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New Do

Just got a new hair cut this afternoon.

I got tired of always wearing my hair in a braid, bun, or ponitail–because wearing it down looked so blah.  It’s been at least 8 years since I’ve had bangs.

What do you think?

Subscribe // Twitter me: drdolly

For the Expecting Mama: Nursing Clips by Willow Moonspirit

I’ve been thinking about pregnant mamas since Elisa, an author on Traveling with Baby who’s 41 weeks pregnant, is going to meet her son very soon.

Showers are great opportunities to share wonderful blessings with an expectant mom and her little blessing.  However, the holidays are another opportunity to give loving and useful gifts to new parents.

The following are a few of my favorites:

  1. Homemade baby leggings — you can read my tutorial on how to make your own!
  2. A stretchy100% cotton baby wrap carrier – Helps keep baby snuggly close and content while sleeping, nursing, or hanging out with mom.
  3. Nursing clips that convert any blanket or sweater into a breastfeeding cover

I loved the nursing cover that my sister-in-law created for me.  I never left home without it so I could comfortably and modestly nurse in public.

Juliea Paige, owner of Etsy shop Willow Moonspirit, created Gypsy Jewels and Nursing Clips.  Instead of packing a diaper bag full of swaddling cloths, warm blankets, AND a nursing cover, you can lighten your load by just keeping nursing clips with you.

A hand-beaded, 17-inch chain is tipped with silver alligator clips on each end.  With so many color bead options available, it’s hard to choose.  Fortunately, you can customize the colors you or your gift recipient likes.  The beautiful clips are packaged in a beautiful damask-printed draw-string bag–perfect for gift-giving and storing.

These days, I don’t use a nursing cover much with my toddler since breastfeeding is far less frequent during the day.  However, I did try out the clips with a couple of smaller baby blankets while nursing my son.

The necklace part of the chain felt comfortable around my neck with the weight of a blanket.  I could easily change the positioning of the clips on the blanket, as needed.  In it’s storage back, the nursing clips necklace is only a few ounces and easy to find in a diaper bag.

The biggest plus about the nursing clips are that if baby spits up or milk leaks onto a blanket, you can easily throw it in the wash and have another spare blanket or sweater, and you’re ready to go without waiting for a standard nursing cover to come clean in the laundry.  At $13, it’s far more economical than most nursing covers available on the market.

WIN IT!

One winner  will receive a nursing clips by Gypsy Jewels, (retail value $13).

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.

A gypsy jewel nursing clip was provided for the purpose of this review.  Read Traveling with Baby’s complete disclosure policy.

Subscribe // Twitter me: drdolly
Top Photo by Elisa B photography

UPDATE: Congratulations to the winner, #1 Melissa Haynie.

Health Happy Round-Up: Part II

health happy round-up

Welcome to Health Happy Round-Up.  This week, we’re discussing the benefits of breast feeding for baby, mom, the entire family, and the planet.

When nursing a newborn, it’s wonderful to have a comfortable and great-fitting nursing bra.  I’ve loved the quality of construction, durability, and aesthetics of Medela’s line of intimate apparel since my early nursing days.

medela_logo_300I  enjoyed using Medela’s sleep bra and bamboo nursing camisole.  Now, I’m pleased to review samples of the microfiber wire-free seamless nursing bra that offers optimal everyday support and the jacquard wire-free seamless nursing bra.

jacqwfwhite-02The jacquard wire-free seamless bra has beautiful swirl detail on the outer jacquard fabric.  The inner fabric is lined with Cool-max to keep you from over-heating and feeling comfortable.

Medela thought of everything when they designed these new bras, including a sliding breastfeeding reminder to help you remember which side you last used.

