tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44773155503757577822024-03-23T14:10:09.982-04:00Eco-BabyzThoughtful Living. Simple Homeschooling. Family Wellness.
Mom of 3 sharing our homeschooling days and healthy living journey. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.comBlogger1034125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-60336884508660838612017-07-04T13:24:00.000-04:002017-07-04T13:24:00.163-04:00Coming soon(ish)...<div style="text-align: justify;">
Please bear with us as we redesign Eco-Babyz and spend some time analyzing our vision for this beloved corner of the internet! We'll be back soon with more life stories with our three children, homeschooling adventures, healthy living and wellness, and living a life by design - not by default! If you're still here after following us for the past 8 years, THANK YOU! We're looking forward to reconnecting :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUs1nBsuHpUkNA4cR0_HfBFfJ4hltutnUda2x7ICreBazkTPGZc7vgs8kiCRcvuOsdmXHWQAEKDjDfGBH5ZkzqJ3aRH4woXDITy5DikS8ivGMx9MNpW6IApP3nNhLnjzSg73NyQcb_NZw/s1600/work-in-progress-rubber-stamp_1017-7150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="626" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUs1nBsuHpUkNA4cR0_HfBFfJ4hltutnUda2x7ICreBazkTPGZc7vgs8kiCRcvuOsdmXHWQAEKDjDfGBH5ZkzqJ3aRH4woXDITy5DikS8ivGMx9MNpW6IApP3nNhLnjzSg73NyQcb_NZw/s320/work-in-progress-rubber-stamp_1017-7150.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWeiVLk5P84lbvAytKQXtBRffyl81mk4Qa9ri6UFpxR6QufGucQA6Ye393VWjjB2LM7a72tc2tiKQ3RR5i0IG-P4OG_7dq-H5Plk8VuK4BzeOFH-DOcG0rtbVpWua8lQXCx12amWAE78/s1600/prana-jeans-review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWeiVLk5P84lbvAytKQXtBRffyl81mk4Qa9ri6UFpxR6QufGucQA6Ye393VWjjB2LM7a72tc2tiKQ3RR5i0IG-P4OG_7dq-H5Plk8VuK4BzeOFH-DOcG0rtbVpWua8lQXCx12amWAE78/s400/prana-jeans-review.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I remember summer as a kid and a teenager. All these plans, elaborate bucket lists, road trips, missions trips, sun drenched beach days totally carefree. Now I'm thankful if I get an uninterrupted five minutes to wallow in the sun while intently watching the kids play on the beach. Now that they are seven and four, they might even let me take a nap while they build Legos. These days summer is less about elaborate plans and more about getting through each day with as much outdoor time as I can squeeze in between work and with as little whining as possible. The latter some days completely illudes me. </div>
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So what do cute jeans and organic yogurt have to do with a satisfying summer as a mom of two? For the most part - both are just convenient, making my life easier! The prAna jeans I'm wearing in the photo above are a new favorite to dress up or down. When in doubt - jeans. Having a comfortable, stretchy, well-fitting wardrobe staple like this definitely makes my summer easier. Maybe not for beach days, but you'll see me at the playground, running errands, or at a client meeting in these classy organic cotton blend <a href="http://www.prana.com/kara-jean.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kara jeans</a>. I've tried on countless pairs at the store, none of which I liked. Then I went by the size guide at prAna and received these, fit me perfectly!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO7lEgAsmvjyMsVAnZhUYDTW3FqqCBNIaLlCM652becBIOBWfV9jQkkb7UPnESPUE0RL06Cue28rG1GXeJVuIHUmibsGu8rFTNdFPWMyfqAEHqt-oonDo6XmTL7_QqvKMtFVgP5LcIlTo/s1600/greek-whole-milk-vanilla-bean-53oz.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO7lEgAsmvjyMsVAnZhUYDTW3FqqCBNIaLlCM652becBIOBWfV9jQkkb7UPnESPUE0RL06Cue28rG1GXeJVuIHUmibsGu8rFTNdFPWMyfqAEHqt-oonDo6XmTL7_QqvKMtFVgP5LcIlTo/s1600/greek-whole-milk-vanilla-bean-53oz.png" /></a></div>
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On a typical day you'll see me in the Kara jean in our kitchen, frantically trying to clean up the after-breakfast mess while thinking of looming deadlines. I will then pause - because <i>dessert is sacred</i> around here. Or so my kids have declared. I'll reach for the Stonyfield Organic Greek Whole Milk Yogurt in our preferred Vanilla Bean flavor. Kids have nicknamed it "better than ice cream". Which says A LOT. I've got hubby totally hooked on it. Okay, I'll admit I am very very weak at saying no at any given time to <i>this</i> particular yogurt. It's <i>that </i>good. My willpower is defenseless. At least I don't have to feel super guilty after it. Yes, it's sweet, but not nearly as much sugar as something else I'd have as dessert! We love it so much, I've even used it as one of the layers in Baby E's birthday cake - it was a hit!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLex6trBXeXNkwhf3yXdhSsuz5_Lo_KeAYkz_zlnhXUT1W061qL2pp7XfXoID3O_s6XpbR0rS8aZRHxyFj8rDZP6SX7ygCrDEEUw2D5NGlXKeUpp0zG0YJBan8Jcyj6zXYhmICUnx-pw/s1600/BOC_5916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjLex6trBXeXNkwhf3yXdhSsuz5_Lo_KeAYkz_zlnhXUT1W061qL2pp7XfXoID3O_s6XpbR0rS8aZRHxyFj8rDZP6SX7ygCrDEEUw2D5NGlXKeUpp0zG0YJBan8Jcyj6zXYhmICUnx-pw/s400/BOC_5916.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I am so happy to finally have a greek yogurt at my disposal that is <i>whole milk</i> - it's so hard to find! We have long stopped buying low fat dairy products, it's been a decade at least. The fat is good for you, especially for little kids' growing and developing brains! It's definitely now a regular item on our food shopping list, but treated as a decadent dessert rather than "just yogurt". We also love the Stonyfield Organic Greek Whole Milk Plain Yogurt, it's perfect for creating dips and using in various recipes</div>
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<b>What does your satisfying summer look like? Tell us!</b></div>
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See the <a href="http://www.stonyfield.com/products" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Whole Milk Greek lineup at Stonyfield</a></h3>
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Just for my readers - coupon code SCS16ANBO will get you <a href="http://www.prana.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">15% off at prAna</a></h3>
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valid until 7/7/16</h4>
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<i>Disclaimer: I was sent the prAna jeans and some Stonyfield coupons so that I could rave to my readers about two of my favorite brands to Eco-Babyz readers. </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKBrg07ElTAVm8U4zE2x3MAlrDWCWAeEjchy_1tvJdjrQh1N6KxHN9vG97E4LZKQ7wQVXrj-UYAimclJP4H11xQGrodglgYWDD5sGo5p873-20NXNMeZ6wrcOAhPA1noJkKS2FDqgp34/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKBrg07ElTAVm8U4zE2x3MAlrDWCWAeEjchy_1tvJdjrQh1N6KxHN9vG97E4LZKQ7wQVXrj-UYAimclJP4H11xQGrodglgYWDD5sGo5p873-20NXNMeZ6wrcOAhPA1noJkKS2FDqgp34/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip.jpg" /></a></div>
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One of the reasons we love homeschooling so much is because it gives us the opportunity to travel whenever it is convenient and affordable for us as a family. Both of us being self-employed means irregular work schedules and a lot of responsibility on our shoulders. We don't take breaks nearly as much as we'd like to! (Yet!) Since both businesses are kind of in their toddlerhood, they require fine tuning and constant supervision. </div>
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This fall we were blessed to take a short break from the toils of daily life and breathe in the fresh air of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A trip we've been putting off for years, visiting family that has been inviting us over for what seems like a decade. We were greeted by atypical Asheville weather, rain for three days. It didn't stop us from enjoying it, but it kind of sealed the deal on having to come back in the spring or summer to really enjoy the outdoors. </div>
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I'm in the "my kids could live outside" camp. Most days I'm on the same page with them, or want to be. When it comes to running a household and a full-time business though it's so hard to balance their need for the outdoors and my need to get things done! Can you relate?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSnmdkYpndI-ELwM-SO7uzWYNya-zi_OHK7nJDx9IJ44Z-p4u4CsuRP4Z8nmmIknUmFM_WG6beo4Gg4R3ToEJRgNP71lftHQSUa4cZ1lsVvWfscRBl1NpT3Y4eyv9YLayhPVWAii7LbI/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSnmdkYpndI-ELwM-SO7uzWYNya-zi_OHK7nJDx9IJ44Z-p4u4CsuRP4Z8nmmIknUmFM_WG6beo4Gg4R3ToEJRgNP71lftHQSUa4cZ1lsVvWfscRBl1NpT3Y4eyv9YLayhPVWAii7LbI/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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This is why this trip was so important, for us to just pause our work and truly enjoy being outdoors with our kids. I think subconsciously we all crave more of this as parents and caregivers. Our lifestyles have become so unavoidably indoor and isolated, especially for those of us up north. It is a great challenge for any parent to make intentional decisions to be outside with our kids. </div>
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It was different when I was mostly a stay-at-home-mom, working part-time only fifteen hours a week online. We were <i>always</i> outdoors. The kids got so used to that, and I'm thankful I was able to be with them where they really wanted to be - outside. They were never locked up in a building for long parts of the day. Now I have to be even more intentional - being a full-time business owner mom to two active kids who <i>need</i> the outdoors. A balancing act for sure. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBtPT1mzYtRepWGnI-VKFj9koNeetq4zD-sRUyHjjnE4UragLiYOlIeobe3gVdfcBcHZDFAIFlfA2J7n242ZqiSU3xA6yznYNkWjIm0BHXkDTcrLDTclNpCtRr2Amdc8vZDjcETyIwKg/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBtPT1mzYtRepWGnI-VKFj9koNeetq4zD-sRUyHjjnE4UragLiYOlIeobe3gVdfcBcHZDFAIFlfA2J7n242ZqiSU3xA6yznYNkWjIm0BHXkDTcrLDTclNpCtRr2Amdc8vZDjcETyIwKg/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Our trip to Asheville re-centered my <i>desire to be outdoors </i>with them more. I knew it all along, but it can so easily get lost somewhere among clients, contracts, photo sessions, marketing plans, never ending meal making and food shopping trips, and well - LIFE. We all need reminders like this - don't we?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRadhEz1MRy8SCHz0RrQNIFrv69NC11StQHquub0YW5oMedqvRco6qu9GL0xbRfgjabV8dl9606Nb9btYHOYPVmax28_3_kMEXbZhTxM9Oej29fp4yYi-Y991w_aSKuTaaMSlj6Af-EA/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRadhEz1MRy8SCHz0RrQNIFrv69NC11StQHquub0YW5oMedqvRco6qu9GL0xbRfgjabV8dl9606Nb9btYHOYPVmax28_3_kMEXbZhTxM9Oej29fp4yYi-Y991w_aSKuTaaMSlj6Af-EA/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-5.jpg" /></a></div>
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I was cherishing and gulping down these moments. </div>
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Hiking up a mountain (yes, she was so tired she crawled on all fours).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87332HHngXJFxyP6nTFYQ9_Brhl8unF08Om2cnw2ZE37uAooh_j_wOKMhh2pU_Z1QnLwKV-nD8uCUw-KIfCYTw082JgIx0wrQex0wLmWmev89e_BUzo7LonvHmWmBNNhAXYpgggmGmpU/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87332HHngXJFxyP6nTFYQ9_Brhl8unF08Om2cnw2ZE37uAooh_j_wOKMhh2pU_Z1QnLwKV-nD8uCUw-KIfCYTw082JgIx0wrQex0wLmWmev89e_BUzo7LonvHmWmBNNhAXYpgggmGmpU/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Taking in the beautiful views. </div>
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Realizing just how high up we are. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2FGt-fBHcwNU-GqJk_nXFdOk00zkJzhWgbx7eqdzMLhHVPUZAZgvdAyuZmUuaTvbwHAbdD_AqS68rPhWvWyD9vgzfiKABIifRWcaeRzNLFEiWaIq21zGkDlRppDptiYfI5UskoyEf9k/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-2FGt-fBHcwNU-GqJk_nXFdOk00zkJzhWgbx7eqdzMLhHVPUZAZgvdAyuZmUuaTvbwHAbdD_AqS68rPhWvWyD9vgzfiKABIifRWcaeRzNLFEiWaIq21zGkDlRppDptiYfI5UskoyEf9k/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Relishing in how much the kids love, no how much they <i>need</i> this. </div>
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Realizing how much <i>we</i> need this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCtjaPwvQkLvv7uwNSc0QgmCGTr9Nhvi9lBS_1ixwgKLBTQOhHEyRgwAPB0h4Q0g6gCaJXvCAHDt4SzY5UIwaNkLOI6_FqHXWJUDlrGUpJtkWQkchWWuxC-HFVq2sR7-sQIhB__pOhYo/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCtjaPwvQkLvv7uwNSc0QgmCGTr9Nhvi9lBS_1ixwgKLBTQOhHEyRgwAPB0h4Q0g6gCaJXvCAHDt4SzY5UIwaNkLOI6_FqHXWJUDlrGUpJtkWQkchWWuxC-HFVq2sR7-sQIhB__pOhYo/s1600/asheville-with-kids-trip-7.jpg" /></a></div>
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How do you make time for the outdoors with your kids whether you are a stay at home parent, working parent, or business owner?</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGu1HpKGhH5aNN-0oIFwAs9fGz7luw-IJdgwdc6O3LGZ2UqsUID_hUjFyKgreibztn0jQA0PG4vZqv76GaGJOp9Usc3m5xciJnC8EWB_HtQz1rwBbeNy1paIHsW2isQ9ck7K1N-uxmANo/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGu1HpKGhH5aNN-0oIFwAs9fGz7luw-IJdgwdc6O3LGZ2UqsUID_hUjFyKgreibztn0jQA0PG4vZqv76GaGJOp9Usc3m5xciJnC8EWB_HtQz1rwBbeNy1paIHsW2isQ9ck7K1N-uxmANo/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Our family is very often on-the-go. As most fellow homeschoolers will agree - you often spend more time <i>outside</i> the home and words like car-schooling or world schooling apply much better! This of course brings on the challenge of feeding my kids nutritious and healthy foods and snacks no matter where we may be that day. Grab and go type options that are actually healthy are extremely scarce and my biggest pet peeve is the sheer amount of sugar even in organic kids snacks. So I was definitely excited to be introduced to <a href="http://www.cheekymonkeyorganic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cheeky Monkey</a> - a healthy, sugar free, organic kids snack.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjogvMoYevKfCBtyyb4XgRk76RhAzHrjX7sHsBCDGbNRWX1NJJULO_ZMUs9sx1uCmQUjSRpusoN6XUDekcOzJwnlwKfLYyPwpCmVZAV-Cu2DtpDLzsZrgk-4jb-Q-myjrYmqHL8e3ghomE/s1600/36e28466-4482-4c4c-a8f6-d1c582909f10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjogvMoYevKfCBtyyb4XgRk76RhAzHrjX7sHsBCDGbNRWX1NJJULO_ZMUs9sx1uCmQUjSRpusoN6XUDekcOzJwnlwKfLYyPwpCmVZAV-Cu2DtpDLzsZrgk-4jb-Q-myjrYmqHL8e3ghomE/s320/36e28466-4482-4c4c-a8f6-d1c582909f10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We received a few bags of Cheeky Monkey to put to the test of two very hungry growing munchkins who scream "I'm hungry!" the moment they are done with their breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Honestly, I had no idea they would like these so much. At first Baby E, my older one, didn't take to the peanut snacks and gave them to her little brother Baby T, but surprise, moments later I saw her sneaking some from his bag. Then she asked for her own. Then I had to hide the stuff! After I tried it I had to hide it from myself frankly! It's a good thing they are full of protein and fill you up pretty quick, otherwise it would be very hard to stop. They are not salty, but with just a hint of sweetness - without any sugar, the organic peanut butter has that bit of sweet tastiness that's hard to explain. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPOSrraBjrz-4wNnbIeA3H-KCnFWBBWN2miTKQX8WstkQPmrT2RAX_G2U0nxvpPRbHnhGRcT02fS0n0fQXh3x6oZXgJOAIbV0H4gdyTnubiTk4ERUjihLYh-Tcs5Ad51b3S1BHWmSbKI/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgPOSrraBjrz-4wNnbIeA3H-KCnFWBBWN2miTKQX8WstkQPmrT2RAX_G2U0nxvpPRbHnhGRcT02fS0n0fQXh3x6oZXgJOAIbV0H4gdyTnubiTk4ERUjihLYh-Tcs5Ad51b3S1BHWmSbKI/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-3.jpg" /></a></div>
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There is so much we like about Cheeky Monkey, I'm not even sure where to start! Most important to me I think is the three <b>organic certifications</b> that Cheeky Monkey has passed - COR (Canadian), USDA, and EU Certified Organic. Ultimately I think we all want to reduce our kids' exposure to pesticides, because no matter how hard we try they will be exposed here and there regardless. My job as a parent is to minimize that when and if I can, as much as I can afford to. </div>
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Cheeky Monkey peanut snacks are also <b>certified gluten-free</b>. This means they are produced in a gluten free dedicated facility that is certified by the Gluten Free Certification Organization. While we do not have celiac disease, overall we feel better when we minimize our intake of gluten. For me the primary reason - gluten makes me foggy and zaps my energy. For my kids, an overload of gluten gives them bowel issues and irritability. Not a fan of them being moody! So I definitely appreciate the fact I have a gluten-free snack on hand.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJaE_48fKcp7tahBjUa2BmHSdjLaM9N-XRude49i_FgGhOP91Raptj5jOFVo4E1w15teiL5X9ZWP-YsZdKf9hGvDT1AzbV-hTyOhgsr8hJA2jddwx2gsPa-OCROYg6vvMY4YGYNSZGYk/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJaE_48fKcp7tahBjUa2BmHSdjLaM9N-XRude49i_FgGhOP91Raptj5jOFVo4E1w15teiL5X9ZWP-YsZdKf9hGvDT1AzbV-hTyOhgsr8hJA2jddwx2gsPa-OCROYg6vvMY4YGYNSZGYk/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likewise, while we are not vegan by any means - I like the fact that Cheeky Monkey puffs are <b>vegan </b>and an entirely plant-based snack, yet very high in protein. They are also <b>kosher certified</b> by the Orthodox Union, if that's something that is important to your family. These were not a must for us personally, but a nice bonus on the list of positives. To top it all off, there are also <b>no trans-fats, no sugar, dairy, or casein</b>. Right now we do consume organic dairy, but there was a point in Baby E's life when dairy was actually life-threatening to her when as an infant she couldn't at all digest milk protein, not even when I would eat it and it showed up in breast milk. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24xAkmgEP99VaO7RygZDAVzkb8W6aCtjkFau33baVvasT3bPL1m9goeUzGm5K6lIEcP4j6W2_GSw7OKoVnYiAm3fC6PpNgxQkDVwdDOu4ALWo2OPnJ4mNS3H3MLrj7vrw4GXOOX0RmaE/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24xAkmgEP99VaO7RygZDAVzkb8W6aCtjkFau33baVvasT3bPL1m9goeUzGm5K6lIEcP4j6W2_GSw7OKoVnYiAm3fC6PpNgxQkDVwdDOu4ALWo2OPnJ4mNS3H3MLrj7vrw4GXOOX0RmaE/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Before I agreed to review this, I wanted to make sure it would be something I would wholeheartedly let my kids eat without concerns and that it is also an environmentally sound and sustainably sourced product. While I would have preferred coconut oil, it was great to learn that the organic palm oil used to make the snacks is both <b>Rainforest Alliance certified</b> and <b>certified by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil. </b></div>
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My kids are no longer babies, but this snack is actually safe and beneficial for babies. Not only does it quickly melt in the mouth so there is no choking hazard, a recent study also showed that 6 grams a week of peanut protein (about 1.5 ounces of Cheeky Monkey), can reduce the risk of developing peanut allergy. So it's perfect in small amounts even for infants starting solids! A great on-the-go addition to those healthy veggies you may start your infant on while continuing breastfeeding.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRYDndEvvTLf0qbzxErEEZ6-9LpPSYJFG-LLlnWI3nIcpkv61BrlDendmcmDQSpqtdxdIB4IrCbs4uCgGEd7Iz3zOqTgS-UzITDep8OG9qSYzNtfRDDaAWWbIEtdqc9fXjS9SxFvuVAY/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmRYDndEvvTLf0qbzxErEEZ6-9LpPSYJFG-LLlnWI3nIcpkv61BrlDendmcmDQSpqtdxdIB4IrCbs4uCgGEd7Iz3zOqTgS-UzITDep8OG9qSYzNtfRDDaAWWbIEtdqc9fXjS9SxFvuVAY/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack-7.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4GKRIMd-nvlx17zHHKPXM9vycVOQ8D_6jDZ5FgKqOLtnH1yIWqsSg1xQnZIMYadTwD05MaL-rE9sO83YkaaEpHwKvGeoe6_m6_xmTDwQftuhI1RQjYsQd3V9gZ5OgcAUP3FwtV2Zq-5g/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4GKRIMd-nvlx17zHHKPXM9vycVOQ8D_6jDZ5FgKqOLtnH1yIWqsSg1xQnZIMYadTwD05MaL-rE9sO83YkaaEpHwKvGeoe6_m6_xmTDwQftuhI1RQjYsQd3V9gZ5OgcAUP3FwtV2Zq-5g/s1600/cheeky-monkey-peanut-snack.jpg" /></a></div>
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Last but not least, this snack was developed by group of people, including parents, that have a primary interest in health and wellness for their children and themselves. Much like me, but perhaps with way better skills at bringing such a great idea to life! </div>
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One of my readers is going to get to try these yummy snacks for yourself, we hope your kids will love these as much as mine do! </div>
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Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. Obviously, please do not enter if you have someone in your household with life-threatening peanut allergies. One winner per household, email address, or home address. If you have won this prize on another blog you are ineligible to win again.<br />
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<b>Connect with Cheeky Monkey on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CheekyMonkeyPBPuffs/?fref=ts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.cheekymonkeyorganic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">their website</a></b></div>
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<i>Disclaimer: I participated in this event on behalf of <a href="http://www.wendysbloggers.com/" rel="" target="_blank">Wendy's Bloggers</a> for Cheeky Monkey. I received Cheeky Monkey products to facilitate my review.</i><br />
