Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Luvaboos #GivLuv Pinterest Contest! Pin It to Win It!

 
One Lucky Winner Will Win a Gift of Their Choice!
From now through December 23rd, create a Gift List on Pinterest, pin your favorites and you could win the item you're wishing for the most*!
 
and get pinning!
 
*Official Rules: Contest open December 3-23rd, 2012. Valid to US residents only, Prize choice excludes breast pumps and gift cards, luvaboos reserves the right to change the contest terms at any point

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Sweet Deals on Sweet Pea Diaper Service, Rochester NY / Monroe County

We wanted to offer you something special from Sweet Pea Diapers Diaper Service of Rochester, NY!

This weekend only (11/22/12-11/26/12) take advantage of THREE Diaper Service package deals.  Mix and Match, tell family and friends for Christmas or Shower ideas or for themselves to start service!
Package #1 $259.20
  • Includes 3 Months Service (12 weeks)
  • Rockin' Green Deoderizing Shaker
  • $15 Gift Card to Luvaboos
      • Reg. Price $310.99 NOW $259.20 SAVE 51.79


Package #2 $530.40
  • Includes 6 Months Service (26 weeks)
  • Rockin' Green Deoderizing Shaker
  • GroVia One Size Cover
  • $25 Gift Card to Luvaboos
      • Reg. Price $673.98 NOW $530.40  SAVE 143.58
   

Package #3 $998.40 
  • Includes 12 Months Service (52 weeks)
  • Rockin' Green Deoderizing Shaker
  • 2 GroVia One Size Cover
  • $50 Gift Card to Luvaboos
      • Reg. Price $1,339.97 NOW $998.40 SAVE 341.57
 *Offers Valid 11/22/12-11/26/12 does not include previously purchased items or service. Thank you!

Call 585-340-6422 or stop by Luvaboos!


Luvaboos is Open Black Friday 12-5pm and
The Savings Continue on Small Business Saturday: November 24th!
 We'll be open 11am-5pm with more fun deals:
  • Purchase a Learning Tower get an Easel 50% off  
  • Spend $25 or more get a scratch off coupon for 5-30% off entire order OR free gift.
  • $100 punch on our punch pass with $50 purchase or more! 
  • Plus: enroll your eligible American Express® Card to GET $25 BACK ONE TIME WHEN YOU SPEND $25 OR MORE at a qualifying small business location on November 24th. Click here for details and to enroll your card.


Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Black Friday & Small Business Saturday Sales at Luvaboos, Rochester NY

Luvaboos of Rochester, NY is gearing up for a fun-filled shopping weekend featuring fantastic deals on some of our favorite products. Which ones? Make sure you are an email subscriber and look for our notification Thursday night for all of the details! 

Black Friday: November 23rd, Open 12pm-6pm

Take advantage of awesome deals on baby carriers, diaper bags diapers, toys, accessories and gear!  

Small Business Saturday: November 24th, Open 11am-5pm

Our popular Scratch off cards are back! Grab your favorite items and after we ring you up you can draw a scratch off card good for 5-25% off OR a free product.
 
Double Punch Saturday on our new Baby Book Cards! What does this mean??? You'll have to come in store and find out how we are going to be giving out $100's in Luvaboos Gift Cards to our families!
 
In addition to our great deals, enroll your eligible American Express® Card to GET $25 BACK ONE TIME WHEN YOU SPEND $25 OR MORE at a qualifying small business location on November 24th. Click here for details and to enroll your card.

Share the Sales and Win!

Spread the luvaboos love! For every person you forward this email to you will receive an entry into our Christmas Eve drawing for a $100 luvaboos gift card. You MUST use the "forward to a friend" button below for your entry to count! Want extra entries? Post about our sales on your social media pages, then leave us a note on our Facebook Page to let us know where we can see it. You'll get an extra entry every time you do! (Limited to one post per social media account per day, please.)

Thursday, November 15, 2012

GrandParents Event this Sunday at Luvaboos, Rochester NY

Grandparents Event this Sunday!

This Sunday we want to honor our Grandparents who took such time and care to raise us and now are pouring into our little ones! If you are a grandparent, know a grandparent or have a grandparent send them over to Luvaboos this Sunday, November 18th 2012 from 11am-5pm.

683 N Winton Rd
Rochester NY, 14609

Every toy purchase of $25 or more you will be entered into our Christmas Eve drawing for a $100 gift card to Luvaboos!

Show us a pic of those grandbabies and get 20% off one regular price item of your choice!

....plus more fun in store!

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Luvaboos (Rochester, NY) Sidewalk Sale! Tomorrow 11-5pm

A SIDEWALK SALE!  

683 N Winton Rd. Rochester, NY
(okay, it's Rochester in October so if things are not looking so hot we'll be indoors :)
Click here to RSVP via Facebook and for more details.

SUNDAY October 7th 11-5pm    
Luvaboos is excited to bring you...

SWEET PEA DIAPER SERVICE!

You can now have fresh 100% cotton diapers delivered to your doorstep each week and we'll pick up the used ones and sanitize them in our industrial grade machines.  No more worries about smell issues or not enough time to wash while working full time.  We've got you covered in all things cloth diapers.

