2009 Holiday Guide

Personalized Picture Book from YourPictureBook.com

2009-11-10T12:01:00.003-05:00

We love story time in our house, but sometimes it can be a struggle to get my toddler to sit still long enough to finish the story. Instead of getting bored reading about the same old characters, how cool would it be for your child to read about their own adventures? YourPictureBook.com provides personalized storybooks and coloring books - where your child is the star! Your child's photo and name will be prominently displayed on every single page in one of three stories. You child can learn to count, travel to outer space or even help Noah to build his famous biblical ark! With beautiful illustrations and rhyming prose, your child will see story time in a fun, new, exciting way.

Website: http://www.yourpicturebook.com

ARV: $34.95

California Baby Overtired & Cranky Aromatherapy Bubble Bath

2009-11-05T12:59:00.002-05:00

It's much too easy for your adorable little infant to turn from sweet to sour like the flip of a switch. When the holding, shushing and swaying isn't stopping your little one from exercising his or her lungs, try California Baby's Overtired & Cranky Aromatherapy Bubble Bath. With a natural scent of tangerine, sweet orange and chamomile, and the enclosed bubble wand, you can quickly divert that tantrum. California Baby uses only organic ingredients and non-irritating, biodegradable formulas. No numbing agents or synthetic fragrances will even turn our frowns upside down.

Website: www.californiababy.com

ARV: $13.99

Dwell Studio Lunchbox

2009-11-05T12:44:00.003-05:00

Remember the days of the plastic lunchboxes with your favorite character splashed across the front. Boy, those bring back some memories. You weren't anyone unless you had something to show off come lunchtime. We've sure come a long way since the brown bag lunch. Now your child be the envy of daycare or school with Dwell Studio's eye-catching lunch boxes. Made of cotton-coated canvas with insulated interior, your little one's nutritious meal can be kept cool or warm. With durable construction and trendy designs, this is one lunch pack that won't be accidentally left in the cafeteria. Now that's yummy.

Website: http://www.dwellshop.com

ARV: $36.00

Earthlust Reusable Water Bottle

2009-11-05T12:32:00.002-05:00

Plastic water bottles not only clutter our landfills but they can also leach chemicals like BPA. Yuck! What if you could have the convenience of a plastic bottle in a pretty, environmentally-friendly package? Enter Earthlust. Earthlust's stainless steel reusable water bottles are perfect for the fit or busy mom. With their beautiful, sleek design and optional sports top, it's easy to reduce your carbon footprint. Bottles come in 13 oz, 20 oz, 1 liter sizes. Insulated mugs also available for you coffee lovers.

Website: www.earthlust.com

ARV: $16-$23, depending on size and style

Ugly Dolls

2009-11-05T12:17:00.002-05:00

Children are drawn to the strange and unorthodox. Things that adults consider to be ugly, children consider to be treasures. So its no surprise that cuddly teddy bears, bunnies and puppies are being replaced by unique creatures known as Ugly Dolls. Ugly Dolls are unique, flat plush characters with their own little history. What began as as a drawing on the bottom of love letters, is now a children's collectible phenomenon. Babies, toddlers, preschoolers - even older kids - are gaga for these weird "monsters". With their simple, silly designs, Ugly Dolls hold their own special place in the toybox.

Website: www.uglydolls.com

ARV: $10-$50, depending on size

Geek Gear

2009-11-05T12:05:00.002-05:00

If you have a techie husband (a.k.a. nerd, dork or geek) like I do, you'll know how they have their own little language and culture. When he spouts off about Ruby on Rails or DotNetNuke, I feel as if we live in separate worlds. I often feel over my head when it comes to electronics, since he is the expert on gadgets, but thanks to Geek Gear, I can find funky, cool gifts my lovable engineer. From desk organizers made out of floppy disks to clocks made out of circuit boards, there's something to wow even the geekiest of the geeks. And bonus: the recycled materials make these presents eco-friendly too!

