MyMomShops Giveaway: Donovan Designs at The Paper Cafe

Want to organize your home office this summer? Looking for a personalized gift pick-me-up? You'll love this week's giveaway, courtesy of our friends at The Paper Cafe. It's a set of products by Donovan Designs, a stationery manufacturer of cute personalized notepads, planner pads, and more. The giveaway includes a handy Donovans Design magnet board ($58) with 8 personalized magnets of varying sizes, plus a personalized coordinating notepad. Keep these with a pen in the kitchen or at your desk and you'll be more organized in a snap. The total value of this prize is $81. The set will arrive neatly packaged with a pretty grosgrain ribbon at the top of the magnet board, making it a great gift for yourself or, if you're feeling generous, for a favorite friend.

Win it! 1 MyMomShops reader will win a Donovan Designs magnet board, 8 personalized magnets, and a coordinating notepad (total value $81). Here are the contest rules:

1) To enter, please comment on THIS post (click on "comments" below), indicating which Donovan Designs product is your favorite (click here to see all available products).
2) Post your comment by 11:59pm EST on Monday, July 6th. One entry per person, please. US addresses only.
3) One winner will be chosen at random and announced on Tuesday morning, July 7th.
4) NOTE: If you wish to be contacted by e-mail if you win, please include your e-mail address in your comment. Otherwise you must check back on Tuesday, July 7th to see if you won. Unclaimed prizes are forfeited after 72 hours.

Good luck!

Oh Say Can You Eat

Not a big apple pie fan? Neither am I. Consider instead these Fourth of July Shortbread Cookies from 1000 Markets. Crumbly and buttery, each set of cookies contains 2 flag cookies, 2 big star cookies, and 4 little star cookies. The ingredients are flour, butter, sugar, egg whites, and salt. That's it. Pure and yummy. $19.99 for the set at 1000 Markets.

Ask MyMomShops: First Baby Gifts

Dear MyMomShops,

One of my coworkers is having her first baby, a girl, and I would like to get her something that is not on her registry. She’s a dear and close friend as well as a coworker. Do you have any suggestions for a gift for a first time mom? I’m not a mom so I don’t know what kind of things you really need. Could you give me two or three suggestions? I would really appreciate your help.

Thank you so much,
T. Wolfe, VA


Dear T. Wolfe,

Here are some of my all-time favorite baby gifts for a first-time mom- what I like about these is that in addition to being sentimental keepsakes, they actually are all quite practical items the new mom will use again and again. I've picked items from a range of price points, too:

1) Fill in the Blankie ($39 and up). This unique blanket, which can be personalized with custom text on all four sides, is my favorite baby gift ever in the over-$25 category. It's lightweight and perfect to use for daily strolls with a newborn in the spring or summer.

2) And, in the under-$25 category, this personalized baby block ($15.95) from Craft-E-Family is my top choice (makes a great add-on gift, too). Lots of moms put theirs on display on shelves in their child's nursery.

3) A personalized canvas tote from LL Bean is a classic gift that you can fill with other items like towels, blankets, or toys. Get the medium-sized open top tote ($20) with long handles and Mom can use it as an everyday diaper bag/toddler tote for several years.


4) Baby Book Baskets. This company makes very classy gift baskets with books that are customized according to the baby's age, gender, and even name (we got this as a baby gift for my son and several books featuring his name were included). New moms always appreciate a "starter library" as a baby gift, and the baskets can be used as nursery storage. Prices start at $60.


5) Overstuffed Personalized Gift Tote from GoToBaby.com. This is a deluxe, ready-made version of idea #3. It's not cheap, but considering how many beautiful personalized items are stuffed inside (burp cloths, sweater, bathrobe, and blanket), it's a good value and a definite "wow" gift. On sale for $189, regularly $229.


Happy Shopping!

Best,
MyMomShops

Party Like It's 1959

Planning a child's birthday party, but don't want to go overboard with expensive invitations? Go old-school (and affordable) with these precious Boy/Girl Cake Birthday Party Invitations by vintage-style stationery shop Fenderskirts. A package of 10 fill-in invitations and envelopes costs $10; for an extra $5 they'll print your info. on the invitations for you. See all of the other sweet retro designs here. I love them all!

All Around the World

These city journals by Fiorentina are perfect gifts for travellers (or armchair travellers). Four top destinations are available (New York, London, Paris, and Rome...scroll down to see all of them) with famous landmarks embossed the covers. Each journal measures 5 x 7" and has ivory lined pages. Very affordable at $25; visit Sam Flax to see each of them.

Around and Around We Go

Here's a very handy tool if you are trying to put photos in a circular frame, or just want to do something new and different with your latest snaps. It's a Photo Circle Cutter from Photojojo. It adjusts to three different sizes to create round photos you can use for frames or to hang around your home for fun (a bunch of "foto clips" are included for this purpose). Buy one for $14 at Photojojo.

