WAHM company called Flippin' Piggies.
"All wooden beads and material used are produced in Germany with the highest quality, non toxic, lead free and even saliva proof".
I loved the fun colours and selection. Since the girls use paci's, a world I am new to I wanted to get them these.
Check out her site. I had amazing service too. I can't wait to tell you next about an amazing little etsy shop from Latvia. I just got the goodies today!
(not a sponsored post)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/FlippinPiggies

#SearsBabysRoom: My top 5 Must Have's from @SearsCA

2013-06-06T09:12:00.000-04:00

I recently had the pleasure to visit my local Sears Babys Room for a tour in downtown Toronto and while I was given the tour of their 5 departments which consists of Nursery(crib/bedding), Travel(car seats), Feeding(high chairs etc), Bath & Accessories(tubs, toys) and Gifting(Layettes, rattles etc) I realized this is the only place for families in the heart of the downtown core that can shop all things for their growing family. There truly is nothing else available at the Eaton Centre.

Shopping at SEARSGreat staff, great prices and quality brands.
I think my favourite part of the tour was all the stroller accessories and little nik naks. Being a mom the second time around I am familiar with all the baby gear and now with little girls I can get all things girly from stroller dolls and play gyms from Bright Starts to stimulate them visually, cute reusable bags from Itzy Ritzy and MAM pacifiers. My one twin needs a paci and MAM is her favourite and of course Carters and Osh Kosh clothing, exclusive to Sears Canada.

(pictured to the right)

But often I am asked, "What are some of your favourite items and /or what should I add to my baby registry Erica?"

Well after the tour here is what I picked......

Everything Mom and Baby's Top 5 Essentials

From all 5 departments, here are my favourite items to consider for your baby registry:

Angel Care Bath Support, view it online at Sears Canada

Fisher Price Space Saver High Chair, view it online at Sears Canada

Chicco "Fuego" Car Seat, view it online at Sears Canada

South Shore "Cottage" Armoir, view it online at Sears Canada

Jolly Jumper Boomerang Shape Nursing Pillow, view it online at Sears Canada

I hope you like what I picked. I'd love to hear from you. What are your essentials when planning for baby besides hoping for sleep ;)

Disclosure: I am part of the Sears The Baby’s Room Ambassador program with Mom Central Canada and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

I love my Booby Trapper! Enter to win and save 15% off your purchase.

2013-06-03T18:39:00.000-04:00

Since the birth of my twins and using Booby Trapper at the hospital I have been meaning to tell you my experience for the last well....7 weeks!
I misplaced my Booby Trapper one day and grabbed my old one(the Hooter Hider) that I used from Charlies days as a baby and wow...what a difference. I hated it and had to find my Booby Trapper. True Story. It was too small and I guess I was spoiled by the comfortable size of Booby Trapper. Nursing moms that prefer to cover and nurse...look no further. You'll love your Booby Trapper and here's a code to save 15% off your very own nursing cover.

Shop Booby Trapper and use the code: EMB2013

to save, save, save!

What's important to me?

I can nurse discreetly
My baby is in clear view at all times
As my twins learn to latch I can easily look down and guide them
It is wide and gives me room to move and maneuver without exposing my self.
Comes in great prints and there's an organic cotton option
Made in Canada
I never leave home without my Booby Trapper
It's the best nursing cover I've used

To celebrate giving it my award I want you to WIN IT!

Booby Trapper is generously hosting another giveaway on Everything Mom and Baby!

Our giveaway is open to Canada and USA and ends June.17/13

Click on Read More or blog title to enter the Rafflecopter.
* Please do not respond under Anonymous or Unknown, it will be deleted and regarded as spam

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Fisher Price launches the new Laugh and Learn site! #BestLittleLaugh

2013-06-02T11:01:00.000-04:00

Have you heard about The Best Little Laugh?
I'm very excited to tell you about a new campaign from Fisher Price. If you think your little kiddo has the best laugh I suggest you tape it and upload it on Fisher Price's new website for a chance to win the Best Little Laugh Contest. There's weekly prizes and just some of the items to win is the Laugh & Learn Crawl Around Car....before it hits stores!

What's all the hype about?

" Fisher-Price is very excited about the launch of their new Laugh & Learn site! It’s a fun place on the FisherPrice.ca that offers webisodes, fun games and activities, a place where you (well, your LOs) can meet the Laugh & Learn characters, enjoy fun apps and learn about what’s new and upcoming from Fisher Price! "

Free Fisher Price Apps!

Just the other day in the midst of crying babies and changing them one at a time their wonderful big brother wanted to grab the attention of one of the twins to help settle her down. While I soothed the other I went on my iPad and searched for baby friendly apps and the first one that came up was Fisher Prices Giggle Gang App! Brilliant I thought. We giggled, well my son and I because the babies are too young..hahahaha...of course! Anyways..there's the Free Fisher Price Giggle Gang App and well since my gals aren't 2 months old yet my 4 1/2 yr old enjoyed it. There's also their newest app called Laugh and Smile is their newest addition to all the great free apps you can download.

MY FAVOURITE PHOTO'S...I wish I could add a giggle to this photo!

These are just a handful I'd like to share with you of my son. I love his smile and he has the best laugh! I'll have to upload it some how.

CONTEST DETAILS:To celebrate the launch of this new site, Fisher-Price will be hosting an AMAZING new contest called the Best Little Laugh! This contest will be celebrating all those insanely-cute, over-the-top-adorable smiles, giggles and laughs.

GOOD LUCK!

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

Everything Mom and Baby "Tech Friday": Nexus 7 Tablet Review @StaplesCanada

2013-05-24T12:15:00.002-04:00

Before I begin this review I need to make one thing perfectly clear-I am in no way an electronic whiz and this review is for the layman or woman wanting to know about the Nexus 7 Tablet and it is amazing. I know what I need from a tablet and this device delivers.

