Celebrity Baby Blog Reviews

Max Daniel Baby Debuts Luxurious Cheetah & Chocolate Adult Throw

Update: They're now doing all the Rosebuds & Satin in full sizes!

Max Daniel Baby’s elegant new Cheetah & Chocolate plush throws, security blankets & burp cloths have been so popular that the company has unveiled an adult-sized, double-sided plush Cheetah throw ($200). The throw is generously oversized (72"x60") and trimmed with the exquisite charmeuse satin ruffle that Max Daniel is renowned for. (It also comes in the original Rosebuds & Satin colors.)

They have also added Chocolate to its Rosebuds & Satin line.  The ultra-luxurious celeb-loved throw sets are the perfect winter accessory for mom and baby. We will be getting one of the full-size throws in light pink for Anya's toddler bed.

Care for the Kids Online Boutique carries the entire Max Daniel Baby signature collection and is offering free shipping with purchase for CBB readers using coupon code Max1020.

Max Daniel Baby is a woman-owned and operated business based in Los Angeles.  We've enjoyed watching it grow from a small specialty business to a full operation providing exclusive custom baby gifts to major television studios and its signature line of blankets & accessories to stores nationwide. We've chosen them to send gift baskets to celebrity moms like Melissa Joan Hart, Dayna Devon, Tori Spelling, and Elisabeth Hasselbeck.

Celebrate Your Baby's First Chanukah: Menorahs For Kids

I wouldn't exactly call us religious, but now that we have a baby the holidays have new meaning to us. This year, although she can barely keep her head up to look at the candles, we decided to get my daughter her very own Menorah that she can have for years to come. I used to take dance lessons from 3 years old to 18 years old and dreamed of being on Broadway (yah, that was never going to happen...but a little girl can dream, can't she?). Ever since I had a baby girl, Tutus and ballerina related gifts keep showing up at our front door. I just couldn't resist when I saw this Ballerina Menorah and it's even more beautiful in person. I can't wait to take pictures of her on her first Chanukah. If you have a boy, I also love the basketball and sports Menorah by the same designer. The quality and details are beautiful and the colors will definitely capture your little ones eye.

Alljudaica.com is offering 10% off Menorahs, you must mention you saw the review on Celebrity Baby Blog in the notes section of check out to receive the discount.

For more of Doryn's reviews and tips, go to www.dorynsdish.com

So Cozy line expands to include 5-piece travel set

Child haircare specialist Cozy Friedman, founder of Cozy’s Cuts for Kids, and its eponymous haircare line has come out with a collection of travel-ready products for healthy hair.  The Flight Kit contains five 2 oz. So Cozy formulas in a clear, washable zippered pouch that goes everywhere your family does. The set also includes a mini rubber ducky for bath time fun on the run.

Cozy said, "Parents pack their hair care products when they travel to avoid using hotel amenities, so why shouldn’t kids take their hair formulas on the road, too? After all, hotel shampoos and conditioners aren’t designed for children’s hair care needs. In fact, changing your child’s hair routine while traveling can result in time wasted detangling and defrizzing when the family should be having fun.”

The So Cozy Flight Kit includes a travel-size 2 oz. bottle of:

• So Cozy Shampoo
• So Cozy Conditioner
• So Cozy 2-in-1 Conditioning Shampoo
• So Cozy Detangler
• So Cozy Swimmer’s Shampoo

Check out Reva's review of the Swimmer's Shampoo (included in the Flight Kit) and two other products.

Available at Cozy’s Cuts for Kids’ three New York City locations: 1125 Madison Avenue at 84th St., 212.744.1716; 448 Amsterdam Avenue at 91st St., 212.579.2600; and 1416 Second Avenue at 74th St., 212.585.COZY and stores including FAO Schwartz, C.O. Bigelow Apothecary, Boyd’s of Madison Avenue, Clyde’s Chemists, Ricky’s, Yellow Balloon in Los Angeles, Kid Snips in Illinois, Cartoon Cuts in Florida and Maryland. They can also be ordered by calling 1-866-COZYCARE or via www.socozy.com.

Sooo Soxy: Embellished Socks for the Tiny Set & Much More

Sooo Soxy - headed up by Erin Ives, specializes in handmade clothing, accessories, and of course, socks!  Erin makes adorable embellished socks and represents many items from other talented designers' lines on her site.

She sent me two pairs to check out. She currently has five lines of socks, Vintage Baby, My Pretties, Rock-a-baby, Baby Boy, and Holiday Baby.

The first pair was from the "My Pretties" line. We saw the Pretties #4 socks ($10) - (pictured to the left) which is a pair of white cotton socks with lavender beads and silver-plated dragonflies securely crocheted on the cuffs.   The socks were adorable. I actually was wondering if they were safe for my child to wear, but after seeing how securely the beads and dragonflies were attached, I was impressed. 

