You Oughtta Be in Purses

Another fun photo gift idea for Grandma (or yourself)- these elegant Silk Photo Handbags from ExposuresOnline.com. They are very nice-looking (a far cry from a cheesy photo tote)- I know because I got one for Mother's Day last year. They feature your favorite photo on front and solid dupioni silk on back. Silk handles, inside snap closure, and cotton lining. Available in Black with Black & White photo, red with Rose-Washed photo, or Chocolate with Sepia photo. Measures 9 1/4" x 7"- just the right size for an evening out. And you won't have to carry a separate picture of your kid. $89 at ExposuresOnline.com.

Brown Eyed Girls

Many thanks to my dear friend R. (mom of A. and J.) for telling me about this gorgeous baby gift for a new baby girl. The designer Bon Bon Baby makes beautiful personalized girls' clothing and accessories. The classic, stylish clothing is now available up to size 4T, too. Pictured here is my favorite item- the "chocolate and angel cake" jumper (mmmmmm!)- a pure delight made with soft featherwale baby corduroy, and featuring a high waist and snap shoulder closure ($52). Bon Bon Baby also makes other personalized clothing items plus accessories like bibs and burpcloths. Check out the beautiful selection at BrownEyedBabyBoutique.com.

My Big Boy

At nearly 8 months of age, Baby S. weighs about 23 pounds and is over 30 inches tall. He is wearing 24 months or 2T clothing. A big boy, indeed. So I really love this "Big Boy" T at boys' boutique BoulevardofBlue.com. It is cotton, machine washable, and, ironically, runs one size small. But it is available from size 12-18 months to 4T. On sale for $19.50 at BoulevardofBlue.com.

BoulevardofBlue.com is offering MyMomShops readers a special 15% discount. Enter code "MOMSHOPS" at check-out.

Yes, there is a Free Lunch: MyMomShops Giveaway!

Let me introduce you to a unique site, MaharDryGoods.com, which features lovely vintage and artisan-crafted goods for kids. You'll find truly original toys like this pretend Brown Bag Lunch by Lilly Bean Play Food. This beautiful felt cuisine set (which is washable!) contains 1 brown bag, 2 slices of wheat bread, 1 slice of cheese, 1 slice of ham, 1 tomato slice, 1 lettuce leaf, 1 pickle wedge, and 1 chocolate cream cookie. The bag measures 9 1/2" x 6 1/2" x 3 1//2". Yummy! And one instance where it is perfectly fine for your kids to play with their food. $38 at MaharDryGoods.com.

Another MyMomShops giveaway! MaharDryGoods.com is offering one lucky reader a free Brown Bag Lunch (shown above). E-mail me with the subject line "Lilly Bean" by 5pm on Monday, April 2nd. One winner will be chosen at random.

Sparkly Mary Janes

I love that Mary Janes are in right now. At a neighborhood store, Lester's (a very tony shop where I usually feel underdressed), R. tried on and loved these pink sparkly Mary Janes by Naturino. They are simply the cutest- and not entirely impractical either because they are very comfy,too and slip right on. They didn't have R's size but I did find them online for $62.95 at Zappos.com. They have a great selection of other Mary Janes by Naturino, too, so take some time to browse at Zappos.com.

Baby's First Magazine

Our cousins gave R. a gift subscription to Wild Animal Baby for her 2nd birthday and she is so excited when it arrives in the mail each month (so am I). A publication of the National Wildlife Foundation, Wild Animal Baby is written for kids age 1-3 years. It has terrific animal photos, short picture stories, and fun activities. R. loves it, and I love how well each edition (softcover but sturdy) holds up- we have saved a whole collection. They also are easy to pop into a diaper bag and take out whenever your toddler/preschooler needs a distraction. At just $19.95 for a one-year (10 issue) gift subscription, this is an affordable online gift for a child's 1st, 2nd, or 3rd birthday. Kids will love it, and parents will thank you for providing something for their little ones to read each month besides Elmo and Dora board books. Read more about Wild Animal Baby here.

Salad Days

I just love this photo-inspired Verde Dinnerware from Crate & Barrel offshoot CB2.com. It's fun and fresh for spring, and at just $7.95 per dinner plate ($3.95 for salad plate and $3.95 for square bowl), it's OK if your kids accidentally break a piece. They are made of bright white porcelain and are dishwasher and microwave-safe (both absolute musts in my kitchen). Have fun eating your greens! Visit CB2.com.

My Little Hostess

Check out this Lil' Cupcake Faux Suede Mini-Dress by one of my favorite kids' designers, LiliputiansNyc.com. Too scrumptious, right? This chocolate-brown A-line dress is superbly tailored with a lined and topstitched neckline, invisible hem, and vintage white buttons up the back. And, machine washable (I will rarely recommend clothing that is not!). Indulge your sweet little girl. Sizes 6 months-8, $64.95 at LilputiansNyc.com.

