Children who have never experienced missing one or both of their parents are few & far between these days. Parents work, travel for fun without their children, get deployed, get sick…there are so many things that take parents from their children, and Cuddletunes aims to make those times a little easier on everyone. Cuddletunes began when five year old Olivia missed her daddy. Olivia’s parents, Cuddletunes cofounders David and Cherie, were tucking their daughter in for bed the day before David left on a business trip to New York.

“I’m going to miss you so much honey. You know how much I love you right?” David kissed his daughter on the forehead and she nodded.

“I wish you could tell me that when you’re gone and I’m going to sleep at night. I wish I had a daddy doll so I could hear your voice when I miss you.” This gave Cherie and David the idea that eventually led to Cuddletunes. They talked to their friends Denise and Mike, also parents, who came on board as cofounders. Four years later, in 2007, Olivia’s idea has been transformed and they’re selling bears, but their focus is the same: helping families stay close.

When it comes to comforting a child, there is nothing quite like a good old-fashioned teddy bear. The Cuddletunes Social Networking Bear is a hybrid: she is just as cuddly and sweet as the teddy bear you loved as a child, but is also equipped with a built-in MP3 player. Parents, grandparents, and loved ones can record a story, song, or message from anywhere and upload it to the Cuddletunes site and it is in turn downloaded onto the MP3 player inside the bear via a USB connection. She’s called a social networking bear because in conjunction with their website she’s helping families stay connected more than ever before. Each bear also includes five lullabies sung by professional singers and customized with the child’s name.

My daughter received a Cuddletunes bear and it’s utterly awesome. You can’t feel the mp3 player at all – the bear really is as soft as any other good quality teddy bear – and the quality of the recordings are fabulous. Setting it up online for her was ridiculously easy – her name was available in the professionally pre-recorded songs so I simply had to type in her name, and then I recorded myself reading her a personalized story using the built in mic on my camera (fully guided by Cuddletunes – I’m not that creative!) The Cuddle Tunes Bear with pre-loaded player retails for $59.95.

Win it! Enter to win your own Cuddletunes bear with a comment (or up to five comments!) on this post before noon mst on August 14, 2010.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED (Congrats Betty!)

At times in the Canadian prairies it’s tough to find those great natural & open ended toys that many of us believe in (toys that allow children to play…and learn…without getting overstimulated or ingesting nasty chemicals) without paying insane shipping charges and customs fees. We recently discovered a northern Albertan company, Play and Learn Toys, that solves that problem for parents all over Canada. Owner Narissa Singh, a UNB Business graduate, has lived in northern Alberta for nearly ten years and struggled to find Canadian sources for quality toys for her own children. She has chosen to offer a super array of products from some great manufacturers known for their quality & safety, and runs her business out of her home since her tiny town doesn’t have retail space for a store.

Play & Learn Toys carries many products that I’ve seen on European sites and been curious about, so I was thrilled to see that they’re available in Canada now – and being from a mom-run business makes it even better!

My children are absolutely loving their new Stepped Pyramid ($54.99) from Grimms. It consists of a square wooden base filled with blocks in a variety of colours, sizes and versatile shapes. With an open ended toy like this, the possibilities for learning are endless. We now use them daily for imaginative building play and they’ve been castles, rocketships, dragons, post offices, houses and so much more. That’s the thing with great toys – they don’t do the imagining or noisemaking for you, so they can be anything at any time. Grimms’ products are made in Germany of wood and non-toxic colourings.

Another super product the Play & Learn Toys carries is Contina by Bamboo ($29.99). This is not just another sets of blocks. Contina includes a rainbow of colors, black and natural finishes on 100 bamboo sticks which are small and lightweight for children 3 years and up. Combine colors, create a rainbow, stack lengthwise like dominos or pile them high for tons of creative fun. The possibilities are endless with Contina. It’s no wonder that Contina won the Best Toy award from Child’s Magazine.

Join Play & Learn Toys on Facebook.

Save 10% on your order with the code TOP10.

Win it! You can win a set of Contina by Bamboo from Play and Learn Toys. To enter, visit the Play & Learn Toys shop and comment here with another yet un-mentioned toy or item from the shop that you kinda dig. Contest closes at noon mst on February 9, 2010.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Not THE common cold. Not the one that involves lots of snot and ears that feel like they’ve been stuffed with cotton.

The Nuddle cures cold – like the thermometer dipping kind of cold. The Canadian kind of cold, even.

The Nuddle Blanket (nap + cuddle = nuddle) is a truly luxurious blanket. Whether you have the adult version ($68), the kids version ($48) or the baby version ($38), you’ll be amazed when you feel the fabric. Just pure ultra-plush heaven. It has holes for your arms, a foot pocket and an outer hand pouch like a muff. The arm openings are just the perfect size – not large enough to let a bunch of cold air in but large enough to fit pretty much anyone’s arm.

The Nuddle Kids blanket (which my two fight over constantly – “It’s MINE!” “No, it’s MINE!”- comes in three delicious colours: cherry, fudge, & blueberry, and is the perfect size for children from about 2-12 after which they’d likely be ready for an adult Nuddle. (Though it says 4 and above, my daughter who will be 2 in a week or so would fight you on that and she’d win. She always does. I have no idea where she gets that from. Heh.)

The Nuddle Baby (available in neutral oatmeal, bubblegum pink & cloud blue) is the newest Nuddle product and it’s intended for use in the stroller. It measures 24″ x 32″ and has the classic Nuddle foot pocket and holes for the five-point safety harness on your stroller. While I no longer have a baby who rides in a stroller (sniff) I asked a local new mama to test the Nuddle Baby for us and her words follow: “Wow, this is an amazing stroller blanket! It’s impossible to get it to fall off, even in our crazy winds, and it’s SO soft! The foot pocket is fantastic and keeps my little guy snuggly no matter how long our walks are. What a great product!”

Sure, they’re not as cheap as a Snuggie, but have you felt a Snuggie? They’re only worth the $10-$20 you’ll pay for them and not a penny more. It’s like comparing a Lamborghini to a Kia, so don’t bother. (If you’re desperate for sleeves, which you needn’t be, then shun the Snuggie and get a Slanket. Trust me.) < /ramble > If you want a quality blanket that washes well over and over again, that keeps you & your babies warm & cozy and may prevent you from leaving the house because you’re just to darn cozy, then you need a Nuddle.

Win it! We’ve got a Nuddle Kids in fudge and a Nuddle Baby in oatmeal to give away to one very lucky T.O.P. reader. To enter, leave a comment on this post before noon mst on January 15, 2010.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED!

I am the type of person that has to be organized. If I do not set things up in advance and organize myself to some degree I get really cranky and anxious. With three kids mealtimes definitely need that element of organization.

Traditionally, I always stored the bibs either in a basket or in a drawer in the kitchen. This meant after washing them, I would have fold the bibs and put them away. Now, thanks to the Baby Bib Holder, I can eliminate some steps, free up some space and be organized in advance!

The Baby Bib Holder comes as a cute retro pink or blue elephant that attaches to the back of the highchair with velcro! Hidden away yet extremely handy, now there is one less thing I will forget at dinner time!

In addition to being really handy the Baby Bib Holders, are non-toxic and hand-made! They can hold up to ten bibs and are so cute! Order yours for just fifteen bucks – a great addition to a baby gift!- by Chelle

Win it! To enter to win a bib holder, choose your colour and leave a comment here before noon mst on September 3, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Sick and tired of playing “find the soother” when your baby is screaming? Or maybe you’re not so fond of the “I throw it, you pick up eleventy gajillion times” game? Sure, it’s cute at first, but it gets old fast. Especially when you’re outside and the surfaces onto which things are thrown are absolutely repulsive.

Momtrepreneurs Michal Prevor and Irit Maor have developed a stylish & affordable solution to this problem. Through their company, Tutim NYC, Michal and Irit developed their Paci Sitter and Toy sitter in an astounding array of colours & patterns that have been stylistically influenced by the inventors’ international upbringing.

The Tutim NYC sitters prevent children’s pacifiers & toys from getting dirty, lost or swapped with the local booger-factory. They can attach to any outfit, stroller, car seat, carrier or high
chair. The clip on the Paci sitter is plastic covered which greatly reduces any marking of clothing, and the loops on the Toy sitter are adjustable in size – perfect even for the clunkiest of strollers.

At only $10-$12, one of each makes a great small gift and a super add on to a nice shower gift. With their huge selection of trendy matching fabrics, there’s something every parent will love.

Win it! We’re giving away a set of the Paci & Toy sitter to TEN winners! To enter, simply choose your fave fabric patterns from Tutim NYC & comment with one or two of them before noon mst on June 25, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNERS EMAILED

Well, maybe not swaddle. That might be a little too straight-jacket-ish for me, but I’d certainly like to be draped in the stuff. Unfortunately, Aden + Anais doesn’t make muslin wraps or sleep sacks in my size so I’m stuck with regular old sheets & blankets, but your baby is in luck!

I happen to love and use my muslins all year long, even in the great white north, but it’s in the summer that I am particularly thankful for them. They’re perfect for keeping the children covered and protected without making them sweat. We totally dig our sleep sack ($30). As soon as the thermometer hits about +20, it’s time to pack away the thick winter Grobag and pull out the muslin. It’s one of the great signs of summer, and the sizes range from newborn through the toddler years which is absolutely awesome for those kids who move so much they wake up crying because they’re uncovered & cold. Cursed air conditioning.

For those of you who perhaps don’t want to invest in a package of Aden + Anais’ fab (truly! fab!) wraps, Aden + Anais has just introduced a new single wrap that’s available in both conventional ($20) and organic ($35) muslin.

Celebrate those summer babies with some awesome muslin baby gifts – you’ll be the star of the baby shower, I promise.

