US Japan Fam
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  • Blog
  • Contact
  • About Me
    • Hire Me!
    • Mommypreneur Coaching
    • Subscribe to our List Serves!
    • Press Page - Travel
    • Privacy Policy & Disclaimers
  • Family Travel
  • Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from NYC
  • Hudson Valley
    • Day Trips & Activities
  • Bay Ridge Families
    • Scavenger Hunt
    • Advertising
    • Submit Your Event
    • Summer Camp Guide
    • Birthday Party Guide
    • Classes & Activities for Babies & Toddlers
    • Bay Ridge Baby Sitters
    • Halloween Guide
    • Holiday Guide
    • Life in NYC >
      • Brooklyn
      • Bronx
      • Manhattan
      • Queens
      • Staten Island

Growing Babies for Half a Decade - A Reflection

3/28/2017

41 Comments

 
It just dawned on me. I have officially been pregnant or breastfeeding for the past 5 years straight, with only a 1 month break around January 2015. Like, whoa. The twins are nearly 18 months old now and I've been weaning them gradually. We're at the point where we may have already had our last nursing session - it's kind of hard to ever know when it's really your last, and we may have already had it.
It's totally bitter sweet, since these are my last babies, knock on wood, and as the last drop of milk flows from my body to theirs, my days as a Baby Growing Factory will officially be over. I simultaneously want to shout from the rooftops and celebrate with a couple bottles of champagne, while sobbing uncontrollably.
The truth is, as hard and overwhelming as it can be at times, it's been equally awesome. I loved being pregnant. Even at 39 weeks with twins, being the size of a house with debilitating hip pain, it is the most amazing experience you can ever imagine - creating and growing life in your body. Every hiccup and stretch, even every kick to your bladder, it's simply breathtaking (in the good and bad way!!). Likewise, birth, though excruciating and disgustingly mortifying (yes, please, let's have a dozen strangers watch babies eject from my vagina, thank you, this is such fun!!!), is incredibly beautiful and life changing. It's truly an experience I wish everyone (who wants it) could have, and leaves my heart weeping for friends who are not able to.

RELATED: Don't miss my 2 birth stories:
  • My 53-hour Unmedicated Birth
  • My Positive Twin Birth Story

And breastfeeding, ohhhhhh breastfeeding. "Breast is best" and all that. Well, there is a lot of pressure put on women to do this, and I want to say it's not for every woman - either because she can't or it just doesn't work well for her or her baby, and there is nothing wrong with that. FED IS BEST!!! With that said, breastfeeding was an incredible journey for me, with both my son and my girls, and I feel blessed that it worked out for us. It certainly had its highs and lows, though. The painfully cracked nipples and anxiety over whether or not they were getting enough in those early days. The soaked nursing pads and fear of having to nurse in public! But then, suddenly, it all became so easy and beautiful. Having the ability to calm a crying baby isntantly, nourishing them, bonding with them in a way no other person on this earth could. Not having to worry about packing enough formula or cleaning bottles. Over a cumulative 3.5 years of breastfeeding, I have nursed my babies pretty much anywhere imaginable - in a bar, on planes and subways, at the pool... I could write a breastfeeding version of Green Eggs and Ham!
But, here I sit, with 1800 wonderful, crazy, painful, beautiful days of pregnancy and breastfeeding behind me. They made up such a huge part of who I was and who I am as a mother. As I get further away from these days of my life, they will likely become fuzzy distant memories, so, I want to pay tribute and immortalize them with some photos of my journey below, and then, when I'm ready, it's about time to organize some sort of booze-filled getaway weekend with my girl friends. BECAUSE I FINALLY CAN!!! Talk about a silver lining :)

Collage of my first pregnancy, my son, who made me a mother! From the first sonogram to our first time breastfeeding in public!
US Japan Fam reflects on being pregnancy and breastfeeding for the past 5 years straight!

Collage of my second pregnancy, my twin girls, who made our family complete :)
US Japan Fam reflects on being pregnancy and breastfeeding for the past 5 years straight!

And of course I have to include in this tribute the best pregnancy keepsake ever: the stop motion of my twins featuring their adorable big brother!!
Did you do anything to commemorate being done with pregnancy and/or breastfeeding? Is it something you look forward to or dread?? Share in a comment below!!
41 Comments

Mommy Scene's Sunny Spring Days Giveaway

3/23/2017

9 Comments

 
We are celebrating Spring with this fun Sunny Spring Days giveaway for families! Coordinated by Mommy Scene and sponsored by the participating brands, this fun giveaway has something for everyone! One lucky winner will receive all of these awesome prizes when the giveaway ends 4/14/17.
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PRIZES IN THE JACKPOT:

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Charlie Banana Diapers

Prize: Charlie Banana One Size Diaper Twitter Bird & Deluxe Inserts
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The Charlie Banana reusable diapering system is innovative and Eco-friendly; each set includes 1 cloth diaper and 2 highly absorbent, reusable, washable inserts. The sizable safe-snap system allows the one-size diaper to grow with your baby. Highly absorbent inserts make these cloth diapers great for both daily and overnight use. Learn more at charliebanana.com and check 'em out on Amazon (affiliate link).


