A Great Video Game for Girls - My Baby: First Steps

A great new game released this month, called My Baby First Steps for Nintendo DS and Wii. Following in the footsteps of My Baby Boy or Girl, My Baby: First Steps continues the journey of raising a baby at 15-months-old. You will get the challenging, yet very rewarding, task of teaching their baby how to walk, talk and more.

 

With so many games for girls out that send the wrong message, My Baby: First Steps lets little girls play baby dolls in a tech-savvy, 21st century way. It's a great way to invoke the nurturing side inside every little girl and give it a wonderful and creative outlet.

Here's some of the things you can do with it :

• You can customize your baby with all new items - cute outfits and accessories, fun toys, and even decorate their room to your liking.
• You can also care for your baby and teach them new things like how to walk, talk, shapes, colors, and keep them out of trouble!
• And you can choose whether you want a boy or girl, name your baby, and pick your baby's look with even more options-- or just let it be a surprise!
• All new activities for having fun with your baby like trying new foods, reading bedtime stories, potty training, and tracking your baby's growth through his or her toddler years.
• It has an innovative gameplay that is based on the unique features of the Wii and the Nintendo DS - stylus, touch pad, voice recognition, and the microphone. It's not a compilation of minigames.

It's supposed to be for little girls, but in my opinion aspiring Moms will also get a lot of fun out of this! I know I'd have really loved to have this when I was pregnant. It comes in both Wii and DS formats, so get your hands on it this holiday season. Visit www.mybabyvillage.com to learn more!

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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10 Tips to Connect With Your Body When Diagnosed With Illness

This is an article from Zippora Karz, Author of The Sugarless Plum: A Ballerina's Triumph Over Diabetes

I am a former ballerina with the New York City Ballet, and presently a public speaker, movement motivator, ballet teacher, and répétiteur for the George Balanchine Trust. When I was diagnosed with diabetes in my third year in the company, I thought my career was over. I had always thought of myself as a positive person. As a hard worker, I could see the positive results in ballet. After my diagnosis my positive perspective basically went out the window. It didn't happen right away; at first I was convinced I could conquer my diabetes with my dancers discipline. But after being mis-diagnosed twice and struggling with my prescribed insulin doses, I found balancing my diabetes was not as predictable as balancing on my pointes. Once I eventually learned how to dance with diabetes, my next struggle was internal. Was this a suitable career for an insulin dependent diabetic? Thankfully, I didn't give up, and six years after my diagnosis I was promoted to soloist ballerina and would go on to perform for a total of sixteen years.

1. Know what the facts are.
Educate yourself as much as you can about your situation. There are so many emotions involved, and I am one for allowing yourself to experience them, but you need to know the facts. I was positive and determined to overcome my situation, but being mis-diagnosed sent me on the wrong path and I went astray. It took me years to understand the type of diabetes I had and it was many years before I figured out how to dance on insulin and manage my diabetes successfully. It is true that knowledge is power.

2. Come out of denial.
Be gentle with yourself, allow for shock and grief, anger and fear, whatever emotions you feel. But again, use your intellect to make decisions that can help you get the right care. Denial can help keep you motivated and positive, but it needs to end or it can lead to ignorance. I believe I stayed with a doctor who gave me the wrong advice because I was still in denial, and a part of me wanted to believe his improper diagnosis.

3. Communicate.
Because my blood sugar levels were often elevated, it was difficult for me to have clarity. I had trouble speaking up to authority figures based on my childhood experiences and was intimidated by my doctor. Therefore I was not able to ask the right questions or explain my concerns and difficulties. At work I was also afraid of telling my directors, Jerome Robbins and Peter Martins, what was happening to me. I didn't communicate with my doctor or my directors, and tried to do it all on my own. This made my journey all the more isolating and difficult. Find a doctor you can trust and become a partner with them.

4. Take responsibility for your health.
We have to know and believe we are worth it -- that our lives have meaning. It is up to each of us to be our own cheerleader. Become interested in the process and investigate the right components for success. Doctors do not always have all the answers. I have always been passionate about physical and emotional well-being. I enjoy discovering the best way to eat for my body and how to work with my personal psychology. Your journey to optimal health can and will be a journey of self-discovery.

5. Work with your body.
I was angry with my body for failing me and saw my body as the inadequate enemy ruining my life. When I learned to see my diabetes as a child, one I needed to nurture and take care of rather than yell at, I finally learned how to be on my own team.