Win it! Aden + Anais is giving away one winner’s choice of both a sleep sack ($30) and organic or regular single wrap valued at $50-$65. To enter, choose your sack & blanket from the links in this block and let us know what to send if you win! (Yes, you actually have to choose. No, “anything will do” will not do, actually. But nice try.) Comment before noon mst on June 23, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Over two years ago (stone age in the blog world) we reviewed the Your Baby Can Read early literacy system.

We enjoyed it then, and my children are still enjoying it now. (Disclosure: Me? I find it highly annoying after over two years, but I have very little input into what the daily dvd is.)

We probably get more emails about this program than any other review we’ve done in well over three years.

Wanna try it?

Win it! Your Baby Can Read is giving one of our fab readers a complete YBCR system valued at $200! To enter, just leave a comment on this post before noon mst on June 22, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

It was almost exactly a year ago that we shared a great Canadian company with you – a company whose new products are so fab we’ve brought them back again! Clippopotamus (Clippo for short) isn’t just clips anymore. T.O.P. contributor Susan shares with you three new products from Clippo:

Soother Clippo:

If you have a child that uses a soother you will agree those things are like gold. The soother clippo could be your saviour. The material they use for the tether is made from fully washable grosgrain ribbons and the clips are stainless steel with plastic teeth that won’t ruin fabrics.

I only wish my daughter’s soother had something I could clip on it… however, I used the soother clippo as a toy leash as they recommend on the Clippo website. I’m sure many of you can relate when I say if I had a dollar for every time my daughter threw something out of her stroller I would be a rich woman. Of course I know it is just a game she loves to play and generally I don’t mind… except when we are in a disgustingly dirty public washroom and she decides to launch her teething toys or worse yet her “surface wash only” plush teddy bear, eeeew. So, needless to say I was thrilled to put the Clippo to the test. And I am impressed. My daughter who is also very strong and determined was not able to pull her toy off the stroller thanks to the Soother Clippo.

Bib Clippo:

This is the coolest design ever! In case you haven’t guessed my daughter is also one of those kids that hates to wear a bib. She reefs on the Velcro bibs I have for her, tears them off, swings them around, and throws them on the ground. So, we tried the Bib Clippo while we were away this weekend, and I love it. I got the idea from the Clippopotamus website because I wasn’t sure how to use the bib clippo… but when they talked about being caught someplace without a bib and trying to stuff a napkin in a child’s collar, I laughed because I am totally guilty of that, and yes it was a bust. This is obviously one of those brilliant mom inventions. Just carry your bib clippo in the diaper bag and you’ve got yourself a disposable bib-on-the-go.

Honestly, I think my grandmother, who was 93 when she passed away, would have appreciated this product. She lived in a care facility where they had adult bibs, just what you would put on a baby only larger. If they had the bib clippo they could use napkins or paper towels attached to these sophisticated tethers. I definitely would have bought her one of these.
The other great thing about the bib clippo is because of the adjustable size moms can use it to make a quick and easy nursing cover. Now I would say I am middle of the road liberal/modest when it comes to nursing in public. Generally I have no problem whipping it out to feed my baby, however I was once stuck in the middle of a very busy mall on a Saturday in an unfamiliar city and was trying to cover up some with a blanket… well my daughter would not have this, so over and over again would try to pull it off her head and expose me for all to see. The bib clippo will keep your receiving blanket in place!

Blanket Clippo:

I don’t have a little one in a bucket car seat anymore but if I did I would want a blanket clippo. See their website for a visual. With the wind gusts we get here in Southern Alberta, the Clippo’s fierce bite is crucial. The blanket clippo straps on to the carseat or stroller and ensures your child’s blanket stays put. It is a nice alternative to those car seat covers. We were caught in a hail storm this weekend while at a park, and the Blanket Clippo came in very handy to keep my daughter’s blanket in place on the stroller. I have been known to run over a few blankets in my day… it’s extra special when the stroller wheels are nice and muddy.

What fantastic products from a fine company that prides themselves on giving back to the Canadian community. Four dollars from the sale of selectively designed soother clippos goes to the charity SickKids in Toronto.

Speaking of designs, did I mention the amazing variety of patterns to choose from? Very trendy, and there’s something for everyone’s taste.

Win it! We’re giving away one of each of the featured Clippos to one randomly selected T.O.P. reader. To enter, leave a comment on this post before noon mst on May 26, 2009 including your favourite fabric(s) form the Clippopotamus

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

There’s no doubt that we’re in the midst of a recession, and even if you’re one of the lucky ones who hasn’t lost any money or jobs you’re sure to be feeling the urge to be a little bit more careful with your spare cash. However, that doesn’t mean you’ve lost your desire to splurge for yourself and your babes on high quality and functional merchandise.

Medicine Hat, Alberta based ChicPeek, offers a great variety of incredibly high quality products at great prices. Owner & designer Echo Wells is a mom of three who has been creating beautiful items for over 15 years. Her experience is evident as soon as you see her products in person. They’re of a highly professional quality but sell for a handmade price.

The ChicPeek nursing covers (a steal at $24.99 without your discount – see below) is truly one of a kind. (Pictured in the two centre images at right.) Made of a gorgeous cashmere & silk pashmina (black or brown), it’s the required amount of discreet and modest, but unusually fashionable for a nursing cover. There are enough “Hey, guess what? I’m breastfeeding!” (a.k.a. ugly) nursing covers out there; it’s about time someone made one like this. Essentially just a long & wide scarf that’s strategically sewn with a head & arm hole, it covers all the way around, making it fully tug-proof. There’s an open side so one hand is always free to multi-task, and it’s the perfect weight to not swelter you or baby while you cuddle. If someone notices that you’re nursing, it’s likely either someone who has seen one of Echo’s great covers before or who spotted the gorgeous little toes peeking out from underneath. Even better is that when you’re done nursing or in between children, your nursing cover is a beautiful scarf that you can wear several ways without anyone having any idea that it once hid your boobs from strangers.

ChicPeek offers a large selection of Miklips hair bows & clips for newbies and right up to moms. From the most adorable corkers to gorgeous big bows, the Chic Peek clips are of top quality, stay in your hair and are absolutely gorgeous.

Most of all, though, I was thrilled to discover the ChicPeek buggie hugs shopping cart cover ($49.99 – two bottom images at right). I have looked everywhere – brick and morter as well as online – and ChicPeek is the first place I’ve found stylish looking covers with holes and belts for two children to share the front seat of a cart. (The standards is two holes and one belt, but just ask and Echo will put another belt in for you.) The design of her buggy hugs are brilliant. Aside from the extra wide leg holes to accommodate one leg or two, these are also the only covers I’ve seen come equipped with an attached caribiner to secure the cover to the cart. My kids ride in the different shades of red pattern, which is gorgeous and commented on everywhere we go – particularly Costco when both kids are germ free & buckled in the front seat of the cart. If you’re going to have a second child before your first turns four, I highly recommend you pick up a Chic Peek buggy hug and get a second belt put in. The longer you can contain them safely, the happier you’ll be. Trust me on that.

Mention T.O.P. when you order and Echo will refund 10% of your order (because her cart won’t currently accept discount codes.)

This is just one of many great exclusive online shopping discounts that you’ll find in our TOP Shops.

You’ll notice that ChicPeek was the first to purchase one of our brand new image based TOP Shop spots, right at the top of the page. Check out her adorable ad!

Win it! Thanks to ChicPeek, we’re giving one very lucky randomly selected T.O.P. reader a gorgeous nursing cover, a selection of MiKlips AND a shopping cart cover! To enter, visit Chic Peek and come back to comment with your favourite items, patterns & styles, being sure to mention something that you didn’t read in this review in order to qualify. Open it in a new tab – you’ll want to go back and spend some more time browsing! Contest closes at noon mst on April 7, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Who knew there were so many different brands making soft leather baby shoes. T.O.P.’s newest discovery, Bobux Original Soft Soled leather shoes, are hand made in New Zealand of 100% ‘eco-leather,’ which is safe for your baby and our environment. Even the packaging is entirely recyclable – something opinionated parents can get behind.

Bobux soft soled leather shoes, one of three lines currently available, are easy to put on and they really stay on. They’re slip-resistant, as is evident by my daughter running through our house and not taking a header, and the soles are made of flexible & naturally breathable leather. Unlike other leather shoes we’ve tried, the Bobux character designs face the baby instead of their viewing audience. It doesn’t matter much for a toddler or preschooler but that’s a pretty cool feature for a little baby with relatively little to look at.

Save 15% on your Bobux shoes with the code BLG0815.
Bobux also offers FREE shipping to the US and Canada for any order over $55.00.

Be sure to check out some of the equally cute shoes on clearance starting at just $13!

My daughter wears the milk butterfly style as her indoor slippers and absolutely loves them. Her Dad and I love everything I’ve told you about above. She just thinks they’re comfortable and cute.

Win it! Enter to win your choice of original soft soled Bobux shoes by leaving a comment on this post with your choice of style and size before noon mst on April 2, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

I live in a drought ridden area of Canada, but have a lot of family & friends on the coasts where the rain is so prevalent and so heavy that it’s not only depressing but also keeps people inside when they should be out playing. We love to visit, but it’s always so nice to get away from the rain when we leave.

Some people can’t just fly home to dry off, though. For those, thank goodness for Raindrops Baby Gear, a company based in the small & rainy community of Pitt Meadows, BC. Owner and designer Corri Seers has created some awesome designer style baby & toddler rain hats without the accompanying designer prices. Both of my children wore a Raindrops hat in our last (relatively rare so always exciting) rain and not only did they love being able to play out in the rain without a cumbersome hood restraining their movements and restricting their vision, but I loved that they looked far cuter than really should be legal. The wide brims actually kept water off the children’s faces, unlike their hoods, and the velcro straps kept the hats on while they puddle jumped with an insane amount of energy. If you’re looking for a fashionable way to get your kids out in the rain, you’ll find it at Raindrops for under $30.