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Scrub Bugs

Prize: 2 Scrub Bugs Hand Scrubbers

Scrub Bugs are the 1st surgeon inspired hand scrubbers for kids. They are proven to clean hands over 3X better than ordinary handwashing.  Cleaner Hands, Healthier Kids - More Fun! Learn more at myscrubbugs.com and check 'em out on Amazon (affiliate link).



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Wild Dill Kids

Prize: A Wild Dill Exclusive Print! 

Wild Dill commissioned artist Juliet Meeks to come up with a sweet nighttime inspired watercolor for a baby nursery. The result is this magical sleepy narwhal swimming under a starry sky and moonlit night. 8" x 10" high quality print designed by Artist Juliet Meeks. Learn more at wilddill.com.


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Kangapouch

Prize: Organic Cotton White Sleep Sack, 0-12 months OR 12-24 months

Kangapouch is a cotton down fill baby sleep sack that will move with your baby through rolls and turns during sleep, keeping your baby warm, comfortable and covered at all times. Kangapouch is also ideal for sleepovers and camping. Kangapouch is the original down filled baby sleep sack. CPSA certified and created to the highest quality, ethical and safety standards. Kangapouch has adjustable snaps on the shoulders and Velcro waist fasteners to allow for growth. Zipper-pull guard protects your baby's skin and two- way zippers allows for easy diaper change and added ventilation for use in all seasons. The white organic cotton Kangapouch uses a 550 thread count of 100% organic cotton fabric and is filled with duck down. Easy machine wash & dry. Learn more at kangapouch.net.


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Lottie, Finn & Friends 

Prize: Lottie, Finn & Friends 7.5" Doll

Lottie, Finn & Friends are age appropriate, relatable and empowering dolls and accessories inspired by childhood. Unlike other dolls, Lottie is based on a nine-year-old child. This collection of dolls and accessories encourage children to be imaginative, adventurous and most of all, to have fun. 2017 will see Lottie launch a series of chapter books with Penguin, as well as a 'Brownie' doll and accessories as part of a licensing deal signed with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. Learn more at lottie.com and check 'em out on Amazon (affiliate link).


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Yummi Pouch

Prize: Jewel Cloth Snack Bags - set of 3

Take snacks on the go with Yummi Pouch cloth sandwich bags. These gorgeous Eco-friendly cloth storage bags have a moisture resistant interior, open with a zipper, and are decorated with modern jewel color patterns. Also available in snack bag size! Perfect for crackers, sandwiches, dry snacks, small items, accessories, and cosmetics. Learn more at revelae.com and check 'em out on Amazon (affiliate link).



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Sudsy Dough

Prize: Sudsy Dough Moldable Soap

Sudsy Dough is an interactive, sensory bath toy that doubles as a moldable scented dough and a cleansing soap. Kids can squeeze and squish Sudsy Dough in the bath, rub it on as body wash, or take it outside the tub and let it dry to make custom-shaped soaps. Sudsy Dough is scented and moisturizing, available in fragrances Sassy Strawberry, Merry Mango, Bubbly Blueberry, and Awesome Apple. Learn more at revelae.com and check 'em out on Amazon (affiliate link).


After entering to win below, don't forget to enter these other awesome giveaways running on my blog right now!!!
  • Win Tickets to New York Baby Show 2017
  • Raising Global Children - GIVEAWAY!!
  • ​(Coming Soon) Springtime Goodies Giveaway for Kids & Families

Enter to win this fun prize collection!
This giveaway is coordinated by Mommy Scene, sponsored by the participating brands, and is open to US entries ages 18 and older. No purchase required to enter. One winner will be randomly chosen and contacted through e-mail, and their name displayed on the giveaway widget after the giveaway ends on April 14, 2017. Mommy Scene and participating blogs are not responsible for fulfilling brand-sponsored prizes. Prizes will be shipped directly from each brand. Have fun and good luck!
​
a Rafflecopter giveaway
9 Comments

