We’re Really Moving and He’s Really Leaving

by Kate on October 17th, 2010  |  5 Comments  |  Life

It’s been four months since we first learned my husband would likely be deploying for a year, but the waiting game is over. My husband leaves a week from today for a 365 Day assignment “downrange” – aka, the desert. (For obvious reasons, I’m not able to say the exact base he’ll call home for the next year.)

Clearly it’s not ideal, but as a military family this is a known risk and I feel like it’s our turn. The last time he “deployed” we were able to join him while he spent four months working at a stateside base – seriously lucky! We have friends who are on their fourth deployment, one couple who learned they were expecting a child the day before the husband left for a one year deployment, and another friend who witnessed his daughter’s birth on Skype. So, I truly believe it when I say it could be worse.

After lots of back and forth and drama (renter bailing, finding a new renter at the last possible moment), the kids and I are able to move to Ohio to be near my family. I know there are parts of Florida I’ll miss (like the weather in the winter), but it doesn’t compare to the support and comfort of family for the next year. Moving was really a no-brainer for me and I’m so thankful that it is working out. The movers should finish packing up Tuesday and we will start the drive to Ohio on Wednesday. And, the only downer to the move working out is that we had to cancel our trip to Disney. I’m pretty sure it will still be there next year so we’ll go again soon.

It was my hope that with the help of the awesome contributors on The Shopping Mama, the blog would continue business as usual. But unfortunately, I’ve really fallen behind my own editorial schedule and know that I won’t be able to catch up until after my husband leaves and we find a new normal in Ohio. I really owe an apology to some sponsors who are being patient and understanding. Until we get back into the swing of things, we’ll try our best to keep sharing great finds, helpful reviews and fun giveaways.

{My Daddy, My Hero Tee from The Funky Bee}

Unleash Creativity with Tegu Magnetic Blocks

by Kate on October 17th, 2010  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

One of the best parts about the ABC Expo is strolling up and down the rows of booths to discover new and new-to-me products. Last year, I learned about Sprig Toys and was instantly a big fan. This year, my favorite toy find is Tegu magnetic blocks. This things are beyond cool. And so is the Tegu story.

Tegu is “a toy business founded to address unemployment, neglected natural and human resources, and the need for entrepreneurship in Honduras.” Given its foundation, it’s not surprising that Tegu maintains a strong commitment to its employees and to the environment. The company plants more trees than it uses, and it donates money to local schools.

The blocks are intentionally simple. Tegu believes in open-ended play facilitated by a child’s imagination. The blocks come in four sizes and have magnets inside allowing for more elaborate creations than standard blocks.

Consider yourself warned: Tegu blocks are so cool you may enjoy them more than your child. The blocks are so sleek and stylish that they would be just as at home on an executive office desk as they would on a child’s bookshelf. I’m planning to send my husband the Discovery Set for Christmas. (And hopefully by then he’ll have forgotten reading this post and will be surprised when he’s opening gifts.)

Shop! Tegu Blocks aren’t cheap. The Original Set of 52 Blocks is $100 and the Discovery Set is $55. Mahogany Blocks are more expensive. And, coming soon: Colored Blocks! Money Saving Tip: Free Shipping if you Share Tegu on Facebook – visit Tegu.com for details and act quick because the offer expires tonight!

4moms Origami Stroller Video & More 4moms News from the ABC Kids Expo

by Kate on October 16th, 2010  |  5 Comments  |  Blogging

The 4moms origami stroller is updated and getting ready for a spring release. Obviously the main thing that sets the origami apart from others is the power-folding (and unfolding) feature and the all-around high-techness of the stroller. The LCD screen is bright and impressive and there are some other features you expect in a high-end stroller. I am anxious to see it in real-world action when the stroller is released next spring. Check out the video of the world’s first power-folding stroller.

For the sake of comparison, here’s a video I took of the origami last year. The new version of the stroller has a dark frame and the motor and interior mechanisms have been improved.

