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February 25, 2010

Take Me Away to Maho Bay

maho-bay-1.jpgAlready longing for your next vacation? Today, Sarah shares a tropical vacation that’s proven fun, eco-friendly, and affordable for her family of four:

I’m not really a cold-weather person. In my humble opinion, once the holidays have come and gone, it could go right ahead and get on to spring. However, seeing as New England clearly isn’t in on my plan, I have only one recourse: a tropical vacation. And amazingly, I found the perfect solution that allows my family of four to spend a week in the Caribbean without completely breaking the bank.

Continue reading "Take Me Away to Maho Bay" »

January 27, 2010

Pretty Produce Bags

bite-bags.jpgThough I always remember my reusable totes when I hit the grocery store, produce bags are another story. I save plastic produce bags with the best intentions, but they never make it back to the store with me. Solution? The pretty, fabric trimmed, cinch-top produce bags by Bite. Not only are they unforgettably cute, but they’re eco-friendly, locally made, and lightweight (just over half an ounce). Add in washability and the fact that you can multi-task them to organize household goods, protect delicates in the laundry, and tote snacks for the kids and, well, you get an awful lot of bang for your bite with these bags.

Now, want to win a 3-pack of Bite bags? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Pretty Produce Bags" »

January 7, 2010

Stay Put Slippers

kayas-kloset.jpgAs the mom of a sock-resistant child in a “no shoes” house (a rule stemming from my Asian upbringing and immense distaste for increased need to vacuum), slippers are a must. And if you want cute slippers for kids and grownups, check out Kaya’s Kloset. Available for feet big and small (including organics), local mama Johanna Parker offers an amazing array of handcrafted baby shoes and kid/adult slippers featuring nonskid soles to prevent crash and burns and elasticized ankles so the slippers stay put. Though Laurel shuns socks, she loves her prettily patterned Kaya’s Kloset slippers; apparently part of their appeal is their lightweight-ness (“They’re so light it feels like I’m not wearing anything!”). Which means she keeps them on. Which makes me really happy.

Now, want to win a pair of Kaya’s Kloset shoes? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Stay Put Slippers" »

December 23, 2009

Awesomely Eco Lunch Kits

citizen-pip-soup-to-nuts.jpgI’m all about useful, meaningful, and green goods, and one of my favorite finds for the school-aged set (and their parents) comes from Citizenpip. Offering an awesomely comprehensive way to green lunchtime (no lead, BPA, PVC, or phthalates here), the soup to nuts kit includes an insulated lunch bag, stainless steel water bottle, insulated food jar, four food containers of varying sizes, a fork + spoon set, and a set of cloth napkins; simply mix and match the containers depending on your child’s lunch desires. Laurel adores the bright colors and all of the cute little containers of her Yum lunchbox, and I love the modern styling, functionality, and peace of mind knowing that I’m packing a safe, waste-free lunch every day.

Now, want to win a lunch kit from Citizenpip? Here’s how (entry closes Dec. 31):

Continue reading "Awesomely Eco Lunch Kits" »

December 15, 2009

Eco-Friendly Face Paints

luna-organics.jpgLooking to take dress up play to a fun, new, and eco-friendly level? Today, Kate shares a review of the organic, hypoallergenic kid’s face paint and makeup kits from New Hamshire based Luna Organics. Read on for Kate’s review, as well as to learn how to be one of two winners to receive Luna Organics kits:

Continue reading "Eco-Friendly Face Paints" »

December 11, 2009

Simplifying The Holidays: CSA 101

siena-farms.jpgApril Paffrath is one of the most devoted foodies I know. No taste is too simple, no ingredient too humble. And when you read her writing, you can tell how much she relishes preparing, tasting, and writing about food. April is a regular contributor here on Boston Mamas, but today I’m thrilled to introduce her via her voice on Wicked Tasty Harvest. For the eleventh installment of my Simplifying the Holidays guest blog series, April shares a highly impacting way to simplify your holidays and beyond: by thinking about local foods and considering a CSA. Included is a primer on local foods and CSAs, as well as a fantastic guide to CSAs in the Boston area.

Continue reading "Simplifying The Holidays: CSA 101" »

December 10, 2009

Sensitive Stride Rites

stride-rite-srt-liam.jpgIt's no secret that I’m a bit obsessed with kids wearing properly fitting, comfy shoes. And what I dig about Stride Rite is that though they are a household name, they continued to push the fit and comfort envelope; most recently through their Sensory Response Technology collection. The structural support, comfort, and flexibility are evident if you handle the shoe, but the hidden coolness is that these shoes feature a built in sensory feedback system in the sole to help kids feel the ground better, which helps reduce trips and falls. Also no small matter: these shoes are super cute (I especially love the hip styling for boys) and use eco-friendly materials.

November 20, 2009

Fruit Salad For Your Face

arbonne-fc5.jpgThough I’m not worried about aging per se, at some point during the last decade I started listening to my mother’s advice to stop sunning and start taking better care of my skin. I’ve heard a lot of people extol the virtues of Arbonne (including a few girlfriends with lovely, creamy skin...), but it wasn’t until late in the summer that I started using Arbonne FC5 products, thanks to Michelle Lenaghan. Read on for my thoughts about Arbonne’s FC5 facial care products, as well as for information on how to get free samples and a great shopping discount.

Continue reading "Fruit Salad For Your Face" »

November 19, 2009

Giveaway Goodness: baby star

baby-star-rock-the-tote.jpgI’ve always been a fan of the diaper bag that doesn’t look like a diaper bag, and if you share that aesthetic, you’ll no doubt dig the modern simplicity of baby star’s Rock the Tote diaper bag. Available in a cool collection of metallics (with pretty patterned contrast lining) and prints, these bags offer a simple silhouette and a functional interior including three storage pockets (one zipped) plus a coordinating changing pad and BPA-free wipe case. Both bag styles are formaldehyde- and azo-free. And for our Giveaway Goodness series, baby star kindly is offering one lucky reader a Rock The tote diaper bag! Simply check out the rules below and enter to win by midnight, November 22.

Continue reading "Giveaway Goodness: baby star" »

November 18, 2009

(Safely) Paint Those Piggies

piggy-paint.jpgWhether her nails are exposed during summer or concealed by socks and mittens during winter, Laurel loves having her nails painted; she typically wants at least four colors in one sitting. Subsequently, I only use non-toxic products and am a fan of Piggy Paint’s natural, odorless nail products. Available in a cool palette of colors, the polishes apply smoothly and are bright on application. And Piggy Paint's nail polish remover is blissfully free of stinky solvents. It takes a smidgen more time for polish to come off with the non-toxic remover (compared to the chemical-laden stuff), but those seconds are well worth it, knowing that Laurel's nails are in good hands.

Now, want to win a gift card to Piggy Paint? Here’s how:

Continue reading "(Safely) Paint Those Piggies" »

November 17, 2009

Million Baby Crawl - Boston

million-baby-crawl-1.jpgI have long been a fan of Seventh Generation (even more so after learning that they – unlike most household and personal care companies – disclose all of the ingredients in their products) and right now they’re rocking a Million Baby Crawl grassroots educational campaign about keeping homes and the environment toxin-free. The Crawl To Action campaign comes to Boston (or more accurately, the Burlington Mall) tomorrow, November 18 (10am-2pm), during which kids can enjoy the play area and live entertainment while grownups learn about safe products and pick up Seventh Generation samples.

Continue reading "Million Baby Crawl - Boston" »

November 12, 2009

Pretty Little Plush Puffs

plush-puffs.gifDespite my clean approach to food, I still periodically long for – but abstain from – classic (i.e., preservative laden) childhood confections. So I was more than a little intrigued to learn about Plush Puffs gourmet marshmallows. And more than a little happy that these pretty little puffs deliver. They’re all natural (you can, in fact, pronounce the entire ingredient list) and they hit the spot, whether squished inside a s’more, used as a surprising sundae topping (Laurel went berserk over this), or dropped into a steaming mug of hot cocoa (my favorite). To the latter effect, I'm thinking Plush Puffs paired with quality hot chocolate will make for excellent holiday hostess gifts this season.

Now, want to win goodies from Plush Puffs? Here's how:

Continue reading "Pretty Little Plush Puffs" »

November 10, 2009

Buffalo Exchange

buffalo-exchange.pngDavis Square’s bargain retail profile recently kicked it up a notch with the addition of Buffalo Exchange (on the same block as Poor Little Rich Girl and Good Will). Giving national chain a good name, Buffalo Exchange allows for direct sale or trade of used clothing and accessories, and carries both classic pieces (such as the J. Crew print dress I scored for $23.50...sweet!) and quirkier ones. The two-level store currently offers more goods for women (including rows upon rows of shoes downstairs), though there are some racks for men. Laurel loves treasure hunting with me in Davis; she only requests that this and other stores start carrying used kid’s clothing.

