Celebrity Baby Blog Reviews

30 Weeks Pregnant: Noodle and Boo's Glowology

Heading into my 30th week of pregnancy, my ankles are getting more swollen every minute. And my feet are getting so dry!  What can I do to fix this?

Well, Noodle & Boo, very well known for taking care of the sensitive skin for the playground set (also a celeb fave for their kids) recently started a line for expecting mamas called Glowology. They sent me two products to review, The Balm and the Elasticity Oil. Both are organic and I'm in love with them!

The Balm ($24 for 6.5 oz) actually moisturizes my feet and feels wonderful. You can also use it on your hands. Made with oh-so-rich organic shea butter, sunflower oil and with a blend of billberry, lemon, orange, sugar cane and sugar maple extracts, it smells amazing (but I like that it works!)  It also kept the moisture in for hours (something the other lotions I've used just don't do). Treat your feet to this, whether you're pregnant or not! I do not let it out of my site!

I'm also using their Elasticity Oil ($42 for a 4 oz bottle) to nourish my itchy belly and bust. You can also add it to your bath. This heavenly oil contains sunflower and jojoba seed oil, with a little honey, calendula (to calm the skin) and grape seed oil (to soothe). Also smells delicious and works well!

Noodle & Boo also have some other great products in their new line, I'd love to try. Check out the Perfecting Creme ($62) - to reduce stretch marks and the Afterglow Gel - to firm and slim the skin. To see the other delicious products in the Glowology line, click here.

Noodle & Boo will ship to the US and Canada. The Glowology products are availabe at Neiman Marcus (exclusively until December and then available to all their retailers in January) or shop for Glowology now online at Noodle & Boo's site.

Exclusive for CBB Readers: Noodle & Boo is offering 10% off to CBB Readers with code cbbdisc. Expires November 15th.

15 weeks pregnant: Butter up!

They say that hope springs eternal, and I am a perfect example. All through my first pregnancy I hoped I would not get stretchmarks. I did not actually DO much to prevent them, but my mom didn't get them, so I hoped real hard. And for the first 39 weeks I was good. It was week 40 that did me in. Days, mere hours before birthing my baby - they bloomed.

You'd think I would have learned by the second time, but no. Once again I hoped. And every once in a while I used a little random lotion on my belly. Ha ha. The stretchmarks got me again. Those last two weeks.

Well I've learned my lesson. This time around I am still hoping not to get stretchmarks on what's left of my belly. But I am also doing something about it sooner rather than later. I am using Tummy Honey religiously. Every day. It smells great and is nice to rub on and Gwyneth Paltrow used it too which I find somehow reassuring. But it's not hope alone that has me using the Tummy Honey every day. I actually do think the product has helped fade some of my old stretchmarks.

There is more to Bella B for pregnant and new moms than just the Tummy Honey though. I'm loving the entire Bella B body care line. These products are made without parabens, mineral oil, petroleum or lanolin and are safe and gentle for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

At the end of a long day there is nothing more soothing than their Tummy to Toes cooling leg and foot lotion. After showering I love their all over Silk and Honey body moisturizer with shea butter and mango. And while their Body Buzz firming anti cellulite lotion may not make me ten pounds thinner in the thighs, it does make me a little less jiggly. Additional products in the line assist with common preggo problems such as pregnancy mask and undereye circles. I am sure I will be checking out their Nipple Nurture cream and cleansing pads once I start breastfeeding.

Purchase the Bella B. line at BabiesRUs and qualify for a free umbrella stroller when you spend $75 or more. Click here for a list of retailers to find a store near you.

Book Review: Let's Get Ready for Kindergarten!

Like most parents, I want to feel like I'm involved in my child's educational process but never feel like I'm doing enough. What's more, as a first-time parent I never really know what is age appropriate. I was quite interested in checking out Let's Get Ready for Kindergarten, a book written by parents with approval from a panel of teachers and curriculum specialists as a solution to "no child left behind."

Based on the core Kindergarten curriculum, the 32-page dry-erase book prepares kids ages 2-6 for, well, Kindergarten, teaching things like numbers, shapes, colors, coins, counting and so on.  Stacey Kennenberg, owner of Cedar Valley Publishing, looked for a book like this one but found that there was no book like it on the market, so she wrote and self-published it.

Since I have a 27-month-old I decided to put the book to the test myself.  At first glance I thought "no way will a kid this young understand this!" but I decided to use trial and error, skipping over what I thought was difficult, and going back to it later.

My daughter Catie has known her alphabet, numbers, colors and basic shapes for quite some time now but it never occurred to me to teach her to identify letters and numbers out of order, or to teach her difficult shapes (like a hexagon or whatnot) this young because I thought she just wouldn't get it. Well, within just a few days of "playing" with this book she could correctly identify about half of the letters of the alphabet (she still gets certain ones, like B and D for instance, confused but my mom -- a school teacher -- says this totally normal) and numbers zero through nine out of order. She can also identify all her shapes and will now point them out to me on her other toys.  I have even started to teach her how to identify her coins but she seems to be more interested in inserting them in her piggy bank at the moment!

Green Bay (Wisconsin) area public schools have been using this book for a few years and have seen a positive marked improvement in testing.  The books have also been approved for use in schools in both California and Texas.  I can see why. This is a book that I would wholeheartedly recommend to all my mom friends and I can see homeschooling moms especially loving this one. 

The book's sister publication,  Let's Get Ready for First Grade, is already available and the goal is to have a book written for each grade. Both books were included in the Swag Bag at the Emmy's!

