I've been struggling with keeping up with both of my daughters when it comes to breast milk. I've tried the teas, oatmeal, fenugreek, old Chinese ways and nothing has really really worked. Last night, I had this insane craving for a Coke so i sent my husband out to get me a big one. I don't normally drink soda and don't really care for it. Since then, my production has doubled!!! Any other moms try this?? I wish someone told me earlier. It would have saved a lot of tears!!!
So, try Coca Cola!!!!!! Hope it works for you too!! Its not great for you, but it does the trick.
Monday, December 15, 2014
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Ten Must Haves for a Newborn
This list will constantly change as new products are always being introduced to the market. Some of these items weren't around when I had my daughter just 3 years ago. But here they are and its been a life saver for my family:
1. Puj bath - with our first, we got a traditional bath tub and it was scary washing a newborn in it. Not to mention it was a back killer. With this, the baby gets constant running clean water. Due to the small size, your newborn has no where to roll or slide anywhere which leaves you with both hands to wash and move fast. And, since you use this in the sink, your back will thank you. And if you have doubts of whether it will fit in your sink or not, it will. Bathroom sink worked perfect for us.
2. Saline Drops - your baby's nose will most likely get boogies and you can't use anything to help clear it out. Little Remedies has a natural saline solution that you can go to town with since its non medicated. Just salt and water!
3. Swaddle - We have a couple of different ones that we have collected over both the babies. No 2 baby is alike so try to get 2 different ones and see which one works for your family best. We use the Ergobaby wrap and the HALO Sleep sack. With the current weather, we use the HALO Sleep sack since its thicker. The Ergobaby wrap worked well for us at the hospital and it makes diaper changes really easy. The HALO has lots of velcro so be careful when you wash it. The HALO doesn't make diaper changes very easy but it has a lot more options for the thickness that you need depending on the weather. It also has the removable wrap so you can use the sack as a bag to keep baby warm in the mornings.
4. Vaseline - Or something like it. Its commonly overlooked but with your newborn's bottom so tender, it helps to keep a barrier since they poop so much. With the constant wiping, my little one's bottom was getting sensitive. She was too young to put diaper cream on it so I went with a more preventative and natural route. Solved the problem!
5. Bottles - Obviously!! But more importantly, different types of bottles and 2 types of flow for the nipple. Don't invest in buying too many bottles and be prepared to run to the store to buy your baby's favorite one. We started with Dr Brown with my first and luckily she did great with it. With our second, she would only take the Joovy Boob one well and the Size 0 nipple. It doesn't matter if you breast feed or not, you need to be prepared. Most mom's milk doesn't come in till a couple days later so you never know. Maybe open 2 bottles and sterilize those. Keep the rest packaged so you can always return them if you don't need it.
6. Pump - A good one too! Even if you breast feed, you should pump after to clear out your supply and help promote more production. Also, I got Mastisis a couple times already and the pump helped me clear it out. I received a pump from the insurance since the law now provides mothers with pumps and that one was just not as good as the one I had. The one I use and love is the Medela Freestyle.
7. Onesies - and Lots of them. I would say get at least 6 of the white onesies with the built in mittens. They do scratch themselves and no, those other loose mittens DO NOT stay on. I just have the whtie Carter ones. Easy!
8. ZoLi Nail Trimmer - You can't or its not recommended that you cut a newborn's nails since they are so soft. However, they are born with claws or at least both of mine were. So, I got the ZoLi nail trimmer which is just a filer to file them down. Safe and easy. Baby slept right through it and I was confident in using it since I really couldn't hurt her with it.
9. Thermometer - A battery operated one. I know its not as accurate as the traditional ones you stick up their bottom but it is faster and easier. I didn't have the heart to do it the old fashion way and sometimes I just get overly paranoid with a newborn. So, I use the one you shoot into their ear and I typically add 1 degree to it. If it gets close to being a possible fever, then use the old fashion one to get a more accurate reading.
10. Formula - This maybe controversial but I do know and encourage all mommies to give their baby's breastmilk. I'm not going to say breastfeed because I couldn't get both of my girls to breastfeed. I exclusively pump and give my baby breastmilk. As long as she gets it, I'm at peace with how she gets it. However, my kid had a big appetite and she needed more than what I produced the first couple of days. So, I supplemented and she was happy and satisfied. So, get some as backup you always have something to feed your baby. Its kind of like always having something to eat from your kitchen right? Even just a snack.
1. Puj bath - with our first, we got a traditional bath tub and it was scary washing a newborn in it. Not to mention it was a back killer. With this, the baby gets constant running clean water. Due to the small size, your newborn has no where to roll or slide anywhere which leaves you with both hands to wash and move fast. And, since you use this in the sink, your back will thank you. And if you have doubts of whether it will fit in your sink or not, it will. Bathroom sink worked perfect for us.
2. Saline Drops - your baby's nose will most likely get boogies and you can't use anything to help clear it out. Little Remedies has a natural saline solution that you can go to town with since its non medicated. Just salt and water!
3. Swaddle - We have a couple of different ones that we have collected over both the babies. No 2 baby is alike so try to get 2 different ones and see which one works for your family best. We use the Ergobaby wrap and the HALO Sleep sack. With the current weather, we use the HALO Sleep sack since its thicker. The Ergobaby wrap worked well for us at the hospital and it makes diaper changes really easy. The HALO has lots of velcro so be careful when you wash it. The HALO doesn't make diaper changes very easy but it has a lot more options for the thickness that you need depending on the weather. It also has the removable wrap so you can use the sack as a bag to keep baby warm in the mornings.
4. Vaseline - Or something like it. Its commonly overlooked but with your newborn's bottom so tender, it helps to keep a barrier since they poop so much. With the constant wiping, my little one's bottom was getting sensitive. She was too young to put diaper cream on it so I went with a more preventative and natural route. Solved the problem!
5. Bottles - Obviously!! But more importantly, different types of bottles and 2 types of flow for the nipple. Don't invest in buying too many bottles and be prepared to run to the store to buy your baby's favorite one. We started with Dr Brown with my first and luckily she did great with it. With our second, she would only take the Joovy Boob one well and the Size 0 nipple. It doesn't matter if you breast feed or not, you need to be prepared. Most mom's milk doesn't come in till a couple days later so you never know. Maybe open 2 bottles and sterilize those. Keep the rest packaged so you can always return them if you don't need it.
6. Pump - A good one too! Even if you breast feed, you should pump after to clear out your supply and help promote more production. Also, I got Mastisis a couple times already and the pump helped me clear it out. I received a pump from the insurance since the law now provides mothers with pumps and that one was just not as good as the one I had. The one I use and love is the Medela Freestyle.
7. Onesies - and Lots of them. I would say get at least 6 of the white onesies with the built in mittens. They do scratch themselves and no, those other loose mittens DO NOT stay on. I just have the whtie Carter ones. Easy!
8. ZoLi Nail Trimmer - You can't or its not recommended that you cut a newborn's nails since they are so soft. However, they are born with claws or at least both of mine were. So, I got the ZoLi nail trimmer which is just a filer to file them down. Safe and easy. Baby slept right through it and I was confident in using it since I really couldn't hurt her with it.
9. Thermometer - A battery operated one. I know its not as accurate as the traditional ones you stick up their bottom but it is faster and easier. I didn't have the heart to do it the old fashion way and sometimes I just get overly paranoid with a newborn. So, I use the one you shoot into their ear and I typically add 1 degree to it. If it gets close to being a possible fever, then use the old fashion one to get a more accurate reading.
10. Formula - This maybe controversial but I do know and encourage all mommies to give their baby's breastmilk. I'm not going to say breastfeed because I couldn't get both of my girls to breastfeed. I exclusively pump and give my baby breastmilk. As long as she gets it, I'm at peace with how she gets it. However, my kid had a big appetite and she needed more than what I produced the first couple of days. So, I supplemented and she was happy and satisfied. So, get some as backup you always have something to feed your baby. Its kind of like always having something to eat from your kitchen right? Even just a snack.
She's here!
So, I haven't blogged in a while but it has been pretty crazy adjusting to a new baby with a toddler. All the moms that have done this, you deserve a degree some sort because I'm not sure how to juggle both. Anyways, I promise to get back to blogging and in fact, in the next post, I will list my top 10 must haves with a newborn. But here is my newest little love!
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Nook Lilypad Review
As I'm in complete nesting mode, I need everything right now for baby #2 which I do not NEED. Want maybe but not need. I've been reading some other mommy blogs that highly recommend the Nook Lilypad for tummy time so I gave it a try. I haven't tried it on an actual baby yet, but just by opening it and taking a look at the product itself, I was disappointed.
The pebbles are suppose to promote breathability which is a big reason why I bought it. With newborns during tummy time, they often drop they heads and face plant onto the ground while they are still building muscles to suppose their little heads. The pebbles in my opinion are more decoration than anything else. I received mine a week ago and its completely flat with pebble like pattern sewn on the top fabric. I thought maybe it was because it was squished flat into the tube that it came packaged in but after a week laying it out, it is still flat. My husband and I both ran our fingers across and placed pressure on it and it really is just flat. So, if you are buying based on the beathability factor, I don't recommend it.
The lilypad I received had so much excess fabric that it kind of seemed like a hazard for a newborn. Of course, the pictures of the product does not reflect that so I'm questioning if the item I received was defective. The top layer had so much excess fabric that if you were to pull it up, it could separate from the rest of the pad a good 6 inches. Seems more of a suffocation issue.
The packaging that it came with was questionable. I'm not going to put this on Nook because I bought it from one of their authorized online retailers, Albee baby online so it may be a returned item. I will never know because I'm not going to buy another one to see and there isn't a local store near me that carries it. Being that it's fabric and newborns will be using it, I expect it to be packaged a little bit cleaner. The lilypad came in a cardboard tube that was not sealed and the pad was inside just as it is. No pamphlet, no plastic wrap, nothing. I know I'm suppose to wash it prior to baby but at this point, I want to drench it is 409 and then wash it which is just not right. My organic detergent will not be able to get this clean enough. Who knows where its been and what has touched it. So, I won't be giving this to my baby to use. Probably use it as a very expensive bath mat.
The only thing that did meet my expectation with this is the thick cushion. So, it would have been great when a baby drops their head on the ground. However, due to sanitation and suffocation concren, I will not be using it and I do NOT recommend this product.
By the way, mine did not come folded up the same way as this picture did which convinces me more that the product probably was not new.
The pebbles are suppose to promote breathability which is a big reason why I bought it. With newborns during tummy time, they often drop they heads and face plant onto the ground while they are still building muscles to suppose their little heads. The pebbles in my opinion are more decoration than anything else. I received mine a week ago and its completely flat with pebble like pattern sewn on the top fabric. I thought maybe it was because it was squished flat into the tube that it came packaged in but after a week laying it out, it is still flat. My husband and I both ran our fingers across and placed pressure on it and it really is just flat. So, if you are buying based on the beathability factor, I don't recommend it.
The lilypad I received had so much excess fabric that it kind of seemed like a hazard for a newborn. Of course, the pictures of the product does not reflect that so I'm questioning if the item I received was defective. The top layer had so much excess fabric that if you were to pull it up, it could separate from the rest of the pad a good 6 inches. Seems more of a suffocation issue.
