Beautiful Bassinets from Cariboo and Liners from Baby Star
Ever since the very first night that baby Leo spent at home, he has been sleeping in a gorgeous classic bassinet from Cariboo. I have only one regret about this bassinet. That I did not have it for my other three kids.Cariboo makes a high quality product. Their pieces are hand crafted in New Zealand from sustainable radiata wood, with a lead-free finish, PBDE-free mattress and formaldehyde-free bassinet board. You can choose from one of three finishes. We chose the mahogany finish, that blends perfectly with our bedroom furniture. Which makes it so much easier to keep the baby in the room with us. No cringing at ugly baby gear here!
The design of the Cariboo Bassinet is simple but still so much nicer than anything I had for my others. Poor neglected other kids! We kicked them all out of our room by the time they were two months old, but little Leo will be enjoying the infant version of "late check out" from the master-suite hotel. Because the size of the Cariboo bassinet is so generous (depth and lengthwise) we know we will get far more use out of this bassinet than smaller bassinets. And it will serve a purpose even once Leo has finally outgrown it as a sleep place. At this point we will use it as an elevated toy chest. It's just too lovely to relegate to an attic
I love the simple off white cotton cover that came with the bassinet, but when we move the ensemble to the nursery, I'm looking forward to switching the fabric portion of the bassinet to one of these gorgeous designs from babystar (for Cariboo). I'm partial to the dots in Tag Blue, which is the same pattern Christina Aguillera has for baby Max Liron. Other celebrities who own the Cariboo Bassinets include Mariska Hargitay, Tori Spelling, Jennifer Garner, and Jessica Alba .
One other thing I was thrilled to discover about the Cariboo Bassinet, is that it works perfectly with out Babysense monitor. This monitor that senses your baby's micro movements and alerts you of any interruption in breathing, is something that has allowed us to get to sleep whenever our baby (finally!) does. A fine thing indeed! There was no need to retro-fit or mess with the bassinet to get the device to work in it.
The Cariboo Bassinet is available with accessories including an attachment that lets you use it as a changing table, and a play-gym that can be used to suspend toys over the bassinet, or when removed, to place over your baby on the floor.
I'm such a huge Cariboo fan that I would be remiss if I did not mention their luxurious Puretec Earth Blanket by Cariboo. This blanket is not cheap, at $99 it's a splurge, but it is truly special and reminds me of the blankets I had as a baby.
I must say - I'm aiming for a less is more approach this time around and only buying things I really love. Sometimes it costs a little more, but in the end it costs less because instead of buying five so so "eh" items and still feeling unfulfilled, we buy just the one item we love. We tuck one of these fabulous Earth Blankets around Leo's toes, in his Cariboo Bassinet every night, and he actually seems to have a preference for it, even at 7 weeks of age. The perfect -for- any-climate weight, warmth, and quality of this blanket make it our consistant go-to. It's non itchy, dries in a flash and like all other Cariboo products, is earth friendly and formaldehyde free.
Mommies with Style enter the coupon code "cariboostore" into the Where Did You Hear About Us? Field for 10% off when you place your order for Cariboo products.
I recently took my 2-month old son on a weekend visit to see a girlfriend in Seattle. The plane ride was only a little over two hours, but since I was traveling by myself, I worried about carrying all the stuff the weekend would require. My clothes, his clothes, umbrella (it is Seattle), diapers, wipes, noise machine, pack-n-play, stroller, car seat…I had visions of the looks of sympathy I would receive trying to lug all this and a kid through the airport by myself. Then two fortuitous events occurred: first, my girlfriend was able to borrow a car seat which allowed me to leave the car seat and the stroller at home; second, I met the Nap-Sac. In my life as a product-tester, there have been very few products I have come across that truly have blown me away – the Nap-Sac by Lilly Gold definitely makes the list. Instead of being burdened by luggage and gear, I traveled with one suitcase, my son in a Bjorn and the Nap-Sac for my weekend away.
The Nap-Sac is a combined diaper bag, changing station and portable bassinet. Unfolded, it works as a four-sided bassinet with a padded bottom and two zebra-print sheets. Collapse the sides in, zip it up and fold the bag in half and it’s easily carried over the shoulder or messenger-style across the body. Made of durable nylon canvas, the bag is surprisingly light, even with all six of the expandable pockets packed full. It doubled as my purse and was able to carry everything my son and I needed on the plane including my wallet, cosmetic case, reading material, extra clothes, diapers, wipes, and blankets.
My first test of the Nap-Sac came in the airport bathroom for a quick change of my son’s blow-out diaper (moments before boarding the plane, of course). Easy to set-up and access diapers and wipes in the surrounding pockets, I was especially thankful for the one waterproof, zippered pocket to contain his soiled outfit. Once on the plane, I was also pleasantly surprised to find that it fit nearly perfectly across the airplane seats (I did have a whole row to myself). This allowed for easy in-seat in-flight diaper changes and a place for me to put my son down when he eventually tired of peek-a-boo with the seatmate behind us. If this wasn’t convenient enough, in all of the pockets surrounding my sleeping child, I had everything I needed, easy to reach and close at hand. Swaddle blanket? Check. Magazine? Lip gloss? No prob. Extra socks or binky? Right here. No rifling through multiple bags. No pulling items out of overhead storage. Though it helped that my son made nary a peep the whole time, the Nap-Sac made my flight almost enjoyable. Once we arrived at our destination, my son happily called the Nap-Sac home for his naps and nighttime slumber. I was glad to have him safe and contained for sleeping and cutting out the weight and set-up of a pack-n-play made traveling simpler, lighter and easier.
