YoonKids.com giveaway winner!

Congratulations to Melissa (mom of K. and F.) from Belmont, CA who is the lucky winner of a 9 x 12 wall art print from YoonKids.com. Check back at MyMomShops very soon for our next exclusive giveaway!

Yo My Booties

How irresistible are these fluffy signature booties from YoMyBooties.com? They ain't cheap ($50), but they are hand-knitted, custom-dyed, made of 100% Angora, and are pretty unique (though apparently they are developing a cult following among L.A. celebrities). They come in lots of yummy vibrant colors like chocolate, pumpkin, cotton candy, and cotton candy (which is what these look like to me!). Available in sizes 0-3 months and 3-6 months at YoMyBooties.com.

City versus 'Burbs

Ah, the age-old debate. My family is staying put in NYC for the foreseeable future (hooray!) but that doesn't mean I don't dream about the 'burbs sometimes (well, mostly the idea of a laundry room and playroom). But I can give R. and S. the best of both worlds (at least during playtime) with these clever sustainable wooden block playsets by Japanese retail company Muji, available from NonchalantMom.com. The NYC set features landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Chrysler building, Museum of Modern Art, and (my favorite one of the set) Guggenheim Museum, as well as mini skyscrapers, taxis and buses. Looking for more peace and quiet? Empty the Suburbia set out of its adorable cotton bag, and arrange handcrafted miniature houses, garages, cars, and greenery to your heart's content. See, you *can* have it both ways! A great price, too- $14 at NonchalantMom.com.

Visiting Grazeland

We get tons of compliments on this Grazeland Buddies Farm Border in Pink from WallCandyArts.com in R's bedroom. Most people, in fact, think I painted these images onto her walls myself (yeah, right). I am so un-handy around the house that putting these peel-and-stick decals on the wall was about all I could handle. But these are really idiot-proof; they are basically like Colorforms (remember those?) and can easily be removed and re-arranged. WallCandyArt.com is always coming up with new designs, but I think the Grazeland design remains my favorite. They are on sale at AllAboutSavvy.com for $45 (regularly $50). Set includes 18 feet of animal border.

Best Baby Blanket

There are lots of baby blankets out there, but I think the Sonya Bebeblankee takes the cake. A close friend gave it to us as a baby gift for S. and we receive so many compliments on it. These soft, satin-trimmed blankets are from FillInTheBlankie.com. The photos in my post don't do it justice so check out the site yourself. You pick one of their lovely blanket styles, choose your colors, font, and text for the (optional) embroidery on each of the four sides, and voila! A perfect personalized baby gift. S's blanket displays his birth date, height and weight, parents' names and big sister's name, but you can have them embroider just about anything you want (and the website offers tons of suggestions for those with writer's block).

Besides being a unique baby gift, the Sonya Bebeblankee also works well as a christening, baby naming, adoption, or first birthday gift too. It is so pretty and sentimental; you will keep this one long after Baby outgrows it. Prices start at $39 for the personalized versions; plain blankets start at $29. Visit FillInTheBlankie.com.

Animal Tamer

R. has a large rectangular Hold Everything basket in her room that contains her stuffed animals. It does not Hold Everything, however, since the animals tower about three feet high and that's only 50% of them. No matter how much I try to purge her collection, we still can't contain all of her furry friends. So I was impressed with this new Animal Bag I spotted at BoonInc.com. It's an oversized (30" x 26" x 19" when full) plush bag with large, zippered windows made out of transparent mesh. The bag serves double duty as stuffed animal storage and a soft seat for your child. Extra bonuses- it's machine washable, and earth-friendly (no foam fillers like most beanbag seats for kids). Available for $59.99 in pink or green at $59.99 at BoonInc.com. Now you'll have room for all those Elmos.

Bookworms

I love to give children's books as birthday gifts or baby gifts. I also love building my own kids' libraries (especially with inscribed books) and I was so excited to find these great personalized book plates at MyRetroBaby.com. They are available in lots of adorable old-fashioned designs- my favorites are the Fly Away With Me! (shown right) or Magic of Books (shown left) designs. These adhesive-backed bookplates (each measuring 2.5 x 4 inches) will help keep your children's books where they belong...or, they make a great gift for kids, fellow book-lovers, librarians, or teachers. Each set ($26) contains 32 bookplates and comes packaged in a nifty gift-ready tin box. Visit MyRetroBaby.com.

