Tot Trends Weekly

tot trends weekly — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 22:58:00 +0000

This issue highlights our favorite Asian-styled finds. We have filled this issue with brocades, kimonos and more.

Cover by Shannon Stewart

Asian Invasion

1 The crossover collar and Asian holiday inspired prints of these dresses capture the spirit of Asian design we love! The dress slips over heads with the greatest of ease, working with the child not against the child. Both available at Tea Collection.
2 The simple & clean design of the kimono dress by Kate Quinn Organics offers a fun, modern style for infants and kids. The dress can be worn alone as a hip, stylish outfit or with a pair of roll-over pants for a more playful look.
3 Pockets on the inside, pockets on the outside (for a total of 10 pockets!), a matching fold-up changing pad AND a wipeable, washable lining make the Kyoto Sport Utility Bag the epitome of stylish function. No need to buy all the extras for organization, it all comes right here in one sleek and chic package!
4 A hint of eastern philosophy is reflected in the soothing colors and embroidered designs of the kimono shirts at Baby Naturopathics. The quality & softness of these organic cotton shirts are as "pure" as the children who will wear them!
5 When a kimono is no longer worn it is delicately taken apart and transformed into hair accessories...giving it new life and allowing it to continue to be passed on from generation to generation. Following Japanese tradition, these vintage barrettes are lovingly crafted into the shape of a Japanese plum blossom or "ume". The barrettes vary in color and are available with a single blossom for $9.- or triple blossoms at $16.
6 Ruffles and ribbons adorn these two piece layette sets by Tralala. No fuss kimono top and matching pants come in a variety of prints all capable of making little girls as pretty and proper as a geisha!
7 Mio Piccolo's contribution to the fabulous "Asian invasion" is this gorgeous oversized baby blanket made of plush minky fabric combined with the rich red silk of the orient. Receive 10% off your next purchase by typing in LITTLEONE in the discount code section of your shopping cart!
8 Who needs socks when you can get these super cute kimono boots for only $18.! Great fabric choices will be sure to get everyone asking, "Hey peanut! Where did you get those fabulous boots?"

This week's mom tips
Financial tip:
This one sounds easy but isnt always easy to do! Pay your credit cards off every month to avoid interest fees and late fees.
Green tip:
Reduce tree use in your home. Replace paper napkins with cloth napkins, purchase bleach-free toilet paper that is made from post-consumer waste, print documents on bleach-free, recycled paper, and leave messages on a reusable message board instead of note paper.
Cleaning tip:
Unclutter your kid rooms. Store half of your kids' toys and switch them around every few months.
Time saving tip:
Reduce your shopping time by shopping at only one grocery store. By getting to know the layout of a store you will be able to locate less common items easily and will save you time.

Your funny kids
Kids say the funniest things, don't they? You sent us your funny kids' sayings and we had to share!
My son Bryce who was 4 at the time, said his dad was so lazy that he couldn't even roll over!
-submitted by Whitney

I was watching the news one night and it was about a woman being kidnapped. My daughter was 5 at the time and said "Mom, do bad people take pretty women?" and I said "Yes, sometimes... why?" and she said "Is that why you do your hair so ugly!!"
-submitted by Leslie

One night while sitting around talking with family, I asked my sister if she wanted to join our fast that our church does each year with us. Before either of us could say anything else, my dear nephew said I think my Mom and Dad do that already, " I heard Dad ask Mom if she wanted a "quickie" one time. We all died laughing!!
-submitted by Pamela

On a road trip a few months back, we swung through McDonalds drive-thru for a quick lunch. I ordered 2 hamburger happy meals, no mustard. We get the food and start heading down the road. All of sudden from the back seat my 4 year old begins to scream. She furiously states while looking at her burger: "They didn't give me pickles, I PAID for pickles and they didn't give them to me! Turn around!"
-submitted by Hope

To give you a little background, our precious Dylan is the laid back, easy going kiddo of the bunch while our little sweet Connor seems to be the "discovery baby" of the two and seems to always find himself in the middle of chaos. Well lately, we've started calling him by his first and middle name (like so many parents do when their little bugs get into trouble) so you'll hear "Connor David....Connor David..." on occasion. Dylan evidently has picked up on this usage of the middle name with his little brother and even will call him "Connor David" when he sees Connor is about to get into something he shouldn't. Well, the other day Dylan was asking me for his 3rd cookie in about 3 minutes and when I told him 2 cookies was the limit, he looked right at me, put his hands on his hips, narrowed his eyes, and in the most stern voice says to me "Mommie David."
-submitted by Samantha

When I was pregnant with my second child, I would always encourage my oldest, Emilee, to talk to her baby sister. One day we were sitting on the couch and I said to her "say hi to Gracie". So she leans over me, grabs my cell phone, flips it open, places it on my belly and says "Hi Gracie".
-submitted by Diana

We love hearing about and seeing your funny kids...submit your kid's comment or photo to contact@tottrendsweekly.com

tot trends weekly — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 19:33:00 +0000

v 3 issue 36: Room Revamp

Room Revamp

Looking to spice up your tot's room? We have found lots of goodies that will make a great addition to any child's room.

Cover by Christine Rozak

Room Revamp

1 Classic charm with a modern twist makes MiGi one of our top picks for crib bedding and nursery decor. It's designer quality with the perfect price tag! The Splash Diaper Stacker is just one example of a great find at only $19.99.

2 Safe for babies, functional for tots & stylish for kids. Loom Pop Bins are made of 100% natural canvas with sturdy handles for durability that lasts. Internal coil supports keep bins upright for easy storage and strapping helps to hold them together for compact storage when not in use.

3 P'kolino creates multi-purpose furniture designed with fun, function and play in mind. The clothes tree is a cool way to keep clutter off the floor. What makes this clothes tree better than the average clothes tree? When stripped of jackets...it changes into a creative play sculpture for the fruitful imagination of a child.

4 Comfort, quality and clean lines come together to create the kid-friendly chairs & loveseats by Cubino. Durable foam construction, machine washable covers and the ability to adapt to numerous room designs make these seats absolutely fabulous for kids and moms alike!

5 Kelly B. Rightsell Designs combines a talent for sparking the imagination with creative, original artwork designs. The result is traditional nursery pieces parents can combine to create the perfect nursery full of daydreams and delight!

6 Tidying up is a cinch with a little help from the Land of Nod. With an open concept and a fresh look these storage bins are sure to store all kinds of toys, books and trinkets with the greatest of ease. Who knows...the children may actually help with the cleaning!

7 Looking for a little inspiration for your revamped room design? Switchplates with an urban flair, available at alaModeStuff.com, may be just what you're looking for. With an array of styles to choose from in either single, double or triple switch plates, you can cost effectively add just the right touch at only $10.00- $14.00.

8 With a splash of color and a pinch of modern design, Stella Stackable storage bins can help create a clutter free environment in a snap. Keeping the planet and your child's safety in mind, the Q Collection Junior line of children's furniture is manufactured in a sustainable manner with non-toxic materials to maintain the company's mission of creating people safe, planet safe furniture.

9 DwellStudio Wall Art is a collection of simply attractive & colorful designs screenprinted on staple free gallery wrapped frames. Whether in a nursery or a toyroom, the organized arrangement of the shapes & pictures of this modern art is sure to add a little orderly inspiration to a sometimes chaotic world!

Get your kids organized

If the mess is so overwhelming to you that you feel you cant even tackle the problem anymore it is time to get your kids involved. Depending on their age and abilities your child should be able to assist you each day with a few chores. Before you know it, you will be well on your way to keeping an organized home.

We have listed chores that your kids should be able to help with:

1 Make the bed every day! Even your 2 year old can help you do this (though they wont do a great job they will learn that making the bed each day is part of their routine which will help you when they are older).
2 If you do one load of laundry a day it wont become so overwhelming on the weekends. Have your older child help separate the laundry by colors.
3 Kitchen cleanup. Kids as young as 4 should be able to scrape their plate and put it on the counter.
4 Clean up the living room each evening prior to bed time. Make the kids pick up their toys and put them in their rooms prior to heading to bed.
5 Start a nighttime routine for your family. Include in this time picking up the house of their toys and clothes, putting their dirty clothes in the laundry and setting out their clothes for the next day.
6 Set a clean up time in the evening when everyone picks up their space. Show your kids exactly how you want their room picked up…label bins with photos so that your kids know what should go in them (or words for older kids who can read).
7 Reduce plastic toy buildup. When going through fast food drive-thru’s ask them not to include they toy. For birthdays and holidays ask for gift certificates to activities instead of toys.
8 Stuffed animals must go! They not only can cause health problems due to buildup of dander and more but they cause massive clutter chaos. For those favorite stuffed animals consider a hammock for them up near the ceiling or Boon’s stuffed animal holder is a great ‘pillow’ that keeps them contained.
9 Purchase a rolling under bed basket/bin. This will make pick-up easy for the kids and easy on your eyes!
10 Consider investing in a ‘do it yourself’ custom closet like those from Easy Closets. They make storage of clothes, toys, books, movies, games and stuffed animals easy and look fantastic!