Buffalo Exchange, 238 Elm Street, Somerville; 617-629-5383

Snack Revolution

revolution-foods-mashups.pngLike most parents, I periodically lament over packing lunch and snack, especially when we’re low on fresh produce. Having a stash of Revolution Foods snacks on hand subsequently has bailed me out on more than one occasion. These organic snacks and sandwich fixings are happily free of trans fats, high fructose syrup, and other nasties, and Laurel especially digs the Grammy Sammy (whole grains + yogurt) and Jammy Sammy (whole grains + fruit spread) snack squares and squeezable fruit Mashups. And I love how easily these pieces can round out her lunchbox; both items make for an excellent snack or seem treat-like enough to pass for dessert (though admittedly, we’re those parents who don’t include dessert at lunch time), and there’s no need for utensils. Extra cool: Revolution Foods donates 3% of purchases to help feed kids in under-served schools.

Now, want to be one of three winners to receive a Revolution Foods Lunchbox Simplicity Sampler? Here's how:

Continue reading "Snack Revolution" »

October 21, 2009

Bum Boosa Bamboo Baby Products

bumboosa.jpgIf you’re looking for ways to improve the eco-friendliness of your diapering routine, consider the bamboo baby wipes and diaper rash ointment by locally operated Bum Boosa. Today, Jules and Evadne share a joint review of these products. Read on for their reviews, as well as to learn how to be one of three winners to receive a Bum Boosa gift basket (entry closes at midnight, October 23):

Continue reading "Bum Boosa Bamboo Baby Products" »

October 19, 2009

Eco-Friendly Lunch & Snack Sacks

snack-taxi.jpgToday, April shares her two favorite plastic bag alternatives: snackTAXIs and Lunch Skins. Read on for more information about these fabulously stylish and eco-friendly lunch and snack packing solutions, as well as to learn how to win a trio of snackTAXI and Lunch Skins products (entry closes at midnight, October 21):

Continue reading "Eco-Friendly Lunch & Snack Sacks" »

October 13, 2009

Cloth Diapering With Bumkins

bumkins.jpgToday, guest contributor Robin shares a review of cloth diapering covers and doublers from Bumkins. Read on for Robin’s review, as well as to learn how to be one of three winners to receive a diaper cover from Bumkins (entry closes October 15):

Continue reading "Cloth Diapering With Bumkins" »

September 30, 2009

Equipped & Eco-Friendly

tomkit.jpgMy mom and I never discussed birds, bees, or any other metaphorical critters, so it’s not surprising that I was completely unprepared when my period started. I’m thus committed to educating Laurel about periods and am happy to see products such as the tomKIT on the market. Designed to equip girls for their period in eco-friendly fashion, the tomKIT includes biodegradable, flushable pads, wipes, and panty liners, recyclable disposal sacks, cotton underwear, and natural hand sanitizer and lip balm, all housed in a natural jute cosmetic case. Also handily included: a chart to teach girls to track their periods because really, it’s pretty inexcusable for women (like me and many of my friends) to make it well into their 20s before understanding cycles.

Want to win a tomKIT? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Equipped & Eco-Friendly" »

September 18, 2009

Small Acts & Good Food

YoBabyMeals.pngYesterday I was honored to speak about organic living alongside Stonyfield Farm CE-Yo Gary Hirshberg at a media event for YoBaby Meals at the Boston Children's Museum. And I couldn’t stop thinking about two things: 1) how small acts truly can lead to big changes; and 2) that grownups deserve good food too. I’ll address each of these issues in turn. And at the conclusion, you can learn how to win one of two Stonyfield Farm goodie bags to help you get your organic mojo running.

Continue reading "Small Acts & Good Food" »

September 16, 2009

Giveaway Goodness: Organic Fun Dough

organic-fun-dough.jpgFor those who desire organic play dough but don’t have the time or interest to make play dough at home, check out Miss Brittany's Organic Preschool Fun Dough Deluxe Gift Set. This awesomely eco-friendly kit includes three dough colors, an organic apron, a wooden rolling pin + wooden shape stampers (both made in the USA), and is packaged in 100% recyclable, biodegradeable, or compostable materials printed using soy ink. And to celebrate National Play-Doh Day (today!) and in conjunction with our Giveaway Goodness series, Miss Britney is offering one lucky reader the organic fun dough deluxe gift set. Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway by September 18 (noon) to enter to win.

Continue reading "Giveaway Goodness: Organic Fun Dough" »

September 8, 2009

Radiant & Refreshed

pangea-organics.jpgToday, Evadne shares her refreshing experience with Pangea Organics.

“Even though this is my third go-round, I often find myself gazing upon my five-month-old in wonder. I am in awe of his little hands and chubby feet, his pinchable jowls, and most especially his new and perfect skin. Now, my skin isn't in terrible shape, but running around on less than a full night's sleep with three little ones in tow takes its toll. So I was very interested to learn more about Pangea Organics, whose eco-friendly skin care products invite you to "discover nature's youthful radiance."

Continue reading "Radiant & Refreshed" »

August 11, 2009

Airing My Dirty Laundry

drying-rack.jpgToday, Sarah shares an environmental epiphany (and an apology to her mom):

“My mother was an environmentalist before environmentalism was cool. She reused paper and plastic bags (embarrassment: lunch in a reused vegetable bag!), left the heat off until the first frost, and to this day does not own a dryer. Seriously. She hangs her laundry outside in the summer and on dry winter days, and inside in front of a heater vent in inclement weather.

Continue reading "Airing My Dirty Laundry" »

August 10, 2009

Birthday Giveaway: Simple Shoes

simple-shoes.jpgAs an eco-geek who truly believes that every little environmental effort counts, I also can’t help but stand in awe and admiration of those who take eco-activism to a new level of awesomeness. And as you outfit your family for fall footwear, consider supporting Simple Shoes. Committed to making 100% sustainable shoes and bags for the whole family, Simple’s kids shoes are particularly adorable while including mindful construction elements such as organic cotton lining, natural rubber soles, and 100% post consumer paper pulp foot forms. For our 3rd birthday party Simple Shoes is offering one lucky winner a pair of kids shoes of their choice + a feedbag (chocolate style) ($112 value). Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win (by midnight EST, Tuesday, August 11).

Continue reading "Birthday Giveaway: Simple Shoes" »

August 7, 2009

Birthday Giveaway: Tactile Baby

tactile-baby.jpgWhen it comes to toys, I always opt for wood over plastic, both for eco reasons and because I admire those who do woodcraft on any scale. And if you’re looking for unique wooden baby toys, consider Tactile Baby, a Boston-based maker of baby goods, including lovingly handcrafted wooden toys. For our 3rd birthday party Tactile Baby is offering one lucky winner their oak number set (hand sanded and sealed with food grade oil) + fish puzzle (poplar hardwood finished with non-toxic paint and sealer) ($75 value). Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win (by midnight EST, Saturday, August 8).

Continue reading "Birthday Giveaway: Tactile Baby" »

August 6, 2009

Birthday Giveaway: ECOBAGS

ecobags-string-bag.jpgI’m forgetful about plenty of things these days, but one thing I’m reliably mindful about is recycling and toting my reusable bags to market. And if you need to stock up on eco-wares, check out ECOBAGS, a one-stop source for eco-friendly totes, string bags, produce bags, lunch bags, and water bottles. And for our 3rd birthday party ECOBAGS is offering one lucky winner a lovely summer getaway gift pack ($91 value) that includes their Sunny Tulips tote, Kleen Kanteen bottle (27 oz., orange), classic string bags (fiesta), To-Go Ware bamboo utensils (agave), and canvas lunch bag. Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win (by midnight EST, Friday, August 7).

Continue reading "Birthday Giveaway: ECOBAGS" »

August 4, 2009

Birthday Giveaway: Shirin NYC

shirin-nyc.jpgI love the comfort of cotton but often times want something with a little more pop than a basic tee. And if you dig fine prints with a touch of urban edginess, check out Shirin NYC, where artist Shirin Roubeni takes tees couture by hand screenprinting her art with water-based inks on comfy garments for women and kids (including an organics collection). And for our 3rd birthday party Shirin NYC is offering one lucky winner a Mommy & Me couture set ($75-140 value depending on style). Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win (by midnight EST, Wednesday, August 5).

