A Green Surprise from Citrus Lane

I love surprises...the good kind. There is something exhilarating about opening a package of unknown wonders. No matter how big or small the box, I cannot wait to open and see what's inside. Subscription boxes certainly afford that excitement over and over again. Whatever the contents and whoever it's for, I've realized that subscription boxes are so much fun.

Babywearing Abroad with BobaAir

We recently took a trip to the Philippines and it was quite an adventure. My last trip was years ago, long before I had two kids in tow. Since luggage space was limited, I could only bring a few selected baby gear. One of the best things we brought with us was the BobaAir. This is a wonderful baby carrier for parents who will be travelling.

A Naturally Clean Wash with TotLogic

I enjoy finding new products for the whole family, especially ones that are eco-friendly. I know that at some point I have to stop buying or trying new personal care products, but I just can't help myself. You know what I mean - You see a new natural shampoo or organic body wash on the market and wonder how it will compare to your favorite brand. The kids recently tried totlogic® and I really liked it.

BeginAgain™ Eco-friendly Dinosaur Puzzle

As the holidays inch closer, malls get busier and stress levels rise. This year, my holiday gift guide focuses on gifts that do more than just amuse and entertain. The theme for my guide is Introducing Green to Others. In the next couple of weeks, I will be featuring gifts that are fun and engaging for kids, and most importantly, create eco-consciousness for the gift giver and parents alike.

My Favorite No Fuss Stretchy Wrap For Infants

Next week is International Babywearing week. This time last year, I had written a post briefly explaining the different types of baby carriers. After my disappointing experience with our first baby carrier, I was determined to find a carrier that was better for my body and baby. I decided to try a stretchy wrap after seeing a few of them around. I'm so glad I did.

Eco-friendly Disaster Kit for Baby (National Preparedness Month)

In preparation for National Preparedness Month, I've had to make several emergency kits for our family. I'm really glad that this is an annual campaign since our family circumstances have changed since last year. This year, we have a baby who's needs we have to take into consideration for our emergency kit. In addition to our standard disaster kit, I have prepared one specifically for Little B.

itti bitti Minkee Change Mat Review

After a year of not changing diapers, I am back to it again. I was so glad when my first son was finally potty trained because my diaper bag became considerably lighter. Now, with cloth diapering the baby, my diaper bag is huge. The good thing is, it's filled with cute cloth diapers and accessories. Never in my wildest dreams would I think to change a diaper on a minkee change mat, but I have. That's the thing with discovering cloth diapers, there's this whole new world of baby products that I have yet to explore.

Baby Shower Gift Ideas: Etsy Finds

While browsing through Etsy, and I could spend so much time on that site, I found some items that would make great baby shower gifts for mamas (new and veteran). As a second-time mom, I thought I had everything I needed for the new baby. I thought I had figured out what worked for us as parents in raising an infant through preschooler, and what products just collected dust or eventually ended up in a box in the garage. It turns out, there are tons of products out there that I have yet to discover. A couple of these gift ideas may seem like they are only for the crunchy mama, but not so. I think these gift ideas are pretty universal, not to mention cute. So here they are, my favorite baby shower gift ideas á la Etsy. Mind you this is not an exhaustive list, just the start.

Flap Happy® Hat Review (Sun Safety Series 2012)

When my son was younger he didn't like to wear hats. I didn't want to force him to wear them and hoped that he would eventually take to them. This past year, he decided that he likes wearing hats after all, to my relief. Hats are a great way to protect your face and neck from the sun. We own several types of hats from baseball caps to bucket hats. It's definitely more than a fashion statement, it's about sun protection.

Baby Banz Chlorine Resistant Suit Review (Sun Safety Series 2012)

Summer is right around the corner and water activities will abound. My oldest son loves playing in the water and I have no doubt that the baby will too. Of course, being out in the water and under the sun means diligence in sun protection. In search for products to spotlight for the Sun Safety Series 2012, I found Baby Banz.

EcoGeek Boutique™ Review (Celebrate the Earth)

Living a green lifestyle is often a private affair. Whatever we do, we do at home, sometimes at work, but very rarely do we let the world know that we are eco-conscious. We don't walk around with a sign that says "I recycle," well, not me anyway. As much as I believe that actions speak louder than words, I do think a cute graphic tee may be subtle enough to let everyone know that I am an environmentalist. I found just the tees that I was looking for at EcoGeek Boutique™.

