v 5 issue 38: Problem Solvers

From bedding solutions to dealing with toddler emotions, this issue is packed with tips and tricks for problem solving with your child.

Cover by Fara Smith










1 Beneficial to both parents and children, PeeKoo Bedding is a zip-system duvet cover and top sheet set which decreases bedsheet tangles and increases the ease of a bedmaking routine. With little effort, a comforter can be quickly inserted into the duvet and attached to the interior ties. Next, zip on the top sheet and spread over the mattress. Done! Enter code: TTW15 for 15% off on purchases of $100 or more.

2 The Buggy Guard offers solid protection for unattended strollers through a trusty combination lock. Each adorable animal shaped lock has a 4 1/2 foot retractable cord which pulls out in a flash to secure strollers. Lock strollers to a fence, pole, or just lock up the wheels and walk away. Enter code: TTW20 for 20% off purchase thru 5/9/10.

3 Water bottles, iPods, toys, clothing...you name it, they have a sticker to label it @ I.D. Me Labels. The labels come in a variety of colors and [professional designs, but most importantly, the labels are waterproof, dishwasher/microwave safe, and some are even laundry proof. Start labeling at an early age...you won't regret it. Enter code: TTW20 for 20% off purchases.

4 Mimicking the shape and size of the nine month nest, Tummy Tub creates a relaxing and soothing bath experience for newborns and young infants. Babies are instantly calmed by the warm, watery environment and the soft boundaries which enable baby to settle into the natural fetal position of the womb. Optional stand enhances optimal positioning for bather's back and baby's safety. Enter code: TTW20 for 20% off thru 5/9/10 @ bathedwithlove.com

5 A truly innovative design which is sure to revolutionize baby bottles as we know them. The Very Hungry bottle from mimijumi offers babies a realistic, soft textured nipple which is comparable to the natural latch of breastfeeding. A wide mouthed opening, screw on one-piece nipple, and a skid-free base promote easy prep & clean-up.

6 Ultra-padded handle covers from Padalily provide relief for the aching forearms of parenthood. By playfully bandaging hard handles with style & intense cushioning, Padalily aids parents in the cumbersome task of carrying an infant car seat. Stylish, delightful prints adorn each side of these reversible problem solvers. Enter code: TTW15 for 15% off purchases.

7 Designate the Carnival Stripe Waterproof Bag as the spot for wet and dirty swimming attire. The waterproof bag easily hangs from strollers, towel racks, or doorknobs, so sopping or sandy suits and towels can be packaged up neatly and zipped away for the ride home to the washing machine. Enter code: TTW15 for 15% off purchases. Cannot be combined with other promotions.

8 Avoid emergent feeding situations with a Flipple! With a trusty Flipple in a bag, caregivers can instantly turn any bottled water product into a baby bottle. Next time an outing lasts a little longer than expected, no need to fret, an instant beverage is only as far as the nearest convenience store. Buy a travel pack and get a single pack for free.


How to Help Your Toddler Deal with Their Emotions
Because they want to explore and test their boundaries, and because they don’t understand why they must have boundaries yet, toddlers often get very frustrated when they are stopped from crossing those boundaries. This is why it’s so important for parents to teach their child at this stage why we have boundaries and what happens when we cross them. When you instill this in your child at this stage in their life, it will carry through into their adult years. They will learn to respect authority and the laws set before us, as well as to help them make better choices as they grow up.

They don’t understand why they have to have a lid on their sippy cup, or why they can’t eat cookies for dinner, or why they must eat spaghetti at the table and not on your couch or living room rug in front of the TV. And that’s just it…they don’t understand. It’s up to you to teach them they “whys”, “hows” and “wherefores” in life, and though you may think they are too young to understand, they are not. When you talk to your son or daughter in plain language, using words they can understand, they will grasp it…eventually, yes…but they will grasp it.

This is where patience and perseverance comes in as a parent. You are going to have to have enough patience to repeat the boundaries over and over again, as well as enough perseverance to stick with it until they finally get it. Eventually they will start to understand, especially when you teach them the consequences of crossing those boundaries. This is where the rubber meets the road. This is the hard part.


Showcase - Em Tanner Designs


Visit Em Tanner Designs for personalized items with lots of style. Check out her new tees for summer. We adore them all and you will too!