6. Breathe.
There are many different breathing techniques. Start by being aware, slowing down and noticing your breath as it goes in and out. Try to inhale, filling your lungs with air, and then on the exhale slowly allow the air to seep out. Picture a feather gently floating to the ground.

7. Move Freely.
Besides more vigorous exercise, spend some time doing gentle stretch like movements. Find a comfortable, position whether it be sitting or lying down, and picture the waves in the ocean. Allow your torso to gently rock back and forth, twist and curve in any way that feels comfortable. Keep breathing.

8. Eat well for your body.
We all know that healthy foods can satisfy us physically as well as emotionally. Learn how to love eating healthy by finding alternatives to unhealthy foods you crave when you are stressed. I ask myself what texture I am craving; creamy, salty, crunchy, fatty or sweet and then pick the healthiest food that will satisfy that need. Not only do my blood sugars stay balanced, my cravings and my emotions calm down.

9. Release held emotions: Going Deeper.
Learn how to deal with daily stress and deeper emotions. Rather than holding them in, transform them. If you are particularly stressed take some time to feel what is going on emotionally inside of you. It may help to journal, talk to someone, or simply breathe. Giving yourself permission to relax is extremely important.

10. The Dance Within.
The passion and freedom of spirit I experienced early in my life became my reference for the future. No matter what I'm doing, whether it's mundane or extraordinary, there is a constant dance within me that connects and engages me to the world around. Find your own dance and keep it close to your heart.

I believe when we practice tools to connect with ourselves we will be better able to maintain balance despite the chaos around us. I want us all to live full, healthy, and vibrant lives, where dreams are realized, and potentials and passions fulfilled. I believe this is possible, even with a chronic illness as I am experiencing. I believe it starts within.

©2009 Zippora Karz, author of The Sugarless Plum
For more information please visit www.ZipporaKarz.com.

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Great Educational Toy for Kids - Wikki Stix

There are tons of battery-operated toys out there. If you're in the market for something a little different, that in fact challenges and inspires a child's imagination and creativity, then Wikki Stix are the answer. More affordable than almost any other toy on the market, made of unique, patented wax formula and yarn... Wikki Stix are the perfect craft/toy/teaching tool all rolled into one!

• Made in the USA
• With Wikkis, the sky is the limit, your child can create virtually ANYTHING, from a person to a bracelet or even a castle with multiple Wikki Stix!
• Safe, non-toxic and endlessly reusable - Wikki Stix are loved by boys and girls 3 and up thanks to their back to the basics appeal.
• They are the perfect on-the-go activity when waiting for food to be served at a restaurant, on a long plane or car ride - or just a rainy day at home.
• Wikkis are easy to change and reposition and there is NO right or wrong way to play!

I'm sold! And so is my toddler. He's learning his letters, numbers and shapes now, so that's what we've made together the last 2 days. It gives the child the freedom to exercise those growing brain muscles and it is fun for the parent to see what creativity their child's imagination takes. Plus, the only beeping, squealing or any other sound you'll hear are from your child having fun and not from the toy. Now, that's a relief! I'm quite looking forward to seeing what else my child comes up with using these Wikki Stix as he grows up. That's right - these are toys that grow with your child and can be used by more than one child at one time!

For more information, visit http://www.wikkistix.com. You can also buy Wikki Stix at Learning Express and other specialty toy stores worldwide and they have a retail price ranging from $3 - $30.

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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Sexy Sassy Lolly38

Once you're a Mom, it feels like all work and no play. However I still have fun - just knowing that I'm wearing a sassy, sexy, "cheeky" panties from Lolly38.

Featuring unique screen printed lingerie, t-shirts, sweats, hoodies and pajamas, there is something for every personality at Lolly38! Fresh, spunky, or sexy - each item is hand-printed, creating a special and original design just for you.

Fun sayings are splashed across Lolly38's lingerie from "Sweet Cheeks" and "Rock Star" to "Smarty Pants" and "Hot Momma." Whether you want to rock out or show some sass - only you and Lolly38 know what's under your wild side!

That's not all. Eye-popping designs such as rhinestone skulls or the Lolly38 logo adorn their comfy sweats and hoodies, made from preshrunk and laundered 100% cotton combed ring-spun, 7.5 ounce super soft 20 single fleece knit. With flirty tees in a variety of colors to match, all are available in sizes S, M, L, and XL.

For more information, visit http://www.lolly38.com/. You can also fan them at Facebook.