Corri uses 100% designer cottons that have been coated with polyurethane to make them waterproof. The hats are lined with either soft bamboo cotton or bamboo fleece. All of her products are both designed and manufactured in Canada, and Raindrops Baby Gear uses sustainable products wherever possible. Sizes XS – XL are available, covering newbies to school aged kids.

Win it! Raindrops Baby Gear is giving away a hat to one randomly selected T.O.P. reader. To enter, visit the Raindrops site to choose your style and size and then leave a comment letting us know your choice before noon mst on March 31, 2009.

(Thanks for the emails about the link issue. It’s now fixed, and fyi you can click on the image in any post to be taken directly to the reviewed site.)

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Spring has GOT to get here to the great white North eventually, right?

When it finally arrives, I’ll be thrilled to pack up the heavyweight Grobag and pull out our brand spanking new muslin sleepsack from T.O.P. long time fave Aden & Anais. Check out our previous reviews at the following links: lightweight swaddling blankets & winter warmth blankets.

They’re available in 6 great patterns – bee in a neutral yellow, blue stars, blue elephant, pink stars and pink butterflies – and in sizes small through extra-large for new babes up to 2 years. When I was able to get my hands on an XL (18-24 months) for my daughter, I was so glad to know I’d be able to keep the blankets out of her crib for a little while longer.

Like the Aden and Anais blankets, the sleepsacks are light and airy and get softer with every wash. They’re designed with a smart upside down zipper so you can perform a stealthy diaper changing maneuver without, if you’re really good, waking up your baby.

Find these fab lightweight sleep sacks via this Amazon link and check out the Aden & Anais site for all of their fab wraps.

Win it! We’re giving away an Aden and Anais muslin sleep sack in the winner’s choice of size & print. To enter, leave a comment on this post before noon mst on March 17, 2009 letting us know what exactly to pop in the mail to you should you be the lucky randomly selected winner.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

It would come from this awesome new T.O.P. discovery.

There is certainly no shortage of pitches from people who make hair bows & clips in our inbox every week. We’re choosy about those we choose to check out, and even choosier about who we recommend once we give the product the opinionated-mom-test.

I am THRILLED to introduce you to Sarah’s Bowtique, a Chilliwack, British Columbia based business that features an absolutely huge variety of hair bows, clippies and tiny little snappies. There are small bows, medium bows, korkers in several styles, amazingly cute holiday styles and some of the most gorgeous and functional bow holder boards I’ve seen to date. You know, one with more than two usable ribbons? Count them – twenty! Twenty ribbons with room to clip 50 or more bows, depending on the styles you like. The photos on the site don’t do the holders or the bows justice – they’re truly awesome. Owner, designer & mom Kendra Christie covers all of the bases for your little one’s hair, from newborn peach fuzz to long school aged locks.

As if great style weren’t enough, the no-slip grip used is free of latex and toxins, and the ribbon is heat sealed to stop fraying without toxic glues. Now that’s what I’m talking about.

Want to help your friends save money on these fab bows and earn a store credit for doing it? Have an e-party! One of the best ideas I’ve heard in a while!

Another way to save – check out the bow of the month which is always buy one, get one free!

Yeah, I know I’m perhaps a little too excited about bows. I mean, they’re just bows, right? But these? Worth it.

Win it! We’re giving away a bow holder and a selection of super duper cute bows (including at least four of those pictured above, package valued at over $50) from Sarah’s Bowtique. To enter, visit the site and take a look around. Come back and comment with a few things that you hope are coming your way if you’re the randomly selected winner!

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

We love to travel with our kids and whether it be a 20 minute drive or a 20 hour drive there are times when we would have given our right arms to have our Exersaucer in the van so we could put our baby down without the fear of her (a) crawling away or (b) touching or, heaven forbid, eating something really gross when we just weren’t able to wear her any longer. Thanks to the amazing PopATot we’re now free to rock and roll with the kids anywhere the wind carries us. Folding into an impressively small carry bag (picture a folding camping chair) it’s the most portable piece of completely necessary baby equipment we’ve yet to find. Except, you know – the baby.

Created by mom Stacy Ellsworth, it’s simply a portable baby activity center that packs away in its own carrying case. Just take it out of the bag, pull it open, secure two clips, plop the kid inside, and she can safely play with whatever goodies you clip to the five toy hooks on top. Each order comes with a free set of Sassy Lively Links to get you started – not that you don’t already have eleventy bazillion things lying around the house that you could attach, but the ones that come with the PopATot aren’t previously chewed; a nice bonus for a second child for sure. The PopATot features two cupholders and a built in canvas floor to protect the babe from sand & grass. It’s light enough to easily tote around – particularly if you’re used to toting camp chairs – but sturdy enough to stand up to my big boy and his buddies climbing in and all over it.

For a limited time you get a $10 rebate making the PopATot just $50 with free shipping. For international orders (that’s us Canadians, though we certainly don’t feel international) you’ll need to contact Stacy directly as her site doesn’t accommodate international orders at this time.

Win it! We’ve got a PopATot to give away. To enter, check out the PopATot site and then come back and leave a comment on this post before noon mst on February 23, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

I’ve always wanted a tutu. < / embarrassing confession >

The tutus from Janie Dale’s Baby Cha Cha Boutique fit the bill perfectly if you’re looking for a sassy tutu for your little girl. (Or for you – she can custom make anything so I’m sure a 30″ waist wouldn’t be a problem.) They’re all elasticized to grow with your little girl and made with a metric tonne of soft-ish tulle so they’re super fluffy & full as a tutu should be.

The standard sizes run from newborn to seven years. The newborn (0-12 months) sample we received was too small for my daughter at 10 months (which, quite literally, broke her heart because it’s so darn cute) so I recommend buying a size up if you have a child with any sort of belly going on. (Mine is very long & lean but has a nice solid Buddha thing going on which makes the elastic too tight. It would have fit her as a newborn, though. Just something to keep in mind when you’re ordering.)

You’ll also find some longer halter style tutu gowns in the Baby Cha Cha Boutique that I know would be a huge hit with any little girl. She also makes adorable hats, headbands, bows, onesies, flip flops and some wall decor for baby’s room – all of which are equally adorable and sassy.

Win it! We’ve got a white crochet headband with a red rosette attached to give away to one randomly selected reader. To enter, simply leave a comment on this post before noon mst on February 11, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Even here in the great white north, we get a lot of sun. Enough that our little ones’ noggins need protection, and wouldn’t it be a shame if that protection wasn’t fashionable?

How cute is this? A bandana for your baby! Not that my baby has any hair to keep out of her eyes, or works up much of a sweat in her Exersaucer, but she looks super hip with her baby bandana from Tsitah Threads on!

Tsitah Threads was founded by a new mom with a “desire to outfit her babe in comfort, happiness, and cheetah print”. This cute little bandana is 100% cotton and has a Velcro closure to allow for adjustable sizing. My daughter who is 7 months old not only looked adorable in her bandana, but had no trouble keeping it on. Just beware of the other children around that may try to snatch it from your baby’s head! Tsitah Threads currently makes these fashion statements for infants 0-12 months as well as a newly released toddler size. Organic cotton is available as well. They come in a variety of patterns and colors, so check at www.tsitah.com for your faves.

Be aware that the baby ones do fit a tad on the small side so if you have a baby with a large cranium or who is over 6 months old, you may want to grab a toddler size.

Tsitah Threads. Quality designs inspired by Earth & made in Canada. - By Susan

Win it! We’re giving away a baby girl bandana from Tsitah Threads on size 0-12 months. To enter, check out the Tsitah Threads site and come back to comment with your favourite fabric style. Contest closes at noon mst on January 30, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

I have to admit when I found out I was pregnant again, part of me was so excited because I could shop for a baby again! There are so many amazing places to get the cutest of the cute, but Cutie and Patootie has it all!

Cutie and Patootie, whose tagline is “trendy apparel for the one you love” is truly a shopping haven! I absolutely love “window shopping” there. Not only do they carry some seriously cute clothing for babies, they also stock awesome goods for toddler and tweens! I absolutely adore the funky rockstar tees and hoodies!

Cutie and Patootie also carries the funkiest baby carriers! If only I did not have so many carriers, I would definitely be ordering one more (or two!)

With all the cuteness in the store, what really caught my eye was their selection for gifts. The totally amazing trunks full of baby spa gear make me swoon! I personally think it would be the perfect shower gift for any mom to be.

Cutie and Patootie was created by mom, Laura Minguzzi when she was expecting her daughter. Everything in the store has a funky, beautiful, fashionable edge. The patterns and styles are totally trendy yet still totally adorable for babies and kids.

The customer service was awesome. I received my package, beautifully wrapped in record time. If you are looking for that perfect gift (Even for yourself!) make sure you check out Cutie and Patootie! -by Chelle

Win it! We’re giving away a Bambini Spa Gift Valise in your choice of blue or pink, valued at $75. To enter, leave a comment on this post before noon mst on January 14, 2009 with your choice of blue or pink and one other item from the Cutie and Patootie site that you like.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

The Canadian winter thus far has been less than enjoyable. With decimeters of snow (that’s kind of like feet everywhere in the world but in the US) and a wind chill hitting -50 C we don’t go anywhere without our skin covered. No matter the weather, though, a new baby loses a lot of heat through their head and needs it covered in all but the warmest of climates. When I had my first child, I had a lot of outfits with accompanying hats at the ready, but none of the hats fit. Luckily it was late spring so I was alright without one since he was tucked in a sling most of the time, but had it been any time between September and April I’d have been desperate for some Wee Hats.

