Waiting for the Tooth Fairy

Now that R. is in kindergarten and some of her older classmate are starting to lose their baby teeth, the Tooth Fairy has become a popular topic in our household. I never had a "Tooth Fairy Pillow" when I was little, but they abound in various designs and colors now. I like the simplest ones best, so I'm leaning towards purchasing this Tooth Fairy Pillow ($28) by Ouef to have at the ready when R's big day arrives. Soft and sweet and made of 100% pima cotton, this friendly molar-shaped friend has a pocket in back where the Tooth Fairy will make the important exchange. I got a quarter for my first lost tooth in 1979- can anyone tell me what the going rate is now?!

p.s. If you're having trouble with the link above (I am), go to your web browser and type in www.oeufnyc.com, and you'll see the pillow.

Brilliant (but Back-ordered) at Boden

I spotted this fabulous flowered clutch ($128) and silver jewelled sandals ($98) in the recent Boden catalog. They're gorgeous so I'm not surprised they're already backordered! If you'd like to treat yourself, check back in a few weeks to see if they're back in stock at Boden.

Wellspring Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to DEBIJOT, who wrote, "These are lovely." Please e-mail me to claim your prize.

Stay tuned for another personalized giveaway next week!

Yo You for You

These customized Wooden Yo-Yos are a surefire conversation piece as a gift or party favor. They can be customized with any name, logo, or artwork, and cost $4.60 each with a minimum order of 10. Made from hardwood here in the U.S.A. Buy them at Heirloom Wooden Toys.

Voile-a!

I've spotted two sets of voile bedding recently that I think are really beautiful. Pictured at top: Ruched Voile Duvet Cover and Sham by Pottery Barn ($199 for full/queen duvet, $39 for standard sham). Pictured at bottom: Parachute Duvet Cover and Sham by West Elm ($99 for full/queen duvet, $19 for standard sham). Don't these look like inviting places to sleep?

Word Play

I am always happy to discover a toy that both my kindergartner and my 2-year-old enjoy. Such is the case with their new WordWorld Bucket Barn Set, a big set of Lego-like pieces that kids use to build and rebuild a farm scene (while spelling out new words, whether they realize it or not). R. is expertly creating words with letter blocks and S. is enjoying putting other pieces together to make funny farm characters. And I am happy it comes with a roomy bucket for storage of all 49 pieces. My kids have seen Word World on TV before, but even those kids who haven't will enjoy this toy. It's available for $69.99 at Amazon.com.

The Elegant Writer

I meant to post this for Valentine's Day and missed the boat, but I think it's a beautiful gift any time of year. The red locked diary by Graphic Image is very high quality (I've ordered Graphic Image products before). The cover is goatskin leather and the acid-free, lined archival pages have elegant gold leafing. The gold monogramming makes it pretty much perfect. $94 at Fine Stationery.

MyMomShops Giveaway: Wellspring Stationery

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

I discovered stationery/gift company Wellspring at the recent New York International Gift Fair, and fell for their "Blanc Noir" collection of black & white paper products. These made stylish, sleek gifts for your friends (or yourself) and I love how you can coordinate an entire set for yourself.



Today's giveaway includes the following three products (with your initial of choice, of course) from Wellspring:

Initial Flip Notes ($10). This is one of Wellspring's best-sellers. They are perfect, pocket-sized notes-on-the-go; each spring-loaded monogrammed case has a blank white notepad and coordinating retractable pen inside. No need to fish for a piece of paper anymore!

Gift Sets ($10). Handy to keep at your desk or by the phone, each ribbon-wrapped gift set contains one large and one small note pad. Choose any of the Blanc Noir patterns.


Initial Notecards ($8). You can never have enough personalized stationery, in my opinion. These look so smart. Includes 8 cards and envelopes.

Like these looks? Browse more stationery products at Wellspring.

More Laughs

I got a chuckle out of these onesies I spotted on a recent visit to Ibiza Kids in Greenwich Village. Pictured at top is Wry Baby's "Ask Me About My Compost Pile" gift set ($48, includes onesie, organic baby shampoo and body lotion). Next, these No Habla onesies for $28, by Very Excellent Baby. Cute baby gifts!

