Does Mommy Love It?

I’ve been getting the crazy urge to nest. No, I’m not pregnant (that I know of) and my baby is nearly a toddler. I blame it on our recent relocation to a lovely sublet that was devoid of anything personal. As I put together a play area for my girl (thank you, Ikea) I started searching for some art that would be beautiful, child-friendly, meaningful and not crazy expensive.  Off to Etsy I went! And Leaves and Feathers I found.

In the spirit of full disclosure, I was already familiar with the artist behind Leaves and Feathers, Faith Evans-Sills. She was my amazing labor support doula during the birth of my daughter. But because I had umm, other things on my mind while I was in labor, it wasn’t until recently that I explored her talents as an artist.  I spent a good hour looking through all of her beautiful prints before ordering one that I fell in love with.

Faith, a Brooklyn-based artist and a graduate of Parson’s School of Design, draws inspiration from the world around her.  Images of nature permeate her work in bold but soothing tones and textures. She seeks to “inspire hope” through her work and I think she accomplishes this beautifully. Her prints draw you in and leave you with a peaceful and uplifted feeling.

Most of the prints are reproductions of Faith’s original mixed-medium paintings. They are printed with fad-resistant ink on hand cut watercolor paper. My print came carefully packaged in protective sheet with cardboard backing.

When I received my Grow print, I framed it and hung it (with one of those velcro hooks) low enough that my daughter could enjoy it. She regularly takes it off the wall and jabbers to it.  I can only imagine what she it telling the pretty flower in the picture…

Why not add some inspiration to your home for you and your children to enjoy? Send a Leaves and Feathers postcard to a friend and brighten their day. So many reasons to love it.

Leaves and Feathers is offering a free print of Awakening (image at the top of the post) to one of our lucky readers!  In addition, get free shipping when you use the coupon code doesmommyloveit in the comment section of your order. To enter the giveaway, simply check out the website and leave a comment here that you did.

For additional entries:

1) Subscribe to Does Mommy Love It? then leave a comment stating you did so.

2) Twitter about the contest and leave us a hyperlink to the tweet!

3) If you haven’t, please join our FACEBOOK FAN PAGE!

4) Write a post on your own blog about this giveaway and comment with thepermalink to this post.

5) Grab our button and put it on your sidebar and comment with a link to your blog.

6) Email 5 of your friends and tell them why they should check out DoesMommyLoveIt?. Be sure to COPY us on the email (doesmommyloveit@gmail.com)! Then comment stating you did so.

6) Become a Facebook Fan of Leaves and Feathers and leave a comment that you did!

7) Subscribe to Faith’s blog and leave a comment that you did!

This contest ends October 5th, 2010 Midnight EST. Click here for contest rules at DoesMommyLoveIt.com!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No compensation was received for this review.

27 Comments | In: Arts & Crafts, Contest, Craft, Discount, Special Offers and Discounts | tags: art, faith evans-sills, leaves and feathers. | #

As I head into the land of “extended” breast feeding (ack!) it is a daily battle to find something to wear that is functional that doesn’t look like it’s just functional. Momzelle, a Canadian based company, specializes exclusively in eco-friendly nursing tops.  I have definitely shied away from tops designed just for nursing, opting instead for regular tops with easy access.  I’m sorry now that I waited a whole year before trying this lovely line. By the way, for all of you who are like me and thought, “I’ll just wear this button down shirt and then it won’t look like a nursing top!” The sweet baby sucking away at your breast is going to give you away eventually. You might as well be more comfortable and more discreet while you’re doing it.

My highest praise for Momzelle is that their tops are extremely wearable.  They have universal openings that fit all breast sizes and discreetly conceal the rest of your body.  I gave up the “hooter hider” after a couple of months (don’t we all?) because I simply couldn’t be bothered with another piece of gear when my baby needed to eat. Their tops feature breast cut-aways hidden under an easy to adjust panel. There are a ton of great styles to choose from, including long sleeved v-necks and turtlenecks. I really hope that they bring back their nursing hoodies one of these days! Whatever style you go with, Momzelle‘s tops are the perfect remedy for moms who are out and about with their breast feeding tiny ones.

