York Region Baby - Product Reviews

Lily on the Fly

2008-02-20T17:37:00.000-08:00

Lily On The Fly is an excellent meal planning system for busy families who eat take out or dine out more often than they would like due to time constraints and day to day hustle bustle.

The Lily on the Fly system comes with cards that help you plan your weekly menu, grocery shop for the necessary items and cook healthier alternatives to dining out for your family.

The Hearty Meals for Hungry Families starter kit includes one 7-slot magnetic card holder, and a 36 card pack including hearty family favorites such as Giving Thanks Turkey dinner; Cheesy Potato Soup, Pork Chops Oh Baby and Crabby Pasta Salad.

The 7-slot magnetic card holder is an excellent way to stay organized, to plan your weekly menu and to allow all family members to stay in the loop with regards to meal time.

The cards are a convenient size to slip into your purse to bring with you grocery shopping in order to ensure that you remember to buy all of the necessary ingredients for your week's meals.

The cards are also well laid out and colour coded (meals, side dishes, treats) to help make your planning as quicky and simple as possible. All of the ingredients are organized into one of seven general grocery store areas to make shopping fast.

All in all, Lily on the Fly is a wonderful idea for busy families who have a difficult time planning, shopping and cooking meals.

Teach My Toddler

2008-01-28T13:54:00.000-08:00

Teach My™ Toddler was created by (Canadian) mom, Christy Cook. When she was looking for items to help her toddler with the alphabet, numbers, colours and shapes she had a hard time finding things, especially pieces that worked together.

So....Teach My™ Toddler was created.

In a portable tote lies everything you need to help your toddler learn basic numbers, letters, colours and shapes. Each of the four sections comes with

a fully coordinated puzzle
board book
teaching chart
and flash cards

We've been using our Teach My™ Toddler kit with my 2 1/2 year old for about 2 weeks, for the recommended 20 minutes a day and we are more than impressed. Before, using the Teach My™ Toddler kit our toddler could identify about 50% of the alphabet and he is now pretty close to 100%. The other day we started using the letters in the puzzle to spell words, like cat, dog and other simple ones. He loves doing the puzzles and reading the books and you can tell the sense of pride and accomplishment he feels when he is playing.

Other than the clear learning advantages Teach My™ Toddler has helped make our toddler feel special. Since we have a new baby in the house, it's easy sometimes to forget that your toddler needs as much attention as the new baby. The 20 minutes a day have become a special time for him with Mommy or Daddy and he asks to play with his Teach My™ Toddler kit. In fact, in the morning it is the first toy he grabs and he insists that we play 'school' and he becomes the teacher -- the imaginative play aspect is a bonus!

I really like the fact that it's an all-in-one solution and that everything colour coordinates, as well I love seeing my little one's eyes light up when he goes "to work with his briefcase!"

Breaking the Good Mom Myth by Alyson Schafer

2008-01-26T04:14:00.000-08:00

Alyson Schafer is one incredible lady! She has a talent for writing a book that hits home with Moms! I felt so refreshed after reading this book. I walked away feeling good about myself, as a woman and as a mother. I also learned many great new parenting techniques and visions for the future.

Breaking the Good Mom Myth is a book all about letting go. It's about letting go of our expectations of ourselves as mothers as well as societal expectations and embracing who we are as a parent and moving forward.

Alyson Schafer is a great motivator. She encourages Moms to take care of themselves and to have confidence. She encourages Moms to worry less about what other people think and to focus more on their long term parenting goals.

This book was very motivating to me as a mother. I felt encouraged like I never have before. After reading this book, I can walk away with a new confidence about my parenting skills and choices. Schafer reminded me that we are all individuals and we all have our differences. Becoming a Mom does not change that.

The 8 myths that Schafer discusses in the book are the following:
Self Care is Selfish
My Children Are a Reflection of Me
My Marriage Can Wait
Good Mothers are All-Caring and All-Protecting
Good Mothers are in Control
Good Mothers Manage Sibling Conflict
Only the Best Education for My Child
Good Mothers Make Life Fun and Entertaining

In the book, Schafer offers many helpful and practical suggestions for dealing with your marriage after children as well as for many common parenting challenges.

I highly recommend this book to new and "old" Moms!

For more book reviews, please go to Amanda's Book Nook on our York Region Baby website!

Smart Choices

2008-01-18T12:51:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to receive a Mom's First Day Kit from Smart Choices. The Mom's First Day Kit is packed with everything you need that provides comfort during those first days after childbirth and when nursing, and it's all contained in a handy canvas tote!

Included in the kit are

Hipster style Single-Use panty
femé Pad® (which provides cooling relief from vaginal irritations or inflamed hemorrhoids that may be caused by pregnancy or childbirth)
Single-Use Nursing Pads
SmartChoices breast soother (which provides warming therapy for blocked milk ducts, mastitis, or weaning and cooling therapy for engorgement)
Lanolin Plus

Mom's First Day Kit from Smart Choices really does have everything that a new mom needs in the first few days after birth and onwards. The nursing pads are amazingly thin as well as absorbent and the Lanolin Plus is perfect for a new nursing mother. This is by far on my Top 10 Favourite products that I've been able to test. The price of $50 for the entire kit is outstanding and would make a great shower gift for an expectant mom. The quality of the products from Smart Choices is really exceptional and made my first few weeks with my new baby all the better, as I had everything I needed to help with pain and discomfort, as well as nursing.

Book Review: The Secret Life of a Slummy Mummy by Fiona Neill

2008-01-04T13:11:00.000-08:00

The Secret Life of a Slummy Mummy by Fiona Neill
Review by Tricia Flindall

This book is written by Fiona Neill, who writes a column in the London Times newspaper called "Slummy Mummy". Her column was so popular that she turned some of the material into a novel. Her book centres on Lucy, a mother of three boys. She is married to Tom (Husband with a Short Fuse) and gave up a successful journalism career working for Newsnight, to bring up her children. They lead a fairly middle-class existence.

