Happy New Year!

As I don't expect to be near a computer for the next several days, I wanted to wish everyone a Healthy and Happy New Year!

This blog will be experiencing some exciting changes in the new year, including some guest blogging from some very special mom and mom-to-be bloggers! So be sure to check back soon for more information.

And if you have any suggestions for what *you* would like to see and read on my blog in 2009 please don't be shy. Just email me and let me know! Or just leave a comment!

Friday Morning Links...

LilSugar wants to know: Would you Have a Mommy Makeover?

This hilarious and heartwarming holiday photo from The Poop made me smile.

Looking for some family-friendly Hanukkah recipes? Epicurious has got you covered. Or try their Fast Hanukkah Favorites if you're pressed for time.

If you've just had a baby then forget about surviving the holidays (you can and you will). Instead focus on Surviving the First 6 Weeks with your new baby. FitPregnancy has some helpful tips for new parents.

Beautiful New High Chair from PALI

I've fallen in love with a new high chair. It's the Pappy Re High Chair from PALI.

I love that it treads the line between modern and traditional high chair design. The streamlined style and light wood construction are definitely modern, yet the rounded shape and generous food tray (sold separately) give it a more traditional look.

Use the food tray at feeding time or pull the high chair right up to the table. A simple, cute teddy bear cutout makes it easy to pick the chair up and move it as needed.You can also adjust the foodrest to ensure the perfect fit as baby grows.

Basically you can have a more traditional high chair that still looks modern and sophisticated. And with 6 finishes to choose from (Natural/Lime, Natural/Pumpkin, Liquorice, Natural/Berry, Natural/Sunflower and White) you're sure to find the one that's just right for your home. That's the kind of compromise I like!

Friday Morning Links...

Different companies have different rules about what you can and can't wear to work. But what about wearing your baby? Rebekka at TheBabyWearer.com has some helpful tips if you're considering giving it a try!

Looking for the perfect gift for a new mom...or maybe for yourself? Diaper Bag Boutique is offering Amy Michelle diaper bags at 20% off from now until the end of December. This is an exclusive promotion and there are no promo codes or coupons necessary. A festive bag (like the Gladiola in Red Patent Leather, shown) makes a pretty and practical holiday gift.

Parenting.com helps keep things in perspective with this year's Stinky Diaper Awards.

The holidays plus baby plus two tired parents (not to mention a floundering economy)can equal one very stressed out marriage/partnership. FitPregnancy.com offers some tips on how to keep your relationship intact.

Holiday Gift Ideas: K's Kids

Looking for just the right baby or toddler gift this year? K's Kids is one brand that takes play time very seriously.

These colorful toys are specially developed for babies and toddlers and each toy undergoes numerous tests and certifications to make sure it's completely safe for the age range it is for. The K's Kids product development team even includes psychologists, child development experts and parents to help make these toys the very best for baby.

Their hard work hasn't gone unnoticed. The concepts created by K's Kids have been highly recognized by the toy industry, winning a number of world renowned toy awards. Parents and babies--the real judges--love these toys, too. The first K's Kids toy was launched in 1997 and was so well received that in less than five years' time K's Kids products are selling in over 50 countries!

Like I said, these guys are just playing around.

There's so much for parents to love and babies to explore packed into each and every toy. For the holidays I really like the Alexander Shape Sorter. Just right for babies 18 months and up, this sweet dog keeps growing! By correctly matching the right shape and color of the parts Alexander becomes a long, colorful sausage dog. This toy gives little hands a lot to do while also providing a soft friend.

Shop Toys and Games Online to find the baby toy that's perfect for the little one in your life!

Friday Morning Links: A Rose By Any Other Name...

Here are your Friday links to give you a much-needed, non caffeinated boost! I've got baby names on the brain in case you couldn't tell...

Cookie Magazine talks about the difficulty in finding the perfect name for baby in a world jacked into the world wide web at all times...

The New York Times reports on how politics can inspire baby names! (At least with 'Jennifer' there were a lot of nicknames to differentiate the girls in my class...what nicknames are there for Barack?)

Parenting Magazine has some sweet advice on how to help baby learn that perfect name (once you pick it out).

Reuters reports that in 2008 traditional names were the most popular.

Have fun with Nameberry and find that perfect name! (Apparently people with my name join online support groups! Now that explains a few things...)

Friday Morning Links...

Happy Friday, everyone! Here are some great links to get your day started.

This morning BBC News reported that new research suggests the direction of your stroller can affect your baby's development.

Still trying to figure out the right side dish to make for Thanksgiving? Parenting.com has some great, stress-free recipes to help you out!

Hate ironing as much as I do? Then you might want to put Brooks Brothers' Non-Iron Miracle Shirt at the top of your holiday wish list. Kristen at Celebrity Baby Blog, a stay-at-home mom herself, explains why this shirt is worth the hefty pricetag.

