Sunday, December 17, 2006

Gamewright: Games I Guarantee You'll LOVE!





I'm always on the lookout for new games I think my family will enjoy. I recently came across a company called Gamewright that has TONS of fun games with a great age range variety. The product that first caught my eye was the Original Little Hands Card Holder. My five year old loves to play Go Fish. However, he has a very hard time holding his cards, let alone organizing them! So, I usually help him, which means I know what cards he has. That sort of takes the fun out of it... Now, with the Original Little Hands Card Holder, he can do it all himself. It is an amazing product. It's no wonder why it's won several awards: everything from Dr. Toy to the National Parenting Center. We've also been addicted to Lucky Catch-The Reeling and Rolling Dice Game for 2-5 players, ages 5 and up. Lucky Catch is a fun twist on "memory" games. With the 24 cards face down, you roll the dice to see what see creature/color you must fish for. If you get a boot, you have to take it and your turn is over. The twist, you can fish from the other player's cards which are face down in front of them. Very fun! We also love the Scrambled States of America geography game (which is based on the fabulous book by Laurie Keller). What I really love about the company is the way they have their site divided into age ranges: 3 & Up, 6 & up, 8 & up and 10 & up. There's really something for everyone. You can shop online and the prices are great. Many of the card games are small boxes...Last minute stocking stuffers anyone??? Visit the site today for games for everyone on your list!

Saturday, December 16, 2006

Zolowear


Parents around the globe are experincing the convenience and security of wearing their babies. ZoloWear's carriers are truly a fabulous fashion accessory! They have styles available for everyone including Dad!

Every baby sling or pouch purchased at ZoloWear comes with a free instructional DVD that will show you all the different ways to carry your baby!

Visit www.zolowear.com

Friday, December 15, 2006

Feel Your Boobies


I ran across this site and just had to share it with my fellow swanky moms! It is a website called FeelYourBoobies.com. They sell products and apparel to raise awareness for breast cancer and promote breast examinations. In addition, a portion of the proceeds are donated to breast cancer research and education. Even celebrities, like Sheryl Crow, have been spotted wearing the "feel your boobies" tshirt!

Leigh Hurst, the owner of the site, and breast cancer survivor, would like to offer all Swanky Moms' readers a 10% discount with coupon code "TENOFF".

Check out this fabulous site @ www.feelyourboobies.com!

Thursday, December 14, 2006

Treat Their Heinies Like Royalty!




As soon as I saw the logo, I knew the My Royal Heinie diaper purse was going to be a clever product! A pair of buns wearing a royal crown, how cute is that? My Royal Heinie, a neat little diaper purse for parents on the go, is truly one of the best diaper accessories I've seen & used on the market. What's different about this product is its fabulous interior wipe dispenser. Wipes can be loaded and pulled directly from the bag (high quality pop-up wipes recommended). Simply put a stack of wipes into the interior zippered pouch and you are good to go. My Royal Heinie holds up to 6 diapers and a generous stack of wipes. But wait...there's more! It's small enough to fit inside most diaper/tote bags and has two extra compartments: an interior mesh pocket and a zippered outside pocket for diaper cream or personal items. My Royal Heinie is made to perfection. It is durable, stain resistant, and machine washable (cold/air dry). However, my favorite feature is the adjustable strap which can be used as a wristlet, shoulder bag, or stroller attachment. My Royal Heinie comes in several great color combinations & patterns, I love the "Hot Lips" - red with camo trim. This would make a great gift for any mom with Royal Heinies that still wear diapers! With a 2 year old I rarely carry a diaper bag, just the diapers and wipes. My Royal Heinie lets me do it in style. I actually use it as my purse here and there!

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

All Weather Woobee


The All Weather Woobee is a multi-functional blanket! Who knew a blanket could be used for so many things?! What makes this blanket so functional is the handy grosgrain ribbon ties on each side of the blanket so you can tie it to a stroller, carseat, carrier, etc. It is made with oh so soft fabrics on one side and a wind and water resistant fabric on the other. Use this blanket for as nursing cover-up, throw blanket at the park to protect from the damp grass, a change pad while you are out and about and, of course, for cuddling! This blanket is a must have, especially in areas that get chilly! Battle the elements in style with an All Weather Woobee!

Also available in the same yummy fabrics are the Woobee Bibs! Super stylish and yet very functional with the water resistant fabric, generous size (9.5 ”x 13.5 ”) and the handy front pocket.