The Nap-Sac is the brainchild of mother, grandmother and entrepreneur Lilly Gold. Motivated by the birth of her first grandchild and the sub-par quality of the available kid’s gear she saw, Gold began developing a number of innovative multi-tasking products to make life with kids-especially traveling with kids-easier. “My team and I develop the products that every parent looks for-products that fill a need while having multiple uses-getting the most for their money and not sacrificing safety or design,” says Gold. “The Nap-Sac came about after I took my granddaughter to a Neiman Marcus Last Call Sale as an infant. She was on the floor of the dressing room on a blanket amongst the pins. At the same time I realized how dirty the pull down changing tables in the public bathrooms were. I went home and designed a diaper bag that would hold her safely on floors, chairs, tables, or changing surfaces.”
So say goodbye to lugging around a pack-n-play. Bid adieu to carrying a separate travel bed, diaper bag and changing pad. Whether you’re visiting grandma by plane or just going across the street for dinner with friends, the Nap-Sac in red or black is a must-have for making traveling with young infants easier. Also check out the Nap-Sac Backpack in black or camo that allows you to carry the bag as a shoulder bag or backpack.
Lilly Gold is offering Mommies With Style readers 10% off listed prices and free shipping if you order any Lilly Gold products (including her award-winning Sit ‘n’ Stroll) through www.lillygold.com and enter code “Stylemoms08”. Pick one up now for all your spring and summertime travels.
We had such boring bedding for my son when he was an infant. White sheet, white bumper. No frills, nothing special. For my second baby, I wanted something a little fun (plus his bumper and sheets were so grimy and didn't hold up very well anyway). I came across crib bedding from Picci and fell in love.
We chose theHippy Balls Bedding Set ($350), from Picci's Contemporary Collection (pictured to the left). I went with this playful 100% cotton soothing swirly palate of aqua, green, tan and white with chenille accents because it perfectly matched the colors in our Sea and Sky themed nursery. The set contains a fitted sheet, bumpers, dust ruffle and comforter. I liked the fine quality of the bedding (and most likely the bumpers and the comforter will be used as our baby girl gets a little bit older).
From the elegant Cotton Collection, you can choose from 13 different styles. If I was going to go for pink, I'd check out the Hippy Flowers ($350) -- a fun modern floral collection of hot pink, pale pink and white, or the Scarlet ($300) -- a classic pink with tiny white ruffles or the Taormina ($300) -- a sweet pink and white set with organdie trim. They have several blue and neutral color bedding sets, also. If you want to go really luxe, choose from Picci's silk collection - absolutely stunning! Choose from Champagne, Caterina, Grace or Aspin.
Founded nearly 40 years ago in Florence, Italy by Paola Cherubini, Picci's gorgeous collections are handmade in Italy from 100% Egyptian cotton and 100% silk. Picci also uses hypoallergenic padding and non-toxic paints in all bedding and accessory products.
Celebrities such as Marcia Cross, Heidi Klum, Usher, Nancy O'Dell, Ming-Na, Tony Hale and Casey Affleck are fans. Picci's Petra bedding set was featured on the season opener of ABC's Extreme Makeover Home Edition on September 30, 2007.
Exclusive for MWS Readers: Shop Barebabies.com and use coupon code MWS10. This will entitle you to 10% discount for anything from Picci plus free shipping for any Picci order over $99.
Curl up and watch TV with a special kind of blanket
There is nothing better than staying home, lighting a fire, and watching TV under a warm blanket. Recently I discovered an adorable idea that makes this even better -- a blanket featuring a picture of your child or children!
These soft, generously-sized, 100% cotton blankets feature a picture of your favorite person or pet. The image is amazing quality and the blanket is thick and warm. What a great gift for a grandparent who loves to show off their grandchild, or for a pet lover to always remember their favorite furry friend!
You can upload your photo right on the site, and then your picture is knitted into the blanket using four colors of yarn, black, natural, and two shades of gray, giving your blanket the classic appearance of a great black and white photo. A sepia-tone blanket is also available. The blanket has a finished look on both sides and the back is an blend of the four colored yarns knitted into a birds mouth pattern.
Make a purchase on one of these keepsake blankets and take 15% off! Use code BR15.
This year's been a big one for me. I entered it with an infant and I'm leaving it with a toddler. We also potty trained Nate earlier last winter (had just turned 3); I've enjoyed a full year of not being pregnant (yay), and I spent most of 2007 breastfeeding, ending (sadly) in the late fall. I've been though a gamut of products over the course of the calendar year.
So here's a list of my top ten based on my own experiences - they are listed in no particular order, as ranking them would have been too confusing for my already tired Mommy mind:
Sara Bear Baskets -- I did a mini-review of our Sara Bear Basket the first week of January, when baby was 8 weeks old. This continues to be one of my all time favorites for use with a newborn. As a two-time C-section Mom, I can really appreciate not having to go up and down the stairs to change baby's diaper in his room.
For months, we kept a Sara Bear diaper caddy stocked on the first floor. The liner inside the basket offers different cubbies for necessary items like diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream. I loved the convenience of it. Use coupon code STYLE for 10%. Continental US shipping only. Expires 1/31/2008.
GlamourMom tanks -- So I literally lived in these tank tops the entire time I was breastfeeding. They provide easy access for quick breastfeeding, and what I loved the most is that they kept my stomach covered while I was doing it. I layered up with these in the winter and would wear only these and a tank or tee shirt in the summer. I wrote a full review last February.
You can find them on the Mom 4 Life site. You have to go through this link to get to the homepage, if you do you'll get 10% off. Do a search on "glamourmom" from there. Or, get them on the SuperMomz site, where they are on sale for $37.95 and you can use coupon code mwsfree for free shipping.
I can not rave enough about these tank tops - nursing bras are great but the GlamourMom is a nursing bra and extra coverage in one.
