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Lots of my mom friends are terrified of wearing their babies. When they're infants, they are just so fragile and it's actually pretty darn scary! How to position their legs, how to make sure their head is supported and they can breathe freely, it's all so confusing!! Then, once they're older and you have to switch them to the back carry, you have to learn it all over again. And this time they're in the back where you can't really see what's going on, so it can be quite a challenge figuring that out! So, I just wanted to shoot a quick how-to video to show you how simple it can be!! Here's me and my son demonstrating how to get into the back carry position using our Mei Tai wrap, which is similar to the Ergo. Please take note that you should probably have a spotter help you the first few times, and might want to do it on a bed or on the floor so you feel more comfortable. You should always have at least one hand on your child to keep them safe, and you can play around with the positioning of your wraps straps on your shoulders and hips to find what is most comfy to you and your child. Good luck and happy baby wearing!!
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Now, I'm not a fashionista or one to try to style everything up all matchy matchy and fabulous looking. Partly because I'm bad at it, partly because I'm lazy, and partly because I'm cheap. But that said, my son's stroller is BORING!!! Snoooooooooze! It's all black, and being a New Yorker I should be cool with that. And I was. Until I came across Tivoli Couture's amazing and luxurious lineup of accouterments for all things baby travel!! From baby carrier covers to fleece-lined car seat jackets to blankets, Tivoli Couture will have you and your little one traveling in style!! I recently got my hands on one of their memory foam stroller liners and was SO EXCITED to snazz up our stroller. With 22 patterns to choose from, it was really really hard to decide but I eventually went with this rockin' guitars design. Cute right!?? 
But not just cute - apparently these liners are chiropractor approved for helping to absorb stroller shock, offering better support and neck and spinal alignment, and helping to relieve pressure from the child sitting for extended periods of time. Wow! Annnnnnd super comfy!! You can see how thick it is, and it has a soft minky back (it's reversible actually). Maybe Kenzo will stop throwing a fit when it's time to get in the stroller now? Maybe... Unfortunately it's too late in the game for Kenzo, but Tivoli Couture just came out with a great lineup of canopy covers for your carrier, stroller, car seat, or even as a nursing cover! From ruffles to roses, how gorgeous are these!! They even have ties so they won't blow away. They also make fabulous photo backdrops... 
One Tivoli Couture canopy cover is part of my $1500 value "Mother Of All Giveaways" running through May 26. ENTER TO WIN HERE TODAY!!
*Disclaimer: Although I did receive this product free of charge, I was not compensated in any other way to do this product review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased. My son is chock full of hugs and kisses but has NEVER been a hand holder. Even when he was taking his first steps and learning to walk, he was totally independent. Now at 16 months, forget it! They say pick your battles, so I enforce holding hands when we cross the road, but everywhere else I just let him on his own, try to stay within lunging distance, and pray he doesn't dart off into the road before I can catch him. It's really scary and rightfully so has brought me to consider the controversial baby leash... I took to google and found many different styles to choose from. There are cutesy ones with a stuffed animal on the back and a tail as a leash. There are ones that are disguised as a back pack, and I believe you can actually detach the leash part and use it just as a backpack when they're older. And there are really simple ones that really do look like a full on dog leash. But none of these really sung out to me. Then I found The BusyBee!! 
Designed by a mom, you can bet it's equal parts function meets fashion. It's very simple, but comes in 6 playful patterns, each reversible with the backside being denim. 
It also rolls up really compact, so is perfect for keeping in the diaper bag to use whenever your little one wants some freedom from the stroller (throw a Bitybean carrier in the diaper bag as well and you'll be read for anything the day, and your toddler, may bring!!) 
It's really quick and easy to put on. You just put it over your toddler's head and arms like a shirt, tighten the sides, and boom, off you go! I went with the cute "Polka Dots" design and was really excited to try it out! And where better to give it a go than Brooklyn Ikea!! HA!! So... how did Kenzo do?? See for yourself: 
I guess it takes some getting used to. He was not a fan the first time he used it and still isn't (we haven't had it long). But in situations where I cannot just let him be free, for example when I've got my hands full pushing the stroller with tons of groceries that would take me a moment to brake and put everything down in order to run after him, The BusyBee definitely comes in handy.