Fiona Neill really captures what it's like for a mother who is just going through the daily routine of making meals, school runs, school meetings and trying to keep up with all of the cleaning. Lucy begins to get bored with things and starts looking for something, or someone (Sexy Domesticated Dad), to liven up the domesticity.

I found this book a little bit hard to get into at first, however, once you read through the first couple of chapters you are hooked. The main character Lucy is a little bit wacky but very likable. The book focuses very much on adult relationships. It is interesting to read about the dynamics between her and her single/non-married friends (as we've all been there as the relationships change once someone gets married and has kids). It also details Lucy's relationship with her husband, other parents from her children's school and her relationship with her own parents and mother-in-law. While you often find yourself relating to these relationships, the story line can be a bit far-fetched at times yet entertaining all the same.

Sew Cute: Personalized Baby Clothes & Unqiue Gifts

2008-01-02T11:17:00.000-08:00

Review 1: My 2 1/2 year old daughter absolutely ADORES her personalized long sleeved shirt from Sew Cute! She wore it non-stop for the first weekend that she got it, showing it off to everyone she saw.

I am very impressed with the quality of the clothing. It is durable, soft and washes really well. The embroidery compliments the material perfectly and is top quality.
Sew Cutewear would definitely make a perfect, personalized gift for that new little one in your life. I highly recommend it!
~
Review 2: When I choose my daughter's name I knew that she wouldn't be able to get her name on items like pencils or pens or other items. I am so happy that I have found Sew Cute. It's a great Canadian-based mom-owned company that makes personalized clothing and accessories for babies and kids!

I love the monogrammed pink hat , with her initial "M" on it that will fit her from now, about 8 weeks old until she is one. It is great for both the winter, as well as Spring and Fall and it washes really well.

The matching long sleeve t-shirt we purchased for her matched the hat and I really love the colour of the shirt - nice and bright!

Her big brother is so proud to wear his shirt with the words "Big Brother" on it! A really good idea for a present for a new sibling. I would suggest getting the next size up in these as they fit small.

And finally Maeve's pink personalized hooded towel, is perfect for bath time and in the summer will be useful at the beach as well.

I am really excited to have found Sew Cute and will keep them top of mind for all the upcoming baby showers and as my kids grow! It really makes them feel special to have a shirt or hat made especially for them. As well, what a great idea to keep the personalized gear for babies so when they are a little older they can use for dress-up with dolls and to keep as a very special keepsake.

Baby Nika

2007-12-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

I can't tell you how much we love our Baby Nika blanket. It goes everywhere we go -- and everywhere we go people comment on how cute the cow print chenille blanket is.

This "Made in Canada" blanket is handcrafted with care and attention and will be with our baby from infancy onwards as she loves to cuddle with it.

The prints available are so hip and cute, from the cow print to giraffe and cheetah! It's a totally different take on the baby blanket and the chenille will keep baby warm and cuddly in this cold winter.

Best of all -- it washes really well and I've been able to get the stains out that come with having a newborn.

Baby Nika doesn't just make fabulous blankets. They also make the coats as well as The Can-Go-Roo™ bunting bag for strollers which is designed for infants to preschoolers and fits variety of strollers including: Bugaboo, Maclaren, Peg-Perego and many others.

Custom Made for Kids: The First Adventures of Incredible You

2007-12-13T10:00:00.000-08:00

By simply answering a few questions on the website Custom Made for Kids you can create a totally personalized and absolutely magical story for your child.

The first (we hope of many!) story called The First Adventures of Incredible You is a story that your child will have you read over and over again (and you actually you won't mind!)

The First Adventures of Incredible You takes your child on an adventure that visits local places and people that are special in your life. The illustrations are as bright and cheery as the verses! When reading to our toddler his face lights up at the mention of playing at his favourite park or visiting the Central Park Zoo (which reminds us of our New York City trip this spring).

When reading the story, it feels as if I have written this story for my child and really, that's how I knew that The First Adventures of Incredible You is incredible!

Here are some other reasons to love The First Adventures of Incredible You:

They ship to Canada (and very quickly!) if you want to get it here for Christmas you'll have to choose expedited delivery.
You can go on a virtual tour of the book.
In the drop downs, the have Canadian choices! (ie, The Toronto Zoo etc)
The book is good for children whether they are biological or adopted, any race or Nationality from traditional & non-traditional family structures
York Region Baby readers receive a 10% off discount until December 31, 2007. Please enter "yrbaby10" when checking out.

Piddle Pad: Waterproof Seat Liner

2007-12-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

This summer when my toddler was 2 1/4 we started toilet training him and we used the Piddle Pad a waterproof seat liner, available at My Precious Kid. for when we were out and about. I am usually really laid back and easy going, but I found being out in the stroller or car stressful during the early toilet training days.

We used the inexpensive ($6.99) Piddle Pad in our car seat and stroller to avoid accidents while out and about. It came in handy a few times and made our lives so much easier and the stress of being the car for a long drive with an-almost-trained toddler dissipate. The fabric is that goes against baby or toddler is soft and quilted so in the summer, it keeps them cool and the winter it keeps them warm.

My Precious Kid is an online store that is dedicated to helping parents keep their children safe. On top of selling the latest products for babies and kids they also produce professional family safety ID products. They educate parents how to keep children safer.

Spa Baby: European style baby tubs

2007-12-06T11:05:00.000-08:00

When I first heard of European bath tubs for babies, my oldest was too big for one, but I was intrigued.

Spa Baby tubs created by a Canadian mom is a European style of bathtub that allows babies to let them sit in a natural upright position with warm water to their shoulders.

And what happens is the tub calms the baby by providing an environment much like the one where they spent their very first nine months.

