Christmas gifts for toddlers - PlaySkool Explore N'Grow Busy Ball Popper

Looking for a toy idea for your toddler this Christmas?
The Playskool Explore N' Grow Busy Ball Popper is one I highly recommend.

Designed for ages 9 months and up, it won't take long for your little one to figure out how this toy works. Push the button, put the balls on the track, the balls roll around the track, down in and then POP out the top! Elijah was so intrigued with how the toy worked, he had to study each part first. We showed him how to do it a few times, but after that he knew exactly how to put the balls in and push the button.


It comes with 5 fun colored balls and they really pop! It is designed so that some pop over the top for your child to chase. Elijah thinks that's really silly and will run right after them and put them right back in. Or he will play with the balls by themselves. They are the perfect size for him to hold, carry while crawling or walking, kick or roll. And he loves to do it all!

The Explore N' Grow Ball Popper also plays 8 fun songs. Elijah pushes the button just to hear the songs. He loves to dance to them. The only downside to this toy is that the fan for the ball popper is really loud, which in turn makes the music have to be louder. So this is not a toy you want playing while trying to talk or watch television in the same room.

The Explore N' Grow Busy Ball Popper is played with every day since we gave it to him and will be one of Elijah's favorites for quite some time I'm sure!

I give this toy 8 out of 10 hearts.

Find out more: www.playskool.com

Buy it:

• Walmart (On sale NOW for $17.00 in store and online!)
• Target
• Amazon
• Toys R' Us

**Disclosure**
Product has been provided for review but does not influence or affect the outcome of this review. All opinions are solely those of the reviewer. This review was brought to you in part by the Global Influence Network.

Mom Loves Halloween - Trick or Treat Gifts

You know that old saying, "It was as easy as taking candy from a baby?" Well these Halloween gifts are way easier (and better) than GIVING candy to a baby!

MyPacifier.com, the original personalized pacifier has some darling 'BOO' designs created just for Halloween. Or accessorize your little one with a cute little pirate skull paci! Check them both out, as well as all their designs at www.mypacifier.com


A great accessory for Halloween are these great Calliope Boutique tennis shoes and mary janes are just 'boo-tiful!'. Each one is individually hand-painted and adorable! They have glow in the dark eyes, elastic no tie laces, and are pre-treated for children. Non-toxic acrylic craft paint and a textile medium ensures extra-long life and the shoes are even machine washable!!! They come in infant and toddlers sizes 1-10. For all their styles and tons of other cute gifts check them out at http://www.calliopeboutique.com!

CCC Gifts has adorable custom clothing and gifts! A great selection and all can be personalized with your child's name. Just pick the design you like and then pick what type of clothing you want it on. From different types of t's to toddler A-line dresses, you are sure to find something you like. They also carry cute little baby tote sets. Complete with tote, long sleeve body suit, and bib, these wonderful gifts can even be gift wrapped for a small fee to make giving even easier! Check out their selection at http://www.cccgifts.com.


Prissy Poofs specializes in beautiful gifts for little girls and their line of Spooky Poofs (tutu's) would be a perfect Halloween treat for your little princesses! Witches, Lady Bugs, Kittens, Lions, there is sure to be a style you love! To see Spooky Poofs and all their collections please visit http://www.prissypoofs.com

Huggies Pure & Natural Review, Freebie & GIVEAWAY

As a new parent there are many choices when it comes to products to suite you and your baby best. Just in Elijah’s 7 months we have used 5 different types of bottles with 3 stages of nipples, have tried numerous lotions for every day use and his eczema, 2 powders, 3 different diaper creams, 5 different thermometers, 4 soaps, 6 types of wipes, and oh my the DIAPERS.

We have tried at least 10 brands of diapers so far. Pampers Swaddlers, Pampers Baby Dry, Pampers Cruisers, Kirkland’s (Costco’s Brand), Parent’s Choice (Walmart’s Brand), Target’s Brand, Huggies Gentle Care, Huggies Natural Fit, and some other generic kinds.