Get your book directly from Cedar Valley Publishing or from amazon. Use code PISHPOSH for 10% off your order!
 

Peas of Mind: A healthy toddler's meal

Kids and greens, why can’t they just along?  Some of you are lucky enough to have kids that swallow up their green beans and ask for seconds, but for the most part, in order to feed kids healthy food you have to dress it up in a chicken nugget costume and douse it in ketchup! So what are the alternatives? In the past, I've been tempted to pick up a few of those Gerber toddler TV dinners and Lunchables but who knows what preservatives they contain?  We try to buy as much organic food as possible which can be a challenge when it comes to prepared kid food. One company in San Francisco has found the perfect costume for veggies, and the company name is a perfect match, Peas of Mind.

Peas of Mind is a frozen food company that has invented “Puffets.” Intended as an all-in-one meal for kids 12 months and older, or a super healthy snack for older toddlers, each Puffet is about the size and shape of a hockey puck and can be eaten with your hands. There are four Puffet flavors: Eat Your Greens, Carrot Risotto, Nanna’s Banana and Black Bean Polenta. All flavors contain organic ingredients including fruits, vegetables, and grains. They are individually wrapped and frozen, and sold four Puffets per box.

We tried the Carrot Risotto, which was my favorite (and also contains yams which sweetens it a bit), and Nanna’s Banana, which is basically a noodle kugel and which Anya clearly preferred probably because it's slightly sweet (but no added sugar or preservatives-woo hoo!). The other flavors include Eat Your Greens (which has broccoli and spinach) and Black Bean Polenta. All of the flavors are high in protein and contain the good kind of fat (including omega 3s which is important for proper brain function and development).  As they contain whole milk and eggs, only children without allergies to these things and over the age of 1 should eat them. (Click the extended post for the ingredient lists and nutrition facts.)

The company tells me that some parents are serving Puffets in lunch boxes, since they are individually wrapped and pre-cooked, can be defrosted overnight in the fridge, and are a perfect on-the-go snack. And, believe it or not, parents have found Puffets incredibly satisfying as a pick-me-up during the day. I don't know about that... but the next time I'm looking for an afternoon snack, I might be tempted to try the Eat Your Greens which is high in protein and low in carbs.

We really fight the urge to serve Anya a steady diet of the easy but popular kid foods like chicken nuggets and mac and cheese because we want her to develop healthy eating habits.  Now is the time to start, not when she's in elementary school, going for a lunch of cookies and soda and tossing out her whole lunch bag (like Josh used to do!). I'm all for any company that helps us serve healthy and tasty foods!

They are available in grocery stores in some areas (right now just the west coast) and can be bought online.

Sale at the Clip Fairy

The Clip Fairy wishes to announce in honor of recently selling their 500th clip on the website,  they're offering most of their clips $3.33 each (3 for $10).

Also, their holiday collection will be listed on the site tomorrow afternoon!

Shop the Clip Fairy. 

Free Shipping for Made by Angie's Fab Wipes Covers

Special offer for the Handmade Wipes Covers from Made by Angie. From now from November 15, you can get free shipping.

Just enter the code "FREESHIP" in the comments section of your order, and the shipping charges will be adjusted off AFTER the order is received.

Shop Made by Angie.

Skooch! Baby: The incognito diaper bag expands its line

If you read my last review of Skooch!, the incognito diaper bag, you'll be happy to know that as the company prepares for its first birthday they have already expanded their line.

For all those who love the Groovy, Baby bag but wish it came in other colors, Skooch! is launching Water and Bronze in the same fun pattern and beautiful fabric. Water combines tones of blue, teal, olive and sage polka dots on a soft beige background. Bronze on the other had, has charcoal, tones of grey, camel, and rust on a khaki background.

The really roomy bag has three front pockets as well as three back ones.  It also has 2 corner pockets (wide enough for my daughter’s munchkin straw cups so I presume they’re wide enough for a bottle as well).  The middle part is zippered (I am they type that needs that) and the bag comes with an oversized changing pad (yes, it’s coordinated).  For longer trips I throw my Patemm Pad in there and it fits just fine.

But my favorite, favorite thing about this bag is the fact that the shoulder straps convert to stroller straps really easily so I can hang it from the bars of my Inglesina Liberty with no problem.

The Skooch! bags are also versatile and functional. They can go from the park to play dates and to dinner without skipping a beat.

Check out the new bags or look for a complete list of vendors at www.babyskooch.com.

Crayola's Digital Camera (yes, a real one) for Kids age 3 and up

What kid doesn't love to mug around in front of the camera?  Make silly faces, get in every picture they can. They want to take pictures of you too, but do you really want your toddler handling your $400 dollar digital camera? Or in one of my niece's case, taking her father's expensive digital camera and throwing it into a kiddie pool?  It was ruined, by the way.

One way to get around that, and encourage your budding photographer is to get the Crayola EZ Grip Digital Camera made by Sakur International, Inc. (who has been making electronic devices for 3 decades). It retails for $49.99 and is designed to be used (uh, em, roughed up) by kids aged 3 and up. You can pick either the green or purple version of the camera.

My friend's 4 year old daughter tested the camera and loved it. The two handles made it easy to grip. She liked that she could see what picture she took right after she took it. At 1.3", the preview screen was smaller than my personal digital camera (I upgraded over 6 months ago to a 3" screen). But since this was my tester's first real taste of using a digital camera, the preview screen was perfect to her. The buttons on the back of the camera kept it simple. A power button, a left and right facing button, to go backwards and forwards see what you took, and a delete button. Which actually got used a lot!

