Sunday, September 30, 2007

v 3 issue 10: Star Style





Star Style

Our Star Style issue is full of celebrities and the products they love. These are the products their tots wear and use day in and day out. Since they have access to everything fabulous we know these products will be a favorite of yours too!

Shannon Stewart





Star Style

tot trends weekly
1. Kerri Russell looks simply gorgeous as well as perfectly content in her new role as mom while wearing her P-sling. P-slings are available in a variety of comfy cottons and luxe linens-perfect for all seasons due to fabric breathability. Wear your baby in style by picking up one of these gorgeous slings at psny.com.

2. Celebrity tots love the soft and colorful Travel Silkies from Patricia Ann Designs. Perfectly sized for little hands, these security blankets will be your child’s tagalong for years to come. With the kids of celebrities like Denise Richards and Brooke Shields toting these beautiful mini-blankets we are sure that it will be a favorite of your child as well.

3. We loved this blanket the minute we saw it on the cover of US Weekly. The knitted Cashmere ABC Block blanket is made of 100% pure cashmere filled with polyester and a bell that rings when it’s shaken. This favorite of Shiloh Jolie-Pitt can be found at FAO Schwarz.

4. The latest stroller to hit the celebrity trail is the Orbit Infant System. The car seat, base and stroller system in one makes going out on the town a snap. The car seat easily snaps in place in both the base and stroller and with a lightweight folding frame, the stroller can be assembled with one hand. Join the likes of Heidi Klum, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Tori Spelling and Marcia Cross by finding a retailer near you at Orbitbaby.com.

5. Everyone loves crocs; including celebrity dads, moms and kids. Jennifer Garner’s mini-me, Violet, has been spotted wearing mary jane crocs in nearly every color! We love the mary jane styled crocs for their comfort and style. Choose from a large selection of colors for $25 at crocs.com.

6. Hand Picked Pumpkin’s modern line of high quality, custom baby clothing is a favorite of celeb’s like Angela Basset. Her twins appeared on Oprah in their hoodies by the brand created especially for them. You too can create a custom piece for your tot by using their online shop to select your choice of fabrics to create a one-of-a-kind piece. Shop Handpickedpumpkin.com for your custom piece.

This week's mom tips

Cleaning Tip: We know that most people don't have time to polish their silver, or the desire to sit down and inhale the fumes of a toxic polisher. That means we also know that lots of people have very tarnished silver sitting at home. So, the next time you sit down for a marathon Sunday of Law & Order, grab a tube of white toothpaste and a washcloth, and polish your silver. White Toothpaste works incredibly fast, and the mint smell is easy on the nose (not to mention the lungs, and the brain cells). It's your day to shine!
Green Tip: We fill our homes and cars with chemicals designed to 'freshen' our air. The reality is they are polluting our air with numerous chemicals. Cedar chips are an affordable and safe way to freshen drawers and make safe potpourri. Lemon juice is a great way to treat bad odors (simply place in a bowl and allow to sit), and for smokey smells, a combination of cinammon and baking soda is as effective as expensive ozone treatments.
Financial Tip: Recycling cardboard is not only a great green move, but it also pays handsomely. Check in your area for recycling centers, and compare per weight rates.
Parenting Tip: A trip to your local library provides an opportunity for so many lessons. Applying for a library card for your child teaches them independence, and encourages them to associate reading and learning with this independence. Setting aside time to visit the library as a family encourages you to spend time together. Familiarizing yourself and your child with the local library staff- by attending readings, story hour etc- develops your child's sense of community. Checking out books adds excitement to reading, and also teaches your child about sharing. Caring for the books your child has checked out, as well as returing them on time, teaches your child to be respectful of other's property and to be responsible. Finally, something as simple as bringing a canvas tote on library tips encourages your child to be green at a very young age!

Celebrity moms we love

tot trends weeklyCelebrity watchers know them by first name – Angelina, Britney, Katie, Reese, and Gwen. They are the celebrity moms that have made motherhood stylish and fashionable. In our celebrity obsessed culture, we follow them and their children like old friends. Relishing in their glories and cringing at their missteps.

Today’s celebrity moms are hot news. We watch for the slight hint of a baby bump, follow every step of their pregnancies, and delight in their birth announcements. We covet their post-baby bodies and buy the same diaper bag that they were seen toting.

