Baby Ktan Sling/Carrier

Wow, reading the testimonials on this baby sling/carrier just reaffirms all the great things I have heard about the Baby Ktan! Our reviewer loved using the Baby Ktan carrier.

This unique sling is made from 100% natural, organic cotton, which you guessed it, means super soft! The Baby Ktan is super comfortable and ergonomically designed, resting on both shoulders with an adjustable back support strap. You can use it in 8 different positions, from birth up to 42 lbs. You can even carry twins it, hands free! How great is that? Our reviewer used it a lot for nursing, her little one loved being it and it gave her privacy. Baby Ktan even offers a matching baby hat and if you like, you can get your sling personalized. They even offer a camoflauge design, which is great for dad. It comes with an instructional DVD or you can view the video online. And don't worry about getting your sling dirty, it is machine washable and dryer safe! The only problem that our reviewer had, was that she felt is was really difficult to figure out. She said it took her forever to get it on properly, however, once she did figure it out, it was very easy to put on.

Take a look at the site. There are a ton of testimonials and they offer comparisons to other slings as well.

Tooth Tissues

It is so easy to let the care of your baby's teeth not take priority. But your child's teeth are very important, even baby teeth. It is crucial to keep these precious little teeth clean and decay free. Teaching your child good oral hygiene at a young age leads to a lifetime of knowing how to care for their teeth.

Tooth tissues were developed by two dentists that were looking for an easier way to clean their child's teeth. Baby bottle tooth decay is on the rise but can so easily be prevented. How many times has your child fallen asleep with their bottle? This milk will sit on their little teeth and cause decay. These tissues make it very easy to wipe their teeth clean, even while they are sleeping. My husband and I use Tooth Tissues everytime our little one has a meal, snack or bottle. They are so easy to use! Tooth Tissues are disposable, textured wipes that remove plaque from teeth and gums. They are infused with xylitol, a natural cavity fighter. They are neutral flavored, 99% natural, sugar free, flouride free and paraben free. With our little one being just over a year old now, we have started to use a soft, dry toothbrush with her. This is very difficult right now! She does not want anything to do with that toothbrush. Tooth Tissues make it easier for us to get her teeth clean, she even helps (and it works even when she is sleeping). Tooth Tissues can be purchased online at the Tooth Tissue site. You can buy a pack of 12 single packs for $4 or a resealable pack of 30 tissues for $6. Very affordable! Your child's teeth are worth it.

Clek Olli Booster Seat

When I found out about the 1st booster seat to incorporate the LATCH (Lower Anchor & Tether for Children), I was a little skeptical. So, of course, I had to have it! Our reviewer was very excited to try this new seat out. After using it for quite some time now, she has been determined that this booster seat by Clek is a must have!

This is a backless booster designed for children with a height and weight between 40-57 in. and 40-100 lbs. It raises your child 4 in, which improves the fit of the seat belt. Like I said before, this booster is the 1st to use the LATCH system. This system allows the booster to secure directly to your vehicle and keeps it from moving around like other booster seats. It is so easy to install, it will take you seconds to put in and to take out if you need to switch vehicles. Our reviewers child said it was "comfy" and that he did not bounce around like he did before. The Clek booster seat was also awarded the iParenting Media Award. You can customize your booster for your child's style, you can purchase a booster jacket from the many designs offered. The booster jackets are easily removed for cleaning as well.

Pediped

Starting on December 17th and running through the 31st, Pediped is offering a great discount on some of their shoes! The shoes will be 30% off and 50% of the sales will go to Make-a-Wish Foundation! Check out their site for some great deals to help a great cause. Here is a list of the shoes and their prices...

RS810 - Andy - $31
RS590 - Demetri - $34
RS640 - Ryan - $27
RS680 - Dylan - $39

RS770 - McKenna - $31
RS364 - Chloe - $31
RS396 - Riley - $27
RS420 - Natasha - bw houdstooth - $27
RS650 - Tiffany - $27
RS600 - Emily - $27

217 - Liam - khaki/olive - $22
275 - Charlie - white/navy - $22
700 - Logan - $22
320 - Nathan - $22

561 - Janine - brown - $22
760 - Lexi - brown - $22
390 - Lexi - pink - $22
430 - Jane - $22
400 - Victoria - $22
342 - Faith - black - $22
313 - Abigail - mauve - $22
750 - Brooke - $22
420 - Natasha - bw houndstooth - $22

Miss Gigi Mae

If your child tends to throw toys, pacifiers or any other accessory, then Miss Gigi Mae is for you. This cute little lady bug is great at keeping things off the floor and from getting lost. Miss Gigi Mae's unique tether system keeps all the things you need right where they need to be. There are six tethers, which act as Gigi's legs. The front 4 can be hooked onto objects and the back two are velcro straps for irregular shaped objects. You can pull them and they automatically retract back to the lady bug's body. The belly of the lady bug has velcro straps that can attach to a highchair, stroller or car seat.

Along with Miss Gigi Mae, comes a great little book Miss Gigi Mae Learns to Read. The first book (which you will get with your order) is the letter "A" and there will be 25 more fun books to come! The book is made from a washable, vinyl-like material and has a hook on it that will attach easily to your lady bug. Miss Gigi Mae Learns to Read is full of fun and colorful images that keep your child interested while learning simple rhymes.

This lovable lady bug is a favorite of mine and also won the iParenting Media Award.

Organic Nursing Shawl

A lot of our reviewers have been in search for a great nursing shawl, and boy is it hard. Finally, we have come across a great product by Bellies & Beyond. This company was started by 3 moms, so you know this shawl has to be stylish and functional.

This innovative shawl is made from 100% organic cotton, which makes it so soft and great for the environment, baby and you! There is complete coverage which allows for privacy in public places. It is lightweight and not bulky, it will easily fold up and fit in your purse or diaper tote.

Our reviewers loved this shawl because of it's style and ease of use. It has an elastic band which makes is really easy to put on and very easy to take a peek at your little one. They liked it because it is for your everyday mom-it does not cost a million dollars but has the quality of one that does cost a million dollars! They also said that they did not feel awkward in public with this shawl-a lot of shawls actually draw attention to you. Another plus is that it allows you to have one free hand, which is especially nice if you are eating! Check out this shawl at the Bellies & Beyond site, you will surely fall in love.