Continue reading "Birthday Giveaway: Shirin NYC" »

July 30, 2009

Fast & Eco-Friendly Grilling

flamedisk.JPGToday, Evadne’s husband Ray kindly steps in with a guest review of the FlameDisk, an eco-friendly alternative to charcoal grilling:

“I’m a BBQ snob and grill only with charcoal. I was a skeptic of the FlameDisk; however, I also was curious about how it would perform. It's touted as a no-hassle charcoal alternative that is eco-friendly (I guess charcoal is bad for the environment) and gives you 45 minutes of grill time.

Continue reading "Fast & Eco-Friendly Grilling" »

July 15, 2009

Birthday Giveaway: Global Enfant

global-enfant.jpgThis may sound a little odd, but having diapered Laurel with basic rectangular cloth diapers + liners + covers (which proved more challenging to negotiate as Laurel grew older and squirmier), I experience a bit of diaper envy when I see the fabulous all in one's on the market. And lovely for those who wish to try, or already are, cloth diapering, for our 3rd birthday party eco boutique Global Enfant is offering a Baby BeeHinds cloth diaper gift pack that includes three diapers (one hemp, one bamboo, one magic all), one cover, and one wetbag (retail value: $91). Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win (by midnight EST, Thursday, July 16).

Continue reading "Birthday Giveaway: Global Enfant" »

June 29, 2009

Oh So Clever CALAFANT

calafant-palace.jpgCrafts and toys typically occupy separate real estate in stores and playrooms, but CALAFANT cleverly has figured out how to merge the two, offering kids a wonderful vehicle for creativity and play, and parents more bang for their buck. CALAFANT’s cool line of recyclable cardboard toy kits are available in affordable small, medium, and large sizes (plus a giant crawl-able castle). The kits are fun for grownups to pop together (no tools or adhesive required), and offer a blank canvas on which kids can paint, color, collage, and bling to their heart’s desire. Laurel loved decorating the CALAFANT palace (glitter glue was her favored medium) and the palace can serve both as a pretty display of her artistic style and a happy home for her Playmobil and Polly Pocket figures.

Continue reading "Oh So Clever CALAFANT" »

June 15, 2009

Drink Clean & Go Green

clear2go.jpgToday, April reviews the Clear2Go, an eco-friendly filtered water bottle with an unexpected bonus parent feature. Read on for April’s review, as well as to learn how to be 1 of 2 winners to receive a Clear2Go:

“My sister visited the other week and took one look at the sports bottle I was drinking from and raised an eyebrow. Later she confessed that she couldn't believe that I was drinking from a grey plastic bottle. Plastic is not my favorite material for food—mostly because it's bad for the environment and sometimes adds icky plastic tastes (and more) to your water or food. But there I was, guzzling water from a grey sports squeeze bottle. And pretty much loving it. Turns out it has a secret bonus when you share a sip with your kids, too.

Continue reading "Drink Clean & Go Green" »

June 12, 2009

Parental Purging Strategies

minimalist-mama.jpgOne of the things I love about weekends is restoring a sense of order to our home after a busy (typically rather untidy) week. And purging is one of my favorite mechanisms to achieve said order. Appropriately then, for the first installment of my new monthly column as Minimalist Mama at Shoestring Magazine - where I’ll share tips and tricks for less is more living (undoubtedly with a stylish and/or green spin) - I offer strategies for purging family clutter. Enjoy!

Family Friendly Weekend Picks

feast-of-the-east.jpgOnce again there’s no shortage of festivals this weekend; consider these family friendly picks to suit a variety of interests and locations. On Saturday: Feast of the East (Arlington), River Festival (Cambridge), Living Green & Renewable Energy Fair (Salem), Green Briar Strawberry Festival (Sandwich), Topsfield Strawberry Festival (Topsfield), and Festival by the Lake (Wakefield). On Sunday: DeCordova Art in the Park (Lincoln). And through the weekend: RiverFest (Sudbury, Assabet, Concord river areas).

June 9, 2009

Sippy Cup Solution

thermos-foogo.jpgToday, Kristin shares her favorite sippy cup solution:

“In an ideal world, sippy cups should: a) hold liquids; b) not leak; and c) keep beverages cold and bacteria-free. Unfortunately, during my first son’s early years, I struggled to find a cup that performed all of these functions well. I thus was thrilled to (re)discover Thermos (yes, the makers of my metal Peanuts lunchbox with Thermos bottle!) and their awesome sippy, straw, and grown up cups.

Continue reading "Sippy Cup Solution" »

June 3, 2009

Playtex Goes Baby

playtex-ventaire.jpgToday, Jules reports on her and her son’s testing of a series of Playtex baby products, including their BPA-free bottles, BPA-free bottle liners, and pacifiers. Read on for Jules’s review, as well as to learn how to be one of two winners to receive a collection of BPA-free Playtex bottles!

Continue reading "Playtex Goes Baby" »

June 2, 2009

Ridiculously Awesome Banana Muffins

banana-muffins-1.JPGEvery so often Jon one-ups me in the kitchen, which leaves me both a tad surprised (read: vaguely jealous) and utterly grateful that he knows how to cook and bake. And this past weekend, he decided to make banana bread with Laurel and it was way better than my standard recipe. The loaf was gobbled up within a day and Laurel and I repeated the recipe yesterday, instead opting to make muffins - the advantages being plenty of awesome crustiness, faster baking time (handy for summertime baking), and improved portion control.

Continue reading "Ridiculously Awesome Banana Muffins" »

June 1, 2009

HomeFree Treats

Home-Free-Gift-Basket.jpgToday, Tracy reports on HomeFree Treats, a great source for allergen-free, organic goodies and ingredients. Read on for Tracy's review of some HomeFree goodies and their allergen-free cookbook, as well as to learn how to win a HomeFree organic cookie sampler pack!

Continue reading "HomeFree Treats" »

May 28, 2009

EarthFest 2009

earthfest.jpgThankfully for those eager to celebrate green living alongside great music, the skies are supposed to clear for this Saturday's EarthFest at the Hatch Shell in Boston. In its 16th year, 92.9’s EarthFest is a free, family friendly festival that will feature an impressive line up of live music and a host of eco-minded displays, exhibits, and food and product samples. EarthFest also will include Kids’ Planet, an expanded interactive area offering family-friendly entertainment, activities, and healthy treats.

May 14, 2009

Greener Clean Delivers

scotch-brite-greener-clean.bmpI’ll be the first to admit that cleaning is not among my top priorities these days, but hand me new eco-friendly cleaning products and I'll roll my sleeves right up to start scrubbing, hoping upon hope to discover that the eco stuff can live up to the non eco stuff. And this was, in fact, the case when I got my hands on Scotch-Brite’s Greener Clean line. Made from natural materials (e.g., bamboo, agave, corn) and packaged responsibly, this collection of scrubbers, soap pads, soft sponges, and washable cleaning cloths (the latter two of which are excellent for reducing paper towel use) perform just as effectively as their less environmentally friendly counterparts. At reasonable price points, it’s a no-brainer to go with green. And it might just inspire you to clean more.

Want to win a collection of Scotch-Brite Greener Clean goodies? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Greener Clean Delivers" »

May 13, 2009

Mysterious Magic Eraser

mr-clean-magic-eraser.jpgOn Laurel’s first birthday my friend Anne gave us art supplies and a box of Mr. Clean Magic Erasers and said, “These erasers will save your life.” Remarkably, whether it’s due to Laurel’s nature or our vigilance, the product sat untouched under our sink the last couple of years. It wasn’t until after a recent play date where we needed to break out the magic erasers to cope with a major bout of pencil + red crayon wall scribbling.

Continue reading "Mysterious Magic Eraser" »

May 5, 2009

Giveaway Goodness: Dropps

dropps-baby.jpgI’ve raved previously about Dropps’ lightweight, eco-friendly, and effective ultra concentrated detergent capsules, and now Dropps offers Dropps Baby, a variety of their original detergent formulated to be super gentle for sensitive baby skin. And the folks at Dropps well know that parents need to run a lot of laundry; for our next installment of Giveaway Goodness, Dropps generously is offering one lucky reader a one-year supply of Dropps Baby eco-friendly laundry detergent! Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway by May 7 (noon) to enter to win.

Continue reading "Giveaway Goodness: Dropps" »

May 4, 2009

Thank You, Stonyfield!

