Archives for March 2018

Krazy Krafts Day for Kids at The Printing Museum, Carson

For kids and the “kids-at-heart” in all of us…
All day activities for guests include unique crafts like letterpress printing,paper making, paper marbling, and foil stamping! You also can learn how to cartoon, fold origami, write in calligraphy, and rubber stamp to your hearts delight. Make sure to bring a blank t-shirt to screen print your very own shirt! History enthusiasts will enjoy tours of our working antique printing presses and will even get their name cast in hot metal type on our amazing Linotype machine.
This event is a lot of fun! I have taken my son when he was younger! ~SoCal City Kids.
Activities On-going All Day!
$10 Ticket for Everyone
www.printmuseum.org for tickets & information
310-515-7166    mail@printmuseum.org
The International Printing Museum
315 W Torrance Blvd, Carson, CA 90745       
Credit: The International Printing Museum.

New Kids program at TOMATOMANIA gardening show and sale

Veteran and amateur gardeners love Tomatomania where they’ll discover up to 250 varieties of tomato seedlings including the newest and hottest tomatoes – Madame Marmande, Atlas, India Stripe, Gladiator and more; attend informational classes offering tips on planting; garden maintenance; selecting the best plants for your site; irrigation + fertilizing; pest control; newest equipment and much more from gardening pros.

What’s NEW at 2018 Tomatomania:

  •  Introduction of Peppermania sales and displays                                                                 • Veggie plants to keep tomatoes company in the garden
  • For Kids:   Making Seed pods; A Ladybug Release, Junior Gardener certificates               • Meet The BUG man
  • Chef Demos– preparation and cooking tips/tastings                                                         • Save the Heirlooms campaign – rescue seeds from extinction!

Tomatomania will be popping up at Garden Destinations throughout the state starting in early March through April.  Admission to most events, classes, demos is FREE

Full schedule, hours, classes, demos at www.tomatomania.com  (see attached)

Who’s Who at Tomatomania

Scott Daigre, owner and head Tomatomaniac, is the author of the best-selling book “Tomatomania: A Fresh Approach to Celebrating Tomatoes in the Garden.”  His company Powerplant Garden Design based in Ojai focuses on installation of home and professional gardens with a concentration on food based gardens.

His BEST TIP:  It’s all about the soil!  With SoCal’s arid climate, it’s important to amend and build the soil that supports your plants.  Compost and other soil amendments, gypsum, and similar minerals and a good basic fertilizer will all add organic material and life to your garden soil…and result in better tomatoes.

Mark Donofrio, Director of Operations, is a true Tomatomaniac.  Donofrio was co-owner of the popular Larchmont Grill and grew produce for the restaurant at many of LA’s community gardens.  Today he operates a small farm and Tomatomania test garden in Santa Ynez.  He calls it The Starter Farm (www.thestarterfarm.com). He is passionate about the value of growing your own foods and tomatoes are the easiest place to start.  His BEST TIP:  To insure a long growing season, he advises planting in succession.  Buy some plants at the pop up sales and plant them, then be sure to visit Tomatomania again and plant additional varieties in successive weeks.  He also suggests buying a nice mix of indeterminate* and determinate* varieties to ensure a full season.

Note: Determinate tomatoes are varieties that stop growing when the fruit sets on the top bud.  All tomatoes from the plant ripen at approximately the same time over a period of 1-2 weeks.  Indeterminate tomatoes will grow and produce fruit until killed by front.  Indeterminates will bloom, set new fruit and ripe all at the same time throughout the growing season.

General tomato facts:

  • Tomatoes are thought to have originated in Peru as the name comes from the Aztec “xitomati,” which means ‘plump thing with a navel’.
  • Fruit or Vegetable?  A tomato is technically the fruit of the tomato plant, but it is used as a vegetable in cooking
  • The French called tomatoes “pommes d’amour” or love apples as it was originally thought to be an aphrodisiac
  • 95 million people in the US grow tomatoes in home gardens each year
  • California grows the most canning and paste tomatoes in the U.S. while Florida grows and sells the most grocery store (fresh) tomatoes.
  • There are more than 7000 tomato varieties available in the home garden seed market

Credit: Tomatomania.