Another gr8x Diaper Bag

I have been so lucky with the diaper bags that have been sent to me for review! Especially since I have found 2 diaper bags by the same company that are both excellent. This time, I was able to try out a camouflage messenger type bag by gr8x.

This bag is so versatile and stylish. It is great for dad or mom! It has an insulated pocket for bottles, external access to the wipes, a pacifier pouch, soft & waterproof changing pad with it's own pouch, adjustable shoulder strap, stroller strap attachments, a clip for your keys, a cell phone pouch and even a 2 year warranty!

We got so many compliments on this bag. My husband, especially, as he toted our daughter around many other dads asked where he got his manly diaper bag! With it's messenger style flap, everything is easily accessible and easy to find. Nothing ever got lost and there was so much room! It was great because there was no zipper that you had to struggle with to get closed, the zipper usually winning resulting in multiple items falling out. Not with the gr8x camo bag! I never left a trail of pacifiers and toys.

We had several bags that we used to switch off between, however, now we strictly use our gr8x camo messenger bag. Thanks gr8x for making such a great product! To get your very own, you can purchase directly from the Regal Lager site (they represent gr8x) for about $110.

Just Ask Baby

I was recently asked to review a website, Just Ask Baby. I put it off and then put it off some more. I finally got around to it and wish I would have started perusing it when I got the first request. This is a great website! You can sign up for a free 15-day trial and take advantage of the perks Just Ask Baby has to offer it's members.
Once you register, you can create your personal homepage. On this page, you can upload photos of your child, log personal milestones (using these cute little stepping stones) and keep a personal baby diary. Just Ask Baby provides you with videos that clue you in to what your baby sees, says, thinks, does and feels at different stages of development. Each video gives tips as to how to ease your child from milestone to milestone.
The Chief Scientific Advisor is David Elkind. He is Professor Emeritus of Child Development at Tufts University. He obtained his Doctorate at UCLA. There are several articles posted on the site that he has written, along with his book titles that can be viewed. He writes a blog and makes posts about every 3-4 days. The topics are very interesting and helpful! The site also has a great forum with several discussion groups you can join into!
I found this site to be extremely interesting and there is so much to explore!
http://www.justaskbaby.com/blogs/professor-elkind/too-many-toys
http://www.justaskbaby.com/ebooks
http://smr.newswire.ca/en/just-ask-baby/justaskbabycom-reveals-what-toy-manufacturers-dont

Doyle's Diaper Cakes

I received the cutest diaper cake from Doyle's Diaper Cakes. What a great idea these cakes are! I received the Christmas cake which contained 50 diapers, Christmas receiving blanket, Christmas Bib, Christmas burper, Soft rattle block, Grins & Giggles lotion, Christmas teether, Christmas slippers, Christmas onsie, plush Christmas teddy bear and a picture frame Christmas ornament.

It was so fun opening an unwrapping the cake to find different treasures at each level. There are so many uses for these diaper cakes. It is so great to give a practical gift that is fun as well. Use Doyle's Diaper Cakes as center pieces at your next baby shower. When the party is over, the new mom has a unique, functional gift to take home and get her started on her long journey of diapers! You could send this to someone in the hospital who just had a baby. It will brighten their room and definitely be the topic of conversation. This is also a great Christmas, First Birthday or Just for Fun present!

The site is well put together and easily navigated. You can find anything you need simply by choosing one of the many categories they have. There are tons of choices so it will definitely be difficult to choose. You can find more than cakes too, they have diaper castles, diaper teddy bears, diaper baskets and even a daddy diaper toolbelt! They also except custom orders! The diaper cake came securely packaged and when I opened the box, the contents looked as if they had just been placed in the box. The cake is wrapped in a clear plastic with a big bow and when you open that, the cake is held together by ribbon that matches the cake. The cake comes with a cute little card that lists the "ingredients" but for me it was fun to take it apart and see what was inside! The owners couldn't be more friendly and they make the whole experience a delight. Doyle's Diaper Cakes can be for anyone's budget. You can definitely find something that fits yours. Next time I have a shower, I will be ordering from Doyle's Diaper Cakes!

GaGa Gourmet

I would like to introduce everyone to a really great company, founded by a mom looking for nutritious food for her little ones. GaGa Gourmet produces great food for your little one, delivered frozen right to your door. This food is all natural and is made from the freshest fruits and veggies around. All the food is steamed, never boiled and then frozen shortly after. This helps ensure that there is no loss of nutrients and creates a fresh flavor for your little one. There is never any sugar or salt added. GaGa Gourmet contains no additives, no preservatives and there are never any fillers added.

When my little one first started to eat solid foods, I made all her food. I wanted her to have the best around. This helped me open her taste buds to food that may not have been available in a jar (such as cantaloupe). Not all parents have the time to make all their little ones food! I went away for the weekend and left Baby G with my best friend. Let me tell you...I spent the entire day before up to my elbows in pureed food, so she would have enough for the weekend. If I would have had GaGa Gourmet then, everything would have been so much easier. You can order the food right online and have it delivered to you, still frozen. You have several choices: First Tastes for 4 months and up for $1.99, First Taste entrees (which combine ingredients) for $2.29 and then there is Foods for the active toddler at $2.49. You may think this is expensive, but I think it is worth it to have fresh and flavorful food for your little one. Did I mention that they are in the process of obtaining their organic certification? Even better!

The containers are food grade containers, microwave safe and dishwasher safe (top rack-so they can be used again).

Some of Baby G's favorites are Vibrant Veggie Trio (the container has 3 rows: 1 of carrots, 1 of broccoli, and one of cauliflower), Remarkable Rice & Beans, Yummy Yogurt Pancakes, Bouncin' Banana Bread Muffins and Freshly Picked Blueberry and Pear Compote. You can check out the GaGa Gourmet site and see the difference between Gerber food and GaGa Gourmet. If you are expecting, visit their site for a free sample delivered to your house 4 months after your due date! I am simply GaGa over GaGa Gourmet!