I want a tablet to keep my daily notes, give me access to Facebook, Twitter and email. I want to be entertained with easy access to music, movies and games. All the basics. The irony is the Nexus 7 Tablet from Staples.ca does all that with its Android operating system(4.1, Jelly Bean and is the latest version) with great ease but I'm finding myself using the extensive GoogleBook app way more that I ever thought. It's a fabulous e-reader! Back-lit and it's the size of a paperback. I actually prefer this to my Kobo. Pages download quickly as do the apps thanks to the NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor.

Size and Shape

Size matters. Sorry but it had to be said. The Nexus 7 is the perfect size and shape. It's smaller than our iPad which has been bothersome to me for packing in my diaper bag. The Nexus 7 has a terrific screen size for movies, games etc.. and I can take the tablet with me everywhere and fit in my coat pocket. It's not in any way obtrusive. It's high-resolution display protected by scratch resistant corning glass. It has over one million pixels so your HD movies are clear & bright as are when you're playing games.

The widgets are designed for the greatest ease of use and using the Nexus 7 is straight forward and easy to use. You hold any icon down for a second and you can move it anywhere, in my humble opinion Nexus 7 takes to the next level for finger touch control.

Apps

I love the apps available. Google Earth is amazing. My husband has spent hours(the Nexus 7 has brilliant battery life) going around the world and honing in on cities and mountain ranges to visiting his hometown and the street he grew up on.

The Voice Search is really great too! I've always been suspicious of voice activating apps-they never hear you correctly. This one is spot on. Even for my husband who sometimes mumbles. He said he feels like Captain Kirk when he uses our Nexus 7 and Voice Search.

I have to sing you the praises of the Android 4.1 system. From its writing edge technology to its speed and uniqueness - but all I really care about is whether I can figure it out and use this tablet practically. The bells and whistles are cool and we are still discovering more and more but it's size, ease of use and intuitiveness are my big positives. One negative that I have heard about androids it's battery life.

My husband like I said above has spent hours on Google Earth, downloaded apps, played music and has watched video's and it has not run out as quick as other android products. The full charge has lasted him a reasonable amount of time and that is very important to us.

We've been very pleased with the Nexus 7 Tablet and highly recommend it. With Fathers Day around the corner I think this will make the Father in your life very happy!

Thank you Staples.ca for sponsoring this review.

A food delivery service with a cause: DonateNaturally.com

2013-05-21T13:53:00.002-04:00

I really like this. What is this exactly? Well I've been looking around for a organic delivery food service and I came across Donate Naturally.
This isn't your usual home delivery service. Well it is but it has a fabulous twist. You can fundraise while you shop! It's great actually. 15% of your sale goes to a cause of your choice. I really love that and to see where they have donated have a look at their Donation Recipients. This is also a Canadian wide service! They can deliver non perishable items via Canada Post.

You have a great selection of fresh groceries, infant and child care to even household and lifestyle and special diets.
I just did a Weekly Staples Bin that had my favourite Harmony Homo milk, Brick Street Works Bread and Green Valley Eggs.
If you'd like a wonderful selection of natural produce, friendly front door delivery and to donate then check out Donate Naturally. It's really quite nice.

They offer home delivery Tuesday-Friday to the following areas:
Oakville
Mississauga
Brampton
Toronto
Scarborough
Richmond Hill
Vaughan
Markham

Donate Naturally The Everyday Fundraising Group

178 St. George Street
Toronto, Ontario
M5R 2M7

416-461-0350

The Healthy Shopper 2013 Spring Picks

2013-05-21T13:05:00.002-04:00

The Healthy Shopper™is a website that has offered a coupon book since 1999 and is the #1 coupon book for natural and organic products in Canada.

They are passionate about the natural health industry and they practice what they preach. That is why they created The Healthy Shopper™ coupon book – to encourage more Canadians to pursue and/or maintain a more natural lifestyl e. I do though encourage you to make your own decisions and research the products offered.

The Healthy Shoppers, Randy Boyer and Andrea Donsky, want to talk about making every day earth day, because what’s good for us is also good for the environment. Their Spring 2013 Picks are easy to find in your local grocery store, and in many cases your neighborhood pharmacy.

“We want people to understand that it’s not just fat and calories they need to watch, it’s also what’s in the products they’re using,” said Boyer, co-founder of the Healthy Shopper.

Our focus is on the importance of reading labels, if you don’t understand it, you probably shouldn’t be eating or using it.”

SPRING 2013 Picks

Their top “picks” include a delicious organic coconut spread from Earth Balance, some organic salsas from Simply Natural Organic Salsa, and organic yogurt from Olympic Dairy as healthier alternatives. For your personal care, they’ve chosen a homeopathic remedy from Hylands to help with restless legs and leg cramps, an all-natural bruise cream from Zax's Orginal(although it does contain phenoxyethanol) for quick healing, and some eco-conscious feminine care products for new moms as well as intimate wipes and baby wipes from NatraCare.

My favourite products from The Healthy Shopper were the NatraCare products such as the New Mother maternity pads(organic & comfortable), the NatraCare baby wipes are ever so nice and smell just as good and their Intimate wipes sound nice although I'll be honest I haven't used them yet but the ingredients are safe and good. Visit NatraCare

As a new mom and with no time to cook I also appreciated reviewing their selected organic salsa's from Simply Natural Organic Salsa. What did I love most? The selection and variety and being GMO free!

Order your free coupon book from The Healthy Shopper today and save, save, save!

Visit The Healthy Shopper on Facebook for more deals and tips on their favourite products.