The New York Times reported Thursday on the current vaccine shortage for invasive Haemophilus influenzae type B for children under age 5.

Why wait for Black Friday? Start you holiday shopping now from the comfort of home. All Modern Baby has a wide variety of eco-friendly toys that will make you and baby smile.

Motrin Makes Moms Mad

So what do you think of the recent and controversial Motrin ad that's been whipping moms into a frenzy? Check it out now before it's pulled from the internet. Motrin has already issued an apology and has promised to remove the ad as soon as possible.

Motherhood Uncensored was just one of the many moms who spoke out against this ad via the internet. As USA Today reported, this was a hard lesson in online social networking for Motrin ad execs.

You can watch Motherhood Uncensored's spoof video here.

What do you think? Which one makes a better ad?

Does this post need a title?

I think this fetus-shaped cookie cutter needs no introductory title. I found these cookie cutters slightly disturbing but mostly hilarious.

Just imagine them spread out on a tray beside the fresh fruit and herbal tea at your next baby shower! Funny, right? A great alternative to "diaper cakes" (note: I am against anything called a cake which is not actually edible and covered in frosting) and games involving melted candy bars, right?
Or, maybe not? Maybe they are a little creepy and largely in poor taste. Besides, would anyone actually eat one??

What do you think? It's Friday afternoon...my mind is wandering...and I can't decide!

One thing I do know for sure: I'm still not a fan of that dirty diaper baby shower game involving melted candy bars. Moms already deal with enough dirty diapers in their lives. It doesn't become any more fun by calling it a "game".

Friday Morning Links...

Setting up a kids' table this year? Martha Stewart's got a cute idea for making the table festive and kid friendly. I'd even use these finger pupper favors for the grown ups table!

Stressed about holiday travel? Cookie Magazine has some holiday travel tips that will help things go as smoothly as possible. Now if they only knew how to control the weather...

Are you longing for the days when what you eat only affects you and no one else? Commiserate with Motherhood Uncensored as she recounts her latest breastfeeding frustrations.

Need a boost of cuteness to jumpstart your Friday morning? Listen to Capucha the French girl tell a story as only litte kids can, courtesy of LilSugar.

New Bedding from Glenna Jean and Sweet Potato

Happy Friday! I'm happy to report that Glenna Jean and Sweet Potato by Glenna Jean both have new crib bedding. I like the way both of these crib bedding lines seem to conceptualize the entire nursery when they design their bedding. From the quilt to the mobile to the accent pillows to coordinating stuffed animals, these lines make it easy to pull together a designer nursery.

Glenna Jean has added 12 new collections! Some collections feature sweet pastels while others boast playful animal prints. But a couple collections really stood out for me. I love the Zelda Collection (shown) because it mixes a preppy black and white polka dots, stripes, and florals with bright bursts of color for a classic yet modern look.

Wavelength is another collection I love. It's a got a funky, retro feel and the green and brown color combination is low key enough to blend into the rest of your decor.

Sweet Potato has added two new collections: Milo and Lulu. Both are great, but my favorite is Lulu. It's a cute combination of green and purple with graphic flowers--great for parents who don't want their daughter's nursery to be "too pink" or "too girly."

You can check out all the Glenna Jean and Sweet Potato collections at CSN Baby!

Friday Morning Links...

Here are some great reads that caught my attention this morning:

A reflective and honest post on the first few weeks of motherhood from Motherhood Uncensored.

A new study has found a possible link between depression during pregnancy and premature deliveries, according to the New York Times.

lilsugar asks: would you want to be able to choose your baby's gender?

Baby Halloween Costumes: Do or Don't?

As you all know, Halloween is tomorrow! So what I really want to know is: do you have a super cute costume for your baby or are you going to wait until he or she is older?
There are some obvious benefits to dressing up your baby for Halloween: the cuteness factor (of course), the photo opportunities, and yes, let's just admit it--the chance to show off how absolutely adorable your baby is! But not everyone thinks that this is a great idea. Erin at Mom Logic wrote a hilarious diatribe against baby costumes.

And a couple days ago Peter from one of my favorite blogs, The Poop, talked about what to do when kids won't wear their costumes. That's a tricky one because you've spent the time and money on the costume (hunched over the sewing machine or braving costume shop crowds--neither are what I consider a fun time). But really, at some point you just have to give up right? Is a cute photo op worth a potential temper tantrum?

Well, if you're on the fence over this issue then I suggest a compromise. Some baby rompers strike just the right balance between comfy baby clothes and costume. Sleeping Partners has an adorable layette set that's just right for Halloween and the entire fall season. It's the Four Piece Pumpkin Layette Set from their Itty Bitees Collection. (FYI: They've got some really cute Christmas rompers, too!)And the nice thing about a Halloween themed romper is that it can be worn all season long, so you're sure to get your money's worth.

