Spring Break! Back Next Monday

Spring has finally sprung...even in New York City. Time for spring break. I will resume posting on Monday, April 5th. Have a great holiday week!

Because There's Always a Birthday Coming Up

Head over to Liliputians to see this fab site's fresh new look and spring arrivals, including new patterns for their renowned handmade birthday outfits (my lil guy is one of the handsome 2-year-old tikes in the photo gallery). I like the new Guess Hoo birthday outfit for girls and the clown fish and sharks set for boys. There are lots of new spring/summer designs, too...check out the mermaid print and anchors away set. The clothing is exceptionally well made and, of course, perfect for photo ops. It ain't cheap (about $99 for a two-piece birthday outfit), but I have a coupon code for you (see below). Have a look at Liliputians.

Enter "NEWLOOK10" for 15% off your order at Liliputians.

Wordless Wednesday: Passover Edition

Seder in chalk, by R., age 6 1/2.

Easter Prettiness

Buy Buy Baby probably isn't the first place you'd look for an Easter dress, but how pretty is this Vintage Blue Shantung Bows & Ruffles Dress I spotted in their toddler collection? Yes, it's polyester, but it's still dry-clean only (as a good Easter dress should be). It has crinoline underneath for extra fun and flounce. And since it's not pink, your little girl will stand out. Available in sizes 2T-4T for $39.99 at Buy Buy Baby.

A Little Bit Funky Now

Here's a unique gift to keep in mind for the grandparents- a Funky Personalized Silhouette Pillow from the Etsy shop Little Bit Funky. The 12 x 12 pillow costs $25; silhouette designs of this type usually cost far more. The designer will work with you to choose colors and patterns that you'd like, as well. Check out this name pillow ($40) too- another great gift.

Chag Sameach from Brangelina

I don't think my 6-year-old daughter has any idea who Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are, but she finds this "Happy Passover" video from Taglit/Birthright Israel quite amusing nonetheless. She's watched it on YouTube about, oh, a dozen times leading up to tonight's holiday. Hope you enjoy it, too. Signing off for the holiday now!

Most Fun Seder Plate Award

Speaking of Seder plates, I wanted to let you know that our new Passover Set by KidKraft arrived and is a major hit with R & S (they have already conducted three mock seders). Read my original post about it here. It costs $25.93 (reduced from $44.99) at Amazon.com and I can't recommend it highly enough. The videos I've taken of the kids with it have been priceless.

p.s. One more post TK today about Passover. Back to the usual tomorrow!

Not Your Grandma's Seder Plate

With apologies for just posting this now, check out this beautiful new Futura Seder Plate by Jonathan Adler. The 13" plate is made of high-fired porcelain with real gold accents; it is crafted by fair-trade artisans at the main Jonathan Adler workshop in Peru. It costs $150 at the Jonathan Adler website. It's too late for tonight's seder, but consider it for next year. Happy Passover!

I Love My Mom, Uh Huh, My Mom is Cool

I am definitely buying this Sid the Science Kid Talkin' Sid for my three-year-old. He is obsessed with this PBS Kids show about the inquisitive five-year-old Sid and his classmates. This plush Sid figure "talks" when you press his belly and arrives with a DVD episode of the show called "The Sticker Chart." Buy it for $22.99 at Amazon.com.

City Threads Sale

One of my favorite sites, City Threads, is having a big sale of 50% off almost all previous season styles (including Fall '09). This is a cool to buy boys' threads, like this Propeller Plane Double Layer Tee (on sale for $22, originally $44; sizes 3 months through 12 years). You can also score great deals on City Threads' signature sibling shirts or "Cities" clothes. You can find all sale items here. A tip: order one size up. Many of the tees and thermals run small.

First Real Bookcase

As you know I'm a frugalista, and I consider my purchases very seriously, even ones that most people would consider affordable to begin with. I've been slowly buying furniture for my daughter's bedroom from the "Avery Collection" at Company Kids. I've already shown you her Avery Nighttable ($99) and now I've just purchased the coordinating scalloped Avery Tall Bookcase to replace the plastic stacking shelves she's had since birth (low budget, even for me). The bookcase costs $179, but I used a coupon code I found to save more money (see below). I can't wait to start organizing her books and knick-knacks in a more aesthetically pleasing way. The entire Avery Collection is very pretty, and well-priced compared to stores like Pottery Barn Kids or The Land of Nod. Check out all the pieces by going to Company Kids and typing keyword "Avery" into the search box.

From now through Monday, March 29th, enjoy 20% off purchases up to $199.99 or 25% off purchases of $200 or more at Company Kids with code "SAVEMORE".

