So Cute You (Almost) Won't Eat Them

I just ordered a bunch of these chocolate character lollipops from Etsy as birthday favors and they look fantastic (and taste great, too...I just had to sample one). They are bigger than I expected and for an extra twenty cents per lollipop I got personalized favor tags. I couldn't choose among all the characters so I got an assortment of Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and Blue from Blue's Clues. I think my 3-year-old and his pals will love them. And quite likely their moms, too. Order 10 for just $12 at My Sweeties.

Linaloos Barrettes Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Amanda McGhee, who wrote, "These are adorable. i would chose the red sox, cupcakes for dinner and lobster." Please e-mail me to claim your prize!

A Peggy or a Joan?

My Mad Men obsession is on the rise as the show returns for its third season on AMC on Sunday, August 16th. Jon Hamm, we have missed you! I just played this silly but fun game at Mad Men Yourself where you can see what you'd look like as part of the Sterling Cooper advertising team in the 1960s. Check me out! Transport yourself back to old-school Madison Avenue at Mad Men Yourself.

MyMomShops Sponsor: Scribbles-n-Giggles

Our newest sponsor, Scribbles-n-Giggles, is an online stationery and gift boutique started by mom Tera Castro, a fellow stationery-phile. After spending hours online searching for just the right baby announcements, party invitations, and stationery (hmmm...can anyone relate to that?) she started designing her own and having them printed at a local paper shop. Now, her designs are available at her shop Scribbles-n-Giggles.

There are two types of cards available- print-your-own or ready-made. The latter are digitally press printed on heavy card stock with a smooth matte finish. You can also have the reverse sides printed for an additional fee. Here are some of my favorite designs in either format:

"Gone Fishin" print-your-own invitation ($25 for digital image which you can print yourself as often as you'd like).


Blue Vines Return Address Labels ($18 for 36 labels, many other designs available).


Floral Print Personalized Notecard (starting at $9.90 for 10 cards with envelopes)

Modern Circle Art Photo Birth Announcement (starts at $1.77 per card)


Visit Scribbles 'n Giggles and enjoy 15% off your entire order with code "MMSHOPS".

Spit Up and Touch Down

There aren't a lot of great gifts out there for new Dads, but I love this Football Field burp cloth I stumbled onto at Flying Peas. Perfect gift for a Dad who might be on feeding duty during Super Bowl season! It's organic cotton, too. $17 at Flying Peas.

Little Prepster

A million thanks to S's pal M.A.K. for S's first birthday gift this season, this gorgeous Tipped Pullover Sweater from Baby Gap. It's just his (or my?) style- a little preppy, a little retro, and perfect for layering this Fall. $29.50, sizes 12-18mos through 5 years at Baby Gap.

I Could Eat You Up

My kids' birthdays are coming up fast so I'm in full party-planning mode. I've stumbled onto many cool party supplies that I'd love to share with you. The first are these party hat cupcake toppers from Etsy. You supply the photo, date, and color choice, and they do the rest. A pack of 12 costs $10 and it is sure to be a conversation piece at the birthday party! See this and other party supplies at the Etsy.com storefront of Petit Elefant.

Board Books for Boys

Several people gave me board books when S. was born, which I really appreciated so that he wasn't stuck with his sister's chewed-up copies of Goodnight Moon and Happy Baby Colors. Relishing my first time as mom to a boy, I especially loved the boy-themed books people gave me (I know this doesn't sound politically correct...I recognize these books are great for girls, too, but having grown up in a family with just daughters, I liked getting these recommendations). Here are some of S's favorite books that he received in his first year. He is nearly 3 and we still read these all the time:

My Car Board Book($6.99). The author, Byron Barton, has some other great board books too. The main "character" in My Car has the same name as S., so we love it even more.


Sports A to Z($5.95). From archery to zamboni, this book was educational for Mommy, too.


That's Not My Train (Usborne Touchy-Feely)($8.99) This book has lots of touch-and-feel parts which S. enjoys. It's part of a whole transportation series.


Diggers: Usborne Touchy-Feely Series ($15.95). This is our favorite of the series.

Any other suggestions for fun board books for boys? Post them in the comments!

City Pride

I've always like the popular "city" tees, hoodies, and hats by City Threads, though they are on the expensive side. I checked back at their site and found this New York Thermal Tee on sale for 50% off (was $38.50, now $19.25; sizes 3-6mos, 6-12mos, 5, and 6 remaining). The navy color with orange trim is perfect for Fall. By the way, City Threads also makes "city" clothing for Hollywood, Brooklyn, and Chicago; check them out at City Threads.

MyMomShops Giveaway: Linaloos

Boston mom Jennifer Malone founded Linaloos when she started receiving compliments on the hand-made barrettes she had created for her baby daughter (who has twin older brothers). Jennifer started selling some of the barrettes and now Linaloos is sold in boutqiues throughout New England. The sweet hair clips and pins are handmade using vintage sweaters (so they are eco-friendly and "upcycled") with added felt and embroidery. Most designs can be ordered as a baby barrette, little girl barrette, elastic hair band or pins.