When I wear the jacquard seamless, I feel completely comfortable, supported, and it’s smooth fitting under clothing.  Perfect.  Where was this bra when I first started breastfeeding?microuwmocha-02-002

Medela sent me a mocha microfiber wire-free seamless nursing bra for review.  Super soft interior and beautiful lace detailing on the band is luxuriously feminine without skimping on support.  The microfiber is perfect for a new mom whose milk supply might tend to leak–while keeping outer garments dry.  The fabric is also breathable and agreeable against the skin.

One fabulous feature in these new Medela seamless nursing bras is the tapered straps.  They prevent straps from falling off the shoulders–a nuisance that I cannot stand.  Medela engineered a lovely solution.

freestyle01The next time I’m nursing a newborn, I’ll want to use the Medela Freestyle Hands-Free breast pump that can be used with these new Medela seamless nursing bras.

The size D cup offers a hidden sling for support and side shaping.

Medela Intimates also offers a bra fitting video to help you select the perfect one for you.  Both retail for $39.99, and they’re available in cup sizes A-DD.  The seamless microfiber is also available in cup sizes F, G, and H for $44.99.  You can purchase Medela products online or through a local Medela retailer.

Also, you can enter to win a Freestyle Hands-Free Pump in Medela’s Mom of the Month Program.

Subscribe // Twitter me: drdolly
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: http://cmp.ly/2

Tomy Lama Stars Collection Boots – Review

health happy round-upWelcome to a weekly series on Traveling with Baby, Health Happy Round-Up which 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.

“The [wo]man with the boots doesn’t mind where she places her foot.”  –Irish Proverb

Tony Lama boots on Dr. Dolly TwBSome of my fondest memories of childhood are wrapped around the times when I donned my favorite pair of cowboy boots.

When I was two, you wouldn’t find me wearing anything other than my red leather cowboy boots.

A few years later, I would sport gray and black leather boots that were perfect for galloping on horseback in the rocky hillsides near the Snake River and Waha foothills in eastern Washington.

A decade later, as a college student in Austin, Texas, I fell in love with my black leather boots paired with my favorite black felt hat that made  frequent appearances line dancing and two-stepping to Charlie Daniels and George Strait.

There’s something utterly American and earthy about cowboy boots.


Yet, many times, they can be unbearably uncomfortable with constant plodding on the pavement–they were designed for riding, after all.

Thankfully, I’ve enjoyed discovering the new Stars Collection by Tony Lama thanks to the pair they sent me for review.  After running around the clinic on my feet all day (quite literally), at the end of the day, my feet felt like they had been pampered with a foot massage.  The comfort pad in the rubber heel and orthotic insert provide therapeutic arch support.

TL bootsTony Lama’s Tan Cheyenne are depicted above.

What’s even more impressive about these oil-repelling, leather boots is the stylish detailing of faux fur applique, orange and turquoise embroidery, and sparkly blue rhinestones.

These are NOT the drab and dreary cowboy boots of yesteryear.  Rather, these are 1980’s punk-inspired fashionista boots that make you feel at home on the range or downtown.  Whether you’re rassling a steer or a strong-headed toddler, your happy feet will want to kiss you at the end of the day for treating them with oodles of kindness and luxury.

Straight from the American Chiropractic Association in an article about footwear and fashion:

  • Choose comfortable shoes. If you must wear high heels, bring a pair of flat shoes along with you to change into should you become uncomfortable. If you walk to work, wear flat shoes and change into your more fashionable shoes when you arrive to alleviate any pain or discomfort.
  • If the shoe is uncomfortable while standing, chances are it will not be any more comfortable while walking. The wrong shoe can affect the body’s center of gravity.
  • Choose supportive shoes. Designer spikes or non-supportive loafers may look nice but do not allow for easy, symmetrical walking.

When fashion, comfort, and ergonomics can blend together in shoes or clothing, then pure bliss can be achieved.  Tony Lama Boots Tan Cheyenne has the market cornered on bliss.  You can purchase the Stars Collection online, or find a retailer near you.

Note: New leather boots may take a little getting used to, especially if you’re used to snug-fitting shoes.  Read Justin Brand’s fit guide to help you determine the right size for you.

