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

Weekend reading: Clever Parents offers tips to clutter bust and overhaul your master bedroom. Modern Mom introduces its online book club; grab a book and join the fun. Moms’ Buzz demystifies lypossage – a body contouring massage you may want to try.

Post-baby: MomFinds features a post-baby shapewear guide. One Chic Mama features Czela Bellies’ fabulous and fun boy shorts made just for C-section moms.

Good stuff: Classy Mommy is giving away a Mutsy Spider baby stroller valued at $250. Swanky Moms features HydraCoach. And Healthy Bump loves Belly Bars; all natural belly bars designed to meet the needs of women before, during, and after pregnancy.

Posted 29 Feb 2008 in Bath, Beauty & Health; Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Gear; Home; Solutions | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Yes, it’s a day before March, but the weekend is fast approaching so I wanted to go ahead and announce our fabulous featured March contest in partnership with Chittypulga. One lucky winner will receive the newest Fleurville Re-Run Messenger diaper bag (Spring Ogo), PLUS a $100 gift certificate to fill up the Fleurville with fabulous finds from the Chittypulga store! Click here to enter to win. This contest closes at midnight, EST March 31, 2008 and is open to entrants worldwide. Good luck!

Posted 29 Feb 2008 in Web (Admin) | Permalink | Comments (33) | E-mail this link

Today, Michelle Stern of What’s Cooking (and What’s Cooking Weekly), offers up a great way to warm up winter – both through the soup itself, and by getting your kids moving in the kitchen:

“This winter, try this delicious Pasta e Fagioli (Italian Pasta and Bean Soup) recipe. And don’t forget – kids make great helpers! See the Call The Kids section towards the bottom of the recipe to guide you on what your kids can do to help.

I typically am all about do-it-yourself crafts, but to artfully frame photos, I’ve experienced considerable frustration in the process of printing images, then finding frames that are the right style, have appropriately sized windows for your printed photos (sometimes resizing and reprinting photos is necessary), and aren’t dinged up from excessive handling at the store. Luckily, I now have a great solution. Read on for a review of the online framing service Imagekind, and also to learn how to win a $100 Imagekind gift card.

I take a lot of photos, and one of my favorite ways to display pictures is via a 3- or 4-window frame, where each window captures a different expression, or moment of a journey. But in the past, I have wasted far too much time on the framing problems described above. Anyone who has made multiple trips back and forth to the frame section (and return counter) at Target in search of a correctly sized, intact frame knows what I’m talking about.

I thus was thrilled to learn about Imagekind Story Frames. Once you’ve decided on the photos you want to use, you literally can create artfully framed photos in minutes. Just load digital files from your desktop (or import from flickr), select your frame window style (9 styles, varying from 2 to 6 windows), make any edits (reposition, crop, rotate, resize), choose from a dozen stylish frames and mats, and you're done. Prices range from $46.95 to $86.95 depending on frame window style.

I used Imagekind to frame a series of photos from our winter trip to San Francisco (momentous, given that it was our first air travel with Laurel) and the project rendered beautifully. Because the photos I wanted to use differed in natural orientation, I opted for the one style with square windows (17” square frame with four 4.8" x 4.8” windows; $68.95). The photo quality is excellent in color and contrast, and the frame and mat elegant and professional looking. Expertly packed, the frame was perfectly intact on arrival.

My only concerns about Imagekind relate to web usability. I realize that the process is dynamic, but I find it a little strange that price ranges aren’t available right up front (I confirmed the price ranges above with an Imagekind rep); instead, you have to first upload a photo for an initial price to show, and then the price adjusts depending on which frame style you opt for. It also would be helpful if the process of experimenting with different frame styles was more straightforward. I felt pretty committed to the 4-window frame due to said orientation issues and uploaded my four photos, but then wondered about including two additional photos for a 6-window frame. There was no obvious option to choose a different frame style (with the four already-loaded photos in a queue) so I went back to the original create page and it didn’t appear that my photos were saved. After re-uploading the first photo, I discovered that the four photos were, in fact, all stored, but the process just seemed a bit awkward.