Unfortunately it doesn't keep him from stopping to investigate EVERY SINGLE THING along the way!! Nor should it, I suppose. It's a toddlers job to be curious and explore their surroundings. And it's our job to keep them safe. So I'm all for getting a leash or harness or whatever you want to call it if you have a child who likes to run off unexpectedly. Don't let others make you feel ashamed or silly for using one and in doign so, keeping your child safe!! Shame on those judgy judgy busybodies!! If you're interested in a toddler harness, definitely check out The BusyBee. Also, they're working on their next generation which will have an extendable "leash"! Exciting!! The BusyBee is one of the fabulous prizes in my $1500 value "Mother Of All Giveaways" running through May 26. ENTER TO WIN HERE TODAY!! *Disclaimer: Although I did receive this product free of charge, I was not compensated in any other way to do this product review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased. I'm a big proponent of babywearing and always looking for the next up and coming products for mom and baby. So this one is right up my alley! I give you: The Cub Co-Z Convertible Carrier by Lil' Cub Hub. It's a diaper bag. It's a baby carrier. It's a mom-invented product (because, let's face it, all the good ones are!). Sounds too good to be true, right? WRONG! It's good, very very good!!  Here's the Cub Co-Z as a diaper bag - it's not big and cumbersome, yet you can fit all of the essentials such as diapers, wipes (check out my mini-wipes pack from Mommy Nearest hiding in there!), keys, hand sanitizer, small wallet, yada yada yada. There's even a special pocket for your phone on the back (the next generation will have a larger pocket that will accommodate iPhones a bit better; it'll also feature magnet instead of the current velcro closure). With a zip and a quick retrieval of the sling material from inside the bag (don't worry, everything in the diaper bag containers can remain safely there and within reach!!), your diaper bag becomes a sling-style baby carrier suitable to be worn as cradle carry, kangaroo carry, tummy to tummy, or hip carry.  Here's me and my not so little guy demonstrating the hip carry in our Cub Co-Z. It was actually the first time I had ever successfully worn a sling style carrier!! I always thought it would hurt my neck or shoulder or make me off balance, but actually, it was fine (but I wouldn't want to carry him in it all day long, let's be honest here)! The baby's weight, in this case 25 pounds!!, is dispersed evenly throughout the shoulder and upper arm. You might ask, what is the point of a convertible bag/carrier? To that I would answer this: what do you do with your carrier when you are out and about but your child is not actually in the carrier? Maybe you let it hang from your waist, looking and feeling a bit silly. Maybe shove it into your already jam packed stroller basket. Or maybe you just kinda lug it around. But wouldn't it be nice to just be able to quickly tuck in the sling, zip it up, and wear it like a cute bag (and not have to worry about a second bag to deal with at the same time)?? HELL YEAH!! Also, it's super convenient when you're making a quick trip where you just need baby and the essentials - to play group, run an errand etc. It's great being able to throw my wallet and keys and a few extra things in the bag, put Kenzo in the sling, and run over to the park for a couple of hours without having to bother with the stroller and big diaper bag. Basically, your question should not be whether or not to get a Cub Co-Z, but what design to get!! HA! Coming in 18 fabulous patterns, it's so hard to choose just one!! Lil' Cub Hub also sells a selection of other great stuff for baby, including minky blankets, bibs, and burp cloths, and apparel, too!  Use code "US-JAPAN14" for 20% off your order on Lil Cub Hub's website through the end of June - woohoo!!