This week's mom tips

Cleaning Tip:
To remove water spots on stainless steel, rub area with a clean, soft cloth dampened with white vinegar. Then wipe dry to avoid spots.

Time Saving Tip:
No time to read? Find the book you want to read on tape and listen in the car, while cleaning the house or walking. Save money by borrowing audio books from your local library.

Financial Tip:
More than 20 percent of 401(k) plan participants don't invest enough to get the maximum company matching contribution. How much you have to invest to get the employer match and how much your employer will match varies. Ask your HR department or the plan administrator how much you need to invest to get the maximum company match. Then change your contribution level to qualify for this incredible benefit. If your spouse has a better policy, consider putting more money in their 401 (k) plan.

Green Tip:
Use soy candles. Soy candles are made from a renewable resource, and are completely biodegradable. They emit no carcinogens, and burn much cleaner than paraffin-based candles. And soy products support farmers!

tot trends weekly — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 12:08:00 +0000

v 3 issue 35: Sweet Dreams

It's time for bed and sweet dreams. This issue is full of bedtime treats that will make night time easy and fun.

Cover by Heather Jenkins

Sweet Dreams

1 Swaddle your cherub in the heavenly softness of robbie adrian luxury organics. These precious blankets are made of 100% certified organic cotton or fleece fabric and are topped off with a natural silk trim in a ruffled or straight edge. Makes an elegant & unforgettable present when tucked inside the available keepsake gift box!
2 The TykeLight by Mobi will make nighttime fun as they explore their room, tent or backyard. The TykeLight is fully rechargeable and has a soft glow nightlight feature, as well as brighter lights as you click the bottom. Illuminates up to 10 hours on a single charge and even glows while charging. The impact resistant plastic means its safe and durable. $25, Baby-wise.com.
3 Goodbye sleepless nights. Hello Sandman! Dreamerz is Grandma's warm glass of milk with a new twist. They have added two safe, all-natural & scientifically proven ingredients, Lactium and Melatonin, to promote a state of relaxation and sleepiness. In three yummy flavors of chocolate s'nores, creme de la REM & vanilla van winkle, you are sure to pleased with the flavor and effectiveness of this fabulous nighttime concoction.
4 Keep the kiddies in bed longer with the help of Arf Kids. This revolutionary product is a triple function alarm clock, night light and sleep aid which is simple for children to comprehend. With a little practice and patience, children will quickly understand when the bunny is in bed they should be in bed & when the bunny is awake they can be awake!
5 Ease your child into a bedtime ritual with the help of a soft and friendly ladybug which lights up walls and ceilings with the stars of the night sky. With the press of a button, children can change the color of illumination between ruby red, emerald green and sapphire blue. The Twilight Ladybug Nightlight is also portable and has a built in 45 minute timer!
6 We are lovin' this funky Kashwere fabric robe in bright and savvy colored stripes. Kashwere is an utterly fantastic soft and cushy fabric children will love to cuddle in before bedtime. Check out this great find along with many others at sleepyhead.com.
7 Swaddling is a safe and effective way to make babies feel secure and comfortable by mimicking the close quarters of the womb and reducing wakefulness due to startle reflexes. We love these wraps because they are the right size (bigger than we are used to here in America!), the right price (a 4 pack for $44.-) & the right fabric for perfect swaddles. The open weave design of soft breathable muslin used in the aden + anais baby wrap ensures warmth by allowing body temperature to adjust naturally without overheating. Special wraps are available for a little extra winter warmth!
8 Dim the lights and induce restful sleep with the Downtime Sleepy Hat. The super cute hat, with it's built-in sleeping mask, works by decreasing visual stimuli and creating a dark environment to help babies safely fall off to sleep and/or keep them asleep for longer periods. Plus, the clever closed eyelash design of the flip down mask clues onlookers to do not disturb!
9 Make sleepy memories into creative art at friends with a fish. The idea is simple and unique. Send in favorite pajamas, stuffed toys or any adored memorabilia and friends with a fish will create samples of artwork to be treasured by you and your child for years to come.

Q&A from our readers
One of our readers inquired for your advice:

My 3 year old will not go to sleep unless my husband or I lay down with her. When we have friends over this is very difficult as one of us has to go upstairs to be with her for 30-40 minutes to get her to sleep. Now that we have a baby on the way we have to fix the problem.
-Missy, mom to Meghan. San Diego, CA.

So many of you sent in your advice, thank you!

Each night slowly move closer and closer to the door until you're out of their room. - Jennifer

The couple should buy Dr. Weisbluth's book, Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child. The book contains excellent information about how to correct many different sleep problems. I wish I had read it before I had my daughter. I now buy it for everyone I know who's expecting. Hopefully this will help! - Kelly; Phonix, AZ.

I suggest that you create a really good and predictable (routine) that includes a bath and a story and some snuggle time before the lights go out. Once the light goes out you need to tell your daughter that you love her and tuck her in snuggly and then leave the room. If she protests you have to be loving but firm and tell her that it is bed time and that she needs to go to sleep on her own. This may be met with tears and protest but your daughter’s needs for your affection and attention can be met during waking hours. It may not seem kind and loving to leave a three year old in her room crying but it may be the only way that she can learn. If she gets out of bed take her back to bed without talking and put her lovingly back in bed and again leave immediately. -V.S. Milton

I hate bribery... but you could try some small trinket OR special toys to put by her bed - make the limit of ONE and only ONE short story, remind the child that after one story and prayer you will leave the room with the toy beside the bed - if the child stays in bed w/ no pouting/crying then in the AM the toy is for keeps - worth a try - you may want to start w/ small toys or it could cost a lot - good luck - sweet dreams!! Tiffany; Parsons, KS.

Try the 10 minute rule. Let them fuss for 10 minutes and then go in, then add 5 minutes every time you have to go back. If they come out of the room, walk them back in queitly and do not speak, just lay them down. It does break you heart, but if you stick to your guns, you will have a sleeping toddler in no time and more time for adult time!! -Shawn

Sweet Dreams Baby - Tips for a Good Night's Sleep

If your newborn is not getting enough sleep you'll be sure to have a fussy baby on hand. A fussy baby can mean more sleep deprivation for already worn down new parents. In fact, the American Sleep Association states that adults need at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night which is nearly impossible during your newborn's first few months. For a newborn baby 5 hours of straight sleep is considered "sleeping through the night" and 16 hours of sleep a day is generally required for infants overall. It's also important to create a sleeping environment that's comfortable, soothing and safe for baby. It will not only help your baby ease into successful sleeping habits but hopefully allow you to enjoy more sleep filled nights.

Important Tips for a Good Night's Sleep:

* Make good nutrition a priority - assure your baby is getting well balanced meals through out the day so that she doesn't wake up hungry.
* Provide a consistent bedtime routine for your baby - children function better under a regular sleep routine so make sure to keep things consistent. For example, giving your baby a bath and reading her a bedtime story before bed every night will help your baby wind down.
* Make sure baby has a comfortable sleep environment - check the room temperature, make sure baby is not too hot or cold in her sleepwear, dim the lights to signal it's sleep time, add soft lullaby music to set the mood.
* A safe sleep environment is important - make sure there aren't any loose blankets or stuffed animals near baby's sleep space so she's not endanger of suffocation.
* Nap times should be consistent - an over tired baby with no naps will get fussy towards the end of the day and a baby who naps too long may not sleep through the night.
* Allow your baby to soothe herself to sleep - it's ok to rock your baby until she's drowsy before you put her down. However, do not allow her to fall completely asleep in your arms. This will help her learn how to soothe herself to sleep and less dependent on you.

For more resources on sleep information for your baby and you check out the following:
Elizabeth Pantley's No Cry Sleep Solution:
http://www.pantley.com/elizabeth/index.html
Ask Dr. Sears:
http://www.askdrsears.com/html/7/T070300.asp
American Sleep Association:
http://www.sleepassociation.org/index.php
American Academy of Sleep Medicine:
http://www.aasmnet.org/

Melissa Moog is Founder of Itsabelly Baby Concierge, a premier baby planning service that helps new and expectant parents navigate the world of all things maternity and newborn. Itsabelly has been featured in Pregnancy Magazine, Cool Mom Picks and Metro Parent. Melissa is also the Pregnancy Planning Expert for The Bump. For more information on Itsabelly see: www.itsa-belly.com

tot trends weekly — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 18:02:00 +0000

The weather is changing and it's time to break out the tee's. For the coolest, silliest, and cutest tee's look no further. Our terrific tee's issue will leave you wishing for summer days.