Hooter Hider/Bebe Au Lait - along those same lines, I have to add the Hooter Hider, or Bebe Au Lait. I really wasn't one of those nursing Moms who had to hide myself - I nursed in public like a champ in the end, but I'm a modest person and *I* felt more comfortable if the only one seeing my exposed self was me and the baby. Anyway, the Hooter Hider is also a must-have for any nursing Mama. It loops right over your head and covers baby. The top part of the cover has a wire inside of it, so it bends to allow eye contact with you and your child where no one else can see.
I'm cheating a little because this was also on my best of 2006 list. But I had to list it again - it came a long way with me again in 2007 and I wouldn't feel right leaving it out. It's arguably the baby product I used the most consistently all year long.
Find it at Modern Milk, use coupon code mws for free shipping on orders over $25. Or Mom4Life, go through this link and search for "Hooter Hider" and you'll get 10% off. And here's my original review of it for a longer description.
Wooden, American-made toys -- it's been a crazy year of one recall after another on some big name brand toys. I was skeptical about buying just about anything for Christmas, and I already have one toy that was under the tree that I've since found out has been recalled. To say it's annoying is an understatement.
I've been moving more and more towards wooden and American-made toys that I know are safe for my kids. Melissa & Doug are of course a big one (check out Gummy Lump for a full collection that is all 10% off), but I also liked shopping at Oh-Toys.com for Cuboro blocks and marble runs. And ImagiPlay has some great toys that are not only safe for your children but are eco-friendly. You can use coupon code TopTen0330 for 15% off the ImagiPlay site until March 30, 2008.
Dad Gear backpack - On a recent trip to Florida, both hubby and I carried our own Dad Gear backpacks. I have to say, I don't know how I lived on the plane before using one. This backpack has everything needed for extended travel or big packing days -- a thin changing pad, a built-in wipes case, space for diapers, bottles and so much more. Basically compartments for all sorts of goodies you need when traveling with young children.
Use coupon code MWS15 for 15% off your order of anything on the DadGear site. Hubby's also recently been wearing the Dad Gear Diaper Vest and loving it so be sure to check those out while on the site too.
Svan's High Chair - So my big-bulky-ugly Baby Trend high chair from when Nate was a baby has officially left the house. Yay! I see no reason to ever use it again as we're still adoring the Svan High Chair.
It's easy to clean, takes up very little room in my kitchen and is actually a pleasing-looking piece of furniture. It has different settings to grow with child from baby up to teenager.
You can pick the color wood/stain as well as cushion choice. You can buy it at Albee Baby for $224 and it ships free.
Little Docs by Circle of Friends - this lotion is the only over-the-counter cream I've found that even moderately helps Cole's bad eczema. If we keep up with it and put it on daily, it keeps his dry skin at bay.
I can't say that about any other cream other than the prescribed hydrocortisone cream we have from the pedi. We use the Calming Cream and the Soothing Lotion. I reviewed Little Docs back in June and continue to be thrilled with the results.
Check their local retailers page to see where you can find it near you if you don't want to order it online. They supposedly carry it at some Targets and Walmarts, and when looking up my town I found that it's also carried at Ulta.
Merrell McGinness Handbags - I carried the Merrell McGinness Margaret bag the entire fall and I still love it. I reviewed it in August and spent the entire fall adoring it and receiving all sorts of compliments on it. It's bigger than it looks, although I'm also an efficient packer. But I had plenty of room for diapers, wipes and a sippy or two, plus the rest of the usual necessities. You can check out their entire line at www.merrellbags.com.
Summer Video Monitor -- Hubby calls it "Cole TV." Each night he has to ask, "can you please turn off Cole TV now that he's asleep?" I'm addicted. It's by far the best "channel" we have in the house. I just love watching him play/talk/fall asleep each night.
We got it late in baby terms - we didn't have one with Nate at all, but Cole was a horrible sleeper early on. We co-slept until he was 6 months old and I had a hard time transitioning him to his crib. The monitor was a purchase at that time. It helped tremendously - I could see that he was just fine and it stopped me from running in every five minutes. Plus, we had to cry it out some and "seeing" that he was okay really abated much worry on my part.
The best part now is when he wakes up and waves to the camera. Good morning, Mom! I love it. So worth the $100. You can find it on Amazon (ships for free) or in-store at Babies R Us.
Lascal Buggy Board Maxi - I'm happy to report that we've recently graduated from the double stroller to using the single again, with the addition of a ride on board for the days I have both kids with me.
On our recent plane trip, we had the Buggy board and we were blown away by how much easier it made travel. Nate calls it his "surf board" and gets a kick out of "surfing" while we push. It snaps right onto the back of the stroller (check to see if it's compatible with your single).
Obviously this only works with an older child but it's a great transition product when you have a child that's big but not quite big enough for trips where lots of walking's involved.
MWS special for Let's Go Strolling: Shop before 1/15/08 and save 10% on strollers with code MWS0810 and 15% on diaper bags and accessories with code MWS0815. Please note that certain manufacturers are excluded from this offer.
Runner Ups:
the iPhone. Honestly it should have made by top 10, but no one wanted to hear me blab on and on again about how obsessed I am. So you can read my review from earlier in the year here if you're interested.
Wall Candy Arts - these wall decals are too fun. Kids can draw right on the chalk boards. Read my review from August.
Graco's Baby Einstein Exersaucer - borrowed from Julie, this exersaucer saw a serious amount of play. Two kids later, I have yet to see a more entertaining one. I included it in a mini-review back in May. The only reason it's not in my top ten is that I felt sort of lame doing a plain old exersaucer. But really, this one's fantastic and provides hours of entertainment to baby.
Baby Jogger stroller - and the only reason this is even a runner-up is because I had it in my top ten last year. Still loving using both our single and double City Series.
Little Jules birth necklace - I wear one, my Mom wears one, my sister now wears one (with her nephews birth dates). Simple, classic. Use coupon code MWSGIFT and get $10 off your order.
Cloud B's Twilight Turtle - check out my review from earlier this month. Both boys love this product.