Delicious Baby Gift

I've given some of these cupcake onesie gift sets at new baby gifts, and they are a hit. Each 0-6 month onesie (your choice of pink, blue, or yellow) is rolled up to look like a cupcake and is decorated with a removable applique such as a fruit or flower. They arrive gift-ready in "bakery" boxes. Prices start at $19.95 for a box of 2 onesies (and up to $49.95 for a box of 6) at Wishing Fish.

Piece Yourself Together

Our affliate Frecklebox.com continues to impress me with their array of fun, personalized gifts for kids, including books, placemats, and, now, puzzles. There are 11 puzzle designs available- the "pigeons" one shown at top is my favorite. The 20-piece puzzles feature your little one's name and cost $12.95. At this price, this makes a unique and affordable birthday gift, sibling gift, or even a party favor if your budget is larger. Visit Frecklebox.com (click on "Personalized Gifts" and then "Puzzles").

Enter promo code "FEBPUZ" at checkout to receive 15% off your entire order at Frecklebox.com. Valid through Friday, February 27th only!

Say What You Feel

Pressa Russa is an Etsy shop I have had bookmarked for some time now. Their tongue-in-cheek stationery gives me a good laugh. These are some of my favorites (stationery sets of 6 cards cost about $15.50). Consider sending them if you dare! Oh, and they're letterpressed, too. Hooray!

Big Deals at the Land of Nod

I found some super deals at the winter clearance sale at The Land of Nod. Take a look:

Kids IPOD Multi Block Speaker Dock (reduced to $29 from $59):


Kids Cardboard Chairs (Set of 2) (reduced to $24.95 from $69):


Modern Dollhouse plus Furniture (reduced to $79 from $179):


Check out more clearance items (up to 80% off!) at The Land of Nod.

15% off Anita G. at CWD Kids

This year, I'm looking for every discount possible when purchasing my kids' spring clothing. I just ordered this Anita G. outfit for R. from the CWD Kids catalog. I used coupon code "CFTBW1" which gets you 15% off any Anita G. items through midnight tonight (Sunday) . Before the discount, the retro daisy peasant top cost $22 and the cropped dot leggings cost $19, in sizes 4-14. R. actually picked this outfit herself and I think it's a great choice. I also got her an Anita G. hooded pink beach cover-up using the coupon (I had been looking for a plain terry short sleeve cover-up for her and this one fits the bill perfectly). Buy some discounted Anita G. clothing (quickly!) for your daughter at CWD Kids.

Princess Plates

Tired of Disney-themed dinnerware? These melamine Princess Plates by French Bull are a fun fresh arrival at Arte Bebe. Each set of square plates includes four different mod princess designs (no Cinderella here). Buy them for $32 per set at Arte Bebe.

Gift from Grandpa

Thanks to my dad for buying R. this Smocked Color-Block Sundress from Crazy 8. I fully agree that it will look so sweet on her this summer (and cool and comfy in 100% cotton jersey). Girls sizes 4-14; $19.50 at Crazy 8 (check out the coordinating barrettes and sandals, too).

A Sweet Keepsake

I really like the idea of personalized ceramics as baby keepsakes, but a lot of it is expensive. But on Etsy.com I found this very reasonable and sweet Personalized Baby Footprint Bowl for just $14. The bowl is small (4" in diameter) but would look lovely on a shelf (you can buy a little easel for it as this shop, too). You just provide the name, date, and color footprints you'd like (pink and blue are most popular but you can choose others). Each piece is made-to-order and hand-etched. Check it out at the Etsy.com shop of Elm Studios Online.

Is This For Real?

I'm not recommending this product, I'm just telling you about it because it made me laugh so hard when I saw it on T.V. When I saw the informercial for this Snuggie wearable blanket thingy with sleeves, I thought I was watching a Saturday Night Live skit (I'm sure one is forthcoming). It doesn't look so strange when the wearer is just watching T.V. like in this photo, but when they started showing people doing their chores, cooking, etc. wearing this cumbersome cape, I started to laugh. They looked like Franciscan monks or something and the people who were cooking looked like they would set themselves on fire any minute with those dangling sleeves. Could this commercial become the next generation's "Clap On, Clap Off"? If you're curious about this product, by the way (I'll stick to my nice fleece LL Bean blanket, thank you very much), check out Snuggie's website.