What I especially like about Linaloos designs is that in addition to the usual pretty pink barrettes you'd expect, there are some more unusual but equally attractive (and clever) ones. Check out the Peanut-Free Zone barrette, or the Red Sox Nation barrette, or the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle barrette, to name a few. Each costs $8.

It's also worth mentioning that even as a small business, Linaloos feels a responsibility to give back to the community. Linaloos has partnered with the Childhood Leukemia Foundation and donated hair accessories to them for their Hugs U Wear program, which collects donated hair and uses it to make wigs for children undergoing chemotherapy treatments. Each purchase you make from Linaloos is matched by a donation to the Hugs U Wear program so that a child can receive a special hair clip to wear in their new hairpiece.

Note: Linaloos is offering MyMomShops readers a $1 discount per barrette if they mention "MyMomShops" in the "notes to seller" section at checkout. Please note: after you do this, choose the "pay later" option so that Linaloos may first send you a revised invoice reflecting your discount.


Win it! 1 MyMomShops reader will win her choice of 3 barrettes from Linaloos (total retail value: $24). Here are the contest rules:

1) To enter, please comment on THIS post (click on "comments" below), indicating which 3 barrettes you'd choose (click here for all of the choices).
2) Post your comment by 11:59pm EST Thursday, July 30th. One entry per person, please. US addresses only.
3) Two winners will be chosen at random and announced on Friday morning, July 31st.
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!

Rush Hour

I loooove this rush hour wallpaper. While it might be a bit much for an entire room, it would look fantastic as an accent wall. Designed in Denmark (of course) and manufactured in Sweden, it costs the princely sum of $115 per roll. Check it out at Rare Device.

The Buzz about Mommy Blogs

(Above: "Baby S" at age 4 months on January 17, 2007, the day I started this blog. No, Fresh Direct did not pay me to include this. But I do love Fresh Direct!).

There's been a lot of talk (not all of it nice) recently about "mommy bloggers" and whether or not they are "selling out" by writing about freebies they receive- everything from laundry detergent to cars (yes, cars). Even The New York Times is talking about it. And though I don't consider MyMomShops a "mommy blog" as much as a shopping blog, I thought I should let my readers know where I stand on all of this.

I started this blog for fun during 3am feedings with my infant son in early 2007, because I (was told) was a wealth of information about where to shop online for the perfect gifts (a skill I had honed during two pregnancies on bedrest). And I still write the blog for fun, not profit (and, it also happened to become a good distraction from more serious stuff that happened in the past 2 years).

My blog gets very good traffic (not as high as the gals in the The New York Times article, but up there), and though I've never been offered luxury goods like cars, that the blog has attracted the attention of lots of stores and PR people. So, yes, I am occasionally sent products to review, though they are most often some clothing or toys or stationery- i.e. nothing lavish. And I only say "yes" to sample items which are products that 1) I might use in my daily life as a single mom to a 3-year-old boy and 6-year-old girl (toys yes, breast pumps no) and/or 2) are gift-worthy (stationery yes, bathroom sprays no). Also, I accept a small amount of advertising (which I clearly label as "MyMomShops Sponsors") and affiliates (where I earn a small commission on purchases through links). But, I never accept advertising for a product I wouldn't use myself or recommend to someone else. In fact, I turn down a majority of advertising or product review requests, because it takes up my time, your time, and steers this blog in a different direction from what I intended. There are "mommy blogs" out there that are specifically designed to review a slew of products (and sometimes those moms are compensated for any or all reviews). Mine doesn't fall into that category, but I don't have a problem with those that do. There's room for all of us.

As I mentioned in an article about this blog in Time Out NY Kids last year, most items (I'd say at least 75%) that I write about here are things that I stumble onto myself (sometimes at 3am, just like I did in the early days). Because that is what is most fun for me to write about, and hopefully what is most fun for you to read. So it will remain that way. I hope you like it that way, too.

p.s. By all means, please keep your product tips coming, whether you are a shop owner, a PR person, or just a mom who has some great ideas. I am happy to hear from everyone- but please understand if I don't get a chance to respond- I get so many e-mails and I do my best to keep up. If I am interested in the product (or a sample that you offer) you'll hear from me- and if I'm not, I just might recommend other bloggers who are.

p.p.s. Many bloggers have written much more eloquently on this topic than I have. One I'd like to commend is Liz Gumbinner from Mom-101. Liz, thanks for encouraging me and other bloggers to clarify our our positions.

Fall Preview: CWD Kids

CWD Kids is one of my favorite clothing sites to browse when I've tired of chain stores like Gymboree or Baby Gap. They have a great collection of US-made brands including Mulberribush, Junk Food, and Anita G. I'll be posting this Fall more about their Halloween apparel, but in the meantime here are some back-to-school threads that caught my eye:

Brianna Rugby Dress by Ralph Lauren ($60 sizes 3T-6X, $65 sizes 7-14)


Dress and Leggings Set by Flapdoodles ($39, sizes 2T-14)


Floral Corduroy Dress by Hartstrings ($59, sizes 2T-6X)


Transportation Tees and Cord Pants by Mulberribush ($29 tee sizes 18mos-7, $29 pants sizes 12mo-14)


Play Guitar Tee by Wes & Willy ($24, sizes 2t-14/16)

p.s. The CWD Kids Halloween catalog just arrived in my mailbox yesterday. Love it! My favorite picks TK soon...