We liked it for a child because it was easy to use, and so was the software that came to it. Also, it may keep them away from the allure of your expensive camera, since this is "theirs" and costs a fraction of the price. 16 mb of memory is included, which is not a lot compared to the 256 mb my camera has, I wish there was a way to add a compact flash, memory card or secure digital card to add some juice to this baby! But you figure that this is a way for a child to learn how to take care of a camera, and learn how to use a photo program on the computer.

It may not be the camera for your little one to take on a vacation. Unless you are taking a laptop to upload their pictures every night. I also would use rechargeable AAA batteries on it too, the battery power went quickly.  I prefer using a rechargeable lithium battery with a digital camera, because I always seem to go through batteries quickly too.

You'll need Windows 2000 or XP (we ran XP). I also have a Mac, so hopefully future editions of this camera will work on it (I use my Mac for managing all my photos). Comes with a neck strap and USB cord (and the software cd).

The Stats

Digital resolution 640 X 480 pixels

Includes Color Genie Photo Editing Software

Edit Center and Game Center

Requires 3-AAA Batteries (Not Included)

The puppet making was fun (it puts any face you take a picture of on a cartoon body) and you can print it out. I liked that you could use the pictures you took to create a story. The 4 year old needed help with using the software, but I imagine a child who is 6 or 7 will not need as much help.

Shop for the Crayola EZ Grip Camera here, shop the crayolastore or Amazon.com.

Oops Mat - Create Art A Little Bit Neater

We all know our kids get messy while doing art projects. It's a given, but you can protect your table or floor a little better, rather than just using newspaper. Oops Mat is a small company out of Michigan that makes reusable child craft mats, the Oops Mats. These reusable child craft mats protect your furniture and floors from a child’s crafting and art activities. You can clean it easily with soapy water and a scrubby sponge. It comes in a few sizes to make sure your budding Picasso has enough room to work.

Through Christmas 2007, the company will be donating a portion of their internet sales to Child Abuse and Neglect Councils and Advocacy Centers and Autistic Society of America.

Shop Oopsmat.com.

Handstand Kids: Italian Cookbook for Kids

A cookbook for kids is always a great idea. Handstand Kids just released an Italian Cookbook for kids that comes with a cute kid-sized chef's hat. The cookbook is described on the Handstandkids.com website as, "Handstand Kids books are the perfect recipe for kids to learn how to cook, while discovering the people, places, and language of a new country. The first Handstand Kids book journeys to Italy to make delicious and nutritious Italian recipes."

My friend and her two kids, aged 6 1/2 and 4, tested it out. They liked the recipes and made a few that came out delicious. Their mom, my friend, recommended the cookbook for kids older than 6, because she felt the directions were a little complicated for them. Yvette Garfield, of Handstand Kids, wanted to add that she teaches cooking classes with 4 and 6 year old kids and they love it. 

As a educator and former Food Network staffer (1994-1999), I loved that the cookbook was written for kids. Cooking is a wonderful way to teach literacy, math and science. It promotes helpfulness and listening skills, as well as being a great way to bond with your kids. Or encourage that budding chef!

The next book from this company will be a Mexican Cookbook, which will be released in Spring 2008. Sounds yummy to me! To find it in a retail location, click here, or to order online, click here.

Shoofly Shoes: Creative and Whimsical Baby and Toddler Hand-painted Shoes

Shoofly Designs makes delicious hand-painted canvas shoes for your little one. Creative and fun, I'm loving them! Available in sizes 1-7 (basically fitting from baby up to 2 1/2 year old toddler - though you can get larger sizes by special order), you can order by gender or theme (they have 26 themes!).  You can get their shoes in canvas high tops or mary janes. 

We checked out the Pretty Pink Poodle high tops with a pink poodle and sparkly black paint ($49). So darling, my little girl will be rockin' these once she's born and can actually can fit into them!  For the girls, I also liked the (polka) Dots and Stripes ($44), the sweet Pink Gingham ($46), and the almost in season Christmas Tree mary janes ($44). For the boys I liked the Plaid and Stripes high tops ($49) and the Cow high tops($49).

Lisa Schulist is the president of Shoofly Designs. According to the Shoofly Design's website, the idea was born in 1989. While Lisa was an art student, she supported herself with a freelance job designing and hand-painting clothing and baby shoes for an upscale children's boutique in a suburb of Chicago. After graduation, she first became a graphic designer, then a website designer. Lisa says, "My interest in starting up Shoofly Design, Inc. grew out of my desire to create objects that allowed me to hold a real paint brush in my hand again, in addition to the digital paint brush I had been accustomed to working with via the computer."

Also included on the website is how to care for the shoes. Made with non-toxic fabric paint, please handwash - no throwing them in the washing machine or dryer. Please also note: hi-top shoes come with white shoelaces, and the colored laces are an additional fee. 

The website will be revamped soon and new styles added. Check out the just added Republican Elephant high tops and the Democratic Donkey high tops - so cute!!!!

You can buy Shoofly Shoes online or in two stores (they have plans to expand into many more).

Exclusive for CBB Readers: 1 pair of 27" solid colored shoelaces. A $4.95 value. Use Voucher Code: 111302007.  Offer expires 11/30/07.

Zutano's fall/winter 2007 collection has expanded

Rich Bordeaux French rib fabric, soft woven plaid and a trio of fashionable bunnies join the line this month at Zutano's Online Boutique! Browse Zutano's range of comfortable/casual to homespun elegant, punctuated with an array of new styles and colors! 