45% off Melissa & Doug at B&N

Via Twitter, I found out that Barnes & Noble Kids is having an impressive sale (limited time only) on Melissa & Doug toys- all products are 45% off. This means huge savings on big-ticket toys like this Victorian Dollhouse, which now costs $82.50 (normally $150). Browse the entire sale here; it's a good time to stock up on Melissa & Doug toys as birthday gifts.

Mallory May

Now that my daughter is starting to grow out of size 6x clothing, I am (gasp) shopping for her in girls' 7-14 sections. And I'm not happy with what I see; I want her to look her age (6 1/2), not like a teenager. Luckily, she feels the same way (for now). So I'm glad to discover any girls' clothing brand that allows me to dress her in size 7 clothes that are indeed appropriate for a 7-year-old.

Mallory May was launched in 2008 by a long-standing children's clothing manufacturer, and it offers fun, colorful knit playwear separates in girls' sizes 2T-10. Everything is machine washable (fabrics are mostly cotton with some spandex), easy to put on, and easy to mix-and-match. There are several collections each season and you can match different pieces together. There's lots of pink, but also some other nice pastels and even blues, reds, and browns for variation. I also like that there are lots of skorts and even "shorties" to wear underneath dresses...another nod to age-appropriate details. Take a look at some pieces from this year's spring/summer collections, and tell me what you think:

Floral Babydoll Tunic with Striped Capris (Top $22.95, sizes 2T-10; Capris $14.95, sizes 2T-10)


Striped Dropwaist Dress with Shortie (Dress $30.95, sizes 2T-10; Shortie $13.95, sizes 2T-10)


Red Sleeveless Ruffle Top with Star Skort (Shirt $17.95, sizes 2T-10; Skort $21.95, sizes 2T-10)


Enjoy $5 flat rate shipping at Mallory May, and free shipping on orders over $60. No coupon needed.

A product sample was provided for this review. All views expressed here are exclusively those of MyMomShops.

Cattiwampus Toys Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Claire, who wrote, "The carriage kit would be a hit with the gals around here. The kid in me would pick the little house kit, though! For our little guy, I'd pick the ice cream truck." Please e-mail me to claim your prize.

Organic PJs...this time for Mom

I got these Ruched Cap-Sleeve Pajamas from Garnet Hill last year and I just might buy another pair this Spring. They are made of organic cotton jersey knit and they are soooo comfortable. And look cute too. Available in 3 patterns (modern floral, pink mini stripe, or pink/shale dot) in sizes XS-XL for $58 at Garnet Hill.

Jonathan Adler Junior Now Online

Remember the new Jonathan Adler Junior decor line I told you about from last month's New York International Gift Fair? Select items are now available online at JonathanAdler.com, including this sweet 100% alpaca Blue Letter Baby Pillow ($98). If you can swing these prices, you should check out all of the Jonathan Adler Junior offerings; they'll be adding more online soon.

Moby Goby

Although I haven't seen any of the clothing in person, I like what I see online in Company Kids' new "Moby Goby" line. It fills a bit of the void that has been left by Talbots Kids and Garnet Hill's boys' line. And it borrows somewhat liberally from the styling and patterns of Mini Boden.

First, Moby Goby's boys' clothing. A lot of it reminds me of Mini Boden, but less expensive (I can't speak to the quality, since I've only seen it online).

Zip Green Hoodie- Forest Green Star ($34, sizes 2T-7).

Boys' Blue Camo Pants ($40, sizes 2T-14) with double layer tee ($24, sizes 2T-14).


Monster Tee ($16, sizes 2T-7).


Moby Goby's girls' line reminds me of Talbots Kids, which always made pretty but age-appropriate threads for girls:

Girls' Full Skirt with Tie ($28, sizes 2T-12) paired with Side Bow Tank Top ($28, sizes 2T-12).

Shoulder Tie Top ($29, sizes 4-12).

Moby Goby doesn't forget the littlest ones either. They have several pieces of baby clothing that make nice gifts. Check out this cute kimono set (on sale for $32, originally $42; sizes 3mos-12mos).


What do you think of this new kids' clothing by Company Kids?

Correction: Totsy Membership

Last week, I told you about Totsy, a great shopping sale site where you can buy moms & kids' products up to 70% off retail prices from brands like Teutonia, Liz Lange, Cariboo, and Alex Toys. Membership to Totsy is by invitation only, but I had a typo in the e-mail address to contact me for an invitation. So if you had trouble reaching me, please e-mail me again with "totsy membership" in the subject line. Sorry for the inconvenience!

