Review: KidzMed

09Jul09

As parents we all know that the most important job we have is to make sure that our children are healthy, happy, and loved at all times.  Thanks to KidzMed, we have some of the necessary tools to help us with these tasks.  The Thermofocus 5-in-1 Non-Contact Thermometer is amazing in that it allows you to take an accurate body temperature without even touching the skin!  You can even take their temperature while they sleep so not to disturb them from their slumber!  I always remember being uncomfortable as a child  – waiting the 2 minutes that seemed a lifetime until the reading was complete.  The way the Thermofocus works is easy – press the “face” button to turn the device on until the display shows a face symbol with the words “ready” above it.  Aim the thermometer light close to the forehead, about 3 cm away, release the button and there you have it!  An accurately read temperature without even touching the patient!  There are also other uses and benefits of the Thermofocus 5-in-1 Thermometer including:

•Thermofocus 5-in-1 Non-Contact Thermometer can be used on your child, food, formula, bath, and the nursery.

•Non-invasive, non-irritating.

•Uses totally harmless and safe infrared technology

•9 memory function

•Used and recommended by Mom’s and pediatricians in the US, Europe and UK

•FDA approved

•Takes forehead, navel, armpit or neck readings

•Fahrenheit or Celsius digital LED display

•Over 10,000 readings using 4 AAA batteries (not     included)

•Instantaneous accurate readings

•Totally hygienic needing no expensive probe covers

•Accurate to within +/- 0.4°F with normal usage

•Easily read ambient temperature and that of other objects as well

•Patented global technology

Another great product from KidzMed is the Mommy Recorder!  The Mommy recorder is a unique device that allows mom or dad to record a 6 second message that calms the little one down when they are upset.  Simply press and hold the record button, say what ever you would like in six seconds or less and thats’s it!  Whenever the baby cries, the Mommy Recorder will repeat the message 8 times.  It easily mounts to the baby’s crib and there is even a night light function that when pressed will light up the crib for about 3 minutes!

Have you ever drawn your baby a bath, but wasn’t sure if it might be too warm for their sensitive skin?  The ScaldSafe Bath Thermometer is the perfect tool to ensure a perfect bath every time!  Simply dip the ScaldSafe bath ring in the water and the disc will change colors indicating whether the water is too hot or just right!  If the disc stays purple (the color it was to begin with) then the water is below 93.2 degrees, if it is tinged with pink, the water is exactly 93.2 degrees, and if the disc is bright pink – the water is too hot (over 93.2 degrees) and needs to be adjusted accordingly.  What’s great is that the disc can be left in the water for constant safe monitoring!  When cooled, it returns to it’s original purple color.

Ever tried to give your baby medicine, just to have them spit it out?  KidzMed has a genius solution – the Medicine Dispenser!  What may look like an ordinary pacifier is actually a helpful way to make sure your child’s getting the medicine they need.  Simply fill the pacifier chamber with the correct dosage of medication and a small channel inside the nipple allows the baby to take the medicine while sucking normally.  There’s no loose parts or sharp edges to harm your child.  The reservoir holds up to 5mL and has volume indications at 2.5 mL and 5 mL (1/2 and 1 tsp). For giving larger doses, there is an opening behind the nipple that can be used with a syringe.

Everyone knows that a new addition to the family can not be so welcoming for your other little ones.  KidzMed had a wonderful DVD called “Dr. Bip’s New Baby Tips” that is designed to help parents make a smooth transition for everyone when the new baby comes home!  The DVD focuses on from before the baby is born to all of the changes that occur after the baby is brought home from the hospital.  The video is filled with a wonderful upbeat and bouncy rhyme that will capture any young child’s attention.  It helps to address not only the emotional aspects but the common safety ones as well such as covering your mouth when you sneeze around the infant.   Another great DVD from KidzMed is “A Hospital Trip With Dr. Bip.” This video guides you through a visit through the hospital for an operation.  It allows children to feel comfortable in a situation that would normally make them nervous or apprehensive.