We first used our Spa Baby tub when our little one was 17 days old and were amazed by the results. We had given her baths in the traditonal tub with lots of tears from her and stress on our part.

When we tried the Spa Baby tub for the first time, it was a little akward because we weren't used to bathing her while sitting up -- but now it's second nature and at nearly 5 weeks she is loving bath time, as are we!

I love the fact that the tub comes with a guarantee that your baby will not cry in this tub. If your baby doesn't love this tub, you can return it for a full refund.

Spa Baby bath tubs are available for purchase online, with free shipping in Canada until December 31, 2007 and are also available at Babies R' Us in Vaughan Mills and Newmarket.

* As always, Never leave your baby alone in the tub. Competent adult supervision is required at all times.

Prissy Poofs--an awesome holiday gift for a child with an imagination!

2007-11-28T17:36:00.001-08:00

Prissy Poofs are well made dress up costumes for babies and children. They are made with top quality and creativity in mind.

Prissy Poofs is a creative product that is perfect for the imaginative child. Any child who enjoys dressing up will love all of their products! What a creative gift for a birthday or the holidays.

Parents who enjoy creative photography with their little ones will also enjoy these adorable outfits! They make breathtaking and heart melting photographic keepsakes and will bring smiles and giggles to all.

My daughter loves her Santa poof and I cannot wait to get her holiday photos done! Dress up has never been so much fun!

Pippalily: A stylish way to get your hand back

2007-11-19T14:46:00.000-08:00

I've had my Pippalily sling since the summer, but wanted to wait and post about it until after my second baby arrived.

And since her arrival a few weeks ago I've been wearing her around the house in my Pippalily sling. Having an active toddler and a newborn is challenging to say the least and trying to take care of the needs of my toddler, while keeping my newborn close to me is important.

There are a number of reasons why I really love my Pippalily sling -- including the fact that unlike the other pouch sling I own my Pippalily sling is very stylish and funky. I have the Sea Green Coriander in Cotton (pictured here). The 2 times I have been out of the house while wearing admiring moms have stopped and asked where they can get their own Pippalily sling!

There are lots of colours to choose from, including a fabulous camouflage one as well as Satin Brocade in various patterns and colours.

Pippalily's slings are handmade in Canada with the utmost attention to detail and style and sizing yourself for the sling to purchase is easy! You just order the size you are in a t-shirt (if you are in between sizes order the next size up)

And if you are new to the whole idea of babywearing they have amazing instructional videos on how to wear your baby in different positions. It's makes it easy to see how to wear your little one!

Sugar and Spice Hairbows and Accessories

2007-11-12T17:19:00.000-08:00

Sugar and Spice Bows have a large variety of adorable, girly hair accessories to offer. Their designs are colourful, fun and unique.

Their hair clip is made for even the finest of baby hair and it does indeed work! Made with good quality materials, these clips are very durable. At very reasonable prices, these hair clips are a definite must for every young girl.

Not many hair accessories will stay in my daughter's hair, but the grippy clippy did! It stayed in until I took it out. I am so excited to have found a product that will work with my daughter's hair.

Febe Bebe:Makers of Fine Droolers & Bibs

2007-10-17T17:23:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'll admit it. I am jealous of the talent of Sarah Howard. A few years ago I was introduced to her artwork and I knew that I could never (ever) dream of painting anything like what she could! Before York Region Baby in early 2006, my friend and I had started an online store that only sold items made by Canadian moms. We sold her amazing paintings to a number of very happy customers. And oer the past few months I've been eyeing her site as our nursery is being finished for our new little girl, who is set to arrive any day.

What's even more amazing is that on top of her very successful art business, she has 3 small children and has just started another business!

Before starting Mump & Grump Studios, Sarah made these very sophisticated bibs and droolers for a small store in her hometown and decided to start up again after her third child (who the company is named after) came along and was, shall we say very drooly.

Sarah started Febe Bebe as a Canadian answer to the stylish, functional bib that has been lacking in our market. Like all things fashionable the bibs and fabrics are always changing to keep up with the latest styles.

Sarah says "I had been through the cutesy teddy bear stuff, and was looking for something that would stand out! It was also important to have something that would be soft on my baby's skin, and was made with non-toxic materials."

The craft-momship is truly amazing and makes a fabulous new baby gift and what's even better is that the bibs are 100% vinyl free and are individually handmade in Canada.

The Angel Arm by Baby Henry Co.

2007-10-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

The Baby Henry Co. has created an incredible product that assists parents when carrying an infant carrier car seat.

The Angel Arm is easy to use, well made and extremely durable. It takes the strain off of your back, arm, shoulder and other parts of your body that suffer from carting your baby in your infant carrier around. The strap is padded around the shoulder area for additional comfort and the clip is made for one hand release.

I wish I had had this Angel Arm to use during my recovery from a c-section! Carrying my daughter around was very straining on my body and I truly believe that this product would have helped me out tremendously!

Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld

2007-10-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

We're at that stage in our house where our 2 1/2 year old has let us know on numerous occasions when faced with a vegetable, that "I, no like it" and either spits it out or ignores the fact that there is a piece of broccoli on his plate. Like many parents we try and try again and sometimes he eats, but most of the time he doesn't.

A few weeks ago I heard some buzz about a new cookbook called Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld and was intrigued. Last Friday I saw her on the Oprah show, and after watching ordered the book. This was the first time that I've actually purchased a book from watching Oprah....

The whole premise behind the book is not new, we can hide veggies in our kids food -- but the recipes are brilliant!

I got it in the mail today and I am super excited and super impressed by the book. It's totally cute and retro in design and laid out so well. The recipes ranges from hiding cauliflower in scrambled eggs to Pita Pizzas with spinach.

I also love the idea that Jessica, does hide the vegetables and fruit in the food -- but also still serves vegetables to her children, as kids have to learn that these are important and needed to be healthy and happy.

