If there is one thing I love about this time of year it is all the Top Ten Lists. I'm a sucker for lists any time of the year but even more so as the clock is ticking the minutes down to the New Year.
I'd like to share with you some of my favorite products that were reviewed in 2006. Some were from my own reviews, some from others. All are things I wouldn't want to live without now that I have found them. It was certainly hard choosing just ten, as there were just so many wonderful things that came to mind. But here they are, in reverse order, because I've always relished a little suspense.
10. Design-her-Gals I do believe that 2006 was the year of Design-her-Gals, as not one of my friends was without her own custom digital paperdoll vision of herself. I made calling cards and business cards. And spent countless hours "trying on" assorted outfits and accessories. It was almost therapeutic. A friend of mine commented that it was easier to give herself a makeover on her card than in real life. Which is exactly why I love it. Click for original post.
9. Spoonfed Art Pendants These pieces are just so unique and original. My pendant draws comment whenever and wherever I wear it. People are mesmerized by these, including me. Click for original post.
8. Sweetness Products Pouch This is my maternity gift of choice for a pregnant friend. I love that it is a maternity sash to support the mom AND a sling for baby. The lavender pillow, the gorgeous silk, it's the perfect package. Truly Sweet. Click for original post.
7. Knock Knock Stationary Because they make me laugh till I cry. It is so reassuring to find I am not the only one out there with a slightly warped sense of humor. And the fact that their products are also useful, is just frosting. One of my New Years Resolutions is to stock up on all their multiple choice thank you notes. And use them! Click for original post.
6. Automoblox What Design-Her-Gals were to us in 2006, Automoblox were to our kids. These cars reinvent themselves in a million different combinations and are sure to inspire hours of fun play. We started out with two and our collection is growing. They're so sturdy and well made they are sure to last for years. Click for original post.
5. My Little Ducks. Speaking of Automoblox, and great toys and cool clothing dedicated just to our sons (plus the occasionally mommy bag). My Little Ducks has been my online store of choice this year. When I was sick as a dog before Christmas and needed wrapped gifts in a jiff, My Litlle Ducks delivered. Several reviews over the past year have linked to products carried by My Little Ducks and that is no surprise. It's just the kind of go-to shop that makes virtual shopping as personal as the store in my own hometown.
4. Baby Blessings Kit by Two Plums Paper Goods. I love this heartfelt kit that helps us share the love for moms and their newborn babies. It's such a genuine way to connect and share with your friends. And its pretty! And it smells just great too. I'd love to see this kit at every shower I attend in the new year. Click for original post
3. Luna Lou Blankets. It's the organic cottony texture that is just bursting with goodness. This is the blanket I find myself wanting to steal from my son. Thick but not too thick, warm but not too warm. Comes in Cupcake and Owl and we love them both.Click here for origninal post.
2. Toddler Treads. I had to include these pretty high up in the count because without them, we would never leave home. My son still, after a year of Toddle Treads wearing, refuses to wear any other shoe. It works for me because Toddler Treads are so hip looking and wear so beautifully. Click here for original post.
1. Not Rational Fab/ Baby Bag. It's hard to describe my love for these bags without sounding like a crazy lady. But if I could pack up and move into a Not Rational bag, I would. This bag is like a faithful friend, always the right size, always the right shape and always slightly mysterious and luxurious. It wards off the frumpies on the most sleepless of days, and soothes and comforts at all times. It is my mommy wooby. People sometimes question my sanity when I review expensive leather diaper bags. Would I truly spend my own hard earned money on such a thing? Well I would, and I have, and I would do it again. This is so much more than a bag for diapers. Its a bag for me! My Not Rational Fab bag is my favorite item reviewed AND purchased for 2006. Click for original post.
Happy New Year to you all - and thanks so much for reading. I'm looking forward to sharing more with you all in 2007.
This was a tough assignment. MWS writers are pretty fortunate. We get to review products we love, and readers can usually tell just how much we love them. So when I was asked to list my top ten reviews for 2006, I stuttered. I paused. I procrastinated. My top 10?! How can I do that? That's like asking me which is my favorite movie of all time. Or who my best friend is. Or, yikes!, which child I like better (yes... for all of these, I can't pick just one.)
In no particular order...
Abbie New York A recent review, I've been carrying this bag since October. Its held up perfectly (I'm definitely not easy on my bags... at all.) The shoulder pad makes it so easy to carry. This laptop bag has gotten me through New York City, trade shows, shopping bazaars, vacations, and, yes, coffee shops. All with compliments.
JuJuBe Packabe In a year that filled my closet, I'm selecting the Packabe as my favorite diaperbag. While I'm not currently carrying it, it is still a go-to when we have somewhere to go and I'll be packing a lot. I love the funky, bright print, the backpack style that helped my back immensly, the organization, and the material used (including the teflon coating). Sure, I got stuck to a few metal walls. But it was totally worth it to have everything I needed inside, and look cute wearing it.