Developed by Paige Brown, a mom of two, when she brought her second child home from the hospital like her brother before here with nothing to bedazzle her head but the tiny hospital toque, the Wee Hat fits a newborn noggin perfectly, is warm and has no scratchy interior seams or tags. They’re super soft, made of a cashmere-like 100% cotton sweater yarn and the colours & style are totally cute & stylish. The chocolate brown that comes in each set is too cute for words. Each set of three hats sells for $35 and is available from the Wee Hats site. They come in lovely gift packaging and would make an awesome pre-birth shower gift. I, for one, am pumped that my next child won’t don a hospital hat knit by well-meaning eighty year old women for more than the few moments that it takes for us to change him or her into a Wee Hat.

Win it! We’re giving away your choice of a Wee Hat three pack. To enter, leave a comment on this post with your colour choice before noon mst on January 12, 2009.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Let me preface this with a little grain of truth – I don’t particularly enjoy disembodied baby hands on a mantle.

There, I feel better now.

I’ve always found body part casting a little creepy so it was with a wee bit (heh) of trepidation that I agreed to review Wee Piggies & Paws. When I looked through their products, I noticed several that seemed much less disembodied than others. We went with a triple window shadow box holding casts of both of our childrens’ hands and an image of the two of them in the center. That’s mine pictured at right, and it’s much, much nicer in person. I knew it would be nice after seeing a sample, but I had no idea the emotion it would bring out in me when I looked at it each day. It’s truly stunning. The franchisee in my local area, as with all of them, was very well trained & supported by the company (Need a new business, mama? Check out Wee Piggies!). She welcomed us into her home and took care to ensure my children both felt comfortable putting their hands into the “goo” to make the mold. Being that neither of my children ever stay still for a moment, and really didn’t when she was casting them either, I thought for sure we’d have a few blurred & mushy fingers but the details are awesome. The hands look like, well…their hands. Exactly. I can see their fingerprints, and can even see where my son had recently chewed his fingernails. Gross habit – great memory.

The shadow boxes start at $150 and range to over $250 for the triple window. It may seem extravagant at the time, and I likely wouldn’t have paid it in the past, but now that I’ve seen what is possible I’ll be contacting Wee Piggies without hesitation if I have more children. If you’re hesitating, know that you will never regret the investment in memories, though I do personally recommend the shadowboxes over the statues, simply because it’s nice to have them enclosed & hanging on the wall as opposed to collecting dust on the mantle or bookshelf.

They also offer baby shoe bronzing and a gorgeous selection of ornaments.

If you’re in to disembodied, though, they sell for $130. Don’t worry – I won’t judge.

Seriously – if you’ve got a little one or a bun in the oven, think about contacting your local Wee Piggies rep. There are over 50 locations across Canada. You’ll love what they can do for you.

“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.”

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

PLEASE NOTE – This giveaway was never received by the winner and the owner of this company chose not to respond to our many attempts to contact her. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THAT YOU SHOP HERE.

Having a portable record of your child’s growth over their young years is priceless. I am amazed when I look at the growth chart on my son’s bedroom wall, and he’s only two and a half. As we continue to mark it over the years, we’re creating memories. Memories that don’t include taking a piece of door moulding with us when we move.

I’ve been looking for one for my daughter but unfortunately the awesome one we have for my son has been discontinued. I left it alone for nearly a year because I just couldn’t find what I was looking for. Now she’s the proud owner of a growth chart from Sugarplum Dreams and it’s a great addition to the decor of her room…and to our memory making.

We’ve got the “My Japanese Garden” one, pictured at right, and it’s gorgeous. It sells for $54, but you’re going to want to splurge the extra $10 to get it personalized unless you’re sure you can make a beautiful match on your own. My daughter’s name is printed in a beautiful blue matching the blue flower on the chart and it looks perfect.

The charts feel like a laminated canvas – heavy enough to be sturdy but light enough to hang on just one nail. There are holes in all four corners so you can choose to hang it from a ribbon (as pictured, but the ribbon is not included), on nails or tacks, or with any other hanging device you can dream up.

Let me share this bit of wisdom with you if you’re on your first child: No matter how much you think you will, you will NOT remember how small they were. Get a growth chart like this and you’ll have a tangible memory when your own fades.

Save 15% on any purchase over $50 with the code TOP15.

Win it! We’ve got a growth chart of your choice inscribed with the name of your choice to give away! To enter, let us know the style & name for inscription. Contest closes at noon mst on December 30, 2008

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

We all know that babies need to be pampered – both in skin and in spirit. We mamas, though, are often a little neglected in the self-care arena and there’s no time we need it more than when we’re raising young children.

However, with the heightened concern about chemicals in body care products it can be tough to find pampering items that are sure to be safe. It’s hard to relax when you could be giving your child cancer or changing the structure of your own ovarian cells.

(I happen to know there are still a lot of people out there who think that products such as those that rhyme with Dohnson and Gahveeno are safe. No, my friends. Throw them away.)

The Belli Baby collection is the only brand in the world that teratology screens every product, ensuring that none of their products contain ingredients linked to birth defects. Even organic brands contain ingredients like aloe vera, which is a teratogen and should be avoided during pregnancy. Belli is the only baby collection free of ALL xenoestrogens (ingredients that mimic estrogen and can cause problems with reproductive development) and not just the highly publicized phthalates. The Belli Motherhood collection is LACTMED screened to ensure safety for nursing moms and their babies. Due to their unprecedented safety standards, they are the #1 OB/Gyn recommended brand in the US and Australia.

Now that I’ve found some strong reassurance in Belli Skin Care, I’m happy to report that both my children and myself are getting some much needed safe pampering. My baby girl is tickled pink with her massages using her Nourish Me enriched body lotion ($19). It’s lightly chamomile scented and, after the initial ticklish giggling subsides, is wonderfully relaxing.

Every new mom needs to check out the Belli eye brightening cream ($37). Even if it’s psychological (which I’m fairly confident it’s not) I love the way my eyes look when I remember to use this on a regular basis. The dark circle, while still puffy with lack of rest, are noticeably lighter and I’d swear the fine lines are less visible.

During & after pregnancy, we could all use the Stretch Mark Minimizing Cream ($52). This healing skin repair treatment is specifically formulated to decrease the appearance of existing stretchmarks. Applied to stretchmarks morning and night for 4 weeks postpartum and then once daily until desired results are achieved, it has been clinically shown to reduce stretchmark length and irregular surface area by up to 52% and stretchmark depth by up to 72%.

No matter what you’re looking for, the large selection of products for both mamas & babes in the Belli Skin Care line has likely got you all covered. And covered safely, which is really the most important thing.

Win it! We’re giving away full size bottles of each of the three above products with a total value of $108. To enter, you need to go browse the Belli Skin Care Line and comment here with at least one additional product the piques your interest before noon mst on December 24, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

This year has been a tricky year for a lot of families. With Canada and the United States in a recession, many families are scaling back this holiday season. Our family just bought our first home, so I knew in advance that I had to balance a great Christmas within a tight budget. I have been known to go a little overboard in years past. We have moved a lot and I was constantly wrapped up in trying to make up for that. With the best intentions in mind, I went overboard on spending.

This year I was determined to make Christmas mean more and ultimately cost less. I purchased the children a few select items that I knew they would adore then began working on simpler, more creative ways to make the celebration wondrous. Did I mention we just moved? This goal of mine was getting complicated. How do I keep it simple, inexpensive and wonderful all at the same time?

I have had wonderful opportunities to sew up awesome aprons and a tutu from YouCanMakeThis.com before and knew that I could count on them for the perfect pattern. I chose the “Easy-Fit” Pants – Girls & Boys! Sizes 1-10 (Doll sizes, too!) pattern and got down to work. I wanted a pattern that I could use over and over for all the kids, knowing that each time I sewed with it I would come up with better results. The pattern is detailed and easy to work with. Since I was under time constraints it was awesome to whip through a pair of pajama bottoms in an evening (even with distractions from the kids!)

I made these matching PJ’s (pictured) for under $30 (including the pattern from YouCanMakeThis.com that I totally plan on reusing)! I know the kids are going to love the penguins in Santa hats and totally dig that they are matching. Extra bonus … totally adorable Christmas morning pictures of the kids in their ‘made with love’ PJ bottoms!

If you are looking for inspiration this Christmas that is not only cute but also thrifty, be sure to check out the YouCanMakeThis.Com blog where they hosted the “Thrifty Under 50” Challenge – encouraging a handmade holiday for under $50. The projects that the 50 participants came up with are absolutely fabulous. Next year, I am totally going to make even more of an effort to make more, spend less and enjoy the celebration with my family. By Chelle

Save 10% at YouCanMakeThis.com with the code MakeGifts until 12/31/08.

Win it! Two randomly selected winners will receive an eBook of their choice with a maximum value of $20 each. To enter, visit YouCanMakeThis.com and then leave a comment on this post letting us know which pattern to send you if your number is drawn. Contest closes at noon mst on December 18, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

I’m the first to admit that I’m a shoe snob. Not for myself, as is evident by the worn out Birks in my closet, but for my kids. Pedipeds are an awesome combination of comfort, quality & style that passes even my perfectionist standards.

Pediped™ footwear is designed to be the “next best thing to bare feet.” They allow children’s feet to develop naturally and provide optimal support and protection during the developmental stages of babies’ feet – from initial crawl to the first steps and beyond. It’s made with premium, non-toxic, ECO grade leather and has foam insoles & padded heels for a comfortable fit & shock absorption. The distinctive styling – over 45 styles – is nothing short of exceptional. Whether you like Mary Janes, patent holiday shoes, traditional penny loafers, breezy sandals or ultra‐cool athletic shoes, Pedipeds is sure to have a style – or ten – that you’ll love and can’t resist.

