The Baby Guy Contest - don't miss it

Seriously folks!  Don't miss out on this giveaway - it's HUGE and fabulous!
Products include Munchkin, Inc., Clek and much more to come!

Visit http://www.babyguygearguide.com/
He's on day 8 but there's still time to enter days 2-8 and he's going to do 12 days!

So, why are you still here - GO!
~Carly

You won't want to miss it

So, there's this guy.  He lives in NYC.  His name is Jaime.  He's a rock star baby planner, gear guru, a guncle of twins, a wine lover and is giving away a BOAT LOAD of awesome stuff in his 12 days of giveaways!

Trust me, you do not want to miss it.  And, you're chances of winning are pretty good.

Visit Baby Guy Gear Guide HERE to enter.

You're welcome :)

And, I'll remind you every day of the contest to enter via Facebook and Twitter.

~Carly

Little moments

I miss the days of my now 3 year old and 22 month old when they were newborns. So soft, snuggly and, well - new.

Every now and again I catch a glimpse of those babies that will always be there - despite the whining, crying and fun associated with toddlers.

Today I caught one of those moments - these little moments that I get every day in different ways - that remind me not to take things for granted. Not to yell so much or expect too much from them. To let them just be kids - and to just be.

It's these little moments I treasure. And today, I caught a glimpse of my babies again while they peacefully napped. With our fur-baby not too far away - protecting, as usual.

Holding onto "Me" as a Mom

There are some days when I think back to the life of leisurely dinners out with my husband and good friends, last-minute weekend trips or lounging a little longer in bed on a Sunday morning.  

Luckily, those days aren’t gone, but they have taken a back-seat to our life now with our kids. 

When you become a parent, you know it is the most amazing, life changing experience – both figuratively and literally.  You feel as if you could never love someone more.  Ever.  

Yet, somehow, while that love grew and grew for my children, somehow it diminished the “love” I seemed to show myself. 

Even though it was a choice we made, I started to feel guilty for wanting to be kid-free for a few hours and feeling I needed to be away from my children. I started to feel like something was wrong with me for feeling like that.  These are the types of things I like to call the “dark-side” of parenting. 

However, I’m here to tell you it is in fact completely normal to feel that way and it does not make you a bad parent.  In fact – it may make you a better one.  

I came across two great posts on the subject with some excellent tips:

A Post at Mommyologist

Connected Parenting

A slight part of the problem is I love being with my kids! Even though I still find it hard to take time away from my kids, it’s become something I’m very aware of now because it is healthy and important for everyone.  

So now that I’m aware of it, what am I doing about it?  I’ve decided it’s time to focus on myself again.* I’m reconnecting with my friends and making sure my husband and I continue to take time for each other. 

Additionally, my daughter is starting preschool in just a week or so now and that will be great for her, too.  In time, it will be easier as our kids get older. 

Even though I let a little piece of myself go in becoming a mother, I’ve found it’s easy to get it back and I’ve gained so much more in the “sacrifice”.

If you’re looking for a great laugh and an honest take on motherhood, check out Scary Mommy.



Me & my kiddos



Note: This was a recent column of mine from my Mom's Talk column featured on Patch

*Editor's note: Carly started a new job with Plum District and continues her baby planning business

Dealing With Separation Anxiety

Hello!  

I'd like to share with you some great advice from Elizabeth Pantley on the subject of Separation Anxiety.

This new awareness your child is experiencing is often a concern amongst parents and can create it's own set of stress, guilt and anxiety for parents themselves.

My own two children - ages 3 and 21 months - have both gone through varying stages of this  and am currently going through this stage with my 21 month old son.  I literally cannot seem to hold him enough.  If I sit on the floor, he has to be in my lap.  Despite being very into playing with toys, reading a book or happily playing with his sister - if I so much as walk into the other room (even though he can see me) he runs into the room crying "Ma-Ma!" as if I was walking out the door to the house!  

As anything with babies and toddlers - and eventually into the teenage years - it's all a phase and we hope it shall pass.  But while you're in the midst of it all, it can be hard to feel that it will never end.  Especially with tears, whining and constant nagging or crying.

So, if you find that you're coming into this phase, you're past it, or right here with me in the middle of it all - please read the excerpt below.

I'd love to hear some feedback or ways you plan to or have coped in the past.

Separation Anxiety

By Elizabeth Pantley, Author of Gentle Baby Care

My baby is only happy when I’m within arm’s reach. If I dare to leave the room, she cries as if I’ve left the country! I can’t even so much as take a shower these days, let alone leave the house without her. My mother-in-law says it’s because I’ve spoiled her. Is she right? Have I made her so clingy?

