US Japan Fam

Spring Must Haves for Women

3/13/2020

Spring is here (or nearly here), along with Coronavirus, but this post isn't about that so much. Other than to say, online shopping and DIY hair and nails at home is where it's at, talk about proper social distancing, am I right!? Besides stocking up on sanitizing goods and staples for the pantry, how about stocking up on some fabulous springtime goodies to brighten your day and have you ready to take on the world in a few weeks (or months!?), after the whole "flatten the curve" strategy has hopefully worked and we're ready to go about our normal social butterfly lives again!

US Japan Fam's Women's Spring Must Haves

Disclaimer: This post includes some items that were provided in exchange for my promotion or review, but all thoughts are my own and unbiased. This post also includes many affiliate links - you won't pay more but I'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking. This is how we bloggers survive, ya'll! Thank you and arigatou!!!

US Japan Fam's Women's Spring Must Haves - Arcopedico Harley Wedge Sandals

Arcopedico Harley Wedge Sandals
Springtime means getting your tootsies pedicured and ready to great the world. What better way than in some super cute (and comfy) sandals!? I just recieved this pair of Harley Wedge Sandals from Arcopedico and while they are MUCH higher than my typical shoes (I'm an inch taller than my husband so tend to shy away from any lift or heel), I'm absolutely in love with them and dying for the weather to warm up so I can take them out on the town! The ankle strap is actually velcro so has some good adjustability. Upper is made of their patented Lytech™ blend, and the Arne-Dry footbed makes this wedge shockingly lightweight! You can find them in black/silver, grey/white, and camel (which I chose as I currently didn't have any neutral shoes), in sizes 36 (US 5.5) - 42 (US 10.5-11).

BUY: $115 - $120 on Amazon (affiliate link) and arcopedicousa.com

Old Navy Rockstar Jeggings
I don't know about you, but I really miss my maternity pants. Not just that the elastic waist is super comfy, but buttons and zippers add so much bulk to your midsection! A fellow twin mom recommended Old Navy's Rockstar Jeggings to me about half a year ago, I ordered a few, and became a die hard fan. They're basically all I wear now. Oh crap, now everyone knows my secret. The fun thing is that they are actually jeans, not what you think of "jegging" material which is so fake and gross. These are jeans, that are nice and stretchy, and instead of a button and zipper they just have a tall elastic waist that smooths out your mom pooch instead of cutting into it creating a muffin top on even a skinny mom! They're flattering, comfy, and stylish. And if you time it right, you can grab them on a super sale, at the moment many styles are 30% off!

BUY: see all Rockstar Jeggings styles here (affiliate link; regularly $34.99 - $44.99)

US Japan Fam's Women's Spring Must Haves - Old Navy Rockstar Jeggings

Boxed Semi-Perm Hair Dye
I've been dyeing my hair fun semi-permanent colors for about 2 years now. You can read more about each experiment here - I've tried several brands and colors, all wash out pretty much by 10-15 washes (teal was the exception, it lingered as a hint of green for quite some time, and if you have very light hair, bleached or otherwise treated hair you may also experience lingering as well). Here are some fun springtime colors you may want to try. These contain no bleach or ammonia, which means they are kind to your hair with absolutely zero damage! And now is the perfect chance to go for some funky hair if you've suddenly found yourself working from home due coronavirus containment policies!

Glasses & Sunglasses
I've been a huge fan of DiscountGlasses.com for a while now, even before becoming one of their Ambassadors! With a large selection of glasses and sunglasses for babies, kids, and adults starting at just $20, with virtual try on and free 365 day returns, you can't lose! I recently got their super lightweight and colorful Westend Cherry Creek glasses in Multi Blue (see below left, $20 with lenses!!), which I find not just comfortable but so cheerful! And don't forget about my Westend Bexley sunglasses (see below right, $69.95 with lenses), I mean, how fabulous are these!?!?

Buy: on DiscountGlasses.com (affiliate link)

US Japan Fam's Women's Spring Must Haves - DiscountGlasses.com

Colorful Silicone Necklace
I got into silicone jewelry back when I had babies and wanted fun items that the kids could chew on and yank without destroying it. Fast forward a few years, my kids are 4, 4, and 7 and these are still pretty much the only necklaces I wear! HA! And every time I go out with one on, I get a compliment. So, yes, they're marketed as teething jewelry, but anyone can and should wear them. So fun! Colorful! Durable! Chewbeads is probably the most well known brand but you can find a number of brands as well as homemade ones on Etsy.

