[bump] babies was founded by Renae Plant, a native Australian and Mom Entrepreneur. Renae moved to NYC in 1994 to pursue a career in modeling and acting but realized that the life of an artist/designer was more suited to her. Renae moved to LA and 2 years later opened a talent management company.
Renae is a true warrior, having battled cervical cancer at the age of 18, and being an egg donor to help infertile couples. In 2003, Renae married and become pregnant with her first child. Renae was thrilled to be expecting yet in the early months was frustrated because she wanted to inform those around her that she “hadn’t let herself go” but that she had a “bump on board”. She searched unsuccessfully for hip maternity apparel for this initial period of her pregnancy, but had no luck finding anything. With her background in design and fashion, she designed and created her own fun, stylish, sexy maternity designs which attracted immediate positive feedback from those around her. During her 2nd pregnancy, she continued designing and expanding her [bump] line and it was during this time when [bump] babies was born. [bump] stands for “baby under manufacturing process.” Many celebrities including Gwen Stefani, Maggie Gyllenhall, Marcia Cross, Brook Burke, Jennie Garth, Amanda Peet, Tori Spelling, Jaime Pressly, Melanie B, Keri Russell, Jenna Elfman, Naomi Watts, Salma Hayek have been spotted in [bump] apparel. Renae lives in L.A. with her husband and 3 children.
[bump] babies offers the following lines: bump dresses, tees, tanks, vees, maroc, yoga, daddy and bling. The line is beautifully designed using high quality materials and stitching, with many styles featuring Swarovski embellishments for that extra special touch. The styles work beautifully from early pregnancy onwards as well as during the transition period (4th trimester), offering plenty of value.
For Summer 2009, here are our top picks:
[bump] vees– The v-neck maternity tee (vees) are hip, fun and sexy and work beautifully paired with jeans, or your favorite skirt. Many designs feature Swarovski crystals for that “extra bling”, enough to make any mom-to-be feel gorgeous. For casual days, pair with [bump] yoga pants for workouts or laid back weekends. The vees are very well made and have a flattering v-neck to accentuate your neckline. The vees are made from 100% cotton and are comfortable to wear; allowing for movement.
[bump] dresses The gorgeous v-neck dress accentuates your growing curves and is a must have item for warm summer days. Designed to maximize movement while maintaining a chic, pulled together look, it will become your favorite go to outfit this summer. The v-neck dress can be dressed up with accessories and paired with a wrap for the evening. Available in solid print or for the bold, solid print with [bump] logo to make a statement. A panel favorite!
[bump] hasn’t forgotten Dads with their cool line of apparel for Dads: [bump] daddy. Now dads-to-be can share in the fun and express themselves through the [bump] daddy tees designed with dads in mind. A great gift item.
Another favorite of ours is the post [bump] tee (left) which will alert the world that you have indeed had your baby! Perhaps hospitals and birthing centers should gift these tees on your way out!
Giving Back
A percentage of each [bump] sale goes towards KIVA.com, who’s mission is to alleviate poverty through connecting people who wish to lend to an entrepreneur in a third world country (micro-lending). We applaud [bump] babies for this initiative.
PURCHASING
Bump offers a unique sizing chart which can be found here. Shop online at the [bump babies] online store where with shipping available to the USA and international locations.
Bumbleride Inc. was launched in San Diego, California in 2004 by a husband and wife team, Matthew and Emily Reichardt, who were less than impressed by the stroller market at the time. Through design and research, they developed Bumbleride, a brand inspired by the current young and modern family. Bumbleride’s collection of strollers is playful, responsive and fun.
“We are reshaping baby mobility in a way to flow seamlessly into your modern lifestyle. Our design inspiration comes from you: the young and modern family. We strive to create products that are urban, stylish and functional while remaining sound and durable. Our collection is versatile and multi-faceted and includes a variety of features, vibrant colors and clever accessories.”
Bumbleride is an eco-minded company, sponsoring recycling programs and offering employee carpooling incentives. Bumbleride strollers are innovative, ergonomic, stylish, colorful and fun, keeping modern parents in mind. Bumbleride strollers have won several awards, and just recently, Indie and Indie Twin won the iParenting award and the Indie Twin also won NAPPA honors award.
Today, we are focusing on the 2009 Bumbleride Flyer, a well made, ergonomic stroller which will take you from the newborn years, through the toddler years and well beyond.
2009 Flyer Standard Accessories: *Rain cover *Bumper Bar *Infant headrest *Infant Car Seat Adapter and Safety Belt *Cup Holder *Headrest and Shoulder Pads
The innovative flyer is the most ergonomic stroller on the market, allowing parents to adjust the stroller so that both parent and baby are strolling in optimum comfort to support good posture. Parents will really appreciate the fully adjustable handlebars, which will accommodate parents of different heights. The stroller can be used from birth, as it is one of the few strollers on the market that can be transformed into an “infant bed” by adjusting the seat back to the lowest position and raising the footrest. The backrest has 3 different positions to accommodate your baby/child as they grow in length. As your baby grows and develops posture control and strength, you simply adjust the settings on the Flyer to allow baby to stroll in a more upright position. This stroller is one of the few on the market that will take you from infancy, through the toddler years and beyond, making it worthwhile purchase.
Handlebars
The ERGONOMIC, fully height adjustable handle bars on the 2009 Bumbleride Flyer are truly exceptional…certainly one of the best that we have seen in the industry!
Why is a fully height adjustable handle so imperative?
