ERGOBaby Carrier

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 If you’re expecting or need a gift for a special mama the ERGObaby carrier is a must have for all mama’s. It’s functional too. You can carry your little bundle of joy just about anywhere. Wearing your baby offers many moments that wouldn’t be possible without the carrier. The ERGObaby carrier isn’t exclusive to the front position either - tote your babe around on your hip, hand’s free or give piggy back rides in style!!! A product you can rely on! ERGObaby carrier is worth every penny and every journey. And for mama’s who are nursing…allows you to discreetly feed your baby too! Easy on and off and your baby’s safety is #1 wearing this carrier!

http://www.ergobabycarrier.com/testimonials/2008/03/we-highly-recommend-this-produ.html

Raising Green Kids

We could all use a few ideas on how to raise green kids, right? It’s not easy being green. We do our best but sometimes the world we live in makes it impossible.  In this YouTube video, Jane Zadadowski, will offer simple tips on how to incorporate “going green” into your child’s life. Influence your child to become an eco-leader. Learn to grow greener kids…become aware of the ways to change our environmental impact and pass them on to our children. Teaching kids to lower their impact at an early age will hopefully get them to incorporate sustainable living their entire lives. Our kids are the future!

 Video sponsored by http://www.lime.com/- healthy living with a twist!

 

What ideas do you have on raising green kids?? What inspires you to raise your child green?? My husband and I like to think we’re doing what we can to raise a green child- we make our own organic baby food, wipes, cloth diaper, use wooden toys and utensils, only use organic baby products..etc. Any little bit helps. Please, feel free to share your tips and ideas for raising green kids.

Just In…

We’ve been using bumGenius All in One’s since our little man was born and love them! We haven’t had any problems with them and use a hemp doubler at night for extra protection. We wash them every other day with Allen’s Naturally. We hang dry them in the summer and inside in the winter. They take a little time for drying so try to plan for that. The diapers look so comfortable and fasten nicely. I just found out they now have an ORGANIC version and it’s supposed to be “fast drying”. I’m excited to try them out! I really like the way  bumGenius diapers look on my little guy and he seems to think they’re comfy too!  Plus, if you get them from CottonBabies they have a a Growing Up In Cloth program that allows you to return their diapers that are gently used.  We’ve done this in the past and it works out great because they’ll give you a credit in exchange for the diapers. You won’t be getting all your money back but it’s well worth it! YAY!, for ORGANIC and one more reason to love bumGenius diapers.

 

The day my son was born, a labor of love.

