Don’t you just love silhouettes? I know I do. I think they are so sweet and timeless so I was really happy to find the Blue Clara Paper Goods shop on Etsy. Jamie of Blue Clara creates a custom illustration of your little one based on a profile picture you provide.
To test out the process and see how it works, I provided Jamie with profile shots of my kiddos. It’s important to get a clear profile shot, preferably against a blank background, that shows the hair clearly. As you can see in the picture I provided, I wasn’t very good at following instructions, but I’m sure you know it’s hard keeping a kid still to get a particular pose. Even though I didn’t provide the best pictures, I think Jamie did an amazing job capturing my kids’ profiles. Seriously, when I opened the file and first saw the silhouette my immediate reaction was “Awwww… they look just like them.”
Toddler Boy’s (yes, he’s a BOY with all those curls) hair provided a bit of challenge, but Jamie sent me a few options so I could pick the one I liked best. I took a little creative license and picked the silhouette with the curliest hair. Can you blame me? Jamie was very prompt, kind and easy to work with. She offered to revise the silhouette until I was completely happy with the result.
Each silhouette image is printed on high quality paper with archival pigment ink. Choose any size you want up to 8×10. Another option is to get the silhouette in PDF form to print yourself.
I don’t know about your mom, but I know mine would LOVE to get a silhouette of her three grandkids. It’s a thoughtful and totally affordable gift that will last forever.
Shop! Get your own sweet silhouette from Blue Clara for $20, and the PDF form is only $15. There is a discount for ordering more than one silhouette; for example, get 3 for $50. Also check out the cartoon book illustrations and super fun prints that are great for a nursery or kid’s room.
I am really excited about today’s shop review and giveaway! When I discovered M.A.H. Creations I was initially drawn to all the great personalized children’s products and the fact that all products are made by moms working from home. Upon looking around I discovered they have a fun selection of products for moms and that’s what this week is all about – treating yourself (or your mom, sister, friend) to something.
Here’s a little information about M.A.H. Creations from its website:
It’s more than a business, it’s a mission! All of our products are made by Moms At Home (M.A.H.). What does that mean as a customer? That means each and every time you shop you are gauranteed that your product has been hand crafted with love and special attention to detail. These talented moms have a passion for what they do and love to express their creativity in the products they offer. That also means that you will receive excellent customer service and personal attention.
Tanya, the founder and owner of M.A.H., generously sent me a Zebra Print Travel Coffee Mug. The mug is personalized with my first initial and is fun, fun, fun. Even though I don’t work outside the home I love that I can now have my travel mug of coffee in the morning. The mug arrived quickly and was personalized just the way I asked. You know how some mugs have paper inserts? Well, I was pleasantly surprised to find this mug is actual fabric with actual embroidery on it.
The “Ladies” section of M.A.H. has lots of great gift options in addition to the travel coffee mugs. I like the initial glass bead necklaces, the personalized notepads and the monogram checkbook cover.
And I love this note on the front page of the Ladies section:
As women, we tend to focus most of our time and energy on our husbands and our children, and that’s a good thing. But sometimes we need some time and some things just for us. Look inside and take this opportunity to shop for you!
So even though it’s about Mother’s Day I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the absolutely adorable blankets, clothes, shoes, burp clothes and room decor in the Nursery, Boys and Girls catalog.
Shop! M.A.H. Creations is currently having a great sale in anticipation of Mother’s Day.
Win!M.A.H. Creations wants you Mother’s Day to be about you so they are offering one lucky blog reader a $20 gift certificate.
How to Enter: Check out M.A.H. Creations and comment here with your favorite item – from any section of the shop.
* Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or a reader.
* Follow The Shopping Mama on Blogger.
* Follow The Shopping Mama on Twitter AND Tweet about this contest.
The fine print: Please leave a contact email address in your entry. If you prefer, you may email me your contact info. Winner will be selected using random.org and has 48 hours to claim the prize before another winner is selected. Contest ends 11:59 EST on April 24. Open to US and Canada residents.