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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Safe and Sexy with LilyPadz

LilyPadz are a lifesaver for nursing mothers. I know, I'm one of them! I've always before used traditional nursing pads - you know the kind. Don't get me wrong - they work well too. But they do get soaked fast and then become heavy and sometimes even leak. And that always means carrying spares (both pads and shirts!) so you can change as needed. I also can't deny that they make for awkward bulges when you're wearing something that stretches across the bosom. That's where LilyPadz come in.

Invented by a mother of three, LilyPadz are these ultra-thin, breathable, and latex-free silicone rubber nursing pads that act like a second skin. In addition, they’re flexible, breathable, and nearly invisible under clothing. They protect the nipple from excess moisture, rubbing and sticking as is commonly experienced with cotton pads.

• How they work - LilyPadz apply a gentle pressure on the nipple to stop breast milk leakage while they are properly in place. Nursing moms have used their fingers for years to apply this pressure during letdown and that's the principle LilyPadz works on.
• Use - The way they stick on is due to the unique and tacky lining they have, so they adhere gently to your skin without the use of any adhesives, thus avoiding the rubbing and irritation of traditional breast pads.
• Care - With proper use and care one pair should last for up to 2 months. Some women have used one pair for longer. This care can at first be time consuming and a bit of a bother for women like me who've been used common breast pads which are use and throw. But they're so comfy and so useful, lasting beyond the nursing years, that it's well worth making the effort.

I love my Lilypadz! After a long time, I can now once again wear light colored tops, go to bed without a bra strap digging into me and without having to carry spare shirts or pads wherever I go. They're simply fabulous!

For detailed information, visit http://www.lilypadz.com/.

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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Mama Om

If you're in the market for stylish organic clothes, then Mama Om is a must-stop shop this Holiday season. Made from fair trade, 100% organic cotton, Mama Om mixes design and environmental values to offer clothing that is trendy, comfortable and eco-friendly. No toxic materials or harsh chemicals are used in the production of these hip, 'green' clothes!


Their matching Mom and daughter dresses and accessories are just too cute and sassy for words. So are their cute Mommy tees, of which I've personally had the pleasure of trying out the "Perfect Nap". The soft cotton material and scoop neck make it easy to be cool in while the curvy fit is extremely trendy. I also like that only 100% Water base inks are used in it. That's not all.

The MamaOm Apparel line includes organic cotton leggings, dresses, t-shirts, underwear and eco-friendly accessories for both mommy and daughter. Also available is MamaOm Beachwear, an eco-chic line of designer beachwear made out of the best European fabrics. (for when Summer comes around!)

MamaOm brings it all together: the fun colors of childhood, everyday comfort, softly pure organic fabrics and a global view of fashion. For more information, visit https://www.mamaom.com/.

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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Thermos Foogo Phases Bottles

Whatever age your child is, Thermos, whose insulated products have been keeping food and beverages hotter, cooler and fresher for over 100 years, has just the thing for you!

Their latest is called Thermos Foogo Phases - this new line of products provides 24 possible lid and body combinations that can be updated as children reach different developmental phases. Interchangeable lids and handles provide a great value since parents can now save more money than before by simply updating the Thermos Foogo Phases lid and continuing to use the durable stainless steel or Tritan plastic drink cup. The benefits of Thermos stainless steel insulated drinkware products are that they are non-toxic, food contact safe and require no interior coating or liner

The Soft Spout Sippy Cup (with removable handles) and the Hard Spout Sippy Cup (without handles and with a contoured body) which we tried out have these great common features :

• Features interchangeable parts that fit all Phases cups
• Made from BPA free, impact-resistant and dishwasher durable Eastman Tritan copolyester
• Leak-proof valve is easy to clean
• Ergonomic handles are removable
• Dishwasher safe

The bottles are great, excerpt for one thing - they're not leak-proof as they claim to be. Just filling up a bottle (either the hard or the soft spout, partly or wholly) and turning them upside down starts the liquid flowing. If a Foogo bottle falls over in a diaper bag (which is how I discovered this flaw), the liquid seeps out and creates a mess. Throwing them or playing with them, as my kids love to, is certainly not a good idea. In case of the soft spout cup, the liquid leaks out not just from the spout, but also from around the edges of the spout and through the air vent.

Overall, the bottles with their interchangeable features and stainless steel material are a great concept, even if the products in reality aren't entirely up to par. I just can't recommend them as they're now.

For additional information, visit www.thermos.com.

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Green Clothes and More from Dreamsacks

Ever since I learnt that conventional clothing has an absurd amount of pesticides and chemicals, I've become a fan of bamboo, organic cotton or hemp clothing and bedding. On one of my internet sojourns for organic baby clothes, I came across Dreamsacks.