The Perfect Stroller for Trick or Treating

Halloween is only 1 week away!!Once the frenzy of putting the costumes together is over, it'll be time to march around the neighborhood for some treats. If you've got a baby and a toddler making the rounds this year then you'll love Joovy's Caboose Ultralight Stroller. At 21 lbs, its surprisingly lightweight and sealed ball bearings make it easy to maneuver, too. And this is the cool part: it features a Patented Stand-On Tandem design so your toddler can hop on for a ride. But this stroller also has a padded rear seat, giving your toddler the option to sit, stand, or walk beside you.

The stroller comes with a universal car seat adapter, which works with a wide variety of brands including Graco, Maxi-Cosi and Peg Perego. With a car seat, the stroller can be used from birth and then up to 45 lbs. The toddler platform can also be used up to 45 lbs. Just don't let the total weight of your children go over 90 lbs when using this stroller.

It also comes with a convenient parent organizer (it attaches to the handlebars) with space for keys, water bottle, ipod, etc. Maybe Joovy knew that any parent running around town with a baby and a toddler could use a little extra help staying organized!

So cruise the neighborhood with your smart Sit and Stand Stroller. Just make sure there's some candy in it for you at the end of the night. All that work deserves a sugary payoff.

Have a great weekend!

Kuster Already Popular with Celebrity Moms

Listen up, trendy parents: Kuster, a British-based company, has made it's way across the pond and onto CSN Baby! We're carrying both of their stylish, high tech high chairs and their high chair cushions, as well as their popular Jelly Baby Changing Mat.

Although the K1 and K2 High Chairs have their differences (in look and price) they can both be used from when baby is 6 months to 6 years old! You can also choose from a wide variety of stylish high chair cushions for either seat.

At just $175, the K2 High Chair is perfect for parents who want a modern look but have to get it on a budget. Okay, let's be honest: you can buy a high chair for under $175 but only a handful of them offer comparable style for that price(Bloom's Nano comes to mind, although it has a totally different, albeit modern, design aesthetic compared to the K2). Other than the style and the price tag, I like that the K2 High Chair is ergonomically designed and also features a handy basket for meal-time toys, bibs or wipes.

According to Kuster's Web site, Halle Berry owns a Kuster high chair, although they don't say which one. I'm assuming she got the K1 High Chair, which is a bit pricier at $250. It has its own unique, modern look. My favorite aspect of this high chair is the fact that the seat is all made in one piece so there are no crevices where food can get stuck. Hey, style is nice to look at but style that guarantees a fast clean up is so much better.

Another celebrity fan of Kuster is Laila Ali, according to Celebrity Baby Blog. Back in August they reported that she loves her Jelly Baby Changing Mat, which is constructed from ergonomic memory foam and is Latex and PVC free.

That's the scoop, trendy moms and dads, and you heard it here first from Mother Goose! You can get a closer look at Kuster on CSN Baby.

Pitter Patter: Crib Bedding That's Ethnic-Chic

Pitter Patter Collections is a really cool line that's new to CSN Baby. They design crib bedding with what they describe as an "ethnic-chic" look. In particular, they've been inspired by Asian and Hawaiian styles. You'll find paisleys, elephants, hula girls, and Hawaiian flowers. The looks are exotic and playful, and definitely a refreshing change from some of the more traditional crib bedding designs on the market.

My favorite collection from Pitter Patter is called Zen. I think the Zen Collection will appeal to a wide variety of modern parents whether they like the organic bedding, the Asian contemporary style, or the muted, modern color palate. There are three bedding collections in Zen: Bamboo, Lotus, and Mandalas. All of them are made with organic bamboo jersey Cotton. Bamboo is a sustainable crop, grown organically by Pitter Patter. The Cotton is then colored with naturally-based, low-impact dyes. So eco-conscious parents can feel good about putting baby to sleep on this soft, organic bedding. (Keep in mind that only the bedding in the Zen Collection is organic!)

My favorite bedding collection is Mandalas. The soft blue and cream colors will look soothing in either a boy or girl's room. The medallion pattern is understated and chic yet still has an exotic feel to it. Find the Pitter Patter crib bedding that's just right for you and your baby at CSN Baby!

Serena and Lily: New Bedding Collections!

One of my very favorite crib bedding lines Serena and Lily has recently launched 5 gorgeous new crib bedding collections. I swooned over Serena and Lily back in February and I'm still in love with their classic, timeless style.

The new collections are named Posey, William, Harper, Ben, and Francis. On a side note, I feel like Serena and Lily is a really great baby name resource, don't you?

Of the new collections, I prefer Frances for girls. Soft blue and lilac keep the look feminine yet unconventional. Plus, the unfussy posies distantly remind me of Mary Engelbreit but in a muted, sophisticated way. This collection has a dreamy, soothing feel to it, perfect for the nursery.