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<i><br /></i><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="fdd79ca7220" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/fdd79ca7220/" id="rcwidget_zvbykeo4" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-4953082933669977052015-11-23T09:30:00.000-05:002015-12-21T10:18:50.776-05:00Nature's Path & Stonyfield: Superfood Breakfast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Tkz19jKGhnovRKX1El-eh221ejRtDZhzq6uHruMxlX0Gu-WZj9T1JD2h2Qehk4P2iLZ0BgdSp8B3fs2-_bhD99-nhtXBwZ_7mHoH2Purcnew750XU3CMfCsxd_VaaIrzDIbeKWS6HmU/s1600/natures-path-stonyfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Tkz19jKGhnovRKX1El-eh221ejRtDZhzq6uHruMxlX0Gu-WZj9T1JD2h2Qehk4P2iLZ0BgdSp8B3fs2-_bhD99-nhtXBwZ_7mHoH2Purcnew750XU3CMfCsxd_VaaIrzDIbeKWS6HmU/s640/natures-path-stonyfield.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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You already know I have a soft spot in my heart for organic yogurt from <a href="http://www.stonyfield.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Stonyfield</a>. So I'm sure it's no surprise it is a frequent breakfast of mine! I really love my mornings when the kids are still asleep (which is often till 9 am since we homeschool), I wake up with dawn, tip toe downstairs, and mix up some yummy granola with a cup of Stonyfield Oh My Yog or just a regular large French Vanilla. Then I cozy up in my home office to edit wedding or engagement photos before they wake up and we start our homeschooling lessons, trekking outdoors, or simply playing. I've been buying the Nature's Path Chia Plus Granola for years and am a big fan, but I was excited to also try the <a href="http://us.naturespath.com/product/flax-plusr-pumpkin-flax-granola" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pumpkin Flax Granola</a> that we received in the mail. </div>
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It's a perfect combination of flavors, not too sweet and definitely not "blah". With the addition of the <a href="http://us.naturespath.com/product/qiatm-superfood-chia-buckwheat-hemp-cereal-cranberry-vanilla" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nature's Path Qi'a</a> it further elevates a breakfast to be a <i>super</i>-breakfast. Qi'a is naturally gluten free and packed with plant based protein, fiber, and omega 3s. There is no added sugar or salt, and of course it is certified organic and non-GMO verified.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGletPqJ4wCciZ3mDB3mEZ_wJysF1t883yVfnwRmBWO2xNPCTIKg65fFrBKAJyj0LeiJi1WJuopRjCBKn-DgyI3ZxMaf08E6nJI7g9okQqMX8H4QjoJVTb1-IguG9wrJ7AdNjjPGT-Ccc/s1600/Natures_Path_QiA_Cranberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGletPqJ4wCciZ3mDB3mEZ_wJysF1t883yVfnwRmBWO2xNPCTIKg65fFrBKAJyj0LeiJi1WJuopRjCBKn-DgyI3ZxMaf08E6nJI7g9okQqMX8H4QjoJVTb1-IguG9wrJ7AdNjjPGT-Ccc/s400/Natures_Path_QiA_Cranberry.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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As an eco-conscious mom and blogger, one of the most important things to me is how the food we eat is grown and sourced. With Stonyfield and Nature's Path I can be confident I'm feeding my family GMO-free foods that are of the highest quality, short of growing and producing it myself - and what busy mom has time for that? </div>
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Not only is this a simple breakfast to throw together, but you don't have to stop there, the yogurt, superfood cereal, and the granola may all be used as ingredients in creating a unique breakfast of your own, a great part of a cookie recipe that you can dream up! Baby E and Baby T love helping me in the kitchen, so they'd be the first to make up a crazy recipe and put random ingredients in the cookies. It might seem random, but Nature's Path has the perfect ingredients for a healthy cookie. </div>
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My kids love putting the granola in their yogurt. In fact it's extended not just to breakfast, but they'll have it for a snack, sometimes for lunch, and believe it or not, even dinner! Okay, so that only happened a couple of times, but who am I to say no to a healthy organic "dinner"? </div>
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How would you use <a href="http://us.naturespath.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nature's Path</a> granola or Qi'a superfood breakfast cereal?</h4>
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<i>Disclosure: As a Stonyfield Blogger I was sent Nature's Path products along with Stonyfield coupons for this review. All opinions are my own and I only work with brands whose mission I wholeheartedly support and would recommend to my readers. </i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-85354700129962228632015-11-09T03:54:00.004-05:002015-11-09T04:02:46.718-05:00Take Some Time to #JustBeYou | prAna Giveaway #OhMyYog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<em style="background-color: clear; box-sizing: border-box; color: #383838; font-family: Verdana, Geneva; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.8px; text-align: start;">I teamed up with prAna and Stonyfield’s delicious Oh My Yog! for their #JustBeYou campaign.</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOcoRK6YEw7VK2Fcb5qgrzsk5OX9qBKr41NZT11IN7ipPl5gJp5FWMR4r1Rq7apCuDBRTXpx9l_O49FE_FqdIX7g3HzT9BnaVPRKWXuxZTBYap35BR8yIw4XYOzDrtMO2RSZtMHqt197E/s1600/IMG_20151108_182941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOcoRK6YEw7VK2Fcb5qgrzsk5OX9qBKr41NZT11IN7ipPl5gJp5FWMR4r1Rq7apCuDBRTXpx9l_O49FE_FqdIX7g3HzT9BnaVPRKWXuxZTBYap35BR8yIw4XYOzDrtMO2RSZtMHqt197E/s640/IMG_20151108_182941.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Moms. We often don't get much time to just be ourselves. To remember who we are and what makes us happy. We inevitably end up being drivers, rule enforcers, snot wipers, laundromat operators, chefs, teachers, among many other things. As a homeschooling mom and a small business owner, sometimes it feels like there is zero time for me to just be!</div>
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I've learned the hard way that when I don't take some time to relax and be myself, I unravel and it doesn't look pretty. Ask my kids. That's why I love my Oh My Yog! moments. It's when I give myself a little treat, sit down without my phone or computer, and just savor some moments. I've had the chance to have some moments to myself when we took a family road trip to Asheville, NC last week. I decided to take my new prAna Meryl sweater dress along for the ride because it just looked sooooo comfy and perfect for a trip to the mountains! I'm always the one behind the camera lens, but my 6 year old took some photos for me, thanks baby E! I've paired it with Pacific Coast Strawberry Oh My Yog mostly because that's what I was craving at the moment, still holding on to summer if you will. Strawberries = summer. If you're in New England like me you'll understand why you'd want to hold on to summer as long as possible! The sweater dress is a perfect link between summer, fall, and winter. It's something you could wear on a cool summer night, it's perfection for fall and great with some boots, and it's easily adaptable to wearing in the winter. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOHflJicDcFYM4AUSp3hLTRuM471fHWdm4UlYQJEs19TgJD5-H-O5h07eSNIAjOuvfyCqod-PAcaAu30JkO7S3nNUh2TZmQXkwFm0KBp0LLZwPZ9_A72WEg-DDTsQxMlbhe1gDTl6flM/s1600/IMG_20151108_183241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOHflJicDcFYM4AUSp3hLTRuM471fHWdm4UlYQJEs19TgJD5-H-O5h07eSNIAjOuvfyCqod-PAcaAu30JkO7S3nNUh2TZmQXkwFm0KBp0LLZwPZ9_A72WEg-DDTsQxMlbhe1gDTl6flM/s640/IMG_20151108_183241.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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I can't even begin to tell you how comfy this sweater dress is, I'm wearing it right now as I'm writing this. Actually I have this problem that it's perfect for pretty much any occasion and I could live (and sleep) in it. Dressed up or down it's perfect for a hike, a night out with girlfriends or hubby, running errands, wearing to church, and pretty much anything else I'm up to with kids or without. Well, except when I'm photographing a wedding! I could easily wear it dressed up to a client meeting though. </div>
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That's what it is, the prAna styles are so versatile that instead of thinking about what to wear and how you look, you can #JustBeYou and enjoy life no matter what your day brings. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdi5L_onng8lLpqXqexznnSX9wpOtZaqjeoXp6YQZGmPi59AmAKQHYwlQ8rrPjfYkFCBuHi1YiXqKIGMX0u95UMPZ1yp4SzDpD0mMswz0HYfmclWS_IcXyQugkamT0vnx5X3gk3aiG4I/s1600/stonyfield-oh-my-yog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNdi5L_onng8lLpqXqexznnSX9wpOtZaqjeoXp6YQZGmPi59AmAKQHYwlQ8rrPjfYkFCBuHi1YiXqKIGMX0u95UMPZ1yp4SzDpD0mMswz0HYfmclWS_IcXyQugkamT0vnx5X3gk3aiG4I/s1600/stonyfield-oh-my-yog.JPG" /></a></div>
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You can check out more <a href="http://www.stonyfield.com/products#prod-type-omy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Oh My Yog flavors here</a> and prAna organic <a href="http://www.prana.com/women/collections/organic-cotton.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Women's</a> and <a href="http://www.prana.com/men/collections/organic-cotton.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Men's</a> collections.</div>
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If you do not want to wait to see if you win, take advantage of this unique 15% off <a href="http://prana.com/" target="_blank">prAna</a> discount code just for my readers: JBYF15EBZ</div>
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Valid until December 15, 2015</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm delighted to be giving one of my readers a chance to #JustBeYou in one of prAna's organic line clothing items for men or women! Please enter below, giveaway ends midnight Thursday 11/12 at 11:59 pm.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7Ityl0XAe0U0fO-OwgpCsey5QWp1Q2ExUzMydkK6PEKS7Ya9c7s_nBUOU6CV4WbzS2zSrnbOrR06QuGIOPw8I-bub79fSbZPFeJ3DhCTdJetTWMWJ6o_dqIOJVwONI3W6g87DuDhdDA/s1600/12+Cat04_03_VictoriaSt-1470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7Ityl0XAe0U0fO-OwgpCsey5QWp1Q2ExUzMydkK6PEKS7Ya9c7s_nBUOU6CV4WbzS2zSrnbOrR06QuGIOPw8I-bub79fSbZPFeJ3DhCTdJetTWMWJ6o_dqIOJVwONI3W6g87DuDhdDA/s640/12+Cat04_03_VictoriaSt-1470.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="fdd79ca7219" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/fdd79ca7219/" id="rcwidget_t029q2a2" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
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<em style="background-color: clear; box-sizing: border-box; color: #383838; font-family: Verdana, Geneva; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.8px;">Disclaimer: I was also given up to $99 for any in-stock prAna Organic Cotton Collection item as well as coupons for Oh My Yog!, and I was offered the chance to give away another <em style="box-sizing: border-box;">$99 for any in-stock prAna Organic Cotton Collection item</em> to an Eco-Babyz reader.</em><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-12093887988944688522015-07-24T15:44:00.001-04:002015-07-24T15:44:43.502-04:00Where Did Summer Go?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwj_-yi8cP9ES30ogsuxoEq45CbT27aSCL-p2MZvxzoY0me20bOH5TbZYvp4hbmwMCCKsgr-Lmp32eveDw47psrADrabYMD_GaTh_3izOel3TTE8a895rhifhjixqQs7Wr4mTbJKLl9I/s1600/IMG_20150711_202246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwj_-yi8cP9ES30ogsuxoEq45CbT27aSCL-p2MZvxzoY0me20bOH5TbZYvp4hbmwMCCKsgr-Lmp32eveDw47psrADrabYMD_GaTh_3izOel3TTE8a895rhifhjixqQs7Wr4mTbJKLl9I/s400/IMG_20150711_202246.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Summer was long and slow when I was ten. It was rather enjoyable and fun, and long enough when I was fifteen. It picked up pace when I was twenty three and got married, it became a little shorter as both hubby and I worked full time. It turned into a whirlwind when I was holding an infant in my arms at the age of twenty five. Now at thirty one, with two kids, two family businesses, summer seems to have disappeared! Anyone else feel this way? It almost seems like each year is four weeks long and those weeks are winter, spring, summer, fall. That's how fast life is flying in front of me. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWu5mlu6jr2rMBbC1TR4C6DfvnJ6sANUGh22t5bm-2Gy-4qkChsxTmESDFS6525xRqH2J1ZbQbNAn-mjem7ELKs-l0r93kEk2RdQks2bMkVPrELPmvgna9BxIrgU2OpLIB7vTQaB6Q2gY/s1600/IMG_20150719_172824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWu5mlu6jr2rMBbC1TR4C6DfvnJ6sANUGh22t5bm-2Gy-4qkChsxTmESDFS6525xRqH2J1ZbQbNAn-mjem7ELKs-l0r93kEk2RdQks2bMkVPrELPmvgna9BxIrgU2OpLIB7vTQaB6Q2gY/s400/IMG_20150719_172824.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This forces me to stop and enjoy separate moments, to create those moments, to say no to some things that rob me of precious time with the kids. To say yes to some things that enable me to spend more time with them - ironically for me that's photographing weddings on weekends, if it wasn't for that I'd have to find a day job and see the kids much less. I've had to learn to say no to social media. To temporarily say no to this blog, as much as it is another 'baby' of mine. To say no to people that always want something from me and drain me. To say "Yes, let's go to the beach!". To say "Yes, how about rollerblading in the park!". To set aside the phone and give my littles a BIG hug.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi40Z5ccAbofzRnstXXqn2JIG60MZkTU0sNpEE0pKssown6lNxsHAdi6msNZJl3401EXZYRqgrS8BGTsE3p0HMQkBORgv-VQuYlpw4XB3vr_flqvqN7nRigAEQbW_mNgJcEzS9pI-VyGGs/s1600/summer+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi40Z5ccAbofzRnstXXqn2JIG60MZkTU0sNpEE0pKssown6lNxsHAdi6msNZJl3401EXZYRqgrS8BGTsE3p0HMQkBORgv-VQuYlpw4XB3vr_flqvqN7nRigAEQbW_mNgJcEzS9pI-VyGGs/s400/summer+2015.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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I don't want to remember this summer spent sitting in front of a screen, worrying about every little thing in running my business. It's amazing how when we let go off the worry, make time for our family, the rest just happens so much easier, it comes - maybe slower, but in it's own time. </div>
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Not only that, but what will the kids remember? Mine are outdoor addicts and if I don't feed their addiction to fresh air and sunshine we would all drive each other nuts indoors. Summer may feel like it's eluded me, but we've most certainly made memories - painting a room together with our kids, creating their own new space, beach days with homeschoolers and friends, family rollerblading trips, lots of biking, splash parks, lake trips, and plenty of fresh air. We can't afford a tropical family vacation, not by a long shot, but you don't need a whole lot of money to make memories with your kids. I spent as much time with them as I could before a very busy wedding season this August and September!</div>
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<b>Would love to hear about<i> your</i> summer! How do you keep it from escaping so quick and make memories?</b></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-90713983708825609332015-04-29T13:45:00.001-04:002015-04-29T13:45:33.444-04:00Spring Clean Your Closets with Polarn O. Pyret and ThredUp!<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpKArddg85HFuBTywwlR2Pqqm4UecWGgRqkqSWRwF_1lvA_jPf9Hijl0Dn0q1692SApZRb3KxPw67IBH3_hHi9wOjOnkiycgaA6NfZh4anv5Oyndsrtcpp9XInkZK2XY6wYb8S7uknSw/s1600/polarn-o-pyret-spring.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpKArddg85HFuBTywwlR2Pqqm4UecWGgRqkqSWRwF_1lvA_jPf9Hijl0Dn0q1692SApZRb3KxPw67IBH3_hHi9wOjOnkiycgaA6NfZh4anv5Oyndsrtcpp9XInkZK2XY6wYb8S7uknSw/s1600/polarn-o-pyret-spring.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At <a href="http://polarnopyretusa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Polarn O. Pyret</a> store Chestnut Hill</td></tr>
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If you're an average mom like me, you are often overwhelmed with the quick turn over of kids clothing! They grow like weeds! Spring cleaning comes around and besides all the nooks and crannies that need to be cleaned, you've got closets full of outgrown kids clothing from past seasons. It's great when there are siblings to pass it on to, but what's your kid going to wear now? </div>
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I am sure a lot of us moms also have some clothing of our own that hasn't been worn in months. It may be cute, but not practical with kids. It may have fit us at one point. We may have worn it once for a special occasion. Maybe it was too good of a sale to pass up. Now it's just taking up space. Meanwhile your kids need new tights, coats, shirts, jeans, etc. </div>
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Here is what you can do right now to remedy this imbalance! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohuQsY_13U6zka4kUPldZkb_QzbY3dbfT4RIj47u6lz2JYUb3O64_yRqKl68IlmAQY_f-LzqqxYRhOUuJ6AmsqhuBIss1lUbap52g9B4BDuoQ6X4ACESJhFkvTLS9Q98ac8v0KYsTfTk/s1600/thedUP_FB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohuQsY_13U6zka4kUPldZkb_QzbY3dbfT4RIj47u6lz2JYUb3O64_yRqKl68IlmAQY_f-LzqqxYRhOUuJ6AmsqhuBIss1lUbap52g9B4BDuoQ6X4ACESJhFkvTLS9Q98ac8v0KYsTfTk/s1600/thedUP_FB.jpg" /></a></div>
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- Send an email to thredup@polarnopyretusa.com with your mailing address and request however many bags you need</div>
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- Activate the bag online so you can receive free shipping and credit to Polarn O. Pyret</div>
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- Fill the bag with up to 10 lbs of gently used name-brand kids or women's clothing and drop it off at post office or leave it for your mailman</div>
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- <a href="http://www.thredup.com/r/5ZVSCW" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ThredUp</a> will notify you of of how much credit you will receive (check out <a href="https://www.thredup.com/clothesline" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these examples</a> of how much you can earn). It will take about a month. </div>
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- Your clothing is resold on ThredUp and you get to spend your credit on the <a href="http://www.polarnopyretusa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Polarn O. Pyret</a> website or in one of their <a href="http://www.polarnopyretusa.com/storelocator" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">stores</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHswIHqrWTFjea1EfCrWkxIJ6RS1oByH5SOh7wvrcX_G6877jlyST71SH4zQbnVvyUKaua2eGXenTXeHsnC2Iyvd7Y_eC__PGV9qlg1yHiy1XJCC7x96hcB_I1g-LtP_lezrUM_swE98/s1600/polarn+o+pyret.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHswIHqrWTFjea1EfCrWkxIJ6RS1oByH5SOh7wvrcX_G6877jlyST71SH4zQbnVvyUKaua2eGXenTXeHsnC2Iyvd7Y_eC__PGV9qlg1yHiy1XJCC7x96hcB_I1g-LtP_lezrUM_swE98/s1600/polarn+o+pyret.jpg" height="222" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5J7KSPEjS2RkCBYpKqj4NGjPBAGWP4x0dwUb3Qlhd8SUvQ4NmHaLqEnq1_4N-smS9Of4aotGgaOKs2iBUiUxnF_hxOwuKH6AfHNDX38k8Y1Y8V0kScXDtlqKrACzasCBkc9LIxqcdJrU/s1600/polarn-o-pyret-spring-coats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5J7KSPEjS2RkCBYpKqj4NGjPBAGWP4x0dwUb3Qlhd8SUvQ4NmHaLqEnq1_4N-smS9Of4aotGgaOKs2iBUiUxnF_hxOwuKH6AfHNDX38k8Y1Y8V0kScXDtlqKrACzasCBkc9LIxqcdJrU/s1600/polarn-o-pyret-spring-coats.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a><br />
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So what can you buy with Polarn O. Pyret store credit? The kids and I had the incredible opportunity to visit their Chestnut Hill store in Newton, Massachusetts. Baby E and Baby T had a blast picking out some clothing for the spring season. They were most excited about these spring coats you see in our photos, perfect for spring rains and cool summer evenings. The workmanship is pretty amazing, they are unlike anything you'll see at stores these days. Baby T is so in love with what he calls his "firefighter coat", that he doesn't want to take it off! He has been wearing it at home for four days now! He loves role playing and pretending to be a firefighter, savings people and animals out of fires.</div>
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The clothing is extremely high quality, easy to resell or pass down if you take good care of it. I also LOVE that so much of it is gender neutral! I was never a big fan of gender specific clothing, much to the dismay of my pink and girly loving daughter. Thankfully she declared <i>blue</i> her favorite color a couple of years ago, so I can at least get her this gender neutral coat that she <i>adores</i>. She also loves the <a href="http://www.polarnopyretusa.com/index/page/product/product_id/10276/category_id/139/product_name/DUSTY+ROSE+TWIRL+DRESS+%286-12+YRS%29" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">twirly dress</a> below, it's so comfortable and just perfect for a girly girl that loves to be active, it doesn't restrict her. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZzA1zB3K9GZjhHmFkp2lWhkzQ7fCdCYDv764uN-DciCdMCH32x5CqiBYwAxCnzsJOuhauhm3RPg13hyphenhyphen3UKxaRyhTFhsNYDKUZqLloPf513Cx8H73Njt-dMqeAg8pgFwTRXVnf4jmc6w/s1600/polarn-o-pyret-spring-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_ZzA1zB3K9GZjhHmFkp2lWhkzQ7fCdCYDv764uN-DciCdMCH32x5CqiBYwAxCnzsJOuhauhm3RPg13hyphenhyphen3UKxaRyhTFhsNYDKUZqLloPf513Cx8H73Njt-dMqeAg8pgFwTRXVnf4jmc6w/s1600/polarn-o-pyret-spring-2.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoeiEJ3Y2jcz_n-4MPQVgAZB3FEtcwVWuxMZtt5A97o4P2_qTHtvNbHqKadqh7V3zazuxEbP11d_VKYbTgO78xgKIRsktF6zyO7a2HIfu5TyZVSTpKiczL7-qeFBnAV5iWQ2of9n0QYrg/s1600/001867137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoeiEJ3Y2jcz_n-4MPQVgAZB3FEtcwVWuxMZtt5A97o4P2_qTHtvNbHqKadqh7V3zazuxEbP11d_VKYbTgO78xgKIRsktF6zyO7a2HIfu5TyZVSTpKiczL7-qeFBnAV5iWQ2of9n0QYrg/s1600/001867137.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8iJOVs43Jrj9rKMLjZKiZmf3E2o9GHLf6I-oQLOJuiX3mui-NkLYy6TneI4oF2zDGtRj1-1t_AVKkkVROascVK6ysSzlRHsDVyrpj1iUC7uelCe8b17-DwfNvriBTdYwdVbcMpPTb-U/s1600/I_7322857676645_50_20141120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8iJOVs43Jrj9rKMLjZKiZmf3E2o9GHLf6I-oQLOJuiX3mui-NkLYy6TneI4oF2zDGtRj1-1t_AVKkkVROascVK6ysSzlRHsDVyrpj1iUC7uelCe8b17-DwfNvriBTdYwdVbcMpPTb-U/s1600/I_7322857676645_50_20141120.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Polarn O. Pyret always has amazing sales, so don't be discouraged by the pricing. I thought I couldn't afford anything there until I saw the sale racks and some really great deals on the high quality clothing! Above is a shirt I got for Baby T, the most awesome thing about it is that it is reversible! That's just perfect with kids! Very practical, I hope they make more like these!</div>