Cover by Kellie Anderson

Terrific Tee's

1 XOXOs in the shape of a kiss helps send your sweetie off with love in her heart. Puckered shoulders emphasize the puckered lips on this smoochable tee and make the girls feel oh-so-pretty! Available in sizes 0-6 month up to 6 at Startafoodfight.com.
2 Eco-friendly toddler tees are decorated with alphabet inspired graphic designs at bioME5. Kids will love visiting the sights and sounds of this web-store with parents -they just may have a hard time picking out their favorite!
3 Show off your little blessing from above in this cute little angel one piece. A black onesie with silver screenprinted angel wings on back and ruffles for the tooshie make this tee heavenly!
4 From A-B-C to X-Y-Z, these tees are fabulous! Each Learning Tee comes with an alphabet lesson on a shirt and a "fact tag" for added learning fun. They also make great gifts! Shirts come packaged in a 100% recyclable box with the corresponding letter, so just add a ribbon and you're done!
5 Whimsical, modern playclothes are a plenty at jasper hearts wren. You are sure to be satisfied by the quality and detail of these felt designed tees. Lots to choose from! With sizes from 3-6months all the way up to 6 years you can keep your little cutie in unique styles for quite a while.
6 Little UNI offers long and short sleeve tees hand-crafted in Chicago on 100% cotton softness. Funky fabric silhouettes of animals and familiar objects make these tees utterly delightful. All of the sweet and simple shirts are available in infant and toddler sizes and customers have the option to personalize with baby's name.
7 With Prpl Nrpl, it's not just the name that is funny. A variety of witty messages await those parents with a sense of humor as real as the traits the tees shed light on. Designs from silly to bold are sure to get a reaction and a laugh. Hee-hee!
8 These silly tees by Deadly Girl Couture twist the popular fashion brand names like Prada and Louis Vuitton to become Pradada and Louis Spitton. Find other silly renamed brands like Armomi, Burpberry, and Calvin Whine at Kitsel.com.

This Week's Mom Tips

Financial Tip:
Do as mom would do...turn down the thermostat by two degrees, repair those leaky faucets, use light bulbs that consume less power, clean heating and air vents regularly, and make sure that doors and windows are airtight. You will save a bundle following these rules.

Time Saving Tip:
Make a list! You will save time and you wont forget an important item when shopping (and you will save money by sticking to the list and only buying what you need).

Organizing Tip:
Label bins, plastic tubs, boxes (or anything you store toys in) and teach your child how to sort their toys. If they learn how to take care of their toys you dont have to do it for them.

Cleaning Tip:
Use rubbing alcohol to clean the caulking around bathtubs (it will also shine chrome and glass).

Sexy Mommy Do's and Dont's

I've always wanted to write like Erma Bombeck. But I didn't want to look like her. To me, she epitomized the mom of the 70's: cushy, lined and everything held up with a girdle that was like steel compared to today's Spanx.

As a mommy today, I don't want to look like a mom (or rather, I want to look like 2008's mom, definitely not yesteryear's).

Here's some tips to keep you on the straight and narrow:

* Don't wear jeans that pull up an inch or more past your belly button and rest under your rack emphasizing your pot belly and your wide hips. They're dated. Go to your closet and throw them away now (and don't donate them to Good Will. Women who need a helping hand don't want to look ridiculous either.
* Don't protect your hairstyle from the 90's at all costs. Consider asking a top notch stylist for a Katie or a conservative version (I repeat, a version) of a Posh cut.
* Do buy sexy lingerie for daily wear. Not just for Saturday night.
* Do wear large-ish, modern black sunglasses. Do wear eyeglasses that a fashionable tech helps you select.
* Don't wear tennis shoes with everything. Or worse: don't pair hiking boots with your jeans. Unless you're hiking. Duh.
* Don't let the grays poke through.
* Do re-think beauty. The days when women could be smart OR beautiful, are sooo OVER! Why should we let this luxury go to men alone. You can be beautiful, smart and a good mom (gasp!) all at the same time!

And last? A sense of humor. I notice that when anyone has a rollicking sense of humor, I find them super attractive and absolutely wonderful to be around.

Now go make somebody laugh (just promise you won't do it because you're wearing a pair of dorky looking jeans).

-by Romanceandthemommy.com

tot trends weekly — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:38:00 +0000

Spring is here and flowers are beginning to bloom. With the weather warming up we thought we would introduce a few spring treats as well as our favorite booty exercises for mom!

Spring has Sprung

1 We simply love a cute bubble! The spring collection from Little English is a must for your little girls spring wardrobe. This bubble is hand smocked, made of cotton seersucker, and adorned with adorable dragonflies. Available in sizes 6 months to 4T at LittleEnglish.com.
2 With flowers sprouting in our near future; Crea Crea makes gardening fun for kids with their collection of pruners, rakes and shovels. Found at Pylones-usa.com.
3 Explore the great outdoors with your child hands-free with Beco Baby Carrier. The Beco Butterfly carrier is a front AND back carrier that is comfy for both mom (dad) and your child. The butterfly fits baby from birth to 45 lbs (the built-in infant insert enables baby to sit higher in the carrier). We have tested this ourselves on a 4 mile treck and absolutely love how comfortable and easy it is!
4 Now your favorite soft-soled shoes can head outside! Your toddler can now enjoy the outdoors in comfort with the new Robeez Tredz. These new outdoor shoes still have the stay-on elastic ankle, the comfortable shoe design and adorable styles…now combined with an outdoor protective sole.
5 Make time fly with these beautiful butterfly lacing set. Guaranteed to occupy for long stretches of time, this kit contains 24 wings to mix and match on the flower card. Great for developing eye-hand coordination. $15 at MagicCabin.com.
6 Pink Dixie has created this adorable retro pinafore that screams spring. The pinafore wraps around and crisscrosses in the back and comes with matching bloomers. Pair with a tee and jeans for cool days or wear alone when the weather warms up.
7 Celebrate those cooler spring days with a hat knit by Nana. These 100% handcrafted hats by Nana Knits are super cute and encourage a smile on those gloomy spring days.
8 Now that the snow is disappearing for most, head outside with your tyke to ride a Skuut bike. The Skuut bike is a wooden balance bike that teaches them how to balance, steer and works on coordination all without fear and training wheels. Perfect for ages 2-5.

This week's mom tips

Cleaning Tip:
Remove smoke smells quick by placing a bowl of vinegar in the room.

Organizing Tip:
Put hooks and pegs on the backs of room door and on the insides of closet doors for quick hangups for your children.

Time Saving Tip:
Subscribe to a major news outlet's online newsletter, like CNN's "AM QuickNews." In one e-mail, you'll get short briefs of the day's top stories and weather, and you can request stories on specific topics of interest.

Financial Tip:
Try store brands at the grocery store...not only will you save but most of the store brands taste the same as the name brand (and some even taste better!).

Shape up those buns

It’s time to shape up those buns for the upcoming shorts and bathing suit season. Get started now and you will have a rockin’ rear by the time you have to flaunt it in a swimsuit. By adding weight to each of these exercises you are burning more calories! Our favorite butt exercises are:

Squat and press – Use dumbbells and position over shoulders, squat down and when you raise lift the dumbbells straight up. Repeat.

Lunges – Reverse lunges, walking lunges as well as side to side lunges are our favorite.
A reverse lunge simply means that you step backwards for the lunge. Use small weights in your hands for a greater burn (and to burn more calories). Switch legs and repeat.
A walking lunge simply means you are stepping forward one leg at a time and lowering your knee to the floor (well, almost the floor) then join legs and step forward with your opposite leg. Remember to hold weights in your hands for a better workout.
A side lunge with interior raises will really make you feel the burn. For this one stand with legs far apart and you are going to lunge from side to side. Upon side lunge lift your dumbbells up straight in front of you until you reach eye level. Move side to side while continually lifting arms.

Step ups – Step up to a platform while holding hand weights. Go slow and use a higher step/bench as you get stronger. Be careful…don’t bend your knee greater than 90 degrees. Repeat.

Drum roll please...if you want a booty like Jessica Beil (if you aren’t sure what her butt looks like be sure to do a google search to check it out!) this is the best exercise move:
Deadlifts – Form is very important here and if you have back problems don’t attempt them. Stand holding a pair of dumbbells with your arms at your sides (knees slightly bent). Keep your arms straight and slowly bend at your hip and lower the weights as far as you can without rounding your back (keep that back straight!!), now squeeze and lift yourself up… be sure not to use your back. Repeat.

Do each of the above exercises 2 sets of 10 reps each to sculpt a better butt for summer.

tot trends weekly — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 12:47:00 +0000

v 3 issue 32: Make Your Home Safe

With the new reports of phthalates found in nearly all babies, it is time for consumers to demand safer products. These products are safe for your family and cute as well.

Cover by Kellie Anderson

Safe products for baby

1 Thinkbaby bottles address the growing concern over toxic chemicals leaching from plastic baby bottles. They are free of Bisphenol-A, PVC, Lead, Phthalates, and Nitrosamines.