These details aside, however, I am thrilled with the final result. Whether it’s for your own home or as a gift for the grandparents, Imagekind Story Frames offer an easy, beautiful way to preserve special family moments or fleeting baby expressions. From here on in, I'll opt for Imagekind for artful photo framing; I’d much rather spend my time actually hanging with my family and taking more photos, than driving around searching for frames.

Now, want to win a $100 Imagekind gift card?

Today, Kate reports on a clever way for kids to learn to skate, in the comfort of their own shoes:

“I grew up ice skating at the Metropolitan District Commission rink in Brighton, and I can still remember the clamor of the lobby/changing area, the sense of unlimited possibility found by stepping gingerly onto the ice, and the taste of the watery hot chocolate (mini-marshmallows and all) sold at the snack bar.

I started skating when I was about six and I've skated off and on for my whole life, but the honest truth is that I'll never be particularly good at it. I enjoy it until I start to feel the cold, and the movement and sensations come back quickly each time I lace up my skates, but I don't have the fundamental confidence I need to be both fast and skilled without simply being reckless. When I realized that my daughter - who, at the age of two, has more natural athleticism than I'll ever have - could be old enough to take a few turns on the ice this winter, it occurred to me that it could be a fun chance to share a new experience with her while also reconnecting with an old love of mine.

Finding skates small enough for her toddler feet turned out to be more of a challenge, however. After quite a bit of searching and researching, I discovered double-bladed, strap-on, adjustable Bob Skates, designed to fit and grow with tiny feet. They attach to boots or shoes and provide enough stability and sense of balance that first-time skaters - even pint-sized ones - can enjoy their time on the ice without spending too much time dusting themselves off. They're also affordable and lightweight, and have an old-school, Hans Brinker-like charm that comes from the steel blades and leather straps. Pull out the snow pants, warm up the cocoa, and take your little ones out to feel the joy of flying that is ice skating.”

Posted 27 Feb 2008 in Gear | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Thank goodness for the arts that keep kids and parents happily entertained through Boston’s long winter. Celebrated for his songs and stories that appeal across generations, Grammy winner Bill Harley will make cabin fever feel like a thing of the past at The Center for Arts in Natick this Saturday (March 1, 11am).

Want to win 4 tickets to see Bill Harley? Here’s how:

For those who love babywearing and birthday parties, tomorrow (Feb. 27, 10:30am – 12:30pm) the Boston Babywearers will celebrate their third anniversary, complete with cake and a boatload of presents. To support the cause and enter to win cool goods, simply buy one or more raffle entries online by the end of today, or at tomorrow's meeting before the noon draws. All proceeds will go to Boston Babywearers’ efforts to support babywearing advocacy and education. You need not be present at the meeting to be eligible to win, although all those interested in babywearing (plus significant others, older kids, prospective parents, etc.) are welcome at the event.

At the Arlington Enrichment Collaborative, 1100 Mass. Ave, Arlington

Posted 26 Feb 2008 in Gear; Local; Outreach | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I’ll admit that I have a bit of a shoe problem (Jon’s still wondering where I plan on wearing a pair of snakeskin peep-toe pumps purchased in December…), and the evolution of kiddie shoes has created a whole new problem for me. Case in point: this month, Robeez broke from their soft-soled baby shoe mold to launch their Tredz line. Including a dizzyingly cute collection of sweet styles for girls and sporty looks for boys, these kicks are lightweight, easy to get (and stay put) on chubby little feet, and feature super cushy insoles and flexible, non-slip soles. These stylish shoes will withstand plenty of exploration on the tot lot, while allowing your babe to tread softly.

Want to be one of 2 winners to receive a pair of Robeez Tredz*? Here’s how:

Whether or not you've seen The Business of Being Born, if you are expecting – or interested in maternal rights in general – consider heading to Being Born in Massachusetts: Pushing for More Midwives this Wednesday (Feb. 27). During this panel, women’s health authors, midwives, and public health/OB-GYN specialists will discuss how the issues raised in Business relate to birthing practices in Massachusetts. Those interested in learning more about pending legislation for a state licensing board for midwifery should click here.