Princess Hideaway

My daughter is begging for this little princess tent for her birthday. I'm fairly certain it will become one of those gifts that my she doesn't play with enough to warrant its large presence in our living room, but at least it's not too expensive ($29.95). She is turning 6 and is craving privacy, so maybe this will do the trick. The tent has a pop-up design (hooray) with fiberglass poles for stability. Buy one at Young Explorers.

Elmo is Happy to Carry Your Books

I'm not sure what the target age is for this adorable Elmo Messenger Bag but frankly I might consider carrying one myself. It's a new arrival at one of my favorite sites, Psycho Baby, and it costs $31.

Don't Throw in the Towel

For a mid-summer beach treat, check out Haba's cute mermaid and pirate beach towels at Maukilo. Same colorful European design as Haba toys, this time printed with embroidered faces on plush terry cloth towels. Great birthday gift for a summer kid, too! $26 each at Maukilo.

Use code "green2me" for 10% off your order (non-sale items) at Maukilo.

Bed Head

I'm searching for a new headboard for R's bed. I'm not getting this, but I wanted to show you Target's Girls' Personalized Headboard, shown here twin-sized in Hot Pink (lots of other colors/styles for boys and girls are available here). Compared to what you might pay for a personalized headboard elsewhere, these wood frame headboards with polyfoam fill are a pretty good deal at $129.99. But if your daughter's name is not Abigail, Alexis, Alyssa, Anna, Ashley, Ava, Brianna, Chloe, Elizabeth, Emma, Emily, Grace, Hannah, Isabella, Jessica, Kate, Madison, Megan, Mia, Natalie, Olivia, Samantha, Sarah, or Sophia (or "Princess"- I hope that's a nickname), you're out of luck like my daughter R. (unless you want to buy the non-personalized version). Check them out at Target.

She Was a Showgirl

I've never heard of this designer (Stella Industries) before but I'm glad I have now. Their Lola Dress is newly available at Arte Bebe. I love that it's comfy and lightweight but still has fun flounces and ruffles making it a great party dress. $48 (sizes 2T-4T), $50 (4-6X), or $52 (7-8) at Arte Bebe.

Tiny Prints Lowers Its Prices

I know that many of you love to order personalized kids' stationery, party invitations, birth announcements, and holiday cards from Tiny Prints. So do I. The designs are fresh and modern and the prices are reasonable. And now I'm guessing Tiny Prints will have even more happy customers with the introduction of its new "Studio Basics" collection, featuring cards and invitations by the same talented Tiny Prints designers but at lower costs passed on to you. These cards start at 59 cents each, compared to about $1.19 for the original Tiny Prints designs. If you're inviting a classful of kids to a birthday party, this will save you more than a few bucks.

I have two Tiny Prints coupon codes to pass along to you (I'm not sure if you can use both, but you can choose whichever one saves you more money):

Enjoy $10 off orders of $49 or more, or $20 off orders of $99 or more (applies sitewide) with code JULYEMAIL now through 11:59 pm (PT) on 7/27/2009.

Enjoy flat rate $3 shipping on all Studio Basics orders with code SBSHIPSALE now through 11:59 pm (PT) on 8/3/2009.

Baby Juicy

One of my dearest friends is expecting her long-awaited 2nd child, and when she was in town recently we lunched and browsed the layette clothing at Bloomingdale's (I should mention that we are both busy moms of special needs children, so going to lunch and browsing at Bloomie's felt downright decadent). She doesn't know if she's having a girl or boy, but one item we were ogling was this Juicy Couture Infant Girls' Crown Jogging Set. I'm normally not a Juicy fan, but I happen to love their baby clothing. This french terry jogging suit has adorable girly details like front pockets with bows and gathered sleeves. It's even more adorable in person. It costs $98, sizes 12-18m or 18-24 months left. Browse other infant girls' Juicy clothing too at Bloomingdales's.

Etsy Birthday Tees

You know I love kids' birthday tees, and of course I'm turning to Etsy to find just the right ones for my kids this summer. Here are three Etsy shops whose birthday tees I love, love, love (each store offers other ages, sizes, and colors, too):

Sew Silly Designs. Cute vintage fabrics, and you just can't beat this price ($12).


Happy Family. Another great deal for just $16- the raglan sleeves work well year-round, too.

Firedaughter Clothing. Trendy vintage-style royal blue burnout tee...and the fabric is sooo soft, too. $24 (with free shipping).



Psst! We will be hosting a giveaway for one of these tees soon. If you are subscribed to our newsletter, you'll get a reminder. Not subscribed? E-mail me with "newsletter" in the subject line so you don't miss anything!