The Cub Co-Z Convertible Carrier is part of my $1500 value "Mother Of All Giveaways", running through May 26. ENTER TO WIN HERE!! *Disclaimer: Although I did receive this product free of charge, I was not compensated in any other way to do this product review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased. In celebration of Mother's Day and all my fellow mamas out there, I bring you... THE MOTHER OF ALL GIVEAWAYS EVERRRRRR!!!!! (ok, maybe not ever ever, but it's pretty darn awesome if I do say so myself)!!! Over $1500 in products, split between TWO WINNERS. From nursing gear to baby carriers to food pouches, we've gotcha covered with goodies for mama, baby, and toddler (even a little something for dad)!! Enter in the rafflecopter box at the bottom of this post - the giveaway will run until 11:59PM Monday, May 26 and you can earn extra entry points with daily tweets, etc, so don't forget to stop by every day for the best chance to win!!  This giveaway is organized by yours truly, Heather of US-Japan Fam, and supported by Nancy of The Mama Maven, Larisha of We're Parents, and Whitney of Rookie Moms - don't forget to check out the blogs of these fabulous mamas (now or later, or daily if you REALLY love us hehe):     And now, on to our prizes and most generous and amazing sponsors. PRIZE PACKAGE A: ($800+ Value)  $200 Credit at Karina's Strollers Carrying some of Europe's most highly rated and luxurious strollers, TUTEK and BabyActive, Karina's Strollers is offering $200 towards any product on their site (in prize package A) and a $350 voucher for any of their Eco Leatherette stroller systems (in prize package B)! Your little one will be riding in extreme style and comfort, and your wallet will be happy, too! **Check out Heather's company & product highlight here**  Nurse Purse (Breast Pump Bag) - Wildflower Design A seriously stylish bag that will hold ALLLLLL of your stuff, including a breast pump, cooler, laptop, you name it! Not only is it gorgeous, but It will ease the burden of your regular trips to the pumping room at work, that is for sure. **Check out Heather's company & product highlight here**  Ying Sleeveless Maternity & Nursing Dress by Larrivo Who says you can't be stylish and sexy in your maternity and nursing wardrobe? Certainly not Larrivo!! Their Ying maternity & nursing dress is super cute and features pull-up nursing access from the empire waist, with a cut that allows plenty of room for your pregnancy and postpartum days. **Check out Heather's review here**  Rainbow Light Family Vitamin Variety Pack Rainbow Light is the #1 most trusted natural vitamin brand and our winner will get a variety pack including a 30 day supply of the following food based vitamins: For mom: Women's One Multivitamin OR Prenatal One Multivitamin For dad: Men's One Multivitamin For child: Kids One Chewable Multivitamin/Minerals AND Gummy Omegalicious Omega 3 Formula **Check out Heather's review here**  Training Wheels Receive one week of online personal training from Training Wheels Stroller Fitness. The package will include a 30-minute consultation via Skype or Facetime, one week access to their online training fitness program with unlimited coaching, and a sample meal plan. What a fabulous way to kick start a new (or not so new!) mom's journey to losing the baby weight and feeling great! **Check out Heather's company highlight here**  Bravado Jungle Berry Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra This is an AWESOME nursing bra that you can wear throughout your pregnancy, breastfeeding days, and beyond. Check out my review to see why I'm such a huge fan (hint - it's SO COMFORTABLE!!!). Jungle Berry is their brand new color which is simply gorgeous!  WaterWipes Baby Wipes Ever wonder what's in your baby's baby wipes? Yeah, you don't want to know (but... you should know... probably parabens, lanolin, alcohol, perfume, phthalates, benzoates, triclosan - lots of baddies)! That's why WaterWipes are so great! Their ingredients? 100% NATURAL! 99.9% water and 0.1% grapefruit seed extract. THAT'S IT!! Your baby's booty will thank you! **Check out Heather's review here**  La Stella Della Mamma Double Chain Necklace Made of 100% pure food grade silicone (same material that pacifiers and bottle nipples are made of), Stella Mamma's necklaces are safe for baby to chew on while being a fashionable accessory for mom! **Check Heather's review here**  Bitta Kidda Sleeper The Bitta Kidda sleeper is a pajama and security blanket (lovey) in one, helping babies and toddlers self-sooth and enjoy a blissfully long and uninterrupted night of sleep, saving the sanity of their parents! **Check out Heather's company/product highlight here**  Naked Nursing Tank The Naked Nursing Tank is a hassle-free open busted camisole that you can wear with any nursing bra. It'll cover your tummy so you can lift up your shirt to nurse and not have to worry about baring your midriff to the world! It'll also safe you tons of money as you won't need to buy a nursing wardrobe, woohoo!! **Check out Heather's review here**  Miny Moe "Big Booty" 6-Brand Diaper Sampler It's tough to find the brand of diaper that works best for your baby. Everyone has an opinion, but what worked well for another baby may or may not for yours! That's why Miny Moe's variety packs are so awesome - you can try out all the top brands of diapers and nursing pads to find which one works best for YOUR baby (or mom). Eeny meeny miny moe, try them all and then you'll know! **See Heather's review here**  Grow With Me Tee A t-shirt that tracks your child's growth - how fun is that!? Choose from their baby's first year onesie (color in their age and take a photo each month for the first year), preschool years tee (color in their age and take a photo every 6 months for the first 5 years), or school years tee (photograph annually from preschool until high school graduation), and watch as your child slowly grows into the tee! **Check out Heather's review here**  Mamascent Mamascent is a simple attachment to your baby bottle that gives baby the comforting scent of mom when she can't be there, and can be extremely helpful in getting a baby to take a bottle when they previously refused. **Check out Heather's review here**  Baby Nip Washable Nursing Pads From Nursing Bra Express, these washable and reusable nursing pads are seamless, contoured, and helpful in preventing the mortifying leaks known so well to pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding moms! **Check out Heather's review here**  Baby Butz Diaper Rash Cream Diaper rash is a big bum-mer (LOL, pun intended). Smearing on all kinds of chemicals to prevent or treat it is equally yucky! 