I'm Going to BlogHer '09As I mentioned in March, ever since experiencing BlogHer Boston, I’ve been super excited to attend the big BlogHer meeting in Chicago this summer. And I’m enormously grateful to have not one (Boston-based firm 360 Public Relations, which I announced in March), but two companies sponsoring my trip. Thank you, Stonyfield Farm, for acting as my secondary sponsor for BlogHer Chicago! Please read on to learn about Stonyfield's impressive environmental initiatives, and a yummy but lesser known organic product they offer.

Continue reading "Thank You, Stonyfield!" »

April 28, 2009

Fast & Yummy Chicken Pesto Salad

basil.jpgOne of my favorite time and energy savers these days is store-bought rotisserie chicken. I don’t need to remember to prep and bake it (perfect, since there’s no way I’m turning the oven on today…), my kitchen is saved from pan dripping smoke, and the chicken is ridiculously versatile. Today, I’m sharing our latest favorite usage of rotisserie chicken: fast and fantastically yummy chicken pesto salad.

Continue reading "Fast & Yummy Chicken Pesto Salad" »

April 22, 2009

Make a Green Change

earth.jpgHappy Earth Day everyone! Wherever you are with your green practices, I hope you’ll consider making a green change today, whether it’s giving new life to old objects, carrying reusable bags, shopping local with a trolley, replacing chemical laden bath products with natural and organic, recycling your outgrown kid gear, or opting to walk or bike instead of drive for an errand. For more green living tips – small and large – check out my 10 green living tips from last Earth Day, a more recent roundup of green living ideas, and ideas for teaching green to preschoolers.

Continue reading "Make a Green Change" »

April 21, 2009

Let Them Eat Naturally Nora's

naturally-nora.bmpIf you love the ease of boxed cake mixes and desire all natural ingredients, fear not - you can have your cake and eat it too. Today, Kristin reviews Naturally Nora’s all natural collection of boxed cake and frosting mixes. Read on for Kristin’s review, as well as to learn how to win a year’s supply of Naturally Nora cake + frosting mixes!

Continue reading "Let Them Eat Naturally Nora's" »

April 15, 2009

Giveaway Goodness: FLOR Rug

flor.jpgAs someone who likes things to be just so (yet periodically frets about permanence), I can’t help but love FLOR rugs. These clever interchangeable modular carpet tiles allow you to mix and match colors, patterns, and textures in whatever size you need while being easy to install (no nails or glue required), clean (just remove stained square to treat), or relocate (no onerous rolling and hefting). And how awesome is this? For our next installment of Giveaway Goodness, FLOR generously is offering one lucky reader a 5 x 7 natural fiber rug*! Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway (by April 17) to enter to win.

Continue reading "Giveaway Goodness: FLOR Rug" »

April 6, 2009

Painting with Powder Art

powderart.jpgLaurel used to paint voraciously as a toddler, but in the last year or so she has tended towards passing up her paintbrushes for other tools; that is, until she discovered Powder Art. Like paint by numbers but without the wet mess, Powder Art kits are affordable and come in several themes with four scene boards each. Simply peel off the numbered sections of the scene to reveal the sticky cardboard base, and then paint with the colored powder (which is made from nontoxic, washable recycled paper) that coordinates to the numbers. Gone are the days of sticky tabletops and messy art smocks; just give the table a quick swipe and brush any stray powder off your child and you’re ready for your next adventure.

Want to be one of 10 winners to receive a Powder Art kit*? Here’s how:

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April 3, 2009

Down:2:Earth

down2earth.bmpWhether you’re just starting to explore or already are immersed in green initiatives, no doubt there's plenty to learn at Down:2:Earth this weekend. This sustainable living event starts tonight at the Hynes Convention Center with the opportunity to sample local green restaurants. Saturday and Sunday programming will include green topics for grownups (e.g., fashion, personal care products, appliances, lawn care) and activities for kids (e.g., conservation activities, face painting, stories). Click here for ticket info; kids 12 and under admitted free.

March 30, 2009

Choosing Baby Toys

haba_dragonstone.jpgToday, Carole Arsenault of Newborn Nurses offers tips for choosing baby toys:

Babies learn by using their five senses: sight, touch, smell, hearing, and taste. It’s not always necessary to purchase expensive toys for your baby; some of the very best toys are everyday objects we have in our homes (e.g., measuring cups or spoons, empty plastic containers). However, when you are ready to purchase a toy for your baby here are some basic guidelines to consider.

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March 24, 2009

Operation Hair Detangling

detanglers_goody1.bmpDetangling Laurel’s hair can be one of the most challenging parts of our morning routine; she has very fine hair that’s prone to bird nesting in the back overnight, and chopping off length (short of a buzz cut...) doesn’t solve the problem. So I set out on a mission to identify effective natural and organic kids hair detanglers. Read on for my report, which also includes some discount shopping codes and a Goody giveaway!

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March 20, 2009

Spring Into Green Living

earth.jpg Oh how we have earned this first day of spring! It’s thus rather fitting to blog eco today in conjunction with a blog blast hosted by The Parent Bloggers Network and Nature’s Source. PBN wants to know how parents are adjusting their lifestyles to live more naturally; the following are some of my favorite ways to spring into green living:

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March 17, 2009

New Life for Old Pots

paintedpot1.JPGI’m constantly looking for ways to streamline or repurpose around the house; here’s a lovely way to give old plant pots new life. This project was inspired by: a) plant clippings we already had rooted (plus more overgrown plants that needed grooming); b) yet another snow day where we were looking for something to do; and c) a tired collection of empty plant pots. Laurel and I decided to paint one of our old pots to make a creative, earth-friendly gift for a loved one. Here's the how-to:

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March 16, 2009

Wellesley Winners

gelatocafe.jpgThis weekend we met friends for lunch in Wellesley, at what possibly is one of the most family friendly restaurants I’ve been to in some time – The Cottage - followed by some fantastic gelato at The Gelato Café. I’m already scheming to get back to Linden Street soon; here are some notes on both spots.

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March 4, 2009

GreenFest at Hill House

hillhouse.jpgDuring this seemingly endless winter, why not think green thoughts? And tomorrow (Thurs., March 5), you can think and learn green at Hill House's GreenFest community day. Suitable for the whole family, this event runs from 3 – 6pm and is free and open to the public. In addition to crafts, projects, and demos for kids, adults can learn about green living from local businesses. Local students also will be on hand to discuss ways to make urban living more eco-friendly, and Hill House will collect reusable bags to donate to a school in Zimbabwe.

Hill House, 127 Mt. Vernon Street, Boston; Tel: 617-227-5838

February 27, 2009

Winter Garden Fair

russells.bmpNow that our urban composter is in place and my mind officially has turned to gardening, it seems like the perfect time to trek out to the Winter Garden Fair at Russell’s Garden Center in Wayland. This free weekend of activities will include gardening how to’s, entertainment, activities for kids, refreshments, and an impressive roster of exhibitors (not to mention some much needed skin rehydration in their tropical greenhouses). Also cool, raffle proceeds and a portion of the weekend's sales will benefit Massachusetts Farmers' Markets.

Russell’s Garden Center, 397 Boston Post Road, Wayland; Tel: 508-358-2283

February 26, 2009

Leader of the Pack

dabbawalla.jpgIf you’re like me, and periodically (accidentally) make off with another kid’s lunchbox at school pickup, check out Dabbawalla Bags. These cool lunch bags and backpacks stand out – visually and structurally – in a league of their own. Bright, modern, machine washable, and lead-free, the durable neoprene construction protects and insulates while being super lightweight. And unlike bulky or stiff packs, I love how flexible and soft Dabbawalla bags are; they manage to be structurally simple while still incorporating handy extras, such as extra inner and outer pockets on the lunch bags, and adjustable straps and inner pockets on the backpacks.

Want to win a Dabbawalla backpack? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Leader of the Pack" »

February 24, 2009

Local Trolley

reisenthel.bmpI adore clever green solutions, and here’s a fabulously chic pick to encourage shopping local. Reisenthel’s foldable trolley is super compact and amazingly lightweight; when folded it looks like a small, handled laptop case and could fit in a shoulder bag or tote. When you’re ready to shop, simply unzip (and re-zip the outer case in reverse to secure in place), unfold the length, pop out the two wheel/kickstand pieces, and in about 15 seconds you’re ready to roll with an ultra cute shopping tote (several vibrant colors and patterns are available). And as a mom who loves to shop local with a daughter who periodically still likes to be carried, this trolley offers a wonderfully easy, one-handed way to lighten my load.

