The Shopping Mama

Tommee Tippee: Closer to Nature Single Breast Pump

by Kate on June 13th, 2011 | 5 Comments | For Mama, Reviews

To follow up on my last post about breastfeeding, Charlie is still happily nursing and we continue to supplement when necessary. I have managed to get my supply to the point where he only needs formula during the later hours of the day, when my milk production decreases. I have become very attached to my rented hospital grade pump, as it has helped me to build up a very small supply of frozen milk for those first few days at daycare.

When I had the opportunity to review the Tommee Tippee breast pump, I was admittedly skeptical because I’ve heard that most commercial pumps are less than stellar for those of us who need to maximize our supply. On the other hand, I was also excited to try it out because we use Tommee Tippee bottles and we are big fans of their products. Plus, this pump allows you to pump the milk right into a Tommee Tippee bottle.

About the closer to nature Electric Breast Pump

The closer to nature breast pump is from Tommee Tippee, a UK-based company that recently came to the US. Their products are available exclusively through Babies R Us.

Whether moving from breast to bottle, combining the two or choosing to bottle feed, our revolutionary bottle and nipple is your baby’s very best option. Intuitively designed for easier and more comfortable expressing. Researched and developed by Moms and breastfeeding experts. [Our] unique expressable system lets you express, protect, prepare and feed in one easy system, no transferring, no waste. The soft silicone cup with innovative massaging ripples mimics a baby’s natural feeding action, giving mom maximum comfort. Four suction levels allow for efficient expression, controlled by mom to suit her needs and comfort. Ideal for moms that regularly express.

The pump, like all Tommee Tippee products, is BPA free. It can be operated either with batteries or the electric adapter that is included. It also comes with a storage container that doubles as a microwave sanitizer for all parts that come in contact with mom and baby.

The Perfect Pump for Casual Use

My biggest worry about using this pump was that it would not yield as much milk as my heavy duty hospital-grade pump. But I used it a few times, at different hours of the day, and got basically the same yield that I expected to get with my super Medela. My nipples go through 8-10 feedings and almost as many pumpings per day, so the soft silicone cup was a welcome relief to the occasional soreness that comes with the job. It gently contracted but still had enough suction to extract milk. The best thing about this pump, if you are a Tommee Tippee bottle user like we are, is that it pumps directly into Tommee Tippee bottles. Perfect for times when a mom wants to pump a bottle for someone else to feed to her little one.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… This is a great, compact pump that would travel well for a mom on the go, either for work or for pleasure. As I said above, it gets good suction without being uncomfortable and it coordinates with the Tommee Tippee bottle system for utmost convenience. This might be a negative for those who have already invested in another bottle system, but new moms or moms-to-be should consider using Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature nipples if they wish to use a system that mimics human nipples and combats colic.

Or Not to Buy… Oh how I wish they would make this pump in a double version so that both breasts can be pumped at the same time! This one factor makes it difficult to recommend this product for the every-day-pumping mom, but it is definitely the perfect back-up pump for irregular travel or part-time use. I plan to keep it at home and leave my double pump at the office, where I will do most of my pumping upon my return to work.

Shop! This item retails for $149.99 at Babies R Us, which has the exclusive rights to all Tommee Tippee products in the US. The price is comparable to other brand-name pumps on the market.

Thanks to Tommee Tippee for providing a sample.

Personalized Father's Day Cards from Tiny Prints {Get One FREE}

by Kate on June 12th, 2011 | 5 Comments | For Mama

I admit that I am writing this post with a slightly smug attitude. Why? Because I have personalized Father’s Day cards – including photos of my kids – addressed, stamped and ready to mail (or hand out) with plenty of time to spare. How? Tiny Prints. The company has a huge selection of Father’s Day cards with free personalization AND addressing service. Heck, they’ll even add the stamp and mail the card for you.

Personalized Father’s Day Cards

I personalized several Father’s Day Cards for my husband and one on its way to California for my father-in-law. The selection at Tiny Prints is amazing – you can find cards that are sentimental, funny, silly or sweet. But, by far, my favorite feature is that you can add photos. I designed the Dad Frame card (pictured above) and added three photos of my kids. You can edit the photos on the easy to use Tiny Prints website, so I made the photos sepia tone to match the card. The finished product is perfect! It looks just like the preview online and the quality is amazing.