New Subscription service is coming to Canada! Check out Stork Stack

2013-05-14T13:25:00.000-04:00

I love the subscription services that come for monthly delivery. It really is a brilliant business idea as who doesn't love to receive 'monthly gifts' in the mail. Especially when it's a surprise and all you know is that you're guaranteed quality products.
Stork Stack contains 3-4 products for your baby and 1-2 for you. 5 products in total, and Stork Stack always has something for mom. All products are tailored to you, your child, and the experiences you encounter each month from your 3rd Trimester to your child’s 3rd Birthday.

I recently became introduced to Stork Stack for review purposes but I do see myself becoming a customer. A company from the US that is making their way up to the Great White North. I absolutely loved what I got. It's the right price with free shipping, quality products, professional looking wrapping and packaging and most of all I was impressed with the quality selection of products.

What did Everything Mom and Baby get? Well the Go Green for Aprils theme did not disappoint! US Fans, subscribe! Trust me you'll love it and it makes the perfect gift as well. Naturally it meets my standards for a quality product so I gave it my Seal of Approval!

Organic Farm Buddies from Apple Park : I know my twins will love the Farm Buddies. I love them too for their organic materials and cute designs. $9.95

Eco Sprout Soap: I was really happy to see Eco Sprout. I remember when they first started out. Great family company. I have yet to the soap...but I will! $2.95

Green Envee Soothing Aloe and Calendula Lotion: This smells heavenly and I love it. My son loves it too as everything makes him itchy. I was very happy to find that this didn't! $22

Green Toys First Keys: My girls will have their first set of keys ;) Great teething and fun for play and grasping for their little hands. I like that this brand is made in the USA $7.99

Banana Chocolate from Candestino: My son loved this! Thankfully he shared and even my super picky mom enjoyed a bite!

So how much does Stork Stack cost a month? A mere $27.99! Did you see all the product I got and it's value? The value was 42.99! Sign up {here} Canadians, don't fret it's $27.99 for you too and $5.99 for shipping. Stork Stack is shipping to Canada, starting May.1st

Open to USA and Canada

ends May.30/13, winner will be announced on May.31/13

Please read the terms & conditions upon entering and Good Luck!

Click on READ MORE to enter the Raffle.

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Our Maternity Photo Session with Trina Photo

2013-05-11T09:14:00.001-04:00

I've never had professional photo's taken. Something I greatly regretted not having at my wedding nor with my first pregnancy either. When I met Trina of Trina Photo at FitMom after she took a couple of pics of me during my weight loss journey. I knew she was the one that I wanted to capture this important stage in my life when it came to our maternity photo shoot. I mean..I was expecting twins. A double blessed miracle!

Her warm personality, her experience, her website & portfolio is fantastic and her ease at making you comfortable in front of the camera. She made my husband relax! He hates posing and in the end he couldn't stop talking about the photo session and how great Trina was.
Here are just some of the personal photo's I'd like to share with you. It's hard to imagine that 5 weeks after these photo's were taken we were blessed with our twin girls.

Big brother can't wait to meet his sisters

I like this one as I am thinking "Oh my god. I'm having twins!"

31 weeks!

My boys!

"Yep. Two girls"

"Pure love"

Working with Trina was one of the best experiences that we've shared as a family. We will always treasure these photo's that Trina captured. She caught our personality in every shot, our love is in every picture, we had fun and her creative idea's where wonderful too.

We decided to get outdoors for more wonderful family pictures!

Oh how I miss being pregnant!
But wait! Look what was inside :)

Our little fraternal twin girls! They are about 2 1/2 weeks old.

With Mothers Day around the corner or if you or someone you know is expecting I cannot speak highly enough of our experience with TrinaPhoto. She is a talented photographer, a smart photographer as she always gets the right angle and she is fun, welcoming and extremely professional to work with.

I truly hope you'll take advantage of this excellent promotion. Do let me know if you did. For those who have been there and done that....Did you have professional photo's taken while you were pregnant?
~ something special for you!~

Mama's and Dada's Special Double Session

-2 mini sessions (1/2-1h long each)
-Session 1 with just the kids includes a 5x7 print credit
-Session 2 with the whole family (up 2-5 people) includes an 8x10 print credit
-includes a photo disc of both sessions with low res files in both colour and B&W
$225+tax (saves $75)
The catch - Session 1 needs to be booked for before June 22, Session 2 needs to be booked for before Sept 1.

Book your photo session today at TrinaPhoto.com
Like TrinaPhoto on Facebook

All content and photos © copyright Everything Mom and Baby. Please do not reuse without my written permission.

Retailer Feature of the Week: Swaddle Tee's Swaddle Blankets. Night, Night, Sleep Tight!

2013-05-09T15:10:00.005-04:00

I recently stumbled upon a new company called SwaddleTee that found me on Twitter. I am glad they did because these swaddle blankets are beautiful in a natural cream and made of super soft, luxurious Pima Cotton and actually keeps my babies swaddled!

What makes this swaddle different?
The material is made with soft Pima cotton and the material is t-shirt quality.
It goes on like a top with the little hole where the head rests, you flip the material over so it's like a t-shirt, match the two openings and wrap baby up and tie. It also looks really pretty and your little Houdini will have a hard time getting out! Baby has the swaddle feeling of security and comfort.
It does work well with my twins but if your baby is really small or preemie the SwaddleTee is not recommended. My twins are a month old now and seem quite content in their SwaddleTee and thankfully do fit.
Read more on safety in their FAQ.

Where to Buy?
Visit SwaddleTee and purchase yours for only $29.99

Here's how it works:

Here are my girls in Swaddle Tee!

All content and photos © copyright Everything Mom and Baby. Please do not reuse.

I give SwaddleTee a thumbs up and it deserves my Seal of Approval for it's great product!