WIN IT!

tonylama logoOne winners will win a gift certificate to use toward any pair of Tony Lama boots from their Stars collection (retail value $140).

Where will you wear your boots?  Visit all the fun styles of Tony Lama Stars boots, and tell me your favorite–and where you’d like to wear them!

EXTRA CREDIT

Leave a separate comment for each additional entry.

  • Earn two additional entries by blogging about the giveaway and linking to Traveling with Baby using “Tony Lama Boots Giveaway” as the title in your post.  Then, leave two comments here with a link to your post.
  • Earn two additional entries by subscribing to Traveling with Baby’s RSS feed.  Leave (two) comments stating that you’re subscribed.
  • Earn another entry by 1) following me (drdolly) on Twitter and 2) tweeting this contest with the following RT @drdolly Win Tony Lama Boots on Traveling with Baby! http://wp.me/p4s6M-OJLeave a comment with the weblink to your tweet.
  • Earn another entry by adding Traveling with Baby’s button to your website/blog.

Leave a valid e-mail address, so I can contact you to claim your prize, or it’ll go to another amazing person.  The contest is open to U.S. shipping addresses only.

This contest runs until 11:59PM (EST) on October 2nd, 2009.

A winner will be randomly selected (via random.org) and announced on this post and e-mailed sometime shortly after October 2nd. If a winner doesn’t respond within 72 hours, a new winner will be selected.

Subscribe // Twitter me: drdolly

*UPDATE*

Congratulations to #1, Vicky!

Run with the Bulls

We’ve been enjoying our anniversary weekend/Labor Day weekend by hanging out with family in northeastern Pennsylvania.

There was one little glitch with our trip–major car trouble.  We heard a highly unusual sound when we set the car to idle at a pit stop on the way.  My husband chose to “press-on” and do our best to make it.  So, twice during the last leg of the trip, we smelled burning metal.

We made it in one piece, and Steve and his dad tinkered with the car on Friday and Saturday.  After replacing one part, the same irregular sound persisted.

So, we’re going to drive the car back to Virginia, then finalize our search for a replacement vehicle.

So, please think about today as we make our way back in 7.5 hours worth of travel time.

————————————————————————————————

So, while the guys have been laboring away with the car, I’ve been playing with my nieces, nephew, and son.

We’ve been dragging the smallest kids around on the wooden floors on blankets, constructed sky scrapers from legos, practiced somersaults, ran, and hiked.

Saturday morning, we headed to the local high school track because I wanted to stretch my legs and run.

With the high school football game in progress, that meant the track around the field was off-limits.

So, we meandered over to the unoccupied baseball diamond, instead.

I ran the perimeter while my mother-in-law and four of her grand kids walked around and threw a Frisbee.

After my warm-up, I noticed that there were 12 symmetrical rows painted on right field–perfect for interval training.

I ran up and down each row with a different pace or running form: high knees, heels-to-buttocks, grapevines (sideways running with the lead leg alternating), skips, and full-speed sprints.  When I was on repetition #15 out of 24, the rest of the gang thought that running looked like fun.

My 3 year-old niece joined me in running lengths.

Soon, we were joined by my 7 year-old nephew, 11 year-old niece, 22 month-old son, and mother-in-law.

My nephew pretended each length was a race.  My youngest niece directed the running styles at the end and suggested we run like ponies.  Calvin struggled to keep up, although he ran at a full-sprint the majority of the time.

At one point, we ran backward while I did the fireman’s carry with my son.  He absolutely had a blast and wanted to be carried for the remainder of the workout.

Running is fun for kids when you can turn it into a game!

After the end of the running workout, everyone’s shoes were wet from the damp grass. Montrail Mountain Masochist GTX

Everyone, except for me.