For boys, my favorite is William. Preppy stripes become not so preppy in bright blue and orange. The collection has a lot of energy--sort of like a little boy! I like that the color combination is unexpected and that it's mixed with the classic look of stripes. And I'm partial to stripes.

Find your favorite Serena and Lily collection at CSN Baby!

Topping My Wish List: The Storytime Rocker

I have big news for you all today: this is my 50th blog post on Baby This Baby That! It's a real pleasure keeping you up to date on the best baby products out there as well as exclusive offers and deals from CSN Baby so I hope you enjoy reading!

In honor of this momentous occasion, I decided to blog about the baby product that's on the very top of my wish list: Nurseryworks' Storytime Rocker.

I absolutely love this rocking chair. It manages to look very elegant and modern yet it still retains that comfy, inviting look that all the most well loved, lived in chairs seem to have. But that's not the only reason why I want one of these lovely rockers in my home. I also love the fact that it's extra wide. For a book lover such as myself, this is the most attractive feature (it also explains the Storytime Rocker's name). At 35 inches, it's the perfect width for me and a child to sit and read together, or I could curl up in the chair by myself with a book propped on my knees. Nursing moms will also enjoy the extra roomy seat (decorative pillows can make it more snug if necessary).

When I look at this rocker I see a nursery chair now and a cozy reading chair for years to come. That's what helps to justify the ever so slightly daunting price. It's also the perfect addition to a nursery that has to do double duty as a guest room when family or friends come to visit.

On the practical side, it's made of anti static fabric and is water resistant. You can choose from a wide variety of attractive colors (for the nursery or living room)in Microsuede, Twill, or Velvet, and legs in either dark or light Ash wood. That way you can totally customize your Storytime Rocker. Right now I'm dreaming about Navy Blue Twill with light Ash legs. What color combination fits your style?

How Do You Choose a Diaper Bag for Your Super Stylish Friend?

Okay, I'm back from my friend's baby shower and I can finally spill all the details. My sister and I knew right away that we wanted to give our friend a diaper bag for her shower. Choosing the right one took much longer, especially since she's known for her chic sense of style (no pressure!). After a lot of agonized online shopping and even some emailing with her mom and sister (hey, there are a TON of gorgeous diaper bags out there to choose from), we finally settled on a Nest Diaper Bag.

We chose Nest for their stylish designs and practical details. Their bags simply don't look like diaper bags. I've seen the Grommet Diaper Bag in Toffee Brown twice while walking down Newbury Street and I don't even think one owner was a mom (no child, no stroller, no baby gear, and no undereye circles either!). FYI the bag looks even more soft and luxe in person.

We settled on one of Nest's new designs: the Mercer Diaper Bag in Black with Navy Trim. In person even more so than in photos, this bag is really elegant. The black patent leather is very posh and the navy suede trim means it will go with just about anything. When my friend's brother saw it he said flatly, "That's not a diaper bag."

And yet,despite this outward disguise, the bag is chock full of mom-friendly features. First of all, there are so many pockets: 2 exterior pockets, 1 interior zippered pocket, 2 interior bottle holders, and 2 divided pockets for toys, books, or extra clothing. There's also a separate, zippered diaper compartment at the bottom of the bag, which features pockets for diapers and wipes as well as a large changing pad.

The entire bag is lined with Nest's signature fabric, which is turquoise and features their own pattern, made of pacifiers, storks, safety pins, and other nostalgic baby imagery. Plus let's not forget that the liner is waterproof and can be zippered out for cleaning.

There are suede straps on each end of the bag to close it. On the front and back there's also two straps with a magnetic closure. You can just use the magnetic closure when you're on the go, or use the other straps to form an "x" over the top of the bag so that it's more secure. The nice thing is that you can still reach into the bag even when all four straps are closed. A removable, adjustable long strap is included so that mom can choose how she wants to carry her bag. The hard bottom keeps it upright and gold toned feet protect it from scuffing or tipping.

Since Mom-to-be C also loves her high heels, we couldn't resist including a pair of Heelarious baby shoes for her baby girl. These crib shoes have received a lot of attention lately ranging from amused to outgraged. In fact, they were even featured on the Today Show this morning (don't I feel trendy!). I have to say, they make a really fun baby shower gift. Honestly, they're really adorable and, well, hilarious. All the moms at the shower had a good laugh over them and insisted on passing them around so everyone could take a look.

I have so much more to share with you about the baby shower as well as some gossip about some new baby products, but you'll just have to check back next week to get the scoop!

Wheely Bugs Are Wheely Fun (sorry, I couldn't resist!)

I'm so excited about the gift I got for my friend's baby shower this weekend and I want to tell you all about it! But seeing as that same friend reads this blog (Hi, Mom-To-Be C!)all the details will have to wait until next week.

So until then, I thought I'd tell you about the absolutely adorable ride-on toys by Prince Lionheart that are now available at CSN Baby.