Of course I was able to find pros and cons with all of them, but some pros really out weigh the cons. When evaluating a diaper I like to use certain criteria to assure I am getting the best for my little guy.

• AFFORDABLE –The average child will go through between 5 and 10 THOUSAND diapers. Do you want to pay top dollar for them?
  


• SOFT – My lil’ man’s ‘hiney’ wants to be comfortable! Would you want to walk around in a hard diaper all day? If the answer is no, then that is not the diaper for your baby.

• ABSORBENT – Even if you change your baby right away, every time he pees, that wetness on his skin can lead to diaper rash and make your baby uncomfortable. The better the diaper wicks up that moisture the better for your baby.
  
  
• LEAK PROOF – Funny things happen when babies go to the bathroom. It will go every direction BUT the way you expect it to. You need a diaper that will help contain that!
  

When you factor in those points when choosing a diaper it makes it easier. Many parents make the mistake of sacrificing one of those to save a buck. But if your constantly doing laundry after your babies diaper leaks, how much are you really saving?

The one thought I have never considered is how healthy the diapers are. I never considered what the diaper is made of and how it will affect my baby. Most of today’s diapers contain gels that help to sponge up the moisture. What is really in those gels? Will long term studies deem it to be unhealthy for your children after all? What is in the lining?

When I first read about Huggies Pure & Natural diapers in April I was intrigued. ‘The super premium diaper that includes natural, organic materials and ingredients to provide gentle protection for new babies, as well as initial steps toward environmental improvements, without sacrificing performance.’

Could it really stand up to my strict standards? Or would it fail to meet my expectations? Is it really better than the others for my baby? for the environment? Especially with everything claiming to be ‘green’ these days when they are really not.

I was excited when I was contacted to try Huggies Pure & Natural and see for myself if it stood up to the test.

The diaper is hypoallergenic, fragrance free and features a breathable outer cover that includes organic cotton. Which is great especially for Elijah because anything with fragrance breaks him out horribly! The liner includes natural Aloe & Vitamin E and materials from renewable sources. These diapers didn’t seem ‘plastic-y’ like some of the others, they didn’t feel hard, and Elijah did not seem to be all hot and sticky in the diaper area after playing. They didn’t leave big red marks at the leg openings either like some other diapers. They also have gone a bit more green with their packaging, using 20% recycled materials.

So how does it stand up to my tests?

AFFORDABLE – The Jumbo pack of Newborn sized Huggies Pure & Natural (33 diapers) is $11.99 at Babies R’ Us. Compare to the Jumbo pack (34 diapers) of Newborn sized Pamper’s Swaddlers at Target which are also $11.39 or the Jumbo pack (40 diapers) of Seventh Generation Newborn sized diapers also at target for $11.99. So basically there is not much of a difference in cost between the other brands, so it definitely fits into my affordable range.

SOFT – It is soft. In my opinion it is not as soft as Pamper’s Swaddlers, but TONS softer than Walmart’s Parent’s Choice, which is borderline soft by my standards. Elijah seemed comfortable and moves with ease in them.

ABSORBANT – Even with heavy pee diapers he seemed dry as can be. The diaper seemed to pull the moisture right from him! No redness, no rash, no nothing.

LEAK PROOF – Elijah typically sleeps 10 hours a night. 6 or 7 hours straight before wakes to be fed and changed. After a particularly long day last week Elijah had drank 9oz in the 2 hours before bed. He then slept for 8 hours straight. After 8 hours I worried his diaper would be bursting at the seams so I went in to check on him and change him. The diaper was HEAVY to say the least. BUT not a drop leaked! As long as you make sure to ‘pull the ruffles out’ (like with any diaper) I don’t think this diaper is going to leak. That was seriously a lot of pee and it held wonderfully! Not to mention the fact that it has the elastic on the back. The only blow outs Elijah ever has had were straight up and out his back. I love the fact that with Huggies it always stops right before that band.