Super Baby Food Review (National Nutrion Month®)

As a first time mom there were a couple of things that I was determined to do: breastfeed and make my baby's food at home. The idea of making food for my son did not occur to me until I received Super Baby Food as a gift during my baby shower. I grew up watching relatives feed cousins, nephews, and nieces baby food that came in a jar. I had no idea that you could make your own baby food. I mean, why not, right? Adults create meals from scratch for everybody else in the family, why not the most vulnerable and food-sensitive member?

SIDS Awareness Month: CJ Foundation Feature & Aden + Anais® sleeping bag Giveaway

Founder Raegan Moya-Jones established aden + anais® to create swaddling blankets that were not just beautiful but also multi-functional and met her standards. Along with the swaddle, aden + anais® offers a variety of products such as blankets, bibs/burp cloths, sleeping bags, and towels/washcloths. Since its inception, aden + anais'® award winning products have been celebrated and recommended by parents worldwide. aden + anais® is a proud partner of the CJ Foundation for SIDS.

SIDS Awareness Month: Swaddle Duo™ Giveaway

SwaddleDesigns® founder Lynette Damir, a registered nurse, discovered that parents struggled with swaddling and were unable to find the perfect size blanket. SwaddleDesigns® was the first company to introduce large square swaddling blankets in the US and worldwide in 2002. The company is known for the innovative 123 Swaddle® instructional label that helps new parents master the art of swaddling. In addition to swaddling, their blankets are great as a nursing cover for breastfeeding moms, a tummy time play mat, and a stroller cover. 

International Baby Wearing Week: Babywearing Basics

Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress.

The theme for this year's International Babywearing Week is A World of Possibilities. From October 6-10, 2011, Babywearing International (BWI) and  babywearing advocates worldwide are celebrating and promoting babywearing.

What is babywearing?
Babywearing is a hands-free way of carrying your baby. It typically requires some type of cloth to fasten your baby close to you. Babywearing has been done by mothers for centuries all over the world and many parents continue to do so today.

What are the health benefits of wearing your baby?
A research study by Anisfeld and colleagues showed that increased physical contact between infants and mothers increased maternal responsiveness and secure attachement.(1) Another research study showed that increased carrying reduced crying in infants.(2) An article on ChildrensMD sites other studies which suggest that carrying your baby and keeping close physical contact has health benefits for the mother as well such as improved breast milk production and breastfeeding. Other health benefits for the baby includes promotion of neurobehavioral and language development and decreased plagiocephaly or flat head.

LLN Spotlight: Baby K'tan®

Baby K'tan® is the brainchild of two families raising special needs children. The combined efforts of forging together the best of the wrap and traditional front carrier lead to a product that was comfortable, easy to use, stylish, and most of all, met the needs of their children. In addition to providing a quality product that parents love and trust, Baby K'tan® donates a portion of their sales to the American Heart Association and National Down Syndrom Society. The company also contributes to various other charities and is heavily involved in service to their community.

Social Networks

Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

About Baby K'tan® baby carrier
The Baby K'tan® baby carrier is a soft cotton carrier that functions as a wrap but with a unique design that foregoes a complicated wrapping and buckling process. The stylish carrier allows parents to wear their baby close in multiple positions like any standard wrap. It's ergonomic design provides comfort for the wearer and can hold babies up to 35 pounds. The Baby K'tan comes in a variety of sizes, from XS to XL and colors. It is machine washable and dryer safe. Parents rave about this award-winning carrier.

Photo courtesy of Baby K'tan.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. The company is generously sponsoring this giveaway. Information about the company and product were obtained from the sponsor's website. I received permission to post trademarked brand/logo and photos on my blog.

ABE 2.0 Sponsor: ERGObaby©

SPONSOR

ERGObaby© is a company that had its roots when designer and owner Karin Frost created a carrier for her son. Through the years, ERGObaby© has become globally recognized as a leading manufacturer of baby carriers and supporter of babywearing. In addition to baby carriers, ERGObaby© also offers information on attachment parenting, babywearing, parenting resources, and publishes its very own e-magazine. Through constant communication with their consumers, ERGObaby© continues to develop products that meet the needs of active parents.

Social Networks

Facebook, Twitter

About ERGObaby© baby carriers
ERGObaby© baby carriers are beloved by both moms and dads. This highly rated carrier is versatile, allowing parents to wear their baby in four different ways: front, side, and 2 ways in the back. Comfortable, convenient, and well made, these baby carriers have adjustable shoulder and waist straps to fit parents up to 6'5'' (Original carrier). Baby wearing can begin as early as infancy with the use of the infant insert (optional accessory). The carriers are available in a variety of styles and designs, from Sport to Organic. In addition, there are many accessories to supplement the baby carrier that fits any parent's busy lifestyle. With an ergonomic design that allows parents to keep their baby close, it's no wonder that this award winning carrier is acclaimed by parents worldwide. 