Kids’ Fishing Derby Returns to Mile Square Park March 17th

OC Parks, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Angler Chronicles invite families to enjoy the annual Kids’ Fishing Derby at the North Lake at Mile Square Regional Park Saturday, March 17. Register for the free event from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and enjoy the derby from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“The Kids’ Fishing Derby has become an annual tradition at Mile Square Park and we are thrilled to bring the community together for this event,” Orange County Board of Supervisors Chairman Andrew Do, First District, said. “We’re excited for youngsters to cast their lines and enjoy a morning of outdoor fun.”

Kids ages 6 to 15 can fish for free at the Fishing Derby and compete to win multiple prizes in different age groups. The lake will be stocked with more than 1,000 pounds of trout and catfish for the derby, and there will be a limited amount of fishing rods available for loan. Participants can learn fishing tips and tricks during fishing clinics, and food will be available for purchase.

Join OC Parks for a fun-filled day of friendly competition and fishing at Mile Square Regional Park.

Kids’ Fishing Derby

Date: Saturday, March 17

Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 

Derby Registration: 7:30 a.m.  – 8:30 a.m.

Location: Mile Square Regional Park

Address: 16801 Euclid, Fountain Valley, CA 92708

Website: http://www.ocparks.com/milesquare/

Cost: Free

Parking: Free

Public Contact: (714) 973-6600 or (714) 973-3197

Credit: OC Parks. 

Strasburg Children is the brand to check out for your little one’s Special Occasion clothing!

It’s almost Spring! Looking for the perfect dress for your little girl this Spring? Have you heard of Strasburg Children? They make  Special Occasion clothing and are based in Alabama and selling online at www.strasburgchildrens.com. All of their clothing is handmade using the finest materials and made to be passed down for generations.

I just love their dresses and so does our adorable young reviewer! The Cape Cod style dress we received is just precious and our little reviewer felt like a Princess wearing it! (it’s also available in other colors but we love the pink!)

I love the quality and the style of the dress! You just have to check out their site! Check out their Holiday Collection. They also have some great gift options.

This is the perfect site to find the right dresses and accessories for First Communion, baptism and Easter

Self Disclosure: I received a free clothing sample to facilitate this post. No other compensation was received and I highly recommend.

A Wrinkle in Time – A Must Watch for Sci-Fi Fans

Meg Murry and her little brother, Charles Wallace, have been without their scientist father, Mr. Murry, for five years, ever since he discovered a new planet and used the concept known as a tesseract to travel there. Joined by Meg’s classmate Calvin O’Keefe and guided by the three mysterious astral travelers known as Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who and Mrs. Which, the children brave a dangerous journey to a planet that possesses all of the evil in the universe. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Arjun N. comments, “A Wrinkle in Time is an enjoyable, yet somewhat flawed interpretation of the classic novel of the same name. The direction and special effects provide a world unlike any other. This is sure to be a watch for sci-fi fans.” Ryan R., adds, “I liked, but did not love this latest Disney film and here’s why…It is visually stunning, but unfortunately falls short in the storytelling.” See their full reviews below.

A Wrinkle in Time

By Arjun Nair, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

A Wrinkle in Time is an enjoyable, yet somewhat flawed interpretation of the classic novel of the same name. The direction and special effects provide a world unlike any other. This is sure to be a watch for sci-fi fans.

The story follows Meg Murry (Storm Reid), a genial teen who is the daughter of famed scientist Alex Murry (Chris Pine). After her father disappears, she goes through a period of insecurity and despair. Four years later, a group of primordial celestial beings – Mrs. Which (Oprah Winfrey), Mrs. Whatsit (Reese Witherspoon) and Mrs. Who (Mindy Kaling) visit Earth to help Meg find her father. Meg’s brother Charles Wallace (Deric McCabe) and friend Calvin (Levi Miller) also join the quest to find Alex. However, Meg is also brought in to help fight the “It”, an entity of darkness that threatens to destroy people’s happiness.