The Gore-Tex in my Montrail Mountain Masochist GTX were drier than toast.  Usually, when I do speed work on the grass, I’ll slip and slide all over the place.  But the super grip traction on these shoes were as sure-footed as track spikes.

Have I told you how much I love these shoes?

labor day giveaway

WIN IT!

Montrail_Logo_blkOne winner will enjoy a pair of Mountain Masochist GTX from Montrail (retail value $115).

(Primary entry method, this must be completed first!) To enter, visit Montrail and tell me about one other item that would love to use.  As always, Kudos to creativity!

EXTRA CREDIT

  • Earn two additional entries by blogging about the giveaway and linking to Traveling with Baby using “Montrail Trail Running Shoes Giveaway” as the title in your blog’s post.  Then, leave two comments here with a link to your post.
  • Earn two additional entries by subscribing to Traveling with Baby’s RSS feed.  Leave (two) comments stating that you’re subscribed.
  • Earn another entry by entering another Labor Day Giveaway contest on Traveling with Baby.  Leave a comment telling me the name of the other contest that you entered.  Active contests are listed on the left sidebar under the header “Win Prizes”
  • Earn another entry by following me (drdolly) on Twitter and tweeting this contest with the following RT @drdolly Win Montrail Trail Running shoes on Traveling with Baby! http://wp.me/p4s6M-NXLeave a comment with the weblink to your tweet.
  • Earn another entry by adding Traveling with Baby’s button to your website/blog.

Leave a valid e-mail address, so I can contact you to claim your prize, or it’ll go to another amazing person.  The contest is open to U.S. shipping addresses only.

This contest runs until 11:59PM (EST) on September 14th, 2009.

One winner will be randomly selected (via random.org) and announced on this post and e-mailed sometime shortly after September 14th. If a winner doesn’t respond within 72 hours, a new winner will be selected.

**UPDATE**

Congratulations!  The winner is #20, Keitha.

Subscribe // Twitter me: drdolly

Tuesday Travels: Walking on Sunshine – Win a Pair of Olivia by Crocs

traveWelcome to Tuesday Travels, a summertime series at Traveling with Baby.  This season, my son and I are excited about sharing some local day trips and field trip ideas for families with little ones.  This weekly series will also feature travel tips for families with kids-in-tow and related product reviews and giveaways.  I enjoy hearing about your traveling adventures, too.  If you have an idea for Tuesday Travels, please e-mail me: drgarnecki[at]gmail[dot]com.

____________________________________________________________

When I travel by plane or car, I always wear my most comfortable pair of shoes.  It used to be sneakers, but those were too restricting when blood would pool to my feet after sitting for hours and hours and hours!  Ever since I was gifted with my first pair of turquoise beach Crocs, they have been my top choice for unfettered comfort in travel ever since.

hLogo_imgI’m loving my new Olivia Crocs in cherry red.  It was time to veer away from the boring black and brown office shoes that match everything, but have no personality.

Crocs Olivia at the office

Crocs Olivia at the office

Olivia is loaded with personality.

These sweet and demure slingbacks bring a spring to my step.  They were turning heads left and right with the attractive blingy rhinestone button on the side.  I felt like Dorothy in her ruby red slippers when I slipped these babies on my tootsies.

My patients noticed them right away.

Ooooh.  Are those new Crocs?  Those are REALLY cool!

olivia_10335_side_506I heard comments along that tune multiple times at the office.  That’s quite a big deal because, Folks, I have NEVER EVER had compliments on my shoes.  NEVER.  NOT ONCE.

Yes, I did wear combat boots for a few years.  Yes, I do prefer to live in my sneakers (even when I’m wearing skirts).  But, I think I have finally understood why so many women love shoes.

Pretty shoes are so much FUN!

What’s SO great about these shoes, besides the fact that they’re red and cute, is that they’re flats with molded arch support.

As a chiropractor, I absolutely recommend Crocs to my patients who suffer from scoliosis or low back pain.

