Today, Kate takes us on a walk down memory lane…with Judy Blume.

For girls of a certain generation - mine, and those directly before and after - the experience of reading the novels of Judy Blume was a double-layered rite of adolescent passage: the books themselves were sacred texts, and the universal stories they told - of being teased, of being not the prettiest, of being kissed, of having your parents split up, of loving and being loved, and of losing (love, virginity, friendship, your lunch in public) - were the stories we were all living, vividly and in real time and with an empathy that our parents couldn't come close to.

Between the ages of eight and twelve, I read them all, and they've all stayed with me into adulthood. Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret prepared me for the excruciating embarrassment of my trip to Filene's with my mother to buy my first bra (purple flowers, no support needed), Deenie taught me to avoid entering closets with roving-handed boys, and Forever... well, Forever... deserves its own sentence. For those who read it - and re-read and re-read it - it was The Sex One. The shocking one. The one that taught us that sexuality would someday not feel like an alien land, that we would want men to touch us and want to touch them back, and that we could do those things and still be good daughters and friends and go to college - that, in essence, a healthy sex life was part of a healthy life, and not something to be whispered about in the girls' bathroom or learned about from the scrawlings on pay telephones.

To capture and memorialize all of this, Jennifer O'Connell has edited and published Everything I Needed to Know About Being a Girl I Learned from Judy Blume, which features essays from a range of women on their own personal experience of reading Judy Blume. For anyone who grew up reading JB, the essays - not all gems, but all evocative - will bring laughter and head-nods of recognition and memory, and will perhaps also inspire you to go back to the original books and read them all again, as we wait for our own daughters to be old enough to have their own formative Blume experiences.

Posted 31 Jan 2008 in Books & Entertainment; For Grownups; Tweens & Teens | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

This weekend, consider grooving to what I've dubbed “enrichment rock.” On Sunday at 10:30 am, Shira Kline will showcase her unique brand of "outrageously hip Jewish kiddie rock" at the ShirLala family concert at Temple Hillel B'nai Torah in West Roxbury. Kline energetically gets kids and grownups singing and dancing while offering a unique approach to Jewish education.

Want to win a family admission pass to the ShirLaLa concert? Here’s how:

If you’ve ever doubted the power of books, and the lessons that kids can learn from them, it’s time to start believing. In August we reviewed the Tessy & Tab Reading Club. I was not part of the review team but we do have some samples of the readers kicking around, and periodically Laurel likes to read through all of them; they’re simple stories about life experiences such as planting a garden, visiting the doctor, riding an airplane, and making Mom breakfast in bed.

This past Sunday may go down in history as one of my Best Mom Mornings Ever. Laurel woke up, called out for Jon, I hear little feet padding into the room, and then Laurel says, “Mom, would you like breakfast in bed? I want to make Breakfast for Mom [the name of a Tessy & Tab story]” She took my order, Jon and Laurel disappeared downstairs, I got to burrow under the blankets and fall asleep for an extra 15 minutes, and then I got to drink my coffee and eat my toast with peanut butter and banana (yes, I am 9) in bed with my family. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.

Whether or not breakfast is involved, keep reading with your kids!

Image credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Posted 30 Jan 2008 in Books & Entertainment; For Babies & Kids | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I firmly believe that everyone’s got a little creativity at their core, and sometimes all that’s needed to unleash the creative beast is the right canvas. And for those who love hosting parties but need a little help figuring out how to personalize the details, there’s Garnish, purveyor of cool party and gift packaging ideas that will keep your guests coming back for more. Reader Catherine from Thunder Bay, Ontario wrote in about Garnish, where you can use the Bits & Pieces line as a springboard for inspiration, or just go ahead and borrow one of their stylish themed ideas. We love that you can order specific quantities, and that they’ve done the hard work of tracking down the materials so you can get right to the fun of personalizing the look.

Want to win the Garnish goods for a party for 10*? Here’s how:

We’ve been on the go a lot these days, and waiting anywhere got a whole lot easier once I started toting Laurel’s Ultimate Wipe Off 123 book. I have given this and the ABC book as gifts to several of Laurel’s pals and they’re always a big hit. The books offer a fun way for kids to learn to draw and write letters and numbers, and an erasable marker is included so all you need is a napkin or tissue to reset the doodle dial.

