Garnet Hill Gems

My magazine pile is overflowing with back-to-school catalogs right now, including one of my faves, Garnet Hill Kids. Here are 2 items I love this season:

Corduroy Pants (on sale for $22 through September 2nd; normally $29, sizes 2T-6). Isn't the colorblock one adorable? And you could match it with so many tops.


Morgan + Milo Flame Sneaker (sizes Toddler 5 through Kids 2, $40). A rare example where I think the boys' version is better than the girls'!

Hurry and check out more Back-to-School Savings valid through September 2nd at Garnet Hill Kids.

Luggage In Love

I meant to post these a few days ago, when my parents celebrated their 42nd wedding anniversary (congratulations, Grandma & Grandpa!) This Mr. and Mrs. Luggage Tag Set designed by Hollywood wedding planner extraordinaire Mindy Weiss will help any couple's luggage (newlywed or not) stand out in the crowd. Made of faux leather with a clear plastic window, these are an adorable (and affordable) engagement, bridal shower, or anniversary gift, or just a treat for you and your hubby. The set of two costs $25 at See Jane Work.

p.s. For my parents' anniversary, the kids and I actually made them a lovely Martha Stewart Pocket Photo Book from Kodak Gallery, which start at $10.99. They loved it, loved it, loved it. Highly recommend as a grandparent gift!

Gucci Goo

When I stumbled onto this Gucci Goo onesie, I smiled because I remember my cousin Julie wearing a similar version when she was a baby (and she is now a mother of 3 boys!) Decades later, the pun holds up. The onesie or lap tee costs $30 at Deadly Girl Couture.

The Waterfalls

Last weekend I took a 30-minute cruise around New York Harbor to see artist Olafur Eliasson's "The Waterfalls" up close. They were pretty impressive. And, as always, I was amazed by the view of my fair city (when you actually live in NYC, it is very easy to forget you live on an island with an incredible skyline). The weather was perfect and so were the views. I was one of about, oh, 10 people on board who did not have a Midwestern, Southern, or foreign accent. But, even though I have lived in Manhattan for 14 years, I think I was as awestruck as any tourist. Here are some of my photos (Top to bottom: Brooklyn Bridge, a waterfall at Governor's Island, a view of the downtown waterfront, and Manhattan Bridge). Read more about "The Waterfalls" here.

Lands End MultiTask Backpack Winner

Congratulations to Terri Fisher who wrote, "I, too, love Lands End! Their bags last forever!" Terri, please e-mail me your name, address, and color choice to claim your prize.

Everyone else, stay tuned for a major stationery giveaway right after Labor Day weekend- Tuesday, September 2nd!

Fall for Camo

Camo and orange...two of my favorite trends for Fall! I'm considering this LL Bean reversible down jacket for S. It's two fun looks (and something different from the usual blue) for the price of one; $59 in little boys' and boys' sizes at LL Bean.

Hare and Now

My 5-year-old daughter slept with the same 2 lovies (named "Blankie" and "Hockie") from 6 months of age until 1 month ago. That's when this light blue Bunny "Friend" from Serena & Lily arrived in our home and R. gave up all prior allegiance to "Blankie" and "Hockie", her beloved bunkmates since 2004. She tossed them aside, and hugged "Bunny" tight as if she were greeting a long-lost soulmate. She has slept with Bunny ever since. The old lovies are being stored for safekeeping, a reminder of her baby, toddler, and preschool years, as Bunny ushers her into kindergarten, and what I hope will be restful schoolnights for years to come!

Each of Serena & Lily's hand-embroidered "friends" is made with soft corduroy and fabric appliques; choose Bunny, Lamb, or Bear for $48 at Serena & Lily.