4moms also announced slight changes to the mamaRoo infant seat and swing. The bottom “bubble” that houses the motor has been rounded for a sleeker look and for improved safety.

The Clearwater Infant Tub is getting a makeover and will be white rather than blue. In addition, it will be sold as a set – the Infant Tub and Spout. Like the Infant Tub, the Spout has an LCD screen with water temperature so you can always make sure the bathwater is safe. It will also be available in the spring.

What do you think of the origami – is it worth the hype? What do you think of the other 4moms product changes

TGIF: Coupon, Sales, Discounts & News

by Kate on October 15th, 2010  |  5 Comments  |  Deal & News Roundup, Weekly Features

Huggies Crawl to a Million

1 in 3 moms in America struggle with providing diapers for their baby. For each package you purchase at Walmart, Huggies will donate two diapers to babies in need. Read more about how you can help Huggies reach the goal of donating 1MM diapers to diaper banks.

LeapFrog Trade Up Event

Bring your old LeapFrog handheld device to Best Buy Customer Service for recycling. Or, go to www.recyclebank.com/leapfrog to participate from home. In exchange, you’ll receive $10 off a new Leapster Explorer and $10 off any two Leapster Explorer games. Offer expires November 30.

And, if you’re shopping LeapFrog, use code AUTUMN for $10 off $50 purchase and AUTUMN2 for $20 off $100.

Sales

Tea Collection for Women!: Save 25% on all Tea Collection for Women with code TEA4UFF. Ends October 18.

BabyLegs Halloween Sale: All custome-y BabyLegs are on Buy One, Get One Free. Use the code SPOOK50.

See Kai Run Free Shipping: No minimum order, no code required. Ends Monday, October 18, 4 PM PST.

Exclusive Discount Codes

basq: Save 20% with SHOPPINGMAMA20 at basqnyc.com. Expires October 31.

The Crazy Dazy: 10% off with code SHOPPINGMAMA.

Private Sale Sites

(Click link for an invitation)

* Zulily: Polarn O Pyret clothes, Bazoongi sleeping bags, Primigi shoes, David & Goliath tees. Cash Back Tip – click through ShopAtHome.com for 6% rebate on your purchase.

* The Mini Social: Hip to Be Me jewelry, Kumquat clothes, Mudpuppy, Fall Blowout sale.

* Totsy: Madame Alexander dolls (pictured right), Kathe Kruse, Ravensburger puzzles, Kid Galaxy remote control cars.

* HauteLook: Kaloo toys.

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<a href=”http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=240679&u=337725&m=26770&urllink=&afftrack=”>New Tea Collection for Women!</a>

Best Products for Breastfeeding Mamas

by Kate on October 15th, 2010  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

Expecting moms know that shopping for baby can be extremely overwhelming. (cough, which is why we created the Baby Shopping Guide, cough) If you plan to breastfeed baby, there are several must have products that you should add to your wish list or baby registry to make it easier for you and baby.

1. Support Pillow. A nursing pillow – whether designed exclusively for that purpose or not – is essential for your comfort. If you are on the tall side, like me, you will find yourself hunched over, bringing breast to baby, but a nursing pillow or some sort of support under baby will keep you upright and comfortable and bring baby to you.

2. Comfortable Nursing Bra. My mom told me she never used a nursing bra. I assume this is because either a) she is crazy or b) they didn’t have quality, comfortable nursing bras back in the 70s. I honestly don’t know how I would have lived without my nursing bras while breastfeeding. (Don’t tell anyone, but my daughter stopped nursing 6 months ago and I’m still wearing several Bravado nursing bras in regular rotation because they are comfortable and provide great support. I just may be wearing the Bliss Nursing Bra today.)

3. Long Camisole. My trick for comfortable nursing – both at home and in public – was layering. I always wore a camisole under my regular shirt, and when I nursed I would simply pull the cami down under my breast when I undid the snap on my nursing bra. The benefit? My belly, back and all my other post-baby bits were contained and totally covered even when I pulled up your shirt to breastfeed. (A great option is the Bravado Essential Nursing Tank.)