The packaging that it came with was questionable. I'm not going to put this on Nook because I bought it from one of their authorized online retailers, Albee baby online so it may be a returned item. I will never know because I'm not going to buy another one to see and there isn't a local store near me that carries it. Being that it's fabric and newborns will be using it, I expect it to be packaged a little bit cleaner. The lilypad came in a cardboard tube that was not sealed and the pad was inside just as it is. No pamphlet, no plastic wrap, nothing. I know I'm suppose to wash it prior to baby but at this point, I want to drench it is 409 and then wash it which is just not right. My organic detergent will not be able to get this clean enough. Who knows where its been and what has touched it. So, I won't be giving this to my baby to use. Probably use it as a very expensive bath mat.
The only thing that did meet my expectation with this is the thick cushion. So, it would have been great when a baby drops their head on the ground. However, due to sanitation and suffocation concren, I will not be using it and I do NOT recommend this product.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
New from Clek soon!!!
Clek will be coming out with an infant insert to be used with the Foonf and the Fllo. I'm not to sure about the details but it seems like the infant insert will allow you to start using the Foonf and the Fllo once your baby is born. That's super exciting for a couple of reasons:
1. You won't have to buy 2 car seats. You can probably get away with buying 1 really good safe car seat for your child and stick with it for 5 to 6 years!
2. Keeping your child rear-facing longer can be easier with less change for your kid. For a child like mine that doesn't like change, it would have been perfect.
3. This will allow me to use my stroller bassinet more. I wouldn't have to bring the car seat out and dock it on the stroller but allow a bassinet which is more comfy for a newborn. Switching between 2 cars can become obsolete if you already own car seats from your previous children (taking into consideration that they are not expired).
I'm excited since we have 1 Orbit infant seat, 1 Orbit toddler seat, and 1 Clek Foonf. We only have 2 bases for the Orbits so now, I'm hoping I can keep 1 Orbit base in each car and a Foonf in one of the cars. That way, no matter what combination we have, the newborn will always fit in one of the cars without worrying about the infant seat. 2 in 1!!!
1. You won't have to buy 2 car seats. You can probably get away with buying 1 really good safe car seat for your child and stick with it for 5 to 6 years!
2. Keeping your child rear-facing longer can be easier with less change for your kid. For a child like mine that doesn't like change, it would have been perfect.
3. This will allow me to use my stroller bassinet more. I wouldn't have to bring the car seat out and dock it on the stroller but allow a bassinet which is more comfy for a newborn. Switching between 2 cars can become obsolete if you already own car seats from your previous children (taking into consideration that they are not expired).
I'm excited since we have 1 Orbit infant seat, 1 Orbit toddler seat, and 1 Clek Foonf. We only have 2 bases for the Orbits so now, I'm hoping I can keep 1 Orbit base in each car and a Foonf in one of the cars. That way, no matter what combination we have, the newborn will always fit in one of the cars without worrying about the infant seat. 2 in 1!!!
We picked a Cord Blood Bank - StemCyte
Through our process of elimination and Ob/gyn recommendation, we went with StemCyte. We liked their collection/processing method, decently local bank (in California), and lack of pushiness!
Although I really won't know much about the collection and processing method until I actually have the baby but my doctor recommended them based on her experience. I tried to do as much research as I could but it just wasn't very clear to differentiate between sales tactics and actual facts. What did help was that StemCyte was a public and private bank. That meant we would have access to the public should anything were to happen. Again, cord blood and tissue banking is an insurance plan so we just do your best to prepare for the worse case scenario.
I wanted something local in California so that it wouldn't be traveling so far after I had the baby. I figure the quicker it gets there, the quicker it'll get processed.
After calling all the banks, ViaCord was the absolute worse about telemarketing me afterwards through phone and email. So much so that I began to lost trust in the business. Where was their focus? Why are they so desperate? And threatening me with increased pricing wasn't going to work.
With StemCyte, it was relatively easy process. When I called in, I felt that I got educated in their product than being pushed to by. In fact, they never tried to get me to start the program but just answered by questions and said goodbye. The process to get started was easy and done within a day. I got my box and now its sitting by the garage door waiting for this little one to come. I've notified my doctor of our choice and have given her the heads up that she will need to do the collection.
So far the best person I've known to ask questions about this whole cord blood and tissue banking is probably your doctor. My doctor was very pro banking so she was informative. She's much more educated than we are and she has actual experience with all the different banks. My doctor doesn't get paid for it so I know her opinion and recommendations were neutral. So I highly recommend asking all your questions to your doctor.
I'll do an update after I have the baby and the good stuff has been processed!
Although I really won't know much about the collection and processing method until I actually have the baby but my doctor recommended them based on her experience. I tried to do as much research as I could but it just wasn't very clear to differentiate between sales tactics and actual facts. What did help was that StemCyte was a public and private bank. That meant we would have access to the public should anything were to happen. Again, cord blood and tissue banking is an insurance plan so we just do your best to prepare for the worse case scenario.
I wanted something local in California so that it wouldn't be traveling so far after I had the baby. I figure the quicker it gets there, the quicker it'll get processed.
After calling all the banks, ViaCord was the absolute worse about telemarketing me afterwards through phone and email. So much so that I began to lost trust in the business. Where was their focus? Why are they so desperate? And threatening me with increased pricing wasn't going to work.
With StemCyte, it was relatively easy process. When I called in, I felt that I got educated in their product than being pushed to by. In fact, they never tried to get me to start the program but just answered by questions and said goodbye. The process to get started was easy and done within a day. I got my box and now its sitting by the garage door waiting for this little one to come. I've notified my doctor of our choice and have given her the heads up that she will need to do the collection.
So far the best person I've known to ask questions about this whole cord blood and tissue banking is probably your doctor. My doctor was very pro banking so she was informative. She's much more educated than we are and she has actual experience with all the different banks. My doctor doesn't get paid for it so I know her opinion and recommendations were neutral. So I highly recommend asking all your questions to your doctor.
I'll do an update after I have the baby and the good stuff has been processed!
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Orbit G3 Frame review
So we've had the G2 frame for almost 3 years now and perhaps the only 2 things that really bother me were the brakes and the single cup holder. The G3 took my breath away. Yes, I've become that woman that obsesses over baby products.
Here are what I'm loving about the new G3 frame:
1. The brakes and flip flop/barefoot friendly. Its probably the friendliest brake system I've encountered. So, Orbit took the questionable G2 brake system to #1. Thank you Orbit Baby!!!
2. The double cup holders. You have no idea how much that means to our family. Now, how do I add a 3rd?
3. One hand fold. The G2 was already a pretty simple system but now, they simplified it even more.
4. Maneuverability. That's a long word. I hope I spelled it right. I was happy with the G2 but the G3 is smoother, easier to turn, and more absorbent on the bumps.
5. G2 family friendly. From a family that has the entire G2 line, when the G3 came out, my heart sank. I know, its not that serious but really, after investing so much money you would hope that your investment last a while and be the newest. I think the people at Orbit thought about that instead of being greedy and made the new G3 compatible with the G2 products. With baby girl number 2 due in 5 weeks, I'm really in nesting mode. Getting the G3 frame was like having my first born all over again. We didn't get too much use out of our infant carseat since my daughter wanted to sit upright at 7 months so we got the Orbit toddler car seat for her. So, I really wouldn't have been too happy about having to buy a new infant car seat since who knows how long this lil one will want to stay in it. I'm hoping for a year this time.
So, thank you Orbit Baby for making a newer and better version of the G2 without making my Orbit Baby collection outdated. And most of all, thank you for standing behind your products with great customer service and warranty. For most of my readers in the Bay Area, they are LOCAL!! And yes, you can just go to them if you need something. So for those of use that live here in Northern California, Orbit Baby is your best choice!
Here are what I'm loving about the new G3 frame:
1. The brakes and flip flop/barefoot friendly. Its probably the friendliest brake system I've encountered. So, Orbit took the questionable G2 brake system to #1. Thank you Orbit Baby!!!
2. The double cup holders. You have no idea how much that means to our family. Now, how do I add a 3rd?
3. One hand fold. The G2 was already a pretty simple system but now, they simplified it even more.
4. Maneuverability. That's a long word. I hope I spelled it right. I was happy with the G2 but the G3 is smoother, easier to turn, and more absorbent on the bumps.
5. G2 family friendly. From a family that has the entire G2 line, when the G3 came out, my heart sank. I know, its not that serious but really, after investing so much money you would hope that your investment last a while and be the newest. I think the people at Orbit thought about that instead of being greedy and made the new G3 compatible with the G2 products. With baby girl number 2 due in 5 weeks, I'm really in nesting mode. Getting the G3 frame was like having my first born all over again. We didn't get too much use out of our infant carseat since my daughter wanted to sit upright at 7 months so we got the Orbit toddler car seat for her. So, I really wouldn't have been too happy about having to buy a new infant car seat since who knows how long this lil one will want to stay in it. I'm hoping for a year this time.
So, thank you Orbit Baby for making a newer and better version of the G2 without making my Orbit Baby collection outdated. And most of all, thank you for standing behind your products with great customer service and warranty. For most of my readers in the Bay Area, they are LOCAL!! And yes, you can just go to them if you need something. So for those of use that live here in Northern California, Orbit Baby is your best choice!
Friday, August 29, 2014
Aden and Anais Dream Blanket
It was took a lot for me to pay $49.95 for a blanket so I waited a while before I made the move. Once we washed it, gave it to my daughter, and I ended up fighting to keep my husband away from taking her blanket. It's incredibly soft and thick enough to keep her warm at night and light enough to know that it won't over heat my child if she hasn't learned to regulate her own temperature. The size of the dream blanket is perfect! The size is perfect for her to roll around in her crib and for it to stay on her. Now, they do make a larger size called the Day Dream blanket for those of you adults that would like your own blanky!
I got the Classic blanket but will like to try the Organic or Bamboo one at some point too. We had the bamboo swaddle blankets and it was extremely soft so I can only imagine that the Bamboo Dream blanket is probably even softer than what I have.
You can purchase it at www.adenandanais.com or at Buy Buy Baby.
I got the Classic blanket but will like to try the Organic or Bamboo one at some point too. We had the bamboo swaddle blankets and it was extremely soft so I can only imagine that the Bamboo Dream blanket is probably even softer than what I have.
You can purchase it at www.adenandanais.com or at Buy Buy Baby.
Toddler Pillow from Restoration Hardware Baby and Child
When I was looking for a toddler pillow a year ago, I had trouble finding one that was small enough for my little girl. Most toddler pillows were still too big for her. I found that the RH Baby and Child toddler pillow with many pillow case choices was perfect size for her. Remember, you shouldn't use a pillow too early for a baby because of the risk of SIDS. I like the many options for pillow cases and the pillow cases fully encase the pillow. I"m not a big fan of down feathers because of the particles that can be breathed into the lung. So, the RH Baby and Child has 2 options for parents. I got the synthetic filled pillow.
When my daughter destroys her RH pillow, I will try the Nook toddler pillow next. I've seen great reviews on this pillow and seems to have more sustainable and natural fills.
When my daughter destroys her RH pillow, I will try the Nook toddler pillow next. I've seen great reviews on this pillow and seems to have more sustainable and natural fills.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Finally ordered the Orbit Baby Sidekick!