Nothing you’ve done has “made” your baby develop separation anxiety. It’s a perfectly normal and important developmental adaptation. Nearly all children experience separation anxiety between the ages of seven and 18 months. Some have more intense reactions than others, and for some, the stage lasts longer than others, but almost all babies have it to some degree.

The development of separation anxiety demonstrates that your baby has formed a healthy, loving attachment to you. It is a beautiful sign that your baby associates pleasure, comfort, and security with your presence. It also indicates that your baby is developing intellectually (in other words, she’s smart!) She has learned that she can have an effect on her world when she makes her needs known, and she doesn’t have to passively accept a situation that makes her uncomfortable. She doesn’t know enough about the world yet to understand that when you leave her you’ll always come back. She also realizes that she is safest, happiest, and best cared for by you, so her reluctance to part makes perfect sense ¾ especially when viewed from a survival standpoint. Put another way: You are her source of nourishment, both physical and emotional; therefore, her attachment to you is her means of survival, and when she reaches a certain level of intellectual maturity, she realizes this.

This stage, like so many others in childhood, will pass. In time, your baby will learn that she can separate from you, that you will return, and that everything will be okay between those two points in time. Much of this learning is based on trust, which, just as for every human being young or old, takes time to build.

How do I know if my baby has separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is pretty easy to spot, and you’re probably reading this section because you’ve identified it in your baby. The following are behaviors typically demonstrated by a baby with normal separation anxiety:

• Clinginess
• Crying when a parent is out of sight
• Strong preference for only one parent
• Fear of strangers
• Waking at night crying for a parent
• Easily comforted in a parent’s embrace

 How you can help your baby with separation anxiety

• Allow your baby to be a baby. It’s perfectly okay — even wonderful — for your baby to be so attached to you and for her to desire your constant companionship. Congratulations, Mommy or Daddy: It’s evidence that the bond you’ve worked so hard to create is holding. So politely ignore those who tell you otherwise.
  
  
• Don’t worry about spoiling her with your love, since quite the opposite will happen. The more that you meet her attachment needs during babyhood, the more confident and secure she will grow up to be.
  
  
• Minimize separations when possible. It’s perfectly acceptable for now ¾ better, in fact ¾ to avoid those situations that would have you separate from your baby. All too soon, your baby will move past this phase and on to the next developmental milestone.

• Give your baby lessons in object permanence. As your baby learns that things continue to exist even when she can’t see them, she’ll feel better about letting you out of her sight. Games like peek-a-boo and hide-and-seek will help her understand this phenomenon.
  
  
• Practice with quick, safe separations. Throughout the day, create situations of brief separation. When you go into another room, whistle, sing, or talk to your baby so she knows you’re still there, even though she can’t see you.
  
  
• Don’t sneak away when you have to leave her. It may seem easier than dealing with a tearful goodbye, but it will just cause her constant worry that you’re going to disappear without warning at any given moment. The result? Even more clinginess, and diminished trust in your relationship.
  
  
• Tell your baby what to expect. If you are going to the store and leaving her at home with Grandma, explain where you are going and tell her when you’ll be back. Eventually, she’ll come to understand your explanations.
  
  
• Don’t rush the parting, but don’t prolong it, either. Give your baby ample time to process your leave-taking, but don’t drag it out and make it more painful for both of you.
  
  
• Express a positive attitude when leaving her. If you’re off to work, or an evening out, leave with a smile. Your baby will absorb your emotions, so if you’re nervous about leaving her, she’ll be nervous as well. Your confidence will help alleviate her fears.
  
  
• Leave your baby with familiar people. If you must leave your baby with a new caregiver, try to arrange a few visits when you’ll all be together before you leave the two of them alone for the first time.
  
  
• Invite distractions. If you’re leaving your baby with a caregiver or relative, encourage that person to get your baby involved with playtime as you leave. Say a quick good-bye and let your baby be distracted by an interesting activity. 
  
  
• Allow your baby the separation that she initiates. If she crawls off to another room, don’t rush after her. Listen and peek, of course, to make sure that she’s safe, but let her know it’s fine for her to go off exploring on her own.
  
  
• Encourage her relationship with a special toy, if she seems to have one. These are called transitional objects or lovies. They can be a comfort to her when she’s separated from you. Many babies adopt blankets or soft toys as loveys, holding them to ease any pain of separation. The lovey becomes a friend and represents security in the face of change.
  