Shake Rattle & Roll

I've admired the baby accessories (though not necessarily the name) by Sugarbooger ORE for some time now; I spotted this new Multi-Color Peek-A-Boo Wooden Rattle in their latest catalog I picked up at the NYIGF. A very nice unisex baby shower or baby gift idea, the eco-friendly European beechwood rattle has a ring on the back for baby to hold, and has gentle jingling bells. It arrives gift-boxed, too. $16.25 at The Baby Boutique.

Chasing Fireflies More Cheaply

I love pretty much everything in Chasing Fireflies catalog- from the gorgeous dresses to the all-natural toys to the way the catalog pages are grouped thematically. In fact, in their latest spring catalog I recognize many items I have featured here already! But, I have also noticed that many of their items are wayyy marked-up. Here are just a few example:

You know those famous Em Tanner Designs plates that have been spotted on Jon & Kate plus Eight? You can buy them directly at Em Tanner Designs for $24 apiece (still not cheap); buy them instead at Chasing-Fireflies and they cost a whopping $38 each:

Similarly, Em Tanner's personalized tees cost about $34 at her own site; the price jumps all the way to $54 if you buy it from Chasing-Fireflies:

Also, Chasing Fireflies carries many trendy items that you could copy quite closely (and much more cheaply) elsewhere. Case-in-point: Chasing Fireflies' lightweight boys' hoodie which costs a hefty $44:


You can get almost the exact same hoodie (which I just bought for S. and it is great with such soft fabric!) at The Children's Place on sale right now for a mere $12.99.


Many of my readers have told me how much they love Chasing Fireflies and I agree...but in this economy, I am probably going to bargain hunt for some of their products elsewhere!

Pony Up

Ever since Carrie Bradshaw pointed out that real New York women never wear scrunchies, I have been on the lookout for more attractive options for my ever-present, in-a-rush ponytail. I am thrilled with my lovely new triple initial pony-O's from Little Bow Peep Tails (a shop with adorable hair accessories for girls...and their moms). Each one costs $7.95 and is available in either toddler or big girl/grown-up sizes, in tons of colors and fonts. A very cute mother-daughter gift! And my ponytail has never looked more stylish. Check them out at Little Bow Peep Tails.

We Believe

I wanted to send a thank-you gift to a politically-inclined friend of mine, and thought these "I Believe In..." personalized notecards from Etsy fit the bill perfectly. Inspired by our new Presidential administration, the cards celebrate "Hope", "Change", "Unity", "Progress", and, of course, "Obama." Each set of 10 cards has 2 of each design, with your choice of colored envelopes. Buy some for your own Obama-loving friends. $15 per set at the Etsy.com storefront of Inacard.

Instant Relaxation

I'm a big fan of bamboo bath accessories for a serene, spa-like vibe; this Set of 3 Bamboo Baskets from The Company Store is a super value at $38.99 (reduced from $99). Roll up some fresh white towels in the largest basket to welcome guests (I did this in our guest bathroom and it looks great). Grab this clearance item before it disappears at The Company Store.

Set up Shop

Put this on your shopping list for spring- a Cardboard Lemonade/Advice Stand by Cardboardesign. This would've been awfully fun for my kids to use (and decorate) when they sold cookies and juice for then-candidate Obama last Fall (instead, I hauled a clunky metal card table downstairs), This is perfect for spring and summer lemonade stands, or, for you Peanuts fans, a place to dispense free psychological advice. Measures 65Hx43Wx24D" and costs $79.99 at Target's Red Hot Shop.

Not Our Generation's Playmobil

Oh, I love the blogosphere. According to yesterday's New York Times, strong opinions are being posted right and left (pun intended) about one of Playmobil's newest (and undoubtedly most talked-about) sets, Security Check Point ($62 at Amazon.com). I'll keep my political opinions to myself for a change, but I'll tell you that I smiled when I read what one Amazon reviewer wrote- "I am holding out for the release of the Guantanemo (sic) Playset."