MyMomShops Sponsor: The Scholastic Store

I'm excited to introduce you to our newest sponsor, The Scholastic Store, located right here in New York City. My kids and I have hopped on the subway to Soho to visit The Scholastic Store several times (including once for an awesome birthday party- thanks Zach G.!). Much more than a kids' bookstore, the Scholastic store is a destination in its own right for NYC kiddies and visitors. Less cloying than American Girl or The Disney Store, though equally popular, The Scholastic Store is a 6,200 square foot wonder that features books, toys, plush animals, arts & crafts, videos, games, and gifts featuring some of your kids' favorite characters, including Clifford, I Spy, Harry Potter, and Magic School Bus. There's an Activity Loft, demonstration areas to test out toys and games, and even a teaching resources area for educators and parents. Best of all for stuck-in-the-city-all-summer kids (like mine), there are free events every Saturday. Check these out:

Saturday, July 25 @ 3pm
Camp Klutz Kick-Off: Face Painting. Ages 5+. FREE. Staying in NYC this summer? Come be a part of "Camp Klutz", a series of crafts and activities for kids all summer long. Become a prince, princess or even a fairy! Kids will be ready for their close-ups, so bring your cameras to capture all the fun! (Note: I am hoping to take R. to this one- come find us and say hi!)

Saturday, August 1 @ 3pm
Camp Klutz: How to Draw Funny. Ages 6+. FREE. Calling all kids who love to draw and those who'd like to learn! Kids find their inner funny in this hands-on class where they can make their own comic to take home.

Saturday, August 8 @ 3pm
Camp Klutz: Crazy Crayons Rubbings. Ages 4+. FREE. Kids can make crazy creations with new coloring books and sparkly crayons. Who knew coloring could be so much fun!

Saturday, August 15 @ 3pm
Camp Klutz: Wacky Window Art. Ages 5+. FREE. Window decoration is as much fun for adults as it is for kids. With a freshened up palette of paints, sun-sparkly glitter and new designs, kids can create all kinds of window masterpieces to hang up.

Saturday, August 22 @ 3pm
Camp Klutz: Origami. Ages 5+. FREE. Kids can create everything from exotic parrots to beautiful star boxes even hopping frogs that really hop, all out of paper!

Saturday, August 29 @ 3pm
Camp Klutz: Velvet Art. Ages 5+. FREE. Kids get to make fuzzy photo frames, a tactile maze and other "feel-good" projects to take home!

Even if you're going to be nowhere near NYC anytime soon, you can shop online at Scholastic Store's Online Shop for Kids. Here are a few goodies I found (in the clearance section, no less):

Colorforms 50th Anniversary Edition (reduced to $15.97 from $29.99):


Leapster: Clifford Reading (reduced to $9.97 from $24.95):


The Chronicles of Narnia Boxed Set (reduced to $22.97 from $45):

Visit The Scholastic Store at 557 Broadway (between Prince and Spring Streets), open M-Sat 10am-7pm and Sunday 12-6pm. Call 877-287-0137 for store and event information.

If Real Simple Ain't Simple Enough

You know that life has changed quite a bit when you are devouring the latest issue of Woman's Day instead of Cosmo, but, such is the life of a thirty-something mom of two young children. Don't laugh, but I am really enjoying my subscription to Woman's Day magazine. It has been a wonderful replacement to my Real Simple subscription, which I let expire because it was stressing me out too much with its Martha Stewart-level ideas. Woman's Day has more manageable decorating tips, recipes, money-saving advice, organizational strategies, and more. It arrives every 3 weeks rather than every 4 weeks which is an extra treat. And, gift subscriptions are ultra-affordable; you can buy two of them for $14 total, making it an easy and inexpensive birthday gift for a friend. Try it, I think you will like it. Visit Woman's Day.

Where Should We Park?

Once in a while I turn to my readers for some shopping advice! My son is about to turn 3 and I would love to buy him a toy parking garage. Preferably a wooden one, since his plastic Fisher Price Little People Garage pretty much fell apart immediately (my daughter had an FP garage three years earlier that I wish I had saved since it was much better...has anyone else noticed that the FP sets seem to have declined in quality?) Anyway, I am deciding between the two garages shown above- at top the Parking Garage by Melissa and Doug ($65.95 at Fat Brain Toys) and at bottom the Parking Garage by Plan Toys ($66.99 at Amazon.com). S. has a large collection of little cars of various brands (Matchbox, Vilac, Fisher Price, etc.) so either garage must accommodate cars from his eclectic assortment. If anyone has purchased either of the above garages for their kids, I'd love to hear your feedback. Thanks!

Chasing Fireflies Till You're Broke

As much as I love the beautiful selection of clothing and accessories in the Chasing Fireflies catalog, I am starting to wonder how this place stays in business (remember I posted last February about their sky-high prices?) Some of their offerings are so overpriced that I can't believe many people in this economic climate would really buy them. Here are some examples of what I mean, taken from the latest catalog:

Light Up Carousel Letters. $198 each. Yes, each! I'd rather put real fireflies in my kids' rooms to give them some extra sparkle! Six hundred dollars to spell a three letter word is not "F-U-N".

The Wizard of Oz Trunk Set. $290. Sure, it's Madame Alexander, but even my 6-year-old daughter still manages to destroy half of her dolls with crayon marks and missing limbs. Thanks, but I'll stick to Fisher Price.


Personalized Candy Corn Favors. $98 for a set of 36 favors. One hundred bucks for candy corn? I'm no Martha Stewart, but as a Halloween birthday girl I've hosted plenty of parties and I've always made candy goody bags for about a tenth of this price.