Twofer One

One of my favorite trends' in little kids' clothing is the "twofer" layered look tees, particularly long-sleeve thermal types. I stumbled onto these by popular brand Mini Fine at Little Fashions Boutique. At top is Yo Gabba Gabba Toddler Boy Twofer Tee with Robot (on sale for $26.99, 2T-4T) and below is The Camera Loves Me Toddler Girl Twofer Tee ($32, 2T and 3T left). Cute!

Michael Jackson Way Back When

Note: I originally posted this item in February 2007. It's a DVD version of Free to Be...You and Me and includes a priceless clip of a teenage Michael Jackson.

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"), "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.

Counting Sheep (or Numbers or Letters)

I saw this numbers and letters sheeting from Pottery Barn Kids in-store. It's made from 100% organic cotton and on sale for just $54.99 for a twin sheet set (was $89). You won't find organic kids' sheets much more affordable than this. And the unisex print goes with lots of bedding sets. Check out all of the sale bedding at Pottery Barn Kids.

Bargain Alert: Restoration Hardware Baby & Child

I like these classic striped storage boxes from Restoration Hardware Baby & Child because they will transition nicely from nursery to childhood and beyond. Each set of three square nesting boxes is printed on 100% cotton canvas and has a chocolate brown interior. The largest measures 12 1/4" square by 11 1/4" high. The set (shown in pink) is available in blue or green, too. It's a steal at $29.99 per set (was $99). Visit Restoration Hardware Baby & Child.

Those Were the Days

I love the tagline "kidhood recycled" for Jacki Paper, an adorable online stationery shop that makes recycled letterpress cards that riff on favorite childhood sayings (see above). Just the right kind of card to bring a smile to a friend's face. The quality of the cards is excellent, too (and you know I'm a stickler for good cardstock and envelopes). Check the Jacki Paper site for a list of store locations that I'm sure will grow.

MyMomShops Sponsor: Shoestring Home

One of this blog's longtime sponsors is Shoestring Home, a chic and eclectic gift store in Wisconsin that also has a busy online boutique. Owner Mandi Gerth has a sharp eye for cool housewares, accessories, jewelry, and kids' products in just about every price range (she also writes a lovely blog of her own). There's a bunch of new inventory at Shoestring Home- here are some of my top picks:

Biscayne Chair in Green ($270). I would love a pair of these for my balcony. A beautiful, modern aesthetic, and the soft green color is perfect for this season.

White Devil Bags ($46-$56). How gorgeous are these? The multi-purpose tote and laundry bags both feature flirty ruffles.

Modern Twist Placemats: Damask Outlined Spruce ($18 each). Set an elegant, summery table with these hand silk-screened placemats.


Sally Russell Cotton Aprons ($35). These fun aprons are guaranteed to put a spring in your step while you're busy "domesticating." They're cotton and machine washable.


Wry Baby On Duty-Off Duty Pillowcase ($32 for set of two). Give this to some new parents and watch them chuckle (or bicker). 100% cotton with embroidery, and standard-sized.

Crewcuts Comes to NYC

I spotted this girls' city tee cap-sleeve cotton dress from J. Crew's Crewcuts in their latest catalog. A fun, classic design plus sweet floral details- and it's available in multiple colors. It's also very affordable compared to other Crewcuts threads; it's on sale for $28 (regularly $36) in sizes 2 through 12. And, NYC moms, did you know that Crewcuts is opening a store this August on Madison Avenue at 87th St.? I will be checking it out for sure.

Crooked Houses and Sad News

Did you watch last night's episode of Jon & Kate Plus 8? As much as that very depressing episode will be remembered as the one where the Gosselins finally announced their not-surprising separation, it will also, oddly, be remembered as the episode that where the kids received their whimsical Crooked Houses, which are very pricey crooked-roofed outdoor playhouses for kids. The Crooked Houses website, in fact, crashed during TLC's airing of the show last night because there was too much traffic. While the Gosselin kids enjoyed four custom-made playhouses (which would run a tab of about $20,000 total), mere mortals can buy a standard Crooked House for just under $2000. My kids, who also have (nearly) divorced parents, aren't so lucky to have a Crooked House, but they make do nicely with big Fresh Direct cartons. It's all about imagination!

Standard Crooked House available at The Happy Chickadee for $1949.

Suit Up

Isn't this classic pleated clutch a beautiful bag? It's made from vintage gray suit fabric with a subtle herringbone pattern. The inside lining provides nice contrast with a feminine, floral pattern. Very cute for a casual night out, in my opinion. Buy it for $49 at 1000 Markets (missed my introduction to 1000 Markets a while ago?) Read it here.

