Ella's Kitchen Organic Baby Food

If I could give an award to something it would be Ella's Kitchen!  I love the idea of fruit and vegetables combined into one packet that I can throw in a purse, the car or diaper bag.  I keep them on me at all times and from baby number three to my five year-old Ella's Kitchen food is a magical thing.  Everyone wants one and they want them all the time!

Made from 100% organic fruits and vegetables the purees are in handy squeezable packs that come in single food variety or an array of clever mixes.  Broccoli, Pears and Peas anyone?  Yes, please!  I love that I can get my oldest to suck down some veggies without any complaints. The girl won't touch a carrot, pea or potato anymore. It's all carbs and I fear for her digestive tract.  Ella's Kitchen was created by a Dad for his kids.  He wanted something healthy and portable.  He came up with Ella's Kitchen and now there is a whole selection from First Tastes, Baby Brekkie to Smoothies and more. 

One of the best parts about Ella's Kitchen pouches is that I can give them to all my kids. When the box for review came to our door it was just days before our Thanksgiving car trip to West Virginia. I knew that these fruit and vegetable packs were going to make the car ride a lot smoother.  Each girl loves them, devours them and asks for more. My one year-old can eat them in the car and I don't worry about her choking. 

Ella's Kitchen makes many flavors from one fruit or vegetable to combinations of both.  You can even use them in recipes!  They are available at many grocery stores and retailers like Target and Amazon.com and more. 

BornFree Eco Bottles Giveaway!

BornFree wants to know:  What were the products as a new Mom that you couldn’t live without?

It is downright overwhelming being a new mother. We want the safest, most trusted and convenient products available. To help parents pick the product essentials from one mom-to another, let us know what Products (toys, bottles teethers, etc) got you through your babies first year.

Give your advice in the comment section and I'll choose a winner at random on November 4, 2011.  The winner will be given a set of BornFree Eco bottles of their very own! 



*This contest is sponsored by BornFree (www.newbornfree.com). BornFree specializes in developing and manufacturing baby feeding products that feature a natural flow that’s closer to breastfeeding, tummy conscious ActiveFlow™venting technology that’s clinically proven to reduce colic, and naturally safe materials that are free of BPA, PVD and phthalates.

Yes to Carrots Baby Carrots Review

All natural, organic skincare is a big deal in my house. Yes to Carrots fits the bill. The prices are right too. Products like diaper cream and body wash range from $5.99 to 7.99, which is comparable to non-organic items as well as organic lines. We tried numerous items in the Yes to Carrots baby care line and noticed the following.

Shampoo & Body Wash ($7.99)- available in original formula and fragrance free this combo of shampoo and body wash works well. I loved the easy pump and foam design as did my kids. What was different about the Yes to Carrots shampoo & body wash from other brands was that the foam was thicker, more dense and lasted longer. It didn't dissipate the minute I placed it on my child. I liked this a lot better. It is also tear free, which is a must in our house. While it cleaned and worked well on all my kids it wasn't ideal for my daughter with extremely curly hair. She needs a more moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to tame her locks.

Nourishing Baby Lotion ($7.99) - My oldest has very sensitive but dry skin. We have to be really careful about what goes on her body after baths. If not, we risk a pre-bedtime crying jag because the lotion "burns" and we have to wipe it all off. Yes to Carrots baby lotion is lightweight, petroleum, SLS and Sulfate free (just like all the other YtC products) and didn't bother her skin. It was more watery than I expected but a little goes a long way and it did work on her skin and I even used it on mine one day in a pinch and I have no complaints.

Soothing Diaper Cream ($7.99)- Made with aloe, zinc oxide (beware cloth diaper users) and organic pumpkin to hydrate the skin, the Yes to Carrots diaper cream is a good find. It is soft, soothing and not sticky. It protects baby's skin from moisture and it works fast. It is a nice alternative to many other diaper creams on the market. I would use it again. It makes a cute addition to a baby gift basket too. Available online in the US only.