Want to win a Reisenthel foldable trolley? Here’s how:

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February 17, 2009

Hand Me Downs

handmedowns.jpgMy passion for recycling no doubt is at least partly attributable to growing up on hand me downs (as the sixth of seven kids), and I’m thrilled to announce that Boston Mamas now offers a free way for you to recycle your kiddie and parenting gear. Check out our new classifieds section powered by Hand Me Downs (a national mom classifieds website), and enjoy acquiring and purging via this prettily designed service! Also, for those of you who dig celebrity things, the central site recently launched their first celebrity auction, in which Gwen Stefani has donated goods to be auctioned off for charity.

Marvelous Man Products

pevonia.bmpIf there’s one lesson I've learned from my mom, it’s that it’s never too early to start caring for your skin. And today we offer a little something for the daddies who read this site (yes, daddies apparently read this site) and/or the women who like to gift them. Carole Arsenault’s husband Marc kindly steps in with a guest review of Pevonia Botanica’s natural home-spa man products. Read on for Marc’s review, as well as to learn how to win men’s skincare products from Pevonia!

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February 13, 2009

Dry Skin Care for Baby

babyskin.jpgDespite the glorious weather of the last couple of days, no doubt there’s more winter in store. Today, Carole Arsenault of Newborn Nurses shares simple and effective tips for protecting baby’s dry skin during the winter. Many of these ideas also are practical for older kids and adults.

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February 3, 2009

Easy & Yummy Homemade Granola

granola.jpgIn an ideal world, I’d make everything from scratch, but often – not surprisingly – time is an issue. But the one thing I never, ever compromise on is granola. Store bought granola has never suited me (too sweet, not clumpy enough, skimpy on nuts and fruit, etc.), and the good news is that granola is super easy to make at home. I made Food to Live By’s granola pretty steadily for about a year, but our friend Amy recently passed on a fantastic recipe from Martha Stewart. The online version is a bit different from the clipping Amy shared; below is my annotated/adapted version of the recipe; fantastic if you like chunky granola. It’s so good I make it in double batches.

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February 2, 2009

Monkey in Motion

striderite.jpgGiven that Laurel was born in the Year of the Monkey, I've always had a soft spot for simian styled products. So it’s no wonder that I adore Stride Rite’s adorable Puggle shoes. The Puggle is part of Stride Rite’s Early Walkers collection; shoes clearly designed by people who know the biz. This line is all about comfort and protection from all directions, featuring soft leather lining, cushy insoles, and an ultra flexible body and sole to allow the shoe to really move with baby’s unique stepping style. I also love that this line incorporates the use of eco-friendly materials via recycled rubber outsoles, natural stitching, and water-based inks.

Want to win a pair of Stride Rite shoes*? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Monkey in Motion" »

January 29, 2009

The Spoiled Mama

spoiledmama.jpgToday, Jules reviews The Spoiled Mama, a collection of deliciously composed (and named!) organic body products for the whole family. Read on for Jules’ review of The Spoiled Mama's pregnancy and postpartum products, as well as to learn how to win a gift box from The Spoiled Mama:

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January 22, 2009

Giveaway Goodness: Earth’s Best

earthsbest.bmpFor parents who don’t have the time to cook and puree baby food from scratch, organic jarred food is a blessing. And our next installment of Giveaway Goodness is well suited to the need to offer baby a varied palette. Now through the end of March, Earth’s Best is hosting a Celebrate the Firsts receipt redemption program where parents can send in receipts and receive coupons and goodies in exchange (as well as automatic entry to win products from Earth’s Best and Fisher-Price). And to celebrate baby’s first foods with you, we're giving away a First Foods Gift Pack loaded with 4 jars each of 8 varieties of Earth’s Best baby food + other goodies! Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway (by Jan. 25) to enter to win.

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January 15, 2009

Natural Little Nuggets

soapnuts.jpgI used to have a love-hate relationship with laundry, but these days it’s all love thanks to Soapnuts (which I first learned about via Daily Grommet). Harvested from fruit trees in India, Indonesia, and Nepal, these natural little nuggets contain the cleaning substance saponin. Simply drop a few soapnuts in the washbag, add essential or fragrance oil (optional), and toss in the laundry. These nuts not only get the job done, but also last several loads, are biodegradable, and are packaged minimally, making them a truly awesome eco-find. And did I mention how fabulous it is to no longer heft giant laundry detergent jugs around?

Want to be 1 of 2 winners to receive a Soapnuts starter kit*? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Natural Little Nuggets" »

January 14, 2009

Eating Green

bonappetit.jpgI’m always looking for ways to improve our green living practices, and was pleased to see Bon Appétit’s February 2009 feature on 50 easy ways to eat green. Among the tips related to shopping, cooking, and consuming, I particularly enjoyed – and have put into practice - the practical yet ridiculously easy ones, such as #2 (boil once, cook twice), #7 (don’t open that door), #11 (become a human food processor), and #40 (stop whistling). And of course, how can you go wrong with tip #1 (eat more chocolate)?

December 29, 2008

Giveaway Goodness: Baby Butterfly Books

babybutterfly.bmpLaurel’s life is captured in many ways, but when I want to take a walk down memory lane I invariably gravitate towards her baby book (handmade by an artist friend) above the scores of digital photos and videos. If you’re looking for a similarly beautiful, tactile, and practical way to record memories, check out Baby Butterfly Books. Constructed from 100% post-consumer waste recycled paper and available in a variety of chic cover options, these baby books are sewn so the book lies flat for writing or reading and can be made blank for handwritten entries, or you can type entries online and receive a printed copy. And for our 9th installment of Giveaway Goodness, Baby Butterfly Books will gift one lucky reader with a baby book of their choice! Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway (by Dec. 31) to enter to win.

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December 23, 2008

Better Bakes = Easy Bake

immaculatebaking.jpgShort on time this holiday season? Today, Evadne shares a great entertaining shortcut in Immaculate Baking’s Better Bakes organic cookie dough collection. Read on for her review, as well as to learn how to be one of five winners to receive a package of Better Bakes organic cookie dough!

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December 16, 2008

Easy & Green Holiday Décor

rafanelli_apple.jpgLast week I had the pleasure of attending another media luncheon hosted by Stop & Shop, and in addition to chatting about holiday survival tips with Stop & Shop, event planning guru Bryan Rafanelli offered some fabulously chic yet inexpensive holiday décor ideas. These three green ideas were my favorites:

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December 8, 2008

Giveaway Goodness: Wee Generation

weegeneration.jpgGot an eco-minded mama to gift this holiday season? The limited edition Wee Generation eco-diaper bag is constructed from fabric made of 100% post consumer recycled plastic bottles, includes accessories such as an insulated feeding tote, changing tote, changing pad, and bottle holder, has plenty of pockets and compartments for organization, and is loaded with eco-friendly goodies. And for our 8th installment of Giveaway Goodness, Wee Generation will gift one lucky reader with this fab bag (valued at $200)! Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win. And if you don’t win the bag, consider buying it; you’ll support Healthy Child Healthy World with the sale.

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December 5, 2008

Mustela's Stelaprotect

stelaprotect.jpgDoes your kiddo have sensitive skin? Today, Heather reviews Stelaprotect, Mustela’s new line of skin care products developed specifically for infants and children with sensitive skin. Read on for Heather’s comprehensive review of the product line, as well as to learn how to win products from the Stelaprotect collection!

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December 4, 2008

Fun Fine Art

eyecanart.jpgLaurel has an insatiable appetite for arts and crafts, and as she's grown more dexterous we’ve had fun experimenting with more complex projects. If you’re also looking to explore beyond crayon and paper parameters, check out Eye Can Art. Packaged in reusable containers (perfect for art supply storage once you’ve exhausted the kit contents), these kits allow budding artists to experiment with printmaking, wax drawing, brush painting, and bookmaking. The supplies are high quality, washable, and nontoxic, and instructions include ideas for further artistic exploration. An added bonus: some kits - such as the wax drawing kit we have - include frames and hangers, which instantly make the creations display or gift ready.

Want to win an Eye Can Art kit*? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Fun Fine Art" »

December 2, 2008

Basement Treasures

train.jpgIn these challenging economic and environmental times, consider Kate’s reminder of the beauty of basement treasures:

“My toddler daughter and I recently visited the childhood home of a loved one, a house that has seen four children grow up and go off into their adult lives. As the first evening of our visit was growing a little late and my daughter was getting restless, our hostess knowingly suggested that we check out the basement, a virtual kid's utopia. Shelves of neatly packed toys and games, baskets of stuffed animals, cabinets of baby dolls and their clothes - all just waiting for a new little person to come along and play with them.