Through March 31st, MyMomShops readers will receive a 10% discount on all orders at MyRetroBaby.com. Use discount code "mymomshops10" at checkout.

p.s. This is not a MyMomShops-sponsored contest, but Chronicle Books is holding a Best Chronicle Children's Books of the Year Contest- check it out- they are one of my favorite children's books publishers. Winners will be selected by March 15th.

Stamp of Approval

I like my stick-figure family address labels, but sometimes I want something a little less...cutesy? My dear cousin L. (mom of A. and E.) gave us an ink address stamp similar to this one from BrickHousePaperie.com and I am having a ridiculously fun time using it on all types of mail. There are lots of designs to choose from and they cost $40 apiece. Visit BrickHousePaperie.com.

Samiiland Pillows

I saw these adorable gingham alphabet nursery pillows by Samiiland when I was in one of my favorite gift stores, E.A.T., on Madison Avenue recently (sadly, this store doesn't have a website, but if you are ever in NYC, definitely check it out- it's on Madison Avenue between E. 80th and East 81st Streets). Anyway, these are really cute pillows that would look great on a rocking chair, in a baby's crib, or on a toddler's bed. They are 12 x 12, 100% cotton with felt letter appliques, and cost $41 apiece- pricey but oh-so-adorable. "A" is blue; "B" is lime; "C" is pink and "D" is teal; many other letters available in pink or blue (so it works as a personalized gift, too). And, Samiiland makes a matching alphabet baby blanket (suitable for a crib) too. The website has some other terrific items including kids' clothing, home decor, and even finger puppets. Check it out at Samiiland.com.

Breakfast Like Tiffany's

This is not even remotely baby-related, but I just love the new Italian-made Audrey Dinnerware at CrateAndBarrel.com. The light blue/brown accent color combination is my absolute favorite- so pretty yet sophisticated. The high-fired earthenware is diswasher safe, too. So unlike your wedding china, these plates might actually get used. $32.95 for a 5-piece place setting. Available at CrateandBarrel.com.

Supernanny Would Approve

Not sure where to put your kid for a time-out? Well, you can put Junior anywhere if you use this very clever Time Out Spot from OhBabyLove.com. The plush rugs are 27" diameter with non-skid backing; available in blue, pink, or brown. Go ahead, make a style statement with your discipline. Just remember, time-outs are no laughing matter. $22 at OhBabyLove.com.

Yay for YoonKids- And Another Giveaway!

What a fantastic idea! Sisters Suzie and Cindy Yoon have launched YoonKids.com, a hip and stylish wall art collection for modern kids. No run-of-the-mill hearts and daisies to be seen here, YoonKids' pieces reflect today's kids' dreams while incorporating fun graphics with clean lines. They have launched with a series of amazing girl characters ranging from a princess to a snowboarder, to a painter, to a scientist (boy characters will be available later this year). You can customize the hair, skin, and background colors you'd like and preview your piece with the click of a mouse. Each canvas piece is stretched over heavy-duty frames and finished with an ecologically friendly coating that protects against sun and water damage, ensuring YoonKids will maintain their vibrant colors for years to come. Which is handy because these pieces work equally well in a nursery, a toddler or kids' room, or even a picky 'tween's bedroom. You can even personalize this fantastic gift with a name or birthdate. Even more lovely, a portion of YoonKids profits will be donated to Reading is Fundamental (RIF) in honor of Kaitlyn Yoon who was an avid reader. Prices start at $85. Visit YoonKids.com.

WIN A YOON KIDS PRINT! YoonKids is offering one lucky MyMomShops reader a 9 x 12 print of their choice. E-mail me by 10pm on Tuesday, February 27th with "YoonKids" in the subject line, and a winner will be chosen at random. As always, your e-mail will not be shared or used in any way.

Il Cocco Di Mamma Giveaway Winners

Congratulations to Jenna K. (mother of D & A) who won the Il Cocco Di Mamma blocks, and Gia from Waldorf, MD who won the signature tee. Please check back soon for more great giveaways!

A Girl and Her Shoes

R. has one pair of dress-up shoes and they are a fought-after item at her playdates. So I think she needs a few more pairs; this set of 6 Pairs of Shoes with Tote from Lillian Vernon seems like a good deal. The set of shoes (each 7 1/8" long) includes purple "sequin" shoes with faux amethyst, pink/blue wedge sandals, purple "jeweled" slippers, white bridal shoes, and 2 others. Plus it is on sale, reduced to $14.98 from $24. Visit LillianVernon.com.