All of these greta products and more are available at www.kidzmed.com

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Review: Coco Bonbons

09Jul09

Talk about ADORABLE baby and children’s clothes!  Coco Bonbons has the most precious clothes for your little one and the prices are amazing!  It seems like everything is always on sale, which I love!  We got the opportunity to check out two great outfits from Coco Bonbons Spring/Summer collection – the boys “Aaron” (sailboat) Blue Plaid Jon Jon seen above and the girls “Phoebe” (brown flower) dress!  The boys Jon Jon is adorable with a blue plaid background and great embroidery detail on the tugboat applique!  There’s even anchor imprints on the white buttons to give it extra special detail!  The 100% cotton outfit is super soft and machine washable!  There are also additional matching ensembles in the “aaron collection” – which all feature the sailboat/tugboat design.

The “Phoebe” brown flower dress is perfect for the hot summer months!  The dress is sleeveless and features a mandarin collar with ruffles at the shoulders.  A fun brown, yellow, and blue flower print covers the dress that’s perfect for fun in the sun!  The belt features a reversible polka dot print in coordinating colors for added detail.  It has just enough sophistication yet just enough fun and flair for any little girl!  Check out Coco Bonbons other great garments in the Phoebe design as well!  In additional to these two great collections, there are also a ton of others to choose from!  The site is extremely easy to navigate around and you can choose to shop by size (infant, toddler, child) or by item type (outerwear, tops, bottoms, one-pieces & overalls/dresses & jumpers, accessories).  Whether for Spring, Summer, Fall or Winter – Coco Bonbons is your one-stop shop!  Available at www.cocobonbons.com

Follow Coco Bonbons on Twitter to get daily coupons!

About Coco Bonbons:

“The first line presented by coco bonbons was for the Fall 2006 season, and it was an instant success! Over 100 stores chose the children’s clothing initially and that number has quickly multiplied.

Using a bright color palette and clever design features, coco bonbons has taken some of the universal loves of children and brought them to life on coats and separates. Parents will appreciate the quality fabrics and detailed embroidery of these wearable works-of-art while children will treat the clothes like a favorite toy–they won’t go anywhere without them.

The Founder, Coco Kyriopoulos, holds an MBA from University of Chicago, a BA from Vanderbilt University and a “MOM” from Charlie (4 years) and Phoebe (2 years). After 12 years in investment banking and business, she decided to combine her creative skills, business acumen, and love of children to start coco bonbons™. Inspired by her friends’ children and her own, Coco names each one of her designs after them and draws upon what they love most.”

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Tags: coco bonbons, cute baby clothes, cute kids clothing

Review: Le Pet Petite Boutique

06Jul09

Check out tis ultra chic Pawd bed that Lola got sent to her from Le Pet Petite Boutique!  No kidding, the second it arrived and I set in on the floor – Lola was already on it falling fast asleep!  Pawd beds are amazing, as they can be cinched with the ribbon as a nest bed, or  opened flat as a plush mat (shown above with Lola lounging).  The fabric is incredibly soft and comes in a variety of fun fabrics.  I love the Wild Roses pattern they sent us because it matches the decor of our home perfectly!  What’s great about the Pawd beds is that they are entirely machine washable!  There are three different sizes available depending on your dog or cat’s size (small, medium, or large).  There’s even a coordinating blanket available for each Pawd for the complete ensemble!

Le Pet Petite Boutique also has a great line of pet spa products called Furfection Naturals.  Lola got to try out the Moisturizing Aloe Dog Shampoo and Natural Moisturizing Coat Conditioner.  The Kissy Face Pet Facial is amazing because it helps out with Lola & Max’s tear and beard stains that Shit Tzu’s typically get.  The formula is made with all natural ingredients to also condition and protect dogs’ and cats’ sensitive skin.  Planning on traveling with your pet?  All of Furfection Naturals spa products are available in convenient trial and travel sizes for on-the-go!   All of these amazing items and more are available at www.lepetpetite.com

About Le Pet Petite Boutique:

“Designers of handmade pet bedding and apparel, California based Le Pet Petite Boutique was formed by a mother-daughter team in March 2005 after the arrival of a puppy named Chloe. Collectively, with over 20 years of sewing experience, Marian Christoff and Michelle Stewart handpick high quality fabrics to create stunning American made works of art specifically crafted for small breed dogs and cats. Inspired by Chloe, the LPPB collection includes donut beds, harness dresses, blankets, pawds and Furfection Naturals spa products. Devoted to excellent customer service, LPPB is known for quality American craftsmanship and luxurious products second to none!”