Swingers

Swing sweaters are definitely in this Fall; I have been spotting them in every catalogue and store where I shop for my kids' autumn wardrobes. Here are some of my favorites:

Jean Bourget Babydoll Sweater at JuvieShop ($78, sizes 6-14)


Suri Merino Swing Coat at the Etsy.com storefront of Diamonds & Purls (size 9-12mos, $35)


Two-Button Swing Cardigan by Baby Gap (12-18mos to 5 years, $26.50)


Cable Swing Cardigan by Boden Kids (12-18mos through 13-14 years, $54)

Kid in a Candy Store

As a birthday treat recently, I took R. to visit Dylan's Candy Bar, the fabulous, over-the-top Manhattan candy emporium launched by Ralph Lauren's daughter Dylan. R. had a great time, natch, and I enjoyed the well-designed product displays (and the candy-themed music they played throughout the store). Here are some pictures. Check out the Dylan's Candy Bar website, by the way; they sell some seriously sweet gifts. The gift baskets are heavenly.

R. wanted to buy the ginormous candy bar in this display:


Dylan's has the best selection of "nostalgia candy"- remember Pixie Stix and Fun Dip?


Can you even look at this display without thinking of the movie with Gene Wilder?


Here in NY, even the candy shops are politicized...(though I, a loyal Democrat, somehow photographed the wrong side of the display!)

MyMomShops Giveaway: Lands End MultiTask Backpack

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

I can't believe that school is just around the corner- R. starts kindergarten next week! She plans is to "borrow" her little brother's Elmo backpack (let's see what how that goes...), but I know that soon enough she will need a "real" backpack to tote to and from school. This Fall, Lands End introduces its new MultiTask Backpack which has tons of cool features today's kids need, such as: a stash panel for a jacket, sports gear or bike helmet; a separate bottom chamber for shoes; 360 degree reflective trim for safety; mesh side pockets to hold water bottles; a D-ring clip to attach extras like a lunch box; and, last, but far from least for today's kids, a pouch for their MP3/CD player (and to think I went to elementary school with a plain old Holly Hobbie bookbag!) The backpack is available in 6 colors (I'm partial to the purple) and can be monogrammed for an extra $5. It is currently on sale for $34.50 (was $39.50) at Lands End.

Mom's New Dress

I just bought this T-shirt dress from my go-to clothing store for myself, Ann Taylor Loft. It is stylish, comfortable (it honestly feels like wearing a favorite T-shirt) and reasonable ($69, and I used a coupon for a further discount). Check it out at Ann Taylor Loft.

Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous

Any other Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood fans out there? I loved watching Tori & family settle into their new home this season. I think she has a great, daring sense of style that (usually) works. Check out these before and after pix of the McDermotts' new digs. I'm not so taken with how she decorated the dining room and living room, but I love love love the master bedroom and little Liam's room. In fact, since I would love to re-do my bedroom like Tori and Dean's someday, I've found some similar pieces that will make any home look 90210 zipcode-worthy.

First, Tori and Dean's light blue and beige bedroom. Just magnificent. I love the antique-y mirrored furniture and the upholstered headboard (remember how she spent hours poring over fabric books?)




You, too, can achieve the Hollywood royalty effect with pieces like these:

Camden Custom Upholstered Tufted Headboard by Ballard Designs ($329-$589):


Simply Shabby Chic Smocked Duvet Set by Target ($69.99-$89.99):


Mimi Antiqued Mirrored Chest by Crate & Barrel ($899):


Antique White Cradle by Rosenberry Rooms ($390):


And I love Liam's bedroom (I'm less crazy about Stella's bright pink "beaudoir" which you can see here). Tori did a great job of integrating the "monkey" theme (her nickname for Liam) without going over the top. And, of course I love the modern furniture and the blue/brown combo.


Create a nursery for your own "Monkey" with these:

Personalized Monkey Blanket by Admiral Road ($59):


Monogrammed Lampshade by Crayon Castles ($85):


Oeuf Classic Mini Library at Design Public ($620-$650):


Giant 48" Sock Monkey by SockMonkey.com ($75):


What do you think? Do you like Tori's decorating taste?

Groovy New Year

If you send out Jewish New Year cards (Rosh Hashanah is sooner than you think- September 30th!), check out the lovely new cards by Robyn Miller Designs, available at Groovy Paper (the site where I bought S's birth announcements, by the way, which I'll post another time). They cost about $155 for 50 cards at Groovy Paper.