  
• Don’t take it personally. Many babies go through a stage of attaching themselves to one parent or the other. The other parent, as well as grandparents, siblings and friends can find this difficult to accept, but try to reassure them that it’s just a temporary and normal phase of development and with a little time and gentle patience it will pass.
  
  

This article is an excerpt from Gentle Baby Care by Elizabeth Pantley. (McGraw-Hill, 2003)  

Discipline and your child

Hello!

I hope this post finds you well! 

Even though my official title is Baby Planner - that doesn't mean I do not assist parents with older children as well - especially toddlers.

Since I have a toddler and now a preschooler in our home, I'm in the middle of toddlerhood, including discipline, tantrums and the craziness of it all. 

You name a discipline tactic and it's guaranteed I've tried it!  (Well, most ones anyways!)

I came across this article on a blog and wanted to share it with you all.

So whether you're right there with me in toddlerhood or you're cuddling your sweet newborn - do yourself a favor and just have a quick look. 

Don't worry - I'll still be here if or when you need some help :)

Janet Lansbury's No Bad Kids

Product Review: Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner - free & simple

First, so sorry it's been so long for a post - things have been crazy around here! 

Anywhooo - I had an amazing opportunity from  Healthy Child to use and review Bona's new free & simple product from their line of products. 

I was introduced to the Bona brand a few years back when I did some freelance work for a hardwood floor company.  The owner provided me with a sample and I was hooked.  At the time I had much less mess to clean.  :sigh:  

image courtesy of Bona web site



Fast forward to life now with a bigger home, more to clean, two kids and a dog - it goes without saying that our hardwood floors get messy fast. 

Fortunately, I have some wonderful products that make cleaning these messes easier - and that includes this new line from Bona. 

The free & simple cleaner is quite effective and powerful - despite the misconception that green cleaners are not as effective as those with harsh chemicals.  The free & clear product is just as it's name states: free of dyes and scents, hypoallergenic and is non-toxic and completely biodegradable. 

I can use this product and not have to wrangle my two toddlers to ensure they are at a safe distance from where I'm cleaning.  And, if the dog walks through a wet or freshly cleaned area (as she always does!) I do not have to worry about her tracking her chemical-laden paws through other areas of our home.  I don't have to worry about her paws being irritated by harsh cleansers, either!

After using the product on my floors, the wood felt so fresh and comfortable to walk on - you know that feeling of freshly cleaned floors.  Even though I couldn't "smell" the clean as it is unscented, I surely could feel it underfoot.  I'm truly trying to dis-associate that smell association with cleaning products! 

As I type this review, I am thinking of my list of to-do's for the week and beyond and cleaning our hardwoods is on that list.

So if you're in the market for a new cleaner or know someone who may benefit from this product, please share and let them know about it!  

And, if you have questions about any easy and simple steps to greening your home, visit Healthy Child for some excellent information! 

NOTE: I was given the Bona free & simple product for free.  However, I was not paid to write a positive review.  This review is of my own experience and honest opinion.  

Product Review & Giveaway!

I'm convinced that some of the baby products, gear and toy companies design certain things just to make life miserable.  For example - the toys that have a zillion pieces to keep track of or the crazy beeping noises some toys make.  Today, I'm specifically also referring to the odd shape and inability to stack jars of baby food.  

I still clearly remember how completely annoying it was to keep the containers of baby food organized in the small space I had allotted in our kitchen cabinets.  Keeping them organized, let alone stacked, in any sort of fashion was pretty impossible.  Reaching around to grab a specific one while desperately trying not to knock them all over was never easy.  Needless to say, I had broken quite a few jars over the years.  

However, I'm thrilled to share with you there is now no need for you to experience the frustration and disorganization I had to deal with!  

I've been given the opportunity to review (and give away!!!) an amazing product by PRK Products, Inc. called the Universal Baby Food Jar Storage & Organizer. 



Image courtesy of PRK web site

It is was designed by a mother of four who created this for us fellow mommies to make our lives easier!  

Aside from home use, I can see this being very helpful if used by day care providers or households where there are children who are close in age but eat different foods.  This could keep it very simple and organized for everyone!

I can also see this being a wonderful gift idea for a baby shower, family members, relatives or even for a co-worker. 

(I don't know about you, but I love giving the not-so-run-of-the-mill baby shower gifts - and this would be great!)

Here are some of the features of the organizer:

• Easy to assemble
• Holds all sizes and stages of jars  - up to 16 jars
• Can even organize the smaller plastic square containers
• Made of BPA-free materials
• Sturdy construction with ability to stack multiple units
• Has four rows for ease of organization
• Rows are slanted so jars easily slide forward for access to next one
• Space saving vertical design
• On their site, they even offer labels to be printed for even better organization

I truly wish this product was available for my family years ago and could have saved me the hassle. 