Early Riser

Sadly, despite several months of sleep training, these shirts would still suit 7-month-old Baby S. to a T. He still wakes at 3 or 4am, no matter what I do to his schedule the day before (whatever you're about to suggest, I've tried it, and even Ferber can't seem to solve this one for me). I would write more on this topic, but frankly I'm too tired. But take a look at the "Open 24 Hours" design or "Eary Bird" design (both available as onesie, short sleeve T, or long-sleeve T, prices starting at $17) at fun kids' site GoGooseGo.com. You're entitled to some impulse shopping when you're this sleep-deprived, right?

The Buzz

Lots of times when surfing online for kids' products, I find something that looks truly amazing, but perhaps just too expensive (or sometimes just a bit too "out there") to post it on MyMomShops. After all, I am trying to find things that we can all actually buy! But when one of these super-posh items catches my eye, I post it instead on my "hive" at Stylehive.com. Stylehive.com is a "social bookmarking" site where intrepid shoppers/style mavens/design gurus can quickly post their online finds for others to enjoy and can copy items from someone else's "hive" onto their own. Stylehive.com tends to features items that are modern, expensive, and sometimes fairly unusual. But always fun to look at. In fact, Stylehive.com is an addiction for many online shopping fanatics like myself. Take a look at some of the other items I've discovered for moms & kids at my hive, including the pictured Crossword Wall Art by Posh Tots. At $500, it's posh indeed...but made it to Stylehive's coveted "Popular" list.

See what the buzz is all about at Stylehive.com.

Gift Tracking

When I used to have lots of free time (i.e. before I had kids), I kept track of all the gifts I gave to friends (birthdays, weddings, babies, etc.) I liked to do this so I could remember what I gave to whom and when. I kept it on an alphabetized file in my computer (geeky, I know). Of course, I don't have time to toy with Excel spreadsheets anymore. That's why I like this Little Gift Giving Book from GoodOnPaperDesign.com (a gem of a little site). It measures a teeny tiny 2.75" x 4.25", perfect for jotting down your gift lists. And makes a great gift itself, too! Just $6 at GoodOnPaperDesign.com.

More Wooden Toys

I'm realizing that when I post about toys, they're mostly wooden ones; probably because after being a mother for 3 1/2 years I am pretty fed up with plastic toys that require batteries and shriek awful repetitive music for hours on end. Anyway, I have a new favorite wooden toy site (which is also a MyMomShops affiliate)- HeirloomWoodenToys.com. I placed an order with them last week and my items literally started arriving 2 days later. I purchased a Melissa & Doug pizza party for R., some nice simple wooden rattles for Baby S., and- the item I eagerly await- this Deluxe Mini Play Cube (to find it on the site, go to HeirloomWoodenToys.com, then type "play cube" in search box). I live in a NYC apartment so this is a huge space commitment for me. But I think it will be well worth it. If the grimy fingerprints on the activity cube at our pediatrician's office are any indication, my kids (and their friends) will love it. The price is very competitive ($109.95) and shipping is free (and fast). This would be a great place to stock up on birthday party gifts. Check out all the possibilities at HeirloomWoodenToys.com.

p.s. It's arrived! A big hit with both kids. And really doesn't take up a ton of space either. Phew.

Spring Clothes- Part 4, Dress-ing on the Cheap

I have never been a snob when it comes to clothing. Well, except for when I was 13 and I was obsessed with anything Benetton (like those rugby shirts and "B" initial sweaters) or Guess (remember those ankle zip jeans?). Now, I couldn't care less about brand names. Ditto for my kids' clothing. If it's cute, I like it. If it's cheap, even better. I gladly dress my kids in clothing from (drumroll, please...) Sears, Kmart, and Tar-jay. One of my favorite items in R's wardrobe last summer was this sweet, girly Youngland seersucker dress ($10.70, sizes 2T-4T) from Kohls.com. We got many compliments on it and she even wore it for her 3rd birthday. It's available this year again at Kohls.com. Check out their selection of toddler dresses.

Let's not forget the boys. I've discovered some great, cheap (excuse me, "inexpensive") brands for my little guy too. Two of my favorites at at Macy's.com are First Impressions and Greendog. Check out these hip Greendog Baby Boy Track Jackets, size 6-24 months, just $14.98. Stylish and cheap. My favorite combo.

Sofia Bean Giveaway Winner!

Congratulations to J. (mom of C.) from New York City who is the lucky winner of a $35 Sofia Bean gift set. Thanks to everyone who entered this contest- our most popular one yet! Stay tuned for another exclusive MyMomShops giveaway this coming week...