CLICK HERE to check out their new products!

Two Sisters Jewelry Boutique

Lately, I can't get enough of personalized jewelry. Put my kid's name on it and I'm a goner!  Two Sisters Jewelry Boutique has a mommy and grammy collection that is so beautiful!

Gina Paluch and Jennifer Michaelson, the two twin sisters who own the company, designed a stunning "Karen" ($120) bracelet for my mother (who we call Grammy anyway) personalized with my son's and my niece's name. Chocolate and Powdered Almond Swarovski pearls, Swarovski crystals and sterling silver balls surround sterling silver block letters.  Its two stranded, so one name is on each. So dainty and classy, my mother and I love it.

Gina and Jennifer grew up in Washington State. Several years ago, Gina was living in California and decided to move her family to be closer to Jennifer and her family in Arizona. According to their website, "Jennifer began hand-making jewelry in her spare time for friends and family as gifts. Requests kept piling in from friends and family to sell her hand made Jewelry. She knew if she pursued this as a business, she couldn't’t do it alone, and called upon the expertise of her sister Gina, her business degree background and her natural creativity. The two new mothers decided to allow the rest of the world in on their creative designs, building a web-based business featuring their distinctive semi-precious stone jewelry."

There's more than just mom and grandma jewelry at Two Sisters.  They have stunning earrings and necklaces. Check out the Miranda - a brown mother of pearl choker for $60, the Tiffany Quartz - a smoky quartz pendant for $85 (you can choose a 16" or 18" chain) and the adorable Eliza Gold - a delicate gold teardrop necklace with crystals for $45. Bookmark their site and hope your hubby comes across it when its time for the holidays!

Also check out the infant and kids line. Their Annika Infant Collection has cute bracelets for $20 and are 4 3/4' in length. Personalize them for your little one and choose either primary or pastel beads.  Their Kelly Kids line has bracelets for $35, that are 6" in length and can be personalized. You can get primary or pastel flowers, with colored beads.

Shop Twosistersjewelryboutique.com. 

29 Weeks Pregnant: Maclaren's Beginning Line, Bath and Body Products for Mommy and Baby

I know what you're thinking, MACLAREN (the British Stroller company) is making bath and body products for moms and babies? Yes, and its called the Beginning Range. They're awesome and reasonably priced!

Their website says the products are "holistic personal care products have been carefully created to meet the emotional and physical needs of mothers and babies during this important life stage. We select natural and organic ingredients, as well as 100% pure essential oils to restore harmony and stir the senses, in proportions that are safe for use during pregnancy and infancy." Now, you have to read the labels on the mom products, most are not for use during your first trimester. We checked out the whole range.

The Mom's line contains the Nurturing Bath Milk ($17) - which is 70% organic and I use it in my bath. So yummy!  Their Alleviating Leg Lotion ($17)- contains rosehip oil, as well as blend of orange, mandarin and patchouli essential oils to soothe my tired cramping legs and drier than usual feet.  Maclaren also recommends elevating your feet for 15 minutes a day. Since my ankles were hugely swollen during my last pregnancy, I am trying to make that happen, even though I can see them swelling up before my eyes!  I also have been using the Balancing Facial Mist ($17) - with essential oils, is a good pick me up during a long day with a toddler, Connecting Massage Oil ($20) - to rub on my growing tummy, the Purifying Bath and Shower Elixir ($17) - a great pick me up in my 5 minute (if I'm lucky) morning shower and the Supporting Belly Balm ($17) - helps with keeping my stomach elastic. My fave items are the Alleviating Leg Lotion and the Belly Balm!

There is a complete baby range too. I'm saving most of the items for my baby girl's arrival, but we have broken out the room mist ($15) - to banish the stinky diaper pail smell and the nappy change balm (a huge tube for $15) - which is a super-protecting diaper cream.

Shop for Maclaren's Beginning products here.   

Deceptively Delicious - A New Cookbook by Jessica Seinfeld

I'm sure you've heard about this new cookbook, and the controversy about it (which I will address at the end of this review), written by Jessica Seinfeld (yes, Jerry's wife and mother to their 3 children).  I love the concept behind it, especially with a picky toddler refusing to seat 90% of his veggies.

According to her website, www.deceptivelydelicious.com, "Jessica Seinfeld, like many busy parents, struggled to get her three kids to eat healthily. After much trial-and-error — and many mealtime battles — she discovered a foolproof system: delicious and easy-to-make stealth recipes that sneak in puréed veggies so kids will never suspect the foods they love are actually good for them! Deceptively Delicious has all of Jessica's winning combinations, including cauliflower in macaroni and cheese, and spinach in brownies. She also shares tips on making healthy snacks and improving store-bought foods."

Armed with a new 7 cup Cuisinart food processor, I tackled making Jessica's purées first. So much easier than using my now broken blender, this food processor easily puréed the vegetables. I loved that Seinfeld gave directions on how to cook and purée every veggie under the sun.  Spinach was steamed first and then pureed. I quickly figured out how much 1/4 of a cup was and I liked the method of putting the purées into little ziplocs. Then I went full steam ahead the next day, roasting and puréeing a butternut squash, steaming and puréeing a whole cauliflower, several yellow squash, and finally several zucchinis. I followed her hints to write the dates created on the bags with a sharpie. I froze practically all of the purées (since our kitchen was about to be demolished and I really wasn't going to be able to cook that much).  That night I made her chicken nuggets, which were so easy to make! My husband,son and I loved it. I was surprised that Ben didn't notice that under the breading, the spinach made the chicken green. My husband and I thought the spinach gave it a great taste and we couldn't get enough of it. The recipe's a keeper!!  That night I also made a family size box of Annie's Mac and Cheese and put yellow squash puree in it. Ben loved that too!  I froze meal size portions afterwords for easy serving during our construction.

