TRENDSPOTTER
Subscribe to RSS Feed
Juli Pearson
As my son gets older, I certainly do not miss night after night of less than adequate sleep. However, for all of the mamas with new babies, the Miracle Blanket is an absolute must-have. It is the best wrap that I have ever used, and those of us with colicky, fussy and/or not-so-great sleepers can attest: The better the swaddle, the longer the sleep. Plus, it provides just the right amount of bundle for the warm summer nights upon us. Hang in there, new mamas! ($30)
0 Comments
Anne Macomber
With all of the summer fun in the sun, it's
important to make sure all of that baby-soft skin doesn't get burned. California Baby's
No Fragrance Sunscreen
Lotion is a non-chemical sunscreen with 30+ SPF protection. Highly
recommended by dermatologists and allergists, this non-greasy sunscreen is
perfect for wee ones with chemical sensitivities or fragrance intolerance. And
as an added bonus, slathering a bit on yourself can keep your skin looking
young and fresh, just like baby's! ($19.99 for 2.9 oz)
0 Comments
Juli Pearson
My son has pledged that riding in the
stroller is no longer his mission this summer, and although I embrace his
desire for independence, it sure makes our errands and time out and about take much, much longer. Thank goodness for the Lascal BuggyBoard Mini. It attaches to the back of the stroller, and allows
him to stand and hold the handles while I push. Less time going means more time
enjoying summertime sunshine. ($69.95+)
0 Comments
Juli Pearson
Shabby Apple's Tierry-Eyed dress is a must-have for mamas this summer. This
frock is oh, so flattering with ultra-feminine (but simple) ruffles. I also love the feel of its soft, cool cotton — light and comfy for the hottest of days. Plus, as long as I'm shopping, I may as
well be supporting a good cause. Shabby Apple partners with Unitus to support women in the world's most impoverished regions, and
donates 5 percent of sales to support women's work in India. So go ahead — get a babysitter, slip
into the dress, and go out and play (with your hubby or the girls)! You deserve
it! ($72)
0 Comments
Breanne Hight
Pregnancy and motherhood are transformative milestones in a
woman's life — times to reflect on the past, heal in the present, and look
forward to the future. When a woman has experienced sexual abuse in her life, reflection
and healing are all the more important (and oftentimes, challenging). Authors
Mickey Sperlich and Julia S. Seng provide a valuable resource for women looking to
heal and conquer the effects of sexual abuse with "Survivor Moms: Women's
Stories of Birthing, Mothering and Healing After Sexual Abuse." With
perspectives and anecdotes from women who have survived sexual abuse, midwives
and other health care professionals, the pages are filled with hope,
inspiration and help. ($34.95)
0 Comments
Breanne Hight
BabyBjorn has transformed a classic carrier into an
eco-friendly favorite — and Mindful Mama couldn't be more thrilled! The Baby Carrier Active Organic is made from organically
grown cotton, and is certified nontoxic for your little love. It effortlessly
transforms from snuggling tiny baby close to letting older baby look out and
about. Now, it's eco-chic and easy to
tote your newest addition around the house, to the farmer's market — shopping!
0 Comments
Breanne Hight
Whether you're an expectant mother or are active in the vast
world of maternity care (a midwife, doula, doctor, etc.), "Birth Models That
Work" is an absolute must-read! The authors will take you on a journey around
the world to examine successful birth models — ones that are both safe and satisfactory. The statistics are
solid, and the personal stories inspiring. It's time to put birth back into the
hands of the women who were created for it — and this is just the place for
empowerment! ($27.50)
0 Comments
Juli Pearson
Boys need soft and cuddly, too! What better to give
them to cuddle with than something as sweet, simple and handmade as these
dolls by BLABLA. Henry the Doll is made of 100 percent natural fibers, and was knit by artists in Peru (which makes him even more
lovable to mama). Henry tucks
perfectly under my toddler's arm, sits upright at the table, rides along in
the stroller, and even hops on top of the toy fire truck at times. The tricky
part is convincing my little guy that his little guy needs to take a bath every
once in a while. ($44)
0 Comments
Missy Pugh
Looking for a cool,
comfortable top to wear your entire pregnancy? One that doesn't ride up,
stretch out or wear out after so many washes? Look no further! Shai Shai Maternity has designed a maternity top to fulfill all of your needs! From work to yoga to a night out with your partner, these super soft and
luxurious tank tops can anchor any style. Shai Shai Maternity tank tops are made
of a unique stretch cotton fabric, and are designed to be comfortable, cool and retain
shape (even over that growing belly!). With a specially designed custom fit, this top is one you
can wear one for all nine months. Available in
turquoise, black and ivory, and in sizes large, medium, small and x-small (choose your pre-pregnancy size).