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<b>Request your free <a href="http://www.thredup.com/r/5ZVSCW" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ThredUp</a> bag at <span style="text-align: justify;">thredup@polarnopyretusa.com</span></b></div>
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<b>Connect with Polarn O. Pyret on their <a href="http://www.polarnopyretusa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/POLARNOPYRETUS?fref=ts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.twitter.com/polarnopyretusa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://instagram.com/polarnopyretusa/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/polarnopyretusa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16lhzQIWsJ7hGO9vQMOH3DQhYtChFpSzvutemUzE_vjOP5dGzEe3YzmluwS3R1j5i53VuO6KGxbCuEzU0_hehHh2SGS5HRdnctEzsZ-XXVZhQoO3dFZkKlw6k0uUEnAisdVMMJWVdlLc/s1600/FTC-review-disclosure-eco-babyz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16lhzQIWsJ7hGO9vQMOH3DQhYtChFpSzvutemUzE_vjOP5dGzEe3YzmluwS3R1j5i53VuO6KGxbCuEzU0_hehHh2SGS5HRdnctEzsZ-XXVZhQoO3dFZkKlw6k0uUEnAisdVMMJWVdlLc/s1600/FTC-review-disclosure-eco-babyz.jpg" height="66" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhQ2SbGpBSqYiAzuTtQoPvuJeR4zAwIPyieny0Vu80hdcaNu57o5vynwq9634Wy90hBglE1gTARNMJxtW6NmxMYNIQGWCHUe8eDpm9yDFQMdw50mhBiswXzJC0A5598hB30p_DxC_ki0I/s1600/shoe-review-tieks-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhQ2SbGpBSqYiAzuTtQoPvuJeR4zAwIPyieny0Vu80hdcaNu57o5vynwq9634Wy90hBglE1gTARNMJxtW6NmxMYNIQGWCHUe8eDpm9yDFQMdw50mhBiswXzJC0A5598hB30p_DxC_ki0I/s1600/shoe-review-tieks-3.JPG" /></a></div>
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As a mom and professional wedding photographer, my footwear choices are limited to whatever is the most comfortable. I am always looking for a pair that is comfy, compliments many outfits, and will last. That's why I was so excited to discover <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=451925&u=527408&m=45577&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tieks by Gavrieli</a>! </div>
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They are perfect for chasing toddlers.</div>
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They are perfect for running many errands, food shopping, and playgrounds. </div>
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They are perfect for city strolls with a stroller. </div>
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They are perfect for kneeling, squatting, walking, and standing on your feet for 10 hours making another bride and groom happy! (in my case)</div>
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I first ordered a pair in my normal shoes size - a seven. I put them to the ultimate test of an all day wedding and ended up with some blisters on my heels. I was sad, because other than that they were super comfortable and <i>perfect</i>. So I let the wonderful people at Tieks know about my experience and they sent me one size up quickly to replace my size seven with an eight. I've worn these at another wedding and they were perfect! You can see me below at the mansion right before the reception, wearing this beautiful pair of <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=451961&u=527408&m=45577&urllink=&afftrack=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">metallic pewter Tieks</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sSdwK9ntv4geoHFM_BdSMraxLmz82dNtljXznGK6B4rW-Ex4nuvd1sP48SbKfovJ2od9b9YTVKhw6RW9vWuAlz74fPojr3GpoHTPklsg57fK6Ty474MUl6z5tJQSSg-0AQ4kTMmakh8/s1600/female-photographer-shoes-tieks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sSdwK9ntv4geoHFM_BdSMraxLmz82dNtljXznGK6B4rW-Ex4nuvd1sP48SbKfovJ2od9b9YTVKhw6RW9vWuAlz74fPojr3GpoHTPklsg57fK6Ty474MUl6z5tJQSSg-0AQ4kTMmakh8/s1600/female-photographer-shoes-tieks.JPG" /></a></div>
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These are the perfect flats for a single professional in the city, for the urban or suburban mom, or even the retiree who has no interest in heels and wants a well-made pair of comfy flats that will last. Most of all of course I recommend these for other female photographers, you'll <i>love</i> them! Will they cause a case of sticker shock? Perhaps. They did for me. If you are buying them to wear for your business though, it's a great write off! I don't plan to wear them for anything other than wedding photography, they are my special "favorite job ever" shoes. Tieks enable me to photograph a wedding without having to think about how uncomfortable my shoes are, which of course makes it possible to focus on giving my client the best experience and to have some fun with them!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYX5Wfupq_y4NC8bXcCD4k3v0LX8wjPppwHQSqn8F9UEtLNh4HsOUbTEte-NZVs3mByqV6H5HbOWVB1ZY3qTojc9DcG9zQjnXjyQ1B7UNSCoQAbvC5v5lVUdxkB7Z6ovd5eAaQgZKOI_c/s1600/shoe-review-tieks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYX5Wfupq_y4NC8bXcCD4k3v0LX8wjPppwHQSqn8F9UEtLNh4HsOUbTEte-NZVs3mByqV6H5HbOWVB1ZY3qTojc9DcG9zQjnXjyQ1B7UNSCoQAbvC5v5lVUdxkB7Z6ovd5eAaQgZKOI_c/s1600/shoe-review-tieks.JPG" /></a></div>
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I also love that the <a href="http://tieks.com/gavrielifoundation" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gavrieli Foundation</a> supports women entrepreneurs all over the world creating opportunities for them to support their families and communities. This is huge for me as an entrepreneur myself! Starting a business in the U.S. was not easy, and it is even harder in many other countries. I love supporting companies that in turn support other female entrepreneurs like myself. </div>
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<b>Connect with Tieks on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Tieks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/tieks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://pinterest.com/tieks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and <a href="http://instagram.com/tieks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>!</b></div>
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<a href="http://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=622597&u=527408&m=45577&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank"><img alt="Pink Ballet Flats" border="0" src="http://static.shareasale.com/image/45577/BallerinaPinkTile300x250Final.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaERx_Mq6pVClLJRgqsDswG3-kVbf1kCXAvXfh5_xVfyVMd5L9HrXK4U4hizztIDK0otEFb6wUkBhucxYhWWFGR9mYy7AeQr_ueyjaZnUc4_USXW3YH-zqXumNNUo2MCsmYguGrD-d_u0/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaERx_Mq6pVClLJRgqsDswG3-kVbf1kCXAvXfh5_xVfyVMd5L9HrXK4U4hizztIDK0otEFb6wUkBhucxYhWWFGR9mYy7AeQr_ueyjaZnUc4_USXW3YH-zqXumNNUo2MCsmYguGrD-d_u0/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield-2.JPG" /></a></div>
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We are always so excited to try new products from Stonyfield! We are huge fans, their yogurt is my go-to portable snack for kids when we are on the go and taking local day trips. We love the drinkable yogurts and pouches for mess free and spoon free snack when we are at the park, beach, or enjoying a day at the zoo. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Nj3pcuBpfyvAZ1RpR4R4i96eX0Gu7fAgXuTB5FSRTTzq_fI3wdtrNmU_Y66iKUQQ4IZq86QMSFKjxpc_KOmnuI0VbLQMd562PQfbX0HtE0EdT0zEGotqMhxfuPSjw-_iLzCqvC43HiE/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Nj3pcuBpfyvAZ1RpR4R4i96eX0Gu7fAgXuTB5FSRTTzq_fI3wdtrNmU_Y66iKUQQ4IZq86QMSFKjxpc_KOmnuI0VbLQMd562PQfbX0HtE0EdT0zEGotqMhxfuPSjw-_iLzCqvC43HiE/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield-3.JPG" /></a></div>
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This is the yogurt I've been dreaming of! One that ditches the myth that natural fats are bad for you! I only buy whole milk yogurt and we never fell for the low-fat fad. Happy and healthy eating full-fat everything, it's brain food, it gives you energy, and there is usually less sugar in whole fat products. We absolutely loved the new Oh My Yog! yogurts, they are phenomenally flavorful, just the right amount of sweet, a healthy treat that I can reach for instead of my ice cream pint. In the summer these will be great when we are constantly outdoors and I try not use use the oven or cook much, a snack that's always ready!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPARm25rZ6QXdG04AAO1ys0HFM1zNYMg3xTFwOb_g6hi150TOmxnfJHYwdw77OJ-V5eLprvIwpTd2avCjqng-8ry53u3mu-9lFWfr0CJB-5B2HIc7t4ofZI2xaxjiURjGEBhBgB32bOno/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPARm25rZ6QXdG04AAO1ys0HFM1zNYMg3xTFwOb_g6hi150TOmxnfJHYwdw77OJ-V5eLprvIwpTd2avCjqng-8ry53u3mu-9lFWfr0CJB-5B2HIc7t4ofZI2xaxjiURjGEBhBgB32bOno/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield-4.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs1kMx_OFFsyOolMHp5lNpCkQkC1NsuhsZ7ZTBm_-NYVlbrbCCRFuH7uhZSVBHvDIU3eGoms8VDlThHpVXzE6ExUod3otDfyWFR6fe1nbBgDcBe_LYVs0WpSICH1rLD1I57Ku5ob1kK2w/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs1kMx_OFFsyOolMHp5lNpCkQkC1NsuhsZ7ZTBm_-NYVlbrbCCRFuH7uhZSVBHvDIU3eGoms8VDlThHpVXzE6ExUod3otDfyWFR6fe1nbBgDcBe_LYVs0WpSICH1rLD1I57Ku5ob1kK2w/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield-5.JPG" /></a></div>
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I don't know who loved these more, me or the kids!Our favorite flavors turned out to be Orange Cranberry and Pacific Coast Strawberry. I really love the unique kick of gingered pear. But really all the flavors I would eat any day! After I took these photos and then was washing the containers to put them in the recycle bin, I read the stories on the inside of the wrappers, a nice surprise! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKf9g_7s4oFYkL4V3FlOhFWtzqTYhpPxjLLBTfKvP7ml8Xu0clICDBG6A7XBuEYgeaKNYQwgGChebTEZrpPulPkAcnA940y6-zki7ExSplgH6QmWm1EbgqdWjcZfVdLOsgUpI6i3b8L4/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDKf9g_7s4oFYkL4V3FlOhFWtzqTYhpPxjLLBTfKvP7ml8Xu0clICDBG6A7XBuEYgeaKNYQwgGChebTEZrpPulPkAcnA940y6-zki7ExSplgH6QmWm1EbgqdWjcZfVdLOsgUpI6i3b8L4/s1600/oh-my-yog-stonyfield.JPG" /></a></div>
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We will not hesitate to buy this treat this spring and summer, it's perfect to pack with us in the cooler for outings. Now if only the kids wouldn't dig into my cup too... Maybe I'll just get them some Stonyfield YoBaby or YoToddler, and this will be <i>my treat</i>?</div>
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Check out all the neat flavors and see where you can find them <a href="http://www.stonyfield.com/products/oh-my-yog" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4MI_ANAZGS-tVJtpAUukNBFkFqSFemBWLNpBMdd2A1sj8vOkI8l_kFnnIrKkOvRTcYZAkeDREQVU0t452kQwK-Vdo6AwOPNojqPHxnNE4tamIa0JNwEGdx_A9Pd4ILik1sNC5mk4C5ps/s1600/FTC-review-disclosure-eco-babyz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="66" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4MI_ANAZGS-tVJtpAUukNBFkFqSFemBWLNpBMdd2A1sj8vOkI8l_kFnnIrKkOvRTcYZAkeDREQVU0t452kQwK-Vdo6AwOPNojqPHxnNE4tamIa0JNwEGdx_A9Pd4ILik1sNC5mk4C5ps/s320/FTC-review-disclosure-eco-babyz.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.38399887084961px; text-align: left;">Disclaimer: I work in partnership with Stonyfield as a YoGetter blogger and I am compensated for my work. The opinions and thoughts within this post are 100% my own. I only work with companies I support and believe my readers will like!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mWj_dL_JMJDSOhOHjXrwLfcFG3anzyoZ8AEKmZGgcSNAue0nXl8w1cJyMkkpb2xwnEDarQDwt-fKklNUPf7X8yXiAiDC_6NNL4PzUOpQN5n-U6-d8QizvToPlNfaPaEDullAPjw5nJY/s1600/DSC_0098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mWj_dL_JMJDSOhOHjXrwLfcFG3anzyoZ8AEKmZGgcSNAue0nXl8w1cJyMkkpb2xwnEDarQDwt-fKklNUPf7X8yXiAiDC_6NNL4PzUOpQN5n-U6-d8QizvToPlNfaPaEDullAPjw5nJY/s1600/DSC_0098.JPG" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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They all tell you that kids grow up so fast, of course we can only see it and agree wholeheartedly when <i>your own</i> kids grow up right in front of your eyes. Blink. They are walking. Blink. They are reading. Blink. They are getting married. That's what it feels like anyway! I remember when Baby E (above) was a tiny little thing, trying her first foods - like an avocado. She was about 7 months old when I first bought some <a href="http://www.stonyfield.com/products/baby-kids/yobaby/banana-mango" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Stonyfield YoBaby yogurt</a> for her. Knowing that low-fat dairy isn't good for babies, I could definitely appreciate the whole fat organic creaminess of yummy YoBaby yogurt. In fact, I remember as a teenager when Stonyfield first came out with YoBaby and I would ask <i>my mom</i> to buy that for me instead of the runny, low-fat stuff sold everywhere! Yes, even I was a YoBaby "baby". </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxYXUb_mn26mluZSOk3yvB75JhiLu3IdhiYupyBovRWNHrqi2lqhk0ooPaEVSOS5gJminzAZ4I4oTxVC0Q0RKO1NQONWx5O2fkv3fA7NuaQhSbV9X2owO-cUF075dzyhVbbd3if9NxyPQ/s1600/baby-t-with-me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxYXUb_mn26mluZSOk3yvB75JhiLu3IdhiYupyBovRWNHrqi2lqhk0ooPaEVSOS5gJminzAZ4I4oTxVC0Q0RKO1NQONWx5O2fkv3fA7NuaQhSbV9X2owO-cUF075dzyhVbbd3if9NxyPQ/s1600/baby-t-with-me.jpg" height="400" width="264" /></a></div>
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As I gave birth to children of my own, I appreciated even more having a convenient and healthy, GMO and pesticide free snack or dessert option for them. To this day I still reach for YoBaby when we are out food shopping, both my 6 and 3 year old still love it as much as they did when they both first tried it! It stands the test of time and the changing and growing taste buds of two little ones. For a busy mom and photographer, it's also a great time saver and a convenience that I find worth it in many ways. It's hard to find brands and companies you can trust and I'm glad to support Stonyfield, especially since they are local to New England where we live. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG5qIk5XGozNgCkiKBRS57hqbmBNoi0iEMoxwAw5-R7KtNjgnxo9dFOEZVzkuGzN83gpB7K46hqvB16_bKNAD4lbc7KQ52irlinyO4WV2oKL9IBuVZn1Hg9kUpAhJVZYA3Kp7R_Z8vGZ8/s1600/baby-e-and-t.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG5qIk5XGozNgCkiKBRS57hqbmBNoi0iEMoxwAw5-R7KtNjgnxo9dFOEZVzkuGzN83gpB7K46hqvB16_bKNAD4lbc7KQ52irlinyO4WV2oKL9IBuVZn1Hg9kUpAhJVZYA3Kp7R_Z8vGZ8/s1600/baby-e-and-t.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Baby E doesn't fit on my lap quite as comfortably. Baby T isn't so tiny anymore either, resorting to kicking mommy sometimes more than hugging me. His mischievous smile may mean that sometimes more yogurt ends up on the table than in his mouth, though when it's YoBaby, it most certainly ends up in his mouth! He loves the creamy taste and sometimes leaves the last spoonful for me to show his love and affection. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXUdEyDrNR4bLCBztpsJFjGQw_WLx7lBowN7XW7rRTN2tAxhUBBcs-o2omWWmomc-x08LaPhaKkcTkqoix4MWl5To6Wqi05TmqBRDgwT6gz3ALywFFpbd72Y9jD2yeI8IyiYESZuRwgvo/s1600/BOA_6716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXUdEyDrNR4bLCBztpsJFjGQw_WLx7lBowN7XW7rRTN2tAxhUBBcs-o2omWWmomc-x08LaPhaKkcTkqoix4MWl5To6Wqi05TmqBRDgwT6gz3ALywFFpbd72Y9jD2yeI8IyiYESZuRwgvo/s1600/BOA_6716.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>
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In all the photos I see them changing so fast into little people, often with very grown up thoughts. I also try to get in the picture when possible, so that they can later see mom was actually with them and not just taking pictures of them! Though these childhood years I'm so glad to have had Stonyfield YoBaby with us for the ride, happy 16th!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxgE2OgymftpyZ4YbemfE3gXzKdjLQdL7KAkQtI5gJZazsmD0k_CPSTAbQL6lFK1hfYDOReCM_hih8_zi1YHeJhGZd0BTDbr1R8ecuBLZH2FDFHqJb73-FdmwFDp7MvsDD1wWrBkifSY/s1600/stonyfield-blogger-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxgE2OgymftpyZ4YbemfE3gXzKdjLQdL7KAkQtI5gJZazsmD0k_CPSTAbQL6lFK1hfYDOReCM_hih8_zi1YHeJhGZd0BTDbr1R8ecuBLZH2FDFHqJb73-FdmwFDp7MvsDD1wWrBkifSY/s1600/stonyfield-blogger-2.JPG" /></a></div>
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One of our readers will receive a sweet little YoBaby prize pack that we hope you will enjoy!<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: I work in partnership with Stonyfield as a YoGetter blogger and I am compensated for my work. The opinions and thoughts within this post are 100% my own. I only work with companies I support and believe my readers will like!</i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-3643643610842752352015-02-04T11:28:00.001-05:002015-02-04T11:38:55.139-05:00Natural Baby Giveaway Hop {Rocky Mountain Botanicals}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGLql8p3HLc2RMTiHE2nm5bGwLa9MrZm6DTYGOTw5bOR8FmOjHKnAoSKB_MhdGwRs9g7XmofMcVX1nXfb_1jxd931oOupBvXOzj9Fqa9xuLEsASZZqh73wRECMC4Z0dR0TdTrw07-hMw/s1600/rocky+mountain+botanicals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGLql8p3HLc2RMTiHE2nm5bGwLa9MrZm6DTYGOTw5bOR8FmOjHKnAoSKB_MhdGwRs9g7XmofMcVX1nXfb_1jxd931oOupBvXOzj9Fqa9xuLEsASZZqh73wRECMC4Z0dR0TdTrw07-hMw/s1600/rocky+mountain+botanicals.jpg" height="190" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwGJHL4rTHUsPITuJtYCgxwPC3T8Dc8ihXpmJszcmohhMbWJikGRGwtdpqBRkbzfCPBNWvj1HBbkWpC0cTKH0-Qn-RtjSvkWIo95J5UFkyWlYFD8bbDaT7fXvb0dPDW5SCbZeBegltCI/s1600/rockymountain-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwGJHL4rTHUsPITuJtYCgxwPC3T8Dc8ihXpmJszcmohhMbWJikGRGwtdpqBRkbzfCPBNWvj1HBbkWpC0cTKH0-Qn-RtjSvkWIo95J5UFkyWlYFD8bbDaT7fXvb0dPDW5SCbZeBegltCI/s1600/rockymountain-logo.jpg" /></a></div>
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Welcome to the Natural Baby Giveaway Hop, hosted by <a href="http://www.happy-mothering.com/" target="_blank">Happy Mothering</a>, <a href="http://www.easygreenmom.com/" target="_blank">Easy Green Mom</a> and <a href="http://brittlebyscorner.com/" target="_blank">Brittleby’s Corner</a> through the <a href="http://www.greenmomsnetwork.com/" target="_blank">Green Moms Network</a>! This February we are showcasing all the great green and eco-friendly baby and kid gear that we love! After entering our giveaway here at Eco-Babyz, don't forget to hop around and enter all of the other giveaways listed on the linky at the bottom of this post for your chance to win other great eco-friendly baby and kid gear!
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Our sponsor here at Eco-Babyz is a small family-owned brand that creates effective, hand-crafted skincare products for mom and baby. Made with essential oils and botanical extracts, <a href="http://www.rockymountainbotanicals.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rocky Mountain Botanicals</a> only uses highest quality, chemical free ingredients. Interested in knowing more? Just read <a href="http://www.rockymountainbotanicals.ca/product-review-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">what others are saying</a> about them!</div>
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"Founded by my mother, Marcine Ko in 2004, Rocky Mountain Botanicals is the result of many family generations of natural healers and the love and compassion they had for all living things; animals, people and plants alike." Read more of their story <a href="http://www.rockymountainbotanicals.ca/our-roots2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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Enter below to win a set of Best Natural Deodorant (awesome for pregnancy and for any mom!) and the Arnica Extreme Ache and Pain Relief Creme (awesome for parents and kids for all those bumps and bruises).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4uffRP_ILs4EVkiQT9nEpe5W_Sm3_p9MMfeWYaRnmM1V5mQUcILSs2sZfLjeAtZ-IwXVlg7dc-9wFivb5HC-eYsU-acGeTERgKaOToBp0WQNn07NSLiafoo1XwEws0Wg675gTPAv1Fg/s1600/Natural-Baby-Giveaway-Hop-2015-300x3001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4uffRP_ILs4EVkiQT9nEpe5W_Sm3_p9MMfeWYaRnmM1V5mQUcILSs2sZfLjeAtZ-IwXVlg7dc-9wFivb5HC-eYsU-acGeTERgKaOToBp0WQNn07NSLiafoo1XwEws0Wg675gTPAv1Fg/s1600/Natural-Baby-Giveaway-Hop-2015-300x3001.jpg" /></a></div>