Available in three unisex designs (bee, cow, or ladybug), the Wheely Bug Ride-Ons are hard to resist. There's just enough detail to give these guys some character while still leaving plenty of room for imaginative play. Kids will especially love the stainless steel "antennae" and "horns" (depending on which ride on you choose), which wobble but won't come out thanks to an internal cord.

These little guys are entirely non toxic and contain no PVC, so parents can breath a sigh of relief. The Plywood base is made from renewable plantation timber and it's covered in tough PU covering that's easy to clean. To soften the ride, the Wheely Bug's body is padded with a 1” layer of soft sponge and has an inner body core of non-compressible foam.

Cute and compact, the Wheely Bugs are perfect for urban or suburban homes. They're intended for use on smooth floors and run quietly. Each Wheely Bug is just the right size for 3-5 year olds and (bonus!)is stylish enough that you won't even think about hiding it in a closet when guests come over.

Researched and developed in child care centers, Prince Lionheart's ride-ons encourage gross motor skills in a fun way. They cleverly included multidirectional castors so your child won't get stuck in a corner. No wonder they won the UK's 2005 Right Start Award for Best Toy as well as awards in Australia and Tokyo!

(And, though I fear this might give you all heart palpatations--which is why I'm only going to say it in parentheses--these would make great holiday gifts, especially since your child will be able to enjoy it all winter without having to go outside. Apologies to all for bringing up holiday shopping already but let's be honest: we have to start sometime!)

Tiny Love Books for Baby

Your baby isn't heading off to school anytime soon but that doesn't mean he or she shouldn't be learning! The right toys can help your baby to develop fine motor skills and cognition, the foundation on which your baby will continue to learn and grow.

Why not celebrate back to school season with an age appropriate gift for your baby: a Tiny Love Book? There may not be any words to read, but there's plenty for baby to do! These colorful, interactive books will engage your child and encourage development.

I like the Touch and Discover Electronic Play Book. This play book has three different scenes that feature colorful animals with friendly faces. An electronic butterfly attached to the book activates sounds, music, and lights on every page and the book is made of a variety of textures. These special details will not only entertain your child but also engage his or her senses and imagination. Ideal for babies 6 to 18 months, this book develops cognition, fine motor skills, and the senses in a fun, dynamic way.

You'll find many more developmental toys for baby and toddler at Toys and Games Online!

Back to School Backpacks--for Mom!

Well, it's official: I'm in full on back to school mode. The weather in Boston has been sunny and crisp all week (sadly, not everyone on the east coast has been so lucky), and I can't help getting excited for fall.

So what if it's been years since your last college course and it'll be years before you send your little one off to kindergarten? You can get in the school spirit and update your fall wardrobe with a diaper bag backpack from CSN Baby.

Contrary to what some people might think, diaper bag backpacks don't have to look nerdy. Sarah at Celebrity Baby Blog recently spotted Jason Priestly's wife Naomi looking chic and ready-for-anything with her Madeline Diaper Bag Backpack in Pink Paisely by Bumble Bags.

Bumble Bag's compact backpack diaper bags are lightweight and comfortable so they're a great choice when you and baby will be on the go all day long. They're especially great if your child loves to be carried and you need both arms free, and they're a lot easier on the shoulders! Plus they feature pop out stroller straps so you can hang the bag on your stroller when you stop to take a break.

The inside features a soil proof lining but if you're really in the middle of a mess (who hasn't been there?), the bag is machine washable. There are multiple pockets to keep you organized, including two exterior bottle pockets, two inside bottle straps, and an interior pocket with a zipper closure for the essentials you need close at hand. The bag also comes with a changing pad--a must when you're on the go.

According to Celebrity Baby Blog, Bumble Bags are popular with a lot of stylish celeb moms, including Nelly Furtado, Reese Witherspoon, Mariska Hargitay, Britney Spears, Melania Trump, Gwen Stefani, Amanda Peet, Jennifer Garner and Tori Spelling. So you'll be in good company toting around on of these cute and practical diaper bag backpacks this fall.

Skip Hop: Keeping you Organized in Style

This morning my coworkers and I were discussing some of our favorite "practical" baby products that we sell at CSN Baby. One product that was mentioned several times was Skip Hop's Splash Bottle Drying Rack. It's innovative and practical--to be honest, I was surprised I hadn't blogged about it before.

The Splash Bottle Drying Rack is the perfect place to dry and store bottles and cups between feedings. It's made of plastic which is dishwasher and certified food safe, so no worries there. Choose from White, Poppy Red, or Marine Blue. The rack holds up to nine bottles or cups and there's a middle tier for smaller items such as bottle caps, valves, or pacifiers.

This compact drying rack is packed with clever features. There's a drip tray on the bottom that's easy to remove so you can ensure that the rack never gets mildewy. It also comes with its own rubber gripped bottle brush for cleaning. Plus the entire rack rotates so it's easy to grab what you want--even with one hand.