Swee'Pea Posters Probably the most innovative and valuable product I reviewed this year, Swee'Pea Posters will immortalize my children's artwork. I can't wait to fill our walls with the museum-quality posters that this mother will truly love.
Fairy Tale Jewels No, my boys don't wear them, but they sure would if they had to wear a dress. The intricate design, the beauty, the style of Fairy Tale Jewels' jewelry would make any little girl see herself as a princess. Again and again I admire "my" Pineapple Punch Bracelet, only wishing it would grow an inch and fit on me. Someday, shall I have a little princess, she'll be primped in it. I'll even bring it to the hospital with me.
Automoblox I've heard I may have started a craze with this review, and I'm proud to say we have 4 of our own Automoblox. Wesley couldn't have been happier when he opened his first car this Christmas. It was his very own Automoblox. And, with 4 in our house, they have enough to share and build their own cars, together. Still can't get over the creativity, as well as Automoblox's brilliant webpage.
Pediped Since beginning writing for MWS, I've done a lot of research. And one area where I consider myself to have become a semi-expert is baby shoes: when to wear, what to wear, why to wear and how. Pediped's were the first baby soft-soled shoes I fell in love with, and so did my husband. I'm hoping to bronze Wesley's sandals. They're that special. Plus, its hard not to flaunt that my guy is wearing the same sandals as mega-celeb babies like Hazel and Phinnaeus.
LIVESTRONG An item that truly represents the heart inside of you, while bringing a mod look to your home, I just love my LIVESTRONG platter. With a portion of the proceeds benefitting the LIVESTRONG Foundation, the vibrant color brings sunshine to the dining room; its a feel good, look good piece.
Smart-ass Jealousy. Pure jealousy of Ciaran's ability to review everything I'm dying to review. I've been wanting to get a pair of Smart-ass thongs for as long as we've been writing MWS reviews. And Ciaran got them and reviewed them. Lucky gal! These are just the coolest little panties ever! Totally fun, totally me. They're being gifted to my sisters next year for their birthdays. Kick a-- gifts.
PottetteWhere would I be without a Pottette? In a pile of you-know-what. Often. This is one of the greatest inventions--right up there with the actual potty. Suggestion to everyone: keep one in each car and several extra bags on-hand--at all times. When potty training, and after, you don't want to be without a Pottette. The first time we used it was at the horse races a few months ago. I was so relieved not to have to race up to the Port-o-potties about 3 football fields away. Since then, I've pulled it out at countless pools and parks. Even used it in the trunk of my car at the post office--as Orphan Annie told Daddy Warbucks, "when you gotta go, you gotta go."
DadGear BackPack I'd be remiss if I didn't include my husband's top review. He finally understood the "thing" I have for diaper bags when I received a sample DadGear Back Pack. Since that moment, he always reaches for "his bag." Especially great on vacations or for days at the pool with the whole family, this bag was wonderful because I didn't have to carry it--it was made for him, and fit him. Not me. Him.
And since I'm just the most indecisive, my runners up:
Just in time to bless the Baby New Year, comes this Birth Blessing Kit from Two Plums Paper. Its such a goodie that it's making my top ten list if things I love for the year. If you have a pregnant friend, a shower to attend, or if you yourself are pregnant, you really need to get this!
I first heard about the kit, but did not see it, while attending an event at NOM, an uber-hip maternity shop in L.A., last spring. It was still in development and I could not imagine exactly what a "Baby Blessing Kit" was. I confess, I may have rolled my eyes. It sounded so L.A., and not in the best way.
Then about a month ago, I started hearing some buzz about these kits again. Celebs were loving them. Posh shops were ordering them. And in that small world bizarre way - I happened to coincidentally meet one of the co-creators. She was super cool and nice, and I do mean that in the best way. I pushed my skepticism aside and knew I really had to check these kits out!
Not sure what to expect, I worried there would be religious overtones. Usually when I hear the word "bless" I get slightly uncomfortable. Blessings mean many things to many people, and rarely the same things. I needn't have worried though. While there are nods throughout the accompanying literature, to the beliefs and rituals of many cultures, there is no preaching. After taking stock of what this kit was really all about, I went to Dictionary.com and found the definition that best fit the kit, which is" to bestow good of any kind upon". That is truly what it's all about. Regardless of belief or practice, this is a roadmap and a memory making kit, that will preserve and share everone's most heartfelt sentiment and high hopes for the life to come. A tall order, but delivered gracefully!
And nothing against games that involve guesstimating jelly beans and identifying baby-food stains in a diaper, but I'd certainly prefer a Baby Blessings ritual at my own shower.