Avoid Any Confusion

I got this all the time with both my kids. I would put R. in a yellow ruffled outfit with pink trim, and people would coo, "What a handsome little boy." Now, if I dress Baby S. in any color other than blue, people say, "She's just darling." I love baby outfits that make things obvious. These Baby Sweaters at VintageLily.com are lovely additions to any baby's wardrobe and will save you some explanations. The all-cotton sweater has a natural roll neck and cuff, and is available in sizes 0-6 or 6-12 months. Priced at $37 (just $2 extra for gift wrap), this is a great baby shower or new baby gift. Go to VintageLily.com.

A Pat on the Back

The first few weeks (well, make that eight weeks) after R. was born were a little tough for me. So I really appreciated it when my husband, parents, and dear friend N. (mom of Y.) each wrote me lovely notes telling me that I was indeed doing a great job as a new mother, when I was quite sure I wasn't (I kept trying to give R. a pacifier that still had its cap on). I think lots of other new moms could probably use some reassurance too. So I was pleased to find this Doing a Good Job Mom Card at PaperMama.com. The front reads, "They don't call this 'the hardest job in the world' for nothin'", and the inside reassures, "You're amazing, You're stupendous, You DO know what you're doing. Keep it up." It costs $3 and includes a cream-colored envelope. Stock up on a few. That new mom you know would love to find one in her mailbox. Buy it at PaperMama.com.

Little Me Goes Live

I am so excited to discover that the children's clothing brand Little Me now has its own online store. Both my kids had tons of adorable layette outfits from Little Me, but it was much harder to find their toddler and kids apparel in stores (or online). There is a Little Me outlet store near my in-laws' house in Connecticut and I had been stocking up there. Now, Little Me has re-vamped its logo, image, and advertising (I love the photo and tagline above) and sells its wares at its own site. Selection is still not that extensive, but it's a great start. Check out their clothes (which I agree, are the way kids clothes *should* look!) at LittleMe.com.

Pre-Elmo Sesame

My parents bought their first color TV in 1969 so that my older sister, then an infant, would be able to watch Sesame Street when the landmark show premiered on PBS. Almost 4 decades later (yikes), I am having a blast watching Sesame Street Old School: Volume 1, 1969-1974 on DVD with my own little girl. The set of 3 DVDs is absolutely amazing and so much fun to watch, both for today's kiddies and their Gen X parents. Imagine a time when there was no Elmo. When production value was endearingly low-budget. When Oscar the Grouch was actually orange, not green (yes, in the first season). The set has terrific sketches and complete first episodes from each of the first 5 seasons. Classic sketches include "Bein' Green," "Rubber Duckie," "Here is Your Life," and guest appearances feature Bill Cosby, Lena Horne, Carol Burnett, and others. Remember the pinball number count and the baker who tumbles down stairs with cream pies? I loved those in the 70s and R. loves them now. Hearing her belt out "Two chocolate cream pies!!!" is adorable and takes me right back to my bell-bottom-clad childhood. Ah, the good 'ole days. Available for $34.99 at Amazon.com.

No More Ziplocs

Since I have spent 3 1/2 years cramming extra diapers and wipes into Ziploc bags before tossing them into various diaper bags or stroller baskets, I was very happy to learn more about Diapees and Wipees from my dear friend (and BridesmaidAid.com co-founder) E, mom of M. Diapees & Wipees are specifically designed to hold a travel pack of wipes and 2-4 diapers; if you don't want to carry a whole diaper bag, just toss these into your stroller basket or purse, and you're off. A great- and stylish- way to lighten your load when you're on the go with baby. Each one is cotton-lined, can be hand-washed, and measures 7 x 10 inches. Lots of fun patterns, too (I like "Hot Dots" shown here). I found a nice selection, and competitive prices ($16), at BabyOliverBoutique.com.

2 Little Monkeys

I usually don't pay much attention to infant/toddler shoes (maybe because my kids both have such chubby feet, none of the trendy stuff fits them). But I was really impressed with these adorable designs from Monkey Toes (especially the "wowie cowie" ones pictured at left), which I discovered at ForestAndZoe.com. They are hand-painted with non-toxic paint and can be washed by hand. Plus, they run a little big. They are available in Mary Jane ($29) or sneaker styles ($27)- both shown here- in sizes 1-10. Visit ForestAndZoe.com.

ForestAndZoe.com is offering a 10% discount to MyMomShops readers- enter code "mms10" at checkout.

Il Cocco Di Mamma- 2 Giveaways!