Summer Shoe Sale

I see a lot of cute kids' shoes while working on this blog, but unfortunately many of them are only available in infant or toddler sizes. It's a bitter pill to swallow when my son, who is not even 3 yet, already wears a size 12 shoe! So I'm glad to learn that rising shoe star Vincent Shoes goes all the way to big kid sizes. I love their styles, and their prices, too. Right now they are having a summer clearance sale with prices up to 75% off. I have my eye on these sweet flowered "Malin" sandals (at top, reduced to $20.45 from $40.95, sizes toddler 8 through youth 3.5) for my daughter and these retro style "Roger" sneaks (at bottom, reduced to $19.45 from $38.95, sizes toddler 9 through youth 1) for my son. Snatch these up on sale before they're gone at Vincent Shoes.

Bargain Alert: Boys' Bedding

My amazing little boy turns 3 this summer, and probably will transition soon from his crib to a bed. While it is a bittersweet time for me, I am so proud of him and, of course, excited for the opportunity to purchase new bedding. He is car-crazy, and I really wanted to buy him the bedding from Whistle & Wink that I posted about recently, but it is too pricey for me (I also like this Department of Motor Vehicles Bedding from The Land of Nod but it, too, is out of my budget). Instead, I found this very cute Hit the Road Bedding Collection at Tar-jay. It is much more affordable (the twin quilt set costs just $59.99) and it got very favorable reviews. When we take the plunge and swap the crib for a bed, I will be sure to post pictures. Beep Beep!

Very Inviting

California-based stationery boutique Very Inviting makes this very pretty personalized stationery gift set, which, as loyal readers know, is just about my favorite kind of gift to give (or receive). Each set includes both notecards and notepads with either a monogram or name (in colors and design of choice), adorably packaged in a chocolate brown box with personalized gift tag. This is the sort of gift you'd expect to be kind of pricey, but it only costs $24, making it an affordable birthday gift, bridesmaid gift, or anytime gift. Browse this and other products at Very Inviting.

Lil Swanky $100 gift certificate winner

Congratulations to Alexia, who wrote, "I cannot name one thing! Here's the list..." Please e-mail me to claim your prize. Enjoy!

Last Chance: Win a $100 Gift Certificate to Lil Swanky

Hey! There's still time to enter our wildly popular Lil Swanky $100 gift certificate contest. Enter by 11:59pm EST tonight, and you could be the lucky winner who gets to buy fashion-forward threads like this little girls' Lola & James Concert Dress ($122). Good luck!

p.s. Please be sure to leave your entry/comment at the original post, NOT here. Thanks!

Daddy-O

Happy Father's Day to all of the wonderful, devoted dads out there (want to read about a great dad? read this, via Twitter).

Father & Daughter Sign 5 x 5 Fine Art Photo ($12) from Etsy.com; this is the "Ped X-ing" sign of Budapest, Hungary- cute, isn't it?

For the Procrastinators

Have you still not finished shopping for Father's Day? It's OK, you can admit it. You can always send a last-minute Amazon.com gift certificate- even a seasoned online shopper like me does this quite often. Actually, it's a very welcome gift. It's redeemable for millions of Amazon.com items and is available in any amount from $5 to $5,000. And it never expires. Best of all? You can send one right now, along with a nifty e-card notifying the lucky guy that he can buy whatever he likes. No more wallets and ties. Purchase a gift card at Amazon.com.

It's OK to Re-Gift(wrap)

I have a couple of these Friendship Gift Bags and love using them to wrap birthday gifts for R and S's friends. It's a very cool idea, and an eco-friendly one, too. Each bag has areas for your kids to color in to personalize the bag. Then, the gift bag's journey can be tracked online with a unique registration number, as it is passed from one gift-giver to the next. Sort of like tracking those dollar bills. At age 5 1/2, R. enjoys coloring in the bags and wondering where they will end up a few gifts from now. Each glossy, heavyweight bag measures 10 x 13 x 5 inches, and costs $7.95. Five designs are currently available- my favorite is the all-purpose "party bag." Visit Friendship Gift Bag.

The Little Mermaid

Still need some swimwear for your daughter this summer? Check out this cute Musical Mermaid Swimsuit by swimwear designer Rhona Sutton. It's available in sizes 2T-6X at My Princess Closet and is on sale for 50% off (reduced to $21.50 from $41). Check out other sale items at My Princess Closet, too.

Thank You Thank You

With my kiddos' August birthdays coming up, I just bought new personalized sibling silhouette notecards from my fave Etsy shop Le Papier Studio to use as joint thank-you notes. I used the same silhouette that Le Papier Studio used for my wall print. The result is similar to the Etsy item pictured here (though I opted for something even simpler- no border, and no color accent- just the silhouette and names in chocolate brown ink, and coordinating mustard-colored envelopes). The set here includes 24 cards and envelopes plus matching address labels, all for $36. Order a set for yourself at Etsy.com.

My Book About Me

R. and her friends are into a busy spring/summer season of 6th birthday parties, and I'm considering giving some copies of this Dr. Seuss-style My Book About Me as gifts. R. completed her own copy recently (I think it is ideal for ages 5 to 7). On each page the child gets to fill in something like the number of teeth they have "upstairs" or "downstairs", their favorite foods and colors, or more silly questions like how many windows are in their house (R. loved counting that out). There are places where the kids draw or even trace their little hands. It's fun for kids to do, and a very sweet momento for parents to keep. And, it's very affordable- it costs just $10.17 in hardcover (normally $14.97) at Amazon.com.