Posted 25 Feb 2008 in Local; Outreach; Pre & Postnatal Services | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I realize that there’s a time and place for tighty whities, but gigglygear makes an awfully strong case for boxers from the very beginning. Their super cute diaper covers – styled as boxers for boys and bloomers for girls – come in a variety of bright and cheery patterns and can be paired with a color coordinated tee, or you can choose a gift pack set. Particularly when the warm weather hits, these comfy coordinates will serve baby well, whether at home or at the beach.

Want to win a gigglygear gift pack set*? Here’s how:

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

Cool goods: Coochicoos showcases a light for little kids who love spaceships. Classy Mommy gives her stamp of approval to Born Free’s BPA-free bottles. Clever Parents finds Fabkins fabulous. Car & Caboodle features the new Maxi Cosi Priori convertible car seat. And Healthy Bump reviews Belly Bars.

Contests: One Chic Mama is giving away a pair of Robeez Tredz. And Swanky Moms features LA’s Nanny of the Year contest.

Weekend surfing: Moms’ Buzz offers quick tips to get your kids to pick up around the house. And MomFinds features Oprah’s Shlumpadinka makeovers.

Posted 22 Feb 2008 in Decor & Furniture; Feeding & Nursing; Gear; Home; Pregnancy & Postpartum | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Whether or not your family escaped to a balmy February vacation destination this week, you can embrace winter this Sunday (Feb. 24) at the Stony Brook Reservation Frozen Fun Fest. Enjoy a free afternoon including skating (BYO-skates), a hockey clinic, ice sledging (sledges provided), and other winter fun. Bundle up, and consider bringing hot drinks in a thermos too.

75 Turtle Pond Pkwy, Hyde Park; Tel: 617-333-7404

Posted 22 Feb 2008 in Fun Outdoors; Local | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Today, Kate reports on a local purveyor of glass treasures:

“With the holidays long gone and as the grey of winter persists, finding ways to keep shine and brightness in life becomes all the more important. Colorful accessories can add sparkle and happiness, and a small store in the Back Bay offers a beautiful selection of vibrant glass jewelry - rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, hair ornaments - that is both fun and elegant without being overly expensive. Lalo Treasures is a treat for the eyes: the cozy store is bright, welcoming, and colorful. Not to mention that Lalo's blend of materials makes for unusually durable jewelry (customers are encouraged to try on anything they want), making it terrific for moms with babes equally drawn to pretty baubles.”

Lalo Treasures, 255 Newbury Street, Boston; Tel: 617.437.6666

Posted 21 Feb 2008 in Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Local; Retail | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I generally consider myself a pretty tuned in, communicative parent, but there’s no denying the moments when stress, fatigue, or just being human result in a short fuse and loss for words. And for those moments there's Betsy Brown Braun’s Just Tell Me What to Say. Replete with tips and scripts to help parents learn the basics of effective communication and handle everything from discipline to tantrums to praise to sibling fights to food battles to tough topics (e.g., death, divorce), I've been particularly impressed by how quickly some of Braun’s bullet points have helped me realize the impact of seemingly innocuous behavior (e.g., spelling out words in front of Laurel, identifying her as shy when she hides from strangers), and then how much better it feels to stop the behavior and opt for a different script.

Want to be one of 5 winners to receive a copy of Just Tell Me What to Say? Here’s how:

Today, Sara Cabot of Little Lettice offers a guide to first foods for baby:

“What food is ‘allowed’ at 6 months? Within the limits of age appropriateness, what actually works? And what about the weirder vegetables like rutabaga? Here I present the basics on introducing veggies, fruits, protein, and spices - drawn from external resources, my experience in the baby food industry, not to mention having fed my own four babies!

Starting Notes

The first thing to keep in mind when you start introducing food to baby is that Perseverance with a capital “P” is the name of the game. Take the pressure off yourself and don’t expect baby to open her/his mouth happily every time you introduce a new food. There are many reasons why baby might not be receptive that day (described further below in Feeding Tips & Problem Solving), but ultimately it’s up to you to provide a healthy start in life. You decide what baby eats, and baby decides how much.

Second, be sure to consult with your pediatrician as you move towards introducing new foods to baby.