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Be sure to enter the grand prize giveaway! One winner will receive a prize package from Ecocentric Mom, My Chickadee, SoftBums, Earth Mama Angel Baby Organics and Rockin' Green Soap! Over $338 value! <b><a href="http://www.happy-mothering.com/?p=22213" target="_blank">Enter here.</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxVQ77HNT9VaBgy4CVYpLl_VtI6sBig7a3WMrjQ8GjeeN-w9MZmPsjOR85XTtLG8q5DMneVuGJ6NWDdoZH9PmJvMkTReYDLIhezRer3SMFUZXzU9Gq6lj4PrRhbTxjMaxmaZeSJKSyLc/s1600/Natural-hop-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxxVQ77HNT9VaBgy4CVYpLl_VtI6sBig7a3WMrjQ8GjeeN-w9MZmPsjOR85XTtLG8q5DMneVuGJ6NWDdoZH9PmJvMkTReYDLIhezRer3SMFUZXzU9Gq6lj4PrRhbTxjMaxmaZeSJKSyLc/s1600/Natural-hop-2015.jpg" height="640" width="457" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This contest will run through February 18, 2015 at 8:59 pm PST (11:59 pm EST). The winner will be chosen the following day and announced on Blog Name. No purchase necessary. US entries only. Must be 18 years or older to win. The sponsors provided me with free samples of these products to review, and I was under no obligation to review them if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. You understand that you are providing your information to this blog and not to Facebook. Please note that Happy Mothering, Easy Green Mom, Brittleby's Corner, the Green Moms Network and the Naturally Healthy event bloggers are not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes. We have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prize and in a timely manner. We will contact the sponsor regarding your prize(s). The sponsors, in most cases, are shipping their items to you directly. I will make every effort to assist you obtaining your prize. If there is an issue with a sponsor, please notify the blog you won a prize from within 4-6 weeks for assistance, after that we may be unable to assist you.</span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-83906473623835389122015-02-03T12:34:00.000-05:002015-02-03T17:05:10.307-05:00It Could Be Love 2015: $1150 in PRIZES!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKHbL5haeBT0MAlnuhv6rAlwqQJnO-I5S-6OCMuZdkMc-FnmTjybtYzr3_dty2X38pSBNhLyhra3AjPmHs78yYGUyrWRcBQ9dr77NKOLio2ghOAaftaQwMSdqS7tgJN2qEeh0Y1ePVRw/s1600/love2015-final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKHbL5haeBT0MAlnuhv6rAlwqQJnO-I5S-6OCMuZdkMc-FnmTjybtYzr3_dty2X38pSBNhLyhra3AjPmHs78yYGUyrWRcBQ9dr77NKOLio2ghOAaftaQwMSdqS7tgJN2qEeh0Y1ePVRw/s1600/love2015-final.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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We are very excited to be part of this great event hosted by Project Pomona. As you know, we love their cloth diaper friendly baby pants! Baby T has been wearing a pair ever since we received <a href="http://www.eco-babyz.com/2013/04/project-pomona-jeans-review-giveaway.html" target="_blank">one to review</a>. They still fit! Can you imagine? Two years later they are well-loved but still fit the little guy and I'm saving them in case we have another baby. Through dozens of washes they've held up so well. Now I'm dreaming of getting a bigger size for him just because it's been our favorite pair in terms of fit, ease of putting on, and how soft they are (who likes hard jeans, not me!). They now make 'Little Bum' <a href="http://www.projectpomonashop.com/collections/little-bum-pants" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">stretch waist jeans</a> for the potty trained crowd in sizes 2T to 5T, I love the absence of the center snap, Baby T hates those! </div>
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So this is why we love supporting a small company like Project Pomona and helping them grow, it just makes sense in both being an eco-friendly option and supporting small business and as a business owner myself, I know what it is like to run one. </div>
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You'll love all the great brands that are on board for this event and we are sure you know many of them, some of which we've also worked with in the past! Take a look at these wonderful prizes and be sure to enter via the Rafflecopter form on the bottom. </div>
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IT COULD BE LOVE 2015: $1150 in PRIZES!!!</div>
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<a href="http://www.projectpomonashop.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Project Pomona</a>: $100 Gift Card to Project Pomona</div>
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<a href="http://www.calgaryclothdiaperdepot.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Calgary Cloth Diaper Depot</a>: $50.00 Gift Certificate (Free Shipping Can/USA)</div>
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<a href="http://www.funkyfluff.ca/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Funky Fluff</a>: Cloth Diaper in winners choice of fabric and print/color ($20.99 - $22.99)</div>
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<a href="http://www.cottonbabies.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Cotton Babies</a>: 2 bumGenius 4.0 cloth diapers - solid colors only, 1 bumGenius Outing Wet Bag ($48.85)</div>
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<a href="http://www.spray-pal.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Spray Pal</a>: 1 Spray Pal Splatter Shield ($25)</div>
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<a href="http://www.shopteeniegreenies.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Shop Teenie Greenies</a>: (1) Ju-Ju-Be BFF in either Tokidoki The King's Court print or Hello Kitty Tick Tock print ($170)</div>
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<a href="http://www.loganandlenora.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Logan and Lenora</a>: Mini Wet Bag in ZOOM ($19.50)</div>
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<a href="http://babykicks.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">BabyKicks</a>: Premium Pocket Diaper in Snaps ($21.50)</div>
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<a href="http://taylorspureandnatural.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">BALM! Baby</a>: "Baby Lover's Bundle" 1 BALM! Baby Butter, 1 BALM! Baby Fresh out of the Tub Baby Wash & Shampoo, 1 Taylor's Spritz Rose Room & Body Freshner.</div>
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<a href="http://mommemeals.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Momme Meals</a>: 4 Delicious Bags of Go Chews ($40)</div>
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<a href="http://geffenbaby.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Geffen Baby</a>: 1 Hemp Fleece Fladdle (flat/swaddle) ($11.99)</div>
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<a href="http://www.gro-via.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Gro-Via</a>: 1 GroVia Hybrid Cloth Diaper Snap Shell in choice of Topaz or Lotus, 1 GroVia Hybrid Cloth Diaper 2-Pack of No-Prep Soaker Pads ($51)</div>
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<a href="http://www.gen-ydiapers.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">GEN-Y Diapers</a>: Next GEN Universal Cover, Size Large, Sucker Punch Print ($21.99)</div>
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<a href="http://smartbottoms.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Smart Bottoms</a>: 3.1 All-in-One Diaper, Winner's Choice ($25)</div>
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<a href="http://www.thirstiesbaby.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Thirsties</a>: One Size All in One Diaper ($19.75)</div>
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<a href="http://littlethingscollective.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Little Things Collective</a>: Diaper Dawgs Spray Collar ($14.95)</div>
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<a href="http://www.forevergingerbread.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Forever Gingerbread</a>: 1 Large Forever Gingerbread house ($50)</div>
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<a href="http://tushieties.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Tushie Ties</a>: 3 Pack of One Size Bamboo Velour Cloth Diapers ($45)</div>
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<a href="http://www.boingobaby.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Boingo</a>: Starter Pack: 4 Sets of Boingo's, 6 EcoMax OS Prefolds ($85)</div>
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<a href="http://yldropeverything.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: crimson; text-decoration: none; word-break: break-word;" target="_blank">Drop Everything</a>: Young Living Premium Starter Kit: Home Diffuser, 10 Everyday Oils Kit: Lemon, Lavender, Peppermint, Frankincense, Melaleuca (tea tree), PanAway blend, Purification blend, Thieves blend, Joy blend, and Stress Away blend…and more ($300)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZIqQLH3FRl9qYzsY7fUukGcX5rAHO7yMB5qur-vaZrtSNr3FpeTQOF19HFoOvRO3Se2o0Dnrq3FFuVjLwSQ4k9gcLpPAwd-A77ueX0lDXs3rUVUYxXOo7227J-AJhTzh539MtcgbVjk/s1600/FTC-review-disclosure-eco-babyz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZIqQLH3FRl9qYzsY7fUukGcX5rAHO7yMB5qur-vaZrtSNr3FpeTQOF19HFoOvRO3Se2o0Dnrq3FFuVjLwSQ4k9gcLpPAwd-A77ueX0lDXs3rUVUYxXOo7227J-AJhTzh539MtcgbVjk/s1600/FTC-review-disclosure-eco-babyz.jpg" height="82" width="400" /></a></div>
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This giveaway is sponsored by Project Pomona. </div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-88245140397381408882015-01-23T18:31:00.000-05:002015-01-23T18:31:18.478-05:00A Unique Potty Learning Chart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nslN_se47pY2LC87RZ-0ZUCdwfm_Ufptzfdwm9zesLtevZ_b9zEdxKNKYh2RkDkqRdKtdj2w3vAbkX1aKEpwU7Vi-5RucHqsu2_4ncYPYbNdXE9k41pUDPd8EyDqKw4zBJ2PgDsbo98/s1600/fun-potty-training-chart1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nslN_se47pY2LC87RZ-0ZUCdwfm_Ufptzfdwm9zesLtevZ_b9zEdxKNKYh2RkDkqRdKtdj2w3vAbkX1aKEpwU7Vi-5RucHqsu2_4ncYPYbNdXE9k41pUDPd8EyDqKw4zBJ2PgDsbo98/s1600/fun-potty-training-chart1.jpg" /></a></div>
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So yeah, potty training a boy is not happening as easily as it did with my girl. Most moms told me, now I believe it. I see now that it is more "parent intensive" with boys than with girls. Okay, so my sample size of two children doesn't mean it's true for everyone, but that's my observation! I really wish we started earlier, much earlier - like in some countries where babies are potty learning when they are less than one year old and guess what - it works!</div>
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Baby T turned 3 in November, his birthday came and went. Now I'm left with a boy who is mildly interested in the potty. Well at least he is over the<i> fear</i> of it he used to have. I kid you not, he would <strike>scream</strike> be very uncomfortable at the sight of it. What really helped us is abandoning the potty entirely and switching to the toilet with a <a href="http://amzn.to/1CvD53z" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Little Looster</a> (awesome product, LOVE it!) that Baby E has been using since she was three. This marked the turning point of actually having time on the potty without fits, of course this means I had to entertain him long enough for him to sit there and eliminate. This meant books and stories with my hands as puppets. </div>
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Then I had another idea that went off in my head like a bulb. I used to tell myself I'd never be the mom using potty training charts for my kids! Of course the moment came when I actually though it would be a good idea. I didn't want to make a boring traditional chart though, it goes against out free-thinking life-learning tendencies. So I came up with this quick road drawing and we got car and construction vehicles stickers (there are tons of fun ones like <a href="http://amzn.to/1xKZRPd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a> and <a href="http://amzn.to/1zE2fNk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a> and <a href="http://amzn.to/1xL0Lvh" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a>). He loves it and there is definitely progress! Now I hope we will not be needing stickers forever, but it has worked to motivate him and now he sometimes asks to go, though half the time I just put him on the potty myself. </div>
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There are also plenty of neutral stickers like <a href="http://amzn.to/1D09M7c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a> and <a href="http://amzn.to/1yDPsZF" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a> or girly ones if you have a little princess, my daughter would love <a href="http://amzn.to/1yT8hqF" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a> and <a href="http://amzn.to/1xL3kNM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a>. You can get really creative with scenes and themes! Draw a jungle, a castle, a highway, or a zoo - whatever your kids like. Some of the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&field-keywords=melissa%20and%20doug%20stickers&linkCode=ur2&sprefix=melissa%20and%20doug%20st%2Caps%2C170&tag=ecobaby0f-20&url=search-alias%3Daps&linkId=HM5RRVNYPXQ6GBSK" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Melissa and Doug sticker pads</a> come with habitats already drawn, perfect if you're not really into drawing your own. </div>
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The key for us is having little boy undies that he wears at home so he becomes very aware of when an accident happens and more thoughtful about when he has to go. Even better when he can run around without any bottoms at all, but it's not always possible with a very curious 6 year old sister. Unless he is wearing a long shirt that covers his bum, I will put undies on him It's been really hard to find ones without annoying cartoon characters! Are you with me on that? We've had success with the fit of <a href="http://amzn.to/1xL5bCh" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a> on our super slim boy. If finances weren't as tight, I'd love some organic undies for him like <a href="http://amzn.to/1BltD0C" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a> and <a href="http://amzn.to/15xQfQk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PIDLfvaJVEgboXnKaXek0kKxS5yPA0GFSkZ8ULw95wY_9nN2lgAXaUL7RmAVFQGDwW6KroxZVL1aYs93vLR2zCMCJ-sYuQu0hTbrh9jUFztBkCzsvAeuMDZBT1M-eP-0FvnRVyU2c18/s1600/baby-e-and-baby-t-blackandwhite.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PIDLfvaJVEgboXnKaXek0kKxS5yPA0GFSkZ8ULw95wY_9nN2lgAXaUL7RmAVFQGDwW6KroxZVL1aYs93vLR2zCMCJ-sYuQu0hTbrh9jUFztBkCzsvAeuMDZBT1M-eP-0FvnRVyU2c18/s1600/baby-e-and-baby-t-blackandwhite.JPG" /></a></div>
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It also helps when there is an older sibling, these two are inseparable. He witnesses that his older sister doesn't wear diapers and goes on the toiler all by herself. She can also be helpful in telling me when he has to go even if I'm not in the same room and may be busy editing photos from a wedding or photo session for <a href="http://borisyukphotography.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Borisyuk Photography</a>. Other times she just let's me know that her baby brother is already stinky or there is "clean up on aisle two". Those are not fun! That's why when he is in real undies, I try to at least be in close vicinity to prevent accidents!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">How is potty training going for you? Do you have a little boy? If you've been there, tips are welcome!</span></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">Contains affiliate links to where we usually shop, </i><i style="text-align: justify;">your purchase supports Eco-Babyz at no extra cost to you and helps offset some of the cost associated with pouring our time and energy into this site. Thank you!</i></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-59927858728266292702014-12-16T22:39:00.002-05:002014-12-17T14:43:17.040-05:00Not Babies {photos}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBuOyc2pIjpawX_yzk-N7diG-_kF7-t6iYbzaFNosebF2V7NuNmMbB5z6d8vz99dk4UHtWgz_x-L0mNRcynVQTvK5oMsJKhOF5Q2P304HsIxyXcf3hzATOudYtHhmKo0rfxkpn3U4Vs28/s1600/my-kids-and-I-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBuOyc2pIjpawX_yzk-N7diG-_kF7-t6iYbzaFNosebF2V7NuNmMbB5z6d8vz99dk4UHtWgz_x-L0mNRcynVQTvK5oMsJKhOF5Q2P304HsIxyXcf3hzATOudYtHhmKo0rfxkpn3U4Vs28/s1600/my-kids-and-I-2.JPG" /></a></div>
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Are you in a season change in your life? I don't mean literally, but figuratively. New little ones arriving. Kids getting older. Kids leaving for college. I feel like we're in the midst of a change. No newborns or infants and finally nearing a time when I can leave the house with them without risking a tantrum in public. That coveted "diaper free" life on the horizon, potty learning... Then that thought of "we may not be done". Are we done? With kids? <i>Everyone</i> asks. Especially when you have one of each already! Like it's some sort of magic combination. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Ld-AzmezWh9cTO-DupbbQ4Dy9Rd0zzl5y3V5wjCNrRfht6kAPYHDxY3u3_S1wKSuoONCa9SyZZd34dB3LAvvu3G_uQVadu0Oqejwu6T0Ku5YTpftiF_pmTmbVpu96AxhGKziJjmmYaA/s1600/my-kids-and-I-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Ld-AzmezWh9cTO-DupbbQ4Dy9Rd0zzl5y3V5wjCNrRfht6kAPYHDxY3u3_S1wKSuoONCa9SyZZd34dB3LAvvu3G_uQVadu0Oqejwu6T0Ku5YTpftiF_pmTmbVpu96AxhGKziJjmmYaA/s1600/my-kids-and-I-3.JPG" /></a></div>
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I look at them and simultaneously think "We could be done <i>and</i> I want another one". I've always been indecisive, but when it comes to having children, even more so. Most moments I just try not to think about the future but live in the present because my babies aren't babies any more. Sad and happy at that thought all at the same time. They are still <i>my</i> babies. They are big to me when I look at newborns, they are little to me when I look at teenagers. They become so, so precious in moments when I hear of parents loosing their babies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjENSSa53V0dQniizT2QaMKHGCjXDtgNqNOnQfyycvnKbXjdP3kop8InurNSxugOxcC9XaIdUVsyxAavbWGIllskFXNYldFY0wxlXcLi-H8neyERMg_TfA8Gob_rSBi5KuVFHimxQww6VQ/s1600/my-kids-and-I-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjENSSa53V0dQniizT2QaMKHGCjXDtgNqNOnQfyycvnKbXjdP3kop8InurNSxugOxcC9XaIdUVsyxAavbWGIllskFXNYldFY0wxlXcLi-H8neyERMg_TfA8Gob_rSBi5KuVFHimxQww6VQ/s1600/my-kids-and-I-4.JPG" /></a></div>
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In the throes of homeschooling and life-learning, I'm surrounded by other moms on a similar journey that truly appreciate how short of a time we have with our children. Some have little families, some have big ones. Some are religious, some aren't. Some stay home, some work part time, some work full time while managing to homeschool. All of them from a great variety of backgrounds and cultures. We all have one thing in common though - cherishing the time we have with our 'babies'. We're not perfect, but we really enjoy simply being present for our families. Because babies don't keep and life is short. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg42H3-1Uf9-OFNXl9oAxKVWmtwbrlbGRPNdejJ22QMMwuFOeF97YD4fEfPMb2NeP5CvLmXgKNMS7xZ1A2D-oa8CoPb-M1m0OHC1O_3I1-huA-UO-wmXUhYe9CVjzJxAsK3g234F8251AI/s1600/my-kids-and-I.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg42H3-1Uf9-OFNXl9oAxKVWmtwbrlbGRPNdejJ22QMMwuFOeF97YD4fEfPMb2NeP5CvLmXgKNMS7xZ1A2D-oa8CoPb-M1m0OHC1O_3I1-huA-UO-wmXUhYe9CVjzJxAsK3g234F8251AI/s1600/my-kids-and-I.JPG" /></a></div>
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I don't want to paint a rosy picture. It's a great challenge and I'm not sure who is learning more, me or my children. I'm learning how to run a growing <a href="http://www.borisyukphotography.com/" target="_blank">Boston area wedding photography</a> business (new website and name by the way!). I have so much respect and solidarity for all business owning moms out there! I had no idea what I was getting myself into. My head is spinning with all the legal, bookkeeping, and financial stuff that goes into starting a business - hours upon hours of work that you do not get compensated for but have to pay for somehow. Then throw in a good measure of mommy guilt for the time I spend building the business while they nap, while they put on plays, play make believe, build with Legos, and just plain run around and drive each other nuts. I have to say though, this is also good for them, I can see how their free play time has shaped them into the little no-so-babies they are. </div>
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<b>Are you in a similar season or someplace else? Babies growing? Jobs changing? Homeschooling? New arrivals?</b><br />
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<b>How do you "live in the moment" through the routine of daily life?</b></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-41969871550041352932014-11-17T08:34:00.003-05:002014-11-17T08:34:55.753-05:00Fluffmas | Mini Kiwi AIO Cloth Diaper Giveaway | US + CAN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-wGVDLp6XWmvqSWSHEJkgb1xbQgvCK2ORV-IUoyRyzFpJ_m3sCmhy0RY3189VeCPXaBA88YGqCDyDUu5zX2mIZ0cCCKTe3dISPrw0jB6tQ_zY3OKYLTHP-cV-w5x-FC1z-cYyeevhBc/s1600/logo_kiwi.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-wGVDLp6XWmvqSWSHEJkgb1xbQgvCK2ORV-IUoyRyzFpJ_m3sCmhy0RY3189VeCPXaBA88YGqCDyDUu5zX2mIZ0cCCKTe3dISPrw0jB6tQ_zY3OKYLTHP-cV-w5x-FC1z-cYyeevhBc/s1600/logo_kiwi.png" height="222" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ61Esq6M7-URe5gZnS7RWqg0GpC7On8K8stYqHlz6HwQsqQUIUyD5BMvpwQrXNl1eLFYkdnvwjh80HUMhXFdpKQj8T97h7swicu_W1vL-vVlMKpdjXbImsCRrlsokWh52k3xIRnroVTU/s1600/ensemble-18-couches-tout-en-un-mini-kiwi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ61Esq6M7-URe5gZnS7RWqg0GpC7On8K8stYqHlz6HwQsqQUIUyD5BMvpwQrXNl1eLFYkdnvwjh80HUMhXFdpKQj8T97h7swicu_W1vL-vVlMKpdjXbImsCRrlsokWh52k3xIRnroVTU/s1600/ensemble-18-couches-tout-en-un-mini-kiwi.jpg" /></a></div>