Since we are now in the middle of construction, I obviously can't cook anymore, but that doesn't mean I can't use the purées!! I kept out a yellow squash puree and keep adding it to Ben's mac and cheese (in the little Beechnut or Gerber containers). It does work a little better, if you mix it in a new bowl to serve. He can't tell the difference and I know he's getting his veggies. Unfreezing the bagged purées in a bowl full of hot water is also easy. She recommends cutting on of the corners of the bag to pour the puree out (another good idea).

Now I am also adding flaxseed meal to many of our dishes also, as Jessica recommends.  II used it top the corn muffins I made last week (from a mix) and didn't affect the taste at all. As soon as we have a kitchen again, I plan on making many more of Jessica's recipes. Oprah recently featured Jessica (and loved the food). Jessica's tips and recipes can be found on Oprah.com. A portion of author's royalties will be donated to Baby Buggy.

Also following Jessica Seinfeld's advice, I keep offering a small selection of veggies at every meal for him and I always offer him what we are eating (an entree with a vegetable side dish too).   Sometimes my little fussy eater will actually take a few bites. My husband and I love to eat vegetables, so I hope my son will come back to eating them voluntarily, Until then, I'm going to be deceptive! 

Click here to buy this book!

Writer's Note: Since I reviewed this book and Missy Chase Lapine's book, The Sneaky Chef, recently, I feel qualified to comment on the NY Daily News's recent Rush and Molloy story about Jessica's book. Click here to read my review of The Sneaky Chef.  I feel, even though the concepts in the book are similar, the puree recipes are very different. In Seinfeld's book, one vegetable at a time is pureed for use. Lapine's book's purees are done by color (the white puree, for example is cauliflower and zucchini, with a little lemon juice). Yes, some of the recipes are similar, but they both use kid friendly recipes like Mac and Cheese, chicken nuggets...etc..  How different can you really make those recipes? For chicken nuggets, It makes sense to add a vegetable puree to the egg mixture, before you put it in the breading and cook it! I enjoyed both books and feel that they should serve as a companion to each other, rather than replace the other. The more suggestions on how to get my child to eat his veggies, the better!

According to Vogue's September 2007 article, Talking Fashion: Norwich Notes, Jessica Seinfeld had some help with her book. Chef Jennifer Iserloh (www.skinnychef.com) helped develop and test the recipes. She also had input from nutritionist Joy Bauer, parenting experts Jean Mandelbaum, Ph.D and Pat Shimm, and the Foreword was written by Dr. Roxana Mehran and Dr. Mehmet Oz.

What do you do to stop mealtime battles? Do you agree or disagree with the Deceptively Delicious methods?

Fabkins: Cloth napkins for kids

One of the easiest ways to "go green" (so to speak) is to get rid of the paper napkins and start using all those fancy cloth ones that you got as gifts for your wedding shower.  These days, eco-conscious households are becoming more and more common (we at CBB celebrate that!) and more families are making a strong effort to teach their kids how to be earth-friendly. Because I try to keep a green household myself, I was excited to learn about Fabkins, a new company which specifically makes cloth napkins for kids.

Created out of the desire to offer kids a fun and easy way to be a part of saving the environment, Fabkins napkins are not only kid-sized but they are super-cute too. They are soft and durable (100% cotton) everyday cloth napkins sized for kids’ laps and lunchboxes. They can also be used as a placemat. The napkins come in great colors and in packs of five in six different themes (“Sports Fan,” “African Safari,” “Prima Ballerina,” “Fruit Salad”, “Beach Bound,” and “Garden Friends”) that are embroidered on.  I  also love that the tag has a little space where you can write your child's name.

Elizabeth Rogers, co-author of The Green Book: The Everyday Guide to Saving the Planet One Simple Step at a Time, has said that “If we all gave up one [paper] napkin a day, we could save a billion pounds of paper waste from going to landfills [each] year."  That is enough reason, in my opinion, to get yourself a week's worth of these napkins for your school-aged kid. 

Purchase Fabkins through their site at www.fabkins.com.  Here's to hoping all your kid's school mates pick up on the trend!

Update: New Bella Band Colors for Fall

Update: One of my favorite maternity accessories, the Bella Band by Ingrid and Isabel, has added three more great colors for fall. Check out pepper (a spicy red), mocha ( a lighter brown - a nice twist on the popular chocolate brown color that I love) and slate (gray).  Perfect for the mama-to-be to wear as her belly gets bigger, to cover up pants that aren't closing anymore or shirts that may be too short. At 29 weeks, pregnant, I still wear one everyday. I like the way it supports my now HUGE belly and has helped me to cut down on the maternity clothes that I've had to buy.  I plan to wear them during my "fourth" trimester for support and coverage for breastfeeding! Bella Band, I am in love with you!

Exclusive Discount for CBB Readers: Figure 8 Maternity is offering a deal - use code CBBSpecial to get $5 off of any 3 Bella Bands or $10 off of 4 bands. You'll also get free shipping and its good until December 31. Shop Figure 8 Maternity.

Original Review: Bella Band - 13 Weeks Pregnant

If you are pregnant, you need the Bella Band. It will take you from your first trimester to your third and even in your "fourth" as your body goes back to normal (albeit slowly).