SwaddleTee would like to offer one lucky reader a SwaddleTee of their very own valued at $29.99 so enter below for a chance to win!

Open to USA and Canada

Ends May.23, 2013 midnight, EST

Winner will be announced on May.24/13!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disney Junior celebrates Mothers Day with special shows! #DisneyJuniorMom

2013-05-03T13:18:00.003-04:00

As a Disney Junior Mom I have lots to tell you about for what's in store for the month of May.
Here are the details about this month’s exciting programming!

First off, Sofia the First will have new episodes airing this week end, May.5 and May.19th at 11:30am. Is your little one a fan of Sofia the First?
This month Sofia is learning about gratitude with her royal siblings.
How do you teach your little ones about life lessons? Do you have some helpful tips and tricks that you can comment below with?

Mother’s Day on the Disney Junior Channel
Disney Junior celebrates all moms on Sunday May 12 starting at 9am ET.
Don’t miss back-to-back Jake episodes featuring Mama Hook starting at 10am ET. You may even hear a familiar voice from Mama Hook – it’s Sharon Osbourne! Be sure to stay tuned for the BRAND NEW second episode featuring Mama Hook at 10:30am ET.

Here are all the details for fun programming on what Disney Junior has in store on Mother’s Day!

9am: Special Agent Oso
Eun-Kyung wants to make a hand print as a Mother's Day gift for her Mom, but she doesn't know how!
9:30am: Handy Manny
Manny gets a call from Mr. Lopart's Mother to build a mantle for her fireplace. Mr. Lopart is disappointed that his mother didn't call him so he follows along.
10:00am: Jake and the Never Land Pirates
Mama Hook Knows Best! When Captain Hook’s mother comes to visit, Captain Hook takes her on a treasure hunt. However, Mama Hook isn’t proud of her son when she finds out that Hook didn’t find the treasure on his own! In the end, Mama Hook presides over a pirate tea party with Captain Hook, his crew – and Jake and his crew!
10:30am: Jake and the Never Land Pirates (PREMIERE)
The Mystery Pirate! When a mysterious masked pirate swipes Jake’s Sword and Captain Hook’s hook, Jake, Hook & their crews are set off on a wild chase. All are astounded to finally find out who the mystery pirate is… it’s MAMA HOOK! Turns out that she wanted to find a way to get her son James working together with the little sea pups in an effort to make him a better pirate!
11am: Doc McStuffins
When Doc is dancing with Lambie, she accidentally gets Lambie caught on Sir Kirby’s sword, and Lambie rips! Doc brings Lambie to Mom, and Mom agrees to take on the ‘surgery.’ With Doc as her assistant, Mom sews Lambie up.

And lastly....get the girls together and get your Rapunzel wigs out, boys...pull out your viking helmets because on Saturday, May.18 at 6pm ET it is the Tangled: Movie Premiere!
You know what that means – movie snacks! What would Rapunzel bake up? Well we're going to bake cupcakes! It'll be a first for me. I'll post pics when I can. Or I might do cake pops!

In the mean time, why not a plan a little party on Saturday night?

Disclosure: I’m part of the Disney Junior Mom program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Retailer Feature of the Week - 2 Blue Ducks, bringing to you oogaa dishes and Discoveroo toys!

2013-05-03T10:53:00.002-04:00

2 blue ducks is a great online shop(coming soon!) and distributor for Discoveroo and Ooga.
I recently received the Oogaa line featuring a dish set of their silicone bowl and airplane spoon and train spoon. Something that my preschooler loves. Planes and trains! However because this is made of silicone I think this would be great for those who are teething as well. The kiddo's can find some relief gnawing on their silicone utensils rather than chewing or sucking on plastic spoons as an example. My son is a huge fan of oogaa dishes.

oogaa silicone mealtime set

" Our Award Winning silicone mealtime set is made from European approved food safe, high-grade silicone (higher than FDA standards). Will not leach chemicals, non-toxic, PVC and phthalate FREE! Consisting of a colorful 9oz bowl and 2 spoons. No more chips, breaks or loud noises when these bowls go whoops-a-daisy. BPA free, no harsh chemicals and easy to clean. Dishwasher safe, microwave safe, freezer safe, and bowl are oven safe"

Buy oogaa on well.ca

As a blogger, my son is spoiled. Yes. It's true. We have a new policy in our home simply stating no battery powered toys allowed anymore. It was getting to be a bit much and well, we both love wooden toys and Discoveroo's quality is amazing. It's made really nicely and has a quality about it.

What did my son review? The Sort N' Grip Garbage Truck.

It's a garbage truck which opens and tips with 7 different shapes to sort. A great game that helps kids learn about sorting their waste. 18 months and up.

" Discoveroo products are designed to encourage more Creative Play. They stir up the imagination but the outcomes are not predetermined. This leaves the child to explore the possibilities and develop their mind."

Buy Discoveroo on well.ca

2 blue ducks would like to offer you a chance to win a Discoveroo product! They are generously giving away one set of the 6 Cars! Giveaway ends, May.12/13
6 different cars in this set - Ambulance, Police Car, Fire Engine, Taxi, School Bus and Ice Cream Truck for all kinds of emergencies. They are made of Plantation Tea Wood. The size is 8 x 6 x 5.5 cm per piece. The Fire Engine and the School Bus are 9.5 cm long. These are suitable for 18 months and over - there are no parts that protrude or can come off.

It's simple to enter!
Discoveroo products encourage creative play. How do you incorporate creative play with your child?

Answer below for a chance to win!

*open to Canada only

Enter your name and email address on my Everything Mom and Baby document

also............ bonus points

Give a Like to 2 blue ducks on Facebook for a bonus entry, comment below that you have with all the following if you do!

ReTweet the Giveaway!