Bargain Alert: Current Catalog

Can I gush some more about the Current Catalog? If you're a value shopper like I am, you will love this catalog chock full of both practical and fun housewares, gifts, and toys at low prices. This is where I stock up on stickers, gift wrap, and the like. Here are some items I've spotted in their recent catalog:

Race Car Stationery Set (on sale for $4, was $5.99). An inexpensive alternate to fancier kids' stationery sets, and they'll love the coordinating stickers.



Sesame Street Manners Book Set (on sale for $9.99, was $10.99). Good manners for under $10? I'll take it.


Happy Family Personalized Notepads in a Basket ($16.99). Again, a much better deal than you'll find elsewhere.


Nursery Rhyme Nesting Blocks Set (on sale for $6.99, was $12.99) My kids have a set like this at home and never tire of it.


School Days Memory Book (on sale for $5.49, was $7.49). An easy, quick way to jot down memories from the elementary years.


Shop around at Current Catalog and be sure to check out Retail Me Not or Coupon Chief to get codes for additional discounts or free shipping.

Harvard Bound

As I mentioned, I recently attended my 15th Harvard reunion and brought my kids along (above is R. "checking in" and writing her own name-tag!). Had I seen this vintage-style Harvard Tee by Chaser- a new arrival at Psycho Baby- I might've dressed one or both kiddos in it! It's available in sizes 3-6 month all the way up to 8 for $33; a few other colleges are available, too.

p.s. When writing this post I re-discovered how much I love the Psycho Baby site. They have some of my favorite brands, including Hiho Batik, Mighty Fine, and Me in Mind. Great sales, too. Check them out!

Spring in my Step

Summer weather brings out the shoe addict in me (though I'm no Carrie Bradshaw...I rarely buy shoes over $100). Right now I'm coveting these Flowered Heels by, who else, Boden. With a touch of shiny patent leather and 2 3/4" heels, these are just about perfect for summer soirees. $158 (in magenta, emerald, or antiqued gold as shown) at Boden.

MyMomShops Giveaway: Lil Swanky

A few months ago I was searching for a particular girls' clothing brand online (Luna Luna Copenhagen) and ended up at this new online boutique Lil Swanky. I browsed around and loved what I saw- carefully selected clothing by youthful, fun designers like Splendid Little, Joah Love, and Appaman. Founded by mom/fashionista Emily Hornstein-Quagliani, Lil Swanky recognizes the need for an online shop that sells both well-known high end children's apparel as well as some of the more cutting-edge newcomers (while I personally tend towards the former, I love browsing the latter...) The lucky winner of this $100 gift certificate will get to choose from gorgeous threads like these:

Bobinette Buckaroo Turquoise Gingham Shirt (sizes 4T, 5, and 6; $54). Bobinette makes the most colorful, trendy shirts for little boys.


Dolls and Divas Striped Tutu Dress ($84, sizes 2T or 3T). I like this look...a princess-y style but in black and white.


Little Celebrity Respect Your Mother Tee ($24, sizes 4T-12). A fun unisex tee- will make a great hand-me-down.

Splendid Littles Tank Leggings Set ($66; sizes 2T-4T). So cute for summer!

Luna Luna Copenhagen Soleil Top ($50, sizes 3-6mos to 4T). Is this gorgeous or what? It can only be more perfect with....


Luna Luna Copehagen Dilly Dally Bloomers ($50, size 3-6mos or 6-12mos) The perfect finishing touch. Too cute.



Win it! 1 MyMomShops reader will win a $100 gift certificate to Lil Swanky. Here are the contest rules:

1) To enter, please comment on THIS post (click on "comments" below), indicating what your favorite item at Lil Swanky is.
2) Post your comment by 11:59pm EST Sunday, June 21st. One entry per person, please. US addresses only.
3) One winner will be chosen at random and announced on Monday morning, June 22nd.
4) NOTE: If you wish to be contacted by e-mail if you win, please include your e-mail address in your comment. Otherwise you must check back on Monday to see if you won. Unclaimed prizes are forfeited after 72 hours.

Good luck!

Barbie Goes Old School

R. recently attended a pal's 6th birthday party at FAO Schwarz's flagship NYC store. This is one of her favorite places on earth and she loved dancing on the giant piano keyboard (from the movie Big) along with this soldier:


At FAO Schwarz, I was enthused to spot these new Barbie's 50th Anniversary Collector's Edition Dolls. Boy, did these take me back, especially the 1970s Malibu Barbie, which my sister and I had (and whose hair we duly cut and "styled").

Here are some of the other Barbie collector's editions currently for sale at FAO Schwarz (in-store only; their website no longer sells anything...but you can buy them at, of all places, Walmart.com, where you can snag two dolls for $65 total). I love how each of these dolls also arrives in era-style packaging with a collector's booklet.