So what's inside the gorgeously coordinated paper board box? A scented candle, a Blessings Guide Book for the hostess, a footsoak for mom, a lovely locket necklace for the mom to wear both before and after baby arrives, and pretty decorated notecards for guests to write up their wishes for the mother and child. These cards are then woven into a garland that can be brought to the hospital as a reminder of all that love and support, and cherished forever. Guests also get silk cord bracelets to wear for the remainder of their friends pregnancy, as a reminder to be kind and supportive of the mom in this time.
The kit contains many additional suggestions of activities, practices and decor that the hostess can incorporate into the shower/gathering. But nothing is written in stone. Wear white if you want, or wear the mom's favorite kind of jeans to wish her a speedy return to them. Decorate with flowers, or with her favorite kind of cupcakes. I think it is ultimately a great jumping off point, and you should feel free to incorporate your own familial or religious beliefs into the ritual.
What I like best about this kit is how it fosters love, support and connection. In our modern world, we are so focussed on doing and decorating and entertaining and photo ops when we host celebrations, that it is easy to lose sight of the real intention. This kit puts us back in touch with that intention, and this is truly a blessing, in every sense of the word. And one that I wish upon all pregnant moms and their babies to be born in 2007. Phone in your order to 323.344.9815 and mention Mommies with Style to receive 10% off your kit.
You know how you have that one pair of jeans that you always feel fab in? Or that one tee that just radiates cool/hot/it- girl vibes the minute you walk in the room? It's hard to put your finger on the mojo that gives a garment such chic, but here's a tip - it often helps if it is imported.
About a month ago I was idly flipping through Junior Magazine from the UK and I stumbled across a line of tees by Stardust Kids. They were similar to tees I had seen here, but somehow, inexplicably hipper. Am I just another sucker that only wants what I cannot have? No. Because ordering these tees stateside could not be easier. I decided to see if my hunch was correct and check these tees out further.
A couple of weeks later, I caught myself humming, "We are Stardust, We are Golden". Because it was true. Wearing these tees, my kids had a certain glow. It was the "it". And who does not want to have "it"? I mean, even on the playground, its good to have a little "it". Wearing his pirate tee, my son perfected his swagger. And my daughter keeps making sure that her tee is at the top of her drawer as well. She wants to wear it every day.
It-ness aside, these tees deserve kudos for their sturdy but cushy cotton construction, and the unique combos of stripes, swirls and edgy graphics. No boring same old here. Go ahead and peruse their impressive collection of Punk, Rock, Urban, Pirate and Retro designs. Whether you have a Beastie Girl, Enfant Terrible, or Son of a Gun, these pint sized hipster threads are sure to add some spunk, originality, and the good kind of 'tude to your kids wardrobe.
Worried about ordering from abroad? Well here's a treat - enter code MOMMIES at checkout to receive free shipping! Our package arrived hastily and without delay. Which is my silly imagined Brit speak for "shipped fast!"
Being over 4 months pregnant, my skin has become incredibly dry all over my body. Even worse, my hands are raw from all of the hand washing I am constantly doing to avoid the germs of the season! A few weeks ago, as I was putting on my daily regimen of moisturizer, I thought that it would feel so much better on my belly and other dry parts if the lotion was heated. I figured there must be something out there that fits this bill, so I searched and found a heated lotion dispenser that works great! I find myself using it with my favorite hand cream more than once a day and it feels amazing going on. It really helps my skin feel softer and silkier. The dispenser holds up to 16 oz. of your favorite lotion. The reservoir is removable and dishwasher safe for easy clean up. There is a variable temperature control button so you can choose just the right setting of heat to sooth your dry skin. When you want to use the unit, you simply push the button and it heats up it just 2 minutes. It blinks green when ready and automatically shuts off after an hour of use. The model that I have is being discontinued and is being replaced by a new, sleeker model. If you want to take advantage of the savings on the discontinued model (the one I have) the price can't be beat. If you like the look of the sleeker model, check it out here. Since they both work the same, if you want to feel like you've spoiled yourself just a bit, get either of the heated lotion dispensers. You'll love the feeling of warm lotion on your dry skin!
Baby at 7 weeks old: Announcing his life with Belly Bean Designs
So of course I'm biased, but we got the cutest birth announcements from Belly Bean Designs to send out introducing the newest member of our family. We selected a 5x7 announcement on cardstock (as opposed to photo paper) - an original design that was just gorgeous and featured an array of photos of our new baby. The announcement we picked was two-sided - something unique that I really loved about it.
We also paired it with a bookmark. The design coordinated with the announcement and I sent it out with some of the announcements. (Pictured is the back of the bookmark) I just loved the bookmark idea because I thought it was a cool little extra that you don't normally get with a baby arrival annoucement.