100% natural and hypoallergenic, Baby Butz Cream is the safest and most effective diaper rash cream available without a prescription. No chemicals, perfumes, alcohol, parabens, or gluten! **Check out Heather's review here**  Dr. Carey's Baby Care Book Basically a user's guide to your baby's first year, this extremely helpful pediatrician developed book is condensed to 80 pages so as not to overwhelm, includes 120 full color photos, and will provide essential baby care knowledge and a better understanding of when your baby needs to be seen by a professional. **Check out Heather's review here** PRIZE PACKAGE B: ($750+ Value)  $350 Credit at Karina's Strollers Carrying some of Europe's most highly rated and luxurious strollers, TUTEK and BabyActive, Karina's Strollers is offering $200 towards any product on their site (in prize package A) and a $350 voucher for any of their Eco Leatherette stroller systems (in prize package B)! Your little one will be riding in extreme style and comfort, and your wallet will be happy, too! **Check out Heather's company & product highlight here**  Cub Co-Z Convertible Carrier Made by Lil Cub Hub, Cub Co-Z is a diaper bag that converts to a sling-style baby carrier in one easy zip. Everything that was in the diaper bag stays put and remains easily accessible from the carrier! Invented by a mom, made of 100% cotton, and offered in 18 stylish designs, you'll be the envy of your Mommy Group when wearing your Cub Co-Z! **Check out Heather's review here**  A Kid's UV Outfit from Coolibar From UPF full body romper swim suits to sunglasses, hats and clothing, Coolibar has tons of great products to protect you and your family from the harsh rays of the summer sun! The winner can select their choice from the children's line. **Check out Heather's review here**  $50 Credit at JetSetBabies JetSetBabies helps families enjoy hassle-free vacations. Order from their website and they'll deliver the exact baby supplies you need, and have them waiting for you at your destination! How awesome is that!? **Check out Nancy's review here**  Tivoli Couture Canopy Cover With 12 designs in luscious ruffle, 3D chiffon rose or lace, your baby's carrier, car seat, or stroller will be decked out in a decadent design with one of these original canopy covers by Tivoli Couture! What's more? They actually tie on, so they won't blow away - how practical!! **Check out Heather's review here**  Paxley Baby or Toddler 100% UV Protection Sunglasses Of course you know you need to protect your little ones' eyes from the harsh rays of the sun, but won't he just tear off sunglasses and break them in half? Not Paxley's sunglasses - they're so flexible they're virtually break proof, plus they have ergo-designed rubber bridge pads for developing noses. Not to mention they are SUPER CUTE! **Check out Heather's review here**  Metrotots StrollAway Does your stroller take up half of your entry way and have enticingly tasty wheels that your little one loves to chew on?? With Metrotots' StrollAway, you'll be able to get the stroller out of the way by hanging it on any door in your house! Can I get a HELL YEAH!?? **Check out Heather's review here**  The Busybee Toddler Harness The Busybee is a stylish and practical way to keep your toddler safely within arms reach while out and about. This harness, developed by mom Connie, comes in 6 playful designer patterns, all of which are reversible with a denim back side. **Check Heather's review here**  KIDZ BOP Party Pop CD You don't have to limit the musical exposure of your littles to the likes of Mozart and Beethoven! You can rock out with them to kid-friendly hits like "What Does The Fox Say", "Gangnam Style", and 10 other great tracks, thanks to KIDZ BOP! **Check out Heather's review here**  Press Pouch Reusable Food Pouches
With a "choke-proof" cap, a simple yet stylish design, and clear window so you can see what's inside, these reusable food pouches are great for little ones and parents alike! Forget the once-and-done pouches and go green with the environmentally friendly Press Pouch! **Check out Heather's review here** Originally posted on Mommy Nearest, the best resource for NYC moms!! Download the app and never wonder where you can find the nearest changing table, drop in music class, or kid-friendly gluten free restaurant with outdoor seating! HA!  Living in New York City without a car… no problem. Living in New York City with kids and no car… not quite as easy, but totally doable!! Taxis / Car Service: Legally you don’t need a car seat in taxis and car services, so the ball’s in your court here and though I've done it, I really really don't recommend taking a taxi ride without a car seat. As if a ride in a NYC taxi isn't terrifying enough, this really takes the cake. Sometimes desperate times call for desperate measures, but know that there are several companies that offer car seats and boosters when reserved ahead of time (my personal go-to is Eastern Car Service based out of Park Slope, they usually charge $5 extra for the car seat or booster). There’s also a service geared especially for families called Kid Car. Car Share: You’ve got a small selection here, and depending on where you live they may or may not have parking locations convenient to you. But they offer hourly rental, and gas and insurance is included in the price! How awesome! Check out Zipcar, Hertz 24/7, and Carpingo. You’ll have to provide your own car seat, which is required by law. Public Transportation: Not a glamorous way of travel, but cost effective and for the most part, pretty easy. My contention with the subway is the dearth of stations with elevators - check the MTA’s accessible list. The tough part on the bus is you are required to collapse your stroller. With an infant, diaper bag, and who knows what else you’re lugging around under the stroller, this can be a mama’s worst nightmare. For this reason, the subway wins out in my book, even if you have to solicit help to get up and down the stairs (go here to see which "Subway Mom" you are!)