Like Everything Mom and Baby on Facebook

Subscribe to Everything Mom and Baby!

Congrats to #49! You are the WINNER!

Little Eco Footprints ~ April Delivery Review #LittleEcoExpert

2013-04-29T11:47:00.003-04:00

What a great delivery! I loved receiving Aprils Delivery from Little Eco Footprint and it did not disappoint.
Here's what I got!

Earth's Berries soap nuts. I love using soap nuts for laundry. They really do work! I've even used soap nuts on cloth diapers and they washed and got the stink out. Because I'm a member I get 10% off! value $5

PRANA Machu Pichu snack bag, valued at $5. Loaded with golden berries, goji berries, European pumpkin seeds, mulberries, Brazil Nuts, raisins perfect snacks for the breast feeding mom. Especially thanks to the pumpkin seeds! I have a $10 coupon to use thanks to this.

Wee Woolies. I love this company! I have an orange and green hat as well and their matching onesies so I was happy to see a purple Wee Woolies hat! I think this is my favourite for merino wool. It is so smooth and soft. value $16, I also got a 20% off discount to use so I will be getting something!

Smith Farms The Red berry lip tint is perfect for a hint of colour, kissable lips and very hydrating. I also approve of the ingredients ;) $6
I'll have fun browsing g the site and see what I can buy thanks to my 20% off discount. Love the perks of being a Little Eco Mom!

Maple Hill Wool Dryer Balls: We got a $7 gift card! You can choose from scented, unscented or essential oil infused wool dryer balls. Prices start at $12. They look great. I've only started using wool dryer balls and they do work!

Re-Wood Toys is a fab Canadian company! I loved seeing this in my April Delivery. I am a lover of wood toys and was so happy to see a Canadian, eco friendly, wooden teether. So awesome! The boomerang teether is great for little hands to grasp and teeth on! Love the 20% promo code as well.

I'm off to do more shopping. I love the promo codes that come with every April Delivery and I hear Mays Mothers Day Delivery is amazing. I can't wait to to see it and to share with you next months review.

With Mothers Day around the corner, I highly suggest you gift a May Delivery Box. Hurry though, it is sent out May.6! Use the code: MOTHERSDAY to receive 15% off your first box!

Shop Now! Visit Little Eco Footprints today!

Welcome to Canada NUNA! Enter to win their LEAF swing on Everything Mom and Baby!

2013-04-26T13:02:00.001-04:00

Everyone who follows me on my Everything Mom and Baby Facebook page knows how excited I am to be a part of this product launch from the Dutch company Nuna.

Nuna is a brand I never thought could possibly exist. Why, you ask? Well, for one they are truly a 'green' line. Organic cotton that is GOTS certified? Absolutely! As I've always said, "you gots to get GOTS!" Well, I've always wanted to say it.
A brand that uses baby friendly material that is Oeko-Tex® certified? Stupendous!
Or a company that uses foam free from harmful substances? Too good to be true you say?
I say nope! It's Nuna!

The Nuna Leaf

This is by far the most unique and attractive swing I've used. It is not battery powered, it does not play silly static lullabies, there is no hard plastic and you know what.......big kids can use it! From newborn all the way up to preschooler and beyond! It's weight tested up to 130 pounds!

About the Leaf:

"The inspiration for the Leaf swing was inspired by the gentle breeze of a leaf floating on a breeze"

elegant, serene design feels right at home in the living room
motion lasts unassisted with a gentle push for over 2 minutes
no batteries, no cords, no buzz, no noise
plush, cushy Oeko-Tex® certified fabric made with a skin friendly pH and free of harmful substances and pesticides
organic cotton insert is soft and light
easily locks stationary for feeding or playtime
pops out of base for easy storage or quick trips
evolves with baby to big-kid size
perfect angle for both playing and napping
mesh backing provides little breezes

Everything Mom and Baby's Experience:

What I like most about the Leaf, aside from what's it made of, is that it respects the natural curve of baby's spine and does not push it out into an unnatural position. I placed my newborn in it and felt safe doing so. It's just comfy mesh material with organic padding and no hard plastic.
As I watched my daughter sway peacefully from side to side, I paid careful attention to her positioning, and noticed, much to my glee, that her spine was curved just as if she was cradled in my arms!
The Leaf sways for about 2 minutes, just long enough to rock baby to sleep. But if you just can't get enough if it and want to go even longer, just give it another gentle push! Can you believe it Momma? You can put your feet up and relax as baby falls asleep. Heaven.

I love the Leaf swing so much that I'm going to happily bestow on it my Seal of Approval!
Here are some more things to love about it:

It's super easy to put together, two pieces! (My husband was quick to point that out! What a breath of fresh air)
Has a very sturdy base
You can purchase cute accessories
Beyond easy to use
No noise. (We certainly have enough of that from toys to babies to Charlie!)
Grows with baby, but you don't have to feed it!
Attractive, it actually isn't an eyesore in the home!
No batteries! This deserves repeating--- No Batteries!

{GIVEAWAY IS NOW OVER}
To celebrate the launch in Canada, Nuna is generously giving away a LEAF to a lucky fan of Everything Mom and Baby!

It's easy to enter. Submit your contact info {here}.

1) Visit Nuna and tell us what else you like you about the LEAF or their other products {Mandatory entry}

Bonus Entries:
Like Nuna Canada on Facebook
ReTweet the giveaway. You can tweet up to 3x a day, just leave your url here.
Like Everything Mom and Baby on Facebook
Like this post! Click on the thumbs up at the bottom of this post. You may have to hit the home page button.

* Please comment on the blog. Do not comment under Anonymous or Unknown as your comment will not be read. It will get automatically moved to the Spam department ;)
Giveaway is open to Canada only, ends May.10, 2013

THANK YOU FOR VISITING EVERYTHING MOM AND BABY!
GOOD LUCK!