Buy: on Amazon (affiliate link)

Tumbler & Reusable Cups
We all know single use bottles and cups are a no no. So stop using them and make sure you have a few great reusable tumblers on hand at home, in the car, in your bag, under your stroller etc so that you're never caught out having to use a disposable one. Personally I think having really cute designs will help you stay motivated to BYO! Check some of these out:

Other great stuff and DISCOUNTS:

(affiliate links follow)

- Get straighter, brighter teeth in an average of 6 months for thousands less than braces. Get started with Candid clear aligners for 65% off the starter kit. Use code: NEWSMILE65

- Up to 65% off Women's Clothing at Jane.com! Shop today!

- Cricut Explore Air™ Machine + EVERYTHING Starter Set - Mixbook's Home Decor

- Shop Travel Label Packs from Mabel's Labels

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How to Get More Information from your DNA Raw Data with Xcode Life

1/28/2020

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How to Get More Information from your DNA Raw Data with Xcode Life

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Xcode Life but all thoughts and opinions are my own. This post also includes affiliate links - you won't pay more but we'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking the links.

For under $100 you can get your DNA analyzed by a number of companies who will break down your ancestry and ethnicity into easy to understand percentages and maps. It's very cool, in fact my husband and I had ours done by 23andMe a couple of years ago (see that video here) and my Japanese born and bred husband had pretty shocking results that he was not 100% Japanese!! You can learn about yourself, connect with distant family members, and for those adopted, even have the chance to find your birth parents or siblings! The science behind it all is fascinating, and frankly way over my head!

Did you know, you can very easily download the raw DNA data from 23andMe, Ancestry, FamilyTreeNDA, Living DNA, MyHeritage DNA and a number of others, and upload it to Xcode Life (who sponsored this post) to gleam even more information about your health, personality traits, fitness, skin, and more!?! That's right! It's super easy, and their reports are provided SAME DAY!! Watch my overview video here, that includes going through my own results live!!

Some of the insights I found the most valuable and interesting for myself were:

I'm less likely to lose weight from exercise and should experience weight loss better with a high protein and high fiber intake. The reports even broke it down and provided me with a recommended diet plan of 45% carbs, 35% protein, and 20% fats, and exercise plan of cardio 3-4 days a week, strength training 2-3 days a week, and flexibility training 3-7 days a week.

US Japan Fam - Xcode Life Review - Weight Loss and Exercise Recommendations

I have a high risk for hemochromatosis (iron overload, which can be deadly if unaware that you have it). This is actually something my uncle was diagnosed with a few years ago, so this result was extremely eye opening and has prompted me to make an appointment with my doctor to discuss any necessary diagnostic tests.
I'm likely to have both the warrior personality trait (better processing of aversive stimuli) and worrier personality trait (advantage in memory and attention tasks; associated with more pain in response to aversive stimuli).
It also ran through a long list of allergy risks, which are not diagnostic like a blood or skin test, but are still useful and could prompt one's decision to go in for further testing, or perhaps to understand your baby's possible increased risk before introducing first foods. I found it interesting that I have a high risk of peanut allergy, yet I don't have one and neither do my 3 kids, thankfully.

US Japan Fam - Xcode Life Review - Allergy and Health Reports

All in all, it's fascinating to read through all of these reports about yourself. It's very possible you will discover something that will improve your health or even save your life. Discovering you have a high risk for something such as diabetes or Alzheimer's, for example, will hopefully prompt you to have a much needed conversation with your doctor, and be on the lookout for early signs of disease onset that you might have otherwise shrugged off!

If interested in learning more or making a purchase, you'll first need to order and submit your basic DNA / Ethnicity / Ancestry Kit through one of the following companies compatible with Xcode Life. Here are a few available on Amazon (all affiliate links):

After receiving those reports, you can head on over to shop all of Xcode Life's products here, and get $10 off the Mega Pack with code "USJAPANFAM10" (valid through February 15, 2020), and of course you can find them on Facebook and Instagram!