Win Tickets to New York Baby Show 2017

3/22/2017

12 Comments

 
As a mom and a mom blogger, I have to say the annual New York Baby Show is one of the highlights of my year! It's HUGE, it features the best brands, latest products, and countless game changing items that simply blow my mind! Have you been before? Do you want to go this year? Well, it's your lucky day because I have got TEN TICKETS (single OR family - winners choose!!!) to give away!! And for everyone else, you can get 50% off your tickets! Keep reading and enter to win in the Rafflecopter box at the bottom of this post!!
US Japan Fam is giving away 10 tickets (single or family) to the 2017 New York Baby Show on May 20 and 21!!!
The 7th Annual New York Baby Show, the largest show for new and expecting parents in the country, will be held Saturday, May 20 and Sunday May 21 at Pier 94 in Manhattan (711 12th Ave). Meander your way through the expo space, you'll find the top brands, great speakers and seminars, and huge giveaways. It's baby / family / daddy / breastfeeding friendly, truly fun for the whole family!

​You'll find a mommy lounge, a dad cave, a kids' play area, snack stop, a stroller test track, you name it!! Seminars are TBA, but this year's 
keynote speaker will be Jamie Grayson, founder of the Baby Guy Gear Guide, and a ​special featured speaker will be Dr. Harvey Karp, America's beloved pediatrician and founder of “The Happiest Baby On The Block”  

Other posts you might enjoy:
  • Raising Global Children Giveaway
  • The Mommy Hook Mom Hacks
  • Highlights from the 2016 New York Baby Show
  • ​Highlights from the 2015 New York Baby Show​

Enter to win Tickets here!!!
10 lucky winners!!! Each winner can choose a single or family ticket!! ​

​For those who don't win, or don't want to enter, get 50% off your New York Baby Show Tickets here!!!! 
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Giveaway open to US residents ages 18 and over. Giveaway will end at 11:59 PM EDT on March 29, winners will be emailed and have 24 hours to respond before another winner is chosen.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
12 Comments

Raising Global Children - GIVEAWAY!!

3/21/2017

25 Comments

 
I’m thrilled to be working with Alison of Peace, Love, and Literacy to help promote her first ever giveaway, and it's a great one!!! Keep reading and enter to win in the Rafflecopter box at the bottom!!
Raising Global Children Giveaway
Over the next few weeks, Alison will be sharing on her blog some of her favorite, hand picked resources, toys, games, activities, and perspectives in order to “bring the world into your home”. Be sure to keep checking in there! In the mean time, enter to win some amazing prizes!!! ​
One lucky winner will take home the entire bundle:
  • The Barefoot Book of Children, by Tessa Strickland and Kate DePalma (Barefoot Books)
  • Children of the World Memory Game (Barefoot Books)
  • Putumayo Kids’ World Party CD (Putumayo, via Barefoot Books)
  • The Skin You Live In, by Michael Tyler and David Csicsko (Chicago Children’s Museum)
  • Crayola Multicultural Markers (Crayola)
  • NYChildren book, by Danny Goldfield
  • Decorative Language Speech Bubble (The Colorful Berry)
  • Set of Rainbow Waldorf Multicultural Peg Dolls (The Modern Tot Shoppe)
  • Eeboo Spanish Bingo (Eeboo)
  • Eeboo French Bingo (Eeboo)
  • Eeboo Children of the World 100 Piece Puzzle (Eeboo)
  • Hello Atlas book, by Ben Handicott (Quarto Knows)
  • Personalized What a World Placemat (Oopsie Daisy, Fine Art for Kids)
After entering to win below, don't forget to enter these other awesome giveaways running on my blog right now!!!
  • Win Tickets to New York Baby Show 2017
  • Mommy Scene's Sunny Spring Days Giveaway
  • ​(Coming Soon) Springtime Goodies Giveaway for Kids & Families
Enter to win here:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
25 Comments