The Orbit Baby Sidekick is finally back in stock!!!!!! I know my daughter is going to be so excited when it gets in and luckily it came back in stock before the second one is due! Family outings without a double stroller hopefully!
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
New Reviews to be coming soon!! Boco Baby, Rumina Nursingwear, and Joovy Boob
As I'm going into nesting mode, there are so many new things out there! I've ordered a personalized going home swaddle blanket and onesie outfit from Boco Baby (boco-baby.com). I'm super excited as we've finally decided on a name. Next, I'm going to start researching nursing wear and I met the owner of Rumina at MommyCon so maybe I'll be ordering one soon. With my daughter, I only used Dr. Brown and she never threw up once from it so I never switched or tried another brand. Not going to fix what's not broken right? Well, as much as I love Dr. Brown, it was quite an investment of constantly purchasing new parts (and there is a lot of them) and the constant washing of all the parts. Again, I still love Dr. Brown and will still use it on #2 but I am going to see if I can get the same good results from the Joovy Boob. I just invested in 2 Boob bottles and I got the PPSU. The higher graded plastic bottle. They also offer a glass one which I will get if the baby takes a liking to it. But in the meantime, I'm starting to clean out stuff so I'll be able to dissect the Boob soon.
Anyone else have any product recommendations? I just love great products and buying only what you need. I spent an hour the other day with a random stranger at Buy Buy Baby going through all that she needs and what she really needs and which was the best. Who ever said to not talk to strangers took all the fun out.
Anyone else have any product recommendations? I just love great products and buying only what you need. I spent an hour the other day with a random stranger at Buy Buy Baby going through all that she needs and what she really needs and which was the best. Who ever said to not talk to strangers took all the fun out.
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Cord Blood and Tissue Banking - Why is it so difficult to understand?
As we are ticking down to the last 3 months, my husband and I have decided that we are going to bank our last child's cord blood and tissue. With our first daughter, we thought about it and was in a bit of denial and lack of understanding. When we had a scare with our daughter, I told myself that I would have paid anything to even have a backup plan. So, although I have a huge guilt now that I didn't do it for my first daughter, I won't make the same mistake again.
Now, after reading all the brochures and talking to my OB about it, I still extremely confused about all the different banks and what makes them different. I've read other blogger's blogs and have done some research down to reading FDA reports. However, I'm getting extremely confused with all the scientific terms and wish there was some description about it.
Here is the thing why its so important to understand the difference between these banks.
1. They are NOT all the same. They have different collection methods and processing methods. This results in different collections and what is important to you make not be what will be available to you later if you were to ever need it.
2. There are different price points and these banks try to entice you with a better price. But when you are spending thousands, do you really care about $100 to $200 difference versus the quality of the collection.
3. The locked in storage price is different among them and when they will change the locked in price. So, it is important for you to have some kind of long term plan on how long you plan on storing it. Sometimes, the volume collected is only good for up to a 10 yr old, so why pay for more storage after that. Or, a lot of the available future treatments will have been recognized in your child prior to reaching adulthood, so do you need to pay for more than say 18 years? Or, are you banking on future scientific research and planning on paying for the storage for as long as you can.
My biggest concern of all the 3 I've listed above is #1. I have #2 answered for myself. I'm not going to let their price point cloud my judgement because its minor in the long run. And #3, I think I have time to decide that as we go as long as I know the companies policies and contract ahead of time.
But, I cannot find answers to #1. What are the pros and cons of each bank's collection/transport method and their processing method? If I collect more volume of blood cells, am I getting more of what I need or will it be diluted with the other cells along with it? Also, based on their collection methods, when its time for engraftment, what will the quality be like and the success rate? What is the success rate at 10 yrs and 20 yrs? With so many new collection methods, do we even have data to will go that far?
So, I will be contacting the local reps of 2 of the banks as I have already eliminated it down to 2. Lets see if they get back to me and what information I will get. Hopefully I will get this info in time before this little girl arrives!
Now, after reading all the brochures and talking to my OB about it, I still extremely confused about all the different banks and what makes them different. I've read other blogger's blogs and have done some research down to reading FDA reports. However, I'm getting extremely confused with all the scientific terms and wish there was some description about it.
Here is the thing why its so important to understand the difference between these banks.
1. They are NOT all the same. They have different collection methods and processing methods. This results in different collections and what is important to you make not be what will be available to you later if you were to ever need it.
2. There are different price points and these banks try to entice you with a better price. But when you are spending thousands, do you really care about $100 to $200 difference versus the quality of the collection.
3. The locked in storage price is different among them and when they will change the locked in price. So, it is important for you to have some kind of long term plan on how long you plan on storing it. Sometimes, the volume collected is only good for up to a 10 yr old, so why pay for more storage after that. Or, a lot of the available future treatments will have been recognized in your child prior to reaching adulthood, so do you need to pay for more than say 18 years? Or, are you banking on future scientific research and planning on paying for the storage for as long as you can.
My biggest concern of all the 3 I've listed above is #1. I have #2 answered for myself. I'm not going to let their price point cloud my judgement because its minor in the long run. And #3, I think I have time to decide that as we go as long as I know the companies policies and contract ahead of time.
But, I cannot find answers to #1. What are the pros and cons of each bank's collection/transport method and their processing method? If I collect more volume of blood cells, am I getting more of what I need or will it be diluted with the other cells along with it? Also, based on their collection methods, when its time for engraftment, what will the quality be like and the success rate? What is the success rate at 10 yrs and 20 yrs? With so many new collection methods, do we even have data to will go that far?
So, I will be contacting the local reps of 2 of the banks as I have already eliminated it down to 2. Lets see if they get back to me and what information I will get. Hopefully I will get this info in time before this little girl arrives!
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Do you Cuppow?
Are you a juicer? Health nut? or really aware of the benefits of drinking out of a glass bottle instead of plastic or other containers that could emit chemicals into your drink?
Let me help you because it saved my car and my frustration. Go get yourself a mason jar. Preferably one that fits in your cup holder. Then, go to amazon.com and search Cuppow and get one or 2 for yourself. Merry Christmas!!!!
Let me help you because it saved my car and my frustration. Go get yourself a mason jar. Preferably one that fits in your cup holder. Then, go to amazon.com and search Cuppow and get one or 2 for yourself. Merry Christmas!!!!
Travelling with toddler while pregnant - Orbit Baby!
So, we just took a family trip to Maui before I can't fly anymore. Made it back the day before I enter into 3rd trimester! We've traveled quite a bit with our daughter since she was born and the first time was a disaster. We rented a minivan at our destination and we brought so much stuff, we barely all fit in it. We did learn a lot from our trip and since then, we've learned to travel lighter and smarter.
Here are some tips:
1. Get a travel system that allows you to use your car seat with your stroller. Sounds easy right? WRONG! The concept of travel system doesn't really work once your child is no longer in a infant carseat. Most infant carseats dock onto a stroller but not toddler car seats. Luckily, we did think ahead and since we have the Orbit Baby, the car seat docks directly onto the stroller. We have encountered 2 different type of parents on the way. Those that give me the dirty look at what a terrible irresponsible parent I was. I had a parent come up to me and scold me about how unsafe it was to put the car seat on the stroller. She thought I was putting my child in danger and that the car seat could fall off. I looked at her and told her before she scolded me, to go on her cell phone and Google Orbit Baby. And in case she couldn't spell it, it was written on the stroller frame. The other kind of parent were the ones that kept telling me how amazing that was. Most of them were dads because they were the ones stuck carrying around the car seat at the airport.
2. Bring toiletries for your little ones that are all-in-ones. I don't like switching things up on the daughter while on vacation or away from home. So, we normally use Honest products so the Honest body wash and shampoo all in one is great! What is even more helpful, adults can use it too so we really only have 1 travel container for the entire family.
3. Travel size everything. I used to carry the gigantic bottle brushes and accessories. I found that Boon baby actually makes a travel brush and drying rack. I also found Babyganics now makes a travel size bottle dish wash too.
Most but not least, know how your baby sleeps. My daughter cannot sleep without her bumper, so we end up bringing part of her bumper set up everywhere we go but it gets her to sleep her 12 hours through the night. We make sure she has a pack n play where we go and we bring a pack n play mattress that I fold in half and put at the bottom of the suitcase.
For those of you baby wearing moms, do that! It's even easier than carrying a stroller around and checking it at the gate although it is a great purse carrier when your toddler won't stay in the stroller....
Here are some tips:
1. Get a travel system that allows you to use your car seat with your stroller. Sounds easy right? WRONG! The concept of travel system doesn't really work once your child is no longer in a infant carseat. Most infant carseats dock onto a stroller but not toddler car seats. Luckily, we did think ahead and since we have the Orbit Baby, the car seat docks directly onto the stroller. We have encountered 2 different type of parents on the way. Those that give me the dirty look at what a terrible irresponsible parent I was. I had a parent come up to me and scold me about how unsafe it was to put the car seat on the stroller. She thought I was putting my child in danger and that the car seat could fall off. I looked at her and told her before she scolded me, to go on her cell phone and Google Orbit Baby. And in case she couldn't spell it, it was written on the stroller frame. The other kind of parent were the ones that kept telling me how amazing that was. Most of them were dads because they were the ones stuck carrying around the car seat at the airport.
2. Bring toiletries for your little ones that are all-in-ones. I don't like switching things up on the daughter while on vacation or away from home. So, we normally use Honest products so the Honest body wash and shampoo all in one is great! What is even more helpful, adults can use it too so we really only have 1 travel container for the entire family.
3. Travel size everything. I used to carry the gigantic bottle brushes and accessories. I found that Boon baby actually makes a travel brush and drying rack. I also found Babyganics now makes a travel size bottle dish wash too.
Most but not least, know how your baby sleeps. My daughter cannot sleep without her bumper, so we end up bringing part of her bumper set up everywhere we go but it gets her to sleep her 12 hours through the night. We make sure she has a pack n play where we go and we bring a pack n play mattress that I fold in half and put at the bottom of the suitcase.
For those of you baby wearing moms, do that! It's even easier than carrying a stroller around and checking it at the gate although it is a great purse carrier when your toddler won't stay in the stroller....
Friday, May 9, 2014
SmArt - Do you know what that is?
I tested out the local Las Madres working mom's group a while ago. While I was testing out the new group, I came across a monthly event held at the Willow Glen library that integrated science and art for toddlers to explore. What a great learning concept for little ones! While this is currently run by 1 working mother, this program has great potential to grow for the children in our community.
Please help this mom out with her project with this simple and quick survey. The sooner the better!
https://aytm.com/rb476dd
Please help this mom out with her project with this simple and quick survey. The sooner the better!
https://aytm.com/rb476dd
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Preschool decisions
So my daughter graduated from daycare to preschool. I loved her daycare but it was time for her to be a little more challenged and to hang around children her own age instead of babies. We felt that it was better for her development. While researching all the different preschools out there and the fight to get your child in, it was hard to decide which one to fight for.
It was important to us that the school was bilingual, full days, potty trains, playground, set schedule, and relatively not too educational pushy curriculum. At 26 months, we wanted a school that was going to help more with her self development in terms of confidence, character, social, and fine motor skills. I wanted her to be introduced to a school environment so when it was time for the education push, she would be familiar with a class environment.