For my father-in0law, I customized the Daddy’s Angels card (below). It is darling and he will love it. I love that Tiny Prints did all the hard work for me – the card is addressed and totally prepped for me to send. And, if you’re time crunched, Tiny Prints will even add the stamp and mail the card for you (for the price of postage, no surcharge). That may sound unnecessary, but tell that to the mama who just found a pile of unsent Mother’s Day cards. (That would be me.)

FREE Father’s Day Card

While I think Tiny Prints cards are worth every penny, it’s particularly fun to get one for FREE. Until tomorrow at noon (PST) you can get a Free Father’s Day Card with code FREEFD.

Shop! Tiny Prints provides simple, modern and unique stationery from Fathers Day cards and party invitations to thank you cards birth announcements. With Tiny Prints by your side, commemorating every holiday and momentous occasion is a cinch! and

Thanks to Tiny Prints for providing samples.

Fabulous Finds for Father's Day {Plus Twitter Party}

by Kate on June 10th, 2011 | 5 Comments | Shopping

We’ve teamed up with Momtrends to make shopping for Father’s Day a breeze. From practical to pure fun, we have your Father’s Day gift giving covered with an assortment of fabulous finds.

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DaddyScrubs was created upon the premise that new Dads deserve to feel special and comfortable during one of life’s most exciting – and most important – times. The popular line of “I’m The Daddy” scrubs, t-shirts and accessories was born in September 2009, and made it to our Baby Shopping Guide.

For new dads we love the exclusive Daddy Swag Gift Set that has everything an expectant new daddy will need before and after the new baby arrives. Sold in a beautiful gift box for $74.99, the gift set includes: “I’m the Daddy” medical scrubs to be worn during labor and delivery and beyond, t-shirt and hat and mug, magnet, pens, and stickers!

Save 10% with our exclusive discount code: Twitter.

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SodaStream is a home beverage carbonation system, which conveniently transforms the water you normally drink into carbonated soft drinks and sparkling water. Powered by CO2 carbonators that are themselves re-used through an exchange program, SodaStream machines are a no-electricity, no-waste way to enjoy your favorite beverages.

Check out the new Fizz machine. Soda Stream’s latest model with a chip that measures the amount of Co2 left in your carbonator and how fizzy you’ve made your drink!

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Ellen Allen Annapolis is a lifestyle brand offering an array of essentials to keep you effortlessly organized and vibrantly chic. Our bags, especially our flagship Eastport, are the sexy way to schlep everything that’s part of your active, coastal (or poolside!) lifestyle!

The classic dad will love Ellen Allen Annapolis ties. The architectural lines of the Capital (above) and the whimsy of the Sadler tie design add high style to dad’s work wardrobe.

Our exclusive discount code ELLEN30 will save an impressive 30% off all handbags, totes, wallets and ties until June 20.

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Kickboard USA brings fun on wheels with an assortment of micro kickboards and scooters designed with a mixture of a kid’s desire to be cool and a grown-up’s application of technology.

Why should kids have all the fun? Check out the the kick black Scooter. With Italian-made wheels (which create an unbelievably smooth, quiet ride, and a fast, easy glide), fold-up portability and tall stance, this scooter is designed for DAD!

Save 25% off the Kickboard Black Scooter this weekend with code GODAD.

Twitter Party!

Join @Momtrends and @TheShoppingMama for a twitter party to talk Father’s Day gifts. Of course, you’ll have a chance to win some of our top picks for dads!

When: Sunday, June 12 9 – 10 PM EST

Follow: @Momtrends @TheShoppingMama and hashtag #FabFathersDay

Make sure you’re also following our sponsors: @DaddyScrubs @KickboardUSA @EllenAllenAnnap @SodaStreamUSA

Win! Twitter Party giveaways include Black Kickboard Scooter from Kickboard USA, Daddy Swag Bag from DaddyScrubs & Fizz Machine Kit with 2 flavors, 1 carbonating bottle, and 1 60L carbonator from Soda Stream!