A Sneak Peek at our Sidewalk Sale:

  • Baby Carriers (if you've been eyeing one now is the time to grab it!)
  • Toys (Green toys trucks $8 off! Melissa and doug, plan, hape and more on sale)
  • Gear (Free pair of bamboobies with every nursing bra + bag of milkmakers cookies while supplies last)
  • $5 diaper covers
  • Tons of Gently used prefolds (you know we never keep these in stock!)
  • Diapers and more!  
  • Gift Cards (Stock up for the holidays, for every $50 in gift cards purchased get $10 LuvBucks to spend in December!)
  • Diaper Service Deals (for every 8 weeks of paid service, get one free!)
We will also be clearing out some of our favorites as we prepare to go to the ABC expo (the largest Baby Product show around!) and get stocked up for the Holidays!  You know we only have these sales a couple of times a year so you won't want to miss it!  

We'd love if you help us spread the word by posting on Facebook, your blog, twitter, mom/dad groups or wherever else you think there might be families excited to shop at the Luvaboos Sidewalk sale!

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

BirthWrites Classes at Luvaboos, Rochester NY!

BirthWrites Classes on Sundays at Luvaboos!
September 30, October 7& October 14

Prenatal BirthWrites
3:00pm-3:50pm
When you’re expecting, there are so many changes taking place and so much information to process. Join us for a BirthWrites Prenatal Journaling Class and learn to navigate the amazing--and sometimes overwhelming--transformation of becoming a mother!

Motherhood BirthWrites
4:00pm-4:50pm
Have you ever wanted to record the details of your child’s birth? Come write down your birth story at a BirthWrites Motherhood Journaling Class, and take the time to reflect on how this extraordinary experience has changed your life!

To sign up for BirthWrites Classes at Luvaboos please visit Luvaboos.com and register!

For more details on BirthWrites Classes at Luvaboos in Rochester, NY please click here for more info.

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Fall Class Sessions at Luvaboos, Rochester NY! Register today!

We have a great fall session ready for you and your little one and it starts THIS WEEK! So don't hesitate.

 Most of our Rochester NY parenting classes are scheduled as 8 week sessions and they've been filling up so you definitely want to save your spot! Also, any new classes will only run if we have a 3 participant minimum so don't wait to sign up!

We have a full day of Music classes, Baby & Me Yoga, Movers and Cruisers Yoga, Prenatal/Postnatal Yoga, Baby Massage AND Movers & Cruisers massage! (You just might see baby A and Heather in that class :) And our monthly Healthy Pregnancy Class is this Saturday, Sept 8th. Can't wait to share the fun with you and your boo!

Check out Luvaboos, Rochester NY Class Schedule here and Register today!

Friday, August 31, 2012

Greentopia Festival, Rochester NY 2012

Greentopia is coming to Rochester, NY Sept 10-16th

At Greentopia, you’ll have the chance to peruse our unique marketplace of eco-friendly businesses and organizations. Everything from organic hygiene products to exuberant eco-fashion will be at your disposal. All Greentopia exhibitors and vendors are screened for their commitment to sustainable business practices using our carefully developed standards.

Date:

September 15th-16th

Time:

Saturday 10am – 7pm
Sunday 10am – 6pm

Location:

The High Falls District in Rochester, NY

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Luvaboos Bounce House Rental for Rochester, NY

Introducing Luvaboos Bounce House Rentals for Rochester, NY and surrounding areas!

Our Brand NEW Dual Tropical Combo is sure to make your Birthday Party or Event a hit!

Aruba, Jamaica, Bermuda, Bahama, these are some of the paradises that the Beach Boys describe on their way to Kokomo, and everyone gets to go there with this Dual Tropical Combo.  This Bounce House is very attractively designed with palm tree pillars at each corner and a tropical green, yellow and brown color theme.  It features a large 15'x15' bounce house with a full sized bouncing mattress, basketball hoop and slides.

Rent for a Half or Full Day.
Prices starting at $150.00

Luvaboos is excited to add Bounce House Rentals for Rochester, NY to it's great lineup of products and services.

If you have any questions about Luvaboos Bounce House Rentals for Rochester, NY please contact us at info@luvaboos.com or call directly 585-319-4981.

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Luvaboos 2012 Sumer Consignment Sale! Aug 11-12th!


It's time for our super amazing Consignment Sale!

Clean out those closets, go through your baby and childrens items and sign up to sell them at our Consignment Sale!

Don't want to sell? Then you can BUY! Save big on great gently used items.

Saturday Aug 11th
11am-5pm
Sunday August 12th
11am-5pm
(Sunday, 50% of all items marked For Discount/Reduce!)

For more details on how to sell your items click here,

https://www.luvaboos.com/Articles.asp?ID=297

and please don't hesitate to email us

info@luvaboos.com
OR
Call 585-319-4981

Please also share this event with your local friends and family!  To RSVP (not required) please visit us on Facebook here
http://www.facebook.com/events/398874133508335/

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Tonight is the School of Cloth Twitter Party! We hope you'll join us!

 Tonight is the School of Cloth Twitter Party and we're sponsoring!

Date:  Today!  Thursday July 26, 2012
Time:  9-10pm EST
Hashtag: #SchoolofCloth

RSVP and tweet with us tonight and you can win lots of cool prizes while you learn about cloth diapering!

From the totally new to the experienced, you're still bound to learn a tip or two that you didn't already know!

There are tons of cool prizes to be won!  We hope to see you there!