Huggies Pure & Natural is offered in 6 sizes, from newborn through size 5. The are widely available in North American retail outlets as of April. For more information visit http://www.huggiespureandnatural.com.

Huggies has also launched their new Enjoy the Ride Rewards program to give you even more incentive! Find out more at https://enjoytheriderewards.com

Overall I was pleased with the quality and performance of Huggies Pure & Natural. I will not switch to it completely, but it will join the rotation of the current 3 brands I use depending on the store I am shopping. I think when it is in more stores it will help me to purchase it more and also it would be nice if they put more coupons for them in the Huggies Baby Network mailers.

Would you like to see how Huggies Pure & Natural stacks up to your favorite brand? Will you be converted?

Visit http://www.huggiespureandnatural.com/FreeSample.aspx to get your own free sample to try or…

ENTER TO WIN A PACK OF HUGGIES PURE & NATURAL!

WHAT: Winner will receive 1 pack of Huggies Pure & Natural Diapers – Size Newborn, 1 or 2 (size 2 fits up to 18lbs)

WHEN: From June 7th to June 15th at Midnight

HOW: Leave me a comment below telling me: WHY you want to try Huggies Pure and Natural and WHO you will try them on. Please make sure to include what size you want if you win and a way to contact you.

For Extra Entries you can do one or all of the following. Please leave a separate comment for each:

• Follow Mom Loves Today through Google Friend Connect (on the right side bar) or Subscribe to the RSS feed. (1 extra)
• Follow me on Twitter @erinjeany & Tweet about this giveaway once a day. Please include your twitter name & status URL so I can verify. (1 for following and 1 a day per tweet - Max of 10 extra)
• Add Mom Loves Today button to your sidebar. (2 extra)
• Blog about this giveaway. (3 extra)
• Follow my other blog, From Son Up To Son Down, through Google Friend Connect or Subscribing to the RSS feed. (2 extra)
  

Winner will be announced on June 16th. This contest open to the US & Canada only! Please be sure to follow all required steps or risk disqualification. I will not accept 'Enter Me’ or ‘Count Me In’ comments in lieu of required information. Review sample and prize were provided by Huggies. Thank you!

Good Luck!

Mom Loves Monday's Gifts - My Little Seat & The Baby Bloak

1. My Little Seat

I recently got to try out my own My Little Seat and I have to say I loved it. When it arrived, I opened it happily and decided we'd be going out to dinner that night.

There are 2 reasons I love My Little Seat. First, I have left restaurants before when I realized there was no highchair for my little man. He's not ready to not be restrained yet! I've also been out to eat where are the highchair's straps are broken! No big deal if you have the compact My Little Seat with you! The second reason I love it is that it allowed my toddler to sit like a big kid with us that night. He really loved feeling all grown up in his own big chair with his own little seat.

You could easily use this at home instead of a highchair, making its $39.99 price tag very reasonable!

2. The Baby Bloak

I'm a bit biased here since the Baby Bloak is my own idea, but I can genuinely say I give it as a gift to all my mom friends. And what better time to give a Bloak then Christmas when the weather is chilly?

The Baby Bloak is a wearable blanket that you could put on and take off in seconds when you are running to the car, into the store, or on other errands. Since coats aren't safe in car seats, many parents try to keep blankets from falling off in the cold. The Bloak lets you strap your baby into the car seat without interfering with straps and without having to be removed! It also makes a great stroller blanket and nursing cover - that's one handy blanket!

Mom Loves the Diaper Clutch - a stylish wipe/dipe solution!

We've all seen the diapers and wipes clutches, but I was pleasantly surprised to find one that was different, practical, and really, really cute! The Diaper Clutch is different from the others because it gives you access to your wet wipes without needing to remove a portable travel case. Instead you can just open your clutch, grab a diaper, and pop open the wipes section which holds a standard huggies wet-wipes pack!