You can pick all sorts of various announcement designs on the Belly Bean Designs site, or you can have it be an artists choice and she'll design you a new piece. Send off a couple of photos and you'll then receive your proof and go from there. They do return label printing as well - straight on the envelope or you can have them make up printed, coordinating return labels.
Another tip too - you can pre-order your envelopes while you're still expecting. I did this and was able to label most of my envelopes ahead of time - it was a huge time saver! But the time my son arrived, I was running around and happy I didn't had at least saved myself that time.
The owner and her team are a pleasure to work with - check them out and use coupon code BBDMWS for 10% off your order.
Greenies, concerned parents, orgoes, what-have-you, as an online parent, you've surely read about the hazards of plastics recently. Cook in it: bad. Heat in it: bad. Use in the diswasher: bad. Perhaps Benjamin Braddock was better off focusing on Mrs. Robinson, therefore ignoring the infamous one-word suggestion: plastics.
Concerned as I am about the toxins released using some plastics, I'll admit I wasn't actively searching for an alternative. Sippy cups are so simple. However, when I opened a package of SIGG cups, the boys tossed aside their sippies and raced for their favorites.
SIGG, the original Swiss bottle, started as a hiker's bottle. One crafted to be grabbed and gulped, allowing for little spills. But, as we know, little spills is a Mama's delight, and this now "branded" company develops bottles for the every-person. Hikers, Bikers, Mothers, Meetingers.
The bottles are made of aluminum (which means, if you fill it with anything hot or cold, you're going to feel it, unless you purchase one of their thermos collection or buy an insulator) which is proven to be a million (okay, my estimation) times safer than plastics. According to their website, "tests show that this is the only bottle with an inner coating resistant to fruit acids and isotonic drinks." Meaning that its impervious--acids, heat, nothing will break it down. Crafted from a single piece of aluminum, the bottle has no seams, so no places for leaks. The tops (this is the only place you'll find plastic) are similar to a sport-style water bottle. Rather than popping the sipper up, it turns to open and close. And there's a lid (which usually coordinates with the bottles decor to cover and keep the sipper clean.
My 3-year-old loves his SIGG. He uses a .6 liter bottle in a cute pattern from their KIDZ line. He's not aware of the number of accessories available (like handles, insulated pouches and carriers) but would be accessorizing if he could. My one year old has a .3 liter bottle--perfect for his little hands. He had a little trouble adapting to the sipper in the beginning, but with a little practice can use it easily now.
SIGG bottles are safe, fun, sporty and different--a wonderful alternative to the plastic-y sippy cups. But take this tip: wash as soon as you are finished. The bottles shouldn't be machine washed (the lids and sippers can be) and you DON'T want to leave day-old milk inside. Trust me.
I never get tired of finding cute tees for kids. Lil Rodo has some funky ones - tees that read, "Sweeet," "I make stuff up," and more; plus onesies with sayings like, "Time to repress another memory" and "newbie" (with a cracked egg), amusing parents and more.
Check them out on Lil Rodeo and use coupon code Lilro415 for 15% off your order. Doesn't expire until 2008! (They also have free shipping for a limited time so shop now!)
I recently asked my kids what their favorite holiday gift was. They were showered with presents this year, some great and some, frankly, crap. I expected them to wax poetic about their Littlest Pet Shop snails, or the makeup kits that some sneaky and diabolical (and desperate to be popular) aunt always sends.
But no. This year's gotta have it item really was crappier than that. And I mean that in the literal sense.
Because this year's holiday fave, I kid you not, was a plush set of characters from Sweden called Pee and Poo.
Strictly speaking, Pee and Poo were not holiday gifts for my children. They were items that I was to look over for a review. But since they arrived so close to the holidays and since I am so cheap, I told them that if they wanted to keep them, they counted as at least one night of Hanukah.
For the record, Pee and Poo are the brainchild of artist Emma Megitt. They are soft and squishy and delightfully odor free. And far easier to clean and more appealling than the real deal. What makes them so appealing? Well, honestly I do not know. My husband was positively repulsed by the whole notion. He's a lot more anal than me (clearly - and sorry honey!). Poop humor has always been a constant in my familial clan. We've never been big on taboos.
I think, however, that the de-mystification and de-criminalization of bodily by-products, is ultimately a noble act. If you are potty training a toddler, as we are, these characters are a fun addition to the bookshelf, already laden with promising tomes such as "Everyone Poops" and "The Gas we Pass". Ever notice how it is rarely Americans who roll up their sleeves and take on these indelicate subjects?
Taking a note from the less inhibited foreigners I feel hopeful that my son is going to be less hung up about his bodily functions if we indulge in some Pee and Poo character underwear and a soft friendly Poo to clutch as he sits upon the musical-throne-with-real-flushing-sounds and attached paper roll holder. That is, of course, if we can get his sisters to give up the Poo. It is currently dressed in a bonnet and sleeping peacefully on the dog's bed. I have pictures if you don't believe me. Side note: even the dog loves the Poo.