This is a sponsored post.

Father's Day Gifts for the Sporty Dad

by Kate on June 10th, 2011 | 5 Comments | Shopping

June is a busy month in our house: Father’s Day, my mother’s birthday, my mother in law’s birthday, and my husband’s birthday. Did I mention that all of these major gift giving occasions occur between June 10th and 19th? AHHH! So for me, it is almost as busy as the winter holiday season. Needless to say, I am slightly overwhelmed as I haven’t started shopping yet. So, in order to brainstorm some gift ideas for the Sporty Daddy to get my shop on, I have compiled a list of a few awesome summer sports items for the sport enthusiast in your life! As the weather is perfect for summer sports, my list is primarily geared towards triathlon season and golf. Happy Shopping for the Active Dad!

Keen Commuter Sandals. Perfect for after a long ride, run, or swim. Or playing in the yard with the kiddos. I buy these for my kids every summer, they are the best! Now to convince Daddy to wear them as well. Currently on sale at Roll: for $68.99.

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Taylormade R11 “White Driver” . I know nothing about this other than my husband points out every single golfer on tour who has it, followed by why he needs it to improve his game. Available at Golfsmith for $399. Yikes.

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Pit Stop, road bike tire tube repair kit. To keep you moving on a long ride in case of a flat. Trek for $14.99.

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Tri shorts for Dad’s triathlon races this summer. TYR $74.99.

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Garmin Touchscreen Golf GPS. Shocked my combo Techy/Sporty Hubby hasn’t asked for one of these yet. A GPS range finder for the golf course. Amazon $269

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Or this sporty gadget: Garmin Forerunner GPS Running Watch. It shows mileage, pace, caloric burn, heart rate, etc. I have an older version of this and love it! Wish someone would get this new awesome touch screen version in our house!!! Running Warehouse $399.

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Sporty no slip shades for running and biking. Tifosi $69.

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HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

J. Crew Kids Tee to Benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

by Kate on June 9th, 2011 | 5 Comments | Shopping

I’m happy to share this very cool tee for an even cooler cause that is very near and dear to my heart. Designed by Dallas Clayton, the author and illustrator behind the “Awesome books”, the “Victorious” tee rallies support for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The shirt was inspired by a two-year old boy named Milo who lost his battle with leukemia. While in treatment, his mother read the Clayton’s An Awesome Book, an inspiring story about dreaming big.

The best part of the tee is that 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, an important nonprofit organization dedicated to helping those with blood cancers live longer, happier lives. I’ll be ordering one for each of my kids.

Shop! The limited-edition Victorious tee is available nationwide in-stores and online (shipping cost waived) for $25.

Best Father's Day Gifts for the Techie Dad

by Kate on June 9th, 2011 | 5 Comments | Shopping

I’ve worked for two universities, a museum, and three high schools. In every single one of those jobs, I dreaded calling for “tech support.” It didn’t seem to matter if it was my computer, a printer, or some other gadget unique to the office, the response was always the same – “Did’ja reboot?” I still shake my head thinking about it.

In my most recent position as a stay-at-home mom, I have the most responsive and competent tech support. Thank goodness! I’m surrounded by technology in my own home. My tech support buys, installs and maintains every bit of audio/video equipment and computer gear and answers to “Hon” and “Daaaaaddy!”

I consider myself an “end user” of computer technology; therefore, gift-giving occasions for the man who keeps this house running as bread-winner, tech support and husband/dad extraordinaire often stump me. I have a feeling that I am not alone, so I’ve compiled a list that might help us as Father’s Day approaches very fast.

Cliche Gift – iPad2

I know. I know. This is not a “novel” gift idea and it comes with a hefty price tag, but I could not pry MY new iPad2 out of my HUSBAND’S hands while he was home for his two-week mid-tour break. In that time, he downloaded an app that turned our iPad into a remote control for the home entertainment system, Stanza (a free electronic book reader), Zinio (a digital magazine reader), and an app to remotely control our Dish Network satellite receiver. I kept hearing the phrase, “I’m so glad you bought this. This is really cool.” That’s high praise from my husband, who is very hard to impress. The iPad2 is available from many outlets and prices start at $499, but vary based upon memory and wifi versus 3G.