RSVP Here:  http://www.clothdiapergeek.com/2012/07/school-of-cloth-twitter-party-learn.html

*You must have tweeted once during the party with the #schoolofcloth hashtag in order to be eligible to win!

Monday, July 9, 2012

Why Summertime is the perfect time to invest in a Baby Carrier!

Why you should invest in a good carrier now. 

Summer is here and it is a time of year when many families will stop into the store to get a good carrier. And it is actually a great time to take the plunge if you haven't yet! Summer brings many social and outdoor activities that you can bring your baby to. Barbecues, parties, vacations, festivals, outdoor concerts, camping, hiking and even graduations and weddings. I was recently in a wedding that was attended by 2 babies in Ergos and one in a Moby wrap. And they were all so quiet you wouldn't even have known they were there and their parents didn't have to worry about a sitter or nursing.

A good baby carrier can be so freeing to enjoy these activities. Young babies will often fall asleep in the carrier easily and appreciate the closeness with mom or dad when they get over stimulated by large crowds. It is also possible to discretely nurse in most well designed carriers, which can be especially helpful when seating isn't available.

And you can't beat ditching the stroller and bulky cart seat! Strollers are a pain to push around crowded places and my boys never had much patience for it if there wasn't constant motion. I also didn't find the stroller helpful if you have older children to chase around. Try keeping up with a little one dashing around the playground while pushing a stroller! Trust me, it isn't easy.

Hiking is another activity where the baby carrier wins out over a stroller, especially if your little one is big enough for a back carry. I wouldn't say we are exactly experienced or knowledgable hikers, but we do really enjoy going on nature trials with our kids. This was actually the first time I tried a back carry, our son was 10 months and about 25 lbs. I had my Mei Tie with me and he stayed on my back happily for 3 hours while we explored local trails with some terrain that even our jogging stroller would have struggled with. And I felt great afterward! No aches or pains, actually I was in a better mood than when we started. Physical closeness with your baby really is natures mood elevator.

And don't leave out your toddler! Many baby carriers can support a child up to 45lbs on your back. A newly walking baby who is not used to being worn might object at first because but they will adjust and appreciate being with you when their little legs are tired. Babies that are used to being worn from birth will often associate the carrier with nap time, a huge help when you are out and about with a wild toddler! And it really is easier to bring a carrier with you on trips and activities than a stroller. Especially because the stroller often becomes a game with my son of in-out, in-out, and then eventually a deadly weapon when he tries to take over pushing in a crowded area. We often look at each other and say 'why did we bring the stroller'?

Keep in mind, not all carriers are created equal. A good baby carrier should support baby knee to knee to avoid hip displaysia and the wearer should feel comfortable and supported with out pulling or pinching. If you are unsure about what carriers are best or want to learn more about the benefits or proper safety, sign up for a Babywearing class at Luvaboos! We'll walk you through the different types and how to use them.

Here are some store favorites : 

  • Beco Gemini: great choice for a young or small baby. Also has the option to face the face out.
  • Beco Butterfly: goes up to 45 lbs and has an internal harness that makes it easier to execute back carry by yourself.
  • Ergo: offers a few different models and many add on options.
  • Moby and Boba wrap: Great for newborns and feeling close to your baby. Economical and versatile. Boba is a store favorite for summer because it is so lightweight in doesn't require adjustments each time you take baby in and out.
  • Mei Tai- Uses ties so very adjustable, a great 'next step' carrier to those that loved a wrap. Oh Snap! buckle version also available at the Luvaboos. 
So what are you waiting for?  Get that carrier you've always wanted!  You won't regret it!

Contributed by Michele, Luvaboos

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Cleaning Bath Toys, An eye opening experience!

My children have cute, little bathsqueezy toys that shoot water out when you apply pressure to them. They’re fun and make for a great distraction when you’re washing hair. We even have Thomas the Tank Engine toys that my three and a half year old son, Buggie, adores. The problem: That nasty black film-like gunk that will occasionally make its way out of the toy when it’s squeezed. Add to that gunk the thought that your child is probably like mine and squeezing that water into their mouth and you’ve got yourself totally skived out!
I had been toying with the idea of just throwing them away but then the thought of these plastic toys just sitting in landfills was almost as sickening as the black gunk that make an appearance in the water during bath time. I have excellent news for you; there are ways to clean those toys. Here they are:

Good ‘ole White Vinegar
White vinegar is the mother of all natural cleaners. Relatively easy and definitely void of harmful chemicals white vinegar is probably the best route to go with cleaning bath toys. Simply fill a bowl with hot water, 2 parts water to 1 part white vinegar. Let the toys soak up to 15 minutes. Once the toys are finished soaking, place the toys (water squeezed out of the squeezy toys) outside to dry in the sun.
According to a few articles I read on the Internet this should be done weekly.

Bleach: An absolute Last Resort
If the vinegar soak isn’t working to get those yucky toys cleaned then use bleach. When in doubt bleach it out! That’s what I say. To do this you’ll need to fill a gallon bucket with hot water and add ¾ cup bleach to it. Then, by using a small brush or toothbrush (one that you won’t use again) scrub off any visible signs of mold on the toys. Rinse the toys off in warm, clean water. Any toys that still have mold or mildew on them should be discarded. *Sigh! What about the landfills!?*
As a general rule be certain to squeeze out any excess water left in toys after bath time, store toys in a dry room (so not inside the bathroom) or in the bathroom with the fan kept on so that the moisture doesn’t build up. You can also wash toys in the dishwasher weekly.

