For Grandparents: Pictures

I can’t think of a better gift that’s cherished year-round by grandparents other than photos of their sweet grandchildren.  Last year, I created a “book of Calvin” filled with my favorite photos of my son.  We printed copies for each of his grandparents and great grandparents.  We’ve also purchased multiple photo frames including a collage of several specially-selected photos.

This year, for personalized Christmas cards, I took photos of Calvin posing with individual alphabetized letters.

Like this one…

I’m going to group them together so that combined, the letters will read, Merry Christmas.  I actually took all the photos for this personalized Christmas card last month. I remembered every letter except for “A”–and I’ve kinda put off another photo session since taking one photo usually becomes a bit of a struggle and lasts 30 minutes or more.

Seriously, I don’t understand how children’s photographers do what they do.  Gifted folks, I tell ya!

Anyway, it’s tough to get grandparents anything since they almost always already have everything they could possibly need or want, except precious photos of the little ones so precious to them.

Point. Shoot. Print/Develop. Frame. Wrap.

If you are simply not into the photography thing, find someone who is…it’s so worth it to capture your little ones on film before they grow older by leaps and bounds a mere 5 minutes later.

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For the Whole Family: Go Waggaloo

Music that embodies a sunny day full of smiles and laughter just oozes through Go Waggaloo ($12) by Sarah Lee Guthrie and Family. A talented songwriter in her own right, Sarah Lee Guthrie is the daughter of folk legend Arlo Guthrie and the grand-daughter of famed folk artist Woody Guthrie. She continues the family tradition of creating incredible folk music by recording Go Waggaloo with her family and friends.

The title track and two others (Bright Clear Day, Fox and Goose) were written by Woody Guthrie and the unrecorded lyrics were provided to her by the Smithsonian when they asked her family,”Would you be interested in making a family record that doesn’t make you wanna jump out of a minivan?”.

Many of the songs were borne from daily activities such as cooking together, bath time, or road trips.  The album’s songs all have a timeless feel, even if the bluesy, folksy, and rockin’ collection hints at modernity with lyrical references to X-box and DVD’s in ”Cuz We’re Cousins.” Is it just me, or did I hear the piano theme to Friday the Thirteenth coursing through “Oni’s Ponies.”

Interested in trying before you buy?  Check out the streaming album available on Smithsonian Folkways.

The sultry, bluesy feel to Fox and The Goose will make you wanna dance.  Before you know it, the whole family will be clapping and singing along to a fun rendition of “She’ll Be Coming ’round The Mountain” and Sarah Lee Guthrie’s own “Take Me to Show and Tell.”

WIN IT!

One winner  will receive a copy of Go Waggaloo by Sarah Lee Guthrie and Family (retail value $11.98).

To enter, leave a comment relevant to this post prior to Friday, November 27th at 11:59 p.m.  Please follow the contest rules and avoid any generalized comments, or you will be disqualified.

FOR A SECOND ENTRY: complete a quick 10-question reader demographic survey. Then, leave a second comment telling me that you did.

FOR A THIRD ENTRY: Blog or Tweet about the Holiday Gift Guide (or about this giveaway), then leave a second comment telling me that you tweeted or blogged with a link to your tweet/post.

Two copies of Go Waggaloo were provided for the purpose of this review and giveaway.

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For the Whole Family: Putumayo Kids’ A Family Christmas CD

Music is a key component to adding the finishing touches on atmosphere in a retail store, a restaurant, and of course, the home.  I can’t think of any other holiday where you can listen to themed music for weeks on end. Great Christmas music fills your cup with good cheer as you plan and prepare a Thanksgiving meal, string lights, hang greens, and read the Christmas story with your family.

I’ve accumulated quite a collection of Christmas music albums over the years, and there are a handful of favorite albums that I want to share with my son as we re-introduce wonderful family holiday traditions and build lasting memories.

1. Charlie Brown Christmas ($14.99) – An album that’s heralded as a favorite for more than 40 years is definitely a classic.  My all-time favorite track is “Linus and Lucy,” but I’m also sentimental about “Christmastime is Here.”  Vince Guaraldi’s jazz genius at its best plus Christmas hymns sung by sweet children’s voices.

 

 

2. Merry Chris Rice ($3.99) – Only 4 MP3 downloads that make you wish he’d recorded 10 more tracks of fun and upbeat versions of great Christmas songs.  His Beach Boys’ inspired rendition of “Let It Snow” will melt your heart as you sing along.

3. A Family Christmas ($14.98) – An instant Christmas classic by Putumayo Kids.  It’s the perfect accompaniment for a family gathering or a Christmas party with well-loved Christmas songs performed by well-known artists including Brave Combo and Big Bad VooDoo Daddy.  Deana Carter’s version of “Winter Wonderland” is thoughtful and cozy–just wait until you hear the ending!