This weekend it really started to feel like winter in Southern California. I know the rest of you are laughing at our chattering teeth in 45 degree weather, but to us - that's COLD! My son needed a little more warmth at night and I was happy to wrap him in this unbelieveably soft and cozy organic cotton blanket from Litlle Merry Fellows, available from Ezoetic.
Although this blanket is cotton and super soft, it has the heft and warmth of an old fashioned wool blanket. And also the simple elegance. I love the bowl-of-oatmeal color and the matching toy pony is a perfect snuggle pal for those chilly (So Cal or colder!) nights.
Ezoetic has a lot of really cool organic items to check out. One other item of theirs that I tried that I really think is amazing are Maggie's Organic Soap Nuts. I would never have believed that something that looks like a withered berry, could actually work with my high efficiency washer to get my clothing clean, but they did! Soap nuts are an organic source of saponin. They are easy to use (put a few of the nuts in a little pouch and toss in the washer) and are extremely gentle and safe for even the most sensitive skin. And of course they are great for the environment. Want to try it yourself? Read more about Soap nuts and order the sample packet on the Ezoetic site.
A few months ago I reviewed Aden and Anais' muslin swaddling blankets. These blankets have taken Hollywood and the rest of the country by storm. I was absolutely in love with them right from the start and I did not think that Aden and Anais could come out with another blanket style that I could love as much. But lo and behold, they have done it again!
Just in time for winter, Aden and Anais have released their new Dream Blanket. It is aptly named because it is just dreamy to cozy up with. Made from six soft puffy layers of waffled muslin cotton, these blankets are unbelieveably soft and snuggle worthy. The multiple layers provide just the perfect balance of warmth and breathe-ability so no worries about your child overheating. Also fabulous is the slightly larger size of these blankets. They are large enough for a three year old toddler to cuddle up with and sure to be the most popular blanket in the house. They only get better and softer with each wash.
If you have not had the chance to get your hands on one of these these blankets, you really must check them out. There is something so soothing and pure about a muslin blanket. And in the layered form they are a small piece of blankie perfection.
One small request to the Aden and Anais crew - make one in my size? Pretty please? My poor son is getting tired of playing tug-o-war with his mommy and his blankie!
Mommies with Style Save $5 off your order when you use the code RJ001.
Trend setting Mommies and Tots, look no further! Lilbellula Creations is your one stop shop for all things fabulous for kids, babies, moms and moms-to-be. This delightful online boutique was founded in the Fall of 2006 by Agatha Frank, Tina Burns, and Rhonda Smith, who between them have 5 children of their own. The name 'Libellula' means dragonfly in Italian and is a fond tribute to the founders' Grandmother.
Libellula Creations carries everything from baby blankets to maternity wear and diaper bags to toddler clothes. Some of the hot brands you'll find there are Mad Sky, 2 Red Hens, Baby Nay, City Threads, Momzee and the exclusive Libellula Creations own Mio Piccolo blankets. Need I go on? Or haven't you already clicked on their link?
But wait! There's more before you make the jump. In addition to the alreday great prices, Libellula Creations is offering Mommies with Style readers a generous additional 15% off on all items using the code "SUMMER". Ok, you're ready now. Skip on over and enjoy your shopping, you fabulous fashionista!
I have a favorite sofa in my house. Sadly it is too small for me to sit on. But it is just the perfect size for my 3 yo. It is a Trans Am sofa from SoFine Kids. That's right, my boy has a Trans Am!
My son may not be old enough to appreciate the retro chic automotive-inspired styling and easy wipe-clean vinyl upholstery on his iconic little sofa. But he's just thrilled to have a perfectly scaled piece of furniture to lounge on. And I imagine, when he sits on his little sofa, he is envisioning himself in the driver's seat.
If you have never laid eyes on SoFine Kids sofas, you had better brace yourself. Three of the site's four sofas are named for classic cars - the Mustang, the Trans Am and the Chevy (pictured on the right). Just looking at them made my heart race.
Matching your decor is not an issue as the sofas come in dozens of color choices to suit any gender child and any room color scheme. Choosing just one is the tough part. These sofas are extremely well made and durable, and will make for many fond memories and cherished hand me downs. They are extremely well priced for fine kids furniture as well - running from $225 to $245. And you'll be happy to hear - shipping is free!
Its very common for Mommies with Style to search for unique designs for their child's rooms. Pixie Dust Decor designs their own textiles--so its not too often that you'll find a matching comforter in a classmate's bedroom.
You'll find classy, timeless fabric design on their items. And, at Rosenberry Rooms, you'll love the variety of products you can get to match your little one's bedroom. Not only can you order crib or toddler-bed sheeting, but your little one can wear a matching apron, you can carry coordinating stroller blankets, bibs and burps, and they even offer wall art to coordinate with your selection of textiles.
Perfect for all of the DIY moms (I didn't get the gene, but many of you did!) you can purchase these adorable textiles by the yard. And when you do, I want pictures of your window treatments and dresses you create to match your little Pixie's Pixie Dust Decor'd bedroom!
Doing it yourself? Use code PIXIECODE for 33% off a fabric order, no minimum yardage required.
Love what you see at Rosenberry Rooms? Save 5% off all Pixie Dust Decor and Accessories and receive free shipping with code mommieswithstylePD5
We moved Wesley (my now 2! year old) into his bed several months ago. It was a slow process, and mostly because we learned what a roller he is. He started with a mattress on the floor. And 8 nights out of ten, we'd find him in the middle of the room.