Shopping Minds Think Alike

My new issue (April 2007) of Parents Magazine arrived in the mail yesterday and I had fun noticing that several items in the magazine were products that I have featured at MyMomShops. Like the Jeeto.com wall art (page 106) and Pottery Barn Chalk Bucket (page 142)...plus a cool educational gift that is in my "queue" of items to post about (here's a hint...it's on page 28). Check out the article on "Easy Bedroom Makeovers" for more great shopping ideas and fun websites to visit.

Bounce Into Spring

Another find from my fave store E.A.T. Gifts on Madison Avenue- these unique playground balls from CrocodileCreek.com. The bright designs are super fun- my shopping partner/daughter R. was partial to the ladybug and dinosaur ones pictured here. They cost $7.99 apiece; see all the different Crocodile Creek 7" playground balls at CrocodileCreek.com.

Baby Baskets- Part 2, Welcome Wagon

Well it isn't technically a gift basket, but a gift wagon. This "Welcome to the World" Blue Wagon Gift Set is from our affiliate Pink Taffy Designs, a great online baby boutique. The beautiful blue wagon contains lots of gorgeous layette items, and the wagon can be used well beyond the newborn phase for toy storage (I love that). The layette includes un-bearably charming cotton clothing and bath wear, like a "bear-y clean" hooded terry cloth towel, "bear-y sleepy" sleeping gown, "bear-y hungry" bib, and so on. Clothing fits newborn to 6 months and the wagon measures 16" x 11" x 8". A pink girls' version is also available. $83 at Pink Taffy Designs (click on the link, then go to the search box on the bottom left and enter the word "wagon").

Doll Jogger

Thanks to MyMomShops reader Jasmin in Hong Kong for telling me about a great toy and folk art site, The Wooden Wagon. They've got some unusual items including this eye-catching beechwood Doll Jogging Stroller imported from Germany. Perfect for today's modern kids, this doll stroller is sure to attract attention. It meaures 33.6"l x 15.75"w x 24.8"h and costs $95 (teddy bear not included). Available at The Wooden Wagon.

Hippo Hippo Hooray

I've spotted this stylish Hippo Blanket (at left) by Modern Basics at several online stores and I think it is a surefire hit for a baby shower or new baby gift. It is fleece and it also comes in pink, green or brown, with gift packaging included. Machine washable. $30.

And now Modern Basics has introduced super-cute matching little Hippo Booties (at right, $24) to its site too (also available in the other colors). Love them, love them, love them! Check them out at ModernBasics.com.

Let Them Play Cake

I have a real sweet tooth and so does my daughter. She loves real cakes and cupcakes more than anything, but pretend sweets are a close second. I think she would adore this play "Twinkle Cake" which I spotted at QuietHoursToys.com. This extravagant confection is made entirely of wool felt, and contains three "iced" tiers and 50 "fondant" decorations to keep your junior cake decorator busy for hours on end. This would make a superb birthday gift, or, for that matter, a unique (and sugar-free) activity for a group of kids at a birthday party. The Twinkle Cake ($45) measures 7" high and 8" wide, comes attached to its own cake bottom, and is packaged in a white bakery box. Feast your eyes at QuietHoursToys.com.

Sofia Bean Giveaway!

I love the baby clothing at SofiaBean.com. This is a great and affordable baby shower gift or new baby gift. The clothes (which are available in sizes up to 12 months) are made of super-soft cotton and include mix-and-match onesies, pants, blankets, hats, and bibs all embroidered with fun animal designs like baby chicks, sheep, and puppies. The designs have soft fabric backing to protect baby's skin. Also, what makes this gift especially appealing (to gift givers and new moms alike...) is the nifty, sturdy cardboard Gift Box that will double as storage for baby's nursery, well beyond the time that Junior will outgrow the clothing. Sofia Bean offers a bunch of value gift boxes starting at $29.99, making this an affordable and sure-to-be-loved baby gift.

Sofia Bean is offering one lucky MyMomShops reader a Value Box with onesie, pants, and newborn hat (your choice of color/design), valued at $35. E-mail me by 12 noon on Friday, March 23rd with "Sofia Bean" in the subject line. Winner will be chosen at random.

Sweet Tea

Oh my goodness, how sweet is this Tea Collection Pointelle Layette Set at ComfiCozi.com? It oozes cuteness. Made from the softest pima cotton, this luxurious set features a beautiful pointelle pattern inspired by European fabrics. There are ruffles along the sleeves and waist, and three rows of matching ruffles on the "tush" too. Not only is this outfit gorgeous, it is machine washable, too! Sizes up to 12 months, $88 for the set at ComfiCozi.com.