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Prepare for NYC's Plastic Bag Ban with these Shopping Hacks to Save the Planet

1/17/2020

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Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links - you won't pay more but we'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.

One by one, cities and states and countries around the world are hopping on board the train to Save the Planet. No matter how small, each step every person takes can make a difference. But let's be honest, sometimes it takes policy change to force individual change. This is why I couldn't be more thrilled to hear that NYC's "Plastic Bag Ban" is taking effect March 1, 2020!! That's right!!! Any retailer required to collect NY State sales tax will not be allowed to distribute single use plastic bags.

Retailers can, but don't have to, sell single use paper bags for $0.05. And many will have reusable bags for sale for those who forget a bag. But don't be this guy who ends up buying bag after bag because you keep forgetting!! This is rather wasteful, after all, which is what we're trying to avoid here! Stock up on a few great bags now - keep one in your work bag, your diaper bag, in the stroller, a few in the car, you get the idea!! Shop local if you can, and if you prefer to order online, here are a few cool ones we've seen, as well as a few other hacks like using a wagon or home delivery!

Self-Storing 2oz Polyester Fabric Reusable Bag
This super lightweight polyester fabric reusable washable bag weighs only 2oz yet can hold a max weight of 40 pounds. It folds into its own pocket for super quick and easy storage, with no extra bag to lose!

Ripstop Polyester Fabric Reusable Bag
Made of lightweight but durable ripstop polyester fabric, this washable and reusable bag squishes into a 4" carrier and can hold up to 50 pounds.

Washable Cotton Mesh Bag
Made of 100% cotton, these washable and reusable mesh bags hold up to 40 pounds and are great for produce shopping.

Cart or Wagon
Of course, you can go beyond bags. I have been LOVING my wagon - it carries my kids and their stuff, and it also carries my groceries, no bags required!! Many New Yorkers are used to the standard vertical carts, but they're not so practical as you have to be very careful with stacking your goods. My Wonderfold Wagon can hold up to 200 pounds, and it collapses so it doesn't take up too much space in our entry way! Get 25% off a W1 or W2 model at wonderfoldwagon.com with code "heathert25", or find on Amazon.

Home Delivery (Fresh Direct)
You may find this the push to do more home delivery, which will use more gas, and require a tip and possibly a delivery fee, but it sure is easy to shop from home! Personally, I'm a huge fan of Fresh Direct - they have same and next day delivery, and the bonus is that they use HUGE reusable bags. They'll pick up your last batch of bags with your next round of groceries, and in between you are free to use their bags as needed - I usually fold a couple and keep them in my wagon to organize local grocery shopping! Did I mention, THEY'RE HUGE and very strong!!

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How to Choose a Pediatrician

7/20/2019

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Whether you're pregnant and looking for your baby's first pediatrician, or you recently moved and are looking for a new pediatrician for your brood, it's not a simple task. You don't just look on the map and choose the nearest doctor. Oh no. There are a bazillion things to consider, and I hope my list will help you find the perfect match for your family! If I missed any key points, please do comment and let me know so I can add them!!

Actions to take when seeking out a Pediatrician:

search online for reviews - check yelp, local Facebook parenting groups, etc
come up with a list of possibilities and schedule a consultation with each practice (most offer this free of charge, some even have meet & greet events)
come up with a list of "must", "ideal", and "not important" items (our list below can help you narrow it down)

Policies and Factors to Consider:

Proximity - How far is their office from you? Is it easily accessible on foot or by public transportation when you have a stroller with you? If you'll be driving, do they have parking available?
Insurance - Obviously you'll want to make sure they take your insurance! If you don't have insurance, find out what kind of payment options they have.
Access to Second Opinion - is there more than one doctor in the office at a time, allowing for a quick consultation amongst doctors, or a second opinion on an urgent matter?
Vaccines - Some practices follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (APA) Vaccine Schedule strictly, others allow for spacing vaccines out (without delaying them), and others allow delaying or skipping some/all vaccines. (Important note: It is very important for the health of your child, your family, and the community at large to fully vaccinate every child and adult, on time. Some cannot be vaccinated due to serious health conditions, and for some vaccinations do not provide full immunity, which is why it's SO SO SO important for the rest of us to be vaccinated. PLEASE do not take this lightly!!!)
Antibiotics - Newer thought is that antibiotics aren't needed in some conditions they were previously automatically prescribed for, and overuse can cause more harm than good for that individual (gut health) and the community (antibiotic resistant bacteria). Each doctor and practice will have a slightly different stance on this, and it's worth considering - how do they handle ear infections, for example - automatic antibiotics or wait and see policy.
Waiting Rooms - do they separate well and sick patients into separate waiting rooms, or separate appointment times? How do they clean the rooms, waiting areas and toys?
Office Hours - are they "working parent friendly" with hours available on evenings and weekends?
After Hours Access - Can you call a doctor or nurse with an urgent question? Can you text a photo for advice? Do they use a answering service where you leave a message and a doctor calls you back?
Flu Testing - Some practices do not test for flu, they simply treat it as any viral infection - stay home, rest, hydrate. If you go to one of these practices and want to know if your child has the flu, you'll have to take them to Urgent Care to be tested. This is a deal breaker for some families, and no biggie for others.
Blood Work and other Testing - Many practices do blood work and other basic tests in-house, and others will require you to make a separate appointment at a lab.
Breastfeeding Support - Do they support breastfeeding or push formula? Do they have a Lactation Consultant in-house?
Additional Services - Do they have any extra offerings for patients? For example, CPR classes, new parent meetups, nutritionist, expertise with children with special needs, support for single parent with multiple children (can a nurse come in to assist)?
Access to Records - Do they have an easy-to-use online system where you can fill out forms before an appointment, get text or e-mail reminders for upcoming appointments or the need to schedule one, and see all previous labs and information about your children?
Hospital Affiliation - Will your pediatrician have the ability to visit or care for your child if admitted into a hospital?
Wait Times - What is their average wait time (ask the practice and word of mouth from others who use them)?
Office Staff & Paperwork - What is the response time when calling the office or requesting forms (for school, camp, work permit, etc)? Do they charge extra for forms or sending records? How friendly and helpful are office staff over the phone, email, and in-office? What is the process for obtaining referrals? How is billing handled?
General Vibe - How do you feel about the doctor(s) and office. Is it clean, modern, friendly? Do they answer your many questions without a condescending tone. Do you feel like this is someone you could trust and have open discussions with regarding your child(ren)'s health?

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Variety Fun Snack Subscription Unboxing

7/17/2019

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**Updated 7/29/19: Enter to WIN your own FUN BOX (40 snacks) in the rafflecopter box at the bottom of this post**

Snacks. You can never have enough snacks, am I right!? Our kids go through them like water - snacking in the stroller, in the car, at school, at the park, you get the picture! So we were really excited to work with Variety Fun Snack Subscription on an unboxing!! Their snack boxes are available in bi-weekly and monthly delivery options, and with over 500 variety of snacks, you'll get new stuff every month! Oh yeah, free shipping of course, and cancel your subscription anytime!

Variety Fun has 2 types of boxes to chose from:

FUN Snack Box, $24.99 for 40 snacks (i.e. 0.62/snack) - classic snacks such as Cheetos, Oreos, M&M cookies, Lays, Doritos, Skittles, and more!
FIT Snack Box, $39.99 for 30 snacks (i.e. $1.33/snack) - healthy premium snacks such as KIND bars, Terra chips, CLIF bars, Krave Jerky, Hippeas, and more!

Watch our fun unboxing below and don't forget to use code FUN20 to get 20% off your 1st box!! And leave us a comment below - what's your favorite snack!?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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How to Reduce Waste by Switching to Silicone

5/31/2019

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With NYC banning styrofoam and plastic bags, and the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change's recent special report, the time is now to step up and do our part to, for lack of a better phrase, reduce - reuse - recycle. I'm not going to pretend to be an expert on the topic, and I'll admit to often making choices based more on convenience and budget than sustainability and carbon footprint. But I need to do better, and thankfully such is the growing mindset out there!

There are simple choices we can all make, that are healthier for us and the planet, and sometimes even for our wallets! And the impact, when we all make these choices, can really add up! Reducing our usage of plastics and single-use items is one of those choices we all need to be focusing on, and I'm happy to share with you why and how silicone can help you do this!