4. Quality Breastpump. Speaking from experience, I can say without a doubt, that if you plan to pump at all, you should  invest in the best breast pump you can afford. I learned this the hard way – and as unpleasant as pumping can be, it’s even worse when it’s uncomfortable and slow. Pay extra and your boobs will thank you.

5. Nursing Cover. I admit that I was proudly one of those women who would pretty much whip it out whenever and wherever to feed my child. (Within reason, of course.) But, it wouldn’t have been possible without a nursing cover. If you can’t afford a dedicated nursing cover, consider getting a clip or thingamajig that will turn a regular blanket into a cover.

The best advice I can give is to get the products that will make you feel comfortable. If you are comfortable, baby will be comfortable and that means breastfeeding will be easier. Win-win-win.

What are your must have products for breastfeeding success?

***

This post is part of a series of real-life breastfeeding stories sponsored by Bravado Designs!, maker of the comfortable and modest Essential Nursing Tank – now available in Jade!

With a full bra inside, (no scrawny shelf “bras” here – thank goodness!), the Essential Nursing Tank will make you feel fabulous inside and out. The Tank features a proprietary design that gives you a full support (molded) bra on the inside, a beautiful shape and cottony comfort, all in one! It’s perfect to wear every day as you are out and about, around the house, going to yoga class, lounging or as sleepwear.

RagaBabe Diapers: All in One and All in Two Review + Giveaway

by Kate on October 15th, 2010  |  5 Comments  |  Baby, Baby Shopping Guide, Giveaways

All In One Diapers

All in one diapers, or AIO’s for short, are ready to go as is. No stuffing, snapping, folding, rolling…you get the idea. Think of AIO’s as pocket diapers with the insert sew in (or fitted diapers with the waterproof layer sew on). Many AIO’s, including RagaBabes, have an additional pocket behind the absorbent layer where you can add extra inserts for long naps or night time.

RagaBabe AIO Diapers

For our AIO review I was lucky enough to get to try out an AIO diaper from a brand new company, RagaBabe. Expect big things from this little (right now anyway) company. This AIO diaper is awesome.

The AIO is so easy to use I kind of wish I didn’t have a whole stash of pocket diapers already. The sewn in insert, made from three layers of quick drying bamboo rayon, makes it so you can grab the diaper from the drier (or clothes line) and go. The elastic at the legs and back keeps messes in without leaving red marks and is long-life elastic that reportedly won’t need to be replaced. And the 10 available prints are so cute. From the photos I thought the little star on the front was just decoration, but it’s actually ‘velcro’ and means you can get the diaper nice and tight at the waist by overlapping the flaps. We didn’t need that though, the flaps are the perfect length for my little guy.

All in Two Diapers

All in Two (AI2) diapers are essentially a cover plus an insert that snaps in so that it doesn’t slide around. When you change the diaper you just snap out the wet insert and snap in a clean one. You can reuse the cover as long as it doesn’t get poopy, saving you money. I prefer (and RagaBabe recommends) to have another diaper ready to go at diaper changes. Then the cover has a chance to dry out and the diaper change is quicker.

RagaBabe Organic ’2-Step’ (AI2) Diapers

RagaBabe organic cotton sherpa inserts are made with organic cotton and have layers of lightweight bamboo rayon inside. They are super soft and remind me of the Snuggle Teddy Bear. (I’m still a little sad that Jack pooped on the ‘Snuggle bear.’) The inserts snap in the back and tuck-in in the front. This keeps them secure and keeps the front from peaking out and causing leaks (a problem I’ve had with another brand of AI2′s). We had zero leaking issues and the diaper was super easy to use. The only diaper I’ve used that was easier is the RagaBabe AIO (above). I love that I don’t have to stuff a pocket and that the cover can be used several times.

