Piggy Paint's Project Earth {GIVEAWAY} {CLOSED}

Having a little girl is so much fun. The make up, dress up, painting the nails... it's great. But do you ever wonder what's in all the products you use for you children? Wonder if it's safe? Potentially harmful?

With Piggy Paint, you really don't have to worry. Really. Their motto "Natural as Mud" helps you decide easily.. but they also put the ingredients out there, plain as day... and recognizable!

Piggy Paint has now come out with a "NEW" polish geared for an older generation of little ladies.. called Project Earth. {although, a lady.. little or not can enjoy them!} Which has it's same great formula, Non-Toxic, Odorless, and kid-friendly! These bright colors make it fun to paint your nails while making a statement.

We were so excited to try out Project Earth by Piggy Paint, we already love Piggy Paint.. so this was a no brainer. And guess what.. it certainly did not disappoint. They even have a GLOW IN THE DARK nail polish! My daughter went ape, she loves it. She couldn't believe that it actually glows. Well it does, and it's a new favorite.

I am happy to own Piggy Paint. I feel great about letting my daughter be a girl without worry about chemicals.

Enjoy your manis and pedis without worrying about foul odors and harsh chemicals! We all deserve to be spoiled!

BUY IT!! Piggy Paint can be purchased online for $8.99 or in gift sets for only $24.99!! Also remember, A portion of every sale from the Breast Cancer Pail will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure for Research! They have also received a few outstanding awards and recognition, the Excellence Award form Safbaby.com and the Seal of Approval as an approved Vendor of mom approved child tested products!

NOTE: FREE Domestic Shipping (USA) November 25-28, and Canadian Shipping reduced those dates to $20, regardless of size and weight!!

WIN IT!! I am so excited to be giving a $15 gift certificate to (1) ONE lucky winner!! AND I am so excited to be able to give EVERYONE a 10% discount code: NAPTIME10L {Expires January 31, 2011}

*Follow this Blog to be entered.

Bonuses! Please comment separately for each vote.

*Become a Follower of PiggyPaint on Twitter

*Like Piggy Paint on Facebook

*Visit Piggy Paint.com and let me know what you LOVE most about their products!

Giveaway Ends November 25!

* I was sent Piggy Paint Project Earth FREE of charge. This is an honest review and opinion.

Clementine Art

Have you ever wondered what exactly is in your children's art supplies?

Well, Clementine Art introduces a new way of doing art with your children. Their fresh and natural art supplies support healthy development for your child. So you don't have to wonder any longer.

My kids loved painting with Clementine Art paints. And because it's made from natural products I enjoyed them painting and using their imagination without worry about it. The vibrant colors were not only beautiful but easy to paint with. Plus, it washes away SO easily with soap and water. Absolutely my favorite part! Easy clean-up even if the mess is bigger than you initially anticipated! :) And so far, it hasn't stained anything! Not even our hands. (grant it, I DID NOT get any on our clothes, so I am unsure about how well it comes out of clothing) I did notice a few colors were more runny than others, this didn't effect the color while painting, just made it harder when pouring the colors out in preparation. All in all, we really loved using these paints, my kids especially.

Clementine is Art you can feel good about. These high quality art supplies are All Natural, Certified Non-Toxic, and Environmentally friendly. Clementine packaging is also made of 80% post consumer recycled and reusable material. But don't let it stop here, Clementine Art makes Modeling Dough, Natural Markers, Natural Crayons and Crayon Rocks, and even GLUE!! This is ART you can fall in love with.

BUY IT!! Clementine Art Natural Paint is available online for $13.99 in 6 beautiful colors.

*I was given a set of Clementine Art Natural Paint for review. This is an honest review and opinion.

Tag*a*Long

Have you ever needed an extra hand when taking your children anywhere? I have 3 children 5 and under, sometimes I don't have an extra hand when toting them {all} around, this is why I love the Tag*a*Long. It's helps keep my child safe and close by me while giving him a sense of independence.

My 3 year old holds on to this better than anything else! {He thinks it's his. And I am gladly allowing this} I have found my 5 year old will walk close by me, hold my hand or cart.. I am not too worried about her, But my son (3) is a typically 3 year old boy, stubborn and crazy. He can make going to the store a real chore. But since he loves holding on to brightly colored big boy handle, it's make my life so much easier.

