Contact
Subscribe
Bookmark
-
2
The Process of Banking Your Baby’s Cord...
Published on Monday, March 1, 2010 by caryn Once we decided to bank our son's cord blood, selecting a company was the first priority. Initially, we asked my obstetrician for recommendations to reputable companies. When he gave us that information, we initiated conversations with those companies. Many (if not all) private cord blood banking companies will send you a packet of information and follow-up with... Read More » -
516
Win a Palm Pre Plus! *Giveaway*
Published on Monday, March 1, 2010 by caryn This Giveaway is now closed. Thank you all for your entries and participation! Congrats to our winner, Chacoy (#332)! I have spent the last month giving you an insider's look at the new Palm Pre Plus. I told you about my initial impressions, my favorite applications, and why I think it's the perfect phone for digital moms like me. Now is your chance to win this r... Read More » -
98
Punkaboo *Giveaway*
Published on Monday, March 1, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to Khrystina (#52)! Between running after my two year old and tending to my baby girl, I have enough on my plate without having to worry about lost sippy cups, backpacks, and toys. One of the easiest ways to keep track of all of our belongings is to label them. Back when I was a little girl, my mom sewed my name into my cloth... Read More » -
85
Simplisse Breast Pump and Breast Care Product...
Published on Sunday, February 28, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to Wendy (#49)! Disclaimer: This post contains information about breastfeeding. I will be completely honest in admitting that when I was offered the opportunity to review a manual breast pump, I was hesitant. After all, I use a double electric breast pump...how could it compare? Would it be fast enough? (I have an impati... Read More » -
104
A Giveaway To Keep Your Baby Dry!
Published on Sunday, February 28, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to Kristy (#58)! My son and my daughter are 2 1/2 years apart (almost to the day). Now that may seem like a decent amount of spacing in between the two children, but in many ways my son is still a baby. There are times when he asserts his independence, vocalizes his thoughts and feelings, and acts like he's very "grown up" (f... Read More » -
1
Rockin’ Mama on Mom Talk Radio
Published on Saturday, February 27, 2010 by caryn Two weeks ago, I had the honor of being on Maria Bailey's popular online radio show called Mom Talk Radio. Mom Talk Radio is the first nationally syndicated radio show for moms. The Integrated Mother and I were featured on the Mom's Round Table and shared some of the ways we show teach our children about love and relationships. I have no idea how to embed the audio ... Read More » -
115
Testing Out the Palm Pre Plus…Mom-Friendly ...
Published on Saturday, February 27, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to Judy B (#60)! So it's week number three of my "test drive" and I'm converted. I really only use my old phone to make calls because I haven't imported all of my numbers from my old phone into the Palm Pre Plus. I don't know if I mentioned this in previous posts, but we are not Verizon subscribers. Not yet. But we are s... Read More » -
2
Kooza Debuts In San Diego
Published on Friday, February 26, 2010 by caryn Last night was the opening night of Cirque du Soleil’s KOOZA at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in sunny California! We had an opportunity to attend their media preview night on Wednesday, and I have to say that seeing it again was just as breathtaking and heart stopping as the first time. To recap, "KOOZA is a return to the origins of Cirque du Soleil that combines tw... Read More » -
3
Bloom’s Alma Crib
Published on Thursday, February 25, 2010 by caryn As a mom who believes in attachment parenting, it feels very unnatural to have our baby sleep in a separate room, away from us. My ideal situation would be to have our daughter sleep in her own space, close to us, just as our son did (surprisingly, the room in our old apartment was just large enough to fit his crib). For now, she's sleeping in our bed, as our room... Read More » -
41
Rainbow Brite Is Back! *Giveaway*
Published on Thursday, February 25, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to our winners Nicola (#8), Brianna (#28), Candice (#31), deb (#20), Susan V (#13)! I grew up in the 80's, the decade of leg warmers, Nintendo, Ray-Ban's and Rainbow Brite. My mom says she still has my childhood Rainbow Brite doll. And did you see my vintage Rainbow Brite T-shirt? Rainbow Brite is back! She's undergone... Read More » -
1
Making A Family Home
Published on Thursday, February 25, 2010 by caryn I have fond memories of my childhood home. I grew up as an only child and we lived very simply. While my mom (who is still my best friend) and I played at the beach and shopped at the mall together, we spent a lot of time at home. I remember playing Barbies and reading stories. I remember our family dinners and weekend get togethers with extended family. It... Read More » -