After several months of rolling, we decided it was time to teach him to really stay in bed. He was asking for it, too. The novelty of the mattress on the floor had worn off, and we faced a fight getting him from his big brother's bed to the mattress each evening. I happily took apart the bunk beds in Carson's room and moved the top bunk into Wesley's (which was always the plan... no matter how surprised Carson was). Of course, every bunk bed comes with side gates, and we quickly attached those to the sides. But they were hard on me as I bent over to kiss Wesley goodnight. And, as he is a roller, Wes found a way to roll to the other end of the bed, the side where the ladder would have gone had it been a top bunk, and tumble to the floor. Not only that, but his many rolls turned to hard bumps against the gates.
Conveniently, I had another option: a Snug Tuck Pillow (also known as Bed Bugz). We were on our way on a road trip the next morning, so we tossed our snug-tuck pillow in the car and off we went. We arrived at our destination with an exhausted almost 2-year-old who only wanted to sleep. Thank goodness it took just seconds to attach the Snug Tuck Pillow! The bolster, which is nearly the length of a bed, attaches to the mattress with a very strong elastic which adjusts and pulls tightly shut with the help of a buckle--similar to one on an airplane. The bolster pillow is a hard pillow--not soft like a regular pillow that kids could burrow into. When Wesley rolls into it, he safely bounces off--rather than a hard railing to bump into, he now gets a soft reminder that he can't go further. Each morning, he can easily crawl over the pillow; there's no longer a need for scaling the top of a bed gate and flying over.
And the best part? No rolling off the bed. The Snug Tuck Pillow firmly stayed on the bed and held our little roller on safely. Its available at SnugTuckPillow.com. Use code MWS for 15% off. Use the code on the shipping selection page.
Searching for a boutique baby blanket packed with charm and sure to bring a smile to everyone's lips? Something truly favorite-woobie worthy?
Then you must not miss the gorgeous collection of vintage blankets from MWS member owned Mairzey Dotes.
The blankets are simple in construction, but brilliant in their design/color combinations. They are a generous 39x25 rectangle (more portable 15x20 inch versions are also available) of smooth cotton print, backed with soft fuzzy cotton chenille. These blankets are warm and cozy, washable, and tactile.
What really makes the collection noteworthy are the well curated choices of prints and their combos. From gorgeously swirly pink paisley to hip dots and a retro moon print, the designs are all tasteful and well matched to the cozy chenille on the back.
Need a gift in a pinch? Mairzey Dotes offers gift sets complete with a travel blankie and two burp cloths Mommies with Style type "MWS" in the comments section at check free shipping (via a refund) on your purchase.
Most people don't have memories from before they were a year old. But I do. I remember my blankie. I remember how it billowed in the air, forming a momentary arc, before it floated down over me and I drifted off to sleep. I remember everything about it - the texture, the cottony smell, the appearance of the sunlight coming through the weave, the sense of safety it imparted. In my minds eye I see my mother's hand attached to the blanket, her ring catching a glint of the same sunlight bathing the blanket. It's a memory I savor - simple and full of comfort.
I'd never seen a blanket quite like that one, even after raising three children, until I saw the swaddling wraps by Aden and Anais. There was an instant flash of recognition. My blankie! I thought. And I wanted to hug the four fat little blanket rolls that came in one package, and take a nice long nap with them.
Aden and Anais blankets were created with love, and with swaddling in mind. They are slightly larger than most standard swaddlers and crafted of a lightweight cotton muslin that is incredibly soft and breathable. This latter feature is particularly critical when swaddling young infants, whose ability to regulate body temperature is not yet developed. Small infants can easily overheat when wrapped in heavier blankets.
The benefits of swaddling are myriad. Reduced colic, better sleep, calmer and more content babies. Better bloggers than me have tackled this subject. If you are pregnant, it is a good idea to learn how to swaddle now, and to plan for this practice by stocking up on swaddling blankets now, before the fact!
But even if you never master the fine art of the swaddle or if your baby is no longer a newborn, you will treasure Aden and Anais blankets. It is the perfect stroller cover for a hot summer day, or extra layer for any time. The softness is unrivaled and makes it a perfect comfort object or post-bath snuggle blanket. They even make great nursing covers as they allow light and air to pass. Blankets are available in plain white and assorted print combinations.
It may just happen that your own baby's first fond memory of comfort and caring, features an Aden and Anais blanket. I would not be surprised in the least.
It's a slide! It's a plane! It's a spaceship! No wait, it's a sofa. Or a chair. Except when you are tired, when it is a nap nest, nestled high in the imaginary treetops. And this is just the beginning. Because with a Sumo Lounge Omni, the possibilities are endless.
So what is a Sumo Lounge Omni? Really it's just a big (very generous - 4 5' x 5 5'!) ballistic nylon pillowcase filled with polystyrene balls. AKA - a "bean" bag. But these are not to be confused with the bean bags of our youth as they are light years ahead.
For starters there is the filling. The little polystyrene balls that fill the Sumo allow you to bend and mold this big pad into myriad shapes. Fold it in half to make a couch. Stand it on end to fashion a chair. You can control the amount of fill for a firmer or softer pad, and inexpensive refills are available from Sumo, should you wish to eventually refill your lounger. Despite its dimensions, it takes up less space than you'd expect and weighs next to nothing - only 18 lbs. So it's a sofa you can actually sling over your shoulder and carry down the block to a pal's house. No problem!
And then there is the ballistic nylon coating. A parent's dream come true. Would you have brought your old beanbags out on the lawn? Or to the park? Probably not. But with the silkily smooth ballistic nylon exterior, stains are a nonexistant worry. We really tested this theory, allowing our kids to sit on their Omni lounge at the school talent show, held one recent friday night on the elementary school field.
The lounge caused quite a stir! And much jealousy and curiousity. At least six kids piled on, with snacks, drinks and dirt and grass covered bare feet. I tried not to cringe - telling myself that if this seating is popular in frat houses, it really ought to stand up to the neighborhood gang! And stand up it did. I'm pleased to report that our lounger was as good as new after a couple of quick swipes with a damp sponge.