Shipping is only $5 within the US and $10 to Canada.

Win it! You could win a pair of Pedipeds Originals of your choice. To enter, go take your pick and then leave a comment on this post with your fave style & size. Contest closes at noon mst on December 11, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

I’ve read a lot, as you can imagine, about green living and creating a low chemical home for my family. One of the things that I never did invest in and feel a little guilt about every once in a while is an organic crib mattress. I do use organic bedding and hope that makes up for it a little bit.

Naturalmat products, available from ModernTots, are the best of the best when it comes to organic mattresses and bedding and the place I’d turn if an organic mattress was on my list right now.

Natural is best for so many reasons. All of the naturalmat mattresses are 100% organic with no glues, bonding agents, chemicals or synthetic materials. Handmade in Devon, England, Naturalmat mattresses are non-allergenic and anti-dust mite, naturally fire retardant without the use of chemical treatments and offer support that is far superior to conventional mattresses. In addition, the company uses raw materials that come from 100% renewable and sustainable sources that comply with Fair Trade policies and uses packaging that is 100% biodegradable and 100% recyclable.

The mattresses are available in three compositions – coco ($400 crib, $999 twin), latex ($525 crib) or mohair ($625 crib). Each one has it’s benefits and the level of luxury you choose is really a personal choice. Once you choose to go organic, what’s an extra $200? Pocket change.

Mention theopinionatedparent to receive a 10% discount on any Natural Mat order from ModernTots.

BellyLaf is a newly launched company with two great products for parents & children.

For those of you with or expecting newbies or looking for a great shower gift, Grippees are wash mitts that gently grip baby with soft “GrippeeDots” on the palm. If you’ve ever bathed a slimy newborn, you know what a great idea these are! They’d be great for bathing a child of any age, actually, since it’s rather convenient not having to hold a wash cloth, but particularly for newborns these are fantastic. I especially love the complete elimination of nail gouges in my baby since I started using these. Now it’s only her big brother that makes her look like she’s abused. They retail for $16.95/pair and are available in five cute “Smart Shapes” designs. Each Smart Shape has a name and a story that the kids will love!

MiniMitts are just that – mini mittens for children to wear when they’re learning to wash themselves in the bath. They’re great for increasing confidence and independence, and are also a hit with my son for covering his eyes while his mean parents rinse his hair. (We never get water in his eyes and are rather proficient kid-bathers. How old are they when they understand that if they look down before we wipe their forehead off, their eyes are going to get wet? Anyway…)

Both Grippees and MiniMitts are made of 60% super soft bamboo, which is naturally anti-microbial, hypoallergenic, thermal regulating and odor free. Bamboo is naturally grown without fertilizers, pesticides or insecticides and is biodegradable. The other 40% is cotton.

What a great gift these would make – Grippees for baby and the folks, and MiniMitts for the older sibling!

Win it! We’re giving TWO winners a set of both Grippees and MiniMitts! To enter, leave a comment on this post before noon mst on November 20, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

I recently reviewed the Eebee’s Adventures series of books, which we continue to love. Even though I made fun of the name (and I still think it’s dorky) the creator of the series, Stephen Gass, left a comment offering to send the Eebee’s Adventures DVD series for review.

The package showed up just as we were leaving town so I was able to put them in our van’s DVD player right away. (As opposed to the months it often takes me to review music and DVD’s because we just don’t use them often.) I didn’t actually watch them but listened from the drivers’ seat as my children enjoyed them. And enjoy them they did. The voices are rather annoying to adults but kept the kids enthralled for the duration.

There are three in the series. The first one we watched was “Figuring Things Out“. It’s the only one for ages 12 months & up. (The others are 6 months & up.) Apparently it was a hit because my two and a half year old watched the entire thing while talking about the flashlights, blocks and more that were featured in the video and then immediately asked me to put on another one. I happily obliged because traveling with a two year old? Not always fun. The other two were just as popular and I’m sure they’ll be put in to regular rotation on our trips.

Each DVD contains multiple adventures which showcase things such as colours & textures, properties of matter, cause and effect, methods of movement and so much more. To me they may just be a slightly annoying method of keeping my kids entertained in a moving vehicle but to them they’re a highly entertaining & educational method of keeping their mother from telling them to “Just read another book and we’ll be there soon!”

Save 10% on purchases made on www.eebee.com with the code eebee.

Win it! We’ve got all three of these DVD’s to give away to one randomly selected reader. To enter, leave comment on this post before noon mst on November 17, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Whether you’re still in the space of packing everything but the kitchen sink every time you leave the house or you’ve moved on to the days of trying to remember a diaper & a few wipes, you’re going to love the Diaper Change Travel Kit from well-known baby & child manufacturer, Munchkin.

No matter where you are, you can have a comfortable, clean surface to change your baby. The design is truly awesome and I leave mine in my vehicle so I’m never without the necessities. (As long as I remember to restock it!) There’s a zippered outside pocket for storing your personal items and interior mesh pockets hold diapers, wipes (it comes with the case) and other essentials. The changing pad detaches easily for separate use, though I’ve never had a need to do so, and there’s a cushioned pillow for baby’s comfort. The carry strap attaches to any stroller or, in my case, the handle on the back of a vehicle seat. It comes in three colours – tan, pink and black.

Win it! We’ve got a Munchkin Diaper Change Travel Kit in black to give away to one randomly selected reader. To enter browse the Munchkin products and comment on this post with at least one of your faves (not including the Diaper Change Travel Kit, natch) before noon mst on November 13, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Karate Kat Graphics is an online family enterprise started in 2006 by a Chicago area mom and her three children and named after their dearly departed feline friend. Their Zazzle store features a huge range of products based on their children’s artwork. Most items are under $30 and many are under $5. Half of every dollar earned is donated to children’s charities. I love that.

Their customizable sticker sheets for kids are fabulous (and stuck all over my house…). They make great affordable stocking stuffers, sibling gifts to accompany baby gifts and are cheap enough to be just because gifts.

The Karate Kat birth announcements are not done justice by the images on the site. They’re fantastic! Whether you like the thick & sturdy magnets or the shiny & professional looking postcards, they’ll be personalized with your own picture(s) and information and you are sure to love them as much as I do.

They offer some super cute t-shirt designs too. Given the time of year, I’m especially digging the cutesie Merry & Bright tee (pictured) and at only $19 each of my children can have one.

Check out Karate Kat Graphics for high quality, playful & very affordable holiday & all occasion shopping.

Win it! We’re giving away the pictured tee in size 2T. To enter, visit Karate Kat Graphics and window shop a while. Come back and leave a comment telling us what product(s) you dig that are not mentioned in this post. Contest closes at noon mst on November 11, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Robeez are some of the best & most popular baby shoes on the market today. My children have both worn pair after pair (and still are) and I’ve given a number as gifts as well.

You may or may not be aware that the Robeez line includes some fabulous holiday footwear in addition to their everyday pairs. Every little girl needs her “special shoes” and now even our boys can have some great footwear options for the winter season.

The Robeez Holiday Collection (newborn to 4 years – $28) consists of six special soft soled designs which capture the holiday spirit. With styles for girls and boys, these make a great reasonably priced gift for under $30.

The Robeez Made-to-Match Gift Sets (newborn to 18 mos – $40) each contain a pair of Robeez Soft Soles with 4 pairs of made-to-match socks. There are four designs to choose from for both girls and boys.

The Robeez Cozy Collection – my personal fave – (newborn to 2 years – $32 to $50) are lush & luxurious booties accented with faux fur that bring high fashion along with warmth and comfort to little feet. They’re also available in girls and boys styles. My daughter is sporting the black fashion booties this winter and they’re cute enough to melt even the hardest of hearts.

If you’re looking for a great gift for a little one this holiday season (or if your kids have feet – that’s reason enough) be sure to check out these great holiday picks from Robeez!

Win it! We’re giving away one pair from each of the above collections for a total of three winners! To enter, choose your line (holiday, made to match or cozy), visit the appropriate link above to choose your pair and leave a comment letting us know which pair from which line and which size you’d like to win. Contest closes at noon mst on November 7, 2008.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNERS EMAILED

It’s no secret the we love See Kai Run in all forms.

Well, now you have the chance to see if you love them as much as we do.

We’re giving away THREE pairs of SKR shoes!

The three pairs pictured at right are up for grabs.

1. The Julie girls boot in limited edition pink! Size 7. Value $46.

2. The Brian boys shoe. Size 9. Value $40.

3. The Paul boys shoe in limited edition blue! Size 3. Value $40.

Sizing information is available here.

To enter, leave a comment on this post listing the style you’d like to be entered for. Closes Oct. 4.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNERS EMAILED.

As a green-ish primarily organic mama, it’s often hard for me to find exactly what I need locally. My next turn is always the internet but I refuse to pay shipping from another country unless I absolutely can’t find it here. (Also, there’s almost always a free shipping code somewhere. Check here.)

Now that I’ve discovered the Canadian online shop Nayla Natural Care I can find almost anything I need in one place and support a Canadian family at the same time.

The TruKid products available at Nayla Natural Care are some of my new favourites and they’re all available at Nayla Natural Care for very reasonable prices. (And when you spend $150 they ship for free. You could fill your whole family’s stockings in one fell swoop!)

The Hero Stick is the newest permanent addition to my arsenal. It’s a soothing stick for bumps & boo boos packed with herbal remedies that have been used for centuries to nourish the skin & fix owies. I can officially sell my stock in Spiderman bandaids. Hero Stick to the rescue!

Happy Face & Body Lotion is a very lightly fruit scented lotion that’s perfect for toddlers. The scent is attractive enough to get them to sit still for an application but not strong enough to repel the parent that’s putting it on. It’s thick enough to be moisturizing but light enough to be used any time of the day or night.

