I love Christmas in July!



The sale we have all been waiting for begins tomorrow.

It's time for the EtsyKids Team Christmas In July Sale!

There are two ways to visit our team shops.

1. Use the links below to visit each shop

2. Go to Etsy.com and in the search box use EK christmasinjuly or EK CIJ to find the team shops and view sale items.

Please enjoy and take advantage of these great sales, deals, and steals!

Don't wait to shop because the team sale is only from July 14th - 31.

Here is a list of participating shops who are included in the sale.

Etsykids Team Members be sure to share the sale news on Facebook, Twitter, and on your Blogs. Make sure your friends know about the sale, too!

2 Sprouts Stitchery
Stitched Stuff for Families to use and love everyday!
Sewing for babies, kids, and moms. 10% off entire store with coupon code: christmasinjuly

AliBeanBaby
Infant through size 8 little girl's clothing and nursing covers
10% off all items except already discounted items in my sample/discounted section coupon code is CIJ10

Alittlerosiebowtique
hairbows, headbands, hair clips,pony tail holders, etc.
offering 25% off entire purchase. using coupon code CIJ25

All Things Girly!
A collection of hair bows, clips, bling and girly things!
15% off entire order - coupon code CHRISTMASINJULY

Apple n Amos
Wood Toys
15%off the entire shop

Auntie Robin
Clothing for little girls and quilts for babies and toddlers
All in-stock items will be included in sale at 15% off with coupon code JULY15.
Aunty Ann Designs
Wild, Fun and Unique Sock Monkeys
Bonus will be "free" name embroidery with sock monkey or blankey purchase. Be sure to put EKBONUS in comments at checkout with the name. Plus a special 10% discount when using the code EKSAVE10 at checkout on all purchases.

Ava Bowtique
I sell all kinds of hair accessories
All items will be 10% off.

babe-a-gogo
Christmas themed lounge pants on sale
The lounge pants will have free shipping

BabyChicCreations
custom made clothing and accessories for babies and toddlers free shipping on select items
15% all car cozies and crayon rolls

Baresockcrafts
I sell baby and kids toys and christmas ornaments
I will offer 15% entire store coupon code Christmas10
Bebbyjumpers
I sell quality handknits for babies and children.
10% discount off the purchase price coupon code is ~ xmasjuly2011

berchtasbelly1
30% off sale on anything red in my shop

Bethanys5
photo prop crochet hats
all holiday item 20% off

Bibs Blankets and More
bibs, receiving blankets, baby gift baskets, nursing pillow covers
Promo: Free Shipping

BillieTK
I sell fine art and art prints for children's rooms and the young at heart
Use code FREESHIP for free shipping (domestically) on anything in the shop

BirdsongBows
Accessories patterns
15% off storewide

Bison Girl
Bison Booties (soft-sole infant/baby/toddler booties made with designer cotton fabrics)
15% off all Bison Booties with code "SUMMER15

Blush and Bashful Studio
Crochet designs for all ages
Free Shipping Promo

blushprintables
I design photo cards & invitations for birthdays, parties, and events
15% off all photo cards

BoutiqueLuckyStars
Organic T's and Bodysuits
30% OFF Coupon Code ChristmasInJuly

Brandisbowboutique
Bows, clips, hats, botties and other crocheted items
25% off your entire order

BronStar Originals
Growth Charts, Art Prints, Bow Holders
Free Shipping(Excluding Stretched Canvas)

BurpieBundles
BOGO Half Off Wristlet Key Fobs
Coupon Code is BOGOFOB... Users are also required to ""Like"" my Facebook Page.

Chew Chew's Closet
Children's clothing and accessories
15% off your total order excluding shipping Coupon code: ChristmasinJuly

Childishthoughts
Childrens toys, example: crayon rolls, tool belts, car rolls, crayon aprons and some fun dressin up dresses. My sale will be 20% entire purchase


ChipperCuteGirl
Elementary school memory books for mothers and daughters
20% off storewide using code "EtsyKids20"

christinamcdaniel
I am going to have lots of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas shirts listed and all will be buy one get one half off!