2 Perfect for your toddler, The Safe Sippy stainless steel drinking cup is a non-leaching stainless steel cup that is plastic free (and free from other harmful chemicals) and they topped it with a plastic straw free from Bisphenol A, phthalates and DEHA and a cap made out of Polypropylene plastic (the most stable of plastics). The water has very little contact with these safe plastics to prevent leaching.

3 If you are worried about what plastics may be doing to your baby, the first thing that should go are those old plastic teethers! Baby Vibe has come up with a revolutionary therapeutic teether that vibrates and is non-toxic. This safe teething ring provides a natural solution to baby’s teething aches and pains.

4 Babylife has reintroduced glass baby bottles with a twist…the bottles are covered with a protective sleeve to prevent breakage (and spice them up with a little color!). The sleeves are free of plastics and are 100% non-toxic. All extra parts like the nipple, plastic ring, plug and cap contain no polycarbonates and are recyclable. Babylife baby bottles are bisphenol A, phthalate, PVC and polycarbonate-free.

5 When looking for safe, natural and durable toys Haba is a great choice. This German company creates durable wooden toys that last and are non-toxic. Another great choice are organic cotton plush toys by Kathe Kruse and Lana Organics. All of these great brands can be found at Oompa.com

6 Bundle baby safely in Swaddle Designs organic swaddle blankets. Made from certified organic cotton grown on family farms, the flannel is processed and pre-shrunk in Earth-friendly ways. These blankets are simply the softest swaddle blankets and while they are organic, they are also styled with Swaddle Designs signature edging.

7 The news of Phthalates testing in infants absolutely terrified us and sent us on the hunt to find shampoo’s that are Phthalate-free. Among our favorites is California Baby. California baby products do not contain Sodium Lauryl Sulfate or DEA, instead they use a non-invasive and biodegradable cleanser that can be used for hair, face and body. Their products are formulated for sensitive skin and are naturally no-tear formulas.

8 Keep your home safe with non-toxic cleaning products like Shaklee. Shaklee’s Get Clean cleaning line offers you nontoxic and natural cleaning choices that are safe, powerful, green and smart. Their cleaners are non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and contain no harmful fumes.

9 With the recent baby bib recall scare, we are happy to let you know that Kiddopotamus has created a bib that is latex, Phthalate and PVC free. This amazing bib is waterproof, wipes clean easily and is stain and crack resistant. Best of all, it is made in the good ol’ USA.

This week's mom tips

Green Tip:

Turning off and unplugging electrical appliances when they are not in use will save a surprising amount of energy. Many appliances enter “passive standby” mode when they are turned off, which allows the appliances to start up quickly when switched on. Other appliances continuously use energy to power clock displays. According to Energy Star, as much as 40 percent of the energy used to power appliances is consumed while they are turned off. Unplugging appliances will help avoid this energy waste.

Financial Tip:

Check your car's tire pressure each month with a good-quality dial-type gauge. Tires that are under inflated will reduce fuel efficiency by 2% for every pound they are under inflated. If your tires are under inflated it can also causes premature tire wear giving your tires a shorter life span.

Time Saving Tip:

Teach the kids how to do chores...as kids we were expected to perform daily chores. Have your children learn one chore a day and consider paying allowance for chores, not just good grades. Let them know how much you appreciate their help and that being a part of a family and living in a home requires responsibilities.

Cleaning Tip:

Remove blood from clothing or furniture with hydrogen peroxide (rub gently). Corn Starch can also remove blood stains...rinse the stain in cold water and run with moistened corn starch, then place the item in the sun.

Here Comes Baby...Better Get Ready

As baby planning consultants to expectant parents, our clients constantly ask us our advice on how best to prepare for baby. Of course we can talk for hours (and we do!) about the benefits of one stroller over another, which layette items are essential, and how to "interview" your pediatrician, but in addition to knowing where the baby is going to sleep and whether or not you’ll be using cloth or disposable diapers, here are a few other details to tend to. No they're not quite as exciting as picking a name, but the following "must do's" are always on The Baby Planner’s checklist:

Prepare a birth plan. A birth plan is your roadmap for how you’d like your birth experience to unfold. It’s meant to be a source of comfort and confidence but must remain flexible as no one can predict exactly how it will go. Basically, you should decide before your water breaks, who you’d like in the delivery room with you (parents, in-laws, doula?) to whether or not you’re planning a natural birth (or if you’re open to medication should you need it). Discuss your birth plan with your partner and share it with your Doctor. It’s important that you’re all on the same page now to avoid possible disappointment later.

The Baby Planners also ALWAYS recommend having your infant car seat professionally installed. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, up to 80% of car seats in use today are installed incorrectly. That’s a pretty scary statistic. The good news? It’s getting easier and easier to find a professional. Many baby retailers, from the larger chain stores to boutiques, now offer this service, sometimes even for free. There’s a great website we recommend for finding a certified car seat installer in your neighborhood. Simply plug in your zip code and you’re in for a smooth ride: http://www.seatcheck.org.

Lastly, we highly recommend taking an Infant CPR class. This is essential in preparing for your baby’s arrival. The idea behind it is to increase the likelihood of a good outcome in a potential life-threatening situation. A good CPR class not only gives you the basic skills you’ll need but also the confidence to handle even the most unpredictable event. Check with your local hospital, pediatrician, or the Red Cross for class information.

Melissa Gould and Ellie Miller are The Baby Planners™, Los Angeles’ premiere baby planning service, offering nationwide phone and email consultations as well as personal concierge service. They've been featured on the Rachael Ray Show, In The Loop with iVillage and in Pregnancy Magazine. They can be found at www.thebabyplanners.com © 2008 all rights reserved, The Baby Planners™

tot trends weekly — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 02:23:00 +0000

v 3 issue 31: The Luck of the Irish

St. Patrick's Day is coming and it is time to celebrate with all things green!

Cover by Julie Cruz

Lovin' Green

1 This petal-skirted dress from happygreenbee is a bold and bright delight that is just right for spinning, dancing or curtsying. No fuss fabric makes this dress a cinch to throw on in a pinch, so add a little twirly whirly fun to your daughter's wardrobe and let the dizziness begin!
2 Shoes so cute, you'll want to do a jig! Trumpette's patent leather green moccasins are a treat for the eyes and the feet. Available in infant sizes to fit little piggies from 3-6 months up to 18-24 months.
3 Make it a sassy holiday in this shaggy head topper perfect for the big St. Patrick's Day Parade. The Kate's Moss hat by Zooni offers a stretchy & snug fit perfect for keeping little tyke noggins warm and cozy during the cold and windy days of March.
4 Kaboost makes any chair a booster seat with their genius invention. Add Kaboost and make any chair more stable (it even stays on while the chair is moved), it easily snaps on and won't scratch your floors. Now little kids can sit just like big kids!
5 Adorn your little one's hair with the luck of the Irish. Snaps, clips and hairgrips keep these bows secure on the finest of hair-even as the March wind roars like a lion in the sky, and makes us shiver as he passes by!
6 Super soft long sleeve tees are a plenty at cottonseedclothing.com. With solid color tees available in every color of the rainbow, you'll never have trouble finding a matching shirt again.
7 The secret to keeping the skin of leprechauns clean is naturally Niklas' Mint Chocolate Sudsy Sponge. An all-natural glycerin and olive-oil based soap with the yummy fragrance of mint chocolate is hidden like a pot o' gold in a hypo-allergenic sponge. It's fun and easy washing kids & parents will love!
8 Let's go Out to Tea and "dress our hair" in style. Non-slip clips and adjustable headbands make a great accessory to any outfit and there are plenty to choose from here. Great patterns and styles of headbands are available in toddler to adult sizes, so be sure to shop for yourself too!
9 If you're looking to get rid of the green, we've found just the thing! Boogie Wipes offer a unique alcohol free formula which moisturizes while cleaning up those runny noses. With the not so good news about cold medications being too risky for little ones, Boogie Wipes offer a safe alternative for dealing with the symptoms of the nasty cold and the sometimes never-ending cleanup.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with these great ideas:

The night before...
With your kids prepare a plate of raw mushrooms and leave it out for the leprechaun's (then once they are asleep, leave gold-foiled covered chocolate coins behind on the plate as a token of thanks for the kids)

Put the kids to bed and...
Switch their sock drawer with their shirt drawer
Turn some of the furniture upside down and rearrange the rest
Fill everyone's shoes with green confetti

The Day of:
Wear green on St. Patrick's Day
Make green eggs or pancakes for breakfast (use food coloring)
Serve with green milk (food coloring again)
Paint their fingers and toe nails green
Decorate the house in green - Use green balloons, crepe paper, shamrocks and confetti
Make shamrock shaped sugar cookies - frost with green icing and green sugar sprinkles
Serve food using green paper plates, cups and napkins

This week's mom tips

Cleaning Tip:
Club soda or seltzer water will clean chrome.

Time Saving Tip:
Keep a squeegee in the shower so everyone can wipe it down when they are done (this will help prevent mildew).

Organizing Tip:
Place a hamper/laundry basket for dirty clothes in each bedroom. Now everyone can take care of their dirty clothes easily.