1
Easy Room Decor With Graphique de France
Published on Thursday, February 25, 2010 by caryn A little over a year ago, after spending many years as apartment dwellers, my husband and I bought our very first home. It was so freeing to be able to personalize the decor in our home, from the paint on the walls to the carpet we installed. My husband and our parents painted the entire 2-story home (impressive right?). We chose unconventional colors like deep ... Read More » -
6
Fisher Price’s Rock n Play Sleeper
Published on Wednesday, February 24, 2010 by caryn For the last several weeks, we've suspected that our baby girl has reflux. The colic, reflux and slow weight gain confirm that this is likely why she's been fussy and uncomfortable. One of the things are Pediatrician told us to do was have her upright as much as possible. Because we co-sleep, it's been a challenge to figure out a good way to do that while juggli... Read More » -
10
Choosing a Blogger To Represent Your Brand: ...
Published on Wednesday, February 24, 2010 by caryn On Sunday, I had the honor of attending a blogger event for Silicon Valley Moms Blog. The pre-event round table discussion was phenomenal. How often do you get to sit in a room full of bloggers and companies to openly dialogue about how we can work together to promote each other? The discussion was lively and authentic. I have much to share with you about ... Read More » -
217
Take the Whole Grain Awareness Challenge *Giv...
Published on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Congrats to the Winner, Nad (#28)! Several years ago, I decided to omit all white, processed foods from my diet. I replaced white bread, flour tortillas, and saltine crackers with their whole grain alternatives. According to The Journal of Nutrition, "higher intakes of cereal fiber, particularly from whole-grain sources, are associate... Read More » -
2
Umi…A Little Spring in Their Step
Published on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 by caryn Spring is almost here and I'm ready for warmer weather and park days. My son is a busy little boy, running and jumping and playing. And because he is so active, he needs a supportive pair of shoes. Last fall, I introduced you to Umi Shoes. The company makes quality children's shoes, "designed with children's feet in mind." Their shoes are made from the high... Read More » -
3
Play With Me…Way to Play Days at Preten...
Published on Monday, February 22, 2010 by caryn It is paradoxical that many educators and parents still differentiate between a time for learning and a time for play without seeing the vital connection between them. Leo F. Buscaglia Play with me...I love those three little words that my son says over and over again each day. Kids need to play..plain and simple. It's a vital aspect of their development. A l... Read More » -
0
Paraguayan Eco-Lux Soaps by Wembé
Published on Monday, February 22, 2010 by caryn As a green mom, I'm always excited to learn about new companies who are striving to ensure their products are safe, natural, and eco-friendly. Because what I put on my skin is as important as what I put in my body, I strive to use natural body products when I can. Wembé, a company that makes organic soaps from Paraguay, recently launched their line of eco-lux bran... Read More » -
2
Bumble Bee’s Tonno in Olive Oil
Published on Monday, February 22, 2010 by caryn Because I'm a bit of a healthy nut (just ask my husband), I tend to be very particular and purposeful about the foods I purchase. That's not to say that I won't indulge every now and then. But for the most part, I stick to all-natural foods. I don't eat beef, pork, or any type of dark meat (i.e. poultry) so I'm a bit limited as far as my sources of protein. I ... Read More » -
6
Fresh & Easy Baby
Published on Monday, February 22, 2010 by caryn A little over a week ago, I received an adorable gift basket for our daughter, courtesy of Fresh & Easy. The British chain of grocery stores has made it's debut in the US, and offers consumers affordable foods and products that are free from artificial flavors, colors, and trans fats. In some ways, the Europeans have an edge over us because they banned chemica... Read More » -
52
Potato Fest at Souplantation *Giveaway*
Published on Sunday, February 21, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winners are Sharon R., Karen, and Kathleen S. Congrats! One of my favorite casual, kid-friendly, and affordable restaurants to eat at is Souplantation (aka Sweet Tomatoes in some parts of the country). As I write this, I'm craving their corn muffins and focaccia bread and chicken noodle soup! February i... Read More » -
4
Getting My Pre-Pregnancy Shape Back With Shri...