I've oohed and aahed over many an item at Chasing Fireflies (including some more reasonably priced clothing), but overall the prices have kept me from placing an order. Ever. I'm curious, how many of you have ordered from them and were you pleased with the value of what you bought?

The Little Experience Giveaway Winners

Congratulations to:

Allison, who wrote, "I've got boys, so i think they would love the finger puppet monsters!"

Aimee Friedrich, who wrote, "Awww, hard to pick; build your own rocket for the boys and castle for my little girl."

Please e-mail me with your name, mailing address, and choice of 1 kit to claim your prize. Enjoy!

Big Deal for Big Sibs

I just stumbled onto a great deal for these Big Brother/Big Sister Sibling Gift Sets at Hip & Little. They are currently 50% off (reduced to $13 from $26) and each set includes a sibling tee (fits sizes 2-4T) and a coloring book, packaged in a clear tote with handles. Stock up on them now at Hip & Little.

What's In a Name?

I may buy this name puzzle board in primary colors for S. as a 3rd birthday gift. Somehow, he never got one of these as a baby gift and I know he'd love one now. I did some comparison shopping and found the most reasonable price at Personal Creations where a puzzle up to 6 letters costs $22.95. It's made of maple wood and is painted with safe, non-toxic paint. The puzzle name stools ($44.95) at this site look like a good bet, too. Visit Personal Creations.

Almost A Toothless Grin

My daughter's first tooth is going to fall out any day now and I am nearly as excited as she is. We have a tooth fairy pillow on hand (thank you, Grandma) for the big moment, but I've also (natch) spotted some others one that I really like, like this personalized tooth fairy pillow from Modern Lola. It's a splurge for sure at $48, but isn't it a pretty keepsake? It's made of felt with a hand-stitched pocket, and measures 6.5 inches square. A boy version is available, too. Also check out the more gender-neutral, molar-shaped Oeuf Tooth Fairy Pillow ($28) I posted about a few months ago. It's another winner. I'll let you know when the big event happens!

p.s. It fell out at 8:30am today, 1 month and 1 day before her 6th birthday. She looks adorable!

Fall Preview: Tea Collection

Tea Collection, the fashionable designer of baby and children's clothing with an international flair, has just introduced its new "Street Style" collection inspired by the energy of Tokyo, Japan. There are a lot of rich reds, pinks, blues, and oranges, in styles and fabrics that are perfect for the transition to autumn. Here are some of my favorite picks:

Tsukiji Shirt ($48 sizes 6mos-8years)


Tokyo Hoodie ($39, sizes 6mos-8 years)

Mohri Floral Dress ($39, sizes 6mos-8years)


Little Citizens Hoodie ($35, sizes 6mos-8 years)


Check out all of the new arrivals at Tea Collection.

Bargain Alert: Patent Totes at Lands End

I've had my eye on these Canvas Totes with Patent Leather Trim all summer at Lands End, and they are now on sale for $19.99 (reduced from $49.50). A great way to spruce up your warm-weather handbag collection, these totes have hidden inside snap closure and three interior pockets. They can be monogrammed, too. Also check out the cute coordinating Patent Slide Shoes, also on sale (reduced to $12.99 from $29.50). Browse these and other summer sale items at Lands End.

Safer Sleep

I'm about to take the plunge and transition S. (who is turning 3 in a few weeks) from a crib to a big boy bed. I've been researching organic mattresses ever since I read this very informative New York Times article and chart on the subject last January. A month later, I heard about the CPSC banning the use of phthlates in crib mattresses. For S's new bed, I've decided to go with a popular brand called Naturepedic. I do not always "go green" when it comes to furniture or bedding, but given my son's developmental delay I figured it couldn't hurt to make sure that the place he rests his head every night is as free of toxins as possible. I'm springing (pun intended) for the Quilted Organic Cotton Deluxe set which includes a twin mattress plus boxspring for $999. It's the most expensive purchase I've made in a long time, but if it gives my little boy sweet and safe dreams, it's worth it. I did find a free shipping coupon ("NOSTORE") at CouponChief.com, though, so that saves a bit of money. Check out all of the crib, toddler, and regular-sized mattresses at Naturepedic.com.

Bargain Alert: Boatman Geller Tent Sale

Fine stationery designer Boatman Geller is having a "tent sale" with rock-bottom prices on some of their preppy notecards, notepads, and gift cards. These sweet-for-summer Sailboat Gift Tags are regularly $45 for a package of 50; at the tent sale they are just $5 (yes, five dollars!) for the same 50 cards (if my math is correct, that's just 10 cents per card). Check out all the steals at Boatman Geller.

MyMomShops Giveaway: The Little Experience

My kids and I stayed with my best friend and her family (her husband and three children ages 4, 6, and 8) when we travelled to Boston last month for my college reunion. I wanted to bring some fun, crafty activities for our total of five kids to work on together, but one that would not make a total mess. I decided on the kits from The Little Experience which I had spotted at last spring's Bubble show. The Little Experience is British import (now available Stateside) offering a range of adorable all-inclusive craft kits for kids. Each package includes all you need (ex: paint brushes, fabric, scissors) to make the craft from start to finish. Some of them even have packaging that unfolds to become a backdrop or set for the craft. There are "girly" projects, boy-friendly projects, and projects that appeal to all (grown-ups, too...I kinda wished I had bought one for myself). Ideally, they are for children ages 5 and up, but younger kids can get crafty too with the help of a big sib or parent. These also make unique party favors, depending on your budget.