Storm Reid, as Meg, excellently presents her inner struggle to be happy and accept herself and this adds a unique element to the story. As the movie progresses, she slowly rises beyond her doubts to become better. Chris Pine, as Alex, delivers an ardent love for science in his character and, while much of his character is witnessed before he disappears, the rest of his scenes add a performance filled with remorse. Deric McCabe, as Charles Wallace, is my favorite character due to his charismatic performance – full of comic relief. Levi Miller, as Calvin, encompasses a respectful companion who seems to be rather enamored by Meg. Oprah Winfrey, as Mrs. Which, is a wise mentor for Meg who guides her throughout her journey. Reese Witherspoon, as Mrs. Whatsit, is the least wise of the three celestial beings, but she provides a kind companion. Mindy Kaling, as Mrs. Who, represents an encyclopedia of character teeming with knowledge.

Ava DuVernay incredibly directs the movie, as you feel as if you are a part of the world through her use of word building to convey a story. My favorite scene is the resolution to the main conflict, as it feels like an appropriate conclusion. My problem with the movie is that is unevenly paced, with the first half of the movie following generic clichés, despite a great first 10 minutes. But the movie gets running as soon as the second half begins, going into uncharted territory unlike any other movie. I also feel that the scenes for Alex and some other plot points are limited, resulting in a few disjointed, convoluted narrative at times and that could throw off some audience members.

The message of the movie is about believing in yourself and accepting who you are. I give this film 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 6 to 18. The movie releases in theaters on March 9, 2018, so check it out.

A Wrinkle In Time

By Ryan Rivera, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

I liked, but did not love this latest Disney film and here’s why. This film is an adaptation of the book, “A Wrinkle in Time” written by Madeleine L’Engle. It is visually stunning, but unfortunately falls short in the storytelling. The protagonists are Meg Murry (Storm Reid) and her little brother Charles Wallace (Deric McCabe). Their scientist father, Mr. Murry has been missing for four years. Meg has had a rough time at school ever since her father’s disappearance. Her younger brother, Charles Wallace introduces Meg to three mysterious astral travelers.  Meg is very skeptical of them at first, until she and Charles Wallace are informed by them that their father is not dead, but was taken by a dark force. Meg, Charles Wallace and her classmate Calvin (Levi Miller) go on an adventure with the three astral travelers, called the Misses.  Will Meg and Charles Wallace find their dad? Well, you must see the movie to find out the answer.

I like the visuals, the cast and the message of this film. The visuals are very stunning. The scene where Mrs. Whatsit (Reese Witherspoon) becomes a leaf and gives the kids a ride looks very spectacular. It almost looks like this could be possible in real life. I also like the transitions of the worlds changing as a result of the characters’ actions. The visual effects bring this world to life. Another thing I like is the cast. Oprah’s, Reese Witherspoon’s and Mindy Kaling’s performances as the Misses are exceptional. They show different personalities which make them unique. Mrs. Whatsit is more negative, unlike Mrs. Who (Mindy Kaling), who is wise and uses quotes from famous people to relay her messages. Mrs. Whatsit is more direct and rude, unlike Mrs. Which (Oprah Winfrey) who guides Meg when she is scared or unsure. Lastly, the messages in this movie are very important. They are about embracing your uniqueness, recognizing the importance of love and being brave enough to discover your inner warrior.

One thing I do not like is the pace.  In the first act, the pace is slow and that is fine since it builds up the exposition. However, the final act of the movie feels very rushed and is unsatisfying.  I feel the script has some holes in it which made me feel like the movie is missing some important details. This is why I did not really love the film.