So, one lucky person will win the Universal Baby Food Jar Storage & Organizer!

All you have to do to enter is "like" Newly Nested on Facebook - do that here. 

Once you've done that, just leave me a comment here letting me know you've done so.

The contest closes at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 8th.

It's that simple!  I like simple things, don't you?

For more information on the organizer, please visit PRK Products, Inc. web site here.

What are you really putting on your babies this summer?

Now that the temperatures are skyrocketing and we're getting into summer-mode, I'm sure trips to the beach and hitting up a local pool is on the to-do list.

However, as you're packing up the swim diapers, towels, bathing suits and of course - sun block - can you be truly sure that you're slathering on the best sun protection? 

Chances are, your sunblock of choice may be doing more harm than good. 

To get the real deal on the contents and safety of sunscreen (among thousands of other health and beauty products) the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has compiled this information for us. 

EWG's mission is to use the power of public information to protect public health and the environment.  If you visit their web site, you'll fall in love with them and refer to them frequently - mostly because of this:

At EWG, our team of scientists, engineers, policy experts, lawyers and computer programmers pores over government data, legal documents, scientific studies and our own laboratory tests to expose threats to your health and the environment, and to find solutions. Our research brings to light unsettling facts that you have a right to know.

I love this statement and could not agree more.  So back to the point of this post: sun block.

First, if you own any of the following items - get rid of them immediately:
(Note: Below is taken directly from EGW's site)

Hawaiian Tropic Baby Stick Sunscreen SPF 50

Hawaiian Tropic’s website claims “Less Chemical Sunscreens” for this baby sunscreen stick. Truth is, it contains two chemicals to that don’t belong on a baby’s skin – the hormone disruptor oxybenzone and a form vitamin A called retinyl palmitate. A recent federal government study shows retinyl palmitate may speed up the growth of skin tumors.
The final straw? The UVA protection factor for this sunscreen is less than 10 – a far cry from the 50 SPF plastered on the package. It’s not good enough to be sold in Europe.

 

 

Baby Blanket SunBlankie Towelette SPF 45+

This baby sunscreen advertises “maximum allowable protection for babies” but doesn’t deliver.  If the FDA’s proposed rating system were in force today, it would earn only one of four stars for UVA protection, according to EWG’s analysis. It doesn’t have enough UVA protection to meet European standards.  Your baby’s skin may not get burned, but UVA rays could penetrate it and cause skin damage that would accumulate, possibly triggering cancer later in life.

 

Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection SPF 55

The label of this product says “mild as water.” We don’t think so.  The label also warns, “Stop use and ask a doctor if rash or irritation develops and lasts.” And you wouldn’t want a child to swallow it like water. The label adds, “keep out of reach of children” and “get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.”  Sunscreen makers can make exaggerated claims because the industry is unregulated. FDA officials have been promising they may wind up their deliberations later this year – and then give the industry a year to adjust. If that’s the case, the rules may be ready for beach season – in 2013. In the meantime, EWG has created this guide to give consumers information they need to make the right decisions for themselves and their families.

 

Coppertone Water Babies Sunscreen Lotion SPF 70+

Coppertone advises users of this baby product to apply “liberally.”  But scientists who have researched its key sunscreen chemical, oxybenzone, warn against using it over large surfaces of skin and over many hours. These warnings are particularly strong for young children who don’t eliminate toxic chemicals from their bodies as readily as adults and who have more skin relative to their body weight than adults.  Oxybenzone readily seeps through the skin and into the bloodstream and acts like estrogen in the body.  This Coppertone sunscreen is one of more than 20 sunscreens with the word “baby” in their name and the chemical oxybenzone on their ingredient lists. Don’t buy them.

Rite Aid Kids Sunscreen Spray Lotion SPF 45

On the front of the bottle, this products claims to be “NON-IRRITATING.” Check the reverse panel, though and you’ll see a different message: “Stop use and ask a doctor if rash or irritation develops and lasts.”  The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends this spray as “an effective UV sunscreen.” But it’s not good enough to be sold in Europe, according to a standard industry sunscreen model. Its UVA protection is too weak to earn a spot on store shelves in the European Union. If the FDA’s proposed UVA rating system takes effect as it is now written, Rite Aid Kids Sunscreen Spray Lotion SPF 45 would earn only one of four stars. Your children deserve better.