RagaBabe The Company

RagaBabe diapers were developed out of a search for diapers to help heal the sores on tushes of the founder’s, Joy Yoder, little ones. Check out RagaBabe.com to learn more about this great company and their work in Haiti.

That pursuit has changed my life. With the help of my husband, mother and father (Carol and Dave), the process began that would mean thousands of hours of research and development, design and testing.  Over 300 prototypes were created and meticulously evaluated.  Hundreds of design and fabric changes.  A lot of tears shed.  A lot of prayers answered.  Travels around the country.  New materials developed for RagaBabe never used in diapers.  Problems… and problems solved.

Without leaning on faith in an incredible God, we all might have given up long ago. But with every roadblock, came a breakthrough — and a better diaper.  We are so excited to offer two amazing diapers, our RagaBabe ‘Easy’ All-In-One and our RagaBabe Organic ’2-Step’ (Cover with snap-in Insert). Both designed to make you “love cloth diapers!”

To Buy… AIO or AI2 diapers are a great option for babysitters, cloth diaper resistant daddies, or anyone wanting something super easy, but still good for the environment. RagaBabe diapers are top quality and the AIO’s are available in fun and unique prints making them  a The Shopping Mama Baby Shopping Guide Pick.

Or Not to Buy… Some people find AIO’s take longer to dry than other diapers, but I haven’t had any problems with my RagaBabe. AIO’s and AI2′s sometimes cost a bit more than other styles, but can pay you back in convenience.

Shop! RagaBabe ‘Easy’ All In One Diapers are currently available at introductory prices: $25.95 for prints and $23.95 for solids at Ragababe.com. You’ll also find great (my favorite) cloth wipes, wet bags and, of course, Organic ’2-step’ Diapers that start at $26.95. Also check out RagaBabe’s Facebook Page for great deals and sales.

Win! A RagaBabe Diaper of Your Choice + A Pack of Organic Wipes!

How to enter: Visit RagaBabe.com and tell us which is your favorite print.

Bonus Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

Giveaway ends October 31. Open to US and Canada mailing addresses only.

Disclosure: Thanks to RagaBabe for providing product for this review and giveaway. Opinions are my own. Others may have a different experience.

Total Gym Total Mom Challenge – Week 4, Er, 5 Update

by Kate on October 14th, 2010  |  5 Comments  |  Life

It’s been a month since I introduced the Total Gym Total Mom Challenge. Up until the past week, I’ve felt extremely positive and excited about the Challenge. Not positive in the sense that I think I’m going to win the challenge (because I don’t), but positive about the work I was putting in on the Total Gym and positive about the changes in my body.

And then this week happened. Yikes! A long weekend of travel to tackle the ABC Expo and eating my way through Vegas with my family do not equal progress in a fitness challenge. (Hello, three hour brunch. I’m talking to you.)

Stats Update

I really debated taking measurements this week. And then I debated sharing them. I had a feeling the results wouldn’t be positive and it’s a reflection of me – not the machine. But, in the spirit of disclosure and putting it all out there, I’m sharing my stats. UGH. Here are my current stats and the change from my “before” stats four weeks ago.

  • Weight: 127.0 pounds (same as 2 weeks ago, down 0.6 pounds from “before” stats)
  • BMI: 18.7 (same as 2 weeks ago, down 0.1 from “before” stats)
  • Bust: 34 inches (still no change)
  • Waist: 28 inches (up 1/2 inch from 2 weeks ago, same as “before” stats)
  • Hip: 37.5 inch (up 1/2 inch from 2 weeks ago, down 1/2 inch from “before”)
  • Arm: 10 inches (down 1/4 inch from 2 weeks ago, down – 1/2 inch from “before”)
  • Thigh: 19.5 inches (down 1/2 inch, down 1 inch from “before”)

I was totally discouraged (though not surprised) by the weight and increase in my waist and hip measurements. But, seriously, I ate an embarrassing amount of food over the weekend and haven’t worked out nearly as much as I would have liked. The good news is that I can get back to my usual eating habits. The bad news? We’re moving which will definitely interfere with regular exercise. I won’t be able to get back into that routine until we get settled in our new home.