Bubble Bath ($7.99)- I have three girls. We have a giant tub. Bubble baths are requested often. I'm reluctant though because bubble baths are not a girls best friend. However, the Yes to Carrots is so mild, natural and SLS free that I tend to give in more often now. The foaming, the bubbles on this product is phenomenal! The bubbles quickly rise up, last longer than any bubble bath I have ever used and my girls adore it. There is no paraben and it doesn't have a strong scent. One of the best perks beyond the bubbles is that it doesn't dry their skin. A definite five star product.

Yes to Carrots has a whole line of baby and adult skincare and haircare products available nationwide at your local drug and big box retailer or online. Plus a portion of the proceeds from all Yes to Carrots products goes to the Yes to Seed Fund, which gives kids access to the various ways we can have fun and engage with Mother Nature.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

Sebamed Baby

Sebamed, a German company, is all about ph-balance in your skin. The Sebamed baby line is probably one of the most interesting baby skincare lines that I have tested. It isn't bogged down with cute packaging or cartoon characters, it doesn't contain a powdery or sweet scent to it (or phthalates) either. In short, it is what it says it is and it works.

Hypoallergenic, free of dyes, dioxan, formaldehyde and many other chemicals found in skincare products for kids and adults Sebamed is outstanding. Containing Vitamin E, soothing chamomile (more on that later) and a special water in oil emulsion the Sebamed Baby Cream ($12.99) is worth the price tag. If you have kids with sensitive skin it is like hitting a jackpot. For example, my oldest daughter spends a lot of time in the bath tub. She likes to play in it on her stomach. The non-skid surface of the tub ends up shredding her. The only lotion we have found that works to heal and not irritate her skin after this happens is Sebamed Baby Cream. Now we are tear-free after bath time and this has been the only lotion that does the trick. Additionally, I have two kids who suffer from eczema and this cream takes care of any irritations, dry spots, or scaly patches in one or two uses. It's been such a find!

Sebamed offers a whole line of baby products from shampoo to diaper cream. They also have adult formulas for dry skin, aging and acne. You can even purchase lotions in liter form. It is available at Costco, Kerr Drugs and online.

MPR Rating: Five Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

Mom to Mom Diapers Giveaway!

Until about a month ago I had two kids in diapers. That can really burn through my weekly grocery bill and then some. Even one child alone can do that. I don't buy name brands to curb the price and have found that the Mom to Mom brand from Safeway has improved since I tried it a few years ago.

Mom to Mom diapers are now available only in the Supreme variety (in the purple packaging). They offer better leakage control, perfect fit waistband and tabs, an ultra absorbent core, and a super soft hypoallergenic liner with aloe, vitamin E, and organic botanicals. The Mom to Mom training pants are also easier to change and provide a better fit and comfort. They have easy open sides (a feature not available on all training pants- like greener varieties that I wish had these!), and that same soft hypoallergenic liner with aloe, vitamin E, and organic botanicals.

Mom to Mom Diapers, from Safeway, and I have teamed up to offer a lucky reader a $25 Safeway gift card! Enter to win by commenting (don't forget that all important email address for contact purposes!). Additional entries can be gained by retweets, "likes" of MPR on Facebook and following this blog. Just let me know that you did it. Good Luck! I will choose a winner at random on July 15, 2011.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was given a $25 Safeway gift card to try the Mom to Mom brand diapers for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

Playtex Lil' Gripper Straw Trainer Cup

By baby number three you think you have all that you need. What else could there possibly be? How about Playtex Lil' Gripper Straw Trainer Cup. It's squeezable with easy to grip handles and it is a great way to teach kids how to use a straw.

This cup has been a big deal in our house. My two year old loves it because the straw is short, my five year old loves it because, well, the two year old uses it. The baby who is just starting to use cups can hold it and drink without a hassle. I love it because it has the Playtex Twist 'n Click Leak-Proof Guaranteed seal. Available in purple, green, blue and pink it is a great starter cup for when you want to transition from bottle to cup or teach your little one to sip through a straw. No matter what age though your kid will probably like it.