Quite simply, if you are not maintaining a good posture when you are pushing a stroller, you may very well find yourself developing back and shoulder pain. Glance in the mirror when you are pushing your stroller and note if your shoulders are relaxed in a neutral position, vs hunched. How does your body feel after you have been pushing the stroller? With many adjustment height settings, you are assured that you will find the ideal height for each member of the family. The padded handle bars of the flyer are comfy to grip. If you suffer from any wrist problems, (carpal tunnel, etc) you can easily find a neutral position for your wrist, which you will find invaluable. This neutral position allows you to steer the stroller as you would hold a steering wheel. The added advantage of having many height options will soon become apparent when you need tight maneuverability in crowded places or grocery stores. A quality stroller with reversible handle bars is very hard to find in this price range and this feature alone, makes the 2009 Bumbleride Flyer an outstanding buy.
Why are reversible handles so useful?
Well both parents and baby will agree that being able to see each other is reassuring for both and is especially useful to first time parents, babies who are being transitioned from carriers, fussy babies or babies who are experiencing separation anxiety.
Canopy The dual ratcheting canopy is a feature that Bumbleride is known for. The canopy can be pulled down to the level of the bumper bar, providing your baby with full protection from the elements as well as sensory overload (e.g busy grocery store). The canopy has a peek-a-boo window which will allow you to keep an eye on your child. The rear of the canopy features a pocket for light essentials. The rear of the canopy can unzip to allow air to circulate more effeciently in warmer conditions. Seat The well padded seat features a head rest for babies, and new for 2009, a one push release, 5 point padded safety harness system. The backrest adjusts with a swift, one handed maneuver to 4 different positions, ranging from nearly flat to upright, so that you can customize the seat include to your child’s age, size, postural ability and mood.
Wheels New for 2009, the Flyer features newly designed wheels with a sporty look. The improved responsive steering allows your to navigate tight corners with greater ease and the front and rear suspension ensure a smooth ride.
Bumper Bar The bumper bar comes standard with the 2009 Flyer and offers additional protection for your child. It is easily removable and the location where it attaches to the frame is the some location where the carry cot and jam pack attach, allow your customize your stroller as your child grows.
Storage Basket The large storage basket can hold a medium to large diaper bag with ease and best of all, can be accessed even with the seat fully reclined. Now that is great engineering.
Operation Opening and closing the 2009 Flyer is surprisingly simple and easy to do with its one step fold. The Flyer weighs in at 19 pounds. For additional information, please see the demo.
Road Test The 2009 Flyer handles itself very well in a variety of situations, whether in the mall, grocery shopping, or strolling to the park. The front and rear suspension ensure a smooth ride. Bumbleride recommends that you lock the wheels closest to you, for smoother more responsive steering and we found this advice to be very accurate.
Optional Accessories:
The Carrycot The carrycot is easy to assemble and snaps into the same slot that the bumper bar connects to. The study carrycot has a thin, firm mattress for baby’s comfort and safety. The carrycot has 2 sturdy straps which allow you to safely lift the canopy from the stroller. The carrycot comes standard with the Bumbleride Footmuff (and seat liner to be used later with the stroller minus the carrycot), to help protect baby from the cooler weather. The carry cot is also compatible with the Bumbleride Indie, and Twin Indie.
Footmuff and Liner The footmuff and liner are wonderful for the cooler season, and will keep baby snug and warm during outdoor walks. The liner sits on top of the stroller seat and then the footmuff zips onto it. There is a small zippered pocket on the outside of the footmuff, perfect for storing small items including keys, cash or a cell phone. The footmuff and liner are compatible with the Bumbleride India and twin Indie. The footmuff and seat liner can also be purchased separately.
The Jam Pack is the only bag on the market that we know of that is designed to be used by both parents and children!
The PVC-free Jam Pack’s unisex design makes it suitable for moms or dads and its small size makes it ideal to grab when running a quick errand. A quick access zippered pocket on the front can hold a few diapers. There are 2 pockets for holding bottles on either side of the bag, to ensure that both you and your child are always kept well hydrated. The interior of the bag is lightly colored so there is no black hold effect. An elasticized mesh ouch can hold wipes and extra diapers. The remaining interior can hold a few baby essentials such as bibs, toys and a change of clothing for baby.A well made zipper and a magnetic closure ensure that all your contents stay safely in place.
There are 3 slim pockets on the back of the bag to hold items such as mini hand sanitizer, an energy bar, mp3 player, cell phone etc which are within easy reach.
By simply re-threading the strap, the Jam Pack can convert into a back pack for kids. The Jam Pack doubles as a back pack for your child and can fit his lunch, hat, sunblock, water and even his homework. This hybrid bag comes highly recommended.
Snack Pack
Our panel was really impressed with the snack pack is a zipper pouch which can hold a juice or yogurt and some snacks for both baby and parent. The snack pack will prove to be very handy during long outdoor walks, and especially during the summer when staying hydrated is a must.
Purchasing information:
2009 model is available in the following 5 colors: Lava, Ruby, Seagrass, Spice, and Vita.
“Scandinavian Child represents 7 brands from around the world. All of them fall within the Designs without Compromise Philosophy. Every product in the collection meets criteria for both functionality, safety and design. You don’t have to compromise style to have a great functioning product.”
Anka by Svan of Sweden.
The Anka by Svan of Sweden is the lower priced cousin to the Svan High Chair, yet is sturdy and full featured, offering great value in these tough economic times. It is JPMA/ASTM Safety Certified to give parents piece of mind. The Anka Chair arrives almost completely pre-assembled. Simply follow the directions in the manual and attach the 2 floor bases, the cushion and the wooden tray and you are all set. Each Anka by Svan High Chair comes with a plastic tray and a cushion included, for additional value.
FEATURES
Design:
The Anka Chair is a solidly constructed chair, designed with the modern parent in mind and features clean and simple lines. The chair is available in 3 finishes: Honey (cream cushion), Espresso (cream cushion) and Natural (with Chocolate Cushion) and will blend in beautifully with any kitchen and dining room decor. The Anka feature is made from solid wood which is smooth to the touch. The Anka Chair features a set of wooden bases which lends tremendous stability to the chair, particularly in the anterior posterior direction, where other high chairs fall flat.