The best part though is that they are ridiculously cute! I can't wait to cart mine all over town because it's completely stylish and compact! I'm loving my brown disco dot clutch, but I'd love to hear what your favorite is. The Diaper Clutch just introduced new designs and even a design your own option!


Cloth-diapering mama? I tested the Diaper Clutch and was pleased to see that it holds at two medium bumGenius AIOs. Personally, I use disposable wipes when I am out, so it works great for me! Non-cloth diapering moms, I got 3 size 4 diapers in it comfortably. I think it's just the right size for running errands, dinner out, or a playdate!

The Diaper Clutch is a must-have for the modern mom that's for sure!

Mom Loves the Cozy Care Cape - a bath must-have for mom and baby!

I got to check out a CozyCare Cape today and I have to say, I love it! The first thing I noticed when it arrived was how professional Spa Time Baby's shipping and packaging is. I have the great pleasure of networking with Debra, one of the company's founders and I just wanted to give her proper credit for how professional her product is!

But what you want to hear is about the cape! This is a brilliant idea, moms! The cape features a waterproof backing and a cozy terry outer to protect you from getting soaked during bath time and allow you to dry baby without struggling with a towel. I love the style of the CozyCare Cape as well.

The set of a CozyCare Cape, CozyCare Mat, CozyCare Cap, and two rubber duckies came elegantly presented in an organza bag. My first thought was how fabulous this would be as a baby shower present - pretty and practical!

The CozyCare Cape starts at 38.95 and you can have it personalized with baby's name if you want!

Mom Loves Zip-n-Go - the all weather, portable blanket!

Be sure to enter to win below!

The other day I ran across a great new product (yay for twitter!) The mom behind the product was super friendly and offered to host a fantastic giveaway! I love the zip-n-go Blanket because it's super practical, cute, and compact and its proudly made in the USA!

Jennifer Locke is a mother of two young boys and knows the importance of a product that is easy to use, quality made, and can be put away quickly and neatly. She is the creator of the Zip-n-go Blanket™ (www.zipngoblanket.com) , a weatherproof outdoor blanket that folds and zips to become its own tote bag. This blanket keeps you dry, clean, and hands free! You don't have to worry about keeping track of a separate carrying case or strap. These outdoor blankets are made in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia with quality materials. From the highly water resistant Urethane Coated Nylon Oxford Lining, Premium Velour Anti Pill Fleece, to their YKK® Zippers you can be sure you are getting a superior outdoor blanket that is also machine washable. It is the perfect multi-purpose blanket for babies, picnics, soccer games, concerts, camping and dogs. It is great to keep in the car too, when you wish you had a blanket!

From Jennifer:
"The blanket when laid out measures 5 ' by 6' so you will have plenty of room to stretch out or enjoy a picnic. The blanket comes with a inside zippered security pocket to keep your belongings like keys, wallet, and cell phone. The pocket can be easily tucked under the blanket to hide from view. When the blanket is folded and zipped up it becomes it's own tote measuring 18" x 15" x2". The large outside pocket can easily hold magazines, drinks, snacks, toys, diapers and wipes. It can also be custom embroidered with your monogram or name. From Plaids, Damask, Leopard,Children prints to solids, Zip-n-go Blankets offer 12 colors and styles from which to choose. They are priced at $74.99 and every blanket comes with free shipping to all US locations and APO addresses by USPS Property Mail! They make great Christmas, birthday, and baby shower gifts. It is a gift that will last for years to come! Zip-n-go Blankets are so sure you will love their outdoor blanket, they also come with 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Zip-n-go Blanket's mission is to keep you dry and clean, while relaxing and enjoying life where ever you might be!"

You have to love it! Jennifer is generously offering up a Zip-n-Go to one lucky reader in either Bright Paisley, Zoo Animals, or Friendly Sea Life!