They’re perfect for folks with flat feet or high arches.  They’re wonderful for anyone who has to be on her feet all day long, yet she wants to feel as fresh as a daisy at the end of the day, as well.  They’re great for anyone who suffers from low back pain, or a woman in the end stages of pregnancy who needs breathable foot support and the capability of slipping them on/off herself without bending over.

Besides the looking and feeling great at the office, they’re also fun to wear at the pool.

Olivia Crocs by the pool

Olivia Crocs by the pool

The Olivias are available in brown, black, red, ultraviolet, and new gold.  You can purchase them online for $29.99.

Or, you can win a pair of your very own!

WIN IT!

prizeypickSince you’re a lovely reader of Traveling with Baby, you may be eligible to win your own pair of Olivias  by Crocs in any rainbow hue that you desire (retail value $29.99).  You have up to 8 opportunities to win these sweet kicks with many thanks to Crocs, Inc.

  • Take a photo of you wearing your crocs in a fun or unusual scenario. (Earn 3 entries for submitting a photo!) Then, post the photo to the Crocs flickr group page.  Next, leave a comment on this post with the html link to your photo.  Do this thrice, so you earn all three entries.
  • Earn two additional entries by blogging about the giveaway and linking to Traveling with Baby using “Win Crocs Olivias on Traveling with Baby” as the title in your blog’s post.  Then, leave TWO comments here with a link to your post.
  • Earn another entry by subscribing to Traveling with Baby’s RSS feed.  Leave a comment that you’re subscribed.
  • Earn an entry by following me (drdolly) AND (crocs) on Twitter and tweeting this contest with the following “RT @drdolly @crocs Win a pair of Crocs Olivias on Traveling with Baby! http://tinyurl.com/nvouwt” Leave a comment with the weblink to your tweet.
  • Earn an entry by adding Traveling with Baby’s button to your website/blog.

Leave a valid e-mail address, so I can contact you to claim your prize, or it’ll go to another amazing person.  The contest is open to U.S. shipping addresses only.

This contest runs until 11:59PM (EST) on July 28th, 2009.

One winner will be randomly selected (via random.org) and announced on this post and e-mailed sometime shortly after July 28th. If a winner doesn’t respond within 72 hours, a new winner will be selected.

*UPDATE*

The winner is #14 Sarah Sharp.  Congratulations!

–By Dr. Dolly
Twitter me: drdolly

Stylin’ Skirt for Summer

prAna's kate skirt in Agean on a real mom

prAna's kate skirt in Agean on a real mom

prAna’s luxuriously comfortable and gorgeous Kate skirt is perfect for summer strolls, barbeques, and canoe rides.  Really, this skirt is comfortable enough for any place you dare to venture.  Yet, it’s so lovely you can get away with wearing it to weddings, showers, and church.

prAna sent me the Kate skirt in Agean for review.  The contrasting pick-stitching in white along the hemline and embroidered detail along the border add interesting detail with an Indian flair.  I love the Agean shade which is easy on the eyes, yet it has just enough color to add some “pop” to a complete look.  It’s 100% cotton poplin which makes it environmentally sustainable and easy maintenance for me.  prAna’s commitment to organic trade, sustainable fibers, and giving back to conservation efforts resonates with me.

pranalogoThe relaxed length hits just at or below the knee depending on your height.  This beautiful skirt is at a conservative length that keeps you covered when you have to kneel down to pick up your toddler. The hip panel is slimming for a more flattering silhouette, even if you have a little post-partum extra in the abdomen.

It’s available in 3 gorgeous colors Agean (shown in photo above), Berry, and Black in sizes 0 through 12 ($65).

*WIN IT*

prizeypickprAna® is offering one lovely winner a Kate skirt in Agean or Berry. Oh yes,  you can have your very own!   The winner will be randomly selected via random.org.