Visit www.allweatherwoobee.com

Monday, December 11, 2006

gogogear: High Fashion Healthy Back



Looking for an alternative to that 40 pound back pack your little one is carrying to school? I've found the perfect solution! Gogogear is a super fabulous line of rolling bags designed to eliminate back strain caused by heavy backpacks. Swanky Mom, Katharine Marinaro is a clothing designer and mother of three. After watching her children struggle with their 2 ton backpacks, she and her husband (who happens to be a top notch chiropractor) decided they needed to create a high fashion, ergonomically correct bag for kids on the go. Hence gogogear. Gogogear bags not only look good, but they have all the bells and whistles too! Tons, of pockets, compartments, places to hold water bottles, a padded area for a laptop, a magnetic snap closure, and their signature "retractable hidden trolley handle." Gogogear bags also come with a matching lunch/accessory bag and removable speakers for an ipod or walkman. They have great designs for boys and girls. From camo to floral to retro to surf, you will be sure to find something for your favorite kiddos. Oh, and by the way, these are GREAT for moms too! Whether it's a business trip or a weekend getaway, do it in style with gogogear. Visit the gogogear site to find a retailer near you.

Thursday, December 07, 2006

Dinner Time Fun: Play While You Eat!



Want the kids to stop playing with their food? Start playing some games at the dinner table! Ok, so it might sound a little odd to play games at the table, but I'm telling you, it's great. The award winning company, Family Time Fun, has a unique product called Dinner Games & Activities. This great little "recipe-style" tin is filled with 51 quick and easy games for families to play while they eat. Designed to improve family communication, each game is printed on a sturdy, easy to read, laminated card (so spills won't destroy them). The games are easy to play, there are no gameboards or pieces, and most take just 1-3 minutes to complete. The games are designed for ages 5 and up, but even kids as young as 2 1/2 to 3 can play some of them. My boys, ages 5 & 2 1/2 LOVED virtual hide and seek. I think we've played about 100 times in the past few days! Have someone pick a "hiding" spot in the house, think of it, but don't tell. The rest of the family takes turns trying to "find" you. The games are educational; they utilize creative thinking, math, memory, vocabulary, & social skills. You can visit the Family Time Fun site for sample games and try them for yourself. Personally, I think this is a GREAT item for on the go. Many of the games can be played in the car. I have added some of the cards to my purse. When we go out to eat, I plan to whip them out before the boys get "board." Keeping them occupied keeps them out of trouble! Dinner Games & Activities would make a unique gift, fun for the whole family! Pick up a few tins today, you won't be disappointed. Stock up, until December 31, you can buy 3 and get one free!

Wednesday, December 06, 2006

Change is Strange




These are the most adorable books! The "Change is Strange" books are cute little stories for kids that help to explain the tough changes that occur when growing up!


These are the titles available:

"We're Having a Baby"

"No More Pacifier"

"Mommy & Daddy are Going on a Trip"

"My First Day of School"




Unlike any child's book I've read, these books really guide you through a personal transition and really make you feel at ease with the change, which is a great for both parents and children!! Alot of people don't know how to explain changes to their child and these books are the perfect solution! They are truly a great addition to any book collection!

If you want to make your book more personal, you can get the book personalized to include your child's name! Also, at the back of each book are helpful hints for parents! I really love these books and I definitely recommend them!

www.changeisstrange.com

Tuesday, December 05, 2006

Bath Time Must Have by 4moms





The Digital Bath Spout Cover by 4moms is a bath time must have. This unique product has Temp-Assure Technology that allows you to draw the perfect bath for your dirty little angels. The Digital Bath Spout is a cushy spout (no more worries about head bumps) that attaches with velcro to your existing spout. It is easy to install, yet hard for a child to pull off. A hole in the top gives you access to the shower diverter, but the backlit digital display is really what it's all about. A sensor reads the water temperature: not only does it give the exact temperature, but the display changes color to alert you of the water temperature as well. Blue (below 90 degrees F) means too cold, Green (90-100 degrees F) means just right, and Red, well you guessed it, too HOT! With 13 kids between the 4 of them (this includes 3 sets of twins) Elizabeth, Cindy, Kristen, & Jenn have experience and know what moms need: products that are smart and functional. Keep an eye on these 4 moms, they're up to something good! This fabulous product can be purchased online at Amazon.

Saturday, December 02, 2006

E-Z Bar: Ditch Those Training Wheels!


If your little one is getting a new bike for the holidays, this will definitely be something to purchase along with it! The E-Z Bar is a fascinating product that assists parents in teaching little ones to learn to ride that "big kid" two wheeler. No more running behind the bike thinking that your back is going to give out at any second. Think Tank Works has invented a system that works because it gives the child confidence. You have complete control while your child feels secure that you are holding them in place. According to my husband, the E-Z Bar comes with easy to understand instructions. There are 2 separate pieces, a hitch that attaches to the bike and the actual bar which attaches and releases to the hitch. You hold the handles and give your child the confidence to ride that big kid bike. They are secure and can concentrate on balance and not have to worry about falling. When you feel that they are ready, release and watch them go! Now, this doesn't necessarily mean that they will ride off into the sunset. There may be some spills and tears, but the E-Z Bar does work. We have been using it with our 5 year old for about a week and a half and it is really helping to build confidence. With more practice and the help of the E-Z Bar, he'll be off in no time. Visit the E-Z Bar site for detailed info and instructions. They have a fabulous video that demonstrates this great product. There is also a great link that provides tips on teaching a child to ride a bike. Don't just take it from me, read the testimonials: Moms and Dads everywhere should rejoice, the days of bike chasing backaches are over!