The Spiffy Spearmint Lip Balm is a great before bed lip soother for these windy fall days. It’s enhanced with spearmint essential oil which is slightly cooling and also contains Stevia so it’s sweet enough to make the mint attractive to the little guys. As opposed to bubblegum – ew.

Win it! We’re giving away one of each of these great products to one randomly selected winner. To enter, visit the Nayla Natural Care site leave a comment on this post mentioning at least one other item you like before noon mst on November 5, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

My family has been reviewing the eebee’s Adventures series of baby books from every baby. I’ve got to tell you – when I heard the name eebee, I was pretty sure they’d be incredibly stupid. Because, come on. eebee?

But honestly, these are some really super great baby books! Available at Barnes & Noble for $15 each, they are the perfect addition to a baby gift, first birthday gift, a Christmas package or your own bookshelf.

There are three single books and a two book package, all of which are much more than your average soft book. They’re interactive in ways that are engaging for infants and entertaining for toddlers, too.

A little blurb on each from the press release:

eebee’s Having a Ball Adventures: Babies will play around with some big ideas in this adventure: up, down, over, under, in, out . . . and my turn—your turn. This interactive book includes a soft, tethered ball, inviting babies to exercise social, motor, language, and thinking skills in games from catch with eebee to basketball.

eebee’s Laundry Time Adventures: Babies will explore words, sounds, and textures; exercise fine-motor skills; play imaginatively . . . and get the laundry done. Interactive play activities include taking towels out of the laundry bag and putting them “into the washer”; spinning the peek-a-boo washing-machine wheel; hanging eebee’s pajamas on the line; and putting them away in the drawers.

eebee’s Peek-a-Boo Adventures: Where’s eebee? On the cover of this book, open and close the curtains. Inside the book, look for eebee behind a silky purple scarf, inside a big, shiny raincoat, and behind a movable stack of soft blocks. From exploring textures to anticipating outcomes, there’s no hiding the opportunities for playful skill-building in this exciting search.

eebee’s Hug and Splash Adventures is a two-book set in which each book is also a game. All About Me & You is all about eebee’s body, and a baby’s body too. Fold-out the book-sized mirror to “look and play” along with eebee. Exercise your baby’s social, motor, language, and thinking skills, exploring the body from head to toe! Eebee’s Bath Time Adventure is sure to float a baby’s boat. Open the book and place it cover-up in the tub. Watch eebee float! Submerge the book to fill the squirter and then squeeze it for a gentle spray. Press eebee’s tummy—squeak—eebee’s all clean. As eebee takes a bath, every baby will play and learn with water.

My two year old has claimed the Bath Time Adventure book for himself and delights in squirting his baby sister in the tub and then trying to keep it away from her until he gets a chance to do it again! Both children love the other books and I love that they’re entertaining enough to give me an occasional few minutes of uninterrupted latte drinking.

Save 10% on purchases made on www.eebee.com with the code eebee.

Win it! Three readers will each win a copy of eebee’s Laundry Time Adventures. To enter, leave a comment on this post before noon mst on November 4, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNERS EMAILED

You know that few minutes after you have removed a dirty diaper and cleaned baby off with a wipe or damp cloth of some kind – when covering them up again puts them at risk of discomfort and rash? I generally sit and blow them dry. There has to be an easier and faster way.

Bummas, a new line of super soft and supple baby cloths, were invented by parents Casey and Randy Schwartz who were in the same situation – not wanting to rediaper a wet child and not wanting to blow until they were blue in the face. Bummas are naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial and can be used two ways to help treat and prevent diaper rashes. In place of disposable and chemical laden whipes, you can wet a Bumma with water and wipe. No chemicals – no irritation. You can also use them to pat baby’s bottom dry. Dryness is key to preventing diaper rash. As an added bonus, Bummas can also be used to stop those surprise squirts during diaper changes, on top for a boy and underneath for a girl. One Bummas will absorb an entire pee.

Bummas retail for $16.99 for a package of 10.

Win it! A randomly selected winner will receive a ten pack of Bummas in their choice of colour scheme. To enter, visit the Bummas site and choose your pack. Come back and leave a comment letting us know which one to send you should you win. Contest closes at noon mst on October 30, 2008.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED – Congrats to #19, Naomi!

Simply Baby Blankets is a new find for me. As someone who can’t sew a simple square of fabric without it looking like it was done by a six year old, I love that I’ve now got a go-to site to purchase simple flannel swaddlers as baby gifts that are inexpensive (less than $10-$20) and of great quality.

Simply Baby Blankets are oversize and rectangular (42 x 50) with rounded corners – a great size and shape to attain the perfect swaddle without a fancy specialty blanket. At such great prices, Simply Baby Blankets make a great shower gift but also fall under the umbrella of layette items that are perfectly affordable to purchase for yourself. At over twice the size of many standard receiving blankets, Simply Baby Blankets can be used for years after the swaddling days have ended making them an even thriftier choice.

Get one free blanket with your purchase of three with the code OPINIONATED until October 31, 2008.

Win it! We’re giving away a set of SIX Simply Baby Blankets of the winners choice! To enter, leave a comment on this post letting us know what blankets from the site you’d choose. Contest closes at 5:00 mst on October 15, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Every child loves to see their name in print and if there’s a way to make seeing your name in print more exciting, it is seeing your picture along side it. Proud Canadian company Mini Me Books has gotten it just right with their creation of The Octopus Book.

There are three available options, all of which are fantastic and only get better as you put a few more dollars into it. The first, with personalized text including the name of the child and their parents, sells for $32.99. For $39.99, you can personalize the names of the characters, and upload an image of your child. Finally, for $49.99 you can personalize text and photo for your child and 2 adults. My son has the $49.99 edition of The Octopus Book and I can tell you very honestly that it’s worth every penny and you will love it as much as your child will! The quality is second to none – better, in fact, than many of the thousands of books that fill my house and classroom from bookstores and other sources. The pages are thick and shiny and the paper is certified to the environmental and social standards of the Forest Stewardship Council. The binding is sturdy and tough, and the integration of the uploaded photographs is professional and…perfect. This does not look like a homemade book. It’s one that we have read daily since it arrived and will continue to read for many years.

Sure, it’s more than you’d spend on an average book at the store…but this is no average book. If you’re able to make the investment for your child, I assure you that you won’t regret it. I highly recommend it.

Save 10% on your Mini Me Book purchase with the code TOP10.

Win it! We’re giving away a personalized Mini Me Book valued at $49.99 to one lucky TOP reader! To enter, leave a comment on this post letting us know what little person in your life would be the lucky recipient before 11:59 mst on October 10, 2008.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Yesiree – Robeez has done it again!

The new line of Robeez – the aptly named Mini Shoez – seem like more of a special occasion shoe than the original Robeez soft soles – they look a lot more like a “real shoe” but still have the great features that we know and love from the Robeez brand. They’re made of the same high quality leather and the back is perfectly elasticized so they go on easy and stay on as long as you need them to.

Aside from the extreme adorableness (awesome styles for boys and girls – check out the to-die-for black mary jane at right), my favourite feature is the non-slip, water repellent, flexible rubber sole with padded insole- they’re a step up in luxury from the originals and are perfect for new walkers.

Mini Shoez are available in sizes 3-18 months for approximately $35.

Win it! One randomly selected reader will win a pair of Robeez Mini Shoez of their choice. To enter, leave a comment on this post before 11:59 mst on October 7, 2008 stating both the STYLE and SIZE of shoe you’d choose if you win. Click on boys or girls to window shop to your heart’s content.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

It’s no secret that we love See Kai Run. They make some of the softest and most adorable toddler shoes. Honestly, they’re so soft & supple that I wish they’d expand into adult sizes. They haven’t yet, but they have gone in the opposite direction with the launch of Smaller.

Smaller is a new line for the littles 18 months and under. The look is way more big kid shoe than baby bootie which is a huge part of their charm. They’re particularly great for the kids that are pulling to standing and starting to toddle because the sole is a combination of the classic baby suede leather with a little bit of soft rubber for traction. My own daughter became a lot more solid in pulling up & standing once I put her Smaller shoes on because there was no slick leather sliding out from under her and taking her confidence with it.

The selection of styles is fantastic for both boys and girls. If you’ve got a baby girl who’ll be learning to stand this winter, check out the bunny. (Pictured, top.) If I had a boy who was smaller, I’d be all over the Gavin. (Pictured, bottom.) No matter what your taste, you’ll have a hard time choosing.

Win it! One randomly selected winner will receive a Smaller pair of their choice. To enter, choose your fave from here and leave a comment with your choice of style and size. Contest closes September 11/08.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Gumdrop Lane is an online store that I was delighted to stumble upon because owner Erin Ruane hand selects some of the cutest clothing from the greatest brands available and puts it all together in a shop with fantastic customer service and very reasonable prices. Gumdrop Lane offers both new and used clothes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers from newborn to 4T. Yep! Erin has done your used clothing shopping for you by selecting only the very best. Be sure to check out the outlet where you’ll find some great pics for just a dollar. What a great time & money saver!

She carries a wide variety of brands and they’ve all got something special about them. (Search by brand in the drop down menu at left after clicking on “all finds”).

T-o-o-o Cute is a brand that was new to me. I checked out the adorable bubble suit (the top of which you see at right) and was hugely impressed with the softness of the fabric and quality of construction and it’s an absolutely adorable summer style.

T-o-o-o Cute’s layette and loungewear is made of only the softest 100% pima cotton in the sweetest of colors. Each piece showcases one of a world of whimsical characters, either intricately embroidered or beautifully heat transferred. As Erin says, “the entire collection is designed for your wee one’s comfort and for your continuous delight.” So true – it’s almost T-o-o-o Cute for words! (But not quite.)