Elizabeth (aka Bert) is a stay-at-home-mom and contributing writer for She Thinks Media. She lives in the Twin Cities with her husband, Ben, her son Buggie, and daughter Lady Bug.  When she's not trying to convince Buggie to expand his interests beyond Thomas the Train or put his pants back on she's writing about her experiences as a mom on her blog, First Time Mom (FTM). After all, Bert maintains there's a first time for everything, even if you  have more than one child! 

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Luvaboos of Rochester, NY asks Diapering Dads to stop by and take the I CAN Challenge!

Who IS the Fastest Daddy Diaper Changer?

To celebrate Father's Day, Cottonbabies /BumGenius is launching The CAN Challenge, a chance for the man in your life to compete for the ultimate title - The Fastest Diaper Changer!

This epic showdown between man vs. diaper will take place from June 16 to August 4 and all classes are eligible! Whether it's a proud papa, grandpa, friend, or brother, we want to put his diaper-changing skills to the test!

The CAN Challenge is a fun and unique competition designed to help broaden awareness of cloth diapers and showcase the benefits of cloth diapering to its toughest critics - men. In the end, there will only be one winner nationwide. Cloth diaper-loving men from all over will be competing for this sweet grand prize:
  • 24 Cloth Diapers (BumGenius, Flip or Econobum! You choose!)
  • BumGenius Diaper Sprayer
  • Diaper Pail and Liner
  • 24 BG Flannel Wipes
  • 1 Case of BumGenius Laundry Detergent
  • BumGenius Bottom Cleaner
  • Wetbag
Luvaboos of Rochester, NY and select other retailers around the nation are holding diaper fold-offs in their stores! Stop by with your diaper changing dude and they'll time him showing off his cloth diapering skills! For more details visit Luvaboos of Rochester's Facebook Page or I Can Event Page.

Monday, June 11, 2012

Celebrating baby's arrival with a Party just for their siblings!

Throw a BIG Brother or BIG Sister party and celebrate "siblinghood!"

My second child and only daughter, Lady Bug, will be turning one this week. It’s crazy to see how time has flown by this past year and I’m finding myself rather nostalgic. When I was pregnant with her I would often find myself looking at my oldest and only son, Buggie, feeling sad. I was sad about how I was going to change his life drastically. I was sad about how our life of three was going to change. Since I stay at home with him I was sad about the little things we did together that I knew were going to change with the birth of another child. I knew my time, energy and attention would be divided between the two of them. Expressing this sadness to a friend one day she offered perhaps the best advice that had been given to me since I got pregnant with baby number two. “Throw him a Big Brother Party,” she said. She went on to explain that when she had her second party her OB suggested the idea to her. The idea behind it is to celebrate the older sibling taking on a new stage of his or her life – siblinghood.

About a month before my due date we really started talking the idea up with our son. We told him about the cake, ice cream and presents the baby would bring him. We read him a book about being a big brother and taught him her name. He waited with anticipation for her arrival just as much as we did – although his motives were more about the cake and ice cream than it was for her!

The day came and I went into labor. Our beautiful daughter was born and Buggie was finally a big brother. After we had been home for a week we had our family members over for his party.

We had cupcakes. (I had a deal for them from one of those deal websites.)

We celebrated together out on our deck by eating those yummy cupcakes. As you can see Buggie thoroughly enjoyed his. Lady Bug was there too snuggled up on Daddy’s chest.
Then we came inside to open presents. We have been given a lot of hand me down toys from friends with older children. Frequently we stash these and will use them later depending on the quality of the toy. For his Big Brother Party we used a lot of these toys as the gifts.

One of his most prized gifts from his baby sister was an Arthur book he had been asking for.

Whatever you decide to do remember to make adding another child into the mix fun for your little one(s) because they’ll pick up on your excitement and anticipation but probably won’t be as thrilled when baby comes home and life drastically changes.

Have you done anything fun with the birth of a second, third, fourth, etc., child? What did you do?

Elizabeth (aka Bert) is a stay-at-home-mom and contributing writer for She Thinks Media. She lives in the Twin Cities with her husband, Ben, her son Buggie, and daughter Lady Bug.  When she's not trying to convince Buggie to expand his interests beyond Thomas the Train or put his pants back on she's writing about her experiences as a mom on her blog, First Time Mom (FTM). After all, Bert maintains there's a first time for everything, even if you  have more than one child! 

Monday, June 4, 2012

EIGHT Sleep Tips for Every Child, from Elizabeth Pantley, Author of The No-Cry Sleep Solution

Lack of sleep affects every minute of every day for every person in the family because lack of sleep isn't just about being tired. Sleep has a role in everything your child does and how he feels -- dawdling, temper tantrums, hyperactivity, growth, health, and even learning to tie his shoes and recite the ABCs. Sleep affects everything. The following ideas are of value to almost any sleeper, of any age. These tips can bring improvement not only in your child's sleep, but also in her daytime mood and last, but not least - improvements in your own sleep and outlook as well.