Safety:
The Anka High Chair features a 3 point restraint system which is easy to fasten and unfasten, to keep your baby/child securely in place. A child who is under 3 years of age must always be secured in the restraint system. The Anka High Chair features a metal brace which locks down to keep the legs of the chair open, much like a ladder.
Environmentally friendly:
The Anka High Chair is made with sustainable materials; solid Birch wood with a non-toxic finish. The cushions are PBDE-free, and are machine washable. The plastic tray is both BPA and Phthalate free and and is dishwasher safe. Keeping your Anka High Chair looking fresh and new has never been easier.
Convertible:
The Anka by Svan High Chair is completely convertible and converts easily from a high chair, to youth chair to a kid chair up to 5 yrs of age (remove the wooden guard). A high chair that grows with your child offers unbeatable value.
Ergonomic
Like its cousin, the Svan High Chair, the Anka by High Chair offers many ergonomic features, which set it apart from other high chairs on the market. There are many advantages to purchasing a high chair which can grow with your baby, with good posture during eating being the main advantage. A baby/child who is well supported during eating will not have to waste energy on trying to maintain a good posture and can focus on the task of eating, which is what every parent wants! There are 3 main components of the Anka by Svan High Chair which are adjustable. The wooden guard on the Anka by Svan High Chair adjusts in 2 positions, depending on the age of your baby/child. This essentially adjusts the “depth of the seat” as your child grows. The wooden tray can lock into 3 different slots, depending on the size of your child. This feature, along with the adjustable wooden guard with ensure that your baby/child is positioned correctly for food to land mostly on the tray and not on his lap. A number of high end high chairs on the market are designed with a tray which is positioned very far from the child, with the food ending up in the child’s lap! The footrest adjusts in 4 different positions, ensuring that your child’s legs can be well supported during eating, providing him with stability.
Why is an Adjustable Footrest so imperative?
If you child’s feet are being supported, he will be able to focus on the task of eating. If an adjustable footrest is not present or is inadequate, he will spend the majority of his energy trying to keep himself upright and will tire himself out. Would you be comfortable eating all of your meals while your legs are dangling?
Compact:
The Anka by Svan High Chair Folds Compactly for storage and is great for those with limited space or for grandmas house. The wooden tray is removable and can be stored on the back of the chair which will allow you to pull the chair right up the dining room table.
Weight limit:
When your baby is able to sit upright independently and has good sitting balance, typically around 6 months of age, he is ready to start using the Anka Chair. The Chair can accommodate a weight limit of 5 years or up to 50 pounds.
Purchasing:
The Anka by Svan High Chair is distributed exclusively by Scandinavian Child. To find a retailer, please click here.
To learn more about this product and other products from Scandinavian Child, please visit: www.scichild.com
Gone are the days when Dads stand idly by and watch as their spouses raise their baby. Today’s modern dads are stepping up and taking an active role in caring for their baby. Given the fact that almost all of the parent products on the market today are geared towards moms, it’s no wonder that Dads may be feeling left out! With Father’s Day just around the corner, we have kept Dads in mind and have searched high and low for the coolest products for dad this Father’s Day.
One thing is for certain; men don’t want to schlep around feminine Diaper Bags, period! Sorry ladies but expecting your man to share your floral silk diaper bag is just out of the question. Dads want and deserve a bag just for themselves! Diaper Dude has come to the rescue! Diaper Dude was founded by Chris Pegula, a young, cool hip dad who grew tired of carrying around his diapering essentials in a gym bag and decided to take the initiate to create a line of masculine diaper bags designed with dads in mind.
Dads have their own unique sense of style, and seek out masculine, rugged products which are packed with features and which help to streamline their activities of daily living. The Dad Survival Kit meets these all of these specifications and consists of a Diaper Dude Bag, a mini waist pouch aka the Mini Dude and a Bottle Holder.These three products are very well designed using high quality materials and components. Diaper Dude delivers and dads everywhere won’t be disappointed.
The Original Diaper Dude Bag is the sporty messenger bag which started the Diaper Dude phenomenon! Dads will be able to access the contents of their bag without ever having to take it off, which means both hands are free to care for their baby. The ergonomically designed strap adjusts easily for a custom fit. The Over-the-Shoulder design makes it easy to toss on and take off and is very comfortable as it stays in place on the shoulder while reaching for items or catching a wayward child. Attached to the strap is a cellphone pouch which is easy to access and won’t leave you fumbling thorough your bag. Taking a closer look at the bag, working your way from front to back, the Diaper Dude Bag boasts 3 generously sized exterior zip-closed pockets which can be easily and quickly accessed and are ideal for storing diapers, wipes, bibs, food and other diapering essentials. The main compartment of the bag is lightly colored so there is no black hole effect. It can accommodate items for baby and dad (a change of clothing for baby, toys, a hat, snacks, additional diapers) and additionally houses the changing pad in its own sub compartment which is great for hygienic reasons. Also included is a key ring clip which will put an end to frantically searching through your bag to locate the car keys, and a bottle holder. The rear of the bag features two large elasticized pouches, which are great for storing a baby blanket, books and perhaps even a mini notebook computer. The rear of the bag (part against your body) is padded, offering even more comfort especially when filled with hard wooden toys, glass baby bottles and other items heavy and solid items. This is a solid bag, clearly designed with Dads in mind who need an easy to use, rugged bag that look like a guys equipment.
The mini dude resembles a cool tool belt and is a great choice to grab when heading out on a short errand. It can hold a pack of wipes and two diapers. In addition, it can 2 bottles on either side of the main compartment which means that both dad and baby can stay well hydrated when on the go. Aside from wearing it around the waist, dads can also sling it messenger style. This innovative diaper waist pouch is a panel favorite!