You can shop soon at nunababy.ca
Stay tuned......

{WINNER, #85}
Congrats Krsyal!

Music and Play from #LegoDuploPlay JAMS!

2013-04-25T15:25:00.002-04:00

Do you like to incorporate music when your child plays? We do! We tune out the iPad, Leap Pad etc.. put a CD on like the Lego Duplo Jams and we'll get our crafts out or play with Lego Duplo
My son loves playing on the Lego Duplo site, here's a snap shot from their new Hide and Seek game.

When we hosted out Lego Party back in January we got the Lego Duplo Jams CD. It really is a great CD and you can give a listen to it by watching this video. We totally rocked it at the party. Kids were dancing and the adults were humming along. My son still likes to hum and sing while he plays like right now as I am writing this post. He here is with his latest creation.

“A little background music can help children sing along, build and play while they learn simple things like colors, stacking, letters and role play. A 2011 study of parents with children age 1‐5 Years reveals that among children that listen to music during playtime: 55% of children are happier when music is coupled with play; 50% are more excited to play when they hear music and 43% act sillier when music is coupled with play.”

So give a listen and while you're here, visit Lego Duplo for more free Apps, building idea's, colouring pages, free downloads and games!

Disclosure: I am a LEGO DUPLO Play Agent and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Retailer Feature of the Week: Avery Rayne Designs: Unique, Personalized Jewellery

2013-04-24T13:41:00.002-04:00

Discovering great retailers via etsy is a great thing. I love shopping and discovering artisans from all over the world and my latest find is from the USA and her shop is Avery Rayne. With Mothers Day around the corner why not get a little something for yourself? We have an excellent promo code below.

What does Avery Rayne make?

Personalized hand stamped jewellery and teething necklaces. Here's just a few of her great designs.

Who is the mama behind Avery Rayne?

Heather is the artsy, home-birthing, semi-hippie mama of 4 fantastic kids; ages 6 months, 3, 5, and 7. She is also the lucky wife to her best friend and high-school sweetheart. Heather makes beautiful things to fulfill her creative desires (and for a nice break from the regular routine of cooking, cleaning, and general mamahood), she also supports other WAHMS who also make beautiful things. She truly has a love that is all hand-made, home-grown, and hand-crafted.

What did I get made?

I wanted something special for my two little girls and to have something fun to look back on as my son nicknamed them Sugar and Banana so I got them teething necklaces. I like the uniqueness of them, that they are hand made and made in the USA by a WAHM. I love supporting mom based businesses and I hope you do to because I have a great promo code for you too. Shipping was quick too!

SHOP, SHOP, SHOP!

With Mothers Day around the corner why not get something unique and personalized?
Visit Avery Rayne Designs and drop a hint to your loved one that you can save 20% with code:
EVERYTHINGMOMANDBABY

for 20% off

What would you pick from Avery Rayne?

Find Avery Rayne Designs on Facebook!

Green Kid Crafts is the perfect monthly gift for kids! #EarthDay #Giveaway!

2013-04-22T14:19:00.003-04:00

Happy Earth Day! We're celebrating by having a fantastic giveaway with Green Kid Crafts. I absolutely love this company and I wanted to get a little something for my son for when the twins came. This was "their" gift to him and doing eco, fun crafts is something him and I both enjoy.
We got their April box, known as the April Planet Protector Box.

Green Kid Crafts is a craft kit that is delivered every month for $19.95US for ages 3-8 years old. Each box comes with 3-4 unique projects designed to boost creativity build confidence and engage kids with nature. Something that we do at the EMB home often and encourage this kind of play and creativity.

Our Experience:
I was really happy to see what was in the box. As you can pictured above it was a great kit that came with a toxic free paper mache Earth ball that you can create, water colour paints and water colour paper, recycled crayons, the string and paperclip art display and a plantable seed paper kit.

I do plan on signing up for a 3 month subscription($69.95 CDN, +$8 for shipping) because this is something me and my son can do for one on one Mommy and Son time. With the twins here now my my time can get a little busy and I don't want him to feel our craft/play time together is neglected. I think this is a brilliant and unique gift to give. Naturally I give it my Green Seal of Approval for the quality of supplies and the fun it brings to the child. What child doesn't love getting mail? It's fun!

Enter to Win!
{GIVEAWAY IS NOW OVER}
Since we're celebrating Earth Day today, Green Kid Crafts has generously sponsored one lucky winner to win a 2 MONTH SUBSCRIPTION! Open to USA and Canadian residents.
*please read the terms and conditions and complete your entry on this form. Please comment on the blog one comment at a time as entries from the blog will be used to randomly pick a winner.
Please do not comment under Anonymous or Unknown as the comment will not be read but marked as spam.
*please note: Facebook and twitter have no affiliation with this giveaway

To Enter: (don't forget to fill out form linked above)

1) Visit their site and tell us here what you like about Green Kids Craft {mandatory}
Bonus Points!
2) Like Green Kids Craft on Facebook
3) Sign up to their Newsletter
4) Like Everything Mom and Baby on Facebook
5) RT( Tweet ) the giveaway here!
6) Like this post! Give it the thumbs up at the bottom of this post to share on your Facebook wall

Thank you for visiting Everything Mom and Baby and Good Luck!

CONGRATS TO ANGELA! # 28

My Birth Story: Isla and Gwendolyn #twins #twinmom

2013-04-19T17:01:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday, April 10th, I was on my way to my weekly OB appointment. Little did I know that I would go into labour that night. My life forever changed in the wee hours of April 11th as we welcomed two new beautiful angels into our family, our twin girls Isla and Gwendolyn.