Order either of the two designs above from Groovy Paper and receive a free set of 18 apple-themed address labels also designed by Robyn Miller Designs. Enter code "JNYRMD"; offer valid through midnight August 31, 2008.

Basic Baby Blanket

Need a quick, easy baby gift? Consider these Katie Little Double-Sided Blankets by KidsLine. They make a stylish yet practical (and affordable) baby gift. The reversible blankets are thick, plush, and machine washable. I love the colors- the brown/orange combo would be perfect for a Fall baby. They measure 30" x 40" so baby can use them in the crib, stroller, car, or even as a playmat. R. received a blanket like this as a baby gift and we used it almost every day. Scoop one up for just $19.99 at Buy Buy Baby.

Good Night, John Boy

While I was on vacation a few weeks ago, the John Edwards affair/love child scandal broke. As you know I was a John Edwards supporter during primary season and, boy, am I upset about this. Why do these men risk it all? Are they really that dumb? Well, the whole affair (literally) reminded me of this "Edwards, Baby" tee from Baby Wit that I posted about back in January. Quite a double entrende now, isn't it? Look for more political baby clothes at Baby Wit.com.

I Love Lilly

Given that retailer Lillian Vernon filed for bankruptcy earlier this year, I am surprised (and glad) to see that, as of now, they are still in business. I often shop from their kids' division for cute, very reasonably priced toys, accessories, and personalized gifts. These are just a few of the "Lilly's Kids" items that have been mega-popular in our household over the past few years. Catch 'em before the company shuts down!

Plush Puppies with Doghouse (normally $29.98, currently on sale for $19.98). R. got this 3 years ago, and though we lost the house and the dalmation somehow, the other puppies (which she, inexplicably, named "Bumpy," "Sick," and "Black,") still are among her favorite stuffed animals.


Trucks Pencil Case with Pencils ($9.98). My friend Stacey gave these as a party favor and they were a hit. And you can't beat the price for a personalized gifts. Many designs available.


24-piece Disney Dress-up Trunk ($32.98). Caveat: the trunk itself is pretty flimsy (you'll need another container after a short time), but the dress-up clothes will get used over and over; they have been worn at playdates at our apartment for years now.


Reversible Sports Nap Pad ($24.98). We started using these when R. went to camp and it's become a staple. Many designs available and personalization, as always, is free at Lillian Vernon.

Charlie Rocket

S. received this nifty City Bike shirt by Charlie Rocket as a 2nd birthday gift (thanks, Caryn and Dylan!). Charlie Rocket, if you're not familiar with the brand, is an L.A.-based company that makes fun boys tees in durable, beefy cotton. I love the fall colors (and city theme, of course) of this one. It's available in sizes 2T through 10 for $32.95 at TuttiBella.com; while you're there browse all the other Charlie Rocket clothes for boys.

Mommy's Rings

Many readers have asked whether I buy everything I post about. I wish! In "real life" I am just about the most practical and thrifty gal you'll meet. I've bought only a small handful of the items I've posted about at MyMomShops. A recent purchase were these Handstamped Silver Rings ($29 each) from the Etsy shop Accessory a la Mode. I ordered two to wear stacked; one has my daughter's first name and birthdate, the other my son's. I love love love them and have not taken them off since they arrived. If you want some unusual, reasonably-priced "mommy jewelry" for yourself, check out Accessory a la Mode.

Tea Collection Dress giveaway winner

Congratulations to Gkstratos, who wrote, "Makes me wish for the fall. Love it!" Please e-mail me with your name, mailing address, and size choice to claim your prize.