MyMomShops is pleased to offer 2 lucky winners terrific prizes from Il Cocco Di Mamma. This online boutique, founded by Donna Bottari, offers some real treasures.

Loosely translated, "Il Cocco Di Mamma" means "Mama's Boy", though Donna explains that it is also an Italian term of endearment meaning "the apple of my eye" and can be used for both boys and girls. The items on Donna's site have a decidedly international flair. First, the beautiful, handcrafted wooden alphabet blocks are available not just in your standard American "ABC's" (top left) but also in French, Greek, Russian, Spanish, Hebrew (shown here) & Italian. A timeless gift with a cosmopolitan twist. Price $35. Click here to see all versions of the blocks.

Second, Donna's soft signature tees feature expressions including Que Pasa?, C'est la vie!, Baci e abbracci, Ciao!, Bella, Bello, and the signature Il Cocco Di Mamma. They are all available as either long-sleeve onesies (size 6m-18m) or short-sleeve T's (size 6m-24m). Price $22. Click here to see all of the tees.

WIN THESE! Two lucky MyMomShops readers will win prizes. One will win a block set of their choosing; another will win a signature tee of their choosing. E-mail me before 10pm on Thursday, February 22nd with "Il Cocco" in the subject line and let me know if you'd like to be considered for the blocks, the T's, or both (though you can only win one). Winners will be chosen at random. Please note: we will not use or distribute your e-mail in any way.

Sunday Site News

Our next giveaway is coming up tomorrow, and there are two fantastic prizes available...so be sure to check MyMomShops again on Monday morning!

Also, I am creating a newsletter to give readers advance notice of giveaways, sales, special finds, and more. Until I get an automated newsletter set up, I will collect addresses the old-fashioned way. So if you're interested e-mail me here with "newsletter" in the subject line. You can unsubscribe at any time, and I won't use or distribute your address in any other way. I promise!

Getting Piggy With It

Happy Chinese New Year! Rumor says that babies born in the year of the pig, which starts today and lasts through February 6, 2008, may have exceptionally great wealth. Add to their good fortune with this Year of the Pig-appropriate baby gift, Baby Gear to Go, an adorable 100% cotton American Apparel bodysuit/bib set (also available as bodysuit only). The gift is packaged in a clear pint-sized takeout-style gift box. If Junior was not so lucky as to be born in the year of the pig, you can still purchase the gift featuring other animals. Bodysuits are available in sizes 3-6 months through 12-18 months; bodysuit/bib set $35, bodysuit only $24. Visit Wanart.com.

Good Doggy

Baby S. just received this terrific gift- the Djeco Choucou Wooden Pull Toy from our cousins (thanks, S & E!) Designed by artists at the Paris-based toy company Djeco, Chouchou is made of solid wood with child-friendly non-toxic paints and finish. He is pretty cute with his big blue eyes, and is a perfect companion for your toddler...or (in our case) preschooler. R. loves Chouchou so much, she has been pulling him all around the apartment (and inexplicably calling him Trashcan Doggy, when in fact he is the loveliest toy dog I have ever seen). We are hopeful that by the time Baby S. learns to walk, Chouchou will be returned to his rightful owner. Chouchou is available for $32.99 at one of my favorite European toy sites, Oompa.com.

Care for Some Tea?

I am having fun discovering which brands of boys' clothing I like (especially since I was warned that shopping for boys' clothing would be no fun- wrong!). I love Tea Collection- in fact I think I like their boys clothes even better than their girls' clothes. At BusyBodiesBoutique.com, they are having a great winter sale on Tea's boy clothes. I love this Hans Pullover Sweater with matching hat. So stylish yet classic. 100% pima cotton and machine washable; sweater is available sizes 12m-4T, reduced to $34.50 from $45; hat is available size 12-24mos or 2T-4T, reduced to $14 from $20. While you're at the site, check out other sale items by Tea Collection.

Visit BusyBodiesBoutique.com.

Put those Photos Away

Let me guess...you have lots of amazing photos of your kids, and they are either collecting dust in a box or maybe you haven't even managed to print them from your computer yet (if not, get to it!). When your prints are ready, consider these very elegant, fabric-covered Side Photo Albums from Pearhead.com. The albums have easy slide-in photo pockets and even a side photo pocket so when they are lined up on a shelf, you can see your kid's cute mug some more (which also helps identify the album). They also include pre-made labels to help you personalize your album. Very reasonably priced at just $19.95, these make a great gift too. Available in pink, blue, green or yellow at Pearhead.com.