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We are really excited to be part of the FluffMas Giveaway Hop hosted by the <a href="http://www.blogging-mamas.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><strong>Blogging Mamas Network</strong></a>! I know many of my readers cloth diaper or want to try cloth diapering, so this is a perfect fit. Each participating blogger in this hop has a fabulously festive and fluffy prize for you, so be sure to hop around to them all and don't miss the fantastic Grand Prize featuring <a href="http://buttonsdiapers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Buttons Diapers</a>, <a href="http://balmbaby.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Balm Baby</a>, and <a href="http://www.spray-pal.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SprayPal</a>! You can enter to win the <a href="http://blogging-mamas.com/2014/11/merry-fluffmas-cloth-diapers-grand-prize-giveaway-fluffmas/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FluffMas Grand Prize here</a>.</div>
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Our fabulous sponsor today is Mini Kiwi <a href="http://en.minikiwi.ca/" target="_blank">cloth diapers of Canada</a>. This north-of-the-border brand crates high performing, super absorbent cloth diapers. Their impressive product line consists of this All-in-one diaper as well as a pocket diaper, nighttime diaper, diaper covers, bamboo prefolds, training pants, cloth diaper safe rash cream, detergent, cloth diaper liners, and wet bags. Here is a little bit about this brand...</div>
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Mini kiwi is born from the meeting of parents and entrepreneurs wishing to reinvent the baby world by offering a range of eco-friendly, modern and quality products. We have forged strong partnerships with designers, artisans and artists from here and elsewhere. Our primary mission is to make the cloth diaper a trendy and reliable object.<br />
We work hand in hand with several local seamstresses that are at the heart of our creative spirit and high quality of our design.<br />
Our collaboration with a Mexican entrepreneur, mother of three children living in a small village in Mexico has emerged following an impromptu meeting and a heated discussion revolving around motherhood and cloth diapers.<br />
In Canada, we generally choose cloth diapers for ecological reasons and to avoid chemicals coming in contact with baby. In this small Mexican village, cloth diapers are used primarily to save money.<br />
With time, our dreams became intertwined. We wanted to create a high quality cloth diaper and she wanted to start her own sewing business and create jobs locally. Through our partnership, we employ eight fairly paid full-time workers, in a workshop managed by a young mother and her family.<br />
Mini kiwi continues to grow and we now manufacture products in Canada and Mexico. We have a dozen employees who work with us to manufacture, promote and distribute Mini kiwi products.<br />
All of our fabrics, thread, velcros and elastics are manufactured in North America, Our packaging is manufactured in Canada and kept minimal for environmental concerns. We try to give a second life to our packaging. Discover our line of dress-up characters on each packaging.</blockquote>
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One of you will win two <a href="http://en.minikiwi.ca/couches-lavables/couches/couche-tout-en-un-taille-unique-mini-kiwi.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mini Kiwi AIO</a> charcoal bamboo cloth diapers. It fits babies from 8 to 35 pounds, is naturally antibacterial and odor neutralizing, dark color hides stains, large absorption capacity, inner gussets prevent leaks at thighs, and has adjustable absorbency. It is available in many fun prints and colors, even owls and a space theme!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8mlDeySBWkiTJwxKEZkxKuasYpKyoBmOaRh83rp_wDpMyyIHd13Zg2LZVnaZUZTNHdiCNOUKGwY_lkBXJ-R_N2hWcYETXALlxgT7SK0HZGs8scJwmsTDDQij-pfLSppJCDUeq2q6txU/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8mlDeySBWkiTJwxKEZkxKuasYpKyoBmOaRh83rp_wDpMyyIHd13Zg2LZVnaZUZTNHdiCNOUKGwY_lkBXJ-R_N2hWcYETXALlxgT7SK0HZGs8scJwmsTDDQij-pfLSppJCDUeq2q6txU/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas.JPG" /></a></div>
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I've been searching for good quality organic pajamas in a market flooded with synthetics or cotton grown with pesticides. I was really excited to learn that one of my favorite kids clothing brands, Masala Baby, makes organic cotton pajamas! Not only that, they're also creating an impressive line of <a href="http://www.masalababy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">organic kids activewear</a>, there are only 30 hours left of their <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1817530458/masala-organic-activewear-for-kids-wear-it-with-a" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kickstarter campaign</a>! Here is your chance to get your hands on some ethically sourced, organic kids activewear, a rare find. <b>Once the campaign ends tomorrow, you'll be able to find the Organic Activewear on the Masala Baby website and Look.com starting December 15th! Perfect in time for the holidays if you're looking for useful presents.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDukaE_A1DEMpFKfJgO5uRycI-iXw46IWgEMHkxQNmIAUFhDnjtvn6iCydfZafMCLq_tfIIL6ivJhFrUiZ2tlOuAEyuIIk9YEJ-IMi7DhbapvNFjTi0lx4_WAJZT0PnT4jvVG_sqxJXo/s1600/masala-baby.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDukaE_A1DEMpFKfJgO5uRycI-iXw46IWgEMHkxQNmIAUFhDnjtvn6iCydfZafMCLq_tfIIL6ivJhFrUiZ2tlOuAEyuIIk9YEJ-IMi7DhbapvNFjTi0lx4_WAJZT0PnT4jvVG_sqxJXo/s400/masala-baby.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg8Q6CPBs3uL_bxf4mMm6QYIo6qgYo5bXMyMbFBXnbcJxsG58yqNwB_PFHIO9bBiAQ1hKfhQ8_q4RKuILy3h4OUy8FWbiM64QZU7IC6_iwTNehoj87OzfuXxSv48deadJBK8b-a9U7bR4/s1600/masala-boys.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg8Q6CPBs3uL_bxf4mMm6QYIo6qgYo5bXMyMbFBXnbcJxsG58yqNwB_PFHIO9bBiAQ1hKfhQ8_q4RKuILy3h4OUy8FWbiM64QZU7IC6_iwTNehoj87OzfuXxSv48deadJBK8b-a9U7bR4/s1600/masala-boys.png" height="282" width="400" /></a></div>
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Baby E has been sleeping in random cotton shirts and has been begging for some 'real' pajamas for months. Now that it's cooler, it's a must at bedtime here in New England! They were beyond excited to receive these pajamas and I was pretty proud of how little they need to be thankful and happy, one of those "Phew, they aren't totally 'first world' spoiled" moments. They even willingly posed for photos, these goofy adorable kids, I'm biased, I know. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0ZqhXeJhyphenhyphenmtSZXOSmM7J5BkeqaARsP5L3hzkqee3MatZyfR4Ozss-3tZwYbPcreBXnkqKYugI4Pm0IemKyg_-9F_yy3nctTRX2Hp95YV5w7z8QyTb82_uLf6rKTZmiJqS-BAyldxddQ/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0ZqhXeJhyphenhyphenmtSZXOSmM7J5BkeqaARsP5L3hzkqee3MatZyfR4Ozss-3tZwYbPcreBXnkqKYugI4Pm0IemKyg_-9F_yy3nctTRX2Hp95YV5w7z8QyTb82_uLf6rKTZmiJqS-BAyldxddQ/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas-2.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFFDy5tW8sYfbFx1hlJsqgaw7OnRq3h9Q2kGHtdkMjS_XJmi_ZoqmU_ZjN9ZCZDdaYE4xyF4vR_yOSAaNZv0DH1RgjKtl4CB3_Sl60geWy0Zrv-3cUpBKc_HCkjvwuabFBueBo-dw-yg/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFFDy5tW8sYfbFx1hlJsqgaw7OnRq3h9Q2kGHtdkMjS_XJmi_ZoqmU_ZjN9ZCZDdaYE4xyF4vR_yOSAaNZv0DH1RgjKtl4CB3_Sl60geWy0Zrv-3cUpBKc_HCkjvwuabFBueBo-dw-yg/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas-4.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMPwM2Tj0jL9GfXNX7ZS1-SE4-og3akjYG0swJi9PdtBY01S4aww4eALbCTBMA8KHQImfnc_UW91EQktRh9gzIIq9GhA57LbBP3-2ZcXeqeyKv8_HurTXxK_INoczDPuY6JPqZZ0Syac/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbMPwM2Tj0jL9GfXNX7ZS1-SE4-og3akjYG0swJi9PdtBY01S4aww4eALbCTBMA8KHQImfnc_UW91EQktRh9gzIIq9GhA57LbBP3-2ZcXeqeyKv8_HurTXxK_INoczDPuY6JPqZZ0Syac/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas-5.JPG" /></a></div>
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As you can see, the fabric and print is pretty amazing. I ordered a size up, Baby E will be 6 soon and she is wearing size 8 (sleeves rolled up in photos), Baby T will be 3 (next week!) and is wearing size 4. It shrunk a bit in the wash (delicate cycle, cold water), but the colors remain true and vibrant, plenty of room for them to wear it for more than one winter. So if you're in the market for organic pajamas, size up for your kids so they can enjoy them a little longer. </div>
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I love the perfect cut and fit, I have a pet peeve - pajama shirts that are too short. No bare backs or tummies with these! Stretchy cuffs keep kids snuggly warm but make it easy to put on and take off. I love that there are no pesticides or flame retardants used in the making of these pajamas - after all, they wear them for a good 12 hours a day, so that's pretty important! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnYm7WIzypMDDjhioFe2QSXPqc_yKmaKoOhlhRiXTjUb2IbXIK-l67birqdw7xvwWUu9PVjSR0TFk6-4V6i0fjQ5eTP3J12oKjuwH_IS3kj0ZCr3uHIcrD6P3PKdC_Qje46NL45fGqFE/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnYm7WIzypMDDjhioFe2QSXPqc_yKmaKoOhlhRiXTjUb2IbXIK-l67birqdw7xvwWUu9PVjSR0TFk6-4V6i0fjQ5eTP3J12oKjuwH_IS3kj0ZCr3uHIcrD6P3PKdC_Qje46NL45fGqFE/s1600/masala-baby-pajamas-3.JPG" /></a></div>
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Perhaps the only problem we've ran into with these pajamas is that they do not want to take them off! :) They want to wear them all day and I have to coax them into some clothes if we get out of the house (which I often don't want to anyway when it gets below zero around here!). </div>
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Masala Baby also has an AMAZING line of baby and kids clothing, I guarantee you'll love it! It's beautiful, well designed and made, with vibrant modern prints and colors. I just love that it's nothing like typical clothing you see in a store, it has a ton of character and is so unique!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.masalababy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Visit their website</a></b><br />
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<b>Support the <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1817530458/masala-organic-activewear-for-kids-wear-it-with-a" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kickstarter Campaign</a></b></div>
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<b>Connect on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/masalababynyc?ref=ts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://twitter.com/masala_baby" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/masalababy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="http://instagram.com/masalababynyc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTGB244sCI9XWkum3b9flFPz5tgDHTAsrn60wYfqXrlIkLCzgB-iF_IRol8BX_v43QIfaDPgE2njgd5wED9v2MTKlSdXTxj7QbguyDg01_EJ9Kz1B4j5akpo_yrjpsys5SK-ilCW5Eew/s1600/FTC-review-disclosure-eco-babyz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTGB244sCI9XWkum3b9flFPz5tgDHTAsrn60wYfqXrlIkLCzgB-iF_IRol8BX_v43QIfaDPgE2njgd5wED9v2MTKlSdXTxj7QbguyDg01_EJ9Kz1B4j5akpo_yrjpsys5SK-ilCW5Eew/s1600/FTC-review-disclosure-eco-babyz.jpg" height="83" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9fOIRg-bFrkSgAAYZUR-WJI6NB6eseiYXoBhTpt_vSoI1awN5lDEROhc7gj9CYYlMM0D0RAwrMU6C83uSkD01JcpWPDVGOhyphenhyphendsthDEyCVT1g-L90y742G6A6o0zXpcFKhCUIB6Kl96JU/s1600/immune-system-boosters-kids.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9fOIRg-bFrkSgAAYZUR-WJI6NB6eseiYXoBhTpt_vSoI1awN5lDEROhc7gj9CYYlMM0D0RAwrMU6C83uSkD01JcpWPDVGOhyphenhyphendsthDEyCVT1g-L90y742G6A6o0zXpcFKhCUIB6Kl96JU/s1600/immune-system-boosters-kids.png" width="478" /></a></div>
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As a mom in the trenches of our first illness of this season, boosting my kids' immune system is really fresh in my head, we've just recuperated! From the past five years of experience, we have a pretty large arsenal of first aid and have more or less figured out what works best for different types of symptoms as well as what helps <i>prevent</i> an illness from materializing when first symptoms are present. </div>
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I certainly do not know it all, but I prefer to keep our kids and ourselves off of drugs of any sort. Medical treatment only when absolutely necessary. These tried and true immune boosters have helped keep us out of the doctor's office many times (even though <a href="http://www.eco-babyz.com/2012/02/why-i-love-our-holistic-family-doctor.html" target="_blank">our doctor rocks</a>) and are definitely less expensive than over-inflated medical bills! These remedies help with everything from regular sniffles to a full blown respiratory infection that's tougher to beat. </div>
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I've noticed in friends, family, and acquaintances in real life and online - that regular medical treatment often results in lingering symptoms that do not go away for weeks or months, or worse - side effects that are worse than the illness itself. One thing I noticed is rather predictable with these natural remedies though, there are no side effects, we get over illnesses fairly quickly, and there are no lingering symptoms. </div>
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Here are all of our little secrets to staying well or treating acute illness through the New England fall/winter/spring, in no particular order...</div>
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<b>1. Breastfeeding | FREE</b></div>
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It's no secret that breastfeeding boosts a baby's immune system. I don't know how we would have survived illness with little ones if it wasn't for breastfeeding, my first until she turned 2 and my second is almost 3 and still nursing once or twice a day. All kinds of goodness here, breast milk full of probiotics, it is antiviral, and it is full of vitamins and minerals.</div>
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<b>2. Sunshine/Vitamin D | FREE, $4 - $20</b></div>
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Getting vitamin D naturally from proper sun exposure is best of course, but not always possible when the kids are bundled even for the few minutes of sun they get in cold weather. If you get supplements, make sure it is in the form of <a href="http://amzn.to/1vKvcFd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">vitamin D3</a>, not synthetic D2. For younger ones, you'll do well with hiding some <a href="http://amzn.to/1poilkU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">liquid D3 drops</a> in their drink. This is just common sense because vitamin D deficiency has been directly linked to being susceptible to the flu (see <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20219962" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.worldhealth.net/forum/thread/99358/vitamin-d-proven-more-effective-than-bo/?page=1" target="_blank">here</a>). </div>
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<b>3. Sleep | FREE</b><br />
It's absolutely <i>essential</i> for the body to have adequate sleep to have a strong immune system, especially for children (see <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3256323/" target="_blank">here</a>). Overworked, tired little bodies are more susceptible to disease. It may be tempting in this modern age to schedule your children for every available activity, but consider that their health and rest are more important and should be guarded. This is just one of gazillion reasons we love homeschooling, our learning revolves around a healthy lifestyle and not an exhausting schedule. </div>
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<b>4. Probiotics | $15 - $50</b><br />
Since our immune system cells are largely contained <a href="http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/research/advancements-in-research/fundamentals/in-depth/the-gut-where-bacteria-and-immune-system-meet" target="_blank">in the gut</a>, probiotics are naturally a great way to boost immunity. Not to mention they address many unwanted symptoms such as IBS, recurrent yeast infections, bloating and other digestive issues. Probiotics may also help with absorption of vitamin D3, minerals, and other nutrients. Not all probiotics are created equal though! Most do not survive the acid in your stomach before they reach the intestines. Make sure yours is not just one most commonly marketed strain like acidophiclus. Some of the most effective strains are <a href="http://amzn.to/1wU5omQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">lactobacillus reuteri</a> (as found in breast milk) and <a href="http://amzn.to/1nuoRef" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bacillus coagulans</a>. </div>
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<b>5. Vitamin C | $1 - $20</b><br />
I'm sure you already know Vitamin C is great to ward of colds and flu, but did you know that most vitamin C supplements on the market are derived from genetically modified organisms? It's usually made from <a href="http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/beware-of-ascorbic-acid-synthetic/" target="_blank">GM corn</a>. Your best bet is just buying some organic lemons and incorporating that into recipes (such as this yummy, <a href="http://www.eco-babyz.com/2013/11/tooth-remineralizing-gelatin-dessert.html" target="_blank">healthy dessert</a>) and smoothies. If you must supplement though, invest in a whole food, real vitamin C supplement such as <a href="http://amzn.to/1y3BXjv" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this</a>. </div>
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<b>6. Elderberry Syrup | $5 - $30</b><br />
I have heard so many great things about elderberries from other moms that I had to finally try it. I am getting on the bandwagon, this stuff is amazing! I don't know what it does, but it works fast and is great for cough and anything that affects respiratory system. I bought <a href="http://amzn.to/1sAmTIq" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this syrup</a> but plan on making my own out of <a href="http://amzn.to/1sVeSz1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">whole dried elderberries</a> with this <a href="http://wellnessmama.com/1888/elderberry-syrup/" target="_blank">recipe</a>, which will be cheaper for the amount it yields.<br />
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<b>7. Wild Cherry Bark Syrup | $10 - $20</b><br />
I love this locally made (to me) remedy from Vermont, <a href="http://amzn.to/1tBOcpd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this syrup</a> does wonders for lingering, persistent, or "whooping" coughs, especially when kids have trouble sleeping. It was recommended by a naturopath and I'm so thankful to have it on hand for the winter season. </div>
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<b>8. Colloidal Silver | $10 - $50</b></div>
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Not really an "immune booster", but it stops anything viral in its tracks and works well to bring high fevers under control and kill the culprit. You have to be sure of correct dosage according to the label. The best thing is, it has no particular taste and can easily be mixed into some water or a green smoothie. Be sure to follow with probiotics as this is a natural antibiotic and can wreak havoc on digestion! Just be sure to buy the right kind, NOT ionic silver or protein suspended, you want <i>real colloidal silver</i>, we buy <a href="http://amzn.to/1sVjPIa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this one</a> and it's amazing for infection of any kind (it's cheaper on <a href="http://www.swansonvitamins.com/referral/friend.html?id=561e7ce1-a32c-4c52-947e-e5f67793f2c4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Swanson</a>). We've used it for viral infections and for tooth infection. Unlike antibiotics, it kills bacteria, viruses, and parasites without harming your cells and does not breed antibiotic resistance. </div>
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<b>9. Olive Leaf Extract | $10 - $15</b><br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1yNkxuH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Olive leaf extract</a> is miraculous! Let's see: antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal - great for any internal infections. It did wonders for an aching tooth I once had. Antioxidant, lowers blood pressure, contains anti-cancer compounds apigenin and luteolin (remember, all of us have cancer cells). You have to use your head and figure out dosage for a child, it's definitely not something to be taken regularly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaUNf1sfFJYBNMVYcVv1ghWgg-T_M4kH17hTUzkvqSplr35ACKmbDWsUS7Sa1iyQ8fi9z1qZFg-rUwP8lXlmqec84d_KTY-oepr4Tg0kMa5kzHo3xBMNJdax0ROTrKycgVVkFjB_Kpc4I/s1600/oliveLeaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaUNf1sfFJYBNMVYcVv1ghWgg-T_M4kH17hTUzkvqSplr35ACKmbDWsUS7Sa1iyQ8fi9z1qZFg-rUwP8lXlmqec84d_KTY-oepr4Tg0kMa5kzHo3xBMNJdax0ROTrKycgVVkFjB_Kpc4I/s1600/oliveLeaf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>10. Gaia Kids Wet and Dry Cough Syrups | $15 - $20</b><br />
At the recommendation of our doctor we got these syrups for lingering cough last winter, both the <a href="http://amzn.to/1sVpldQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">dry cough</a> and the <a href="http://amzn.to/1wgdjuF" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">wet cough</a>. It's great for those night time coughing spells, one dose and baby is fast asleep! It really calms things down and gradually gets rid of cough for good. Not cheap, but in our humble opinion worth it for the relief we see in our kids. </div>
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<b>11. Cod Liver Oil | $8 - $40</b><br />
This is a supplement that is great to take daily all through the year, cod liver oil has a ton of benefits and is great for overall health. During flu season we up the dosage and skip less often than summer. I notice a difference in my own health when I take it and when I don't. Not to mention it's great for skin, nails, teeth, and hair! </div>