An American Girl Story - Ivy & Julie, Premiering March 24

3/20/2017

2 Comments

 
My children are still very young, so I haven't introduced them to the American Girl franchise quite yet, but I simply love what the brand has done to bring together dolls, history, and culture. Learning through play, always a win!!
I didn't know about American Girls when I was young, so I'm especially excited by the prospect of discovering them with my own kids soon! I got a jump start on that today through a sponsored campaign with KidzVuz and Amazon Studios to screen and promote the 3rd American Girl Story Amazon Original Special, premiering this week!
Amazon Original Special An American Girl Story - Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance is set to launch on Amazon Video this Friday, March 24 in the US, UK, Germany, and Austria!
US Japan Fam reviews American Girl Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance on Amazon Prime Video
In this 43 minute long video, we follow 10 year old Ivy in San Francisco as she struggles to understand and embrace her Chinese roots: feeling ashamed when her mother speaks Chinese to her in public, not wanting to spend her Saturdays in Chinese school, wanting to eat pizza instead of Chinese food, wondering why no one in her magazines looks like her... Her struggle comes to a head when her big gymnastics meet is on the same night as a huge Chinese New Year dinner her family will be hosting.
US Japan Fam reviews American Girl Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance on Amazon Prime Video
​At the same time, Ivy's best friend Julie is also struggling - her parents have recently divorced and she is faced with the turmoil of going back and forth between homes every few days, and having a sibling  angry at her for spending weekends with their father.
​While this story takes place in 1976, the issues brought up are timeless and certainly present in many homes these days. Ivy's story especially hit home for me - my husband is Japanese and we're trying to raise our children to embrace both of our languages and cultures, however our 4 year old is already starting to push back against going to Japanese school and speaking Japanese. Watching this video, I caught a glimpse of the struggle our family has in store. However, I was able to gain valuable insight into the child's perspective, as well as the parents', and it was truly enlightening.
US Japan Fam reviews American Girl Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance on Amazon Prime Video
Even if your family cannot personally relate to the struggles of Ivy or Julie, certainly your children have friends and classmates who can. In Happy Balance you can learn a lot of fascinating things about Chinese and Chinese-American culture, including various traditions surrounding Chinese New Year. But on a grander scale, you can start to understand the struggles immigrants in America often face - leaving everything behind to start a new (hopefully better) life, often feeling like a "foreigner" rather than being accepted as American, and struggling to find the balance between preserving their old culture and embracing the new one. It's certainly a good reminder for me of things my own husband is silently dealing with!

​I honestly recommend watching this together with your children and having an open conversation during and afterward. It's a great way to help them understand both your own family and the community you are a part of!

​(Spoiler alert: Ivy and Julie both find ways to resolve their problems and there is a happy ending, without parents having to force an opinion or decision on them, yay!!!)
An American Girl Story - Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance will be available for Amazon Prime members to stream on Amazon Video starting Friday, March 24. If you don't already have Amazon Prime, you can get a free 30-day Prime trial here!! And check out the trailer below!!
This post was sponsored by KidzVuz for Amazon Studios, however all opinions are my own. 
2 Comments

Stand or Sit with BuggyBoard Maxi+

3/13/2017

5 Comments

 
Most parents buy a toddler board to hook onto the back of their stroller at some point. Whether it's when big brother or sister has to give up their stroller seat for a new baby, or a child no longer wants to be strapped in but doesn't have the endurance to walk the whole time. These boards can make walks with the stroller much easier, but wouldn't it be cool if there was a board that allowed your child to stand OR SIT, with a quick flip of the switch??? Well, THERE IS!!!

I'm pleased to introduce you to Lascal's BuggyBoard Maxi+ with Saddle, one of my new favorite stroller accessories!!! Keep reading to find out more about this amazing product, and at the bottom of the post you can enter to win one in my $500 BEST STROLLER ACCESSORIES GIVEAWAY (running through March 15, 2017)!!
US Japan Fam loves Lascal's BuggyBoard Maxi+ with Saddle!!
For the past year, we've been using another ride on board with a seating option. It was the only one I'd been aware of and while it was a life saver for us with infant twins and a 2 year old, it had 3 big problems: 1 - the platform was too low, so you had to push the stroller from the side which was SUPER ANNOYING (and sometimes painful, as a mom recovering from twin pregnancy and birth!!). 2) The (large) seat had to be fully removed to use it as a standing board and if you do that when out and about, where the heck are you going to put it??? 3) Because of the way it attaches to the stroller, if you have an oblong rather than purely round back axle, the board will not pull up and latch out of the way when not in use. So, not entirely satisfied with this board I was really excited when I learned about Lascal's BuggyBoard Maxi+ & Saddle! We've been testing it out over the past few days and I can say with complete honesty, it has blown the other one out of the water, in all but 1 area. I'll elaborate below.
US Japan Fam loves Lascal's BuggyBoard Maxi+ with Saddle!!
What I love about the BuggyBoard Maxi+ with Saddle:
1. It's not in your way.
The board is high (just over 6" from floor to bottom of board), giving large ground clearance so you can walk directly behind it - your feet go under it and it doesn't break your stride at all. Most other boards are simply too low and require you to walk to the side, but both the mini and maxi size BuggyBoards are nice and tall. This is SO GREAT!!! See it in action in my quick video here:
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2. It's universal.
​​These two loopy connectors are how the board connects to your stroller. You can loop them at whatever point will allow the board's arms to reach your stroller - the rear axel, above the wheels, etc. The pin that connects these loops to the arms of the board is what allows the board to be able to rotate up for the Lift-n-Store function, and to handle small curbs and bumps. It also has a quick release so with the push of one small button on each side you can remove the board and its arms completely.