The series also includes Learn to Draw, Pretty Princess, and Colors and Shapes. We bought a 4-pack of low odor colored dry erase markers when the included marker ran dry and Laurel loves having color choices.

Note: Alternately, another easy to tote item that makes airline or restaurant waits a breeze is the previously noted Do A Dot coloring book series. The Discovering My World and Picture Me A Princess coloring books have garned countless hours of colorful play.

Posted 29 Jan 2008 in Art Supplies & Toys; Travel | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

We received word about the Boston University Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders, which recently launched a new website offering resources for parents of adolescents with panic disorder and other anxiety disorders. The center offers cognitive behavioral therapy treatment (i.e., no medication) with free treatment for qualifying families. I’m grateful to guest contributor Amy Cody, who canvassed some colleagues for feedback about the clinic. Here’s what they had to say:

From a local social worker: “This is more than just any old clinic. The Center for Anxiety at BU is known by many as the gold standard for cognitive behavioral therapy anxiety treatment. I've heard good feed back from a student here."

From a local psychotherapist: “I've had several clients use this clinic with tremendous success. I'd give it a big thumbs up.”

From a local psychotherapist: “I supervised there a few years ago when they started an eating disorders component. It is a very reputable clinic for anxiety, panic, depression, and other problems. It has been around for a long time and mostly uses short term, cognitive behavioral techniques...I think they also have a sliding scale, which makes it more reasonable for lots of folks.”

Posted 29 Jan 2008 in Local; Outreach; Tweens & Teens | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

Since founding this site I've been fortunate to learn of lots of local "mamapreneurs." I’ve subsequently been thinking about creating a business directory that both showcases local talent and makes it easy for users to support local businesswomen (whether or not they have a brick and mortar presence). I'm thrilled to report that the directory is underway! If you’re a Massachusetts mamapreneur, click here to learn how to get listed in the free directory. Otherwise, spread the word to any Massachusetts mom businesswomen you know, and of course please check out the directory, which includes the inaugural group of fabulously talented local mamapreneurs.

Posted 28 Jan 2008 in Web (Admin) | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Today, one of my mama product testers shares a review of JumpStart World. Three of her kids (twin kindergarten daughters and a particularly astute almost 3-year-old son) tested out this educational video programming. Read on for the full review, and also to learn how to be one of 30 winners to receive a copy of JumpStart World!

“The girls LOVE JumpStart World. Unlike most of the computer games and websites we've seen, JumpStart is a mix of learning games that aim to develop specific academic skills like matching, phonemic awareness, counting, etc., as well as "missions" that emphasize basic social goals like sharing and friendship, and activities that are purely for fun. A "Camp" setting allows children to explore freely, entering various cabins, learning "arcades," and even an art studio. The overall program is set up with the aim of linear progress through grade-level skills. After completing "Adventure Packs," parents can purchase additional, incrementally advanced Packs via retailers or the JumpStart website, but kids can choose how they go about completing each individual Pack. "Gems" are easily earned by playing a wide variety of games, and can be used to make cyber purchases at the "Zippy Mart" or even to buy a pet that then follows along on the adventure.

Up to three children's information is stored simultaneously, so both the girls and my son each have their own character whose progress is tracked individually. The customization and linear progression of the program, combined with the full-screen, 3-D graphics, and realistic "nature" sounds sets JumpStart World apart from other games, and the girls spend plenty of time simply exploring the varied topography. The software's web connection provides both new learning material and regular changes to the landscape to reflect real-world holidays and seasons. The girls were so excited to see that winter had arrived at Camp JumpStart--complete with snow, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. The website maintains a Parent Center, where parents can customize "rewards" for their child's progress and send messages to their kids which appear on billboards throughout the Camp (we're not big on rewards per se, so we haven't tried these features). Additionally, parents can sign up to receive e-mail updates on their child's progress.

The #1 downside of JumpStart World is probably cost. The starter kit is around $20 (though it does include a lot of material), and additional packs are around $8 apiece (you can subscribe and automatically download monthly). Also, my husband had a hard time installing the software on our computer (though we were thinking that maybe since we tested the product when it was brand new there were still a few bugs to be worked out). Finally, the progress reports were somewhat sporadic and didn't match up with what the girls were actually doing; for example, one said they were "missing all the fun and learning," when they in fact had been on JumpStart World the day before.