($48)
0 Comments
Breanne Hight
Gone are the days when diaper bags look like — well — they're carrying diapers. Kushies Boho
Diaper Bag is the ultimate hip mama accessory. With a matching changing pad, multiple
pockets (perfect for bottles, wipes and a spare onesie) and convenient stroller
straps, it's completely functional. That being said, the hip chocolate and
cream damask print is so posh that it could pass as an adorable work tote, carry-on
bag or over-sized purse. Diapers? Check. Style? Check, check! ($49.99)
0 Comments
Breanne Hight
Maukilo is the perfect place to
find innovative, high quality, long-lasting toys — a one-stop-shop that may excite you just as much as your kiddos (if not more)! Mindful
Mama has been looking for a doll who's cute, fun and cuddly! The BlaBla baby dolls (available through Maukilo) are
all of those and more! They're hand-knitted by Peruvian artisans with
all-natural cotton and colored with nontoxic dyes, which means we don't mind
them becoming our child's best bud — toted from bed to the playground, through the
farmer's market ... ($43.99)
0 Comments
Breanne Hight
Welcome summer as it approaches with derma e's new natural, organic Tropical Solutions line! All products include tropically-sourced exotic botanicals, antioxidants
and vitamins to boot — so whether you're using the Facial Scrub to exfoliate,
the Anti-Aging Crème to defy those pesky fine lines, or the Intensive Serum to smooth
your complexion, you'll feel refreshed, relaxed, and ready to sink your toes in
the sand. (Maybe it's the delicious scent, but a mama can dream, right?!) ($12.50+)
0 Comments
Breanne Hight
Enough of baby hollering through bath time because she's
cold, uncomfortable and just plain doesn't want to be there! The Spa Baby European Style Baby Tub will have her warm,
relaxed, and squeaky clean — no unhappy baby here! Spa Baby's design allows
baby to sit in water, submerged to her shoulders. This eliminates baby's
discomfort, transforming bath time into a baby spa treatment (why not start her
early?!). Eco-bonus: Spa Baby is available in 100 percent recycled plastic. ($46.95)
0 Comments
BREANNE HIGHT
Hey breastfeeding mamas! It's time to put some style in your
nursing routine. Instead of throwing a spit-up towel or baby blanket over your shoulder in public, don a Hooter Hiders Nursing Cover. As if the name isn't fun enough, the chic,
modern patterns make for one hot, nursing mama (We have the "Nest" print and looove it.)! After you pull it on, the rigid
neckline allows you to watch baby as she nurses. Breastfeeding perfection. ($35)
1 Comments
Juli Pearson
The package arrived at my
doorstep and within minutes of opening the box, my little guy was off with
his new Discover Rig from Sprig. Around the house he went — again and again. A few
pushes in, the kid-powered, non-battery-operated light came on, and to my son's
further excitement, a few pushes more and the rig's adventure guide, Cap
Faraday, was talking and singing away. The more he pushed, the more fun he
had. Not only is the toy made to encourage play and reward activity, but it has
a technical component, too. A USB port plugs Cap
Faraday into the rig, and if you're kiddo is anything like mine, the more
adult-like the gadget, the more fun it is (not to mention my husband loves it, too).
To top it all off, the rig is made out of sprig wood, which is a combination of
reclaimed wood fibers and reused plastic jugs — super fun, kid-powered,
technological and eco-friendly — doesn't get any better than this!
($49.99)
0 Comments
Melissa B. Williams
If you're looking for the go-to book on how to raise a
healthy child, this is the best title I've seen. Starting with pregnancy, and
moving all the way up through toddler and elementary school years, Dr. Greene, a
pediatrician and teacher at Stanford University, discusses the importance of
different foods for health — and the importance of introducing foods EARLY so
that children acquire the full spectrum of tastes. And when I say early, I
mean pre-conception! Recipes are sprinkled throughout, helping you incorporate
the different nutritional bits of wisdom into your family's diet. But, what I
really enjoyed (as a mother of a toddler) was his encouragement. Sometimes it
can be really difficult to feed a youngster, but just as most of us now enjoy
our greens — our kids can, too. His philosophy of "Nutritional Intelligence" will
inspire carnivores, vegetarians and sugar-aholics alike. If you're wanting to
raise a family that enjoys Thai as much as cupcakes, this technique is
the closest I've seen to ensure success. (You might even be able to make Thai
food the winner.)
0 Comments
MELISSA B WILLIAMS
Swaddling is the not-so-secret secret to getting babies
to sleep. But sometimes it's hard to know what to swaddle your babes in: Are
they too hot? Too cold? And, how can they tell you? It's enough to make a mama
toss in the swaddle blanket and just deal with sleepless nights. (Almost.) Merino Kids' innovative Cocooi wraps,
however, takes the guesswork out of the equation. Unlike synthetic fabrics, these
wraps are made from 100 percent New Zealand wool, which means they breathe,
wick away perspiration, and help control body temperature. Add to that the innovative
safety belt aperture, which enables you to take a sleeping babe from the car or
stroller to their crib (hooray) — this is definitely a must-buy for any
expecting or new moms. They also make toddler sizes for kiddos who can't seem
to stay under their blankies. ($69.99 with sleep cap included.)