3. No tools required to assemble.
​Initial installation took me quite a while, over 1 hour - I was quite confused but that's generally how I am with assembling stuff, whether it's stroller accessories or an Ikea bookshelf haha!! Because no tools are needed, you could potentially use one BuggyBoard for various strollers, but it would take a bit of time to to adjust the height and width of arms of the board, and undo and redo the straps that connect it to the stroller. If it were me and I needed to switch it often, I'd probably buy a 2nd "universal connector kit" ($30) and just leave them on each stroller permanently. An interesting thing to note is that I didn't notice any metal on the board. The pins, screws, etc were all plastic. I'm not quite sure what the point of this is, lighter weight? Anti-rust? I just found it interesting and different!
4. Lift-n-Store System (hooks up out of the way or comes off completely).
​You can lift and store the BuggyBoard up and out of the way when not in use. It comes with a leash that quickly loops around your stroller and clips onto the board. I found that with the saddle on, it didn't really get much out of the way on my stroller, so I chose to remove the saddle to store the board higher up and more out of the way.
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5. The saddle flips down or removes completely quickly.
Just pull one button on the saddle and the saddles fold down so your child can stand on the board. If you'd rather remove it complete, just push one button and pull it out of the board. It's about 10x5x4" so easy to toss under the stroller or in the diaper bag.
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6. The board is large with anti-slip surface.
7. Smooth ride with large wheels and suspension.

Overall, it's an amazing option to turn your single stroller into a double stroller, or even to turn your double stroller into a triple stroller (as we've done). For most families, I would say it's the best toddler board on the market! That said, it's not perfect, and you'll need to assess your own needs to decide if this would be the best fit. Some things to keep in mind:

1) The saddle and handle is small and there is no seatbelt. You need to think about the age and maturity of your child and if they would be able to ride safely.

​2) It comes with a set of extenders, but does ride fairly close to your stroller. For one of our strollers (StrollAir MyDuo, handle goes across entire stroller and has a bar down the middle; pictured below), there's no space for my child's head or body between the stroller seats and the handlebar. This means my child has trouble getting up onto the saddle without help and is hunched over a bit when sitting on the saddle, but he doesn't complain and rides along just fine. When standing, he has to lean back ever so slightly behind the handle, which isn't comfortable for him or especially safe. When using with our other double stroller (Joovy TwinGroove Ultralight, with unattached handle bars - i.e. space for my child between the handles), he's able to ride perfectly in either position. So, it definitely depends on the height of your child and the way the stroller's handle bars and seats are arranged. In my opinion, the best fit will be a stroller that has space for the child to stand between the seat and the handle bars.
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The Lascal BuggyBoard Maxi+ with Saddle is recommended for children ages 2 - 5 years, with a maximum load of 44 pounds. It retails for about $150 on Regal Lager's website and Amazon (affiliate link). Other great Lascal BuggyBoard options include the Mini ($70) and Maxi ($90, without Saddle).
OK now hurry and enter to win your very own BuggyBoard Maxi+ with Saddle along with 10 other amazing stroller accessories in my $500 value giveaway!!!! This giveaway ends March 15, 2017 at 11:59PM EDT!!!
ENTER TO WIN HERE!!!!
5 Comments

Spill-Proof Snacking with Munchie Mug

3/10/2017

10 Comments

 
The introduction of the snack cup to the children's market was a game changer. They make snacking on the go much easier and less messy for parents and kids alike! I've found some pretty good ones, but until now, nothing perfect. Some spilled a bit when knocked over or shaken, some have pretty hard plastic pieces that hurt my kids' hands when reaching into the cup. Nothing was perfect, until now. Meet the Munchie Mug and get ready to have your mind blown!!