CollieOllieDesigns
I sell children's clothing -- skirts, dresses, onesies, t-shirts, and more
offering 25% off your entire order

crocheting4baby {aka Tutus & Tea Parties}
crochet beanies & blankets, handpainted baby bodysuits and tutus
All will be included in the sale Free Shipping

Cuckooboo
hair accessories for kids, pacifier clips for babies, badge clips and stethoscope tags for adults
15% off everything

CupcakeDream
Photo Birthday Invitations and Party Supplies
15% off all birthday invitations with code: JULYSAVE

cutieflair
Cute items you'll find in my shop: cloth dolls, cloth baby dolls, headbands, aprons, print artwork,original nursery paintings...
50% in most of my handmade items with tag: EK Christmasinjuly Free shipping in most of my items with tag: EK Christmasinjuly

CutiesTieDyeBoutique
Custom Party Invitations and Decorations, Personalized TShirts
15% off of Entire Purchase - Use Coupon Code ETSYKIDSROCK

DaniJoDesigns
I make felt sets, felt boards to go, felt animal masks and felt books
15% off entire purchase excluding felt books. coupon codechristmasinjuly15

Dapple Gray Designs
Clothes that are cute & comfortable for little boys and sweet & sassy for little girls! - dresses, shirts, skirts 40% off entire purchase (excluding shipping) - Code CIJ40

Darcey Lane Designs
Sassy Ruffle Fancy Pants (Bloomers), pillowcase dress. Christmas outfits, birthday outfits
15% off

Denise Jacobson- Momma Fix
Little girl dresses sizes 6 months-9 years My sale will be
40% off entire stock of dresses

Dinos In Space
one of a kind felt applique wall pieces for kids of all ages I am going to be having a
20% off sale of everything in the shop, plus I slashed the shipping charges!

Dragonfly Bowtique
Hair Accessories
30% off using code christmasinjuly Spend $25 and receive a free item (buyer does not choose this item)

Ducks In A Row Boutique
Crayon Wallets and Creative Crayons
15% off everything in shop - coupon code JULY15

Fairy Godmother for Hire
Selling children's dress up costumes
Free shipping to the US coupon code SandyClaws

felted kitten
felt crowns
all items in my shop will be 10% - 50% off.

goldenneedlecreation
I sell natural, Waldorf inspired toys, dolls and pretty treasures for children of all ages!
I will offer free shipping coupon code XMASINJULY1
All items in my shop will be included in the Christmas in July special.

GrannyZann
Children's Clothing, Accessories, Granny's Little Blessing Dolls.
Entire shop will be on sale Free Shipping US. Discounted shipping Everywhere Else. use code FREESHIP

Harvest Moon by Hand
Origami window stars/suncatchers, hand-embroidered/all-natural toys for children; needlefelted toys made from all-natural sheep wool; PDF patterns, children's accessories, and crafting supplies
Everything is for sale in the shop! Use code EKCIJ10 to get 10% off everything in the shop (products only; not on shipping)

himama Changing pad covers, fun pillow cases, and coffee clutches free shipping as my promo with the purchase code of 711ChristmasinJuly

jencdesigns
I sell custom, handmade art, clothing for children, and drawings
20% off anything plus a free surprise gift with each purchase

jjkgirlythings
baby, girls some teen and adult hair accessories
offering 30% off discount on entire order

Kidz Wiz Padz
Waterproof Carseat Padz-Great for potty training on-the-go!
Buy one, Get one 1/2 off coupon code KWPCIJ

Kind Living Designs
personalized gift items
will be on sale a % off.

Knitstyle
Stylish Cloth Play Blocks and hand knit items
BUY 1 MEDIUM sized cloth play block, get 1 FREE

Kooky Critters
tooth fairy pillows, baby blankets, t-shirts, bed pillows and plush critters
Use coupon code LSLSL10DIS for 10% off anything in my shop!

laniec1- Niah Bella
custom kids clothing and a few other tidbits
get free shipping all month and on all items by using coupon code FreeShip.

Lil.B.Designs
Creative on-the-go-fun for young Picassos: art folios, crayon rolls, and Dine.n.Doodle mats
Free Shipping (worldwide) on children's products

lillollipop
I sell lil ones clothes and things for baby or lil ones rooms
FREE shipping to USA all through July and a free custom painting for your lil one

Linda's Krafty Kreations
I sell felt quiet books and toys and stuffed animals
offering 15% off of any purchase before shipping

Little Miss Iz
Little girls Skirts and leggings - size 12 months to 6T
15% off entire purchase, shipping not included. Code CIJ15

Little Purple Dragonfly
Boutique Hair Accessories and so much more!
15% off using Code: CIJSave15