What do you think- is this toy offensive? Instructive? Something else?

Hiho Batik Giveaway Winners

Congratulations to the winners of the Hiho Batik giveaway:

Aimee K., who wrote, "I absolutely LOVE that t-shirt! It is so cute and very much M.'s style."

and

LisaNYC, who wrote, "I would love the dress!!"

Winners, please e-mail me with your name and address to claim your prize.

Happy Hearts Day

I'm not usually crazy about animal-themed nursery wall art, but this Elephants in Love print by Etsy shop Barking Bird Art strikes a sweet note, today especially! Suitable for framing, the 8 1/2 x 11 inch archival quality print features soft colors and a velvety texture. It costs $18 at Etsy.com.

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! I will be away for the rest of the weekend and will post again on Tuesday.

Lands End 20% Off Sunday and Monday

Before I sign off for the holiday weekend, I wanted to let you know about a rare chance to get 20% off all your purchases (excluding overstocks) at Lands End. This Sunday, February 15th and Monday, February 16th only, you will get 20% off by using code "AMERICA" and pin number 6289. Enjoy using it! Here are some of the things you could buy:

Canvas Totes (these are also reduced an additional $5 right now- a medium tote that was $20 is now $15)

Bear Bean Bag Chair ($49.99)

Baby Girls' Smocked Poplin Dress ($34.50)


Happy Shopping this weekend at Lands End.

Shoes for 5 Bucks

Here is an unbelievable deal at Gymboree.com this weekend (part of their President's Weekend sale). These preppy Suede Boat Shoes are a great look for Spring, and are wayyyyy reduced to just $4.79 (originally were $34.50). Sizes 10, 11, and 12 are left. I just grabbed a pair for S. who needs "nice" shoes for spring. I love a huge bargain like this one. Buy them at Gymboree.

Baby Keepsake Baskets

These cheery Baby Keepsake Baskets from Red Envelope are surprisingly good value. For $49.95 apiece, the boys' version includes a growth chart, baby washcloths, and photo album; the girls' version includes a plush blanket, picture frame, and album. The baskets arrive in these useful metal tubs, wrapped in cellophane and tied with ribbon. Browse these and other baby keepsakes at Red Envelope.

Save 10% today only (Friday, February 13th) on all orders at Red Envelope with code "SAVE10".

Do You See What I See?

Here's a fun birthday gift (or party activity) for older kids. It's a Build Your Own Kaleidoscope Kit that comes with tubes, mirrors, beads, lenses, and instructions (you can get creative and add your own items, too, like buttons or petals). I'd kinda like to make one of these myself! $11 at NYC gift shop Exit 9.

New York International Gift Fair: Part Two

Here are some more of my favorite finds from the recent New York International Gift Fair:

First, I loved just about everything on display at the booth for Kid-O NYC. Not all of the items I photographed are for sale yet, except for the City & Country Blocks ($50) and various puzzles. But call the shop or keep checking back to locate these other toys.





Next, Obama-fever was at an all-time high at January's gift fair. Check out these totes and accessories by The News: LA. An Obama tote- made from recycled newspapers- costs about $75.


Finally, I was very impressed with the designs of artist (and former MoMA employee) Terrence Kelleman at his shop Dynomighty. The "mighty wallets" made from durable Tyvek (same material as those white express mail envelopes). Their clever origami design means this wallet actually gets stronger the more you stuff into it. The "3 Ring Binder" design wallet ($15, currently sold out) is my favorite- and everyone else's too, apparently. Also check out Dynomighty's magnetic Desk Dots ($15) which have tons of uses, and look fun to play with, too.





Browse more of the vendors from the New York International Gift Fair.

Tiers of Joy

I stumbled onto this pretty Poppy Tiered Dress at Cattiwampus. It's on sale for $35.75 (regularly $55) in sizes 3T and 4T; check out other trendy clothing while you're there.