I'm so excited to get going! Grocery shopping tomorrow, followed by pureeing and then cooking for my family. I'll be updating you soon with my favourite recipes from the book. You can check out some of the recipes here and you can purchase at any bookstore.

Bath-a-holic:Bath and Body Products for the Family

2007-09-28T07:28:00.000-07:00

I have just finished my latest web site for a local mom-run business called Bath-a-holic.

For the past nearly 2 years Kathleen has been making natural bath and body products for the whole family and I've been lucky enough to have been able to try out nearly the whole product line over the past 2 months, while I've been building this new website for her. I wanted to share my 4 favourite products from this great product line.

Sudsy Soap in Baby Boo -- I LOVE LOVE LOVE this product so much. I can't say enough about it. I use it for everything from a face cleaner to a body soap and the smell is so fresh and clean. My toddler LOVEs to use it when he showers as he pumps down the bottle and lots of fun suds comes out. The scent reminds me of my childhood -- and I can't quite put my finger on what it is -- but it's a lovely way to get refreshed in the morning.

Super Soothing All Purpose Salve - My little guy started with eczema this summer and this has provided with relief from the itch and pain. I use it on my hands as a nice light cream to keep me moisturized.

Kiddie Sickie Sauce - Other products I've used for any sort of congestion leave a yucky film on your body, hands etc, but Bath-a-holic's Kiddie Sickie Sauce relieves congestion without that.

Honey Bear Snuggly Tub - So I got this one for bath time with my toddler and I ended up using most of it!!

It's an enriched oatmeal bath for baby, who has the extra sensitive skin. It contains, Milk, Oatmeal, Arrowroot and Honey powders to assist in calming itchy skin. There are teddy bear candy pieces to entertain your little one and it's scented with a calming Vanilla essential oil.

SPECIAL POST: Give A Little Bit: Fall Harvest Food & Gear Drive for Babies and Children

2007-09-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

Newmarket Mommies and York Region Baby have joined together along with area businesses for a Fall Food and Gear Drive for Babies of York Region. The York Region Food Network and The Rose of Sharon will benefit from this food and gear drive.*

The Wish List
* Jared Baby Food
* Baby Cereal
* Baby Crackers * Diapers (larger sizes)
* Wipes, Diaper Creams & Bath Wash
* Gently Used baby & kids clothing
* Infant and toddler toys, books & smaller baby gear items

Proud Sponsors & Drop Off Locations
Aurora
York Wireless Solutions 220 Industrial Parkway South, Unit 39
(receive 15% off your accessories purchase when you donate!)

Keswick
Herbal One Weight Management Centre 213 The Queensway South YMCA 183 Simcoe Street

Newmarket
Herbal One Weight Management Centre 17915 Leslie Street
Ontario Early Years Centre 17310 Yonge Street, Unit 6
SupperWorks 16600 Bayview Avenue
YMCA Employment and Community Services 16655 Yonge Street, Unit 3

For more information please visit www.yorkregionbaby.com or newmarketmommies.homestead.com or cal (905) 806-9675

*We support Health Canada and the WHO which both state that breastfeeding is the best method of feeding infants as it provides optimal nutritional, immunological and emotional benefits for the growth and development of infants. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months of life for healthy term infants, as breast milk is the best food for optimal growth. Infants should be introduced to nutrient-rich, solid foods with particular attention to iron at six months with continued breastfeeding for up to two years and beyond. For more information please see your doctor or visit where you can find breastfeeding support in our area.

Furthermore, we agree with INFACT Canada and Health Canada’s recommendation that infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, with continued breastfeeding to two years of age and beyond. Breastmilk is always free, provides optimal nutrition and is especially important for low-income mothers and babies, who have the most to gain from breastfeeding.

Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight by Cloud B Available at Mom 4 Life

2007-09-12T07:28:00.000-07:00

Product Name:Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight by Cloud B available at Mom 4 Life

Description: The Twilight Turtle is the first and only plush constellation nightlight ever created. The Twilight Turtle gently transforms nurseries and bedrooms into a starry night sky that comforts and calms children and adults alike. From within his plastic shell, Twilight Turtle projects a complete starry night sky onto the walls and ceiling of any room. Twilight comes with three soothing color options blue, green, and amber to create magical, tranquil environments that are ideal for helping children of all ages fall asleep easier.

Review: Ok, don't shoot me. For the first 2 years of my little guys life we have rarely had a sleep issue. There was a time though last winter when we tried to switch from a crib to a bed, as we had a little climber that we had some issues, but we dealt with it and it to passed.

Then this summer came, and for some reason he decided that sleeping was not cool and WAS NOT going to sleep. I read a few books on the topic of toddler sleeping, and they gave me some helpful tricks -- but nothing seemed to work. I them found the Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight when I was shopping at Mom 4 Life.

Mom 4 Life is a great online place to shop, where everything is either made or invented by moms....

But back to the sleep story... We introduced the Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight to our little guy one night and he fell in love and most importantly fell asleep. The soft glow of the lighting allows for comfort when falling asleep and turns of after 45 minutes. The fact that you can choose between 3 colours of glow is great for an independent toddler!! And what impressed me the most was the actual constellations projected onto the wall!

Book Review: The No-Cry Sleep Solution for toddlers and preschoolers by Elizabeth Pantley

2007-08-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

Book Review: The No-Cry Sleep Solution for Toddlers and Preschoolers : Gentle Ways to Stop Bedtime Battles and Improve Your Childs Sleep

Elizabeth Pantley writes an incredible series of parenting bookson topics including sleep, potty training and discipline.