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<b>12. Echinacea | $5 - $20</b></div>
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An <a href="http://amzn.to/1DmL0z3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">alcohol-free liquid echinacea</a> formula is a great immune system <a href="http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/natural-medicine/herbal-remedies/echinacea-herbal-remedies.htm" target="_blank">booster</a> and is great to mix into the kids drinks. This is a great preventative measure to implement through the winter. I use liquid echinacea in smoothies for the whole family!<br />
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<b>13. Smoothies | varies per serving</b><br />
Of course what you put in a smoothie can also boost the immune system. Berries, spinach, lemon, apples, ginger, carrots, chia seeds, cucumber, and cinnamon are all great healthy ingredients. To make it yummier and more tolerable for the kids you can add a little banana or mango, raw milk would be great if you have any. </div>
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<b>14. Fruits and Veggies</b><br />
Of course fruits and veggies in their raw or lightly steamed form are awesome! I stock up on broccoli as my kids surprisingly like it steamed. Carrots to munch on. Slightly sour green apple slices. Sauteed cabbage. Raw sweet peppers. Sauteed cauliflower. Green peas. Offer a variety of veggies throughout the day regularly and they will learn to like them. </div>
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<b>15. Humidifier | $25 - $150</b></div>
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There is no way around it, indoor air will become really dry in the winter with the heat or furnace on. This can really dry out nasal passages and prolong illnesses, not to mention it makes viruses more easily transmittable indoors. We run a humidifier every night in the winter and sometimes throughout the day when we are sick. <a href="http://amzn.to/1FiCWkw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">This one</a> has served us well for 6 years and I loved it, though it recently died (hoping I can fix it). Meanwhile I keep the air moist by hanging well towels to dry and boiling water on the stove top.<br />
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Whatever you do, keep in mind that it is a proven fact that <i>sugar suppresses immunity</i> and triggers inflammation. Being surrounded by it everywhere makes it really hard (ask me how I know), but try to focus on a real-food diet with plenty of organic veggies and whole fruit, legumes, as well as healthy fats, and organic or grass-fed meats. Also, it's great to have a <a href="http://amzn.to/1qQBkEX" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">non-toxic hand sanitizer</a> with you at all times to use when you can't wash hands. If you're home, <a href="http://www.eco-babyz.com/2014/05/toxin-free-alternatives-to.html" target="_blank">triclosan-free soap</a> will do the trick!</div>
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Last but not least, in a crazed and "fast-lane" society, we really really need to guard our children and families from being over-scheduled. When stress hormones rise in children and adults, immune system response is lowered. Kids need lots of creative free play time and rest to thrive!<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Talk to your trusted healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding your health. </i><br />
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<i>Contains affiliate links to where we usually shop, </i><i>your purchase supports Eco-Babyz at no extra cost to you and helps offset some of the cost associated with pouring our time and energy into this site. Thank you!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNjLkXvQOwuX30nx4Sb22_8ceHo_xk8zcp60ItjyExvW7YmmEwfay9QyFGwlGvJ5v5LmT_BdBUVLyLdgbRF_YgC7Kx_2kxdHEiDPMNhi-WKLiYGb5Pi3Au4IGWMXiVv_2n3cOz6KSPLM/s1600/420+wide+LUXE-Baby-Shower-2014+large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNjLkXvQOwuX30nx4Sb22_8ceHo_xk8zcp60ItjyExvW7YmmEwfay9QyFGwlGvJ5v5LmT_BdBUVLyLdgbRF_YgC7Kx_2kxdHEiDPMNhi-WKLiYGb5Pi3Au4IGWMXiVv_2n3cOz6KSPLM/s1600/420+wide+LUXE-Baby-Shower-2014+large.jpg" /></a></div>
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Are you expecting a baby or already holding your little new arrival? You are going to love this amazing event in partnership with six luxurious baby brands! We are excited to share it with you and to give you an opportunity to own these wonderful, high quality products. </div>
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It's hard to find the best and most functional products for baby in an overwhelming sea of cheap disposable consumer goods. We have hand-picked some of the best "Luxe Baby Shower" items that are consistently well rated by other parents, saving you some time researching. A little bit about each of these great sponsors and prizes... </div>
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<b>Jané USA: </b>The winner will surely be impressed with the fully loaded Jané Rider that radiates elegance and ease. The patented fold on the Rider is designed for those of us who often find our hands full and our minds elsewhere, compressing the stroller to 30% of its upright size. With the kick of your foot you can unfold your stroller with the seat on or off and forward or rear-facing.</div>
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Adjustable rear suspension, adjustable handlebar with six settings, corrosion resistant anodized aluminum chassis, and long stroller basket are among the superb features. High quality washable fabrics and a water, wind, and stain resistant canopy to top it off. The seat is built for children around four months of age all the way up to 40lbs. and with the addition of the Micro bassinet or Link-Fix adapter you can begin to use your Rider from infancy on. </div>
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While other manufacturers make you pay for essentials like the diaper bag, rain cover and cup holder, Jané includes them standard with each Rider purchase. The Rider screams style and exudes convenience.<br />
<a href="http://www.jane-usa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jan%C3%A9-USA/164080577108289" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/JaneStrollers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/janeusa/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="http://instagram.com/janestrollers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div>
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<b>Woolino: </b>These 100% <a href="http://www.woolino.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">natural baby sleeping bags</a> are made with the world's most superior natural fiber - silky soft allergy-safe Australian Merino wool and organic cotton. Perfect for children, merino breathes, regulates body temperature, manages moisture, is naturally fire resistant, non-allergenic, antibacterial, easy care and durable. The Woolino sleep bags are economical since only <i>two sizes</i> are needed from 2 months to 4 years old, it grows with baby and is durable enough to be passed on to younger siblings. The value and high quality makes it easy to see why it is rated a #1 BestSeller on Amazon among baby sleep bags . </div>
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New for this fall, Woolino now also creates a baby-safe Lambskin Cuddle/Play Rug and you're among the first to find out! This new product that is not yet available on their website. Medical studies actually show that babies sleep in or on merino wool settle more quickly, wake and cry less, sleep longer and gain weight faster! Lambskins have been used worldwide for centuries to keep babies warm and comfortable in any environment. It's also the perfect playmat and is functional even when kids grow older!<br />
<a href="http://www.woolino.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WoolinoBabywear" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/WoolinoBabywear" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/woolino/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<b>LILLEbaby:</b> The <a href="http://lillebaby.com/baby-carriers/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LILLEbaby COMPLETE</a> carrier is ergonomically designed for the healthiest hip position for baby, whether they are an infant or toddler. There truly is no "babywearing gap" for when this carrier cannot be used. Featuring adjustable neck support, an adjustable sleeping hood, a long adjustable torso, wide padded waist belt, unique lumbar support, and padding on <i>all </i>straps - it is a complete design. It is convenient to nurse in and evenly distributes the weight of the baby so you can babywear pain free longer. The design of this carrier truly takes into consideration the comfort of both baby and parent and behind it are years of design development and testing. An entire team of moms and dads from many vocations contributed to the making of LILLEbaby COMPLETE 6-in-1 baby carrier. <br />
<a href="http://lillebaby.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Lillebaby" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/lillebaby" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/lillebaby1/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="http://instagram.com/lillebaby" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div>
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<b>Haba:</b> HABA is a family owned and operated company located in Bad Rodach, Germany. Owned by Mr. Klaus Habermaass, whose father started the business more than 72 years ago, the company has grown to more than 1,400 employees in Germany, with additional distribution facilities located in the United States, France, UK and Asia. HABA prides itself on the fact that children love playing with its toys, blissfully unaware of how this fosters their development. HABA products have been bestowed honors by virtually every German toy award and virtually all of the prestigious American ones, as well. Their design intentions are simple: provide value and quality. HABA is one of the only toy companies that obtained the world renowned PEFC certification. All their wooden toys that are manufactured in Germany are made from reforested timbers.<br />
<a href="http://www.habausa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/HABAusa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/haba_usa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://pinterest.com/habausa/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="http://instagram.com/habausa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div>
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Lässig is also a sustainable, family owned business located in Germany, dedicated to creating consciously-crafted diaper bags, kids' bags, bibs, dishware and other high-quality accessories for the modern family. In addition to being sustainable, Lässig ensures that their products are durable and made to last. Lässig production adheres to strict quality control measures and is constantly monitoring production standards. The Lässig brand embodies an ideal blend of versatility and innovation, with convenient features and chic details to combine fashion, safety and sustainability.<br />
<a href="http://www.habausa.com/products/lassig.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USALassig" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/LassigUSA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/lassigusa/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> </div>
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<b>gDiapers:</b> gDiapers is redefining the diaper inside and out by giving parents the convenience of disposables and the confidence to build a better future. On the inside, our Disposable Inserts are Cradle To Cradle Certified (cm) Silver, flushable and break down in home compost (wet ones only). On the outside, the soft cotton gPants are designed to let baby’s skin breathe and come in colors and prints that parents love. The winner will have the choice of a Newborn Bundle or the Sweet Bundle (small, medium, or large), a great way to start an easy sustainable diapering routine.<br />
<a href="http://www.gdiapers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/gDiapers/27546807545" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://twitter.com/gdiapers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/gdiapers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="http://instagram.com/gdiapers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div>
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<b>Puj: </b>The <a href="http://puj.com/products/puj-tub" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Puj Tub</a> is the easiest bath tub ever! Made from a soft foam that folds and conforms to almost any sink, the Puj Tub cradles and protects the baby during bath time. Hang or store the tub flat anywhere you would like...even on the back of your door and out of sight! The Puj Tub cradles and comforts baby, is mold and mildew resistant, fits in standard-sized bathroom sinks, works with pedestal and counter top bathroom sinks, Hangs flat for easy and convenient storage.<br />
<a href="http://puj.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Website</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pujbaby" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://www.twitter.com/pujbaby" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://pinterest.com/pujbaby" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="http://instagram.com/pujbaby" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div>
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The title sums up my life right now. It's idyllic. Well, that's what I thought some five years ago when I was dreaming of staying home with the kids, homeschooling, and owning my own photography business. Mission accomplished! We're here! Living the dream! </div>
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Ha! Of course there is a caveat. Many of them. Clearly things cannot be perfect, this is life. I do not regret for a moment being here, but I am just now starting to get a glimpse of what I've gotten myself into, in a good way. </div>
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You know how we often dream up the ideal scenario and then adjust our expectations when we actually get there? That's how parenting is after all. That's how business ownership is. That's how homeschooling is. I've got all three. Did I mention my husband is working three weeks away from home every month right now? Yep, I'm on my own, but somehow enjoying it. Here is our "Dream" and "Reality" scenario for a day of living and learning. </div>
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<b>DREAM</b></div>
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Morning: I work on editing photos while the kids sleep soundly.</div>
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They wake up mid-morning and we have a leisurely breakfast, maybe even their favorite - pancakes I make from scratch. </div>
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We sit outside in the sun and read with my 5 year old while my toddler plays with toys and a ball. Baby E is not at all frustrated with learning to read. Then we read a slew of fun learning books we got from the library about castles, farming, world geography, and geometry. My almost 3 year old is into it too. We color some coloring books.<br />
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We go meet up with some local homeschoolers at a playground for a couple of hours. Have a light picnic.</div>
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We arrive home just in time to have lunch and put Baby T down for a nap. </div>
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While I work, Baby E does some coloring, drawing, and crafts - unassisted and never calls my name. I've booked one more wedding for 2015 and I feel like I've accomplished a ton of work!</div>
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Baby T wakes up around 4 and I have dinner from scratch on the table in half an hour. This leaves us enough time for some biking outside.</div>
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My mom arrives and takes the kids to a park so I can go to a meeting with a potential client/couple. </div>
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I come back home and the kids aren't back yet. I make, vaccuum pack, and freeze a few more meals for my husband's next trip. I clean the whole kitchen. </div>
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Kids arrive, we have a pre-bed snack (yogurt or toasted sprouted bread with raw cheddar), say goodbye to grandma, brush teeth, and read five books without kids whining. Lights out. They fall asleep in 5 minutes. So do I. Daddy/hubby is coming back tomorrow!</div>
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<b>REALITY</b></div>
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I'm too exhausted from the day before to wake up with my alarm to edit photos, I beat myself up over it when I wake up an hour before the kids do, instead of 3 hours. </div>
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Ten minutes later Baby T wakes up, I try to shush him back to sleep. He falls asleep but Baby E is up and ready to learn. </div>
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I set her up with her favorite math and phonics games on a computer next to mine in the office. </div>
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I make a last dash attempt to at least answer any urgent bride emails (I photograph weddings!)</div>
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Baby E whines she is hungry, I bring her a dried pea snack. </div>
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Baby T wakes up crying, wants to sleep but it's too late to do that. I distract him in their playroom/bedroom. </div>
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I beg Baby E to play with her little brother while I finish typing an urgent email reply. </div>
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For a quick breakfast I boil eggs, they whine but say they'll eat them with the organic ketchup. ;)</div>
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We're late for a homeschool meet-up at the park. Thankfully we're not the only ones. </div>
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We have too much fun there and end up staying later than planned, which means Baby T is absolutely cranky and his diaper is dirty. I remember how terrible it is that he isn't potty trained yet and that I am (gasp!) using an <a href="http://amzn.to/1rG9q2K" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eco disposable</a> for outings instead of cloth diapers. He refuses to nap and my whole mid-day work-time is out the window. </div>
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He needs to chill, so I set them up with water-coloring while I heat up leftovers for a late lunch.</div>
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I leave them to paint for a quick 10 minutes while I check email. No new weddings booked today and I realize how darn competitive the <a href="http://www.vandaphotography.com/" target="_blank">Boston wedding photography</a> market is, not to mention marketing here is expensive, so I'm stuck with the slow and steady growth of word-of-mouth. </div>
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Come back to burnt left-overs and watercolors on the table. What was I thinking?!</div>
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We eat what's <i>left</i> of leftovers, they beg for dessert, I smother some butter on challah and call it "dessert".</div>
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I realize it's after 5 and we haven't read with Baby E today, we sit down to read in the kitchen because it's raining outside. After page two of her little reader book she says she is done. I make her read one more page. </div>
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They ask to build an "airplane", so we do...</div>
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I turn on some audio books for the kids to listen to while I attempt to clean the kitchen and send a wedding photography quote to another couple.</div>
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I extinguish a sibling squabble, they hug and make up. I marvel at how lucky they are to have each other and remember that Baby T needs a younger sibling pronto - he is selfish (aren't we all?).<br />
We play a math game, learn some notes on the piano, kids are hungry and have their pre-bed snack.<br />
After much arguing I get them to brush their teeth. They fight over and rip a library book while I go shut down the computer in the office.<br />
Mommy is angry. Mommy tells Baby E that her savings will go toward paying for that library book. Baby E cries profusely. Mommy feels terrible, but she did pull the book from her brother and she knows we don't do that. I read them one short story and turn off the lights because I can't take her sobbing anymore, we just all need to sleep. Tomorrow is a new day!</div>
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It's definitely a challenge and a huge responsibility to have this much FREEDOM in both work and education. </div>