Even though this film is not “Pixar great” it still is a good movie to watch with your family. I give it 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it to kids ages 7 to 15. Adults might like it as well. I recommend this to people who have read the book or like book adaptations and fantasy movies. A Wrinkle In Time comes out March 9, 2018, in theaters nationwide.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

 

My Neighbor Totoro: An Instantly Watchable Animated Masterpiece That Holds New Surprises Every Time I Watch it

From the legendary Studio Ghibli, creators of Spirited Away and Ponyo, and Academy Award-winning director Hayao Miyazaki, comes a classic tale of magic and adventure for the whole family. When Satsuki and her sister Mei move with their father to a new home in the countryside, they find country life is not as simple as it seems. They soon discover that the house and nearby woods are full of strange and delightful creatures, including a gigantic but gentle forest spirit called Totoro, who can only be seen by children. Totoro and his friends introduce the girls to a series of adventures, including a ride aboard the extraordinary Cat Bus, in this all-ages animated masterpiece featuring the voices of Tim Daly, Lea Salonga, and real-life sisters Dakota and Elle Fanning, in one of their earliest roles. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Benjamin P. comments, “My Neighbor Totoro remains an instantly watchable animated masterpiece that holds new surprises from every time I watch it.” Eden T. adds, “My Neighbor Totoro is an amazing movie. In 1988, when this movie came out, anime was not that popular. My Neighbor Totoro set off a craze for anime in the U.S. that has not stopped yet.”  Calista B. wraps it up with, “. It has been 30 years since this film first came out and it still holds up as the beautiful and charming film it is famous for being.” See their full reviews below.

My Neighbor Totoro

By Benjamin P, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

Even after 25 years, My Neighbor Totoro remains an instantly watchable animated masterpiece that holds new surprises from every time I watch it.

Satsuki and Mei are sisters who move to the Japanese countryside with their father. The children are fascinated with the quirks of their new house, as well as the vast nature around it. Satsuki goes to school and Mei begins to explore a fantastical world beneath a large tree in the backyard. She meets three little creatures and names one of them Totoro. Mei tells her sister about the adventure, but Satsuki does not believe her. During the next few days, the sisters discover more and more about their neighborhood and adjust to their new way of life.

My Neighbor Totoro effortlessly crafts and develops so many different poignant stories. It is a coming-of-age tale, as well as a story about how we deal with change and one about the bond between two siblings. Totoro, his little pals, and the world they inhabit add a whole other layer to an already complete narrative. The magical elements intertwine with Satsuki and Mei’s story. They bring light to the siblings, during a scary and dark time in their life. The elements of magic add some levity to less joyful parts of the film, giving just as much closure to the audience as to the characters.

The film never reveals too much about Totoro and a lot about him remains a mystery even after the credits roll. He is so adorably drawn and never feels threatening. He has no dialogue, excluding a few grunts here and there, but is still one of my favorite things about this film. He brings a kind of magic that resonates with you every time he is on screen.

The lesson of My Neighbor Totoro is to never lose faith in what you believe in. Mei’s belief in the magic of Totoro never falters and for that, Totoro helps her and Satsuki not just because they are kind souls, but also because they both learn to believe in his magic.

I give My Neighbor Totoro an age rating of 4 to 18. It appeals to all ages and has practically nothing objectionable for young audiences. I think adults will marvel at the spellbinding animation and wonderful story. I give My Neighbor Totoro 5 out of 5 stars and you need to see this special re-release if you haven’t already fallen in love with this film.

 

My Neighbor Totoro

By Calista B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

In 1988, Studio Ghibli released their third motion picture, My Neighbor Totoro. This film is often the first one you think of when you think of Studio Ghibli or director Hayao Miyazaki. The title character, Totoro is even on the Studio Ghibli logo. It has been 30 years since this film first came out and it still holds up as the beautiful and charming film it is famous for being.

The story is about two sisters named Satski and Mei, voiced by the Fanning sisters, who move to an old house in the countryside with their dad. After moving in, they become friends with a forest spirit they call Totoro.

Of course, I like to talk about animation first and it is just beautiful. Not surprising since, the animation in Studio Ghibli films is always incredible. The backgrounds are just amazing to look at and the forest looks gorgeous. The movement is very fluid and fast; and the characters are so expressive. I love everything about this animation!