Erin says on her website, "As a mother with two children I understand the safety issues. I want you to know that I have yet to have any of my socks come apart. In fact, from my experience, the sock will wear out before the embellishments come off! On most of my socks, I use beads that are small enough not to pose a choking threat. On socks that have larger embellishments, I have not only sewn them in place, but have glued them down with washable glue. My socks are very sturdy and (most) are machine washable/dryable."

The second pair was from the "Rock-a-baby" line - the saucy "Lookie Ladies" socks ($12) - sweet white cotton socks with pinup girls that are sewn AND glued and black hand crocheted cuffs.. You're going to have to handwash these socks by Erin (but she indicates that on the product page and they are so cute that I don't think you'll mind).

Erin told me via email how she began her business, "Sooo Soxy! By Erin started a few years ago. I started with my socks and then built a website based upon people's requests to see more socks.  Soon, Sooo Soxy! became www.sooosoxy.com and expanded to a whole line of new items, all handmade just for children. I guess being a mom is what initially inspired me. I was always on the lookout for something unique for my own children that was classy and high quality. I know that every mom wants their child to look great!"

Sooo Soxy carries over 27 product lines by designers (a little too many to list!). Clothes for babies, toddlers, and little kids, soaps, toys, boxers for boys, hair clips, a mei tei baby carrier, diaper cakes..etc... All handmade.  How awesome is that?   

I also checked the darling Mocha Bloom Bloomers Set ($33) by Michele. It features the uber popular retro print on a chocolate brown background (which is so  hot this season) and it comes with a sweet baby blue lap short sleeve tee with a flower applique with a yellow button.  My little girl will be wearing it this summer and I loved creativeness of it! I also liked the Cowboy/cowgirl booties, by Sarah, the charming newborn hair clips by Amber, and the vintage inspired onesies and tees by Deb.

Shop Sooosoxy.com.

15% off at The Breastchester.com

The Breastchester wants to make the holidays a little sweeter by taking 15% any regularly priced item from any of their store locations or website (http://store.breastchester.com/index.html).

Use code: "HOLIDAY CHEER".
Shop The Breastchester.com.

12 Days of Christmas Sale at Resa Design

Resa Design is having a 12 Days of Christmas Sale from 11/30 to 12/12. One item will be on sale per day.

To check out what will be on sale when, click here. 

If you order by December 17th, by 5pm CST, you will be guaranteed Christmas Delivery.

Sneak Peak at Inglesina's Zuma High Chair and the M'Home Collection

Inglesina has branched out to cool looking, yet comfortable gear for babies at home. The new collection is called M'Home. These items will be for sale shortly, so enjoy the sneak peak!

Zuma Highchair

I tested out the Zuma with my son recently. The look is cool and edgy. We loved the sleek, kind of space-age look. Everyone who saw it in my home remarked on how funky it looked. And it worked wonderfully.  It was super easy to set up and fold away again. At 2, even though he's on the small side, the Zuma fit my son perfectly.

But the best thing was that he loved eating in it and actually preferred sitting in the Zuma to his beloved Fisher Price booster seat. .  According to Inglesina, features include an "8 position adjustable height with an easy to use telescoping mechanism below the snack tray floor, a 3 position reclining backrest for eating, playing or dozing, an adjustable snack-tray for easy removal of baby and a removable dishwasher safe overlay, a 2 position adjustable footrest and a 5 point harness." This high chair will take you from infant to toddlerhood.  The seat has a removable (and washable) seat cover that is padded.  You can get the Zuma in red (pictured), black, aqua and orange. Retail price is $299 and you can get another seat cover for $39. I'm a big fan of it!

Club Highchair

Inglesina calls the Club Highchair the "easy" highchair. This highchair will work for babies who can sit up fully on their own, up to toddlers. Parents will love it because its compact and can get the job done!  It is described by Inglesina as a highchair "that combines sleek, minimalist design with practicality and comfort for baby." Basically, it's a one position highchair with a removable snack tray and the seat is padded. It folds up easily for travel and has a 3 point harness. The Club comes in red, orange, aqua and graphite. The retail price is $109.

Loft Baby Rocker 

The Loft Baby Rocker is a really cool rocker for babies.  Inglesina says "The features include an adjustable multi-position backrest, a 3 point harness, on-off rocking motion, handles for portability and a sun canopy. No toys or doodads to entertain, but will let baby relax while surveying his or her world. I wish they made this in an adult size because it looks so comfy!  Can be used from birth up to 20 lbs."  Retail price is $119.

The Spa Changing Table

Inglesina describes this product saying, "The Spa Changing Table is an changing table/bath combo: the ergonomically designed baby bath sits within the frame, at just the right height for bathing your baby without breaking your back (it's easily removed for cleaning); on top of this sits a changing mat, while beneath there are towel rails, shelves and a selection of pockets for wipes, toiletries, etc." Seems to me that you could keep this in a baby's nursery or in a bathroom. Sounds like a cool idea!  Retails for $119.