Published on Saturday, February 20, 2010 by caryn I just passed the 8 week post-partum/post-c section mark and am ready to get serious about getting my pre-pregnancy body back (at least some version of it). I've used (and continue to use) body shapers to help provide additional support and give my body some grace as it returns back to a version of it's former self. But I've yet to see a product that will help you... Read More » -
0
Share His Unsung Moments
Published on Saturday, February 20, 2010 by caryn Evenings are my respite. That is when my husband comes home and gives me a bit of a break with my son. Very often I'll hear them upstairs giggling and squealing...And I know that my husband is forever changed by these babies of ours. These are the moments...the one's my children and I will remember...recognize. But they're the most important...those unsung momen... Read More » -
2
Kids Couture Fashions from Matooka
Published on Friday, February 19, 2010 by caryn Shopping for a little girl is an entirely different experience...one that I'm thoroughly enjoying. Hardly a day goes by that I don't see a dress or an outfit I'd like to buy for my daughter. There seems to be this abundance of adorable clothing for little girls. I only wish I had that many options for my son. Matooka is a new line of couture clothing for girl... Read More » -
3
Going Vintage With Crazy Dog T-Shirts
Published on Friday, February 19, 2010 by caryn Most days, you'll find me lounging running after the kids in a t-shirt and a pair of jeans. Because I don't have a lot of time for primping, I rely on my wardrobe to keep me looking hip and un-frumpy! Check out the latest tee I've been wearing: Isn't it adorable? It's a vintage tee from Crazy Dog T-Shirts. The fact that Rainbow Brite is considered vintage rea... Read More » -
1
A Girl’s Gotta Laugh…Design the N...
Published on Friday, February 19, 2010 by caryn I don't have the opportunity to spend nights out with my girlfriends much these days, but when I do, it's usually with moms just like myself. Once you become a parent, it's hard for others to empathize with you when your toddler sticks a crayon up his nose. So most of my nights out with the girls are with other moms. Other moms who have similar stories about thi... Read More » -
1
Read to Me: I’m Up in a Tree
Published on Friday, February 19, 2010 by caryn My 2 year old is very vocal about his thoughts, wants, and needs these days. And while he's only two, I realize that each day he's gaining confidence and independence. I'm wrapping up this week of inspirational children's books with a book that teaches children to have confidence in their ability to make wise choices. I'm Up in a Tree, by Mark Alden Johnson "enco... Read More » -
1
Read to Me: How Lil’ Eddie Learns to R...
Published on Friday, February 19, 2010 by caryn I've been reading to my son since he was an infant. And my daughter has had the added benefit of being read to in utero. I honestly believe that my son's love for books stems from the fact that we read so early in his life. The benefits of reading just 20 minutes a day are numerous and include strengthening relationships, encouraging listening and language skill... Read More » -
3
Innovative Feeding With Tommee Tippee
Published on Thursday, February 18, 2010 by caryn I never imagined I'd go through as many sippy cups and bottles as I have with my two children. I've had almost 3 years of experience with nearly every bottle and sippy cup on the market so I have a pretty good idea of what works for my children. Because I just adore most European-designed products, I was thrilled to hear that Tommee Tippee, the number-one brand of i... Read More » -
0
It’s a Baby Shower…With Johnson&#...