Pearhead.com is offering a 15% discount to MyMomShops readers. Enter discount code "Peter" at checkout.

Is this seat taken?

Travelling with a tot soon? Good luck (see what happened to this poor family who made the news last month). Maybe it'll go better if your little one wears this great T-shirt from MilkBomb.com, which reads "Congratulations! You get to sit near me." It is 100% ribbed cotton and available as a onesie or T-shirt (long or short sleeves) in infant sizes through 6T. It's sure to give a chuckle to your fellow passengers. Even if Junior himself doesn't. Prices start at $20; shipping is free for a limited time. Go to MilkBomb.com.

How Old Are You Now?

Wow. I absolutely love these Birthday Sets by Liliputians NYC. They are totally unique and guaranteed to be a hit (and what a perfect solution for what your child should wear to his/her birthday party!) My kids' August birthdays are months away, but I just may buy these for their joint 4th/1st birthday party. The girls Birthday Cakes Skirt 2 Piece Set comes in long or short sleeves. The shirt (also sold separately) is 100% cotton knit with a birthday cake applique topped with appliqued number (from 1 to 6). The ruffled, comfy elastic-waist skirt is a cool retro birthday cake print. $89.95, sizes 6 months to 6T (you can pick whichever birthday number you need in each size).

For boys, there's this Birthday Monkey Business 2-piece set. The white T with large retro number applique is paired with fully reversible pants (festive sock monkey & numbers print in orange on one side and monkey stripes on blue on the other side). Machine washable cotton, $99.95, sizes 6 months to 6T (again, choose the birhtday number you need).

Get those cameras ready- these will make quite a birthday photo-op. Visit LittleBoyBlueBoutique.com.

LittleBoyBlueBoutique.com is offering MyMomShops readers a 10% discount (enter code "mymomshops") and free shipping on orders over $100.

What is a Naartjie?

A few weeks ago I discovered this terrific kids' clothing brand called Naartjie. Never heard of it? It's South African and hard to find at U.S. stores. But now you can buy it from their U.S. website, Naartjie.com. I think their stuff is similar to Boden Kids (which I love), but not quite as expensive. How adorable is this little boy's cotton applique shirt (sizes 3mos-2T, spring sale price $11.99)? I think I am going to buy it for Baby S. I'll report back. By the way, Naartjie is the South African word for a tangerine-like fruit. Visit Naartjie.com to browse their selection for boys and girls, age newborn through 9 years.

P.S. Speaking of South Africa, a huge thank-you to the wonderful Tertia of the blog So Close for running a MyMomShops ad on her extraordinarily popular site, and for giving me the correct pronunciation of "nar-chee."

Made with Heart

I saw these wooden pieces by Pastel Toys in a children's store recently and thought they were beautiful. When I found them online at CuteLittleMe.com, I learned that Pastel Toys are made in the Galilee village of Koshorit, Israel, a non-denominational assisted living community where people with mental and physical disabilities can live independently, work and study. Residents produce a wide-range of handmade, old-fashioned wooden toys and decor items- including adorable wall hooks (at left, on sale for $19.20). Proceeds from sales of these items help this special community sustain itself. No shabby gifts here, Pastel Toys have even been featured in the Pottery Barn Kids catalog. Stylish, simple finds for your little one's nursery, and a purchase you can feel good about. Wooden dinosaur toy on wheels (shown right, $25). Visit CuteLittleMe.com.

True Love

I love roses and chocolates as much as any other mom, but what really makes Valentine's Day special for me this year is the toothless gummy grin of my 6 month old baby (forgive the sappiness but, hey, it's Valentine's Day). I just bought him this board book Skidamarink! I Love You and, honestly, it is the best $5.99 I have spent on him so far. He is generally uninterested in books or toys at this age (his main interests are pureed fruits and his big sister). But when I read him this book which contains the lyrics to the classic Skidamarink song, accompanied by cute photos of real-life babies, he flipped. He was so happy he could barely contain himself. He squealed for the first time. I melted. Now that's love.

Happy Valentine's Day to all.

Buy Skidamarink! I Love You at Amazon.com.


the book at Amazon.com.