Zoobies Are Here!

I love this 3 in 1 animal! My daughter has Mashaka the Monkey. He is a plush, lovable monkey-a comfy pillow-and a snuggly blanket all in one. Zoobies are definitely moving in as your little ones favorite toy and blankey! Mashaka is a great friend for my little one to play with and when playtime is over, he becomes a pillow or blanket to snuggle with. The stuffed animal unfolds to be a pillow, the pillow unzips to become a blanket. And you don't need to follow any directions to get that blanket back in the stuffed animal. Just fold it up and stuff it in, very simple. The blanket is quite large, made of coral fleece and is machine washable. Zoobies have won the iParenting Award and the Top Toy Award of 2007. There are two collections, the Zoo collection and the Safari Collection, both offering many animals to choose from. They even have baby Zoobies that are tad bit smaller than their grown-up counterpart. The babies can be found for $25 and the grown-ups for $35. At first, I thought this was a bit expensive,however, when I thought about it, I feel it is a deal! You are getting a great stuffed animal, a pillow and a blanket. These Zoobies are great for the home, but would be even better for travel-there is no need to pack 3 things when you have all 3 in 1!

Grandma El's Diaper Rash Remedy & Prevention

Diaper rash can be irritating and painful to any child (and their parents). This is where Grandma El's diaper rash remedy and prevention ointment gives other ointments and creams a run for their money (and saves yours).

Prevention is the best way to attach the topic of diaper rash. Grandma El's does just that, prevents diaper rash. This ointment should be used at every diaper change, in order to prevent diaper rash. Of course, if your little one already has a painful rash, Grandma El's should be used right away! It works overnight. Put this ointment on your little one and the rash will be gone in about 1 day. It works that fast! Grandma El's soothes a baby's bottom while letting the skin breathe, to heal more quickly.

This ointment is 100% all natural, hypo-allergenic, preservative free and pediatrician recommended! It has several other handy uses as well...I found that it works great as a lip balm- moisturizing, soothing and letting dry cracked lips heal, hand cream-sealing in moisture for the dry winter months, and soothes eczema-helping to moisturize and heal dry skin while letting the skin breathe. You can find Grandma El's at Target or on my site through the Amazon link, for a very affordable price of about $14.95 for a 3.75 oz tub.

Symphony-All In One Car Seat

I have so many people come to me looking for recommendations on car seats. Everyone who reads my blog knows that I had a hard time giving up my infant carrier. I definitely went through withdrawal for weeks! However, the Symphony All In One Car Seat by Evenflo made my transition super easy! It is a great looking seat, so easy to install and super comfy for my little one. We started off with the seat rear facing and moved it to face forward in a matter of minutes! It has great features and won the iParenting Media Award for Greatest Product! You also have a choice between colors and patterns.

• The Symphony has the easy to use, SureLATCH™ Connectors for easier installation— Just Click, Click, Push… And GO! This exclusive system provides a super-fast, tight and safe installation, in a fraction of the time. There is no guessing as to whether or not your latches have fastened.
• This is a great All-In-One Car Seat! 3 seats in one that fits children 5-100 pounds.
• Infinite Slide™ Harness Adjustment System simply slides to any height with no rethreading
• Removable and washable ComfortTouch™ pad and pillows provide extreme comfort for your baby! Easily remove the pad without rethreading the harness!
• Contains Energy Absorbing Foam liner
• Side Impact Tested! Meets or exceeds all applicable U.S. Safety Standards AND Evenflo’s Side Impact Test Standard.
• ReclineRight™ multiple-position upfront recline is easy to use and adds comfort for the child!
• Flip-out cup holder conveniently holds drinks, or folds up out of sight!
• 5-point harness provides security for your child
• One-hand Adjustable Headrest makes adjusting to proper height a breeze!
• 2-piece chest clip allows child to be put in and taken out in seconds!
• Designed and tested for structural integrity at energy levels approximately 2X the federal crash test standard

You can purchase this great seat at a great price, under $200! You can visit Babies R Us, in store or online to purchase.

Table Topper & Disposable Bibs by Neat Solutions

Table Toppers are the single most great, innovative and useful invention I have come across. These great sheets stick to table tops and provide a clean surface for your child to eat off of. The Table Toppers protect your child from germs, dirt and chemicals on restaurant tables. They come in many fun, bright and educational designs to keep your child occupied. When you are finished, simply pull them up and throw them out! And don't worry, they are BPA-free, PVC-Free and phthalate-Free.

Neat Solutions also provide disposable bibs (also BPA-free, PVC-Free and phthalate-Free). These bibs provide a soft, absorbent front with catch all pocket and a leak proof backing to keep your child dry. There is no need to fill your laundry with bibs, this is totally disposable! The one major problem is that it secures with Velcro...this bib did not last more than 2 minutes on my little one. She ripped it right off.

Neat Solutions provides many great products, including a floor topper, similar to the table topper. I did not test this out but I think it is a great idea to keep your floors clean! All items are very inexpensive and can be found at most Walmarts!

A stylish and functional umbrella stroller

It has always been a complaint of mine that the handles on umbrella strollers are so low, you have to hunch down to push it! Why should we have to get back aches just from taking a walk with our little ones? Well, no more back aches here, the Trip, by Inglesina has handles that are tall enough for anyone to push without having to hunch over.

The Trip is great all around. The handle are soft touch and the stroller is ultra light, with its aluminum frame. Even with it being lightweight, does not mean it can't hold the weight! This stroller will hold a child from 6 months up to 45 lbs. It comes standard with a cup a holder, adjustable footrest, waterproof canopy and shopping basket underneath (quite large in fact). The umbrella stroller has a 4 position reclinable backrest, which most umbrella strollers do not have.

I am so happy to have the Trip by Inglesina, it folds and unfolds so easily I use it when running errands. It is great to throw in the trunk for those quick runs and is sturdy enough to use as your everyday stroller for walks! The only problem I ran into was that the front wheels seem to shake a bit when they were not in their locked position. This did not pose much of a problem, I just kept them locked, which did not have much effect on the turning capabilities. For a little over $100 this is a great investment.