The Zuma, the Loft and the Spa are available for pre- order at Barebabies.com- look under the Inglesina M'home collection. The Club should be offered for pre-order soon.

34 Weeks Pregnant: Babykick KickTrack- Kick Counter

My little girl kicks up a storm in my tummy! Especially during movies with car chases like "Hot Fuzz" - a hysterical, but violent British comedy.  I want to make sure everything is fine with her, so I've started counting kicks. The Babykick Kick Track Kick Counter makes it a lot easier and helps me keep track of them.

Did you know healthy babies move 10 times in less than 2 hours? Most babies will have 10 movements in 30 minutes.

According to the company, "the kickTrak™ kick counter is a handheld device with only two buttons, one for kick counting and the other for elapsed time, recall and setup. The display shows kick number, pregnancy duration and tracks the days until the due date." To use it, all I had to do is press the "kick" button each time I feel the baby make a movement. It records the elapsed time between movements 1 to 10. After movement #10, the kickTrak™ plays "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. It will record 10 ten-kick groups. I found this so simple to use and really helped me to be even more aware of my unborn daughter's movements.  It will count down from the last 99 days in your pregnancy.I also really liked knowing how many days I had left (41 as of today!!). You can also delete a kick counting session if you become distracted or you didn't finish the session (so it isn't counted).

The reason why it only counts 10 ten-kick groups is that, according to the company, "You and your obstetrical provider are looking for changes in fetal movement patterns. If you notice a sudden or significant change in your baby's movement pattern, call your obstetrical provider immediately."

This device was created by Dr. Diep Nguyen, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist and mother of three. The website says, " The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends kick counting as one of the methods to monitor pregnancy health. More than four decades of worldwide, scientific research emphasizes that the kicks, jabs, rolls, twists, and turns felt by expectant mothers are excellent indicators of their baby's well-being.    Dr. Nguyen based the development of the kickTrak™ on that research and on the understanding that moms know best. kickTrak is a safe, non-invasive, ergonomic, handheld device designed for busy mothers to simplify kick counting and to keep a reliable record of their baby's movements. Visualizing significant changes allows moms to promptly alert their doctors of potential problems thus reducing the risk of stillbirth."

The company is also giving back.  A portion of your purchase is donated to First Candle/SIDS Alliance and the Babykick Foundation. Both are nonprofit organizations dedicated to reducing stillbirth and fighting against infant mortality.

I think this product is a smart idea to monitor your baby's movements.

To learn more about the device or to buy, go to http://www.babykick.com.

Exclusive for CBB Readers: Use code celeb for 10% off your purchase of kickTrak at www.babykick.com. Expires January 31, 2008

Kiddie Kangaroo: Pockets for your Car Seat or Stroller

I recently tested out the Kiddie Kangaroo - car seat version. It's basically two pockets (one on each side of your child's car seat) that can be used for storage for toys, books, snacks, sippy cups and anything else you and your child can think of to put in it. I loved it because while my toddler happily holds his snack trap, I usually have to tuck a toy truck or a sippy cup next to him in his car seat. Inevitably, it falls and then I have a toddler screaming until I can help him.

With the Kiddie Kangaroo, I saw a difference immediately. It was easy to install. Place it on the car seat with the rounded base towards the front. It said to put the center buckle of the car seat through the hole and the pockets on either side of the seat. I found that it worked a little better to not put the buckle through the hole in the Kiddie Kangaroo, and kind of slide it back towards the back of the car seat. Though for safety reasons, I liked that you could secure it that way (but your child's weight on it will also make sure it does not move). The pockets on the sides of the Kiddie Kangaroo were very accessible for the child (I used a Britax Roundabout with it).

When Ben asked for his snack trap (when we first tested this)  which is always filled with some sort of small cheddar crackers, I was able to tell him to get it out of the side pocket. And he did and happily chowed down on his "baby goldfish" crackers. I loved that his Playtex Insulator Cup was safely stowed in the other side pocket (and since each pocket was divided in to two sections, there was plenty of room for a small toy truck or a small book). Now, he still drops things and screams for me to help, but I can remind him that he can reach for a toy or a book until I can help him. It calms him down immediately - now only if it came with a mechanical arm to pick up those dropped items!!!

You can also get the Kiddie Kangaroo for Strollers. Looks perfect for an umbrella stroller that does not have a snack tray. Stick a snack on one side and a drink on the other - your child, like ine, will love the independence.

This product was developed by a mom (I love that!) named Joya Machabee in Reno, Nevada. According the the Kiddie Kangaroo website, "A new mom, frustrated by the lack of storage for her son's drink cup, toys or books while traveling, Joya found herself constantly reaching back or stopping the car to retrieve items from the floor."