​(Keep reading to learn more about this fabulous snack cup, and enter to win 2 in my $500 value 11 product BEST STROLLER ACCESSORIES GIVEAWAY at the bottom of the post!)
US Japan Fam loves Munchie Mug spill-proof snack cup!
I first came across Munchie Mug a few months ago and listed it as one of my top picks from the 2016 NY Baby Show. Now I've finally had a chance to test it out with my kids, and they are just as awesome as they appear!!! Check out this bad boy in action in my quick demo video below:
Why You Will LOVE LOVE LOVE Your Munchie Mug:
  • Washable fabric top is spill-proof and shake proof, and is super soft for little hands (and children with sensory issues).
  • The lid has 2 cut outs on the sides making it easy for little hands to hold, and also makes it universally compatible with any sippy cup or toy tether.
  • It comes with a "stay fresh lid" that screws on so you can keep uneaten snacks in the cup and fresh until the next snack time!
  • It comes in 2 sizes: 12oz and 16oz.
  • The spill-proof lid comes in 7 colors. The cup part is see-through.
  • Munchie Mug is BPA, Phthalate, Lead and PVC free, and made of FDA food-grade compliant materials.
  • Top rack dishwasher safe!! (Tip: the fabric seems to take a while to dry, I found it went much quicker if I blotted it a bit with a paper towel first).
  • Made of safe & recyclable polypropylene #5.
US Japan Fam loves Munchie Mug spill-proof snack cup!
Suffice it to say, this is our new go-to snack cup, both in the stroller and at home! You can buy them for about $17 on their website and Amazon (affiliate link).

Have you tried Munchie Mug yet? What other snack cups have you tried that you love or loathe?? Leave a comment below and don't forget to head over to my BEST STROLLER ACCESSORIES GIVEAWAY to win 1 Munchie Mug in each size as well as 10 other amazing products - 1 lucky winner will get the entire $500 value jackpot!!!! Ending March 15, 2015.
ENTER TO WIN HERE!!!
Disclaimer: Although I did receive this product free of charge and was compensated for my honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased.
10 Comments

Discoverying our DNA Ancestry with 23andMe

3/8/2017

11 Comments

 
Ever wondered where your ancestors came from? What mix of races and nationalities you might be? If yes, join the club! I've been dying to take a DNA Ancestry Test for ages now and was thrilled to partner up with 23andMe to test myself and my husband. We were provided 2 of their Ancestry Kits free of charge in exchange for sharing our experience, which I'm so excited to do! Read on for more about 23andMe and the services they provide, then watch our fun YouTube video below, which will walk you through the testing phase and show us reading our results live! SO FUN!!!!
Ancestry Report ($99)
  • Ancestry Composition (looking at 31 populations worldwide)
  • Haplogroups
  • Neanderthal Ancestry
  • Opt in or out: DNA Relatives tool (connect with previously unknown relatives based on your DNA closeness), DNA storage, and scientific research.
Ancestry & Health Service ($199)
  • Everything included in the Ancestry report
  • Trait reports (learn how your DNA influences 19+ traits like freckles, eye color, earlobe type, widow's peak, and skin pigmentation)
  • Carrier Status reports (35+ reports, including Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell Anemia, & Tay-Sachs Disease)
  • Wellness (see how your genes influence your well-being and life-style choices)


You can find out more and order your kits here.

And now, without further ado, our video!!! We'll walk you through the steps of completing the test kit and give you our honest live reactions to our results!!! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Don't miss our $500 value 11-product jackpot BEST STROLLER ACCESSORIES GIVEAWAY, running through March 15, 2017!!
Enter to win here!!!
11 Comments

For The Best Stroller Cover, Manito Has You Covered!

3/8/2017

2 Comments

 
If we're talking essential stroller accessories, a good stroller cover is probably at the top of my list to protect your stroller and kids from rain and cold. If you haven't noticed through your own trial and error, I'll go ahead and burst your bubble - not all stroller covers are created equally. The solid plastic ones are budget-friendly and can get the job done, but they have some major downfalls, the three most annoying being A) you have to pull back or remove the whole cover to get your kid in and out, and if it's covered in rain or snow this is a big nasty mess, B) in the winter, the plastic covers crack if you try to fold or roll them before they are totally thawed out, and C) the plastic is all wrinkly, providing a HORRIBLE view for your child!