#1 Maintain a consistent bedtime and awaking time.
Your child's biological clock has a strong influence on her wakefulness and sleepiness. When you establish a set time for bedtime and wake up time you "set" your child's clock so that it functions smoothly. Aim for an early bedtime and stick to it seven days a week for the most consistently positive results.

#2 Encourage regular daily naps.
Daily naps are important. An energetic child can find it difficult to go through the day without a rest break. A nap-less child will often wake up cheerful and become progressively fussier or hyper-alert as the day goes on. Also, the length and quality of naps affects night sleep - good naps equal better night sleep.

#3 Set your child's biological clock.
Take advantage of your child's biology so that he's actually tired when bedtime arrives. Darkness causes an increase in the release of the body's sleep hormone -- the biological "stop" button. You can align your child's sleepiness with bedtime by dimming the lights during the hour before bedtime. Exposing your child to morning light is pushing the "go" button in her brain - one that says, "Time to wake up and be active." So keep your mornings bright!

#4 Develop a consistent bedtime routine.
Routines create security. A consistent, peaceful bedtiem routine allows your child to transition from the motion of the day to the tranquil state of sleep. An organized routine helps you coordinate the specifics: bath, pajamas, tooth-brushing. It helps you to function on auto-pilot at the time time when you are most tired and least creative. And a bedtime routine can be a lovely way to end each day by bonding with your child.

#5 Create a cozy sleep environment.
Where your child sleeps can be a key to quality sleep. Make certain the mattress is comfortable, the blankets are warm, the room temperature is right, pajamas are comfy, and the bedroom is welcoming. Add comforting pictures on the walls and stuffed animals nearby. Lots of kids enjoy having a small bedtime pet nearby for company - such as a fish or turtle.

#6 Provide the right nutrition.
Foods can affect energy level and sleepiness. Carbohydrates can have a calming effect on the body, while foods high in protein or sugar generate alertness, particularly when eaten alone. A few ideas for pre-bed snacks are: whole wheat toast and cheese, bagel and peanut butter, oatmeal with bananas, or yogurt, and low-sugar granola. Vitamin deficiencies due to unhealthy food choices can affect a child's sleep. Provide your child with a daily assortment of healthy foods in three meals plus several snacks for health and good sleep.

#7 Help your child to be healthy and fit.
Many children don't get enough daily physical activity. Too much TV watching and a lack of activity prevents good sleep. Children who get ample daily exercise fall asleep more quickly, sleep better, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling refreshed. Avoid activity in the hour before bedtime though, since exercise can be stimulating - they'll be jumping on the bed instead of sleeping in it!

#8 Teach your child how to relax.
Many children get in bed but aren't sure what to do when they get there! It can help to follow a soothing pre-bed routine that creates sleepiness. A good pre-bed ritual is story time. A child who is listening to a parent read a book or tell a tale will tend to lie still and listen. This quiet stillness allows him to become sleepy. Older children might enjoy listening to an audio book as they drift off to sleep.

Work with these eight ideas and you'll see improvements in your child's sleep, and in your sleep, too.
Excerpted fromThe No-Cry Sleep Solution (McGraw-Hill) by Elizabeth Pantley
Look for Elizabeth's book coming soon to Luvaboos.com!

Saturday, June 2, 2012

DIY Kale Chips! Easy, Cheap and the WHOLE Family will Love them!

I started my own raised bed gardens the summer that my daughter, Lady Bug, was born. My parents, who are avid gardeners, helped my husband and me plot out our little garden which was great. I really wanted to be successful at this whole gardening thing! The major benefit of using a raised bed garden is that you can control the soil - that's a beautiful thing when you're dealing with clay in your soil like we are. In our raised garden beds we used organic soil purchased at Home Depot. My parents use the natural soil for their garden beds and often they commented on our how veggies were fuller and healthier than theirs. It’s just something to think about when considering whether or not to plant a garden.

My dad was interested in trying a kale plant so I figured it can't hurt to try it too so we split the four plants. Kale is one of the most nutritious greens out there. According to WebMD, "One cup of kale contains 36 calories, 5 grams of fiber, and 15% of the daily requirement of calcium and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), 40% of magnesium, 180% of vitamin A, 200% of vitamin C, and 1,020% of vitamin K. It is also a good source of minerals copper, potassium, iron, manganese, and phosphorus." Kale when cooked is an excellent source of fiber and aids in lowering blood cholesterol. Anything that I can grow that's this nutritious is worth a shot!

Kale is best planted in full sun in a cooler climate. While it can withstand hotter temperatures it doesn’t thrive in constant heat. Kale is a great addition to any garden because once harvested it will produce more buds making it productive all season long.

When my kale was ready to harvest, I had a ton of kale to use and no idea how to use it. I figured that kale chips were the way to go. I found this recipe on Foodnetwork.com - Crispy Kale Chips. My husband and I loved it, my son, however, liked eating the kale raw from the garden. (Kale has a really bitter taste and I have no idea why he liked this!) I have heard from my friends that kale is excellent in green smoothies and on salads. My dad prefers to add kale to his sandwiches.

Have you tried kale? What is your favorite way to eat this most nutritious green vegetable? 


Elizabeth (aka Bert) is a stay-at-home-mom and contributing writer for She Thinks Media. She lives in the Twin Cities with her husband, Ben, her son Buggie, and daughter Lady Bug.  When she's not trying to convince Buggie to expand his interests beyond Thomas the Train or put his pants back on she's writing about her experiences as a mom on her blog, First Time Mom (FTM). After all, Bert maintains there's a first time for everything, even if you  have more than one child! 