After touring some schools, my husband and I had to sit down to come to an mutual understanding for what was important to the both of us. It was our child and we needed to both agree and have both of our wants met. We believe that we both have to be on board together so we can support each other in raising our daughter through this transition and period of her life.
So after we did our research online, we toured the final school that we thought was a perfect fit. As soon as we toured the school, we both knew that this was the place and we immediately put in the deposit for the wait list. The director of the school told us, she was busy and if we wanted our daughter in, we would have to hassle her. Well, I did just that and 2 months later, my daughter started preschool. My husband and I had to rearrange our schedule the first week and she had half days there with us so she would get familiar with the environment. This idea actually gave from the director and I'm very thankful for that. When it was time for my daughter to start on her own, it wasn't as painful. My daughter stopped crying by the time I left the parking lot.
What was a plus that I didn't realize was her preschool also has a video camera that the parents can log on at anytime to check on their kids. I liked that idea not that so I can watch it all the time but the fact that they offer it means a lot of honesty to me. And that was comforting.
A lot of people thinks I put my kid in too early but its really a play environment based learning. It was important that since my husband and I both work full time, that my daughter wasn't deprived of thriving just because we weren't home with her. So far, we love the teachers there and my daughter seems happy and has learned so much already.
It was important to us that the school was bilingual, full days, potty trains, playground, set schedule, and relatively not too educational pushy curriculum. At 26 months, we wanted a school that was going to help more with her self development in terms of confidence, character, social, and fine motor skills. I wanted her to be introduced to a school environment so when it was time for the education push, she would be familiar with a class environment.
After touring some schools, my husband and I had to sit down to come to an mutual understanding for what was important to the both of us. It was our child and we needed to both agree and have both of our wants met. We believe that we both have to be on board together so we can support each other in raising our daughter through this transition and period of her life.
So after we did our research online, we toured the final school that we thought was a perfect fit. As soon as we toured the school, we both knew that this was the place and we immediately put in the deposit for the wait list. The director of the school told us, she was busy and if we wanted our daughter in, we would have to hassle her. Well, I did just that and 2 months later, my daughter started preschool. My husband and I had to rearrange our schedule the first week and she had half days there with us so she would get familiar with the environment. This idea actually gave from the director and I'm very thankful for that. When it was time for my daughter to start on her own, it wasn't as painful. My daughter stopped crying by the time I left the parking lot.
What was a plus that I didn't realize was her preschool also has a video camera that the parents can log on at anytime to check on their kids. I liked that idea not that so I can watch it all the time but the fact that they offer it means a lot of honesty to me. And that was comforting.
A lot of people thinks I put my kid in too early but its really a play environment based learning. It was important that since my husband and I both work full time, that my daughter wasn't deprived of thriving just because we weren't home with her. So far, we love the teachers there and my daughter seems happy and has learned so much already.
MommyCon San Francisco
This is a much delayed review on the event. However, it was a great experience and I've learned a lot. It was a mini convention for natural baby raising choices. Lots of information on reusable diapers. In fact, they brought it all out and all the different types of diapers. That was really helpful.
What I took away from this and why you should attend as a new parent:
1. There are MANY products out there that are not in stores like Babies R Us or Buy Buy Baby. I found a much better designed nursing bra that what was in stores that would have saved my back and time. There were also things that helped with cloth diapers like a toilet spray and a shield to help it from splashing everywhere.
2. You see how natural parenting has worked for many children. There were many babies there so you really see how happy, healthy, and easy that life choice is.
3. There were a lot of new products being introduced that weren't out on the market yet. So, you get the opportunity to touch and feel them. I got to try on the new Ergo Baby 360 before it was out. I love it and I plan on getting one when I have the 2nd.
Its nice because I got to speak with a lot of the inventors/owners of small businesses that are just introducing their new products that are currently only available online. Hearing how their product was made and the reason behind the invention.
What I recommend before going:
1. The San Francisco event may not have been as big as the others but spending half the day there was sufficient.
2. The meetings/conferences were extremely packed. I looked at the packed room and got terrified and left. If there is a specific one that you really want to see, get there very early and hold your spot.
3. Don't expect all the mommies there to be too friendly. Some of them are on a mission of some sort and I'm not sure what. I imagine it's because they have to be done with the place before their child's patience runs out which I completely understand. So, if you have a choice of babysitter, leave your children at home so that you can really focus and take your time experiencing all that there is. I left my daughter with my parents so I was able to focus on the new products without chasing my 2 year old.
4. Arrive light because there are tons of business cards, information, etc to hold. It gets heavy. Luckily, MommyCon comes with a great gift bag that you can throw everything in or there was The Bump that was there passing out reusable totes as well. I didn't plan ahead and brought my gigantic purse and it got too heavy. Luckily, I brought my human coat hanger (my hubby) to help me hold all the goodies.
What I took away from this and why you should attend as a new parent:
1. There are MANY products out there that are not in stores like Babies R Us or Buy Buy Baby. I found a much better designed nursing bra that what was in stores that would have saved my back and time. There were also things that helped with cloth diapers like a toilet spray and a shield to help it from splashing everywhere.
2. You see how natural parenting has worked for many children. There were many babies there so you really see how happy, healthy, and easy that life choice is.
3. There were a lot of new products being introduced that weren't out on the market yet. So, you get the opportunity to touch and feel them. I got to try on the new Ergo Baby 360 before it was out. I love it and I plan on getting one when I have the 2nd.
Its nice because I got to speak with a lot of the inventors/owners of small businesses that are just introducing their new products that are currently only available online. Hearing how their product was made and the reason behind the invention.
What I recommend before going:
1. The San Francisco event may not have been as big as the others but spending half the day there was sufficient.
2. The meetings/conferences were extremely packed. I looked at the packed room and got terrified and left. If there is a specific one that you really want to see, get there very early and hold your spot.
3. Don't expect all the mommies there to be too friendly. Some of them are on a mission of some sort and I'm not sure what. I imagine it's because they have to be done with the place before their child's patience runs out which I completely understand. So, if you have a choice of babysitter, leave your children at home so that you can really focus and take your time experiencing all that there is. I left my daughter with my parents so I was able to focus on the new products without chasing my 2 year old.
4. Arrive light because there are tons of business cards, information, etc to hold. It gets heavy. Luckily, MommyCon comes with a great gift bag that you can throw everything in or there was The Bump that was there passing out reusable totes as well. I didn't plan ahead and brought my gigantic purse and it got too heavy. Luckily, I brought my human coat hanger (my hubby) to help me hold all the goodies.
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Baby Bjorn Bib
Who knew finding a good bib would have been so hard? Well, I take partial blame for that. I saw the Baby Bjorn bib forever but I just never could spend that much on a bib. Until I wasted my money buying a bunch of bibs that didn't do its job or molded. Yes, you read right. MOLDED!! Never buy a bib that has the sides stitched in fabric of some sort. Everything else was plastic and was fine but not the edges. Ours started to turn black and I looked carefully and it was mold. I even dried it.
So, after going through about 4 different types and brands of bibs, I finally gave in to the Baby Bjorn bib. Its made of plastic so you can wash every part of it. It has soft rubber so it won't irritate your child around their neck. It has a big pocket to catch all the food and it actually works. And, you'll only need one.
So, after going through about 4 different types and brands of bibs, I finally gave in to the Baby Bjorn bib. Its made of plastic so you can wash every part of it. It has soft rubber so it won't irritate your child around their neck. It has a big pocket to catch all the food and it actually works. And, you'll only need one.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
2014 Clek Foonf review and install advice
There are tons of reviews online about the Foonf already. In short, we wanted to get another car seat for my husband's car and we decided to give this a try. Mainly because its safe. There is a much heated debate regarding car seat safety and many parents believe that the price of the car seat does no equate to the safety of the car seat. In my opinion, I agree to a certain a certain extent. I believe that the price of the car seat does not equate to a an unsafe car seat. All car seats must reach safety regulations. As a parents, I hope we never have to find out the truth. I say this because I don't want any child to be put in a situation where we will settle whether the car seat is safe or not. In the meantime, I don't take chances with my child. She's my life so I will go buy the most expensive seat I can afford and read the reviews to ensure its the safest.
Now on to the Foonf, this thing is HEAVY! I love it! The weight of it gives me the security that its strong and being so heavy means its force will require more to move it. I think that is what I remember from Physics in high school?? But, other car seat professionals have dissected this car seat and its steal bars in the back is not to be messed with. Its smaller than the Orbit Toddler car seat that we have but my daughter actually has more room in the Foonf. She does sit rear facing at 25 months which I'm extremely proud of her for putting up with looking at nothing in the car rides. But with the Foonf and Orbit, I know I can probably keep her in till 3 if she allows it. SAFETY FIRST!!
Installation: The manual is a lot to look at and I just didn't bother. It gave me a headache just thinking I had to read all that. Instead, Clek has made YouTube videos step by step on how to correctly install your car seat. DO THAT! Its so much easier watching a video than looking a drawing and reading. I also felt that by watching the videos, I was more confident that I was installing the seat correctly.
Fit in Car: We put it into my husband's full size sedan and it fit perfectly rear facing. We put the car seat in the middle because I feel that is the safest position as we only have 1 child right now. The downside which isn't limited to the Foonf but all of our car seats is that you loose the other 2 seatbelt buckles on the side. So really, no one else can sit back there. With the way the latch is installed in both my SUV and my husband's sedan, the middle position does not have its own designated Latch therefore causing you to reach over the sides and covering up the buckle. For first time parents, choosing the middle position shouldn't be too much of a problem as you don't have other kids in the back anyways. Or, you can always drive a minivan!
My daughter's reaction to her new seat: She loves it! She seems very comfortable. She wouldn't get out of it when we got to our destination.
Cons: These are what I don't like about the Foonf and mentioned by other reviewers as well. The crotch pad will not stay still. It just keeps falling out so that can be frustrating. The other is that the magnets do not exist for the 2014 models. We have the magnets on our Orbit and LOVE it. Its saves the trouble of pulling it out from under your child. Last but not least, I miss the orbiting base on the Orbit. It does make it so much easier to get your child in and out.
All in all, I'm still satisfied with the Foonf and love it. All the cons that I mentioned can be fixed by Clek easily. And at the end of the day, the most important non negotiable thing about a car seat is its safety. I can deal with the rest. I love the Foonf and the Orbit as they both allow my daughter to seat rear facing longer. She loves them both so I'm a happy parents.
Now on to the Foonf, this thing is HEAVY! I love it! The weight of it gives me the security that its strong and being so heavy means its force will require more to move it. I think that is what I remember from Physics in high school?? But, other car seat professionals have dissected this car seat and its steal bars in the back is not to be messed with. Its smaller than the Orbit Toddler car seat that we have but my daughter actually has more room in the Foonf. She does sit rear facing at 25 months which I'm extremely proud of her for putting up with looking at nothing in the car rides. But with the Foonf and Orbit, I know I can probably keep her in till 3 if she allows it. SAFETY FIRST!!