So, what would a better option be?  Again, according to EWG, you want to look for the following in a sunscreen:

• Mineral sunscreens with ingredients like zinc and titanium
• NO oxybenzone (this is linked to hormone disruption)
• NO Vitamin A
• NO spray sunscreens or powders

Or, you could just buy any of these that are safe and effective to use on your kids:

Loving Naturals
California Baby
Badger
Aveeno
BabyGanics 

Remember, babies under 6 months of age are not to be exposed to the sun for any length of time and should not have sunblock applied to them. 

Thanks for reading!

Also, here's a shortcut to find more information on sunscreen brands:

Just a click away!

Sorry it's been awhile since my last post.  This warm weather has us out and about more.  I'm not going to complain, though. 

Anywhoooo - a recent article for my gig over at Patch for my weekly Mom's Talk column featured some great online resources that helps make life a bit easier.  That's why the Internet exists, right? Errr, something like that ;p

Either way, here's the article!

Clickable Resources - Saving you money, time and yes, even your sanity!
By Carly Kirsch, Mom's Talk on Patch.com

In this digital age that we’re in, you would think that all the technology in our lives should theoretically make things easier, right?  Well, yes…and no. 

Yes, because it makes life easier on the go with mobile phones, smart phones, iPads, iPods, and of course lap top computers.

No, because at times, the Internet can be overwhelming with so many web sites.  Not knowing where to look or start can eat up precious time or can sometimes lead to misinformation. 

To save you the hassle of figuring out where to start, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite web sites that will save you time, effort, money – but most importantly, your sanity! 

Social Sites

1. Meet Up – This web site allows you to find groups to join based on specific interests, topics or hobbies.  For me, it was a lifesaver for finding a local playgroup when I had my first child.  It’s free to sign up but some of the groups may charge a small yearly fee for membership.   There’s truly a Meet Up for everyone!
2. Babble –  This is not just another parenting board.  Babble is loaded (I mean LOADED) with blogs and useful information for you that offers a real take on parenting, cooking, life and more.
3. Facebook – Yes, you may already have an account, but are you using it to your fullest potential?  If you “like” certain businesses and local places, you can find some good discounts or special promotions.  It’s a great way to stay in touch with family and friends.  Just make sure your privacy settings are up to date!  Go here for the article about Facebook safety.
4. Twitter– Twitter is a fast-paced version of Facebook with much more opportunity for networking.  You can follow any of the local news channels and even Cheshire Patch to stay up to the minute with news, weather and more.  It’s saved me a few hours of time I otherwise would have wasted in traffic since I checked my Twitter timeline once or twice! 

Money-Saving Sites

1. Baby Cheapskate – This web site, or daily email, provides you the inside scoop on lots of sales, coupon match ups and more for baby and kid gear.  There is always information on holiday sales and sneak peeks as to what will go on sale and when. 
2. Mama Cheaps– Looking for deals on diapers?  This site has all the inside information for diaper deals both online and in store, coupon codes and a lot more.  Their tagline is "Where frugality meets family."  I've got quite a few great deals from reading this site on a number of occasions.
3. Amazon Mom – This program gives you amazing deals on products for baby and kids with fast shipping because when you sign up you receive Amazon Prime shipping with subsequent purchases!  Millions of products are available on Amazon Mom with as-expected low prices and great customer service.
4. Groupon - It's just as it's name says: Group Coupons.  Deals in Connecticut are offered via Groupon and if it's a restaurant, business or product you want, simply buy it for the group discount rate.  It's a great way to keep your eye on your inbox for some great local deals for the family.  I have a feeling as summer approaches there will be some really great family fun opportunities!
5. Living Social– A little different than Groupon, Living Social states that they can save you anywhere from 50-90% on local business offerings - but deals are usually only offered for one day.  So, once they've offered it and it's gone, it's gone! 

Time-Saving & Helpful Sites

1. Evernote – This really neat web site (and application for your smart phone) allows you to sync your smart phone with your computer for notes, voice notes and pictures so you never forget a thing!
2. Pinterest– It’s an online pinboard for ideas, crafts, places, books, fashion and so much more.  NOTE: It is currently by invite only so if you need an invitation, email me at carlykirsch@gmail.com.  It’s highly addicting so at first, you may curse me, but then love me for introducing it to you.  It’s okay, I can live with myself either way!
3. Hulu – A web site to view your favorite shows that you just can’t seem to watch during the day, or stay up for at night – right from your computer! 
4. Allrecipes – I mentioned this site last week in my Picky Eaters column, but aside from that, this site can save you time by looking up recipes based on ingredients you have in the house and it can save you the hassle of figuring out if the recipe is tasty or not based on their reviews.  You can also create an online recipes book to keep all your favorite ones! 
5. Real Simple – I have a subscription to this magazine, but you can use their web site for free and have access to all the articles and more.  They have this section titled “New Uses for Old Things”to re-purpose common household items – and some are pretty genius.  They also have fast and easy recipes, useful cleaning tips and tricks and more.  Sign up for some of their newsletters to have it sent right to your inbox. 
6. Disney Family Fun –This web site is packed with crafts, ideas to do with the kids, printables and so much more.  I could spend hours on this web site looking for ideas – good thing I have Pinterest!