Flip for This

Oh boy do I looooove this idea. At FlipClips.com, you can turn your digital video clips into paper "flipclip" books (just like the ones you loved when you were little). Come on, you know you don't know what else to do with those video clips of your kids. Personally, every time I try to e-mail clips of R & S to the grandparents, they write back that they can't open the file. So maybe this is better. What a great little momento, too (and one that won't get lost on your hard drive). Give them as a gift, or pop one into your pocketbook (how much cooler would it be to show off this instead of wallet size pix of your kids?). They start at just $5.99 per book (various sizes and styles available) and the site walks you through the whole process. Give it a whirl at FlipClips.com.

We are Family

With apologies for putting this song in your head for the rest of the day, I want to show you this fun personalized We are Family notecard set. The embossed folded note has one line of personalization for the family name and up to six family member names. Available in blue, ivory, pink or white, 50 notes with unprinted envelopes for $46.95 at NoteworthyNotes.com.

Whale Watching

Check out all the gorgeous goodies at online boutique Polka Dot Whale. The owners, Elton & Natalie, have a great eye for unique baby gifts. I personally adore this "Cowabunga" Surf 3-piece Bundle ($38, shown at left). It includes a machine-washable lined bib and burpie plus coordinating "Binker" grosgrain ribbon pacifier clip. I love the cow design- it works great for either boys or girls. Another fun gift is the Showtime Film Can Layette Gift Set ($59, shown at right), which reportedly was a baby gift received by Suri Cruise. The set contains a cotton knit baby lap tee, two snapsuits, and one baby cap, all printed with vintage movie theme graphics and packaged in an authentic film reel can. Great gift for movie buff parents.

An extra nice fact about Polka Dot Whale. Every purchase made supports Project Cuddle, a non-profit, non-denominational organization which provides expectant mothers in crisis with safe and legal alternatives to abandoning their babies, coordinating efforts with attorneys, hospitals, obstetricians, social workers & adoptive families.

Check out all the treats at Polka Dot Whale.

ALSO: Polka Dot Whale is offering MyMomShops readers a 15% discount on all purchases through March 31st. Enter code "mymomshops" at checkout.

Swingers and Players

Just in time for playground season...check out these "Swinger" and "Player" baby lap Ts from hipster baby site Babesta.com. The designs are printed on comfy American Apparel Ts; Swinger shirt is lavender and Player shirt is grey. Both in sizes up to 24 months, $20 at Babesta.com.

Inconvenient Truth

My husband and I watched "An Inconvenient Truth" on DVD last night and I feel compelled to post about it today. It is an incredible film. Please, if you have not already seen it, do so ASAP. I guarantee it will move you. Perhaps even more if you have kids. Please do two more things. 1) Take a moment to visit ClimateCrisis.net to see what you can do about global warming right now. 2) Sign a card which Al Gore will deliver to your representative in Washington to encourage them to act fast (thanks to my friend R., mom of O. and N. for bringing this link to my attention).

Do it for your kids.

Still Free to Be

I can still remember when my mom played the "Free to Be...You and Me" record for my sister and me in our Brooklyn apartment in the mid-1970's. Marlo Thomas's award-winning album of songs, skits & comedy has become a cult classic, with Gen X'ers including myself reciting its lyrics by heart (remember "A Doll, A Doll, William Wants a Doll")? We loved its messages about growing up back then, and I love it even more now that it is available on DVD ($19.99). Featuring celebrity voice-overs and appearances by everyone from Alan Alda to Mel Brooks to Michael Jackson (who sings "When We Grow Up"- a song about how you "don't have to change at all"- yeah, right), "Free to Be..." imparts gentle but valuable lessons about growing up and supporting equal rights for boys and girls. I played this DVD for R. when she was just a year old and she was mesmerized by it. She still loves it, even as Pinky Dinky Doo and Wonder Pets compete for her attention. Ah, the classics never go out of style. "Free to Be..." makes a great birthday gift that parent and child alike will both love. Go to Amazon.com.

Happy Birthday To You

I love birthdays. Mine happens to be especially great because it's on Halloween. But now I love my kids' birthdays even more. I've saved tons of photos, birthday cards, gift lists, and other keepsakes from each of R's 3 birthdays so far and I plan to do the same for Baby S. So I was really excited to find Happy Birthday to Me! A Keepsake Album of Celebrations at ChronicleBooks.com. This nifty hardcover keepsake journal makes it easy for you to keep records of your child's birthday celebrations year by year. There are fun (not tedious) sections to fill out, and 12 roomy pockets that can hold invitations, photos, and other keepsakes. At $16.95, it's a sure bet for a birthday gift or even a new baby gift (and, of course, for your own little ones). Think how much nicer all those birthday memories will look in this album than thrown into some old shoebox. Visit ChronicleBooks.com.

Hang 'Em Up

Need to get stuff off your kids' floors? Make tidying more fun with these cute Animal Shape Wall Hooks from one of my favorite sites, Wrapables.com. They cost $7.95 per pair (cow, frog, or pig) and have 1" diameter suction cups for easy installation (and you can move them around whenever and wherever you want). Visit Wrapables.com.