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October 30, 2008

Smashies Snacks

smashies.jpgGiven that Laurel - much like mom - gets insanely grumpy when she’s hungry, I always try to tote a snack when we’re on the go. So I was thrilled to learn about Smashies, a wonderfully convenient and healthful organic fruit snack that provides a welcome alternative to carb-heavy snacks. Parent, kid, and earth friendly, these applesauce packs (more flavors are forthcoming) are mess and utensil free thanks to the slurp spout, and once your child has squeezed out every last drop, the packaging - the lining of which is BPA-free - is recyclable.

Want to win a 10-pack of Smashies? Here’s how:

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October 28, 2008

Featured Mamas Susan Dorson & Amy Weitzman

littlefox1.jpgWelcome to Boston Mamas Rock! – where we’re giving a voice to fabulous local mamas from all walks of life. Read on for today’s interview with Susan Dorson & Amy Weitzman, two local moms on a mission to save their community library and provide parents with an eco-friendly, affordable shopping option via The Little Fox Shop. Then go ahead and nominate yourself or a friend!

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October 23, 2008

Soapy Sunscreen

bethesda.jpgAs much as I love summer, I’m always relieved when fall arrives and I no longer need to slather Laurel in sunscreen. The task is completely necessary, but nobody enjoys it. Even after summer, though, skin protection is important and I love the nifty little shortcut that Bethesda sunscreen soap offers. This natural soap – which is suitable for the whole family – nurtures the skin via a boatload of vitamins and minerals, and creates an unnoticeable protective layer that provides a minimum of SPF 10 protection. If only summer skin protection was this easy!

Want to win a 3pk of Bethesda sunscreen soap*? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Soapy Sunscreen" »

October 22, 2008

Green Your Halloween

greenhalloween.jpgToday, Michelle Stern of What’s Cooking offers tips for improving the health of your Halloween festivities:

“I have a confession to make. I am one of those moms. I cringe at the thought of high fructose corn syrup entering the bodies of my two children. It's not that high fructose corn syrup is much worse for their bodies than ordinary sugar. But to me, it is a sign that the food that it's in is a man-made laboratory concoction. Don't get me wrong. I love a good hunk of chocolate or a bowl of ice cream as much as the next person. But I aim to indulge in sugar-laden treats that are made from real food. And even then, I try to do so only on occasion.

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Jammie Time

elephantcouture.jpgOne of my favorite things about fall is the return of snuggly jammies, and Éléphant’s pajama sets – part of a new collection of 100% natural fiber clothing and toys for kids – are downright cozy and delicious. Éléphant’s aesthetic is simple, yet conveys a distinctly hip, earthy point of view. And I love the line’s rich, gender-neutral color palette; no doubt these pajamas will get plenty of wear by their first owner, and any lucky hand me down recipients following.

Want to win Éléphant’s crockie stuffed animal? Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win.

Continue reading "Jammie Time" »

October 20, 2008

Bring On The Bummas

bummas.bmpWe've long been fans of cloth – whether in the form of diapers, napkins, or handkerchiefs – so it’s no surprise that I love the concept of Bummas. These eco-friendly 5 x 7” velour terry cloth towels can serve to wipe your kid’s runny nose, messy meal face, or sudsy bath body, but they’re particularly excellent at the diaper table. Also handy for pee spray prevention with baby boys, you can use Bummas with water in place of wipes, and/or take advantage of the super soft side to pat baby dry and prevent diaper rash naturally. I’d just recommend color-coding based on usage so face and bottom cloths stay separate.

Want to win a 10pk of Bummas*? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Bring On The Bummas" »

October 16, 2008

Stand Tall & Green

kidsafe.jpgOn Tuesday I attended Seventh Generation & the Environmental Working Group’s panel on chemicals and kids. And my friends, I must admit that the first 20 minutes of the panel left me feeling depressed and hopeless. But as the evening proceeded, so improved my perception that personal power and positive action on this matter are, in fact, attainable. Below is my recap of the event, including concrete ways that parents can take charge of their family’s environmental health.

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October 14, 2008

Swaddle In Style

swaddledesigns.jpgWhenever I see Laurel’s stack of bland, misshapen, undersized receiving blankets, I wonder how we survived her swaddling months. It’s no wonder those busy feet kept busting out of her burrito, and I certainly would have enjoyed prettier patterns. Luckily, for moms looking to swaddle in style there’s SwaddleDesigns. Created by an RN, SwaddleDesigns’ Ultimate Receiving Blanket is generously sized, cuddly soft, and available in chic patterns and organic options. And for those burrito-free periods of burping, snuggling, and play, you also can opt for coordinating burpies and lovies.

Want to win a SwaddleDesigns Burpie set? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Swaddle In Style" »

October 9, 2008

Chemicals & Our Kids

seventhgeneration_leaf.jpgHere’s an event that eco-parents will want to try to attend: on Tuesday, Oct. 14 (6-7:30pm), Seventh Generation and the EWG will host a discussion about the impact of chemicals on our kids, the importance of consumer product ingredient disclosure, and the need for improved legislation. The event will take place at the Boston Children’s Museum; admission is free but space is limited and an RSVP is required. RSVP to nikki.wheaton@cohnwolfe.com.

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September 26, 2008

Boston GreenFest

greenfest.jpgThe forecast is putting a wrench in this weekend's outdoor events, but let’s keep our fingers crossed for good weather on Sunday, when Boston GreenFest 2008 will condense it’s original three-day festival into a Sunday jam packed with green goodness. This free event at City Hall Plaza will showcase eco-tech innovations, information on how to incorporate green practices into daily life, and music, dancing, food, and activities for kids.

September 25, 2008

Craniosacral for Constipation

craniosacral.jpgToday, Kristin recommends craniosacral therapy for kiddie constipation relief:

“If you told me 20 years ago - in my riot girl days of bartending, dancing for two companies, traveling through Europe, etc., etc. that one of the main conversations in my life would be about poop, I would have laughed hysterically in your face. And now, here I am, deeply entrenched in poop (or lack thereof) talk.

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September 22, 2008

Hybrid Diapering

gdiapers.bmpToday, Heather reviews the hybrid diapering system gDiapers. Read on for her review, as well as to learn how to win a gDiapers Starter Kit!

“I’m all about convenience, which at times is in direct conflict with my efforts to raise an eco-friendly family. I confess to using disposable diapers on my triplets, and this decision was based solely on convenience. At 19 months we go through about 21 diapers a day (about 7,665 diapers a year) and I continue to struggle with our contribution to the nation’s landfills.

Continue reading "Hybrid Diapering" »

September 8, 2008

My Little Pakora

pakora.jpgWhether through books, toys, clothing, or gear, I’m always on the lookout for cool kid’s products that will inspire conversations about – or simply reflect the beauty of – diverse cultures. And My Little Pakora is a new clothing line that stylishly delivers a sense of cultural awareness in ultra comfort. Printed on soft and cozy organic baby clothing and accessories, My Little Pakora’s elegant, whimsical motifs are inspired by South Asian culture, yet are reflective of terms of endearment from parents around the world.

Want to win a My Little Pakora onesie or tee + lounge pant set?*? Here’s how:

Continue reading "My Little Pakora" »

September 4, 2008

Everyone Loves a Parade

parade_bean.jpgToday, Tracy reports on Parade Organics – a baby clothing line that’s simple, understated, and perfectly fitting for baby, both comfort-wise and through its moniker inspired themes. Read on for her review, as well as to learn how to win a Parade Organics lounge set!

Continue reading "Everyone Loves a Parade" »

August 21, 2008

Lunch Lures

schoollunch.jpgToday, Michelle Stern of What’s Cooking offers healthy back to school lunch tips:

“During a family fishing expedition one summer, despite our best efforts, we were unable to catch anything, even though the boat next to us was reeling in fish every time we looked. Clearly, there was something we weren't doing right. As a man from the next boat yelled over to us, "What kind of bait are you using?" a crazy thought entered into my mind: Feeding children is a lot like fishing – you have to have the right lure, or they won't bite.

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August 20, 2008

Teaching Green

earth.jpgIn my unofficial role as green parenting guru, I was pleased to provide a guest column on Teaching Green to Preschoolers, over at The Savvy Source, a site that focuses on raising preschoolers. Most of the ideas actually are applicable to kids of all ages. Enjoy!

Birthday Giveaway: BECKONS Organic

beckons.jpgThe skort concept isn’t just handy for jungle gym climbing tots. Whether you’re hitting the yoga studio, hiking trail, or local barista, you’ll be cute, concealed, and eco-conscious in the Love Yoga Skirt from BECKONS Organic. And today, BECKONS contributes to our online birthday party with this flippy and fun skirt, which features contrast shorts underneath and is constructed of 93% organic cotton/7% lycra. Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win.

