It’s one of the first books an expectant woman receives and read by more than 90% of pregnant women who read a pregnancy book.  With over 14.5 million copies in print, New York Times bestseller What to Expect When You’re Expecting. holds the distinction of being one of USA Today’s 25 most influential books of the past 25 years.  This iconic book is hitting theaters as a film directed by Kirk Jones with an adapted screenplay written by Shauna Cross and Heather Hach.

In preparation for the film’s opening, I attended a screening and press conference with some of the talent including Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Elizabeth Banks, Anna Kendrick, Wendy McLendon-Covey, and Heidi Murkoff and director Kirk Jones, Matthew Morrison, Rodrigo Santoro, Chace Crawford and Ben Falcone.  The film follows five couple’s unique but interconnected stories and experiences surrounding the “birth” of a child.

So how does a fact-based book such as What To Expect When You’re Expecting become a full-length film?

Interestingly enough, English director Kirk Jones had no prior knowledge of the book and initially thought the idea of adapting it for the screen would be challenging.  But recalling the births of his three children, he noted that those pregnancies were “filled with some of the scariest, funniest most dramatic moments of my life.”  He made an interesting point that all of the things we look for in a movie are encountered on the journey of pregnancy, which is why the film worked.  [Pregnancy] is an exciting subject…it makes us queston our relationships and our future and if we’re going to be good parents (Jones).”  When Matthew Morrison was first approached to work on the film, he knew nothing of the book.  However, he recalled how honest, funny, and messy the script was which is a lot like pregnancy.  Diretor Kirk Jones “weaved all the stories [together] in a beautiful, eloquent way, making it appear seemless (Morrison).”

Author Murkoff cites her first pregnancy as inspiration for the “guru” pregnancy guide, and never expected the book would become a full-length feature film. Despite the fact that she’s enjoyed the venture onto the big screen, she won’t give up her job as a writer and plans to author additional books.

Surprisingly, most of the talent in the film have yet to be parents and thus had not read the book.  However, Lopez found What To Expect When You’re Expecting to be “incredibly accurate.”  “Pregnancy is the type of thing people talk about your whole life but you know nothing about,” recalls Lopez.  This book tells you what’s happening inside your body, where you should be…it helps you calm down as an expectant mom (Lopez).  While the book is not going to take those uncomfortable and incredibly normal symptoms of pregnancy away, it will help you cope with them and reassure you that you’re not alone in this experience (Murkoff).

The film portrays a variety of scenarios including infertility, unplanned pregnancy, miscarriage and adoption.  Holly (Lopez) and Alex (Santoro) pursue adoption when their trial with infertility treatments fail.  When asked whether or not Lopez had ever considered adoption prior to working on the film, her response was that she had always wanted to have her own baby and never thought about adoption.  That changed dramatically when she was introduced to the twin boys who were cast in the film.  “When I held those two little Ethiopian twins, I fell in love instantly. I can see how somebody can do this. How easy it is to embrace a child that has nothing.  [Adoption] is a beautiful, selfless act of love.”  Lopez told the heartwarming story about how the parents of these twins went over to Ethiopia in hopes of adopting a little girl.  When they encountered the twin boys, who’s mother had died in childbirth, those parent fell in love and brought them home with them.  Eight months later they were cast in their first film.

What To Expect When You’re Expecting is a fact-based book offering advice in a Q&A type format.  Given the fact that the film was more inspired versus based on the book, Jones wanted to ensure that the information and scenarios depicted were as real as possible. A midwife was enlisted to consul,t and Murkoff made several trips to the set during filming.  Misconconceptions surrounding pregnancy were also humorously and accurately portrayed with Wendy being the epitome of those misconceptions (Murkoff).

One of the unique attributes of the film is the includsion of the “dude’s group.”  Murkoff felt like it was important for dads to be well represented in the film, since the media is always bashing them.  She wanted “full-on participants in the process.”  “We had good dads, very involved dads,” Lopez recalls.  “Good dads need other dads to help them through [parenting] and I thought it [the dude's group] was a great addition to the movie (Lopez).”  Jones commented on how thrilled he was to work with the men in these particular dad-focused scenes because they were constantly competing to make the scenes better and as funny as they possibly could.