Published on Thursday, February 18, 2010 by caryn I'm surrounded by pregnant women. Shanna, Jen, and Kara-Noel are 3 fabulous women I've gotten to know through my Orange County blogging connections. They're also going to be having babies sometime this year. When I was pregnant with my son, 2 incredible women threw me a baby shower. It was such a blessing to be surrounded by family and friends. When our dau... Read More » -
1
Read to Me: Feeding Penny Pig
Published on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 by caryn The other day my son (who's 2 1/2 by the way) and I had a conversation that went something like this: "What do you have in your pocket?" My son was digging around in his pant pocket for something. "I have money," he says, triumphantly. He then proceeds to pull out a penny. My first thought was, where did he get that from? My second thought was, how does he ... Read More » -
120
Celtic Woman: Songs From the Heart *Giveaway...
Published on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Daniel M. Congrats! Prior to my son's birth, my husband and I spent about 8 months living, working and traveling overseas. Much of that time was spent in Edinburgh, where I worked as a nurse. If you asked me what the word "Celtic" meant prior to living in Scotland, I would have greeted you wit... Read More » -
99
Testing Out the Palm Pre Plus…It’...
Published on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Linda. Congrats! I've been playing with testing out the Palm Pre Plus for 2 weeks now and I'm highly impressed. What's ironic about this 4 week test period is that I think I've only made one or two phone calls. The Palm Pre Plus is more like a computer than a phone. And the free and downloadab... Read More » -
72
Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey *Givea...
Published on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Rachel S. Congrats!I'm not usually particularly fond of children's music CD's. And yet here I am with another review in this genre of music. Late last year, I had an opportunity to preview Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas, which my son still enjoys listening to. Sin... Read More » -
75
Carnie Wilson Creates a Snapfish Photo Book *...
Published on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Nikki. Congrats! If you like to take a lot of pictures (like me!), but find most of them sitting on your camera or desktop (again...like me!), why not consider creating a photo book? We have several of these around our house which tell visual stories of our relationship, travels, and children.... Read More » -
2
Read to Me: Classic Children’s Books fr...
Published on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 by caryn Every book I've ever read has a message to convey...a lesson to be learned. Do you want to teach your child to potty train? Or sleep through the night? Or learn to share? Find a book that addresses those topics. Age-appropriate books are a meaningful way to introduce concepts to children. Many years ago, Dr. Pat Palmer, who has authored numerous books for chi... Read More » -
0
Personalized Calendars from Tukaiz
Published on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 by caryn Whenever I think about gift giving, I try to ensure that it's something personal and thought out. And if I'm choosing a gift for a close friend or family member, I'll often think about a photo gift. Tukaiz offers image-personalized calendars, notebooks, folders, and cards. The company uses a special technology from Germany that allows them to create products with... Read More » -
0
Fifty Nifty…Gopher Style
Published on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 by caryn I'm constantly amazed at the programs available for children these days. I don't remember receiving a computer until I was in high school. And apart from writing papers and playing Solitaire, I don't remember spending time doing anything else on it. More and more kids are going online to play games, read stories, and view programs. In fact, I recently learned of... Read More » -
1
Read to Me: Dudley’s Solo
Published on Tuesday, February 16, 2010 by caryn We live in a diverse world...a world of color and different abilities. Teaching this concept to a child, particularly a toddler, can be difficult. How do I explain to my son that mommy is Hispanic and daddy is Caucasian? That mommy comes from a country that speaks a different language, eats different foods, and has different customs and traditions? And what ab... Read More » -
215
Baby Bunch *Giveaway*
Published on Monday, February 15, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Angela Winesburg. Congrats! How does this... Become this? I think this is truly one of the most unique baby gifts I've yet to see. The Baby Bunch "is a blossoming selection of infant clothing presented as a bouquet of flowers." I am still impressed with how they managed to wrap a bib,... Read More » -
1
Read to Me: Trucks, Trains, and Worm Brains
Published on Monday, February 15, 2010 by caryn "That's mine!" hmf! My 2 1/2 year old regularly claims his possessions these days. Last week at church, he was given an impromptu lesson on sharing. Apart from preschool and church, he's never really had to share. He regularly takes our daughter's blanket, pacifier, and baby toys, claiming possession over them. Teaching a child to share is an interesting pro... Read More » -
0
H2Organics…Nutrient Enhanced Water for ...