Miscellaneous Sites

1. One Step Ahead – Also Leaps & Bounds, has some really innovative and unique products for babies, toddlers and kids that work the way they say they will. 
2. Mashable– This site is great because it offers some really useful shortcuts for programs like Gmail and has some other useful tips for social media as well.  I consider myself to be technologically savvy (while others would beg to differ), but this site has taken my savviness to a whole new level.
3. iPhone Apps – I’ve got to tell you: I just got an iPhone.  And, I love it.  So if you also have an iPhone, there are some really great apps for parents.   Additionally, Time Magazine came out with their 50 Best iPhone apps here.
4. Sesame Street Online- This site has free games for your kids with their favorite characters.  They also have printables, online episodes, activities and more to keep your kids busy so you can have five minutes to check your email or something that needs to be taken care of.  (Or check out some of these other sites I’ve suggested!)   
5. Swagbucks– It’s a search engine that you sign up for free and accumulate points which can then be turned into gift cards or redeemed for thousands of other things.  So, instead of using Google, you’d create your homepage as Swagbucks and earn as you search.  There are also surveys and other things to participate in.

So, there you have it!  Do you have any time saving or fun web sites?  If so, I'd love for you share with us.

Why Hire A Baby Planner?

I was recently featured on The Expectant Mother's Guide with an editorial I wrote that answers this question, and more!

Baby Planners: What They Do and Why You Need One

Congratulations on your pregnancy! Whether you are nearing the end of your first, second, or even third trimester ―you’re well underway with getting ready for baby’s arrival! By now you’ve quickly come to find this joyous time can be somewhat overshadowed by a lot of unanswered questions, decisions, planning and preparation. As all of these thoughts whirl around in your head, you may begin feeling a little overwhelmed ―stop right now! Take a deep breath. You should know that you’re not alone in feeling this way.

Today’s society leaves expecting parents with so much pressure to make quite a lot of choices in a short period of time. Let’s face it ―nine months is not a lot of time to prepare for one of the biggest and most important milestones in your life.

There are so many sources of information for expecting parents ―an abundance of books, web sites, magazines, products, baby gear, brands and general information on pregnancy, baby and parenting. It can be exhausting to think about on top of already being tired from being pregnant!

As the days, weeks and months pass quickly, while your beautiful belly continues to grow, so does your to-do list.

So, where do you start? What should you read? Where do you register? What do you actually need for baby? What is a birth plan? What is a doula? How do decide what baby products you need? Do you need a midwife? When do you start looking for a pediatrician?

How are you to decipher it all? The answer that many have happily found is a Baby Planner.

What exactly is a Baby Planner?

A Baby Planner helps expecting parents navigate through the planning process to prepare for the arrival of baby and beyond. A Baby Planner is a complete resource of all those books, web sites and general information in one place. A Planner will provide you with guidance that is tailored to your personal needs, lifestyle and budget. A Baby Planner can also provide the most up-to-the-minute information on baby gear, furniture, nursery design, non-toxic/green baby care, childproofing and more.

Why Hire a Baby Planner?

A Baby Planner can check off many of the “to-dos” on your ever-expanding list by simply being there! Some have used the comparison that a Baby Planner does for parents what a Wedding Planner does for engaged couples. Many expecting parents are hiring a Baby Planner in order to get the right products, simplify the preparation process and to have all details taken care of from A to Z.

For example, think of all the things you accomplish on a daily basis: a long day of work, running errands, cooking dinner, exercising, cleaning, chores, etc. By the time the weekend comes around, you prefer to reserve that time for relaxing and doing things you enjoy, spending time with family and catching up on the news and favorite TV shows ― not agonizing over each of the 20 bottles that are available to register for or buy!

So now you may be asking yourself, “Why can’t my friends and family just help me?” The answer is, they will! A baby brings families close together regardless of the distance that divides them; however, not everyone is lucky enough to live near friends and family to have help on a regular basis. Baby Planners make it their first priority to stay informed of new products and trends in the industry. And while your sister may have used a certain stroller that she highly recommends and your mother-in-law never needed “silly things” such as a bouncy seat or a swing when raising her kids, it doesn’t mean their advice is relevant today (of course always appreciated, though).