The characters are wonderful too. The focus is mostly on the two leads, Satski and Mei. The two of them are very fun, sweet characters who feel like real children. That’s always important to me – that kids in films act like real kids. I also have to mention Totoro himself is such an adorable creature. I found myself wishing he was real, so you could cuddle him. He’s just so fluffy!

Also, the music in this film is just phenomenal. It’s so beautiful and whimsical. There is one particular scene where I actually teared up a little, because the combination of the music and the animation is just so pretty. I also listened to some of the music after watching the film and added it to my playlist. Studio Ghibli always has such wonderful music to back up their films.

My one complaint, that isn’t even that big, is that it doesn’t feel like there’s much of a conflict in the plot. What I mean is, it lacks real struggle. There is a slight conflict because the mom is in the hospital, but the film doesn’t treat that like it is a big problem. It’s just something there. But even with that, the movie is just so cute, I really didn’t bother me.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. The film is available now on DVD so be sure to check it out.

My Neighbor Totoro

By Eden T., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 9

The anime movie My Neighbor Totoro is cute and funny, yet somehow still realistic. Even though some parts are sad, that adds to the plot and makes the story even better. It starts with two sisters, four-year-old Mei and 12-year-old Satsuki. When Mei runs off and meets a large, mischievous forest spirit named Totoro, their lives are changed forever.

My Neighbor Totoro is directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Every scene is hand-drawn, unlike modern CGI movies. The rural setting and characters just feel real. In one scene, Mei trips and falls instead of running on. This gives a sense of reality, instead of edited perfection.

The story starts when Mei, Satsuki and their father move to a new house while their mother is in the hospital.  They soon discover that their house is inhabited by forest spirits, such as the soot gremlins. Nearby, Totoro lives in a huge camphor tree and a magical, eight-legged cat bus is a normal mode of transportation for them.

After Satsuki and Mei get into an argument, Mei runs away. This part is so heartbreaking! With the help of Totoro, you’ll see. The ending is a surprise you’ll enjoy!

Hayao Miyazaki has directed other enjoyable anime movies, such as Kiki’s Delivery Service and Spirited Away. Recently, Hayao Miyazaki came out of retirement. I, for one, cannot wait to see another Miyazaki directed film!

My Neighbor Totoro is cute, funny and realistic. However, I feel that something is missing. Totoro sounds like the main character, but he is on the screen for only a few scenes. Therefore, the movie somehow seems incomplete. The fact that I want more from it only proves how captivating it is.

My Neighbor Totoro is an amazing movie. In 1988, when this movie came out, anime was not that popular. My Neighbor Totoro set off a craze for anime in the U.S. that has not stopped yet. The special features on this DVD unravel the magic by describing how the characters are created, the real life inspiration for the movie’s unique locations and more. I give this DVD 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 8 to 12. You can view this on DVD or Blu-Ray and both are available now. If you enjoy anime, cute and quirky characters, or just a realistic movie, check this out!

My Neighbor Totoro

By Calista B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14

 

In 1988, Studio Ghibli released their third motion picture, My Neighbor Totoro. This film is often the first one you think of when you think of Studio Ghibli or director Hayao Miyazaki. The title character, Totoro is even on the Studio Ghibli logo. It has been 30 years since this film first came out and it still holds up as the beautiful and charming film it is famous for being.

The story is about two sisters named Satski and Mei, voiced by the Fanning sisters, who move to an old house in the countryside with their dad. After moving in, they become friends with a forest spirit they call Totoro.

Of course, I like to talk about animation first and it is just beautiful. Not surprising since, the animation in Studio Ghibli films is always incredible. The backgrounds are just amazing to look at and the forest looks gorgeous. The movement is very fluid and fast; and the characters are so expressive. I love everything about this animation!