Momzelle not only provides you with some great options for breast feeding apparel, they also offer breast feeding advice and support on their website.  Who doesn’t love a company that stands behind what they profess to support? These tops definitely deserve a place in your wardrobe under “must have” basics. Get a few. They are offering 25% off their whole line right now until August 25th. Amazing.

Fun bonus: Momzelle included a magnet of a breast feeding mama with my top which has turned into my “Ring the doorbell and you die” note holder while my girl is napping. Thanks, Momzelle! Another reason…Momzelle is offering a $25 gift certificate to one of our lucky readers!  In addition, get $5 off your order when you use coupon code doesmommyloveit. To enter the giveaway, simply check out their website and leave a comment here that you did.

For additional entries:

1) Subscribe to Does Mommy Love It? then leave a comment stating you did so.

2) Twitter about the contest and leave us a hyperlink to the tweet!

3) If you haven’t, please join our FACEBOOK FAN PAGE!

4) Write a post on your own blog about this giveaway and comment with thepermalink to this post.

5) Grab our button and put it on your sidebar and comment with a link to your blog.

6) Email 5 of your friends and tell them why they should check out DoesMommyLoveIt?. Be sure to COPY us on the email (doesmommyloveit@gmail.com)! Then comment stating you did so.

This contest ends September 30th, 2010 Midnight EST. Click here for contest rules at DoesMommyLoveIt.com!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. Momzelle provided the product, and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

22 Comments | In: Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Apparel, Breast Feeding, Clothing, Contest, Discount, Green | tags: baby, breastfeeding, eco friendly, momzelle, nursing tops. | #

Check out Kushies online and take advantage of the 50% off!

No Comments | In: Discount | tags: Discount, Kushies, online, Sale. | #

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. CONGRATS, NICOLE H., YOU ARE THE WINNER!

Confession: I am a disposable diaper lover. Before my daughter was born I vowed to myself (and the Earth) that I would use only cloth diapers, saving both cash and the planet with one simple act.  But as I changed my newborn baby girl (and changed her and changed her) I realized there was a reason people opt for disposable diapers. It’s so, what’s the word? EASY. And when you have difficulty sleeping, eating and even sitting down in those early days, easiness is a wonderful thing.

Now that I have a 6 month old and life is (a little) more manageable, my eco-friendly Jiminy Cricket has been whispering in my ear. Look at all that trash! You know where that’s going? Straight to the landfill!

Some days I tell him to can it, other days it really hits me. Americans throw away a staggering 49 million diapers per day. Ouch.

Enter Better Baby Bums. Started by two researching mamas, this site is dedicated to all things healthy and natural for your kiddos. I got the chance to test drive two of their all-natural, biodegradable diapers:

Bambo Nature Eco Friendly Diapers These 100% biodegradable diapers from Denmark provided a snug fit and great leakage protection. A cute panda on the waistband gives Elmo a run for his money. They run a little big (so consider that when ordering) but overall a very satisfying product!

Broody Chick Diapers CanNOT say enough about these. Forget for a moment that they are the market’s first fully compostable diaper and totally plastic and chlorine free. They are so soft. Anyone who’s tried natural diapers knows this is a feat! The fit is perfect and there are no leaks for my little chick. As if that wasn’t enough, your diapers come in an adorable (recycled) box. I am a sucker for great packaging.

Right now they are offering free shipping on orders over $50 as well as a free water bottle if you spend $10 (while supplies last).

Better Baby Bums has done the work for you. Shop away and tell your eco-conscience to hush.

Better Baby Bums has some amazing offers for our readers!  They will be giving away a $50 gift card to one lucky reader. Also, enjoy 20% off your Better Baby Bums’ order with code: greenbum.   All you have to do to enter for the gift card is visit Better Baby Bums and leave a comment here that you did!