Ok enough juvenile snickering. You know you want this. If nothing else, it is the best gag gift for new parents. Because there's going to be a lot of this in their very near future. Order your adorable Pee and Poo Products here and don't forget to check out the Pee and Poo memory game which my girls have so very conveniently bookmarked on my pc.
Little ones love to cuddle up with a soft blanket or toy. Julie's Stuff has quality products for mother and child, including many adorable baby items. We have their Comfort Silkie and Bunny Towel Doll and we give both of them a "thumbs up!".
The Bunny Towel Doll , designed by Kathe Kruse, is the perfect toy for hugging and loving. Towel Dolls are an old fashioned European tradition for new mothers. The soft towel doll absorbs the familiar scent of the mother. When baby is alone, the doll offers a calming effect and leaves baby feeling safe and happy. Our towel doll is soft, warm, cuddly, and oh-so-cute!
The Comfort Silkie is a soft and silkie security blanket. It is sized to cuddle not to cover. The Comfort Silkie offers comfort, security, and the best in snuggling.
Both of these great cuddle time products and more are available at Julie's Stuff . Mention discount code "MWS5" in the message box during checkout and you'll receive 5% off your order. The discount will be deducted manually when the order is processed.
Organize your crazy schedule in 2007 with the MomAgenda
When I was in college, I strangely never kept an day planner. I was able to keep my day to day assignments and to-dos in my head and surprisingly, I was never late and almost never forgot an assignment. I used to pride on my super memory skills that seemed immune to my weekend antics.
So cheap beer and late nights didn't do it but Mommyhood did, as it's either killed off or dulled those brain cells beyond any means of functioning. These days I find myself doing a double take to the back seat in the car just to make sure I have both kids in place and didn't leave one of them in a shopping cart somewhere two stores back.
Needless to say, remembering a specific appointment or place I have to be is well beyond this Mom's current brain capacity. So last year, I succumbed to the life or someone who needs to use an organizer.
For 2007, I'll use the same day planner that I used in 2006: the MomAgenda. It's a gorgeous planner. Each day separates your agenda and your kids schedule (which I imagine will only come in more handy as my kids get older and get into sports and a million other activities.) There's also other Note sections unique to this planner as it's tailored for Moms: spots where you can make notes on health, fitness, parties you intend to host, vacation ideas and more.
Hey all - be sure to check out the Mommies with Style Holiday Guide while you still can! We're pulling it shortly after the New Year, so shop now and take advantage of post-holiday sales with some of the great coupon codes that are offered.
Need some last-minute ideas for all the men in your life? Check out the Men's Journal On-line Gear Guide. Categories like Holiday Wish List, Essential Adventure Equipment, Tough Kicks and Road Warriors, break down all the best products from a guy's point of view.
Every guy I know would love this ultra-cool SwissCard. It comes with eight essential tools, but is still small enough to fit in a wallet without a bulge. Take a peek at the Gear Guide if you're still scrambling for a for a manly-man gift. And bookmark it for future reference!
Don't you hate lugging around your entire diaper bag when all you need is your toddler's diapers and wipes? The Icon envelope by Dante Beatrix is the solution to streamline your life! The Icon envelope can hold a travel wipes case and up to four size 5 diapers and is easily wipeable thanks to the laminated canvas. It has a nylon lining with a zipped pocket inside which is perfect for your keys, cell phone and lipstick! It has a hidden magnetic closure on the outside. My favorite is the Love Icon envelope but there are many other Icon's to choose from. The versatile clutch can also be used for cosmetics and travel or for the general organization of just about anything!
Take 20% off of your purchase by entering MWS in the notes section at checkout!
If little ones (or their parents) need a bit more than an old woman living in a shoe to entertain them, check out these oh-so-sophisticated board books for itsy-bitsy fashionistas, movers and shakers.
Urban Babies Wear Black: For gallery-visiting, coffee-shop-frequenting, black-wearing little ones. And the parents pushing the Bugaboo.
Petit Connoisseur: Fashion : Heaven forbid your toddler not know what's hot and what's not! When baby is ready for a book of words, make sure that catwalk, trunk show and Choos are a part of their early vernacular.
First Book of Sushi: Rhymes like "Miso in my sippy cup, tofu in my bowl. Crab and avocado fill my California roll." fill this super-fun book.
Pick these up at your favorite bookstore. They'll make great gifts and stocking stuffers for all the hippest members of the under-three crowd.
Looking for a fun last-minute gift? Look no further than the Mothershop of magic potions ... Sephora. Their special-edition and uber-fabulous Monopoly game goes way beyond building hotels on the Boardwalk. Instead, you go to jail for bad hair days and win shopping sprees to spend your beauty bucks. Count me in!