Cool Dude

Would you believe my son wore these Vans slip-on sneakers when he was just 4 weeks old? They were a gift from his Daddy and they looked pretty friggin cool on Baby S's tiny little feet. I am going to order him another pair for this summer. He'll fit right in with the surfers. They are available at GarnetHill.com in black/white or red/white checkerboard, boys sizes up to 3, $30. Visit GarnetHill.com.

Dottilicious

Now that R's twin bed has no more ugly side-rails, I decided to treat her (well, me) to the new Katie Bedding from Pottery Barn Kids. We got the sheet set, duvet cover (reverses from white to pink background) and sham...and I splurged and got them personalized too. It looks too cute- the first time R. saw her newly-made bed, she said, "Hey, lookat my dotty bed!!" It's a winner, for sure. Twin sheet sets are $49. Visit PotteryBarnKids.com.

Sweet Stationery

I stumbled on this great indie stationery website, SugarLily.net and fell in love with the Octopus Boxed Card Set. It comes with 6 cut-out cards, each with a different greeting ('thank you', 'oh baby!', 'hello', 'need a hug?', 'bride and groom' and 'happy birthday'). The set is printed on high quality linen card stock and comes with matching envelopes, packed in a clear plastic box. $12 for the set. Check out designer Brenna Giannini's other terrific boxed sets (I particularly like "sugar sampler" and "awesome 80's") at SugarLily.net.

Enter "MyMomShops" in the instructions at check-out and you'll receive a free SugarLily.net greeting card and button.

Happy Bub

I just received a really cute "Happy Bub" baby tee from mom-run business BubLove.com. Owner Kim Ballesteros started making tees for her son Lyle ("the bub") and got so many compliments that she was inspired to start her own line of fun and funky "bub" tees- ranging from Happy Bub to Cranky Bub to Rockabilly Bub. Baby S's super-soft cotton "Happy Bub" lap tee is banana yellow with chocolate brown print and was packaged in a totally adorable way with cellophane wrap, ribbon, and confetti. At just $13, BubLove's baby tees make a very affordable and sure-to-be-worn baby shower gift or new baby gift. Several designs come in toddler and kid sizes, too. See all of Kim's designs at BubLove.com.

Breakfast is Served

I don't cook, but I know good play food when I see it. Like this breakfast menu by Plan Toys, available at Oompa.com (a favorite site for beautiful European toys). This wooden set packs a hearty breakfast, including bread, cheese, roll, eggs, sausage, and bacon, all neatly presented on a serving tray (with salt & pepper shakers, of course). At $17.95, this is a great deal and much better quality than some of the cheap breakfast playsets you'll find (like the ones with squishy cardboard cereal boxes). Visit Oompa.com.

Don't Forget

I am curious whether men or women will find this item more useful (I'll keep my opinion to myself) but nevertheless I think this "Doorganizer" at WishingFish.com is a fantastic idea. Make sure you (or your significant other) won't forget keys, cell phone, Blackberry, etc. on your/his/her way out the door. Available in black or red; $15 at WishingFish.com.

Spring Clothes- Part 3, Mad for Madras

Madras clothing is another hot trend for kids this spring. I bought S. these pants and R. this dress at Babystyle.com yesterday and they are already selling out of certain sizes. Baby Boy Pants ($32, up to 24 months) and Madras Girls' Dress ($38, up to 5T) at Babystyle.com.


Gymboree.com has also unveiled a new summer line called "Island Getaway" which includes lots of madras items. I am a big fan of Gymboree dresses and I love this smocked madras dress ($32.50, size 6mo-5T). For boys, there's these adorable madras cargo shorts ($22.50, size 6mo-5T)

These items will probably go fast, fast, fast...you'd be mad not to snap them up now. Happy Shopping!

Mary Janes Redux

I love these Neo Mary Janes at ModMama.com (a site which is quickly becoming one of my favorites). A fresh fuschia, orange, and yellow take on the classic for little girls, this shoe has a groovy 70s feel while still looking great with today's clothes. Velcro closure, sizes 3-8, $38 at ModMama.com.

Chalk Therapy

Right now chalk is the new black (literally) in kids' decor. It's fun, modern, and - if you're indecisive like me- allows you to change your mind whenever. Here are some chalk decor items for your kids (or yourself). There are plenty more out there which I'll feature at a later date. If you've spotted other good chalk decor items, let me know!


This handy black chalk bucket from PotteryBarnKids.com makes storing toys and art supplies a snap. Durable, erasable surface lets kids label their contents. Large ($20), 11" diam., 10" h., Mini ($24 for set of 6), 4" diam., 4.5" h.