Something for Mom-Shape Up Shoes

I am sure everyone has wanted to gain the benefits of working out, without working out every day...right? Shape Up Shoes help you do that. These reverse platform flip flops work your legs and tone your booty as you walk, in just 30 minutes a day. Obviously, these Shape Up Shoes are not a replacement for working out and a proper diet. However, they are great to help you when you miss a couple days at the gym or want to gain a little extra tone while doing what needs to be done. Just wear these great shoes when you are going for a walk or doing chores around the house. They will help increase your balance as well! You many feel silly at first, like I did, but let me tell ya-the first time I wore these shoes, my calves were burning! They really work, so no matter how silly I felt, you can bet I put these Shape Up Shoes on every time I took my little one for a walk! They come in a handful of great colors and all sizes, you can order them for $39.99 in a sandal, $60 in a clog or $80 in a boot. I have taken an exerpt from the site, they list the benefits the best!

Benefits- Increase leg strength.- Lengthen muscles.- Help prevent injury.- Ease
pain from plantar fasciitis naturally.- Greatly improve circulation in the legs
and feet, reducing swelling.- Cut exercise time in half.- Help you burn calories
and lose weight (with proper diet).- Improve posture and lessen low back pain
naturally.- Greatly improve balance and inner core strength, improving back
health.- Create healthy looking lower extremities.- Exercise your lower body
while you are doing everyday activities.- Can be worn any time, any place
(except sandals and boots in wet weather or while driving).- Inexpensive.- Make
exercise enjoyable and affordable.- Increase your health awareness.- Allow you
to exercise when you don't have the time.

Baby Legs

I am so jealous of the winner of my Baby Legs contest! I have one pair and my daughter is so cute in them, I will definitely be buying another pair. These cute leg warmers keep my little one warm when crawling around the house in her onsie, and keeps her knees from some of the crawling "battle" wounds! These little warmers are also great under a jean skirt! They come in so many great styles, you are sure to find one to fit your little one's personality! For $22, they fit anyone's budget, and if you visit the specials page, you can find some great deals!

See Kai Run, Rhonda

I love these shoes! I have now been able to review two types of See Kai Run shoes. My first review was of the larger See Kai Run shoes. This review, is all about the Smaller shoes, with the soft sole.

These shoes are handcrafted from sheepskin leather. They are unlike any other soft soled shoes. They come fully equipped with non-slip rubber pads on the bottoms. Just perfect for your little ones who are just starting to cruise! The closure is an adjustable Velcro strap that makes it easy to get on and off. Another great perk is See Kai Run shoes have been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association's prestigious Seal of Acceptance.

Not only will your little love to wear these fun shoes, you will love to make an outfit even cuter with these great shoes!

Make sure to register to win a great pair of these Smaller shoes on the right side of my blog!

See Kai Run Contest

Due to the overwhelming response, the See Kai Run contest has been closed. I will be posting the winners and the new contest will be posted for a different set of shoes. Thank you all for participating!

Easy Walker Sky

I am so impressed with the Easy Walker Sky that I have been using. This product definitely speaks its' name loud and clear. Everything about the Easy Walker Sky is EASY!

I received my new stroller, and was so excited to start strolling around the neighborhood. I immediately opened the box and began assembling it. It took me less than a half hour! The directions were intuitive and the I put the Easy Walker together with ease.

The next day, I took my new Easy Walker Sky for a stroll. I adjusted the height adjustable push bar and away we went. We walked on the sidewalk and then onto a trail through the park. Whether we were on the pavement or the pebble path in the park, the Easy Walker Sky never hesitated. It has 3 wheels, the front being a 360 degree swivel wheel that can be locked into place. The suspension provided a smooth ride for my little one. This stroller is strong and lightweight, made of aluminum, weighing only 20 lbs. After our walk, I was able to fold this stroller with no effort!

The features are great too. The seat has 4 adjustable reclining positions. It comes with a sun canopy, a rain cover and a mosquito net. It also has a carry cot that attaches, for that old time pram look. The mattress that comes with the carry cot is super comfy too. The Easy Walker Sky comes in about a dozen colors and they even have a Pimp your Pram package for a more trendy look. You can purchase a foot muff, travel bag and running board separately. There is also an adapter that can be purchased for your Maxi Cosi Mico or Graco Snugride carseat.

The only thing I thought could be improved was that my JJ Cole BundleMe did not fit on it properly! I was able to make it work though.

Visit the Easy Walker website to find where you can purchase your very own Sky stroller!

gr8x Diaper Bags

I had the pleasure of testing out another great diaper bag. This one is by gr8x, called the Hobo Slouch. It has great style and quality. The quality of this bag exceeds most bags. Not only is it stylish, depending on the color, your hubby will love to carry it too.

The Hobo Slouch is quite functional and allows enough room for whatever you and baby need. It has several good sized pockets, an insulated bottle pocket that is accessible from outside the bag, a cell phone pocket, a pacifier pouch and a quick access exterior wipe pocket. The bag as a zip closure, for peace of mind that no precious items fall out. Like all diaper bags, the Hobo Slouch also comes with a changing pad. However, this changing pad is not your ordinary pad. It is super soft, waterproof and comes in its own little pouch on the inside of the bag. It was a bit difficult to get it back in its pouch, but with enough practice it becomes super easy. There is a very comfortable, adjustable shoulder strap that can easily be hung from most strollers. The material that this bag is made out of is extremely durable and wipes clean very easily. You can purchase the Hobo Slouch from the Regal Lager Website for $110. Yes, it is a bit expensive, but the quality makes it worth it.

JJ Cole-BundleMe

With fall here and it being a bit chilly outside, it is time for everyone to go out and get themselves a BundleMe by JJ Cole. This convenient attachment to most strollers, joggers and car seats keeps your little one warm on any day. The BundleMe has a quilted outer nylon shell that is wind and water resistant with a soft, cuddly inner micro suede lining. It is perfect for when the family is going to that fall festival, pumpkin patch or afternoon walk.

It is very easy to attach and remove. It has slots that the child safety straps fit through, so the straps still rest directly on your little one. The BundleMe comes in a multitude of colors and can fit toddlers up to age 3.