What’s with this fascination? People love to share something in common with these high profiles stars. We may not wear designer duds and walk down the red carpet, but we can share the experience of pregnancy and parenthood. We love to see these moms doing many of the same things we do each day. Daily chores seem just a little less mundane when we can share them with these glamorous moms. Whether it’s shopping, playing at the park, taking in a game, or doing carpool (with a crowd of photographers in tow) we love to experience it with them. Even better, this new breed of celebrity parent has found a way to make motherhood cool.

We gush over photos of Jennifer Garner feeding the geese with daughter Violet, Heidi Klum playing in the sandbox with her three tiny tots, and Angelina Jolie taking son Maddox to the bookstore. Surburban moms everywhere develop stroller envy over the latest gear sported by Gwen Stefani, Katie Holmes, and Marcia Cross as they run their daily errands. We relate to busy working moms Sarah Jessica Parker, Reese Witherspoon, and Julianne Moore as they walk their kids to school.

Today’s celebrity parents have found a way to blend parenting with the ultra-cool celebrity lifestyle. Angelina Jolie enjoys ice cream in Central Park with the kids one day and hops a helicopter to an exclusive party in the Hamptons the next. Tina Fey appeared on The Tonight Show and talked about her TV show and potty training without skipping a beat. Of course, celebrity moms do have the benefit of nannies, exclusive daycares, trainers, nutritionists, and stylists to help them keep looking celebrity mom glamorous.

We may not get to experience the glamour ourselves, but we can live vicariously through these stylish moms. Thanks to a new crop of celebrity moms -- Naomi Watts, Bridget Moynahan, Nicole Richie -- it doesn’t look like the celebrity mom trend will go away anytime soon.


Article by Emmy Brady, publisher of Celebrity Moms. Celebrity Moms is where celebrity and parenthood collide. Celebrity Moms follows all the news and trends of today's Hollywood moms, dads, and their stylish kids. The site was started in January 2006 by publisher Emma Brady as a creative outlet while on bedrest. Emma is the mom-of-three busy boys and has been following the news and trends of Hollywood since childhood.

Sunday, September 23, 2007

v 3 issue 9: Baby Accessories





Baby Accessories

Let's face it, those adorable little babies need lots of goodies like blankets, toys, and more. We have hand-picked our latest favorites when it comes to baby accessories for this issue.


Cover by Shannon Stewart





Accessories for baby

tot trends weekly
1. When it comes to comforting baby, women for generations have chosen a sling. These gorgeous Hunur Pouch slings by Comfy Joey are custom made in India with the finest Indian fabric and ethnic Indian embroidery and lined with a soft cotton silk lining that is baby-friendly and durable. Shop ComfyJoey.com for a fabulous selection of gorgeous pouch slings.

2. It's a jungle out there! Snuggle your little one in My Blankee's new fun and wild velour animal collection. With their luxuriously soft centers and luscious satin borders, a My Blankee blanket will surely be their favorite for years to come. Also available in many other textures and solid colors at MyBlankeeInc.com.

3. We love these adorable soft blocks by Dwell Baby, designed especially for style conscious parents. These stuffed blocks feature rounded ends and are the perfect safe toy for your baby to play, learn and grow with. Each set include six mod-styled blocks with 1, 2, 3, A, B, C and animal motifs appliqued on them (blocks rattle or jingle as well!).

4. Say goodbye to dropped and dirty binky's thanks to Bink Link, the original wood pacifier clip. Safety was a huge motivating factor for the company, inspired by a broken glass bean pacifier clip; the owners set out to create a pacifier clip that was fashionable and safe. The Bink Link is easy to use, just slip the cord through the pacifier and slide the clip through to make a slipknot. $14 at BinkLink.com.

5. Scooting and crawling are just around the corner...protect those precious little legs from rug burn with Dittany Baby's SkidPants. With a large variety of styles and colors to choose from, not only are they saving that precious skin but they also add a little spice to any outfit or a little warmth.

6. The Belle Baby Carrier provides comfort for both mom (or dad) and baby with their adjustable Five-Point Support System due to the baby's weight being transferred directly to your hips and not your back. The gorgeous fabrics are durable, luxurious and strong...we love the colors and pattern choices. The Belle Baby Carrier allows baby to face toward or away you and allows you to nurse discretely. Available at In Style Moms.