The knowledge, experience and unbiased expertise that a Baby Planner provides can easily cut out multiple trips to the store or endless hours spent reading over reviews of products on the Internet. A Baby Planner allows for more time to focus on you and truly enjoying your pregnancy rather than worrying about which is the best car seat or stroller for your needs.

What do Baby Planners do?

A Baby Planner wears many hats for you as their client. One day they can be assembling your registry and recommending furniture choices for your nursery and the next day they can be arranging interviews for day cares, nannies or baby sitters. After baby is born, they can find you a lactation consultant, find diaper laundry services and set up a newborn photo session ―all while ordering, labeling and mailing out your birth announcements!

How can I determine if my family needs a Baby Planner?

Most Planners offer an initial consultation to see how they can work for you to accomplish your goals, ideas and overall vision for your pregnancy journey. A variety of packages and services will be presented to you with many of the services offered a la carte.  This allows your Planner to truly cater to what you need them to do and customize a plan that is a perfect fit.

Services can include, but are not limited to: providing individualized timelines and checklists, offering product recommendations, eco-friendly/green options, assistance with registry creation, child proofing, finding and connecting clients to medical professionals (pediatricians, doulas, lactation consultants, etc.), demonstrating products, nursery design, bed rest support, finding child care, concierge services and more.

Whether this is your first baby, you are expecting multiples, or you are expanding your family to baby number three (or more!); Baby Planning services are invaluable and extremely helpful in so many ways.

At the end of your nine months, you will have gone through one of life’s most amazing journeys.  Having a Baby Planner with you each step of the way can offer extra peace of mind when preparing for the arrival of your newborn.

Parenting Tip - Extras, extras!

One of my favorite things about being a Baby Planner & Consultant is that I get to share all of my experiences, knowledge, tricks and tips with parents. 

So, today I'd like to share one of my all-time favorite tips with you.  It is something that took me quite a few months of lugging around a way-overpacked-can't-zip-it-full diaper bag. 

And that was when I only had one baby! 

So, this favorite tip of mine is:

To have a bag of "extras" packed in your car. 

You'll have your regular diaper bag for regular day-to-day outings and you'll keep your usual stash of stuff in there.  So, why would you need this bag of extras? 

Hypothetically (of course) let's say you (or your husband, partner, or whoever) took that last diaper out of the bag and did not replace it.   

ACK! 
It's one of the biggest fears I think new parents have - not having what they need when they need it.  Well, it was one of my biggest fears.  I mean, sure, you can stop at any local store to pick up diapers, wipes, a pacifier or whatever you are out of. 

But face it - it's painful to pay top dollar for convenience when you have more at home! 

However, if it's in your car in that *magic* stash of the "extras" bag you have at all times - no more panics or wardrobe catastrophes - or pooptastrophes as I like to call them.  (Yes, those blowouts that no stain remover can save!)

So, here is what is in my "extras" bag in my car right now:

1. Four or five extras of the current size diaper/pull ups/ underwear my children are wearing.  KEY HERE IS CURRENT SIZE!  Every time you go up in the size of diaper, change out your "extras" stash! 
2. An extra bag or package of wipes.
3. Two spare changes of clothes for each child - again change as your child grows AND by the season!  Don't forget socks, too!
4. Extra snacks (packaged i.e. granola bars), juice box and bottled water.
5. Tissues and napkins.
6. Sunblock.
7. First aid items - band aids, antibiotic cream, alcohol wipes for boo-boos on the go.
8. Hand sanitizer for me and the kids - a kid-friendly kind and Purell for me - alcohol in kid sanitizer is a no-no!
9. Crayons, coloring books and a few random toys.
10. An extra hat and sweat shirt for each child.  Now that it's Spring here, it can be unexpectedly chilly or we could make an quick stop at the park - and either way, I'm prepared if I don't catch the weather forecast.
11. An extra outfit for myself. 
12. "Bribe" items - a few lollipops and two containers of mini M&Ms.  These are kept on-hand for my toddlers when I'm out and need to get something accomplished and they're just not in the mood to cooperate. 

Now that my kids are older, my "extras" bag is smaller.  That wasn't always the case.