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<i>The good news is that most days are somewhere between Dream and Reality.</i> It's never really idyllic and it's never really a disaster. Which makes it actually quite enjoyable and something I feel I can survive! We don't <i>have</i> a typical day. We could be at the zoo. We could be visiting with a friend. We could be at the library for 2 hours because they can't get enough of all the incredible books there. I have weeks where I have several photo sessions and weeks where I have none. I have moments where I'm frazzled and moments of peace. I guess you could call it <i>balance</i>, though I'm scared of using that word as <a href="http://www.eco-babyz.com/2013/09/balance-have-you-found-it.html" target="_blank">I've written</a> before. </div>
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I am just thankful to be here, in a place that works for our family. In a place where learning revolves around our life. I salute all those that have to daily deal with life revolving around strict school and work schedules. Staying positive helps get through any hardship no matter what your living/learning situation! <br />
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<b>Homeschooling/Unschooling mamas, what's are your days like? Do you have a rhythm to your day or a strict schedule?</b></div>
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It's September! Can you believe it?! My little kindergartner Baby E is officially 'school age', though we are homeschooling for now and enjoying this fun age with our children. We got very excited when the Pimsleur French course arrived at our doorstep, excited for many reasons - learning a new language, refreshing my memory of learning it for 7 years back in school, and did I mention <i>learning</i>? </div>
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I absolutely love seeing my kids' thirst for learning, their constant, insatiable need for something new. They are good at listening (no, not to me), so I thought this program would be just the thing to refresh my knowledge of French and to introduce it to almost 6 year old Baby E. For Baby T it may be a tad early, but he did listen nevertheless. Baby E is already bilingual, but I believe children only benefit from multiple languages and she demonstrated that dabbling in French is very much welcome at this point.</div>
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These days, I'm always looking for the "EASY!" button. Between running a growing photography business, homeschooling the kids, and keeping up with family and friends, I don't have any precious minutes to waste. So it was pretty exciting to listen to Pimsleur in the car with the kids, the time that often felt "wasted" as we carted from meeting with other homeschoolers, to field trips, and visiting family that all lives half hour to an hour away. </div>
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Now that time is productive, but not in a "one more thing to do" kind of way. Pimsleur is fun and easy! It's exactly what I hoped it would be. Plus it is giving me what I've been missing all these years - practicing French. Speaking the actual language is so much more conductive to learning than just staring into a textbook! So here is a short run down of the reasons we like it:</div>
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<li>So <b>easy</b>! Just pop in CD or transfer it to your iPod, phone, or tablet, and listen at your leisure during convenient times. </li>
<li>You control the<b> pace</b>. You can repeat again and again if you need to or you can move on. You can refresh or you can have different members of your family at different levels. </li>
<li>Lots of <b>speaking</b>. I think one of the pitfalls of learning a language in school is that you simply do not use it and speak it enough. Yes, you may learn grammar, reading, writing, but it all makes little sense if you aren't speaking it. Just like children learn by listening and speaking, this program mimics the natural way of learning. </li>
<li><b>Affordable.</b> I've seen many programs that are simply out of reach financially, but comprehensive course for just over $100 is a much better price and I believe a better return on your investment. </li>
<li>Perfect for the <b>whole family</b>! It's great for my 5 year old and for myself, anyone can learn French with this program. </li>
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This is just a short list of what we love most about this program. Also, I found it works especially well for my 5 year old because it gives immediate results, she loves the instant gratification of being able to say something in a new language!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZG7tTTSDUH9FBvv_l3E_7BS7UzidMAd_sqv7m9zwnldljLSUJSmSpZ5j52zfPEPXjeb2f4J07Rsfojn8piybzqekYgrLh5LYQ0ycc6JqYZ-k4xLH-r2NviQO1P3ShmjpVLpsM-3ifek4/s1600/pimsleaur-french.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZG7tTTSDUH9FBvv_l3E_7BS7UzidMAd_sqv7m9zwnldljLSUJSmSpZ5j52zfPEPXjeb2f4J07Rsfojn8piybzqekYgrLh5LYQ0ycc6JqYZ-k4xLH-r2NviQO1P3ShmjpVLpsM-3ifek4/s1600/pimsleaur-french.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have to say I also really loved the packaging of the Pimsleur French I course, although it's not really something important. I appreciate everything being organized and the case is very handy for the learning collection of CDs. It's something that we will be using a lot and hopefully once we are done with level one, we can move on to French II! The Pimsleur French I language learning course is available for purchase on <a href="http://amzn.to/1w1vSTC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. If you're looking to start a foreign language in your homeschool this year, I highly recommend this program!</div>
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I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using <a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=BOTTOMe60749101aed76d02a69a2531682b6a1" rel="nofollow">Tomoson.com</a>. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. May contain affiliate links to where we love to shop - your purchase helps offset the time and energy we pour into this blog at no cost to you.<br />
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I know many of my readers are expecting mamas or have a newly baked little one! Here is a prize package that I am sure you would love, including some great cloth diapers and a useful portable crib that travels with you anywhere you go.<br />
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<a href="http://greenscenemom.com/" target="_blank">Green Scene Mom</a> has partnered with Guava Family and many other brands to bring you this fabulous giveaway featuring lots of great products for new moms and their babies! Each of these products was designed to meet a unique need and make life simple for mom and baby.<br />
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Guava Family Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/guava-family.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Guava Family</strong>Lotus Everywhere Crib - $249.95<br />
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The Lotus travel crib is so easy to use and easy to take with you, you will want to use it everywhere... places you never would even consider taking more traditional portable cribs simply because they are too bulky & heavy. Use the Lotus at home, at a friends house for dinner, or even in the airport terminal. The Lotus is more than a travel crib. It's an Everywhere Crib. <a href="http://guavafamily.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">guavafamily.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Coromega Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/coromega.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Coromega</strong>Be Bright Superfood Oil Blend, 2 90ct Original Orange, and 2 30Ct Orange "Tiger" - $140<br />
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Coromega selects only the finest ultra-refined fish oil for use in its products. Our fish oil originates deep within the wild fishing stocks in the clear waters of South America. Once extracted, the crude fish oil is delivered the experienced hands of our Norwegian refinery where it is given its superior sensory characteristics to be clear, taste-free and odor-free. Since 1999, Coromega has produced the most effective and advanced delivery form of Omega-3, making it into incredibly tasty, natural citrus flavors with no fishy taste, aftertaste or fishy burps! <a href="http://coromega.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">coromega.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - The Bumble Collection Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/bumble-collection.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>The Bumble Collection</strong>Brittany Backpack in Lace Floral - $99.99<br />
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The Bumble Collection is a family lifestyle brand specializing in children's products including diaper bags and family accessories such as lunch bags, picnic baskets, and food/beverage coolers for our fashionable families. Since 1999, our diaper bags have graced the pages of magazines and have been carried on the shoulders of many A-list celebrities. Our products have been placed on the shelves of top retailers spanning the globe. All products from The Bumble Collection are made of the finest materials using an all-natural process without the use of synthetic preservatives as we respect and embrace the value of sustainability and it's effects on the environment. <a href="http://thebumblecollection.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thebumblecollection.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Yummi Pouch Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/yummi-pouch.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Yummi Pouch</strong>Yummi Pouch Brights reusable food pouches + cloth snack & sandwich bag set - $24.99<br />
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Yummi Pouch eco-friendly snack time solutions encourage healthy snacks for active kids. Our reusable food pouches are freezer safe, dishwasher safe, BPA-free, Phthalate-free, and can be filled with healthy blended snacks and easily taken on-the-go, no spoon required! Yummi Pouch cloth snack bags are lined with a water resistant interior and decorated with colorful prints. Perfect for crackers, chips, and sandwiches. <a href="http://yummipouch.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">yummipouch.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Belli Skincare Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/belli-prep-glow-trio.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Belli Skincare</strong>Prep & Glow Trio from Belli Skincare - $69.99<br />
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Belli Fresh Start Pre-Treatment Scrub is an invigorating scrub with peppermint that sweeps away old skin cells to reveal healthy skin. Belli Anti-Blemish Facial Wash is a pure facial wash featuring lactic acid that leaves skin clear and refined, without over-drying. Belli Healthy Glow Facial Hydrator is a lightweight moisturizer rich in Vitamin C and botanical humectants that help refine and soften skin texture. <a href="http://belliskincare.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">belliskincare.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - AVENT Electric Bottle and Baby Food Warmer Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/philips-avent.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Philips AVENT</strong>Electric Bottle and Baby Food Warmer Giveaway - $45.99<br />
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The fast, safe way to warm expressed milk and baby food, the Philips AVENT Electric Bottle and Baby Food Warmer warms 125ml/4oz milk at room temperature in around 4 minutes. <a href="http://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SCF255_33/avent-electric-bottle-and-baby-food-warmer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">philips.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Buttons Diapers Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/buttons-cloth-diapers.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Buttons Diapers</strong>2 diaper covers + 2 daytime diaper inserts + 1 small wet bag - $36<br />
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Buttons Diapers feature a quality and affordable two-in-one diapering system that consists of wipeable PUL covers and super-soft absorbent inserts that snap into the covers to stay in place! Buttons Diapers fit babies from 9-35 lbs, have two layers of stretchy waterproof PUL throughout, and double gussets at the legs to keep messes in. <a href="http://buttonsdiapers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">buttonsdiapers.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Mixie Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/mixie.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Mixie</strong>8 oz. bottle, 4 oz. bottle, 1 package each of Stage 1, 2, and 3 silicone nipple replacements - $51.95<br />
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Mixie is the first baby formula bottle that can be fixed now and mixed later. Formula goes in the little compartment. Water goes in the bottle. At the first cry, just push the button, shake, and blend. Simple. Yet really quite genius. On a flight, or in the middle of the night, Mixie has you covered. Because when baby wants a bottle, baby wants a bottle now. <a href="http://mixiebaby.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">mixiebaby.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Lollaland Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/lollacup.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Lollaland</strong>1 Lollacup + 1 Straw Replacement Pack + 1 Mealtime Set - $41<br />
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Lollacup is a stylish and functional, drinking cup whose innovative design helps infants and toddlers successfully use a straw. Lollacup's flexible straw has a weighted end that allows children to drink effortlessly, even when the cup is tilted. The straw is valve-free, which makes it easy to use and clean. Lollacup is BPA and phthalate-free and is proudly made in the USA. The Lollaland Mealtime Set is the perfect complement to the well-loved Lollacup. Lollaland's Mealtime Set consists of a plate, bowl and dipping cup designed for smaller hands and toddler-sized portions. <a href="http://lollaland.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">lollaland.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Ubbi Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/ubbi.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Ubbi</strong>Twin pack cloth liner - $29.95<br />
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Using washable diapers? We have exactly what you need! The Ubbi cloth pail liner is a necessity for cloth diapering parents. Bring out the green in your diaper pail with these biodegradable liners. Twin pack includes 2 bags that are washable, waterproof, odor-resistant and reusable. Using the Ubbi cloth pail liners add to the eco-friendly experience. <a href="http://ubbiworld.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ubbiworld.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Water Wipes Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/water-wipes.jpg" height="200" style="float: left; margin-right: 10px;" width="200" />
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<td><strong>WaterWipes</strong>12 packs of 60 wipes - $42.99<br />
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WaterWipes are the world's purest baby wipes. Made from 99.9% water & 0.1% grapefruit seed extract. And that's it! Nothing else! Only 2 ingredients. Completely free from chemicals, WaterWipes are the baby wipes parents and healthcare professionals have been waiting for. All natural and pure, WaterWipes are safe to use on baby's delicate newborn ultra thin skin. WaterWipes are effective yet ultra-mild, pure and gentle. WaterWipes are unlike any other baby wipe on the market, and have been produced using cutting-edge technology to give unrivalled mildness, purity and safety. <a href="http://waterwipes.com/us/product/baby-waterwipes/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">waterwipes.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Pearhead Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/pearhead.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Pearhead</strong>Babyprints Photo Frame - $24.95<br />
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This classic white wooden frame has spaces for your baby's handprint, footprint, and adorable photo. It's simply the easiest way to capture your baby's prints. Just press your baby's hand or foot onto the included "Clean-Touch" ink pad to reveal a detailed print. The baby's foot never touches the ink, so it's completely mess-free. Includes beveled mat stamped in silver with "My Little Prints". This keepsake frame is the perfect gift. <a href="http://pearhead.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pearhead.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Toofeze Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/toofeze.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Toofeze</strong>Baby Teether - $19.99<br />
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Toofeze is recognized for its cutting-edge design and ability to soothe, calm and comfort fussy teething babies. Three distinct chewing surfaces made of food-grade ingredients. Stainless steel disk chills instantly in cold water for quick symptom relief. Soft silicone handle is never too cold to hold. Smooth contoured shape enables firm counter-pressure against erupting teeth. Toofeze allows babies to self-satisfy and self-manage their changing teething needs. <a href="http://toofeze.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">toofeze.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - So Rad Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/so-rad.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>So Rad</strong>Magic Romper - $25<br />
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So Rad's romper has short sleeves for warmer days, even featuring a rear access entry door for easy diaper changes. This romper has no snaps, buttons, velcro or zippers! The kimono style front opens up so bebe can squeeze his little chubs into it and it's made from bamboo and organic cotton. <a href="http://shopsorad.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">shopsorad.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Itzy Ritzy Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/itzy-ritzy.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Itzy Ritzy</strong>Infinity nursing scarf - $24.99<br />
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At Itzy Ritzy, we believe life on-the-go in style is possible. Our modern multi-purpose products pack a number of dazzling punches to provide attractive solutions to everyday challenges without making you do a lot of work. Now with a global presence with thousands of retailers, Itzy Ritzy is reinventing practical luxury for modern families around the world. We consider our job done when you get your job done in a stylish, exciting and refreshingly simple way. <a href="http://itzyritzy.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">itzyritzy.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Googaro Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/googaro.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Googaro </strong>1 monthly box - $50<br />
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Googaro is a subscription box service delivering the best, most exciting new products for tots 0-3 years of age. We want to simplify your life and help you discover incredible new products that are a perfect blend of practical, safe, stylish and fun. <a href="http://googaro.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">googaro.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Olli and Lime Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/ollie-and-lime.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Olli and Lime</strong>Dots Decals pack of 50 - $20<br />
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Olli & Lime dots vinyl wall decals create a dramatic feature on your wall. Each pack includes 50 one-inch dots, in your choice of colors. Olli & Lime designs modern nursery bedding and decor, for design-conscious parents. All products are made in the USA. <a href="http://olliandlime.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">olliandlime.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - Earnest Eats Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/earnest-eats.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>Earnest Eats</strong>Superfood Snack Set - $130<br />
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At Earnest Eats we uncomplicated good food choices by creating whole food happiness in everything we make. You'll feel great every time you eat one of our foods! Our <strong>Superfood Hot Cereals</strong> are made with Superfood Grains – Whole Oats + Quinoa + Amaranth – plus fruits, nuts and seeds like almonds, blueberries, chia seeds, cranberries, and unsweetened cocoa for an added powerhouse of protein, fiber and nutrition to fuel the day. Our<strong> Baked Whole Food Energy Bars</strong> are made with whole nuts, fruits, seeds, whole organic oats and superfood almond butter, baked in small batches in ovens for a soft cookie-like texture. No spray-on vitamins or protein powders. No corn, peanut or soy oils. Our <strong>Superfood Chewy Granola Bars</strong> are made with their Superfood Grain Blend – Whole Oats + Quinoa + Amaranth – providing slow-release energy along with protein, fiber and phytonutrients. All in under 150 Calories and 9g Sugar. <a href="http://earnesteats.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">earnesteats.com</a>
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<td><img alt="Green Scene Mom - PAK Urban Survival Kit Giveaway" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/pak.jpg" height="200" width="200" />