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/GeekGear

ARV: $3.99 - $44.99, depending on item

Ties from Cyberoptix Tie Lab

2009-11-05T11:36:00.003-05:00

Another overdone Christmas gift is a tie for dad. Admit it: he probably has dozens in his closet that look identical, save for the color scheme. Some are probably hideously outdated and have been banished from his wardrobe. But if the businessman in your life likes to look his best, get him a tie that doesn't suck from Cyberoptix Tie Lab. In fabrics like silk or microfiber, and modern, edgy designs that stand out from the traditional, this is one gift that will make Dad the envy of his office.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/toybreaker

ARV: $30-$40

Purses from Christy Studio

2009-11-05T11:10:00.003-05:00

I know full well how a purse can make or break an outfit. But I have a hard time finding something that fits my needs, my style and my budget. It's either too big or too small or too expensive or too cheap looking. That's why I'm glad I discovered Christy Studio. This Etsy shop offers fasionable yet functional handbags and totes for half the price you'd find in a department store. In luxurious fabrics such as grained leather, brushed cotton twill or flannel wool and adorable styles like the Lydia (shown above), you'll find the perfect accessory this holiday season for an affordable price.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/christystudio

ARV: $28.00 - $98.00, depending on size and style

Grumpy Girl Candles

2009-11-05T10:58:00.003-05:00

Candles are probably one of the most generic holiday gifts. Many of them sit on a shelf, never to be used. Some are so boring that they probably don't even make it to the shelf. But Grumpy Girl candles are ones you won't want to re-gift. In adorable designs like this Eggnog mug or Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows, you can indulge in your holiday favorites without gaining that dreaded weight. She also makes some delicious holiday soaps - with names like Frosty the Pervert or Lump of Coal, how could you not unwrap a smile on Christmas morning?

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/GrumpyGirl

ARV: $15.00

Trunki

2009-11-05T10:56:00.000-05:00

Travelling with a toddler can be a trying ordeal. Either they are rambunctious and running around mad, throwing a fit due to boredom or they grow tired and lag behind. When you're in an airport, the last thing you want to worry about is how to carry your child along with all your luggage. Now you can make travel fun with the Trunki. Trunki is an award-winning, lightweight, 5-gallon suitcase for kids that is airport carry-on approved. It features an ID label to prevent loss and is fitted with a rubber rim to keep fingers safe. And best yet, your child can ride on Trunki or you can pull them along when they lose their momentum! When not in use, Trunki can be shoulder carried. And with its contemporary, eye-catching design, you won't mind lugging it along.

Website: http://www.trunki.co.uk/

ARV: $49.99-$59.99, depending on design

I-Spy Blankets from Baby Love Blankies

2009-11-05T10:41:00.000-05:00

Babies and toddlers love to explore and discover new things. And most of the time, it's the very things you are trying to keep out of their reach. Feed their need to play and learn safely with these adorable I-Spy Blankets from Baby Love Blankies. These handmade, flannel bags measure 4" x 4" or 7" x 8" and contain 20-40 tiny treasures that your baby can find. All they have to do is use their fingers to move the pellets and look through the window to find all the hidden trinkets. It's the perfect activity to keep in the diaper bag or tote for when your little one grows restless at the restaurant.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/Babyloveblankies

ARV: $8-$16, depending on size

Tiny Tillia Magic Cream

2009-11-03T09:51:00.006-05:00

When you have a toddler, you have to be prepared for accidents to happen. Falls, bumps and bruises are inevitable territory, especially for adventurous boy mommies. Since gluing a helmet to his head is probably not a viable long-term solution, I have to find a way to ease the pain when these ouchies occur. This magic cream from Tiny Tillia is a topical salve that soothes minor bumps and scrapes. Its all-natural formula contains shea butter, tea tree and Vitamin E to help heal your little boos boos. Best of all, its paraben-free. For ages 2 & up.

Website: www.tinytillia.com

ARV: $14.99

Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Farm

2009-11-03T08:33:00.002-05:00

It's difficult to find toys that will grow with your child. Either they are too advanced and overstimulating for a baby or beloved toys become too simple to please a busy toddler. But Fisher-Price's Laugh & Learn series of toys are fun for infants and toddlers alike. Most recently, just in time for the holidays, they've released the Laugh & Learn Farm. This 2-sided play center has a crop full of activities so your little one will never grow bored. They can sort vegetable shapes or crawl through the gate to the other side to count chicken eggs as they drop through the chute. There are songs, animal sounds, greetings and fun phrases to encourage role play. Children can learn the alphabet, numbers, shapes, colors, opposites and more. There is also a handle on top for easy transport from room to room. And knowing that it will get more face time than that pricey bouncy seat makes it totally worth the cost.