The Splash Bottle Drying Rackhas been featured in American Baby and it's no wonder thanks to its clever, modern design. It also makes a great--you guessed it--baby shower gift! Why give yet another layette set or stuffed animal when you could give something genuinely useable and unique? Package it up with some baby bottles and you've got a gift that any new mom would appreciate!

Back To School Bedding--Even for Baby!

September is getting awfully close now, and that always makes me think of going back to school. Your baby isn't ready for that yet (thank goodness--no need to rush these things, right?) but you can get in the spirit with alphabet bedding from ducduc's Textiles Collection.

The Alphabet Bedding comes in Blue and Orange (shown) or Pink and Brown. These sets are a wonderful alternative to more traditional boy and girl bedding while still incorporating the classic boy and girl colors. I love that the alphabet design is playful yet modern thanks to it's hand lettered alphabet and crisp color combinations.

The Crib Set includes a reversible bumper, two crib sheets and a box-pleated skirt and you can choose from coodinating cotton knit blankets or Merino wool blankets for extra layering. The crib set is also super soft for baby: it's made of 100% cotton with a sateen finish and features a luxurious 300 thread-count.

So get in the back to school spirit with our wide variety of Alphabet Crib Bedding from CSN Baby!

Sozo Let's Baby Beat the Heat in Style

It's summer and it's hot, so if course you want baby to be cool and comfortable. But that doesn't mean he or she can't look cute, too! Sozo has some adorable onesies and jumpers that are perfect whether you're headed to a barbeque or just to the grocery store.

Sozo's baby clothing is made of cotton so it's soft, breathable, and comfortable. This is practical baby clothing with a playful twist. No, there's no tulle or silk or sequins. It's the designs and bright colors that make this clothing fun. Plus, after a long day of playing in the sandbox or at the park, you can toss these clothes in the washer and dryer!

My favorite outfit for girls is the Tutti Frutti Jumper Set, made of 100% interlock cotton. The citrus colors and ruffles are just right for summer. The jumper includes a diaper cover with contrasting trim so your baby girl will be covered and coordinated from head to toe. An embroidered orange slice and flower add an extra special touch to this cute jumper while still keeping it practical and baby friendly.
For boys, I love the Savannah Short Sleeve Bodysuit. It's just so adorable in light blue 100% interlock cotton with green and orange trim. The little baby elephant applique is so cute and it's a nice break from all the tools, dinosaur, and sports themed onesies out there. Snap closures in the crotch and three snaps in the back make this easy to get on and off. Plus, there's a little surprise on the back (a baby bird!).

Need I point out that these make great summer baby shower gifts? I didn't think so!

Take a look at all of Sozo's baby clothing at CSN Baby!

Portable High Chairs: For Home or Travel

So lately I've been posting a lot about innovative feeding products, and I thought I'd expand that this week and talk about high chairs! I really like Portable High Chairs because not only do they save space in the home, they're also great when you're on the go. Throw one in the trunk and you'll always be ready for dinner out--no need to worry about whether or not the restaurant has a high chair for your baby (and whether or not it needs to be totally disinfected before you let your baby use it).

I like the Fast Table Hook-on High Chair by Inglesina. Thanks to its lightweight, painted steel tubular frame this high chair only weighs 3.5 lbs so it's easy to carry. Fold it and it becomes even more compact, which is perfect for summer vacation or any other family trip. It even comes with its own travel bag for that very purpose.

The 100% polyester fabric is removable and washable, which is pretty much a necessity in my opinion and is especially great when you're on the go. There's also a pouch on the back of the seat for any feeding time essentials (like Boon's Squirt Baby Food Dispensing Spoon, perhaps).

Now, for paranoid moms (I can relate), the look of this high chair dangling off the side of the table might be cause for concern, but it's designed with a patented hook-on system to prevent accidental falls. Plus an adjustable safety harness with a crotch strap keeps baby safely in place. Just keep in mind that it's designed for children up to 33 lbs.

Just think of the convenience of being able to grab the Fast Table Hook-on High Chair whenever you travel or visit friends, who don't own a high chair. It would also be a great gift for grandparents, who can easily fold and store the high chair when you and baby aren't there.

You can browse our entire selection of high chairs at CSN Baby.

More Fun with Feeding: Skip Hop's Palette Plate

Since I blogged about Boon's Squirt Baby Food Dispensing Spoon a couple weeks ago, I thought I'd tell you about another well designed, fun feeding product: The Palette Plate Set by Skip Hop.

The Palette Plate Set looks like an artist's palette with it's sleek white frame and bright spots of color. The shape makes it fun to look at but also convenient if you need to hold the plate and feed your baby (like an artist painting a canvas...think Jackson Pollack). The set includes three removable bowls in bright colors, a large plate for serving, a skid-resistant spot for a cup, and a fork and spoon. Actually, the whole unit is skid-resistant, so you won't have to worry (as much, anyway) about bowls, cups, and food flying everywhere.