The Tag*a*Long attaches so easily to almost anything. Grocery store carts, strollers.. even your diaper bag! It's the extra "hand" I need to keep his close by me and safe. It allows kids to interact with the world around them. And this is not only great for mom, but wonderful for the child.

I am really wishing I would have found this earlier! But I am happy to know I have years ahead of me with such a great simple product. Definitely a must have. We use it daily, and since it's easy to use and remove from cart to stroller, I take it with me when I have my kids. Love it.

BUY IT!! The Tag*a*Long is available online through several stores for $9.99! I think this is a must have for all parents!

Recommendations:

~Use under adult supervision and with discretion at all times.

~Recommended for ages 3 years and up.

~Do not use Tag*a*Long to lift or carry stroller.

~Keep it Clean! Wash with soap and warm water as needed.

*Naptime Industries sent me a free Tag*a*Long for review. But this was my honest opinion about the product sent.

Better Oats

We love Oatmeal in the mornings. It's cheaper than cereal, it taste great, it better for you, and it sticks with my kids for a few hours longer!

Oatmeal is a must for me. I am very specific on what I feed my children. I believe that HEALTHY should play the biggest part of any meal. I don't like high fructose corn syrup, or hydrogenated oils, even nitrates in most cases. So when I found a New Brand of Oatmeal that was cheaper and actually tastes better I thought it was a joke. It's not. BetterOats, really are better, better tasting, better price, and amazing good for you without any icky additives.

When I serve it up, I only use hot tap water. No boiling for us or microwaving. And to add an extra umph, I also add Raw Whole Oats. I add one package of BetterOats and 1/2 cup raw oats and eye ball the amount of hot tap water, then I let it sit and soak for a few minutes. The kids stir it and eat. AND the best part, they love it. Exactly the way it is. But you can eat them how ever you enjoy them.

Some amazing things about BetterOats. 100% Whole Grain Oats, Real Fruit Pieces, and Real Dark Chocolate Morsels (they have chocolate ones!) The package is pantry friendly! And has less waste. It stands upright, so storing is easier. It's also 100% recyclable.

Since we all know that I LOVE couponing, I wanted to showcase my sale for how I came about finding such a great product.
*I found these at our local store for $.98 a box! That's 5 packs for less than a dollar and I only bought 2 boxes. I am so kicking myself for not buying out the lot! They cost more now, obviously because BetterOats are fantastic but not by much. They sell for $1.29-$2.49. (usually on sale for $1.19 though at my store) for a pack of 5. Imagine, buying Quaker Oatmeal with a package of 8 is over $3. You can buy 3 boxes of BetterOats and get 3 more package for about the same price, give or take a few cents depending on sales. And honestly, you get a better quality of instant oatmeal. Also, BetterOats on Facebook is offering a coupon for B1G1 Free!

BUY IT!! BetterOats offers a bunch of Oat choices! OatFit (sugarfree), mmm..Muffins, Oat Revolution, RAW Pure & Simple (organic and includes 5 whole grains), OatHeads (for kids) but whatever your into your should love BetterOats.

*I was not asked to review BetterOats.

Yummy Earth

Have you ever needed a sucker? At the doctor's office, shopping, even the bank. For you, your children, or anyone? I used to sigh when my children asked for a sucker, Who knows what's REALLY in those things?!

Well, I can honestly say I feel super about letting them enjoy an Organic Sucker from Yummy Earth!

I first found them while shopping at my local Natural Foods store, instantly I was attracted! So I turned the package over to read the ingredients.. what caught my eye was the words:

Gluten Free, Certified Organic, 100% Vegan, NO Artificial Dyes, GMO-Free, 100% Natural Flavors, Nut-Free, Real Fruit Extracts, Soy-Free, No Corn Syrup, Wheat-Free, Casein-Free, Dairy-Free

What on Earth could be better!! There is NOTHING in these suckers that makes you wonder. {You don't have to worry about some allergies either} When it comes to anything that pertains to my children, I am aware. I am the one standing in the isles of the grocery store reading labels. But I feel great about it, and now I can feel GREAT about giving my children a sucker!

My kids love these suckers! This is probably the greatest thing about them! :) I even tried them.. they have such great flavor.

YummyEarth. Good for us. Good for Mother Earth.

BUY IT!! YummyEarth is available in an variety of Natural Food stores, and also online for only $3.50 for 15! I love it! They also make candies and gummies! Check them out @ YummyEarth.com.