Her book entitled, The No-Cry Sleep Solution for toddlers and preschoolers, is a must read for parents who have either:

a toddler/preschooler who has never been a good sleeper and are looking for practical solutions for helping this situation

a toddler/preschooler who is having difficulty transitioning to a new sleep situation (e.g.new bedroom) or have begun to have sleep problems

Pantley’s book provides very specific suggestions for how to analyze your personal situation as well as a variety of steps/suggestions that you can try to improve your sleep situation with your toddler. Her practical and supportive text allows parents to take the information that sounds helpful and leave the tips that will not work for their family. She recognizes that every family as well as every child is unique and will therefore have a unique situation that requires careful thought and implementation of a strategy that will work for them.

In Part Two of her book, she lists eight sleep tips for every child. This section is a wonderful resource for all parents to read. She then writes about solutions for a variety of common sleep problems such as “Bedtime Battles”, “ Naptime problems” and “Sleepwalking and Sleep Talking”.

Throughout her book, Pantley emphasizes the importance of consistency as well as giving each plan a fair try. She provides parents with solutions that are easy to understand and follow.

The No-Cry Sleep Solution for toddlers and preschoolers is definitely a book worth reading. It is well written, is an easy read and will most likely assist any family experiencing bedtime issues.

Wet Happened? By MiniMe Baby Gear

2007-08-24T05:59:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Wet Happened? Wet Bag from MiniMe BabyGear

Description: A "wet bag" made with thick cotton outer print, then lined with a Polyurethane Laminate, called Baby Dry. The inner material is great for storing used diapers, wet clothing, or bathing suits. Constructed with the two layers sewn separately, the zippered top secures contents to keep smells where they belong.

Review: Until I recieved my Wet Happened? Wet Bag from MiniMe Baby Gear, I was toting around plastic bags in my purse for diapers, spare clothes etc!

I actually received the bag just as we were thinking about potty training our toddler and it turns out this is just the thing we needed!! We have used the Wet Happened? Wet Bag for so many things this summer, including of course carrying our little guys wet clothes while potty training, his potty seat cover and even our wet bathing suits while out and about this summer.

Since he is now fully potty trained, but off to nursery school the bag is conveniently in his school bag, with a change of clothes, just in case. And with baby #2 being here in the next few months, we are sure to get a lot of use out of this handcrafted (amazing!) bag.

They also carry very cute "Rufflebutt" Onesies, Strollers Liners and lots more -- so check it out.

Just Jill: Handmade Love for your Little Ones

2007-08-23T05:52:00.001-07:00

Product Name: Blankets, Onesies & Shoes from Just Jill

Description: Handcrafted cozy blankets,cuddly quilts, huggable pillowcases, cute shoes and onesies! Just Jill uses the softest, coziest fabrics. Vibrant modern prints and fun, whimsical fabrics are stylish and eye catching.

Review: Just Jill is an Etsy based store from Oakville, creating truly one of a kind blankets, shoes and onesies for babies. I ordered a pair of super cute cotton shoes in size 0-6 moths, in the ever-so-funky 'sock monkey' fabric and matching onesie. I ordered it for a shower gift -- but loved it so much I kept it for my new baby! The quality of the product is truly outstanding, and I can't wait to put the little cute shoes on our sweet little monkey! Just Jill also makes amazingly hip blankets for little ones, and I fell in love with a great blanket which will be great to use as nursing coverup, stroller or just to snuggle with. It's the perfect size to fit into a diaper bag, with cotton on one side and soft minky on the other.

All of the products have washed really well, and I love how inexpensive the shipping is on these products, and that they arrived within a day or two of ordering, and the fact that by purchasing from a small designer I was supporting a small business! You can view the newly added designs from Just Jill here, as well you can visit Just Jill at The Children's Trunk Show in November to pick up some great gifts for baby.

Babyproofing Your Marriage: How to Laugh More, Argue Less & Communicate Better as Your Family Grows

2007-08-22T17:58:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Babyproofing Your Marriage: How to Laugh More, Argue Less & Communicate Better as Your Family Grows by Stacie Cockrell, Cathy O'Neill & Julia Stone

Description: From Amazon.ca The Babyproofers are three women who wouldn't trade their roles as mothers for anything, and they love their husbands deeply. But after living through it and hearing the stories of hundreds of other couples, they know that with young children in the house, you need to block the stairs with baby gates, put plastic covers over the outlets, AND take the necessary steps to safeguard your marriage.

Babyproofing Your Marriage is the warts-and-all truth about how having children can affect your relationship. The authors explore the transition to parenthood in light of their own experiences, with input from their husbands and commentary from men and women across the country. Their evenhanded approach to both sides of the marital equation allows spouses to understand each other in a whole new way.

With loads of humor and practical advice, the Babyproofers will guide first-time parents and veterans alike around the rocky shores of the early parenting years. Don't fall prey to common relationship pitfalls: Babyproof Your Marriage!

Review: Babyproofing Your Marriage is the book that every parent and expectant parent should read -- on top of course of all the books about pregnancy & child birth. Babyproofing Your Marriage is different, it's all the information you need about how having a baby changes your relationship with your partner. It tackles the postpartum period, where many of go from having leisurely weekends to no free time at all and how that puts a strain on relationships.

The chapter on "What's the Score?" is an eye-opener, as partner a states all the things they did this week for the family and partner b retorts back with all the things that they did this week -- and in the end with attitudes like this everyone loses. The Babyproofers tell us why both sexes keep score (this book is based around mainly heterosexual couples) and how we can stop keeping score and be happier!

It really is a fun book to read and you'll find your head shaking "yes!" a lot and the Babyproofers give parents some great tools and tips on how to be happy with baby, and your marriage.

Tushygear on the Road

2007-08-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Tushygear on the Road

Description: Designed by a mother of two, Tushygear includes a convenient way to carry the diaper, wipes and the pad. Tushygear is a tote that is small enough to fit into a diaper bag yet is self contained so it can be used on its own too. Tushygear's high quality fabric is also machine washable.

Review: Keeping my diaper bags and purses organized is a total necessity. I need to know where everything is at all times! And I love the fact that the Tushygear on the Road does just that!