Apart from the director, none of the men present during the press conference have children.  When asked whether or not they would like to have children in the future, all were agreeable, given the right timing and circumstances. “I’m not a dad, but I have always wanted to have kids,” stated Morrison.  And Santoro was quick to comment, “I’d love to have kids, [but] it has to feel right and it has to be [with]  the right person.”

With an A-list cast, Jones found that the most challenging part was getting everyone together, since he knew who he wanted in the film.  “It’s always difficult to put couples together because you want that relationship to be believable (Jones).”  Similarly, all of the couples had to balance each other out throughout the film and in the end, Jones was thrilled with the talent.

Unlike traditional press conferences, this one was entertaining, amusing, interesting, and engaging.  Here are two of the most interesting pieces of information I took away from the day:

1.  A woman’s brain shrinks up to 8% during pregnancy. But don’t worry, it isn’t permanent. Lopez recalled forgetting the lyrics to one of her songs while pregnant and on tour.

2.  Morrison delivered two babies as a senior in high school.  His dad is a midwife and while filming, he took the liberty of asking him a lot of questions.

Having carried and delivered two beautiful children, I understand the unspeakable joy and privilege it is to be a mother.  Parenting is difficult.  “It’s really really hard to be a human being and even harder to raise a human being,” remarked Diaz.  This film, as light and humorous as it is, offers some real, honest moments about this time in a couple’s life.  One of Murkoff’s favorite lines in the film is from Chris Rock: “I love my baby so much I’m afraid I’m going to eat her.” “What parent hasn’t felt that overwhelming love for a child?” quips Murkoff.

What to Expect When You’re Expecting is in theaters now.

No compensation was received for this post. I attended a press conference for the film which helped facilitate this post.  

Photos: Lionsgate Publicity

They say that a woman who goes on to have a second+ child does so because she forgets some of the discomfort and pain associated with pregnancy, labor, and delivery. It was quite the opposite for me as I recall each moment of joy, anticipation, fear, discomfort and uncertainty.  And yet having experienced the full range of physical symptoms and emotions that accompany pregnancy, I went on to have a second child.

That first pregnancy is the most life-altering, simply because your body goes through such incredible transformations.  I spent my first trimester overseas, away from family and friends, often feeling isolated and apprehensive about the changes going on inside my body. At the recommendation of a friend living here in the US, I checked out a copy of the infamous pregnancy guru guide, What to Expect When You’re Expecting.  As an RN with nearly 7 years of experience in Obstetrics, I should have breezed through this time.  But regardless of how much technical knowledge a woman has, the experience of pregnancy is quite different and I was thankful to have such a comprehensive resource to help me answer those “is this normal” types of questions.

This Friday, May 18th, the anticipated film inspired by THE pregnancy must-have book, What to Expect When You’re Expecting, opens in theaters nationwide.  The cast is phenomenal and includes Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Elizabeth Banks, Matthew Morrison, Chris Rock, and Dennis Quaid.  Much like the film New Year’s Eve, there are five intertwining stories, detailing each couple’s unique experience surrounding childbirth.  The film touches on the expected and unexpected as well as more complicated circumstances including infertility, unplanned pregnancies, adoption, and miscarriage, as experienced through these couples.

The film opens with star couple Jules (Cameron Diaz) and Evan (Matthew Morrison) performing together on a show that very much resembles Dancing With the Stars.  The couple, who meet and begin dating incognito, learn that they’re expecting a baby, something that neither of them planned but each have an opinion about. Jules, who also hosts a reality TV show that almost mirrors The Biggest Loser, ends up on bedrest and must put aside her need to be in control as the couple work out their relationship together as soon-to-be parents.

The most authentic story follows Holly (Jennifer Lopez) and Alex (Rodrigo Santoro), an endearing couple going through the process of adopting a baby from Ethiopia after several unsuccessful attempts at fertility treatments.  I connected with Holly’s character, her longing to be a mom, and her passion for photography.  Alex is apprehensive nothing short of terrified at the prospect of becoming a father and joins a “dude’s group,” to vent and seek some support.  Their relationship is the most relatable, despite the fact that their story is the most unconventional.