WIN IT!

Three ways to enter:
1. Leave a comment below telling me where you'd use your Zip-n-Go!
2. Blog about this giveaway and post a comment here with a direct link!
3. Follow this blog! I just added this function!

Mom Loves Creative Baby Nursery Rooms - finally a nursery design site!

When I was planning my son's nursery, I had a unique dilemma. My mom, who is an amazing artist and specializes in children's rooms, wanted to do a mural. The problem? I could not figure out what I wanted. To my surprise there were hardly any websites devoted purely to baby nurseries!

So I was pleased to find a site the other day that focuses entirely on the nursery, Creative Baby Nursery Rooms. Featuring photos, safety tips, and contests, you will be able to design your dream nursery! After all, what is a nursery but the place where your own dream rests peacefully at night?

Check it out here.

Mom Loves Zeebabee - smart baby and mommy accessories!

You know how they tell you to decorate your nursery in bright colors, or how baby toys have strong contrasting colors? It's because infant's sight develops by looking at high-contrast items. The best combination for an infant - black and white. That's what makes Zeebabee's line of burp clothes and mommy tops so inventive! Where does a newborn look the most? Your shoulder and breast! Zeebabee's designs are modern and hip, but very, very smart!

I'm putting this mom-invented idea right up their with Taggies. The best part, of course, is that Zeebabee is stylish, so moms can enjoy wearing their items and know their babies are benefiting at the same time.


A set of 2 Burp See burp clothes is only $20 and the perfect baby shower gift!

Mom Loves Tactile Baby - quality handmade treasures!

I'm loving Tactile Baby's line of beautiful, unique toys for infants. I don't know about you, but I'm sick of toys that flash, play music, light up - is it a toy or a slot machine? I want something simple and well-crafted that encourages my son's imagination. That's why I love Tactile Baby!

The etsy shop features wooden rolling toys, felted wool rattles, and knit hats. These wonderful toys and accessories would make great Christmas gifts. With prices starting at $9.00, you're sure to find a gorgeous gift for your budget.

Check it out here!

Mom Loves Baby Wit - clever, funky baby and toddler clothes!

It's that magical time of election year, so let's celebrate with some clever, witty baby shirts from Baby Wit Featuring political, funny, and funky styles, this is the shop for the hip young parent.

Baby Wit is no one trick pony though. They have some great bibs, carriers, and other fun accessories featuring stylish fabrics. No Winnie-the-Pooh here! I especially love the Stephen Colbert onesie and the Seascape Burp and Bib Set. There are tons of great baby shower gift ideas.


My husband is getting this one for Christmas! Check it out here!

Mom Loves Toddler Ideas - for the years past 1!

It seems like there are so many websites devoted to adjusting to the needs of a new baby or helping school age children, but there's a lack of info out there for moms of toddlers. I was thrilled to happen upon this site completely devoted to helping moms of toddlers come up with activities, deal with issues like potty training, and address discipline.

Check out this great post on how to save money on toddler must-haves.

Mom Loves Slinglings - every baby should be a slingling!

When my little one was born, he arrived two weeks early. Not a long time in the grand scheme of things, but one of the items I was still shopping for was a baby sling. I had read all sorts of things about the benefits of baby wearing and I knew I wanted to do it. Since little James came via an unplanned c-section, when he came home, I really needed a sling to help with carting him in and out of the store and car since lifting the infant carrier was a no-no.

So I did some online shopping and found Slinglings. Not only did the store carry a large selection of fabrics, but they were offering a buy 2 get 1 free special. Slinglings are affordable without sacrificing style and since they are offering the buy 2 get 1 free special RIGHT NOW you can get one to suit your every mood. Now you might be thinking, why would I need 3 slings? Well, I bought one for myself, my husband, and my sisters. They all got used! At first, my husband was skeptical, but once he found his baby wearing style, he took James everywhere in it. Much to the delight of everyone in his path (he seriously got stopped 5-6 times a day and asked about it).