The characters are wonderful too. The focus is mostly on the two leads, Satski and Mei. The two of them are very fun, sweet characters who feel like real children. That’s always important to me – that kids in films act like real kids. I also have to mention Totoro himself is such an adorable creature. I found myself wishing he was real, so you could cuddle him. He’s just so fluffy!

Also, the music in this film is just phenomenal. It’s so beautiful and whimsical. There is one particular scene where I actually teared up a little, because the combination of the music and the animation is just so pretty. I also listened to some of the music after watching the film and added it to my playlist. Studio Ghibli always has such wonderful music to back up their films.

My one complaint, that isn’t even that big, is that it doesn’t feel like there’s much of a conflict in the plot. What I mean is, it lacks real struggle. There is a slight conflict because the mom is in the hospital, but the film doesn’t treat that like it is a big problem. It’s just something there. But even with that, the movie is just so cute, I really didn’t bother me.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 18. The film is available now on DVD so be sure to check it out.

Credit: KIDS FIRST!

 

Welch’s Fruit Snacks are perfect for Easter!

With Easter-shaped fruit snacks – bunnies, flowers, eggs and chicks – they are perfect for egg stuffers and egg hunts. The Welch’s Easter Fruit Snacks come in an Easter-themed box and pouch!  I love how they come in Bunny shapes and are made with real fruit! They taste great and are also fat free. These would be great in Easter baskets and also to fill plastic eggs!

Look for Welch’s® Mixed Fruit Easter Fruit Snacks at Target and Walmart stores, and online at Target.com and OrientalTrading.com.

PACKAGE SIZE / MSRP:

  • 28-Count Box with 0.5oz/ Pouches: $4.99.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate this post. Images were also provided. 

It’s Time For The Winter Baby Round Up!

Here are my favorites for this season!

Looking for cute and comfy shoes for your little one? Pediped has you covered! The Originals Ronnie Navy were a hit with our little reviewer! Mom loved how her little one actually liked to have them on and they are comfortable and stylish! Find out more here!

About pediped®
Exceptional quality, unsurpassed comfort, and distinctive styling have made the award-winning company the fastest growing children’s footwear brand in the United States. pediped® footwear has been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance for the promotion of healthy foot development, and preeminent orthopedic medical professionals, Dr. Mininder S. Kocher and Dr. Thomas W. Vorderer, deem pediped® shoes an excellent choice for parents/caregivers who want their children’s feet to develop naturally and healthily. pediped® has received numerous industry awards and accolades including recognition from Earnshaw’s, the premier media resource serving the children’s market. In 2015 pediped® was recognized by the Footwear Industry Awards as the Children’s Footwear Brand of the Year and earned a 2016 Earnie Award from Earnshaw’s magazine as the Footwear Brand of the Year.

pediped® is sold in over 750 stores in the United States and 40 countries worldwide with an offering of more than 120 designs for boys and girls between its three lines, Originals®, Grip ‘n’ Go™ and Flex®. The award-winning footwear is available in EU sizes 17 to 38 (US newborn to 6 Youth). For more information, visit www.pediped.com or call 1-702-567-0311. LIKE on Facebook at /pedipedfootwear and follow on Twitter and Instagram @pedipedfootwear

Looking for cute and snuggly PJ’s this Winter for your little one? Your search is over! 

These are just too cute! You can find these PJ’s here! I love how they can be personalized and come in a cute bag! This would make a perfect gift! Stuck on You also has some other great personalized gift suggestions!

Australia based Stuck On You was founded in 1995 by Carrie Felton, a mom of three boys.  A global leader in personalized products for baby & beyond, Stuck On You products are available in more than 15 countries.  Felton created Stuck On You to celebrate the individuality of every name, bring joy to new parents with unique, timeless products for every child, save families time, energy and money and help them to lead a more organized life.  In addition to a broad offering of labels, the Stuck On You collection includes activity and personalized books, durable and stylish bags, lunchboxes and drink bottles, stationery, bag tags and gorgeous gifts for all ages.