*I was not asked to write this review. I simply wanted to share a great product!

Potty Training Secrets

I recently just finished potty training my second child.. a boy, at the age of 24 months. And just after, a good friend asked me if I could help her potty train her twins. Actually, she said, "I will pay a thousands dollars to potty train them." As I giggled I realized she wasn't kidding.


Potty Training is no fun for anyone. I guarantee it. But that doesn't mean we have to be miserable doing it either. Success is patience, understanding, consistency, and encouragement. I will admit, I have become frustrated from time to time... because I was sure he had it, and he didn't. But we need to find a way to teach without being frustrated. He's simply learning.

Elizabeth Pantley is famous for her No Cry Solutions. Well she's added a NO CRY Potty Training Solution into the mix. This book has amazing tips, easy to follow help hints and tons of great information and ideas to get you started in such a wonderful, yet hard time in your child's life. Not to mention your own.

A Few Quick Facts About Potty Training

The perfect age to begin potty training is different for every child. Your child's best starting age could be anywhere from eighteen to thirty-two months. Pre-potty training preparation can begin when a child is as young as ten months.

♦ Teaching your child how to use the toilet can, and should, be as natural as teaching him to build a block tower or use a spoon.
♦ No matter the age that toilet training begins, most children become physically capable of independent toileting between ages two and a half and four.

♦ It takes three to twelve months from the start of training to daytime toilet independence. The more readiness skills that a child possesses, the quicker the process will be. (Take the Readiness Quiz in Chapter 2)
♦ The age that a child masters toileting has absolutely no correlation to future abilities or intelligence.
♦ Nighttime dryness is achieved only when a child's physiology supports this--you can't rush it, but you can nudge nature along in a few different ways. (See Chapter 5)
♦ A parent's readiness to train is just as important as a child's readiness to learn.
♦ Training need not be expensive. A potty chair, a dozen pairs of training pants and a relaxed and pleasant attitude are all that you really need. Anything else is truly optional.
♦ More than 80% of children experience setbacks in toilet training. This means that what we call “setbacks” is really just the usual path to mastery of toileting.
♦ Understanding the reason for the setback and setting a plan will bring success. (See Chapter 6, Problem Solving)
♦ 98% of children are completely daytime independent by age four

~

The No-Cry Potty Training Solution has Gentle ways to help your child say good-bye to diapers.

~

BUY IT!! Elizabeth Pantley has many books available from potty training to disciplining.. all with a No-Cry approach. You can find these books at Amazon for $15.95.

*I was given this book as a gift from Elizabeth Pantley, but was not asked to do a review.

Apple & Eve

When it comes to my kids nutrition I can be some what strict. But deep down I know I am doing what I can to ensure they get the proper vitamins for growth. This doesn't mean I don't give in and buy them random things they beg me for... {Although I do try to talk them out of store bought cookies and ask if we can make them at home instead!}

I know kids simply need to be kids.

What better way to satisfy you and them than with Fruitables by Apple & Eve. Fruitables have both fruit juice and VEGETABLES in one box! Vegetables like (purple)carrots, beets, butternut squash, and sweet potatoes! And flavors such as Berry Berry, Tropical Orange, and Strawberry Kiwi! Guess what, I tried them myself and they actually taste great.

I love that I can let them have a fun drink made just for them knowing they are getting the fruits and vegetables they need! Sort of sneaky but when they taste actually quite pleasant they really never will know or even care. Lucky for me, my kids actually eat their veggies. But some days are obviously better than others. So, I keep these on hand as my pantry staple.

Apple & Eve helps let kids be kids while giving moms exactly what they want too, something healthy and fun for our children.


BUY IT!! Apple & Eve products which also include fruit juices and organic versions as well, can be found at many local and nationwide stores, one being Walmart.

*I was not compensated for this review. These are my own opinions about Apple & Eve products.

Get Ready for Summer with these Summer Essentials (kids addition)

With summer time literally right around the corner we all need to ways to be safe and have fun. The sun is wonderful. My favorite part of every morning. I love sunshine. (winter time is very depressing to me. It's snows too long)

The sun is beautiful and we need it. For light, warmth, and health. We absorb Vitamin D best through the sun. But the sun can and will damage our skin if we aren't careful. Our babies and precious children's skin, so we must protect it. The best was to protect our skin from the sun is Hats, Sunglasses, Sun Block, & WATER.