When to Start?

Around 6 months is the age recommended by most pediatricians. Some moms start with cereal a bit earlier. If you have a history of allergies in the family it’s probably safer to err on the later side.

Which Foods to Start With?

Cereal

Due to the proliferation of wheat allergies nowadays, many moms choose to start by introducing rice, barley, or oat cereal. I also find that combining cereal and milk with a bit of fruit or veggie makes for a more palatable and satisfying meal.

The 3-Day Rule

Most pediatricians will recommend that you give baby a single flavor veggie or fruit for 3 days to check for allergic reaction. Below is a guide to veggies and fruits to introduce by age. Once you have determined the allergy status of various 6 month Veggies & Fruits you can start to mix them with 6-7 then 8 month Veggies & Fruits. This approach creates a building block effect.

6 month Veggies & Fruits

Are you ready to rock? Like you used to before kids, but with your kids safely in tow? This Sunday (Feb. 24) at 3pm, the family friendly concert series Rock-n-Romp hits Great Scott in Allston, featuring music by the Bon Savants and Wonderful Spells, a reading by Neal Pollack, and an appearance by the author/illustrator of Punk Farm. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door (kids under 13 admitted free). Kids must be accompanied by adults and adults must be accompanied by a kid.

Want to win two tickets to Rock-n-Romp Boston (admits 2 adults + 2 kids)? Simply email contests@bostonmamas.com by midnight Feb. 21 (with ‘Rock-n-Romp’ in the subject).

Posted 20 Feb 2008 in Fun Indoors; Local | Permalink | Comments (2) | E-mail this link

It only makes sense to recycle quickly outgrown kiddie goods, and lucky for Boston parents, Freepeats is here. Devoted exclusively to baby, children, and maternity items, Freepeats is an online forum/message board that allows parents to post or pick up gently used goods locally, and also find information on area retail, consignment, and garage sales. The Boston forum started this month; sign up by February 29 for a free lifetime membership (otherwise the one time membership fee is only $4.95). Freepeats also serves Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Philadelphia, and Washington DC, with more city forums forthcoming.

Posted 19 Feb 2008 in Eco Living; Home; Solutions | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I’ve never understood why Laurel would rather scratch an itch bloody than ask for lotion, but I’m now convinced that until recently we just didn’t have the right goods. Shea Radiance offers a variety of natural skin care goods, and their fresh pressed shea butter products are deliciously effective. Their baby butter - apparently suitable for preschoolers - is creamy, soothing, and offers a gentle dose of aromatherapy perfect for post-bath wind down. And whether it’s the pretty packaging or some implicit knowledge that the contents are derived from rich, natural resources, whenever Laurel opens the jar she peers in, sighs, and says, “I feel fancy.”

Want to be one of two winners to receive Shea Radiance body butter*? Here’s how:

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

Win it: Modern Mom is on location at Disney to kick off their Dream Vacation Giveaway. One Chic Mama is giving away a Gold Heart Envelope from Dante Beatrix packed full of beauty products. MomFinds is offering up a chance to win a Haute Kiley bag from HMR by Christine Price. Classy Mommy is giving away 4 board books from the Good Night Our World series.

Goods to get: Healthy Bump features the comfortable yet trendy maternity tees at Baby & Momma. Swanky Moms loves the blinged out hair clips by Taia. Coochicoos showcases designer Yves Behar’s Y Water.

Weekend reading: At Car & Caboodle, Clay shares his worst car moment and more. At Clever Parents, Caroline spills about her preacher's-wife mother who also writes romantic novels of the smutty variety. And Moms’ Buzz features Parenting Style 101.

Posted 15 Feb 2008 in Books & Entertainment; Family Issues; Fashion; For Babies & Kids; For Little Ones; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Gear | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

As joyful as it is to parent children as they become increasingly communicative and independent, those developments also can, at times, test even the most patient parents. For those who feel as if they’re running on fumes, head to Lynn Lyons and Christine Cook’s Refueling Your Parenting Tank workshop on March 9 at the JCC in Newton. Parents will learn how to work through button-pushing moments and difficult transitions with kids, and the buzz on this workshop – geared towards parents of 3-10 year olds – is that Lyons and Cook are talented educators who provide parents with the ideas and communicative tools needed to refuel and hit the ground running.