BUT, I have some great news. There is a "universal" stroller cover I've recently come across that I am absolutely in love with. Say hello to my strollers' bestie, MANITO Stroller Shield!! Keep reading to learn more about these covers, and click the link at the bottom to enter to win one in my $500 value 11-product best stroller accessories giveaway!!
US Japan Fam loves the Manito Elegance Twin Stroller Shield!!
How a Manito stroller cover will change your life:
  • keep your kids and stuff dry on rainy days
  • keep kids toasty warm on cold days (like, seriously warm, the windows get fogged up and you have to crack open the zipper for some cool air! My kids usually don’t even need winter jackets or hat and gloves in there unless it’s below 30F or super windy, which is extra convenient since my twins sometimes sit in the stroller a good 10 minutes while I'm getting my 4 year old to the potty and wrestling him into his winter gear, so they don't have to sit there sweltering in their jackets and hats!)
  • catch toys, pacifiers, bottles, and snacks that get dropped or tossed out by kids (it's amazing the loot I find resting below the seats tucked inside the cover at the end of the day!!!)
  • keep kids from crawling into the stroller by themselves (probably not an issue for people who have space to keep strollers in the garage or a spare room, but for city dwellers the stroller just sits in the entry way, and my twins LOVE to climb up inside it all day long, ugh!! But, if I zip up the stroller cover, they can't get up and in!!)
  • keep strangers from touching your kids (no matter how friendly and benign a stranger's touch is, no parent wants a random reaching in and touching our kids, and yet, they do it, ALL. THE. TIME!!! Stroller cover to the rescue!)
  • keep kids protected from dust, debris, and pollen (it's obviously not sealed, but it would definitely help limit these nasties from reaching your kids' airways).
US Japan Fam loves the Manito Elegance Stroller Shield!!
The design of Manito's stroller covers is brilliant - the main cover is made out of a wind-proof and water-resistant Oeko-tex 100 Certified fabric, and the windows are made of a hard flat plastic (providing a great clear view for the kids and protection from 99% of UV rays - actually made of poly-carbonate optical sheet that is widely used on many eye-wear products such as ski and laboratory goggles). The front panel zips open so you can quickly get your kids in and out, or stroll in "convertible mode" (as I call it; pictured above left) if the weather turns milder. They also have a built in nap time panel that flips over for extra shade (pictured above right and below #5). The cover extends over the back of the stroller, and there are several hooks that can be latched under the stroller so it won't be blown off in a gust of wind!
US Japan Fam loves the Manito Elegance Stroller Shield!!
Above you'll see some pix I snapped of some of my favorite features of the Manito stroller covers, explained below:
  1. It comes with a handy storage pouch! Just make a mental note or take some photos to help you fold the cover correctly or you'll never figure out how to get it back in there haha!!
  2. Depending on the type of stroller you have, the cover will either go under the seat completely or go right up to the foot rest, creating a great net to catch dropped items - pacifiers, bottles, etc! 
  3. It has built in rear pockets! I usually end up using these to cover my parent organizer and protect it from the rain.
  4. It has 2 air vents - one on either side of the stroller. As I mentioned, except in incredibly gusty weather, it does an excellent job at keeping cold air out of the stroller so it gets pretty toasty in there. With 2 babies in our stroller (i.e. tons of body heat), I usually have to leave the zipper cracked open a bit. I haven't used it in the summer yet, I imagine you have to be very careful not to overheat the kiddos!!
  5. It has a built in shade for sunny days or nap time. 
  6. The bottom part of the cover can encounter splashes of mud externally and can catch quite a bit of debris internally from shoes and snacks, which is why they've made it easy to zipper off and (hand) wash.


We love love LOVE our Manito Elegance Twin & Single Stroller Shields, but nothing can be totally perfect. There are a couple of minor issues I have with it... The main thing I don't like is that it doesn't have a peekaboo window. My kids snack on the go, because it's one of the only ways they will be content and not screaming in the stroller. But, for me to be able to see them while pushing, I have to keep the canopies completely pulled back and then the cover's windows are resting on their heads. They don't mind, but I just wish there was a way they could incorporate a peekaboo window  or another window panel on the top that would correspond with most strollers' peekaboo windows. Also, my strollers have HUGE canopies, but I can't fully extend them when the shield is on. The built in shade has decent coverage, and is as good as most strollers' canopies, but isn't nearly as good as the jumbo stroller canopies. But really, those are my only 2 issues, definitely not deal breakers, barely annoyances really!

I simply cannot recommend Manito's stroller covers highly enough. They're pricey, but you won't regret it. As a mom blogger, I get most products free to review, but I'll let you in on a little secret: I wanted this cover so badly for our double stroller that I bought it myself, NEW, RETAIL PRICE!! Like, what!?? When's the last time I have done that!?!? Anyway, worth every darn cent! Not only has it been a total life saver, it's also absolutely stunning, I love our big red beast LOL!!!

Manito has several stroller cover options to choose from. They have the Elegance and Castle lines, and you'll have to pick between Twin, Plus, Alpha, and Beta, depending on which type of stroller you have (click here to see the visual guide to figuring out which type you need). They also have a great assortment of colors to choose from!! Head on over to Manito's website to browse all of their goods, which include stroller covers, stroller seat liners, sun shades, stroller hand muffs, stroller organizers, baby carrier windbreakers and warmers, and baby shampoo caps!! You can also shop Manito goods on Amazon (affiliate link).
Win a Manito Elegance Stroller Shield in US Japan Fam's $500 value jackpot BEST STROLLER ACCESSORIES GIVEAWAY!
One lucky winner will receive a Manito Elegance Single Stroller Shield and 10 other fabulous stroller accessories in my $500 value giveaway running through March 15, 2017. ​​
Enter to win here!!!
Disclaimer: Although I did receive this product free of charge and was compensated for my honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased.
2 Comments