~Sun Block/Sunscreen: Baby Silk Baby Safe Sunscreen Towelettes are perfect for summer. There is no mess; no leaking in your bag or spilling while applying, no fighting or fussing with baby, no bottles and lids to worry about. Overall a perfect way to carry sunscreen.

These award-winning soft wipes are saturated with a gentle, sweat-proof, broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen that’s enriched with Vitamins E and B5, marine silk, aloe and oat, to protect, soothe and moisturize even the youngest baby’s skin. Each wipe contains enough sunscreen to cover baby from head to toe, with no fuss and no mess. They’re a dermatologist-approved way to keep baby protected from UV rays at any age, anywhere, anytime. They also, contain no phthalates, lanolin, mineral oil, petroleum or waxes.

And at only $1.73 per pre-measured application! (When using even half the recommended dose, typical lotion sunscreens are between $2 - $5 per application)

BUY IT!! Baby Silk SPF 30 can be purchased through MDmoms.com for $26.00 (package of 15 towelettes) Or give them a try with 3 single packs for $7.50.

Also, check out Little Twig Sunscreen! Which is Organic and Free from Chemicals. :)

Please make sure to check with your doctor about babies under the age of 6 months for using any form of sunblock or sunscreen.

*Remember the higher the number does not make it a better sunscreen. The minimum SPF for outdoor exposure is 15. So a typical person who burns after 10 minutes unprotected would be able to stay out in the sun 15 times longer aka 150 minutes. This is why doctors suggest re-applying every 2 or so hours. You don't need SPF 100.. you just need to remember to re-apply. Also, even water resistance will fade eventually, you will want to re-apply even if you get a higher SPF. We use SPF 30-50. And my kids have never been burned. (2 of them have red hair.)

Did you know: There is a difference between Sunscreen and Sunblock. Quote: The main differences between sunblock vs. sunscreen is in how they work. According to the EPA, sunscreens are chemicals that 'protect your skin by absorbing and/or reflecting UVA and UVB rays.' On the other hand, sunblock is made of physical or inorganic ingredients that actually block, reflect and scatter the sun's rays. Read more about Sunblock and Sunscreen here.

~ Swim Diapers: Kushies are the greatest. The more and more I used them the more and more I love them. I have had so many people ask me where I bought these and how to get them some. They are perfect.

Don't waste you money on disposable swim diapers. Invest in a cloth swim diaper. Takes 2 minutes to wash! (maybe a little more if you have a #2 accident, we haven't had any yet)

The great benefit to these particular swim diapers by Kushies is how unbelievably easy they are to put on and take off... Kushies swim diapers open and close with velcro and a tie to ensure it's closure. These are better than disposable swim diapers where you have to slip them on like underwear.

BUY IT!! Kushies are available at a variety of places, online and in some stores such as Target in some states, for $9.99. Not only are they practical but they are oh so cute!

~Hooded Baby Towels: With pools and beaches.. there is always a need for a towel. But after having 3 children, I found that having a hooded towel is essential! Great for keeping babies covered while at the pool, because it's made for terry cloth material, just like a towel it helps dry baby and protect from the sun. Bebe au Lait have the perfect hooded towels; trimmed with Bebe au Lait signature prints made from 100% cotton and soft absorbant 100% cotton terry, perfectly sized for swaddling infants. You simply can't go wrong.

BUY IT!! Bebe au Lait are available online for $40.00. These hooded towels are also machine washable and fit infants to toddlers. (0-24 months)

~Baby Hats: You want a baby hat that will help protect baby's head, face, and neck. The Kokopax Savannah Baby Sun Hats are perfect for summer. They made of 100% cotton canvas and features a wide brim and a no-fuss chin strap to assure the ultimate in sun protection. Adorable strap-on shade for our wee ones.

BUY IT! You can purchase Savannah Baby Sun Hats for $19.99 directly through Kokopax. Available in 3 custom fabric designs, sailor, espresso, and bubbles. And with sizes to fit babies to 2 year old toddlers. (6-12 months, 12-18 months, and 18-24 months) Kokopax is known for

their structured carriers.