Gift it to your favorite girlie girl, or bring it along to liven up your next holiday gathering (though choose your audience wisely, your teenage nephew and great uncle Al will probably not get a thrill from acquiring Gloss World.).
I couldn't resist. I went shopping today. For me. All me. (okay... almost.) And the deals are so darn good that I had to share.
Every store is having a sale. Every stinking one of them. Places like Ann Taylor Loft are offering buy one, get one half off. Then there's Paiva, who is offering, spend $100, get $50 off. Ann Taylor has 40% off cashmere. Foot Locker had a sale on all boots. Even the department stores got in on it--at least 15% off coupons were just sitting at the registers, not to mention how many things had red signs above them at Macy's and Lord and Taylor.
I am so darn proud of my "damage!"
First, I bought these boots. Okay, mine must have been mismarked, but they had a whole bunch of boots out on a table. I suggest going to your ATLoft and checking it out, or calling. Because this pair, while listed at $119, were marked down to $29.88! That alone made the obnoxious drive worth it. To boot, er go with it, I bought the Crochet Lace Skirt. Still ticketed $69, its now down to $39.99 (in store and online). And because I had a coupon (sorry, it had a unique code), I had to spend $50 to save $25, so I purchased a cute and super comfortable headband. (and headbands usually aren't too comfortable, you know?) Had a lot of trouble walking past the sunglasses, bags and jewelry, though. Check out their travel bags. So chic! Of course, now I see swimwear on their website. Apparently, Philadelphians don't swim. So I'll be doing a bit of online shopping shortly.
Next, I stopped at Paiva, a new store to our mall. Loving the look. Their slogan is "energy within" and they have a variety of fitness and fashion gear. And they mix it up, too. Loving the look of this prAna set. My son was hungry, so we didn't stay long, but I did pick up these cute leather starfish sandals for my upcoming trip to Mexico.
Following lunch, we stopped at The Children's Place, where I found sweatpants and sweatshirts marked down to $5.99 each and their annual rugby sweaters for $9.99. Except now that I'm online I'm seeing they're marked down to $8.25. Guess we'll be heading back for a price adjustment tomorrow. (Oy Vey). Grabbed a bit of it all, and matching sweaters for the boys visit with Santa tomorrow. (Oy.)
Still not finished, we hit Ann Taylor. On a mission, I noticed their Season's Best Cashmere Event. And all ladies need a good cashmere sweater. Or 3. But at 40% off, who could resist? About to check out, a top screamed "JULIE!! Don't you dare leave without me! I'm SO totally you!" (Seriously, the top even talked like me. I couldn't leave the beauty sitting on the rack). This one wasn't on sale, shhh. And then there were the jeans. Oh... beautiful jeans. Not even "designer", but just so festive and fun. I'm teary. They didn't have my size. These two aren't online... you may have to actually go to your store.
My mouth gaped as I perused. Seriously. There were huge SALE signs outside every door. But time was going quickly. I've purchased nothing for my sisters holiday gifts yet. And, after changing a diaper, I realized I had about 20 minutes left to shop. Leaving Nordstrom without a bag(!) we popped into Lord and Taylor to see their jewelry collection (which always impresses me.) Ummm... impressed? how about "thrilled." Another instore-only feature, but diamonds were already reduced and you could get an additional 10% or more off. And costume jewels were everywhere from 10-40, maybe even 50% off.
And, you know, I've been really needing a new wallet. Really. So I grabbed this Designers Guild Zip-around. Had a hard time deciding between it and the Hobo wallet. At the checkout counter there was a coupon for 15% off.
Of course, stores are also encouraging you to still shop online. It seems they keep extending their "last day to shop for the holidays deadline." Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft have coupon codes on the front pages of their sites with codes for $12 express shipping. I've also noticed that Disney has started their post-holiday sale already with up to 70% off. And Children's Place is now offering 50% off select styles. At JCrew, they're saying they'll still get your purchase to you in time for Christmas if you complete the sale through 8 pm EST tonight, they just added cashmere to their sale area. LaRedoute is having a sale of up to 65% off, with free shipping when you spend $150 or more. And they'll also get it to you by Christmas if you order tonight.
As if you haven't shopped enough. Get busy. Good buys are still to be found! Share the sales I missed on our message boards.
Discount information:
Paiva: no coupon necessary. $50 off any purchase from $100-$149; $75 off any purchase over $150. Expires Dec. 24.
Ann Taylor Loft: No coupon necessary. 50% off lesser item: all styles in stores and online. Not valid on gift cards. Offer valid for a limited time.
Ann Taylor: 40% off select styles of chasmere sweaters, lounge pants, tops, hats, gloves, scarves. Expiration unknown.