Hip design site ModernSeed.com features this Chalker Table by designer Eric Pfeiffer. The chalk surface flows to the ground so kids can draw everywhere on this table. The curved surface of the table makes playtime extra fun, too. Dimensions: 20"D 19"W 18"H. $125.

Take your chalk on the road. Madallie.com,
a MyMomShops affiliate which sells great toys, games and crafts to help kids stay busy (and parents sane) during travel, offers this Oil Cloth Chalk Mat for $12.95. It measures 17 x 12 and rolls up to tie closed; perfect for your wee artist to take in the car, train, or plane. Includes 2 pieces of chalk and terry cloth wipe. Go to Madallie.com, then click on "Crazy Art" on the left.


I've already sung the praises of the removable/reusable wall decor by WallCandyArts.com, and now they've gone even more creative with these Large Chalk Dots. Let your kids draw a picture, play hangman, or jot you a note (or *you* remind them not to forget their lunch) on the wall. Group them together or separately; erase and rearrange whenever the mood strikes you. Perfect for the commitment-phobic home decorator. Set of 4, each measuring 18.5" diameter, $56 at ModernSeed.com.

Like what you see? Chalk it up to your good taste.

Politico Baby

Regardless of your political leanings, you have to admit this "Obama, Bama Bo-Bama" tee from Lowercasetees.com is pretty funny. This is the great site that brought you the "Mommy wants a New President" T-shirt last year. The Obama shirt is $17 and available in toddler and kids sizes. Go ahead, make a statement!

Trikes for Tikes

I think this Tricycle Canvas at HipAndLittle.com is a scene-stealer. It's a perfect wall print for a modern little guy's room. The sky blue and fire engine red graphics are classics that match any decor, and the personalization adds a special touch. Available in two sizes, 12" x 12" ($75) or 24" x 18" ($125). Check it out at HipAndLittle.com.

P.S. Baby S. gave me false hope yesterday by sleeping till 5am. If he had done that today, it would've become 6am with the time change. As you can see, no such luck!

Book It

No time to print out your photos and put them in albums? No problem. Go the easy yet stylish route with Shutterfly.com's Photo Books. As a valued (read: obsessed) customer of Shutterfly, I was offered a free one, so I made one documenting Baby S's arrival and first week at home. I used the blue and green striped design shown here, and it turned out great (it was also super easy to put together on Shutterfly's site). A tip: alternate color and black-and-white photos, and let them bleed to the edge of the pages for dramatic effect.

Go ahead- with the few clicks of a mouse, you'll have an album that lasts forever. And photos that don't just sit on your hard drive. $29.99 for a cloth-covered 20 page book. Visit Shutterfly.com.

p.s. Thanks to my friend S. (mom of R. and H.) for a great idea- using photos that new parents e-mail to you, you can make a photo book for them to show off their newest arrival. It makes a great baby gift and they will be grateful that someone else has done the work of putting their baby's 1st album together!

Gifted Grasshopper Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Maresi, mom of Henry (age 2 1/2) from Florida, who won a gift set from TheGiftedGrasshopper.com! Stay tuned for more MyMomShops giveaways coming soon.

Hop on the Bus

I don't write many posts about toys because, frankly, I am not impressed with a lot of them (and neither, apparently, is my daughter who usually abandons a new toy after a week or two). But this Safari Animal Sorting Bus has real staying power in our household. It's a wooden bus with moving wheels, and contains 23 animals from A-Z (with a few exceptions) including a little Noah himself. It's a hands-on way to learn animals, match shapes and even spell. R. now recognizes animals I've never even heard of, and she expertly sorts all the shapes. She's had this toy for over a year and she still plays with it almost every day. The bus measures 18"L x 8"W x 8"H, is made of wood and non-toxic paint, and makes a great birthday gift, too. It costs $39.95 at SensationalBeginnings.com (which, by the way, is a great site for birthday gifts and offers free gift wrap with most online orders).

Baby Baskets- Part 1

I am always in pursuit of great baby gift baskets that don't cost a fortune. Most either are super expensive or super-cheesy (you know, the ones filled with junk like pink plastic baby bottles). But after much searching, I've found several that are juuuuust right- they are attractive, well-priced, and have items that Mom and Baby will really love. The first one I'll share with you is "A Bucket Full of Baby Stuff" from CornerStorkBabyGifts.com ($49.99). It's an adorable (and wearable) hat filled with a 100% cotton short-sleeve personalized onesie and 2 burp cloths. Choose your own personalization, font color, thread color, and hat color. An adorable girl's version is available here. Check out the entire selection of baby gift baskets at CornerStorkBabyGifts.com.

I'm posting this at 3:50 AM and I have already been up for ONE HOUR while Baby S. screams. His teeth already surfaced and he is more comfortable on that front- so that's not why. He is clean, changed, and fed (my bad for allowing a 3am bottle again, but I'm desperate for sleep). Looks like I'm headed back to Ferber Land!