~Water Mesh Sling: If you go to the beach, pool, or even water/splash parks during the summer and have a baby.. you will want a mesh sling. Mesh Slings are made form Sportswear Material, (soft, airy, polyester or polyester/cotton mesh) it's meant to get wet. I really love the idea of a water sling simply because I have a 7 month old who I can't set down by himself, I already wear him everywhere else so why not while enjoying the water. KimzKreations makes some fabulous mesh slings for an amazing price.

BUY IT!! KimzKreations has beautiful mesh slings for $32.00. I think what I really loved about KimzKreations is the owner Kim, took time to research and find the SAFEST way to wear your baby in a water sling. Thus, using Small Nylon Rings instead of typical aluminum ones.

You may also want to invest in a Solarveil Sling. Solarveil slings provide UVA and UVB protection. You can wear your baby in a Solarveil sling, also by Kimzkreations for $45.00 and not have to worry about baby's precious skin. (be sure to sunblock the exposed skin and have baby wear a hat if possible) You can even enjoy a Solarveil in the water too. The fabric is light weight and breathable.. dries quickly when wet and is perfect for keeping you cool while wearing your baby.

*Quick Note: Solarveil fabric is hard to get a hold of. The manufacture no longer makes it. Buy a sling while you can!

Water Slings are for WADING only. Never swim with a baby in a Carrier. Be aware of where baby is in relation to the water at all times.

~Bug Repellent: OFF! FamilyCare Bug Repellent is our choice. It doesn't leave the skin sticky or have a heavy odor and it really works. Mosquitoes can carry diseases. Harmful ones if caught like West Nile Virus. With mosquitoes coming out during the summer we should all try to protect ourselves and our children from being bitten every few seconds. No one like to be attack by bugs. There are other available like Cutter, or even Natural and Organic kinds like California Baby, Burt's Bees, and EcoSmart.

BUY IT!! You can get OFF! FamilyCare at most grocery and drug stores for around $6.

You could actually use a 100% natural repellent if you don't mind smelling like onions. Mosquitoes like sweet smells, so if you eat a RAW onion before the day begins your sweat will smell of onions. Trust me this works. Farmers use this method alot, my grandfather taught me this. He would eat a square of brewer's yeast and an onion before working on the farm. Wonderful man.

~WATER: Water bottles are essential during the summer to keep us all hydrated. Our bodies need water, and yes, even our skin. (keeps you skin feeling soft and looking beautiful) Especially our children. You find a variety of water bottles created for children (and adults) Siggs, U-turn 2 Tap, Camelbak, Waterweek.. to name a few.

BUY IT!! These all range in prices $10-$25, some stainless steel, some just regular durable plastic.

Are you ready for Summer?

Baby Blanket Music

We have all heard the benefits of Mozart playing while a baby sleeps. What if you could listen to recording artists like Simon and Garfunkel, Billy Joel, Elton John, and John Mayer in lullaby form.

Simple, sweet, and soothing.

Baby Blanket Music does just that. Designed to soothe baby while enhancing the enjoyment and cognition of music, Baby Blanket Music features familiar baby sounds like vibraphones and music boxes paired with a full medley of richer, more classical instruments including strings, woodwinds, pianos, harps and soft percussion. Together, these instrumental arrangements create gentle textures that are calming and enjoyable to ears of any age.

I was able to review Simon and Garfunkel.. which I was simply thrilled about. I love Simon and Garfunkel and I loved that my baby (and other 2 children) enjoyed the music just as much as I did. I played it a few times for myself while making dinner. It was very soothing, even for me. I found myself humming the tunes all day. Sometimes singing the words to myself. Like Cecila and Mrs. Robinson... I really loved it.

{This product was made from eco-friendly materials.}

BUY IT!! Baby Blanket Music-a collection of albums featuring unique, soothing lullaby arrangements of favorite songs from an array of well-known stars, is available online for $14.99.

Use Coupon Code "naptime2010" to recieve 20% of your order from babyblanketmusic.com

Take a listen and fall in love with sweet lullabies from great artists.

~Simon and Garfunkel

~Elton John

~Billy Joel

~John Mayer

*Special thanks to Hilary Abbott and Baby Blanket Music for sending me a Simon and Garfunkel CD for review.

One More Reason to Love your Sleepy Wrap

I love my Sleepy Wrap. I think it is definitely a must have when you have a new baby. And I am constantly in need of it. Especially since I have 2 other children. You can get so much done while wearing your baby; grocery shopping, vacuuming, cooking, laundry, and even exercising. Your baby is snug, supported, and best of all completely comfortable!