I love the BundleMe! There is no reason that when the weather gets chilly that you shouldn't be able to take walks. My little one loves it too. It zips up and keeps her warm and cozy. The BundleMe is also great for the walk from the car into the mall on a cold day. You simply zip up your little one and when you enter the mall, you can unzip and keep right on going. It is so convenient, and stylish too. Oh, and don't worry, it is machine washable!

You can purchase the BundleMe at Babies R Us, or for other retailers, visit the JJ Cole site. It is priced at around $60 and worth every penny.

Unique Blankets, Bibs & Changing Pads

We all know how difficult it is to find a unique blanket or other item for you little one, let alone one that she likes. It seems that every where you go, someone has the same one as you! And they always seem to be so plain too.

Raspberry Peabody offers unique, high quality selections for you to choose from. I was able to try out a super cute blanket and an over-sized changing pad.

My daughter instantly fell in love with the blanket we were sent. She sleeps with it and we also have to bring it with in the car to accompany her in her seat. The blankets are 100% cotton on one side and the softest chenille on the other. It is machine washable and holds up quite well. In fact, it gets softer through washings. The designs to choose from are sure to fit any child's personality. The quality and distinct uniqueness of these blankets are well worth the $50. This would be a great shower gift for any expecting mom.

Raspberry Peabody also has over-sized changing pads. These are so adorable and functional, everyone should have one. They are larger than the other changing pads that accompany diaper bags. They fit all changing tables found in public restrooms. This made me feel a lot more comfortable when changing my little one at the mall or other public place. She wiggles all over the place and you can imagine the germs on those changing tables! You don't have to worry about too much anymore, since these cover the whole table! They are made out of 100% cotton on one side and soft terry on the other. There is even a waterproof liner sewn in. These changing pads can fold or roll up and are secured with a satin ribbon, easily fitting into any diaper bag. The peace of mind that these over-sized changing pads provide, as well as the cute designs, is also well worth the $43.

Amy Michelle Baby Totes

Another baby bag gets the seal of approval from My Little Guppie! These baby totes are classy as well as functional, and does not even look like a diaper bag. They act as a purse and a diaper bag all in one. Gone are the days when you unsuccessfully scramble to find your ringing cell phone or your car keys that have dropped to the bottom of the bag, underneath the diapers, pacifiers, bottles and wipes. Amy Michelle bags come with a washable changing pad, internal & external bottle pockets, a pacifier clip and lots of compartments for your little one's necesseties and mom's essentials. There is also room for your cell phone and day planner, all nicely tucked away in their own pockets. You will never lose your keys again with the handy key ring attached to the inside. The only thing I would change is that with the Street collection, I felt I needed more room since the bag does not expand. However, I still had plenty of pockets to tuck things away in. And with the stroller attachment straps that are included, you can always have more room in the basket under the stroller!

These bags are of superior quality. You don't have to worry about the straps breaking or pockets ripping. There are 3 collections: the Classic, the Chic & the Street. With these 3 collections and the many designs each collection offers, you can have one for every mood! With prices of $65 for the Street and $135 for the Classic & Chic, you can afford to have more than one. Throw out your old diaper bag (and purse) and get an Amy Michelle. You will also be happy to know that when you purchase an Amy Michelle, 5% of the profit will go to the Ronald McDonald House. Get a smart bag and help out a charity!

Nursing Covers-Bebe Au Lait

A solution is out there for all the nursing moms that struggle in public. We all know that it is difficult to juggle a hungry baby and a blanket thrown over your shoulder. It is also no fun to discreetly excuse yourself into the bathroom of a restaurant or at the mall. The solution is Bebe Au Lait, formerly known as Hooter Hiders.

These chic covers, cover it all. They simply slip over your head and have a rigid neckline that provides eye to eye contact. Mom can see baby and baby can see mom. The cover provides enough coverage for even the most modest of moms. These covers come in many stylish patterns to fit anyone's personality. It even comes in silk and organic material.

Our reviewer was skeptical at first, not wanting to nurse in public. At first, she felt that even with the cover, she would be too embarassed. Bebe Au Lait has changed her mind. This is a favorite among the group and all agree that we would use it down the line. Using the Bebe Au Lait nursing covers are definitely better than struggling with a blanket thrown over your shoulder! And it fits perfectly folded up in most diaper bags. For around $35, this is a great investment. These covers were created by a mom, with all moms in mind.

Previously Featured Products

Just a reminder, if you have missed a featured product or want to get a list of what the featured products were and their discount codes, you can email me at mylittleguppie@hotmail.com


I would be happy to provide you with the list of what was featured and the codes (if they have not expired.)

See Kai Run, Shoes for your Little One

What great shoes I have found! See Kai Run, with stylish and hip designs, will definitely give Pedipeds a run for their money. These shoes were created by a mom, who was looking for comfortable and flexible shoes for her son, Kai. She developed a great shoe, that is healthy for your little one's feet.

See Kai Run shoes have extremely flexible rubber soles that move with your child's foot. The rubber provides enough support that you don't need to worry about your child playing outside, as you would with other soft soled shoes. The sheepskin, buttery soft leather is more durable than other material and will hold up to even the most toughest players out there! These shoes have a breathable liner and a padded collar that adds comfort. They are very easy to get on and off, with a Velcro closure. The APMA has provided their seal of acceptance to these beautiful and "healthy" shoes. These shoes are also available in soft soles for your little ones that are not walking yet. These shoes are competitively priced, most shoes being between $30 and $40.

See Kai Run has partnered with Soles4Souls and has provided thousands of shoes to children in need.

Infant Cruizer

I know that everyone out there struggles with carrying their infant carrier. It can be so heavy and awkward, especially when you have your diaper bag. GoGo Babyz has come up with an innovative, safe and functional Infant Cruizer.