Want to win two registrations to this workshop (bring a partner or friend!)? Simply email contests@bostonmamas.com by Feb. 22 (with ‘Refuel’ in the subject).

Posted 15 Feb 2008 in Childcare & Education; Development & Behavior; Family Issues; Local | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Given our love for Zen Shorts, we ordered Zen Ties as soon as it was released and the book does not disappoint. Jon Muth crafts another gorgeous book, in which sage panda Stillwater teaches his children friends and nephew Koo about empathy and the unexpected ties that people have to one another. I especially love that this book weaves in multigenerational connections; the elderly Miss Whitaker is Laurel’s favorite character. Now I’m just trying to mentally will Muth into creating a poster version of the fabulous kung fu panda stances from the inside cover.

Posted 14 Feb 2008 in Books & Entertainment; For Babies & Kids | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

Today, Carole Arsenault of Newborn Nurses offers a handy guide on BPA and baby bottles:

“BPA (Bisphenol A) is an industrial chemical found in polycarbonate plastic. These plastics are used in many baby products including bottles. The latest research links BPA to possible health problems in humans. Those most vulnerable to the negative effects are infants and young children.

In June 2005, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) reported in their article Home Toxic Home: ‘In studies, exposing plastic products to the heat of a microwave, dishwasher or hot foods caused more BPA to migrate into food. Heating degrades the chemical bond that holds polycarbonate plastic together. Some studies, however, have detected leaching even at room temperature. Heavily scratched or worn plastic products degrade faster.’

Since the summer of 2005, over 130 studies have examined the effects of BPA on humans. As a result of these studies, BPA has been linked to a variety of health concerns including increased risk of certain cancers, and altered brain development and neurological behavior. Infants, in particular, are at increased risk during critical periods of their development.

To minimize exposure to BPA, the EWG recommends that bottles used by babies should be polycarbonate free. Polypropylene, glass, and polyethylene bottles (#1, 2, and 4) are considered safe. Also, bottles should not be subjected to high temperatures; instead wash them in the sink with warm water and soap and let them air dry.

The good news is that many bottle manufactures are responding to these reports by making BPA-free bottles available to consumers. The following is a summary of bottle brands and their current BPA status (links are included for BPA-free bottles):

If your family is tired of looking out the window and seeing the sparse drab of winter, consider trying Klutz Window Art to brighten your outlook. The kit includes a book of illustrations, 3 plastic sleeves, and 6 bottles of paint. Just slip a sleeve over a page, trace the illustrations with paint, let the paint dry for 24 hours, then peel and stick your kiddo’s colorful creations right on a window. I bought two more 18-bottle fanatic packs of paint from Klutz since Laurel was so focused on the project that she used all the kit paints in one (impressively long!) sitting. The project also apparently appeals to grownups (including - to date - mom, aunt, and grandma...).

Note: The instructions from Klutz indicate using the black outline paint for all illustrations (warning that otherwise the window art might not hold together), but we’ve made lots of window art without the black outline paint and it works perfectly well.

Posted 13 Feb 2008 in Art Supplies & Toys | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

Growing up in a local public school system with an amazing arts program, I always stood in awe of Walnut Hill; that there was a place for high schoolers to kick it up several more artistic notches. See for yourself this Saturday (2/16 at 2pm), when The Center for Arts in Natick hosts Walnut Hill's kiddie production, Dear Edwina: The Musical. Running about an hour and suitable for the older pre-K+ crowd, families will delight in seeing 13-year-old Edwina attempt to solve etiquette quandaries via an advice show.

Want to win 4 tickets to Dear Edwina? Here’s how:

Ironically, the reason Laurel broke from her homebody stance yesterday (see Buggy Bundle post) was because visiting the local library was the fastest way for us to get our hands on more Toot & Puddle books. Beautifully and cleverly illustrated by Massachusetts artist Holly Hobbie, Toot & Puddle is one of our favorites, detailing the loving friendship and parallel adventures of world traveling Toot and homebody Puddle.