Lord and Taylor: Ask your register person for the discount. Unknown expiration date.
The Childrens Place: Obviously, the prices are changing. Can't beat it as they get lower and lower and lower.
Here's a little anecdote that says it all about the difference between a first time Mom and a second time Mom: with Nate (my first son), I was compulsive about the cleanliness of his binky. It always sat in a bag or ziploc in my diaper bag, and anytime I was out, I'd wash it obsessively to make sure it was germ free. If it fell on the ground and I only had one with me, forget it, he'd have to cry until we got home or until I found a sink to wash it in.
The other day, I realized how much I had changed. Cole (the baby) started crying. I went to reach into my diaper bag, where I knew I had just randomly tossed in a binky right before leaving the house. Of course it had found it's way to the bottom of the bag. I fished it out from the bottom of the bag, where all sorts of crumbs and unidentified objects reside.
So what did I do? Brushed it on the side of my jeans and shoved it into Cole's mouth. And to be honest, I didn't even really think about it as I merrily went along my way with a subdued and pacified baby. Oh, how times have changed. As a second time Mom, your standards lower - simply because you don't have the time to be any other way.
Of course, I later realized that I didn't have to give my poor baby a dirty binky, if I had actually been using the JJ Cole Pacifier Pod that we have. (Which is now been placed in my diaper bag, holding a clean pacifier.)
The Pacifier Pod is a cute and affordable little accessory that you can tuck away in your bag to keep your child's pacifier clean. It has a little strap/handle that you can even velcro to the outside of your bag for easy access. Heck, you can velcro it to your belt loop if you'd like it that close to you...
You can find them at Babies R Us, but you can also get them online at Chit Chat Baby for 10% off. Use coupon code "travelpod" to receive 10% off.
Wholesale prices on entire inventory: Oh Boy Baby Boutique
Hey all - we just received word that Oh Boy Baby is selling its entire inventory - at wholesale prices. Oh Boy Baby Boutique sells fashion and accessories for infant males. Check out the sale - everything wholesale, great prices!
The sale expires December 31, 2006. In-stock merchandise only, use coupon code FS100 if you order over $100 worth of items to receive free shipping.
We love cuddling with our babies. Of course we do. We're moms. At a certain point, though, babies need loveys. Soft, cuddly loveys. Not to replace mom--never! But a lovey is a security blanket. And shouldn't that security be even softer and cuddlier than mom?
Kaloo plush bears are the epitomy of sweetness. They're soft. They're cuddly. They're snuggly. They stay super close and they mold to baby's body so that baby can give Mommy that quick break she needs so much. Packaged in an adorable hat-box, Kaloo plush animals, blankets and clothing are a fantastic gift for a new baby (and new mom). She'll appreciate the sweetness, baby will appreciate the cuddles. Mom will appreciate that machine washing is recommended--hard to believe with something so cute. And celeb babies who cuddle with Kaloo include: Suri Cruise, Barron Trump and Shiloh Jolie-Pitt.
With so many Kaloo products, its hard to choose which is best. A few we love:
-Moonlight Bear is plush all around, with a soft light-up ball in the center (about the size of a baseball). It provides light during dark hours when you press the bear's back.
-Lollies Collection has a swirlly belly, just like your favorite lollipops from the county fair.
-Lilirose Collection: Bears and Bunnies in pinks and purples, available as chairs, slippers, plush animals, hooded towels and more
-Dragee Collection: perfect for the prince or princess, these bears are dressed in a satin-y white
I'd also be leaving you out of a major loop if I didn't bring your attention to the bedding and furniture. You can outfit an entire baby's room in Kaloo. With darling crib decor, I'm so jealous I didn't know of this French line when my kids were born. I don't think they'd ever be moving to big-boy rooms had I decorated in Kaloo.
Shop for Kaloo at Oh Baby Gifts and use code MWS06 for 10% off your purchase on everything except Bugaboo and Petunia Picklebottom.Or shop at the variety of stores worldwide listed on the Kaloo site.
Sometimes I feel like I'm so busy reviewing all these cute, random sites that I end up missing the staple products in my everyday Mom life. Zutano is a company that falls in that category, as both of my kids have lots of pieces of clothing from Zutano that I just adore.
Anyway, I got an email from Zutano about a promotion they are having now - spend $50 and you receive a free plush toy. Plus, you can upgrade to 2-day shipping for the same price as ground through December 21st to receive your order in time for Christmas. Not bad for all us last minute shoppers!
Create your own stylized statement with Smoy PhotoCuffs . Hip and clever, these are the coolest way to show off your photos.
The cuffs come in a variety of styles and colors and they have clear windows so you can slide in photos. You can spotlight photos of family, friends, celebrities, pets, nature, fabric, and more! What a great way to share special photos of a family vacation, birthday party, or even pictures from a photo booth! You could even use the windows as a canvas to show off your artwork.