Little Sweetie Boutique
little girls pillowcase dresses & skirts
10% off all items

looploft
fiber arts made with repurposed + natural materials... softies, tooth fairy pillows, wall art, fiber jewelry, party decor and lots more!
10% off entire shop and free shipping on christmas stockings

Lovely's Baby Boutique
Diaper Cakes/Cupcakes, Hair Clips, Boutique Diaper Wipe Cases
15% off entire purchase

Lucy Mae Designs
Boys Tie Shirts and Hair Accessories
FREE SHIPPING on all hair accessories

MaggieHeirlooms
Heirloom Children's Clothing
10% off (coupon code CHRISTMAS) on all new custom orders that are paid in full
25% off (coupon code RTS25) on all "Ready To Ship" items

mandag433
specialize in newborn - children photography props including hats and booties. I have a great red and green stocking hat, with jingle bells that is a big seller for christmas pictures!
offering 20% off items in my shop.

Markoos Modern Design
Modern Kid's clothing and accessories
offering a 15% discount on all purchases with code - 711XMAS

maxandmagnolia
specialize in hand dyed & stenciled baby onesies, but sell paci clips, look books, & I SPY bean bags
FREE SHIPPING

Michelle's Zoo
Stuffed Animals
20% entire purchase coupon code is CIJ20
Monkeys 'N Munchkins
children's jewelry (baptism, flower girl, big sister/big brother, everyday, special occasions)
15% off entire purchase with code "july15"

My Little Angel Co.
Diaper cakes, baby shower items, hair clips, beanie caps, and headbands
40% off hair clips and headbands, coupon code is SANTASWEATIN

My Little Pixies
Creative Hair Accessories All Christmas and Holiday items will be marked
15% off. These items will be featured in the "Christmas Preview 2011" category in my shop.

My Lovebug Baby
Useful items for mom and baby
Free Shipping to US & Canada with code: FREESHIP

My True Nature
Natural & organic kids bath products
30% off using code "christmasinjuly"

MyArtsyBaby
Everything! Custom children's wall art, canvas & wood growth charts, wood surfboards, wood dolls
Use coupon code OPENJULY for 20% off everything!

Nana Brown's
Insulated Lunch Bags, Reusable Sandwich Bags, Sun Hats, Travel Crayon Caddies, Baby Bibs, Cosmetic Bags, and more
15% off purchase, excluding postage. Coupon code FIFTEEN

Nikki, In Stitches
handmade hair accessories
15% off storewide...coupon code JULY15

Northwoods Toys
felt play food and plushies
Free Shipping promo

NotyBaby
Handmade children's accessories: blankets, car seat canopies, bibs, burpies, paci-bibs, changing mats, pillow shams, nursing covers & adult throws
15% off all items during CIJ promo event Use coupon code: JULYXMAS

OriginaliTeeToo
embroidered hair bows, bottle cap hairbows, embroidered clothing and accessories
offering FREE SHIPPING on any order over $20.

Peace, Baby! Batiks
batik clothing for babies and toddlers, including T-shirts, dresses, and bodysuits. I also have a limited selected of items for youth and adults.
All ready-to-ship items (which is everything in my shop!) is 15% off with coupon code SUMMERSANTA. The coupon is good through July 31

PetalPetal
Children's couture including modern, customizable birthday and flower girl outfits
Enter SUMMERISFORLOVE for 20% off your entire order!

Pickled Beads Jewelry
All children's jewelry
Free Shipping (Domestic (US) Orders Only)

Pink Stripe
We make Fun and Funky Goodies for Children and their Families. Sale items include tie shirts, birthday shirts, tulle cupcake aprons and lots of other fun goodies!!
HUGE sample sale on ready to ship items-- plus low flat rate shipping for unlimited sale items.

pippiclippis
felt play food, unique plushies and rattles among other kids goodies.
free US shipping for july- JULYSHIP coupon code

QuiltedHugsBibs
infants/toddler quilted waterproof bibs/sets & coordinating paci clips - all bibs are individually quilted
Use FREESHIP at checkout

Red Baby by Redrane
Baby and Toddler Items - Swaddling blankets, burpies, car seat blankets, some OOAK clothing
10-35% off selected items

Reet Momma
make personalized xmas stockings and each one is uniquely designed for the person

Snuggly Monkey
Ouchie Pouches, Toys and Accessories
Certain items are 20-25% off - look for the "CIJ SALE" in the title (including my Snuggly Baby Dolls!); And 10% off all non-CIJ SALE items with CIJSALE coupon code

sugarbumps creations
unique children's appliques, accessories, and clothing
20% off any purchase coupon code JULYSALE.
Sunny Brook Farm Design
specific items marked down with "Sale" in the title