Plus it's made of microwave safe plastic, which makes heating or reheating food fast and easy. Each removable bowl has a translucent cover, too, so if there's food leftover you can just pop on the lid and stick it in the fridge for next time.

It's no surprise that so many magazines including Cookie, Fit Pregnancy, and Parenting have featured the Palette Plate. The design is clever, practical, and modern. I know my artist sister will definitely be receiving one of these from me...just as soon as she has kids.

This set is great for toddlers, too. You could even try turning mealtime into a game: convince your child to eat a certain amount of food from each colored bowl and he or she wins...dessert, of course!

Another idea: Coming in at under $30 (not including shipping), this would make another unique yet affordable baby shower gift. It's stylish, useful, and can be used throughout the toddler years. Package it up with some cute jars of baby food or a baby food cookbook like Annabel Karmel's First Meals and you're ready to go.

Pixel Organics: Kid Friendly and Earth Friendly

So I saw Wall-E last weekend with my family (it was awesome by the way, and if you haven't already seen it you should pack your kids in the car asap and go!). Aside from being a great movie, it made me even more concerned about the future of our environment.

So it seemed like perfect timing that Pixel Organics just became available at CSN Baby. This company's mission is to, "leave tiny footprints on this planet while providing modern infant products that embrace color and innovative design." That includes crib and toddler bedding, baby clothes, and other baby gifts.

Every product that Pixel Organics manufactures has exclusively organic, sustainable or regenerated fibers. And every piece of fabric is 100% organic cotton. Plus the bumpers and pillows in their crib bedding collections are filled with REFILL (that's recycled PET - aka bottles). Even the packaging is 100% recycled. It's clear this company takes their mission seriously, which means you can shop for cute baby products and do something good for the earth at the same time.

The good news gets better because these designs are modern yet still very kid-friendly. It's a nice compromise for parents who don't want the more mature look of many modern crib bedding collections. The Supercharged Organic Crib Bedding Collection is my favorite. Race cars and tire tracks are sure to appeal to little boys while the faded blue and red colors and retro style manage to look boyish and modern at the same time. And let's face it, no matter how organic and environmentally conscious you raise your kids to be, little boys are still going to love cars! Pair it with the Arlington Sahara Convertible Crib in Ebony (shown in the White finish with the Optional Trundle, but I prefer the dark wood for a boy's room) for a chic and ecofriendly nursery.

Find out what else Pixel Organics has to offer at CSN Baby.

Summertime Feeding On the Go!

Tomorrow is the Fourth of July and many of us will spend at least part of the weekend on a beach or town green (or maybe just an open field) having a picnic and watching the fireworks. While you and baby are sitting on a blanket somewhere this weekend, make feeding easier with Boon's hilarious yet ingenius Squirt Baby Food Dispensing Spoon.

The bright orange spoon holds up to 3 oz. of baby food and then dispenses it one bite at a time when you give it a squeeze. Imagine, you can hold your baby in one hand and feed him or her with the other! A protective cover keeps the spoon clean between feedings so you can just toss it in your diaper bag and go.

This little spoon is getting a lot of attention. For starters, Parenting Magazine featured the dispensing spoon earlier this year as did savvy MomLisa from MomFinds.com and that's only the beginning.

Take a look at our other feeding products to see how else CSN Baby can make your summer easy and fun no matter where the day takes you. Have a fun, safe, and hopefully mess free (okay, less messy) Fourth of July!

Make Your Next Baby Shower Gift Babylicious!

I'm really happy to report that the chic yet whimsical crib bedding from Babylicious is now available at CSN Baby! Their designs involve a lot of crisp polka dots and stripes and great colors. Add to these admirable features the fact that their bedding won't break the bank, and you'll understand why I love Babylicious so much.

But it's summer, and that means' baby showers! And while I love buying shower gifts (I do, really, and wrapping them to coordinate with the gift...) I don't love how expensive all the gift giving can get, which tends to take some of the fun out of it.

So when I noticed that Babylicious also makes adorable and affordable baby gift sets I was definitely excited. You can choose from three sizes: small, medium, and large. The small set includes a basic bib, sit and spit cloth, baby slippers and receiving blanket. The medium set comes with a hooded towel, bath mitt, baby slippers and basic bib. And the large set includes a sleep sack, basic bib, sit and spit cloth and baby slippers.

I am in love with the Happy Collection (Happy Baby Small Gift Set shown). The colors are bright and cheery, plus it's a great choice for a boy, girl, or surprise delivery so all your bases are covered.

I also love the Luxe Snow Collection. Muted, graphic circles embroidered on a white background make this a fail-safe choice for modern babies and their stylish parents. The slightly higher price tag comes with a more upscale look.