The bottle pouch measures 4 inches wide and 8 inches and clips on easily to the Diaper Dude Bag. It is insulated to ensure that baby’s bottle stays cool in the summer heat.
The Diaper Dude Dad Survival Kit will make a wonderful Father’s Day Gift and will help dads not only survive fatherhood but thrive. For additional gift ideas, consider one of these eco-friendly products for the Earth Conscious Dads!
For expecting couples, consider registering with the Diaper Dude Gift Registry and you will be assured of receiving cool, practical and high quality products which will help make your transition into parenthood that much easier.
This and many other innovative Diaper Dude products can be purchased directly from the Diaper Dude online store or to locate a store near you, please click here.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is known as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome and is complex endocrine disorder associated with anovulation (lack of ovulation) and hyperandrogenism (excess male sex hormones). It is estimated that 70% of women with PCOS have elevated androgen levels. Women with PCOS may also have high levels of the following:
Estrogen: Higher levels associated with infertility and may also increase risk of hormone related cancers.
Gonadotropins: Higher levels affect fertility and the menstrual cycle
Insulin: Higher levels of insulin and glucose intolerance which makes losing weight very difficult.
Women with PCOS are at significantly higher risk of developing Type II Diabetes and Heart Disease. Pregnant women who have PCOS, are at increased risk of developing gestational diabetes and hypertension, which can make their pregnancy high risk, requiring very close monitoring. Most women with PCOS have irregular cycles. PCOS is under-recognized and under diagnosed. Since a high percentage of women who have PCOS also suffer from infertility, women will often receive their diagnosis following a consult with a reproductive endocrinologist.
Conventional treatment will often include oral contraceptives to regulate the menstrual cycle and hormone levels, an insulin sensitizer to reduce insulin resistance and a prescription of a low carb diet plus an exercise program. Additional medication may be prescribed on an individual basis. Women who are trying to get pregnant will be given a full work-up may be given a drug to induce regular ovulation, which is carefully monitored.
A member of our parent panel, Sarah, aged 26, was diagnosed with PCOS in 2008. Sarah, unlike most women with PCOS, have regular menstrual cycles. Here is her profile:
Sarah has struggled with her weight since her teen years. She reports having a lack of energy throughout the day and strong cravings for carbs and sweets, particularly during her “PMS week”. Sarah has a high stress job which exacerbates her symptoms.
Sarah, is determined to control her PCOS symptoms and obtain a healthy body weight through exploring alternative treatments. What follows is Sarah’s plan and not a personalized prescription plan. Please consult with your health care professional prior to starting any new treatments, conventional or alternative.
*Walking (Aerobic) 30 mins walk in the AM, 30 minutes walk in the PM
*Yoga and meditation 3 x per week to reduce stress and improve endurance and stamina.
*Low GI vegan diet: Sarah has started a low glycemic diet and includes foods in her diet which are classified as either low or medium on the GI scale. Whole grains are emphasized including: quinoa, amaranth, kasha, brown basmati rice, beans and pulses, low starchy vegetables and fresh fruit in moderation. Instead of eating 3 large meals, Sarah began eating 5 or 6 small meals and snacks every 3 hours to help keep her blood sugar stable throughout the day. Adopting a well balanced, vegan diet (consult an Registered Dietician for advice) can be especially beneficial to women with PCOS, since a well balanced, vegan diet is free of dietary cholesterol, high in dietary fiber, legumes and vegetables which can significantly lower your risk of cardiovasular disease.
*Cinnamon: 1 tsp a day which has been shown in studies to reduce insulin resistance. Cinnamon powder can become toxic in higher dosages, so cinnamon sticks boiled may be a healthier alternative.
In two peer-reviewed, double blind studies, D-chiro-inositol, a member of the B nutrient family, was found to help both lean and obese women with PCOS reduce many of their primary clinical symptoms. Researchers hypothesize that women with PCOS are insulin resistant due to a deficiency of D-chiro-inositol which helps to regulate insulin levels. D-chiro-inositol is found naturally in several foods including buckwheat bran (farinetta), chickpeas, soy lethicin and carob syrup however taking a DCI supplement is an easier way to ensure that you are getting the sufficient quantity for your body weight. Women who are overweight will require higher levels of DCI which is also a consideration.
A high quality DCI supplement on the market is available from a reputable company, Chiral Balance. We sat down with a rep from the company to learn more:
“DCI is made from pinitol, which is a close chemical relative of of DCI. It is made in one step, by demethylation of pinitol and is then purified by HPLC. Every shipment we receive passes through customs and FDA inspection before arriving to us. The pinitol itself is derived primarily from soy husks, but poses not threat to people with soy allergies, because of the numerous purification steps.”
The product contains no coatings, binders, fillers, artificial colors or fragrance. It is free of dairy, wheat, yeast, gluten, corn, sugar, starch, soy, preservatives ans hydrogenated oil. The capsules are made from cellulose acetate, so they are suitable for vegans and vegetarians, people with various allergies. DCI supplements from a reputable source such as Chiral Balance do not have any documented side-effects.
To purchase DCI supplements from Chiral Balance, please click here.
Stats following a 2 month period of alternative treatments (diet, supplements, exercise):
Fasting blood glucose: 93 (normal) Weight: 155lb (BMI: 23.6 normal) Blood pressure: 110/70 (normal) Hirustism: facial hair reduced as observed by beautician Increased energy during the day.
Additional resources:
The Soul Cysters Website is a great place to start! Check out the message boards for online support. MediFocus Guide Polycystic Guide: An excellent guide which is easy to understand. Readers will develop insight into PCOS and understand this syndrome in greater depth. Information about PCOS throughout the life cycles is presented, including pregnancy and menopause. References to medical literature are cited. The Savvy Woman’s Guide to PCOS: The many faces of a 21st Century Epidemic…And what you can do about it. by Elizabeth Lee Vliet, MD. This book is an outstanding guide to PCOS where readers will learn all about the syndrome in great detail and will learn about Dr Vliet’s recommendations for diagnosing and treating PCOS. Readers will be empowered to be an active, informed patient when navigating the medical system. Dr Vliet, is clearly an expert on hormonal disorders which is evident by her unique insights on PCOS. What is missing however from this book, is information about exploring complimentary and alternative on alternative and complementary therapies .