You can purchase it online at the Playtex store, Babies R Us and Playtex Baby The First Lil' Gripper Twist 'n Click Straw Cup 7 OZ - girl colors">Amazon.com.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post. Products received are for review purposes only. Opinions are MPR's only.

Origany Toddler Dress

Fun Find- Origany is 100% organic cotton clothing for kids and babies. We were sent a toddler dress in gorgeous light blue and dark blue shades. This pleated dress is contemporary in style with four buttons in the front. It looks great for a party or any time of the day. My two year-old daughter loved it immediately. I didn't want to give it to her because it was size 4T but it fit. Origany clothes seem to run small and the 100% certified organic cotton with low-impact dyes (made in Peru) shrinks up in the wash.

Adorable, great in style and idea, but go two sizes larger. Origany will be debuting a new Eco-Athlete line this August with Atlanta Falcons, Ovie Mughelli. Watch the video below. The line will be for active kids and feature five sport themes. Another great find!

Ovie Mughelli Partners with ORIGANY to launch Eco-Athlete Baby Clothing Line from Ovie Mughelli on Vimeo.

Fun Find- Calypso St. Barth for Target

I gave a glimpse of some of the Calypso St. Barth home decor in my Mother's Day gift guide but now I have had the chance to sample some of the clothing items in the baby/toddler area.

These two lovely ensembles may not be volcanic* but they are quite cute with their bright colors and soft cotton fabrics. Available in stores NOW and priced to sell fast! Prices are about $15-20 for sets or dresses.

*Bonus points if you got the Pretty in Pink reference.

Gerber SmartNourish

I admit it. I am one of those people who makes their own baby food.  I actually like doing it too.  However, when I am traveling it isn't always easy to pack a lot of frozen, need to be refrigerated baby food.  So I buy jarred and I like it to be organic too.  Gerber sent me their latest product- SmartNourish (stage 2) and it was perfect timing. My littlest one is just venturing into mixed foods. 

Gerber SmartNourish baby food comes in regular or organic.  It is loaded with DHA & Choline to help support brain & eye development.  Has Vitamins C & E included and no added sugar, salt, starch, artificial colors or flavors.  Yes!  Both the organic and non-organic come in packs of two and in those nice stackable boxes.  I don't love the plastic but that is just the "green" in me.  I re-use my glass baby food jars for the food I make myself.  However, the boxes are great for storing and packing in a diaper bag.

The texture of SmartNourish is like any other stage two baby food.  It is smooth and not watery.  We tried the Apple-Strawberry and Peaches with Oatmeal.  Both of them my daughter liked.  There was no artificial or funny smell that some foods have either.  Gerber is a trusted brand and I have never had any problems with them. I like them and I am glad that they have added this new line to their already great list of food items for babies. 

SmartNourish baby foods are also available in Stage 1 and come in flavors like Macaroni and Cheese with Vegetables, Spring Garden Vegetables with Brown Rice, Pear-Strawberry Granola and many more.  You can buy them at your local grocer now.

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer- MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review and testing purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 



*Image from jenspends.com

Infantino Savvy Bag Baby Changing Clutch

Wow!  I opened the box of the Savvy Bag Baby Changing Clutch by Infantino ($22.99) and breathed a deep sigh of relief. In the past when I have received these types of baby clutches the design has either been cutesy or just incredibly unstylish.  I wouldn't be caught dead carrying one.  The Savvy Bag by Infantino is not that way at all. I adore the cream and red design that is so current for right now.  The brown handle is a nice touch too. It's compact, has an adjustable strap and is easy to use and wipe clean. 

The bag itself is slim and stays that way when you pack it.  I'm a necessities only type of diaper bag packer so the Savvy Bag is perfect for me when I have to be out for short periods of time with my kids or just with my toddler.  It's water resistant and has an ingenious removable pad for a clean changing area.  The bag can be a pillow for baby while changing and it easily stores diapers,wipes and a few other essentials.  I love how the pad can just flip open or detach.  The option for both is usually not there in other diaper clutches. 

