So I am not one for spending hours in the greeting card aisle searching for the PERFECT card for each occasion, but I am a huge fan of encouraging kids and telling them they are great, which is why I love the new Hallmark campaign. Contrary to some parenting tips and guidelines, I love being able to provide self confidence to someone just by telling them I think they are great, and lets be honest, kids are really the only people still innocent and humble enough to take these signs of affection and truly make themselves feel more capable, more intelligent, more beautiful and more proud of who they are and who they can become. Maybe this comes from how my mom raised me…I had notes in my lunch all the way through high school….and, oh yes, I definitely hid those notes in fear that someone would see that little sign of affection from my mom and any coolness factor that I had built up through the years would go right into the trash with the rest of my lunch sack…but really, those notes are one of my fondest memories of being a kid. I was reminded EVERY day that I was loved, even if I was just told in the car on the way to school that I must have had a “sass pill” for breakfast and to rearrange my attitude very quickly or the weekend would be a very dull one for me, sitting in my room. Those little notes- that often times just said “Love you Annie T!!!” gave me confidence, even in the wake of tough high school cliques and drama. So, I say, find your inner Hallmark…whether it be through a greeting card, hand written note, scribbled napkin or quick text…tell your little one they rock. After all, its you that they want to impress more than anyone….whether they admit it or not.

That’s right. I am a HUGE fan of the Orbit stroller (as you may already know from my list of favorites on the healthy bitch daily’s “Bitches We Love”). As I have been packing up for a little family roadtrip this weekend, I thought it only completely fitting to blog about one of my favorite travel companions- the orbit stroller and car seat. Since my son was born, we have grown with the Orbit. He came home from the hospital in the mocha car seat (so styling already), and transitioned into that gorgeous bassinet for naps and even night time sleeping. We would then click the bassinet right on to the stroller base (all the pieces work together you see, so the car seat can click into the car seat base in the car, or the stroller base- the bassinet can click into the rocker base or the stroller base…), and walk him a few blocks down to friends houses for dinner, up over the hill to the strand to see and hear and breath the ocean in, or even around the house on nights where sleep was not coming so easily for the little man. He eventually (at 10 weeks) grew too big for the bassinet and was ready for his crib…but his car seat (clicked into the stroller base) still worked perfectly for walks into town, nights out to dinner (where we simply un-clicked him from the car seat base and brought him into the restaurant with us- never waking or stirring his sweet little sleep), and of course driving around. I loved how there was a built in sun and wind shade that would snap down around the sides our little man had complete privacy while sleeping. It’s SO easy and convenient, stylish, safe and truly perfect for our lifestyle (which is a bit on the go). We even took the Orbit on a plane for the first time when we headed to Cabo last June. Again, super easy to wheel him through the airport in his stroller/carseat- click off the seat when you get to security and send the two pieces through seperately (baby will come with you through the metal detector- and oh yes, no shoes for babies either so make sure you travel with slip ons), then back together in a snap, and off we go wheeling to the gate! For that flight we even brought the seat on the plane (it wasn’t a very full flight so the flight attendants let us buckle it right into the seat next to us, and he slept nearly the whole way!). As Jack got bigger, and I got more ready to really start running again, we did invest in a BOB for around town walks and runs. But the Orbit toddler car seat sits in our car as does the stroller base. (the BOB is WAY too bulky and awkward to take in and out of the car if you ask me). The Orbit toddler seat/stroller is what we use when we head off for errands in the car… to the farmers market, to the mall etc. Still super easy to use (a bit more heavy now with 22lbs of child in that luxurious seat), but never the less, convenient and practical and did I already mention really good looking? And of course we love the Orbit even more because they strive to offer not only the safest, most functional and best looking products, but they are also green in the process. Their micro-fiber upholstery fabric of all Orbit seats is certified by the International Oeko-Tex® Association, a Europe-based institution founded to guarantee confidence in textiles. Also, all Orbit Baby products meet all applicable flame retardancy standards without potentially harmful chemicals. They use PVC free materials for their rain shields and their breakthrough OrganicFR™ fabric offers the comfort of wrapping your baby in organic cotton, while still providing the safety of federal flame retardancy (FR) standards. They also give back to several charities, fund sustainable energy projects such as Climate Care and ensure recycling and eco friendly materials are used where possible at their headquarters in Northern CA. Need we say more?

And just recently added to the family is the Orbit G2…

You deserve it! After all, you are the president and CEO of your family’s social affairs, you are the driver of the carpool, the maker of snacks, the mommy to be, the wife extraordinaire, the party throwing, dinner making, house cleaning wonder! You certainly deserve some serious relaxation time and a few moments of zen…and what better way then to indulge in a pedicure! Yes, a massage, a quick weekend getaway, and lounging by a pool in the sun are also amazing ways to unwind, but realistically a pedicure fits more easily into your schedule, right?