This revolutionary cookbook is the FIRST ever vegetarian and vegan cookbook that is written with the GI index in mind. This cookbook includes 80 delectable vegetarian and vegan recipes to take you from breakfast to dinner and is written by the world’s foremost authorities on the Glycemic Index. Jennie Brand-Miller, PhD, is a international authority on the GI approach, heading up the GI-testing center in Sydney, Australia. Along with 2 Registered Dietitians, Kaye Foster-Powell, M. Nutr & Diet and Kate Marsh, RD, CD, the nutrition experts begin by outlining a variety of vegetarian sources of protein, fats and carbohydrates to include for a well balanced diet. The authors explain the GI concept in user friendly terminology which is easy to grasp. Vegetarians in particularly need to be mindful of adopting a well balanced diet to ensure that they take in the necessary vitamins and minerals for good health. The authors touch upon vitamins and minerals which are essential to a vegetarian diet including iron, calcium, vitamin B12 an iodine and list the daily recommendations for men and women and which food sources and or supplements will meet your daily requirements. The authors then move onto the advantages of switching to a Low GI diet and include some information specific to women with PCOS. A useful table is included which offers options for replacing a high GI food item with a low GI one and will help to keep you on track. Suggestions for choosing low GI foods for breakfast, lunch, snacks, desserts and dinner are discussed to help apply the principles into creating a daily food plan. A 7 day meal plan for both vegetarians and vegans is included, with separate plans for adults, teenagers and children. The meal plans are a very valuable tool to help you adopt a Low GI lifestyle for your family and provide a wonderful framework for your new lifestyle. The remainder of the book presents 80 mouth watering recipes, nearly each of which is accompanied by an exquisite photograph for culinary inspiration. The recipes are easy to make, and are influenced by many cultures including Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Middle Eastern and Mexican. Adopting a low GI lifestyle doesn’t mean that you need to deprive yourself of delicious tasting meals. Our favorite recipes include: Pancakes with Tofu, Basil and Sun-dried tomato, Red lentil dal with spiced basmatic rice, Falafel rolls with hummus, tabbouleh and spicy tomato sauce, Raspberry swirl cheesecakes and Creamy Quinoa Pudding. You don’t need to be a strict vegetarian to benefit from this book. Meat eaters can benefit tremendously from eating a few vegetarian meals per week, which will help to reduce their cholesterol and slash their risk of developing heart disease. Overall, an essential guide for anyone who has insulin resistance and or anyone who wishes to have more energy throughout the day. Purchase this book from these retailers.
Muslin wraps are widely used by Australian parents and date back to late 17th century England where they were coveted for their properties of having a light weave, which promotes good air flow. When Claudia Schwartz and Raegan Jones, both Australian natives, relocated to the USA they weren’t able to find muslin wraps and decided to make their own and thus aden + anais was born. The wraps are available in beautiful prints and designs, with choices for baby girls, boys as well as neutral designs and make the perfect baby shower gift.
Response from nurses, pediatricians, obstetricians, celebrities, industry experts, lactation consultants and other mothers has been overwhelming. aden + anais are recipients of the Creative Child Magazine 2007 Seal of Excellence and several prestigious iParenting media awards.
NEW FOR 2009
Recognizing that what is good for the Earth is also good for the nursery, aden + anais is pleased to announce the addition of certified organic, softly breathable baby swaddles to their award-winning product line. Made of organic cotton that is grown free of toxic pesticides and chemical fertilizers, aden + anais organic swaddles are as soft and beautiful as they are environmentally conscious. Designed especially for sensitive skin, the fabric’s light, open weave allows air to flow seamlessly through so that a baby’s body temperature can adjust naturally. As a result, babies feel warm in the winter and cool in the summer, helping to ensure safer, more soothing sleep while preventing overheating.
As with all aden + anais products, the durable, stretchy organic swaddles are pre-washed to prevent shrinkage, and become softer and fluffier with every wash. They are available in a wide variety of chic, low eco-impact prints and patterns. To ensure environmentally and socially responsible status, aden + anais organic swaddles proudly display the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) label. An internationally recognized initiative, GOTS has worked diligently to successfully create the leading set of criteria that define global standards in the field of organic textile processing. Today, GOTS is quickly becoming the most recognizable consumer symbol of environmentally friendly quality assurance and reliability. Aden + anais muslin wraps are well sized at 47″ X 47″, making them ideal for swaddling. In addition to swaddling, the muslin wraps can be used for tummy time, as a burp cloth, as a nursing cover, on the floor for tummy time and even draped over your stroller for additional protection against the elements. The versatility of the muslin wraps sets it apart from many other swaddling products on the market which have limited use beyond swaddling.
Parent panel feedback of the organic muslin wrap was very positive:
“My baby has very sensitive skin and her pediatrician recommend that we purchase organic cotton products. I was thrilled to hear that aden and anais are launching an organic cotton line and I was very eager to test out the organic wrap. The organic muslin is of a very high quality and becomes softer with each wash. I feel at ease knowing that the cotton is grown without any harmful pesticides and that low impact dyes have been used to create the lovely prints and patterns. Muslin wraps are FAR superior to traditional swaddling blankets because the open weave allows air to circulate. My daughter settles faster and stays content far longer with wraps and has shown no sign of skin irritation. I highly recommend the organic muslin wraps to all parents and I am looking forward to seeing the new designs when they become available. Thank you!”