SweeterThanSweets
All holiday items - hooded towels, hair clips, etc. - will be on sale.
20% off all holiday items

Swirly Sensations
tie dyed items (tshirts, dresses, bags..etc)
FREE SHIPPING on all READY TO SHIP items

The Bitsy Beau
Childrens hair accessories and hand knit hats
Entire store is 15% off with coupon code CIJ15 and a free gift with $25 or more purchased

The Little LOVE Bug
Felt Play Food
Use coupon code LOVE15BUG for 15% off your order

The Lollipop Boutique
hair accessories (bows, clips, headbands etc), Baby wipe cases

The Sewing Loft
Unique Children's Accessories and Gift's
15% off entire order - coupon code CHRISTMASINJULY

the trendy tot
Red Snow Flake Jumper and other items are also available in the sale section

The Trendy Tot Shop
tutus, tutu outfits, and flower headbands. Everything will be on sale
10% off everything just enter coupon code christmasinjuly

The Voodoo Kitten- Cranky Cat Studio
Baby and toddler items including blankets, bibs, burps, clothing, hair accessories, diaper bags, and more 20% off everything

Trendy Tykes- TTykes
embroidered items for Infants, Toddlers & Moms. I will have my Cookies & Milk Place Mat & my Princess Playwear Jacket on sale @ 20% off plus free shipping on both items

TwoLovebugs
Baby blankets, burp cloths etc
Everything will be 20% off with coupon code JulyXmas

TZ Burps
plush owls and birds and other gifts for children
20% off purchase with coupon code Julyxmas

Villa Pernilla
a free snackbag with every order in my shop.

WalterSilva aka: Silva Ware
Kid's Decor, Original ART, Wall Plaques, Wall Sculptures
Everything in the Shop 15% off

Zoe Girl Designs
Children's Clothing Boutique
Buy 2 items and receive the 3rd item 50% off (3rd item must be of equal or less value)

Attempting the Shirt Dress

Awesome finds today at The Clothes Secret on Bank Street here in Ottawa. Paid $3.50 each and I'm thinking of turning these gems into one-of-a-kind summer dresses. I've been browsing and I found a few very cute patterns from some of my favorite sewing blogs. I think that I'm going to "wing it". Having a toddler sized mannequin really helps...

• http://www.dana-made-it.com/2009/04/summer-fun-shirt-dress-tutorial.html
  
• http://recycledcrafts.craftgossip.com/transform-a-mens-shirt-into-a-dress/2009/04/30/
• http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=170402.0

And I REALLY hope this last one is a joke. If I ever made this for my partner, he's probably move out.

• http://crafterhours.blogspot.com/2010/04/girls-dress-to-mens-shirt-refashion.html

Wish me luck! I'll post pictures of my progress!

Blog Share - Jello Oranges by Spoiled Sugar

Check out Spoiled Sugar's super cute, Jello Oranges idea!
http://spoiledsugar.ca/blog/2011/07/jello-oranges/#comment-22

Proud Member of Etsy Kids!

Thanks everyone, we finally did it! Use coupon code "ETSYKID" to get 10% off your next www.bibmababy.com purchase! Good until July 31, 2011.

Coping with Stress and Other Fun Things Mom Didn't Tell You...

It may seem like there's not much to do these days while coping with my stress - loss of a dear friend - who I'm still very much grieving, sudden job loss while on mat leave, baby related sleep deprivation. These days, I seem to be burning the candle at both ends. The only thing that keeps me going is Kate's humour. She smiles and and claps at anything that I say. Now that she uses the "word" mama, which becomes mamamamama when she's upset, it pulls me back to reality and realize that I still have a good grip on my life. I'm exploring options to my professional life. I can't see myself being a full-time stay at home mom right now... Kudos to any parent who can - but I miss the hustle and bustle of a hectic office life. (How weird am I? I hate my job some days, but miss it terribly on others - maybe it's the presence of real adult interaction with no mention of babies.)