Company Owner Ingrid Charney "popped" when she was four months pregnant with her daughter Isabel. Frustrated because she was dressing for work and couldn't button her pants, she finally took a tube top and pulled it up over her hips. Though it was thick and not ideal for a expanding belly, it worked. She untucked her shirt and went to work. Ingrid said, via her website, "In the coming weeks I found I could also wear my new accessory with maternity clothes I wasn't yet big enough to fill. Ultimately, I had more choices and less frustration finding something to wear every day. That's when I wondered if other women would want something like this. Over a year later the Bella Band was born. And the inspiration, you might say, was my daughter Isabel, now age five —that once pesky bump in my belly!"

Ingrid was kind enough to send me some Bella Bands to test out. I fell in love with the product. Basically, every day you will find me wearing one. My favorite is the black lace. I am now wearing some of my regular clothes and some maternity clothes. My regular pants will not button and the Bella Band hides that.  I hate the big panels on my shorts, so the Bella Band covers it up as well. It looks great - no one knows I'm wearing it unless I tell them. It also supports my tummy and I actually feel better when I wear it. Another plus, my almost 2 year old son always yanks up my shirt to see my tummy - the Bella Band preserves my modesty.

Exclusive Discount for CBB Readers: Figure 8 Maternity is offering a deal - use code CBBSpecial to get $5 off of any 3 Bella Bands or $10 off of 4 bands. You'll also get free shipping and its good until December 31. Shop Figure 8 Maternity.

Dream Baby: Keep Baby Safe

I admit it, I'm a safety nut when it comes to my kid. I want the best bath safety seats, gates, locks, especially with an inquisitive 2 year old, who is a houdini, and a baby on the way. Dream Baby is a manufacturer of gates, bath safety, locks, etc.

Sold in 70 countries around the world, this company was started in Australia in 1997 by Carolyn and Tony Ziegler.

We tested out a few products: their Cabinet Glide Lock Extra, foldable Bath Safety seat and their DVD Shield.   I loved the Cabinet Glide Lock Extra. Before Dream Baby sent us their Cabinet Glide Lock Extra, I had to buy two of them to attach together, so it would be long enough to fit the cabinet handles on our antique sideboard. But it didn't work so well. Dream Baby's worked so much better than my configuration!  And held up against my two year old.

I also liked the Bath Safety Seat (around $19.99). It folded up compactly (a plus when you live in an apartment) and was very sturdy in the tub. We tested it out with my neighbort's 6 month old baby, who was big for her size, but the bath seat was still a little big for her. Maybe a mesh insert would help with keeping her legs in, or I would recommend using it with a child over 8 months old. Your child should be able to sit up well.

The DVD Shield was also a big hit in my house, as our two year old LOVES to push buttons on the dvd player, cable box and vcr. Even though we were smart enough to get a tv cabinet that closes when we're not using it, we didn't take into account that our child would ever want to watch tv (were we silly or what?). We should have gotten the cabinet that had a separate door on top and on bottom, so you could keep the bottom cabinet door closed when the tv is on. Ben could touch the plastic shield, but he couldn't work the buttons on the dvd player - now we just need to get a plastic shield for our cable box and vcr!!

One of Dream Baby's newest products is the Dehumidifying Dry Egg. It turns pink when the air is damp and blue when its dry. It removes excess moisture from the air, taking away mold and mildew. When the egg is full up and pink, just take the egg out of the base and dry it out in the microwave for 10 minutes. It will turn blue again when dry. How cool is that?   

Want to get some of Dream Baby's safety products for your little one? Shop at Target.com, happymothers.com, unbeatablesale.com and sears.com.

Book Review: The Vaccine Book by Robert W. Sears, M.D., F.A.A.P.

As someone who believes strongly in the principles of attachment parenting I have always loved the Dr. Sears series of books so I was very happy to find out that the Sears library was finally putting out a book on vaccinations. 

Whether or not you vaccinate on schedule, selectively or don't vaccinate at all, this is one topic that is heavily debated in playgroups everywhere. It's also very difficult to find a book that is not overtly biased and that presents information in a very clear way. 

The Vaccine Book: Making the Right Decision for Your Child is written by Robert W. Sears, M.D., F.A.A.P. (son of William and Martha).  Like most Sears books, information is presented in a clear, easy-to-read way, so that even if you have zero time to read the book cover to cover (although I will point out that I read it in a few hours) you can simply check it for the information that you need.  Say you know that at your well-baby visit you are going to be asked if you want to give the Hep. B vaccine -- simply pull out the book and read that one chapter to inform yourself. It's really well-presented and informative.

Each chapter devotes itself to one vaccine and whichever disease(s) it is designed to prevent.  Sears first explains the disease, what it is, how common and/or serious it is and whether or not it is treatable.  He then goes on to explain how the vaccine is made, breaking it down by ingredients and explaining which ingredients are considered controversial (and, more importantly, why). He then breaks it down two more ways: Why someone would choose to have this vaccination and why they wouldn't. Finally he gives his take on it.

Other chapters devote themselves to vaccine safety research, side effects, ingredients (broken down into more detail than in the first few chapters) and myths/questions among others.  He also offers a delayed vaccination schedule

In order to cover up-to-date information which is virtually impossible in the print medium, he invites you to check out his website where he blogs about recent developments/changes to the information in his book. 

Parents who are well-versed on both sides of the vaccine issue will find nothing new or surprising in this book but, like most Sears books, it's a great introduction for anyone who is not familiar with non-mainstream parenting ideas.  At the very least, it's refreshing to hear a doctor say "Hey, don't just blindly trust the medical industry." That said, anyone who is expecting Sears to share conspiracy theories or to at least hint at the possibility that certain vaccinations are not necessary or even dangerous will be disappointed -- this is a pro-vax book through and through and even his alternate schedule is surprisingly heavy. 