Published on Monday, February 15, 2010 by caryn On most days, water is the only beverage I consume. Several years ago, when I was on a weight loss plan, I learned that I could cut a LOT of calories by sticking to water. I'm usually pretty good about sticking to water, but I do get tired of it. And when I'm "over" water, I usually turn to something that's not great for me. Drinking water also sets a good exa... Read More » -
0
Get Sheepless This President’s Day
Published on Monday, February 15, 2010 by caryn Today is President's Day and Serta announced their campaign over the weekend to help you get "Sheepless" with their new Free Comforter Giveaway Event. Now through March 15th, if you purchase a Serta mattress or set ($795 or more), you'll receive a mail-in form for a free Serta comforter ($129 value) made with 100% down-alternative fill. If you're active on Twitter,... Read More » -
87
Jazzy Tunes from The Princess and the Frog *G...
Published on Monday, February 15, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Asha. Congrats! Last fall, Disney's latest film, The Princess and the Frog was released in theaters. I still haven't managed to see it, but every time I listen to the soundtrack I snap my fingers and do a little jig. The film is set in New Orleans and is a modern twist on the... Read More » -
0
Read to Me: Inspirational Books from Hammond
Published on Sunday, February 14, 2010 by caryn "Let's read it again." Those are the daily sentiments of my 2 1/2 year old. He loves to read...and I love that about him. Admittedly, there are times when I really wish we could read something different. But connections are being made. So I read him that book again and again to his heart's content. If you knew...if you really knew what 20 minutes a day c... Read More » -
1
Fun with Frogs
Published on Sunday, February 14, 2010 by caryn Last night my husband and I celebrated Valentine's Day. He took me out to one of our favorite seafood restaurants and we watched Valentine's Day (which was so good!). Since my husband had been gone on business all week, we made the most of our dinner out alone by catching up on our week's activities. I brought my camera with me (I always have my camera with me) ... Read More » -
121
Nursing Moms…You Can Go Out Tonight *Gi...
Published on Sunday, February 14, 2010 by caryn This giveaway is now closed. Thanks for stopping by. The winner is Jaina's Mom. Congrats! I am one of those moms that has had to pump with both children. My son didn't take a bottle until he was six months old and my daughter has taken less than a handful of bottles in her 2 months of life. But with both children, I started pumping within the first week of ... Read More » -
4
Happy Valentine’s Day To The Princesses...
Published on Sunday, February 14, 2010 by caryn Thank you Disneyland, for making me feel like a princess today. I hope each and every one of you (especially you moms) enjoy this special day. ... Read More » -
1
Feeling Blu?
Published on Saturday, February 13, 2010 by caryn Being that I'm a Southern California native, I hear the term "winter blues" and don't think much about it. The only "real"winters I've ever experienced were a few days in the South and a winter spent in Edinburgh. I specifically remember many, many days (in December) where the sun set before 4:00 pm and didn't rise again until just before 9. I don't ever get depre... Read More » -
12
My {Not So} Shining Mommy Moments
Published on Friday, February 12, 2010 by caryn It was supposed to be a great day. How could it not be, when we started out the morning with Cinnamon Pancakes. I know he's been feeling the effects of my divided attention. He's been the center of my world for the past 2 1/2 years. Now there is this other person...taking his place in mommy and daddy's bed...strapped to mommy where he once was...nursing in mom... Read More »