For additional entries:

1) Subscribe to Does Mommy Love It? then leave a comment stating you did so.

2) Twitter about the contest and leave us a hyperlink to the tweet!

3) If you haven’t, please join our FACEBOOK FAN PAGE!

4) Write a post on your own blog about this giveaway and comment with the permalink to this post.

5) Grab our button and put it on your sidebar and comment with a link to your blog.

6) Email 5 of your friends and tell them why they should check out DoesMommyLoveIt?. Be sure to COPY us on the email (doesmommyloveit@gmail.com)! Then comment stating you did so.

This contest ends April 15, 2010 Midnight EST. Click here for contest rules at DoesMommyLoveIt.com!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. This product review was done in collaboration with Mommy Go Green Blog Tours.  I was not compensated for this review aside from the samples provided by Better Baby Bums.

To see what other moms had to say about Bambo Nature and Broody Chick diapers, check out:

• Safe Mama
• RockinMama.net
• Blessed Treehouse
• Real Baby Real Food
• The Full Mommy

42 Comments | In: Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Toddler, Discount, Green | tags: bamboo, biodegradable, compostable, diapers, eco friendly, Green. | #

All products at MimiTENS are 20% off right now!  In addition, they are giving away a hat, scarf, and mitten of choice to one of our readers (over $100 value)!  Scroll down to the posted the review to enter!

2 Comments | In: Contest, Discount | tags: coupons, Sale. | #

No Comments | In: Discount | tags: Kushies, online, Sale. | #

ZBSports, a small uniquely holistic retailer, is offer DoesMommyLoveIt?  readers a special holiday discount!

“At ZBSports, it is our mission to offer the internet consumer great products at competitive prices while doing our part to support the community, environment and health research.”

No Comments | In: Accessories, Apparel, Discount | tags: holistic, small retailer, ZBSPORTS.com. | #

Take advantage of some great holiday discounts this winter season!  

Dante Beatrix 15% discount on any order, use code: HOLIDAY15, ends 12/11/2009

Silikids 15% discount on any order, use code: OHBABY, ends 12/31/2009 

No Comments | In: Accessories, Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Pregnancy, Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Discount | tags: Dante Beatrix, holiday discounts, silikids. | #

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED!  CONGRATS, EUNICE!  YOU ARE THE WINNER!

The holidays are right around the corner and let Dimple Doodles customize your holiday cards for you!  Started in November 2005 by Sarah Lee, Dimple Doodles “designs cards to fit your unique occasions!”  I am an avid holiday junkie and lover of all things paper, and Sarah worked with me one-on-one to create a card that made Christmas even more special.

It was my son’s second Christmas and I was eager to share with my friends and family, how much he’s grown and what our family was up to.  Her card did that beautifully.  Not only did she have an incredible front layout of my son’s picture and holiday greetings, on the back of the card, I was able to write a little blurb about our family news!  (The picture below is an example due to privacy and you can replace the picture with a text! ) This was the perfect combination for me!

At Dimple Doodles, you  can choose from one of our pre-made designs here, (text and colors can be altered per request at no extra cost) or have Dimple Doodles create a one-of-a-kind custom design for you this holiday season or any for any event.  It’s easy as emailing your pictures and ideas, and Dimple Doodles will produce a card perfect for your family.  Did I mention that she is a full-time mommy of two, so she understands how unique each milestone, birthday, holiday, event is important in your life?  Dimple Doodles has a card for EVERY occasion, you name it:  baby shower, first birthdays, birthdays, holidays, baby announcements, family updates, moves, and etc.  See…you must check it out!

Dimple Doodles is offering a 15% discount on orders by December 4, 2009.  CODE:  DMLI

Dimple Doodles has offered one of our readers a personalized set of 30 notecards! To enter, simply visit Dimple Doodles and then leave a comment here on our site with your favorite holiday card!   For additional entries:

1) Subscribe to Does Mommy Love It? then leave a comment stating you did so.

2) Twitter about the contest and leave us a hyperlink to the tweet!