1. To enter, a) first leave a comment  on the TWB Blogaversary Bash post about your ideal way to spend Mother’s Day (while you’re there, check out the other awesome giveaways!)  Then, b) leave a comment on this post with your favorite item from prAna.  They even have a maternity line.

EXTRA CREDIT

2. Earn a second entry by blogging about the giveaway and linking to Traveling with Baby using “Traveling with Baby’s Blogaversary Bash” as the title in your blog’s post.  Then, leave a comment with a link to your post.  Non-bloggers can participate by subscribing to Traveling with Baby’s feed .

3. Follow me on twitter (drdolly) and tweet about this contest.  Leave a comment saying you tweeted, and provide an html link to your tweet.

Leave a valid e-mail address, so I can contact you to claim your prize, or it’ll go to another amazing person.  The contest is open to U.S. shipping addresses only.

This contest runs until 11:59PM (EST) on May 31st, 2009.

One winner will be randomly selected (via random.org) and announced on this post and e-mailed sometime shortly after May 31st (a slightly belated Mother’s Day gift). If a winner doesn’t respond within 72 hours, a new winner will be selected.

*UPDATE*

Congrats to the winner: Nad who said she also likes the Rachel dress.

– By Dr. Dolly

Hot Jeans for Hip Mamas

Chip & Pepper Stellas in Ash Rapids

Chip & Pepper Stellas in Ash Rapids

There’s one wardrobe item that’s an absolute staple for men and women and children: jeans.  You can dress ’em up with killer shoes and accessories or you can kick back and relax in a tee shirt and flip-flops. I have several types of jeans (from women’s to maternity in a few brands and sizes).

I have been on a desperate search for a pair of jeans that is flattering from the minute I pull them on to the end of the day when I’ve put ’em through the wringer with sitting, walking, and deep-knee-bending to pick up my son. To find a pair that was a good fit for my body shape, I visited the jeans-sizing guide at Zafu which floated Chip & Pepper® styles to the top of my list.  I recently found a pair that fit beautifully, and OH, do they do the trick!

chippepperChip & Pepper® is my new favorite brand of jeans.   As I type, I am currently sporting the Stella Bootcut Jeans in Ash Rapids by Chip & Pepper ($203) which were just introduced for spring.  The Stellas come in 8 other washes from optic white to crow black, and varying shades of indigo.

The back pocket placement and contour stitching adds considerable lift to the butt.  The denim is a lighter weight (perfect for spring and summer nights) and it’s been washed until it’s as soft as velvet without being constricting.  No need to wait several washing to break these jeans in, Chip & Pepper® already taken care of that!  The mid-rise waist provides a modern look in front, but the asymmetrical cut (read: more generous) in the back gives you the freedom to move without worrying about flashing anyone.  This feature alone makes these jeans worthwhile!

Chip & Pepper Stella jeans on a real mom blogger

Chip & Pepper Stella jeans on a real mom blogger

I truly love them because even after all-day wear which includes chasing a toddler, picking up a toddler, climbing stairs multiple times (wash, rinse, repeat 4 times), they still fit!  Ten hours later, the waistline still clings to my waist and the butt area wasn’t stretched or sagging.  The jeans still hugged my curves and looked as if they still had another week to go before they needed a rest.  Chip & Pepper® could rename the Stellas the Marathon jeans, so women would truly understand their capability and endurance to keep up with a very busy routine!  Free shipping is available for all U.S. orders.

Sizing consideration: These jeans are cut long.  If you’re blessed with long legs, then no worries.  If you have shorter legs, then feel free to sport the cuffed hemline which is very in for spring, and lower them for year-round use with boots.

What mom wouldn’t want a pair of jeans that makes her feel comfortable, attractive, and well-covered?  Gift certificates are available on Chip & Pepper’s® site, and you can also win a pair for you or your favorite mom.

*WIN IT*

prizeypick

prizeypick

Thanks to my new favorite jeans designer, Chip & Pepper® is teaming up with Traveling with Baby to offer one lovely winner will win a pair of Stella bootcut jeans in Ash Rapids (retail value $203).  Oh yes, it doesn’t get any better than this.  Are you excited?  The winner will be randomly selected via random.org.