Recently, I've tried to pull back on my home business projects and start doing things for my family. Mainly of course, the peanut. I've been working on a quilt for her for the last 2 weeks and I'm really proud of it's outcome. I've been trying to get more exercise, we bike on a daily basis, and run twice a week. Morale is still the same. I thought I was coping with all of life's events - but sleep walking has started, jumping out of bed at night, the occasional crying fit and more recently, the shooting pains in the head. All books and posts read read: "Keep life simple, you have a baby." Problem is, I don't know how. The kitchen's a mess, the laundry's piled up, the house needs a deep cleaning and my hair looks like a rat's nest. I'm unhappy with that part of my life, but not much can be done when we're keeping spending to a minimum (so a maid service is not even questionable) and I don't have much of a support system nearby - phone calls yes! Presence no.

"Take charge of your thoughts! Take charge of your emotions! Define your schedule!" blah blah blah... just Keep on Keeping on. Finding a balanced life and some sort of relaxation is really what I'm after these days. Don't get me wrong - I'm not in this alone, I have a very supportive partner and when he comes home from work, he takes over. I envy those who have mom nearby to whisk baby away for a day. To those I say "I hate you." Just kidding, but only a little.


So back to applying to a bunch of jobs where I'll receive the inevitable "I'm sorry, we have nothing to offer you at the moment since we are also under review" email. I have a few back-up plans - my own shop, my own art studio,... something will happen. I just can't afford to go crazy when this crazy bean is laughing at me.

NOISE ON TOYS REVIEW: Baby Alive 1st For Me - Luv’N Snuggle Doll

The Noise on Toys (FACEBOOK) (WEB)
'An independant consumer's guide to "bestest" kid tested toys'

Remember how I mentioned that I had found an amazing toy testers circle? (See here if you've already forgotten about that post...). I'm finally allowed to talk about it! I first heard about The Noise on Toys through Vicky from Ottawa Cloth Diapers. She suggested I try it out since she had such a positive experience testing toys for them. So here's the low-down on them... they offer a slew of feedback on some of today's most popular toys - feedback offered by volunteers (you could be one too!) who take their time to fill out on-line journals, that really are not at all time consuming, to keep featured companies informed on what works and what doesn't whether it's toy safety (which they DO take seriously), fun factor, price range, age appropriateness and more! I really enjoy the fact that after the testing period is over, toys are generously donated to local organizations.

Testing periods generally last about 3 months and can vary from babies to adults! You get to peruse through an extensive list of available toys arranged by age, and request the most appealing to you! I'm hoping to get my hands on some board games since between the bf and I... we're all little bit of game night fanatics. My first toy testing review was the Baby Alive 1st For Me Love 'n' Snuggle Doll by Hasbro.

Baby Alive 1st For Me: Love'n'Snuggle
by Hasbro (WEB)
Retail: $11.99 CAD
Rating: 7.5 out of 10

I recently decided to jump into toy testing since my days of testing diapers is virtually come to an end (I found what works and thought why spend more money?) I decided to start off with the Baby Alive 1st For Me Collection, specifically the Luv'N Snuggle Doll by Hasbro (picture pulled from Hasbro). My testing period was about 3 months for this toy.

Likes:

• The doll is small and can easily be carried in a diaper bag when on the go. Perfect size for little hands!
  
• The bright colors and fun and vibrant. It caught my baby's attention immediately.
• The use of COMPLETELY recyclable packaging - even down to the paper twist ties! Thumbs up on that one!
• My baby quickly took to the toy.
• She was really interested in the ponytails, but lost interest once she found the tags.
• Easy to clean, baby got applesauce all over doll, easy wipe clean design. Have not machine washed yet.
• The puppet action is neat - it makes for great interaction with baby.

Dislikes:

• Only 1 of the 2 feet crinkles
• Ponytails could be slightly bigger to make it easier to chew on.
• Polyester fibres poked through the fabric within 10 mintues of play, need to keep a close eye on baby since she was chewing on fibres that came through the body of the doll.
• Baby lost interest in the toy only several days after initial introduction. A few days after the initial introduction of the toy, she wouldn't pick the doll out by herself from the toy box. When the doll is given to her, she doesn't give it much attention and quickly moves on to something else.

Review - 2.5 out of 5 (that's cause my daughter didn't care much for it...)

This doll was an adorable addition to my daughter's already boyish toy box. Baby got really excited when we first introduced her to the toy. The initial play session was for a good 10 minutes with no interruptions. She carried the doll around and gave it kisses and hugs. Then again, we were off to a very uneventful family affair and this kept her mind busy. After having the doll for two months, my daughter completely lost interest in it. She will only play with it, if I take it out of the toy box and play with it first - and even then, it's momentarily. However, we have a walker/stroller that came with a similar doll and she does prefer the Baby Alive version.