Charm-ing Gift

Picture this necklace with a photo of the most adorable kid(s) you know (that would be your own, of course). I put a photo of my two munchkins in this sterling silver necklace I bought my mom at Shutterfly.com. Granted my mom flips for literally any item featuring R & S's smiling faces, but she especially loves this gift. She wears it every day. At $49.99, it is a really special piece of jewelry for grandma (or mom) that doesn't break the bank. Shutterfly resizes your image to fit the photo area. The charm is waterproof and finished with a UV-resistant glossy coating to protect and seal the photo. Chain is 16" long with clasp closure, and your order will include a gift box and jewelry pouch. A similar sterling silver photo bracelet ($49) is also available. Go ahead, make Grandma's day. Visit Shutterfly.com.

Dreaming of the Beach

I was at a Gymboree store this past weekend and flipped for this chic cotton Eyelet Lace Swim Cover-Up. Though I think Gymboree sometimes uses too many appliques which I'm not crazy about (like on the bathing suit), this pretty 100% cotton cover-up is pure perfection. At the store, there were only 2 left (the sales associate told me it's flying off the shelves right now). So I'm buying it online for R. It's $26.50, girls' sizes 3-12 at Gymboree.com.

Better than Dora's

Thanks to the kind folks over at SleepyTimeStore.com who graciously sent me this
Steven Josephs preschool backpack. It was a real hit with R. She is tall for her age (3 1/2) and I have had trouble finding backpacks that fit her well. This one is just the right size (it measures 14" x 12" x 4') and has comfy shoulder straps. Steven Josephs makes them in lots of fantastic designs your kids will love. The backpacks feature durable, quilted construction; have drawstring and magnetic snap closures; can be personalized; and, best of all, are machine washable too! Check out the selection at SleepyTimeStore.com. Prices are $19.97 for discontinued styles or $25.97 for current ones (all are totally adorable). P.S. While you're at the site, also check out their great selection of unique baby gifts under $50; I especially love the Little Giraffe blankies.

SleepyTimeStore.com is offering a 10% discount to MyMomShops readers; just enter code "momshops10" at checkout.

Travel Well

I am always looking for new games, toys, and gear to keep R. occupied and comfortable when we are travelling. The two mom/owners of Madallie.com have hunted down lots of creative products- from books to backpacks- that do the trick. Lots of cool items on this site work well not just on the road, but also at home. Like these great travel (or snuggletime) Blabla pillows. R. has the pink "Candy Pillow" pictured and keeps it on her bed every night. The 8-inch diameter pillows are 100% cotton, handknitted in Peru, and are washable. They cost $39.95 at Madallie.com.

Madallie.com is offering a special 10% discount to MyMomShops readers on any purchase. Enter code "travel" at checkout.

Nice clothes, too

I've always liked Pottery Barn Kids, but I've been especially pleased with their new clothing line. S. has a personalized bodysuit and monogrammed one-piece (not pictured here) and they both have washed and worn really well. Plus they are cut generously. The new spring clothing is especially adorable- I love these cotton gingham outfits in pink(shown below, $42) and blue(shown left, $32). What could be sweeter for dressing Baby on those (hopefully soon) warm days? Monogramming ($6 extra) makes these an extra special personalized baby or birthday gift. And shipping is free through March 29th. Check out all the baby clothes at PotteryBarnKids.com.

Note I am still awake each morning at a very unseemly hour. Ferber says I need to push everything in S's schedule back 15 minutes (not just bedtime) to adjust things. Easier said than done when your 6-month-old is screaming like a banshee for a bottle at 4:15am in a NYC apartment building...

Monkey See, Monkey Do

Around the time S. was born, I received a thank you note for a baby gift printed on this adorable Boatman Geller monkey notecard. I copied my friend and ordered these personalized notes for S. as well. I love the simple, colorful design and the fact that the cards work well for either boys or girls. Over at AnnouncementsEtc.com, they offer a 20% discount on all Boatman Geller products (before the discount, the cards cost $48 for 25; $82 for 50). AnnouncementsEtc.com does not show the Monkey design on its site, but they will order it for you; they also have a great variety of other Boatman Geller designs on their site. Visit BoatmanGeller.com or AnnouncementsEtc.com.

Wow Wow Wall Art

I usually favor pretty traditional kids' decor (think Pottery Barn), but the modern wall art at Jeeto.com really wows me. The hand-screened silked images are stretched on museum-quality pine frames. They add lots of pizzazz to Junior's room and are very original (as much as I like those "A is for Ava" alphabet nursery paintings, they are getting kinda boring). Jeeto's designs are bold, vibrant, and appealing to kids and adults alike. Choose from pirate ships, firetrucks, bands, tools, dinosaurs, and more. The wall art is available in 2 sizes, 9 x 12 inches ($39.95) or 18 x 24 inches ($79.95). Each piece is signed by the artist. They even offer display ideas. Check out all the designs in Jeeto's Home Collection.