I began my checkup with an ultrasound. All seemed good until we checked the girl's weight. It came as a shock to me that Baby A hadn't gained weight in the two weeks since my last ultrasound. I had an internal exam and discovered I was already 4cm dilated and 100% effaced! Holy smokes these girls were getting ready! My doctor said we can't take any chances as Baby A hasn't gained weight. So at 36 weeks and 1 day my careful little birthing plans went out the window.
Now, how accurate are ultrasound scans in predicating babies' weight? Not very, as you'll later find out. According to the scan, Baby A was sitting at 5 1/2 pounds and Baby B had grown to 7 pounds.

I was obviously nervous and maybe a little upset that I had to go into labour weeks early. Naturally I was going to do what is best for the girls and follow my doctors advice, but 36 weeks is still a touch premature, even for twins, and Baby A was so active in utero I really couldn't believe it. I was in shock when I was told "It's time"..I was numb. I had my son with me, my husband was at work and I think I can be forgiven for thinking, "What do you mean..now? Seriously?"
I was overwhelmed. A million things were racing crazily through my mind. I had to go home first, get my son settled, make arrangements and call my husband to let him know the girls are coming tonight. When I called him at work he went silent. His only stunned reply was, "I'm in the middle of so much work!" I laughed and said "Jay. The babies are coming tonight" then it registered and he said "Okay" and he snapped out of it. He made quick arrangements to meet me at the subway. If you saw a pregnant lady in Toronto walking to Queen Subway with tears in her eyes and holding the hand of her 4 yr old that was me.
I was overcome with emotion, scared something was wrong with Baby A, excited about meeting my girls and nervous about giving birth at 36 weeks.
I met my husband at the subway and just bawled in his arms. He decided to hop us in a cab, we got home, I made dinner, showered and went through my hospital bag a second time to make sure we had everything. Around 7-8pm we made our way to the hospital. They were expecting us :)
As a cool little aside, Jay's very good friend and godfather to the girls, Mark, was supposed to come over that very evening to discuss the upcoming birth and what our plans were. He had, on the spur of the moment, just happened to drop by my husband's restaurant that afternoon and was there when I called Jay. Sympatico or what? He came with us home, and stayed with Charlie that night! He even took the next day off so he could help us out. Thanks Mark!

I didn't have a birth plan written out but I firmly wanted to give birth naturally. I also wanted my placenta but assumed I wouldn't be able to have it because it would be sent to pathology to see why little Isla wasn't gaining weight. I told them they could take a sample, but to be honest at the end of it all, even after my birth, I was so overwhelmed I just asked to look at it. It was beautiful with marvelous colour and an almost iridescent umbilical cord attached. It looked just like "The Tree of Life". I wish I'd had it in me to be more persistent in keeping it. Oh well, I was exhausted and just happy to look at it.

So back to the birth. I was hooked up to monitors in my bed. Everything looked good. So good in fact that once I was at 5-6 cm dilated I didn't even realize my contractions were getting stronger. I got up and walked around and was starting to feel a little pressure deepen, but that didn't stop me from goofing around with my great friend Telly, the girl's god mom. She came by to lend her support, hang out and bring us treats.
I was feeling marvelous. The resident doc came in and discussed twin delivery with us. He explained why he felt strongly that I should have a epidural. With twins you always have to deliver in the OR should anything unforeseen happen last minute. There is a 7% chance Baby B could flip and go into breech once Baby A has cleared the path. Since I wanted a natural birth he further explained that without a epidural it would be quite painful to manually maneuver the baby as...get ready for this... they reach up you with their hand, search around a bit until they can grab a hold of baby, and then bring baby down. How's that for an eye opener?
He also mentioned I could just have a catheter without the medicine so if something does happen I could have the medicine administered directly and quickly when I needed it. With much consideration and advice from my hubby and friend, I opted for the safer route. I'm glad I did.

So the night went on, the contractions were getting a touch stronger from what I was told, again, I really didn't notice the pain like I did with my first born. I was listening to my iPhone, playing some some rockin' hypnobirthing tunes, some good ol' Depeche Mode and chatting with Jay and my bff.
As time went on the anesthesiologist came in and placed the catheter in my back. Around 4am the doc came in and broke my water. Not much came out. Through the wee hours as 'surges' were getting stronger my water came out. The pain was reasonable and again I was really surprised at how manageable it was. I learned many great things at my hypnobirthing class at zen beginnings and used it to get back into my "monkey brain", I played positive affirmations, read positive affirmations, played Steve Halpern and did the breathing techniques as the surges (contractions) were getting increasingly stronger. I'd been doing well, but began to lose control as I felt immense pressure building. IMMENSE! The girls were moving down, and all I wanted to do was push! I told my husband to get the nurse and tell her that I needed her guidance. She warned me that when moms get to 8-9cm they begin to lose faith in themselves. I wasn't going to lose faith. They scrambled to get me into the OR and moved me from my bed to the operating bed. It was like a TV show. Bright crazy energy! My girls were on the way.

At 6:25am I pushed and I pushed and I pushed some more and my beloved Isla came into the world. It was amazing and euphoric. As I listened for that first cry and I can't even begin to tell you the emotion I felt. I delivered my girls naturally! I got a top up from the catheter in case Baby B flipped, but she remained head down and 11 minutes later Gwendolyn arrived and as I waited for her beautiful cry the rush of emotion returned and I dissolved in tears of joy. I felt their squishy heads as they crowned and the maternal spirit welled in me to overflowing. Just an amazing experience. AMAZING! Isla was 6.1 pounds and Gwen was 6.2 pounds.