A family-owned company in Oregon, Dreamsacks' originally began when its founders crafted traveling sheets out of silk for their Asian explorations. Their Mission is "to provide wonderfully nurturing natural products while consciously caring for people and our environment." Their online store has a great range of quality products for everybody in the family including women, men, baby, expectant moms etc. All their products ich are made from natural fibers including silk, bamboo, soy and cashmere.

DreamSacks is also a *Green* business and have taken care to reduce their carbon footprint through various means like shipping their products in 'compostable' bags, using solar panels and electric trucks in their business, etc.

They kindly sent over a pair of pants and shirts for my little ones, made from Bamboo. And they're absolutely the softest and lightest clothes I've ever had the pleasure of dressing up my kids in. My kids love their Dreamsacks clothes and as their Mom, I'm delighted that they're wearing clothes that're Pesticide free and made from a sustainable and renewable resource.

For more information and to browse their great selection of products, visit http://www.dreamsack.com/

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This weekend's Bluelight Special from Kmart!

As I'd blogged last week, Kmart has brought back Bluelight Specials. There are many great Bluelight Specials throughout the weekend in-store, and other great offers online at Kmart.com, too, only on Saturdays and Sundays.

Here are this weekend’s 11/21-11/22 Bluelight Special teasers:

• Home/All Frames 50% off (reg range $1-$29.99)
• Boys and Girls Basic Edition turtlenecks $2.99 (reg.$7.99)
• Home/All Cookware 40% off (reg. $6.99-169.99)

These are just teasers. Visit in-store or online on the weekend to check them all out! And don’t forget to follow @KmartDealsnNews and use the #KmartBLS hashtag for a chance to win every day! For more info & rules: http://tr.im/KmartBLS. Good luck!

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Herb n Organics

Herb n Organics is an online retailer that markets powerful, non-toxic cleaning products for the entire home! From linen & pillow sprays to all-natural hand sanitizers and multi-purpose cleansers - this all-natural, aromatherapeutic line will leaves the house sparkling clean and smelling fantastic. Safe to use for the entire family, including pets.

At Herb ‘N Organics they live, breathe and create a green lifestyle, so it’s only natural that inherent in every product they create is the same deep commitment they live by: To protect our children, our families, our community, our earth and all her inhabitants. 

I was sent their Dharma Collection products to try out and I'm happy to report they're just as refreshing and nice as I'd hoped

The Asana, Monsoon and Shanti are 4 oz sprays that clean and freshen stale, odor-laden air and leave a fresh, non-lingering scent behind. No cloying, throat-constricting, eye-watering chemicals or artificial fragrances. Just clear water and an exclusive blend of aromatherapeutic essential oils!

They smelt a bit strong as soon as I sprayed, but after a while, all I could smell was a soft, lingering scent that's just so unique and frankly, exotic!

The Paavana - Hand Sanitizer & Sports Spray is 64% rubbing alcohol, so it fully sanitizes your hands and/or the handles and seats of gym equipment. The bonus is that Paavana also softens your hands. It contains grapefruit seed extract, aloe vera, vegetable glycerin, peppermint and rosemary essential oils. It comes in a 2 oz container, perfect to tuck in a purse, pocket, gym bag or travel kit.

Paavana is a Sanskrit word that means "cleansing" and that's just what this product does! The fresh scent is invigorating and refreshing and in this flu season, I'm liberally using them on my kids' hands as well without any worries, or more importantly, after-effects!

But that's not all. They have great products to clean the house and even your pet!

Herb'N Organics is committed to minimizing their carbon footprint - so they don't ship water, they upcycle bottles used in production, and use recycled materials for packaging and shipping. Product labels are repurposed vinyl with no VOC inks. They are working with Whole Foods Markets to develop a "Bottle Buck" that will allow their customers to return bottles to the store and receive a dollar discount on the next bottle purchased.

More information at www.herbnorganics.com. You can also find their products in Arizona Whole Foods Market.

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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CADDi for Beverages

As a Mom, there are times when I wish I had at least a couple of extra arms. This is typically when I'm out with the kids, juggling bags, stroller, keys, purse etc. Many's the time I've skipped a much-needed coffee just because I haven't room to carry it. But thanks to CADDi, those days are in the past!

Here's how it works -

Convenient and simple to use, the CADDi is perfect for moms, students, travelers - you name it! With just one finger, I can now carry my beverage of choice with the CADDi, leaving my hands to deal with other stuff. Plus the CADDi is environmentally friendly, too, as it saves the waste of disposable collars and drink trays.