So I am pretty much convinced that every family who can find a corner to squish this in, really needs one of these things. It's so fabulously popular in our house, that even though our test model arrived in a neon orange, it still has pride of place in our tastefully decorated chocolate and blue family room. Note: there are a wide variety of less psychedelic colors to choose from - but feel free to get an attention getting orange one too!
We're looking forward to bringing Sumo Omni lounges to the beach this summer. And I can see us sitting on them at the community outdoor movies, while watching 4th of July fireworks, and while entertaining friends both indoors and outside. It's a great spot for my two yr old son to nap when I visit my parents, and seats an adult and a child comfortably for cuddle time. My oldest considers it her personal gaming pad for Ms. Pacman sessions and my 7 yr old daughter turns it into a horse that she rides through imaginary forests. My husband, when lucky enough to secure it for his own personal use, can be found snoring there with a book on his face. He's stopped trying to figure out how to rig a hammock in the yard.
Here's the best news of all. Sumo Lounge Omnis are currently on sale! At $129 with free shipping, it's a buy you will be sure not to regret. If you have a minute to watch this cute video, you'll get some more ideas of ways to play with your lounger. And the box too!
Vintage bedding, custom furniture at Warm Biscuit (20% off)
I can't say enough about the cool products from Warm Biscuit. Their items are old school with vintage-looking fabrics and prints. And although they're Warm Biscuit bedding company, they sell much more than bedding. You'll find toys, baby clothes, bath products and much more on this storefront. One thing's constant through their entire line - everything feels down to earth and homey.
Many of their items can be personalized, including children's aprons, kids bags (this kids suitcase is to die for - we have one that is now filled and carried around on a daily basis), lunchbags, baby gifts and more.
Check out their new line of fabrics too - they've added some really cool prints. It's nice to see new patterns that haven't been done before.
The prices are great, and even better, use coupon code WBMWS20X for 20% off your order on the site.
A pretty AND practical blanket: The Clip-On Blanket!
There are so many blankets out there. Many are soft, beautiful, warm, and perfect for your newborn, infant, or older child. But have you ever heard of a blanket that goes beyond beauty for fabulous function?
Secure2Me's Clip-On Blanket is just that -- a beautiful, functional blanket. What makes it so unique? It's special size and clips on each corner of the blanket hold it in place on your stroller, car seat, or over your baby carrier. Or clip it to your shirt and have an instant cover-up for nursing!
The blankets are extremely stylish, too. There are lots of cuddle soft fabrics like minky and fleece, as well as silk brocades, cottons, and more. Check out their collection of blankets!
One of their most practical and unique products is the Eclipse SolarVeil Blanket. This is a super-cool, sun protective blanket that blocks 95% of UVA & UVB rays. How great is that?! It's perfect for walks outside, the park, pool, and more. I can honestly say that I am thrilled to have this blanket to use this summer with my newborn son. I know we will be outside often and having this blanket will be a life-saver - it will keep him cool, comfortable, and will shield him from the sun (which is such a relief when you can't use sunblock!).
Receive free shipping when you purchase 2 or more Secure2Me blankets. Enter code MWSFS at checkout. Enjoy!
Check out Until Kara - nursery bedding, all organic cotton. Their bedding designs are simple and classy. Also of interest: they custom make natural organic crib mattresses. Pretty cool, huh?
They have a free shipping deal going on right now - April 22nd-27th so shop today. Rattles and burp cloths too.
Kids really love to have their rooms personalized! My daughter, Megan, just recently got her own room. Now that she has her own room, she is having fun making it her own personal space. One of her favorite additions to the room are her new painted wall letters that she got from Craftcuts.com.
Craftcuts.com offers a great selection of wooden letters , both painted and unpainted. Their letters are great for craft projects and room decor. They offer so many customization options with each of their products that it is so fun and easy to create something that fits your style and decor.
With Megan's letters we got to choose a font (127 choices), color (27 choices), height (4" - 18"), and thickness (1/8" - 3/4"). We also had the option of ordering them unpainted so we could pick out our own paint color.
Craftcuts.com has been featured on the show Extreme Makeover Home Edition and in the magazine Kids' Rooms.
The bottom line is that personalizing your child's room can be as easy as ABC!
Create a Designer Tapestry Throw with Your Photo! What a unique heirloom gift for a wedding, anniversary, new baby, birthday, or anytime!
The throw comes as a kit. Once your kit arrives, you can select a photo and begin the personalization process (online) and in about four to six weeks your throw will be ready to display or give as a gift.
Remember the name Glitz and Glamour Boutique, because I will be doing a follow-up as soon as my custom Woven Moments Throw arrives. I am really excited to to see the finished product.
Not long ago, Zareen raved about Sweet Fletcher's slings. Their signature products are no doubt simple, fashionable and functional.
And now (hip hooray!), Sweet Fletcher's stylish fabrics are available in these very vintage-cool quilts. I love the prints, especially the Ansley Pink, which features my fave pink-and-brown color combo.
These perfectly sized quilts are not only beautiful, each one is hand made to order, making them a thoughtful and unique gift for any new mommy (even if that new mommy is you!). Mommies With Style can score 10% off with code MWS10Q.
Once upon a time there was a shopper. The shopper was shopping a in great worldly bazaar. All around her were toys and goodies of every size, shape and variety.
This story is a little like the old fable about the Sun and the Wind. The Wind makes a bet with the Sun that he is more powerful and can get the traveller to remove his coat. So he blows and he blows. And the intrepid traveller pulls his coat tighter. Similarly, when barraged with flashing lights, licensed characters and a battery of plastic wrap, our shopper pulls her pursestring tight, and tucks her bag under her arm. This makes the wind blow harder and the toys bleep louder. Our shellshocked traveller grows weary and discouraged.