If you’re anything like me, shopping for a stroller can be a long, confusing process. The task was so daunting to me, in fact, that I put off buying a stroller until Toddler Boy was a few months old. I figured I’d wait and see how I would use the stroller before making such a big commitment. The Husband and I decided to do some research and spend some money to get ONE stroller that would meet all of our needs and grow with our family. I literally had a spreadsheet of features we wanted, features we needed and the price. We decided on the Mutsy 4-Rider Single Spoke stroller and have never looked back!
Here are a few of the features that led to the Mutsy decision:
* Stroller seat can face me or face the world
* Real tires – not hard plastic wobbly things
* Front wheels lock in place to use on rugged terrain (and, even though it’s not marketed or tested as such, because of this feature my husband uses it as a jogger. I do not run.)
One of the great things about the Mutsy stroller system is all the components and options that are available. When Toddler Boy was an infant, we bought the stroller frame, the Bassinet and the traditional Stroller Seat (which we still refer to as the “big boy seat” since he didn’t use it right away). The Bassinet is amazing – it allows baby to lay flat while you look at him and I can’t tell you how many times I pushed Toddler Boy around in it to get him to fall asleep when he was fussy. The Mutsy stroller system also has an infant Car Seat Adapter and I readily admit that one of the main factors in our decision to buy the Graco SnugRide for Baby Girl was that we can use it with the Mutsy.
The newest addition to our collection is the Mutsy Step Up Board. The Step Up Board clips to the back of the stroller frame and provides a place for a child over the age of 2 to stand and ride along. The Step Up Board attaches easily to the back of the stroller frame without tools or anything complicated.
I have to admit I wasn’t sure how Toddler Boy would do on the Step Up Board; I wondered if he would hop off or want to get down or be jealous his sister got to sit for the ride. From our first test drive, he has LOVED the Step Up Board and so have I. He likes that he gets to zoom around while standing up, he has a good view of everything and he’s not stuck walking when his sister is in the stroller. I like that we can move at my pace (and not a toddler’s), that Toddler Boy can hold onto the stroller frame to brace himself, he’s secure and within my reach. The Step Up Board has already proved invaluable on trips to the mall, the library and the park. I think it will be ideal for a place like the zoo because it’s easy for him to get down and explore and then get back on the Board to keep walking. The only negative experience I had with the Step Up Board is that it kind of limits my stride. I can imagine this is an issue with any stroller and ride along board combo and it certainly won’t prevent me from using it. My husband avoided this issue by walking next to Toddler Boy and pushing the stroller with one hand. (One handed steering is another great Mutsy feature.) But, honestly, we’ve only had the Step Up Board for a week and a half and I can hardly remember how we got around before we had it.
So, just how do you transform the Mutsy? Here’s a quick video that demonstrates how easy it is to go from the stroller seat to the infant car seat option, as well as a peek at the Step Up Board in action.
I can’t possibly write about the Mutsy stroller without talking about the amazing customer service the company provides. Here’s my story: Last summer one of the tires on the stroller was flat and wouldn’t reinflate with the pump (included with the stroller). I called the Mutsy customer service to ask where they recommended I take the tire to be fixed, assuming they would direct me to a bike shop or something. Instead, the woman asked me what kind of stroller frame we had and said a new tire was on the way. Sure enough, two days later UPS delivered a brand new tire. Seriously, I’ve never experienced anything like it. I was, and remain, totally impressed.
There are several other cool accessories to complete your Mutsy stroller. Babysitter: place the stroller seat in it and you have a bouncy seat rocker for your kiddo. Toddler Fun Seat: An upright seat with an attached steering wheel. Shopping Bag: While there is a basket on the 4Rider frame, nothing can compete with this awesomely huge addition that even has a handle so you can easily carry all your shopping bags into the house.
Why Buy? The Mutsy stroller system offers everything you need to be on the move with your baby from infancy to toddlerhood. The modern syling is great to look at and everything is sturdy and made to last forever.