I hate to say it but I actually would not mind a purse that looked like this diaper clutch.  It's a great addition to the Infantino line and makes a great gift for a mom of one or more kids. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  I am a participant in a Mom Central Consulting campaign for Infantino and have received various Infantino products as part of my participation. The opinions shared are my own and MPR's only.  I was not paid for this post.


*Images from Step2.com and wholelistofgiveaways.com

Graco Secure Coverage Monitor with 2 Parent Units

Graco is known all over for their wonderfully innovative baby products.  The Secure Coverage Monitor™ ($64.99) claims to have "crystal clear digital connection, so you can clearly hear even the quietest whimper, without fear of interference from your phone or wireless network."  Through the use of vibration on one of the easy clip-on monitors you can be aware of what your baby is doing and when they need you with up to a 2000 ft household coverage.

This 900 MHz frequency monitor won't interfere with your homes other electronics or phones.  It has a secure digital technology that offers clarity and privacy.  In addition to the vibration this monitor also has sound lights that let you keep tabs on your baby or child visually. It also has two parent units in the set allowing both parents to monitor the baby. A low battery alarm will remind you when you need to charge the parent unit too. 

How does the Graco Secure Coverage Monitor work?  Well, it didn't in my house.  I don't know if it was because we already own a baby monitor or what. Our house is about 2000 square feet so that can't be it.  We do live in a townhouse and I wonder if the different levels caused this problem. We never could figure it out.  We turned the old monitor off and put it away while the Graco one was in use and still a signal could not be found.  Then I got the bright idea to send it next door to my friend who recently brought home a baby.  The Graco Secure Coverage Monitor worked!  She wears the belt clip unit all over and it alerts her with vibration when her child in the nursery or in its cradle in her room is crying or making even the slightest peep.  We determined that in her home the Graco monitor is actually very sensitive.  It does have crystal clear coverage in her home too.

I think that this product does what it says for most people. It's not a star performer like most of Graco's products but baby monitors in townhouse situations can sometimes be tricky.  There have been many cases on our block of faulty monitors from all brands and price ranges that have spotty or temperamental work issues.  I let my neighbor keep my unit as she likes it and it works in her house. 

MPR Rating: Four Stars.  See more reviews here. 


Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received are for review and test purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Image from babygiftoutlet.com

Original Baby Bullet Giveaway!

This week I'm giving away a Baby Bullet!  The magical Baby Bullet is part of the Magic Bullet family.  It makes baby food safely, cheaply and even organic (if you so choose)!  It purees, creates cereals and makes food into chunky textures.  It's super fast too! It comes with over 15 pieces and is valued at $60.  I'm giving one away this week to a lucky reader!

To enter visit the Baby Bullet Facebook page and 'friend' them, then comment here.  I'll choose a winner at random on Friday, January 28, 2011.


CONGRATULATIONS to Stacy on winning the Baby Bullet!  Thanks for entering and reading, everyone!!

Philips AVENT's Top 10 Tips for Caring for a Baby with Colic

… and Their Parents

Philips AVENT sponsored a conversation on TheMotherhood.com and among mom bloggers and their readers to gather advice and support on caring for babies with colic - and their parents too! Dr. Jen Trachtenberg, mom, pediatrician and author, joined the conversation live on November 2nd to share her knowledge and insights as well. From all that was shared on TheMotherhood.com between Dr. Jen and the mom bloggers, here are the Top 10 Tips:


Making Baby Feel Better

1. If you are breastfeeding, think about your diet. Certain foods you eat, such as citrus fruit, onions, cauliflower, spicy foods, caffeine and beans, may contribute to your baby’s fussiness.

2. Style of feeding can make a difference too. “Active” feeding, where your baby controls milk flow (through breastfeeding or using a bottle that mimics it – such as the Philips AVENT natural feeding bottle) can help reduce colic symptoms.

3. Keep your baby moving – use a baby sling or swinger seat, rock the cradle, or move his or her arms and legs in “bicycle” motions.

4. Focus on soothing rituals. White noise can help, as it’s a reminder of the noises heard from inside the womb. Also consider trying a pacifier, giving warm baths, gently massaging your baby’s tummy, or swaddling.