Cattiwampus, an online kids' boutique I've mentioned here before, sells some of The Little Experience's best-selling kits including Build Your Own Rocket ($7.50), Enchanted Castle ($15.00), and Stitch-It Dolly Kit ($15.00), all shown above.

Cattiwampus is giving away two kits by The Little Experience for this week's giveaway (each winner gets to pick their kit of choice). And everyone else will get to enjoy a 15% storewide discount with code "COOL" (the code does not apply to sale items, except summer dresses- hooray!)

Win it! 2 MyMomShops reader will each win a The Little Experience kit of choice (a $7.50 or $15 retail value) from Cattiwampus. Here are the contest rules:

1) To enter, please comment on THIS post (click on "comments" below), indicating which kit you'd choose (click here for all of the choices).
2) Post your comment by 11:59pm EST Sunday, July 19th. One entry per person, please. US addresses only.
3) Two winners will be chosen at random and announced on Monday morning, July 20th.
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!

Moving Sale at Craftsbury Kids

Craftsbury Kids, a charming shop featuring (you guessed it) hand-crafted toys, accessories, and decor for little ones, is having a moving sale and you can save big-time (up to 70%) on beautifully designed products like these:

Zid Zid Kids Lion Table Set (reduced to $227.50 from $325). I've seen this set in person and it is gorgeous (p.s. there is one set left in stock that has a slight imperfection, which accounts for the discount).


Classic Work Bench (reduced to $18.20 from $26). You can never go wrong with this toddler toy as a birthday or big sibling gift.


Sock Monkeys Birthday Skirt Outfit (reduced to $85 from $100). This outfit is by Liliputians, whose birthday outfits I have bought for my own kids each year!


Sweetbeets Four Dominoes Card (reduced to $2.75 from $5.50). I've long admired Sweetbeets' kid-themed letterpress cards; the number series works individually as birthday cards or together as framed nursery art.

Check out more goods on sale at Craftsbury Kids.

Sneak(er) Peek

My kids and I recently attended a preview for the upcoming New Balance kids' sneaker line featuring the Peanuts characters (many thanks to Isabel of Alpha Mom for inviting us). Available in October, these sneakers will bring to life some favorite Peanuts' stories, including "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown," "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving," and "A Charlie Brown Christmas", all in time for the Peanuts' 60th Anniversary in 2010. Prices start at $38 for the infant sizes up to $60 for big kid sizes. I was impressed how they look (and though not shown here, the packaging is cute, too):



R. and S. were most impressed that they got face-time with their favorite Peanuts characters:


If you're into seasonal apparel for your kids (as a Halloween babe myself, I sure am) and/or are a Peanuts fan, you'll definitely want to check out these sneakers this Fall. I'll let you know when they become available.

p.s. Speaking of the Charlie Brown holiday TV classics, if you're a fan you should also check out the Charlie Brown Holiday Collection DVD gift set at Amazon.com.

Tane Organics

I'm starting to preview the websites of some of the exhibitors at next month's Bubble New York trade show, and I think I am already in love with Tane Organics if for no other reason than the gorgeous baby photography on their site. Don't you just want to eat these kids up? I'm guessing the clothing is a winner, too. TANE (which means "seed" in Japanese) offers a collection of 100% certified organic cotton layette items with modern, spare designs and practical details. It ain't cheap (a kimono-style long-sleeved onesie will set you back $46), but would make a mighty thoughtful baby gift for an eco-minded mom. I'll check it out in person at the Bubble show next month. In the meantime, ooh and aah at Tane Organics.

I Wanna Be a Pirate

My little boy's 3rd birthday is just a few weeks away and I am starting to buy him some gifts. One item I have my eye on is this Pirate Ship by my favorite wooden toy designer, Plan Toys. I spotted it in a local toy shop and it looked fantastic. The set includes the ship, cannon, barrels, anchor, treasure chests, sails, crew, raft, and, of course, the obligatory gangplank. I included the detail photos because I think you can tell the quality of this toy from those close-up shots. The set costs $54.95; shop around at eBeanStalk.com for other items while you're there and enjoy free shipping on orders over $65 with code "FREESHIP$65". Ahoy, Matey!

Olive & Ollie

I was searching for the perfect 3rd birthday T-shirt for one of S's little friends, and decided on this Custom Appliqued Shirt in Pink and Yellow Fanfare ($23) by Etsy shop Olive and Ollie. It arrived and it is darling- I love the cap sleeves on the American Apparel tee, and the stitching is very high quality. It runs a bit small so you should order a size up.


While you're at Olive and Ollie, check out their top-selling Sibling Onesies and Shirts ($25) available in long or short-sleeves in sizes up to 6T.

Browse all of the hand-sewn clothing at Olive and Ollie. And, since both my kids' birthdays are coming up in August, stay tuned for more birthday apparel.