Friday, June 1, 2012

FIVE Things you didn't know about sleep, from Elizabeth Pantley Author of the No-Cry Sleep Solution

1 - Poor sleep causes crying, tantrums, whining, and fussing.
Photo Courtesy of Elizabeth Pantley
Beyond the challenge of parenting issues involved in sleep problems - your child's sleep habits can affect every single waking moment of every single day. A sleep-deprived child is simply not as happy as one who gets adequate sleep every day. Tired children cry more often, lose patience easily, break down in tantrums more often. If you have a fussy kid on your hands take a look at the daily sleep schedule and make adjustments in naptime and bed time.

2 - One in three children wakes up at night.
As frustrating as it can be to parents, night waking is normal. All human beings wake up five or more times each night, when shifting from one stage of sleep to another. The issue, then, is not for a child to sleep all night without waking up, but for a child ro be able to fall back to sleep - totally on his own - each time he does wake up.

3 - The first five minutes of naptime reduce tiredness.
The first few minutes of a nap eliminate tiredness for the moment. If woken just after falling asleep a child can't return to sleep easily - he'll have a second wind. Yet, at least an hour long nap is important to refresh a child for the remainder of the day. That second wind doesn't last long can can easily morph into fussiness. So be on the watch for a child who nods off in the car, the stroller, or in front of the TV. A five minute catnap can prevent a child from having a long, healthy nap.

4 - Early bedtime means better sleep.
The majority of children have a natural, biological bedtime that is early in the evening. Most babies, toddlers and preschoolers respond best with a bedtime between 6:00 and 7:30 P.M. Most children will fall asleep easier at this time and then actually sleep better and longer when they go to bed earlier.

5 - A dark room and sleepy sounds bring better slumber.
Take advantage of your child's natural biology so that he is actually tired when his bedtime arrives. You can help align sleepiness with bedtime by dimming the lights in your home during the hour or two before bedtime. Also, noises in the house and neighborhood can prevent a child from falling asleep or wake him up after he's gone to bed. To mask noises and to create a strong sleep cue, use white noise, such as ocean waves or rainfall (use a sound machine), lullabies, soft music, or a radio set on a talk station.

Excerpted fromThe No-Cry Sleep Solution (McGraw-Hill) by Elizabeth Pantley

You'll soon be able to purchase Elizabeth Pantley's book at Luvaboos!  Make sure you follow us on Facebook for updates.

Monday, May 28, 2012

First Time Mom Advice from Moms who have been there!


Being a first time mom is exciting and waiting for the arrival of your little bundle of joy is one of the best parts. Then the day comes and suddenly you’re a mom. You are “in charge” of this little life. It’s overwhelming; there isn’t a question about that. There are a few things us older moms have learned along the way that we’d like to share with you.

I've taken a poll and asked friends and fellow moms to share their advice for this blog post!

Before Baby
  1. As one mom put it best: “You do NOT and will not use 90% of the items you register for and receive at your shower.”
  2. If your home is small without a lot of storage space consider borrowing some of the bigger baby items from friends like the bouncer, bassinet, jumpers, etc. Sure it’s fun to register for those items but if you don’t have space then you don’t have space.
  3. Don’t read all of the parenting books out there and be careful of some of the pregnancy books – they might scare you!
  4. If you are the kind of person who gets stressed out by having a regimented plan, don’t make a birth plan. They aren’t for everyone. And conversely, if you have a birth plan remember that anything can happen. Don’t get your heart set on something you cannot control.
  5. If you want to have a natural birth use available resources to help guide you.
  6. You do not have to listen to every woman’s horror birth story if you don’t want to.
  7. You are your baby’s mother and you are that child’s advocate. Trust your instinct.

After the baby’s born…
  1. Even if you have a vaginal delivery or a C-section, you will be sore afterwards. Follow doctor’s orders and take it easy.
  2. If you deliver in the hospital, get up and try to walk around; it’ll help with your recovery.
  3. Post partum bleeding is normal and happens for weeks. Have pads, pads and more pads around because if you use a tampon or a menstrual cup you won’t be able to after delivery.
  4. Your milk will come in a few days after your baby’s birth day. On this day you will be emotional; okay, emotional may not really describe it. Your hormones are indeed raging; it’s like getting your period times ten. It’ll pass.
  5. Have lots of nice breast pads on hand and a good working breast pump.
  6. Freeze your breastmilk! Chances are your baby will take about two ounces of milk per feeding. Pump the rest and freeze it for later. Trust us on this one.
  7. Breastfeeding is not as easy as it looks so don’t be surprised if your baby doesn’t “get it” right away. Keep at it and surround yourself with a lot of supportive women who have been there too.
  8. Skin to skin; it’s a great way to bond with your baby for both you and Daddy.