Enjoy a 20% discount on regularly priced items only with code "FAN20" at Cattiwampus.

MyMomShops Sponsor: Petit Baby

Petit Baby continues to be one of my favorite sites for high-quality European toys for kids (and, I've started using them for baby gifts, too). The selection is superb (your favorite European brands like Haba, Plan Toys, and Vilac are all represented here) and the prices are competitive. Here are some of Petit Baby's newest items that I am eyeing for my own kids or as gifts:

Haba Doll Buggy ($159.99). Considering how many times I've had to replace my kids' broken cheap plastic doll strollers, this beauty is worth the price. I love the little cushion that's included for dollly!


Anamalz Farm Animal Set with Plan Toys Wooden Country Barn (on sale for $119.99, reduced from $141.99). My kids have a few individual Anamalz and I'd love to get them a full set; pairing it with Plan Toy's 2-story natural, rubber-wood barn is a smart idea.

Haba Play Food Biofino Wiener Schnitzel with French Fries ($14.99). How cute is this? Felt set includes wiener schnitzel, french fries, a slice of lemon and ketchup. Plate not included.


Kathe Kruse Waldorf Doll Mini Baby It's Me Baby Brown (on sale for $60.94, reduced from $71.70). We haven't bought any Kathe Kruse dolls yet, but friends of mine rave about them. And what little girl doesn't love toting her doll around in its own cuddly carrier bag?


Visit Petit Baby.

Adorable Alert

If you don't have a daughter you may skip this post, and if you do, be warned....you just might pass out from the cuteness of these barettes from the Etsy.com shop It's All in the Details. Feast your eyes (and open your wallets- all are available here and cost about $10 per single barrette or $15 per set).

Tooby Doo

Brand new children's clothier Tooby Doo, based right here in New York, carries casual chic clothing for babies and little kids. The closest comparison I can make is J. Crew's Crewcuts, but I think Tooby Doo is more fun (even if the selection is limited). I like the girls' flamenco dress ($39) and, shown at right, the boys' Fort Amsterdam tee ($26). Fort Amsterdam is a reference to NYC's earliest days, for you out-of-towners. Visit Tooby Doo.

Enjoy a generous 40% discount at Tooby Doo valid only through this Friday, February 13th, with code "BETATEST".

MyMomShops Giveaway: Hiho Batik

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.
Top image courtesy of TrendSpotters.com.




With interest in Malia and Sasha Obama at fever pitch, it's no surprise that we hear about their clothes non-stop. I love that the girls always look cute, comfortable, and age-appropriate. Case in point: the 100% cotton, batik-dyed tees by Hiho Batik that Sasha has been seen in several times. These bring back memories of the batik shirts I made in sleepaway camp back in 1980! In fact, the founder of Hiho Batik, Julia Silver Cohen, had that retro-feel in mind when launching this unique line of batik tanks, tees, yoga pants, and tote bags. Each piece is an original and is individually waxed and dyed.

We are giving away two items from Hiho Batik this week- first this cool faded black "Champ" tee for little guys in size 2T ($34), and second, a heart-adorned toddler girl dress in size 12mos ($42). Both pieces are 100% cotton and machine washable. There will be 2 winners- 1 for each item. When you enter the contest please indicate which one you'd prefer (you can also say you'd take either one!) Both are exclusive offers- not available at the Hiho Batik website currently- but you should take a peek at what else is for sale at Hiho Batik.

Ecosaurus Paper

One very direct route to this blogger's heart is eco-friendly stationery and gift wrap. So I was pleased to receive samples from Ecosaurus, a new online paperie specilaizing in both of the above. The thick, recyclable gift wrap has fun, fresh designs (though I'd like to see some more color variety) and is made here in the USA. The prices are not exorbitant, either (about $7 for two large sheets of gift wrap). Browse the selection at Ecosaurus.

Who Needs a New Little Black Dress?