3) If you haven’t, please join our FACEBOOK FAN PAGE!

4) Write a post on your own blog about this giveaway and comment with the permalink to this post.

5) Grab our button and put it on your sidebar and comment with a link to your blog.

6) Email 5 of your friends and tell them why they should check out DoesMommyLoveIt?. Be sure to COPY us on the email (doesmommyloveit@gmail.com)! Then comment stating you did so.

This contest ends December 15th, 2009 Midnight EST. Click here for contest rules at DoesMommyLoveIt.com!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. No
other type compensation was received for this review.

21 Comments | In: Accessories, Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Pregnancy, Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Contest, Discount, Stationary | tags: cards, dimple doodles, holiday, occassions, personalization, stationery. | #

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED.  CONGRATULATIONS, JEN, YOU ARE THE WINNER!

Anyone who knows me well knows how much I love Signing Time.  With all the hype about teaching babies sign language, here’s my quick take on why I think it’s great:

Children comprehend a lot more than they can verbalize… Sign language basically empowers little ones to express themselves in a way that’s already natural to them.  They love “talking” with their hands, facial expressions (who *hasn’t* seen a toddler pout?), and body language (tantrums, anyone?).   Kids are simply expressive by nature, so equipping them with signs will go a long way in terms of helping them communicate a thought or feeling to you – AND helping you do the same to them.  So technically, you don’t have to wait until your child utters his first word before you can “talk” to him.  They’re a lot smarter than we think!

There are two separate series:  Signing Time (for ages 1-8), and Baby Signing Time (for ages 0-3).  The latter features more songs, animation and footage of toddlers doing signs, whereas the regular series features little animation, if any, and footage of kids of all ages signing in everyday life.  From my experience, both series are equally engaging.  My 10 month old will watch the regular series, and my preschooler still enjoys watching Baby Signing Time.  (It is also quite endearing watching my preschooler teach his baby sister how to sign).

The songs are altogether catchy, original, and simple enough in lyrics and melody for little ones (and parents) to sing along… It’s worth noting that they are kinds of songs you probably wouldn’t mind being stuck in your head.   [Notably, the creator of Signing Time is a musician who performed in a rock band until she learned that her then-14 month old daughter was profoundly deaf… and subsequently traded her music career for something much better!]

I was sent a set of flashcards to review, and found them to be sturdy AND practical, since it comes with a plastic ring for easy carrying – perfect for the car or trips to the grocery store.   There are about 20 in the set I received – very colorful with simple sign descriptions.  Also, each flashcard is 4×6 and therefore fits easily into a photo album for easy reference.

In addition to DVDs and flashcards, their online store carries CD collections, books, and online resources to download – all fantastic tools to reinforce the signing skills.

Signing Time is offering a discount to our readers!  Enter coupon code loveit10 and receive 10% off before July 31^st!

Signing Time is offering one of our readers My First Signs DVD Volume 1!  To enter, visit their site and leave a comment on this post. For additional entries:

1) Subscribe to Does Mommy Love It? then leave a comment stating you did so.

2) Twitter about the contest and leave us a hyperlink to the tweet!

3) If you haven’t, please join our FACEBOOK GROUP!

4) Write a post on your own blog about this giveaway and comment with the permalink to this post.

5) Grab our button and put it on your sidebar and comment with a link to your blog.

6) Email 5 of your friends and tell them why they should check out DoesMommyLoveIt?. Be sure to COPY us on the email (doesmommyloveit@gmail.com)! Then comment stating you did so.

This contest ends July 31st, 2009 Midnight EST.

Click here for contest rules at DoesMommyLoveIt.com!

5 Comments | In: Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Contest, Discount, Dvd & Music, Educational | tags: baby, cds, communication, Dvd, sign language, signing time. | #

Imagine getting a product that captures your child’s attention and memories. That’s the beauty of Custom Made for Kids. These personalized books contain 32 pages of full-color illustrations complemented by rhyming text filled with memories chosen by you! When we first read the hardcover book to our son, a joyful smile came over his face as the pages were full of personalized memories such as our time at the Bronx Zoo to the mention of his favorite uncles and aunts.  He just adored the familiar personalized characters in the book, which included his grandpa, dad, brother and etc.  It really made it more personable. The illustrations are top-notch, and the real memories that the words capture on the pages make the 32 pages go quickly.