This week's mom tips

Cleaning Tip: Found gum on your new carpet? Remove gum from surfaces by using ice to harden and a dull knife to remove.

Green Tip: Switch to a low-flow showerhead. You will use about six gallons less water per minute, which will dramatically reduce the amount of water and heat used. Showers are responsible for 2/3 of water heating costs. Save even more by taking shorter showers.

Financial Tip: Swap babysitting with another family on Saturday nights…enjoy a date with your husband one weekend and watch you friends kids the next.

Time Saving Tips: Make a list of all your needs before heading out for errands. Map out where you need to go so you can go the most convenient route and try to consolidate all your errands to one shopping center.


One reader's birth story

We asked our readers to submit their crazy birth stories, and this one was our favorite. Do you have an interesting story to tell about the birth of your child or something silly they have done or said? Please write in and share!


We were at the spit (a small strip of land where the mouth of the river and ocean meet only accessible by water) 2 days before she was due and I had a contraction. I mentioned it to my mother (she was staying at our house in anticipation of the birth) so we left about 10 minutes later. On the boat ride back to the dock I had another contraction. My husband Mike asked to do something and I just said I couldn't, (Later I found out he thought I was sea sick!) The ride back is less than 10 minutes, as I arrived at the dock I had another contraction so I went home and said I was going to shower and then go to the hospital. My husband stayed to clean the boat and was going to meet me at home. I had another contraction on the way home, which is about a five-minute ride, and one when I arrived. I jumped in our downstairs shower and the contractions stared to come pretty quickly without a break in between, it was all I could do to rinse the sand of myself! I asked my mother to call my husband and tell him to get home now. I somehow managed to get a shirt on when my water broke. At this time the contractions were coming hard and fast with no break in between. I managed to walk from the bathroom to the kitchen and collapsed on the floor. My husband had just walked in and asked my mother if she had called 911. She said no, lets get her in the car. My husband said she looked like a deer caught in the headlights. He dialed 911 and EMTs arrived in about 3 minutes. All I remember was black boots all around my head and the EMTs saying lets get her on a stretcher. One of them checked me and said "she is crowning" so 3 pushes later my daughter was born on the kitchen floor, an hour and a half after my first contraction! We all enjoyed an ambulance ride to the hospital where we all checked out fine, including my husband! The EMTs had been great and even did an APGAR, which was a 9. About a week later my husband arrived home from work to see a fire truck parked in front of our house. He ran in to find the wonderful Scituate Firefighters had come over to see that everyone was ok and brought a gift for the baby!

Submitted by TTW Reader Sandi from Scituate, MA

Sunday, September 16, 2007

v 3 issue 8: On the Run





On the Go


Mom's on the go require organization and great products that make on the go easy. Check out our current reviews on great gear to have while you are on the run.

Cover by Shannon Stewart





Out and About

tot trends weekly
1. The Packin' SMART by Innobaby is an all-in-one-on-the-go feeding solution for infant and toddler years. The five-tier stack can be used as a formula dispenser, snack case, serving bowl, and a pacifier holder. With a secure click design that prevents the cap from falling and separate containers that keep contents from mixing, the Packin' SMART will be a staple in your diaper bag.

2. The Ciela baby stroller by Mia Moda is a dream come true for traveling or space-challenged moms. The Ciela folds with one hand and is freestanding when folded. Its Unique Compact Fold isn't all that grabbed our attention…its lightweight with an adjustable seat recline and easy to carry when folded. Mia Moda strollers are fashionably designed while not forgetting important features like height-adjustable handles and removable washable seat pads and all-wheel suspension.

3. The Diaper Survival Kit by Baby Dish is the perfect shower gift for a mom-to-be or to keep at grandma's house. The kit comes pre-packaged with baby's first year essentials including a onesie, bib, burp cloth, diapers, changing pad, rattle, bottle, pacifier and case, sun hat, travel wipes and box. With this survival kit includes all you need to for a day on the go.

4. Protect-A-Bub offers protection from the elements with their variety of stroller covers. Their 3-in-1 sunshade protects your little one from 98%+ UV rays as well as mosquitoes and other insects. Protect-A-Bub Sushades are the must-have stroller accessory for celebrities like Julia Roberts, Kate Winslet, and Sarah Jessica Parker to keep their little ones safe. Also check out their Wind and Rain cover for cool rainy days.