! Walking: Most parts of NYC are pretty pedestrian friendly, so throw on some sneakers and show your little one all there is to see around the city! And bonus, you’ll save some money and work off some of that baby weight while you’re at it! I recommend at least one of the following: a carrier, a stroller, or a leash/harness (if your little one is walking and likes to dart into traffic). Here in Bay Ridge, we often organize a "stroller caravan" where we walk in groups to meetups such as Babies and Books at the library or open play at Baby/Mama. I think our record was an intimidating lineup of 15 strollers!! We seriously rule the sidewalks in Ba(b)y Ridge!  This is how the Bay Ridge Baby Mamas (st)roll... Shorter version originally posted on Mommy Nearest. Unless you're a hardcore attachment parenting kinda parent, you need a stroller for your baby or toddler. Any will do, right? WRONG!! Here is a list I've come up with to keep in mind while stroller shopping (and test driving – yes, it’s very necessary!!). There's no one stroller that will come in first in each and every one of these categories, so figure out what is most important to you and go from there! 
1) Price: Sometimes price means quality, other times not. You can find an umbrella stroller for all of $10 or a luxury big-brand travel system for well over $1,000! Don't think you need to break the bank or take out a loan to have a fabulous stroller!
2) Weight: The travel systems with car seat and all can get really heavy. Like, difficult to turn a corner and really tough to get up a flight of stairs (definitely test drive for this function!). If you have a car that you’ll be in and out of, this might be worth it, but probably not something to consider if you are sans car. 3) Height: If the handles are too tall or short for you, it will quickly become annoying and possibly painful. Short handles are especially prevalent in the umbrella strollers. 4) Width: Check that your feet don’t bang into the frame or tires when walking, it should go without saying that this would be really annoying. If you're a city mom such as myself, you may want to take measurements at your go-to shops and make sure the stroller will fit through the aisles and check-out lanes. In some countries, you should verify the stroller will fit through the subway gates, but in NYC this is pretty much never going to happen. 5) Carrying Capacity: How much can the basket under the stroller carry, and what is its accessibility like when the seat is sat up and reclined. 6) Max incline and recline: If it doesn’t recline to 180 degrees or close to it, it won’t be suitable for a newborn (even if it does, you're advised to incorporate a body support pillow). And if it doesn’t sit up fairly vertical, your older child (10+ months) might be annoyed and constantly straining against the harness to get a better view of the world. 7) Maneuverability: Can you easily maneuver it with 1 hand (i.e. when holding umbrella or phone or coffee)? 8) Ease of Open/Close: Doable with 1 hand (i.e. while holding your baby)? 9) Tip-ability: Technically you’re not supposed to hang anything from the handles, but everyone does. Throw your bag on the back and give a good tug down and back on the handles to make sure it’s not easily tipped over (warning: do this when baby is NOT in the stroller). 10) Convertibility: Does the seat switch from forward to rear-facing? Will it easily convert from a single to a double stroller? Does it allow for a car seat or bassinet to snap in? 11) Accessories – Check prices of that brand’s accessories and if off-brand ones will work for: rain/bug/sun shield, tray, cup holder (for child or stroller-pusher), stroller lining, winter bunting, rumble board/seat, etc. 12) Size / Structure when folded: Will it fit in the trunk of your car? Will it hang on the inside of your closet door at home? Does it stand on its own when folded or do you have to lie it down? 13) Canopy: Is it large (i.e. covering most of the child when opened) and can you move it depending on sun’s angle? Does it have a peek-a-boo sun roof and ventilation? 14) Cleaning – Does fabric remove for easy cleaning? Will the color stain and look dingy quickly? Black may be boring but there is a reason it's so darn popular. You may consider a black stroller and accessorize it with more exciting colors. 15) Style - You'll be pushing around this stroller for years, so make sure it meets your needs on what you find to be the most important for you in the above 14 categories, but also that you feel good (physically and emotionally) pushing your little one around in it around. If you are a brand-whore (sorry, it's a term isn't it? haha) but budget is low, maybe you should consider buying second hand... there are worse things ya know! Just be careful, there is a whole nother list of things to watch out for in used strollers!! Please do your research!! Originally posted on Mommy Nearest. It seems like we’ve just been getting walloped with one snowstorm after the other and you’d think it’d be getting easier. But, it’s not. On the bad days, we stay home and battle cabin fever, big time. On the not so completely treacherous days, we venture out. But all of our usual methods of getting around the neighborhood have been failing us when it comes to this wintery weather. 