 Unfortunately, I live in a town where midwives are taboo- so, for me finding a midwife was a bit more challenging. I had severe morning sickness during the first trimester and lost 20 lbs. but gained every ounce of it back before birth, believe me. Once I saw the midwife she was upset that I didn’t come to her sooner as she told me I could’ve lost the baby. I was told by my sis’s office that I had to be 8 weeks before they’d even schedule an appointment. Which just didn’t sit right with me, at all. Before I became pregnant, I always knew I wanted to birth naturally. Having a child was something I believed women were capable of. I figured if my Aunt could nurse a child, she never gave birth to, then I could manage a labor and delivery- in other words, give birth to a child. She told me she was interviewed by the La Leche League and they asked her how she was able to do it over so many other women and she told me that she said ” because, I never had a doubt in my mind”. That stuck with me and I never had a doubt in my mind that I was completely capable of giving birth. We found a midwife in Simi Valley which is 1hr. and 15 minutes away and everything was going so well until 36 wks. of pregnancy when she told me she could no longer see patients due to an underlying legal battle. It was at this point, I made the decision to have a homebirth and was thankfully able to find a replacement in the “eleventh hour”. Our appointments were now in Santa Monica and a few times before the birth they came here to see me. The day before my son arrived, April 21, 2007 I had my first sign of labor – bloody show…I called the Midwife right away and she informed me that it could still be a few days or even weeks. Once I hung up the phone, I knew it wouldn’t be long before my son arrived. The Poppy Festival happened to be that weekend so my husband and I thought it would be a good idea to walk around for awhile in case labor was near. We did a lot of walking and a lot of people were commenting on my huge belly. We finally drove home after some time. That evening I began to feel cramps, period like cramps. My husband went to bed and I tried to also but could not, so I went out to our living room (11pm) and about halfway through I began to feel the cramps intensify. During this time, I was watching a movie (not really by choice) called “Never say Never”, The Deidre Hall story- the  movie is about infertility and surrogacy. Weird huh? It was around 2 AM that the cramps turned into contractions and it got to the point that I had to get off the couch and walk them off or rock them off. I’d swing my hips back and forth and feel my belly. I felt like a mama bear giving birth to her cub in a cave. Once the contractions started to get closer together (5 minutes apart) I woke my husband up around 6AM. where he then proceeded to run around like crazy managing to get the water birth pool inflated. I was moving from the birth ball to doing my own circles around the bedroom. I wasn’t really getting any relief from the birth ball or the circles or squats and the contractions were getting closer and closer together. My waterbroke at 7:30AM - My husband contacted the midwives and they said they were on there way (1 hr. 1/2 away).  At this point, I moved to the toilet where I sat and relaxed. The toilet had never been such a comfortable place to be. So much pressure was being relieved while I was sitting on the toilet- it opened up my pelvis and it felt great! Really. I just remember thinking that my baby and I are working together, that we were a team. After about a 1/2 hr. of sitting on the toilet I moved myself to a chair we bought at Ikea. My hubby had it completely covered in towels so that I could get comfortable. He had the birthing pool inflated but did not fill the tub with water yet as the midwives had warned that getting into the pool to soon can stall labor. That’s all my husband had in his head. My husband called my mom to let her know what was going on. She then raced over to the house, and thank goodness she did because within 15 minutes of her arrival I started to contract harder and I could REALLY feel my uterus expand and release…it was the weirdest feeling ever but empowering at the same time. I was yelling at this point, that the baby was coming and that my hubby needed to get the water in the tub. Well everything happened so fast that it didn’t get done in time because before I knew it- hubby was back on the phone with the midwife telling them that my contractions were right on target and that I felt the urge to push. All in a matter of a phone call, my mom looked back down at me and yelled out she saw Tristan’s head. The midwife announced that I could continue pushing and that she was going to guide us through the phone. She was about 15 minutes from the house. My husband was scrambling to put her on speaker so she could assist me but before I could even hear her voice and  as soon as she said prepare (all at the same time)…in 2 pushes Tristan William was born @ 9:44 AM. My mom and husband caught Tristan and laid him into my arms. I was so shocked that he had come so swift and fast. He nursed within the hour while we were still attached and we cut the cord an hour after birth. Looking back, I realize that so many things could have gone wrong and that we were lucky. Another part of me feels like this just wasn’t luck either, it was how I felt about pregnancy and birth that gave me the confidence to feel relaxed and at ease while in labor. All those hours through the night, I never once felt the dire need to contact the midwife. I was laboring happily and quietly without even knowing it when I think back on it. I honestly, didn’t know what to expect and didn’t expect it to go the way it did, that’s for sure! I conditioned my mind and that was a huge part of it. The midwives finally made it and could not believe I had given birth so fast. They were expecting the typical ”first time mama” birth- hours and hours of labor. The fact that Tristan pretty much slid right out must of had it’s advantage because I did not tear at all! Although, I didn’t deliver the little man in the water as planned…it was divine timing. Tristan was 2 1/2 wks. early but was born on Earth Day! He surprised me in so many ways!   The midwives suggested that he had signs of being overdue because his feet were a little more wrinkled on bottom than normal, he had no vernix on his skin and his nails were long. In any case, the little guy made his debut and I felt so relieved and was pleasantly surprised at how my delivery went. Everyone was surprised!!!  After, I delivered the placenta I was pretty much able to walk around and felt great. My midwife showed me the placenta and pointed it how healthy is was and that she was impressed. She suggested that she could dehydrate it and make it into a pill. She further explained that it had many many nutrients that I could benefit from and that it helps with postpartum and energy. So, to say the least, I had my placenta dehydrated. It made about 200 pills and I took one everyday for approx. 3 mos. afterward!! I’m so glad I opted for a natural birth and feel blessed to say that my son was born at home!

 

Maison Green ~ An Eco Boutique

(It’s Friday, and you know what that mean’s, don’t ya??? How about…an eco funtabulous feature! This weeks feature is a chic eco boutique, Maison Green. Many mom’s these day’s are looking for buzz words like earth friendly, sustainable, organic natural, recycled, fair trade and green. Mom’s only want what’s best for their child without the concern of toxic chemicals.  Maison Green offers many of earth friendly products for your baby, your hubby or yourself. Heck, you can even do some shopping for friends or family here.  An eco boutique with lots of eco style- I’m really digging the organic baby hair products they carry. I think my little guy would be tempted to rock out wearing them. Actually, I think any kid would be tempted especially with scents like “Paparazzi Lime” and “Tangerine Limousine”.  I’m going to be traveling soon and I could really use an organic eye pillows. What a great travel item or at your bedside. I’m the type of person that has to have pitch darkness at night to sleep so knowing that my eyeballs won’t fry from chemicals…makes me think my dreams will be a whole lot sweeter.