After having a baby, we as women want to get back to looking similar to what we looked like before our precious gift came. We shouldn't be worried about appearances, but having children of my own it hard to get back into the groove of things. We want and need to be fit and have stamina to keep up with our new life. Not just to get back into our skinny jeans. This is just a plus.

Your Sleepy Wrap can be worn tummy2tummy, hammock, even on your back. Imagine all the ways you can work out with that kind of flexibility. {Please note also, that when bending over you should always support baby with your arm.}

*Forward Facing is not recommended at all. It puts unneeded pressure on baby's spine and pelvis.

I started wearing my baby immediately after birth but I would only walk, do some light chores, and trips to my local grocery store. And since, doctors seem to always recommend 6 weeks for a more intense workout or activities so I followed those guidelines. I didn't want to cause harm to myself especially when I have a new baby and 2 small children to tend to. But please check with your doctor first.

Wearing your baby while working out is beneficial for many reasons; your baby is next to you the whole time feeling loved and taken care of, the weight of your baby gives you just enough resistance but not too much to strain you (your already used to carrying that much weight anyway!)... plus as your baby grows so will your workout!

After my 6 week check up and the "go ahead" from my doctor, I started with squats and lunges at home. {Anything low key, you don't want to be vigorous and harm your baby} The baby gives just enough resistance and weight, that you don't have to do anything vigorous for a good work out. (Plus, squats are always more effective if you move slowly.) Then, I simply added actual weights for my arms; either dumbbells or my ankle weights around my wrists. Which not only added a little bit more resistance in my squats and lunges, it also gave my arms a workout too.

You should check out Chicks n' Chickens Lullaby Exercises that not only helps you get back into your skinny jeans, helps soothe your baby with gentle movements and exercises. or Fit and Giggles which helps strengthen new mommies with simple exercises. Both can be done while wearing baby, and the Sleepy Wrap is just perfect for it. Notice the sling or front carrier, sure you can purchase two different type carriers if you want, but honestly, it can all be done easily with a wrap.

You can try walking with your other children as well. I own 2 double strollers BUT I have 3 kids, it can get hard getting them all out on a walk. My Sleepy Wrap or even my Boba which is a soft structured carrier, and holds babies from about 7 months to 4 years; works wonders. Also, since you can wear your child in a Sleepy Wrap until about 40 lbs, and/or the Boba 15-45 lbs, I can switch children with ease. Making my load more intense or as little as possible depending on the kind of work out I would like to accomplish for the day. I walk to the park almost daily during spring, summer, and fall if the weather permits. This not only gets me out of the house but I can get into my skinny jeans that much quicker! My children are happy, I am happy.. that makes for one really great day.

Please watch this video for an idea. Notice, that you can easily wear a baby while performing some of these exercises. You may have to adjust baby so his legs aren't dangling, so you both can avoid injury. Younger babies try the hammock hold/upright hold. You can also put her on your back while walking and doing a lunge, you have the stroller for support, you don't need to push yourself into a full lunge to get the benefits. Remember that I have done these. If you can't do a lunge because of leg or knee issues, walking with baby is perfectly fine too.

The Sleepy Wrap truly is one of my favorite accessories when it comes to my babies. There is so much I can do with it and it stores up nicely in my diaper bag when I no longer need it.

Live life. Without barriers. You can be you, and love them, and still enjoy the life your creating together. The possibilities are endless.

BUY IT!! You will LOVE the Sleepy Wrap! It's such a great gift for yourself or a friend. Sleepy Wrap comes in beautiful colors, so your bound to find one you adore... for $39.95. They also carry Organic ones.. for $59.95. A Boba Carrier is available for $118 in beautiful earthly colors.

**Disclaimer** This is my personal use and opinion, although I use my Sleepy Wrap daily and for my many reasons, only you know what is best for you and your baby. Please use caution when attempting any new exercise especially when you wear your child. Make sure your newer baby has adequate head and neck support. You can ensure this simply by using the Hammock Hold or Newborn Upright but tuck baby's head under one strap. You can even use the Classic Hold and tucking baby's head as well. Remember when bending over always support baby with your arm. You should never workout vigorously when wearing your new baby. Please read these safety guidelines for future activity. CLICK HERE

ALSO: with the new recall on many store bought structured slings.. remember that babywearing when done properly won't hurt you or your child. Please make sure that your baby's mouth and nose aren't smothered against anything.