I included a Gypsy 05 Tie Dye Max Dress from The Trend Boutique in my recent post about how to copy Tori Spelling's look (both clothing and decor) after the birth of her daughter Stella. The Trend Boutique has now kindly offered MyMomShops readers a 15% discount plus free shipping with the code "MomShops15". I took a peek around their site and decided this smart, silk Belted Sheryl Dress by Postella was my favorite dress. Love the pop of blue on the belt (which is removable if you want to stay all-black). $198 at The Trend Boutique.

Use code "MomShops15" for a 15% discount plus free shipping at Shop Trend Boutique.

Ask MyMomShops: Birthday Books

Dear MyMomShops,

Do you have any suggestions for birthdate books? I want something lovely for my desk. . . instead of in a folder on my computer desktop.

Melinda

Dear Melinda,

Oh, do I have ideas for you! I love keeping track of friends' birthdays. Here are some birthday books that would make any desk look pretty, and will be much more fun than a file on your computer:

Birthdays Book ($25) by See Jane Work. If you want an elegant, classic look, this is the way to go. This leather-bound birthday book is very compact (2 1/2 x 3 3/4") and can be toted anywhere in your purse.


Birthday Book in Blue/Green($7) by Good on Paper Design. Looking for something a little more casual? Consider this Birthday Book from a little company I discovered at last year's National Stationery Show. Also small (2/75 x 4.25"), this book is printed on recycled paper and arrives in a clear cellophane bag (cute gift idea, too). Other colors available, also.


Birthday Reminder Book from Two Peas in a Bucket. Ok, this one is actually a DIY project so the link I've provided will give you instructions. If you're crafty, I think this is just a beautiful birthday book to make yourself. I am all thumbs, so I'd rather buy it from someone. Isn't it gorgeous? Love the whimsical shape and the candles on the cover.


Dutch Themed Birthday Calendar ($20) at Etsy.com. Here's a handmade (but ready-made) birthday book. Its folksy design based on traditional Dutch motifs has been featured at some other blogs including the famous Design*Sponge. It's more generously sized, at 4.25 x 11".

Melinda, I hope this gives you some good ideas. For anyone else reading this who also needs a good way to keep track of birthdays- but wants to go the computerized route- I have two words for you. Well, three. Facebook. And Birthday Alarm (which I have used for years). You'll never miss a friend's birthday again!

Love,
MyMomShops

Got a shopping conundrum for MyMomShops? Send an e-mail with "ask mymomshops" in the subject line, and explain your dilemma. You just may see the answer posted here!

My Girl Sparkles

My five-year-old daughter- who has had tomboy-ish taste for the past several years- is suddenly showing more interest in all things "girly". What fun it is! She just picked out these new Geox Kids Jr. Jodie Sparkles ballet-style sneaks. They look adorable on her, and comfy, too. They are currently on sale for $62.10 (reduced from $69) in sizes 29-34 at Zappos.

Buy Those Back Issues

Did you catch this excellent article A Girl World Closes, and Fans Mourn by Penelope Green in The New York Times a few days ago? It's about the vociferous outcry (particularly in the blogosphere) against the demise of Domino Magazine. If you're sad about this latest news in the magazine publishing world you can find some sympathy here. It also had a good tip to stock up on back issues...I just bought extra copies of the January and February issues from a local newsstand. The March issue will be the last one. What will replace it???

Month by Month

OK, so it's already February, but you still might want to check out this 2009 Desktop Calendar by Jordy Blueprints. I picked up one of these at the New York International Gift Fair, realizing that my calendar-obsessed five-year-old might enjoy it. The illustrations are just child-like enough for her, and she can easily tape the individual 5 x 7" cards to her bedroom wall each month (she had fun putting up the January and February ones so far). It's now on sale for $8.40 (reduced from $14) at Jordy Blueprints.

p.s. I'm also getting a lot of use out of Jordy Blueprints's handy little 2009 Month by Month Notepads. They're great to keep on your desk for jotting quick notes (especially since each sheet is printed with that month's calendar- so useful when you have mommy brain). On sale, too!

Are We There Yet?

I've always admired blankets by Austrian design shop David Fussenegger; I just spotted its Silvretta Travel Blanket at Modern Seed. It's not too babyish, yet would make a perfect baby gift (particularly for a new little boy whose family travels a lot). Check out all the international cities printed on the 56" x 80" blanket. Love it. Buy it for $85 at Modern Seed.