Most parents, particularly moms, will identify with Wendy (Elizabeth Banks) and Gary’s (Ben Falcone) story.  After two years of “trying” to get pregnant, they conceive, almost at the exact same time as Gary’s father Ramsey (Dennis Quaid) and his second third fourth much younger wife Skyler (Brooklyn Decker), who is expecting twins.  Wendy experiences all of the typical physical and emotional symptoms of pregnancy while Skyler breezes through her pregnancy without a single stretch mark.  Wendy is laugh-out-loud funny and portrays the “typical” pregnant woman perfectly.

Of all the couples who’s stories are depicted in the film, it is the one of Rosie (Anna Kendrick) and Marco (Chace Crawford) that I wanted to see more of.  Both characters are rival food truck chefs with a bit of history that isn’t fully detailed in the film.  When they reconnect, their chemistry leads to much more than a first kiss and their unexpected pregnancy and loss force them to examine whether or not they should be together.

The most interesting inclusion in the film is the “dude’s group,” a handful of dads who get together in true fatherly fashion with baby carriers and strollers to dish about the joys, struggles, and mishaps of fatherhood.  The idea of such a group is a bit far-fetched (I don’t know any dad in our circle of friends who belongs to such a group), but perhaps it will inspire a generation of fathers who get together to “talk” and offer support/advice.  Chris Rock heads up the group and provides comic relief with his unrestrained confessions of accidents and parental shortcuts.

 What to Expect When You’re Expecting is lighthearted and funny, with a handful of tender moments sprinkled throughout.  I appreciated the fact that a variety of different types of parenting scenarios were explored and that there were real, if only brief, moments where I connected with a few of the characters.

Prior to the film’s premiere this week, I participated in a press conference with many of the talent from the film.  Stay tuned for exclusive interviews.

You can buy tickets to the film on Fandango!

No compensation was received for this post.  I was invited to a screening and press junket for the film.

Photos Credit:  Lionsgate Publicity

Even before I opened up a single book, I knew that my pregnant body would undergo a variety of changes, some of which might be uncomfortable.  Morning sickness, fatigue, and hunger seemed like unpleasant but manageable symptoms.  It was those unexpected, embarrassing, and even persistent discomforts that took me off guard, testing my patience and endurance.

For most women, pregnancy is an exciting time, filled with tremendous joy.  And despite the wealth of information available via books and online resources, each pregnancy is unique.  Even the most uneventful pregnancy can result in unexpected surprises.

Playtex just launched a Facebook contest asking moms to share their stories about unexpected moments of pregnancy and motherhood. Each day, winners will be selected to win Playtex Baby products including Playtex Nurser with Drop-Ins Liners and Playtex Diaper Genie Disposal Systems. One grand prize winner will be flown to Los Angeles for the premiere of What to Expect When You’re Expecting.  To enter, just visit Playtex on Facebook!

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Playtex Baby. I received a promotional item to thank me for participating

I’m less than ten pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight (as in before my 4 year old son was born) and while I’m so proud to have gotten this far, I’ve definitely hit a plateau.  And, of course, my body does not resemble it’s former 20-something self.  I’m not always as consistent with my workout schedule and while I work very hard to eat fresh, natural, healthful foods, I can stray when I’m out, traveling, or simply just busy.

Thanks to Kristen Horler, founder of Baby Boot Camp, I have some tips to share with you on slimming down after baby.

1. Check in!  Be sure you’ve been cleared for physical activity from your physician before beginning any work out program.  While you may be cleared 6-8 weeks postpartum, allow your body time to heal and recover.

2. Breast is best! Just for doing what your body is supposed to, you’ll burn up to 30o-500 calories a day.

3.  Start now! Post-pregnancy weight gain has been linked to obesity.

4. Say “no” to dieting! Rather than “diet” strive to create lifelong, healthy eating habits by consuming well-balanced meals.