The sets coordinate with Babylicious' bedding but are just as cute on their own. They even come beautifully packaged in a party-ready box. A small gift set is under $30 (under $50 for the slightly pricier Luxe Collection)! Add a couple of your favorite picture books, tie a pretty ribbon around the whole thing, and you've got yourself a thoughtful, useful, beautiful baby shower gift!

Take a look at all of Babylicious' products at CSN Baby!

Why Put Baby to Sleep on Coconuts and Lambswool?

Last week I got a chance to see Natural Mat's organic crib mattresses up close. I haven't had a chance to do that since I blogged about Naturpedic's organic mattresses a few months ago. Once again I was impressed by how soft and springy organic mattresses can be and once again I was reminded of how important they can be to the health of your baby.

It's so easy to get caught up in picking out a cute crib that some parents may realize too late that they didn't budget for a nice crib mattress. But the mattress should be something you think about and research at least as much as you do cribs, whether you choose to go organic or not.

I got a chance to see all three of Natural Mat's organic crib mattresses, but I'm going to tell you about the Coco Mat since it's the least expensive (although it still comes out to over $300).

Natural Mat's Coco Mat begins with coir (the outside of a coconut!), which provides a breathable but firm base for the mattress. It's really springy! It's also anti allergenic. The coir is harvested from the only organic coir plantation in the world, so you know this company doesn't just want to look organic on paper so to speak. They take living organic seriously.

The coir is sandwiched by 2 layers of lambswool, which is naturally flame retardent so it doesn't have to be doused in chemicals that might harm your baby while he or she sleeps. The wool has been treated with lemon, eucalyptus and lavender to make it non-allergenic, too. Sounds like a little spa for your baby, right? The wool also naturally provides insulation during the cold winter months and ventilation during the warm summer months just as it would for, well, a little lamb.

A 100% unbleached cotton herringbone cover tops off the coir and lambswool. This cover can be unzipped and machine washed at 140ºF to kill bacteria and dust mites. You should also purchase the Flannelette Organic Crib Mattress Protector Pad, which is made of soft organic flannelette material and--and this is important!--is waterproof.

But (as LeVar Burton would say) don't take my word for it. Read what Liz has to say about her Natural Mat crib mattress at one of my favorite mom blogs, CoolMomPicks.com.

The more I learn about organic mattresses the more I think they're a good investment if you can afford one. At the very least, make sure you do some research before you buy. Find out more about all types of crib mattresses at CSN Baby.

Meet the Mutsy 4Rider

Since I got to take a gander (get it? Mother Goose... gander ...)at the Mutsy 4Rider yesterday, I wanted to tell you all about it.

The 4Rider comes in two styles: regular or light. This refers to the wheels. Everything else about the stroller remains the same. The 4Rider Light has lightweight, foam-filled wheels. The 4Rider Single Spoke Stroller(shown) has air-filled, single-spoke wheels, which make it about 4 pounds heavier but give it a very unique look, which I personally love.

Like the Slider, the 4Rider has a very airy, sleek design. I could keep talking about how good looking this stroller is, but I want to tell you about some of its amazing features as well.

For starters, it folds so easily. I've seen a lot of stroller demonstrations and this one really impressed me. In two simple moves the stroller was folded up on the ground with no loud cracking noises that would make me think I'd broken the thing. And it can be folded with the bassinet or seat in it!

Let's talk about the bassinet. It has several zippered pockets around the outside, which are perfect for little essentials that you want to keep within easy reach. They just melt right into the design. Very cool. The bassinet also sits very high so that, similar to a Stokke Xplory, you can be close to your baby as you go about town. If your baby falls asleep while in the bassinet, you can remove it with the carrying strap, bring it inside, and set it down (it has feet to keep it upright) without ever disturbing your baby.

The seat fully reclines and can be moved forwards or backwards to adjust the seat depth for a customized fit. You can check on your baby thanks to the window in the generous hood. The window can be hidden with a velcroed panel. Some strollers have nixed the hood window because they felt it disrupted the design. I think Mutsy has found a great way to compromise. And really that's what Mutsy is all about: the compromise between attractive design and practical functionality.

Don't forget, from now until June 24th you will save 5% on all Mutsy strollers and high chairs. Get shopping now at CSN Baby!

Correction: Mutsy Slider Accessories

Happy Friday, everyone! I was lucky enough to see a Mutsy Slider Stroller up close and personal yesterday afternoon. It's even more attractive in person than it is in pictures. The amount of thought that went into the streamlined, functional design is really impressive.

I'm afraid I do need to make a correction from my previous post on the Mutsy Slider. I told you that the Slider accessories include an optional Baby Sitter Frame and Fun Seat. Unfortunately, that was incorrect.

Those accessories are only available for the Mutsy Urban Rider or 4Rider.

But fear not, faithful readers, I've got some good news to make up for my mistake: From now until June 24th you can save 5% on all Mutsy Strollers and High Chairs!