Life’s Changing
  1. Yes, your newbie baby is tiny and getting out of the house is a little more challenging than it was before BUT newborns are incredibly portable. Bring that baby everywhere and get out of the house when you feel up to it! Catch a movie with daddy and wear the baby, go out for dinner with baby, walk the mall and shop. After eight to ten weeks your baby will need a little more of a routine and quieter area to sleep in.
  2. Accept help; you don’t have to be Super Mom. None of us are.
  3. Sleep when the baby sleeps – really we mean it.
  4. Let Dad help you however he wants. If he wants to rock the baby when he gets home, feed the baby a bottle at night, or bathe baby; let him. It’s good bonding time for him and baby.
  5. Take a shower every day; you’ll feel better after a sleepless night.
  6. Fussiness peaks at six weeks (or six weeks from the due date if your baby was early or overdue).
  7. Due to number 6 above, you should do whatever you can to make the baby sleep – rock, sway, bounce, and wear. You cannot spoil a newborn.
  8. Don’t underestimate swaddling and white noise.
  9. Also if baby is really overtired, over-stimulated, or fussy and nothing is soothing, try (and this is going to sound weird) turning on a hair dryer, vacuum cleaner, or dust buster. The noise reminds them of the womb.
  10. One older, experienced mom put it best: “Sleep when you can, play when you can, have sex when you can and screw dusting.” Love it!
  11. Enjoy the snuggly moments, the late night feedings and the frequent naps. You won’t regret those one bit once baby’s older and on the move.
  12. While it’s good to be aware of post partum depression (PPD) remember that after the baby is born you will experience what’s called the “baby blues.” This is normally and usually lasts up to three weeks after delivery. That is not PPD.
  13. Be willing to accept help from family, friends, and neighbors. If you need to take a walk around the block to just breathe, ask a friend to come over and stay with the baby.
  14. The house will be messy…but they’re only babies once.
  15. After three months from baby’s birth date your hair will fall out. It’s normal, creepy, but totally normal.
  16. Adopt this mantra: It’s a phase and it’ll pass. (This pertains to pretty much ever struggle you’ll encounter from sleeping problems, napping problems, separation anxiety, feeding problems, etc.)
  17. Choose to laugh. If you don’t you most certainly will cry.
Top Three Pieces of Advice from Moms who have “been there and done that?”
  1. Enjoy how dependent your little baby is on you and love on that little one as long as you can.
  2. Don’t try to do everything on your own; accept for help and ask for it too. That’s being “mom enough.”
  3. Trust your instinct; nine times out of ten you’ll be right.

Elizabeth (aka Bert) is a stay-at-home-mom and contributing writer for She Thinks Media. She lives in the Twin Cities with her husband, Ben, her son Buggie, and daughter Lady Bug.  When she's not trying to convince Buggie to expand his interests beyond Thomas the Train or put his pants back on she's writing about her experiences as a mom on her blog, First Time Mom (FTM). After all, Bert maintains there's a first time for everything, even if you  have more than one child! 

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Breatfeeding, Natural ways to boost your milk supply.


You’ve made the decision to breastfeed your baby. You’re minding your own business and everything is fine until one day you notice that your little angel is never satisfied after nursing. Becoming worried and maybe even a little frustrated you drag out your breast pump. Despite waiting three hours to pump your results are less than what you have been able to pump before. Your fear has become a reality: your supply has for some reason taken a dip.

That was me three years ago with my son. At four months my Buggie wanted to eat every hour and a half and was never satisfied after I fed him. Worried, I looked for natural ways to boost my supply.
  • First things first – nurse, nurse and more nursing! Your body knows what to do. It works on supply and demand. If you’re able to stay home for a few days and do nothing but nurse your baby. Relax, watch TV and cuddle that little one while she helps boost your supply. This obviously would be easier said than done, especially if you only have one child, but if you can swing it why not give it a try?
  • Look at factors that may be contributing to supply. Are you taking any allergy medication? Do you smoke? Is there a lot of stress in your life? Are you eating enough? Are you staying hydrated? Are you supplementing with formula, bottle-fed breast milk or solids? These are all things that can affect milk supply. I realized that the problem with my supply was the allergy medication that I was taking. Allergy medication works by draining the mucus from your cavities (sinuses, etc.), however, the same is true of your milk ducts. At least that’s how my lactation consultant explained it to me. Once we figured that out, I stopped the medication and started using a galactagogue. What is a galactagogue?
  • Galactagogues – These pretty puppies can be herbs that naturally increase milk production but should be used as a last resort. I used fenugreek and it definitely helped boost my supply. Reader be warned though – if you take fenugreek your milk and poop will smell like maple syrup; your baby will smell like it too! Other galactagogues are blessed thistle and alfalfa. As always, and even with herbal remedies, consult with a trusted physician or lactation consultant before consuming. The herb, fennel, can be used to aid in letdown which would be good to use if you need to pump more frequently because you’re working.
  • Bring on the cookies! The web has a ton of lactation boosting cookie recipes. When looking for a recipe you’ll want to find one that includes the ingredients oatmeal, Brewer’s yeast and flax seed. Do not purchase quick cooking oats; you need the old fashioned kind. And the Brewer’s yeast? A good, hearty dark beer does help boost milk supply and Brewer’s yeast does too. As for the flax seed – buy the milled kind.

Remember, before you start fretting look at your baby: Is he satisfied after a breastfeeding session? Is he gaining weight? If the answer is yes to those questions chances are your supply is fine and there’s no need to worry.

Elizabeth (aka Bert) is a stay-at-home-mom and contributing writer for She Thinks Media. She lives in the Twin Cities with her husband, Ben, her son Buggie, and daughter Lady Bug.  When she's not trying to convince Buggie to expand his interests beyond Thomas the Train or put his pants back on she's writing about her experiences as a mom on her blog, First Time Mom (FTM). After all, Bert maintains there's a first time for everything, even if you  have more than one child! 