Read more about the Barbie collector dolls here. And, did you hear the news that FAO Schwarz has recently been bought by Toys 'R Us? Will be interesting to see what happens to the FAO brand...

Oh How They Grow

Note: This is a repost from February 2007. I just remembered (good mommy!) to measure my kids again against their growth charts from My Bambino, something I hadn't done in almost a year, so this seemed a good time to mention this product again. It is a charming, sturdy wooden growth chart which can be personalized for free and includes photo openings, too. The coupon code from 2007, however, is no longer valid. Oh, and you can also see how it looks in my daughter's room here.


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

Gifts for Dad

There's just a few days left to shop for Father's Day. Still stumped? Here are a few more gift ideas to get the creative juices flowing.

Red Bicycle Cufflinks ($25) from Etsy.com.


Colby Leather Catch-all ($19-$29) from Pottery Barn.


Entourage- The Complete First Four Seasons($98.99) from Amazon.com.


Monogrammed Grill Tools Set ($99.95) from Williams Sonoma.


Kids' Art Tie Kit ($25) from Uncommon Goods.


Baekgaard Daddy Bag ($88) from Style Boutique.

Still not sure? Browse all of our past Father's Day Gift Ideas here.

Stock up for Winter

I love browsing boys'-only clothing sites like the upscale boutique Ochanga. They have great off-season sales on high-end items like this vibrant School Boy Stripe Sweater made of 100% merino wool. It's 50% off- on sale for $28 (originally $56) in sizes 4T, 6, and 8. Browse all the winter sale clothing at Ochanga; brands include Knuckleheads, Wonderboy, and more.

Dad's Cufflinks

These are some of the nicest Father' Day cufflinks I've seen in a long time (and trust me, I see a lot of this stuff). They are 100% sterling and made with 3/4" disks. You can stamp them with a name or word or just a single initial. They are pricey ($150) per pair, but a really thoughtful, classic gift. Buy them at Hot Mama Designs.

Bla Bla Bla

These whimsical, handknitted Boogaloo Dolls by popular brand Blabla are on sale at Company Kids for $20.99 (normally $36). Made by Peruvian artists using all-natural cotton years, these 100% cotton dolls are machine washable and super cuddly. They make a very sweet baby gift or toddler birthday gift. Buy one at Company Kids.

Enjoy 15% off any order at Company Kids with code "PARENTS09" now through 8/29/09.

Happy Graduation

My daughter graduated kindergarten yesterday and I can not even begin to process the flood of emotions, given what she and I have been through together in the past few years. Suffice to say there were many happy tears. Ever the wise opportunist, R. asked me for a special graduation present, and I happily obliged. She is really into sticker mosaics these days (thanks to my dear friend ERM who introduced them to her last year) so I gave her this Sticky Mosaics Jewels by Numbers Set by The Orb Factory. It has five different designs you can make using the colorful self-adhesive foam tiles or jewels. She has already hung the first one up on her bedroom wall. Sticky Mosaics are a wonderful, quiet activity and something that you can really enjoy doing with your child (I find them quite relaxing). I've seen these sets in stores for as much as $20 but at My Breyer Horses, oddly, there is a nice selection (designs for both boys and girls) of Sticky Mosaics by the Orb Factory for significantly less (the one shown here is just $13.95). Makes a great gift for the 5-and-up set!

Tolani Scarf Winner

Congratulations to CMDsMommy, who wrote, "I love the sky blue color- perfect for summer! Thanks!" Please e-mail me with your name, mailing address, and exact scarf choice to claim your prize.

Everybody's Working for the Weekend

This fashionable weekender diaper bag by Kalencom looks much more expensive than it really is ($70). It is the type of bag that will last you long beyond the baby days, with plenty of pouches and compartments to make it a useful bag for day trips or weekend trips, with or without the kids. It also happens to be eco-friendly and phthalate-free. I like this light blue canvas version the best, but there are many other designs to tickle your fancy. Check them all out at Anna Bean.

Ask MyMomShops: Picnic Blankets

Dear My Mom Shops,

I have been looking for a great beach/picnic blanket for some time now. I was wondering if you had come across anything that was functional, good looking and not too pricey. Not to mention a decent size but also portable. Is this too tall an order?

Thanks,
Paula (Mom of Cecilia)



Dear Paula,

I definitely have a blanket to recommend to you. We have been using it for several years and I love it. It is comfy, machine-washable, and easy to tote around. It's the Tuffo Water-Resistant Outdoor Blanket ($34.99) available in several patterns (multi-stripe shown here; also available in Navy Hawaiian and Dots). We've used it at the park, the beach, you name it. It's lightweight (just 3 lbs) and spreads out huge (84 inches by 54 inches) so several children and adults can sit comfortably. Have fun in the great outdoors!