0 Comments
Melissa B. Williams
I wanted a Petunia Pickle Bottom (PPB) diaper bag before I
was even ready to become pregnant. The bags carry like a purse, and come in
bright, bold and modern prints that take the "blah" out of any new mom's
attire. I'm sad to say I still don't own a PPB bag, but I have "borrowed" one on the several occasions where I've actually put on makeup and heels — and don't want to look like I'm carrying an ugly sack around. PPB also has bedding, clothing and even men's bags, rounding out their stylish collection. The Organic Social Set is a perfect gift for the organic and modern mama; the set includes a long-sleeve kimono onesie, a knit hat and knit pants. A chocolate and sky print is available for boys, and a rose and olive print for girls.
($60)
0 Comments
Melissa B. Williams.
Aspiring greenie? Green Start’s board books not only cover
sustainability issues — they are made from 98 percent recycled materials and
printed with soy-based ink. "One Tree" teaches kids how trees grow, how they
change throughout the year, and how they support the eco system around them.
The pictures are simple, but feature bright colors that children can relate to.
And, if you really want to make it an environmental lesson, read the last two
pages (which are for adults), where you'll learn more about the “issue” featured
in the book, and find tips on how to get your children involved and
interested. ($6.99)
0 Comments
Juli Pearson.
Jewelry is a little pleasure that I can’t seem to
get enough of. I (used to) love to
wander around boutiques and search online for handmade finds. Now that I spend my shopping time searching for kid stuff, I rarely indulge in my own simple pleasures. Then again,
part of being a mindful mama is finding ways to take care of ourselves,
right?! Thus, I recently
came across some mama-made eco-friendly jewelry, in the shape of a ring that
drew me in. Aimee (the mama who
makes it) calls it a patchwork ring, but my toddler loves to point it out and
call it my bubble ring. It’s
delicate and modern, and the circles (or bubbles if you ask my kiddo) make me
smile, especially on those days when I’m running around in
them. Jewel Street Designs was born
about 14 years ago, after Aimee’s daughter was born with a cleft palate. Being a SAHM, she uses her creative
energy to create jewelry from recycled silver and copper. Did I mention the
price is right? ($14-$62)
0 Comments
MELISSA B. WILLIAMS.
There are some days that I just hate my diaper bag. I
despise how big it is and how it stores so much, yet I can't find anything,
especially in the middle of one of "those" diaper changes. So, I was thrilled
when I received my Patemm Pad. Created by mama of four, Grace Welch, the Patemm
Pad is designed to be a diaper bag and changing pad — all in one convenient,
fold-with-one-hand pouch. Named after her two eldest children (Patrick and
Emma), Welch created the pad design when she, too, began to find her diaper bag
overwhelming.
The design is relatively simple: a round mat that enables mamas to change even the squirmiest of kiddos
(or my daughter who always seems to touch those disgusting airport walls
mid-diaper change). The mat contains dozens of pockets that can hold anything, from diapers and wipes to a
change of clothes. After you're done, you fold it in and roll it up — in any
direction. Yes, a mama product that doesn't require a manual! The pads are
available in 100 percent GOTS-certified cotton that's machine washable (but not
waterproof), or laminated cotton that is PVC-, phthalate- and formaldehyde-free.
($55+)
0 Comments
Juli Pearson.
The “stuff” in Lana Organic toys comes from organic cotton
fields in Turkey, and is part of a local production initiative that supports
fair-pay pricing. The materials are gathered and sent to crafty mamas, who sew
these darling animals together in their own homes, through the auspices of the
bioRe quality label for control regulations and certification. The design is
unique and oh so lovable — just look at him! I love the dragon appendages that
flop around, as my son tucks him under arm and toddles around the house. Lana Organic's stuffed animals are irresistible and totally innovative.
0 Comments
Tanya Triber.
The brilliant folks at LeapFrog have done it again. They’ve
taken the attention-grabbing, unarguably entertaining concept of the video game
and made it educational and active! Zippity features beloved Disney characters (Mickey, Goofy, Tigger, and Handy Manny to name a few) in a series of eight pre-loaded games. Each game features two levels of
learning and play action, focusing on age-appropriate skills, including number
and letter recognition, memory, music, basic math, problem solving, art and
more. My energetic preschooler loves Handy Manny Fix it Up, which teaches
Spanish vocabulary, and Goofy’s Fancy Dancing, which allows her to work out
some of the ants in her pants (while exercising her brain, too!). It’s
certainly the antidote for cold weather stir craziness! ($79.99)
0 Comments
Juli Pearson.