Website: http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3502224

ARV: $69.99

Japanese Flower Hair Clips by Petal Mix

2009-11-02T12:24:00.004-05:00

Say goodbye to bobby pins, scrunchies, alligator clips and little plastic teeth. I'd like to introduce you to the handcrafted Japanese Flower Hair Clips by Petal Mix. Petal Mix accessories are a modern twist on the time-honored Japanese art of tsumami kanzashi, blending new world designs with traditional technique. These stunning, unique barrettes are feminine and sophisticated, perfect for the workplace or a night out on the town.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/PetalMix

ARV: $10-29

E.L.F. Cosmetics

2009-11-02T12:04:00.005-05:00

I may wear yoga pants and tees most days but when I go out, I do like to look my best. I hate paying $20 or more for some fancy brand-name foundation. Not to mention moisturizer, concealer, powder, eyeshadow, lipstick, gloss, blush, mascara, etc. I could go on and on. It quickly adds up and I just don't have it in the budget these days to splurge on makeup. Thanks to E.L.F. Cosmetics, you no longer have to break the bank to look amazing. With products starting at just $1, you can afford to stuff your stocking with an entire collection and still have cash left over for a new outfit.

Website: www.eyeslipsface.com

ARV: $1.00/1 product - $150.00/master set

BabyLegs

2009-11-02T11:49:00.005-05:00

I used to think that leg warmers belonged back in 1984 with banana clips and tuck-n-roll cuffs. But that all changed when I discovered BabyLegs. Fashionable yet functional, BabyLegs leg warmers spruce up onesies, keep chunky legs warm and protect little crawlers' knees from hard floors. Diaper changes are a breeze since you don't have to unbutton, unzip or fumble with a gazillion snaps. In styles ranging from argyle to sporty to girly to punk , and even seasonal designs, there is a pair to fit your baby or toddler's personality. They fit newborns all the way through school-age and can be worn on arms too! So, however you wear them, you're sure to get your money's worth year after year.

Website: www.babylegs.com

ARV: $7-$12/1 pair - $36.00/gift set

Time Out Pad from Keen Distribution

2009-11-02T11:37:00.004-05:00

Toddlerdom can be a fun, yet challenging time. My 15-month old is strong-willed, and is already testing his limits. The temper tantrums are just beginning and I know there's going to be more in the future. I don't care for the idea of spankings and punishment but I do believe in the time-out technique for behavior management. Thanks to the Time Out Pad from Keen Distribution, time outs can be simple and effective. The Time Out Pad is a pressure-sensitive pad with a built-in timer and visual countdown so children and parents alike can simmer down. Suitable for ages 2 and older, this would be a great gift for the mom of a spirited child like myself.

Website: http://www.keendistribution.com/timeOutPad.php

ARV: $34.99

Beaba BabyCook

2009-11-02T11:08:00.003-05:00

When my son started solids, I found the idea of homemade baby food appealing for many reasons. I wanted to know exactly what was going in his belly and I wanted to take pride in providing wholesome meals for my baby. I could also be environmentally-friendly by avoiding glass jars that would end up in my local dump. But the process itself seemed daunting. The multiple devices. The prep time. The cleanup. It was enough to turn me off completely. That is, until I discovered the magnificent Beaba BabyCook. Thanks to the BabyCook, I could steam, puree and reheat all in one small appliance. It's modern, clean design is pretty enough to make its home atop my countertop. And since it is dishwasher-safe, cleanup is a snap. Who knew homemade meals for baby could be made in just minutes? Or be this much fun?!