My 13 year old daughter loves her Smoy PhotoCuff and enjoys personalizing it and creating different looks that show off her style. Whenever she wears her pink Soho PhotoCuff to school she gets so many compliments from the other students. My daughter has added pictures of friends, her favorite teen celebrities, her family, and even pictures of fabrics that coordinate with her outfit. She's having a lot of fun with this chic accessory.
Barnyard is a new one out by Nickelodeon. Considering that we're die-hard Nick Jr. fans here, I thought this one would be good for my son.
He saw this movie in Target and calls it the "movie about the pig with poo on his face." (Pictured is a pig with what is presumably mud on his face.) He's asked for it several times since, so I had to get it.
Check it out - you can still get it with free shipping TODAY ONLY on Amazon.com. (Free shipping will arrive by December 22nd so shop now for these and other items; two more days to order with two-day upgraded shipping.)
9. Spoonfed Art Pendants These pieces are just so unique and original. My pendant draws comment whenever and wherever I wear it. People are mesmerized by these, including me. Click for original post.
6. Automoblox What Design-Her-Gals were to us in 2006, Automoblox were to our kids. These cars reinvent themselves in a million different combinations and are sure to inspire hours of fun play. We started out with two and our collection is growing. They're so sturdy and well made they are sure to last for years. Click for original post.
3. Luna Lou Blankets. It's the organic cottony texture that is just bursting with goodness. This is the blanket I find myself wanting to steal from my son. Thick but not too thick, warm but not too warm. Comes in Cupcake and Owl and we love them both.Click here for origninal post.
1. Not Rational Fab/ Baby Bag. It's hard to describe my love for these bags without sounding like a crazy lady. But if I could pack up and move into a Not Rational bag, I would. This bag is like a faithful friend, always the right size, always the right shape and always slightly mysterious and luxurious. It wards off the frumpies on the most sleepless of days, and soothes and comforts at all times. It is my mommy wooby. People sometimes question my sanity when I review expensive leather diaper bags. Would I truly spend my own hard earned money on such a thing? Well I would, and I have, and I would do it again. This is so much more than a bag for diapers. Its a bag for me! My Not Rational Fab bag is my favorite item reviewed AND purchased for 2006. Click for original post.
This was a tough assignment. MWS writers are pretty fortunate. We get to review products we love, and readers can usually tell just how much we love them. So when I was asked to list my top ten reviews for 2006, I stuttered. I paused. I procrastinated. My top 10?! How can I do that? That's like asking me which is my favorite movie of all time. Or who my best friend is. Or, yikes!, which child I like better (yes... for all of these, I can't pick just one.) 
Just in time to bless the Baby New Year, comes this 
About a month ago I was idly flipping through Junior Magazine from the UK and I stumbled across a line of tees by 
It-ness aside, these tees deserve kudos for their sturdy but cushy cotton construction, and the unique combos of stripes, swirls and edgy graphics. No boring same old here. Go ahead and peruse their 
Being over 4 months pregnant, my skin has become incredibly dry all over my body. Even worse, my hands are raw from all of the hand washing I am constantly doing to avoid the germs of the season! A few weeks ago, as I was putting on my daily regimen of moisturizer, I thought that it would feel so much better on my belly and other dry parts if the lotion was heated. I figured there must be something out there that fits this bill, so I searched and found a 
Greenies, concerned parents, orgoes, what-have-you, as an online parent, you've surely read about the hazards of plastics recently. Cook in it: bad. Heat in it: bad. Use in the diswasher: bad. Perhaps Benjamin Braddock was better off focusing on Mrs. Robinson, therefore ignoring the infamous one-word suggestion: plastics.
Strictly speaking, 
Every guy I know would love this ultra-cool 
I couldn't resist. I went shopping today. For me. All me. (okay... almost.) And the deals are so darn good that I had to share.
And because I had a coupon (sorry, it had a unique code), I had to spend $50 to save $25, so I purchased a cute and super comfortable headband. (and headbands usually aren't too comfortable, you know?) Had a lot of trouble walking past the sunglasses, bags and jewelry, though. Check out their 
And, you know, I've been really needing a new wallet. Really. So I grabbed this 
We love cuddling with our babies. Of course we do. We're moms. At a certain point, though, babies need loveys. Soft, cuddly loveys. Not to replace mom--never! But a lovey is a security blanket. And shouldn't that security be even softer and cuddlier than mom?
I'd also be leaving you out of a major loop if I didn't bring your attention to the bedding and furniture. You can outfit an entire baby's room in Kaloo. With darling crib decor, I'm so jealous I didn't know of this French line when my kids were born. I don't think they'd ever be moving to big-boy rooms had I decorated in 