Photo courtesy of ERGObaby©.

Photo courtesy of ERGObaby©.

ABE 2.0 EARLY ENTRY

Prize
ERGObaby© baby carrier of your choice (excluding Petunia Pickle Bottom® line)

Rules

1. Open to US residents, 18 years and older.

2. Early entries are optional.

3. You must come back to this blog during A Blogtastic Extravaganza 2.0 to enter the actual giveaway.

4. If you do early entries but do not enter the actual giveaway, your early entries will not be valid.

Timeframe 

August 8 - 16, 2011.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. The company is generously sponsoring this giveaway. The opinions expressed in this post are solely mine. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. I received permission from the sponsor to post their trademarked brand/logo on my blog. Facebook is not associated, in any way, with this giveaway.

GIVEAWAY: Angel Dear & Cupcake Baby Gift Pack

SPONSOR

Little Dudes & Divas is an online retailer based in New York. They specialize in designer clothing, gear, and accessories for babies that parents trust and love; brands like Aden & Anais, Angel Dear, Itzy Ritzy, and Oi Oi. Through the years, Little Dudes and Divas has become a go-to source for diaper bags. They also offer accessories for parents like nursing covers for mom and diaper bags for dads. Among their many services for customers, Little Dudes and Divas has a Deal of the Day which offers 1 product at a discounted price, a blog, and a forum where customers can discuss topics. Additionally, for those needing advice on what diaper bag is the perfect fit for them, they offer a friendly and personal shopping experience via the phone or email.

Social Networks

Blog, Forum, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

About Angel Dear

From blankets to onesies, Angel Dear products have a sophisticated design made with special attention to details. Angel Dear creates products using ultra soft materials made especially for the needs of a baby's tender skin. That's why celebrity babies are seen with their favorite Angel Dear products around town. The company is committed to bringing quality products that babies and parents can indulge in.

About Cupcake
Cupcake mini blankets are as soft as they are cute. They're the perfect size to bring out of the house. There are 5 animals to choose from. These mini blankets will sure be a favorite with mom and baby, alike.

GIVEAWAY - CLOSED

Thanks to Little Dudes and Divas for sponsoring this giveaway. Feel free to leave a comment to remind yourself that you entered this giveaway.

Disclaimer: Although I am an affiliate of the sponsor, I was not compensated for this post nor will I receive any financial compensation from your entry. All information about the product presented in this post were obtained from the sponsor's site. Facebook is not affiliated with this giveaway.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Sun Protection Zone SunSkinz (US) 5/29

SUN SAFETY SERIES

There are several ways of protecting children from the sun's damaging UV rays including applying sunscreen, staying under the shade, and wearing protective gear (clothes, hats, sun glasses). For my Sun Safety Series, I've reviewed several products that my family just love; from sunscreens (TruKid™, Episencial®) to shelters (Quick Shelter). Another product we love offers sun protection that doesn't wash off. This company created swimwear that is both fashionable and offers broad spectrum protection.

PRODUCT

Manufacturer

Social Networks

Facebook, Twitter

Materials

High-density yarn

Made In

Mexico

Product

SunSkinz Long Sleeve Suit

SunSkinz Long Sleeve Rash Guard

SunSkinz Shorts

Price

$15 - $25

MY THOUGHTS

Design

Both the Long Sleeve Suit and Long Sleeve Rash Guard are comfortable to wear and allow for movement. He doesn't wear the Shorts because they fall off. The slim elastic is not very tight and doesn't provide support. Did I mention the cute designs? I love the orange Long Sleeve Rash Guard with the turtle. What's nice about the one piece is that there are snaps which allowed for easy diaper changes.

Durability

Maintenance is easy, just throw in the wash and hang to dry. 

Functionality

I discovered Sun Protection Zone during a Costco Roadshow. At first I was hesitant about buying it because my son already had a couple of swimsuits, but was glad I did. My son loves the water. We have a pool, live near a lake, and the beach is 15 minutes away. Trying to get him away from the water long enough to reapply sunscreen is sometimes challenging. I didn't have to worry about that when he wore his SunSkinz. As their tag line suggests, it's protection that doesn't wash off. Yes, I still reapplied sunscreen on his legs and face, but at least it's not the whole body - toddlers are so impatient. SunSkinz offers 100 SPF/UPF 50+ Maximum Broad Spectrum UV Protection and functions in chlorine and salt water. I would definitely recommend this product to parents. 

Safe

We have not had any safety issues with these products.