We applaud aden and anais for “going green” and know that their eco-line will be a huge hit. The organic wraps are priced at $34 each. To locate a store in your area, please click here. The Organic Cotton Wraps will be available starting May 15, 2009 on the aden and anais website.
aden and anais offers a full range of beautiful wraps, blankets, hooded towels and washcloths. Visit www.adenandanais.com to learn more.
Congratulations to Lena R, Mike A, Tina N & David G.
Joovy focuses on family gear with advanced performance and exceptional looks at a reasonable price. Joovy offers a line of strollers, playards, toys and accessories.
Today we are highlighting the Joovy Groove and the Joovy Kooper, our picks for Mother’s Day Gifts.
The Groove is a great lightweight stroller weighing in at just 16 lbs and supports up to 55lbs. It is available in pink, green and blue which are great colors for summer. It boasts a large over sized canopy to shield your baby from the elements. The modern, clean lines and excellent maneuverability make it a great pick for taller moms.
Great Value The Groove comes with an extra interchangeable canopy and seat (different color) which means that you can wash one set and have the spare set available to use. In a sense it is like having 2 strollers in one! In addition, moms will enjoy mixing and matching the canopy and seat to create a stylish, unique look! A hanging storage bag holds the extra set which will be readily available when need be. Also included is a rain cover and stroller bag which makes this purchase a terrific deal!
Special Features
The large oversized canopy (with extendable sun visor) is wonderful and is rarely seen on umbrella type strollers. The peek-a-boo window allows you to keep tabls on your baby. On the rear of the stroller, there is a compartment for 2 bottles and a zippered compartment for essentials.
The seat reclines via an impressive latch system which can be operated one handed; perfect for moms who are juggling parcels and baby! The 4 position seat reclines 20 degrees shy of flat.
The wheels and good suspension allow moms to navigate the stroller over smooth and some uneven terrain. You can lock the front wheels off for a smoother ride. The stroller turns on a dime and moms will love how easy the stroller negotiates tight spaces. The linked, one-step rear wheel parking brake is easy to operate.
The All-Season Reversible Seat Pad (black) will keep your baby comfortable regardless of the season. On one side is the nylon mesh to keep baby cool in warm weather and on the other is an insulating fleece which helps to maintain warmth in the cold weather.
Moms will stay hydrated with the built-in mesh bottle holders. Just below is a handy storage compartment for stashing essentials.
Stroll in style with the Joovy Groove. The Groove folds easily and boast not one but two carry straps. The lateral carry strap is easy to grab when lifting the stroller in and out of your car. On the top of the stroller is a fantastic thick strap, which you can hold and pull the stroller behind you like a piece of luggage which is ideal for travel.
The stylish and eye-catching Kooper is a a cross between a euro-style buggy and a modern umbrella stroller and is great pick for urban mamas. The Kooper is best suited for moms who are on the shorter side (5″6 and below). The Kooper weighs in at approximately 17.9lbs and is able to support a child of up to 50lbs. It is available in yellow, green and black.
The features that we like:
Special Features
The ergonomically designed, foam covered handle bars are very well designed and make pushing the stroller an absolute dream! Don’t underestimate the importance of ergonomic handle bars. The fixed height handle bars allow moms to maintain a neutral position at the wrist and avoid discomfort.
The large canopy will shield your baby from the elements and features a roll back peek-a-boo window to keep an eye on your child.
The storage basket is easy to access and can fit a small to medium size diaper bag.
The seat reclines via a strap system and is easy to operate.
The Kooper operates best on smooth and even terrain and will appeal to modern urban mamas. The wheels detach easily for travel.
The linked, one-step rear wheel parking brake is a great feature.
The reflective stitching on the deluxe 5 point harness and the sides of the canopy are terrific safety features rarely seen on strollers. For moms who enjoy early morning or evening strolls, the reflective stitching adds an extra layer of protection in traffic.
The 2 mesh pockets situated on either side of the inside of the seat are perfect for storing your baby’s toys or pacifiers. The elasticized pockets ensure that the contents stay snugly in place. We haven’t seen this feature on any other stroller and really applaud the Joovy designed team on this thoughtful feature!
The Kooper Rain Cover fits easily over the stroller and will protect your baby from downpours! It folds compactly into the storage bag which it is sold in.
The Kooper Travel Bag will protect your stroller from dust and dirt and will come in handy during the travel season. The Kooper fit snugly in the travel bag which comes complete with clear directions.
The Kooper folds easily and compactly, in fact it is the only stroller to fit in the TINY trunk of the Success Through Play NGV vehicle, a truly remarkable achievement.
PURCHASING To find a store near you, please click here.
To see the full range of Joovy Family Gear, please visit theJoovy Website.
The Sansa® Fuze™ is the perfect MP3 player for modern moms who are juggling their fair share of responsibilities. Moms in desperate need of “me time” can grab their Sansa® Fuze™ and escape for a few minutes by listening to their favorite tunes and de-stressing.
Moms-to-be who find themselves in doctors waiting rooms will turn to the Sansa® Fuze™ to keep them entertained with videos, pictures and music. There is even a voice recorder for taking notes. When the big day arrives, turn to the Fuze to keep you centered during labor with a pre-recorded playlist of hypnosis tracks or your favorite meditative and calming songs.
Ergo, lightweight, sturdy The Sansa® Fuze™ is a sleek looking MP3 player and weighs in at just 2 oz. and measures approximately 3 inches by 2 inches and just over 1/4 inches thick. The device has an ergonomic design, making it comfortable to hold and feels solid to the touch.
Versatile The Sansa® Fuze™ is a portable entertainment center and used can view pictures, videos, and listen to music.
Options The stylish Sansa® Fuze™ is available in a silver, black, red, blue and pink so everyone can find their perfect shade. The unit is available in 3 different storage options: 2GB, 6GB and 8GB to suit your lifestyle. SanDisk® offers a full range of accessories to enhance your experience of using the Sansa® Fuze™.