How to Reduce Waste by Switching to Silicone

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Hilary Abbot Communications on behalf of GoSili, but all thoughts and opinions are my own and unbiased. This post also contains affiliate links - you won't pay more but this blog will earn a small commission from any sales made.

Why Silicone?
According to GoSili, silicone is:

non-toxic: free of BPA, BPS, phthlalate, PVC, lead, and petroleum products
sustainable: 100% plastic free and recyclable at specific facilities (you can ship your products back to GoSili to recycle them for you)
practical: pretty much indestructible! Also sterilizable, boilable, freezable, microwaveable, unbreakable, dishwasher-safe

Ditch the Disposables!!
All those single-use snack bags, beverage containers, straws, and lunch and grocery bags add up to a LOT of waste. Some of them may end up being recycled, but most end up in a landfill or even worse, in the ocean. Did you know there are amazing reusable products out there for just about everything? Glass, stainless steel, bamboo, and silicone are just a few of the more eco-friendly sustainable materials to choose from, and below are a few of our favorite silicone products that can replace common plastics and disposables you're used to using.

Silicone Straws
Plastic straws - why oh why are these still being distributed!? According to GoSili, 500 million plastic straws are thrown away every day in the US!! No more, we say!! But that doesn't mean you have to give up straws completely! These Reusable Silicone Straws by GoSili come in pretty colors, are easy to use and clean, and they fold up nicely, too! Get 1 in a travel case for $2.50 - 2.99 or a 6-pack for $6.95 on Amazon (affiliate link). While you're at it, grab some silicone straw tops (affiliate link) to make any glass, mug, or cup spill proof!

US Japan Fam reviews GoSili's reusable silicone straws

Silicone Coffee Cups / Travel Mugs
Sure, walking into the coffee shop and grabbing a to-go cup is easy. Too easy. According to GoSili, 100 billion disposable cups go to land fills each year. Stop the insanity! Bring your own cup, and do it in style! These Reusable 16oz Silicone Coffee Cups / Travel Mugs by GoSili are brilliant - the entire cup and lid are made of silicone, and include an internal stainless steel ring so they won't collapse under your grasp! Amazing, right!? Grab them for $14.95 on Amazon (affiliate link), they're also available in 8oz! Do note they're not spill proof as there is no plug for the little sippy hole. Hey GoSili, there's your next product to work on - the coffee cup plug!

US Japan Fam reviews GoSili's reusable silicone coffee cup / travel mug

Silicone Sippy Cups for Kids
Want to have a laugh at your toddlers, big kids, or even your spouse trying to figure out how to drink from a cup? Get them a 12oz Silicone OH! Cup "Drink From Anywhere" Cup by GoSili! At first glance, you can't figure out how to take a sip - there are no holes! But there are actually teeny slits across the entire top ring of the lid (see my image below), hence the "drink from anywhere" part of its name! So, when you tip it back and suck, out comes your drink! But when you flip it over, no spills! It's amazing!! Once you explain it to your kids, they'll pick it up no problem, but first be sure to get their no-explanation first attempt on video!

US Japan Fam reviews GoSili 12oz Silicone OH! Cup

You can also create a sippy cup out of any glass with these silicone sippy tops (affiliate link)! These are great for throwing in your bag when going to a restaurant with your kids, so you can say "No thanks!!" to those plastic disposable kids cups they usually bring! Be sure to check out our previous review of Siliskin silicone straw tops, spoons, and bibs here, and Silikids silicone placemat here!

Silicone Sandwich Bags
OK, no one is more addicted to ziplock baggies than me. But when I sit back and think about how many my family has used, and thrown away, I feel a bit ill. There are better options, maybe not as easy, nothing's as easy as simply using and tossing! But this is why our planet has seen better days. So, who's up for trying some reusable bags!? GoSili has silicone snack and sandwich bags (affiliate link), though they don't seal completely, so you can't put anything too liquidy or with teeny pieces in there. Itzy Ritzy snack bags are another option, with a zipper closure and waterproof lining. I haven't tried either yet but will update this post when I do!