Our first book was “The First Adventures of Incredible You,” which personalizes your child’s name throughout the various adventures. It captures your child’s favorite activities, whether it’s playing the piano or singing songs in the bathtub or taking strolls in the park with a loved one. We constantly find our son choosing the “Adventures” book to read before he sleeps for the night, which is the greatest indicator of the book’s excellence!

The price is quite reasonable for $32.95 … we kind of justified the price by saying, “It’s a dollar for every memory captured on a page.” I highly recommend the Custom Made for Kids personalized children book, which also makes a great gift for favorite nephews and nieces. I’m just waiting for a personalized mom book to release!

Custom Made for Kids has offered our readers a 15% discount!   Visit their site, it’s fabulous! Coupon CODE: dmli15

No Comments | In: Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Books, Discount | tags: Custom Made for Kids, gifts, personalized books, story, the adventures of incredible you. | #

Sonny Boutique has the loveliest of gifts for mom and baby.  One of my favorites is their soy crayon rocks.  As a lover of the arts, I feel it necessary to encourage my ten-month old to begin expressing himself through coloring!

These crayon rocks are made of soy wax, grown in the US, which are non-toxic and healthier alternative to petroleum wax (used in another big crayon company).  There are sixteen shades to help your child to create his first masterpieces for hanging on the fridge!  According to Sonny, the shape of these rocks are designed to strengthen tripod grip and helpful for children with special needs.

In addition to all the wonderful benefits these crayon rocks provide they also make a very sweet décor in child’s room!

Sonny Boutique has offered our readers a 15% discount!   Visit their site, it’s fabulous! Coupon CODE:  sonny15

2 Comments | In: Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Toddler, Arts & Crafts, Discount | tags: crayon, crayon rocks, fine motor skills, rocks, soy, soy wax. | #

My son tends to be a cuddle bunny.  When the clock strikes 7:00PM I tuck him into bed.  Lately, when I have been putting him down for the night he’s been putting up a fight!  He wants more and more snuggles before my departure.  Ever since I received the Twilight Turtle by Cloud b, the sleep routine has been smoother.  It lights up the room so beautifully and creates such a comforting feeling.  My son stares in amazement at the stars on the walls and ceiling.  He slowly and calmly falls asleep-YES!  I can, thankfully, get rid of the mobile.  This Twilight Turtle is sufficient!  

There would be a few things, however, I would change.  I thought it could have been a bit sturdier or capable of connecting to something.  For the price, the Twilight Turtle could have been a bit more brawny and plush.   

The Twilight Turtle comes with three soothing color options-blue, green, and white.  When your child is old enough you can locate and describe eight different constellations.  Not only do you have a sleeping baby but a lesson in astronomy as well!  You can purchase this product for about $34. 

Luckily, Cloud b. is offering a discount to Does Mommy Love It readers!  Mention coupon code DMLI-0609 for 10% off and expires July 7th, 2009.

No Comments | In: Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Discount, Electronics, Nursery, Special Offers and Discounts | tags: bedtime, calming, constellations, night light, soothing, twilight turtle by cloud b. | #

Between diapers, cooking, cleaning, school drop-offs/pick-ups (and for some of us, homeschooling), social gatherings, and escaping to DD’s or Starbucks for that coveted cup of coffee, who has time to change the décor in the kids’ bedroom or playroom?

Peel & Stick Appliques by RoomMates for Kids is seemingly made for folks on-the-go who don’t have the luxury of time and oodles of moolah to decorate the walls. I’d imagine these would be useful for families who move around often or who maybe live in apartments where stuff can’t be nailed into the walls. Also great teachers who work in for nurseries or elementary schools!