You may also like to check out Erin’s used finds for some great deals on great quality clothing that just happens to have been pre-loved.

Save 15% store wide (even on sale & used items!) with the code TOP. Woo hoo!

Win it! Leave a comment here after visiting Gumdrop Lane and choosing your favorite T-O-O-O Cute outfit and you could win it! Leave your comment by midnight on September 10/08 and follow the rules (i.e. No “I want to win – anything will do.” because you won’t win…) and one winner will be randomly drawn to receive their choice. Good luck!

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Be sure to treat yourselves too, Mom. Buy fashionable wholesale clothing at an affordable price.

From the time my first baby was born and the nurses hovered over us every 30 minutes taking his temperature and mine, I knew a child’s temperature was kind of a big deal. I also knew that my kid freaked out any time I approached with the evil silver stick – and that was just when I was headed for his armpit. Since I wasn’t about to take an anal temperature, I went for the digital ear thermometer, even though they’re slightly less accurate and not meant for kids under one year of age. I used it happily through two children until I discovered the Temporal Artery Scanner from Exergen. Good people, let me tell you – never spend a penny on another thermometer. I sure won’t. This thing is freaking awesome. Not only is it incredibly fun to use for both the taker and the take-ee (heh), it’s not at all invasive and it’s more accurate than any other thermometer on the market. With a simple scan from the center of the forehead to the hairline at the temple, you’ve got an accurate temp in just seconds.

(Watch this educational video if you want more info. Or just trust me – it’s cool and you want one. So do the people you’ll be buying baby gifts for.)

Check here to see where you can get yours in stores and online. FYI…in Canada, this product is called the AccuCare Temporal Artery Thermometer and it’s sold in Shoppers Drug Mart. (The Shoppers website is horrific so don’t bother looking for it on there. Just head to your local store and pick one up!)

Win it! We’re giving away a Temporal Artery Scanner (the US version, but anyone can win and they’re all the same save the name) to one reader! To enter, leave a comment on this post before midnight mst on September 8/08.

Additional entries available. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Some of our very opinionated reviewers have been testing out Baby and Kidz Banz sunglasses. Read on to see what they thought of them and, of course, to enter a giveaway!

We always love to test out new kid products and Kidz Banz since birth. My first born actually came home from the hospital in some cool black Baby Banz that I had purchased while pregnant. With starting that young, we never had issues with them being ripped off because the kids were used to having them on anytime they went outside. My baby has somehow become a big boy (what’s up with that?) and now loves wearing his Kid Banz when he’s out and about. They’re comfortable on his face and thanks to the comfortable & adjustable neoprene headband they stay on no matter how active he is. They’re even comfortable under his bike helmet, which is saying something. I have no hesitation recommending Banz if you’re looking to protect your kids’ eyes. – Nicole

I was excited to try Baby Banz for my little girl because I know how dangerous the sun can be to young eyes. Until almost 10 years old, children have no natural filters in the eye to block UV light. I’ve read from several sources that you can actually do more harm to the eye if you put an inferior lens in front of it than putting nothing at all. Behind any tinted lens, the iris opens to allow more light into the eye. If the lens doesn’t protect properly, more UV light gets into the eye potentially causing severe damage. Banz lenses are rated UV400 and block out the entire spectrum of UVA, UVB, and UVC rays from the sun. I knew this was what I wanted for my toddler but had my doubts about the comfort of a hard plastic frame and whether she’d be willing to keep them on. Thankfully she thinks they’re “Cooh Dude!” and they now go with us everywhere. -Cindy

As a parent of a special needs child, I was so excited to read that Baby and Kidz Banz sunglasses “are Rx-able and are capable of being cold fitted with a prescription lens up to +/ – 8 diopters.” I took the pair I received for review to my local option and, sure enough, my little darling now has cool looking prescription shades that actually stay on. Thanks, Banz, for making such a great product! -Andi

I am a Banz convert. After reading the Banz site as research for this review, I will never buy a cheap pair of sunglasses again. Not that Banz are costly – they’re only $15 a pair – but the drugstore and dollar store shades just aren’t worth the few bucks you might save (and they might even be more!) Banz were originally designed in Australia for one of the world’s toughest UV environments and they’ve passed the most stringent standards on sunglasses in the world. They’re made of durable polycarbonate (don’t worry – they’re not in contact with food) and are almost indestructible. They’re all fitted with a Neoprene elastic strap that has side adjustable velcro allowing for years of wear as the child grows. My son has been wearing his day in and sometimes day out for the three or so weeks we’ve had them and they’re fabulous. I am here to tell you – don’t waste your money and protect your kids eyes with Banz. They’re the only eyes they have. - Krista

Win it! Banz is giving away a sunglasses & hat combo in the colour of the winner’s choice. To enter, leave a comment on this post letting us know the colour you’d choose if you win AND because we’re nosy, please tell us where you live. (Don’t post your address, please…just the city/state/country/whatever.) Contest closes August 19/08.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

On our recent staycation just a few hours from home, we packed the lives of four people into a minivan. Unfortunately, there was no room for the crib or even the playpen – our kids have a lot of crap, apparently. My husband would tell you that I do too, but this isn’t his blog so I’ll blame it all on the kids. When we settled in for our night away, we were incredibly thankful for the Kidco Peapod.

The Peapod is a travel bed (and play tent when you’re home) that’s easy to fold and fits in a small circular carry bag. When folded it’s only 5″ thick and 14″ in diameter. Unlike most tents, the bottom is fitted with a secure (zipped in) inflatable air mattress to help protect kids from cold, damp floors while providing a comfortable place to sleep. The pump is included. The fabric contains UV protection making it great for using outdoors, and the zippered panels allow parents quick and easy access.

I also love the Peapod for the beach and the back yard – it keeps the sun and sand off baby and doubles as a fort. The inflated base ensures baby can nap without rocks and shells bothering her. If you’ve ever slept in a tent on a rocky ground, you know how important that it!

With gas prices the way they are, staycations are becoming more and more popular. If you don’t have room for a big playpen in your vehicle and you want an overnight trip with baby, check out the Kidco Peapod.

(I apologize for the photo quality – our ftp isn’t hooked up yet since we lost everything so I had to rely on WordPress and it didn’t do such a good job of conversion.)

I have admitted here many times that I’m a snob. A blanket snob, a toy snob, a clothing snob…and yes, a butt cream snob. If it’s toxic, it’s sure as heck not getting rubbed on the nether regions my babies. I’ve tried many creams over the past few years (organic, natch) and they’ve all been satisfactory enough, but the Bottom Balm from Lalabee Baby Bathworks surpasses even my expectations. It clears up diaper rash in a flash (seriously, I’m talking an hour) and there’s nothing in it to irritate baby’s tender skin. Applying it feels like a strange cross between unsalted butter (but not greasy…is that possible?) and really thick olive oil. There’s no resistance and it makes my baby smile even when her little butt is at it’s most tender.

The entire Lalabee line is handcrafted in small batches using certified organic and natural ingredients in beautiful Kelowna, BC by mom Sara Johnson. There are no chemicals, preservatives or dyes in any of the Lalabee products and they use only edible ingredients purchased from local suppliers where possible.

All of the Lalabee containers are reusable or recyclable and the tins are food grade – no plastic to be found. Check out the rest of the baby line and the mama line too.

A portion of sales is donated to buy Heifer International Honeybees. Canadian, mom-run, organic, green, and helping the less fortunate? You’ve gotta love that.

Win it! We’ve got a tin of the fabulous bottom balm for one lucky reader! To enter, leave a comment on this post before 11:59 pm mst on August 7/08.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

As much as we like birth to be all about the mama, it really is all about the baby. We do all of the work, but they’re cute enough to negate most of it.

Once you’re resigned to the fact that it’s baby who’s going to get most of the attention, you’ll fall in love with the adorable products at All About Baby. Founded by par.entrepreneur Nancy Wurtzel in 1994, All About Baby specializes in high-quality, distinctive keepsakes for babies and children. While we’re not huge fans of the typical keepsake around here, the four piece gift case is something we’d all love to receive. Completely devoid of the type of keepsake that collects dust for a few years before it’s tossed in a box for the next twenty, this case is not only adorable but completely functional. The funky green case is made of fiberboard and is fab for storing toys or special items at home or on the go. It contains a hooded towel for baby, a toddler-size bib in coordinating colors, a soft white cotton washcloth and a cute yellow rubber ducky. The contents are available in four bright shades of pink or blue and the towel can be personalized with up to ten letters. At just $59.95 it’s a perfect baby gift for anyone and it’s a totally cute alternative to your traditional gift basket.

Win it! We’ve got a hooded towel in the blue bubbles pattern to give away. ($29.95 value & pictured @ left.) To enter, visit the All About Baby shop and come back here to comment with your favourite item or two that are NOT mentioned in this review. Contest closes at noon MST on August 1, 2008. (Holy crap! Is it really just one week until August?)

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Living in one of the windier regions of Canada, I find I need to have several blankets on hand because they’re always blowing off and landing in the dirt.

For that reason and many more, I am loving my new Blanket Clipz from 3 Kids Designs. A simple but sturdy ribbon with clips at each end, Blanket Clipz keep my baby’s blanket on the stroller, car seat, swing, bouncy chair and shopping cart.

We’re all about multi-functional around here, and Blanket Clipz don’t disappoint. In addition to keeping blankets in place, they’re also great for clipping keys to my diaper bag so they won’t fall to the black hole, making a bib from any napkin or cloth and clipping a blanket to my shoulder for nursing privacy.

I’m sure there are more uses – I just haven’t discovered them yet!