It is great, I love it and wish I had it 11 months ago when my little one was born. Everywhere I went with this I was asked where I got it! Your infant carseat clicks right in and off you go! It has all terrain, airless tires and maneuvers so well. The convenience of the Infant Cruizer is unbelievable. It folds up so you can put it in your trunk and unfolds again with ease. You only need one hand to fold, unfold and click your baby right in, you can take it anywhere! This product grows with your child as well. You can buy a toddler seat adapter for the Infant Cruizer. This is great for air travel. When you have bought a seat for your toddler and want him to be safe in the seat, but lugging that big car seat around is such a hassle. The Cruizer takes care of that, just click and push away, right to the gate! This great product is also JPMA certified.

I do wish it was not as expensive though. At $149 it may not be affordable enough for most parents. However, if you plan to purchase the toddler adapter later on, it may prove to be a great investment. Another issue that I had with this was that it was so low to the ground. I often brought it with me to the grocery store when I just needed to run in. I was very worried that someone would not see my little one and run right into her with their cart!

Overall, I think this is a wonderful product and would strongly recommend it!

BestEver Baby Mats

Are you looking for a soft mat for your little one to have tummy time on? I have come across this great product, Baby Mats by BestEver. They are plush mats that look like animals and are super soft. They are large enough for your little one to have wiggle room, 31", definitely large enough for even the larger baby! Your little one will love to have tummy time on this big baby mat, playing on the Big Blue Dog or the Cuddly Giraffe! It also has a non-slip back for those of you that may have wood or tile floors. Check this site out, there are many other great products that they have to offer. As for price, at $41 I think it is a bit pricey, however, it would make a great shower gift or even Christmas present-it is something that is unique and maybe would be overlooked if you were buying it for yourself.

GreenGuard

I have had the great pleasure to be in contact with a wonderful woman, Hilary Abbott, who has been able to send me so many products to review. She has introduced me to the GREENGUARD Certification program. I wanted to try and sum up her words, but she tells it best.

"Children spend about 85 percent of their time indoors, where the air is
two to five times more polluted than the outdoor air. As a result, they face
long-term health risks due to indoor air pollution. The source for these
pollutants come from a variety of products in our homes and schools such as
furnishings, flooring, electronics, window treatments, mattresses, cleaners and
paints.

With increasing concern over pollutants and their impact on
children’s health, the GREENGUARD Children & Schools Certification Program
offers a solution to parents concerned about the indoor air quality of their
homes and in their children’s schools. The GREENGUARD Children
& Schools standard is overseen by the GREENGUARD
Environmental Institute (GEI), an industry independent, non-profit organization.
The Institute’s mission is to improve human health and quality of life through
programs that improve indoor air, tests and certifies indoor products based on
strict chemical emissions criteria.

The GREENGUARD
Children & Schools certification mark can be found on more than 110,000
products produced by over 100 manufacturers.

Given the growing awareness
of harm from indoor air pollutants, the GREENGUARD certification program is likely to be of interest to your readers. "

If you visit the GREENGUARD website, you can search for products that are certified. There are so many, and they must be tested annually! I am so happy that this non-profit organization is gaining recognition and that more and more products are becoming certified. You can also check out the different certification programs they have here.

Great Food Pairings

I was reading October's issue of Parents magazine and I came across a little article that I think many of you will find helpful. This article gives 4 examples of food that when paired together, they become more nutritious. Apparently, certain vitamins and minerals feed off of each other and become more absorbable. The following pairings sound very yummy:

1. Strawberries and whole wheat toast-The vitamin C in strawberries converts the iron in the whole wheat toast to a form that cells can absorb.
2. Oatmeal and milk-The magnesium in oats increases the amount of calcium your little one gets from the milk by keeping it from binding to fiber and other nutrients.
3. Olive oil and veggies-Spritz spinach, green peppers, squash and other dark greens with olive oil. This healthy fat helps your little on absorb the veggies' antioxidants.
4. Chicken and carrots-Everyone loves chicken noodle soup, don't just save it for when your little one is sick. The zinc in chicken helps the body metabolize the carrots' vitamin A.

Happy eating!

Organic Dreamsie by Kiddopotamus

When my little one was first born, I loved putting her in those sleeper bags for bedtime. I was comforted by the fact that even though we were not using blankets, she was kept warm in her little sleeper bag. That is just how our reviewer felt about the Dreamsie by Kiddopotamus.

The Dreamsie, by Kiddopotamus is an organic sleeper bag that comes with an adorable sleep cap. It is made from 100% certified Organic Cotton. Everyone knows how I feel about Organic products, so this item couldn't make me happier! This Organic Cotton Knit is ideal for your little one's sensitive skin.

It is a great alternative to blankets, when you know that blankets are big "no no" but you want to keep your little one warm during the night. It is safer than loose bedding and keeps your baby safely covered and cozy.

The Dreamsie even makes for easy diaper changes, with its' full length zipper. Don't worry, the zipper has a cute little star tab that closes over it at the top to keep the zipper from poking your little one!

Kiddopotamus products can be found at Babies R Us and Target. You can get the Dreamsie for "a well worth it" price of $24.99.

Simplicity Crib Recall

Simplicity has voluntarily recalled about 600,000 units of their drop side cribs. If you own one of these cribs, you should stop using it and visit the recall website. Due to hardware sizing problems, the drop side of the crib can come off the track. When this happens, a gap is created which could cause entrapment or suffocation. Check the website to see a list of model numbers, stores the cribs were sold at and to get more information (including contact numbers).

Hoohobbers...What? Hoohobbers!

What is a Hoohobber you ask? Hoohobbers produces "unique speciality products for Baby & Toddlers." I am specifically going to talk about their diaper bags. These bags are a stylish modification to the every day diaper bag. They have over 40 different designs in 3 different styles; the messenger bag, the tote and the backpack. You can even get these bags monogrammed for an added $12 (which gets you free shipping).

These bags are not only stylish, they are functional as well. They are made out of denier nylon, which makes them tough and durable. The bottoms are reinforced and the sides & pockets are lined. These bags come with the standard changing pad, as most bags do. There are 3 open bottle pockets and 1 zipper pocket across one side. What could make this bag better? It is machine washable! When they say machine washable, they mean it. I did not find any fading or fraying when I washed this bag.

There are two things I would change about my messenger style bag. First, I would make the strap longer, or at least adjustable. Second, I need more room. There could be more pockets and it definitely needs to be "expandable." It is great for a quick stroll or trip to the mall, when you don't have to pack everything!