Monday, May 21, 2012

Write your Birth Story at Luvaboos with Motherhood BirthWrites, Register today!


MOMS OF ALL AGES:
No matter how old your kids are, this class is for you!
Partners are welcome to register as well!

WRITE YOUR BIRTH STORY AT LUVABOOS!
Motherhood BirthWrites: Write Your Birth Story

Maybe you just had your baby. Maybe you had your baby ten years ago. No matter how long ago your baby was born, you remember that day like it was yesterday. Wouldn’t you love to write down those powerful memories of your labor and birth? 

Each birth is intense, beautiful, and unique. Taking the time to relive your birth story through writing helps you to remember the many emotions, thoughts, and details of those moments that you already may have forgotten. It also gives you the opportunity to celebrate the beauty of the birth, while helping you to gain perspective on any frustrations that you may have encountered in labor. Most of all, when you write down your birth story, that astounding experience becomes a tangible, permanent keepsake to share with your children in the years to come.

No previous writing experience necessary! In all BirthWrites classes, privacy is respected. Only you will read your writing. However, if you would like feedback or to simply share your story, there's time for that as well. Journals will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Classes meet at Luvaboos, June 19 & 26 and July 3, 7:30-8:30.
Preregistration is required. Partners are welcome to register as well!


Friday, May 18, 2012

Green Toys ROCK! Durable, Fun, and most importantly they're SAFE!


I hate toy recalls. Who doesn't? There is nothing worse than finding out something your little child has been playing with, snuggling, or chewing on every day is could cause them harm. My second was born right around the time of the lead paint fiasco and we didn't feel like anything was safe, including my older sons toys we had lovingly stored away. This led us to start making more mindful choices when it came to the toys we would purchase for our children, and GreenToys have quickly become a favorite!

Let's start with the obvious reasons:
  • Green Toys are made in the US
  • they are made from recycled milk jugs (so cool!)
  • they are safe
  • the packaging is recyclable and made of recycled materials
  • every toy they make is simple, yet childhood favorites (think dishes, trucks, etc.)
  • no batteries!
  • they are top-rack dishwasher safe
  • they are gender neutral, making them a no-brainer for gift giving!
  • most durable toys we own!
I think that last point is my favorite, I have boys and things often get thrown, stood on, kicked, and suffer other violent injustices. Green toys can take it! I often tell people in the store about how my two year old constantly stands in his dump truck, and it's still just like new, (although I do not recommend this activity).

Lets talk safety, because I know the idea of safety is relative. All toys go through scrupulous third party safety testing and have no paint or coatings to rub or be chewed off. They also contain no melamine, and no traceable amounts of Phthalates or BPA. Commitment to safety is one of the cornerstones of the Green Toys company. And because they manufactured here in the US, there is no risk of harmful materials (such as lead) being used on them without the companies knowledge. Being made in the US creates jobs here and the environmental impact is lessened because they are not shipped long distances.

My favorite right now is the green toys tugboat. It even has a spout for making hair rinsing a breeze! And if it is a little less than fresh from being used in the bath, throw it right in the dishwasher and it will come out just like new! My 2 year old loves the tug boat too, but I think his favorite is the recycling truck. It seems to be a favorite of most of the kids that visit the store as well.

We just got a large shipment of them at the store, including Green Eats eco-friendly tableware for kids! The new line of tableware has all the benefits of the toys (melamine, BPA, and phthalate free) and are just as durable. My son loves the independence of having his own tableware but can not be trusted with anything breakable. I think my favorite is the big divided tray. Sometimes presentation is everything with toddlers and the little divided sections just make foods seems more interesting (a little dip never hurt either).

Do you have any Green Toys in your house?  What is your little ones favorite?

Michelle, Luvaboos

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Love Planetwise? Here's how to care for your precious Planetwise products!

I love my wet bag. It’s the ultimate cloth diaper accessory for on the go diapering. How do you care for it? Do you wash your wet bag the same way you do your cloth diapers? I looked at the washing instructions and warranty for Planet Wise Wet Bags to see just what I should be doing.

Warranty Information:
Planet Wise has a 60 day warranty on all of their products. This warranty covers malfunctions such as broken seams, zippers, stitching and/or elastic. It does not cover any fading on the fabric or stains. Snagged, torn or ripped PUL (the waterproof lining in your wet bag) is not covered by the warranty. If you need to use the warranty you must complete a form and mail the form along with the defective product back to Planet Wise.

Washing Instructions: Similar to washing your cloth diapers, Planet Wise suggestions washing the wet bag on a warm/cold cycle. They also discourage using a high speed machine as the speed and vigorous nature of the cycle has done damage to their wet bags in the past. Any kind of damage like that is not covered in the warranty.

They also discourage using any detergents that have additives and brighteners with your wet bag washes. Bleach is not recommended at all and neither are your typical natural brightening agents like baking soda and vinegar.

Drying Instructions: Line dry or low heat. Do not use a high heat cycle in an attempt to “reseal” the PUL. Planet Wise says that does not work anyway and it could cause damage to the bag that will not be covered under warranty

Contributed by Bert of the FTM Blog