5. At naptime or bedtime, side and stomach positions are generally more comfortable for babies suffering from colic than lying on his or her back.


Making Mommy (and Daddy) Feel Better

6. Getting time away from home is vital. Having a baby with colic also can be hard on a couple, so getting time together without the baby can really help.

7. Find an outlet for discussing what you’re going through. Sometimes talking it out with a mom support group or another mom who has “been there” can make a world of difference. Philips AVENT hosts a community on Facebook where you can connect with other moms.

8. Take a few minutes each day and do something that makes you feel good – for example, a hot shower and a home facial. It will help you feel fresh even when you are exhausted.

9. If you’ve tried several different tactics, and nothing seems to be soothing your baby, schedule some time with your pediatrician. It always helps to get an expert opinion, and nothing is more valuable than peace of mind!

10. Remember, you are not alone, and your baby’s colic is not your fault. Twenty-five percent of babies suffer from colic, and there are no indications that it is hereditary, or caused by anything you did while pregnant. The good news is, colic typically disappears when baby is around 3 months of age – so it won’t last forever!



For more than 25 years, Philips AVENT, the number one bottle brand in the world, has been a trusted partner from pregnancy through toddlerhood, giving parents the confidence to choose the products that support their baby’s developing needs. Learn more at http://www.philips.us/avent or visit Philips AVENT’s new Facebook page for more tips and advice.

Infantino Annabel Karmel Food Products- Part II

Earlier this week I talked about the line of Annabel Karmel food products with Infantino but today I'm discussing a particular product in the set.

The Make It Easy Food Box and Flask is great! I wish I had this with the last two kids.  Geared for ages nine months on up this cute and handy kit works really well when you are traveling, out for the day or even at home.  I love putting finger foods in it for my toddler but it also works for baby food.  The double layer storage box doesn't let food get squashed when traveling and all the containers are removable.  A fork and spoon is even included and that is one of the best, most practical parts.

Just like other Annabel Karmel food products it is dishwasher, freezer and microwave-safe.    You can get a single or dual layer food box too.  The flask is made of durable aluminium.  The whole set is easy to use and practical.  It's a great product.

MPR Rating: Four Stars. 

Disclaimer:   "I am a participant in a Mom Central Consulting campaign for Infantino and have received various Infantino products as part of my participation.”

Infantino Annabel Karmel Food Products

As part of the Infantino program I reviewed the Annabel Karmel Make It Easy food products for babies and toddlers.  I received a lot of products from a food mill, food cube trays, box and flask set and so much more. It is quite an array of products that Annabel Karmel has to offer.

Each product is in attractive colors of blue or green and they all are microwavable, dishwasher safe, freezer safe and durable.  Each product is simple and convenient to use too.  The food trays are designed to stack in the freezer just like the box and flask set which are wonderful when you are traveling or out for the day and need to feed your baby or toddler.  I was impressed with the construction and function of each Annabel Karmel item I received and can't wait to use them more as my new baby grows and gets more into foods.  I made baby food with my second child and will do so with this third little girl.  The ability to freeze and stack, store easily and have more options will all be due to these clever Annabel Karmel food prep and storing products.

Annabel Karmel products are available online at Amazon and Babies R Us.  Find out more about Infantino here.

MPR Rating: Four Stars

Disclaimer:  "I am a participant in a Mom Central Consulting campaign for Infantino and have received various Infantino products as part of my participation.”

Makaboo Kissy Kissy Personalized Playsuit

Made from 100% Pima cotton the Makaboo Kissy Kissy Personalized Playsuit is soft, comfortable and adorable on any baby.  I made one myself for our newest addition and found the process of personalization easy and the results just right.

