v 3 issue 15: Warm Up

Warm Up

Cooler days are here with more on the way and we have found products that make it easy to keep your little one warm. We have carriers, sweaters, blankets and more.


Cover by Amy Hall



Warm Up Your Tots


1. The Bundleme Urban by JJ Cole Collections is a must-have for newborns during the winter months. With a quilted outer nylon that protects against wind and rain, while the inner microsuede adds style and warmth, you can be certain your baby will be comfortable and warm. You can use the Bundleme with car seats, strollers and joggers and it allows the safety straps to rest directly on your baby for a perfect fit. Available in lighter fabrics for warmer climates as well.

2. The perfect gift or just a beautiful piece for your child's wardrobe, Sweeters will be loved by all. Each Sweeter is knit when the order is placed (no mass production here), are 100% cotton, and each unique...no two are ever the same! Sweeters sweaters are also entirely customizable- you can choose the color, yarn weight, and can have the sweater monogrammed however you like.

3. Warm your little one up in Baby Star's new star blanket...the super soft waffle weave blanket is a perfect swaddler blanket and it’s light weight material is perfect for all seasons. The decorative star in the corner adds the perfect touch.

4. The lillébaby EuroTote should be on every winter baby's registry. The stylish carrier/bunting bag is five products in one as in allows you to use it as a carrier/bunting bag, car seat bunting, stroller blanket, play mat and sleeping bag. With two interchangeable covers for winter and summer, size adjustment for your growing baby and removable carrier board to protect baby’s fragile neck and back while being carried, this is the perfect accessory for traveling with your baby during all seasons while being safe as well (allows safety straps from car seat/stroller to secure directly over your child). Find a retailer near you at lillebabyusa.com.

5. We love these adorable hand knit booties by Chick Pea & Ana Soup. They fit perfectly on baby's foot and they will be cherished for generations. Booties are made of Merino/Silk and available in mint, steel blue, blue, peach and purple.

6. Po Po's Ponchos are made with non-pilling fleece and adorable cotton trim. Easy to put on, ponchos are quickly making a comeback for wiggly toddlers. Named after Ice Cream Flavors, you can find a wide variety of color variations available in their online store and sizes available for ages 1-5. These are much cuter is person!


How working moms do it

Getting the children up for school, feeding them breakfast, making their lunch and managing to grab your cup of coffee with a banana as you walk out the door to commute to your full-time job, sound familiar? Working 40-50 hours a week and taking care of your family is a daunting task but thousands of women do it everyday. Women have a special talent in knowing how to juggle both work and family. What is the secret to making it work? In networking with many working moms we found out common pieces of advice that help working moms get through their weekly ritual.


Top 10 Tips for the Working Mom:

1. Create a strong support and networking system - You can't do it alone, ask for help. Talk to other working moms and share tips.
2. Your spouse is your best partner and team mate - Ask him for help and partner up.
3. Don't sweat the small stuff - Family first, laundry last (it's ok to let the laundry and dishes pile up)
4. Use technology to your advantage so you can maximize your time at home - When you can schedule meetings from home via phone, use email or webcasts do it.
5. Choose the best child care - make sure it's close to office or home so you can get there in time, make sure they are dependable and your kids like them.
6. Take time out for your self - create some down time to re-energize. A rested mom is a better mom and wife!
7. Talk to your boss about a flexible work schedule - Ask for what you need. Be clear about your schedule.
8. Nursing - If you're just returning to work after baby is born choose a high quality breast pump to help you pump quickly and efficiently while at work.
9. Stay organized, keep lists and make sure your priorities are in check.
10. Remember to have FUN - Life is too short, make time for fun whether it be a date night or family night. The fun memories you create are what you'll remember forever!

By Melissa Moog, Founder of Itsabelly LLC, www.itsa-belly.com, Baby

Concierge & Planning Services for New and Expectant Parents

Showcase: The Fine Art of Family

Family is always in fashion at The Fine Art of Family, a beautiful website dedicated to the distinctive locket and photo jewelry designs of professional photographer and designer, Monica Rich Kosann.

Monica is a gallery-exhibited, fine art photographer specializing in black and white portraiture of children and families. Realizing that there is no better gift than a beautiful photograph beautifully presented, she began showcasing small photos for her clients in restored lockets, compacts and other precious heirlooms found on her visits to flea markets and antique shops. When demand grew, Monica began having the pieces made, many by the original old-world craftsmen who created the vintage pieces.

TheFineArtofFamily.com features these vintage-inspired Sterling Silver and 18K Gold lockets, image case jewelry and gifts so mothers can treasure their favorite memories in a modern day heirloom. From traditional two-picture lockets detailed with Monica’s signature floral pattern to more contemporary styles that can hold three, or even four, photos, there is a style for every woman who wants to carry her memories with her in style.

This season, The FineArtofFamily.com has introduced the Long Chain Collection of image case and charm pendants that hang from stylish long chains and are easily layered with other chains and necklaces, in addition to the White Gold Collection for women who prefer that particular style statement. The site also showcases beautifully detailed image cases, frames and gifts which make thoughtful gifts for parents, husbands and friends.

Visit this lovely site, full of beautiful photography, lockets and image case jewelry and gifts, and receive free ground shipping through December 31 with code TTW1107.