Installation: The manual is a lot to look at and I just didn't bother. It gave me a headache just thinking I had to read all that. Instead, Clek has made YouTube videos step by step on how to correctly install your car seat. DO THAT! Its so much easier watching a video than looking a drawing and reading. I also felt that by watching the videos, I was more confident that I was installing the seat correctly.
Fit in Car: We put it into my husband's full size sedan and it fit perfectly rear facing. We put the car seat in the middle because I feel that is the safest position as we only have 1 child right now. The downside which isn't limited to the Foonf but all of our car seats is that you loose the other 2 seatbelt buckles on the side. So really, no one else can sit back there. With the way the latch is installed in both my SUV and my husband's sedan, the middle position does not have its own designated Latch therefore causing you to reach over the sides and covering up the buckle. For first time parents, choosing the middle position shouldn't be too much of a problem as you don't have other kids in the back anyways. Or, you can always drive a minivan!
My daughter's reaction to her new seat: She loves it! She seems very comfortable. She wouldn't get out of it when we got to our destination.
Cons: These are what I don't like about the Foonf and mentioned by other reviewers as well. The crotch pad will not stay still. It just keeps falling out so that can be frustrating. The other is that the magnets do not exist for the 2014 models. We have the magnets on our Orbit and LOVE it. Its saves the trouble of pulling it out from under your child. Last but not least, I miss the orbiting base on the Orbit. It does make it so much easier to get your child in and out.
All in all, I'm still satisfied with the Foonf and love it. All the cons that I mentioned can be fixed by Clek easily. And at the end of the day, the most important non negotiable thing about a car seat is its safety. I can deal with the rest. I love the Foonf and the Orbit as they both allow my daughter to seat rear facing longer. She loves them both so I'm a happy parents.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Bloom Fresco review
This is a long awaited review for Alexis' high chair. I had researched high and low and looked everywhere for a high chair that fit into these categories for our family:
1. Easy to clean
2. Can be used at out island and at our dining table. This meant that the chair could be raised high enough for a kitchen counter and low enough for our dining table
3. Easy to move (must have wheels)
4. Longivity. Must last through years of use as Alexis grows
5. Stylish enough for our newly remodeled kitchen.
6. Comfortable and fun for Alexis
7. Rotation (I learned from our Orbit stroller how easy this makes life)
So, I found one high chair out of all the high chairs out there that served actually fulfilled all 7 requirements.
I'll go into detail about each one:
1. The chair is pretty simple and clean in design so there isn't many places for food to fall. It comes in 2 tray sizes so it catches a lot of the food (and liquid). There is a pad that all you have to do is wipe of the mess along with the shoulder pads.
2. The chair is on some sort of hydraulic pump so it is super easy to adjust to any height. There aren't preset heights that the chair can be at so you aren't stuck if you have weird table or counter height.
3. Now, it has 2 very small wheels and it isn't the easiest to move. You've got to tilt it to a specific angle to get it to roll. Not the best in design but I does roll and move.
4. I bought this later on for Alexis once she started eating solids but you can actually tilt the seat so the baby can lay flat. With the harness, it is safe to put a newborn in it to sleep. Amazing!! And, because these is no arm rest attached, your child can probably use it till the age of 4 or 5. You can remove the tray and scoot the chair up to a table or counter.
5. Just look at the picture below. You can customize the padding to your child's favorite color, The base comes in nickel, black chrome, white, and black. You customize it into any combination you want. All of our guests that come into the house thinks its some spaceship. A cool spaceship but its definitely not your ordinary high chair. We got a black chrome with purple padding. Love it!
6. Alexis loves it. She loves having her legs roam free on the bottom so she can conveniently knudge her dad. She uses the large tray to draw on and keeps her crayon in the tray. She eats well with is and makes a huge mess but she eats in it. She's even learned to buckle herself in. Safety first!
7. Who wants to roll out the high chair and twist their back to get the baby out. We turn the chair around, take of the removable tray, and she's out. In fact, sometimes, Alexis spins herself around while waiting for her food. And when she gets upset with us, she turns herself around so we get the look at the back of the eggshell.
After using it for a year and half, it was a hefty investment but we've used every function of it except for the newborn functions. Although its expensive, its an item I plan on selling after we are done with it and I think I can get a decent price for it later. It's help up well and not one bit of wear and tear on it yet. It also doesn't take up very much room so that's been helpful although wasn't originally one of my requirements for a high chair.
1. Easy to clean
2. Can be used at out island and at our dining table. This meant that the chair could be raised high enough for a kitchen counter and low enough for our dining table
3. Easy to move (must have wheels)
4. Longivity. Must last through years of use as Alexis grows
5. Stylish enough for our newly remodeled kitchen.
6. Comfortable and fun for Alexis
7. Rotation (I learned from our Orbit stroller how easy this makes life)
So, I found one high chair out of all the high chairs out there that served actually fulfilled all 7 requirements.
I'll go into detail about each one:
1. The chair is pretty simple and clean in design so there isn't many places for food to fall. It comes in 2 tray sizes so it catches a lot of the food (and liquid). There is a pad that all you have to do is wipe of the mess along with the shoulder pads.
2. The chair is on some sort of hydraulic pump so it is super easy to adjust to any height. There aren't preset heights that the chair can be at so you aren't stuck if you have weird table or counter height.
3. Now, it has 2 very small wheels and it isn't the easiest to move. You've got to tilt it to a specific angle to get it to roll. Not the best in design but I does roll and move.
4. I bought this later on for Alexis once she started eating solids but you can actually tilt the seat so the baby can lay flat. With the harness, it is safe to put a newborn in it to sleep. Amazing!! And, because these is no arm rest attached, your child can probably use it till the age of 4 or 5. You can remove the tray and scoot the chair up to a table or counter.
5. Just look at the picture below. You can customize the padding to your child's favorite color, The base comes in nickel, black chrome, white, and black. You customize it into any combination you want. All of our guests that come into the house thinks its some spaceship. A cool spaceship but its definitely not your ordinary high chair. We got a black chrome with purple padding. Love it!
6. Alexis loves it. She loves having her legs roam free on the bottom so she can conveniently knudge her dad. She uses the large tray to draw on and keeps her crayon in the tray. She eats well with is and makes a huge mess but she eats in it. She's even learned to buckle herself in. Safety first!
7. Who wants to roll out the high chair and twist their back to get the baby out. We turn the chair around, take of the removable tray, and she's out. In fact, sometimes, Alexis spins herself around while waiting for her food. And when she gets upset with us, she turns herself around so we get the look at the back of the eggshell.
After using it for a year and half, it was a hefty investment but we've used every function of it except for the newborn functions. Although its expensive, its an item I plan on selling after we are done with it and I think I can get a decent price for it later. It's help up well and not one bit of wear and tear on it yet. It also doesn't take up very much room so that's been helpful although wasn't originally one of my requirements for a high chair.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Guilty, I splurged!
You know how every once in a while you see something so cute and you imagine your little one with it and you can't resist buying it even though its insanely expensive? Well, I just did that on a bath towel. When I went home to tell my husband about what I just did, he looked at me like he should have cut up my credit card.
This is what I purchased from Restoration Hardware Baby and Child for $44 (for a towel):
Isn't it cute??? I know, cute but crazy.
In my defense, my daughter had been using her newborn towels for 2 years until I finally got her this grey elephant one.
After waiting weeks for it to arrive, I was actually pleasantly surprised with the quality. It is HUGE in size and extremely soft. My daughter is ridiculously cute in it and she loves it. She yells for her elephant and plays with the trunk while wrapped in it completely. And here is the best part: My husband actually said she was the cutest thing in it and he loves it too!
I've washed it twice in the washing machine and dried in the dryer and it just keeps getting softer. It didn't start falling apart like some of her newborn bath towels I bought at BuyBuyBaby and Babies R Us.
Besides the ridiculous price, it is great in size and extremely soft. Its fun for bath time. So, when you are in the splurge mode, I highly recommend this towel! Couldn't find anything like it in the other baby stores.
This is what I purchased from Restoration Hardware Baby and Child for $44 (for a towel):
In my defense, my daughter had been using her newborn towels for 2 years until I finally got her this grey elephant one.
After waiting weeks for it to arrive, I was actually pleasantly surprised with the quality. It is HUGE in size and extremely soft. My daughter is ridiculously cute in it and she loves it. She yells for her elephant and plays with the trunk while wrapped in it completely. And here is the best part: My husband actually said she was the cutest thing in it and he loves it too!
I've washed it twice in the washing machine and dried in the dryer and it just keeps getting softer. It didn't start falling apart like some of her newborn bath towels I bought at BuyBuyBaby and Babies R Us.
Besides the ridiculous price, it is great in size and extremely soft. Its fun for bath time. So, when you are in the splurge mode, I highly recommend this towel! Couldn't find anything like it in the other baby stores.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Compassion for ALL mothers/parents
I never really knew this existed until I became a mother. But, we are not very nice to each other as mothers. We tend to act like high schoolers and band together into cliques. Breast feeding moms vs formula moms. Stay at home moms vs working moms. Single moms vs Moms in relationships.
Why? Why must we be #TeamBreastfeedingmom vs #TeamFormula or #TeamNoVaccines?
Is there only 1 or 2 ways to raise a child?
I've concluded that when our children were born, we gave our of our compassion to our children and family that we forgot about others. All moms need compassion and understanding. Has a breastfeeding mom ever wonder about the struggles that the formula mom is going through? How bad that formula mom must feel that she can't do what her body is suppose to do, feed her child? Or, has the formula mom ever felt bad about the breastfeeding mom having no where to feed her child? Or the struggles and pain that the breastfeeding mom goes through with her body?
What about the stay at home mom having compassion for the working mom that has to hand her child every morning to someone else to raise her child? The hours and events that the working mom misses out on her growing child. What about the stay at home mom that has no one to talk to all day but a toddler? Catering to everyone else and missing social interaction? The stay at home mom that had to give up her career, something that she has worked all her life for?
I can go on and on about all the pros and cons of every side but I think we really need to stop judging people and making rude comments. I write this blog today because of an article that I read on Yahoo news called "Wait, Breast isn't Best?" and it reminded me of all the rude and mean degrading comments I got from other moms out there about why my child wasn't exclusively breast fed or why do I want someone else raising my child? Yes, those were the exact words moms have said to me. More than once. One mom said to me "Maybe no one told you but breast feeding is best. You're just poisoning your child with chemicals". I had to use ALL of my self control to refrain myself from cussing her ignorant self out.
So, lets just be nice to one another. Lets stop creating all these #TeamBlahBlahBlah and just use one hashtag #TeamMom. Lets be nice to one another and offer help. Offer someone to talk to, offer your heart. We are moms, we are dads, we are parents, we know how to have compassion.
This is a quote from today's article on Yahoo:
Jessica Shortall writes over on The Shriver Report:
"This 'breast is best' thing has taken on a tinge of accusation and a tone of judgment. 'Breast is best' no longer comes across only as: "…so leave the poor woman alone who is trying to nurse her hungry baby on a park bench." It no longer comes across as: "provide a lactation room for new mothers at your workplace -- one that does not require her to sit on a germy toilet while she produces food for a baby." Lately, it's starting to sound a bit like: "…so if you don't do it, you obviously don't love your baby or want what's best for he/she."