Available in many fantastic patterns, the Tushygear on the Road stands out when inside your bag, and you can simply pull it out of your jammed bag and access a softer-than-soft change pad,your wipes and diapers quickly and easily.

When I am in a rush and for daytrips, I simply stock up the the Tushygear on the Road and know that I have 3 diapers, wipes and somewhere clean and soft to change baby.

The quality of this product is really outstanding, and you know that Emily, mom of 2

has put a lot of effort and time into perfecting what moms need. I can't wait to keep using my the Tushygear on the Road for babies to come!

Check out the Tushygear website for other great baby items like change pad covers and blankets!

Get Organized! Family Medical Journal

2007-08-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Get Organized! Family Medical Journal

Description: The Get Organized! Family Medical Journal was created by a GTA mom of three who after she had her twin girls, and her eldest daughter was 3½, suddenly I had a lot of medical

information to remember from doctor's appointments for all three of them, not to mention herself and her husband. Additionally, unfortunately, one of her girls was born with some medical issues

which required specialized treatment, through Sick Kids Hospital.

Jodie would try to write down questions she had in preparation for appointments on a scrap piece of paper that she found in her purse in the waiting room (sound familiar?) and then try to remember all of the information in her head that she was told by the doctors.

So, she created this Canadian focused family medical and health journal, where from birth parents can track appointments, questions for doctors, medications, growth and development and so much more.

Review: People who know me know that I am organized, well at least I think that there is method to my madness!!

But, the Get Organized! Family Medical Journal has taken my organization to the next level. I now have a place to store all of our pertinent and important health information, including immunization records, fingerprints and DNA for the kids. I keep the Get Organized! Family Medical Journal handy in the kitchen, so when I am thinking about any health related question, I can jot if down for the next time we are at the doctors.

I've also been taking the Get Organized! Family Medical Journal to the doctors for the past few visits and it's made the visits less stressful, as having a toddler running around the room, while I am trying to ask questions, or take down information about the appointment can be a challenge!

I really can't say enough about this product and it's creator! Jodie Pappas is up for the Savvy Mom Mompreneur award, and we've already voted for her -- and you can as well.

This journal would make a fabulous gift for a shower for a new mom, who for the first few months of her life seems to spend a lot of time at the doctors with new baby!

Right, now you can buy one get one free, if you buy directly from their website.

Product Name:Bilingual Books and Flash Cards from Il Cocco di Mamma

2007-08-22T17:53:00.000-07:00

Product Name:Bilingual Books and Flash Cards from Il Cocco di Mamma

Review: Many of your know that Il Cocco di Mamma is a great place to get bilingual onesies for baby, but they also carry amazing book and flash cards in a number of languages. We like the Elmer and Friends, in the English- Spanish book, but think it's amazing that it comes in Spanish, Arabic, Chinese and Turkish!

It makes reading the story so much fun! When we've done the English, we start again and do the Spanish!

The Milet's Flashcards, come in English-French and 7 other language combinations! The cards are bright and colourful and with 60 cards, it's hours of fun for our toddler -- and we are brushing up on our french while teaching our toddler a whole new language!

Supperworks - Newmarket

2007-08-22T17:51:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Supperworks - Newmarket

Review 1: What can I say about Supperworks? The people who invented Superworks are my heroes! I cannot say one negative thing about my experience at Supperworks. The staff were very friendly and helpful. The atmosphere was warm, inviting and most importantly, clean!

Who knew that preparing a healthy, delicious meal could be so much fun, so easy and so fast?! All of the ingredients are set up for you, all you have to do is add and mix. The recipes are easy to follow. The layout is extremely organized and the best part is that you don't have to clean up! You just prepare and go.

Each meal comes with a pre-printed label for cooking instructions and suggestions for serving. Supperworks is definitely the best option for families who have little time to prepare meals and who find themselves eating less healthy alternatives or dining out on a regular basis.

What an amazing experience!

Review 2: I too, am in love. In love, with Supperworks. I've been twice now, and will be booking my third session for next month soon! When I didn't return to work after maternity leave and started working part-time from home. I thought I would have all the time in the world to make yummy and healthy meals for the family.But, it turns out, on top of the million things I have to do, sometimes supper isn't at the top of my list!!

It's hard to sum up what I love about Supperworks, but I'll try!! The staff are amazing -- totally helpful and really fun. I prepared 6 meals in less than an hour and I didn't clean up a thing!! (WOW!) I love that the food is healthy and resonably priced.

And the food is really good. Some of our favourites include, Lemon Chicken or the Cabernet Beef -- check out all the yummy meals you can make!

Portraits by Josee

2007-08-22T17:48:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Portraits by Josee

Review 1: I'm always very nervous going into photo shoots, whether it be I am the centre of attention or my daughter. However, as soon as I stepped foot into Josee's studio, I was immediately put at ease. Her kind, calm and welcoming nature put all of my fears aside.

We spent the perfect amount of time getting photos taken of my active toddler, Josee had instinct when it came to a toddler's attention span. She was well prepared with toys and distractions in order to keep my daughter intrigued and happy all at the same time.

Josee is a creative photographer who uses a candid approach in her work. This helps with the subject feeling more at ease as well as the natural look of her work.

After the photo shoot, the photos are placed online (password protected) for viewing in a timely manner.

All in all, having a photo shoot with Josee was a positive experience for both me and my daughter.

Review 2: We booked our photo session back to back with our friends, reviewer #1, and we too felt comfortable from the second we walked into Josee's studio. Josee was so fun and genuinely

excited to take pictures of us, with our little 'cookies'.

The session was the prefect length to get some breathtaking photos of my nearly two year old that will become family heirlooms and treasured memories of toddlerhood.

Our extended family loved that they could go online after the shoot and order their prints, as did I. It was so hard to choose pictures from the shoot to have blown up, but in the end we did and they are hanging on our walls as a testament to Josee's great talent as a photographer.