Financial Tip:
Save on gasoline and travel expenses, use car pools or take the public transport to and from work.

tot trends weekly — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 02:05:00 +0000

When I Grow Up

Does your little one dream of being a doctor, in the navy or be just like dad? This issue features products that allow them to play and explore their dreams.

Cover by Erin Green

When I Grow Up

1- We love this adorable navy blue letterman from Up and Away. Exceptional quality and a commitment to authenticity make this the perfect jacket for your future star athlete.
2-Little ones will be ready for a tough day of work in a striped tie onesie from clusterofparrots.com. To add to the character of this shirt, place it under a cardigan or V-neck sweater for a realistic, grown-up style comparable to Daddio's.
3-Get your preschooler ready to handle funds independently with the Money Management Toolkit from Tessy & Tab. The kit equips parents with the tools and guides to teach children early financial skills through a 7 step program. Charts, books and a bank help reinforce lessons on saving, spending and sharing. With the help of parents, preschoolers will get a great head start on the ever important skills of money management.
4-The I'm Still Me Mailbox Kit delivers real-life fun in a kid-friendly package. The 27 piece set includes a felt mailbox, stamps, postcards... Perfect for imaginary postal play and preparing little ones for a lifetime of reading, writing or delivering.
5-Little dudes will be as cool as Dad in these big boy underpants made to cover up the truth (the diaper underneath!). Suit them up with a color coordinating tee or use it as an added touch to a career inspired outfit.
6-Future small business owners of America will love this realistic wooden cash register available at Silly Wagon. Comes with play cash, a tally pad and wooden grocery tiles. Open the box, add a little imagination & your store is OPEN!
7-Aspiring MDs need only look inside this Doctor's Suitcase to find all the tools they need for a fun filled day of make believe. Use it to ease the fear of a future doctor's visit or for practicing techniques with teddy bears. Just what the doctor ordered!
8-One thing Democrats and Republicans can agree on is the cute factor of this tee. Beautiful Futures offers an assortment of bright & colorful t-shirts on a mission to remind kids and parents alike that "everything is possible".
9- Ambitious tots will look super sweet and ready to take care of business wearing one of these ties. The canvas tie comes in a variety of mod styles all with a unique raw edge. Elastic hides neatly under collars and easily slips over kiddos noggins for convenience. Other ties need not apply...this one is too cute for words!

Recession-Proof Parties

The "R" word. It's been on the lips of talk show hosts, financial analysts, news reporters and anchors since November. And while America is not technically in a recession, consumers are worried their dollar won't go as far as they'd like and are holding onto their purse strings tightly.
But, that doesn't change the fact that birthday parties are still a big business. Kids don't care that the economy is taking a downturn, so how is mom and dad supposed to throw a bash on a shoestring budget? Party-planning expert Lisa Kothari, author of "Dear Peppers and Pollywogs...What Parents Want to Know About Planning Their Kids' Parties" has gathered her tricks and tips for a three-part series on recession-proof children's parties.

PART ONE: THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX

"Parents can easily throw a fun and impressive kid's party on a budget if they just get a little creative with the theme," says Kothari. "Think about what your kids really like to do, what activities really make them happy. Then, build-out a few other themed ideas and before you know it, you'll have yourself a successful party."

A Messy Party!
What's a perfectly easy, fun, budget-friendly toddler to four-year-old party theme? Throw a Messy Party. Kids love to make a mess, so why not give in and make a whole party out of the theme! If it appeals, let's get down to the nitty gritty ideas that will bring the mess alive:
Send off invitations that are hand-stamped with little hand prints inviting kids to get ready to "Make a Mess!" Add all of the details.
Definitely buy balloons and streamers, but make a mess out of them; hang them all over the place in no set pattern.
For the activities, this would be a very good party to hold outdoors where clean-up will not be a problem. Set up 3-4 mini-tables where the kids can enjoy making a mess.
Have the kids paint pictures with chocolate. Yummy!
Place bowls of frosting, sprinkles, and candy decorations on another table with pre-made sugar cookies and let the kids decorate them on their own.
On another table set out paint, roller brushes, and butcher paper for the kids to make fantastic creations.
Play Dough and modeling clay placed on another table could be another opportunity to make messy creations to take home.
Have a bunch of stamps and water-soluble ink out and have the kids stamp their arms and legs all over and stamp one another!
Place a pile of dirt in one area of the yard and have the kids make dirt creations using twigs, rocks, and other natural elements.
Make a traditional round cake, ice with vanilla frosting and then drizzle different colors of icing into your own messy masterpiece. Add candy toppings as an added bonus.
Send them home stamped-up with their messy creations, their chocolate picture, Play Dough creations, and a cellophane bag of frosted cookies (ones that you made before the party that look pretty and yummy).

Make-Your-Own Outrageous Cookie Concoctions!

"Outrageous" is the key word here! A fabulous budget-friendly party idea that is super simple to put together with little time is to invite your kid's party guests to be "Silly Cookie Bakers" for an afternoon. Before the party begins, make up a simple batch of cookie dough -- these days, you can even buy the ready-made dough if you prefer to save even more time. Provide each kid with their own bowl of cookie dough, and this is where it gets interesting! Simply open your refrigerator door and cupboards and start pulling out the condiments.

Here's a good starter list:
1. Ketchup
2. Mustard
3. Chocolate Syrup
4. Ranch Dressing
5. Steak Sauce
6. Cherries
7. Yogurt
8. Cheese
9. Peanut Butter
10. Balsamic Vinegar
11. Jam
12. Pesto Sauce
13. Tomato Sauce
14. Relish

Whatever condiments you have sitting around your kitchen, pull them out and have them on the table with the kids and their bowls of cookie dough. Now the kids can go to town making up their very own cookie concoctions. They will have a blast choosing what they want to add and how much. They can be as yummy or gross as they want to be! (This is great for a party with both boys and girls -- the boys will get a kick out of making the cookies as gross as they can be!)When they are done, place on trays and bake 'em up... Yummm?
When they come out and have cooled, the kids can frost and place candy sprinkles on them. Wrap each of the kid's cookies up in colored cellophane for their take home goody.

One note: you may want to warn the kids' parents that these cookies are strictly for their kids' enjoyment!!

For more of Lisa Kothari's party etiquette advice, check out her recently-released Dear Peppers and Pollywogs...What Parents Want to Know About Planning Their Kids' Parties, available at Amazon.com for $9.95. Also be sure to visit Lisa's website at www.PeppersPollywogs.com before you plan your next celebration!

Showcase: Adriana Primadonna
Adriana Primadonna features distinctive gifts, accessories, clothing, custom bedding, furnishings, and décor. We can assist you to pick out the most unique gifts, whether it be for a birthday, baby shower, or baby gift. Choose from cuddly Little Giraffe, My Blankee, and Baby Star Blankets, posh burps and bibs, beautiful batiste layettes, high chair covers, car seat covers, hair bow holders, hooded towels, bling tutu’s and shirts, and many toys. You can also create a gift registry to make it easy for friends and family to buy what you exactly want. With our registry, selection, and beautiful gift wrapping services, choosing a gift is so easy.

Create the nursery of your dreams with our hand painted armoires and changers, wrought iron or hand painted cribs, upholstered adult gliders and child chairs, whimsical lighting, and fabulous art. Designer diaper bags, nursing covers, and baby slings also available. Some Designers include: Corsican wrought iron furnishings, Beautiful Baby and Enchanted Baby Custom Bedding, Angel Song upholstered chairs and gliders, Sherri Blum and Drooz Studio Artwork, Just Too Cute Lighting, Angel Toes, Catimini, Kate Mack, Biscotti, CottonWhite Layette, Elephantito and Renattoni Knits, Jack and Lily Soft shoes, JP Lizzy and Bumble Bags diaper bags, Tee Pee for Me, and Gund toys. We offer phone and email consults to assist you with decorating a room or nursery. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information 215-380-2795 or customerservice@adrianaprimadonna.com

Enter "STYLE10" for 10% off your order!

tot trends weekly — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 02:10:00 +0000

v 3 issue 28: On the Road Again

Make travel time easy and fun with these products. Be sure to read our article on free and fun travel games.

Cover byMichelle Huesgen

On the Road Again

1 On the go diapers changes have never been so fabulous. The Ah Goo Plush Pad provides the ultimate in comfort by incorporating a plush memory foam into its design. The pads roll up into a fraction of the full size and can be used anywhere for a clean, cushy surface in a snap.

2 Three in one and tons of fun! Zoobie Pets are soft and cuddly toys which easily transform into a pillow or blanket, making them the perfect traveling companions for your little critter. Grab a Zoobie for your next excursion before your favorite becomes extinct.

3 The Plane Spotter is a compact, sure fire way to keep your little traveler entertained until take-off. Filled with flying facts and pictures for identifying all types of planes on the tarmac, this game is a winner! Be sure to check out lots of other helpful travel related goodies at madallie.com.