Why? Why must we be #TeamBreastfeedingmom vs #TeamFormula or #TeamNoVaccines?
Is there only 1 or 2 ways to raise a child?
I've concluded that when our children were born, we gave our of our compassion to our children and family that we forgot about others. All moms need compassion and understanding. Has a breastfeeding mom ever wonder about the struggles that the formula mom is going through? How bad that formula mom must feel that she can't do what her body is suppose to do, feed her child? Or, has the formula mom ever felt bad about the breastfeeding mom having no where to feed her child? Or the struggles and pain that the breastfeeding mom goes through with her body?
What about the stay at home mom having compassion for the working mom that has to hand her child every morning to someone else to raise her child? The hours and events that the working mom misses out on her growing child. What about the stay at home mom that has no one to talk to all day but a toddler? Catering to everyone else and missing social interaction? The stay at home mom that had to give up her career, something that she has worked all her life for?
I can go on and on about all the pros and cons of every side but I think we really need to stop judging people and making rude comments. I write this blog today because of an article that I read on Yahoo news called "Wait, Breast isn't Best?" and it reminded me of all the rude and mean degrading comments I got from other moms out there about why my child wasn't exclusively breast fed or why do I want someone else raising my child? Yes, those were the exact words moms have said to me. More than once. One mom said to me "Maybe no one told you but breast feeding is best. You're just poisoning your child with chemicals". I had to use ALL of my self control to refrain myself from cussing her ignorant self out.
So, lets just be nice to one another. Lets stop creating all these #TeamBlahBlahBlah and just use one hashtag #TeamMom. Lets be nice to one another and offer help. Offer someone to talk to, offer your heart. We are moms, we are dads, we are parents, we know how to have compassion.
This is a quote from today's article on Yahoo:
Jessica Shortall writes over on The Shriver Report:
"This 'breast is best' thing has taken on a tinge of accusation and a tone of judgment. 'Breast is best' no longer comes across only as: "…so leave the poor woman alone who is trying to nurse her hungry baby on a park bench." It no longer comes across as: "provide a lactation room for new mothers at your workplace -- one that does not require her to sit on a germy toilet while she produces food for a baby." Lately, it's starting to sound a bit like: "…so if you don't do it, you obviously don't love your baby or want what's best for he/she."
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Whole Foods Groupon Deal
So we juice everyday and lately, I've been committing to only juicing organic produce. Groupon has a deal for $5 and you get $10 at Whole Foods! You're only allowed to buy one but not bad, its like getting 1 free apple, haha.
I know Whole Foods is expensive, but they do have great produce!
I know Whole Foods is expensive, but they do have great produce!
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Babysitters and Las Madres
This may be more of me complaining than a review. My husband and I don't have a babysitter, period. I've tried Care.com and it was TERRIBLE. The credentials of the people on there are completely bogus. I was desperate to find an at home nanny when my daughter was born and tried Care.com. People with 15+ years showed up at the interview and didn't even know how to hold a baby. I had one lady bring her other 2 kids with her to the interview. I asked her who was going to take her of her own children when she was at my house with my daughter and she replied "I will most likely bring them with me. They are great with children and very caring". That is great your children are well behaved as they are screaming and running around my office during this interview, I'm not sure I want you to turn my house into a child care center when I'm paying a premium to have you come to my house to watch my newborn.
Fast forward 2 years later, we still can't leave Alexis with anyone but her daycare and my parents. I just can't imagine trusting someone of the internet to come over to my house that I don't know to watch my daughter for a couple of hours. My biggest fear is that I'm going to return home and my baby isn't there. Maybe I have trust issues but our daughter is my husband and I's world.
Recently, I joined Las Madres for Working Moms and I love the events they have. It sounds like we're currently working on a babysitting co-op. I can't wait! People I know, people with kids around the same age, and parents that are just as focused on their children's world as we are. I'm really excited for this to get going. I always thought it would be a great idea to have one night off a night and a group of parents rotate. We all drop off the kids at one house while to parents go on date night. I'll probably suggest it to my Las Madres parents and hear their feedback. I highly suggest joining your local Las Madres group for activities and support. There aren't many activities for working parent's schedule. This group has helped me a lot and its only been a month.
Fast forward 2 years later, we still can't leave Alexis with anyone but her daycare and my parents. I just can't imagine trusting someone of the internet to come over to my house that I don't know to watch my daughter for a couple of hours. My biggest fear is that I'm going to return home and my baby isn't there. Maybe I have trust issues but our daughter is my husband and I's world.
Recently, I joined Las Madres for Working Moms and I love the events they have. It sounds like we're currently working on a babysitting co-op. I can't wait! People I know, people with kids around the same age, and parents that are just as focused on their children's world as we are. I'm really excited for this to get going. I always thought it would be a great idea to have one night off a night and a group of parents rotate. We all drop off the kids at one house while to parents go on date night. I'll probably suggest it to my Las Madres parents and hear their feedback. I highly suggest joining your local Las Madres group for activities and support. There aren't many activities for working parent's schedule. This group has helped me a lot and its only been a month.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Our First Giveaway!!!!
This year I will be attending and blogging about this year's MommyCon in San Francisco! I'm super excited as it will also be my birthday so it'll be a nice day to spend in the city with my family.
So, for all parents and expectant parents, please come join me at MommyCon San Francisco on April 12th from 10am to 5pm at the Wyndham Parc 55. You can also get more information at http://mommy-con.com
I wish I had known about this when I was expecting but its like a bridal faire for parents on natural choices for their babies. There is a wealth amount of information on car seats, diapering, BABY WEARING, etc.
It'll be my first time so I'm super excited to bring Alexis even though she's 2 to learn more and have her roam around in a child friendly environment!
So for the giveaway, I'll be giving away a pair of tickets! To enter for the drawing, all you have to do is this:
1. Follow me on twitter @productmomblog and @mommyconusa
2. Like our Facebook page Product Mom Blog and MommyConUSA
3. Follow us on Instagram @productmom and @mommycon
Leave a comment on this post that you have entered. Drawing will be done March 15th and announced March 17th!!
For those that don't win or want to buy more tickets, you can get 10% off with this code: PRODUCTMOM14
So, for all parents and expectant parents, please come join me at MommyCon San Francisco on April 12th from 10am to 5pm at the Wyndham Parc 55. You can also get more information at http://mommy-con.com
I wish I had known about this when I was expecting but its like a bridal faire for parents on natural choices for their babies. There is a wealth amount of information on car seats, diapering, BABY WEARING, etc.
It'll be my first time so I'm super excited to bring Alexis even though she's 2 to learn more and have her roam around in a child friendly environment!
So for the giveaway, I'll be giving away a pair of tickets! To enter for the drawing, all you have to do is this:
1. Follow me on twitter @productmomblog and @mommyconusa
2. Like our Facebook page Product Mom Blog and MommyConUSA
3. Follow us on Instagram @productmom and @mommycon
Leave a comment on this post that you have entered. Drawing will be done March 15th and announced March 17th!!
For those that don't win or want to buy more tickets, you can get 10% off with this code: PRODUCTMOM14
Monday, February 10, 2014
Baby Loves Disco!!
Yesterday, I took Alexis to a Baby Loves Disco event in San Francisco. It was kind of a last minute thing with the weather and I wasn't sure I wanted to do the hour drive in a storm. Luckily, when Sunday morning rolled around, it wasn't too bad.
A fellow mommy friend of mine (which happens to be a great dancer) introduced this event to me. I am so thankful that she did because it is probably to date, the BEST experience I've had with my daughter. So much so that my husband is currently upset with me because I gave him the wrong date to take off of work and he missed it. If you have a shy child, don't worry. My little one went to town dancing for 2 hours that I was shocked that she lasted through the whole thing. They have great music, fun games, healthy snacks, face painting, balloon making, toys, diaper changing station, and more for kids to enjoy. All this is included in the ticket price ($15/walking person). It was at a club that I used to go to before I was a mom. The place sure looks different sober. Back to the kids, it really got my kid moving and it was safe and clean for her to roam around. She was free to express herself and had a blast. She was singing all night and this morning, I couldn't get her up to go to daycare.
I'm hoping my dancing mommy friend can start one in San Jose where we are located. I wish this could be a weekly thing for the Bay Area but in the meantime, they are doing it monthly. Check your area to see if they come to your area. My friend and I carpooled to the city so it wasn't so bad. Please let me know if anyone of you would like to join us for the next Baby Loves Disco in San Francisco on March 9th!
www.babylovesdisco.com
A fellow mommy friend of mine (which happens to be a great dancer) introduced this event to me. I am so thankful that she did because it is probably to date, the BEST experience I've had with my daughter. So much so that my husband is currently upset with me because I gave him the wrong date to take off of work and he missed it. If you have a shy child, don't worry. My little one went to town dancing for 2 hours that I was shocked that she lasted through the whole thing. They have great music, fun games, healthy snacks, face painting, balloon making, toys, diaper changing station, and more for kids to enjoy. All this is included in the ticket price ($15/walking person). It was at a club that I used to go to before I was a mom. The place sure looks different sober. Back to the kids, it really got my kid moving and it was safe and clean for her to roam around. She was free to express herself and had a blast. She was singing all night and this morning, I couldn't get her up to go to daycare.
I'm hoping my dancing mommy friend can start one in San Jose where we are located. I wish this could be a weekly thing for the Bay Area but in the meantime, they are doing it monthly. Check your area to see if they come to your area. My friend and I carpooled to the city so it wasn't so bad. Please let me know if anyone of you would like to join us for the next Baby Loves Disco in San Francisco on March 9th!
www.babylovesdisco.com
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Dr Brown bottles
When I was pregnant with my daughter, I didn't know and do much research on bottles. I knew of Avent, Dr. Brown, and Platex. Well, at least those were the ones that stuck in my head. I went on to register for Dr. Brown because I liked the idea of the air venting to prevent throw ups or the baby ingesting air with her milk. I didn't think too much about all the parts that went into this bottle or cleaning it. My only requirement was that it came in the glass option and if plastic, it was BPA free.
Throughout the year, I've heard nothing but bad things about Dr. Brown. I should correct myself, I hear 1 repeated bad comment about Dr. Brown and it was that there were too many parts and too much work to clean. I heard store employees over and over again deter new moms and scare them. Seemed like all the bad opinions were never about how well the bottle actually worked for the baby. So, I figure I write my experience even though my daughter has long stopped using the bottle.
I wasn't able to breastfeed Alexis. So, she was always on the bottle from day one. I did pump for 1 year and fed her breast milk as much as my body could produce. We used Medela bottles and Dr. Brown at the beginning. With the Medela bottles, Alexis throw up twice. With the Dr. Brown bottles, she's never thrown up. You often hear about burping and burp clothes. We had none of that. She didn't burp and she didn't throw up. (of course, my daughter is a farter. She'll hate me for writing this when she gets older). I honestly don't believe my daughter is extra special and didn't need to burp because she burps like crazy now on her own (and then giggles at herself). I think it was the Dr. Brown bottles that prevented her from ingesting air therefore reducing the need for her to burp. Here are my advice/suggestions that may help with feeding newborns to babies:
1. Feed your child at a 45 degree angle
2. Instead of using the fast flow nipples, use the slower ones. Be patient, let your baby take her time to drink. Take the feeding times and a close bonding time with your child.