MyMomShops Sponsor: Bone Seeds

Our newest sponsor is Bone Seeds, a custom jewelry site with pieces made by California artisan and photographer Anthony Lawson. He makes each piece by hand in "silverclay", a 99% silver product that can be carved more easily, and then fired with a torch or kiln. Each piece is completely one of a kind. I got to review this beautiful custom charm mom's necklace (starting at $89). It has customized rings representing each child (boys' rings are oxidized black, and girls' rings are polished). The rings are small (1/2 inch in diameter) and sit on an 18" sterling silver chain; the overall effect is subtle and graceful, with just a touch of "goth" provided by the darker, oxidized rings.

Not interested in "mommy" jewelry? Check out Anthony's other wares including this custom Forever Pendant ($109). Really pretty, and another nice option for Mother's Day (May 9th...hint hint!).


Visit Bone Seeds.


Please note this is a sponsored post, and that a product sample was provided for this review. All views expressed here are exclusively those of MyMomShops.

Wordless Wednesday

Where's Eloise? NYC, 3/23/10

Ask MyMomShops: Girls' White Cardigans

Dear MyMomShops,

I am looking for a simple, plain white cotton cardigan for my two-year-old daughter. I do not want to spend a lot for it. I have searched H&M, Gymboree, Gap and Old Navy. I have not yet been to Target. I saw one at Hanna Anderson that was a bit high. Any other suggestions? Thanks.

Amy


Hi Amy. I've had this same problem over the years when shopping for spring cardigans for my daughter. I buy a lot of her clothing at Gymboree, but it is hard to find something plain there, without any decorations. And since a white cardigan is bound to get dirty over the next several months, you won't want to spend too much money on something that will probably last just 1 season. Don't worry- here are some options for you:

Sohpie Rose Pointelle Cardigan (on sale for $10.80, reduced from $24; sizes 2T-4T) at Kohls.com.


Girls' Pointelle Yoke Sweater ($29.95, starting at size 3/4) at Rugged Bear (or you could try the infant version in size 24 months on sale for $17.48.

Okie Dokie Toddler Girl Cardigan (on sale for $9.99, available in white size 4T) at JC Penney


Sweet Ivy "Carry" Cardigan (on sale for $19.90, reduced from 32; sizes 2T-4T) at Nordstrom.


Toddler Girl Pointelle Scallop Cardigan (on sale for $20.70, sizes 2T-4T) at Sally's Store.

I hope these help! If any other readers have ideas, please post them in the comments.

Paper Doll Chic

It seems like every time I spy a new pattern by DwellStudio, I get the urge to redecorate. I'll resist, but I still love the modern-but-sweet "Paper Doll" line of DwellStudio products at Giggle. I mean, does it get cuter than this? Quick, one of my friends have a baby girl so I can buy that bib and burp cloth set.

DwellStudio Shower Curtain - Paper Dolls ($66).


DwellStudio Boudoir Pillow - Paper Dolls ($34)

DwellStudio Bib & Burp Set - Paper Dolls 9$35)


Check out the Giggle site for more from this collection (search keyword "paper doll"), including gorgeous crib bedding.

16 and Pregnant

Who else here watches MTV's 16 and Pregnant or its follow up, Teen Mom? I do...and so do at least a dozen of my well-educated 30-something friends. We discuss it all the time. Haven't seen it? 16 and Pregnant (now in its second season) profiles several different U.S. teens who are pregnant and plan to either keep the babies or make adoption plans. The girls are filmed at different stages of their pregnancy, interspersed with sketch-like illustrations a la "Juno." And Teen Mom follows these same girls during the months after they've given birth. The first group of girls, who are featured in 16 & Pregnant, Season 1 really touched me, and many other moms, I'm sure. It is heartbreaking watching these hugely pregnant girls (really still kids themselves) try to finish high school while preparing for a new baby. Their boyfriends- with the notable exception of Season 1's Tyler- are unsupportive or downright mean. The girls' parents are stunned, and gamely try to help (or not) their daughters handle the consequences of their decisions. It's a great show, and I'm not ashamed to admit I can't stop watching it. Buy 16 & Pregnant, Season 1 ($19.99 on DVD) and its follow up Teen Mom: Season 1 (available for pre-order) at Amazon.com, and watch Season 2 (tonight!) on MTV.


Catch 16 and Pregnant on MTV on Tuesday nights, 10pm/9pm central.