Best,
MyMomShops

Bargain Alert: Jeweled Photo Bookmarks

I scooped up a few sets of these Jeweled Photo Bookmarks which are on clearance at Exposures. Each set contains 2 oval and 1 square bookmark which hold 1" x 1" photos. The set has been reduced all the way to $5.99 from its original price of $19.95. This would make a great last-minute teacher gift! Buy them at Exposures.

Our Art Gallery

I've curated several exhibitions in my previous life as an art history major/museum professional, but nothing has been more fun than creating a gallery of my children's artwork in their play area off our living room. I'd been meaning to do this for the longest time. While I am not quite Martha Stewart, I am pleased with how it turned out (and how little I spent (note: it's still a work in progress- there are blank spots left on purpose).



And closer up:


This is a portrait that R. made of me when she was four years old:


I centered the kids' artwork around this framed silhouette print of them (based on a photograph I provided), created by Le Papier Studio and price very reasonably at $20 (unframed). I framed it in a 9 x 11" natural wood Ribba frame ($7.99) from Ikea which included a mat.


For the kids' artwork I chose these Nyttja Frames from Ikea in different colors and sizes. A 2-pack of 5 x 7 frames cost just $3.99. I like that the fronts are clear plastic rather than glass; it's safer and more kid-friendly.

I'm very pleased with the results and look forward to adding more artwork!

Daddy Threads from Etsy

Look at these cute Father's Day gifts I spotted at Etsy.com:

Vintage Dad (any year) Tee by Branded. $28.


Father & Son Tie Applique Shirts by Super Sweet Creations. $43.



Daddy Needs Some Love'n Organic Tee by Nina & Tom. $25.



Place your orders soon; the shipping deadlines are ASAP.

Elephant Entertainment

If you're a purist when it comes to toys, I think you'll love this Eco-wooden Elephant Dominos Set (see, there are those trendy elephants again...) Suitable for ages 3 and up, the set is handmade entirely from natural wood and finished only with safe linseed oil. The elephant's magnetically attached cart contains 16 lovely blocks made from different types of wood. It's packaged in a gift-worthy cardboard box, too. Buy it for $28 at My Sweet Muffin.

B is for Braniac

Oooh, I would love to decorate a child's room with these Nerd Flashcards. The set of 26 alphabet cards ($22) includes gems like "A is for Atom" and "D is for Diurnal"; the number set ($16) helps Baby learn physics, chemistry, and more while counting their piggies. The laminated cards are all wipeable and arrive in a canvas bag. Buy them for your budding genius at Uncommon Goods.

MyMomShops Giveaway: Chick Downtown

I recently was introduced to ChickDowntown.com, a trendy women's clothing site with high-end designer clothing by Diane von Fursternburg and Marc Jacobs, and accessories such as Alexis Bittar jewelry. Much of it is out of my usual price range, but definitely worth it.

Today's giveaway, courtesy of Chick Downtown, is your choice of one scarf from their collection of year-round Tolani scarves. These scarves are celeb favorites and have been seen adorning the necks of the likes of Halle Berry, Leighton Meister, and Lindsay Lohan (not that I'm suggesting you try to imitate Ms. Lohan...). The colors and patterns are beautiful, and you can use a scarf like this to accessorize anything from a little black dress to a cotton tee. The scarves retail for about $85-$113, so they're juuust the kind of item you'd love to win from a giveaway!


Win it! 1 MyMomShops reader will win a Tolani scarf (design of choice) from Chick Downtown. Here are the contest rules:

1) To enter, please comment on THIS post (click on "comments" below), indicating which design you'd choose (click here to see all the options).
2) Post your comment by 11:59pm EST Thursday, June 11th. One entry per person, please. US addresses only.
3) One winner will be chosen at random and announced on Friday morning, June 12th.
4) NOTE: If you wish to be contacted by e-mail if you win, please include your e-mail address in your comment. Otherwise you must check back on Thursday to see if you won. Unclaimed prizes are forfeited after 72 hours.

Good luck!

National Stationery Show: Galison/Mudpuppy

One booth I always look forward to visiting at the National Stationery Show is Galison/Mudpuppy. I adore their grown-up stationery/desk accesories line (Galison) and their products for kids (Mudpuppy). Here are some photos I snapped at their display last month:

Monogram Sticky Notes. Love 'em, love 'em, love 'em. $10 per pad which includes 480 various size sticky notes.


"Notes & Things" collection of office supplies, based on illustrations by Julia Rothman- business card holder, memo box, social notes, pencil holders, and more...


Kids' "Around Town" collection including sticky notes, pencil holder, and pocket folders.


And more kids' desk accessories...love these new designs!


3-Compartment Money Banks ($13), with Spend, Save, and Share, plus padlock and keys.

Browse more lovely Galison/Mudpuppy products for paper-philes of all ages.

Chase's Treasures Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Brit, who wrote, "I love the screen print posters, especially the animal alphabet in blue." Please e-mail me to claim your prize. Enjoy! And everyone else- remember you can still get a 20% discount at Chase's Treasures with code "momshops20."

p.s. I am leaving for Boston this morning (with my kids in tow) to attend my 15th college reunion. I'll be posting again on Monday. Have a great weekend!