1. To enter, a) first leave a comment  on the TWB Blogaversary Bash post about your ideal way to spend Mother’s Day (while you’re there, check out the other awesome giveaways!)  Then, b) leave a comment on this post with your favorite item from Chip & Pepper’s new spring line. (Hint: anything that’s marked new) Simple, right?

EXTRA CREDIT

2. Earn a second entry by blogging about the giveaway and linking to Traveling with Baby using “Traveling with Baby’s Blogaversary Bash” as the title in your blog’s post.  Then, leave a comment with a link to your post.  Non-bloggers can participate by subscribing to Traveling with Baby’s feed .

3. Follow me on twitter (drdolly) and tweet about this contest.  Leave a comment saying you tweeted, and provide an html link to your tweet.

Leave a valid e-mail address, so I can contact you to claim your prize, or it’ll go to another amazing person.  The contest is open to U.S. shipping addresses only.

This contest runs until 11:59PM (EST) on May 18th, 2009.

One winner will be randomly selected (via random.org) and announced on this post and e-mailed sometime shortly after May 18th (a slightly belated Mother’s Day gift). If a winner doesn’t respond within 72 hours, a new winner will be selected.

— By Dr. Dolly

*UPDATE*

Congratulations to the winner, Jessica Conn at Raising Conn. Her extra entry for blogging is the one that got selected by random.org.  Congrats Jess!

Silver Lining

When I was a child, my aunt Debbie was a color analyst.  She would help people determine which colors complemented their skin tone, eyes, and hair color to help them look their best by holding up swatches of solid-colored fabrics.  Light and airy pastels were for people who were classified as “Springs” and rich and bold colors were for “Winters” with other rainbow hues reserved for “Autumns” and “Summers”

My color classification was Winter.  Winters can wear black, fire engine red, electric blue, and even emerald green, but they must avoid pastels,  off-white, and yellows like the plague.  Gold as a metal is okay, but Winters look far more stunning in Silver.  After getting my color analysis as a kid, I never forgot when my aunt emphasized that I looked better in silver than gold.  Since then, I always had an affinity toward silver or silver-colored metals.

My new favorite place to hunt for beautiful things in silver is Walker Silverworks.  Erica Walker’s father and sister are also jewelry smiths who inspired her to begin crafting on her own.   Walker’s signature style is modern with a classic vein.  Her designs are ethereal, lovely, and full of fun with a preference toward satin-finished silver.

My favorite piece in her etsy shop is the light loopy necklace which would really pull together a crisp white button-down blouse and pin-stripped slacks, but you could also look stylin’ wearing it with a form-fitting tee and jeans.

light loopy necklace

light loopy necklace

Other jewelry pieces by her design include earrings, cuff links, bracelets and rings.  Check out her lovely jewelry gallery, but take heed, you will fall in love!

Walker Silverworks is generously sponsoring Traveling with Baby’s Blogaversary Bash and honoring moms by providing a delightful and versatile necklace for one soon-to-be-very-happy reader.  Whether you want to win this for yourself as an extra special treat for Mother’s Day or whether you want to present it to your own mom, feast your eyes on the Organic O necklace which is designed for vertical threading, and there’s a design for horizontal threading.

organic o necklace (vertical)

organic o necklace (vertical)

Each Organic O is uniquely designed and can vary from1″ – 1 1/4″ wide and 1 1/2″ – 2″ long.  I love that it is tenderly and uniquely made by hand.  It’s simultaneously light with a feminine, yet bold flair.  When you purchase the Organic O necklace, it comes with 1 silk cord (multiple colors are available on Walker’s site).

silk cords for organic o necklaces

silk cords for organic o necklaces

Yet, the winner of the Organic O necklace will get 3 silk cords for variety and mood.  Feeling pretty in pink today, but you’d like earthy brown tomorrow, no sweat.  How’s that for changing the look and versatility of one stunning, handmade piece of silver jewelry?