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Tags: cute dog beds, furfection spa products, Le Pet Petite Boutique

Review & Giveaway: Carolyn’s Kitchen

02Jul09

When I’m cooking in the kitchen, I automatically reach for my apron – it not only keeps me clean and splatter-free but I think it also secretly makes me a better cook (ha ha)!  The problem is – everywhere you look aprons just aren’t that cute.  The patterns are dull and the shape, well let’s just say they have no shape to them at all!  Not the aprons from Carolyn’s Kitchen!  These have got to be THE CUTEST aprons I have ever seen!  Not only are they cute they are SEXY too!  The form is so flattering and I love all of the different styles and designs available!  We received the Marilyn style apron in red.  It features a red and white polka dot trim on both the top and ruffled bottom and even a cute heart shaped polka dot pocket!  There are even gloves available that match the apron perfectly!  A Carolyn’s Kitchen apron and glove set would make an adorable gift set for anyone!  Available at www.carolynskitchenonline.com

About Carolyn’s Kitchen:

“Carolyn West’s vintage-inspired aprons and dish gloves enhance the merriment of playing whimsical dress-up combined with the indulgent delights of naughty pin-ups. This range of appeal makes Carolyn’s designs perfect for gifts for all occasions.

These sets are also sweet treats for yourself and fun gifts for mothers, sisters, daughters, and brides. Carolyn mixes the domesticity of past decades with the working world of the 21st century woman by creating a business focusing on feminine domestic designs.

Inspired by a gorgeous apron and glove set from Paris, Carolyn began by discovering 1940’s patterns and bringing them to life with her modern interpretive designs. “I wanted to bring back the glamour, sexiness, and cuteness of a bygone innocent era. The gloves and fabrics are new and nicer – it’s a new and improved version of the ’40’s.”

“I let my imagination run, and originated the embodiment of that 40’s girl in the apron and gloves, living in our ultra modern age. Suzy Homefaker slaves over a hot microwave for minutes at a time, constant hostess to all, in and around her kitchen, enticing temptress to you know who, you know where.”

You too will find yourself transformed to that frivolous and fun part of you when you become Suzy Homefaker in Carolyn’s designs.”

Wanna WIN your very own Carolyn’s Kitchen apron in their brand new Miss Liberty pattern?  Click HERE!

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Tags: Carolyn's Kitchen, cute aprons, retro aprons

Review: SubSkate Pro from SwimWays

02Jul09

It’s a hot, hot summer and no doubt the kids are having a blast hanging out and swimming with friends!  Why not let them have an even bigger blast showing off their skateboarding skills — underwater!  Yes that’s right, I said UNDERWATER!  SwimWays has the neatest underwater skateboard called the SubSkate PRO!  The narrow board is perfect for beginning skaters or pros that can hang tens!  I love this board because not only is it fun for the kids, but at the same time it helps to improve their coordination and balance.  The board comes in three colors complete with ultra cool skater graphics!  Visit www.swimways.com to find out where the SubSkate PRO is available!  Take skateboarding to an all new level – an underwater one!