Enter code: SUNNY for 20% off your total order. One time use coupon, one per customer.

v 5 issue 37: Mother's Day Gift Guide

In this issue we share some great gift ideas for Mother's Day. Treat yourself and that special mom in your life.


Cover by Heather Starr






The Mellow World Laptop Bag is constructed of a gorgeous feminine tapestry trimmed with faux leather and protected by 4 silver feet on the bottom. Comes with multiple compartments for organization. A well-built bag able to handle to bump and tumbles of work & motherhood. Available at kolobags.com. Enter code: koloTTW10 for 10% off all orders thu 5/3/10.


An alternative to traditional birthstone rings. Love 2 Design engraves the name(s) of a child as well as birth date onto your choice of 18K yellow, white, or pink gold bands. Sterling silver is also an option, and any band can be purchased in one of 4 available widths(great for dads too). Order by April 28th for Mother's Day delivery. Enter code: tottrends for 15% of purchases thru 5/1/10.




Loose, flirty... and let's throw in comfortable to change the visual over to "gotta have this great skirt". An honest-to-goodness versatile skirt which can be dressed up or down. Doesn't matter where you wear it, you will love the Adult Natalie Skirt from Matilda Jane.


The Fine Art of Family from Monica Rich Kosann presents mothers with the option of sterling silver or 18K gold when purchasing the Mom and Love Necklace. The necklace cradles the neckline with two gorgeous pendants: a disc engraved with Mom and a fob of LOVE. The addition of a signature floral pattern on the flipside of the disc allows for multiple wearing options.


The Samantha Diaper Bag, rightfully termed the "one-hand wonder", offers a magnetic closure, 3 extra deep pockets, and a storage compartment for drinks. Five available outer canvas designs, each lined with water-resistant material, are accented with durable, yet attractive, chocolate colored accents. Available @ kokopax.com. Enter code: TTW2010 for 10% purchases.


Add a finger print to a clay mold, send it off to Little Ella Bug, and in return, you get a marvelous keepsake crafted from recycled silver. The fine silver Fingerprint Pendant dangles from a sterling silver chain of 16 inches and can be accented with available crystals and gemstones. Everything needed will be sent to you via mail in the impression kit! Enter code: TTW1/2OFF for half off or code: TTW$10OFF for $10 off, your choice.


Available in kiwi, tan, or mora, the Bumble Dress found @ Mama Om is made of 100% organic pima cotton. The material creates a soft dress capable of adapting to both everyday and special occasions. The princess cut dress, with a pucker in the perfect place, is also available in a Bumbelina version for the young ones. Enter code: Moms30 for 30% off thru 5/31/10


A double sided handmade clay tile can be imprinted with an image of your choice onto one, or both sides, of the Lotus Flower Necklace from Bella Photo Jewelry. No cutting images to fit into the pendant...the work is done for you! Each tile is set into a beautiful sterling silver bezel and comes with a silver or leather chain. Enter code: TTW25 for 25% off thru 5/2/10.


This Momma Couture Satchel bag is great for moms who are always on the go...it double as a chic travel tote, too! Three stylish colors to choose from, and insulated pockets for baby bottles, water bottles, and snacks. Now that is luxury, purpose, and innovation. Enter code: TTWFS for free shipping.


You know you don't want to throw away all of the adorable artwork collected over the past year. Before the colors start to fade, send it on over to Simply Create and they will transform 9 favorites into a framed collage. Simply scan the artwork or take digital pictures of each piece, email the pix after your order is placed, and they take care of the rest! Email waisley[at]simply-create.com with code: TTW15 for 15% off purchases.


Padded, lined, and made with sturdy home dec fabric, the Market Tote from Pink Koala is one rugged over the shoulder grocery holder. Any style can be accommodated by the long list of fabrics available to customize each bag. Enter code: TTW20 for 20% percent off purchases.


Pick from a library of available messages, then Kind Notes will stuff them into a bundle of small envelopes and tuck them in a decorated jar. A wide variety of collections to choose from, but any jar may be customized. What a wonderful gift to help the important people in your life know exactly how much you care. Enter code: TTW10 for 10% off purchases.