Overall, though, this is a great product. My guess is that JumpStart has since worked the installation bugs out, and other than the installation, the software has always run without issue. Also, an added benefit of JumpStart is that your child never needs to access the Internet at all. You just click on the JSWorld icon on the desktop, so there’s no need to worry about ads or anything like that.”

Now, are you ready to rock JumpStart World? Here’s how to enter to win one of the 30 copies* we’re giving away:

Weekend Reading: Car & Caboodle features an LA dad who tells of his road to becoming a minivan owner. Healthy Bump chats with former nanny Deborah Smith, who offers advice on how to search for a nanny. Moms’ Buzz offers 10 tips to help parents encourage children to eat right and maintain a healthy weight. Clever Parents highlights an easy, cheesy cauliflower pasta recipe from Rachael Ray. Coochicoos features the ultimate Batman home theater set up.

Stuff to Win: A four-tier diaper cake from Lil Baby Cakes, via Classy Mommy. Three Skip Hop Duo Via Messenger Bags, via MomFinds. Three copies of Amanda Lamb’s Smotherhood: Wickedly Funny Confessions From the Early Years, via One Chic Mama.

Posted 25 Jan 2008 in Books & Entertainment; Childcare; Diapers & Potty; Feeding & Nursing; For Grownups; Gear; Home; Recipes | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Dear Readers: This is a departure from the usual, but today I feel compelled to ask for your advice. Over the last few years - as I have learned how to be a parent, and also free myself of external expectations and make major professional leaps - I have come to believe firmly in the power of the universe; that life throws you the crazy pitches to force you to deal with stuff. So this week, as I was driven to the brink of a breakdown over an invasive squirrel, I have been trying to figure out what my lesson is. The chronology follows, and I welcome you to share your thoughts.

Our beloved writer Jules is marching (well, not exactly…) her way through the last trimester of her pregnancy with her first child. Today, she shares tips to survive bed rest:

“In my 33rd week of pregnancy, I went into preterm labor. It was terrifying, and in hopes of calming everything down, I was put on bed rest. For some people, being told to lie in bed all day is a dream come true (once you get past the fear and worry about the health of your little munchkin), but for me, it was a nightmare. As an athlete, I had been keeping up my five days a week at the gym regimen and was up and walking around for much of the day at my job at the hospital. Truth be told, I was marginally happy to have a reason to stay put; I was getting exhausted. I had fleeting fantasies about lounging around, watching TV and movies, poring over my cooking magazines, and perusing the Internet.

However, these fantasies were short lived and the reality is that now, after only my second week of bed rest, I am looking for any reason to get up. But I know this bed rest will be worth it, so I am creatively looking for ways to be purposeful and maintain human contact with those other than my wonderful, patient husband, who listens to be blab about nothing for an hour every night when he gets home. There is some reprieve now, as I’ve been granted the right to do housework (when have I ever been so grateful to clean the bathroom?!) and do short errands. However Draconian as this feels, I must remember that I am still officially on bed rest and have rules to live by. My own personal rule is to not turn on the television before 4pm (3pm if I’m desperate). Otherwise, here are some things that have made being home bound more bearable:

I’ve basically been indifferent to the love/hate Crocs debate, but when I first laid eyes on Polliwalks, I fell squarely in the love camp. And they’re even cuter - not to mention fun and functional - in real life. Available in four animal styles in a variety of cheerful colors, these clogs are lightweight, easy to slip on and off, and comfy (Laurel says). And each style features cute treads that leave animal prints during a walk on muddy or wet turf. Even as a big girl, sometimes Laurel wants to be carried around outside, but that’s never the case when she’s quacking around in her lemon yellow duck Polliwalks.