I didn't know at the time, but I was just pregnant with baby #2 and I look forward to meeting with Josee again in the late summer so she can help us capture our growing family and new 'cookie'

Baby Bath Gate

2007-08-22T17:44:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Baby Bath Gate

Review: The Baby Bath Gate is a wonderful invention for parents of young children. It

is easy to install, fits all standard tubs, dries easily with its mildew-resistant safety screen, has unique grip pads to hold it in place and it rolls up for easy storage and travel.

When bathing two children, it is always difficult to keep the one child safe and away from the faucet. the Baby Bath Gate eliminates this safety hazard all together. It is so simple to

use and doesn't stand out in design, allowing it to become just a fixture of the bathtub, rather than another toy.

The Baby Bath Gate is an award winning product that is a must have for parents who have difficulty keeping their child still in the bath.

Safety Note: Never ever leave babies or children unattended in the bath or near water, not even for a second

dwink - the universal dwink box holder

2007-08-22T17:43:00.000-07:00

Product Name:dwink - the universal dwink box holder

Review #1:

The Dwink Box is by far one of the coolest inventions we have come across! It's name is catchy, the colours are not easily missed and most importantly, it prevents those crazy squirt spills that erupt from drink boxes all over the country!

The unique design allows this product to be used with standard and mini drink boxes. The handles on both sides were definitely placed perfectly for young hands. The design is perfect, right down to the non-skid bottom!

Long gone are my nervous feelings when handing my daughter a drink box and the need for cleaning after a drink box has been consumed has disappeared.

Review #2: The mom that invented the dwink universal drink box holder is one smart lady! This handy little invention is a great way to stop squirts from drinking boxes and allow toddlers to grip tightly to their beloved "dwink"!.

What I love is that it is indeed universal and doesn't just hold juice boxes -- I tried all sizes of tetra packs, including soy milk and it fit those in as well

Belly Casting Kit from The Better Baby Company

2007-08-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Belly Casting Kit from The Better Baby Company

Review:7:49 – Dinner is over and my toddler is with his grandma. I finally have uninterrupted time to start my belly cast.

Following the directions, I set up a chair and drape it with the plastic sheet provided. It’s Sunday

night and the Amazing Race is about to start so I put the chair near the tv. I get my husband to fill up a bowl of water. We cut the plaster strips according to the instruction sheet – the messiest part about the whole process as plaster dust settled over our coffee table – and we lay everything out like we are doing surgery. My husband is skeptical about the cast but gets into it a little more as he realizes its plaster of Paris. It reminds us of our childhoods and we reminisce about art projects gone wrong!

As I read the instructions, I like the individuality of the casting process – you can do whatever you want and decorate it however you want. I decided to only do my belly but according to the box and the website lots of women choose to do their entire torso, breasts included. I sat in the chair with a towel protecting my pajama pants and my husband started to apply the strips of plaster we had cut. I recommend using an old towel as protection for clothing as the strips do drip a little and it made clean up a breeze. He laid the strips across my belly slowly building up the layers. We chatted and laughed (and watched the tv) and genuinely enjoyed ourselves. Generally when our toddler is at Grandma’s we use the time to catch up on other stuff and don’t spend quality time together. I was a little apprehensive to start the cast because I thought it would take a lot of time and require a lot of clean up. It really didn’t. We were done in less than half an hour and the clean up was about 5 minutes – including vacuuming the plaster dust from our coffee table.

8:19 – I sit back to continue watching the Amazing Race and wait for the cast to harden. I am pleased with how easy it was to do. When we are done my husband says that was kind of fun and I agreed. Now I must wait 48 hours to decorate it and I am trying to decide what method I should use. I’m a scrapbooker so the ideas are flowing. I don’t know that I personally will keep this for life but it was really fun and easy and gave my husband and me something to bond over with the baby-to-be.

Kangaroo Towl from Small Made Simple

2007-08-22T16:08:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Kangaroo Towl from Small Made Simple

Description: The Kangaroo Towel from Small Made Simple is a hooded bath towel for mom

or dad to wear. It keeps you dry while bathing, gives you a pouch to put baby into after the

bath.

Review: I can't say enough about the Kangaroo Towel from Small Made Simple!!

This convenient and cute towel is so practical (did we mention cute!). With adjustable should

straps so both mom and dad can use, this very soft towel comes with a hooded towel, so baby

stays warm after their bath. The Kangaroo Towel comes in three yummy colours, blue,

pink and green and as your baby grows the towel grows with baby.

So, no more putting baby on the floor, after the bath it's time for a snuggle, before getting nice and dry and ready for night-night.

The Kangaroo Towel makes a fabulous shower gift for a mommy-to-be or as a welcome home present for baby and is available at many stores in York Region and the GTA.

Petite Diapering Bag from Bubble and Squeak

2007-08-22T16:07:00.001-07:00

Product Name:Petite Diapering Bag from Bubble and Squeak

Description: Small Diaper Bag

Review: Believe it or not, but there comes a day when you don't have to leave the house with everything but the kitchen sink.

And for that day, there is a small and versatile diaper bag from Bubble and Squeak, available at Tummy Time. This bag comes with a change pad and the bag wipes done easily for those toddler accidents.

We love the green paisley print, and it also is available in a pink paisley print, which screams, "Hello Spring!"

And for those days when you do need to bring the kitchen sink, just toss the petite diapering bag into your larger bag!

Wipes Case by Made By Angie

2007-08-22T15:59:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Wipes Case by Made By Angie
Description: A stylish and functional wipes case
Price: $30.00 (USD)
Function: To carry wipes for baby/toddler
Review: I love anything handmade and inventive! And it's always an added bonus when the product s functional as well as stylish! Made by Angie is a line of wipes cases for moms to carry their wipes in -- but with a twist. These handmade wipes cases make a great shower or new mom gift! With a range of styles from funky polka dots, to retro fabrics and very fashionable prints, there is case for every mom. Angie, is a mom to 2, whose customer service is exceptional, as well as her style. Each case is made by hand and finished with beautiful matching ribbon around the case. As their slogan states "Diapers need changin' ... at least you can look good doing it!" And we agree! And to top it off, each wipes case comes ready-to-go with wipes included!