Whistle & Wink

I've been browsing furniture and bedding since I'm preparing to "upgrade" my son's room when he gets his big boy bed, and I fell in love with this new bedding designer Whistle & Wink. I love the aesthetic- it is slightly more elegant than Pottery Barn Kids, for example, but still child-like and imaginative (in fact, I just learned that their designs are by a former Pottery Barn Kids creative director). It'll cost you more, too, though the prices are not sky-high compared to what else is out there. Still probably too expensive for me (too bad), but I haven't ruled it out yet. Here are some photos to give you a taste (these are all from Rosenberry Rooms, by the way; this shop seems to have the best in-stock selection of Whistle & Wink):

Princess Reversible Twin Duvet Cover ($199)


Cars & Trucks Twin Quilt ($299; this is the set I wish I could get for my son):


China Doll Crib Bedding Set ($399)


I especially love all of the detail work on the accent pillows and shams:

Nightingale Decorative Pillow ($79)


Blue Stars Standard Sham ($59)


Squirrel Dot Decorative Pillow ($79)


Beautiful, aren't they? Shop Whistle & Wink nursery and kids' bedding and decor at Rosenberry Rooms,

Last Chance to Enter Chase's Treasures Giveaway

Quick...you have till midnight tonight (EST) to enter our fantastic giveaway for a $100 gift certificate to new online boutique Chase's Treasures, featuring chic gifts for babies, kids, and moms. Another bestseller- their personalized garden dress ($47.50) for little girls (sizes newborn to age 6). Click here to enter the contest and check back tomorrow morning to see who's won! Good luck!

Use code "momshops20" to enjoy a generous 20% off of your order at Chases Treasures. Valid on all items except personalized stickers.

Bargain Alert: Dogwood Clothing for $9.90

I got an e-mail from Bargain Children's Clothing about all of their Dogwood clothing for boys on sale for just $9.90 per item (regardless of original price). I love the colors on this boys' long-sleeve zip-up jacket (sizes 4-8, regularly $56, on sale for $9.90). Check out all of the bargain deals on shirts, shorts, swim trunks, and more by Dogwood.

Special Offer at Gift Hero

Our friends at birthday gift site Gift Hero are offering MyMomShops readers an exclusive 15% discount on any order, now through June 30th, 2009, with code "MOMSHOPS". I posted about some of their new outdoor toys recently; another specialty of theirs is arts and crafts gifts. This Young Artist Learn-to-Paint Set by Faber-Castell has everything a young Picasso needs, including color mixing chart, instructions, brushes, washable paint, and easy to handle pallette. $16 at Gift Hero.

Use code "MOMSHOPS" through 6/30 for 15% off your order at Gift Hero.

Support YAI This Weekend

As I mentioned back in April, my kids and I are raising money for this Saturday's Central Park Challenge to benefit YAI, a stellar New York City non-profit that provides a vast array of programs to tens of thousands of people with disabilities and developmental delays (ranging from physical impairments to autism spectrum disorders to Down's Syndrome). I am not only a parent whose child(ren) have received Early Intervention through YAI, but I have also been a board member of one of YAI's divisions since before I even became a mother. It is an incredible organization that provides so much hope to families and, like many non-profits, it is suffering under the current economic conditions. If you would like to help me and my children towards our fundraising goal of $1000 this year to support people with disabilities and their families, click here to visit my personal fundraising page (with a cute picture of my son); if you would like more general information about the Central Park Challenge, please click here. Thank you for your support!

p.s. I just got an e-mail from YAI's CEO that they are only $149,000 away from their goal of raising $1.4 million! Please help us close the gap!

Reunion!

I am headed to Boston this Friday (with R. and S. in tow) for my 15th college reunion. Boy, am I starting to feel old. When I graduated college in 1994, I had big hair, big glasses, and no e-mail account. Times sure have changed! Fortunately, so have I. And, recently I treated myself to some new clothing and shoes, which I think I will wear to the reunion. I've lost weight recently (down a clothing size...) so I am especially excited to wear these:

Deep Blue Pleated Scoopneck Jersey Dress ($69) from Ann Taylor Loft. The dress not only looks fantastic but is so comfortable and impossible to wrinkle- great for travelling!


Jewelled Sandals ($98) from Boden. I've worn these a few times already and I love 'em. R. calls them "mommy's princess shoes." Cute.

Stay tuned...maybe I'll post some photos. ;-)

National Stationery Show: Home Decals by Graphique de France

Again, I'm not sure why some product categories seem to show up big-time at the National Stationery Show (wall decals??) but I'm not complaining. Among the many wall decal companies I saw recently, the Home Decals by Graphique de France stood out for having the best designs without being too cutesy. I would enjoy putting any of these up in my home. The prices are very reasonable too, starting at just $13.95 per set. They will be available for purchase online starting in August 2009 at Graphique de France.