It works with standard tapered cups, straws and dome tops, and keeps hands away from piping hot or icy cold drinks. They also offer customization, come in a variety of designs and colors, and are reasonably priced at $5.50 for one. I just love it! Now, all I have to do it remember to keep it in my purse...

For more information, visit http://www.getthecaddi.com/. You can also fan them on Facebook, here.

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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I See Me Personalized Books

While holiday gift trends come and go, I See Me! Inc., creators of high-quality personalized books, introduces a new holiday gift that children are sure to cherish for a lifetime. A Christmas Bear for Me is a beautiful, heart-warming, personalized story about a child’s Christmas wish for a special Teddy Bear friend. Each copy of the book comes with an adorable plush Gund bear with the child’s name on the tag and a personalized letter to the child from Santa.

Written by Jennifer Dewing and illustrated by the nationally renowned artist Wilson Ong, A Christmas Bear for Me follows the child’s journey from longing and wishing to the magic of Christmas morning, when the child finds his or her special bear along with a personalized note from Santa under the tree. This high-quality, hard cover, 26-page book includes wonderfully hand-painted, personalized illustrations that capture the magic of the season through a child’s eyes.

The child’s and siblings’ names are woven into the rhyming copy and are also incorporated into the intricate illustrations of stockings hung across the mantle, ornaments on the tree, Santa’s list of the children who have been nice this year, and more.

The entire A Christmas Bear for Me gift set, including the book, bear and letter from Santa, retails for $34.95 and is available only from November 3 through the holiday gift-giving season for any child ages 0-10 years old at www.ISeeMe.com. To make the gift even more special, all books ordered between November 3 and November 23 will be signed by the author.

I See Me! Inc. creates high-quality personalized books that celebrate the uniqueness of each child.  The company’s goal is to build self-esteem in young children as they read these keepsake books. For more information or to take a virtual tour of the books, visit www.ISeeMe.com.

Carry Baby in style and comfort with Sleepy Wrap

These days there are many styles of baby carriers available. In fact, it's become very fashionable to wear one! While I'd tried some of the carriers, I'd never before tried a baby wrap.

But I really really wanted to as the benefits of baby wearing are many. The best one is the feel of having your baby cradled so close to you. It's something that goes a long way towards alleviating the pang of separation after carrying that tiny being inside of you for nine months. I loved carrying my baby inside me and that's almost what I experienced once again when I wrapped up my baby daughter in her new Sleepy Wrap.

Being used to baby carriers, this baby wrap did take some getting used to (read about the various kinds of baby carriers on their website). The long wrap has to be wound around the body and inserted here, pulled there etc. This did have me confused at first. But the detailed instructions (with pictures, thankfully!) helped a lot and before long I had it down pat.

And now I can comfortably carry my baby around in it, without having to deal with buckles or belts etc predominant in other types of baby carriers. As long as she's close to me, my baby girl is up for anything, even the new baby wrap that she now rides in with aplomb! This is a wonderfully nice baby carrier and I'm having fun enjoying using it with my baby.

Buy it! For more information, visit http://www.sleepywrap.com/ and check out their great website with its various products (Classic wraps, organic and more), information, research etc.

Exclusive! Use coupon code "mommyreviewed" to get 10% off any order! Valid until 15th December 2009.

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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Discount Offer from So Smart Dvds

Some time back I'd blogged about the Baby’s First Word Stories from So Smart baby Dvds. This new series has already received critical acclaim from trusted parenting resources like NAPPA and Parents Choice.

And now, they've given me an EXCLUSIVE special promotional code to share with you, my readers!

Use code:MomRev7 to get 25% off your order at SoSmart.com.
Offer valid until December 4th!

And don't forget to check out their new Facebook fan page - "So Smart! Productions"

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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Adorable Ikea Soft Toys

Lime green hippos, plush indigo elephants; it’s a full choir of adorable soft toys that beckon, “take me home.” After all, how can you possibly resist a cuddly, charming soft toy that has a meaningful charitable ‘give back’ gift.

This holiday season, the softest, sweetest and cuddliest IKEA soft toys – amazingly priced – will again be available at all IKEA stores nationwide. These soft toys range in price from $1.49 up to only $19.99. And with each purchase, between November 1 – December 24, approximately $1.47 ($1 Euro dollar) will go to IKEA’s partners UNICEF and Save the Children’s educational programs. Proceeds from the IKEA Soft Toys campaign have or will benefit projects in more than 30 countries including India, Uganda, China, and many others.