Thursday, November 30, 2006

DuneCraft: Bring Learning to Life!

The following story is true. Last week we were just about to leave for a morning at Disneyland when a large brown box appeared at the front door. My 5 year old, who loves science, wanted to see what was inside, so we quickly opened it to take a peek. It was a box full of DuneCraft treasures. As soon as he saw the Space Sand, he said, "Mom let's stay home and try this out." We still went to Disneyland, but it was the first thing out of his mouth when we got home!

Space Sand is the sand that never gets wet! Put it in a bowl of water and make underwater sculptures, then scoop it out and it is magically dry. Space sand, is used in NASA exploration classrooms. It's the closest thing to sand from from Mars. Space Sand is one of DuneCraft's Smart Tubes. There are 8 different Smart Tubes ranging from Gobbledy Goop (slime kit) to Super Snow (one tube makes more than a gallon of realistic snow). Smart Tubes would make excellent stocking stuffers for kids of all ages. In fact I think my husband would like the Gobbledy Goop!

DuneCraft also makes windowsill greenhouses like the "Banana Farm" that includes everything you need to grow your own miniature banana plants, including a monkey to watch over them! For the girly girls in your life, try out the new Fairy Triad dome terrarium kit. Complete with seed packets of clover, thyme, evening star, great blue lobelia, and your very own fairy figurine, you can create a beautiful enchanted garden. DuneCraft has several themed terrarium kits. The boys will love the Carnivorous Creations Kit which includes over 10 varieties of carnivorous plants as well as the Dragon's Lair & Dinosaur Park!


DuneCraft has won several awards for their products. They've received the National Parenting Center Seal of Approval, the Creative Child Magazine Preferred Choice Award, the Parent to Parent Adding Wisdom Award, and have been featured on shows such as Good Morning America and Live with Regis and Kelly. They're obviously doing something right! So, if you're looking for something fun to do with your family, DuneCraft is the answer. This amazing company has created products sure to please everyone. And guess what? They're educational too!

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Dreamtime Tales: Bedtime Stories for Sweet Dreams


Looking for some new bedtime stories? Dreamtime Tales has put together a unique group of stories specifically designed to relax your little ones and encourage restful sleep. The CD is designed for children ages 3-8, but I have to say it is enjoyable for adults too! It contains 7 fictional stories ranging from 8-13 minutes each. The collection includes bedtime stories filled with imaginative adventures and happy endings. My 5 year old's favorite is The Little Blue Bus, about a run down school bus that is much loved. Can it be saved or does it end up in the junk yard? You'll have to listen to find out! You can listen to some sample stories online. Dreamtime Tales is based in the UK, run by Stella Winstanley, a published author trained in journalism, radio & television. This great CD is available on the Dreamtime Tales site. They are currently running a fabulous holiday special. The CD is only $14 (US) with free worldwide shipping. This would make a great holiday gift and would also fit in a stocking! Visit Dreamtime Tales today, with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, you can't loose! If you'd like your CD for the holidays, take advantage of this great offer by December 11th so it has time to make its way to your house.

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

SMOY: The Coolest Way to Wear Your Pics





I have found what I think is the coolest accessory around! Spencer Moy owner of SMOY (first initial plus last name, clever huh?) is the designer of the SMOY photo cuff. The industrial designer who lives and works in Brooklyn, New York was inspired after 2 1/2 years of working abroad in Tokyo, Japan. Spencer returned home with the idea of the photo cuff looming in the back of his head. Tired of freelancing and temping, he decided to put his idea to life and created the SMOY Photo Cuff. These fabulous photo cuffs are available in several styles. From the Soho 4 (holds 4 photos) to the funky Chelsea (cool & sparkly) to the Kids SMOY Photo Cuff (a great stocking stuffer), you are bound to find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list. The great thing about this accessory is that you can constantly change out the photos to fit your mood... and those little index photos that come with your pictures when you have them printed fit perfectly. Right now I've got pictures of my boys in mine. I've had it for just 2 days and have received TONS of compliments (everyone from the moms at preschool to strangers at Costco). What I really love about the SMOY photo cuff is that it's a hip and unique way to show off your pictures. All SMOY products can be purchased directly from the company's website. Photo Cuff prices range between $17-$30. There is even a photo belt! SMOY products are definitely the coolest way to carry your photos.