The Gift of Time Alone – Bose QuietComfort 15 Headphones

Dads need an escape every now and then. As such, man caves are getting more and more common. But let’s face it, not everyone has the real estate to dedicate to a private space for dad and, even if you do, it’s probably not soundproof. If you wish to give dad some time to himself and a true escape, a nice pair of headphones will fit the bill. The Bose QuietComfort 15 Headphones can be purchased from Bose with an installment plan or from Amazon for the $299.95 price tag. Orders ship within 1-2 days.

Practical Gift – iPlunge Stand

This suction cup stand will support a variety of mobile devices on a flat surface, making them hands-free. And it will make you smile. Available at Uncommongoods.com for $6.95.

Inexpensive & Long-Lasting Gift – Magazine Subscription

One of the things about technology is that it is always changing. A subscription to an audio/video/computer magazine will keep your dad up-to-date for the next 12 months. Magazine subscriptions are available at Amazon.com.

A Gift for the Whole Family – Denon “IN Command” Series Receiver

I have a couple of pet peeves. One of those is commercials that HOLLER AT ME! Denon has addressed this and so much more in their latest whole house receiver series. The “IN Command” series features three different models that have volume control, play from an iPhone/iPad wirelessly, will control two zones in your house at one time (think home theater for dad and living room tv for the rest of the family), and play internet radio including Rhapsody and Pandora. Starting at $599.99 and available soon online and from upscale electronics outlets. Okay, so good things are worth the wait. I think dad will accept an IOU in this instance.

Ultimate Geek Gift – TV Calibration DVD

I knew my husband was a serious audio/video geek when I saw him sitting on the couch wearing 3D glasses staring at a TV test pattern. Don’t know what a test pattern is? Think the old color block that used to appear when the networks signed off at night. He wants colors and screen images as true as possible and there are lots of tools out there to assist with that. Whether you have a regular television setup or have already invested in high definition and Blu-Ray, there is a calibration DVD for you. Kits start at $14.99 on Amazon.

Joke Gift – A warranty!

Buying all of kinds technology is fantastic, until your three-year-old spills grape juice on something and shorts it out. An extended warranty could save a valuable investment.

Thursday Giveaway Linky

by Kate on June 9th, 2011 | 5 Comments | Giveaway Linky

Happy Thursday! Thanks or linking up and browsing great giveaways. Before you hop off make sure you check out the great giveaways we have here at The Shopping Mama, including the VTech Toys 3-in-1 Zebra Scooter.

Head over to Baby Loving Mama to link up there, too. And you must enter to the Party City $50 Gift Card giveaway.

Kodak Photo Books: Buy One Get One Free for Father's Day!

by Kate on June 8th, 2011 | 5 Comments | Shopping

Father’s Day is fast approaching – don’t run to your calendar, it’s June 19! – but it’s not too late to plan a sweet and thoughtful gift. Move over power tools, there’s a more affordable and personal gift in town. From now until June 19, Kodak Kiosks at participating retailers (CVS and Target) are offering Buy One 8 x 10 Photo Book, Get One FREE. Present for dad? Check. Present for granddad? Check. (Or, heck, keep that extra book for yourself.)

One thing that can be intimidating about creating a photo book is the time it takes to make it perfect. But, Kodak Kiosks allow you to access your Facebook albums directly from the kiosk. I LOVE this feature because I rarely organize my photos from my memory disk, but I do add photos to Facebook all the time in organized albums.

If you don’t want to make a full photo book but still want a personalized gift, you can create other photo gifts through the Kodak kiosk like a personalized greeting card, PYNK frame or calendar.

Shop! The Buy One, Get One Photo Book FREE offer lasts until June 19. With more than 100,000 locations around the world, KODAK Picture Kiosks provide consumers with the convenience to create and share anytime, anywhere, whether it’s a last minute gift, card or just a few prints to share with friends and family. Visit Kodak Kiosk finder to locate a kiosk near you.