I can't say enough positive things about Slinglings. During a time, when my son needed to be extra close to mommy and I was adjusting to motherhood, their sling was a lifesaver. Even now I use it to help carry him on my hip at the store or while cleaning house.

So check out Slinglings and hurry while they're offering that fabulous buy 2 get 1 free sale!

Mom Loves Ellie Bags - a unique diaper bag alternative

As a mom I know the hassle of juggling multiple bags, forgetting your wallet in one, accidentally grabbing a purse instead of the diaper bag. So I was delighted to hear about the Over Tote by Ellie Bags.

From their website:
"Our line of Ellie Bags™ has launched with its signature product, the Over Tote™ System. The System comes with an Over Tote™, Back Up Bag, changing pad, flexible wipes pouch, and bottle/sippy cup holder. We have created, “The smart new way to carry a diaper bag.” We also offer a collection of products that make life simpler for moms (& dads!)"

Ellie Bags are available online at www.elliebags.com

Mom Loves Fall - Weekend Shopping Guide

This handmade, one of a kind, wrap by Irregular Expressions is the perfect thing to throw on for a walk, an errand, or a date. Long enough to be versatile, it's a sure bet for the posh mom. Price $95



For baby and toddler:
Worthy Goods is worth a look for their adorable, patchwork hats for babies and toddlers. We love the Wascal-y Hunter cap for its just right mix of old school and punk, but be sure to check out all the unique offerings! Priced from $26-80











It might be a tad impractical to let your little one wear this around town, but it screams portrait time! Trinity's Tutus Autumn Harvest Dress is a beautiful tribute to fall. It's moments like these I wish I had a girl! Price $42








For the family:
Nothing says fall like pumpkins, so wake up to pumpkin pie (well, in your shower). Morgan Street's pumpkin chiffon is sure to get you geared up for Turkey Day!









Tis the season to entertain! Whip an apple pie, light a fire, and invite friends and family over for the evening. Whether you're planning a formal fall affair or a casual October gathering, these invites from Snail Mail are sure to bring in the RSVPs.

Mom Loves the Boon Squirt Babyfood Dispensing Spoon

Ever have a baby grab a bowl of mashed peas and dump it on the floor? Or have your toddler squeal until you let them have the bowl and spoon? The Boon Squirt solves this problem! It's actual pretty genius. The bulb holds up to 3 ounces of baby food, which squirts into the spoon when you squeeze it. No need for messy bulbs, no wondering how much baby has eaten! It's especially great if you are making your own baby food as it cuts down on the extra dirty dish.

One of my favorite things is that Boon products are safe. No BPA, no phthalates, no pvc! But unlike some other similar products, the Boon Squirt is reasonably priced at $7.99.

Mom Loves Wet Happened zippered wet bags

Wet bags are a common accessory for us crazy cloth-diaperin' mamas, but they're set to be a mainstream mom must-have. Why? Well, we all have icky things that we need to cart around in a diaper bag - a pair of pants the diaper leaked through, the burp cloth, a soiled bib, a wet swimsuit. You get the picture. Rather than cart them balled up in your diaper bag, wouldn't it be great to have a bag you can keep them in? Plus, wet bags are reusable!

But the best part of the wet bag is how flippin' cute they are. Gone are the days of boring waterproof, draw string bags. Wet bags now feature designer fabrics, waterproof inners, and handy zippers. And none are cuter or more convenient than Wet Happened wet bags. In a perfect array of sizes and styles these little, reusable bags are about to be a household name. Word on the street is that Targets will be carrying the bags soon! Major bonus for cloth-diapering moms to not have to shop online, but every mom can benefit from these beauties!

Prices start at $17.95. Not bad for a product you can use again and again while saving the planet! Check out the Caribbean and Orchid Groovy!