Moms have a lot of decisions to make regarding the use of
medicine to treat or prevent our children’s aliments. When looking for safe,
natural alternatives that stimulate the body’s defense mechanisms, homeopathy
is a choice high on my list. Hylands Kids’ Kit and user’s guide provides six
popular remedies developed by Dr. Maesimud Panos. Treat runny noses, earaches,
nosebleeds and more. The Bumps 'n Bruises Ointment is a favorite — especially with
toddlers — or make that kids in general! ($29.99)
0 Comments
Tanya Triber.
Motherhood can be rough on your complexion — sleep deprivation,
worry and laugh lines, sun damage from afternoons at the park. For those of us
who lack the time (or funds) for an official day at the spa, EmerginC’s vitamin
C + retinol mask comes to the rescue ($47.50). A clay-based cocktail of supercharged
ingredients, including lemon juice, vitamin C, green tea and retinol, this mask
tones, tightens and exfoliates, reducing the appearance of fine lines and
diminishing dark spots from pregnancy or sun damage. Results are immediately
noticeable! Plus, a little bit goes a long way, which means you'll glow for
months, all for less than the price of one facial.
0 Comments
Tanya Triber.
For all of the artsy, creative mamas, Abby Pecoriello’s “Crafty
Mama: Makes 49 Fast, Fabulous, Foolproof (Baby & Toddler) Projects” is a must-have boredom buster! Set up your
own Crafty Mama group (with or without the kiddos), and construct a unique
photo puzzle, brag book, fringe blanket, chalkboard placemat and much more.
Pecoriello provides fun, hip projects for crafters of all skill levels (most of
which can be completed during a toddler’s nap). Offering practical tips on
editing digital photos, creating jewelry, and mastering the art of iron-on
transfers, “Crafty Mama” will inspire the timid and give the skilled nearly a
year’s worth of one-of-a-kind projects. Fire up the glue gun!
0 Comments
Tanya Triber.
Keep your cuddly cubs, frisky fawns and pensive owlets stylish and warm with MissFitt & Co’s infant
and toddler hats.
Handmade with super soft wool felt (no itching or scratching here) in an array
of beautiful colors, the designs are just as practical as they are cute.
Creator Wendy Allen derives inspiration from the flower gardens and woodlands
surrounding her cottage in North Carolina. Bonus: She makes gorgeous hats, scarves and
mittens for mamas, too. ($45+)
0 Comments
Tanya Triber
Nothin' - thanks to Francie Pants.
These adorable boy short- style diaper and panty cover-ups have your little
ladies covered from age one to sixteen. Featuring sweet and sassy prints, and a
stretchy, washable and durable poly-spandex blend, Francie Pants are a stylish
way to let your active girls be active girls, without compromising their
modesty. Darned under dresses, over tights, or as my four-year-old would have
it, all by themselves - these pants are playground climbing, floor-sitting,
handstand and cartwheel ready, just add your gal. Each pair comes with a chic
collectable paper doll, and all are made in the USA. What's not to love? ($16.50)
0 Comments
Melissa B. Williams
Biodynamic gardens across the globe supply the ingredients
for Weleda's line of natural skincare products. Weleda, which is named after
the Celtic goddess of wisdom and healing, relies on Mother Nature as opposed to
the laboratory for its healing ingredients, making the line perfect for both
mama & baby. The baby care line features calendula, a recognized
anti-inflammatory, which helps soothe both sets of chapped cheeks. I loved the
cream so much that I even put it on my face, and found it was neither too heavy
or too light-it was as if Mother Nature designed it specifically for my dry-as
in I live in Colorado-skin. And, maybe she did. Luckily for my daughter, Weleda
has a mama line, too, so I don't have to use all of her healing cream. The
travel set, featuring five of the baby favorites is a steal, too, at only $13.
0 Comments
Deirdre Shevlin Bell
I'm not ashamed to admit it: I'm a cloth-diapering nut. I take great
pride in saying that I've bought approximately three packages of disposable
diapers in my entire parenting career (kids' ages: almost 4 and 14 months).
I've even, with a great deal of pride, made
diapers from old t-shirts and sheets. So yeah, I'm what some might call a
purist. Which is why I barely acknowledged gDiapers when
they first came out. Flushable liner? Pshaw. I ain't afraid of no poop. But
when they came out with their own reusable liners-and ridiculously cute
designs-I had to give them a try. And oh my! These little ruffle-bottom pants
don't just make my little girl's
outfit, they are her outfit. And for
the more ick-averse among us, gDiapers really are a great way to reduce the
environmental impact of babyhood without going hook-line-and-stinker into the
world of cloth-diapering. ($18.99)
1 Comments
|