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August 19, 2008

Hip For Halloween

babylegs_punkin.jpgIn our house, talk of fall inevitably leads to talk of Halloween, which leads to my fretting over ways to enhance Laurel’s costume for warmth on what's typically a very chilly and spooky night. Luckily, there's a super cute and functional solution from BabyLegs, the folks who made leg (and arm) warmers cool again. I got a sneak peek at their Punkin’ and Itsy Bitsy designs (shown here; forthcoming on their site), and as with the rest of their stylish collection (which includes a delicious organics line), these warmers are great for accessorizing, protecting crawling knees, and foregoing tights for easier diapering and potty trips. But the fall designs in particular are perfect for keeping little limbs cozy, both on the playground and while scavenging for loot.

Want to win a BabyLegs gift set? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Hip For Halloween" »

August 6, 2008

Birthday Giveaway: Seventh Generation

seventhgeneration.jpgIt’s never too early to start incorporating green habits into your routine, and babies – with their perfect, delicious skin – offer excellent inspiration to live naturally. To get you started, today, Seventh Generation contributes to our online birthday party with their Natural Baby Starter Kit. This eco-friendly gift set includes chlorine-free diapers and wipes, natural laundry detergent, and a tote. Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this giveaway to enter to win.

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August 1, 2008

Stylishly Sealed

wethappened.bmpOne byproduct of toting reusable grocery bags is that we - thankfully - are free of that landslide of plastic shopping bags in our pantry. But it also means we no longer have those bags for toting Laurel’s soggy swimsuits. No matter - far more stylish storage is available. Wet Happened? bags are simple yet brilliant. They fold and tote easily, are eco-friendly via their washable, reusable, PVC-free construction, feature a waterproof interior and zippered end to keep wet items sealed, and are available in a variety of chic outer fabrics for the mommy fashionista. Store everything from soiled diapers and clothes to wet swimsuits to leaky bottles and sippies.

Want to win a large Wet Happened? bag?* Here how:

Continue reading "Stylishly Sealed" »

July 25, 2008

Birthday Giveaway: Alpha Buddies

alphabuddies.jpgFor a cultured alternative to the typical “A is for Apple” learning model, check out Alpha Buddies. Using cultural, historical, and athletic references as inspiration, these eco-friendly tees are screen printed using water based inks. Today, Alpha Buddies contributes to our online birthday party by providing two winners each with a tee of their choice. Simply check out the rules below and leave a comment on this product line to enter to win.

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July 17, 2008

Green ArtBeat

arbeatdavis.bmpThe days are longer; the bedtimes are later. And come tomorrow, you and the kids can wile away the summer hours in green fashion at ArtBeat 08 in Davis Square. Beginning tomorrow at 6pm, and running through Saturday, this green festival will feature live performances, eco-conscious exhibits, craft vendors, food, and art/green activities.

July 15, 2008

Less is More

colettekids.bmpGiven that kids dig shapes and animals, and modern parents are hungry for stylish simplicity, the designs at Colette Kids give new meaning to the term “family friendly.” With an understated yet playful less is more approach, this unisex collection of modern, geometric critters is individually hand silk screened onto richly colored 100% cotton tees or 100% organic cotton onesies. Laurel’s favorite is Charlotte; sweet, definitively piggy, yet ultra cool because she’s not trying too hard.

Continue reading "Less is More" »

July 3, 2008

Marvelous Messy Party

messyparty.jpgMy friend Nooshi is amazing at identifying a cool party theme then really running with it. A couple of weekends ago she threw a marvelous Messy Party for her son’s third birthday and the party was unbelievably fun and beautifully creative. Here’s a run down of how she made it all happen:

Continue reading "Marvelous Messy Party" »

July 2, 2008

Sweet Pea Diaper Service

sweetpea.jpgWhen it comes to cloth diaper services, there’s a real supply and demand problem in the Boston area. But now there’s good news for parents who live south of the city. Sweet Pea Diaper Service is live as of this month and will swap out your soiled diapers for fresh ones for $21 - 26 per week depending on your diaper plan. Serving families in Norfolk and Bristol counties (plus parts of Rhode Island), we’re thrilled to welcome this new business as it meets both local and global needs.

Want to win a Sweet Pea Diaper Service starter plan*? Here’s how:

Continue reading "Sweet Pea Diaper Service" »

June 24, 2008

Urban Composting

envirocycle.jpgFor the past year we’ve been sharing in our neighbor’s slow and lazy composting method, but we now want to move to a more contained, easy to rotate system. I immediately e-mailed my friend Braden, who has urban composted everywhere from NYC to Tokyo. She writes, “I love that when you think of rotting food you think of me! We use the EnviroCycle Composter [available at Planet Natural and Amazon], a rotating composting bin with a fairly small footprint. Indoor composting or vermiculture are other urban options but I really cannot imagine most urbanites taking up that challenge.”

June 23, 2008

Pretty In Pink

gonaturalbaby.jpgOne pragmatic plus of having a daughter is dresses, which create a cute look instantly and make frequent changes a cinch. And if you share my love for simple, elegant, comfy, and good for the planet, check out the chic offerings at green boutique Go Natural Baby. Offering a clothing collection crafted from 100% certified organic cotton and low impact dyes, I love the sweet simplicity of Little Rosie’s Dress. Prettily constructed in dual pink tones and contrast trim at the neck and arms, this empire silhouette looks great on its own or paired with pants.

Want to win Little Rosie’s Dress*? Here’s how:

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June 17, 2008

Green Streets Mama

christy1.jpgWelcome to the 2nd installment of Boston Mamas Rock! – where we’re giving a voice to fabulous local mamas, whether they be entrepreneurs, avid volunteers, stay at home moms, moms who have closet talents (e.g., community theatre, juggling, what have you…), authors, media professionals, politicians, professors, etc. Read on for today’s interview with Janie Katz-Christy, the Director of Green Streets Initiative. Then go ahead and nominate yourself or a friend!

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June 16, 2008

Eco-Dough

ecodough.jpgLooking for a natural craft dough, but don’t have the time to make it from scratch? Then check out the fabulous eco-dough by green art supplier Eco-Kids. This sculpting dough differs from the commercial stuff in several ways. It’s hand crafted using all natural ingredients, resistant to drying out, richly colored using plant, fruit, and vegetable extracts, packaged in 100% compostable containers, and softer in texture, making it easier for little hands to handle. We also dig that Eco-Kids makes gluten, soy, or dairy free eco-dough to order depending on your child’s dietary needs.

Want to win an Eco-Dough Gift Bag*? Here’s how:

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June 9, 2008

What's In A Name

litldesi9s.jpgWant to foster your child's love for learning letters while supporting a local, eco-conscious mamapreneur? Today, Jen reviews Lit'l Desi9s, a custom design line that uses your little one’s name for graphic inspiration. Read on for Jen’s review, as well as to learn how to win a Lit'l Desi9s custom name tee or onesie.

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June 5, 2008

Green Sunday

bikesnotbombs.jpgDespite the fact that the only bike I ever owned was stolen 2 days (1 blissful ride) after I bought it, I still hold out hope that one day I’ll ride again. Meanwhile, this Sunday (June 8), those with wheels can join the Bikes Not Bombs Bike-A-Thon (registration required) and/or enjoy the post-ride Green Roots Festival from 12 – 5:30pm. Enjoy live music, food, speakers, environmental workshops and information, and kid's activities. The event is free and open to the public and will take place in front of the Stony Brook T station in Jamaica Plain.

Animal Homages

estella.jpgIn my opinion, every day is Earth Day, and if you love naturalistic homages to animals as much as I do, check out the amazing Salvor Fauna collection at the chic New York based boutique Estella. These ultra cool animal graphics are hand silk screened with water based ink on organic cotton tees, onesies, and pillows. And the onesies are particularly delicious: luxuriously weighty, soft, and ready to withstand plenty of play. These onesies also go an extra style mile via cute kimono fashioning and clever snaps to keep the wrap front in place.

Want to win a Salvor Fauna onesie from Estella*? Here’s how:

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May 30, 2008

Tune In For Green Tips

wers.jpgFor those who wish to roll into Sunday with yours truly, tune in to WERS 88.9 FM’s You Are Here program on June 1 at 7am. You Are Here is a weekly, hour-long program that covers local and global issues by “combining stories, interviews, and sound from newsmakers.” I was interviewed this week about ways that moms can go green, and discussed everything from household recycling, to mama-to-mama recycling, to green cleaners, to the state of cloth diapering, to the impact moms can make by purchasing responsibly made products. If you can’t tune into the broadcast, you can download the show’s podcast.