4 No more scrambling to find those needed essentials in the bottom of a crowded diaper bag. The Goober Baby Tote Bag is here to keep baby necessities clean and easy to find. So great at keeping you organized, you'll feel like Martha Stewart.

5 Move over Louis Vitton, Trunki (luggage for little people!) is here. Ride on it, carry it, or pull it, just don't leave home without it! Your next trip should be to Trunki.

6 Sticker Set Play Scenes keep kiddos entertained while traveling by plane, train or automobile. Reusable stickers can be arranged and re-arranged on themed background boards for hours of quiet fun.

7 Designed to lighten the load of parents on the go, gogo Kidz Travelmate makes it a breeze to get your children from the car to the plane. Simply attach your infant or toddler car seat to the Travelmate and roll away. Soon you'll be up, up and away!

8 Whether going on an overnight or packing for a long weekend, Sammie's by Samsonite will have your kids begging to pack for themselves. The luggage may be cute and playful, but the durability is all Samsonite rough and tough.

9 Keep kids fastened in an upright position with Noodlehead's kid-friendly version of the neck pillow. Great news! The Travel Buddy now comes with an attached Baby Buddy to tame the irresistible urge to play with the pillow, instead of sleeping with the pillow.

10 Heavenly Bundle started out with a desire to spread the word of baby wearing and it has succeeded. Everybody's doing it, and doing it with style, because Heavenly Bundle offers fabrics from simply colorful to simply unique.

This Week's Mom Tips

Cleaning Tip:
Need to get out an ink stain? Apply rubbing alcohol to a white cotton cloth and dab the stain carefully (don’t spread the ink!). Now use a cloth and blot in order to remove a bit of the stain. Repeat this until the stain is removed. Rinse well. Works for carpets and cloth furniture.
Organizing Tip:
Reduce clutter in the playroom or your child’s bedroom by going through their toys periodically and picking out the toys they don’t play with anymore. Pack them up and donate them to a local play area, church, clinic or goodwill.
Time Saving Tip:
Save time by having your grocery list sent directly to your cell phone with Cozi, a free family organizer. Cozi helps busy families manage schedules, appointments, shopping and communications from wherever you are — the kitchen, car, office or even the grocery store. Learn more at www.cozi.com
Financial Tip:
Live within your means! Truly a problem in America today, but beyond what problems it creates for us, our children grow up not learning about restraint and personal finance.

Travel Trivia

Make your time in the car a little more pleasant with one of these fun games.

Guess the movie
How to play:
For guess the movie, we describe either the character(s), the plot of the movie, clothing they are wearing, etc. Describe according to the age of your audience. Modify to play guess the person in Disney World by describing Disney character’s (or any other favorite family trip)…the color dress, the color of their hair, etc. With older kids, the person who guesses gets to go next. Ages 3 and up.

Color Hunt
How to play:
Start with the color red and watch out the windows (or in the car) for objects that color. Move through the colors of the rainbow. See who can find the most objects of a particular color. Younger kids can point to colors. Ages 2 and up.

Buggie
How to play:
Count Volkswagen bugs that pass by. Just like ‘Punch Buggy’, instead of punching, yell (color) buggie. Keep track of the number you have spotted and the one with the most wins. Ages 4 and up.

tot trends weekly — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 18:39:00 +0000

New Mom Necessities

Are you a new mom or mom-to-be? Or are you headed to a baby shower? Then this issue is just for you. We have found the best new gifts and products for those first months.

Cover by Julie Butler.

Gifts for the New Mom

1- From simply chic to just plain eloquent, photocards from paperlocket.com are a fabulous way to share the joy of your new loved one with family and friends. Paper Locket offers a multitude of dazzling designs with the opportunity to change colors and fonts as you like. Work with a delightful predesigned background or add a little flavor of your own to create a unique birth announcement or thank you card. You are sure to be satisfied!
2- Attention all new Moms: Sara Bingham, founder of Wee Hands, has compiled 300 symbols of American Sign Language in one clear and concise handbook. Memory aids, along with songs and games, make the learning fun and easy for all. The Baby Signing Book is sure to be the ultimate tool for opening the lines of communication between you and your pre-verbal counterpart.
3- Tender moments await at reneeandjeremymusic.com. Guaranteed to soothe the soul, this dynamic duo has spun a web of melodies capable of inducing immediate tranquility. The truthfully inspiring lyrics of "it's a big world" send a peaceful message which reminds parents to enjoy the moment (because it does go by so fast!).
4- After the baby is asleep, slip on this little number from the Jolie Maman Collection. Made of organic cotton and soy bean fiber, you'll be eco-friendly and ready for nursing... Nice job Joli Bebe Boutique! You've brought sexy back to nursing apparel.
5- Do you trust your mother's intuition? We do! After the success of Tummy Honey, the launch of Bella B Natural Bodycare brings us seven new all-natural products made of quality ingredients. Still with no mineral oil, petroleum, lanolin (which is made of sheep wool) or parabens, Bella B proves they are great at keeping moms in soft and smooth skin with their effective body treats. We especially love the Nipple Nurture Cleansing Pads for a quick oh-so-fresh feeling and Nipple Nurture Butter to prevent or heal discouraging sore nipples.
6- Hee-hee-hahs aren't just about breathing techniques in these videos. Just ask celebs like Halle Berry, Christina Aguilera and Selma Hayek. We all love Sheri Bayles RN, the award winning Certified Lamaze Instructor and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Sheri has put together three Laugh and Learn DVDs to teach you all you need to know about newborn care, breastfeeding and childbirth. She brought the humor, along with 20 years of nursing experience, at no extra expense. No more worrying about how your going to fit those classes into your hectic schedule before the due date. These DVDs teach you all you need to know in the privacy of your own home!
7- No more hiding in the car to feed the baby! Joia products has tweaked the nursing cover to prevent peek-a-boos with a patent-pending design. What's the secret of The Mommy Cover? A clever retractable reel system keeps the sides of your cover in place securely, adjustments can be made easily and viewings are a cinch with the semi-rigid necklines of this breastfeeding cover. Available in tons of designer fabrics,which are machine washable and reversible, these covers are a hit. Visit Joiaproducts.com to read more about this must-have product and watch the clip to see just how it works.
8- Wrap yourself in a little blessing from the Baby Institute. The nursing sleeve is about comfort and versatility. Ultra-soft fabric wraps around your arm for needed softness when feeding or cuddling. When the timing is right, voila, release the velcro closure and place it on your shoulder for an instant burp cloth. Easily attaches to the strap of a diaper bag for easy access and it looks great too.
9- Bathe him upright with the Spa Baby bath tub**. This European-styled baby bathtub allows your baby to sit with the warm water up to their shoulders. Spa Baby has created a tub that is much like the environment where they spent their first nine months. $39.95 at Petiteposh.com.

**Denotes product is made in China. The company has assured us that the product is made with safe products and processes and they have observed the manufacturing plant where the product is made and believe they follow safe practices.

Top Tips Parents-To-Be Must Know

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

Concierge & Planning Services for New and Expectant Parents

1. Work as a cohesive team & have a support network. Your spouse is your best partner and accept help from others.
2. Don't sweat the small stuff. Family first, laundry last (it's ok if the laundry piles up).
3. Getting your baby on a schedule is key. It will help get both of you into a regular eating and sleeping routine.
4. The first 3 months will be the hardest because you're feeding and changing diapers every two hours while exhausted.
5. You can't spoil your baby in the first 6 months because a baby cries out of need during this early stage so it's ok to be attentive.
6. You can save money by not buying baby products like special laundry detergent, bottle warmer, diaper stacker or fancy baby quilt.
7. Best baby gear to have handy - carrier, sling, bouncer, porta-crib(for hands free situations).
8. Allow parenting breaks, a re-energized parent is a better parent!
9. Remember every baby develops differently. Don't get caught up in comparing your baby to others.
10. There are few perfect births, all that matters is mama & baby come out of labor healthy.

This Week's Mom Tips
Cleaning Tip:
Need to get out an ink stain? Apply rubbing alcohol to a white cotton cloth and dab the stain carefully (don’t spread the ink!). Now use a cloth and blot in order to remove a bit of the stain. Repeat this until the stain is removed. Rinse well. Works for carpets and cloth furniture.

Organizing Tip:
Reduce clutter in the playroom or your child’s bedroom by going through their toys periodically and picking out the toys they don’t play with anymore. Pack them up and donate them to a local play area, church, clinic or goodwill.

Time Saving Tip:
Save time by having your grocery list sent directly to your cell phone with Cozi, a free family organizer. Cozi helps busy families manage schedules, appointments, shopping and communications from wherever you are — the kitchen, car, office or even the grocery store. Learn more at www.cozi.com

Financial Tip:
Live within your means! Truly a problem in America today, but beyond what problems it creates for us, our children grow up not learning about restraint and personal finance.

tot trends weekly — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 23:41:00 +0000

v 3 issue 26: Love is in the air

Love is in the air and we have found gifts and more that will help you celebrate the holiday of love. Inspire smiles with these lovely products.