So when you are ready for some foot rubbing and nail painting, go with a way that wont let nasty toxins leak into your gorgeous body. I’m talking about finding a salon that uses only DPB, Toluene and Formaldehyde free nail polishes. (See below for more information on these chemicals). Believe it or not, these salons and nail polish brands are easier to find than you think.

Here is a list of some natural salons in major cities…

1. San Francisco- Nova Nail Spa , 811 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94103.
2. Los Angeles- Color Me Green , 2001 Sepulveda Blvd. Unit C, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Recess, 8408 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048.
3. New York- Evolution Green Room 442 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217

And here are some of the major brands that offer either water based or non toxic nail polish…

1. Suncoat- “Suncoat is the best nail polish on the market for those who are particularly chemical sensitive. Not only is Suncoat nail polish toluene, formaldehyde and phthalate free, it is also free of alcohol and acetones and acetates. The nail polish is also water-based and naturally colored with earth pigments. Their nail polishes do not contain any FD&C dyes. They paint on smoothly and dry very quickly.”- Tamara Hardison

Suncaot offers about 32 different colors including my favorites French Pink and Berry. They also offer mascara, lip gloss, eye liner and shadow and hair care products.

2. OPI- “OPI is an Australian brand that is frequently used in nail salons across the US. While it is not water-based, it is free of toluene, DBP, and formaldehyde. This nail polish brand is free of carcinogens, but is not geared towards more chemically-sensitive individuals. Naturally they have a vast and professional array of colors to choose from. If you can tolerate the chemicals, then this might be a good brand for you.”- Tamara Hardison

CHEMICAL INFORMATION:

Toluene, Formaldehyde and DBP have all been shown to cause cancer. “Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid that is also found in paints, thinners, and inks. It makes nail polish smooth and makes it dry quicker. When toluene is released into the air it causes headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and irritates the eyes, nose, and throat. It has also been shown to be toxic to the liver and kidneys. It is especially dangerous to pregnant women because it is transferred from mother to fetus through the placenta and through breast milk.
Formaldehyde is a carcinogenic preservative and is used in nail polish as a nail hardener. It also keeps the polish from chipping. Breathing in formaldehyde fumes irritates the lungs, eyes, nose, and throat. It also causes headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and immune dysfunction.

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is found in plastics, personal care products, paints, and pesticides. It’s used as a plasticizer that makes plastics soft and flexible. In nail polish it acts as a binder to make the nail polish last longer. Phthalates are also known carcinogens, are known to cause birth defects, and damage the reproductive organs. Particularly, it has shown to cause underdeveloped genitals in newborn boys and long-term fertility problems. It has also shown to be toxic to the liver, lungs, and kidneys. One can absorb phthalates through inhaling it, touching it, or even eating it.”-Tamara Hardison, Associatedcontent.com.

It’s not often that one retailer will comment, blog or praise another one publicly (especially when they might offer some of the same products), but in this case, speaking from one parent to another- I just have to. If I can make another parent’s life a bit easier and suggest a way that he or she has more time to spend with her little ones, then I feel the need to do so. We need to look out for one another, as parents first and foremost, and as business entities second. As a mom who finds convenience and customer service to be priceless and invaluable, I have to tell you that you will find both at Diapers.com.

This is where I order my son’s diapers (Naturecare) and formula (Earths Best), and while it not only saves me money (vs going to Target or Whole Foods), it also saves me a trip in the car, precious time and valuable energy. Their mission is clear “To offer the lowest prices moms (and dads!) will find online, along with the convenience of fast, free shipping and the best customer service around” and its exactly what you will get when you shop there. They do offer the lowest prices (at least on the items and brands that will allow a price reduction- some brands such as plan toys and miyim will always be the same no matter where you shop), and their shipping and customer service is top notch! I find that for your necessities (food, diapers, wipes etc) this is a great option and they have a decent assortment of green products to choose from. However, when you are looking for a more special, personal and unique experience for things like gifts, clothing, bedding and baby registries, you will find that a site like Bloumebaby.com will be more of what you are looking for:)

If you are anything like me, or any other mom for that matter- you are probably somewhat sleep deprived, in desperate need of a pedicure, running just a few minutes late for a meeting, squeezing in a quick run or yoga class whenever possible, and somewhere in there trying to get the nutrition you need to keep up your mommy super powers. Since sitting down for an organic chopped salad and iced tea at lunch is probably not an option (if it is, HOORAAY! for you!!), here are some tips on how to satisfy your hunger and stay healthy throughout the day…even if you never sit down at all.