Silicone Baby Food Pouches
Single-use baby food pouches are easy to grab and feed little ones on the go, but super wasteful. Not to mention you can't utilize them with homemade baby food. But don't worry, I got you. The answer: Squeasy Gear Silicone Pouches!! We have been using ours for years now, and they still look brand new (except for the 1 that got left in the car with water for 1 week and I couldn't get rid of the mold, so be careful about that!). These aren't just good for baby food though - fill them with yogurt, applesauce, or smoothie and throw them in the lunch box. And because of the removable no-spill insert, they're even great for liquids! They come in 3.5oz, 6oz, & 16oz for $12.99 - $16.99 on Amazon (affiliate link).

US Japan Fam loves Squeasy Gear silicone food pouches!

Some of these products might be tough to find at local retailers, but you can grab them on Amazon here (affiliate links):

So, what do you think!? Are you already using some of these silicone products? Have others you love? Any tips for reducing, reusing, recycling!? Shopping at zero waste bulk stores yet? Leave a comment below!!

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Cute Helmets for Toddlers & Kids: Mini Hornit LIDS Review

5/25/2019

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Cute Helmets for Toddlers & Kids: Mini Hornit Lids review by US Japan Fam

Safety first guys. Kids should be in an age and weight appropriate carseat or booster when in the car, and wearing a good helmet when riding bikes, scooters, or roller skates. But helmets don't have to come with a "Come on mommmmmm, do I have toooooo!?!?" battle of wills. Helmets can be COOL! Adorable! A fun fashion statement!! I ran across the Mini Hornit LIDS line of helmets at Toy Fair New York and reached out to them immediately when realizing my kiddos had outgrown their previous helmets. They sent us 3 to review, and we are LOVING them!!! Watch our quick video below unboxing and modeling them (there may even be a little "Baby Shark" ditty belted out by yours truly LOL! And keep reading for more about the helmets!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links - you don't pay more but we will earn a small commission for purchases made.

The fun kid-friendly designs are definitely the first thing that'll grab your attention, but there are some other features we are loving as well:

Integrated LED light!! That's right, in the back of the helmet is a battery-powered LED light that you simply press for 3 various options of flashing, solid, or off. Works 10 hours solid light or 20 hours flashing light. 2x AG3 batteries included.
11 air vents to keep your child's sweaty head from combusting this summer.
Regular adjustable straps under ears and chin, but an additional sizing adjuster in the back, with a simple turning knob for a quick final adjustment.
Simple sizing - size Small for ages 2-5 years (48-53cm) and Medium for 5+ years (53-58cm).
EN1078 and CPSC tested

You can find Mini Hornit LIDS for about $45 on US.TheHornit.com and Amazon (affiliate link). Here's the current lineup, which one are you loving most? I was hoping my kids would pick my own favorites: The Aviator, Commander, and Wayfarerer haha, but of course, they had their own preferences, which I love, too!!

And if you can wait, here are the 4 new designs coming out in June 2019:

Mini Hornit LIDS 2019 Kids' Helmet Designs

And here are some recent related product reviews we think you might find helpful:

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YogaClub Yoga Apparel Subscription Box Review

4/18/2019

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US Japan Fam reviews YogaClub yoga apparel subscription service

Not sure how to dress for yoga? Looking for women's yoga clothing inspiration, how to look hot at the gym, or just to be comfy and cute while running errands? Say hello to YogaClub (who sponsored this post), a yoga apparel subscription service!

You take a style quiz so that your yoga outfits are individualized for your taste, and for just $79 per box, you'll get the best yoga clothing brands (like Free People, Niyama Sol, Manduka, & Beyond Yog) at 60% off retail value, delivered to your door!

I love LOVE the items they sent me, the style quiz did its job, it's so detailed even asking if there's a part of your body you'd like to conceal (ehem, my #twinskin). I love how easy it has made it (as a mom of 3 convenience is KEY) to update my workout wardrobe gradually! If this sounds right up your alley, your hunt for a great fitness subscription box is over! Sign up here to get $20 off for life, and don't miss my unboxing, mini fashion show, and headstand in the video below LOL!!