2 Little Stars Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Asianmommy, who wrote, "How totally cute!" Please e-mail me to claim your prize.

Cupcakes for Sale

Who isn't thinking about yummy desserts, with February 14th fast approaching? This Cupcake Gift Bag($5.50) from Whimsy Press measures 9 x 11 inches an is perfect for toting Valentine's treats. Buy it at Whimsy Press, where everything is currently 60% off (yes, 60% off!) with code 2009. Wow!

Feel the Love

Mecca of all handmade goods, Etsy is the perfect place to browse for Valentine's gifts that you will not find in any Hallmark store. Here are some LOVE-ly items I stumbled on recently:

Love One Another Necklace ($40) at Laylabelle Designs:

Love Scrabble Tile Pillows ($98 for set of 4 covers, inserts available at extra charge) at Pillowhappy:

Love Letterpress and Screenpress Greeting Card and Envelope ($4) at AmyB13:

Check out the Valentine's Showcase at Etsy.com, updated daily.

Matchy Matchy

I saw these elegant personalized matchbooks featured in the soon-to-be-defunct Domino Magazine (ugh, I am still in mourning about this). They are from For Your Party and start at just 88 cents per matchbox; order a set with a message for a special event, or with your family name to keep on hand for any occasion.

MyMomShops Sponsor: My Princess Closet

Our wonderful sponsor My Princess Closet is a popular go-to site for all things girly and fashionable (yes, there are frills galore, but also trendy, modern threads for little princesses). The site's founder is a mom to 3 boys...and, then, a girl. So she knows how important it is to find just the right goodies for your girlies. Here are some of my current favorites at My Princess Closet:

Kasato Hooded Dress by Tea Collection. New for Spring '09, this comfortable but stylish dress has a popular-again bubble-style skirt. 100% Pima cotton, sizes 2T-6, $47.


Be Mine BabyLegs. Perfect for your little crawler this Valentine's Day. $12 per pair.


Semi-Sweet Chocolate Devon Shoes by Morgan & Milo. Oh how I wish these came in R's size. They're made with soft suede and have velcro for easy-on, easy-off. Toddler Sizes 7, 8, and 10 left, $46.

Baby Gund Little Princess Playset. I have such a soft spot for this toy; R. received an earlier version of it for her 1st birthday in 2004 and still plays with it in 2009. It's a great birthday gift for any little girl, and contains a castle with bed pocket and mirror accent, princess doll, prince doll and star wand. $25.


Shop around some more at My Princess Closet and enjoy every day money-saving $5 flat shipping rate!

BabyBunne Mary Jane Socks Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Ruthie, who wrote, "Would love to win this!" Ruthie, please e-mail me with your name and mailing address to claim your prize.

Everyone else, remember you have until tomorrow night at midnight (EST) to enter the giveaway for a personalized decoupaged bucket gift set from 2 Little Stars. Scroll down to enter the giveaway!

Another One Bites the Dust

Whoa....another major shop closing. I just went over to Babystyle.com and was shocked to find a message reading:

We're sorry but we have suspended operation of our site. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. We hope we'll be back soon. Any pending orders that have not yet shipped have been cancelled and your credit card will not be charged.


I wonder if their bricks-and-mortar stores are closing, too? Anyone know? I'm looking for details online.

New from Dante Beatrix

I just got a catalog of new products from uber-trendy diaper bag (and more) company Dante Beatrix. I love these two new products. The Haul Tote- Medium ($145)- shown here in "Wink" design- is perfect for commuting and easily fits your laptop and other musts. And the new Eco Stroller Totes ($140) are a riff on Dante Beatrix's trademark diaper bags, but this time are constructed entirely from recycled plastic water bottles (6 of them per bag, to be precise). Pretty cool! Check out all the latest in mom and kids' gear at Dante Beatrix.