1. Early morning snack- Peanut butter or Almond butter on whole grain toast. Takes a total of 2 minutes hands on time to prep this fine feast, and yet it offers you nearly a quarter of your daily protein (which will also keep hunger from coming back too soon) and about 15% of your daily fiber. “But peanut butter is so high in fat!” you say…well, yes there is a decent amount of fat in peanut butter, but it’s rich in the “good” fat, much like avocados. Cooking light reported that the fat in peanut butter is “mostly the monounsaturated kind, is extremely good for the heart–and for health in general. And the good news didn’t stop there. Researchers continue to uncover disease-fighting chemicals or new health roles for these foods.”. Also, because its so rich in protein, you wont be hungry as quickly as if you ate a bowl of cereal or had some rice cakes, so you total calorie intake will be lower.

2. Mid morning snack- yogurt…I am currently obsessed with Fage greek yogurt. Go for the non fat option and add some honey for a perfect combination of flavor and nutrition. Although Fage is not certified organic, they use all natural ingredients, which means no sweeteners, preservatives or additives. Their milk comes from cows who are raised with out the use of rBGH, and they conduct business in harmony with the environment. Oh, and you will get 15 g of protein without any of the fat. If you add the honey, you will be getting antiseptic, antioxidant and cleansing properties for your body as well as an amazingly sweet flavor! (just don’t share this with your lil one until they have been cleared by a dr…honey is not to be served to children until they are at least 12 months of age)

3. On the run snack- baby carrots. These lil guys are so easy to throw in a small food container and hit the road or the park! They can curb a sweet tooth, and you can even share them with your tiny tot if they have the teeth to take em down. These are a great source of vitamin A- in fact 1 ounce of carrots will give you nearly 80% of your daily value. ** if you aren’t a veggie lover, and a dip would help… try making your own ranch dip with greek yogurt and seasonings.

4. Afternoon snack- Cottage cheese and apples. This is an excellent option if you are looking for a low fat, high protein snack. Not as easy to take with you in the car or to the park, but perfect for when your lil one goes down for a nap. Most low fat cottage cheese brands will only give you 2g of fat with 28g of protein! And the apple will give you more than just a burst of flavor, it offers great vitamin C and fiber as well!

5. Happy hour snack- hummus and crackers. Although I am a HUGE fan of cheese, I am also fully aware that its not the best snack in the world for me. So, I recently turned to hummus for a festive happy hour snack. Made from chickpeas and olive oil (these are the primary ingredients), hummus offers a healthy amount of fiber and protein and is low in fat. You can also make your own hummus, adding your favorite flavors like garlic, red pepper and chives.

For more nutritional information visit nutritiondata.com

When decorating a nursery you are no longer limited to just pink or blue, circus or farm animals, or one style of a wooden rocking chair…these days the options are unlimited- and I say go outside the traditional “baby” box and bring your modern, mature and chic sense of style to the place your little one call’s his or her own. Here are a few tips on how to bring your style into your babies room seamlessly.
1. Color outside the lines! When painting the walls go for a tone just outside the traditional baby colors…instead of baby blue, choose ice blue or light turquoise, instead of pale pink, choose lilac or even a very light grey, instead of yellow, choose a fresh shade of cucumber. The best way to choose a color is to pick something that compliments your bedding- some great color combinations are; 1. khaki and pink (with a pop of orange) or navy and pink 2. blue and orange (with a grey or chocolate to neutralize, depending on your shades of blue and orange) 3. Yellow and grey
Dont forget to always use non toxic paint, especially in your baby’s room!! Try Mythic paint .
2. Let the light do all the talking! A light fixture will make a HUGE difference in a room. So choose thoughtfully. Whether you are picking out a table lamp or a hanging light fixture for the ceiling, go for round, drum shaped shades which will soften the look of the fixture and the entire room. Making it feel appropriate for a bedtime story or lullaby.

Don’t forget to use energy efficient light bulbs to ensure you save money and stay green!
3. Showcase your own photos. There is no better way to make a room feel cozy and familiar than to display meaningful family photos. I am a huge fan of black and white- it offers less contrast to the colors already going on in the room’s decor, it offers a more nostalgic feel and plus, we all just look better in black and white! Whether you are going for a framed photo or a canvas printed one, make sure you differentiate in sizes as you build your collection on the wall. Varied sizes will offer depth and interest to the room.
To add a more unique and modern approach to the photos or art, we love Plywerk! They use sustainalbe and eco friendly materials and believe that being green is a way life, not just a collection of crunchy northwest words.