Bargain Alert: Company Kids

I love Sherpa(style) coats for girls but find they usually are priced too high considering they are not worn everyday. But this Classic Sherpa and Coat (which is actually machine washable polyester) is 70% off in the clearance section of Company Kids. The coats (originally $85) are now $24.99; the hats (originally $19) are now $4.99. Many sizes and colors are still available; grab them before they're gone at Company Kids.

For Better or Worse

My dear friend Ellen (my former co-worker and co-founder of BridesmaidAid.com) has a knack for choosing just the right little gifts. A few months ago she sent me this very funny Why Do I Have To Get Married Magnet Set (regular readers of this blog will get the joke) with 5 witty magnets including "Opposites attract, then they drive each other insane" and "Marriage? No thanks. I Can't mate in captivity." Surprise a friend with a set for $10.95 from Fridge Door.

Fall Preview: Mini Boden

I'm having so much fun doing quick scans of the new fall clothes by some of my favorite kids' clothing companies. Here are my finds from Mini Boden:

Girls' Spotty Coat ($88). Matches my grown-up Boden coat from last Fall!


Boys' Rugby Shirt ($42) Boden makes the beefiest, comfiest boys' tops- I've been lucky to get some as hand-me-downs (thanks, Stacey).


Baby Knee Patch Trousers ($28). Another item of baby clothing that makes you go "oooooh"...and this one is unisex, making it hand-me-down-worthy.


Want to see more? Visit Boden's fall preview.

Candy Colors

I spotted these Assorted Notes by Jack and Lulu in a local stationery shop and thought they'd make a perfect summer hostess gift. I love the palette of sweet summer colors. Each box of folded blank notes contains 5 of each color plus white envelopes. $30 per set at Jack and Lulu.

Psst...I just found them on sale for $24 at Luxe Paperie.

Hudson Threads

I've seen so many kids' clothing lines that perhaps I've gotten a little jaded; lots of the new ones fail to impress me when they launch. Not so with Hudson Threads, a new company based here in New York. The Fall '09 collection (which won a "Best in Show" for newcomers award at an ENK Children's Show) has a vibe that I really dig. First of all, I like the trendy but not too-hipster designs that are modern but still age-appropriate. Second, I like the retro, 1960s cuts and patterns, such as this Pucci-esque A-line Amanda dress ($78, sizes 2-8) dress shown above. I happen to love teal (a hot color right now) and think that Hudson Threads' Luke Polo Shirt ($58, sizes 2-7) shown above makes a super sibling match with the Amanda dress. Start shopping at Hudson Threads.

Feel Less Sick

Speaking of the flu, check out these Feel Less Sick postcards I saw at Etsy. The front has the greeting, the back has a thermometer and space to write. It's printed on recycled paper using soy based inks, and not only does it help save the environment, it helps save your money- a postcard costs just 28 cents to mail. Buy one for $2 or 6 for $10 at the Etsy.com shop Prism Pop.

A Gift Hero Rescue

My daughter has been home from camp all week with Influenza A (that's a nicer way of saying swine flu). And now my son and I are sick, too. To say we're going stir crazy during our "quarantine week" would be an understatement. So I want to give a shout-out to my friends at NYC-based Gift Hero, who thoughtfully dropped off this Create Your Own Pop Up Books Kit ($20) in their signature gift bag for R. at a time when I was just about to lose my mind. Winner of multiple toy awards, this gift includes all the ingredients your kid needs to make 2 hardcover pop-up books. The books, stickers, markers, and pop-up designs are all provided- your kid just adds imagination, drawings, photographs, and text. There are two books (one big, one small) included so a younger sib can even get in on the action. R's tome is shaping up quite nicely. And has rescued me from my thousandth game of Chutes & Ladders. Thank you, Gift Hero!

Personalized Pricey Paper

Mmmm....a big, chunky personalized notepad. I'd love one of these for myself, though it's very expensive. They're about to become available at Dabney Lee at Home for $48 (yes, $48). Each pad has 175 luxurious sheets and plenty of writing room (sheet size is 5.5 x 8.5 inches). You choose your favorite pattern, monogram or name font, and color. Visit Dabney Lee at Home.

Tick Tock, Animal Clocks

These new bunny clocks and monkey clocks at Giggle are just the right combination of cute and modern. Made of handpainted wood here in the U.S., each clock has cutout numbers for eyes and hands that rotate around the nose. Not exactly easy for a tike to tell time, but it's really about the decor, right? Buy one for $48 at Giggle.

Out of This World: Three Tees for the Price of Two

I've written before about the clever onesies and tees by Pluto Kids, and I'm just one of many admirers of this Chicago-based designer. In fact, Violet Affleck (Ben and Jen's older daughter) was famously spotted wearing a Pluto Kids Big Sister tee this past April. Pluto Kids is now offering a special deal where you if you buy two shirts, you will get a third (of your choice) for free. Just write your choice of third tee or onesie in the "notes to seller" box when you purchase 2 shirts at Pluto Kids, and you'll receive a 3rd tee/onesie free of charge. Great opportunity to dress sibs in style. Check out all of the current Pluto designs here.

P.S. I'll be posting lite for the next day or two. . . my daughter is home from camp with suspected swine flu. She's OK but I am busy trying to entertain an irritable (almost) six-year-old!