While Sears does a great job of remaining neutral throughout the book, that is what will ultimately disappoint many parents.  Still, those parents are probably not his intended audience anyway. This book is targeted more toward the newly pregnant mom who had no idea prior to this that anyone would question whether or not one would vaccinate a newborn and that's fine in my opinion, because the Sears library in general does a great job of introducing people to new issues and this book is just that -- a very good introduction.

The Vaccine Book: Making the Right Decision for Your Child, $11.19 on amazon; www.thevaccinebook.com.

Bglambaby.com: Terrific Tees

I absolutely love bglam baby - they have such cute shirts with funny sayings. Since we're coming up on the holiday season, they've got some adorable onesies for you.  Check out their "Gobble Til You Wobble" - perfect for Thanksgiving! ($29) - add $10 and get make it into a set with chocolate colored karate pants. Plus you get a free small matching tote with personalization with EACH ORDER - how cool is that?  Baby can put his or her stuffed animals (or little cars as my son is apt to do) in it. I also loved the "Driedel Dude", "Frosty is my Homeboy", "I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus" and my absolute favorite "C'mon Baby, light my fire" - which has a menorah on it. They all sell for $29.00 and have the pants option (with short and long sleeves available). Sizes available are 3-6 months, up to 18-24 months. But you can also get them for your toddlers and kids (sizes from 2T up to 10 Youth), click here for that link (they retail for $37, no pants option, but you still get the free personalized tote)!!

I'm also eying the "Newly Hatched" onesie for my new arrival in January! I also got a huge laugh from "What happens in preschool, stays in preschool!"  and the "Step Aside Cinderella" shirt.

They also have stunning capes ($90) for the boys and girls.  The boy's version is a blue satin cape with a red and yellow star that has a sherpa lining (which can double as a towel).  A 3/4 raglan "Superhero in Training" t-shirt is included. The girl's version is a pink satin cape with a purple and yellow star and also has the soft sherpa lining. A 3/4 tee or cap sleeve tee with "Super Girl" is included. The small/medium fits children 2-4 years old and the medium/large fits children 4-6 years old.

How did they get the name bglam baby? The name comes from the first initials of the children and nieces of the founder Megan Kuosman and her partners Tiffany Tackett & Tricia McCarrick. These gals know what's cool for the babies, toddlers and teens. 

Exclusive for CBB Readers: Use code CBB01 for 20% off when you shop at bglambaby.com. Good until January 1, 2008!!!

Baby Kaed's Masala and Avi-U bags

by guest CBB reviewer Caterina

The best thing about my new Masala diaper bag by Baby Kaed is that it doesn’t look like one. My first time out with it everyone commented on my cute bag. ‘Is it Coach?’ ‘Great color.’ (I got it in Tangerine). It’s not all about looks either. I wasn’t just looking luxurious and fashionable, I was organized.

The soft, pebbled leather bag is beautifully constructed, but designed for function and efficiency.  The supple leather exterior extends to the long, substantial straps that stay in place. This is key as you try to fit your squirming toddler into a car seat and not fall apart as you lean into the open car. The spacious satin interior is expertly compartmentalized. There’s no more fumbling for you cell or lost binky. With pockets galore and great extras like a pacifier pouch, changing pad, wipes holder, drawstring sac and leather zip case, you’ll finally have a place for everything. As my daughter’s grown and I’ve streamlined my diaper bag contents, I’ve found that no matter how much I’d like to think I can throw my stuff into my old handbag, it just doesn’t work. Finally, I don’t have to trade style for function. I feel like I’m wearing the new “it bag,” but it just happens to work as a diaper bag.

It’s not perfect because nothing ever it, but it’s pretty darn close. I’d have to say that the downside is that my husband won’t be caught dead carrying it. If you can live with that, than it’s a small price to pay for fashion and function.

Other feedback we've received on Baby Kaed's b-kaed bags include "It's phenomenal. I've never owned such a nice bag. I want to lick it like candy. I'm almost too scared to use it because I don't want anything to touch it." from Heather "dooce" Armstrong and other CBB staffers who use it as purses.

The Avi-U faux sued quilted bag is also adorable. I got it in a fabulous pewter gray. It’s understated, but just as luxe and practical as the leather version. All the Baby Kaed bags come standard with the changing pad, wipes case, etc., but the outstanding part is really the craftsmanship. The bags are built to last and look good while doing it. 

Exclusively for CBB Readers: Use coupon code LDDKAED10 at www.littledudesanddivas.com and get free shipping in the US. No tax outside of NY, free $15 value bib with a diaper bag over $100, and they have a 110% price match guarantee :)

Livie and Luca: Their Veggie Boots are Delicious!

Livie and Luca makes adorable baby and toddler shoes, and they are made by hand! Their most famous product may be their delicious Veggie Boots. These shoes have a thick, yet flexible sole and they are made with buttery soft leather. Sizes go from 4 - 10.

The Veggie Boots are unisex (Ben will be wearing them this winter) and are decorated with a carrot on the velcro closure and a mushroom right above the toes. The soft lining makes them perfect for colder weather and they are super comfy!

They also have three styles of Mary Janes that retail for $34.50 each. Oh how I love a good pair of Mary Janes!!!  Check out Livie's Red Wings (6 colorful butterflies dance on these pretty shoes), the Orange Fun Dots (with hearts and dots in yellow, green and white) and the Navy Fun Dots.