This year by visiting www.ikea.com/softtoysaid kids and adults can interactively play with their favorite soft toy character (each has their own name and homeland!) and teach them to sing and dance. IKEA wants you to help create the world’s largest choir, by recording songs with your own character. Visit the Soft Toys Aid website to view the music video and join in on the fun!

Ranging in price from $1.49 to $19.99, these lovable creatures make a great stocking stuffer or featured present for kids of all ages. My kids love theirs, yours will too!

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Kmart Bluelight Special Holiday Sweepstakes

Blue Light Specials are back, and to celebrate in style Kmart will be giving shoppers on Twitter a chance to win a $50 gift card everyday!  In addition to the chance to win daily, everyone following @KmartDealsnNews on Twitter will be automatically entered for a chance to win a $500 Kmart shopping spree – how cool is that?!

The sweepstakes runs from November 12th until December 23rd. Winning couldn’t get easier - all you have to do is follow @KmartDealsnNews on Twitter from your personal Twitter account and issue a Tweet everyday using hashtag: #KmartBLS.  Each day is a new opportunity to win, so the more often you tweet - the better your chances are to win a Daily prize! 

For more info on sweepstakes details, check out: http://tr.im/kmartBLS, and for Official Rules: http://tr.im/kmartBLSrules. 

Of course, this is all in celebration of the return of Bluelight Specials at Kmart!  There are over 40 great Bluelight Specials throughout the weekend in-store, and other great offers online at Kmart.com, too, only on Saturdays and Sundays.

A little preview for this weekend’s (11/15 – 11/16) Specials:
·         Essential Home Complete Bed set $29.99 (reg. $49.99)
·         All Trim-A-Home lights 50% off (reg $8.99-$29.99)
·         9 Piece Luggage Set $49.99 (reg $99.99)
·         Juniors Leggings 50% off

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Children's Book Nook - Thumbelina

Luminous illustrations by Bagram Ibatoulline combine with Brian Alderson’s wry retelling for a gorgeous gift edition of a well-loved tale in Thumbelina by Hans Christian Andersen (Candlewick Press, Ages 4-8, 40pp, Isbn-0763620793).

A childless woman visits a witch who gives her a barleycorn -- and hidden in its bloom is a tiny girl. For one so small, Thumbelina’s life is full of misadventures as she floats through the pages like a wisp on the wind, encountering kind and unkind creatures in succession. But old Mrs. Toad with her "rek-kek-kek" and the alarming Man in Gray cannot crush her /spirits, and Thumbelina’s gentle concern for a winged soul in need paves the way to her freedom and happiness.

The illustrations, while quite beautiful, are a bit on the somber side and will be more appreciated by the adults reading the book, than the kids themselves. As is our practice, I sat with my son in my lap and started reading the book out loud to him, pointing to the illustrations as and when needed. The story ended and my son remained quiet, which is quite unlike him. When asked he told me that he found the colors dull and that the pictures made him sad. As a result he didn't connect to this book as I'd hoped he would. I'll try again, perhaps when he's a bit older...

Although our experience with this book wasn't great, the book remains a timeless classic and is a joy to read.

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Sunday Book Nook - When Teachers Talk

Theories abound on what’s causing the decline of the American public school system, whether it’s the focus on standardized testing, programs like No Child Left Behind or just lack of proper funding. These may all be contributing factors to the weakening of educational standards; but according to veteran educator, researcher and author Rosalyn Schnall, the root of the problem lies with ineffective and destructive school administrators.

Schnall is a retired elementary school teacher with 35 years experience, serving at seven different schools and under nine principals in the Chicago Public School System. Repeated experiences with unsupportive principals who had a negative impact on both teacher effectiveness and student achievement led her to question whether this was a widespread problem in the Chicago school system—or even around the country. Based on survey results and personal interviews with 500 Chicago public school teachers between 2000 and 2005, Schnall’s new book, When Teachers Talk (Goldenring Publishing, LLC, November 2009, 978-0-578-00563-8), features hundreds of teacher testimonials that expose the hidden crisis of principal misconduct in America’s schools, and how it’s affecting our children.

“Principal abuse of power and mistreatment of teachers may very well be the most significant underlying cause contributing to the decline of public education in America today,” says Schnall, a Chicago native. “From my study, teachers working under those they deemed as ‘good principals’ proved to enhance teachers’ effectiveness and had a positive effect on students. Those deemed as ‘bad principals’ negatively affected teachers’ mental, emotional and physical health, which has an adverse impact on the children they teach.”