The Mommy Hook Mom Hacks

3/2/2017

5 Comments

 
If you're a stroller-pusher, chances are you already have and love The Mommy Hook. In case you've never heard of it, it's basically a large heavy-duty aluminum carabiner with a comfortable non-slip foam grip in bright colors. Most parents use one for hanging bags from their stroller handle(s), grocery cart, etc. I'll admit, this is a perfect and extremely handy use for it. I certainly don't leave the house without one (or 2) hanging from our double stroller!! In fact, I've included one Mommy Hook in my $500 value 11-product jackpot BEST STROLLER ACCESSORIES GIVEAWAY running now through March 15 (go here to enter for your chance to win it all - I'll link to it again at the bottom of this post).

​But, I wanted to dig deeper and find even more creative and useful ways parents can make use of The Mommy Hook. Are you ready for some mom hacks? Here's my list in video form, followed by a quick written list for your convenience!

​*Disclaimer, most of these uses have not been tested or endorsed by The Mommy Hook, use at your own risk, safety first!!!*

13 Creative & Useful Ways to Use The Mommy Hook:
1. Hang bags from stroller or shopping cart: probably the most common use of The Mommy Hook! Just be careful not to hang so much that you damage your stroller or tip it over backward!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #1 - hang bags from stroller or shopping cart
2. Hang water bottles, snack cups, and more! We've found Klean Kanteen and Squeasy Sport (both pictured below) to be great bottles for hanging!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #2 - hang water bottles, snack cups, etc.
3. Hang shoes:  hang flip flops and crocs to dry after visiting the sprinklers or water park. Hang stinky gym shoes (using laces) to air out on the walk home!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #3 - hang flip flops, crocs, running shoes, etc!
4. Phone Rest:  non-scratch elevated surface to avoid disaster when someone spills a drink on the table!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #4 - a phone rest
​5. Baby / Toddler Leash:  in a pinch, attach child to yourself, another child, the stroller, or something else! Use child's belt loop, a snack cup tether, etc. I used our BooginHead SippiGrips to attach to our girls' wrists and the Mommy Hook. They paired nicely LOL!! *Not recommended for daily use, but you never know when you might need a leash an emergency...ahem... moms of toddler twins...*
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #5 - emergency baby leash
6. Hang Rain Gear Together: rain boots, rain coat, umbrella - all hung together so you can quickly grab them on a rainy day and not hunt each piece down individually!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #6 - organize rain gear
7. Hang Winter Gear Together:  hang together coat, snow bibs, mittens (shoutout to our all time faves pictured below - SnowStoppers, check out my review!), scarf, hat, so you don't lose them!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #7 - organize winter gear
8. Accessories Organizer:  great for hanging together hair accessories, belts, baseball caps, etc!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #8 - accessories organizer
9. Carry multiple bags easily & comfortably (thanks to the foam grip)
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #9 - carry multiple bags
10. Landry Hanger:  Hang regular and "non-hanger-friendly" (dry-flat) laundry!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #10 - hang laundry
11. Reusable Shopping Bag Organizer (of course we use Teas' Tea bags, gotta plug hubby's company haha!)
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #11 - organize reusable shopping bags
12. Lock / Tether:  lock items to crib, desk, etc, to prevent loss or theft by little siblings (please don't use in the crib of a small child).
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #12 -
13. Babyproofing:  use one or 2 to lock chairs together or lock chairs to the table, so babies can't pull chairs out and climb up onto table!
US Japan Fam's 13 Ways to Use The Mommy Hook: #13 - babyproofing

There are tons of great ways you can put The Mommy Hook to use in your home or on the go (available on Amazon for about $10). Have you used it any of the ways I listed? Have another great hack for us?? Be sure to share in a comment below!! 
And OHHHH I almost forgot!!! Head on over to my BEST STROLLER ACCESSORIES GIVEAWAY now to win one Mommy Hook and 10 other amazing stroller accessories in my $500 value jackpot (US only, ending March 15, 2017).
Disclaimer: Although I did receive this product free of charge and was compensated for my honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased. The Mommy Hook does not endorse every usage listed above, please use with caution and always put safety first!
5 Comments
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    I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins plus 1).  This blog is chock full of product reviews, family travel guides, and giveaways galore! It's also home to Bay Ridge Families, and several guides focused on kid-friendly activities and guides to South Brooklyn, Hudson Valley, and New Jersey, as well as family-friendly destinations beyond the NYC area (check the menu bar!)

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