MyMomShops Giveaway: Toys from Cattiwampus

As my kids get older (they are now 6 1/2 and 3 1/2), they are getting pickier about their toys. Not everything passes muster. But they were very pleased (so was I) with two samples we received from Cattiwampus. Take a look:

First, S. tried out one of Calafant's cardboard crafts, the Airplane Kit. It retails for $7.50, making it a great add-on gift, sibling gifts, or even a party favor. The kits are easy to assemble. All pieces are pre-punched so no glue or scissors are necessary. Six colorful non-toxic markers are included for decorating. S. needed help with the folding, but decorated it himself. I'd recommend it for ages 4 and up.


I also love the Little House kit (see below), also $7.50. How cute is it???



We also received this Ice Cream Semi Truck ($14) by Maple Landmark, a company well known for its simple, safe and colorful wooden toys made in Vermont. The truck pivots in the middle and comes apart, so you can switch parts up with other trucks in the collection. It's tailor made for creative play; my kids build Lego "playgrounds" where Fisher Price Little People run to meet the "ice cream truck" (I have to sing the jingle- lucky me). Several other semi-trucks are available.


Browse the Calafant Craft Kits ($7.50) and Maple Landmark Semi-Trucks at Cattiwampus.

Product samples were provided for this review. All views expressed here are exclusively those of MyMomShops.


Win it! One reader will win their choice of Maple Landmark semi-trucks ($14) and their choice of Calafant kit ($7.50)- a $21.50 total- from Cattiwampus. Here are the contest rules:

1) Visit Cattiwampus and tell us what your favorite Maple Landmark Semi-Truck ($14) is, and what your favorite Calafant Kit ($7.50) is. Leave your comment on THIS post (click on "comments" below).
2) Post your comment by 11:59pm EST, Thursday, March 25th.
3) One entry per person, please. US addresses only.
4) One winner will be chosen at random and announced on Friday, March 26th.
5) 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, March 26th to see if you won. Unclaimed prizes are forfeited after 72 hours.

GOOD LUCK!

Ask MyMomShops: Small Desks for Kids

Dear MyMomShops,

I love your blog, and have a question. I'm looking for a small relatively inexpensive desk in neutral color for my son's 4th birthday (he has hand-me-down baby furniture for now with a bed). I'm not ready to splurge on a new bedroom set for him which would include a desk. He wants a desk so he can be like his older brother. I have checked Land of Nod, Pottery Barn Kids, Step 2 and Ikea with no luck... everything is tremendous and expensive. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Heather, mom of 2 boys, NYC


Heather- this is a great question, and timely for me, too. My son is the same age and also has all "hand-me-down" furniture- his sister's dresser, my grandma's rocking chair, and my old nighttable. I would love to find him his own (inexpensive) desk, too. Here are some options that might work for these little guys (note: these are just the ones I found online. You may want to check out some basic furniture stores in NYC as well where you can usually buy natural-wood basic pieces- like a small table & chairs- for cheap).

Children's Desk w/Chalkboard Top and Chair ($99) from Organize It. Desk measures 24 3/4" W x 22" H x 18" D and is made of durable pecan wood. Can't go wrong with a classic like this, and a great price that includes the chair, too.


Old School Desk from Texas Toy Boxes. You will want the larger one ($129) recommended for age 4 to 8, which measures 17" W x 21" H x 15"D . It's American-made made from furniture-grade hardwood and is avaiable in red, blue, or natural wood. It has a protective coating which makes it easy to wipe off stains. And, it arrives fully assembled.


Unless your son is big for his age, you might consider one of the following two modern one-piece chair/desk combos which are both recommended up to age 6. For what it's worth, they've been featured on many design blogs, too:

Offi Kids Sled Desk in Green ($199) at Toys R Us. This desk has a birch plywood desktop and seat, and a sturdy sled construction. Measures 16"W x 17"H x 19"D and is recommended for ages 3 and up, though I don't know how much legroom it will offer later on.


P'kolino Children's Desk ($66.50). This desk is a compact 17.75" W x 22.5L x 20'"H. P'Kolino has some other desks and playtables that offer more wiggle room, but they are more expensive. They also offer brighter colors like orange and green.


Children's Desk with Wood Top (on sale for $114) at CGE Market. Measures 28.5" W x 27" H X 17.5" D. I like this one a lot. The desk tray underneath reminds me of elementary school. Chair is sold separately, but it's only $19, and there are coupon codes on the site's homepage.


American Plastic Toy My Very Own Desk and Easel ($29.99) at Amazon.com. This was the least expensive option I found. It's all plastic, but perfectly suitable for a preschooler. It has a flip-up easel and a handy storage area under the desk top. Includes the chair. Desk measures 26.5" W x 20.25" H x 16.13" D.


I hope that these suggestions help- let us know! If anyone has other ideas, please post them in the comments.