Here are the items I used to keep in the bag when my kids were babies:

1. Extra pacifiers.
2. Pacifier wipes for cleaning if they fell or were dropped and was not near hot water.
3. More of a selection of toys - rattles, musical toys, soft books, etc.
4. More snacks and extra baby food based on current stage they were on - i.e. puffs, yogurt melts, a few extra spoons and containers of pureed baby food.
5. Extra diaper cream.
6. Extra burp cloths.
7. Extra bibs.
8. A light swaddle blanket - can be used for a burp cloth, extra changing pad if you forgot yours, a nursing cover, etc.
9. A heavier blanket.
10. More "extra" clothes/outfits - again changed seasonally and as their clothing sizes changed.

So, there you have it.  Genius?  I'd like to think so - but no, it's just common sense.  I see parents all the time with these gigantic, overflowing diaper bags they are struggling to stuff underneath the stroller in that tiny basket. Or worse, trying to carry a child (or two) with this monstrosity of a bag. 

So, do you have any other tips to make going out-and-about with baby easier?  Would love to hear them! 

Jacob & Isabella

What's in a name?  If you're looking for some inspiration, or names to avoid, you're in luck.

Today, the Social Security Administration released the top 10 boys and girls name for 2010.

Here they are!

:drumroll please:

Boys
  

1)  Jacob

 2) Ethan   

 3) Michael     

 4) Jayden     

 5) William    

 6) Alexander

 7) Noah     

 8) Daniel    

 9) Aiden     

 10) Anthony

Girls

 1) Isabella

2) Sophia

3) Emma

4) Olivia

 5) Ava

6) Emily

7) Abigail

8) Madison

9) Chloe

10) Mia

Here is the full press release from Social Security.

Tackling Toy Clutter

If you have a toddler (or in my case two toddlers) you have often wondered or said the following:

"Why does it look like Toys R Us threw up in my living room?"

"How can such a small person make such a huge mess?"

"Ugh!  I just cleaned in here! Why do I bother?"

You get the picture. 

A personal favorite quote of mine is: "Cleaning your house while your kids are still growing up is like shoveling the walk before it stops snowing." ~Phyllis Diller

Unfortunately, cleaning is a necessary evil.  I know I personally can't go to sleep at night knowing that there are dirty dishes in the sink (soaking pans are okay in my book).  

I literally will not be able to fall asleep if the play room is a mess and there are toys strewn about everywhere.  So, pretty much every night, without fail, I tidy up before I go to bed.  

Wait!  Before you think I'm a complete neat-freak and obsessive, I promise you, I'm not. 

I just can't stand walking downstairs first thing in the morning (un-caffeinated) to a huge mess!  And lord help someone if I happen to *step* on a random toy -ouch! 
That's the worst - you know!

After doing this for a few years now, I do not consider myself an organizational queen by any means, but I have picked up a few tips and tricks along the way. 

I feel it is my duty as a fellow Mommy, baby planner and human being to share my toy organization with you.  It has made cleaning up easier - and most importantly, my kids can HELP with the clean up process. 

Here is how I organize our toys:

1. Categorize your toys that you need containers for ex. balls, blocks, cars, etc.
2. Go to the local dollar store and pick out some colorful buckets and baskets.
3. Find some construction paper or index cards.  (I used old holiday cards I wasn't going to use and cut them in half)
4. Pick out a few crayons, markers and sharpies.
5. Grab a hole punch and some sort of string or some scotch tape.
6. Dig deep into that elementary school part of you and draw some pictures!

The the end result of the six steps above should look something along the lines of this:

Please ignore the horrible drawings! 
Art clearly was not my strong suit.

Ball basket

This three drawer was bought at a Target, but I actually had
this before we had our kids.



Cars and Little People 



Kitchen Accessories & Food
(Um, yes, those mini M&M's were
purchased as bribery for something!)



Full view of one set of shelves



Phones, Keys & Remotes
(As we all know, they always want the REAL one anyways)

Musical Instruments
(This is the Parents brand Bee Band - super cute!)
*Sorry, I could not get this picture to be centered
for some formatting reason! Grrr!

So, as you can see, everything has a place for the most part.  This not only allows the kids to help put things away as they are labeled with words AND pictures - it also helps when you have friends over, a play date or a party and people don't have to bother you every five seconds to find out what goes where! 

Genius.

Of course, I can't take credit for inventing this system - it's not original.  However, it works for us.  And that's really the key to parenting, isn't it?  Finding what works for YOU.

Don't forget to also periodically go through all those toys and pass them along to friends, organize toy swaps, sell at tag sales or place on Freecycle.  I frequently do all the above and also pass along toys to local charities.

This "system" for lack of a better word was not expensive to create, either.  You can even use containers, Rubbermaid storage bins (I used one for the kitchen toys) or whatever you have laying around.  But I do love the dollar store!

Do you have any toy organizing tips?  If you do, I'd love to hear them.