Cool Cow

If you still need a cool-mist humidifier for your child's room this winter, check out this Crane Adorable Humidifier (cow) at Drugstore.com. I have this in S's room and truly it is a better humidifier and easier to clean than the "grown-up" one in my bedroom. It's on sale for $34.99 (reduced from $39.99) at Drugstore.com (see other cute versions here, including Hello Kitty, Sponge Bob, Thomas the Train, and loads of other farm animals).

Welcome Design Mom Readers

We have some new readers today who arrived here via Gabrielle Blair's wonderful Design Mom blog. I met Gabrielle at Isabel Kallman's (Alpha Mom) inauguration viewing party, and I learned she is a mom of five (FIVE!) kids, the youngest of whom is named Betty. So I pointed her towards this surfer-style Betty hoodie from Peek Aren't You Curious, a great kids' clothing site having a mega sale right now. Anyway, Gabrielle was kind enough to give me a shout-out over at Design Mom. I welcome Gabrielle's readers here and encourage you to sign up for our e-newsletter (just e-mail me with "newsletter" in the subject line) so you can stay on top of MyMomShops' latest giveaways and special deals. Enjoy your visit!

The Ultimate Big Sibling Book

i just found out about this wonderful new personalized big sibling book, called "The New Baby Book" from Frecklebox.com (a company I've posted about before- its Personalized Nature Name book is a big hit with R.) This time, the lucky gift recipient sees his/her name on every page about getting ready for the arrival of a younger sibling. It's a sweet book that is sure to stand out from the sea of other siblings books an elder child will receive. It costs $19.95 in softcover and $34.95 in hardcover; check it out at Frecklebox.com.

MyMomShops Giveaway: 2 Little Stars

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.

I introduced you a little while ago to 2 Little Stars, an online boutique started by two St. Louis moms which features gorgeous personalized baby gifts including onesies, burp cloths, blankets, and more. Today's giveaway is one of my favorite items from their collection- these Decoupage Bucket Gift Sets ($61), available in girl or boy designs. Each set incluees a personalized bib, burpcloth, and bucket (S. has one of the buckets and we use it to hold knick-knacks and toys on his shelf- it looks adorable). You customize the set exactly as you want it- the color of the bucket, the pattern for the fabric, the font for the personalization, and whether you want full first name or initial. So the winner of this prize will be able to customize a set just for their own baby, or as a baby gift. Browse the decoupage bucket sets and other lovely gifts at 2 Little Stars.

Through February 8th only, receive 10% off any order at 2 Little Stars with code "Shopstars".

New York International Gift Fair: Part One

I have so many fun products to show you from last week's New York International Gift Fair. Last week I showed you the clever housewares by Alice Supply Co. Here are three more favorites:

First, Pearhead is one of my favorite manufacturers of baby photo albums (I have purchased their Picture Spine Photo Albums several times- they look so nice lined up on a baby's bookshelf). They introduced some fantastic new products at the Gift Fair including these:

Pearhead's photo albums include the Pink or Blue Dots Baby Book shown here, which has spaces for baby's footprint and photo. On sale for $29.95 (reduced from $35) at Baby Sakes

I adore these new Pearhead "I Love [Grandma, Mommy, Daddy]" photo bookmarks, brag books, and picture frames. Mother's Day and Father's Day gifts for new (grand)parents don't get much better than these. I haven't found them for sale online yet...stay tuned at the Pearhead website.



Second, while there was no shortage of eco-friendly totes at the Gift Fair (the market for these is getting pretty saturated, I think), some of them stood out for me. I liked the no-nonsense, plain canvas backgrounds and clever sayings on these bags by Dogeared. Each retails for about $27.


Last for now, there was a big display outside the exhibition hall of eco-friendly, sustainable products and I spotted these textured cards by Daisy D Designs (a Greenwich Village company that represents several makers of handmade stationery). I just love the texture of these cards, and, of course, the messages.


Stay tuned for more finds from NYIGF.

I Want Candy

Much healthier for baby than those candy conversation hearts, these Conversation Heart Rattles by Yellow Label Kids are a luxurious Valentine's treat (or a memorable baby gift for a February arrival). The set of four soft knit rattles are made through fair trade practices- which is something else to love. $44 for the set of four at MyMomShops fave Arte Bebe.