Get 20% off now, during their web launch! Shop http://www.kiddiekangaroo.com/

Baby Candy Virtual Holiday Party

Baby Candy Virtual Holiday Party!

Celebrity Baby Blog readers can enjoy cocktails and appetizers (delicious recipes), holiday music, door prizes from our sponsors and free shipping on all orders  - on Tuesday, 11/27.

All of their holiday onesies and tees, and their entire Candy Collection will be on sale (15% off). Additionally, they will be introducing new fancy styles (including a monogram necklace tee and monogram necktie tee).

The sale ends midnight tonight (11/27), but Celebrity Baby Blog readers can continue to get 15% off (ongoing) and free shipping (through 11/30). Use code: CELEBBABY for both discounts. Shop www.babycandystore.com

Sale at Milkshop.com

Sale at MilkShop.com to kick off the holiday shopping season!

15% off EVERYTHING on their entire site.
Offer ends Wednesday night (11/28) at midnight.
Enter promo code “winter” at checkout

Shop MilkShop.com.

Ask a Shopkeeper: Baby Concierge

We spoke to Caroline Cosgrove of Baby Concierge, a fantastic online shopping service in the UK.

What inspired you to start your shop? How long have you been in business? How did you come up with your store's name? Do you have a physical store as well? What categories do you cover?
As with most baby related businesses, the idea for Baby Concierge was born when I was pregnant with my first child, 6 years ago and was shocked by the overwhelming range of products on the market and the lack of good advice available to help me make the right decisions. The gap for a nursery advisory service seemed huge! Baby Concierge has now been going 5 years. It began life in my spare bedroom, progressed to my dining room and garage and when it had pretty much taken over the house, I moved the business to its own premises in London’s Ladbroke Grove. We now have a fabulous showroom for people to visit and we also showcase our most popular products on the Baby Concierge website. Sum up your store's style and sensibility in one sentence.

Who is your ideal customer? What age range do you cater to?
Baby Concierge helps parents to be select and source everything they need for a newborn baby. The choice of products is unlimited and the emphasis is on expert advice and great service. Any parent to be who wants to make informed choices and avoid mistake purchases is an ideal customer. We can work to any budget and are no more expensive than a John Lewis Store (UK). We cater primarily for 0-2 years.

What are the hot trends this season you're excited about? Which trends are a hit with your customers? Tell us about your favorite pieces this season.
The new Bugaboo Cameleon colours are fabulous, I love the ‘off white’ and ‘chocolate brown’ fabrics. Maclaren’s coffee brown and pink techno XLR is turning heads and Storksak’s Emily and Jamie bags are hot favourites.

Pick 3 of your favorite brands you carry - How did you decide to offer these 3 brands?
We carry so many brands that it is hard to single out 3 but Bugaboo, Boori and Kidsmill are probably 3 of the best in terms of quality, reliability and style.

What are your top selling brands and products?
Bugaboo, Maxi Cosi, Stokke, Boori, Kidsmill.

What's next for your store?
We have just started to enable clients to view and amend their shopping lists (post consultation) online and clients can also now create gift lists on line. We have so many products that we are still busy uploading the most popular ones to our site.

What products do you carry that celebrity babies and parents have/use?
Most of the products we carry are used by celebrity babies and parents – we know first hand because, we often supply them!

Exclusively for CBB readers: Enter celebrity babies in the special notes section at the checkout to receive 10% off your order and remove VAT when you are called to confirm your oder. Please note that once your order has been placed you will recieve a call to clarify lead times and confirm payment details.

Please email danielleATcelebrity-babies.com if you have an suggestions for shops you would like to see interviewed or if you, as an owner of a store, would like to participate.

Caboose: A great travel potty

I only recently ever saw someone use a travel potty and it was actually kind of gross to watch: my friend’s daughter peed into a little bowl that was wrapped in what looked like a grocery bag (and quite possibly could have been) and my friend then ran frantically looking for a toilet to spill it into while I dressed her daughter and had anxiety over how I would deal with this one day. 

The Caboose travel potty arrived on my doorstep shortly thereafter and at just the right time. We have just recently started potty training my daughter, Catie, and she has days where she will not go on the potty at all and others where she will remember to tell me that she has to use the potty right in the middle of Target – talk about anxiety!

The Caboose travel potty is different than most travel potties because it uses a disposable diaper as a liner.  You simply slip the diaper into the ridges and pull them up off the sides (check the Caboose site for visual instructions – it’s much easier than I’m making it sound).  Then your kid does his or her business in it and cleanup is as easy as cleaning any messy diaper. 

When we first tried using it Catie kept telling me that it hurt her butt but we quickly discovered she was sitting on it incorrectly (seriously, I recommend you look at the instructions first, lol). Afterwards, potty time became fun because rather than using it on the road she decided that she loved going potty on her Caboose since it was parked right in front of the TV. 