UPDATE: OK, now all 3 of us are sick...both kiddos and me. I'll try to post again tomorrow.

The Paper Cafe Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to "suburban prep" who wrote, "I love nutcrackers so the Happy Holidays notecard with the nutcracker on it is just darling." Please e-mail me to claim your prize.

Weekend Wrap-Up

Hope you all had a happy 4th of July! I was lucky to be invited to verrrry lovely East Hampton, New York. Here are some holiday snaps:




I only did window-shopping this weekend (I can't afford most Hamptons prices), but I did spot some fun products. Check out these tongue-in-cheek (I hope) printed cocktail napkins from the venerable Monogram Shop in East Hampton:



On second thought, this is East Hampton. I think those napkins are totally serious.

Swedish Cloth

You know you shop online too much when the only children's brands you haven't heard of are from outside of the United States. This was the case for me with Polarn O. Pyret, a premium clothing brand from Sweden that makes comfy, cotton clothing for moms, babies, and kids. It's been a staple of Swedish kids' wardrobes for decades. Now available to purchase in the U.S., Polarn O. Pyret is like a more affordable version of Hanna Andersson and less commercial, too (I mean, I love my daughter's striped dress from Hanna Andersson, but I'm tired of seeing five other girls on the street wearing the same one). I think the designs are adorable and I just snagged this "Happy Car" T-shirt on sale for just $12.50 (was $25) for my son. I think he'll love it. Check out all the bright patterns at Polarn O. Pyret.

Enjoy free shipping with code "VIP23" for a limited time only at Polarn O. Pyret.

Happy Independence Day!

I'm leaving today to spend the holiday weekend at the beach...I will be posting again on Monday, July 6th. I hope you all have a very happy, healthy, and safe 4th of July weekend!

Three Flags (1958) by Jasper Johns, courtesy of The Whitney Museum of American Art.

The Very Classic Puzzle

Here's another 40th anniversary this year- the publication of Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Check out Galison/Mudpuppy's The Very Books Blocks Puzzle for kids ages 3 and up. This award-winning toy consists of 9 blocks that toddlers and preschoolers can rearrange to form 6 different puzzle pictures (The Very Quiet Cricket, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Very Lonely Firefly, The Very Clumsy Click Beetle, and The Very Busy Spider, plus a bonus sun). They're neatly packaged in a sturdy box with a sliding drawer, so storage is easy. It's a classic, fun, and affordable birthday gift at $14. Buy it at Galison/Mudpuppy.

Man on the Moon

With the 40th anniversary of the moon landing approaching, kids' clothing site Peek...Aren't You Curious has debuted a collection of "1st heroes" t-shirts honoring heroes in American history who accomplished great things for the 1st time. My favorite tee is this one ($28) which I'd love to put on my own little hero. Which one do you like best? Visit Peek...Aren't You Curious.

BBQ Invites

If you're hosting a summer BBQ, consider using these cute checkerboard celebration invites from our affiliate Paper Shouts. The cards measure 5.5" x 4.25" and include plain white envelopes; prices start at $1.49 per card. Visit Paper Shouts.

Estella Summer Sale

Estella, a designer kids' clothing store in Greenwich Village, is having its summer sale with spring/summer clothing for newborns through 6 year olds up to 50% off. If I had a baby girl, I'd love to snag this 3-Tone Silk & Cotton Dress imported from UK designer Caramel Baby & Child. It's on sale for $49 (was $110) in sizes 3-6mos, 6-12 mos, and 12-18mos. Check out the steals at Estella, where the sale runs online and in-store through July 8th.

Fall Preview: Gymboree

I get invited to become Facebook fan for lots of businesses, but I usually decline (I generally prefer to follow businesses on Twitter). But I may make an exception for Gymboree's Facebook Page, because I love that they give "sneak peeks" of new Gymboree lines. Last week (before the new fall transition lines Tea for Two and Stuntman went on the website) I spied both new lines (see photos above) on Gymboree's Facebook page. Part of the fun is seeing all of mothers weigh in on what they like or dislike about the new looks (general consensus: girls' line thumbs up, boys' line not so much...) Because people get really, well, emotional on topics like "WHY are you still doing so much camo for boys?" It's kind of funny to read through the comments. Check out the new fall clothing at Gymboree, or check their Facebook page where future lines will be previewed (and discussed ad infinitum) as well, I'm sure.

Kids Say the Darndest Things

On morning recently, my five-year-old daughter emerged from her bedroom wearing the skimpiest part of her Cinderella costume, high heeled shoes, and bright red lipstick, and then asked totally seriously, "Mommy, how do you like my new profession?" I burst out laughing (she didn't get the joke, fortunately) and promptly wrote a note to myself on a Post-It to record this quote. Of course, I subsequently lost the Post-It. I could definitely use this new journal My Quotable Kid by Chronicle Books. It is such a smart idea. The journal is filled with cute pages where you can jot down all the funny (or touching) things your little one says. Sort of like the Baby Time "easy" baby book I have recommended before, My Quotable Kid is a quick, easy way to record your child's most memorable moments (in a format that won't get tossed out acccidentally like a Post-It). This would also make a sweet keepsake gift for new parents. It costs $14.95 at Chronicle Books.