The Boho Chic Sling Bag is a 2-in-1 delight with bright flowers sprinkled onto both sides. Moms will love the trendy print patterns and specialized pocket spaces for organizing! Fits over the shoulder or can be adjusted to sling on a stroller. Available @ bayabyabc.com.




Sharing Mom Images

Sharing Mom sentiments of love sent in from some of our talented photographers. Click on images to view their online portfolio.

Happy Mother's Day

Become a More Confident Person
If you are insecure about something, you are not alone. It is very common to have low self-esteem in an area of your life.

While it is normal to have those feelings, it can be self-sabotaging. When a person suffers from a lack of confidence, they may not try new things, and that can cause them to miss out on many good things in life.

It is possible to become more confident, but it will take some time and effort. This isn’t something a person can learn from a book. To become more confident, a person will need to start acting more confident. The early work can be the hardest. But once a person starts to develop some confidence, more confidence can easily be found.

Exercise: Many people lack confidence because they are unhappy with their bodies. It doesn’t matter if you feel you weigh too much or not enough. Instead, focus on what your body can do – whether that is walking, running, lifting weights or holding a yoga pose. When you realize what your body can do, you’ll have more confidence in yourself – and your body!

Dress Nicely: There is an old saying that goes “if you look good, you’ll feel good.” That became an ‘old saying’ because it has a lot of truth to it. If you just throw on the same old sweats day after day, you’ll start to feel a little run down. No one says you have to wear a suit and heels everyday, but if you do put a little effort into your outfit, you will notice a big change. Some nice jeans, a good fitting blouse and a necklace or earrings can make a world of difference.

Have Good Posture: Nothing says “confident” like good posture. When you walk with your head up and shoulders back, you will look self-assured and ready to take on the world. Even if you don’t feel so secure on the inside!

Compliment Others: Saying nice things to others will help you feel nice about yourself. The people you compliment will react with so many smiles and warm feelings. How could you not feel better about yourself when you know you are making someone else’s day?

Don’t Be Afraid To Be Noticed: It can be very hard to speak up or stand up in front of a crowd when you suffer from a lack of confidence. Let go of that fear and when you start receiving positive feedback from others’, you’ll be more likely to lead in the future.

Believe In Yourself: In order to have more confidence, you really do need to believe in yourself. If you don’t know one else will. So start telling yourself that you are good enough and that you can do great things!

v 5 issue 36: Live Naturally

This weeks issue is all natural from organic clothing to respecting our environment. When it comes to going green, we say start them young.


Cover by Amanda Elkins






1 The scent of schoolgirl charm sweetly rises from the stitches of this all organic dress from Origany. A full bodied espresso roast cotton forms the A-line sculpture, but the added blue pockets, slightly ruffled sleeves, and rounded collar extend the aroma. Works well by itself or when teamed with leggings and an undershirt. Enter code: TTW15 for 15% off purchases.

2 A perfect addition to any gift basket, the super absorbent organic terry velour of Swaddle Design's Hooded Towel keeps baby warm and dry after tubbies or swimming. Available at IzzyBelle's in a blue or pink mod circle print trimmed with a coordinating satin. The towel gets a picture perfect presentation from a neat rolling, a pretty bow, and the signature card label. Enter code: TTW10 for 10% off purchase.

3 Little Society has taken on the challenges of outfitting our youth with earth friendly trends and raising our awareness of endangered species. The short sleeved hoodie in a mandarin orange color has a rare frog hopping out of the lower pocket to represent the long list of jumping amphibians which may not be with us much longer.

4 The history, science, and benefits of swaddling are explained and admired in the 84 pages of Swaddle Love by Raegan Moya-Jones. Pass on the benefits, and the tradition, by pairing the book with one of the amazing muslin wraps from the organic collection @ aden + anais. The large size and breathable fabric of these swaddles truly surpasses the competition.

5 A brilliant red peacock bestows it's beauty onto a pink onesie of equally impressive quality. Organic cotton lends a hand to the silky soft texture and feel of the snap bottom shirt found @

My Little Paroka. Enter code: TTW15 for 15% off purchases.

6 With an ingredient list consisting of oils from the plants & fruits of Mother Nature, Naturity bathes the bodies of Mommies in edible moisture. The entire Organic Motherhood Line has acquired a "zero" toxicity level, ensuring safe products for you & your baby. Products can be purchased separately or packaged together in a New Mother Gift Box! Enter code: TTW15 for 15% off with purchase thru 4/18/10. Free domestic shipping on orders $50+.