As I said, cleanup was a cinch. Furthermore, to top of the Caboose fits right in the base so it’s very compact (it comes with a carry case). Best of all, however, it has helped curb my anxiety when we’re out shopping because I can just take her into the bathroom and don’t have to worry about her falling in or even touching anything in there.

For purchasing information, check out www.bonacoproducts.com.

Exclusive for CBB Reviews Readers: Click here to receive FREE SHIPPING on the Caboose!!!

 

Zutano opens first retail boutique

On November 10th, 2007, Zutano cut the ribbon on a brand new boutique within New York City's most beloved toy store - FAO Schwarz. Located on the ground floor of this towering and colorful retail space, just at the bottom of the escalator, Zutano's exclusive nook is a world of its own, teeming with chic, modern and whimsical baby and toddler fashions and accessories.

The Zutano Boutique at FAO Schwarz is stocked with terrific product from all of Zutano's adorable clothing and accessories lines - from delicate Itzy Bitzy for newborns and preemies, to classic Baby Basics and Cozies, to their seasonal Collectibles toddler line, and all of their coordinating socks, blankets, bibs and booties are also available.Just in time for the holidays!

FAO Schwarz is located at 767 Fifth Avenue (Fifth Ave and 58th St.) in Manhattan.

BabyBlooms: A welcome-baby bouquet with a twist

When I first opened the Babyblooms box in the mail I thought “What weird packaging for flowers…” and then, upon further inspection, I thought, “Why are they sending me fake flowers…” and then, after investigating a little more closely I thought “Oh my god, how incredibly brilliant!!!”  Because the Babyblooms bouquet didn’t contain flowers at all -- not real ones and not fake ones -- instead, the “flowers” I was looking at were actually onesies and pants and socks and itty, bitty, newborn hats!

Sized at 0-4 months, the Babyblooms bouquets are a perfect gift for a new mom.  Think about it, when baby is first born and still swimming in his clothes, mom can have the bouquet on display while receiving her guests. Soon thereafter she’ll get bored of her centerpiece and wah-lah – a wardrobe is born!

All Babyblooms clothing is 100% pure cotton and machine washable. The bouquets come in small and large sizes and you can buy them in pink, blue or neutral colors. 

BabyBlooms have been gifted to Keri Russell, Naomi Watts, Bridget Moynahan and Isla Fisher.

The U.K.-based company ships internationally. Check out the selection at www.babybloomsflowers.com.

Exclusive for CBB Reviews Readers: Use code CBB10 at checkout and get 10% off through March 31, 2008!

Holiday Sale at PaperSassy.com by Devora Designs

There will be an Online Holiday Sale at PaperSassy.com from November 26-30. Get 20% off all products and free shipping.

Checkout code is HSALE07. Shop PaperSassy.com.

Sale at Baby Kaed

Baby Kaed is offering a 5 day holiday sale from Nov 26 – Nov 30 only.

Use code “holiday” for 20% off all bags

Shop www.babykaed.com.

Introducing our newest reviewer, Doryn

I am new to CBB Reviews and just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Doryn and I used to publish a blog called Doryn's Dish - My "little black book" of recommendations. I love products! I research new stuff all the time! Since becoming a new mom only 11 weeks ago, I am researching more and more every day. If it means buying 5 different versions of things to find the right one, I will do it! I will always be honest in my reviews and promise to write only about things I am excited about and truly love.

The First Years On The Go Formula Storage: Formula-dispensing made easy

My daughter is formula-fed and I have searched high and low for the right formula dispenser for when I am away from home. I had the one that you twist the top, but the formula would always find its way in to another compartment, which drove me absolutely nuts. I tried Ziplocs, but they ended up being a little too messy. If you ask anyone that knows me, I literally come up with new inventions or ideas every day, but If I actually went through with all of them I would have no life. In trying to find the perfect dispenser, I even researched “plastic test tubes” and came up with numerous different science websites that sell test tubes in bulk. Did you even know that people other than middle school science teachers could buy test tubes in bulk? I know Enfamil makes those packets that come in 4oz and 8oz, but what happens if you are feeding 5 1/2 oz or 6 oz. Yes, I know you could just “eyeball it,” but I am all about exact measurements. 

Finally, I came across The First Years On The Go Formula Storage. I was so excited about this product for a few reasons. First, it’s very light weight, so it doesn’t add extra weight in your diaper bag. Second, it comes in three pieces which snap together and apart easily, so you can use all three snapped together or just one or two. Third, adding formula in the top and releasing it in the narrow bottom makes both very easy.  Lastly, they stay nice and secure when closed (but I always suggest putting them in a baggie just in case).

The other night I was hyping these to a friend on the phone, maybe a bit too enthusiastically, because after I hung up my husband said to me, “Wow sweetie, you were REALLY excited about those formula dispensers, I could hear your sales pitch all the way upstairs!”  I looked at him as if I didn't know who that person was on the phone and said, “Yah, wow, you're right, I guess our life really HAS changed."