Overall, Hoohobbers has great products and I would recommend the diaper bags. I love the style and got many compliments. It is competitively priced at $70 and if there are other things at their site you like, spend over $75 and get free shipping. And for all of you Chicago parents...this product is made right here in Chicago. Gotta love local products.

China Recalls Baby Formula

The New York Times published a story yesterday about the Chinese manufacturer, Sanlu Group, a major producer of baby formula. They are recalling 700 tons of its baby formula after it was learned one baby died and kidney problems in at least 50 others. The formula is tainted with the same deadly chemical, Melamine, that was found in dog food earlier last year in the United States. The Chinese police believe that the formula was diluted with water to increase volume and then Melamine was added to disguise the dilution. The FDA has said that no formula from China has been approved for import. However, this formula may have been sold illegally in ethnic grocery stores in the United States.

Upcoming Reviews

I have several reviews in the works, so be sure to look out for them in the coming weeks.

• See Kai Run Baby Shoes
• Amy Michelle Diaper Bag
• Bebe Au Lait Nursing Cover
• Best Ever Baby Mat
• Infant Cruizer
• JJ Cole BundleMe
• Kiddopotamus Dreamsie

SwaddleMe by Kiddopotamus

When Grayce was born, the nurses at the hospital swaddled her to help recreate the womb. When I got home, what a struggle it was to try and wrap her up like the nurses had. I wish I had the Swaddleme by Kiddopotamus, because struggling with those blankets and trying to wrap up my little one was a nightmare! I have several friends that swear by this product. I struggled with swaddling her just right so the swaddle wouldn’t come apart while she was sleeping. I was awful at it, not to mention the hassle during nighttime diaper changes.
I discovered the SwaddleMe while doing product reviews and have since introduced it to several friends. They love it!

From the Kiddopotamus site:

"SwaddleMe®Adjustable Infant Wrap
The One. The Only. The SwaddleMe.
Wrap your baby in the comfort of the SwaddleMe® and rest assured she will sleep safe, sound and secure. The renowned SwaddleMe® soothes infants and reduces symptoms of colic by recreating the soothing snugness of the womb. It also reduces the incidence of the startle reflex, helping babies to sleep longer. The award-winning SwaddleMe® has revolutionized the way babies - and parents - sleep around the world and it has forged an international renaissance in swaddling.
Swaddling Can Reduce the Risk of SIDS and help babies sleep through the night. New research shows that swaddling can help reduce the risk of SIDS by promoting better sleep when infants are on their backs."

This product is so easy to use and you can change a diaper without having to remove their arms from the swaddle. The SwaddleMe also gives piece of mind that the swaddle won't unwrap and end up over her head which is a fear I am sure all parents have!

The SwaddleMe has also won numerous awards, including the iParenting Media Award and the 2008 "Babble Best" 1st place award for best swaddling blankets.

The SwaddleMe Adjustable Infant Wrap comes in 3 sizes:
Preemie: 3 to 7 pounds
Small: 7 to 14 pounds
Large: 15 to 22 pounds
It also comes in numerous different fabric types, each with numerous colors & patterns:
Microfleece
Bamboo
100% cotton knit
100% cotton flannel
Luxe
100% Certified Organic Cotton Knit

You can find the SwaddleMe at my Amazon store or at the Babies R Us website.

Separation Anxiety

I fully know that I am being so silly about this, but I am starting to have separation anxiety as we prepare to get rid of Grayce's baby carrier and move strictly to a convertible car seat. We have been using an Evenflo convertible car seat on and off for some time now. However, I am clinging to the infant carrier with all my might! This is partially because once it is put away in storage, that means my little baby is growing up. However, that is not the main reason. It is so easy to tote Grayce around with her carrier. She has not out grown it yet, she is very petite! I can run errands and take her in and out of the car with ease. With the convertible car seat, the in and out of the car does not make her a happy camper. She hates it! She often falls asleep in the car and the carrier makes it so much easier to take her in without waking her. Which let me tell you, makes for a very peaceful dinner out! Think if I had to take her out of the car seat, wake her up and then stick her in a high chair she does not want to be in! Yikes, we will definitely be having less dinners out. I have grown quite attached to my infant carrier. Everyone is telling me that I have to let go and move on. Is this really necessary?

Dad Gear

For all the dad's out there that hate carrying around pink flowery diaper bags, I have found the bag for you! Moms have been demanding stylish diaper bags for some time now, her is one for dads. It is a great Messenger Bag from Dad Gear. This great bag does not look like a diaper bag. It is rugged and stylish, with all the properties of a great diaper bag! Dad Gear is calling it a "hands free" bag, you can change, feed, and entertain your little one without ever having to put the bag down. It has some great features:

1. removable front panel to allow for easy packing and cleaning
2. my favorite, quick access wipes window under the front panel, which has a refillable container included. This is patent pending.
3. 2 large pockets on the interior for diapers
4. 2 bottle pockets on the side that are accessible from the outside or the inside
5. 2 tall skinny pockets on either side of the wipe window, for lotions or sprays
6. changing pad, that is in a separate back pocket, to avoid cross contamination
7. heavy duty fabric and very durable hardware
8. large adjustable strap with a shoulder pad for comfort
9. optional 3 point harness

My husband loves this bag. And to tell you the truth, so do I! It has so much room and you can just stuff it full without every having to worry that it won't close. We have gotten so many compliments on it. There are several styles you can check out at the Dad Gear site and each comes in a variety of colors and patterns. You are sure to find one that fits your style! You can check out Daisy Gear too, for the ladies.