Follow Stuck on You:

https://www.facebook.com/StuckOnYouUS/

https://www.instagram.com/stuckonyouofficial/

https://twitter.com/StuckOnYouTweet

This next one would also make a great baby shower gift! The ergoPouch Sleep Suit Bag. 

      

ergoPouch Sleep Suit Bag

 

The ergoPouch Sleep Suit Bag was named Sleeping Bag for 2017 and 2016 in Australia and sold out across the country last winter!  Why are these Sleep Suit Bags becoming so popular?  Because now your baby can sleep anywhere!  The ergoPouch award winning Sleep Suit Bag converts from a sleeping bag to a sleep suit with legs – making the transition from cot to pram or car an easy one.  It’s also a perfect choice for older babies and toddlers who like freedom of movement, with grip pads on the feet for little walkers.  The Sleep Suit Bag is the only sleep suit made from a skin-friendly organic cotton outer layer with a breathable cotton filling.  The Winter Sleep Suit Bag also has cotton fleece sleeves with fold down mitts to keep baby warm and snug.  Like the rest of the ergoPouch range, the Sleep Suit Bag comes in a range of tog ratings and sizes.  New season prints available now! From SRP$49.99.

 ABOUT ERGOPOUCH:

Melbourne, Australia-based ergoPouch was founded in 2009 by Alina Sack.  As a mother, Sack drew on her own personal experiences of sleep deprivation to come up with innovative products designed to help babies and kids get a better night’s sleep.  The award-winning ergoPouch collection includes premium quality baby swaddles, sleeping bags and sleep suits available from birth to 6 years of age sizing.  All ergoPouch products are made with natural fibres including Organic Cotton, Bamboo and Merino.  ergoPouch products offer great functionality and versatility with swaddles that can easily transition to a sleeping bag, and sleep suits that convert from bags to suits with legs for easy use from bassinet to stroller.

For more information visit www.ergopouch.com.

  FOLLOW ERGOPOUCH:

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ergopouch

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ergopouch

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ergopouch

YouTube:  ergoPouch

 

And, of course new Moms (Well..actually all Moms!) need a to-go Coffee or Tea Cup! 

The GoSili Silicone Coffee and Tea To-Go Cup is actually a new favorite of mine! I love that is easy to use and so simple to clean! It also keeps its shape and it is Dishwasher and Microwave safe! I love that it easily fits in my cup holder in my car for travel. 

You can find out more here! 

About GoSili®

Traverse City-based GoSili was founded in 2006 by Stacey Feeley and Giuliana Schwab with the mission of Waste Less!  GoSili designs and manufactures silicone tableware products for the whole family.  The excessive use and waste of disposable paper and plastic inspired the GoSili founders to create a modern line incorporating all the practical benefits that silicone has to offer.  GoSili is the parent company of the award-winning children’s silicone products brand Silikids.  GoSili products make the basics better by bringing an alternative to plastic, bridging the gap between great design and affordability while improving the way we live! A win-win for all!  For more information visitwww.gosili.com.

 

Here’s a great gift idea for New Moms!

This product (www.TempTraq.com) is great for giving new moms peace of mind, especially during winter months when cold/flu season starts.

When kids come down with a fever, this wearable, Bluetooth patch monitors body temperature continuously for 48 hours and sends info to smartphones through a free app, letting kids get the rest they need to get better.

Parents can see real-time temperature data from anywhere (without having to wake sick children)…whether dropping a child off at grandma’s house for an overnight visit or checking in on a child staying home from school with the sitter. Plus, you can send info to your doctors and monitor multiple kids at once for those times the entire household gets sick.

I love that this is super simple to use and will give Moms some relief when their little one is sick.

It’s a must-have addition to the medicine cabinet and is currently available at Target.com.

I just love this next one! It is such a wonderful gift idea for New Moms!

This is the sweetest book and a great way to keep memories!

This spring, National Geographic presents Welcome Little One: A Keepsake Baby Book (Feb. 6, 2018; ISBN: 978-1426218958; Hardcover $24.00; 152 pages), a beautiful memento for you to preserve every moment of your child’s first year.