Our stroller, my wonderful lovely so easily maneuverable Britax B-Agile stroller (yes, one of the ones just recalled for potentially injuring parents’ fingers while collapsing it…but I don’t hold that against it!) has been doing better than most in the snow, but there’s only so much a stroller can handle! On the regular sidewalk I can push that thing with my pinky finger, I’m not joking either, I’ve done it to prove a point to my poor friends lugging around those ridiculously heavy carrier-stroller combo systems. But in deep slush or powdery snow, it’s like, where are my freakin’ sled dogs already!? In the ice, I worry about me falling and losing grip of the stroller, watching it careen off into the nearest intersection as I’m laying there with a broken ankle screaming “NOOOOOOOOoooooooooooo!!!” They need to come up with a lock system similar to that on the treadmill. Or a leash like surfers wear. (*Lightbulb* going off in my momtrepreneur brain!) Then you have to deal with the ice and salt stuck to the wheels when you come inside. Like most city dwellers, I don’t have a safe space to leave the stroller outside or in the hallway, so my apartment’s foyer has become a disgusting sticky salt coated space. Yuck! One must for getting through the winter with your stroller? The scrumptiously cozy 7 A.M. WarMMuffs, a warm stroller bunting, and a good rain shield to keep your little one dry and out of the bazillion below zero wind chill!
Babywearing may seem like a great alternative to the stroller in the snow, but I only do it if my destination is REALLY close, like, across the street. I was terrified being pregnant in the winter, and it’s almost as terrifying for me to wear (or worse, carry) my baby while walking around on the slippery ice and snow covered streets of New York. If I go down, we’re both going down. Hopefully my derriere would take the brunt of the fall, but who knows!? It’s a risky game. Also, you have to be a bit more diligent about bundling baby up since you can’t use the stroller bunting and rain shield. Finally, those of you with a car have the option of driving. But you probably got blocked in by 10 feet of snow from that dang plow in the middle of the night. Yeah, good luck with that! I’ve never been so glad not to own a house or a car as I have been these last couple of weeks. That is a whole lot of shoveling and digging that I am not sad to be missing out on! So how have you been getting around this winter? Share your successes or failures below (bonus if they're hilarious LOL)! OK, I'm just gonna skip the chit chat and get straight to the review because this company NüRoo is totally awesome and I have so much to tell you about the two two amazing products they're contributing to my New Mom Necessities Giveaway!!  First off we have the NüRoo Pocket which is a revolutionary babywearing device (see above left photo) - basically a shirt and carrier in one!! I'm so bummed I didn't know about the NüRoo Pocket when my 14-monther was an infant. It looks so comfy for mom and baby and is such a practical way to get in that much needed skin-to-skin time! I definitely have to get my hands on one of these before baby #2 comes along! Here's how it works (from NüRoo's website):  I did get to try out the NüRoo Nursing Scarf which is also incredibly unique. Big time kudos to NüRoo for coming out with such new and different products! The NüRoo Nursing Scarf is a big, very soft, super stretchy piece of fabric with a row of snaps on both ends. There are many different ways you can wear it as a scarf as well as a nursing cover, and they have a how-to video for moms like me who are completely clueless! They also have images on the packaging as well as on their website showing you different ideas for wearing the NüRoo Nursing Scarf. Here is what I came up with before looking at their ideas: This one is pretty basic - snap the two ends together and fold it inside itself a few times. Cute and warm!  Here's my duck-face selfie modeling my NüRoo Nursing Scarf look great for many situations such as the following:
 And here's my suggestion for this one, and we've all been there... "Oh crap!! I forgot nursing pads and totally leaked through my top!! Thank god my NüRoo Nursing Scarf can cover up my milk stains!!"  I tried to take a selfie of the nursing cover in action as a, well, nursing cover. But Kenzo had a different plan... this is the best I could do! haha!!  Great as a nursing cover, as an accessory, and as a blanket for your little one (see above), or yourself for that matter - I would totally use it on a chilly airplane or on the subway in the summer (you know, when you're in a tank top stuck on a super-AC'd train)! A 90% polyester 10% spandex blend, the NüRoo Nursing Scarf is breathable, machine washable, dryer safe, wrinkle free, and really really soft.  NüRoo will be giving their NüRoo Pocket to the grand prize winner of my New Mom Necessities Giveaway (who will also receive 14 other great products for new moms, a jackpot valuing over $600!!), and a NüRoo Nursing Scarf will go to one runner-up! So, what are you waiting for?? The giveaway ends Feburary 19 at midnight so... ENTER TO WIN HERE!! *Disclaimer: Although I did receive this product free of charge, I was not compensated in any other way to do this product review. All thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased.
It's not easy being a new mom. Sure you have a beautiful itty bitty baby to fawn over, but you also have multiple lovely postpartum issues to deal with while being completely exhausted and overwhelmed with your new life. Still, it's an amazing time to be cherished, yada yada yada *wink* Because we know how hard it can be (if you haven't read my "It Gets Better, New Mom Edition" yet, now is the time to do so!), we are so so so excited to be throwing this MASSIVE giveaway with a $600 value jackpot of 15 of the most awesome products for new moms (with an additional fabulous prize going to one runner-up). Nothing in here is for baby - it's ALL FOR YOU, MAMA!! PARTICIPATING BLOGGERS: Before we get to listing the prizes, I'd like to take a moment to give a shout out to our co-hosting and co-promoting bloggers, without whom this giveaway would not be possible! A big thank you goes out to: Heather at US-Japan Fam, Elizabeth at Mommie De, Libby at Willy B Mum, Allison at Project Motherhood, Christine at Brunch with my Baby, Stephanie at Football Food & Motherhood, Abby at The Badass Breastfeeder, Larisha at We're Parents!?, Krista at Savory Savings, and Amanda at Coupons and Lesson Plans.          And now, on to what the giveaway is really about... THE PRIZES!!! We'll be reviewing products daily and listing the link below as each goes live, so keep checking back or follow me on twitter or facebook to be kept in the loop!  Our grand prize winner will receive two great big tubs of Willy B Mum's food-based homemade organic and vegan whipped body butter. This all-natural product is brand new to the market and I couldn't be more excited to be featuring it in our giveaway! Obviously it's an awesome skin care product for anyone, but it is especially great for pregnant or breastfeeding moms looking to be extra careful - you know it's not just about what you eat - your skin absorbs everything you put on it! ~See Libby's personal review here!~~  NüRoo has very generously included two items in our giveaway: one NüRoo Pocket for our grand prize winner and one NüRoo Nursing Scarf for a runner-up winner! The Pocket is an incredibly unique, useful, and comfortable babywearing shirt, while the Nursing Scarf is a total fashion-meets-function kind of accessory for any breastfeeding mom! ~~See my personal review here!~~  Who doesn't love flowers!? Teleflora will be treating our giveaway's grandprize winner (and frankly, her entire family) with their beautiful "How Sweet It Is" bouquet featuring a gorgeous array of roses, matsumoto asters, and carnations. Based in California, Teleflora has a network of over 16,000 florists in the US and Canada, ensuring your flowers arrive fast and fresh! ~~See my personal review here!~~  Our grand prize winner will receive one week of online personal training from Training Wheels Stroller Fitness. The package will include a 30-minute consultation via Skype or Facetime, one week access to their online training fitness program with unlimited coaching, and a sample meal plan. What a fabulous way to kick start a new mom's journey to losing the baby weight and feeling great! ~~See my personal review here!~~  Bravado Designs will send their Essential Embrace Nursing Bra to our lucky grand prize winner (you choose the size and color). This supportive, seamless, stretchy, breathable, wireless bra is so amazingly comfortable, we bet you won't retire it after weaning your little one!! An extender kit is also included so that you can wear this bra throughout your pregnancy as well. Awesome! ~~See my personal review here!~~  Bebe au Lait is providing our grand prize winner with one of their brand spanking new Muslin Nursing Covers! Made of premium, 100% open-weave cotton muslin, these incredibly soft, stylish, and breathable nursing covers have a rigid neckline, allowing mama (and no one else) to keep an eye on baby while breastfeeding. ~~See my personal review here!