WIN IT!

One winner  will receive a copy of Putumayo Kids’ A Family Christmas CD (retail value $14.98).

To enter, leave a comment relevant to this post prior to Friday, November 27th at 11:59 p.m.  Please follow the contest rules and avoid any generalized comments, or you will be disqualified.

FOR A SECOND ENTRY: complete a quick 10-question reader demographic survey. Then, leave a second comment telling me that you did.

FOR A THIRD ENTRY: Blog or Tweet about the Holiday Gift Guide (or about this giveaway), then leave a second comment telling me that you tweeted or blogged with a link to your tweet/post.

Thank you to Putumayo Kids for providing 2 copies of A Family Christmas for the purpose of this review and giveaway.

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Blog…interrupted

I want to offer my sincerest apologies for the minor delay in the Holiday Gift Guide posts.

Lame, but true excuse:

You see, there was a Tropical Depression Ida last week.  I don’t know what it is, but every time we get large buckets of rain for long periods of time, our modem has “issues”.

My husband’s diagnosis: “the modem is fried”

Thank goodness it’s a rental via Comcast.  We’re exchanging it today.

Meanwhile, I hauled a sleepy little guy to a place with wireless internet so I could knock out a few quick reviews/giveaways for the Holiday Gift Guide.

I promised you daily goodies, and I will deliver, however, some of them may get all crammed up into a couple of days.

Thanks for your patience.  We’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming shortly.

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Photo by Flickr via Ohmann Alianne’s photostream.

For the Traveler: Eco-friendly Apparel by prAna

When we pack our bags for a road trip–whether it’s to visit grandparents or embark on a camping adventure, we want to pack fast and light.

As a parent of a busy toddler, who has time for fussy clothes that require a lot of extra prep time?  Dry cleaning, ironing, and hangers–fuhgeddaboudit!

I prefer to reach for extra-comfy, eco-friendly apparel where I can shake out the wrinkles or quickly steam them out by hanging them in the bathroom during a hot shower.  I love beautiful apparel that can handle being wiped on or tugged on by a toddler.  Durable clothing made from sustainable fibers that’s perfect for travel or a parent of small children.

prAna is a company committed to the environment when this company creates beautiful and durable clothing for men and women.  Psst!  They even have a maternity line!  Prana means “breath, life, and vitality of spirit.” The embodiment of their mission is conveyed in every single item.  Take a peek at their complete fall and winter line.

When I first tried on prAna’s Willow wrap-around dress, I twirled around and felt as though I was wearing a graceful and feminine ballet skirt–except the Willow dress has the comfort of your most favorite and broken in t-shirt due to the soft stretch bamboo fibers.  My favorite detail are the belled sleeves with a swirled design detail.

I’ve worn it to evening networking events, church, and I plan to wear it to upcoming holiday gatherings.  Paired with cute boots, you’re ready for a night on the town.  Worn over flowing pants, you’re comfortable and casual for a playground date with your little one.

The Willow Dress ($80) is available in plum (shown), espresso, and black.

Note: To keep the cross-over wrap neckline of the Willow dress in place, I had to use a safety pin to secure it.  Wearing the dress over a camisole can also provide added modesty.

I wear my Winter Lacie Top everywhere.  From play dates to public speaking events in the community, I feel comfortable, feminine, and professional in this gorgeous blouse.

The Lacie Top ($50) is a medium-weight ribbed organic cotton knit blouse with delicate lace detail on a square neckline.  The empire waist complete with shirring is very flattering to a post-partum figure.  Paired with a brightly colored scarf, you can either dress it up with tailored trousers or keep it comfortably and classy with your favorite jeans and boots.The Lacie Top is available in Corsica, Espresso, and Winter (shown above).

My husband tried prAna’s Axiom jean.  The cotton/spandex blend provides generous stretch and a gusseted inseam–great for tree climbing and gymnastics as well as an occasional pick-up game of ball.  prAna pays attention to detail and adds contrast zig-zag stitching and faux suede logo patch in the front right pocket for a designer touch.  The sand-washed thighs give a slightly worn and modern look.  My husband remarked that he thought they were very comfortable.  Personally, I really like the way they look on him!  The Axiom Jean ($75) is available in three washes: Grey, Dark, and Medium (shown above).

prAna designed the Serena skirt, from super soft cotton jersey knit.  It’s comfortable and flattering for everyday wear, and the flattering yoke waist offers belly coverage and stretch throughout pregnancy and beyond. There’s a beautiful contrasting two-tone floral print on the right side.