Messenger This

If your little girl means business when she's toting her stuff around, she'll enjoy this stylish Girl's Messenger Bag from RedEnvelope.com. Designed for girls ages 3-7, this yellow and pink-plaid, over-the-shoulder messenger bag comfortably carries all of her trinkets and treasures. It measures 6 1/2" x 2" x 5 1/4"; is machine washable; and may be embroidered with up to 15 characters. $24 at RedEnvelope.com.

Fashion Plates

I love clever, retro-themed decor items for kids (or moms). This set of four Fashion Plates is from a terrific site called WishingFish.com (if you like unusual gift sites like UncommonGoods.com, you'll like this site, too). These are attractive yet heavy-duty melamine plates produced in limited quantities by the same company that makes them for the US military. They arrive packaged in a pretty acrylic display box. Made in the USA. Plates measure 10" in diameter and are dishwasher safe. Use them for your next girls' night in. $40 at WishingFish.com.

Pure Sweetness

This outfit is the absolute cutest. If I had to buy a clothing gift for a new baby girl right now, I might choose this Polka-Dot Kimono Set at BebeInternational.net. It's made of supersoft 100% cotton interlock with delicious pink satin trim, chic polka dots, and snap side closure. At just $29.95, this makes a perfect shower or new baby gift. Visit BebeInternational.net.

Spring Clothes- Part 2, Like Sister, Like Brother

Believe it or not, there are some trendy brother/sister outfits to be found online. This is one of my favorites, from a site called CWDKids.com (they also have outfits for big sis/little sis, mom/daughter, you get the picture...you have to dig a bit but there is some good stuff there). This Charlie Rocket Hibiscus print halter dress ($38, 2T-14) ties at the neck and waist and the matching elastic waist cargo shorts ($34, 2T-14) have a mesh liner and side pocket (coordinating hibiscus border tie-dye tee also available). Machine washable. Visit CWDKids.com.

p.s. It's two hours after I first posted this and I just got my CWDKids spring catalog in the mail- the cover photo is these Charlie Rocket outfits. Snap them up fast!

I See Animals

How great is this Lilo Mirror Set from WellDressedHome.com? It would make a stylish and fun addition to a kids' bedroom, bathroom, or playroom. Featuring a friendly lion, giraffe, monkey and hippo, the set consists of four square mirrors, each 8" tall, 8" wide. $44 for the set. Visit WellDressedHome.com (if you're into funky home decor, this is a really terrific site for online browsing, by the way).

p.s. Note I am posting again earlier than 4am. Baby S. is teething and the last two nights have been...not great. Even still, he is the sweetest little boy. And 7 months old today (sniff, sniff). It is going too fast.

Two Tinas Baby Blankets

I looove these monogrammed stroller blankets by Two Tinas, available at LunaBebe.com. The designs are so fun and make the blanket last well beyond baby's newborn days (I've seen toddlers and even preschoolers using these as stroller blankets). My favorite pattern is the dotted "Light Bright" (shown at left)- it reverses to an ultra yellow plush fabric. All Two Tinas blankets are custom monogrammed with baby's initial so expect delivery to take a couple of weeks. Blanket size is approximately 29"x29". Machine wash delicate tumble dry. Available for $48 at LunaBebe.com.

MyMomShops readers get a 15% discount at LunaBebe.com with code "baby shop."

Spring Clothes- Part 1, The Hanna Dress

Oooh, I love looking at new spring clothes for my kids. I'll highlight one or two at a time in these posts.

First one up is actually an old favorite in our house. If you receive the Hanna Andersson catalog in the mail, you've probably read the customer testimonials about the It's a Playdress, It's a Daydress. Before I ever bought one for R. I was skeptical about why all these mothers were writing in to rave about some striped cotton dress. And why did it cost $34? But two years later, I'm sold. R. has two of them- one short-sleeved, one long- and she enthusiastically refers to both as "My Stripes." As in, "I wanna wear My Stripes again!" Seriously, she wears these dresses several times each week. They wash really well, never lose their colors, are super-comfy, easy to take on and off (in fact they were the first outfit R. could both put on and remove herself), and, best of all, my daughter loves them.

For Spring 2007 they have lots of bright colors as well as some new patterns (including the dotted dress shown above). $34, in baby through big girl sizes (they run wide but average length- I buy one size up since R. prefers them without leggings).

Visit Hanna Andersson.com.

Roll With It

I am seriously addicted to monogrammed clothing for my kids. These luxurious 100% cotton Girl's and Boy's Roll Neck Sweaters from our affiliate GoToBaby.com are winners (and make great gifts, too). You can personalize with one single letter, a monogram, or a name up to 6 letters; there are several font choices and thread colors available. Sweaters available in pink, navy, or natural; sizes 0-12 months, 2T and 3T. Best of all, they're on sale, reduced to $49.95 from $68 (you won't find better deals on monogrammed rollneck sweaters...and you know I've looked). Visit GoToBaby.com.