~~  Miny Moe has included their Mega Mama Nursing Pad Sampler in our jackpot. This sampler is a breastfeeding mama's dream, including 6 brands of nursing pads for her to try out before stocking up on her favorite. You'll get one pair each from 3 washable brands (Bamboobies, Itzy Ritzy, & Philips Avent) as well as 3 disposable brands (Lansinoh, Johnson's, & Nuk). FYI: Miny Moe also carries disposable diaper samplers, equally awesome for new and expecting parents! ~~See my personal review here!~~  Mrs. Patel's will be sending a $34 gift voucher for our grand prize winner to select her choices of their milk supply boosting and postpartum supporting Fenugreek Bars, Milk Water Tea, and Munch Crunch, all made from Ayuverdic recipes passed down by nursing mothers for generations in India. ~~See my personal review here!~~  CredibleCravings is offering our grand prize winner a 12-pack of their organic whole food snack bars that support the unique nutritional needs of pregnant and breastfeeding moms. Packed full of essential vitamins, minerals, and natural probiotics, these bars are healthy, taste amazing, and include no artificial preservatives, sweeteners, or chemicals. ~~See Elizabeth's personal review here!~~  Undercover Mama will send our grand prize winner a $30 gift certificate with which to shop from their great selection of nursing shirts and accessories. Undercover Mama nursing shirts are incredibly unique, offering mama a discreet way to breastfeed her baby without having to buy a whole new wardrobe. These nursing shirts are worn under your regular shirt like a tank top, but instead of having normal straps, they attach to your nursing bra for easy access to the breast, then you can pull your regular shirt up to nurse without exposing your tummy. Awesome, right!?!? ~~See my personal review here!~~  Smart Mom LLC will be contributing one piece of Teething Bling to our lucky grand prize winner. They have an amazing selection of designs to choose from. Their Teething Bling is made from medical-grade food safe silicon and the easy breakaway clasp is perfectly suited for babies who love to yank at your jewelry. It's the perfect distraction while nursing, and fun to (gently) chew on while being held in your arms. Annnnnnd it's super fashionable for mama!! ~~See my personal review here!~~  Our grand prize winner will also receive a nail polish, lip gloss, and perfume trio from Tina at Avon! New moms don't have a whole lot of time to get dolled up, but a little bit can go a long way in making you look and feel fabulous! Included in this pack is a roll-on purse sized perfume, Rare Diamonds Diamond Duo lip gloss, and Speed Dry 30 second nail enamel in On the Go Pink. ~~See my personal review here!~~  Nursing Bra Express will be sending one Pull Over Sleep Nursing Bra by La Leche League Intimates™ (you choose size and color) to our grand prize winner. Soft and totally comfy, this bra is perfect throughout pregnancy, breastfeeding, and beyond! Just pull it on, and then pull it over for nursing - no clasps or hooks to deal with. ~~See my personal review here!~~  Eepples MilkCharms are a cute and useful way for moms to keep track of their bottles, and a three-pack set will be going to our grand prize winner. Just spin the dial to set the day and time your breastmilk was pumped (or formula was prepared), and you're good to go! These MilkCharms are BPA and phthalate free, and dishwasher safe. ~~See my personal review here!~~  Vitabath knows that a new mom needs to relax and be pampered, even if it's just a quick shower with a wonderful fragrance to lift you up. So, they've included two bodywashes for our grand prize winner (you choose scents)! With scents like Asian Orchid & Coconut, Citron Leaves with Lemongrass, and Cupcake Couture Dream Pink Frosting, we think these body washes might help you get in more than a shower a week! What's more? They are free of sulfates, parabens, propylene glycol, DEA, TEA, triclosan, silicone, and mineral oils!! ~~See my personal review here!~~ So what are you waiting for?? Enter to win today!!!
(US residents ages 18 and over only please! Winners will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond before new winners are selected.) |
 
About ME:I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins plus 1), focusing on fun and honest product and travel reviews, helping busy parents find the best for their families! Find what you need in the menu bar or search section above! 
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