I love wearing the Serena with tights and boots in the fall.  You’ll find me wearing it with sandals in the spring. The 28 1/4 inch length hits mid-calf, so it’s versatile for many seasons.

The Serena Skirt ($55) is available in Corsica (shown), Black, and Plum.

Stay, in-the-know on the latest happenings at prAna by becoming a fan on Facebook and subscribing to their blog.

WIN IT!

One winner will enjoy his/ her choice of one of the prAna apparel items featured above (Willow Dress, Lacie Top, Axiom jean, or Serena skirt) as long as it’s available in the winner’s size/color choice (retail value $80).

To enter, leave a comment relevant to this post prior to Friday, November 27th at 11:59 p.m.  Please follow the contest rules and avoid any generalized comments, or you will be disqualified.

FOR A SECOND ENTRY: complete a quick 10-question reader demographic survey. Then, leave a second comment telling me that you did.

FOR A THIRD ENTRY: Blog or Tweet about the Holiday Gift Guide (or about this giveaway), then leave a second comment telling me that you tweeted or blogged with a link to your tweet/post.

Thank you to prAna for providing a Willow Dress, Lacie Top, Axiom Jean, and Serena Skirt for the purpose of this review.

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Holiday Gift Guide 2009

It’s that time of year again…when we start thinking about giving and sharing with those we love.  The holidays are about giving to others, creating special memories with loved ones, and rejoicing in the birth of the Light of the World–the greatest GIFT of them all.

In the following week, I’ll share with you my top gift giving ideas from homemade to fun finds.

• I personally reviewed and hand-picked every item included in the Holiday Gift Guide.
• Most of the daily featured product posts will also include a giveaway to help you get started on your holiday shopping list without spending a single cent.  How’s that for being budget-conscious?

Starting tomorrow until Tuesday, November 24th, the Holiday Gift Guide will feature daily posts of gift ideas for all members of the family.  The gift guide posts will replace regularly scheduled columns Tuesday Travels and Health Happy Round-Up.  Once the gift guide posts published, you can find links to all of them culminated and organized here, on this post.

To enter the giveaways, visit each post, and leave a relevant comment.

Extra credit:

1. For a second entry, complete a quick and painless 10-multiple-choice-question reader demographic survey. Then, leave a second comment on each giveaway that you desire to enter that you helped me by completing the survey.
2. For a third entry, blog OR tweet about the Traveling with Baby gift guide.  For a tweet entry, follow me on Twitter (@drdolly) and tweet “RT @drdolly Shop. Win. Give. Holiday Gift Guide for the entire family http://wp.me/p4s6M-Z5“. Then, leave a comment on each giveaway post that you desire to enter that you shared the holiday cheer.  Please provide a link to your post OR tweet.

Note: There’s a maximum of three entries per giveaway.  All Holiday Gift Guide giveaways close at 11:59 PM on Friday, November 27th.  Winners will be selected via random.org shortly thereafter.

For the Traveler:

• Eco-friendly apparel by prAna

For the Whole Family:

• A Family Christmas CD by Putumayo Kids
• Go Waggaloo CD by Sarah Lee Guthrie & Family

May you and your family enjoy a healthy and blessed Christmas!

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Take the 2009 Annual Reader Demographic Survey!

I’ve created a reader demographic survey so I can learn more about YOU–a fabulous and loyal reader.

Your feedback helps me improve content on the blog, and focus on information, product reviews and giveaways from great companies that are interesting and relevant to you.

Please take a few moments to answer a very quick and painless multiple-choice, 10-question survey.

If the satisfaction of helping me isn’t enough to put a smile on your face, I’d also like to offer you the opportunity to earn an extra entry to win great prizes in the 2009 Holiday Gift Guide.

———————————————————————————————–

For an extra entry into each of the awesome giveaways for the 2009 Holiday Gift Guide, 1) complete the survey, and 2) leave a comment on each respective Holiday Gift Guide post that your entering telling me “I took the survey.”

The survey and Holiday Gift Guide giveaways will close on Friday, November 27, 2009 at 11:59 PM.  Winners will be selected (via random.org) shortly after November 27th.

Thank you for helping me make Traveling with Baby better for you!

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*Top photo by Scott Kuperus via Flickr.

Health Happy Round-Up: Child-Proofing Tips

Welcome to a weekly series on Traveling with Baby, Health Happy Round-Up that  focuses on multiple aspects of wholesome living and optimal health for the entire family.  Each weekend, Traveling with Baby will share some insightful news, recipes, and tips to help you consider fresh new perspectives on wholesome and happy health.

Kimberly Mitchell, Child Safety Expert and “professional childproofer”, recently wrote Childproofing 101 to offer parents tips on childproofing a home…beginning as early as pregnancy.