Win it! We’ve got a pink camo set of Blanket Clips with your name on it. Well, maybe. If you win. To enter, simply leave a comment on this post by noon MST on July 24/08.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED – WINNER EMAILED

We’re ba-ack! Sorry for the extended delay but…have you ever been unplugged for ten days? Once you get used to it, it’s fan-freaking-tastic! It’s been a long time since I held my baby for so long sans-sling, played for so many uninterrupted hours on end or just sat and enjoyed the silence instead of checking email. I highly recommend it.

TOP Contributing Writer Rashmi has been reviewing the fabulous vegan faux-suede Isabooties pre-walker shoes. Check out her review below and read on for a giveaway.

The main reason soft-soled Isabooties shoes caught my eye was because they describe themselves as *eco-friendly*. When a business, especially one which deals with children’s products, makes a statement of that kind, I was naturally very curious in checking them out. I’m glad I did! Hip and stylish Isabooties, besides being made in the USA with fair labor and using fabrics that are animal-free are, more importantly, formaldehyde-free. It’s a little known fact that formaldehyde is one of the most common shoe allergens! In my book, that’s a BIG plus.

The Anchors-Away pair I got to try out were cute, comfortable and nicely flexible on my little one’s feet while being easy for me to slip on and more importantly, difficult for my son to pull off. My son has worn his “e-butty” as he insists on calling them, inside and out and they’ve held up well on a hot sidewalk and even inside, on a tile floor where they’ve have demonstrated their skid-proof abilities. Among their numerous plus points, the Ultrasuede material of Isabooties is also fade-resistant. My son’s have been through two washes (one necessary, one just for test purposes) and so far I can’t see any change, shape, color and quality-wise. They look as good as they did when they first arrived in their recycled packaging.

They have choices galore on their website and I particularly liked their 60-day return policy. In other words, Isabooties are something I’ll have no hesitation recommending to Moms everywhere.

Use the code TOP for 15% off your Isabooties through August 31, 2008

Win it! We’re giving away TWO pairs of Isabooties in your choice of size and style. Two winners will be drawn at random from all qualifying comments. To enter, simply visit the Isabooties site to choose your fave and leave a comment on this post by noon MST on July 23/08 letting us know the style and size you’d want if you’re selected. That’s it!

AND…

The lovely ladies at Isabooties would love for you to subscribe to their newsletter. It’s our policy never to share your information unless you’re a winner so if you’d like to subscribe please leave your email address in the body of your comment so that Libby and Laura can add you to their list and keep you informed about new styles and sales. Of course, you’ll be able to safely unsubscribe at any time.

(And since we’ve been away from giveaways for a week, shall I remind you that lazy comments can’t win? Visit the site, choose a pair, leave a comment. It takes but a moment and it’s the least you can do!)

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED – WINNERS EMAILED

We’re taking the day off tomorrow to enjoy Canada Day with our families. In honour of Canada’s birthday we’re featuring a fantastic Canadian business from which you can acquire the wares of many others. Enjoy, and HAPPY CANADA DAY!

You know when you read repeatedly of a shop but don’t take the time to click through and explore? Well, I did that and feel like a moron for not knowing about Apples n’ Oranges sooner.

Owned by Ottawa moms Lara and Vicky, Apples n’ Oranges carries only Canadian brands. I am ashamed to say that I had no idea we Canucks had such amazing style. The selection is fabulous. With 33 brands to choose from, and growing, there’s no need to pay customs fees anymore. My wallet thanks you, ladies!

Apples n’ Oranges is the exclusive online retailer for my newest love, Vancouver based Peekaboo Beans – a functional and fashionable line of playwear that’s perilously close to being too nice to be playwear.

Each piece meets a “no fuss dressing” mission and is easy for children to get on and off when potty training or learning to dress themselves. Every piece mixes, matches and layers with the others and they’re more versatile than any line I’ve seen before – pants become capris, tunics become tanks and skirts become dresses to lengthen their lifespan. They’re also reversible for the inevitable spills while on the go. Made with high quality materials and super comfortable fabrics, there’s extra strength and durability built into the construction and the pieces are pre-washed. The pants feature a wide, flat waistband for comfort and all pieces use flat, seamless stitching for itch free wearing. The shirts are A-shaped and are a longer length than standard to accommodate those adorable kid-bellies. Added safety features are included, such as reflective piping, chin guards, and ironed in personal identification labels.

Peekaboo Beans is everything you want in a kids clothing line – perfect for playdate, playground and playtime…but you’ll want to make time for an impromptu photo shoot before you leave the house. This stuff is just that nice.

Save 20% on your first purchase with the code firsttop.

Win it! Apples n’ Oranges is giving away a Peekaboo Beans top AND bottom of the winner’s choice. To enter, leave a comment on this post with your choice of outfit should you be the lucky winner. (Be specific. As always, you can’t win if you’re too lazy to click through to this awesome shop. It’s bad karma.) Contest closes at noon MST on July 5/08.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

I am such a blanket snob since having children. I will admit that I’ve given many brand new blankets gifted to us to the local charity simply because there are better ones out there and why should my child snuggle with anything but the best? (I know, I’m horrible.)

My daughter sleeps under one of the great quilted fleece blankets from Designs by Mimi and Lola that was personalized for her and it surpasses even my blanket snob standards.

Made by a mother and daughter team, the non-pilling double layer premium polar fleece is the plushest of plush and the crafts(wo)manship is second to none. You know when you pick up an item and you can’t help but moan a little? A Mimi and Lola blanket just might make you moan twice.

They’re available in three sizes – baby (27″ x 36″), toddler (38″ x 49″) and kids (51″ x 59″) and they range from a very reasonable $43-$98. They’re machine wash & dry and my daughter’s blanket has yet to show even the slightest sign of wear. To order, see their order page. Matching pillows are also available for just $20-$25.

Save 10% on your order simply by mentioning that you’re a reader of The Opinionated Parent!

Win it! We’ve got a baby size blanket up for grabs, personalized with your child’s name and valued at $48. To enter, leave a comment on this post with your choice of either the awesome pre-designed blankets in their collection or the three colours you’d choose from the palette at the bottom of the collection page. Contest closes at noon MST on July 4/08.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

With all of the toys and clothes out there posing as child-appropriate, [Bratz...ahem], it’s refreshing to find items that are really, truly childish.

If there’s one thing that’s really reserved just for little girls, it’s butt ruffles.

Parentrepreneur Amber Schaub created Rufflebutts to bring back the ruffled diaper cover of her own childhood. They’re fun, they’re frilly, and there’s no way you’d ever see a prostitute wearing one. (What does it say about our society that my criteria for appropriate children’s clothing has become so low?)

In addition to the most adorable diaper cover, Amber has designed an entire clothing line of 100% cotton tops, pants & dresses that are all priced under $50 and are all absolutely to-die-for cute. Just looking at the images of the Rufflebutts creations makes me smile. If you’re buying for my daughter, she’ll have this one because I just don’t think it gets any cuter.

Check out the Rufflebutts Spring 2008 slideshow here.

Win it! A bloomer in the size and colour of the winner’s choice is up for grabs. To enter, leave a comment on this post with the product colour & size you’d like to arrive in the mail if you’re the winner. Contest closes at noon MST on July 3/08.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED

Since having children I, like many parents, have drastically reduced my usage of chemicals of all kinds. For me, that includes sunscreen. I do use it on every family member but I prefer to limit the amount of skin it’s on whenever I can and bathe or shower it off as soon as possible once we’re out of the sun’s rays.

Unprotected exposure to the sun in the first 15 years of life more than doubles the chances of getting skin cancer as an adult. Thanks to some fantastic products we’ve been using from Protect-A-Bub, we’ve been able to protect our little people from the risks of sun exposure a lot more naturally this year.

My two year old is perpetually outside (screaming wildly in his “outside boice,” but that’s beside the point) and is often sporting his UPF 50+ swim suit and hat. At less than $30, the Protect-A-Bub suits are comfortable and breathable and have the highest rating available for sun protection products. Available in sizes from 5 months to 5T and in a wide variety of one and two colour designs, there’s something there for everyone. The coordinating hat isn’t just a fashion statement. It looks adorable with the suit and alone and protects the vulnerable skin of the scalp to the same high degree that the suit does.

One often neglected area of little (and big) bodies are the lips. Our usual facial sunscreen applications do nothing for our vulnerable lip skin and non-SPF lip-stuff simply absorbs the sun and makes the problem worse. Now that my son is sporting his SPF 15 Lip Moisturizer we are a little more lenient about the time spent playing with the sun. It comes in three flavours and is only $2.25.

In addition to our enthusiastic un-sun-kissed two year old we’ve also got an amazing little five month old who is never left behind on our outdoor adventures. Being too young to wear any sunscreen at all, she can usually be found under one of the Protect-A-Bub sunshades. We absolutely love the inexpensive compact shade, but rarely use it on our stroller. (Though when we have, it works great as an extension of the canopy that’s already there.) We use the convenient ties to attach it to her bouncy chair on our deck and in our back yard every day. The shade rests on the toy bar and the ties keep it taut – it’s perfect and allows her to join us outside even in the hottest hours of the day.

With the increased awareness of both skin cancer and chemical exposure on the part of (we hope) all parents nowadays, we’re sure that Protect-A-Bub will be a welcome and awesome resource for parents who, you know, want to leave the house this summer.

Win it! Protect-A-Bub is giving away a compact stroller sunshade just like the one we love so much. To enter, visit the Protect-A-Bub site and browse their great selection. Come back and leave a comment on this post mentioning a product you think would be useful in your life before noon MST on July 1/08.

Additional entries available – up to four per person. See contest entry information and rules.

CONTEST CLOSED & WINNER EMAILED – Congrats Lori!