5. Get on a routine! New moms may get into the habit of eating erratically, particularly when the baby is up at 3 am. If you wouldn’t eat that bowl of ice cream at 3 am before motherhood, curb the craving.

6. Snack sensibly! Rather than snacking on your toddler’s crackers or your prechooler’s chips, opt for fruits and veggies (and while you’re at it, swap them out for your child as well).

7. Schedule your workouts! Busy schedules make it easy to forego exercise.  Even 15 minute mini-workouts can help improve your mood, help you manage weight, promote sleep, and boost your energy level.

8.  Consume nutrient dense foods! Lean proteins like legumes can help with muscle repair and recovery post workout, calcium keeps bones strong, complex carbohydrates provided extended energy, and Omega-3 fatty acids support a healthy heart and nervous system.

Speaking of nutrition, I have to admit that all too often I’ll pop into my favorite coffeehouse for an energy boost and order a blended drink that’s both filling and calorie-laden.  During the webinar, I was introduced to CalNatural Svelte, a line of all-natural protein shakes which contain 16 grams protein from organic soy milk and 20% of the recommended daily value for fiber.  These naturally-sweetened shakes are dairy, lactose, and gluten-free and can provide sustained energy throughout the day. They’re available in French Vanilla, Chocolate, Spiced Chai, and Cappuccino. Blend it with some ice and you’ve got a smoothie that packs more nutrition than that ice blended drink I’m craving right now.

As I’m learning, it takes time to lose the weight. But I have to be persistent about doing my part.  My daughter is 20 months old and there is no reason why I can’t lose those last 10 pounds.  As a mom, I know that taking care of myself is as important as taking care of my children…for them…for myself.

How have you succeeded with your weight management and fitness goals this year?  I’d love to hear your ideas and tips.

Win It! One of you will win a Post-Pregnancy Slim Down Gift Pack (ARV $500) which will include the following:

1 Wahoo Fitness Run Pack
1 Pair of FILA Toning Pants
1 Case of CalNaturale Svelte shakes
1 CalNaturale Svelte Gym Tote
1 Copy of Kristen Horler’s Book
1 First Baby Boot Camp Class Free Coupon
Goody Workout Headbands

Simply leave your answer to my question above in a comment and you’re entered to win.  Comments will close on August 27th at 11:59 PM PST.

US Residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post. I attended a webinar hosted by CalNaturale and Baby Boot Camp and received information and a gift pack.

Photo Credit: johnnyberg

My son is now at an age where he can walk, as long as we’re not at the mall, the zoo, or Disneyland.  While I appreciate the convenience of having enough space to tote two children, a double stroller is large, awkward to navigate through crowds and small areas, and heavy.  On shorter trips, I can bring the single stroller and a baby carrier as back up, in case my son gets tired.

Recently we’ve switched out our old stroller for the new Avio from Inglesina. This gorgeous, Italian-made stroller features a compact, lightweight contemporary design and a sophisticated one-handed folding system.  After three years of strolling my children all over Disneyland, New York City, and our local mall, I’ve come to realize exactly what I want in a stroller.

First, it has to be easy to open and close for storing in my trunk.  I don’t want to have to take anything apart, or wrestle with the stroller to try to fit it back into my car.  Bonus points for the one-handed fold, inherent in Avio’s design. And speaking of my trunk, it has to fit…effortlessly…without having to take everything else out or re arrange what’s already there.  The Avio is compact once folded and fits nicely in our Camry’s trunk.

Second, a stroller has to be lightweight enough that I won’t injure myself lifting it into and out of my trunk on a regular basis, but sturdy enough that it won’t fall apart. The Avio weighs in at approximately 21 pounds, which is about as much as I can comfortably lift on a regular basis.

Next, my children have to be comfortable riding (and preferably sleeping) in the stroller for long periods of time.  Some of the features my children appreciate about Inglesina’s new Avio include a padded seat and backrest, a four position backrest which can recline up to 170 degrees, a three position adjustable front footrest, and a gracious hood flap to provide protection against our warm California sun. When it comes to comfort, I can’t honestly say that I’d change anything about the stroller.