More Toot & Puddle titles are shown on the back cover and Laurel wants to read every single one of them.

Posted 12 Feb 2008 in Books & Entertainment; For Babies & Kids | Permalink | Comments (1) | E-mail this link

Laurel has been a complete homebody these days - except of course for yesterday, when it was frigid, we didn’t have the car, and she really wanted to go to the library (a brisk 20-25 minute walk away). It’s wintry days like these where the fresh air will do everyone good but you also need top notch bundling - and the Brookspond Buggy Blanket will keep your babe toasty. Read on for Kate’s review, and also to learn how to win a Brookspond Perennial Buggy Blanket!

From Kate:

“If your toddler is like mine, convincing him or her to bundle in the cold weather is no small feat. My daughter resists any sort of physical constraint, and that includes sweaters, jackets, mittens, hats, and anything else that might keep her tiny face and hands from freezing in the chill. Needless to say, her tendency to pull off her outer layers makes me - a New England mother - frantic. After a blustery Saturday morning spent near the Boston Harbor in which she started to cry from the cold, I resolved to find a new solution to the problem. Magic Beans in the Coolidge Corner neighborhood of Brookline offered just the thing: the Brookspond Buggy Blanket. Artfully-designed to fit with almost any stroller, the Buggy Blanket has a waterproof exterior and a fleece lining, can be zipped to almost completely envelop your little one, and seems - from the perspective of this adult - as warm and cozy as anything you can imagine. Available in range of attractive and parent-friendly colors, the Buggy Blanket can allow you to worry a little less about all of the accessories and still know that your babe will remain reasonably warm and dry.”

Now, are you ready to bundle up with Brookspond? Here’s how to enter to win a Brookspond Perennial Buggy Blanket (color = Red/Taupe):

Today, Heather offers Valentine's Day ideas for non-material ways to show your loved one that you care:

“As Valentine’s Day approaches, I find myself fretting over finding the perfect gift for my husband. But I suspect if I asked him directly, he would simply ask for some undivided attention.

I’m embarrassed to admit that after working a full day, caring for our 4 children, then tackling household minutia, I struggle to even hold a conversation with my husband. Yet I know that I’m not alone in this; several of my mama pals have shared that they feel the same way. And I know I am lucky; my husband is thoughtful, hands-on with the kids, and he does his fair share of housework too. So this Valentine’s Day, I am renewing my commitment to our marriage; giving him – and us – the attention deserved. Here are some of my ideas:

I remember being devastated in 1st grade when I learned that one of my best friends was allergic to chocolate and peanut butter. After missing out on all those classroom birthday cupcakes (always with an accepting smile), I can only hope that wherever he is, he knows about Divvies, purveyor of treats to be enjoyed by those with (or without!) life threatening allergies. Read on for Tracy’s review, and also to learn how to be one of 2 winners to receive a gift box assortment of Divvies gourmet popcorn, cookies, and candy!

From Tracy:

“It is not very often that we, as a family, get to test samples of anything because of Gabriel’s food allergies, so we were pleased as punch to test and review some bestsellers from Divvies.

Created by Mark and Lori Sandler for their son, Benjamin, who also has life threatening allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts, and tree nuts (Gabriel has all the same ones), Divvies are a way for parents, caregivers, and others involved in the lives of those with allergies to provide the treats that can so often be denied them. Mark and Lori are diligent about regularly inspecting and testing their products so that they can stand behind their guarantee and “free-from” labels. The Divvies product line includes cookies, cupcakes, gourmet popcorn, and candy made in a dedicated facility free from the allergens listed above. We sampled the chocolate chip cookies, cupcakes, kettle corn, and caramel corn. Here is what we thought:

Chocolate Chip Cookies: Gabriel, age 6, greeted the first bite of cookie with a resounding “Mmmmm!” He thought they were just as good as the ones I bake, which is high praise indeed, given that these cookies were baked in the Divvies facility and shipped from New York to Canada. Caius agreed that they were “good” (he’s 3-years-old). Dad liked that they have lots of chips, and I liked the packaging. They come in packets of 2 cookies (one to eat and one to share…the Divvies motto), making them great for lunches, loot bags, and anywhere else you need a quick snack. I love a chewy chocolate chip cookie, and Divvies fit the bill. A bit too sweet for me, but I tend to find that with all bakery cookies, so it’s not really a drawback, just a preference thing.