7 Pale in tone, but bursting with style. Three bumbling blowfish putt their way through the bubbles of a fantastic shirt from Dadoo Kids. The citrus shaded onesie is made of a super soft 100% organic cotton and is printed with eco-conscious water-based inks. Enter code: TTW20 for 20% off purchases.

8 One little monkey is jumping for joy over comfort and a snug fit. The Short Johns from Hanna Andersson offer the ultimate in cozy, cool jammies through stretchy organic cotton and smooth flatlock seams. Nighty Night!


This weeks mom tips:
Are Your Household Cleaners Safe?

There is nothing more frightening than a child making his or her way into your household cleaning supplies. It’s a parent’s worse nightmare! To this end, it is important to find alternative ways to clean a home without jeopardizing the health of your children or your family. We are all trying to become more environmentally aware of the dangers of toxins, not only in our home but as it relates to polluting our air, waters, and landscape.

Are your household cleaners safe? If not, here are some measures you can take to make your home a healthier one.

Vinegar, Borax, Lemon Juice, Olive Oil, Salt, and Baking Soda are all the ingredients you can use to clean your entire home. They are safe, non-toxic, and can do just as good a job as your more toxic household cleaners.

Let’s begin with windows. Instead of using a popular brand of glass cleaner, use water with vinegar and lemon juice to spray onto your windows. Vinegar can also be used to clean surfaces in your kitchen and bathroom; just add salt and water. If the oven needs to be cleaned, use liquid soap, Borax and warm water. Borax can also be used as a disinfectant in hot water as well as for cleaning toilets.

Polish your furniture with olive oil and lemon juice. You can also use lemon juice to polish copper kettles; just add a bit of salt. For use in the bathroom, use baking soda and warm water. This can also be used to unclog the drain by pouring the baking soda down the drain with a cup of vinegar.

At a time when pollutants are contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer; while gas and oil fumes are literally killing our natural resources; it is time to take a hard look at what we can do as individuals to decrease the toxins from our air and water. Perhaps if we begin to use alternative methods to using brand named household cleaners, we can send a clear and definitive message to these companies that toxins are no longer an acceptable form to be used in any capacity. It all begins with our taking a stand, it all begins at home.


Raising Eco Friendly Kids
It seems today’s society is becoming totally apathetic to the world around them. Many children in particular are more concerned with playing the latest video game and don’t really pay much attention to the environment around them. It may seem hard to get your children to show an interest in the world around them, but you can get them to care if you start early and take small steps. You may not make a difference overnight, but you may just make a difference in the future of the planet.

The first step in raising your children to be eco friendly is to be eco friendly yourself. You can tell your children to be respect the environment all you want, but you’re not going to get anywhere if you don’t practice what you preach. You may not be Captain Planet, but you can start with small steps to get involved. Follow the practices of reducing, reusing, and recycling. Use natural and environmentally friendly products. Get involved with local organizations that help protect the environment.

Once you’re involved in eco friendly practices, start getting your kids to help as soon as you can. You can start out simple by having them put their own recyclables into the bin, or even have them ride along with you when you take your bin to the recycling center. You can have them help you build a compost pile, or just go shopping with you at the organic food store. When I was a child, my mom would get me to pick up trash that was lying around, and I still pick up trash I see to this day. Just remember to start small and work your way up to bigger steps.

The people who do the most to help the environment are the ones who know the most about it. That’s why it’s important to start your child learning about the world around them early. While you should do your best to teach them on your own, you can also get some help from the experts. Many zoos and nature centers offer educational classes for children as young as three years old. These can be a valuable resource in helping small children start to learn about the environment and to expand their knowledge as they get older.

Get your child involved in volunteering. If you work or volunteer for an environmental activist group, get your children involved as soon as they are old enough. Many areas offer volunteer organizations for teens and young adults. The first place to look is with the places where you found classes for young children. The most important part is that your child gets involved on a larger scale than just within your family. This also helps them meet other people their age who also care about environmental issues.

While children will inevitably be resistant to volunteering and doing extra work or chores at some point or another, they will still gain an appreciation for their environment that will last their whole lives.