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<td><strong>PAK</strong>Original Green PAK (28 of PAK's on-the-go essentials) + Micro Black PAK (up to 16 of PAK's most essential "pocket-sized" items) + a Towelette Gift Bag - $90</td></tr>
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The ultimate Urban Survival Kit: Unique kits stocked with personal care essentials needed on-the-go. PAK's product makes the perfect gift, ideal travel companion and a necessity for the girl on-the-go. It's there for you in a pinch, keeping you prepared for life's "misadventures". Moms are always doing a million things at once while going ninety miles an hour. PAK makes life a little less chaotic by putting all of your personal essentials into one compact place. Keep it together with PAK. <a href="http://thepakstore.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thepakstore.com</a>
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Prize Gift Set - Retail Value $1,200</h3>
<img alt="New Mommy Giveaway prizes - Green Scene Mom" border="0" src="http://greenscenemom.com/images/giveaways/0814NewMom/new-mommy-giveaway-prizes.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480px" /><br />
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Open to the US - Ends 11:59PM 8/13/2014</div>
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c921242735/" id="rc-c921242735" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-31545491711268534352014-07-29T08:18:00.000-04:002014-07-29T08:19:48.314-04:00Green Your Period | Sckoon Cup Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ZQN0UMamCIyMN9ls9yNwO-RubZj7b-ixE8hYPHe0vn17LAiyFrtWUYkBhab6yP8u_0FXLjovhT5BZ0kFJ_rOrx_Aex32f5PUCJ5N59tR1dD4J_1bZqQu0he_oKg2TnkC762CgXjYKlE/s1600/sckoon-cup-2-pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ZQN0UMamCIyMN9ls9yNwO-RubZj7b-ixE8hYPHe0vn17LAiyFrtWUYkBhab6yP8u_0FXLjovhT5BZ0kFJ_rOrx_Aex32f5PUCJ5N59tR1dD4J_1bZqQu0he_oKg2TnkC762CgXjYKlE/s1600/sckoon-cup-2-pin.jpg" /></a></div>
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This post is for the ladies! Men, nothing here to see, move on now. </div>
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Ladies, I want to introduce you to something that changed my life for the better. What if I told you there is an alternative to conventional feminine care products that <b>saves you lots of money and contains no toxic chemicals</b>? It's more comfortable than tampons or pads, can be worn up to 12 hours, and is made in the USA. SckoonCup is <i>all of the above</i>!</div>
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At first I tried a different brand menstrual cup a few years ago that was made out of natural rubber, and while I enjoyed saving money, it felt much too rigid and I has issues with leaking, so I needed backup. Fast forward to three months ago when I received a SckoonCup, I love that it's made of soft and flexible medical-grade silicone! Squishy, folds easily, and you literally cannot feel it at all when it's in. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRh5K823TwCpQ3O8TXa-q9FkYt6gHSL3Qgg2BfpXXbUWxduGbNTXuKs5hd2U1h4ouvHHFkU0PtN0_irGMevOdEKygUh37M1WK3dvt8uq4SV3ebo47BtXcY-59SANuMSGWpAUuxwVL-ur0/s1600/sckoon-cup.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRh5K823TwCpQ3O8TXa-q9FkYt6gHSL3Qgg2BfpXXbUWxduGbNTXuKs5hd2U1h4ouvHHFkU0PtN0_irGMevOdEKygUh37M1WK3dvt8uq4SV3ebo47BtXcY-59SANuMSGWpAUuxwVL-ur0/s1600/sckoon-cup.JPG" /></a></div>
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With the previous cup I had, it took me about 4 months to get used to and figure out how to put it in correctly. It was rigid and hard to fold. It took me two cycles to get the hang of SckoonCup primarily because I was inserting at the wrong angle during the first cycle. Now it's easy and second nature! The directions on the insert help immensely, make sure to read it.</div>
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Thankfully being pregnant and breastfeeding gave me a whole five years without menstruation, but now the size 2 SckoonCup is perfect for those not-so-fun days. I love that I don't have to run to the store to buy anything like bleached feminine care full of dioxins and toxic fragrances! I really like the smooth outer curve of SckoonCup as well as the fact it's made from medical grade silicone, not to mention it's actually cute! I always carry the little pouch in my purse, just in case. Oh, and love, love, love that it doesn't come from China and is made right here in the good ol' US of A. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Ep3zw7PoVuwnKx7i8bqjLqrvolXvCOUPaTkQa74UlHMnNncUSsVTOZ2PA0VU8VFJpYTWOlv2AFfZoEoaZs7Ay0SRwSPR7LbdUxOCW9o2MjQ8KNdHEjmHHVtxlkypBU67efCBdSG_Eyk/s1600/sckoon-cup-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Ep3zw7PoVuwnKx7i8bqjLqrvolXvCOUPaTkQa74UlHMnNncUSsVTOZ2PA0VU8VFJpYTWOlv2AFfZoEoaZs7Ay0SRwSPR7LbdUxOCW9o2MjQ8KNdHEjmHHVtxlkypBU67efCBdSG_Eyk/s1600/sckoon-cup-3.JPG" /></a></div>
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So far I've never run into a situation where I've had to change empty a SckoonCup in a public restroom, I love that it can be worn up to 12 hours - it's worth its weight in gold for a female wedding photographer! Shooting a photo session or a wedding I can't exactly run to the bathroom at the end of the ceremony - I've got group photos and bridal photos to photograph, every moment counts! SckoonCup is absolutely perfect for that. It gives me the time I otherwise would have to scramble to find a restroom. Along with my roll-with-the-punches attitude, it enables me to give couples the best experience on their wedding day - and nobody has to know about it! It's my little secret!<br />
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SckoonCup comes in two sizes, for those who have never given birth and those that have given birth vaginally. Sckoon also offers organic cotton cloth pads for any backup needs or if you like to have a reusable alternative. So what are you waiting for?! You've got to try SckoonCup - I think you'll love it and your new-found freedom! <b>Get a 10% discount when you use our referral code <span style="background-color: clear; color: #404040; font-family: Muli; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">VYBUMR.</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://sckooncup.com/menstrual-cup/sckoon-cup-menstrual-cup/sckoon-cup.html?mw_aref=fdd79ca7a7f695cf498099607c756776" nbsp="" title="banner invitation"><img src="http://www.sckooncup.com/media/mw_affiliate/Banner_300x250.jpg" height="250px" width="300px" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sckooncup.com/?mw_aref=fdd79ca7a7f695cf498099607c756776" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Visit their website</b></a></div>
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<b>Connect with SckoonCup on their social media accounts! </b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/sckooncup" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://www.twitter.com/sckoon" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> | <a href="http://pinterest.com/sckoon/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> | <a href="http://www.instagram.com/SckoonCup" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/Sckoon" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a> | <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/sckoon-organics" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a> | <a href="https://plus.google.com/+sckooncup/posts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Google+</a> | <a href="http://www.sckooncup.tumblr.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tumblr</a></b><br />
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<i>Disclosure: Thank you to SckoonCup for providing samples of the products mentioned in this post. I was selected for this opportunity as a member of the Green Moms Network, and the content and opinions expressed here are 100% my own. May contain affiliate links, your purchase helps offset the time and energy we pour into this website at no cost to you!</i></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-32984990231918593622014-07-09T09:55:00.002-04:002014-07-09T09:55:20.529-04:0010 Best Low-Hazard Sunscreens & Smart Sun Exposure Tips<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLCcf52GSa6eBmfcIEVuyX64nfdkH_ghfEZXauY4QKmZSj-tpPZoymzCs1ccfXVOhQMf9B5Sqe2KoOtpljkNNCepAUs14eLJlEwS_-NFQMXOBuI3UiZ6GukElkUN6ROzFUq-1GZYmlEn4/s1600/best-non-toxic-sunscreen-EWG.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLCcf52GSa6eBmfcIEVuyX64nfdkH_ghfEZXauY4QKmZSj-tpPZoymzCs1ccfXVOhQMf9B5Sqe2KoOtpljkNNCepAUs14eLJlEwS_-NFQMXOBuI3UiZ6GukElkUN6ROzFUq-1GZYmlEn4/s1600/best-non-toxic-sunscreen-EWG.JPG" /></a></div>
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Sun phobia has been cleverly marketed over the past twenty years or so. It's unfortunate that the belief that sun causes cancer is more widespread than the fact that sunscreens are loaded with carcinogens. Yes, we absolutely must be careful with our sun exposure - sunburn is <i>never</i>, ever good for you and raises your risk of skin cancer. But that doesn't mean we should slather ourselves and our children with highly toxic, chemical sunscreens that only exasperate the problem. </div>
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What do we do here at Eco-Babyz? <i>Many</i> of you asked, so I'm here to answer even though almost half the summer has passed! Here is how we do our best to avoid sunburn all summer long, yet get plenty of healthy sun exposure to optimize natural vitamin D levels.</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Embrace the shade:</b> I don't know about you, but on a hot sunny day we <i>want </i>to be in the shade. Maybe because we have no pool and don't live on a lake, but I digress. To avoid sunburn and overheating, staying in the shade when possible is just common sense. When out in the sun for prolonged periods, take frequent breaks to cool down and re-hydrate in the shade and apply more sunscreen. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Wear sun hats: </b>The delicate skin on your child's face tans faster than other body parts, make it a habit of wearing light colored sun hats on sunny days. If it's really hot, dunk it in the water before going outside and put it on damp! We particularly love the fast drying, always good looking, and easy laundering hats like <a href="http://amzn.to/1oAZvXH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this one</a> and <a href="http://amzn.to/VXkLiD" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">this one</a>. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Drink <i>lots and lots</i> of water: </b>There is nothing worse than sun exposure + dehydration! All parts of our body, every cell, and your skin<i> need</i> water to function properly. You will never see us outdoors in the summer without plenty of water for the kiddos and I. We rely on <a href="http://amzn.to/VXl5hk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these stainless water bottles</a> because they are the only ones so far that I've found leave no weird taste in the water and don't accumulate mold, love them! They come in different sizes too, the kids love <a href="http://amzn.to/1w0hgCx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the 16.9 oz ones</a>. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Apply sunscreen when we know we will be in direct sunlight for more than half an hour:</b> My kids and I tan easily, so I know how long we can be in the sun without damage. This timeline may differ for you and your kids, you may need to apply sunscreen if you now you'll be out in the sun longer than 15-20 minutes. Which brings us to...</li>
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<b>Which low-hazard sunscreen do we choose? </b>We love these carcinogen free, non-nano zinc based sunscreens and use some of them sparingly when needed, we never go through more than a tube in the summer (maybe because we don't live on the beach or vacation frequently!). Though I think that may change since we've just discovered an amazing lake near us, and it's free! Here they are <b>in approximate order of value for the amount in package</b>, cheapest to most expensive (prices current at time of publishing this post)...</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>1. <a href="http://amzn.to/1w0IZ66" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Neutral</a> </b>Skin and Hair Mineral Sunscreen Water Resistant 80 mins | SPF 33 | 8 OZ | $11.99 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>2. <a href="http://amzn.to/1myMvTM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Lizard</a></b> Australian Sunscreen, Sensitive | SPF 30+ | 5 oz | $16.39 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>3. <a href="http://amzn.to/1lTKAVD" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ThinkSport Kid Safe</a></b> Sunscreen Thinkbaby Livestrong | SPF 50+ | 3fl oz | $12.69 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>4. <a href="http://amzn.to/1zpfxei" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Badger Kids</a></b> Sunscreen Cream, Tangerine & Vanilla | SPF 30 | 2.9 oz | $15.99 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>5. <a href="http://amzn.to/1qJQLBH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sunology</a></b> Sunscreen Kids | SPF 50 | 2.1 oz | $14.99 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>6. <a href="http://amzn.to/1qJQONZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">TruKid</a> </b>Sunny Days Sport Plus Water-resistant UVA/UVB Sunscreen Lotion, Unscented | SPF 30 | 2 oz | $14.99 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>7. <a href="http://amzn.to/1qJQVce" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sweetsation Sun'n'Fun</a></b> Broad Spectrum Mineral Sunscreen for Kids with Antioxidants, Marshmallow and Chocolate | SPF 30 | 3.3oz | $17 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>8. <a href="http://amzn.to/TSxz7P" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BurnOut KIDS</a></b> Broad Spectrum | SPF 35 | 3.4 oz. | $17.99 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>9. <a href="http://amzn.to/1kDMDxp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">California Baby</a> </b>Sunscreen Lotion, Everyday/Year Round, Water Resistant | SPF30+ | 2.9 Ounce | $22.25 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 2</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>10. <a href="http://amzn.to/1rRpMG1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Badger Plus</a></b> Sunscreen All Season Face Stick Unscented | SPF 35 | 0.65 oz | $8.79 | <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">EWG Hazard Score: 1</span></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Want to find out how <i>your</i> sunscreen is rated? Check out the <a href="http://www.ewg.org/2014sunscreen/" target="_blank">EWG 2014 Sunscreen Guide</a>.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What's your favorite non-toxic sunscreen?</span></b></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;">Contains affiliate links to where we usually shop, </i><i style="text-align: justify;">your purchase supports Eco-Babyz at no extra cost to you and helps offset some of the cost associated with pouring our time and energy into this site. Thank you!</i></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477315550375757782.post-79751924783256409132014-07-01T00:00:00.000-04:002014-07-01T00:00:09.140-04:00What to Due? Preparing for Baby #2 Giveaway | $1,700+ in prizes!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Are you expecting a baby, know someone who is, or you've already met your new little bundle of joy? This prize package will blow you away! I would love for one of <i>you</i> to win this stroller, car seat, organic crib mattress, and a slew of useful baby goodies. </div>
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<strong>Welcome to the "What to Due? Preparing for Baby #2" Giveaway!</strong>
Hosted by <a href="http://www.spitupisthenewblack.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spit Up is the New Black</a></div>
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I've teamed up with Ashley over at Spit Up is the New Black to celebrate the welcoming of baby #2! She's hand selected products for, and in preparation of, a second child, and has partnered with over a dozen amazing companies to offer one lucky reader over $1,700 worth of baby essentials!<br />
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<img alt="What to Due? Preparing for Baby #2 Prize Suite #Giveaway" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-5075" src="http://www.spitupisthenewblack.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Baby-2-Prize-Suite.jpg" height="750" width="480" />
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<strong>#DueWithBaby2 Prize Suite:</strong></div>
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<li>Sarah Wells<a href="https://www.sarahwellsbags.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> “Maddy” Breast Pump Bag</a></li>
<li>Britax <a href="http://www.britaxusa.com/strollers/b-agile" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">B-Agile</a></li>
<li>Britax <a href="http://www.britaxusa.com/car-seats/b-safe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">B-Safe</a></li>
<li>$100 <a href="http://www.gymboree.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Gymboree</a> Gift Card</li>
<li>Naturepedic<a href="http://www.naturepedic.com/products/baby/ultra_organic_crib_mattress.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Organic Cotton Ultra 252 Seamless</a> crib mattress</li>
<li>guzzie+Guss <a href="http://www.guzzieandguss.com/rocking-chair-p-163.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">G+G 401 Rock</a></li>
<li>Boppy <a href="http://www.boppy.com/shop/boppy-custom-fit-total-body-pillow/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Custom Fit Total Body Pillow</a></li>
<li>Tiny Love<a href="http://www.tinylove.com/en/discover-the-world-mat" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Discover the World Mat</a></li>
<li>California Baby <a href="http://www.californiababy.com/calming-newborn-tote.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Calming Newborn Tote</a></li>
<li>aden + anais <a href="http://www.adenandanais.com/en-us/product/4631/nursery/crib-sheets/classic/8607/dreamer-white-classic-crib-sheets.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">classic crib sheet</a></li>
<li>aden + anais <a href="http://www.adenandanais.com/en-us/product/4618/baby/swaddles/bamboo/9201/mela-bamboo-swaddles.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">mela bamboo swaddles</a></li>
<li>Tommee Tippee <a href="http://www.tommeetippee.us/product/diaper-disposal-system/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">360° sealer™ Diaper Disposal System</a></li>
<li>Tommee Tippee <a href="http://www.tommeetippee.us/product/feeding-bottle/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3-Pack Closer to Nature Bottle 5oz</a></li>
<li><a href="http://freshlypicked.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Freshly Picked</a> mocs</li>
<li>Little Treetops <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/101186728/my-mom-is-blogging-this-baby-bodysuit" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">My Mom is Blogging This</a> onesie</li>
<li>Undercover Mama <a href="http://undercovermama.com/shop/premium-slimming-style" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Slim Mama</a></li>
<li>Pink Lining <a href="http://www.pinklining.com/mum-on-the-run-cream-bows-on-pink" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mum on the Run</a> bag</li>
<li>The <a href="http://nuroobaby.com/product/nuroo-pocket/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NüRoo Pocket</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.bebepodpants.com/products/digitally-printed-bebe-podpants" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bebé PODPants</a></li>
<li>I See Me! <a href="http://www.iseeme.com/super-incredible-big-sister-personalized-childrens-book.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">personalized big sibling book</a></li>
<li>Philips AVENT<a href="http://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/SCF603_25/avent-breast-milk-storage-bags" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Breast milk storage bags</a></li>
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ONE lucky winner will win <strong>ALL</strong> of the items listed above! To enter to win this suite of prizes, please use the entry form below. Open to residents of the contiguous US states, ages 18+. Giveaway closes 7/31/14 at 11:59PM ET. Good luck!</div>
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<a href="https://giveawaytools2.com/giveaway.php?sk=356599628" rel="nofollow" target="_BLANK2">Entry</a><script src="//giveawaytools2.com/wid/embed.php?sk=356599628"></script><a href="https://giveawaytools2.com/giveaway.php?sk=356599628" rel="nofollow" target="_BLANK2">-Form</a></div>
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<em>This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook or Twitter. Prizes to be fulfilled by Britax, Sarah Wells, Gymboree, Naturepedic, guzzie+Guss, Philips AVENT, Boppy, Tiny Love, California Baby, aden + anais, Tommee Tippee, Freshly Picked, Little Treetops, Undercover Mama, Pink Lining, NuRoo, Bebe PODPants, and I See Me. Color and/or style of prizes may vary. Prizes will be shipped separately. Neither Spit Up is the New Black nor any blog in which this giveaway is posted is held liable for lack of prize fulfillment. Open to residents of the 48 contiguous United States, ages 18+.
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<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=EcoBlogz" target="_blank">Top Mommy Blogs</a> - Vote for us @ TopMommyBlogs.Com!</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281806447154562541noreply@blogger.com14