Final opinion? I think it really depends on your child - mine seems to prefer bells and tambourines - basically any loud music. We have something that we call the "Kate Smash!" cause she loves to be as loud as she possibly can - this toy was not in her mind set, but would probably be an excellent toy for someone a little more "nurturing" than my little tom-boy. The price point is excellent - as about $12 Canadian... you couldn't get a cuter doll!

NOTE: I did not receive any compensation for this review. These opinions are my own. Toys are donated to shelters after the completion of this review.

Blog Share: The Truth about Tea Tree Oil and Cloth Diapers

Who knew you could be doing more wrong than good!

http://everythingbirth.wordpress.com/2010/06/15/the-truth-about-tea-tree-oil-and-cloth-diapers/

You're 8. Why are you drinking an energy drink?

I saw something disturbing tonight. As I was waiting in the car with baby while dad ran in for some much needed Pepto, I saw 2 boys walk out of the store giddy like they had stolen a beer from Dad. Boy in blue pulled out a really big can of Rockstar Energy Drink. I was in a bit of a shock, I mean... I'll be honest. I've drank the stuff... when I was nodding off in the car driving for 8 hours! - I've never been able to get passed half of it because of the rapid heart beat I suffer from drinking that stuff. Shocker number 2? Boy in red proceeded to chug the drink - when boy in blue snatched it and drank the rest... in under a minute!!!! Can you say Jolt and CRASH!? Didn't realize heart palpitations were cool. I guess Tang is lame now. Oh well. See you in 5 years when the next best thing to you is a cigarette.

Ottawa Mommy Club

Be sure to visit www.ottawamommyclub.ca and support your local WHAMs! This Club was created in hopes for Moms in Ottawa to find new trends, product recalls and health issues, to read on family related topics, ask an expert a question and much more! Keep your eye out on upcoming activities OR you can even help out by submitting some of your own! Receive newsletters citing deals and contests and have chances to win great prizes! Best of all ... it's FREE to JOIN!

My Fave Diaper Covers

Okay, so my little one is over 8 months now - time sure flies! I've been using a lot of diapers that need covers for nighttime - My FuzziBunz and Charlie Bananas are cutting it for nighttime soaks. After flip-flopping from several companies, I think I may have found a winner for our needs.

What I've tried
Forward Thinking, Rumperooz, Bummis, Kushies, Gen-Y, Home-made wool covers and longies, and Woolly Bottoms covers.

What I'm thinking of trying
Since I ADORE my GroVia AIO and my Dream-eze for nighttime use, I'm thinking of using a GroVia Shell over my Kiwi-Pie, Little Beetle and Dream-Eze Organic (I got rid of my good-mama at the last diaper swap).

Verdict
Before I make my final decision, any thoughts on the matter? It's time to trim my stash again, and I'd like to try all my options before I potentially get rid of a system that could have worked if I had coupled it right...

Rumparooz, how I adore you!!!

Pail Liner - 4 out of 5

I got me the GREATEST wetbag EVER!!!! (Okay, I think it's actually a pail liner.) It's HUGE!!! and I mean HUGE!!!!!! It's the size of a garbage bag, I swear, I could easily put a sleeping bag in it with a pillow and still have room to spare.

When I first opened it I thought, you have got to be kidding me, I can cut this up and make 2 maybe 3 bags out of this!? But I'm happy I didn't. I find the issue I have with most wetbags is the "just toss it in the wash" issue... the diapers never all fall out and you end up with a few that haven't been cleaned. I always took all my diapers out of my wetbag and flipped it inside out. When I got this gigantosaurus I decided to test it out. NO elastic on the mouth of the back means everything slid out easily!

I also noticed something that my other liners don't do... actually keep ALL moisture in. I noticed that if I put my bags down on the cement floor before throwing them in the wash, I'd get a moisture spot on the floor. Not with this puppy....

Only issue is that it's too big for my MotherEase Pail... it bunched and the lid doesn't snap down properly because of all the bulk. Can't have them all!

PS - the print is a huge bonus. I got the firetrucks print called "Ladder6".

NOTE: I did not receive any compensation for this review. These opinions are my own. I purchased this diaper bag at my own cost.

MYI Diaper Sprayer

I adore my diaper sprayer, and feel like it's my "one baby thing I couldn't live without". Why? I use it to wash my pocket dogs and clean the tub and shower.