Gifted Grasshopper Giveaway!

Jen Nowack and Laura Greenstein know a thing or two about children's books. The New Jersey moms and founders of The Gifted Grasshopper are former 1st grade teachers. They know which books kids love. They also know how hard it is for parents to sift through the many offerings available at bookstores or online. The Gifted Grasshopper takes the guesswork out of (and puts fun back into) giving children's books as gifts. Gift sets (which range in price, starting at $16.99) are categorized by age and also by theme. In addition to terrific, carefully chosen books, your canvas tote gift set will include fun trimmings like special grasshopper reading glasses and bookmarks with tips for parents on reading to your child (other add-ons like plush animals are also available). Jen and Laura will also make mini-versions of their gift totes as party favors, with themes of your choice. Check out all the offerings at The Gifted Grasshopper.

One lucky MyMomShops reader will receive a free Gifted Grasshopper Gift Set, including 2 soft covered books, a party sized tote, grasshopper puppet, grasshopper eyeglasses and bookmark. The winner can select the age group they'd like. $24.99 value. E-mail me by noon on Thursday, March 8th with "Gifted Grasshopper" in the subject line. Winner will be chosen at random.

Baby Gift Bags

I am often at a loss for how to present gifts that I bring in person to a new mom and baby. Next time I might pop the gift into one of these cool felt Baby Bags by SpoonSisters.com. I love the simple design and I think a new mom could find many uses for them down the road (like toting her gazillion thank-you notes to the mailbox). They measure 10”W x 11 ½”H, are available in pink or blue, and cost $9.95 apiece. Check them out at SpoonSisters.com.

In My Life

"Bedtime with the Beatles" is my absolute favorite music to listen to with Baby S. Be forewarned, you may even tear up a little while listening to these beautiful instrumental versions of classic Beatles tunes like "If I Fell," "In My Life," and "The Long & Winding Road" while snuggling your little one. This CD is soothing to both baby and parent (even those skeptics who doubt how good instrumental versions of the Beatles can be). Check out the many glowing reviews at Amazon.com where you can buy it for $13.99 (with pink or blue cover). It makes a great baby shower or new baby gift, too.

Pass the Popcorn

Another great find from my favorite store E.A.T. Gifts on Madison Avenue, these generously-sized (10" diameter) photo bowls are lined with fun, vivid photographs of your favorite snackfoods (choose chips, grapes, popcorn or fruit). Destined to be a hit at your next gathering- whether cocktail party or playgroup. They are melamine and should be hand-washed. $24 at Chiasso.com.

Read the Instructions

Have you seen these very funny onesies from WryBaby.com? I found them during my 2nd pregnancy and my husband liked them so much that I bought one for him (well, for the still-in-utero baby) last Father's Day. They are hysterical send-ups of those 1950s type instructional manuals, this time applied to baby-care tasks. We have the "Playing With Baby" one but I also find the "Calming Baby" and "Lifting Baby" ones especially laugh-out-loud funny. The onesies are available in sizes 0-6 mos or 6-12 months (cut a bit generously in my opinion, which is rare for printed onesies), cost $24, and come in a cute gift bag. Guaranteed to make parents smile. Visit WryBaby.com.

Carry-Out

I just got the Spring 2007 Growing Up Garnet Hill catalog and boy, do I have a lot of pages dog-eared. I have always loved their kids' clothing, bedding and accessories, though they tend to be a bit pricey. But how cute does this Wacky Wooden Carryall look? You could use it to store art supplies, books, toys, or just about anything else. It is hand-painted, has removable dividers and a chalkboard nameplate (I think chalkboard items are the next trend in kids' decor, by the way...more on that another time). Made from recycled wood. Chalk included. Available in Blue Stripes or Chocolate Dots, 10"H x 16 1/4W x 6 1/4" deep, $48 at GarnetHill.com.

Mom's Very Own Handbag

I am not sure I can remember the last time I bought a bag for myself that was not a diaper bag. Pretty sad, I know. But I might get myself one for the spring. You know, for all those frequent times I am out and about in New York City doing fun things like lunching with friends, visiting museums, and strolling Soho without my kids in tow. Ha ha. Well, I can dream. I love this argyle pattern "Diana Purse" by JP Lizzy. It made of wipeable microfiber, has magnetic closure and metal feet, and measures a dainty 7"h x 9"w x 5"d (no emergency kids' clothes stuffed into *this* bag!) Available for $42 at JPLizzy.com (check out their other cute designs too).

Through March 15th, JPLizzy.com is offering MyMomShops readers a 10% discount on all merchandise. Enter code "mom" at checkout.