Why Not Buy? My only complaint is the weight of the stroller. It’s totally worth it, though, and have I mentioned how much I love my Mutsy?
Shop! Browse the Mutsy website for more information about the 4Rider stroller system and other great products, like the ubercool growup! seat. Purchase any Mutsy item from Goore’s and receive 10% off with the coupon code “tsmmu”.
Not sure if I made it clear in yesterday’s Cupcake Tree post, but I’m not crafty. I like crafty things and think they look cute and fun but they go to waste in my house. I’m afraid the same can be said for sweet kitchen gear. I’m the mama who got a Kitchenaid Mixer for Christmas and a year and a half later it was still sitting unopened in the garage. (Isn’t that horrible? I wanted the damn thing so badly, too.) Even though I may not be tops at cooking, I am totally in love with the aprons from Bambino Amore. I can only imagine how much someone who’s actually good at cooking or baking will love them.
Styled and created by a mother-daughter team, Bambino Amore has three different retro-inspired aprons. The design and origin of each style as described on the Etsy shop: * The Aunt Jessie: named after “the great-aunt who could be seen tinkering in her kitchen in an apron much like this one with a sweetheart neckline.” * The Elegant Eloise: “named for my mother who not only made the coolest aprons ever — but inspired me to make them as well! This apron features a straight neckline that is classic and chic!!” * Half Apron: “fun, flirty and flattering.”
I love the Aunt Jessie Vintage Cherries apron so much that I want to go to the kitchen right now and make some cherry pie jubilee crisp cake… er, something like that. But, seriously, the cut of the apron and use of coordinating fabrics is so flattering it could pass as a dress (from the front!).
This Elegant Eloise Sunflowers and Bees apron is another favorite. You can see the neckline of this apron is higher and straight across compared to the Aunt Jessie. Still very stylish and fun, it’s a winner in the kitchen.
And, finally, my favorite half apron style is the sweet Yellow Floral and Gingham. It’s just so pretty, isn’t it? Bambino Amore offers gift certificates in case you know a lucky lady who deserves a funky apron but aren’t sure of her favorite style or fabric.
This week The Shopping Mama is all about gift ideas for Mother’s Day add a Ten Dollar Tuesday find and you’ve got a great way to treat yourself or a friend to a little something without breaking the bank.
I’m loving this key fob and mini wallet from Mushy Bug – and it’s only $10 for the set! I just LOVE the Amy Butler and Michael Miller fabrics – they seriously make me happy. Maybe you can trick yourself out of buying that new purse or diaper bag by changing up something else you use everyday (your keys)? Okay, probably not, but you don’t need an excuse to treat yourself to this since it’s only $10.
This is also a great little set to keep around just in case you need a last minute present. If you have a cute key fob and wallet set ready and waiting you don’t have to show up empty handed when you get invited to drinks or lunch to celebrate that birthday you totally forgot about.
We all know that mama… she’s so crafty and thoughtful she puts the rest of us to shame, making her difficult to shop for. Check out Cupcake Tree Designs and you’re sure to find something for that mama and the rest of us, too.
Olga of Cupcake Tree makes every stamp in her shop by hand. She starts with an image drawn onto tracing paper, transfers it to a piece of rubber and then carves it out with ‘gouging’ tools until it looks it’s just right. She claims it’s simple but time consuming. Simple? Not for the likes of me. Time consuming, I believe.
Here are a few of my favorite Cupcake Tree stamps for the Crafty Mama:
Those picks just skim the surface of the great gift options. Cupcake Tree has every kind of stamp you can imagine: from housewarming to kitchen to teacher themed. The more I browsed around, the more I found to love.
Even though this is supposed to be about us moms, I can’t help but point out that Cupcake Tree also has stamps that are great for kids. I love the personalized book stamp and Toddler Boy would go crazy for the dino stamp.