Trumpette Scores Again

Forget those Mary Jane socks. They are so 2006. Trumpette has scored yet again with a fabulous new product, these baby mocs in patent leather. Just starting to appear online, they are available at ArtBebe.com ($30) in jet black, pure pink, and sky blue; sizes 6-12mo, 12-18mo, and 18-24mo.

Uniformly Adorable

I love, love, love these personalized thermal tees (at left) from BlumeBaby.com. They are the brainchild of Stacey Blume, a designer who during her childhood spent spare time at her family's uniform manufacturing plant. Blume quickly envisioned how to incorporate uniform-style elements like patches into chic fashion pieces. From her West Village studio in New York, she designs personalized items for women (including thongs rumored to be popular with celebrities...) and now also for kids. The super-soft, supima cotton toddler/kids thermal tees can be personalized with any name or word up to 10 characters. Available in pink, baby blue, grey and black in sizes 2T through 14, $40. Also check out the matching baby onesies, tees, and even burpcloths (shown right, $32/set of 3). Makes a unique and sure-to-be-complimented baby gift or birthday gift. Visit BlumeBaby.com.

Receive a 20% discount off your entire order at BlumeBaby.com with coupon code "momshops".

Time to Brush

I don't know about your kids, but teeth-brushing time is a real battle in our house. R's Dora, Pooh Bear, and Sponge Bob toothbrushes have all lost their appeal. She's been there, done that. So I was intrigued when I saw this cute wooden Daisyflower Toothbrush Timer by Sevi at Moolka.com (a site featuring beautiful European toys and accessories). It has a little timer to make sure your kids brush for the right amount of time. Unlike Sponge Bob, it is a welcome addition to your nursery decor, made in Italy with high-quality design. Toothbrush is included. Available for $26 at Moolka.com.

Crazy for Camo

And now for a switch from this time of year's ubiquitous pink and red. I found a great site for boy's clothing, LittleBoyChic.com. Since "baby camo" is all the rage now (just look how often the paparazzi snaps little Kingston Rossdale- Gwen Stefani's son- wearing his Trumpette camo socks), these Camo PJ's ($30, size 12mo-4T) and Trumpette infant camo socks ($23, size 0-12mos) caught my eye. Just because it's February, doesn't mean the pink-wearing babes get to have all the fun...Visit LittleBoyChic.com. Free shipping on orders over $75 and gift wrap just $1!

LittleBoyChic.com is offering a 10% discount to MyMomShops readers. Enter code "mymomshops" at checkout.

p.s. Want the camo socks in toddler size (1-2 years?) Go to BabyBella.biz, also offering a 10% discount with the code "MyMomShops."

A-B-C, easy as 1-2-3

I am a huge fan of Amazon.com for babies' and kids' gifts. One of my favorite items are these ABC Block Books. A very versatile, nicely packged gift (it needs no gift wrap), it costs just $16.54 on Amazon (compared to $25 on high-end baby sites) and ships free with Amazon Prime (have I mentioned how much I love Amazon Prime? For just $79 a year you get unlimited free 2-day shipping on many items...perfect for last-minute gift giving, and no minimum required. It's a great value.).

Back to the board books. It is a 2-in-1 gift. The sturdy gift box is filled with 26 chunky mini-board books, each attractively illustrating words that start with A, B, C...etc. They can be stacked to form words, or to build whatever your child fancies. I discovered this gift when R. was a baby, and at age 3 1/2 she still plays with it. I have given it as a shower gift, a baby gift, and as 1st or 2nd birthday gifts. Happy Reading (and Building)!

Purchase ABC Block Books at Amazon.com.

Love-ly Toys

If you aren't already familiar with Oompa.com, go check out this wonderful site's great selection of stylish, natural European wooden toys and children's room decor. Right now they have a fun selection of Valentine's items, including this infant rattle from Haba ($9.99), heart jumpropes from Vilac ($9.99), and adorable nursery rug also from Haba ($189.99, free shipping). Go ahead, spread the love. Visit Oompa.com.

When in Rome...

Premiering at Gymboree.com today...this super outfit from the brand-new collection "Little Rome." On sale (sizes 3 months-24 months)- cardigan (now $20, will be $30), jumper (now $20, will be 30), and ballet shoe (now $10, will be $14.50). Socks $4.50, hair "fruffle" $6.50. Buy it at Gymboree.com.