For more of Doryn's reviews and tips, go to www.dorynsdish.com

Sale - 40% off Fall clothes at Eliza Gran

40% off Fall clothes at Eliza Gran.

For women and children!

Shop http://www.elizagran.com/

Here are a few of my favorite (baby) things: The First Years Sure Comfort Infant Tub- So Fresh and So Clean

If you've never washed a baby before, you're in for a real surprise! They are slippery when wet and once you add soap, forget about it. I was thrilled to get my The First Years Sure Comfort Newborn to Toddler Tub ($17) from a friend at my baby shower. It was a simple blue tub with a green mesh liner that attached at the top and bottom to the tub to hold baby safely in the water. While you should never, EVER leave baby unattended in a tub, the green mesh liner helped me by not requiring I keep one hand on her at all times. It really frees you up a bit to help keep them clean and makes you feel a bit safer by bathing them in something more their size!

A friend of mine had a fancier Fisher-Price Aquarium themed one. While I liked the theme, it really wasn't any different then the one I had and mine did JUST the trick! The thing I liked best about my particular model is it is made to accommodate infants and toddlers. One side has a steep slope to it for baby to recline. And the other is an actual seat for your older baby. We used this tub until my daughter was at least 1 year old. The only reason we stopped was because we moved and our new bathroom didn't have room for it.

KABOOST: Give your child a leg up (4, actually)

Give your kid a boost with KABOOST which turns any chair into a high chair. Instead of raising your kid up on an unsturdy booster seat, you raise the chair.  It eliminates the need for a high chair once your child is old enough to sit on a chair. 

Made of heavy duty plastic, it can support up to 300 pounds, has non-slip rubberized feet that won't scratch floors, grips chair legs (even when you pick it up), and actually improves the stability of the chair. Its adjustable spring system allows it to fit on almost any four legged chair (both round or square legs). It can give you two different heights- 3 3/4" or 4 1/2"- to accommodate your growing child by just flipping it over (like a conventional booster seat).  It's also portable- folding up somewhat compactly and weighs only 3.5 pounds so you can bring it with you to restaurants or others' homes. (And the company is currently designing a cool bag to tote it around in.)

It comes in three colors- natural (which matches light woods), chocolate (which matches dark woods), and lime green (which just looks cool).

For more information, check out kaboost.com.

CBB Deal: KABOOST wants to make sure that all little kids feel like big kids and is offering a special 20% discount. Enter kaboostday in the promotional code section of the shopping cart at www.shopKABOOST.com to get your special 20% savings off your KABOOST.

Skip Hop Palatte Plate: Designed to Tempt Your Little Artiste

Have you heard about the new Skip Hop Palatte Plate ($28)? Probably one of the best ideas for a kids' plate I've ever seen.

Features of this plate include:
-Three drop-in bowls that are microwave safe and fit right into the Palette Plate for easy serving.
-Translucent covers for the three drop-in bowls.
-A skid-resistant base keeps it in place during mealtime.
-Skid-resistant area for a cup, and matching utensils are included.

My own toddler is a typical grazer. With the Palatte Plate, I can serve a few of the foods he likes and let him serve himself.  I can also put veggies or cut-up pita in one or two of the cups and put ranch dressing or hummus in the last cup and let him go to town!   A few antibiotic-free chicken nuggets will fit in the open bowl part of the plate.   

After he eats a little, he wants to get up and play trucks. Instead of hunting for tupperware or a baggie to put his food into, I can take the three cups out of the plate, stick the accompanying cover on each one and stick it in the fridge for later. Though I wouldn't save the hummus or ranch dressing (I've learned the use the barest amount with him), but the veggies and pita will keep well!!

Also, your toddler will like the appealing look of the palatte plate. Congrats Skip Hop, another hit!!

Check Skip Hop for a list of retailers.

Here are a few of my favorite (baby) things: Bumbo Seat: Wonder Seat of the 21st Century

In the past year, the Bumbo Seat has become a hot commodity! They've been known to sell out at most mass retailers and can earn a pretty penny on eBay. The supply has gotten better as the demand evened out, and I was able to get my hands on one when my daughter was a couple months old.

The seat is made from a low-density foam material with a deep middle that the child sinks into and the back wall helps support them in a sitting position. I couldn't believe how grown up the my peanut looked in hers. It is easy to take with you and can be used on flat, hard surfaces that aren't raised off the floor. Best of all, it's super-easy to clean, just wipe it down!

They make a great on-the-go highchair, just pop it in place and feed. They now have trays for toys and feeding, so the seat is more versatile then ever. I can't even stress how amazing this seat is and what a true helper it is. The bad news is your child will outgrow it pretty fast. Once they start arching their backs or become mobile this seat will lose it's luster and join the pile of retired things! All in all, for the price you really can't beat it. If you're smart you'll get it before your child turns 5 months and get some REAL use out of it! You can start using this seat whenever your child has good head control and seems to enjoy sitting upright. They'll enjoy the view.