5. While packing up for a day out in the city, be sure to include Skip Hop's triple bottle bag on your packing list. Their triple bottle bag is insulated with 3M THINSULATE(tm) to keep three bottles or sippy cups cold for up to four hours. The bag converts to a backpack and is also perfect for snacks and quick trips out to the store when you don't need a large diaper bag.

6. For those with two, the versatile Caboose Stand-On Tandem by Joovy will do! This stroller allows your older child to stand on the rear platform while your younger child rides in front. Once tired, your oldest can turn and rest on the padded rear seat. With a universal car seat attachment, this stroller can be used form day one. We love that this lightweight stroller has a large basket along with storage pockets and easily folds up compactly for storage.


This Week's Mom Tips

Cleaning Tip: Found some annoying rust spots, but hesitant to use something harsh to remove it? A great natural and safe alternative (that actually works!) is table salt. Use a cloth or sponge to work it into the rust spot and you'll have your own 'rust-no-more'. And, you'll find that salt works great as a scouring agent as well.

Green Tip: If you are troubled by hard water (spots on your dishes? water spots on the sink?), we've got a solution, and there's no need to pay for expensive water softeners. Simply add some white vinegar, and you'll be amazed!

Financial Tip: Think having a mortgage is a bad thing, and can't wait for the day you pay off your house? We'll maybe you should think again! Financial experts remind you that as long as you are paying interest on a mortgage, the federal government is paying you at tax time.

Parenting Tip: Experts say that over-tiredness and hunger are the two leading reasons that children misbehave. So, before you wonder what you did wrong as a parent, consider your child's sleep patterns, and make an effort to sneak in a few more snacks, or some bigger meals!


A well packed diaper bag

tot trends weekly Getting out the door with baby can be an exhausting process, one that must be well planned and executed. A well-packed diaper bag can mean the difference between a stressful day and a smoothly executed experience.

Our recommendations for a day out with baby include these diapering essentials:

Diapers - Depending on the length of your time spent out and about and the age of your baby. A good rule of thumb for infants is a diaper per hour out.

Diaper Wipes - We think a travel container of wipes for the diaper bag and an extra tub of wipes for the car is a safe bet.
Diaper Cream - A necessity for sore bottoms…keep a few samples in your bag for when a diaper rash appears on the run.
Changing Pad - We prefer a changing pad that either has a Velcro or snap closure or that has a different pattern or color on one side…that way you always know which side is the clean (baby) side and which side touches the changing table (you don’t want to know what germs are on those tables!). A good idea is to keep a receiving blanket with your changing pad so that pee will be absorbed on the blanket instead of running up baby’s back.
Hand Sanitizer - Either gel or wipes for mom after changing…also great for wiping surfaces baby will come in contact with. We love all natural cleanwell products!

Bags for Dirty Clothes - A must for soiled clothing. You can use large Ziploc bags, recycle grocery bags or we love the Ultimate Diaper Bag Organizer Pouches found at Babystyle.
Extra clothes - We recommend two extra outfits…you never know when a major diaper blowout is going to happen!

Now on to feeding needs:
Burp Cloths - Perfect for spit up, changing messes…you name it.
Nursing Essentials (if nursing) - Nursing Cover (try bebeaulait.com ), nursing pads, extra shirt (for just in case!), and nipple cream for sore nipples.
Bottle Essentials (if bottle feeding) - Extra bottles and Extra formula.
Solid Food needs (if applicable) food, bowls, utensils, snacks, and bibs.

Extras that are needed:
Blanket - Blankets are great for warmth and for floor time. Again receiving blankets are perfect since they roll up well and can be used for nearly everything.
Pacifier - For babies who love their binkies! Be sure to bring along an extra.
Toys and Books - Entertainment is essential for keeping baby happy. Choose toys and books for your child’s age and make sure you have plenty of options.
Extras for you - Don’t forget that you need essentials too! Pack a few snacks, water bottle and essentials like your cell phone (and your emergency phone list) and money.

Then there are the miscellaneous items that you want to bring along when needed like medicine when your child is suffering from a cold/virus, a camera to capture special events, weather appropriate items like sun hats and sun block, and teething rings.