Lastly, a stroller must be easy to maneuver.  I truly do find our double stroller to be the ultimate in luxury. But it is so wide that it’s difficult to navigate through crowds and smaller retail stores.  The Avio is only 19 1/2 inches wide and can fit through relatively narrow spaces.

Several accessories can be purchased for the stroller including a Carrycot (which is ideal for infants) and car seat adapters which are not currently available.  I like the versatility of the stroller and can see a family using it from infancy through toddler hood (or until a child is out of the stroller).  The price is higher than I would expect, considering the fact that the addition of accessories could drive the price up close to $1000.  But this could definitely be the only stroller a family would need.

Inglesina’s new Avio stroller is sleek, compact, and sturdy. It offers contemporary moms convenience without neglecting style. The stroller is priced at $499 and available online and at select retailers nationwide.  Right now, you will receive a free fast table chair with the purchase of an Avio by entering the code AVIOFAST at Diapers.com.

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Inglesina and received an Avio stroller to facilitate this review.”

Nothing went the way I expected…the way it happens to other people…or in the movies.  It was harder than I thought…more painful than I imagined…  It feels like an eternity since my son was born on that warm Southern California day. The specifics of his birth are already starting to blur.

What happens on that miraculous day when your eyes meet your child’s for the very first time?  Lifetime takes you inside the maternity ward of Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio to follow a set of expectant mothers as they enter the final stage of pregnancy.  One Born Every Minute captures the drama, humor, and emotion of childbirth in eight, hour-long episodes.  The docu-series is a compilation of filming that involved 40 cameras rolling 24/7 and debuts on February 1st at 10 pm ET/PT.

To celebrate, one of you will win an ISOKi Diaper Bag (a stylish designer range of reversible baby bags offering two bags in one by simply reversing to reveal a whole new look), one Baby Gund Comfy Cozy, and one Baby Gund Stuffed Animal. Simply leave a comment with something you’re looking forward to with regards to the show. Comments will close on February 8th, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.  US Residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post. Products for giveaway were supplied by the company.

Just when I reached that point where I could leave the house without a diaper bag, my daughter was born.  It’s been 3 1/2 years and my designer purse is sitting in my closet gathering dust from lack of use.  Fortunately, today’s moms have much in the way fashionably functional options for toting their baby and toddler’s essentials.

Last fall, PishPosh Mommy debuted their Carryalls at the ABC Kids Expo (which I’m determined to attend this year!).  The Carryall was created by two moms in an effort to contain all of their children’s necessities in one place without having to trade in their designer purse for a bulky diaper bag.  If you’ve ever shoved a pacifier, a change of clothes, snacks, a travel pack of wipes, and a few diapers in a jumbo plastic bag (raising my hand!) you’ll find the Carryall to be a fashionably organized alternative!

Fashion-savvy moms who don’t want to trade in their designer purse for a bulky diaper bag will find the Carryall to be a compact way to tote essentials.  I personally like to fill the Carryall with the basics for short trips to the grocery store or a meal out. If you have more than one child’s essentials to carry and organize and you’re still using a diaper bag, the Carryall is a great way to compartmentalize items so they’re easily located. The Carryall, offered in a Pull-String or Quick Zip, is roomy and contains several smaller pockets for organizing smaller items.  It’s offered in a variety of stylish prints and solid colors and made of 100 percent cotton with a water resistant nylon lining.

The Caryall retails for $44.99 and is available online and at select retailers nationwide.  Babies R Us also offers an exclusive design in both the Pull-String and Quick Zip for $44.99.

For more information about PishPosh Mommy’s entire product line including the Diaper Clutch and Pad Set, just visit their website.

Win It! One of you will win a solid print Carryall! Simply leave me a comment with one way you’d use the Carryall.  Comments will close on January 25, 2011 at 11:59 PM PST.  US Residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Like me on Facebook

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post. Products for review and giveaway were supplied by the company via RoleMommy.