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May 20, 2008

Green Tea Time

greentoys.jpgWe talk a lot about tea sets and tea parties in our house (what with all the repeated reads of A Bargain for Frances), and reader Cathleen recently wrote in about a chic eco-friendly toy line that includes a tea set that I plan on getting for Laurel. Cathleen writes: “I recently saw Green Toys products in a store in New Hampshire…They are made from recycled milk jugs, made in the USA, have no Bisphenol-A, and are SO cute to boot!” In addition to the tea set, Green Toys offers cookware and dining, indoor gardening, and sand play sets.

May 7, 2008

GreenPan

greenpan.jpgAs grateful as I was for my first cookware set, I distinctly remember Jon and my later disdain – sometime before the Teflon safety scare actually - when we looked at the set's scratches and thought about all of the little Teflon flakes we likely had ingested over time. We’ve since stuck with stainless steel or cast iron, but recently have enjoyed GreenPan as an eco-friendly nonstick solution. Constructed with a PTFE/PFOA-free Thermolon coating, this line is safe for use at high temperatures, heats evenly, and is scratch-resistant. Despite the nonstick, we still do like cooking with a bit of butter or oil, and with the lightly buttered GreenPan frypan over low heat, my scrambled eggs have reached a light, fluffy, and thankfully flake-free perfection.

Want to win a GreenPan Entertaining Set*? Here’s how:

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May 6, 2008

Growing Up Green

growingupgreen.jpgToday, Jen reports on a recent eye opening green event in Boston:

"I recently had the pleasure of attending a vegan luncheon and book signing at the Four Seasons's Aujourdui in honor of Deirdre Imus's new book, Growing Up Green. Over a spectacular meal prepared by executive chef Brooke Vosika, Imus spoke passionately about environmental toxins and their effect on our children's health. I must confess that both the food and Imus's message surprised me. The vegan food was surprisingly elegant and Imus's message was surprisingly scary. Although in retrospect, given our host chef and the state of our environment, I should not have been so surprised.

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April 28, 2008

Green Works

greenworks.jpgAs someone for whom the word Clorox tends to elicit middle school memories of fad-driven bleached denim experiments, imagine my surprise when I learned that the makers of Clorox products were rolling out a natural cleaning line. And happily, these green goods deliver. Plant and mineral based, biodegradable, and petrochemical-free, the Green Works line cuts through the most determined grime (OK, I’ll admit that my formerly neglected shower tile now stands as evidence), and does so with a pleasant lemony scent that is thankfully far from my fumed middle school denim.

Want to be one of 5 winners to receive a Green Works Starter Kit? Here’s how:

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April 23, 2008

Detox Your Home Boston

method1.jpgI think people who love hosting parties inherently have a bit of control freak in them. That’s certainly the case for me anyway; I think a lot about assembling a good mix of people, food, and drink, I inevitably fret over the RSVPs, and I want everything to look perfect yet effortless. And last week, at my Method Detox Your Home Boston party, I had the odd and delicious experience of enjoying the benefits of a fabulously assembled party, with all of the hard work done for me.

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April 22, 2008

10 Green Tips

earth.jpgI truly believe in the notion that every little bit counts, and I find this philosophy particularly important to hang on to when I read reports on the plight of the planet. The news can feel overwhelming and discouraging, but it’s crucial to keep on trucking with the little acts of greenness. Here are 10 easy green tips to cultivate your family’s awareness about the earth and its limited resources. Enjoy these for Earth Day and beyond:

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April 17, 2008

Just Call Me Maven

method.bmpSomeone told me that April typically is crazy as people come out of hibernation and get ready to party. This certainly has been the case for me in the realm of scheduled events, and last night kicked off Chapter 1 of a crazy but fabulous April, via an event where I played hostess to some of my family, friends, and colleagues as a Boston Method Maven. It was a terrific evening of socializing, getting the dirt on chemical-free cleaning, and eco-crafting with environmental lifestyle guru (and fellow Korean!) Danny Seo.

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April 15, 2008

Inspired Knits

totoknits.jpgMamas need to stick together, and former New Yorker Erin Brennan Allan and Nairobi native Mary Wambui are helping women do just that through Toto Knits. Featuring unbelievably cute hand knit sweaters and blankets for kids 3 months to 6T, the collection is ethically produced from start to finish. The cotton and wool are locally grown, spun, and dyed, then knit by a group of Kenyan women - many single mothers – who knit as a means to earn a living in an empowering, family friendly, and flexible environment. Their Safari Animal sweaters – all knit with little tails on the back – are particularly inspired.

Want to win a sweater from Toto Knits? Here’s how:

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April 14, 2008

Fiddlehead

fiddlehead.jpgAs much as I love the convenience of online shopping, I also firmly believe in supporting the local economy, particularly when the offerings are fabulous and eco-minded. Today, Jen reports on Fiddlehead, a lovely new mama and babe boutique in Boston that provides plenty of fuel for Jen’s obsession with organic baby goods. Read on for Jen's review, as well as to learn how to win a $25 gift certificate to Fiddlehead!

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March 24, 2008

Do Good With Dropps

dropps.bmpIf you’re looking to streamline your laundry routine and your imprint on the planet, check out dropps, a brilliantly efficient and eco-friendly laundry solution. Each biodegradable, phosphate-, chlorine-, and NPE-free pac is pre-measured (just toss in 1-2 pacs depending on load size), ultra concentrated (1 pac = 1 cap of regular detergent!), and dissolves in water. What you lose in "strength training" (from hauling giant laundry jugs around) you gain in impressive waste reduction via reduced product transport costs, water use, and packaging…not to mention squeaky clean laundry you can feel good about.

Want to win a one-year supply of dropps*? Here’s how:

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March 12, 2008

Green Inspiration

neflower.jpgTicketed outings were far and few between when I was a kid (given the family head count of 9), so I have a firm place in my heart for the New England Spring Flower Show, which I attended one year with my mom in near exclusivity (just me and one other sister). Running through Sunday, this year’s show offers grown-ups inspiration for eco-friendly gardening, and Friday’s Plantapalooza Children’s Festival is designed to cultivate appreciation of, and interaction with, nature via animal visitors, craft and gardening activities, music, and storytelling.

March 3, 2008

Fight the Tide

greendimes.jpgI love the convenience of online shopping, but I resent the accompanying landslide of junk mail and catalogues. To fight the tide, I now have a new online obsession in GreenDimes. For just $20, their ‘Free Me!’ service helps you (and up to 7 additional household members) remove your name from general junk mail and postcard lists, stop specific catalogues, and get 10 trees planted on your behalf (5 at sign up and 5 additional for the first 5 catalogs you elect to have stopped). Signing up was quick and easy, and now I actually look forward to combing through our mail to remind me of catalogs to add to our remove list.

Want to win a GreenDimes ‘Free Me!’ membership? Here’s how:

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February 19, 2008

Freepeats

freepeat.jpgIt 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.

January 16, 2008

Sakura Bloom

sakura.jpgIt’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:

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January 14, 2008

Cuckoo for Coconut

sumbody.jpgCoconut 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:

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January 9, 2008

Bamboo Blankies

satsuma.jpgNo matter your age, there’s something undeniably comforting about cozying up under a great blanket. And for a petite yet inclusive collection of cashmere/silk and – get this – bamboo blankets for all ages, check out Satsuma Designs. Satsuma’s 100% bamboo fiber swaddling blanket is a smart eco-pick: sustainable, naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic, easy to launder, and silky soft for endless hours of cuddle time. Wrap baby in one of these and it'll be a cinch for you to snuggle up and nap while baby naps.

Want to win a Satsuma bamboo velour baby blanket? Here’s how:

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January 2, 2008

Green Resolution

minusbags.jpgIt’s never too late to make a resolution to go green, and whether you’re new to eco efforts or are an avid recycler, check out minusbags. These stylish, sturdy totes stow easily and unfold to a roomy 15" x 18" x 7" size (an XL tote also is available, as are two handle length options). These bags not only are particularly handy for toting heavy items that sometimes rip through plastic or paper, but there’s something about their tactile richness that makes them, well, unforgettable. After countless frustrating market runs where I've realized - as I'm standing at checkout with groceries and babe in tow - that I left my plastic bag stash in the car, I have yet to forget to tote my minusbags with me.

Want to be one of two winners to receive a minusbags tote? Here’s how:

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