Like to Knit? - Do it Green for Your Little One

I know a lot of mommy's get the knitting itch when we find out we're pregnant. I know I did! A relatively new yarn has come out that is eco-friendly and good for your new bundle of joy. Bamboo yarn. It has a texture like silk, a wonderful drape and although a little pricier, is well worth the extra money. Here's a couple of reasons why:

1. Bamboo is a renewable resource that once harvested only takes a couple of months before it needs to be harvested again.


2. It's naturally anti-bacterial (Yay for no germs!)!


3. Can we say biodegradable too?


4. Also provides an amount of UV protection (protect that new baby skin!)

I have used bamboo yarn and I've got to say it is my favorite for newborns. A lot of yarns are just plain itchy to me and I can't imagine what it is like on a newborn's skin. So if you've got the "itch" to do some knitting for that little baking bun or know someone who wants to make something for you. Suggest the bamboo yarn, it's a green choice and has a great feel that will leave everyone with smiles.

Notes From a Tired Mommy

Ok, so I haven't blogged in a little bit. Sorry 'bout that. I've come to realize that my "been there done that" attitude about having a newborn around again wasn't exactly on point. I'm starting to feel the drag. My husband is being a saint and trying to get up with the baby every other night but alas, sometimes our little man wants the "ninny"(I'm breastfeeding and bottlefeeding) as my mother-in-law puts it. So I've come to accept that I once again won't be sleeping all night for a while especially since little man is NOCTURNAL! At this point I can't even start to try and get him on a schedule...he IS only 2 weeks old... *sigh* Any other moms remember this? It's only been 2.5 years since my last one but the way I'm feeling it's like I'm a new mom again!

Pink Olive Boutique - Clothes for the Brooklyn Baby!

I gotta say I saw this onsie today and I thought "how perfect for an NYC baby!" It's got three little baby "cabs" on it and the caption next to it says it all:

This "taxi nyc" onesie is the perfect gift for the new york city baby. It's never too early to learn how to hail a yellow cab! 100% organic baby rib cotton, combed for softness and comfort."

Now alas, I live in upstate New York but I think even us upstaters can appreciate the need to know how to hail a cab. Especially if you ever want to visit the city and stay sane!

Visit: www.pinkoliveboutique.com to find even more cute baby items. You won't be disappointed.

Great Peach Sun Tea to Make With the Kids!

This is a great one to do with the kids! With the summer here and the heat in full force, one of the staples of any well stocked fridge is iced tea. I learned this recipe for peach sun tea from my brother-in-law who is a native of Texas. I have to say it was the most wonderful tea because the peach flavor isn't overpowering and it manages to be light and refreshing on a hot summer day. Feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your needs. You by no means have to use peaches either. Almost any fruit works so get creative!

Fabulous Peach Iced Tea

Ingredients:

Large glass jug

Tea bags (more or less depending on strength of tea)

One large peach (or about a 2 cups of fruit of choice)

Lemon (optional)

Sugar (optional)

Fill your large glass jug with water. Put tea bags in water with the strings hanging over the lip of the jug. I like to use 4-5 tea bags but you can adjust this accordingly for taste. Put the lid on your jug while you prep the rest. Take your peach and put in food processor or blender and puree. Place pureed peach on a piece of cheese cloth and use a string to tie it into a little bag. Make sure your string is long enough that it will be able to hang over the lip of the jug like the tea bags. Place your peach puree bag in the tea and reseal. Here is where you have the option of adding a little lemon (I like a little bite to my tea) or leaving it as is. If you leave it as is you are done! All you have to do now is set it on a sunny windowsill or outside on your patio and let it brew for a couple of days. When you decide to drink it add sugar to taste if you want or drink it as is. Enjoy!

The Terrible Two's - Oh God When do They End!?!

The terrible two's. We all know what that means. Temper tantrum's and an independence that can drive a person to insanity. I currently have one of those little devil's and I must say some days I am at my wit's end. I found an article out there that I know is probably the best advice I'm going to get but If any of you are like me I'll be happy when this phase is over. The article said pretty much just to ignore their tantrums and the constant "No" responses. Give them as many choices as possible so that they feel they have some sort of independence. Things like "do you want an apple or banana?" or which clothes they'd like to wear today. Stay firm on the unsafe behaviors like running in the street or hitting. Otherwise the tried and true method is to be patient. This will pass (at least until puberty!). Anyone else having issues with their little one? How did you overcome it?

Trendy Diaper Bags - Just Because You're A Mommy Doesn't Mean You Have to Look Like One

This sling tote by Fleurville is absolutely fantabulous! I always say, just because you are a mommy does not mean you have to look like one. Yes, those first few weeks after having a baby you are entitled to look like an absolute mess (the hormones cause enough havoc in your life to make anyone frazzled) but once you've recovered you can still look hip. I love the colors as they remind me of the ocean. I guess you could call this the Feng Shui of diaper bags.

The product description is as follows:

"The Sling Tote is the newest hip design from the brilliant team at Fleurville. This tulip shaped tote is designed to be a great work tote, day bag, beach tote and, of course, a great diaper bag. The Sling Tote is 3 bags in one; messenger, tote and stroller bag. It can be worn as a messenger bag with the included padded and adjustable mono-sling. Its' comfortable, wide handles allow for use as a tote. The Sling Tote also comes with o-rings with clips for semi-permanent mounting between stroller handles. Featuring 5 feet and 10 pockets, 2 of which are fleece lined to help guard against scratching of sunglasses, iPods or cell phones. Finally, an insulated beverage holder, carabineer/key clip and a translucent wipe case and changing pad are all included, making this bag just about the best bargain-buy around! Measures 13.5" tall x 5" deep and flares from a width of 12" at the base to 16" at the top."

If you want to see more by this company go to:

www.fleurville.com

There is tons of trendy yet functional items for the "hip" mommy!

Dress by Paperwings

Paperwings, an Australian based company, takes their favorite shapes from the past with as they say "strong links to historical shapes, traditional crafts and historical and contemporary textile printing." I fell in love with this dress as soon as I saw it. Though I have two boys myself I can't help but be drawn to little girls clothing on occasion just for the shear beauty that some designers come up with.

Jason Gibaud and Michelle Fallon are the creators of this company and its stunning line of clothing. Take a look at their Spring/Summer collection with its mix of clothing that reminds me of the victorian era, peasant gear from the 60's and shapes from the 30's and 40's.

To see their great line go to:
http://www.paperwings.com.au

Tell me what you think and happy shopping!