Website: http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/beaba-babycook/?pkey=x|4|1||4|beaba||0&cm_src=SCH

ARV: $149.95

Dirty A$$ Soaps

2009-11-02T10:39:00.005-05:00

The name may be filthy but these handmade, vegan soaps are anything but. As a matter of fact, I don't think I've ever seen soap look so incredibly realistic. I don't know whether to bathe with it or sit it on my dining room table as if it were a work of art. From cheese and crackers to sushi to smores to a vintage Nintendo controller, there's a soap to clean even the dirtiest of bodies - and minds. For this holiday season, get a gag gift that will hardly make them gag.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/DirtyAssSoaps

ARV: $5-$30, depending on style and quantity

Baltic Amber Teething Jewelry

2009-11-02T10:22:00.002-05:00

When it comes to my son's pain relief, I try to stick with homeopathic or natural methods as much as I can. I just don't like the idea of pumping him full of medication. When he started teething, I felt as though I was administering Tylenol and Motrin around the clock. It made me uneasy but I didn't think there was any other option. Our teething days are almost behind us, but my friends have clued me in to the benefits of baltic amber teething jewelry. Worn around your baby's neck neck, amber reacts with his/her skin to release its natural analgesic properties and prevent pain and inflammation from teething. Worn regularly, it is said to build immunity to infections and promote overall wellness. The unique necklaces at the Amber Jewelry shop feature knotting between beads to prevent scattering if broken (they will break if necessary). Of course, you should always supervise your baby and never allow them to sleep with the necklace. But if worn properly it is a safe alternative to traditional pain relief. There are a variety of gender-neutral styles and colors to choose from so you can assure Dad that its a good thing for his son to wear a necklace.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/amberjewelryshop

ARV: $17 - $63, depending on length and style

Knit Hats by Baby Melons

2009-11-02T10:08:00.003-05:00

I love fall for many reasons. The brisk chill of the air. The changing and falling of the leaves. The excuse to eat ungodly amounts of food, namely pumpkin pie. But one of my favorite things to do is dress my son up in the cutest seasonal hats. Last year, I had a family friend knit him a pumpkin hat for Thanksgiving and an elf hat for Christmas. They really made his holiday photos extra special. If you don't have a crafty friend - or if that crafty friend is unavailable this year - you will definitely want to check out the variety of knit hats at Baby Melons. In adorable styles and themes from animal to sports to food, you'll find the perfect accessory for your munchkin. If only they made an adult size...

Website: www.babymelons.com

ARV: $16 - $36, depending on style and size

Cloth Blocks from Knitstyle

2009-11-02T09:56:00.001-05:00

No matter how many expensive, flashy toys I buy, my son just keeps going back to the simple things. Sure, the lights and sounds might keep him busy for a little while but he quickly gets bored. He'd much rather play with a pot and a spoon. That's why these cloth blocks from Knitstyle are so fantastic. Handmade with beautiful, aesthetic fabrics and stuffed with non-allergenic Poly or Bamboo-fill, they are soft and pleasing to the eye and touch. Baby can stack, play catch, roll or simply slobber on them - wherever their imaginations take them. There are also tags sewn onto random edges for tons of pulling and tugging fun.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitstyle

ARV: $9.00/ 1 medium block - $28.00/ 3-block set (sm, med, lg)

Custom Children's Silhouette Print by Nella Designs

2009-11-02T08:57:00.000-05:00

Any proud mom will want to display her child or children's photos on the wall or on the shelf. This year, instead of yet another gaudy, ornamental frame, get mom a contemporary silhouette print from Nella Designs. Completely customized with your child or children's names and a selection of adorable graphics to choose from, they are sure to win over mom - and dad! There are also family silhouettes to include the entire clan or you can have a print made from your very own favorite photo.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop/nelladesigns

ARV: $20.00 - $28.00

Ruffled Diaper Cover from KuttinUp

2009-11-02T08:46:00.003-05:00

I may have a baby boy but I still love pink, frills and lace. I dream of the day I can dress my own little baby girl in adorable ensembles. Until then, I'll just have to file my favorite girly finds in a special folder for a rainy day. One item I'll surely be filing in there is this ruffled diaper cover from KuttinUp. This sweet handmade cover with bows, marabou and ruffles will be the perfect accessory for those treasured photo ops. Whether its a first birthday or holiday, your little princess will be hearing the "oohs" and "aahs" from miles away.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33637482