Then along comes the Sun, which in this fable would be Zid Zid. No noise, no plastic, just good clean stellar design. The shopper stops to take a look. What's this? A whimsical owl that guards a lost tooth? A magically painted table with comfy cushions? Silver sequined ballet slippers for dancing through the 1001 nights of childhood?The purse strings are loosened. Perhaps the shopper even considers purchasing an embroidered Zid Zid purse for herself. And oh the animals. They are her undoing. She must have them. They are toys, for sure, but just this side of art. This savvy shopper knows that these stuffed animals will never have to get kicked off the couch. They will deserve pride of place, and perhaps kick her designer pillows to the curb along with a few talking toys.
If you have not checked out the wonderful products made in Morocco by American artists Julie Klear and her Moroccan born husband Moulay Essakalli , then you are missing a true ray of sunshine. It's hard to choose a personal favorite amongst so many wonderful items, but I'm just besotted (for lack of a better word) with the animal cushions and the cool silver pouf. Then again I am besotted with all their designs which evoke a simpler life as they seamlessy blend folklore, craft and fantasy into exquisite childrens items that never need batteries and never fall out of fashion.
Available at super online shops including minijake.com, designpublic.com, and oliebollen.com these items have made it cool to to be a kid again. In fact, with a few toys and accessories from Zid Zid, it will soon be us adults that will have to get all our dreadful plastic clutter out of the family room before we entertain.
Boy, talk about a beautiful baby basket! I received a gift basket from Stella Bella Boutique and it was filled with gifts to thrill both mom and baby!
Nestled inside a blue wooden basket, lined with a removable Cotton gingham liner, were four fabulous gifts. The Snugglie is, oh, so soft and just that......snugglie. It's made of fluffy chenille Cotton, luxurious satin, and plush Minky chenille fabrics. There is even a personalization option. Then to clean up in style, we have the Designer Wipe Case . The wipe cases are available in several different styles. Perfect for baby, but also great for children of all ages. A wipe case stocked with wipes is something I never leave home without! For a beautiful keepsake, a Silver-Plated Elephant Bank was tucked into the basket. The silk carry bag made it even more special. Last, but not least, a Toddler Travel Changing Pad was included. This changing pad doubles as a diaper wallet. Inside are convenient compartments for diapers, wipes, money, keys, etc. This changing pad is available in a few colors and even sports a handle. Great for the stylish mom on the go.
I really appreciate the wonderful gift basket filled with goodies! Take it from a mother of six, you can't be without a wipe case, and you won't want to be without the changing pad after you see it. The bank and blanket are just the icing on the cake!
Stella Bella Boutique is offering Mommies with Style readers 10% off. Simply enter coupon code "Bella" at checkout to take advantage of this great deal! Stella Bella also offers FREE shipping on orders over $100.00. Check them out...they have a great selection of baby gifts!
Soft. Cozy. Comfortable. Luxurious. Silky. Beautiful. These are all words I have to use to describe the blankets made by Little Giraffe. Honestly, these are some of the nicest blankets I have ever seen or touched.
What makes them so special? When you touch and feel them, you instantly can tell how well-made they are. These are no shabby blankets! I also love the rich colors and wonderful combination of textures (chenille with satin, velvet, chenille and satin, faux-fur, and more). The variety of styles, colors, and textures is enough to make any savvy shopper excited!
The company also makes beautiful complimentary items, such as diaper bags, soft chenille robes for mom and baby, and a unique baby wrap/swaddling blanket made of a light microfiber with satin trim.
Little Giraffe is available at many fine department stores, boutiques and online retailers. There are plenty of stores that carry these wonderful products. Check it out and pick up something special for your little one, or give one as a great gift. The recipient will not be disappointed!
About a week ago, you may recall, I delcared that every woman needs at least one cashmere sweater. And maybe you read between the lines, and noted that she really needs 3. So, what about her baby? Shouldn't baby be cuddled and warm, soft and sweet, lavish and luxurious?
Kinder-cashmere is all that. Just today, I was holding my son's hand in real(!) cashmere mittens. And they were sooooo soft! And soooo warm! And, I love this, this is one pair he won't lose, because creator Danielle Holmes was smart enough to connect the mittens with a string that goes through the coat. Created with influences from her homes world wide, Danielle explains her products as luxurious as New York, as charming as France and as hardy as Maine. The laylette line is charming, sophisticated, and luxurious. True cashmere, we're looking at items for Barron's and Shiloh's.
I had an opportunity to meet Danielle at a recent trade show. Her booth caught my eye with the bold contrast of vibrant petal pinks, lemon yellows, sky blues and lime greens. The layette line, which is new this winter, includes wrap sweaters, bunny dresses, pants, mittens and hats. In addition to the layette line, Kinder-cashmere's blankets and pillows add sophistication, warmth and class to baby's nursery. So classy is Kinder-cashmere, that I'm noticing a trend: only the classy celebs, it seems, boast their Kinder-cashmere collection: Reese Witherspoon's Deacon and Liv Tyler's Milo both have blankets.
Items should be dry-cleaned or hand-washed. It sounds like a lot of work for a mom. But for cashmere this nice, its completely worth it. After all, take a second and count your cashmere. There's a reason you love it so much. And baby deserves it, too.
Send your order to Danielle in an e-mail (not through the site) and tell her you heard about Kinder-cashmere on MWS, she'll invoice you and give you an additional 10% off the already low introductory prices.
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.
Did you know that babyGap now has baby bedding? The place that dresses your whole family can now outfit your little bambino's nursery as well. And with all the quality and style we expect from babyGap, they have several designs (my favorites are the Daisy for girls and the Seaside for boys) that are so cute, they almost (read, almost) make me want to revisit the days of babyhood, diapers and cribs again.
For a limited time, their on-line exclusive entire bedding collection is 20% (remember you can always do returns in the store if it doesn't work). If you're a Gap card member, get free shipping on any purchase $50 or more.