Mitchell’s got some great ideas for new parents…yet when I read her article, I can’t help, but recall a hilarious scene from Baby Mama movie where adoptive mom-to-be, Kate  (played by Tina Fey) childproof’s the toilet seat long before baby’s even arrived…and pregnant Angie (played by Amy Poehler) struggles to unlatch the toilet seat lid in time to relieve herself.  Failing that, she ends up going in the sink.

We’ve done some babyproofing with our son.  We have rubber bands around the cabinets that are accessible to my son.  However, when the rubber bands are off, he helps secure them back on–obviously they were better at keeping him out of the breakables when he was younger.

We also used child-proof gates to keep him out of the bathroom…definitely a safety concern.  I still use a gate on occasion at the office to keep him from wandering behind the front desk and turning the computer off.

Although I think child proofing is a good idea, I do think it can go overboard.

I have a curious child who wants to explore his world.

However, if there are certain things that are off limits, I’d rather make that clear by explaining it to him, and enforcing those boundaries with discipline.  My son understands when he’s not supposed to touch something or open something.

I can’t child-proof every place we visit, so I’d rather train my son to be obedient to prevent him from wandering across the street or out of plain view, and to prevent him from opening cabinets and drawers when we visit other people’s homes.

Although I can’t be everywhere at once, I can teach my son to listen and obey–far more effective and longer lasting than most child-proofing products on the market.

YOUR TURN:

What’s your approach to child proofing?  What’s been most successful for you with keeping your child safe?

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Make Your Own Baby Leggings for Less than $2

I love to see chubby baby legs in soft and cuddly baby leggings.  They’re so adorable!

Five Reasons why baby leggings are awesome:

1. In cold weather, they’re great as extra warmth underneath pants and socks.
2. When babywearing, they keep baby’s legs covered.
3. They’re perfect for middle-of-the-night diaper changes–keeping baby warm and partially covered.
4. They’re great knee covers that prevent rug burn on creeping and crawling babies.
5. They’re wonderful for potty training to keep your child’s legs warm, but still allowing the freedom to go to the potty without cumbersome diapers or underpants.

As much as I love them, they retail for $10 – $15 per pair, and that doesn’t exactly fit our budget.  So, I decided to learn how to make my own baby leggings from women’s socks.

I can purchase a pack of cute prints of women’s socks for less than $2 per pair and make several sets.  They’re great for newborns to toddlers, and now, they’re my favorite baby shower gift.  Want to learn how to make them, too?

They’re easy…I promise.  If I can do it, ANYONE can do it!

How to Make Your Own Baby Leggings

What you will need:

- Sewing machine with a zig-zag stitch or stitch for stretchy knits.

- matching thread for socks

- scissors

- 1-2 pairs of women’s socks (sold colors are more forgiving for novice sewers.  Patterns around the heel or toes such as stripes, argyle, or various other prints are more advanced.

1. Purchase a pack of women’s socks on sale at your favorite X-Mart.  (I used mid-calf socks for babies and knee-high socks for toddlers).  There is a brand of toeless socks that is affordable with cute designs…if you can find those, you’ll save yourself two steps!  I found toeless socks for less than $2 per pair.

   

2. Spread out the socks and note the slightly different and reinforced knit detail around the heel and toe.  Turn the sock inside-out, and pin the heel together sideways.  For example, if you were to wear a sock, you’d pin it such that you’re pinching the sides of your heel just beneath your ankles from left-to-right (or right-to-left, if you’d prefer!)It’s easy to see the lighter blue heel on these striped socks for the purpose of this tutorial.

3. Use the pins as your zig-zag guide on the sewing machine. Sew from one-end to the other.  The great thing about multi-colored socks is that the color variation serves as a great guide for sewing.  The down-side is that while I can sew a great line on one side, the opposite side tends to not look quite so neat (that’s the thing with knits).  Once again, I emphasize using solid color socks for beginners.  Check both sides of the stitch–I’ve had to pull the stitches and re-do this step again on patterned socks.

4. After you’ve sewn the heel, use your scissors to snip off the “cup” of the heel on the “cup” or heel side of the stitch.

5. If you’re using socks with toes, repeat steps 2-4 by pinning, sewing, and snipping of the toes.
6. Finally, trim off any excess threads.  Turn the socks inside out, and voila!  You have your first legging.  Repeat Steps 2-6 with the mate of the sock.
7. Check out the various pairs I’ve created as gifts for my son, nieces, nephews, and as shower gifts. Different sized socks for younger to older babies.Close-up of the smaller pairs with cute dog designs.
8. Fold them in half, and then tie them with pretty ribbon to give them as a gift!

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Wordless Wednesday: Dino Dental Hygiene

…because dinosaurs need a good tooth-brushing, too!

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