3. Warm the milk/breast milk always
4. When feeding your child, always make sure that the nipple is filled with milk. I would tip the bottle over first to fill the nipple up before putting it in her mouth.
And of course, BREAST IS BEST. I don't need to go into this, we all know this. But for those moms that are struggling, here is my advice from my traumatizing experience - do your best and don't stress yourself out. Stressing will lower your production. Everyone's body is different, your best is the best for your baby.
So, I like Dr. Brown bottles. There is a lot of parts to clean but the parts are also replaceable so you don't have to buy new bottles. Just new parts.
Throughout the year, I've heard nothing but bad things about Dr. Brown. I should correct myself, I hear 1 repeated bad comment about Dr. Brown and it was that there were too many parts and too much work to clean. I heard store employees over and over again deter new moms and scare them. Seemed like all the bad opinions were never about how well the bottle actually worked for the baby. So, I figure I write my experience even though my daughter has long stopped using the bottle.
I wasn't able to breastfeed Alexis. So, she was always on the bottle from day one. I did pump for 1 year and fed her breast milk as much as my body could produce. We used Medela bottles and Dr. Brown at the beginning. With the Medela bottles, Alexis throw up twice. With the Dr. Brown bottles, she's never thrown up. You often hear about burping and burp clothes. We had none of that. She didn't burp and she didn't throw up. (of course, my daughter is a farter. She'll hate me for writing this when she gets older). I honestly don't believe my daughter is extra special and didn't need to burp because she burps like crazy now on her own (and then giggles at herself). I think it was the Dr. Brown bottles that prevented her from ingesting air therefore reducing the need for her to burp. Here are my advice/suggestions that may help with feeding newborns to babies:
1. Feed your child at a 45 degree angle
2. Instead of using the fast flow nipples, use the slower ones. Be patient, let your baby take her time to drink. Take the feeding times and a close bonding time with your child.
3. Warm the milk/breast milk always
4. When feeding your child, always make sure that the nipple is filled with milk. I would tip the bottle over first to fill the nipple up before putting it in her mouth.
And of course, BREAST IS BEST. I don't need to go into this, we all know this. But for those moms that are struggling, here is my advice from my traumatizing experience - do your best and don't stress yourself out. Stressing will lower your production. Everyone's body is different, your best is the best for your baby.
So, I like Dr. Brown bottles. There is a lot of parts to clean but the parts are also replaceable so you don't have to buy new bottles. Just new parts.
Monday, February 3, 2014
Orbit Baby
This post is for those new mommies or soon to be mommies out there. If you are expecting, you probably are now shopping and doing your research on the best stroller out there. There are MANY MANY strollers and MANY high end strollers. So, I guess the question is, are they worth it? Or is it a status thing. Well, I did my research and some are status strollers but one stroller stood out among the others to me that's at no compare. So, I didn't even have something comparable to price it at. That is the Orbit Stroller. I have the G2, I should rephrase, I have the ENTIRE line of Orbit Baby products. They now have a G3 stroller out which seems even better. When the new frame came out, I was devasted because I really wanted the new brake system (mine did break once and Orbit sent me a new one. That is not a typo, they sent me a Brand New one), and the double cup holder. But, I found out that all my G2 products are compatible with the new G3 frame so maybe I'll get a new one later?
My review will be about the G2 but the concept of this stroller is simple and the same. Here is why I love this brand:
1. The main thing that sets this brand apart, the ROTATING BASE! It makes it easy to switch car seats among 2 cars with out installing each time (life saver!). It saved my back from a lot of pain (I have a bad back from getting hit by a drunk driver). It makes the daily use of the stroller available in every situation so far. Airport, restaurant, travel, city life, parks, shopping, EVERYTHING!
2. The customer service/warranty on this is not a joke. They have live people that help you! If you are lucky enough to be in the Bay Area, you can actually go to their actual office. They will fix your stroller or replace if necessary.
3. Its light weight and easy to fold (one hand). You know when people are waiting for your parking spot thinking "This family is going to take forever to load their baby and stroller", they are often surprised how fast we are. In fact, I've had people thank me for being so fast but it was because of the stroller.
4. Grows with your child and family. We got the bassinet and it was a life saver. I took Alexis to work with me for 5 weeks and she slept in the bassinet at work. Then, you can switch to the toddler seat and you can use it for another 3 to 4 years. If your family grows in the meantime, you can get the attachment to use as a double stroller and the kickboard for older kids.
5. The biggest one - The toddler car seat goes on the stroller base. Yes, its heavy. But think about when you have to travel. Why bring 2? Now, you only have to bring 1 seat to use as your car seat and your stroller seat.
The cons which have all been fixed with the G3:
1. The brake system. Not flip flop friendly and wasn't very durable. But, looks like they have fixed it and its much more durable by looks. I don't know about actual use.
2. 1 cup holder on the G2 with no option for add on. The G3 has 2 cup holders
3. Storage on the G2 is not practical. Its extremely small especially for the areas that no longer provide shopping bags. Before the change, I used to use it as a diaper bag. The good thing was that the pod completely comes out so you don't have the empty out your stroller before folding it. Just take out the pod and empty it later. The new G3 has a huge cargo area but I think you have to empty it before folding.
The price on this stroller is really comparable if not less than the Bugaboo and Stokke. We are a family that have bought 2 more strollers for multiple uses. We have a Bob for running and sporting event and we have an umbrella stroller for those places that we don't want to take our nice stroller like the beach and amusement parks. I was not going to park my Orbit stroller at Disneyland for others to take. Take my MacClaren and I'll be mad but take my Orbit, I'll have a breakdown.
www.orbitbaby.com
We've been stopped so many times with people asking us about our stroller. When people see it in action, they freak out. I've had so many parents with Bugaboos regret getting it because they lost the versatility and ease of the Orbit because they went for the look and status. One dad asked me "Why didn't you get the Bugaboo?" and I said "I buy things for the use and what it does. Not because of what other people will think about my stroller, even if it was the ugliest stroller in the world. It fits my families need and makes my life easy. I have enough work with a baby, if I was going to pay for something, it better make my life easier." He replied "Yea, we wish we got the Orbit".
My review will be about the G2 but the concept of this stroller is simple and the same. Here is why I love this brand:
1. The main thing that sets this brand apart, the ROTATING BASE! It makes it easy to switch car seats among 2 cars with out installing each time (life saver!). It saved my back from a lot of pain (I have a bad back from getting hit by a drunk driver). It makes the daily use of the stroller available in every situation so far. Airport, restaurant, travel, city life, parks, shopping, EVERYTHING!
2. The customer service/warranty on this is not a joke. They have live people that help you! If you are lucky enough to be in the Bay Area, you can actually go to their actual office. They will fix your stroller or replace if necessary.
3. Its light weight and easy to fold (one hand). You know when people are waiting for your parking spot thinking "This family is going to take forever to load their baby and stroller", they are often surprised how fast we are. In fact, I've had people thank me for being so fast but it was because of the stroller.
4. Grows with your child and family. We got the bassinet and it was a life saver. I took Alexis to work with me for 5 weeks and she slept in the bassinet at work. Then, you can switch to the toddler seat and you can use it for another 3 to 4 years. If your family grows in the meantime, you can get the attachment to use as a double stroller and the kickboard for older kids.
5. The biggest one - The toddler car seat goes on the stroller base. Yes, its heavy. But think about when you have to travel. Why bring 2? Now, you only have to bring 1 seat to use as your car seat and your stroller seat.
The cons which have all been fixed with the G3:
1. The brake system. Not flip flop friendly and wasn't very durable. But, looks like they have fixed it and its much more durable by looks. I don't know about actual use.
2. 1 cup holder on the G2 with no option for add on. The G3 has 2 cup holders
3. Storage on the G2 is not practical. Its extremely small especially for the areas that no longer provide shopping bags. Before the change, I used to use it as a diaper bag. The good thing was that the pod completely comes out so you don't have the empty out your stroller before folding it. Just take out the pod and empty it later. The new G3 has a huge cargo area but I think you have to empty it before folding.
The price on this stroller is really comparable if not less than the Bugaboo and Stokke. We are a family that have bought 2 more strollers for multiple uses. We have a Bob for running and sporting event and we have an umbrella stroller for those places that we don't want to take our nice stroller like the beach and amusement parks. I was not going to park my Orbit stroller at Disneyland for others to take. Take my MacClaren and I'll be mad but take my Orbit, I'll have a breakdown.
www.orbitbaby.com
We've been stopped so many times with people asking us about our stroller. When people see it in action, they freak out. I've had so many parents with Bugaboos regret getting it because they lost the versatility and ease of the Orbit because they went for the look and status. One dad asked me "Why didn't you get the Bugaboo?" and I said "I buy things for the use and what it does. Not because of what other people will think about my stroller, even if it was the ugliest stroller in the world. It fits my families need and makes my life easy. I have enough work with a baby, if I was going to pay for something, it better make my life easier." He replied "Yea, we wish we got the Orbit".
Monday, January 27, 2014
Honest Company products and our family Organic rule - great for WORKING MOMS!
Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. I thought I do this review from the point of view of a busy working mom.
There is a LOT of information out there about The Honest Company's products (www.honest.com) out there. Here is the bottom line to save you some time on reading about all the stuff on the internet: their products are life savers for busy moms.
I've been carefully researching this whole organic products thing for my family. I've been trying to find a happy and easy definition of how far we go into this whole green thing. As everyone already knows, green = money. Yes, I said it, it's expensive and doesn't always work as efficient. This is not the case with most of Honest's products ( I haven't tried everything and I will explain why later). At the same time, I want my daughter to be well rounded and well adjusted. I don't want to protect her from every bad thing and keep her in the bubble that really doesn't exist if she walks out the front door. However, I do care about her health and well being so here are my rules for determining when our family uses organic, biodegradable, and green products:
1. anything that touches her skin on a daily basis
2. anything that she touches that can be ingested
3. fumes that could be emitted and breathed in
4. available organic food (will go into detail about this)
About #1 - Clothes that she wears everyday and towels are washed with Honest Laundry Detergent. Honest pods are wonderful as well. And yes, it works very well. We use these products and love:
Body wash + Shampoo
Conditioner
Leave in conditioner
Lip Balm
Bubble Bath (LOVE LOVE LOVE this, lots and lots of bubbles)
Foaming Hand Soap
About #2 - Wanted to clarify. I used to love 409 but realized that my kid will pick up food from any counter/table and eat it. I don't want her eating 409 or Windex residue. So, we use this from Honest now instead:
Multi-Surface Cleaner (I use this on everything. And surprisingly works really well on stainless steel appliances. Better than my stainless steel cleaner)
Floor Cleaner
Window/Mirror Cleaner (smells like vinegar but vinegar is an edible food)
Bathroom Cleaner
About #3 - This is similar to #2. Specifically, I only use non-toxic cleaning products in her room and playroom
About #4 - I buy organic when available and foods with what I describe as absorbable surfaces. I mix because my daughter needs to have tolerance when there is not organic food available like at restaurants, travelling, and life. But I would like her to have minimal exposure to waxes and all the other nasty stuff that they put in the soil and animals to make them grow fast and big. So, here is what are must organic products for us:
Honest Toddler powder vitamins
Apples
Eggs (egg shells are extremely permeable and absorb all the stuff they ingest into the chickens)
Milk
Zucchini
Carrots
Raspberries
Strawberries
Banana
Chicken
Beef
and we're limiting fish with all the toxins and radiation
What I don't use organic - stuff like toilet bowl cleaner. My kid stays out of the toilet whether there are toxins in there or not. Toilets need to be cleaned in my house hold with the strongest stuff. I vent out the bathroom and close the door to keep everyone out when using it. So, I've never used Honest's toilet bowl cleaner, sponge, and candle (I don't burn candles with a toddler around).