Want to win a pair of Polliwalks? Here’s how:

Reader Erica from Northampton wrote in previously about a resource for parents who are set on raising one child. Today, she shares thoughts on Deborah Siegel and Daphne Uviller’s Only Child: Writers on the Singular Joys and Solitary Sorrows of Growing Up Solo:

“I recently finished reading Only Child: Writers on the Singular Joys and Solitary Sorrows of Growing Up Solo. The book is a compilation of essays written by 21 singletons (a bit lighter of a term than ‘onlies,’ as one of the writers notes...) representing varied life stages, backgrounds, and experiences. The threads of both uniqueness and commonality are interwoven throughout these beautifully written pieces. I found the essays to be very candid, sometimes funny, sometimes sad; overall, a real pleasure to read. Apparently single-child families are the fastest-growing family unit in America (and in most of industrialized western Europe), with approximately 15 million only children in the U.S. today. Some estimates reportedly state that one-third of Americans starting families now will have only one child, for myriad reasons, whether by choice or by fate. Needless to say, you do not have to be an ‘Only’ or be parenting one to enjoy this book. As the editors note, ‘Even though our criteria for contributors was that they be sibling-free, they ultimately invoked onliness as a prism through which to examine the human experience. As one contributor asks, isn't the only child simply the most exaggerated version of all of us, navigating life alone?’”

Posted 23 Jan 2008 in Books & Entertainment; For Grownups | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

When we finally got around to transitioning Laurel out of her crib a few months ago, it was a joyful (for her) and emotional (for me) moment. Despite being decidedly short on leisure time, I decided to commemorate the occasion with a quilt, and found excellent inspiration in Last-Minute Patchwork + Quilted Gifts. The project took longer than the estimated 8-12 hours - largely because I adjusted the pattern, added an extra detail, and obsessed over getting the measurements right - but the results were marvelous. Click here for details and project photos. I wish the book offered a few more diagrams (although it probably doesn't hurt to exercise the spatial orientation neurons a bit...), but I otherwise highly recommend this book for beginning or experienced crafters.

Posted 23 Jan 2008 in Arts & Crafts; Books & Entertainment; For Grownups; Home | Permalink | Comments (4) | E-mail this link

Today, PPLM Parent Education Program Manager Amy Cody recommends this resource for parents and youth:

“AmberMadison.tv is a unique Web-based video channel informing young adults about sexual health and sexuality in a safe and interactive environment. Amber Madison, author of Hooking Up: A Girl's All-Out Guide to Sex And Sexuality, delivers accurate information through her own humor and real-life perspectives to teens and young adults who are curious about sex, relationships, health, and overall well-being. The programming covers sexual health topics including body image, pregnancy, relationships, sexual assault, sexual orientation, and STDs.”

Posted 22 Jan 2008 in Tweens & Teens | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I've long been a fan of Lands’ End kid sandals and Mary Janes, and was impressed when I recently checked out their baby collection. Including basics in chic solids and patterns as well as bold, preppy pieces, as a bag freak, I especially dig their Pattern Diaper Bag Tote. These cute zip top totes include 6 inner mesh pockets so you can actually see what you’re storing, one outer pocket, perfect length handles (for straight arm, shoulder, or stroller handle carry), and a cushioned, extra long changing pad. And once you’re done with diaper duty, this sturdy classic no doubt will serve through preschool and beyond.

And whoa, want to be one of four winners to receive a Lands’ End Pattern Diaper Bag Tote*? Here’s how:

And now for our weekly dose of web highlights from some of our stylish blog partners:

Clever Parents details their top 5 tips for losing weight and feeling great while doing it. MomFinds has the scoop on the Hollywood buzz inspired by the spring Robeez collection. One Chic Mama features the Vicks Caring Tributes and Kiehl’s giveaway. And visit Moms’ Buzz to enter to win goodies from Hanes.

Posted 18 Jan 2008 in Bath, Beauty & Health; Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Or 2, 3, and 4 as was the case for Heather:

"Adjusting to a new baby at home is often difficult for older siblings, especially children under 5 who are used to having lots of attention from mom and dad. One of my greatest worries when I was pregnant for the second time was how our 3½-year-old daughter would feel with the arrival of 3 new siblings at the same time. The world she knew would be forever changed. Here are some tips that we found eased the transition and reinforced our love:

Compared to some of our other jet setting friends, it took us a long time to get around to flying with Laurel, and things went remarkably well. In part, I think this was related to traveling with a 3-year-old who can sink her teeth into an activity with relative independence, communicate needs, understand instructions, and not need as much gear. But we also made some planning decisions that made travel enormously easier; here I share them with you:

Today, Tracy reports on a CD created for kids with food allergies:

“I recently heard about Kyle Dine’s music, and just had to share this CD. You Must Be Nuts! is filled with great tunes for kids living with food allergies. Kyle’s music is inspired by his own lifelong management of food allergies, and recounts some of his experiences as a kid who went to birthday parties wearing a big red sticker that said, “Please don’t feed me.” While awareness about the number and severity of food allergies has grown in recent years, there’s still room for more resources to help kids manage the inevitable stigma and worry that comes from being a kid with food allergies.