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Tags: Subskate Pro, SwimWays

Review & Giveaway: Hamilton Beach Thermal Cooler Blender

02Jul09

Boy is it HOT here in St. Louis!  Thanks to the Thermal Cooler Blender from Hamilton Beach, my family and I are staying nice and cool on Independence Day – even on-the-go!  The Thermal Cooler Blender keeps your smoothies, shakes and margaritas cold for up to eight hours!  My family and I had a great time trying out all kinds of great recipes in the blender – I think my favorite was the pomegranate margarita!  YUM!  The blender includes a 48 ounce thermal jar that fits right on the blender base – after mixing, just remove it and take it right along with you.  It even has a convenient handle for carrying to your tailgate party. the pool or beach – even out on the boat!  The jar features a screw-top lid with a foldaway, pour-through spot for easy serving!  Hamilton Beach Thermal Cooler Blenders also include an additional blender jar (glass or plastic depending on the model) for added versatility!  Perfect year round – because who likes watered down drinks after all!?!  Available at www.hamiltonbeach.com

Thermal Cooler Blender Features:

• 2 ways to blend – blend in the cooler for portable ice-cold drinks or use the glass jar for drinks at home

• Cooler keeps icy drinks cold up to 8 hours

• Includes 48 oz thermal cooler, glass jar & base

• 40 oz glass jar with Wave-Action® system

• 550 Watts peak power & 10 speeds

• Easy-pour spout

• Comfortable handle

• Double-wall thermal cooler

3 year limited warranty

Try out this recipe for a Pomegranate Margarita!

Yield about 32 cups

Ingredients

•6  cups  white tequila

•12  cups  water

•4  cups  cranberry juice cocktail

•2  cups  pomegranate juice (we tested with POM)*

•1 1/2  cups  Triple Sec

•2  (10-ounce) cans frozen margarita mix, thawed

•2  (11.5-ounce) cans frozen cranberry juice cocktail, thawed and undiluted

•2  (12-ounce) cans frozen limeade concentrate, thawed and undiluted

•Light corn syrup

•Coarse sparkling sugar

Preparation

Combine first 8 ingredients in a very large plastic container. Cover and freeze at least 24 hours or until slushy.

Pour a small amount of corn syrup onto a flat plate. Pour coarse sugar onto another plate. Dip rims of margarita glasses in corn syrup; dip each glass into sugar. Pour margaritas into prepared glasses.

Freezer Note: For more convenient storage, divide Pomegranate Margaritas among zip-top freezer bags.

*Find pomegranate juice year-round in the produce section of your local grocery store.

Recipe: courtesy Oxmoor House

Wanna Win a Single Serve Blender from Hamilton Beach?  Click HERE to enter!  Contest ends July 24th, 2009!

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Tags: Hamilton Beach Thermal Blender

Review: SafetyMate Talking First Aid Device

30Jun09

As a nanny and a parent, you need to be prepared at all times for when an emergency situation may arise.  Even if you’re trained in CPR as well as a number of other first aid issues, you never know when you might panic and forget everything you have learned over the years.  The SafetyMate Talking First Aid Kit is just the reassurance you need to get you through those tough medical situations.  The SafetyMate is a handheld interactive first aid guide that can benefit everyone in the family!  The device is extremely easy to read with eight themed categories including:

You simply press the button next to whatever symptoms the individual may be having and a voice immediately begins to talk you through step-by-step care instructions.  You may occasionally have to answer a yes or no question in which you press the large yes/no buttons on the bottom of the device.  This allows your instructor to better understand your situation and circumstance.  Not only will you be prepared with the SafetyMate by your side, but you’ll feels safer leaving kids with the babysitter as well!  Available at www.safetymate.com

Great practical gift for the new mom or mommy-to-be!

To see a demonstration of the SafetyMate, click HERE!

About SafetyMate:

“Just moments after the birth of his daughter, David Feder was faced with a frightening and potentially life-altering medical emergency. His newborn baby girl, Madeline, only 20 minutes old, suddenly stopped breathing. Although David had taken CPR just a few years prior, he still felt helpless and paralyzed. Fortunately, they were in a hospital with trained professionals and within minutes, a nurse performed the appropriate steps to start the infant’s breathing again. Baby Madeline’s life was saved.