So, back to Honest Company. Through my year of using Honest stuff, not one product has failed me. The general company policy pretty much does all the research for you. So, you can safely use their products knowing its as natural and non toxic as it can be and for it to work well at the same time. I've converted all my co-workers with and without kids to use their products at home because really, toxins shouldn't be allowed in anyone's body.
And here is why I highly recommend this brand over others - they delivery for FREE right to you. I have not gone to the store in 1.5 years to buy diapers, wipes, cleaning products, body wash, etc. My time with my family is limited as it is and as much as I love Target, I don't need to be going there as much as other parents do. They send it to you on your schedule and completely controllable by you. Their customer service line is a short wait and they are extremely friendly. Join their bundle program, shipping is free. Control when you need you items, no cancellation, no hassle, time saving, good for my family. And yes, their diapers works (it holds stuff in well).
So, there you have it. Honest Company products are reliable and safe for your family. You can't put a price on time! (Price is reasonable for me too, but that is for you to judge what you would like to spend)
When I have time, I would like to read Jessica Alba's book. I'll get there one day.
There is a LOT of information out there about The Honest Company's products (www.honest.com) out there. Here is the bottom line to save you some time on reading about all the stuff on the internet: their products are life savers for busy moms.
I've been carefully researching this whole organic products thing for my family. I've been trying to find a happy and easy definition of how far we go into this whole green thing. As everyone already knows, green = money. Yes, I said it, it's expensive and doesn't always work as efficient. This is not the case with most of Honest's products ( I haven't tried everything and I will explain why later). At the same time, I want my daughter to be well rounded and well adjusted. I don't want to protect her from every bad thing and keep her in the bubble that really doesn't exist if she walks out the front door. However, I do care about her health and well being so here are my rules for determining when our family uses organic, biodegradable, and green products:
1. anything that touches her skin on a daily basis
2. anything that she touches that can be ingested
3. fumes that could be emitted and breathed in
4. available organic food (will go into detail about this)
About #1 - Clothes that she wears everyday and towels are washed with Honest Laundry Detergent. Honest pods are wonderful as well. And yes, it works very well. We use these products and love:
Body wash + Shampoo
Conditioner
Leave in conditioner
Lip Balm
Bubble Bath (LOVE LOVE LOVE this, lots and lots of bubbles)
Foaming Hand Soap
About #2 - Wanted to clarify. I used to love 409 but realized that my kid will pick up food from any counter/table and eat it. I don't want her eating 409 or Windex residue. So, we use this from Honest now instead:
Multi-Surface Cleaner (I use this on everything. And surprisingly works really well on stainless steel appliances. Better than my stainless steel cleaner)
Floor Cleaner
Window/Mirror Cleaner (smells like vinegar but vinegar is an edible food)
Bathroom Cleaner
About #3 - This is similar to #2. Specifically, I only use non-toxic cleaning products in her room and playroom
About #4 - I buy organic when available and foods with what I describe as absorbable surfaces. I mix because my daughter needs to have tolerance when there is not organic food available like at restaurants, travelling, and life. But I would like her to have minimal exposure to waxes and all the other nasty stuff that they put in the soil and animals to make them grow fast and big. So, here is what are must organic products for us:
Honest Toddler powder vitamins
Apples
Eggs (egg shells are extremely permeable and absorb all the stuff they ingest into the chickens)
Milk
Zucchini
Carrots
Raspberries
Strawberries
Banana
Chicken
Beef
and we're limiting fish with all the toxins and radiation
What I don't use organic - stuff like toilet bowl cleaner. My kid stays out of the toilet whether there are toxins in there or not. Toilets need to be cleaned in my house hold with the strongest stuff. I vent out the bathroom and close the door to keep everyone out when using it. So, I've never used Honest's toilet bowl cleaner, sponge, and candle (I don't burn candles with a toddler around).
So, back to Honest Company. Through my year of using Honest stuff, not one product has failed me. The general company policy pretty much does all the research for you. So, you can safely use their products knowing its as natural and non toxic as it can be and for it to work well at the same time. I've converted all my co-workers with and without kids to use their products at home because really, toxins shouldn't be allowed in anyone's body.
And here is why I highly recommend this brand over others - they delivery for FREE right to you. I have not gone to the store in 1.5 years to buy diapers, wipes, cleaning products, body wash, etc. My time with my family is limited as it is and as much as I love Target, I don't need to be going there as much as other parents do. They send it to you on your schedule and completely controllable by you. Their customer service line is a short wait and they are extremely friendly. Join their bundle program, shipping is free. Control when you need you items, no cancellation, no hassle, time saving, good for my family. And yes, their diapers works (it holds stuff in well).
So, there you have it. Honest Company products are reliable and safe for your family. You can't put a price on time! (Price is reasonable for me too, but that is for you to judge what you would like to spend)
When I have time, I would like to read Jessica Alba's book. I'll get there one day.
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Lollacup Review
I've searched high and low for the perfect straw cup. Although I haven't found the exact perfect one, I found one pretty close. I've bought every brand possible of straw cups and Lollacup is my favorite. Here are my initial expectations:
1. Must be able to drink at all angles
2. Does not leak due to pressure (you know when milk start coming out of the straw like a fountain?)
3. BPA free
4. Non toxic and free of coloring (the main cup that is actually holding the liquid)
5. Soft straw (the prevent from accident)
6. Can fit in the cup holder in the car
7. Easy to clean
8. Does not leak when tipped over
Lollacup does all but the last one. Now that my daughter is almost 2, she's pretty good about not throwing her cup everywhere so that is why #8 has been placed at the bottom of the list. Many of you probably love the Zoli but the Zoli did not satisfy #6 and #7. It did however satisfy #8.
The Lollacup and the Zoli are my favorite hands down but Lollacup is at the top of my list for these reasons of comparison:
1. Lollacup has a removable handle so it can fit in cup holders.
2. Zoli has a split tip on the top of the straw. I think this is how it prevents leaks when tipped over. However, it makes it very difficult to clean.
3. The straw is a lot narrower in the Zoli than the Lollacup. My daughter can use less effort to get more milk out. I didn't think too much into this at first but as we used the 2 cups, the issues came up. I mix in Honest Toddler Multi Vitamins and the split top at the top of the straw prevents her from getting the powdered vitamins (it doesn't all completely dissolve). When I use the vitamins, I really have to be able to get in the straw to clean it out well. The Zoli's straw is so thin, the it gets hard to clean out completely.
And that is why I have every color of the Lollacup. You can check out all the colors at their website www.lollaland.com
I got mine at Amazon as there isn't any local retailers that carry it.
1. Must be able to drink at all angles
2. Does not leak due to pressure (you know when milk start coming out of the straw like a fountain?)
3. BPA free
4. Non toxic and free of coloring (the main cup that is actually holding the liquid)
5. Soft straw (the prevent from accident)
6. Can fit in the cup holder in the car
7. Easy to clean
8. Does not leak when tipped over
Lollacup does all but the last one. Now that my daughter is almost 2, she's pretty good about not throwing her cup everywhere so that is why #8 has been placed at the bottom of the list. Many of you probably love the Zoli but the Zoli did not satisfy #6 and #7. It did however satisfy #8.
The Lollacup and the Zoli are my favorite hands down but Lollacup is at the top of my list for these reasons of comparison:
1. Lollacup has a removable handle so it can fit in cup holders.
2. Zoli has a split tip on the top of the straw. I think this is how it prevents leaks when tipped over. However, it makes it very difficult to clean.
3. The straw is a lot narrower in the Zoli than the Lollacup. My daughter can use less effort to get more milk out. I didn't think too much into this at first but as we used the 2 cups, the issues came up. I mix in Honest Toddler Multi Vitamins and the split top at the top of the straw prevents her from getting the powdered vitamins (it doesn't all completely dissolve). When I use the vitamins, I really have to be able to get in the straw to clean it out well. The Zoli's straw is so thin, the it gets hard to clean out completely.
And that is why I have every color of the Lollacup. You can check out all the colors at their website www.lollaland.com
I got mine at Amazon as there isn't any local retailers that carry it.
Monday, January 20, 2014
Car Seats
Like most families, we have 2 cars in the family. My daughter is 23 lbs and 23 months. She's still rear-facing which is a whole other topic on its own. But in short, my view is safety first and so far my daughter hasn't protested to face nothing. Before she was born, I researched ALL the available strollers our there and the one that worked best for us is the ORBIT baby!!! WE LOVE IT! Not only are they local for us, they have great customer service. I have a terrible back so the whole orbiting base is a life saver, I mean back saver. She's been in Orbit products since day one, but as she's getting older, I'm re-researching this whole car seat thing. The reason is, my husband and I are TIRED of switching out the toddler car seat between our cars. I mean, the Orbit car seat is the easiest to remove but it is a drag with daycare pickups. And the worse is when your significant other forgets to take out the carseat from his car until he gets to work, and you've got to get him to drive all the way back home to bring the carseat back. So, those days has happened 1 too many and we are going to splurge because we are lazy and forgetful (maybe that came with age??).
That leads to a new discovery, Clek Foonf!! It wasn't available till after my daughter was born so I never looked into this Canadian brand. www.clekinc.com That cute little girl just gets me imagining my own daughter sitting there making faces at me, so CUTE! But back to what I said at the beginning of this post, my daughter's safety is #1! Not only can I get her to stay rear facing longer, it reclines! No more bopping head while sleeping through car rides. The cute colors are a plus but the safety that this car seat provides is amazing. I'm going to order it soon for my daughter so I'll do a review after. I can't wait! We're going to get the Blue Moon one for her.
That leads to a new discovery, Clek Foonf!! It wasn't available till after my daughter was born so I never looked into this Canadian brand. www.clekinc.com That cute little girl just gets me imagining my own daughter sitting there making faces at me, so CUTE! But back to what I said at the beginning of this post, my daughter's safety is #1! Not only can I get her to stay rear facing longer, it reclines! No more bopping head while sleeping through car rides. The cute colors are a plus but the safety that this car seat provides is amazing. I'm going to order it soon for my daughter so I'll do a review after. I can't wait! We're going to get the Blue Moon one for her.
Hello Mommies !!!
I've decided to start blogging to help other moms and share with other moms with parenting. I'm not a trained anything or certified anything except from what I've learned from raising my almost 23 month old daughter. Yes, I'm learning from her. I've read books, articles, other blogs, etc and have come to the conclusion, NOT one method worked for my daughter. She paves her own path and she makes her own decisions. I actually believe that is how it is for every child. Its that old saying, we are ALL different. So, I guess this blog is more for entertainment purposes. Enjoy!
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