The music on the CD is easy to listen to, and while some of it is silly, such as the song Smellaphant the Allergic Elephant, the music offers a way for kids to have fun, while learning how to effectively manage their allergies. The songs address serious topics like the importance of Epi-Pens and ID bracelets, as well as identifying symptoms and gaining allergy confidence. Songs also cover other serious food intolerances such as Celiac Disease. Parents have commented on the website about how much their kids have loved having a CD that is specifically about the things that they deal with everyday.”

Posted 16 Jan 2008 in Books & Entertainment; For Babies & Kids | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

It’s amazing how donning quality fabrics can improve your posture and relax your breath, and those attributes come in particularly handy when you’re baby wearing. To inspire good form, check out Sakura Bloom’s gorgeous, eco-friendly, and gift-ready (packaged in a bamboo box) baby slings. Functionally, these slings are machine washable, reversible, adjustable, breathable, and comfortable. Fashionably, Sakura’s line includes linen and silk collections where the deliciously elegant neutral or vibrant fabric pairings make everything from mom sweats to workday suiting look fabulous.

Want to win a Sakura Bloom sling*? Here’s how:

Today, Kate shares a puzzle pick:

“Our 2-year-old daughter is beginning to understand and enjoy puzzles, but I've had a hard time finding ones that are appropriate to her age and interests. Many have pieces that are too small and chokeable, others are too sophisticated for tiny fingers, and still others have strange and flashy features or sounds. For these reasons, we appreciate the Crocodile Creek Natural World ABC floor puzzle; this puzzle is made with large pieces that are easy for small hands to manipulate (even though the puzzle is labeled for ages 3-6), the illustrations are colorful and charming, and the images - of animals, fruit, and the earth - are child-friendly and easily recognizable. A hit with both adults and kids, this puzzle is lovely for anyone who enjoys puzzles and wants to share them with a little one.”

Posted 15 Jan 2008 in Art Supplies & Toys | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I’m thrilled to welcome new guest contributor Carole Arsenault! Carole, a certified childbirth educator and lactation consultant, is the founder of locally based Newborn Nurses. Carole will provide content on pregnancy and postpartum issues, and her first "pump primer" contribution today demystifies the various options available for expressing breast milk:

“Breastfeeding is the preferred method of feeding for virtually all infants according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG). Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for at least the first 12 months after birth.

Breast pumps are used to insure a continued milk supply if the infant is premature or ill and cannot nurse, or if the mother goes back to work, travels, takes prescription medication, or just needs to go out for a few hours without the baby. Pumped breast milk offers a flexible solution for mother and baby.

Milk can be expressed using the hand or by mechanical expression. Hand expression is the most economical since all that is needed is a clean container to capture the milk in. Although economical, hand expression is very time consuming and many mothers experience difficulty with this technique.

Mechanical expression, with a breast pump, is the most popular choice for milk removal. When choosing between pump styles a new mother must consider the circumstances, frequency, and cost of the pumps. Types of mechanical pumps include manual, battery powered, electric professional grade, and hospital grade.

How Do The Pump Types Differ?

Manual pumps are a good choice for occasional pumping or for the relief of engorgement. These pumps are the least expensive option, however, they can be very time consuming since mothers usually take a longer time to let down using this method. Also, hand and arm muscles can tire during pumping sessions.

Battery powered pumps are also designed for occasional pumping - once a day or less. These pumps are easier to use than manual ones and do not tire hand and arm muscles. Battery pumps are usually designed to pump one breast at a time.

Electric professional grade pumps plug into wall outlets and are much more efficient than manual or battery operated pumps, but they are also much more expensive. High-end electric pumps combine the convenience of portability with the efficiency of hospital grade models. Pumps that allow for more cycles per minute are generally more effective. Better quality electric pumps cycle up to 60 times per minute. These pumps are designed for frequent use and pumping of both breasts at the same time. These professional quality pumps are very effective for expressing breast milk and most often recommended to patients by lactation consultants. In some circumstances, pump costs may be covered through health insurance.