The earth friendly bags made of recycled vintage canvas come in 12 different styles. You might end up with two! My hubby would totally sport one. My favorite is the Delhi Ri- handbag. I can definitely see myself in tow with one now!!  Okay, ladies have you been thinking about greening up your beauty routine? Look no further, Green Maison has what you’ve been looking for, all natural Mixology makeup. That’s right NO cheap fillers!!

You can never have enough organic cotton onesies for you eco wee one and at Maison Green you’re going to find a rather fun collection…”My mom my is hotter than your Mommy” and this owl on guitar! My son would look so cute in this. Among these eco fabulous features you can also find nursery bedding, organic crib mattresses, women & mens apparal, baby & kids apparal, recycled jewerly, “Best Natural Toys of 2007″, organic slings personalized eco stationary and much much more! I’m really digging this hip chic eco boutique. The organic diaper cakes & organic gift baskets are an absolute eco favs of my mine! These sets would make a perfect baby shower gift and they’re way adorable too!  If you’re looking for unique quality- won’t find it on the shelf at your local baby store items give them a lookie loo!! Maison Green is committed to the green movement and carries unique high quality sustainable products.  They feature a few products that are manufactured by larger green and fair trade businesses. Which is just another reason to love this eco boutique. Mom’s today are concerned with the products they’re buying for themselves and for their family. We also think about how they affect the environment and the future of our children. You’ll be sure to find products that are made with eco love.  Right now, they have a promotion going for free shipping on $100 or more BUT may I suggest that you get there fast because just for being a reader you’re gonna get free shipping or 10% off your order! How about that!

Enter “free ship” (a $4.95 or $10.95 value) or “going green” (10% off total order). Order over $100 will automatically receive free shipping and reader can use the Going Green discount in conjuction for great savings. Consider yourself eco lucky!

You’ll be sure to find products at Maison Green where there are no worries…each product is made with eco love. Click on their lovely banner in my sidebar for a quick way to enter the eco chic boutique!

I think I’m going Kooky for Maison Green!

Hand it down to us…

 

While I was making playdough my sis came over and dropped off some second-hand items (from the OBGYN she’s works with) for Tristan. It was really funny too…early I’d been thinking about our trip to Hawaii and the fact that the little man needed sandals. The Crocs daddy bought him for his eco b-day are too big!! So, just like that…my sis is at the door with 2 pairs of sandals (Columbia and Crocs) and 2 pairs of shoes (not sure the brands)! T-Man scored …and if that wasn’t enough he received some clothing too and how appropriate…it’s Hawaiian themed! Maybe, the universe is listening afterall??!!!

 

Crocs aren’t pictured because my son wore them to swim class!!

My cousin Tamie (www.roxycraft.com), gave us a huge box of books that she accumulated for her son, Jackson but no longer wants them…doesn’t think she’ll be having a second….well, Tam, if you’re reading this and decide you want your books back- I’ll be hanging on to them for keeps!!! LOL! Thx. cuz!!! Tristan has already enjoyed many of the books inside the box!

 

Boy, did we score!!!!

Eco Arts & Crafts for Kids

Summer is a great time to dive right into eco kids crafts! Although, my son is only 14 mos. old, I could use the practice while he’s young. Looking forward to the days when little man will get interactive and creative. Watching your children express themselves through art is very humbling. Arts & crafts offer children the time to explore and use their imagination. Often times, we babysit my niece and nephew and they like to be entertained.  Your kids can learn to love the planet while being taught how to re purpose items and help save the planet. Kids are great at finding new ways to use things too. A few handy crafts can easily distract a bored child…

-  Homemade Organic Playdough - As a child my sis and bro went nuts for this stuff. Check out this video from The Green Parent on how to make it at home.

-  Make Your Own Paper- what a fantastic way for kids to learn how recycled paper is made…we’re so going to do this!!!

Watch this video by The Green Parent author Jenn Savedge and you’ll be amazed!

-  Melt and re-use old broken crayons, found a really awesome Crockpot Crayons recipe…she even has one for playdough!!

-  Finger paint using non toxic paint or make your own recipe- instead of buying paper for this craft, combine the paper making craft and use the paper you made!!

Egg carton make eggcellent paint cups.

- Use toilet or paper towel rolls and  make a pair of binoculars, a pencil holder, telescope, or musical instrument (flute or horn)…etc.

Let kids decorate the outside with newspaper, magazine cutouts, sand, old buttons…etc.

- Re-use jar lids and make coasters, photo magnets, or change tray

- If you really want to get crafty you can make your own glue too!

Last night, I made organic playdough and my niece and nephew had a ball with it!  They were so fascinated of the simple fact it was actually made at home! Super easy too!!