They can get pricey so here's someone who was smart enough to make one for the fraction of the cost... you just need to do a little leg-work.

http://gidgetgoeshome.com/2008/08/25/diy-tutorial-make-your-own-diaper-sprayer/

Help local moms fight cancer!

Spoiled Sugar (WEB) (FACEBOOK) is hosting an auction in support of the Weekend to End cancer where all proceeds of the auction are going to this cause!

Bibmababy (WEB) (FACEBOOK)has donated a Swing Top and a Toddler Tie to the cause! You can find these items and many other great grabs at the auction HERE!

The Auction starts on April 15th 2010 at 9:15am.
There are definitely some items I will be bidding on. So happy to see so many locals businesses donating FANTASTIC items!!! Good luck and happy bidding!

--------------------------
More info on her blog: http://spoiledsugar.ca/blog/2011/04/made-by-you-wednesdays-miracles/

New Review Coming Soon!

Sorry Blog, I've neglected you this month - being sick just easy peaches and sunshine. Between Norwalk Flu and 2, yes 2! colds... I'm barely surviving. I've been lagging in my sewing too. Just vegging mostly and trying to get through the day. Enough excuses, time to get to the nitty gritty.

I'll be posting toy reviews soon! Yay! I managed to get in on a review circle for toys, but unfortunately cannot discuss them until I've sent in my review... then I get to share the goods with you.

So! In the time being, I will finish my diaper essentials reviews. I'll be reviewing Rumperooz diaper pail (love!) and the rumperooz one-size cover (meh). Stay tuned for baby's nap time for this beauty to go up.

I've also been working on a website for Sweet Face's Online store. Yay Northern Ontario WHAMs! I'm pretty excited to be working on this. It's turning into a really fun project for me.

Isn't this the cutest have ever? Now back to my baby!

Reminder!

MYO Wool Dryer Balls Workshop!

http://lifewithkate.blogspot.com/2011/03/join-me-at-wabi-sabi-ottawa.html

Eat. Sleep. Poop. - Change Table Essentials

Do you have all your essentials in hand's reach for when life gives you all sorts of messes? Here are the things that I think you should have set-up in/or or near your station.

Diapers Whether it's prefolds, All-in-Ones, Pockets, Fitteds or whatever your diaper vice may be, you want to make sure to have plenty of diapers on hand. (I even keep 2-3 disposables within reach in case I run out of cloth.) Take them out of the package and prep them (see "Why Did I Decide to Use Cloth".) If you use liners, it may be wise to pre-line them or keep a roll near your diapers and place one in the diaper if you anticipate any bowel movements. Liners are biodegradable and make clean-up a breeze.

Wipes I keep a wipes warmer on the second shelf filled with cotton, fleece and bamboo wipes filled with warm water and a baby-safe essential oil blend. I also keep a box of pre-moistened wipes next to a box of tissues on the top shelf for the dry poops.

Diaper Pail or Diaper Bag I have a MotherEase Pail lined with a laundering bag. You don't need to get all fancy like I did, a simple laundering bag hanging off the door will suffice. Kate has very stinky pees so I like to keep her dirty diapers in a well ventilated area.

Diaper Rash Creams and Bottom Balms Keep rashes at bay by keeping the bum dry. One wet wipe and one dry wipe is key. Adding a very thing layer of balm is a good way to stay on top of redness.

Cradle cap cream, lotion, nose aspirators and nail clippers You probably examine you baby the most when you're at the changing station. Keep creams handy for that unexpected grooming.

Mom Essentials The change table isn't all about Baby... remember to add some hair elastics to keep your hair out of your face and lip balm to help soothe you - you're such a scatterbrain these days that you'll probably forget about your lips the minute you leave the baby room.

And of course,... A CHANGING PAD AND COVER!
A well-equipped changing station will make your life a lot easier!

Join Me at Wabi Sabi Ottawa!

Working as Bibmababy (WEB) (FACEBOOK), I've been running uphill trying to catch up with custom wool dryer ball requests. I've decided to partner up with Wabi Sabi Ottawa and offer a Tutorial Class! Are you in the Ottawa, Canada area? Register for Thursday's Mommy Friendly Class on April 14th 2011 at 10am-12 noon or Saturday's Class offered on May 14th from 10 am to 12 noon!