ARV: $27.00

Coffee Corset by Jenn Gee

2009-11-02T08:18:00.001-05:00

I, like many a mom, love my coffee. There's no better start to my day than with a trip to Starbucks. But instead of adding to landfills with a dull cardboard cozy, you can now add a flair of fashion and eco-friendly touch to your coffee cup with a Coffee Corset by Jenn Gee. These adorable, reusable cozies are stylish and functional, and are sure to be the envy of everyone in the coffee shop. And I bet you never thought a commodity could turn heads.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5218284

ARV: $12.00

Laugh & Learn DVD Series

2009-11-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

I must have read every book I found about getting pregnant but when it came to labor, delivery and beyond, I was clueless. Everyone I met shared their own horror stories about childbirth and with all the tidbits of "advice" I received, I couldn't distinguish fact from fiction. I had no idea what to expect and it caused me a great deal of anxiety. My husband and I paid $150 for a weekend-long Childbirth class and 3-hour long Breastfeeding class at our hospital. But I wish I had known about the Laugh and Learn DVD series. Sheri Bayles, a maternity nurse with over 30 years of experience, delivers all the information you need to be prepared for childbirth, breastfeeding and newborn care. Sheri's fun, engaging personality shines through and replaces fear with excitement. This is a perfect option for couples with busy schedules who can view the DVDs at their own leisure, or even for been-there-done-that moms who need a bit of a refresher course. At half the cost of those hospital classes and twice the fun, I can't think of a better, more useful gift for mom-to-be.

Website: www.laughandlearn.com

ARV: $79.99/ 3-DVD set plus book

Guitar Pick from Art of Silver

2009-11-01T23:47:00.001-05:00

Let's face it: our husbands may wear suits or uniforms instead of grunge wear these days but they are and will always be our rock stars. Show Dad how much he means to his family with a unique, hand-stamped, sterling silver guitar pick from Art of Silver. Made of sterling silver, this 18mmx25mm can be customized with your own phrases, words and symbols. A gift like this will not only strum the strings of dad's acoustic but his heartstrings as well.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33412860

ARV: $20.00

Bilibo

2009-11-01T22:57:00.002-05:00

Imagination is something to be cultivated in young minds, through story time, activity time, crafts and outdoor/indoor playtime. And there is one product on the market that inspires creativity like no other: Bilibo. The Bilibo, a Swiss design, is undefineable. It has the shape of a shell and can be interpreted in literally thousands of ways. The bright colors and smooth contours invite children to explore and handle the Bilibo to their own delight. Stacking. Emptying. Spinning. Rocking. Role playing. There's no limit to the amount of fun to be had with this simple, unassuming toy.

Website: www.bilibo.com

ARV: $29.99

Lulu and Stinker Stationary

2009-11-01T22:54:00.001-05:00

I think I sent more thank-you notes during my pregnancy than I did after my wedding or graduations. My friends and family were incredibly generous with their gifts and I wanted nothing more than to show my sincere gratitude. I didn't want a generic package from the grocery store but I struggled trying to find unique note cards that would fit my personality. I wish I had known about Lulu and Stinker back then. Their adorable Sassy Pregnancy Personalized Note Cards would provide just the right touch for your baby shower attendees. As her belly grows, mom-to-be could even write notes to her unborn baby to include in the baby book.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=33096392

ARV: $12.50/12 cards (includes envelopes)

ErgoBaby Baby Carrier

2009-11-01T22:36:00.000-05:00

I became a firm believer in babywearing in the early days when my son had colic. Nothing would soothe him unless he was being held. By me. Unfortunately, holding him constantly was not an option when household chores, showering and going to the bathroom were necessary. Thank goodness I had my ErgoBaby carrier. I could keep my hands free and be productive while taking special care of my special little guy. ErgoBaby carriers feature high density foam shoulder straps and are fully adjustable to fit heights from 5' to 6.5' and waists from 25" to 43". While they are recommended for babies from 5 lbs (with infant insert sold separately) to 45 lbs, the durability has been tested with babies up to 90 lbs! With stylish designs and three carry positions, you can hold your baby - and toddler - securely and fashionably.