Indie by Bumbleride

I am one of those moms that is crazy for strollers (and diaper bags). Even though I can only push my daughter in one stroller at a time, I would own 12 if I could. And of course, they have to be the chicest stroller around. I had the pleasure of testing out the stylish Indie stroller by Bumbleride. I had the limited edition with fabric designed by the artist Bwana. For 3 months, my little one got a smooth and comfortable ride in this great attention getter, with its colorful and fun graphics. I definitely felt that the Indie was extremely easy to push and manuevered quite well. With the provided directions, it was a breeze to put together. The great features are:

• the front wheel swivels 360 degrees or can lock in position for joggers


• includes an air pump, foot muff and cup holder


• handle bar adjusts to accomodate the taller or shorter parents


• all the fabric is removalbe and washable


• large basket below


• fits a child up to 45 lbs


• car seat ready, it includes a car seat adapter for many car seats


• 5 point adjustable harness


• zip off canopy


• 4 position reclining back rest

I am sad to send this stroller back, however, there were several things that I felt could be improved upon. The Indie is listed as being a "mere 20lbs." To me, that is very heavy! I felt that this stroller was too heavy to be traveling with. I won't go into my trip downtown on the train with my daughter, diaper bag, car seat and the 20lb stroller! It is listed as a jogging stroller, however, I would not jog with it. Even with the front wheel locked it did not seem stable. I love strollers that have the reclining backrest. The Indie did have this, however, it was very hard to release and re-position. Finally, I have been using this stroller for 3 months, taking it everywhere with me (since it is so stylish) and I still can not figure out how to fold it. It takes me a lot of time (and words that should not be repeated) to finally figure out how to fold it!

Overall, I felt that there were way more advantages than drawbacks to this stroller and would recommend it to others (but keep your folding directions handy).

Short Haul by Baby Sherpa

I am going to start by saying that I will not call the Short Haul by Baby Sherpa a diaper bag. I am going to call it a multifunctional and ergonomically designed bag for the active parents. This bag is great and has so many advantages:

• a soft-sided cooler


• a pouch with a key clip


• 9 organizer pouches


• pacifier and toy clips


• insulated bottle pocket and water bottle holder


• heavy duty handle


• over sized changing pad


• padded shoulder straps and sternum strap


• fits as a carry-on when traveling on airplanes

This bag is most importantly, comfortable! My husband and I go hiking quite often and love the outdoors. This bag was perfect. It fit everything we needed and the lunches we packed were kept cool! It includes, what they call an "optic pouch", which is simply a padded pocket for your camera. Which is perfect for those hikes when you want to capture the great outdoors. My husband love carrying this pack because it has a rugged look, no one knows there are diapers and baby food in there.

You can check out this bag at the Baby Sherpa website. It is competitively priced at $85. There is also a larger size available and that retails for about $89.

Esfre-Insulated Bottle Tote

This is a great product for parents on the go. The Esfre, Insulated Bottle Tote by Kiddopotamus. This functional, yet stylish tote has double insulation that keeps food and drinks cold for hours. It has the capacity to carry three 9-ounce bottles or four baby food jars. It has a reusable ice pack that conveniently fits into the inner pocket of the tote. The adjustable velcro tab grows with what you put inside, so stuff away! On the back side of the tote is a pocket that you can store your personal items in; money, credit card or license. Best of all, this Insulated Bottle Tote attaches to any stroller with the strap on the back. I even use it to attach it to my diaper bag. It comes in 3 great colors; green, pink and khaki. This tote can be purchased Babies R Us or Target.

Classic Stroller Sunshade

With so many families spending so much time outside, protecting your little one from the sun is probably one of the number one things on their minds. With the Classic Stroller Sunshade by Protect a Bub, some of your worry can be alleviated.

This sunshade, easily attaches to the canopy of your stroller and can even remain on when the stroller is folded up. This sunshade has a UPF of 50+ and will protect against 98% of UVA and UVB rays. It is made out of breathable fabric and mesh side vents to promote air circulation. It provides added protection with complete visibility for your little one. Best yet, this product was an iParenting Media Award winner!

Even with the added sunscreen, I felt better knowing that with this sunshade attached to my little ones stroller, she had added protection. We love going to festivals and BBQ's during the summer, but do not want her delicate skin to be harmed by the sun's rays. The Classic Stroller Sunshade by Protect a Bub, helped us out all summer long! The price is not too bad either! You can find this great product at the Protect a Bub site or at one of my favorite sites, Barebabies.

Groovy & Modware by Boon

Every parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle and babysitter knows that getting your little one to pay attention during breakfast, lunch and dinner is, at times, almost impossible. So why not give them their own fun plateware and plasticware! Boon has come up with the perfect solution. The Groovy plate and Modware plasticware are fun, yet functional for your little one.

Groovy is a "just for your little one" sized plate with 2 separate compartments. We all know how each separate food can not touch the other! There are also 2 smaller bowls that attach to the plate in various positions. These are perfect for dipping, which is "oh so fun", or for smaller portions. These smaller bowls slide back and forth and grip to the side perfectly!

Modware plasticware is the perfect size for toddlers. They are designed with no sharp edges and have a soft comfortable grip. Of course, they perfectly match the Groovy plateware too.

Both of these products come in orange or the newer option, pink. Both are competively priced at $13 for the Groovy plateware and $5 for the Modware plasticware. You can buy both directly off the Boon website or they can be found at Babies R Us or Target. Remember, 10% of Boon profit is donated to Children's Charities.

Cariboo Folding Bassinet

The Cariboo folding bassinet is simple to put together, light weight, well-made, sturdy (holds up to 22 lbs!) and easy to clean. If you are tight on space it folds up nicely and is quite portable! For the environmentally conscious, you'll be happy to know that this bassinet is made from beautiful and sustainable New Zealand Radiata wood. The frame is well constructed; however the cardboard insert and mattress pad could definitely be improved. There is however, a 100% organic New Zealand wool pad that can be purchased separately. This pad is included in other models, such as the Classic bassinet, the Gentle Motions bassinet and the Earth bassinet. It should also be noted that the cardboard insert is an e-zero board. This board is a medium density fiberboard that is made without the use of formaldehyde or other toxic compounts.

Overall, for $259.95, the Cariboo folding bassinet is a solid purchase and a must have for all new parents with limited space or who travel frequently. My husband and I like the fact that we can transport our little one quickly from room to room or bring it to grandma's house for sleepovers. This product is also JPMA/ASTM Safety Certified and safe for your sleeping beauty.

For more information on this product or other great products by Cariboo of New Zealand, please visit the website.