This list is for new mothers but can be adapted as your child grows. Fewer items will be needed as he gets older and you may even get to move from a diaper bag to a large stylish purse (though with the designer diaper bags available these days you may not want to!).

We also recommend packing a smaller diaper bag with a few extras to keep in the car at all times just in case you walk out the door without all you need!

Sunday, September 09, 2007

v 3 issue 7: Do-It-Yourself



Do It Yourself
For your little one who is quickly becoming a big kid, these products can turn a lazy day into a fun experience. These product allows you and your child to create your own custom clothing, flash cards, invites and more.

Cover by Shannon Stewart





Do-It-Yourself Gifts
tot trends weekly

1. PeaceMonkey DIY t-shirt kits come with a chalkboard silkscreened tee and a non-toxic permanent marker, and your kids provide the art. Let your little monkey show off their creative side with a trip to Peace Monkey.

2. Baby's learning experience gets personal with smart and sweet Goosie Cards. Simply visit GoosieCards.com to create flash cards for baby using your own photos and text; all flash cards teach baby about the big world, but Goosie Cards teach baby about his world. Save 15% with code tottrendsweekly at checkout.

3. The Eco-Me Baby Kit is 100% natural and allows you to make your own natural Baby Room Spray, Baby Clean Wipes and Baby Diaper Freshener. We love the sweet and delicate scent of Eco-Me's Lavendar, Chamomile and Mandarin Orange essential oil mix.

4. If your toddler just put another notch in their belt for learning to dress themselves, then it's the perfect time to treat them to a super-cute Myself Belt. Myself Belts are so easy to use that even toddlers can fasten them with just one hand.

5. Its only natural that kids like cookies, and with the help of Kids Central Kitchen, they can love natural, whole grain cookies they make themselves! Kids Central Kitchen mixes are free from trans fats, hydrogenated oils, refined sugars, high fructose corn syrup and artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. They are full of great taste, and simple recipes even younger kids can follow. We love the Slam Dunker Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix; just add water, butter and applesauce for delicious cookies with 3g of fiber!

6. Do-it-yourself cards are as easy as pie thanks to The Card Bakery at Peppers and Pollywogs. The Card Bakery offers professionally designed cards that you personalize, download, and print at home!

7. Here's a colorful idea for teaching kids the etiquette of sending thank you notes and cards: let them do it themselves with Color n' Kids cards by Stubby Pencil Studio. Available as single cards (for only $.95 including envelope!), or in sets of 6 (assorted designs, with envelopes included), color n' kids offers cards for every occasion.



This Week's Mom Tips

tot trends weeklyCleaning Tip: Found magic marker on the couch? Try Hair spray to remove magic marker from surfaces.

Green Tip: Wash clothes in cold water…Using cold water saves a significant amount of energy. Clothes last longer and colors stay brighter. Line drying clothes saves even more energy.

Organizing Tip: This sounds very simple, but not many moms hang up their keys…lost time by searching for keys (not to mention the frustration!) could be spent playing with your kids or organizing the junk drawer. Find a stylish hook to hang near the door and save the last minute frantic run around.

Time Saving Tip: Plan your meals in advance! By planning your meals for the week you will save time and money at the grocery store. Not to mention the stress of coming up with a meal on the spot. Also save time by avoiding the grocery store during peak shopping times (11a-1p and 5-7p). You may want to even consider grocery delivery, it’s not as expensive as you think when you consider gas expense.


Our Interview with the owner of Woobee Kids
What inspired you to start your business?
tot trends weeklyThere were many inspirations behind Woobee Kids, but by far the most important one was my first born Ava. We live in Seattle and being an outdoor enthusiasts wanted to take Ava outside all year around. I searched everywhere for a blanket that was water resistant, multi-functional, and incorporate the amazing fabrics and colors that are available today in the children’s industry. When I could not find it I designed one and parents reactions were amazing.

How do you manage juggling being a mom/wife/entrepreneur?
It am often overwhelmed doing it all. The only way I "manage" this crazy life choice is by having a super supportive husband, a high capacity for chaos, and I choose moments of harmony over the pressure to find balance.