*Thank you to NAP Inc for providing a Sleepy Wrap and Boba Carrier for reviews.

Baby Beanies

I gave in.

And started knitting. Oh how I love it. Yup, it's true. I have become one of those women. :)

My passion began years ago when I needed something. A talent. A hobby. But a practical one. My vision was to start knitting to make adorable things for my kids. I mean, what is cuter than a knitted hat on a baby.

Baby Beanies is an amazing book. It's perfect for beginners. Using mainly the first knits you learn; knit, purl, k2tog, etc. The books pictures are to die for. Amanda Keeys, the author, is a photographer also so all of the photos are beautiful. They really give you a feel for what your making.

The instructions and patterns couldn't be simpler. They're not just for beginners. I was terrified to start a Cable Stitch and now I feel it's actually possible.. and worth it. Each hat is adorable. (the scarf hat is my favorite!) This was first time knitting a hat, so I chose the simplest one that I could find, made two of them within a few days. But I also have 3 children and knit slowly, my sister can make a hat in an hour or so.

BUY IT!! Baby Beanies is available through Amazon for $16.95 (or cheaper) Baby Beanies has 29 adorable hats for babies and toddlers. Simply Happy Hats to knit for Little Heads.

Quick Note: My best friend had twin premies 4 years ago and while in the NICU she noticed that parents will donate blankets, outfits, hats.. anything really. After her babies were able to come home after many months she began to knit and crochet baby hats and blankets. Christmas every year she donates knitted hats and blankets (in pairs) to each baby coming home. Unbelievable. This year is my first year adding to her collection and I am thrilled to add some really fun hats. (they may not fit right off the bat, but that's okay. The book teaches you how to make many sizes 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 2 years and up.) I am really happy to have added this book to my collection. You can always donate them too. :) Happy Knitting.

*I was not asked to write a review nor was the book given to me. I simply liked the book and decided to post it.

Kushies

Who wants to spend $8-$10 a week on Swim Diapers? Swim diapers are not cheap if you have to buy them constantly through the summer.

We travel every summer for months at a time so pools and sprinkler parks are all we can do if we want to not spend a fortune having a fun summer. We live in the water to say the least.

Kushies makes these amazingly cute cloth swim diapers. We already love them. Not only did they save me money, they are easy to use and clean. What more could you ask for?

We loved them for many reasons; They fit great, with a snug fit to prevent leaking feces. They also have a tie for the front, ensuring they stay put. I think what I love most about them is they are just like REAL diapers. They open and close using velco which is perfect for putting them on and taking off, but even better that you don't have to pull them down creating more mess if your baby happens to have a loose bowel movement.

Kushies Swim Diapers are definitely a must have in my home. I feel so much better not wasting money and materials. They are eco friendly; so you reuse them over and over and over again. You Waste Nothing.

BUY IT!! Kushies Swim Diapers are $9.99. With beautiful fabrics and fun colors you're sure to find one you'll love. Kushies are known for their cloth diapers and eco friendly products but they sell so many cute, practical, and functional products; nursing, training pants, clothing, bibs, bath stuff, bedding, and even toys. I really think there is something for everyone.

{quick note, a lot of people get confused about the purpose of swim diapers in general. They are NOT like other diapers. They will not prevent leaking of urine. Their sole purpose is to keep feces out of the pool. If they were meant to absorb urine they would absorb water as well, defeating the purpose}

*I was not given these diapers for this review. But they are wonderful.. I couldn't resist.

Miserly Moms

With gas and food prices soaring, we as mothers need to find ways to save.. big. We have children, mortgages, food and clothing to provide for our every growing families, and now with the help of Jonni McCoy we can do it all and still live a satisfying life.

You don't have to deprive yourself or your family when you chose to live frugally.. you simply must find a happy medium. Whether that may be couponing to cut cost that literally takes minutes once you get the hang of it. Or shopping good deals off season for clothes for the whole family. Frugality is living smart, not being miserable.

Jonni McCoy mentions a 2 income family transitioning to a 1 income family, through her own experience, she realized there must be a change in order to survive. But her concepts aren't just for stay at home moms. Working mothers can benefit as well.