Wooed by Muu

When I spotted this incredible new modern nursery furniture in the window of the Giggle store on Lexington Avenue, I knew I had to find out who made it. It's by Muu, which is made here in the United States by a woodworking family with over 30 years of experience. The debut line, called the "Sam" collection, is named in honor of the founder Robert Kwak's grandfather Sam, who sold children's shoes at his store in Brooklyn, NY. Since my whole family comes from Brooklyn and since I, too, had a beloved Grandpa Sam (whom my son is named for), I like it even better!

The "Sam" collection consists of several pieces- crib, changing table, dresser, storage unit, nightstand, and twin bed- all made from sustainable wood. Each has unique changeable design panels that you can mix, match, and even personalize (ready for baby #2? just order new panels!) At the Giggle store they just had a few samples to view, but on the Muu site you can "test drive" various panels in different color combos, with or without your child's name custom printed on the panel. Have fun playing around on the site- you will be hooked.

The only downside is that gorgeous custom furniture like this costs money. The twin bed, for example, costs $1250. Too bad. I am getting ready to turn S's nursery into his "big boy" room now that he is turning 3. And I know he'd love the traffic design panels. Oh well, a mom can dream.

Go get some furniture inspiration at Muu.

MyMomShops Giveaway: Chase's Treasures

I am soooo pleased to present today's giveaway, which is a generous $100 gift certificate for one lucky winner to our newest sponsor's shop, Chase's Treasures. Recently launched in New York City, Chase's Treasures is an online boutique with gifts for kids and moms, specializing in personalized gifts, unique toys, and kids' decor. The shop is owned by one of my dearest friends, Jessica Pickholz. Jessica and I met when our older daughters were in "camp" together as 2 1/2 year olds, and now they are kindergarten classmates and best pals. Jessica, who has an impressive background in retail and business, has an incredible eye for gorgeous products. So I'm not surprised that Chase's Treasures includes some of my all-time favorite gifts, including some I've featured on this blog before. Here are some of the goodies for sale at Chase's Treasures:

Personalized ABC Typography Print ($50). One of my all-time favorite nursery prints, this art by Jennifer Ramos spells out your child's name (or a word like "love") with the colored letters.


Play and Go Backpacks ($35). These have been a top seller at Chase's Treasures. Perfect for road trips, visits to Grandma, or just quiet play at home, each backpack includes10 washable double-sided markers (thick & thin tips), 1 activity book with sticker sheets and a removable pouch for storing all the "extras" that kids accumulate. There are several retro-style designs available; I like "Piggy Pirate" best.


Personalized Long Sleeve Uniform Lap Teest ($32). Call these "gas station chic." These soft cotton shirts by Blume are celeb favorites (Tori Spelling's kids have them). The appliqued patch accommodates names or words up to 10 characters. Available in sizes 6-12mos, 12-18mos, 18-24mos. They can also be ordered as thermal tees in larger sizes- just ask.


Personalized stickers ($3.95 for 3 sheets of 4 stickers). At this great price, these make a fun and easy personalized party favor. I think the Wild West stickers are especially adorable, but other popular designs are princess and cars.


Crayola Doodlebugz Crayon Apron ($17). No more crayons rolling away! A perfect big sister gift, or birthday gift, this apron comes with a pad of paper and 24 crayola crayons. Personalize it for an extra $10.


Use code "momshops20" to enjoy a generous 20% off of your order at Chases Treasures. Valid on all items except personalized stickers.

Win it! 1 MyMomShops reader will win a $100 gift certificate to Chase's Treasures. Here are the contest rules:

1) To enter, please comment on THIS post (click on "comments" below), indicating what your favorite item from Chase's Treasures is.
2) Post your comment by 11:59pm EST, Thursday, June 4th. One entry per person, please. US addresses only.
3) One winner will be chosen at random and announced on Friday morning, June 5th.
4) NOTE: If you wish to be contacted by e-mail if you win, please include your e-mail address in your comment. Otherwise you must check back on Friday to see if you won. Unclaimed prizes are forfeited after 72 hours.

Good luck!

Thank You

I just wanted to thank you all for your kind words and good wishes after I posted about signing my divorce agreement last week. It felt cathartic to finally go public with this news after being silent for over a year and a half. And I can not begin to tell you how much I appreciate your supportive comments and e-mails to me- I read each and every one. Thank you so much, from me, R. and S.!

Photo courtesy of Etsy.com.

Teacher's Stationery

I loved these personalized teacher's notecards that I discovered from Inkspot Workshop last year so much that I feel compelled to post them again since teacher gift season is rapidly approaching. Each of these sets of 10 cards includes your choice of 2 ink colors, image, and personalization (including your choice of font). I can not imagine that any teacher wouldn't love these. They arrive wrapped with ribbon in a clear cellophane envelope. Hurry and order them in time for the last day of school. They cost just $16 at the Etsy.com storefront of Inkspot Workshop.