Each package comes with a generous number of self-adhesive, pre-cut wall accents. Even better, the decals are re-usable and super easy to peel on-and-off the wall allowing you to experiment to your heart’s content. You can change it up as often (or not so often!) as you like. The decals, while thin, are pretty sturdy and can’t easily be ripped apart. So, it’s a great way for little ones to get involved in decorating their own spaces.  They have a variety of cartoon characters, safari adventures, superheroes, princesses!

My only complaint is that I’d also like to see letters sold separately, rather than having to purchase a bundle of the entire alphabet if I need more letters.

Peel & Stick Appliques by RoomMates has generously offered to give a discount to Does Mommy Love It? readers.  Take off an additional 20% off of your total order and use the promotion code MOMMY20.

Also, Peel & Stick Appliques by RoomMates hosts a DAILY SWEEPSTAKES, enter here for a chance to win free Appliques by RoomMates.

2 Comments | In: Accessories, Ages- Elementary, Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Pregnancy, Ages- Preschooler, Ages- Toddler, Discount, Nursery, Special Offers and Discounts | tags: home decor, Kids, Peel and Stick Appliques by RoomMates. | #

A little while back we reviewed the PoT-Tee Prize Pack training system.  They are now offering Does Mommy Love It? readers a $5 discount at time of order!  Visit their site and enter the code MWS at check out!  Enjoy!  Thank you PoT-Tee Prize for the great offer!

No Comments | In: Accessories, Discount | tags: PoT-Tee Prize. | #

We recently reviewed Zaida Baby- My First Keepsake designer baby book and had a contest give-away.  Because of the great response we received the owner and creator of Zaida Baby, Sandy Jamieson, has given Does Mommy Love It? readers a discount!  The discount is $20 off “My First Keepsake” if purchased before November 30th, 2008.  The keepsake code is: mommylovesit.  Visit Zaida Baby now and get your copy at this great price!

No Comments | In: Ages- Pregnancy, Books, Discount | tags: My First keepsake, Zaida Baby. | #

THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED AND THE WINNERS ARE LAURA, JUDY BRITTLE, SKY AND KEELING! CONGRATULATIONS!

“Be Curious. Be Creative. Be You.” is the mantra behind Charming Maeve. Started by a gal (Mary) who wanted more out of life than just a 9-5 job, created Charming Maeve. Maeve is a combination of “Mary” and “brave,” where she needs herself to be brave as she enters on this new venture and she prioritizes charm for her customer service. What a great name! She opened shop and created her own line of products, which include totes, tee, onesies, and etc. The unique thing about her line is that she created a line called “election” gear with witty baby/political related phrases and pictures. How timely! Her products are 100% charmingly cotton and makes you want to head to the polls. I vote…

Win it! FOUR Does Mommy Love It? readers will each win their choice of the 4 election-themed baby lap tees, which are 100% cotton and in one size 12-18mos. The four designs available are (see above, “Party Animal” (donkey), “Party Animal” (elephant), “One State, Two State, Red State, Blue State” and “Want Change”). Go visit Charming Maeve and leave a comment on this post. For additional entries:

1) Email 5 of your friends and tell them why they should check out DoesMommyLoveIt?. Be sure to COPY us on the email (doesmommyloveit@gmail.com)! Then comment stating you did so.

2) Subscribe to Does Mommy Love It? and then leave a comment stating you did so.

3) Follow us on Twitter and leave a comment stating you did so along with your twitter name.

4) Write a post on your own blog about this giveaway and comment back with the permalink to this post.

5) Grab our button and put it on your sidebar and comment with a link to your blog.

That’s 6 ways to enter! Deadline for entries is Midnight of NOVEMBER 4th, 2008.

NOTE: Shop at Charming Maeve right now because there’s free shipping on all orders until October 31, 2008.

31 Comments | In: Ages- Newborn to 1yr., Ages- Toddler, Apparel, Clothing, Contest, Discount | tags: charming maeve, Clothing, election, onesies, vote. | #