Classic Sling from the Better Baby Company

2007-08-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Classic Sling from the Better Baby Company

Description: A ring sling for babywearing

Price: $69.99-$74.99

Function: For parents to wear their baby/toddler

Review #1:

I’ve always been a little hesitant of ring slings, don’t ask me why, I just have. I think it’s because they just look so darn complicated.

But, after testing and trying the Classic Sling in Blue & Green Stripes (Size Long) I’m addicted.

When I opened the Sling Package from The Better Baby Company, there was a instruction manual with pictures that I followed and was able to be ‘up and running’ in a few minutes. Being nearly 6 foot and having a husband who is over 6 foot the size Large suited us both well. Our toddler loves being able to be carried by both ‘mama’ and ‘dada’. (and so do I!!) I also love that because the ring sling is adjustable, it’s easy to wear over a coat or winter jacket.

I also love that this baby/toddler sling is handmade in Canada, and that it’s stylish and a great price! For $74.99 for a long size and $69.99 for a regular size sling, it is well worth the investment in a sling that takes you from newborn to toddler.

Review #2:

Slings are a lifesaver for new Moms and not-so-new Moms! When your baby is very young and needing to be held, rocked, bounced, etc., it can be very tiring! When your child is older (e.g. toddler age) and cutting teeth or sick and needing extra love and attention, it can be backbreaking trying to lift them and carry them around.

The Better Baby Company makes a top quality sling for parents. It comes in six fashionable colours made from top quality fabric. They are sewn with 'wear and tear' in mind, and trust us, you will get a lot of wear out of this product. The aluminium rings are durable and provide for simple adjustments of your sling.

One unique feature of the The Better Baby Company's sling is the storage pouch in the tail of the sling for carrying an extra diaper, your bank card, a hat or receiving blanket etc. This pouch is a convenient addition to their sling.

The slings come in two sizes and each allow for plenty of adjustment room to fit your comfort needs and your growing baby.

The sixteen page instruction booklet comes complete with pictures and is easy to follow, guiding even the newest of parents through the six different wearing positions.

Baby wearing is definitely the way to go and with the The Better Baby Company sling, you will definitely be satisfied. You can carry your baby or child without getting tired, Moms can breastfeed discreetly and you can look stylish all at the same time.

Top 10 reasons for buying a sling from The Better Baby Company

Wearing your baby is convenient for you!

Wearing your baby promotes physical development.

Babies worn in slings are more content.

Using a sling can help prevent Positional Plagiocephely ("baby flat-head").

Slings allow for proper bone and joint development.

Baby wearing helps you to communicatewith your baby and her with you.

Slings are a bonding tool for fathers, grandparents,and other caregivers.

Slings are a safe and secure place for a baby or toddler to be.

Slings are economical.

Slings are an emotionally safe place for children to experience life.

Nurse-n-Glow available at Trendy Baby Products

2007-08-22T15:54:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Nurse-n-Glow available at Trendy Baby Products
Description: A nursing pillow with built on light
Price: $49.99 Review: For the first few nights of babies life at home, we slept with the light on, so we could see how he was doing… was he breathing?… was he ok?...was he sleeping?

We were typical first time parents – afraid of everything. On top of everything else that entails being a first time parents, we were also working on our nighttime routine. And we'd have done so much better if we had the Nurse-n-Glow pillow.

Rather than have numerous lights on and getting in and out of bed, the inventive Nurse-n-Glow lighted pillow it allows for a more tranquil and thriving breastfeeding experience without leaving your bed. The Nurse-N-Glow, available in a number of colours is great for a number of reasons including, the soft glow of the light allows you to have a mid-night nursing without turning on a light and waking up baby. The lighted pillow was developed by a Chiropractor and mom, and therefore allows the baby to be positioned so that their heads and backs are properly aligned. The pillow is sturdy, allowing a good barrier between your partner and your baby. To turn the light on you simply just press on the top, and the soft glowing light comes on – and stays on for 30 minutes. And best of all, you can sleep with the lights off!! Available exclusively at Trendy Baby Products.

Little Star Sling available at Baby~ola

2007-08-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

Product Name: Little Star Sling available at Baby~ola
Description: Cotton and Hemp Baby Slings
Price:$45.00
Review: I though my babywearing days were over! With a 27 pound (wiggly) toddler I could no longer where him the front carrier (that I wish I had never had bought!) as his legs dangled down and it just wasn't working. But I still wanted the ease of being able to not have to talk my stroller and shopping with ease and comfort. Last fall I was in Baby~ola and was attracted to the new slings they has just got in. There were denim, black, olive cotton ones and hemp ones as well. I decided to give it a whirl and put my toddler into the sling. At first it was a no-go! He wanted nothing to do with it, but after attempting a few more times, he liked being up high and seeing what I saw, and I liked how small it was. I could literally put it on in 2 seconds and carry it in my purse.

Last December we went away to Cuba, and decided to forgo the stroller and just take my Little Star Sling! It was the best thing we could have done!! In the airports we walked easily carrying our luggage, we strolled down the beach and I wore him whenever he asked! I really think the Little Star Sling has helped us become a little closer as well, as we spent lots of time close together and bonded!

I am looking forward to continue wearing my toddler, and hopefully any future babies!

Our Reviews

2007-08-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

We've been doing product and service reviews since January of 2007 on our main site, but due popular demand we have decided to transfer our reviews over to the blog and increase the frequency of the reviews for our readers! Look for our previous reviews to be posted in the next day or so, and enjoy!!