As with MOST baby products, NEVER leave your child unattended in it. The company just placed a recall on their seats, due to babies falling out of them when they were placed on raised surfaces. I stand by my review of this seat, but only when it's used properly!

Sale at A Mother's Gift.net

At www.amothersgift.net you'll find nursing covers, burp cloths,
breastfeeding accessories, cloth diapers and diapering accessories,
bath and body for mama and baby and organic baby apparel.

• All nursing covers are 25% off (includes combo nursing cover/burp cloth set)
• All cloth diapers and diaper covers are 10% off
• Everything else in stock is 15% off
• As always, orders over $75 receive FREE STANDARD SHIPPING!

The sale lasts 4 days. Everything will be on sale from Friday,
November 23 – through Monday, November 26th.

Shop www.amothersgift.net.

The Gigi Blanki Company: Snuggle up to these loveys

Looking for a cuddly lovey for your baby or as a gift?  Then the gigi blanki company is for you! The gigi blanki is soft and silky on one side and nubby soft minky chenille on the other - any baby would love snuggling up with it.

You can choose which colors or patterns you want in your gigi blanki by looking at the gallery of favorites or just custom create your own.

The gigi blanki co. also has some other great products the burpi - cute burp cloths that retail for $15 and the toothi - cute tooth fairy cases that retail for $8.  You can also customize either one of these - pick your nubby side and your silky side. Gift bundles of 1 gigi and 2 burpis are available for $50.

New mom Samantha Harris was gifted with a gigi blanki for new daughter Josselyn Sydney. Her gigi blanki was a lime green/zebra print gigi with a hot pink patch along with a matching burp cloth. She sent owner Heather Peterson a thank you note saying,

                         Dear Heather,
                            Thank you for the goodies for our little Josselyn!
                                      :) Samantha Harris

Elisabeth Hasselbeck recieved 3 gigis, 2 for her new baby, Taylor Thomas, and one for Grace. Trista Sutter received red and neutral color gigis to match her nursery decor for son Maxwell Alston. Jenna Elfman received a disco dot gigi to match son Story Elias' nursery. The company was also recently voted just rated the World's Best Baby Blankie by Today Show affiliate ivillage.com

Shop the gigi blanki co.

Update: Blirt Releases New Designs for Fall

Starting this holiday season, Blirt T-shirts will be available at Barneys in New York, Chicago and LA. You've heard me mention Blirt before - I'm a big fan. Click here to read my review from this summer.

Their marvelous shirts take on wordplay with graphics, designed by Japanese artist Kat Saito.  We love the clever designs and and the softness of the organic cotton. They wash well also (always a plus). My son wears his "fish out of water" shirt constantly and is now wearing one of their newest designs, "bee's knees" (pictured). Their first t-shirt line included graphics that interpreted classic figures of speech. Their second and current t-shirt line continues on that theme, "incorporating words themselves into bolder, more complex designs", according to Blirt. They will be expanding to pajamas soon also.

What I like best about this brand is that it is empowering to kids. According to Kathleen Tracy of Blirt, "The message to kids is clear: whether you are awkward (fish out of water), clumsy (bull in a china shop), silly (a real ham), or just plain loud (motormouth), Blirt celebrates your quirkiness and thinks you are the bee's knees."

If you can't wait to shop at Barneys for Blirt t-shirts, shop Blirtshirt.com now. As always, get free shipping!

33 Weeks Pregnant: Belly Beats - Grooving to the (heart)beat

I have to go to my OB's appointments by myself - my husband works during the day (they don't have night or weekend hours) and my two year old can't handle staying quiet and calm during my doctor's appointments - but what 2 year old could? So my mother meets us at the office and takes care of him.  But I wanted to share the experience of hearing our baby's heartbeat with my family.  Belly Beats came to my rescue. It's a service that will rent or sell you a fetal digital doppler device (very similar to the one your doctor uses) to hear your baby's heartbeat - while in the comfort of your own home. So, my son and husband are able to share in this experience with me, while in our own home.

We checked out the digital fetal heartbeat monitor. It will cost you about $45 a month to rent. Or you could buy it for $599.  The unit comes with a manual, a recording of the maternal and fetal heartbeat sounds, a 9 volt battery and a 2 oz tube of ultrasound lotion. You can buy more ultrasound lotion (8.5 oz for $7.95).

According to their website, "The Fetal Doppler Baby Heartbeat Monitor listens to reflections of small, high frequency sound waves that are reflected off of the baby's heart. Since high frequency sound waves do not travel readily through air, a liquid such as water, oil, or Fetal Doppler Ultrasound Lotion is applied to the mother's belly in order for the Fetal Doppler- Baby Heartbeat Monitors probe to detect these sound waves. These signals are picked up by the Fetal Doppler-Baby Heart Monitor and processed and amplified so that they are audible in the instrument's speaker or earphone and you are able to hear the fetal heartbeat!"