*WIN IT*

prizeypickOne lovely winner will win an Organic O necklace with a variety of silk cords courtesy of Walker Silverworks.  Retail value of the Organic O necklace is $30, and retail value of 3 silk cords is $9.  Are you excited?  The winner will be randomly selected via random.org.

1. To enter, a) first leave a comment  on the TWB Blogaversary Bash post about your ideal way to spend Mother’s Day (while you’re there, check out the other awesome giveaways!)  Then, b) leave a comment on this post with your favorite item from Walker Silverworks not previously mentioned on this post (something other than the Organic O necklace and the light loopy necklace).  Simple, right?

EXTRA CREDIT

2. Earn a second entry by blogging about the giveaway and linking to Traveling with Baby using “Traveling with Baby’s Blogaversary Bash” as the title in your blog’s post.  Then, leave a comment with a link to your post.  Non-bloggers can participate by subscribing to Traveling with Baby’s feed .

3. Follow me on twitter (drdolly) and tweet about this contest.  Leave a comment saying you tweeted, and provide an html link to your tweet.

Leave a valid e-mail address, so I can contact you to claim your prize, or it’ll go to another amazing person.  The contest is open to U.S. shipping addresses only.

This contest runs until 11:59PM (EST) on May 17th, 2009.

One winner will be randomly selected (via random.org) and announced on this post and e-mailed sometime shortly after May 17th. If a winner doesn’t respond within 72 hours, a new winner will be selected.

— By Dr. Dolly

*UPDATE*

Congratulations to the winner: Leslie Starkey!

Blogaversary Bash

j03416531 It’s been 2 years since Traveling with Baby first began with posts on pregnancy, home birth, travel, natural parenting, health and nutrition, and, of course, product review and giveaways.

How convenient that our Blogaversary happens to fall on the same month as Mother’s Day.  This a mom’s blog, after all.

For those of your who’ve remained loyal readers and who actively comment, THANK YOU!  To those of you who’ve discovered this blog more recently, Welcome! I hope you enjoy the community at Traveling with Baby.

Launching mid-month is a new weekly series on Traveling with Baby called Health Happy Round-Up which will feature information on nutrition (yummy and nutritious recipes), natural remedies for common health conditions experienced by all ages, and information on the latest health research related to chiropractic and alternative health options.  Occasionally, you may even find information on my area of practice expertise: adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.  Stay tuned for more starting Friday, May 15th.

In honor of our Blogaversary Bash, several nifty sponsors have stepped up with some very groovy finds that are simply perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day.  Check back daily in May for fabulous giveaways on Traveling with Baby.

Blogaversary Bash Giveaways

As the giveaways go live, the links on this post will be active.  Comment on the specific giveaway posts to participate, and also comment here at the Blogaversary Bash post to be eligible for the prizes.

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Mother’s Day

My ideal Mother’s Day would be spent with my two favorite guys.  Phone off and no computer access all day long, but my camera would be by my side!  I’d love to start the day with breakfast in bed.  Something yummy that I don’t have to cook or clean up afterward.

Next, I’d love to do something outdoors whether it’s a hike on a trail with a breathtaking view or a leisure walk in flowering gardens hand-in-hand with my husband and son.

Finally, I’d love to wrap up the day with a savory picnic in a place with panoramic sunset views.  Chocolate-covered strawberries would definitely top my dessert list.

Sure, I’d love material things (I could REALLY use a new pair of those silky soft cotton pajama pants at Target with the cute prints).  But the most important thing to me about Mother’s Day is spending it with the people that make me glad to be a Mom.

Here’s what I want to know from YOU.  Tell me about your ideal Mother’s Day.  How would you like to spend your special day with your family?

–By Dr. Dolly