Cupcakes: The cupcakes came packed in a box with 6 chocolate and 6 vanilla cupcakes, with pink frosting and sprinkles for decorating. Gabriel loved the box and said it reminded him of a “fancy diner floor,” and I must admit that I am taken with the vintage look of Divvies packaging, too. Gabriel declared his vanilla cake “really good” and said that the sprinkles “put them over the top.” Caius noted that the multicolored sprinkles would satisfy each of his friends because each would be able to find their favorite color in there. He was happy to dip into the frosting without a cupcake, but enjoyed it on the cake, too. Dad liked the vanilla cupcake he chose, but declared that he liked my home baked ones better (thanks, honey!). I tried a bite each of the chocolate and vanilla, and found that they had good texture (again given pre-baking and shipping). The frosting had a slight taste of shortening for me, but again I find this with many bakery frostings.

Kettle Corn: Kind of a subtle cross between caramel and salty popcorn, this was a great treat. Gabriel was initially surprised by how crispy the popcorn was, but concluded that it was really good. Caius said, with some surprise, that it was both crunchy and sweet. Dad loved the salty/sweet combo, and liked that it was not “too sweet.” We both thought it would make a great snack to serve at a party, and can imagine it becoming quite addictive.

Caramel Corn: At first taste, we all declared the caramel corn too sweet for our tastes. We did find ourselves going back to the bag for small handfuls, though! Gabriel liked that it tasted like syrup, but thought he would not be able to eat as much as fresh popped popcorn. The texture was too sticky for Caius, but he’s three and popcorn in general is a relatively new treat for him. Dad found it too sweet and was the only one not to go back for more (note: it is caramel corn…it’s supposed to be sweet!). I quite liked the caramel taste, and think it is truly a gourmet creation. And, caramel made with no milk…who knew?!

Overall Verdict: As someone who really loves to bake and work with fresh, whole food ingredients, it would be hard to make a complete switch to a pre-baked product like Divvies. Similarly, I’m a fresh popcorn buff, and movie night wouldn’t be the same without hot, salty popcorn in a huge bowl. I’m also not a fan of “store-bought” baking because I like the way mine tastes better. That said, and judging from my family’s reactions to these treats, I would encourage others in our situation to try them out. Certainly, for those who don’t bake, or who want someone else to do the baking for the next party, Divvies is a great solution. I’ve posted before on hosting birthday parties when kids with allergies are present, and Divvies can help out there as well. (It should be noted, however, that many of their products do contain wheat, gluten, and soy, so they aren’t free of all the common allergens.)

I was impressed with their packaging, both the vintage vibe and the fact that not a single cookie was broken (yes, we’ve eaten them all), and no cupcakes were squished! And the large box used to hold it all was promptly turned into a car afterward.

We are thankful for people like Mark and Lori who turned their home baking into a treat that just about everyone can enjoy. I have always hesitated when other parents ask what they can give Gabriel, or what they can bring to playdate because no ingredients are guaranteed in most commercially made products. Now, I can direct them to Divvies, and we can share ‘em!”

Now, are you ready to try Divvies? Here’s how to enter to win one of the 2 gift boxes* to be won:

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

MomFinds celebrates the Lunar New Year with a report on gifts to widen your child’s knowledge and appreciation of other cultures. Healthy Bump features SwaddleDesigns’ Ultimate Receiving Blanket. Classy Mommy reviews the Natursutten BPA-free pacifier. Swanky Moms digs the self-inking stamps at Blooming Babies. One Chic Mama has raves for the Inglesina Trip stroller. Modern Mom is running 30 days of giveaways. And Clever Parents reports on Operation Shower Fort Hood, where they helped celebrate 45 new moms and moms-to-be.

Posted 8 Feb 2008 in Gear | Permalink | Comments (0) | E-mail this link

I’m thrilled to welcome new guest contributor April. A local mama and lover o