Now, I caution, this is NOT a substitute for regular medical appointments. It should be used in a supplemental way (kind of like gravy). The  FDA has approved this unit for home use by expecting mothers with the approval of a physician - which I did get. 

It made me happy to hear my daughter's heartbeat whenever my husband or I wanted. My doctor showed me how to find the heartbeat using the digital fetal doppler in a matter of seconds.  As your little peanut is growing in your tummy, you'll have to adjust where to find the heartbeat.

Exclusive Discount for CBB Readers: Use coupon code: CELEB for $5 off the monthy rental fee for either the standard or digital model. Free ground shipping is always available, but if you just can't wait, there is $20 overnight shipping available.

Dream Baby Safety Gates- Protect Wide (Open) Spaces

We're finally done renovating our kitchen. Since we have an active toddler and a baby on the way, we wanted to make sure we had a good kitchen gate to keep the kids out.  We needed a pressure-mounted gate because we didn't want anything that would leave a mark on the new cabinet or the wall (we knocked down the wall that was between the kitchen and the dining room).

To make this even harder, we needed an extra-wide gate that could be extended to 54 inches. They just don't sell that width in the huge baby stores and online. I actually could only find one company that made such a wide, extendable gate. Luckily Dream Baby, owned by Australian-based company Tee-Zed, makes an extra wide hallway gate with extensions.  I had reviewed this company last month.  Click here to read that review.  You can also use their great gates to protect your Christmas tree or holiday displays. 

To close off our kitchen, we chose the extra wide hallway gate  in black (which will fit spaces from 38" to 42") with two 7" extensions. The fit was perfect. We chose the black color which matches our appliances and counter top!  White is also available - but the black looks so terrific. The pressure-mounted gate and extensions were very easy for my husband to install. With this gate, you can get pick extensions from 3" ($12.99 each ), 7" ($18.99 each) or 10" ($23.99 each). This one-handed gate is very easy for adults to work (and I love that it automatically shuts behind me). Also, you can open it in both directions - so cool.  I had never seen that before.  A very helpful function when a toddler has planted himself in front of the gate and is trying desperately to get inside. My son has been trying to open it himself, but hasn't been able to figure it out (yeah!). I believe it is so secure that he won't be able to figure it out for years.

Thank you Dream Baby - you saved us from having our toddler run amok in our new kitchen!!  Click here to find a Dream Baby retailer.

Sale at Bodemi.com

Bodemi wants to offer our readers 10% off their fabulous holiday dresses at Bodemi.com.  Pictured on the left is their "Snowflake" dress (retails for $265).  Made of 100% silk organza, with a snowflake inlay, its triple layered, the bow ties front or back, has a covered button closure, a fully lined bodice and is handmade in the USA.

Use code: HOLIDAY10 (good until 11/30/07).

Shop Bodemi.com.

Her Majestee Kids: My holiday t-shirt selection for 2007

Around the holidays I always like to get a special everyday t-shirt for Catie to wear. If you remember, last year I got Nina and Tom’s Christmas Time shirt (and Danielle got their Chanukah shirt for Anya).  This year’s selection is the candy cane shirt from Her Majestee Kids, which, I have to say, is probably one of the cutest t-shirt lines I’ve seen in a long time.

Before I can even begin to describe the t-shirt I have to rave about the packaging.  The 2007 limited edition candy cane tee comes in a hand-embellished (with Swarovski crystals) holiday tin (pictured here to the right) that is absolutely adorable.  Seriously, the packaging alone makes this a truly great gift.

But back to the t-shirt.  You can choose from the one with or without Swarovski crystals (I chose it with). The long sleeved tee is of the softest cotton I've ever felt. As an added bonus, the super-cool signature flocked Majestic Lion logo appears on the back of the shirt.

Her Majestee Kids uses only the finest materials and eco-friendly inks that are water-based and therefore are harmless to both kids and the environment.  They are also undetectable to the touch and a super-durable print.

Her Majestee Kids tees have been gifted to Naomi Watts, Milla Jovovich, Tori Spelling, Marcia Cross, Christina Aguilera, Nicole Richie, Halle Berry, Jennifer Garner, Kelly Ripa, Kate Hudson, Courteney Cox Arquette and Gwyneth Paltrow.

The complete line includes tees for girls, boys, babies and ladies. Check out the full selection at the Her Majestee Kids website.

Free shipping on orders over $75, no coupon needed.

Sale and Free Shipping Code at Bean New York

Bean New York is offering great deals and free shipping all week long. Check out their sale section.

For a limited time, use the promo code: "thankyou" for free shipping on any purchase of $50 or more.

Shop Bean New York.