I picked out the collared long-sleeved playsuit for our daughter and after clicking on the quantity and size I was asked to pick an embroidery color and script.  There are quite a few to choose from and you can create a number of combinations.  I chose a red thread with a simple "jane" font.  The look is classic.  The fit is true to size and the playsuit hasn't shrunk or showed wear after repeated washings.  I love the way it looks and how soft the fabric is.  The Kissy Kissy ($24) makes a wonderful, affordable gift for a baby shower or new baby present.  Add it to a gift bag or basket to create a one of a kind, personalized gift to treasure.

Makaboo is based out of St. Louis, MO and prides itself on its personalized products. Ordering was a snap and my product came quicker than I thought.  It was wrapped nicely and had good presentation.  It's a quality product.  Makaboo also sells bathrobes, onesies, pillows, burp clothes, lovies, belts, blankets, hats, nightgowns and a wide array of other baby and toddler products to personalize.  It's a great company and find!

MPR Rating: Five Stars.

Disclaimer: MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received were for review and testing purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.

Neatnik Saucer Giveaway!

Invented by a mother-daughter team the Neatnik Saucer ($33) eliminates the mess and hassle of dining out with kids. No more messy high chairs or toys thrown on the floor!  The Neatnik Saucer is a great germ barrier that keeps the high chair and your kid clean.  It folds up easily into a 12-inch square for easy toting. Great for ages six month to three years.

I am giving one away this week too!  Simply comment to enter and I will choose a winner at random on October 18, 2010.  Good Luck!

Teagan & Mack Baby Clothing

Teagan and Mack, a stylish and eco-friendly baby clothing line recently sent my newest baby a onesie to review. Using organic cotton and eco-friendly dyes Teagan and Mack is a woman-owned company created by Lisa Cratty, a mother of two little girls, who wanted to change the way people purchase clothing.   

Teagan and Mack baby clothing is made from 100% organic cotton.  Prices range from $8-38, making it affordable and the new online store offers everything from clothing to burp cloths, hats and even handmade bracelets (made in Louisville, CO).  The company strives to raise awareness on the harmful environmental impact the fashion industry has created on our health and the planets health.   Teagan and Mack promotes environmental preservation and socially responsible business practices while reducing its carbon footprint as well.          

The onesie ($20) they sent was so sweet.  In oatmeal with pink trim I found it to be incredibly soft to the touch.  It was warm and cozy on my baby too.  The sizes are true and fit my long-torsoed little girl quite well.  It washed without shrinking and didn't show wear or fading after repeated wearings.  It has adorable faux sleeves that make quite a cute fashion statement too. 

Teagan and Mack clothes are soft, very wearable and cute to boot.  The company has a very strong sense of earth-friendly practices which make it a smart eco-minded choice. I highly recommend checking them out for your next clothing or gift purchase. 

MPR Rating: Five Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  Products received were for review and test purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only. 

SIMILAC FORMULA RECALL!

Similac the liquid and powder baby formula company has issued a RECALL.  Beetles found inside the formula could cause digestive distress.  So far no illnesses have been reported. You can find out if your formula has been recalled here.

Pass it on!

Infantino EcoSash Wrap & Tie Carrier

Infantino recently sent me a new baby carrier, the ECOSASH Wrap & Tie Carrier ($59.99).  Designed to be stylish and comfortable the ECOSASH has a nice natural feel to it with a form-fitting design that feels snug but not tight.  It is adjustable, with three carrying positions- front, back and sides and can be altered to suit your needs as your baby grows. 

I loved the soft fabric and detachable hood.  Unlike some carriers that either have a hood or one that isn't removable the ECOSASH by Infantino has a hood that is easy to put on or take off and the whole carrier can be washed in a mesh washing machine bag that Infantino provides.  That makes life so simple, especially when the baby is a young one who is prone to spitting up on every accessory I own.  The carrier didn't shrink or change shape after washing either.  You can watch a demo here.

The Infantino ECOSASH has a few little bonus pieces like a pacifier loop, two leg loops and a reversible fabric front to change up the look from a print or a solid black panel.  It is all available together at Babies R Us. 

MPR Rating:  Four Stars.

Disclaimer:  MPR was not paid for this post.  This was a Mom Central sponsored review and all products received were for review and testing purposes only.  Opinions are MPR's only.