Somebody Come and Play

PlaydateNYC was started by two New York City moms who met on (what else?) a playdate. The moms hand-make adorable, unique clothes for babies and toddlers, incorporating felt applique designs (ranging from names to numbers to emblems) onto the front and/or back of brightly-colored cotton separates- including short or long-sleeve T's and baseball jerseys- from American Apparel. Each item is made-to-order, making this a truly original gift and something you won't see any other kids on the playground wearing! I personally love the "Kiss Me" design for Valentine's Day, and also the NYC taxi emblem. The monogrammed baby hat is also a great gift. Prices for T's start at $20.

Now through February 14th only, enter code "MyMomShops" for a 20% discount on all items. Visit PlaydateNYC.com.

We Have a Winner!

Congratulations to Shannon V. (mother of N & J) who won the "Warning, I'm 2" T-shirt from LittleShowoffs.com. We have lots more free giveaways and coupon codes coming up soon at MyMomShops- be sure to check back!

5, 4, 3, 2, 1....

I wish I had seen these Animal Kitchen Timers from Wrapables.com before we started Ferberizing our baby S. Listening to the cries from his room would've perhaps been a bit less traumatic if I had watched these fun timers instead of the clock on our old VCR. So for the many times in your parenting years when you need to keep an eye on the time- from Ferberizing to time-outs- consider these. Available in cow, pig, or chicken; $7.95 at Wrapables.com.

They Grow So Fast

Like most new moms, I received tons of beautiful outfits for R. when she was born. She outgrew most of them quickly (at 6 months, my beautiful Rubenesque gal wore size 18-24 mos). Fortunately, I had discovered these very practical Size It Closet Organizers from the One Step Ahead catalog. The set of 5 plastic dividers come with 15 removable labels for every size from newborn through 8 years to help you arrange that overflowing closet. So you'll have an easier time making sure that each one of those precious pink or blue ensembles gets worn at least once before your baby grows even bigger (sniff, sniff). Available for $6.95 at OneStepAhead.com.

By the way, you'll note I am still keeping my (very) early hours. Baby S. is sleeping 11 hours a night, but waking at 4:15am every day. Yes, 4:15am. Time to reread Ferber.

Love That Baby

Another cute Valentine's find for Baby...this "Loved" gift set at PlainMary.com includes a soft t-shirt, bib and burpcloth. It costs $45.99 for the set and is available in infant and toddler sizes. Apparently it was also given to celebrities as a gift at the Golden Globes Style Lounge. So who knows, little Suri or Shiloh might be wearing the very same ensemble as your baby come February 14th. Visit PlainMary.com.

Truffle, anyone?

Check out this "Strawberry Truffle Classic Tote Set" in this season's must-have color combo of pink and brown (an ice-blue and brown version is also available) from mom-owned website JP Lizzy. The microfiber, easy-to-clean tote has zipper closure; coordinating changing pad, cosmetic bag & wristlet; lots of interior and exterior pockets; and measures 12"h x 6"w x 14"d. The set costs $98. As a Valentine's treat, JP Lizzy is offering 10% off all orders placed before February 14th with coupon code "YUM." Go to JPLizzy.com.

Watch me grow

When R. was a baby, I searched high and low (no pun intended) for the perfect growth chart. I wanted one that was sturdy, personalized, and also had spaces for photos. I found this one at MyBambino.com. This site has tons of well-priced personalized gifts like piggy banks, flipstools, growth charts, and picture frames. There are over 100 different designs (transportation, farm animals, ballet, flowers, etc.) with which you can personalize your item. R's growth chart looks so sweet and is a wonderful momento of her early years. The growth chart costs just $29.99 (personalization is free) and MyBambino.com is offering 15% off through February 10th. Enter coupon code Heart07 at the bottom of the shopping cart. Visit MyBambino.com.

No More Monkeys Jumping on the Bed

I first discovered designer Paul Frank's "Small Paul" kids' clothing line last year when one of R's 2-year-old pals wore their signature "Julius Monkey" tee. Now I always have my eye out for their trendy threads. Over at ModMama.com, I spotted these Julius Monkey Pink PJ's on sale (reduced from $48 to $33.60, plus free gift wrap). Little girls will go gaga over the monkey design and the comfy cotton flannel fabric. The PJ's are available in sizes 3T-6 while supplies last. Just remember what that doctor said.

Available at ModMama.com.