Operation
The Sansa® Fuze™ is very easy to operate, even if you are not very tech savvy. The unit is controlled via a mechanical navigation wheel which you turn clockwise or anticlockwise and click up and down, left and right. The navigation wheel operates smoothly and effortlessly and is circled by a blue light making navigation in low light situations a breeze. Using the wheel to scroll through the options, you will find options for:
Music
Settings
Voice
FM Radio
Photos
Videos
Transferring music to the unit is achieved by simply dropping and dragging music files. The unit comes subsciption ready (Rhapsody) so you can start downloading tunes instantly. The earbuds which are included with the unit deliver good sound quality, but you may wish to upgrade to a more sophisitated set if you frequently listen to music in noisy areas. That being said, our panel found the sound quality of the music files to be of a very good quality and we think that at this price point, users will be impressed.
The hold button on the side of theSansa® Fuze™is very useful if you want to toss the Fuze into your handbag.
Special Features
The 1.9 inch screen is sufficient for viewing your options, watching music videos and podcasts and viewing pictures.
The microSD/microSDHC slot really distinguishes the Fuze, opening up the doorway for additional content expansion.
The unit delivers up to 24 hours for audio playback and 5 hours of video playback with internal rechargeable battery. A USB charger is included with the unit, however for travel purposes, consider purchasing a outlet charger.
The Digital FM radio audio with the 40 preset stations is a great feature and our panel found the audio to be crystal clear and had no difficult picking up stations.
The voice recorder with built-in microphone is a nice touch and will allow the user to keep an audio memo. The voice playback is fantastic and now users won’t have to fret if they leave their pen and notepad at home.
The Sansa® Fuze™ will make a terrific gift for the special Mother in your life.
Boob Design® is the new designer line of Maternity and Nursing Apparel from Sweden that will change the way that you think of maternity and nursing clothing forever. Gone are the bulky, uncomfortable and frumpish maternity and nursing outfits that hide the bump (maternity) and are difficult to access and scream to the world that you are nursing. Boob® boasts a gorgeous line of designer apparel that just happen to be maternity and nursing wear!
Their commitment to the environment:
“We keep all of our production in Europe, in factories where we know that the employees are treated well and are decently paid. Keeping production in Europe is also a way of guaranteeing that the product in Europe is as environmentally sound as possible. All our jersey is certified with the OEKO-TEX Standard 100. This certification is a guarantee for clothes that are completely free of toxins that can be harmful to you. Clothes that are kind to your skin as well as nature. Our goal is to you materials that are environmentally optimal.”
Boob Design’s® Maternity line is cut to accent and flatter your new curvy figure. The gorgeous eco-fabrics, the fresh simplicity and the playful details make the trademark of Boob® . The soft and comfortable fabrics will fit like a dream – all the way from bump to big belly!
Boob® Nursing tops are brilliantly designed and feature a double layer of fabric over the bust so that an overlapping opening is formed. The opening is simply pushed aside with one hand, making nursing comfortable and discreet.
Spring/Summer 2009
Boob Design® doesn’t disappoint with the Spring/Summer 2009 line. Pieces are bold, bright colors and clean lines which reflect the mood of Spring and Summer. Multi-stripes, paisley, and print checks are making a come back as well as solid colors. The collection is fun and care-free to take you through the warmer months in style and comfort. The designer apparel are made proudly in Europe and for Spring/Summer 2009, at least 50% of the designs are available in Organic Cotton. We the company for this tremendous achievement.
To find a store in your area that carries Boob Design’s Maternity and Nursing Range, please click here.
*Giveaway*
Congratulations to Nicole Y., Lauren V., Peta L. & Melinda D.
Prize A: Maternity
Tie-band Tunic (Dark Fuchsia XL) Organic Cotton. This sexy tunic accentuates the bust and is easy to move in. Wear with jeans, leggings or a skirt for a stylish look.
Denim Pencil Skirt (Raw Blue, Size 38 US Size 8) The ultimate denim pencil skirt epitomizes Summer with its comfort and effortless chic. This skirt will take you from the beach to a night out of the town and looks great with sandals or heels. Can be worn post-pregnancy as well for great value.
Transformer Top (Black, XL) This lightweight top is a unique design that allows the wearer to place the removable band (with buckle) either below the bust or below the bump to create 2 different looks. Pair with jeans or legging for a sexy look. This top will work equally well both pre and post pregnancy and makes for the perfect transition top!
Leggings (Black, Size Large)
The opaque leggings are super comfy and a great basic piece that should be in every pregnant woman’s maternity wardrobe. Runs on the small side so consider sizing up.
Prize B: Maternity
Wrap Shaped for Curves (Greymelange, Size Large) Organic cotton. Flattering and sexy, this is the perfect wrap top! The top adjusts to fit your growing bump and can be worn on its own or over a tank. A panel favorite!
Under Belly Singlet (Poppy Stripe, Size Large) Organic Cotton. Halle Berry rocked the under belly style during her pregnancy and now you can do the same! The wide solid panel is designed to sit below your bump and accentuate your growing bump. This is a tank with a stylish twist and pairs beautifully with jeans, leggings or a skirt and is sure to attract many compliments. You will want to stock up on stripes and solids.
B Regular Jeans (Washed Blue, 38 US Size 8) Waist: Low Panel in high quality jersey. Leg: Straight loose cut leg which is great for all body types. Pair with heels for a night on the town or dress down for a chic but casual look. A panel favorite!
Prize C: Maternity
Built-in Bra Singlet (Safari, Large) Made from organic cotton. Side shirring to grow with you all 9 months. Minimizes a larger bust and is surprisingly supportive. A panel favorite!
Maternity Singlet (Black, Size Large) Organic Cotton. This versatile piece is a must have basic and will pair beautifully with jeans or a skirt. Can be layered and dressed up or down. Available in several colors so stock up.