4. Modernize your rocker, with vintage fabric! If your bedding is neutral or simple, go for a fun pattern on the rocker or glider! I am a huge fan of vintage fabric, it offers unexpected color combinations, whimsical tones, and most importantly, a unique look that none of your mommy friends will have….no Pottery Barn here, ladies!

Oh, and it technically is recycling if its vintage fabric!

“The Food and Drug Administration said Friday that the chemical bisphenol A might not be safe for young children, partly reversing a stance that the chemical was safe at levels currently found in food containers.”- WSJ. According to the article and Joshua Sharftein, the FDA’s principal deputy commissioner, “Liquid formula generally has small, detectible levels of BPA” and many plastic bottles, including baby bottles and sippy cups, are made with BPA…so should you be worried? Yes. What exactly is BPA and why is it harmful? Here is the 411 on this nasty chemical…

DEFINITION AND USE- BPA, bisphenol A, is an organic compound with two phenol functional groups. It is primarily used to make plastics, most commonly the polycarbonate plastic, which is clear and nearly shatter-proof and is used to make several products including baby and water bottles. Also, epoxy resins containing bisphenol A are used as coatings on the inside of almost all food and beverage cans. The chemical has been in use since the 1930’s, but has recently been getting a lot of attention for it’s harmful effects on the human body.

HARMFUL EFFECTS- “researchers say that they have found the mechanism by which BPA, a synthetic hormone with estrogen-like properties, might affect later fertility of babies whose mothers were exposed to the chemical…Some studies have linked it to cancer, diabetes, heart disease and developmental problems in children. Health advocates say exposure to the chemical could present a particular problem to developing fetuses.”-Forbes.com
Basically the chemical acts as estrogen and can mimic the body’s own hormones, causing brain, behavior and prostate issues, especially in fetuses and infants, who do not have a strong immune system to break down the chemical. Among the many issues it can cause neurologically is the effect on the nervous system. Several studies have shown that exposure to low doses during development can cause persistent effects on the brain function, structure and behavior. Further studies showed negative effects on the prostate, reproductive development and function, thyroid function, an increase in breast cancer risk, and even a link to hyperactivity and attention deficit.

Although the FDA commissioner, Margaret Hamburg, stated this past friday “that the FDA agrees with the National Toxicology Program that BPA is of ’some concern’ for children and infants”- WSJ.com, she still believes more needs to be known before they take steps to ban or reduce the amount of the chemical in consumer products. The Health and Human Services department will be investing $30 million in studies around the health effects of BPA on young children going forward, but in the meantime here are some steps to avoid introducing this chemical to you, your fetus or your child.

1. Chose only BPA free bottles and sippy cups! Our favorites are Green to Grow and Wee go bottles and Think baby sippy cups and food storage- which are coming soon to Bloumebaby.com!
2. Avoid food in cans, especially if you are pregnant! This includes soda, fruit, chili, tuna (which should be kept to a minimum anyways to avoid high levels of mercury), children’s pasta, canned veggies and soups. Fresh fruits are much more tasty anyways!
3. Purchase powdered formula over liquid formula. “Abbott Laboratories, which makes Similac-brand formula, said 91% of its infant formula product line is BPA-free” but that leaves 9% with BPA. If you do need to stick to liquid formula for some reason, choose one that is in a glass jar or BPA free container.
4. Use water filtration systems instead of bottled water. Most bottles, including the large water jugs from Arrowhead etc most likely contain BPA.
5. Know your plastics…”Polycarbonate plastic contains bisphenol A and is a number 7 bottle. Containers with the recycling numbers 3 can contain lead, phthalates and can create dioxin, a human carcinogen. Number 6 is polystyrene and doesn’t break down. Staying away from 3, 6, and 7 is a good idea.”- The Green Blog I say just ditch the plastic all together if you can…

Bloumebaby.com is nuts over the Organic Market Sling by Serena and Lily, and so are hot eco conscious moms such as Sarah Jane Morris (celebrity baby blog), Nicole Kidman and Jessica Alba! We love the gorgeous styling and organic fabric of the Market Sling as well as the gorgeous packaging and machine wash feature!

The simplified design—one seamless piece of fabric without buckles, belts or straps—is snug, sleek and easy to wear. Beautiful hand-embroidery makes this premiere sling collection a favorite among moms and design aficionados alike. This style features 100% organic cotton brushed canvas in grass green with soft marigold interior, white embroidery and white trim. Not only are they beautiful, but these slings are practical too: just toss in the washing machine and they get better looking with every wash.

The Bump is another great place to get great advice on all things baby related. From pregnancy to raising the kiddos- they have great chat forums, links and articles as well as product reviews. www.thebump.com

Thank goodness for sites like www.hautelook.com featuring limited time sales on some of the greatest designer brands…and not just for me, but for my little bambino and hubbie too!