For the boys, also retailing for $34.50, you've got Emilio's Navy and Tan loafer, and Viva Futbol in Tan and Red. The Brown and White Elephant T-straps could also work as unisex also.

Brooke Shields is a fan and recently sent the company a note thanking them for the Veggie Boots for her girls.

I think you'll find these shoes by Livie and Luca as yummy as we did! The company is trying to be as green as possible- so instead of shoe boxes, they use a cute reusable cloth bag.

Special note: During the month of October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 10% of all proceeds from the sales of Livie's Red Wings will go to the Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Society.

Shop Livieandluca.com or click here to find a local retailer.

Exclusive for CBB Readers:  Use code is “cbboct” for 10 percent off.

TreBimbi kids' tableware

Make mealtime more fun for your kids with TreBimbi's line of kid's tableware and let them play with their food. From Italian designer Rivadossi, known as a design leader and trendsetter in colored handled flatware, comes children's tableware that will brighten your table and amuse your kids.

Suitable for ages two through six, the TreBimbi collection offers a range of five cutlery sets and two tableware sets made of polished stainless steel and dishwasher-safe plastic.  The adorable cutlery features a fork, knife and spoon ready for conversation and are designed to easily connect together to keep them easily in reach and organized for mealtime.

The new Party collection (above left) features a colorful kidney shaped bowl, smiley cup and cutlery which easily fastens on to the plate and to the sides of the cup. The collection also includes the Puppets Club Dining Set and five cutlery sets, each connecting in fun ways such as brick-by-brick (think Legos), t-shirt, and puppet arms, and available in many colors.

We have the  Trebimbi Puppets Club 6-pc. Dining Set (pictured right with different color combinations) which features a bowl, mug and egg cup/condiment holder in addition to the cutlery set which connects via puppet arms, resembling a string of paper dolls.

I really like that sets include a knife because even though Anya is unable to cut, she is learning to.  Its' dull edge is safe and teaches her how to use all of her cutlery, not just the baby set kids are allowed to use.  You'd be surprised- there are very few brands that include a knife in the set.

The only danger in getting TreBimbi for your table is that your kid will have too much fun playing with the pieces.  We recently had friends over for dinner and I set their 3 year old's placesetting with our Trebimbi Club Flatware Set and all he wanted to do was stick them together! Anya likes playing with them but maybe the novelty has worn off a little.  In any case, they jazz up our otherwise boring dinner table so I get a kick out of them.

Celebrity fans of the line include Julia Roberts, Marcia Cross, Geena Davis, Sharon Stone, Heidi Klum, Angela Bassett, Shaquille O'Neal, Rachel Weisz, and Kevin Dillon.

28 Weeks Pregnant: 2 chix Maternity Tees

I love the tees, tanks and hoodies from 2chix. They come in regular and voluptuous sizes (yeah!!). Adorable shirts include "Haute Mama" tee ($38) in hot pink or black, "Preggo Fabulous" in the long sleeve tee ($52), or "What's Kickin" ($52) in a long sleeve tee in either pink or blue font (if you know her baby's gender). They also have the sweet Expect Good Things tee ($38) - and comes with a free 6 month subscription to Pregnancy Magazine! 

2 chix also has a cute %100 cotton drawstring long skirt called the 40 Week Skirt ($58) for pregnancy and the transition period after. Comes in the army color or black. Looks so comfortable!  Most of their tanks are on sale for $33.50, so snap up a few. I don't know about all you pregnant mamas out there, but I am such a furnace these days and constantly wearing tank tops around my apartment!

Natasha Khoudsi and Amy Bright are the owners/designers behind 2 chix. They are married to a pair of best friends (who are also cousins and introduced the gals so they could continue their boys night out). Amy and Natasha hit it off.  After getting engaged and not finding what they wanted in engagement announcements, they created their own.  They were such a hit, that the ladies started a greeting card and invitation business. While planning their weddings, they each had a pregnant bridesmaid, so they saw the need for cool maternity tees. According to their website, "With their candid sentiments and clever graphics, Natasha and Amy were encouraged by their pregnant friends to expand their greeting card line to maternity apparel. Utilizing their friends as focus groups and fit models, 2 chix came up with the perfect formula for the perfect maternity tops." That grew into their 2 chix Maternity Tees business. Natasha and Amy both became haute mamas in 2006.

Celebs who have worn 2 chix include Brooke Shields, Jen Garner, Melissa Joan Hart, Constance Zimmer, Jaime Pressly and Angelina Jolie.

They didn't forget about the Daddies - check out "My boys can swim" tee ($38), "Bullseye" ($38) and "The man behind the belly" tee ($38). They've also got a great wipes case called FabbyWipes ($25). Its cute, and makes it a little easier to find your wipes case in a crowded diaper bag - a plus when your child really really needs one!

Exclusive for CBB Readers: Use code celebbaby for 15% off. Good until 12/31. Shop 2chix.com.

Ask a Shopkeeper: Pampered Tot

We spoke to Audrey Lasry of Pampered Tot the on line boutique for everything baby related (except clothing) with the best customer service experience.

What inspired you to start your shop?
Having our first child, we spend so much time, money, and energy trying to find the best products for the best prices. The Internet was the obvious place, but items proved difficult to find, customer service was lacking, and delivery times were long. With these frustrations, we set out to create a store that offered the best products, with the highest quality, in every category. We packaged this together with same day order fulfillment and responsive 24-hour customer service.