B 70’s Jeans (Raw Blue, Size 38 US Size 8) Waist: High rise at the back with no tell-tale panel from the rear. Comfortable panel at front in high quality jersey. Zip and button in side seam. Adjustable elastic inside waistband. Leg: Wide A-shaped leg which is best suited for taller women. These jeans are the most comfortable maternity jeans on the market! Great for those active days around town or when you are relaxing on the weekends.
Prize D: Nursing
Hidden Function Nursing Top (Blueberry, Large) Organic Cotton. Chic and elegant, while very comfortable to wear, this lightweight top is perfect for summer. The beautiful scoop neckline accentuates your neckline. The longer length provides coverage for the postpartum tummy. Petites may want to wear this top as a short dress. To nurse discretely, simply untie the sash and separate the two panels for stress free nursing while on the go.
Nursing Top with Drawstring (Poppy, Large) This lightweight top has a flattering neckline and a drawstring which hides nursing access beneath. The longer length provides a slimming effect and extra coverage for the postpartum tummy. A panel favorite! Can double as a beach cover-up this summer.
B Warmer Top (Poppy, XL) Organic Cotton This fabulous nursing top provides warmth without bulk. Pair with jeans or sweats when there is a chill in the air. Great for working out in as well.
This Earth Day, we honor the W. S. Badger Company in acknowledgement of their commitment towards being a green company.Badger offers a range of all natural body care products many of which are USDA Certified Organic and Fair Trade. Badger is a family run, family friendly business located on the banks of the Ashuelot River in rural Gilsum, New Hampshire, USA. Bill, Katie and daughters Mia, Emily and Rebecca started the business back in 1995, in the kitchen of their home. A team of about 40 friendly badgers formulates, manufactures, and ships almost all of the products from their facility, known as The Badger Mines. Badger works hard to create a healthy business with ethical and charitable principles.
Badger encourages their employees who have young infants to bring their infants to work, to encourage maternal-infant bonding. We applaud them for instituting this policy and hope that other companies will follow suit.
Balms The wonderful balms are packaged in beautiful tins which you can collect and re-use for other purposes the contents has been used up. The balms are made from a base of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and are easy to apply to your skin. The balms are also infused with a customized blend of aromatherapy oils targeted for a specific purpose. Our favorite balms include the Sore Muscle Rub Extra Strength with Chili Pepper, the Cuticle Balm and the Stress Soother.
The Sore Muscle Rub is a wonderful balm which you can massage into tense and tight muscles. The balm heats up on your skin and instantly relaxes and soothes your achy muscles leaving you feeling terrific. The Cuticle Balm is the perfect choice for cuticles which need TLC. The rich oils deliver intense moisture which tackle dry and damaged cuticles head on. With just a few days use, we noticed a vast improvement in the quality and health of our cuticles and recommend carrying this balm in your bag so that you always have it close by and can apply after washing your hands. The Stress Soother is our hands down favorite balm and should be a must have item on every workers desk. At the first sign of stress, dab the balm on your temples or wrist and inhale deeply. The calming scents of the aromatherapy blend which include lavender, rosemary and chamomile, help to calm your thoughts, clear your mind and relax your body, leaving you feeling centered and ready to tackle your next challenge. We also had the opportunity to test two products from the Badger Sun Care Line, the SPF 30 sunblock for Face and Body and the SPF Lip Balm. Both products are zinc oxide based which are safe alternatives to other chemically based sun care products on the market. Equally important, both products offer protection against both UVA and UVB, so you can feel confident that you are protected. The sunblock and lip balm are a pleasure to work with and can be applied quickly with mess or fuss and spread easily on the skin. Now that the warmer weather is upon us, the sun care range from badger, together with good sun safety habits will help you to face the summer head on.
The all nature products from Badger will make terrific gifts. Click here to view the full gift range.
Lip Balm Giveaway
Courtesy of the W.S. Badger Company, we have 2 lip balms to giveaway to a lucky reader. The lip balms are from the new Cocoa Butter Lip Balm collection: Poetic Pomegranate and Vanilla Bean and are USDA Certified Organic and Fair Trade.
[bump] babies was founded by Renae Plant, a native Australian and Mom Entrepreneur. Renae moved to NYC in 1994 to pursue a career in modeling and acting but realized that the life of an artist/designer was more suited to her. Renae moved to LA and 2 years later opened a talent management company. 
Renae is a true warrior, having battled cervical cancer at the age of 18, and being an egg donor to help infertile couples. In 2003, Renae married and become pregnant with her first child. Renae was thrilled to be expecting yet in the early months was frustrated because she wanted to inform those around her that she “hadn’t let herself go” but that she had a “bump on board”. She searched unsuccessfully for hip maternity apparel for this initial period of her pregnancy, but had no luck finding anything. With her background in design and fashion, she designed and created her own fun, stylish, sexy maternity designs which attracted immediate positive feedback from those around her. During her 2nd pregnancy, she continued designing and expanding her [bump] line and it was during this time when [bump] babies was born. [bump] stands for “baby under manufacturing process.” Many celebrities including Gwen Stefani, Maggie Gyllenhall, Marcia Cross, Brook Burke, Jennie Garth, Amanda Peet, Tori Spelling, Jaime Pressly, Melanie B, Keri Russell, Jenna Elfman, Naomi Watts, Salma Hayek have been spotted in [bump] apparel. Renae lives in L.A. with her husband and 3 children.
[bump] babies offers the following lines: bump dresses, tees, tanks, vees, maroc, yoga, daddy and bling. The line is beautifully designed using high quality materials and stitching, with many styles featuring Swarovski embellishments for that extra special touch. The styles work beautifully from early pregnancy onwards as well as during the transition period (4th trimester), offering plenty of value.