David could not shake this terrifying experience. He asked himself, “What if I had not been in a hospital? Would I have known what to do to try to save my daughter’s life?” It was that instant that David committed himself to developing an infant and toddler safety device to help prepare him, his new family, and others to respond quickly and effectively in a medical emergency.

And so on that day, along with the birth of Madeline, the idea of SafetyMate was born.”

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Tags: SafetyMate, Talking First Aid

Review & Giveaway: Two Elizabeths

29Jun09

Looking for a unique, vintage-style for your baby?  Look no further that Two Elizabeths!  They have the cutest vintage patterns and designs that will have everyone asking “where did you get that?!”  Unlike the typical baby patterns you see these days, Two Elizabeths have a unique style all its own!  We were sent a super cute Pink Polka Dot Burp & Bucket set!  The Burp & Bucket Set includes a baby burp cloth embellished with rick rack and then rolled up and placed into a 3 inch mini bucket with a coordinating design.  The bucket is perfect for holding cotton balls, diaper creams and ointments at an arms reach!  The set comes ready to gift-give wrapped in cellophane and tied with a matching ribbon!  Two Elizabeths also has a great selection of children’s hangers, bibs, burp cloths, changing pads and much more!  The changing pads feature a vintage style fabric on one side and  a soft minky dot fabric on the other.  They roll up easily and can be secured with the attached grosgrain ribbon for traveling on the go!  If you need a unique shower gift or gift for a new mother – Two Elizabeths has got you covered!  Available at www.twoelizabeths.biz

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Two Elizabeths has graciously offered to give two of our readers a changing pad in the Girls Ironing Pattern (pink) and the Kids Playing pattern (blue & green)!  To enter, simply click HERE!  Contest ends on July 10th, 2009!

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Tags: Two Elizabeths, Vintage Baby Clothes, vintage Baby Gifts

Review & Giveaway: Livie & Luca

29Jun09

Are these not the most ADORABLE shoes you have ever seen!  I can’t get over the super cool lime elephants!  Livie & Luca have a ton of really great comfortable shoes for your little one!  Livie & Luca was formed by three moms who thought there was a need for modern and funky shoes for babies and toddlers that also featured a lightweight, soft, and super flexible design.  The shoes are available in an array of brightly colored leathers, bold designs, and whimsical touches.  We were sent Livie & Luca’s classic elephants in a great lime/brown color scheme for the hot Summer months!  The shoes have great flexibility and feature a velcro closure for an easy on & off!  The details on these shoes is incredible, from the elephants leather eyes to the high quality stitching detail!  Your little peanut will be a show-stopper with these shoes on their tootsies!  Available at www.livieandluca.com

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Livie & Luca has graciously offered to give one of our readers a pair of baby/toddler shoes!  To enter, simply click HERE!  Contest ends on July 17th, 2009!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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Tags: Bees Who Buzz, cute baby shoes, Livie & Luca, whimsical baby shoes

Review: Picaflor Kids

22Jun09

There’s nothing better than putting your baby in the softest most comfortable baby clothes and that’s just what you’ll find from Picaflor Kids!  Not only are the styles classic for your little one, but the knits are made from 100% rayon, a natural fiber made from recycled wood pulp.  It’s unbelievable how soft these pieces are – I wish they had them in my size!  We were sent a super cute solid onesie as well as a pair of striped pants to go over it with a matching hat!  The entire thing is just TOO CUTE!  Picaflor Kids has a great selection of clothes for girls, boys, and babies in a wide range of styles and colors.  Looking for a unique classy baby gift – look no further than Picaflor Kids!

Available at www.picaflorkids.com

About Picaflor Kids:

“Picaflor (“hummingbird” in Spanish) uses thoughtful fabrics and small-scale production to create a unique collection of knitwear that is designed for busy little wings. Nancy Coronado, founder and designer, has established a relationship with a family-owned clothing maker in her home country of Peru. Picaflor is strongly committed to fair-trade practices, and is proud to give back to a variety of organizations.”

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Tags: Classy Baby Clothes, Picaflor Kids