Website: www.ergobabycarriers.com

ARV: $105 - $110

Oh Plah! Teething Bracelet

2009-11-01T21:59:00.000-05:00

It didn't take me long to realize that jewelry and babies mix about as well as oil and water. My beaded bracelets and diamond necklaces are most definitely a choking hazard. So, in searching for a safe alternative for my teething baby, I came across Oh Plah! French for "here you go", Oh Plah! teething-safe bracelets are constructed of medical grade thermoplastic- non-toxic, bacteria resistant, and free of lead, latex, PVC, BPA and phthalates. Durable and flexible, it can stand up to bending, twisting, biting and playing. Oh, of course...and wearing.

Website: http://www.roundhousedc.com/ohplah_teething_bracelet.html

ARV: $19.99

Melissa Beth Designs Laptop Sleeves

2009-09-27T00:21:00.000-04:00

When we're not busy blogging or shopping online for the perfect holiday gift, we want a safe, secure, stylish way to store our computers, our lifeline to the online world. Melissa Beth Designs offers laptop sleeves in a variety of colors and prints that are sure to please even the most discriminating mom. All cases contain a heavy foam lining to protect its precious contents. Whether you choose luxurious quilted satin brocade, soft velour or sporty neoprene, there's a sleeve to match your style. After all, dress-up isn't just for Barbie dolls.

Website: www.melissabeth.com

ARV: $29.00-$48.00 (laptop sleeves only; bags and totes also available)

Carolyn's Kitchen Aprons

2009-09-27T00:05:00.001-04:00

I'm not much of a cook. Or a baker. Admittedly, my husband cooks more than I do. For a stay-at-home mom, you'd think I'd be more domesticated. But now housework can be less of a chore thanks to Carolyn's Kitchen. Carolyn's Kitchen's vintage-inspired aprons are sexy and fun. Could you imagine your husband's eyes bulging out of his head as he watches you bast the Thanksgiving turkey in this little number, complete with garter? It sure would be a special holiday! All aprons are made in the USA and are 100% cotton.

Website: www.carolynskitchenonline.com

ARV: $39.95 - $42.00 (Full aprons; half aprons also available)

Social Circle Cards

2009-09-26T23:25:00.001-04:00

One of the many perks to being a mom is networking and meeting other moms. Being a stay-at-home mom, I crave adult interaction so I am constantly on-the-go, seeking out playdates and activities that will tire my munchkin while simultaneously satisfying my social needs. What better way to exchange your information with fellow moms than with these chic calling cards from Social Circle Cards. Each set of cards comes with a clip-on carrying case so they're always at your fingertips. The whimsical, feminine designs with unique, scalloped edges are sure to make a lasting first impression.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7318136

ARV: $14.95 - $19.95 /

Red Bird Road Designs Picture Frames

2009-09-26T22:53:00.001-04:00

Admit it: you love to show off your kids. And why wouldn't you? They have mom's good looks and dad's charm - the best of both of you. So you'll want to display them in something equally enchanting. Some of the most gorgeous picture frames I have ever seen are from Red Bird Road Designs. These frames are handmade, decoupaged with beautiful collaged paper and adorned with sweet embellishments. Their rustic, shabby chic feel is suitable for any setting, from grandma's cottage to the sophisticated studio. They're so pretty, visitors just might comment more on the border than the picture inside it. Try not to take offense.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6059841

ARV: $25-32

Hooter Hiders Nursing Covers

2009-09-26T22:32:00.001-04:00

Any nursing mom knows how difficult it is to gracefully breastfeed a baby in public. The constant distractions and twisting and turning make it nearly impossible to hold a blanket in place, much less shield your goodies from public display. Hooter Hiders really live up to their name. They are easy to use (simply slip over your head), machine washable for fast clean up and the designs are easy on the eyes too! What makes a Hooter Hider extra special from other brands is its rigid neckline, which allows Mom to maintain eye contact with her baby during feeding. There is also a terry cloth storage pocket for small items or to wipe up any spilled, err, sprayed milk. Be the envy of all your playgroup pals with one of these beautiful covers. And with such a tongue-in-cheek name, it's also a great conversation piece.