With ample room for personalization, removable monthly milestone stickers and signature National Geographic photography from nature’s nursery, Welcome Little One is the perfect way to celebrate your family’s newest addition. Parents will fill the colorful pages with memories – from the first announcement, to baby’s arrival and every hallmark memory of the first year – and record their little one’s growth.

Whether new to keepsakes or longtime scrapbookers, Welcome Little One makes a thoughtful gift that expectant parents will treasure and may one day pass on to their little one when they’re grown up and expecting a child of their own.

About the Author: Kristin Baird Rattini has entertained and educated adults and children alike for the past 20 years with engaging books and magazine articles. She has written for National GeographicNational Geographic KidsPeopleFamily CircleAmerican WayMidwest Living and dozens of other publications.

Looking for toys for the New Baby? I love some of the ones that HABA USA have! The Star Clutching Toy is perfect for the very little ones!

This one can be found here.  I like that this is safe for baby to chew on. It is made from food-grade silicone. It’s a great price too! Retails for $7.49.

I’ve been told that some celebrities have these products stocked in their diaper bags! 

  • Baby Magic Original Baby Lotion – This original baby lotion has been the go-to hyper allergenic product for many years! The nourishing baby lotion is perfect for babies with sensitive skin. After all, no one enjoys a screaming baby with irritated skin!
  • Boudreaux’s Maximum Strength Butt Paste – This pediatrician-recommended maximum strength product will improve your baby’s diaper rash in just three days. It’s available in a 2 oz., 4 oz., and 16 oz. tube to carry on-the-go in a diaper bag!

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Looking for an easy to use Breast Pump?

Forget huge, loud and complicated automatic pumps which cost hundreds and need to be pulled to pieces and cleaned thoroughly every time you use them. This 100% food grade, eco-friendly and simple to use breast pump will change your life – truly.  Fits perfectly into any handbag or baby bag and requires no hard work. Also the best travel pump you will find! Made from 100% medical grade silicone, this compact pump is perfect for long distance trips, planes, car rides, family BBQ’s or anywhere you would like to discretely express, quickly. Simply suction to your breast and let the pump do the work for you as it draws your milk using suction. 100% eco-friendly and safe for mum, baby and our environment.

MSRP: $20.99; Available online: Target.com

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The Marcus & Marcus Organic Rattle is made from 100% certified organic cotton and free from harmful chemicals. Each rattle is filled with polyester fiber or squeaky sound that entertains your baby with lots of fun. The size is perfect for their tiny hands to hold with as their favorite toy. The rattle is also phthalate free and free from harmful chemicals.

Available Characters/Colors: Lola the Giraffe, Pokey the Piglet, Marcus the Lion Cub, Ollie the Elephant, Willow the Whale.

Willow the Whale is super cute!

MSRP: $13.99; Available online:  https://www.amazon.com/Marcus-Certified-Organic-Rattle-Willo/dp/B06XC796FG

 

 

This next one has been a real hit with a friend of mine who has a little one!

I was told that this is a real Must-Have!

Almost worse than a sleepless baby is the true dilemma of diaper rash.  Olen Cosmetics has created *the* best solution to this dilemma with their Baby Butz Cream. The safest and most effective diaper rash treatment available without a prescription. 100% natural ingredients and 30% zinc oxide. Used in hospital neonatal units and many pediatricians hand out samples plus medical professionals have endorsed this cream. No Chemicals, no Alcohol, no perfumes and hypoallergenic.

MSRP: $6.49 (2 ounces); Available online here! 

This next one is a real must-have! Our little reviewer just loves it..and Mom does too!

The Pello Luxe Floor Pillow and comfy cradle is the perfect baby shower gift!

      

Check out the different styles!

I really love the quality and that the unique shape is perfect for baby! It can also be used as baby gets older. It is also washable and very durable! I think every little one should have one of these!

 

Self Disclosure: I received free samples to facilitate the Baby Winter Round Up. Some images were also provided.