When Teachers Talk gives a voice to often-unheard public school teachers, who share true stories of biased, politically motivated and even openly vindictive principals. Some teach in fear due to lack of safety and security in the classroom; for others, their health is directly affected by poor principals, causing them to transfer schools and even retire early in some cases; still others are instructed by principals to pass children to the next grade who aren’t functioning at the necessary level.

Schnall currently resides in Henderson, Nev., with her husband of 17 years. She is working on a series of multi-cultural children’s books that are designed to help students develop sensitivity, kindness and positive character traits. Visit www.whenteacherstalk.com for more information.

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Best, Natural, and affordable items for Baby from Born Free

As readers of this blog know, I'm all for products that are safe for our children, especially BPA-free products. And I really like Born Free, the newest baby product company on the market that has a great line of all-natural baby products!

BornFree has developed a range of products – baby bottles, cups and accessories that is totally free of the potentially dangerous chemicals Bisphenol-A (BPA), Phthalates and PVC (that is commonly seen in the news for reckless baby product companies). That's why you'll see A-List celebrities like Halle Berry, Heidi Klum, Jennifer Garner, etc supply their precious little ones with BornFree products.

Their new BPA-Free Pacifier for Day and Night Use is an orthodontic silicone pacifier with a flexible handle that retains its shape and doesn't hamper sleep. Made from materials that are 100% free of Bisphenol-A, Phthalates and PVC, the BornFree pacifier also features an orthodontic collapsible teat that encourages the natural development of baby's teeth and gums and a breathable shield to reduce skin irritation and protect sensitive skin.

My baby girl at first didn't take to these pacifiers, preferring the ones with a more rounder teat instead. But now, as she's growing up, she actually prefers these and smiles when she sees them!

Their 5oz Bottles comes with Silicone Sleeves help protect the glass material and it also makes them easier to grip. Each kit contains two 5oz Glass Bottles, level 1 nipples, travel caps and Silicone Sleeves. These bottles are glass, no harmful BPA there. The silicone sleeves provide the baby (or the parent) with a good grip and the level 1 nipples provide adequate flow for a baby. The travels caps are really, really useful, especially when you're traveling!

That's not all. BornFree has a ton of other feeding and nursing products and accessories, all safe to use. For more information, visit http://www.newbornfree.com/ .

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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Children's Book Nook - Elmo's ABC Book Big Book

Elmo's ABC Book Big Book (Candlewick Press, ages 3-7 yrs, ISBN-0763643661)

What is Elmo’s favorite letter? Is it A for delicious and crunchy apples, I for imagination . . .or maybe E for Elmo? Elmo can’t make up his mind, so it’s up to the readers of this upbeat alphabet book to decide.

As soon as we opened up the big, flat package containing the book, my son pounced upon it with joyful squeals of "Elmo", "Elmo"! My toddler is just starting to learn his numbers and letters now and as such this book held much fascination for him. A large part of it was, of course, Elmo and the other was the big size of this book (24 / 16" x 16"). He loved to see Elmo lazing among the letters.

With each page and consecutive letter (with examples of a word beginning with that letter) Elmo tries to figure out which one is his favorite and it's a fun journey to go along. The big colorful graphics do a great job of depicting the words (and hence the alphabet) in question.

As a parent reading to a child, I found a couple of things that I felt can be improved. My toddler loves this book and carts it around everywhere he goes. As a result, the book's cover is already getting creased. I feel it would have been better off as a hardcover. Also, this book is supposed to be about Letters. But instead, Elmo and the other graphics with their big size tend to take attention away from the letters which are in comparatively much smaller size. I'd have loved it if each alphabet was at least half the size of Elmo, to draw a young reader's attention.

This is all from a parent's perspective. From a kid's, well... the book is my son's new favorite and he's really enjoying it quite a lot. So, from that angle, it's all GOOD!

Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration.
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Shabby Apple Dress - 45 wpm for Girls

This product was received for review consideration.

Shabby Apple has become one of my favorite online clothing retailers ever since I came across their site while looking for stylish girl's dresses. "Great Dresses make Dressing Simpler" is their mantra and it's one I totally believe in. Shabby Apple offers fantastic Women's dresses that allow you to look fabulous, without having to compromise anything else. A return to what dresses were always meant to be - a one-piece outfit. No need to add anything...no tank tops, no cardigans, nothing (except accessories, of course!).