I was on a high. A monumental high. I never thought I would experience this kind of feeling after birthing twins. I was not sore, I was in one piece ;) No stitches! If I can give Anointment a plug, moms to be...you need this balm.
Next to the birth of my son, April 11th was the best day of my life and I have bounced back pretty darn quickly. We've gotten back into our routine and we're home safe and sound. My days are filled with so much love and I am savouring every moment. I am breast feeding but not tandemly. I much prefer feeding them separately and embracing my one on one time with Isla and Gwen. Loving kangaroo care! I can't tell you how sublime twins are. They are such a delight and joy and we are loving our family of 5!

Retailer Feature of the Day: Treefort Naturals #etsy #natural #handcrafted #soap

2013-04-09T12:04:00.001-04:00

I first came across Treefort Naturals researching eco friendly, safe, non toxic products for baby and I fell in love with their Newborn Baby Bath Kit.

I was gifted some fabulous soaps from Treefort Naturals and their natural Honey lip balm is the best I've used. I love it as does my son who is always licking his lips making them dry! He knows where his lip balm is and brings it to me when he needs some TLC for his lips.
Another favourite was the Honey soap. It left my skin ever so soft and the quality of these hand crafted soaps are amazing. It lathers so nicely.

What's the Honey Soap made of?
It's made with local beeswax and honey from Full Bloom Apiaries in Franklin, CT. It is unscented but a faint honey scent comes through when you use it, great to use for infants and children.
Honey is a natural emollient with amazing soothing & moisturizing properties for the skin.

Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, distilled water, Coconut Oil, lye, Beeswax, Honey

About Treefort Naturals:

Jess started making soap in an ongoing attempt to make healthy and environmentally conscious decisions for herself and her family. Jess started becoming more aware of the "not so nice" ingredients in commercially sold bath & body products and quickly realized that making her own soap was something she could really get into. For a love of the creative process and a love for knowing exactly what she washing her kids with, Treefort Naturals was born.

Treefort soaps are vegan friendly(except the honey soap & goats milk soaps). Only organic & local ingredients whenever possible (including CT honey, beeswax, goat's milk and herbs from her own garden).
All products are made in small batches, ph tested & family/friend tested and approved. Many of her soaps are left unscented (but often have the faint scent of a featured ingredient - like honey or tea). Other soaps have carefully chosen essential oils added for a light scent. Treefort Naturals chose not to use synthetic colors & fragrances in order to ensure the most natural product possible.

*Professional Member of the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild, Inc.

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#Hypnobirthing at Zen Beginnings : Week 1

2013-04-08T21:34:00.002-04:00

At 35 weeks in my twin pregnancy I've decided to enter the zen world of hypnobirthing at zenbeginnings, located in Toronto. Here I'll be sharing with you what I've learned, if I make it through the full 5 week course and in the end if hypnobirthing worked for me. I'll be sharing my weekly posts here and my overall experience will be found blogging on Oh Baby! Magazine. I've always wondered what goes on in a hypnobirthing class so below you'll find my synopsis on the class.
I will be using the hypnobirthing tools that I've learned through zenbeginnings when I go into labour and I'm excited to share with you this method of peaceful labouring.

What is Hypnobirthing?

The HypnoBirthing® Childbirth method is as much a philosophy of birth as it is a technique for achieving a satisfying, relaxing, and stress-free method of birthing. Our HypnoBirthing® classes teach you, along with your birthing companion, the art and joy of experiencing birth in a more comfortable manner. You will learn to call upon your body’s own natural relaxant and thus lessen or eliminate discomfort and the need for medication. When a woman is properly prepared for childbirth and when mind and body are in harmony, nature is free to function in the same will-designed manner that it does with all other creatures.

You will be fascinated as you view HypnoBirthing® films showing laboring mothers, awake, alert and in good humor as they experience the kind of gentle birth that you, too, can know when you are free of the Fear-Tension-Pain Syndrome.
HypnoBirthing® classes teach you to release all prior programming about birth, how to trust your body and work with it, as well as how to free yourself of harmful emotions that lead to pain-causing fear and unyielding muscles.
HypnoBirthing® will teach you the art of using your own natural birthing instincts. With HypnoBirthing®, you will be aware and fully in control, but profoundly relaxed.
Read more at zenbeginnings.com

Week 1: What I learned in the first class

As I arrived I am greeted by Carla Murphy, my certified Hypnobirthing Instructor. Carla is also a doula and you can visit her at Trinity Doula Care. I arrive upstairs to refreshments and beverages, I find my seat and I brought my copy just in case of Hypnobirthing: The Mongan Method.
Class starts promptly and we begin.

I will tell you.... I am a little skeptic that women can breathe so calmly and can go back into their "monkey brain" as they deal with contractions in such a quiet, relaxed manner. We watched some hypnobirthing video's at the end and I was truly amazed. I can only hope through practice that I can enter the deep set of relaxation. So here is what I've learned so far:

the basic layers of the uterus

medical language vs hypnobirthing language. Instead of saying "contractions" in hypnobirthing you say "surges".

you have to practice and learn deep relaxation and that is our homework for the week.

How to avoid negative thoughts(therefor producing negative hormones, which I need to find out what those are. I assume they care the pain causing hormones or the ones that create fear in us)

Hypnobirthing is about positive affirmations. We have a print out that gives us affirmations to practice and think of as we prepare for birth. Such as " I feel confident; I feel safe; I feel secure".

We did breathing exercises

Learning not tighten your jaw. Apparently the jaw is connected to the perineum so naturally you don't want a tight, clenched jaw.
Watched some hypnobirthing video's. A lot of info was covered in 2 1/2 hours.

I look forward to next weeks class and can't wait to share with you more on what goes on in a hypnobirthing class and entering the world of deep relaxation and just how powerful our minds are.

I'd like to hear from you. Have you ever heard of hypnobirthing? Did it help you in your labour? Please share.