Website. www.bebeaulait.com

ARV: $35.00

Rebel Green

2009-09-26T22:12:00.001-04:00

Long gone are the days where eco-conscious was defined by glasses and Birkenstocks. Thanks to Rebel Green, you can actually be eco-friendly, edgy and fashionable! All products are made in the USA and are specifically designed to (1) minimize waste and (2) motivate a fundamental shift in thinking about our impact on the planet we share. Wear your love for the ultimate mom, Mother Earth, as a tee or reusable tote bag. The hardest part won't be making the decision to reduce your carbon footprint - it will be choosing from the ever-so cute and contemporary designs.

Website: www.rebelgreen.com

ARV: $15.00-39.00

momAgenda Day Planner

2009-09-26T21:56:00.000-04:00

Children bring lots of joy but they also bring on the chaos. If you - or any moms you know - long for a way to simplify a hectic lifestyle, look no further than momAgenda. momAgenda offers a diversified line of organizational products so you can plan your everyday life. From day planners to home organizers to grocery planning and honey-do lists, momAgenda has a way for you to stay on top of your schedule. Oh, and avoid that pesky mommy brain.

Website: www.momagenda.com

ARV: $40-$50 (Day planners only; prices vary for other products)

Cupcake Love Cupcake Soap by Margarita Bloom

2009-09-24T00:00:00.000-04:00

Every mom deserves to be pampered. And what better way to do it than with these adorable cupcake soaps from Margarita Bloom. These soaps are almost too realistic, with the swirled frosting complete with sprinkles on top. Why, I don't know whether I should take a shower or take a bite! In flavors like German Chocolate Cake, Mango Lassi and Strawberry Angel Cake, it's hard to resist the temptation. Each cupcake comes in an adorable bakery box with ribbon and label, making it the perfect gift.

Website: http://www.margarita-bloom.com/

ARV: $8.50 / 4.5 oz.

Jogi Yogi Yoga Mat Bag by Jogi Originals

2009-09-21T23:01:00.000-04:00

For the fit mama who needs to clear her head (what mom doesn't?) and some space, consider a yoga mat by Jogi Originals. This Etsy shop handcrafts yoga bags from recycled vintage fabrics and accessories, making them eco-friendly as well as fashionable. All Jogi Yogi bags fit a standard 24"W yoga mat, in addition to a towel or yoga straps. There is an extra zippered pocket for keys or small articles, and a wide button belt to cinch the bag just a little tighter while adding modern flair.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7704640

ARV: $35.00

Yarnabees

2009-09-21T22:49:00.000-04:00

With all of the harmful chemicals and toxins being found in childrens' toys these days, it's hard to find safe, quality playthings for our little ones. But I know I can always rely on handmade. Yarnabees offers adorable crocheted rattles and stuffed animals that are sure to become your child's new best friend. Each animal has his or her own little story that brings them to life and warms your heart.

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6932035

ARV: $12-40 (depending on size)

Ruthless & Toothless

2009-09-21T22:28:00.001-04:00

They may be too young for tattoos but that doesn't mean they can't make a statement! Created by the masterminds behind TV's "Miami Ink", Ruthless & Toothless is the perfect way to extend a tattoo or graffiti lifestyle to children. With original, artistic designs for both boys and girls, any baby wearing these onesies, hoodies, tanks or tees will surely get noticed. All made in the USA.

Website: www.ruthless-toothless.com

ARV: $22.00-$40.00

Keurig Elite Brewing System

2009-09-21T21:49:00.000-04:00

As a result of mama-induced sleep deprivation, I know I have become addicted to coffee. I need it to function in the morning and I know many others who suffer the same plight. But I limit myself to just one cup or the occasional two cups, which makes my traditional 12-cup coffee maker a bit tedious to use. The perfect solution is the Keurig Elite single-cup coffee maker. The Elite offers two cup sizes - 8 oz. or 10 oz. - and can be used with any K-Cup coffees, teas or hot cocoa. No more fumbling with spoons and spilling grounds all over the countertop in my zombie state. There's also an Auto-Off feature to prevent any accidents as a result of mommy brain.

Website: www.keurig.com

ARV: $99.95

Faith Baby Christian Babywear

2009-09-21T00:25:00.001-04:00

Children are a blessing, so it's only proper that their clothes reflect it. Faith Baby has an assortment of trendy, Christian onesies and tees for youth and baby. With simple, unique phrases, they are sure to be the talk of your playgroup and a hit at church!