After years of not being able to find stylish dresses that covered enough skin to make you really feel comfortable (without wearing a tank top, cardigan or long slip), owners Emily and CK decided to do something about it. They visited trade shows, marketplaces and designer studios only to discover the problem was not that department stores weren't buying the right dresses, but that designers weren't designing them.

The Little Girls Dresses from Shabby Apple just took my breath away! I especially adore the 45 Words Per Minute dress they sent over for my baby girl. Made out of a poly/rayon/spandex jersey fabric, the dress features a chic tie-collar with ruching at the hips. The dress's puff sleeves end with a band that hits just above elbow and the skirt modestly hits just below knee. It comes in three colors and a variety of sizes from dolls, to babies, toddlers, all the way up to sizes 10-12.There's also a mom's matching dress, 90 Words Per Minute at Shabby Apple.

That's not all. Shabby Apple also has a great Fit guide that helps customers find the right dress for their figure, Style Advice, Dare to Design and other features. They also have Accessories and Plus Size fashions, and their Sale section is not to be missed!

Buy it! Shabby Apple has some really one-of-a-kind dresses and they're a must visit this Holiday season. Visit http://www.shabbyapple.com for more information.

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Glo E Plush Toys - Review & Giveaway

Children love cuddly toys and that's a fact of life. If you're looking for plush toy that's something more that just a toy, then this Holiday season you've got to check out Glo E's range of plush friends. Since 2004, Glo E has been lighting up the lives of children with their color-changing, light-up, animal friends!

Glo E is more than a child's cuddly soft plush friend...it is about the magic of a child's wishes and dreams. Glo E is a part of a wonderful bedtime ritual recognized by childhood development specialists and parents alike.  More than a teddy bear, these color-changing light-up animal friends provide soft soothing light in a child's bedroom, provide a captivating rainbow of hues.  With Glo E, you child can rest unafraid of the dark. So soft and huggable, Glo E can be your child's constant companion...bed time, nap time, any time!

Up until recently, my son has been completely unafraid of the dark and we didn't even need to use a nightlight when he went to bed. And then he suddenly woke up one night to a severe thunderstorm with hail hammering the roof and he's been afraid of the dark ever since. Nothing we tried calmed his fears. Until the day we put him to bed with a Glo E teddy bear. Now this teddy bear has a soft light in his tummy. If my son wakes up in the middle of the night and is scared, he just squeezes the bear's paw and the teddy lights up. The soft light is just enough to dispel his fears, and not keep him awake. And there's the fact that the bear is oh-so soft and extremely huggable and in fact, just right to keep him company in bed!

Glo E have a range of animals (sheep, lion etc) with a range of color lights to suit every kid's taste. I'm looking forward to introducing my daughter to the joys of these plush toys as well.

GLO E bears are avail year round at leading retailers including Wal-Mart, Target, Meijer, Kmart and many more. For more information, visit http://www.glo-e.com/

GIVEAWAY

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Sunday Book Nook - What Happy Working Mothers Know

I received a copy of this book for review/feature consideration.

There is a pandemic affecting the nearly 26 million working mothers
in the US and the tens of millions more around the world. It is not fatal but it undermines their productivity at work and negatively impacts their parenting. The cure for this pandemic lies in the hands of the women themselves. But, many don't know they possess the cure and others don't know how to use it.

We are talking about happiness. Research shows that happy people are healthier, more productive, better leaders and better parents. Happiness is a health issue, not a luxury.

What Happy Working Mothers Know (Publisher: Wiley, 56p, ISBN: 978-0470488195) shows women that happiness is within their grasp and teaches them how to bring happiness into their lives - immediately. Built on the foundation of science and positive psychology and original research involving more than 1000 women around the world, the book teaches and inspires.

Co-authors Cathy Greenberg and Barrett Avigdor share their own stories and those of other successful working mothers who have learned to thrive on the demands of working and being a mom rather than allow themselves to be defeated by them. They take a fact-based approach to help working mothers find happiness and maximize their performance both at home and work. In smart and compassionate prose, they overlay stories of women who have triumphed over hardships and they break it down so that the reader understands how to apply it to their own life. Their kids share their stories, too. 

The key to being your best at everything you do is to take care of your happiness the way you take care of your health, through conscious choices every day.

What Happy Working Mothers Know includes:

• Interactive activities that illustrate important lessons in the book.
• Positive psychology to shift from a scarcity mentality to an abundance mentality for
• workplace success.
• Tips on how to tap into your own sense of joy every day for your own happiness and the happiness of those around you.
• Real case studies of real working moms.
  

This science based title doesn't show you how to have it all, but how to have all the things that really matter.

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