Shop! Join me on the Total Mom Challenge! Click this link to get 15% off your Total Gym purchase.

Other Total Mom Total Mom Participants

You should stop in and visit the other moms on the Total Gym Total Mom Challenge.

I am participating in the Total Mom Total Gym Challenge facilitated by Blog Friendly PR and received a Total Gym

Meet the Piggies: Teacup Piggies Review + Giveaway

by Kate on October 14th, 2010  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaways, Reviews, Toys

Despite my denial, the holiday shopping season is already in full swing. If you’re on the ball (and, I am totally NOT), then it’s time to start making your list and checking it twice. Building upon the popularity of moving and chatting little critters (think: Zhu-Zhu pets), ToyTeck has unveiled Teacup Piggies.

About Teacup Piggies

Teacup Piggies are six inch miniature versions of real Teacup Pigs. They speak over 20 phrases and each piggy comes with its very own teacup, accessories, and birth certificate. Fabulous wardrobes and playsets sold separately.

Late last year, miniature pigs called teacup pigs became the new must-have pet.There are now hundreds of websites dedicated to these adorable pigs thanks to celebrity owners such as Jessica Simpson, Carrie Underwood, David and Victoria Beckham, Harry Potter’s Rupert Grint, and Peter Facinelliof Twilight fame. They’ve been featured on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Good Morning America, and The Today Show.

Living with Princess Piggie – The Good & The Not So Good

We received the Princess Piggy for review and my daughter took to her instantly. Me? I’m still on the fence. The piggy itself is sweet and comes with an outfit with the princess theme – there’s even a removable tutu. Once you turn the piggy on, it reminds me of my 3 year old son: it never stops talking. Seriously, it’s one phrase after another, albeit in a cute sing songy voice. Princess piggy repeats phrases like, . I’m not a fan of everything the piggy says. For instance, “LOL” – who says that in real life? And “I’m going to marry a prince one day”, which I find totally unnecessary for a child’s toy. I much prefer when the Princess talks about taking the stage and wanting to be an actress.

Like I mentioned, my daughter really took to the toy and insisted on carrying it around with her for days – every.where.we.went. It was actually pretty cute, but we had to turn the piggy off at restaurants as she was chatting our ears off. The sensor is very sensitive and she seems to jabber on incessantly rather than waiting for you to rub her back, or push her nose. My favorite noise is the snoring sound the pig makes when she lays on her side – it’s awfully cute.

I have to say, I like the idea of the Teacup Piggie and think the company is on the right track. But, this version could use some improvements to really make it a standout product. For example, I’d like to see the piggy be a tad more cuddly – it’s awfully cute, but not particularly soft. I’d also prefer a less sensitive sensor so it wouldn’t talk quite so much. Given the price point, I imagine some of the drawbacks are due to cost constraints.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… I really like the idea of the Teacup Piggies – it’s cute and there’s a lot of potential for a whole brood of piggies. For the price, the Piggie is a fun gift and I think best suited for kids between 4 and 8.

Or Not to Buy… While I like the idea, I think the execution is a bit lacking. I hope the company makes some improvements and creates an improved version based on feedback – because I do think it has a lot of potential.

Shop! Teacup Piggies are very affordable and can be purchased at Toys R Us, K-Mart, Walgreens and Radio Shack. The suggested retail price is $5.99 for a fashion set, the Piggy set is $12.99, deluxe accessory set $12.99 and three playsets priced at $17.99-29.99.

Win! A Piggy Set – one interactive piggy, teacup, bottle, and birth certificate.

How to Enter: Visit Teacup Piggies and Meet the Piggies. Leave a comment with your favorite Piggy personality.

Bonus Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

Giveaway ends October 31th. Open to US mailing addresses only.

Disclosure: Thanks to Toy Teck for providing a sample product for the purpose of this review and the giveaway prize. Opinions here are my own and uninfluenced by receipt of product.
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