Mad About You

I have a new obsession and it's called Mad Men. Have you seen this show on AMC? It just started its second season and it is phenomenal (and I can say that with a somewhat professional opinion since I used to work here). It is, in my opinion, the closest any network has come to replicating The Sopranos. Of course, the time and setting are completely different- this show is set in 1962 and revolves around the employees of a Madison Avenue ad agency. But the nuanced storylines, character development, period detail, cinematography, and subtleties are entirely Sopranos-caliber (no pun intended). Trust me, you'll love it. You can catch up by buying Mad Men: Season One on DVD at Amazon.com ($31.99), and watch the sophomore season as it unfolds on AMC. Enjoy!

p.s. I just watched the first season pilot on DVD (then re-watched the version with director Matthew Weiner's audio commentary). Wow! If you're a new fan of Mad Men, I highly suggest buying the first season on DVD- it does not disappoint.

Bubble Summer '08: Part One

Right before I left for summer vacation, I swung by Bubble New York, one of my favorite trade shows, which features the latest designers of children's clothing, toys, decor, and accessories. Here are my finds from the show:

MAGNO wooden radio by Areaware, which looks retro but actually is MP3-compatible:


Colorful accessories and toys by Danish designer Franck & Fischer:


Simply beautiful teeny-tiny baby clothes by Belgian clothier Gold:


And from the nearby ENK Children's Show, these new organic hooded sweaters and baby blankets by Amber Hagen:


And, a timely organic Obama Rama onesie by Light & Gravity:


More from Bubble coming soon!

Thanks...

....to everyone (friends, family and Internet pals) for the calls, e-mails, gifts and well wishes on R's birthday. As some of you know, she hasn't had the easiest year, so it meant the world to her (and me). Here is a photo of her gorgeous knight birthday cake (even if smudged a bit in transit) from Flour Patch Bakery. Delicious, too!

MyMomShops 1000th Post: Happy 5th Birthday, R.!

It is fitting that this, my 1000th post, lands on my daughter R's 5th birthday. Five years ago tonight, I gave birth to this little munchkin and became a mom (as my friend Lesley told me at the time, "It's the toughest job you'll ever love," and wasn't that the truth!). Happy 5th Birthday to my beautiful, extraordinary daughter, with love and kisses from mommy.

Photos of Baby R, 7 days old, August 2003.

Ta Ta to Talbots Kids

As I reported back in January, Talbots is closing all of its kids' clothing stores; our neighborhood store (shown left) shuts its doors next week. I'm really sad about this since Talbots was one of the few neighborhood stores I could count on for quality, age-appropriate clothing for R. While I'm mourning the loss (and wondering what will take its place on the corner of 2nd Avenue and 79th Street), I am also enjoying the 50% off closing sale; for example this cute dress (marked down to $17.49). If you live near a Talbots Kids store, run (don't walk) to take advantage of the closing sales while they last. Check online too at Talbots Kids.

MyMomShops Giveaway: Tea Collection Kurume Dress

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. I'm don't read up much on fashion trends, but I do notice them. Layered-look dresses for little girls are everywhere this Fall. Like this superb Kurume knit dress (named for the Japanese city) by Tea Collection. Perfect for fall weather, the dress can be worn alone or over coordinating leggings. It's also totally comfy and practical in 100% machine washable cotton. It's available in sizes 2T, 3T, 4T, 5 and 6 for $43 at My Princess Closet.

Crib Bedding a Little Cheaper

If you're in the market for upscale crib bedding, check out the Caden Lane and Serena & Lily sales now through August 31st at our sponsor Pure & Honest Kids. These two renowned brands rarely go on sale (trust me, I know); now is your chance to save up to 15% on them. This Hayden Crib Bedding Set by Caden Lane is normally $450; now it's on sale for $405 (and, all orders over $75 ship for free). Browse baby bedding and more at Pure & Honest Kids.