Ever since the very first night that baby Leo spent at home, he has been sleeping in a gorgeous classic bassinet from Cariboo. I have only one regret about this bassinet. That I did not have it for my other three kids.Cariboo makes a high quality product. Their pieces are hand crafted in New Zealand from sustainable radiata wood, with a lead-free finish, PBDE-free mattress and formaldehyde-free bassinet board. You can choose from one of three finishes. We chose the mahogany finish, that blends perfectly with our bedroom furniture. Which makes it so much easier to keep the baby in the room with us. No cringing at ugly baby gear here!
I love the simple off white cotton cover that came with the bassinet, but when we move the ensemble to the nursery, I'm looking forward to switching the fabric portion of the bassinet to one of these gorgeous designs from babystar (for Cariboo). I'm partial to the dots in Tag Blue, which is the same pattern Christina Aguillera has for baby Max Liron. Other celebrities who own the Cariboo Bassinets include Mariska Hargitay, Tori Spelling, Jennifer Garner, and Jessica Alba .
The Cariboo Bassinet is available with accessories including an attachment that lets you use it as a changing table, and a play-gym that can be used to suspend toys over the bassinet, or when removed, to place over your baby on the floor. 
I'm such a huge Cariboo fan that I would be remiss if I did not mention their luxurious Puretec Earth Blanket by Cariboo. This blanket is not cheap, at $99 it's a splurge, but it is truly special and reminds me of the blankets I had as a baby. 
I recently took my 2-month old son on a weekend visit to see a girlfriend in Seattle. The plane ride was only a little over two hours, but since I was traveling by myself, I worried about carrying all the stuff the weekend would require. My clothes, his clothes, umbrella (it is Seattle), diapers, wipes, noise machine, pack-n-play, stroller, car seat…I had visions of the looks of sympathy I would receive trying to lug all this and a kid through the airport by myself. Then two fortuitous events occurred: first, my girlfriend was able to borrow a car seat which allowed me to leave the car seat and the stroller at home; second, I met the Nap-Sac. In my life as a product-tester, there have been very few products I have come across that truly have blown me away – the Nap-Sac by Lilly Gold definitely makes the list. Instead of being burdened by luggage and gear, I traveled with one suitcase, my son in a Bjorn and the Nap-Sac for my weekend away.
There is nothing better than staying home, lighting a fire, and watching TV under a warm blanket. Recently I discovered an adorable idea that makes this even better -- a blanket featuring a picture of your child or children!
Sara Bear Baskets
GlamourMom tanks
Hooter Hider/Bebe Au Lait
Dad Gear backpack
Svan's High Chair
Little Docs by Circle of Friends
Merrell McGinness Handbags
Summer Video Monitor
Lascal Buggy Board Maxi
This weekend it really started to feel like winter in Southern California. I know the rest of you are laughing at our chattering teeth in 45 degree weather, but to us - that's COLD! My son needed a little more warmth at night and I was happy to wrap him in this unbelieveably 
Ezoetic has a lot of really cool organic items to check out. One other item of theirs that I tried that I really think is amazing are 
A few months ago 
Trend setting Mommies and Tots, look no further! 
I have a favorite sofa in my house. Sadly it is too small for me to sit on. But it is just the perfect size for my 3 yo. It is a 
We moved Wesley (my now 2! year old) into his bed several months ago. It was a slow process, and mostly because we learned what a roller he is. He started with a mattress on the floor. And 8 nights out of ten, we'd find him in the middle of the room. 
Searching for a boutique baby blanket packed with charm and sure to bring a smile to everyone's lips? Something truly favorite-woobie worthy?
Most people don't have memories from before they were a year old. But I do. I remember my blankie. I remember how it billowed in the air, forming a momentary arc, before it floated down over me and I drifted off to sleep. I remember everything about it - the texture, the cottony smell, the appearance of the sunlight coming through the weave, the sense of safety it imparted. In my minds eye I see my mother's hand attached to the blanket, her ring catching a glint of the same sunlight bathing the blanket. It's a memory I savor - simple and full of comfort. 
The lounge caused quite a stir! And much jealousy and curiousity. At least six kids piled on, with snacks, drinks and dirt and grass covered bare feet. I tried not to cringe - telling myself that if this seating is popular in frat houses, it really ought to stand up to the neighborhood gang! And stand up it did. I'm pleased to report that our lounger was as good as new after a couple of quick swipes with a damp sponge. 
There are so many blankets out there. Many are soft, beautiful, warm, and perfect for your newborn, infant, or older child. But have you ever heard of a blanket that goes beyond beauty for fabulous function?
One of their most practical and unique products is the 
This story is a little like the old fable about the Sun and the Wind. The Wind makes a bet with the Sun that he is more powerful and can get the traveller to remove his coat. So he blows and he blows. And the intrepid traveller pulls his coat tighter. Similarly, when barraged with flashing lights, licensed characters and a battery of plastic wrap, our shopper pulls her pursestring tight, and tucks her bag under her arm. This makes the wind blow harder and the toys bleep louder. Our shellshocked traveller grows weary and discouraged. 
If you have not checked out the wonderful products made in Morocco by American artists Julie Klear and her Moroccan born husband Moulay Essakalli , then you are missing a true ray of sunshine. It's hard to choose a personal favorite amongst so many wonderful items, but I'm just besotted (for lack of a better word) with the animal cushions and the cool 
Available at super online shops including 
Soft. Cozy. Comfortable. Luxurious. Silky. Beautiful. These are all words I have to use to describe the blankets made by 
About a week ago, you may recall, I delcared that every woman needs at least one cashmere sweater. And maybe you read between the lines, and noted that she really needs 3. So, what about her baby? Shouldn't baby be cuddled and warm, soft and sweet, lavish and luxurious? 
Did you know that