WHAT are Wool Dryer Balls you ask? Well, they're exactly that. 100% Wool in ball form! They are made from spun wool yarn, batting or roving that’s felted, either by hand or through a washing and drying process.

WHERE can I use these fun Wool Balls? There's a gazillion reasons for them - I use them mainly for the Dryer, but they double up as drawer, closet, gym bag, boot and car fresheners. Leave them unscented and they become House-Friendly Toy balls! As much as the dogs love them, word to the wise… keep them away. Dogs LOVE the smell… and them tear apart, leaving wool bits EVERYWHERE!

HOW do Wool Balls help laundering clothes? When placed in the dryer along with your wet laundry, the dryer balls bounce around like Bingo balls and help to lift and separate the clothes, reducing static as well as leaving clothes feeling soft and fluffy. They also reduce dying time by improving the circulation of heat and air and the balls themselves soak up excess moisture in turn cutting into hydro costs. If you have a fragrance sensitivity, these work great over using fabric softeners. If you don't - add essential oils for a natural non-toxic alternative. It's supposed to reduce static - but I have yet to see proof of that. However, I have noticed a must faster result in drying towels and my cloth diapers - almost 20 minutes! Personally I find that amazing.

The balls are about the size of a tennis ball and tightly felted. I recommend you have about 3-4 of these in your dryer to start. We now have about 8 of these in the dryer. 1oz of wool seems to do the trick, but the heavier the ball the better… to a certain extent of course. We want them to bounce around, not launder a brick. :)

WHY are Wool felted balls better than the commercially available plastic ones?

• They are inexpensive to make since you can use upcycled wool from an old sweater rather than new material.
• Using an all-natural wool means no harsh chemicals!
• The banging sound is a lot quieter!
• Finally, the potential reduction in clothing lifespan is not a problem considering they are a cloth product themselves.

In this course I will be teaching you how to make a regular ball with batting by wet felting and one by machine felting. This will also be used as a core for our fancier balls - a roving ball and a decorated ball by felting on shapes and adding wool webbing.

WHEN can I take this class? For more information on this course or to take any of Wabi Sabi's fun creative courses, visit Wabi Sabi Ottawa (WEB) or Call: (613) 725-KNIT. Wool Dryer Balls Classes are offered Thursday, April 14th from 10 am - 12 noon and Saturday, May 14th 10am - 12 noon.

Twig Studio Dollhouse Giveaway at 3 Little Monkeys!

Someone is going to win a free Twig Studio Dollhouse!

I've been dying to find a great dollhouse for Kate, yes, she's still a bit young, but I'd like to get a leg up on this. I this every little girl should have her very own dollhouse. I've looked at Fisher Price ones, but I don't know how I feel about that plasticky, "every kid on the block owns one of these" playhouses. I love it when Kate gets something she an call her own, and that she can be proud that I just didn't go to Zellers to pick one up for her. I visited a local woodworker to see how much he would charge me for a simple dollhouse... and the price? OUCH!!! I've been eying one at 3 Little Monkeys (WEB) (FACEBOOK) . I fell in love with this gem, it has an original style and at $99-$199 in price... can't complain! The Twig Studio Dollhouses (WEB) are simply adorable!!! This is a Waldorf Style Wooden Dollhouse made with Laminated Birch finished with Natural non-toxic paints and beeswax. All the little doors are fully functional with real little leather hinges and door pulls.

This beauty is not only fun for the kidding but super easy to put together. So no headaches for mom and dad! Made of a slotted construction, which means no tools needed! Assembles like a puzzle. It's features 2 main floors, a half floor loft, and 2 balconies - oh la la! With little hands in mind, the house also has many reach through points. People and accessories are not included and you also need to buy the grassy/pebbly base separately - but this is sure to make any little boy or girl happy!

Please see the Giveaway Rules on 3 Little Monkeys' Facebook Page. They will ship to anywhere in North America (see details for shipping).

The winner will be drawn randomly - you can have up to 9 entries in the draw! Good Luck!

Chiquita Baby presents: How to wash your diapers using a front loader!

This is similar to my washing routine, however, I take my diapers out of the bag and I don't add water. I soak a towel and throw that in the machine too. Every 2 weeks, I run a second rinse without soap to reduce the risk of residue or ammonia build up. You also don't want to run the machine with too little diapers... you want them to rub together! This helps get rid of any cling-ons.

AppleCheeks Review: Update

I wrote up a quick review about AppleCheeks a few months back. Here's a video on how to get the best out of your AppleCheeks diapers.