Back in Town

I'm back from a glorious two weeks off....and before I resume the shopping posts (including a gorgeous back-to-school giveaway later TODAY!), here are some holiday snaps:

Little Boy S. (no longer Baby S.) on his 2nd birthday (shirt by Lissoos):


We had great weather:


And often came back to the beach at sunset to enjoy the view:


The well-publicized Obama v. McCain "cup count" in the window of the Monogram Shop (and Feel Good/Vote Soaps by KalaStyle):


And, my happy, carefree daughter R., who turns 5 tomorrow:


Finally, back in NYC my dear friend Lisa treated me to a day at Soho House where she has a membership (yes, the Soho House that Samantha crashed in Sex and the City). It was delish- sunbathing, swimming, sipping cocktails, and lunching. And a major celeb sighting- Heather Mills McCartney lunching while her daughter (supervised by a nanny) splashed in the pool. So this is how the other half lives!

Beach Bound!

The kids and I are headed to the beach for vacation today, and I'll resume posting on Monday, August 18th. I'm especially excited for this trip since we're celebrating Baby S's 2nd birthday this Thursday! Have a great two weeks, and check back on August 18th for new posts and giveaways (want a reminder? e-mail me with "newsletter" in the subject line). Happy August!

p.s. Hungry for more finds over the next 2 weeks? Enjoy MyMomShops's extensive archives- for starters go to "labels" on the right-hand side of the blog (scroll down a bit), then click on favorite gifts, personalized gifts, decor, and just for mom- those are my favorites!

Thank You Times Two

Since my kids' birthdays are twelve days apart, I often end up writing joint thank you notes. I just found the perfect stationery- these personalized notecards ($20 for a set of 16) by Saratams (the flat cards are shown here but they are also available as foldover cards for $2 more). Combining the very "now" silhouette trend with clean lines, catchy colors, and personalization (of course), these are just about the ideal thank you notes for siblings to use. Check out all the designs and options (including silhouette sibling wall art, too) at Saratams.

p.s. When you make a purchase at Saratams, mention in the "notes to seller" that you found her shop through MyMomShops, and you'll receive a free gift!

Sur La Mer

Since we leave on vacation tomorrow, I've got the beach on my mind. I'm admiring these Sandcastle Monuments from French store FNAC. Your kids will become architects of the world, creating Incan pyramids, Greek and Hindu temples, and Roman arenas. I don't think they're available stateside, but if you want to spend 15 Euros plus shipping, give it a whirl!

Under the Linden Tree

I love the look of this organic, nature-inspired jewelry by Baltimore designer Eliza Mundy (another discovery from Brooklyn's Renegade Craft Fair). All designs are sterling silver and arrive in a gift box. Shown top to bottom: pebble ring ($52), leaf pendant with peridot cabachon ($86), and fungi lace hoop earrings ($76). Visit Eliza Mundy's 12Linden Etsy.com shop for more designs.

Confucius Say Cute Clips

What a clever, fun little gift this Set of 5 Good Fortune Clips by Susy Jack is. You can use them to display photos or cards, to attach notes to gifts, or even just to use to keep papers together (like a crafty paper clip!). The set of 5 comes packaged in a cellophane bag and costs $5.50 at Susy Jack.

My Boy Turns Two

Just as I did for Baby S's first birthday, I turned to NYC designer Liliputians for his 2nd birthday outfit. Liliputians makes the greatest, retro-style birthday ensembles. Is this Monster Truck Birthday Outfit ($99.95) cute or what?? The shirt features your little guy's age (1 through 8) and the same number of truck appliques. The pants are made of super soft brushed twill striped fabric and are elastic waist- perfect for your busy birthday boy. It's machine washable, too. So don't worry about that messy birthday cake. Visit Liliputians for birthday outfits and more!



And, I also have to post about my unexpected shopping find last week. I stopped into my tony neighborhood store Lesters, where the prices are usually well out of the my range. On the sale rack, however, I found this cute 2-sided birthday shirt by Lissoos (mine, of course, has the number two on back). It was just $7.90 (online at Start a Food Fight it's $29) so I couldn't resist it. Can't wait for him to wear all these birthday clothes!

Little Star Video giveaway winner

Congratulations to Twinmom, who wrote, "With two the same age, I'm doubly behind on albums (actually haven't started yet), would love something like this for my two little sweeties." Twinmom, please e-mail me to claim your prize.