Cover by Joleen Thiessen

Love is in the air

1. Start a food fight takes all the work out of searching for those unique and stylish tees. Not only can they save you time, but also shipping fees can be reduced by buying all the great tees in one spot! Many hip and trendy styles to choose from. One of our favorites is the pink heart long sleeve tee by Pretty Punk.

2. We love the Valentine's day photo cards from In a Baby Carriage. These custom cards are true photo cards, printed on photographic paper so they look fantastic. $1.49 each, includes envelopes. Available at PhotoAffections.com.

3. We love these Robeez baby shoes adorned with angelic hearts and wings. Made of soft and breathable leather for comfort, these smart shoes also offer suede soles for no slips and lots of grip. We love them, not only because they are adorable, but because they stay on even the teeniest of piggy toes!

4. For the girl who is a little bit girly and a little bit rough and tough, this shirt is glamorous and ready for play. The durable camouflage thermal by Januzzi is adorned with a hot pink heart and sassy pink diamonds. You can also purchase this shirt at startafoodfight.com where $1 from every purchase goes to donorschoose.org -an organization which helps a teacher's wish for a classroom project come to life!

5. Stylish burpies from BabyJar hold up to their "Funky, Fun & Fabulous" motto. The American Sweetheart collection of 100% cotton twill diapers, designed with the colors and shapes of Valentine's Day, makes a perfect gift. Gifts are even more special for your sweetheart when personalized with the available monogramming.

6. We can't think of a better way to show off your softer side. Bambini Bliss offers a diaper cover made of minky camouflage material with a soft and silky pink heart on back. An adjustable velcro closure in front allows one size to fit from 6m-18m. Ooh la la! (Save 20% at Bambini Bliss when you spend $100 - enter TTW at checkout.)

7. Flowers by Zoe has created heart inspired designs for the season. The soft cotton dress and leggings come in a striped heart pattern which reminds us love is in the air. Available in sizes 12months-24months at Nordstrom.

8. Spread the love with these adorable shoes from Little Soles. Perfect for everyday play or dressing up. Available in both black and lime green. Little Soles creates high quality shoes that fuse leather with modern synthetics to give an upscale look to their shoes with remarkable endurance.

9. Nifty Tees has come up with a cool way for your little heartthrob to show his love. The Amor Tee, with its tattoo style, will have the girls going gaa-gaa and the boys thinkin' he's the baddest dude on the block. Available in sizes 3-6 months all the way up to 12 years!

Spread the love

Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to keep spreading the love with candy, balloons, and anything heart-shaped! For a dazzling Valentine's Day celebration, Lisa Kothari, author of every parent's indispensable guide "Dear Peppers and Pollywogs...What Parents Want to Know About Planning Their Kids' Parties", has put together some amazing tips and ideas that any parents' little love bugs - and wallet - are sure to enjoy!!

FOR THE INVITATION:

Use red construction paper, doilies, red pipe cleaners, and pink and red glitter to make large homemade hearts that can be delivered to your guests. Other ideas for decorating your heart-shaped invitations include using red hots, conversation hearts ("Be Mine"), and red licorice! If you are hand delivering, you can tie your invitations to red balloons to kick off the festive party!!

FOR HEART-FILLED PARTY DECORATIONS:

* Fill your room with red, pink, and pearly white balloons - include a few thematic Mylar balloons for added fun! Amongst the balloons, hang pink and red streamers and a banner that says "Happy Valentine's Day" for even more festivity!
* On your party tables, use a red table cover and sprinkle conversation hearts and Hershey Kisses as festive confetti. Don't forget to use pink, red, and white plates, napkins, and cups!
* For that extra special touch, draw hearts on your cups, or create a pre-dining activity for kids by placing white markers on the table for cup-decorating!
* Also, for more pizazz, have a big stuffed teddy bear in the center of your table with balloons tied to one of his plush arms, and heart-shaped sunglasses at each place setting for the kids to wear!

FOR THE CRAFTS:

* Have the kids make their very own Love Bugs! Have red and black construction paper out - you can either have the red and black circles pre-cut for easy assembly, or have the children cut out the bug bodies and spots on their own. In addition, have markers, crayons, and glitter glue available for unique decorating!
* Another craft idea includes purchasing small clay pots and having the kids decorate them by painting on small love bugs. What's best is that these small pots can then be taken home as the goody from the party!

MORE LOVEABLE ACTIVITY IDEAS FOR A SWEET VALENTINE'S DAY!

GUESSING GAME: Make some large tags with words on them that relate to Valentine's Day, such as "heart," "flower," "chocolate," etc. Place these name tags on the backs of the guests when they arrive to the party. Do not let the guest see the word on his or her back - the kids must guess the word by the clues that fellow guests give to them!
CRAFTS: Have the kids make their own Valentines! Provide all of the materials for them to design and decorate: paper, confetti, glitter glue, markers, crayons, etc.
Bake a batch of heart-shaped cookies and have the kids decorate with pink frosting and candy toppings!

MORE GAMES...

* Play "Pin the Bow on Cupid"
* Have a Heart Ring Toss - make a large heart (about 25-30 inches) and decorate it with a face using craft items or candies. Fasten arrows around the perimeter of the heart to make it "stand out" for easy tossing. Make toss rings out of pipe cleaners, and have guests toss them on the giant heart. Those who get it around the target win a chocolate!
* Place Conversation Hearts into a jar, and have the kids guess the number!
* Hide Hershey's Kisses around the party area, and give the kids two minutes to find as many as they can!
* Play Musical Hearts - either make a red paper heart or use a stuffed animal "heart." Have the kids stand in a circle and when the music plays, pass the heart. When it stops, the person directly to the left of the person holding the heart is "out!!" The game continues until there is only one person holding the heart. Give the winner a small box of chocolates!
* Play Can You Please be My Valentine, Please Smile. Have the kids sit in a circle, and ask one guest to be "It." He or she must go up to a person in the circle and say this statement. The kid being asked must respond with: No, I cannot be your Valentine, I cannot smile. He or she must not smile in the least!! If he does, then he becomes "It" and the game continues!

SWEET TREATS FOR A TASTY VALENTINE'S MENU:

* Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to make small sandwiches, cut up fruits, and make red Jell-O Jigglers!
* Make Valentine's Roll Ups: wrap up lunch meat, lettuce, mustard and/or mayo, and a slice of cheese in a red-colored roasted red-pepper tortilla.
* Cook heart-shaped pizza with lots of yummy toppings - pepperoni and red pepper are two good Valentine's Day choices!
* Make Valentine's Rice Krispie Pops: prepare a batch of Rice Krispie treats, roll each treat into a heart and place a popsicle stick inside. Press on candy hearts or dip the treats in milk chocolate for an even sweeter touch!
* For a frothy Valentine's Day drink, make one package of cherry Kool-Aid and one package of strawberry Kool-Aid with sugar and water. Add one frozen can of orange juice and lemonade. Mix until the juices are thawed and add one quart of ginger ale.

FOR THE GOODY BAGS!!

Make a VALENTINE'S DAY PAPER CUP. Use pink or red cups, or plain white cups that you have painted with pink or red paint. Cut out medium-sized hearts - enough for each goody cup. Line the hearts up against your cup and hole punch two sets of holes through both the heart and cup. Next, use pink, white or red ribbon to attach the heart to the cup. For a finishing touch, fill your festive cups with all types of sweet or sparkly Valentine's Day goodies: candy, a blinking heart necklace, heart stickers, lip gloss, etc!!
Alternatively, if the kids decorated the above-mentioned clay pots with love bugs, finish the pots off by filling them with chocolates that are wrapped in red and black foil!

For even more holiday party tips and ideas, check out Lisa Kothari's recently-released "Dear Peppers and Pollywogs...What Parents Want to Know About Planning Their Kids' Parties", available at www.Amazon.com for only $9.95.

And before planning any sort of celebration be sure to visit Lisa's website at www.PeppersPollywogs.com for all essential components of creating a fabulous fiesta!!

Lisa Kothari is the founder and president of Peppers and Pollywogs, a kids’ party planning company that provides parents with ideas, entertainers, and interesting web-based tools (customized rhymes and cards for your invitations!) to make kids’ party planning easy. She has recently written and published Dear Peppers and Pollywogs…What Parents Want To Know About Planning Their Kids’ Parties which is available at Amazon.com and Peppers and Pollywogs.

This week's mom tips

Cleaning Tip: Clean those dirty and dander filled stuffed animals by placing them in a pillowcase, tie the top and wash them in the washing machine.

Financial Tip: Save hundreds of dollars by cooking meals at home and packing lunches. Not only the cheapest but also the healthiest way to satisfy your hunger.