She not only informs you about your grocery bill and how to drastically decrease it, but she gives you ideas about babies; diapers, food, etc., clothing, and ways to pocket your money to save thousands!

Miserly Moms is an excellent read. Packed with information about how to live frugally, actually save money, and still enjoy life. I found the book extremely interesting. Which gave me some great ideas!


I was also able to review Healthy Meals for Less... and wow. I loved it. It has over 200 recipes that are nutritious and inexpensive. Not only does she show you how to make meals for $1 per serving, but they taste good too! Also, each recipe has a nutritional chart and cost break down. You know exactly what you're making. This was an added benefit. We tried a few before I had to pack it up to move out of state and can't wait to dive back into it! The recipes were simple, easy to read, understand.. and actually easy to prepare! Definitely a must have.

I have found myself as a mother of 3 becoming frustrated at home watching our finances struggle. I have now found a great way to provide my family the things they need, while also giving them the things they want without putting us in debt. I am a stay at home mom and it works for us, but that doesn't make it easier. Miserly Moms and Healthy Meals for Less are now some of my favorite go-to book for everyday life. Such informative books, they teach so much.

Live Well on Less in a Tough Economy.

BUY IT!! For a book about saving money, this is it. Purchase Miserly Moms and Healthy Meals for Less for only $10.99!

*Jonni McCoy provided both Miserly Moms and Healthy Meals for Less books for review.

Wysi Wipes {CLOSED}

One word: Wow! (and love) Oh how I loved Wysi Wipes!

Wysi Wipe is a small pellat, size of a penny (or a stack of pennies), once you add water it puffs up, unwraps and like magic you get a durable wipe in seconds!

A biodegradable Wysi™ wipe is a compact 3/4 inch [2cm] wide, but almost instantly, it turns into an ample 9 x 10 inch powerful, durable, landfill friendly, personal wipe made of cellulose.

Wysi™ closes the gap between a paper towel and washcloth. Yet Wysi™ is soft enough for the most delicate skin; 100% natural; contains no alcohol; and has no added chemicals; and zero scents. Plain and simple Wysi™ is a pure hypoallergenic wipe suitable for all skin types. Even the oxygen based whitener H2O2 has environment benefits. The only additive is the liquid you chose! Try refreshing clean water from your bottle, stream, lake, kettle, tap or hose. Splash on a tablespoon of liquid and watch it grow! Wet & unroll an absorbent, practical, multipurpose, baby soft, scent-free cloth.

Did I mention they're fabulous? They great for everyday uses.. but.. Perfect for camping, diaper bags, cars, motor homes.. you name it. You can literally put them anywhere.

Not only are they portable, they are durable and handy. You can even turn them into sanitized hand cloths by adding some hand sanitizer from your purse or diaper bag. I have found I don't have to take an entire tub of wipes with me. A bottle of sanitizer and a Wysi Wipe and I am set for the park, snack samples at Costco, or trips to the doctor.

BUY IT!! Wysi Wipes are available online 100 Wipes is only $11.95! But they also come in 2-pack, 12-pack, even 500-pack.


*I was given 3 packages of Wysi Wipes to conduct this review.  Opinions are mine

Bazzle Baby: BandaBibs

Got Drool? My 4 month old is a drool factory. Teething babies can simply soak every piece of clothing they're wearing... and yours too. I am no longer surprised or even embarrassed when I look down and realize my shirt sopping wet. With babies.. drool happens.

Bazzle Baby makes the most adorable bibs to help with such chaos. It's called the BandaBibs and it's amazingly practical and stylish. My new favorite accessory for his everyday attire.

They also make great bibs for feeding. The BandaBib fits snug (not tight) around the neck preventing any baby mush from going under the bib and ruining the sweet outfits grandma bought them. We absolutely love them.

Not only are they cute, they are beautifully made. The material really soaks everything up. With countless designs your sure to find one that fits just perfect. Bazzle Baby makes many other baby items; Burpers, Pacifier Clips, and another adorable set of bibs, Big Bibs and BitsyBib (for newborn to 10 months)

BUY IT!! BandaBibs can be purchased online for $12.00 each. Bitsy Bibs $10.00, Big Bibs $13.00, Burpers $9.00, and Pacifier Clips for only $8.00.

*I was give a free BandaBib from Bazzle Baby to conduct this review.  Opinions are mine.