Earlier today, Southern California moms headed to the posh Beverly Hilton for Jayneoni Moore’s She’s Having a Baby Event.  This was the ultimate baby shower for new and expectant moms and featured some of the top, “must have” baby products.  New parents had an opportunity to get “hands-on” with the products, which is rare when shopping online or in conventional stores.  Parenting experts discussed topics such as breastfeeding and autism and celebrities could be spotted throughout the day.  Moms were showered with some of the products featured at the event and proceeds from the ultimate baby raffle were donated to charity.  Here are some of the highlights from today’s event:

Stay tuned!  I found some great companies and products I’ll be be sharing information with you about over the coming weeks.  So what was my favorite find?  The Baby Mats and Hugga Pets from Bestever!

No monetary compensation was received for this post. I received a ticket to the event courtesy of the sponsor.

No…I’m not pregnant (hehe). But if you know someone who is and lives in Southern California, they won’t want to miss Jayneoni Moore’s She’s Having A Baby Event.  Jayneoni Moore is a style expert and children’s wear designer, known for her Hollywood Boom Boom Room gifting suites which are attended by mom and dad celebrities every year.  Last year I attended one of her events which featured some of the best baby products.

Here is a little more information about the event:

She’s Having a Baby is the ultimate baby shower where 409 moms-to-be, celebrity moms, and new moms will come together to see product demos and receive exclusive views on new baby products.  Spotlighted vendors include Stokke, Fisher Price, Orbit, Skip Hop, Giggle, and Bratt Decor.

What:  Presentation of top baby products, shopping, pampering, sweets, new parenting discussions, maternity fashion show, celebrity appearances, and giveaways

When:  Sunday, May 23, 2010 10am to 3pm

Where: 

The Beverly Hilton Hotel

9876 Wilshire Boulevard

Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Cost:  $45 (guests will take home a gift bag valued at $500).

If you’re pregnant and confused by gear and brands, or an experienced mom looking for some nursery design tips, check out She’s Having a Baby.

Win It! Two of you will win two tickets to She’s Having a Baby.  Simply list a product or company featured at the event that you’d like to know more info about.  Comments will close on May 20, 2010 at 11:59 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn. Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

No compensation was received for this post.  I will be attending the event, courtesy of the sponsor.

If you’re pregnant (or thinking about having a baby), you know at some point you’ll be wearing maternity clothes.  It wasn’t until my second pregnancy that I discovered fashionable options beyond the mall maternity store.  Pregnancy is a beautifully awkward time in a woman’s life.  Clothes don’t fit quite like you think they would.  One of my favorite maternity lines is now at Target stores!  And Target equals affordable.

The Moody Mamas spring line of fashionable and stylish maternity clothes hits the virtual racks this week at Target.   Hollywood moms like Heidi Klum, Jessica Alba, Tori Spelling and Bethenny Frankel have been spotted wearing Moody Mamas.  This spring, they’ve created a created a fabulous, colorful spring capsule collection for expectant moms who want to look beautifully chic this season.  Each piece is inspired by the runway, and includes easy maxi dresses  and adorable chiffon trim knit dresses. The collection boasts soft, lightweight fabrics, giving each piece the feel of relaxing loungewear.  I have one of their nursing pajama sets and I love how soft and comfortable it is.

The collection is limited in quantity, so be sure to visit your local Target store (or go to their website) for Moody Mamas new spring line.  With prices that range from $39.99 – $49.99, you can get several maternity pieces that will last the duration of your pregnancy.

If you’d like to do some shopping on their main site, you can use the coupon MMDiscount for 30% off (one coupon per customer) which is a really great deal!

Win It! One of you will win a $50 gift card for Moody Mamas. Simple leave me a comment with the name of two pieces you’d love to have.  Comments will close on May 18, 2010 at 11:59 PM PST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn. Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.

Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

Follow Moody Mamas on Twitter

Like Moody Mamas on Facebook

Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest

Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.

Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.

Click on one of the very cute buttons below and digg, stumble, fav, etc. Just let me know what you did in the comments!

I did not receive compensation for this post.  This giveaway was sponsored by Moody Mamas.