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Acro Yoga With Kids - Monkey Moves Challenge Collab with The Baby Gang

4/2/2019

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Acro Yoga with Kids Challenge Collab, The Baby Gang vs. US Japan Fam

As a parent, it can be hard to find the time to work out, so sometimes you've got to get a bit creative. I've been playing around with my kids doing acro yoga for a year or so now, and it's always so much fun! At the 2019 Toy Fair New York, I came across a new and fun game called Monkey Moves - created by a college student, that was right up our alley! She sent me the digital version of the game and I organized an acro yoga with kids Monkey Moves Challenge with The Baby Gang, who you may know for their jaw dropping "Mom vs. Triplets Plus Toddler" video (with over 54M views!!). They were totally game for the challenge, and I think you'll agree that the resulting compilation video is absolutely hilarious!! Watch it below and don't forget, you can get your own Monkey Moves card game on Amazon (affiliate link). Be sure to tag me (@usjapanfam) if posting anything on social media, I'd love to see your moves!!

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Sun Safe Swimwear for Kids (and Adults) by UV Skinz

3/29/2019

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Disclaimer: We received product free in exchange for our review and hosting of this giveaway. This post contains some affiliate links, you don't pay more but we will receive a small commission from any purchases made.

I recently posted about my concerns over the typical (quite revealing) swimwear options available for young girls these days (read more here) and my hunt for more conservative and sun safe options for my toddlers. I did find a few options, one of them being UV Skinz, who sent us some great children's sets for review, and will be giving away a full children's swim set (hat, top, bottom) to one lucky reader!! Watch our fun unboxing and swimwear fashion show, keep reading the rest of our review, and enter to win in the app at the bottom of this post!

Founded by Rhonda Sparks after losing her 32-year old husband to Skin Cancer in 2001, UV Skinz produces UPF 50+ sunwear for babies through adults, aiming to provide families with "peace-of-mind in the sun". You'll find great styles in everything from swim suits and rash guards to sun hats and cover ups to dresses and hoodies!

Our 3 year old twins received adorable swim sets from UV Skinz Girls' Seaside Breeze Collection. Emi got the purple-hued Hibiscus Floral Stripe design and Mia got the Pink Flamingo Stripe design in: Swim Shirt ($28.95), Swim Skirt ($29.95), and Sun Hat ($24.95). The skirts have built in bikini bottoms and an adjustable tie on the inside. The skirt provides extra coverage (from the sun, etc), as well as the "fun" skirt factor that some little girls (like my Mia) can't get enough of! We haven't had a chance to wear them in the sun or water yet, but they're absolutely in love with their new outfits and demanded wearing them around the house for 3 days straight, I kid you not, you can even see them donning their swimwear in our latest cooking video LOL!! That's definitely one perk of these modest swimwear - you can wear them in the water, on the beach, and once dried off, even straight into the shops and restaurants - no cover up needed!

Our 6 year old son received a set from the Boys' Seaside Breeze Collection - the Jaspe Royal Turtle Sport Sun & Swim Shirt ($31.95), Board Shorts ($26.95), and Snap Back Hat ($19.95). The board shorts have velcro and tie, are nice and long (knee-length) for maximum sun coverage, and are adjustable inside so you can make them snugger or looser, which is not something I've seen in swim shorts before and is great!! They also have built in mesh underwear which I know some people don't like (inspect before each use to make sure there are no holes that could entrap anything, or cut them if super paranoid), but they're required in NYC public pools so I was grateful to see it! The hat is adjustable in the back, and has a moisture-wicking terry cloth sweat band.

The designs and the quality are top notch, and the sizing seems to be correct as well. The shirts are a great length, we've had some rash guard shirts that were a bit short, leading to their bellies hanging out, but these are perfect! The only negative is that the necks are cut pretty small, meaning my kids aren't able to get them on and off over their heads by themselves, but on the bright side, they're fitted and tall, meaning more sun protection (without need for regular sunblock applications) for those delicate little necks!

You can purchase UV Skinz on uvskinz.com and Amazon (affiliate link), but you can also win some in our giveaway here!! Open to US residents ages 18 and over, one lucky winner will receive a hat, swim top, and swim bottom set for boy or girl in their choice of size. Don't forget, the more actions you take in the below app, the more chances you earn to win! Good luck!! Giveaway ends at 11:59PM EST on Thursday, April 11.

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