La Baby Couture



Jazz up the nursery with a Wipie Couture case! You can buy these fabulous cases individually or as a gift set! They are SO beautiful! What a wonderful baby shower gift! I don't know a swanky mom out there that wouldn't be proud to pull one of these travel cases out of her diaper bag! I'm sure everyone would want to know where to get one! A very stylish and functional gift! La Baby Couture's Wipie Couture Cases are "so swanky" and definetly get our swanky approval!

Visit www.lababycouture.com

Pondur


Wear your inspirations with the Pondur line! They carry tees for everyone in the family! They also have some cute onesies and hats! Some of the sayings are:

"my footprints may be small but my dreams are big"

"what would you do if you weren't afraid?"

"so many places to see, so many things to do, so many dreams to come true..."

"my possibilities are endless.."

"all men are created equal; then the competition begins"



Also, Pondur is offering free shipping on orders over $75 for the holiday season, just put in the code "happy holidays"! Give the gift of inspiration to your family and friends!

Visit www.pondur.com

Thursday, November 23, 2006

Medibag: Kid Friendly First Aid



The Medibag, made by Me 4 Kidz, is a top of the line first aid kit designed specifically for kids. Owner and creator, Richelle Nassos, was inspired after her son was stung by a bee. How great to have the sting relief with you if you need it, right? The Medibag is fabulous on so many levels. It contains 117 items and provides you with all the things you need for life's bumps, bruises, cuts, scrapes, splinters, and other miscellaneous ouchies. The kit comes organized in a hard plastic "medical bag" (so nothing gets damaged) and also includes an informative first aid flip chart. The Medibag contains unique items not found in most first aid kits, such as a one time use eye wash, burn relief gel, a one time use thermometer, sting relief gel, and my favorite FUN bandages and happy face stickers. Stickers always make you feel better! Everything is latex free and hypoallergenic, so no worries on that end. You even get a postcard offer for a 45 item free refill kit (just pay the $4.95 shipping). The Medibag would make a fabulous gift for any occasion. I think everyone needs at least two of these. One at home and one in the car. It would also be great for sports team moms/dads, keep one in your motor home, take one on vacation, keep one in the boat... I could go on and on. Just keep one handy! Visit me4kidz today, they have their retailers and e-tailers listed. $19.95 seems to be the average price with most e-tailers on the site. With a satisfaction guarantee from the company, how can you go wrong!

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Blankee Boo from Lillaboo


Check out these luxurious blankets from Lillaboo! Choose from a wonderful selection of funky, stylish prints, which are backed with a super soft cream minky dot fabric! Your baby will love this blanket for it's fabulous texture and vibrant colors!!

Lillaboo also carries a trendy little Bag-a-Diaper which we previously reviewed. They also carry a very trendy line of laminated bibs!

Visit www.lillaboo.com for the trendy baby in your life!

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

SafetyCaps: Simple and SMART Safety




Created by a very Swanky Dad, SafetyCaps are a smart alternative to the "standard" outlet plugs on the market today. "Chief Safety Dad" George DeCell was driven to design a safer option for parents after he experienced his daughter choking on a traditional outlet plug. After studying regulations currently in place for pacifier manufacturers, George had a revelation: He would design a plug that would not fit in a young child's mouth. A "standard" outlet plug is 1 3/8" wide, while the Safety Plug is 2 1/4" wide. I have to say, when I first saw the product, I thought it was fabulous. When my son was little he used to put EVERYTHING in his mouth. In fact, I used to paranoid while vacuuming, "Where did I set that plug?" With SafetyCaps, choking is not an issue. Just don't forget to put them back in the outlets when you're done!!!! SafetyCaps are also very affordable. They come in packs of 12 for just $2.97. Switch out your old outlet plugs for SafetyCaps today!

Monday, November 20, 2006

Sexy Hair

Do you want sexy long hair?! Do you ever wonder how the celebrities go from short to long fabulous locks so fast? Well, you have to try Hair Do! It was invented by Jessica Simpson and her stylist Ken Paves! You will not be disappointed!

I bought these hair extensions from Boutique To You in brown with blonde highlights and it matches my hair perfectly and was super easy to put in! Hair Do is a simple clip-in system that works fabulously on any hair! People will not know you are wearing them and they will stay in place all day! I LOVE my extensions and will definetly be back for more!

Hair Do is a definite "must have" for a Swanky Mom!

Click on the link below:



Use coupon code "swankymoms" for 10% off!!!

Angelica Grace Designs



This is a "must have" outfit for this holiday season! It is a custom design by Angelica Grace Designs. The tshirt is customized for you, with To: and From: and the pants are adorned with HO, HO, HO and beautiful presents all over! Your little girl with be the hit of the party in this one! Available in sizes 2T - 8!

Great for Christmas pictures too!



For more custom couture designs from AGD, check out their website:

www.AngelicaGraceDesigns.com!