Hospital grade pumps are by far the priciest pump, however, they can usually be rented on a month-to-month basis. If the baby is not able to breastfeed and the mother is pumping constantly around the clock then the best choice in pumps is a hospital grade with a double collection kit. These pumps have a rapid suck and release cycle (cycling time) that draws milk from the breast at almost the same rate as a nursing baby (60 times per minute). The hospital grade pumps are very big, bulky, and heavy (up to 18 lbs.). Check with the doctor or a lactation consultant to determine whether the top quality electric pump or a hospital grade pump is recommended.

What Brands Do You Recommend?

Ameda and Medela are still the current leaders in the breast pump industry, using bottles that are Bisphenol-A (BPA) free and made from polyproylene plastic. Before you buy a breast pump make sure it looks comfortable to use, easy to clean, and simple to take apart. Keep in mind for health reasons that most stores will not allow breast pump returns.

Note: Many competitors are starting to jump in on the bandwagon but have yet to establish themselves.

Manual Breast Pumps

For occasional pumping, my favorite manual pumps are the Avent Isis and Medela Harmony styles (costing approximately $35-45 each). These pumps can be used discreetly in places that don’t have much privacy because of their small size. They are also very quiet and easy to use.

Battery Powered Pumps

Budget choice is the Medela Mini Electric battery powered pump (also called the Medela Single Deluxe). This occasional use pump costs approximately $75.

Electric Pumps

If you are a working mom and pumping is a large part of your day, then a fully automatic, double electric pump is your best bet. This is not a place to be penny wise and pound-foolish. The best professional pumps for working moms are the Medela Pump In Style (costing $250 and up) and the Ameda Purely Yours (approximately $200).

Hospital Grade Pumps

If your doctor or lactation consultant recommends a hospital grade pump, renting is the best option. These pumps are very costly, starting at approximately $1000 or more. Pump rentals are approx $75 - $100 per month. These pumps are big, heavy, and not portable at all.”

Posted 15 Jan 2008 in Feeding & Nursing; Gear | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

If you’re looking for a fun project to do with older kids, consider finger knitting. My ultra crafty sister-in-law (as in, she spins and dyes her own yarn) showed me this technique recently; the process is perfect for mamas and kids because it’s needle-free and fast, particularly if you use a bulky yarn (this bolero yarn is similar in bulk to what I used). I made some fab coordinating mama & daughter scarves in under an hour, and I can’t wait until Laurel’s paws are big enough so she can try making one on her own. For excellent instructions and photos, see Knitty.com.

Image credit: Knitty.com

Posted 14 Jan 2008 in Arts & Crafts; Home | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

Coconut scents can go terribly wrong (think overpowering suntan lotion), but sumbody’s Coconut & Cream Organic Sugar Scrub gets it just right. Part of the new, eco-chic collection at gigglefish, this scrub is both functional and luxurious. The coarse brown sugar grains exfoliate effectively (best for normal to dry skin), while the shea and cocoa butters + safflower, pistachio, and other essential oils hydrate and protect the skin without leaving residue. As a mama trying to up the self-care and curb the sweets, this scrub nurtures while reminding me - via the gentle, lingering coconut scent - that I’ve already had an excellent treat.

Want to be one of 2 winners to receive this scrub? Here’s how:

And now for our weekly dose of web highlights from some of our stylish blog partners:

Clever Parents invites you to crunch the numbers with their 2008 Smart Spending Grocery Challenge. Healthy Bump charts where the rest of that non-baby baby weight goes. MomFinds features six simple products to babyproof your home. Moms’ Buzz features the seven new wonders of the world for family travel. Modern Mom is hosting a toddler trouble photo contest. And One Chic Mama has raves for the SoRa charm necklace.

Posted 11 Jan 2008 in Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Home; Pregnancy & Postpartum; Solutions; Travel | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

The former statistics guru in me would, for pure amusement, like to see how much real estate “time spent diapering” gets on a parents pie chart. And apparently, no matter how seasoned a mom you are, it’s possible to discover new information about diapers anywhere along the journey. Today, a team of my beloved mamas tested and reviewed diapers and wipes from the Pampers line. Read on for their reviews, ordered by age of youngest to oldest kids:

+++++
Mom of an 11-month-old daughter & 3-year-old son