GIVEAWAY

Prize

A SunSkinz swimwear of your choice.

Rules

1. Open to US residents, 18 years and older. 

2. You must complete the mandatory entry before the extra entries. Failure to complete the mandatory entry disqualifies all of your entries.

3. Leave a separate comment for each entry.

4. If you are selected, I will verify all of your comments. If I can not verify your comments, I will choose a new winner.

5. The winner will be selected by random.org and notified by email. 

6. The winner will have 48 hours to reply back before a new winner is selected. 

7. Giveaway sponsor will be responsible for shipping prize to the winner.

Timeframe 

Giveaway ends May 29, 2011.

Mandatory Entry

Visit the Sun Protection Zone website and comment on what product you would choose if you won.

Extra Entries

Keep in touch with Just Another Hat (1 entry per method)

Google Friend Connect (Follow button on the right sidebar) 

Email - only a confirmed subscription will count

Facebook - include your first name and last initial; only "likes" from personal accounts will count because a page "like" does not affect statistics

Twitter - include your username

Spread the word about the giveaway (1 entry per method)

Blog, Twitter, Digg, Stumble (Sharing is Caring button at bottom of post)

Note: Please include the permalink in your comment. Feel free to use the sample below. Please do not post on your Facebook wall. Facebook has a rule against posting on your wall as an entry to contests.  

@JustAnotherHat #giveaway: #win a SunSkinz #swimwear of your choice (US) - ends 5/29. Sponsor: @SunProtectZone http://tinyurl.com/3k3obnz

Enter my other giveaways (1 entry per giveaway)

Show some sponsor love (1 entry per method)

Facebook, Twitter

Good luck!

Thanks to Sun Protection Zone for sponsoring my giveaway.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. The products I reviewed were purchased by my family. The sponsor is providing the winner with the prize. The opinions expressed in this post are solely mine. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. Facebook is not associated, in any way, with this giveaway.

REVIEW: Episencial Protective Face Balm & Soothing Cream

SUN SAFETY SERIES

A while back, I posted a review of the Episencial® Sunny Sunscreen. Now, I have the pleasure of sharing two more products from this awesome company for my Sun Safety Series. 

PRODUCT

Manufacturer

Social Networking

Facebook, Twitter

Product

Protective Face Balm

Soothing Cream

Active Ingredients

Protective Face Balm: Zinc Oxide

Soothing Cream: Oat Kernel Extract

What you won't find: synthetic additives  

Made In

US

Price

Protective Face Balm $5.99/0.75oz

Soothing Cream $10.99/4oz

Current Promotion

Episencial® is partnering with Dermstore.com in an effort to spread the word about Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Get 15% off all Episencial® products with the purchase of Episencial® Sunny Sunscreen! Use Promo code: DSSUNNY. This offer is valid from May 16-23 only.

MY THOUGHTS 

Design

Similar to the Sunny Sunscreen, the Protective Face Balm and Soothing Cream were easy to apply, not thick or greasy. Both have a very faint fragrance, but nothing noticeable after application.  My son and I used the face balm on our lips, and you do have to rub it in a little bit so that you don't see a residue. As an Eric Carle fan, I love all the packaging for Episencial® products. My son noticed the caterpillar right away on the soothing cream and face balm tubes. I think that seeing the caterpillar made him excited to try the products. In addition to oat extract, the soothing cream has calendula; it's my number one trusted ingredient for treating my son's rashes. Although designed for dry, itchy, irritated skin, the cream can also be used soothe after sun exposure.

Functionality

I used the Sunny Sunscreen on my son's face and used the face balm on his lips. I have been looking for a natural lip balm for my son and was glad to have this to try. He kept licking his lips after I put it on (I've tasted it, it's not flavored), since this product is made from all natural ingredients, I was not concerned at all. I also used the face balm on my very chapped lips. After about 48 hours of use, on and off, my lips were once again smooth. Unfortunately for my son, he got a very mild rash on his bottom. We've been using briefs for potty training for the last few weeks, so it's not a diaper/pull-up rash. Whatever it was, it was gone after 1 "treatment" of the soothing cream. I am a fan. 

Price

These are a bit pricey, but definitely comparable to other natural, organic products on the market. 

Safety

We have not had any safety issues with this product. Both my son and I have tasted the face balm and no reaction.

GIVEAWAY - CLOSED

Thanks to Episencial® for sponsoring my giveaway.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. I received the products for review purposes. The opinions expressed in this post are solely mine. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. I received permission from the company to use their trademarked brand in my blog. Facebook is not associated, in any way, with this giveaway.