Green Tip: Purchase reusable bags for grocery shopping. It takes 20 to 1,000 years for a plastic bag to break down in the environment and paper is bulkier than plastic, taking up more landfill space. Like plastic, it does not breakdown rapidly. Grocery Stores like Hannaford offers attractive reusable bags for only $2 and also credits you for each recyclable bag you use. They also recycle your used plastic bags. Check with your grocer to see what programs they offer. Check out Get hip get green for stylish reusable bags.

Time Saving Tip: Pay Your Bills Electronically. Save time (and stamp money) by not writing out and mailing checks.

tot trends weekly — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 01:16:00 +0000

v 3 issue 25: Initially Yours

This week we review products that are personalized for your little ones. Products include clothing, blankets, room decor and more.

Cover photo by Connie Hill

Initial This

1 Two Tina’s is the place to shop when looking for personalized goods. Their line of personalized blankets and clothing is just too cute and makes the perfect gift for a baby shower. Their onesies are adorned with an ultra-suede initial while the blankets have washable felt monograms. Onesies are available in sizes 3-6 months and 6-12 months ($26); blankets are one size ($48).
2 Never loose a binky to the floor again with the totally Blinged Out Initial Clip by Baby Posh. This clip will definitely grab the attention of on-lookers due to the sparkling rhinestone crystals of your little one’s initial which attaches with a leopard print ribbon.
3 A monogrammed banner from Lisa FROST is the perfect addition to your child’s room. Each banner is painted with quality paints on heavy weight canvas, attached to a dowel rod, embellished with fun fringe and hung from a shiny satin ribbon.
4 At Funky Daisy you will find custom embroidered clothing that is stylish and unique. We love the Audrey and Patrick Essential Sets that combine a soft onesie and hat with an embroidered initial. But the Jersey Tee is a must for all little boys. With your last name and the birth year on the back of the tee, this will be loved by both the child and dad.
5 Name Tiles make a great gift for a special child or a birthday gift for one of your child’s friends. Prices range from $18 to $38 depending on the size you choose. Each name tile is a unique and colorful, hand-painted ceramic plaque that make a great decoration for a playroom, bedroom, or nursery.
6 This beautiful sterling silver baby cuff bracelet found at the Silken Thread makes a beautiful gift for a special baby girl. Engraved with baby’s monogram, this bracelet will certainly be treasured for years to come. Available in two sizes (perfect for a newborn or for a first birthday gift).
7 A portrait from Kiki & Polly will bring a smile to all who see it. Artist Lisa Golightly creates unique portrait art paintings by weaving your child’s face into a modern yet sentimental piece of work. Each work of art is hand-painted and created with whimsy, humor and imagination. We also adore their personalized portrait greeting cards as well.

8 MJK Knits Initial Sweaters make a great gift for a little one or for the whole family. These sweaters ‘that spell out fun’ are made in the USA of 100% cotton. Available in hundreds of color combinations and available in sizes 6 months to size 12.

Winter Reading

Dream Snow by Eric Carle is a favorite of all snow lovers. As in all of Eric Carle's pushbutton books, this one will delight your child in hearing a holiday tune. Carle creates wonder with a plastic snow page hiding a critter on each page. Perfect for ages 2-6.

Ages 4-8 will love There Was A Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow by Lucille Colandro. This story provides a different take on the old lady who swallowed a fly. Her large appetite becomes a snowman when it is spit back out, which your kids will find hilarious.

Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner is a favorite of our kids, they love seeing the snowmen come out to play! At night the neighborhood snowmen gather at the park for a night of fun including snowball fights, making snow angels and drinking cold cocoa. The illustrations provide a bit of extra fun when your children look for hidden images. Best for ages 3-7.

It's Winter (Celebrate the Seasons) by Linda Glaser is part of her well-known Celebrate the Season's book series. The book not only describes the surroundings of the season but discusses hibernation habitats as well. In addition, Ms. Glaser has included a list of suggested nature activities. Ages 4-8.

Winter Babies Wear Layers by Michelle Sinclair Colman is great for babies through age 4.

Frozen Noses by Jan Carr is an adorable book that has been a favorite of little kids for years. Styled as a poem and brightly illustrated, this book inspires outdoor fun.

Snowballs by Lois Ehlert will be enjoyed by children ages 3-8. They will love the collages on each page and the decorated snowmen. The book ends with winter facts, a recipe for popcorn balls and photos of snowmen.

This Week's Mom Tips

Cleaning Tip: Before hanging shower curtains, soak in salt water solutions to prevent mildew.

Organizing Tip: Make your bed first thing in the morning when you get out of bed.

Time Saving Tip: Create a box/folder just for bills. Compile all you need to get the job done including stamps, envelops, checkbook and of course the bills. Having it all in one place allows you to easily get the task done. Just pull out the box whenever you have a free minute.

Green Tip: Replace 5 light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). According to the Department of Energy and the US EPA, Energy Star CFL bulbs are up to 66 percent more efficient and last up to 10 times longer than standard bulbs.

tot trends weekly — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 16:48:00 +0000

v 3 issue 24: Accessorize

Accessorize

Dress up your every day gear and clothing with these products that add a little extra. We review accessories for your little ones in this week's issue.

Cover by Michelle Huesgen

Accessorize their look

1 Here is a stylish accessory that is also quite practical... Rugged Idea blankies are made from layers of fleece and weather resistant nylon with beautiful ribbon and rickrack edges and are quilted to create a warm and cozy feel. Available in 3 sizes: a small changing blanket, a weatherproof blankie (with ties to attach), and a large blanket (for doubles and picnicâ€™s).
2 Accessorize your car seat with a Ritzy Baby car seat cover. Ritzy baby offers covers for infant car seats, toddler car seats as well as high chair/shopping cart covers. Their car seat covers fit most car seats (including our favorite car seat, the larger Peg Perego Viaggio). Each cover is reversible to offer two stylish designs. Add a little glam to your car seats with Ritzybaby.com.
3 The perfect accessory for any baby is a beautiful Shootsie baby blanket. These satin blankets are simply beautiful! Each is constructed of double-layer satin that is produced with responsible dyes from N. America and Europe and hand-sewn in Canada.
4 Accessorize your childâ€™s outfit with one of Baby belts' 30 unique styles that are constructed of cotton webbing and durable ribbons that are fully washable. $18, Babybeltz.com.
5 The Dribbler by Resa Design is simply the most adorable drool bib we have seen. With a stylish fabric print on one side and a waterproof and washable vinyl on the other, this (reversible) bib will not only look good but will stop the drool from soaking through to her clothes.
6 Add a little pizzazz to your childâ€™s outfit with a Skibz bib. Skibz are not only a fashion statement but designed to absorb drool. $16, Skibzusa.com.
7 The Changing Pad Clutch by Sugar Lamb may be more of an accessory for mom with its fashionable exterior yet functional interior constructed of vinyl and containing lots of pockets. Includes a matching change purse for mom.
8 Lillyâ€™s Ribbons will spice up her hair with their headbands, barretteâ€™s, and ponytail holders. Their Pony O collection can be customized to coordinate with her outfits and are only $6. An easy way to tie back her locks and look put together.

Donate your locks

In case you missed the Oprah show where Oprah cut Hilary Swank’s hair for a great cause; Hilary kicked off Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths program which will create free wigs for women who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment. We were so excited about this campaign that we jumped on board and donated our hair as well.

In addition to providing real-hair wigs for free to women in need, Pantene has donated more than one million dollars to the EIF's Women's Cancer Research Fund, a program committed to saving lives by raising funds and awareness for millions of women and their families affected by cancer.

Creating a real-hair wig takes approximately three to four months, and each wig requires at least six ponytails to make. Join the Million-Inch Chain of hair by donating your hair to this worthy cause.

In order to donate, your hair must meet these requirements:

*Hair must be a minimum of 8 inches long (measure hair from just above the elastic band of the ponytail to the ends).
*Wavy/curly hair texture is fine—you may straighten hair to measure.
*Hair should be freshly washed and completely dry, without any styling products.
*Hair may be colored with vegetable dyes, rinses and semi-permanent dyes. It cannot be bleached, permanently colored or chemically treated.
*Hair may not be more than 5 percent gray.

Check out beautifullengths.com for tips on growing healthy hair fast and to pledge your hair to the Million-Inch Chain.
Share your photo’s with us! Email your before and after pictures to info@tottrendsweekly.com and we will post them in a follow up article.

This weeks mom tips
Cleaning Tip: Use cotton balls dipped in bleach to remove mildew from the corners of the tub. Just let them sit and when you are finished cleaning the bathroom, remove the cotton and rinse.
Time Saving Tip: Don’t Let The Housework Pile Up! By doing a little each day you wont have to spend an entire day of your week cleaning.
Financial Tip: As mom always said, turn out the light when you leave a room. This small gesture cuts down on your annual electricity bill.
Sanity Saving Tip: Let calls go to voicemail! Phone interruptions cause you to become distracted from your to do list or spending quality time with your kids. By returning phone calls at your convenience you can get your list done and cut down on chatter time.