Website: www.faithbaby.com

ARV: $14.00-$17.00

PeaceLoveMom Tees

2009-09-20T23:56:00.001-04:00

Being a mother is an inspiring, empowering thing. So why not celebrate it and wear your pride?! PeaceLoveMom tees communicate the bond of motherhood through messages of peace, love and happiness. Created by moms for moms, their message is not to let motherhood define you - you define it! Whether she's a peaceful mom, happy mom, grateful mom or lucky mom, there's a tee just for her. Vintage washes and soft cotton make for a hip addition to her wardrobe. Gift certificates, baby and kids apparel and stationary also available.

Website: http://www.peacelovemom.com/

ARV: $10.00-$50.00

Pregnancy Pampering Kit by Earth Mama Angel Baby

2009-09-20T23:44:00.001-04:00

Pregnancy is no picnic. Between morning sickness, stretch marks, weight gain, and swelling, it's often hard to imagine going on another day, much less seven months or more. But with Earth Mama Angel Baby products, mom-to-be will want to sit back, relax and indulge in every moment before the real chaos begins. The Pregnancy Pampering Kit includes a Mama-to-Be Tea Sampler, Happy Feet foot soak, Natural Stretch Oil, Bottom Balm (for those bothersome pregnancy-induced hemmoroids!) and Body Butter. All products are natural and organic, so they are perfectly safe at any stage of pregnancy or beyond.

Website: www.earthmamaangelbaby.com

ARV: $39.95

My Lil Budget Book

2009-09-18T23:44:00.000-04:00

In this economy, it's more important than ever to budget. We have to pinch pennies, clip coupons and get creative with ways to save. The Lil Budget Book can make the task much easier. This handy little organizer comes in a variety of sizes and has dividers that can hold cash, receipts, recipes, note cards - the possibilities are endless! It also comes with stickers for easy labeling and customizing as you wish. The adorable fabric selections will fool everyone into thinking it's just a fabulous clutch. No one will ever guess you're secretly frugal!

Website: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6835548

ARV: $11.95-$24.95

Chic & Cozy Blanket Bag by Chic Tots

2009-09-18T22:38:00.000-04:00

Look on her arm. It's a tote. No, it's a blanket. Oh, wait - it's both! This 2-in-1 blanket bag was created by moms for moms. It's the perfect accessory for playdates or picnics in the park. Not only can it carry all the toys you'd want to drag along, it has a hidden inside pocket for mom's essentials. 100% machine washable. Dimensions are 29" x 38" unfolded.

Website: http://www.chictots.com/

ARV: $49.95

The Plush Pad by Ah Goo Baby

2009-09-18T22:16:00.000-04:00

Diaper changes. Tummy Time. Gymboree classes. The Plush Pad brings the cushiness of memory foam to any place. Instead of typical vinyl fabrics, the Plush Pad is ultimate comfort, relieving baby's pressure points while retaining a sense of style. Perfectly portable, it rolls up into a cylinder so you can throw it in the diaper bag or grab it and go. Machine washable and water repellent. 2' x 2' when opened.

Website: http://www.ahgoobaby.com/

ARV: $29.94

P. Jammers by This is J

2009-09-18T22:12:00.000-04:00

For mommy's me-time, nothing spells comfort like some luxurious pajamas. P. Jammers, from Canadian company This is J, are perfect for night - or day! Yoga style bottoms and flowy tops make P. Jammers perfect to wear to the gym or to the bedroom. Each set offers a unique handprinted design on soft, breathable bamboo fabric. Machine washable.

Website: http://www.thisisj.com/

ARV: $82.00 - $118.00

BabbaCover Car Seat Cover

2009-09-18T21:52:00.000-04:00

No more fumbling with blankets to keep baby warm or after-market seat liners that can void your warranty. Protect your baby from the elements in style with the BabbaCover car seat cover. Window flaps on front and back for circulation. Side cargo pockets for keys or baby items so you can leave that bulky diaper bag at home. Fits all standard infant car seat carriers and is made in the USA.

Website: http://www.babbaco.com/

ARV: $89.00