What is your greatest success professionally?
I have enjoyed wonderful success in under two years. I do consider the greatest success making it through the first year of Woobee Kids. I was so naive. Designing a great product is one thing, running a company is whole different story. I have had to be open to learning an amazing amount in a very short time.

What has been your most difficult challenge?
Allowing my house be dirty and not volunteering at my daughters pre-school. When I chose to start Woobee Kids so I could be available for my girls I had this "ultimate mom" vision strong in my head. Letting that vision go so I could run a growing company was very difficult and took a lot of soul searching.

What is unique or special about your business that gives it an edge over your competitors?

Mom designed Woobee Kids bibs, burps, and blankets are unique in everyway. A combination of water resistant nylon backing and luxurious cozy front material create durable, easy to clean products that parents will use everyday. The Woobee blanket combines those technical and luxury fabrics with an innovative tie design that allows you to attach it to strollers, front packs, car seats, and everything else you can think of.

What is your favorite quote?
Imagination is more important than knowledge.
Albert Einstein

What did it take to get your business up and running?
Belief in my products, bravery, the kindness of other mothers in business, and coffee.

What advice would you give a mom who wants to start her own business?
Do the business plan (even though it can be scary) and make sure your price point is supporting a business, not a hobby.

How did you finance your company?
I cringe typing this...credit cards and the kindness of family. I do not however recommend the credit card route.


Heather Correa is the owner of Woobee Kids; shop at WoobeeKids.com

Sunday, September 02, 2007

v 3 issue 6: Fall Shopping Guide




Fall Shopping Guide



Our Fall Shopping Guide is here, full of discounts on fabulous designer clothing and gifts. Select from great online stores with excellent customer service and find your new favorite online store from our selection.

Cover by Jenny Schomaker



Emmy & Ally

tot trends weeklyFrom designer baby clothes to unique baby shower gifts, to designer diaper bags, Emmy and Ally baby boutique proudly carries the latest in designer baby fashions. You will find designer baby clothes and designer toddler clothes from Oink Baby, Icky Products, Hartstrings, Krickets Elite, Sweet Potatoes and more. Keeping in touch with mom we offer a great selection of designer diaper bags from Sally Spicer, Chelsey Henry, Oi Oi, JP Lizzy, Posh by Tori and Timi and Leslie. Designer diaper bags make a great gift, or check out our other unique baby shower gifts. Whether you need a unique baby shower gift, designer diaper bag or your just in the market for designer baby clothes, at Emmy and Ally you're sure to find something special.

Be sure to check out our Fashion category of our Fall Shopping Guide!

Bloomers

tot trends weekly Whimsical yet practical, Bloomers Baby Diaper Cakes are the perfect gift for new or expectant parents! These beautiful and stylish couture baby diaper "cakes" are actually created with layers of disposable diapers and adorned with cascading silk flowers.

Bloomers Baby Diaper Cakes are a refined and elegant rendition of an old favorite. Each baby diaper cake is carefully assembled by hand and comes wrapped in delicate white tulle, tied with a satin bow, and secured with an old-fashioned diaper pin.

A must-have for any new mom, our unique baby diaper cakes are the ideal way to say "Happy Birth Day!" or "Welcome to the World!" They make a gorgeous baby shower centerpiece, a delightful hospital newborn baby gift, or a charming decor addition to baby's first room.

Be sure to check out our Gifts category of our Fall Shopping Guide!

The Silly Wagon

tot trends weeklyThe Silly Wagon is that shop you discovered on your last long weekend in that little town you love to visit, you know the one... you wish they had something, anything like it near home. You would almost be willing to drive there just to go see what they have in, because although you don't know what you're looking for, you always find that special something that you never knew you needed, but now can't live without! They have literally searched the globe for some of the most fantastic art, jewelry, clothes and gifts for you and your own little Silly Wagon!


Be sure to check out our Boutiques category of our Fall Shopping Guide!

Figure 8 Maternity

tot trends weeklyWhether you're craving hip jeans, a trendy top, or an elegant dress, Figure 8 Maternity carries maternity and nursing clothes that are all about celebrating the miracle that's unfolding in you. Featuring designer labels like Japanese Weekend, Belly Basics, Majamas & more, their clothing collection will take you from pregnancy to motherhood in cool stylish comfort.

Be sure to check out our Mom & Home category of our Fall Shopping Guide!