Shop! Cupcake Tree has over 120 stamps to pick from and offers custom orders and personalization options. Prices start at just $3 for mini stamps and $8 for regular stamps.
Win! Up for grabs is the adorable Mother’s Day bird stamp set. It can be used to make a darling Mother’s Day card or just to add a sweet little something to a note or scrapbook page.How to Enter: Check out Cupcake Tree and let me know your favorite stamp design.
Bonus Entries: * Subscribe to The Shopping Mama in email or a reader. Leave TWO comments that say, “I subscribe” with your email address. * Follow The Shopping Mama on Blogger. * Follow The Shopping Mama on Twitter AND Tweet about this contest.
The fine print: Please leave a contact email address in your entry. If you prefer, you may email me your contact info. Winner will be selected using random.org and has 48 hours to claim the prize before another winner is selected. Contest ends 11:59 EST on April 24. Open to US and Canada residents.
A little different this week… Rather than introduce you to a shop I know and love I am sharing some blogs I know and love. Take a look around and maybe you’ll find a new must-read. Happy blog hopping!
If you’ve had a little one in the last several years you are probably familiar with pediped original soft-soled shoes. They are durable, cute as all get out and provide support for little feet. What you may not know is pediped also has a line of Flex shoes for older kiddos. Originals are made for newborns to 2 year olds and the Flex collection are rubber-soled shoes for kids up to age 6.
Here’s some information about pediped from the website: Officially recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association as contributing to better foot health, pediped footwear is a smart choice for parents concerned with the long?term development of their children’s feet. pediped has been awarded the prestigious APMA Seal of Acceptance for both its Originals and Flex lines in support of their many beneficial attributes that promote quality foot health including soft cushioned leather soles, a wide toe box and soft leather uppers.
A few features that make pedipeds so unique and healthy for little feet: * Soft & flexible. Made of soft materials, pediped shoes are flexible and move with the foot’s natural motion. * Heel cushion. Cushions on each heel distribute pressure throughout the foot. * Flex fit system. Every pair of Flex shoes comes with an additional sole insert to help you get the right fit.
pediped Flex celebrated its one year birthday in February with the launch of new designs for spring and summer. And they are adorable! My absolute favorite is the Addison – the brown, pink and green pair to the right. I love the colors and think the shoes are perfect for summer (and would even look cute with tights or leggings in the winter).
I have my eye on the Jake style for Toddler Boy. I think the style is so versatile – the brown leather could be dressed up with khakis and a button down but because they are sporty he could also wear them with shorts and a nice tee.
Toddler Boy had a pair of Charlie pediped Originals that he wore almost constantly for nearly six months soon after he learned to walk. He liked wearing them because they were comfortable and I liked them because they held up well and looked great. Baby Girl recently got a pair of her own pediped originals in the Giselle style and I’m sure she’ll get as much use of her pair as Toddler boy did out of his. And, what’s cool is that the Flex line offers many of the same styles as the originals only adjusted with a rubber sole to accomodate bigger kids. Why Buy? With a variety of good-looking styles, including over 45 Flex designs and 75 Originals, you are sure to find something you like. And, in addition to being cute, pediped Originals and Flex shoes are designed to be easy on your little one’s feet.
Why Not Buy? I know sometimes it’s hard to justify spending money on clothes and shoes for kids because they grow so quickly. But, it’s worth spending the money on a good pair of versatile shoes so I can’t think of a reason not to buy a pair.
Shop!pediped Originals start at $32 and Flex prices start at $39. Check out the pediped website for the complete line of shoes.
Don’t you just love silhouettes? I know I do. I think they are so sweet and timeless so I was really happy to find the Blue Clara Paper Goods shop on Etsy. Jamie of Blue Clara creates a custom illustration of your little one based on a profile picture you provide.
Why Buy? With a variety of good-looking styles, including over 45 Flex designs and 75 Originals, you are sure to find something you like. And, in addition to being cute, pediped Originals and Flex shoes are designed to be easy on your little one’s feet.
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