Didn’t have cream of tartar so I used this No Fuss recipe instead

No Fuss Play Dough

1 cup cold water
1 cup salt
2 teaspoons vegetable oil (only have EVOO)
2 cups flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
natural coloring/essential oil  (used tangerine)

In a large bowl, mix together water, salt, oil and a few drops of essential oils and add color. Mix flour and cornstarch and add 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly (you may need a little more or a little less than 2 cups flour so make sure you stir in until it is the right consistency). Knead for a few minutes with flour on your hands.

Seal and put into refrigerator afterwards to keep from drying out! Home paper making here we come. Hoping it’ll get the artsy side out of me! I’m also going to do the crockpot recipe for broken crayons and playdough!! How terrific is that. So, stay tuned for all the summer CrAFty fun…

Oh! and did I say, The Green Parent rocks! There. Now you know. Can’t wait to get the book.

And don’t forget to enjoy the time with your budding eco-artist(s)! Have any crafts or ideas you’d like share?

June Baby Wearing Photo Contest

This is my favorite photo of my husband wearing Tristan. Enter your favorite photo at Baby Sling Blog- Contest ends TODAY! 

Wordless Wednesday ~ The Summer Sky Above

 

Illuminated Perfume *Review

Awhile back I posted about using essential oils and natural perfumes rather than the traditional perfumes sold in departments stores today. I wanted to go back to the days when they used perfume bottles with the big puffy squirt press and start looking into non toxic perfumes further. The idea of wearing natural perfumes brought me joy as I would think about all the lovely scents that are out there and could be concocted. The thought of my “Mr. Tristar” inhaling toxic chemicals made me sick. Using natural fragrances, I envisioned Tristan in my arms, curled up and suckling at the breast peacefully as he drifts off to fragnant notes of Lavender or some other floral scent.  A blend of beauty so intoxifying it’d help my senses re-gain strength and all the while my baby is calmed by the pure and organic scents of essential oils. My quest to find this rather eco idyllic perfume found me instead. This is where the journey began.

Roxana Villa is the creator of Illuminated Perfume. According to her website, each of her perfumes contain over twenty different essences, in some cases multiple chords.  Chapparal is the most complex with over fifty essences total. Roxana, sent four of her wonderful illuminating essences to my home. I was so tickled and thrilled I couldn’t wait to dabble some on. As I read over each perfumes ingredient I decided that I’d start with Sierra because going back to the High Sierra’s sounded to good to be true…it wasn’t. Immediately when I put it on the aromatic scent waffed into my nose. As I did with all the perfumes, I applied it to my wrists, neck and decollete. I felt a sense of being as I took another inhale to make sure I was taking it all in. Several times while working out in the garden I’d tend to smell the Sierra even more and it was like the earth was seeping through my pores. Woodsy, and earthy I felt it captivated the raw ability that humans have to capture a moment through scent. Going back to the days of when we camped as a child and walked the trails in the early morning. This one seemed to work the best with my body chemistry too. Then there is the lush Lyra. With Amber, Ylang Ylang, Pink Grapefruit, Egyptian Jasmine notes, this scent is heavenly and sensual. After applying, Lyra is an ooh-la, la kind of essence- Lucious and deep it made my heart melt and I went begging for more!!! Amber is the color of my energy? How about yours? Next up, I was excited to try the “Q” or “Quercus” a more woody scent with citrus chords. Lovely, indeed- this fragrance gave me the second wind I needed throughout my day. The woody scent is stable and honestly, quite powerful. My mind felt clear while wearing the “Q”. The essences in Quercus keep you feeling balanced. Last but not least, is the Vera. The essences are bright with Lemon, Lavender, Orange Blossom, Hay, Coastal Sage to name a few. Vera is soft and refreshing. It soothes the soul and creates harmony. Upon applying the Vera your senses are awakened and you feel enlightened. Wearing these wonderful scents, I know that my mind and body stay healthy. I don’t have to worry what toxic chemical is causing a reaction. Same goes for my T-Man.

Roxana is definitely an aromatic artist no doubt crafting all natural organic perfumes in her studio located in the Santa Monica Mtns. Currently she offers seven perfumes which she creates in small batches. The other 3 fragrances are Vespertina, Chapparral, and Aurora…enchanting I’m sure!  Without all the toxic chemicals she enjoys creating pure blends “that reflect a healing modality and individual expression”.  Roxana can create a custom blend  based on your ”scent palette”. How awesome is that? A personalized perfume, I’m there!!!  After the birth of her child, Roxana went to school for Aromatherapy and since then has been concocting natural and pure aromatic essences. Roxana’s perfumes captivate the senses in so many different ways.  I recommend visiting her blog too!

For all orders within the next two weeks, Roxana has generously offered my readers 10% off using the discount code: recyleyourday -  Join her free monthly newsletter and get news and information from this eco friendly perfumer…don’t miss out!! Offer lasts till Wednesday, June 9Th, 2008.  Jump back into your senses and illuminate your mind, body and soul!

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