Title: What!? Skinny Maternity is having a free giveaway!?
Have you ever been pregnant or do you plan on having a child one day? If you answered yes to either one, you can imagine how frustrating buying baby and maternity clothes is! You buy it, you (or your precious child) wear it a few times, and its out! Who knew money could fly so fast?
That’s where SkinnyMaternity.com comes in- wear it, post it, sell it, forget it. No feeling guilty for splurging and only being able to wear it a couple times.
Don’t let the "swinger" onsie’s (complimented by an image of a swing set), to "I’m Not Fat, I’m Pregnant," tanks for mom distract you…
It’s your turn to win a free item! Just go to SkinnyMaternity.com and find your favorite piece. Come back to Wishpot and comment stating your favorite item and you’ll automatically be entered to win!
My favourite piece… This angel wing t-shirt from American Apparel. Who doesn’t like saving money and who doesn’t like winning! 
gift girl
Trunki Makes Travel With Kids Easy! Jody Halsted, Have Kid Will Travel
Because we travel with our young children it was important for me to find luggage that was multi-purpose, if you will. I wanted something light, easy for them to use, and easy for me to carry if I had to. I found all of that- and a bit more- in the Trunki. The Trunki weighs in at under 4 pounds. It has a tow strap for easy pulling and four wheels to keep it rollin’ along. The strap easily clips to a rear hook and can be lengthened or shortened for over the shoulder or cross-body wear if an adult needs to carry it. But the best thing about the Trunki is that the kids can ride it. Yep, ride it. Trunki has two front handles and a bit of a “saddle” for comfortable seating. It’s great fun to use, gets us through airports faster and always brings lots of comments our way. Inside it plenty of room for a couple changes of clothing, a pouch for small items like toothbrush or snacks and special “seat belts” to hold any cuddly friends safely. Trunki comes in blue (Terrance), pink (Trixie) and green (Towgo) as well as “limited editions” like Frieda the Fresian, Tipu the Tiger and a ladybug that I have heard rumors of! To see our experiences with Trunki please visit Have Kid Will Travel to see Trixie’s first trip and Frieda’s warm welcome to our home.
This is adorable and so practical a perfect gift for a little kid. Thank you to Jody our new mom expert.
gift girl
wishpot.one wish list; shop anywhere
http://www.snotr.com/video/2630
I laughed and i laughed some more. This is ridiculously cute. She is a little doll and a smart cookie! Let me know what you think.
gift girl
Wishpot is the perfect place for your shop all over baby registry or wish list.
Wishpot gift guides for dad have something for every type of dad imaginable. No ordinary gifts for dad this year. Get dad cool usb gadgets, ninja gifts, robot gifts, Star Trek gifts, active gifts, sports gifts…
Wearable Gifts for Dads
Would your dad be interested in shoes that prevent you from getting lost? How about a durable and very wearable camcorder, or sunglasses with a built-in mp3 player and retractable ear buds? Maybe he would be more interested in what you get when you cross a lightsaber and an umbrella…
Click here for the full list.
Minimalist Gifts for Dads
These are some gadgets for dads that love to save space and know that less is more, especially for those that want to take this idea to the limit. Why have the time on the face of your watch
when you know you just look at your phone anyway.
Click here for the full list.
Gifts for Ninja Dads
Does your dad have trouble sneaking past his mortal enemies? Running low on shurikens? While you’re helping him stock up on new blades or threads you might also want to pick up The Ninja Handbook, to keep him up to date with the latest in ninjology.
Click here for the full list.
Gifts for Dads Who Love Robots
These are gift ideas for dads that just can’t help but love robots. Whether they want to build them or just hang out with them, robots are always fun to have around. You might also want to pick up the guide for How To Survive a Robot Uprising if you have a paranoid or very well prepared dad.
Click here for the full list.
Gifts for Active Dads
Does your dad want to polish his mind and body? Maybe it’s about time he picks up a new Karate Suit and starts training. With his windproof lighter and waterproof iPod speakers at his side, nothing will be able to stop him as he takes up his new life living amongst cave bears. And for keeping all his memories intact, a waterproof camcorder will serve him best.
Click here for the full list.
Sports Gifts for Dads
These are gifts for the dads out there that can’t get enough of sports. Of course the most important part of any game is an economical and strategic pathway to munchies, otherwise known as the Snack Helmet. Your dad might also be interested in custom memorabilia, and perhaps in between games, he might want to play sports themed board games.
Click here for the full list.
USB Gadgets for Dads
How would your dad feel about a hub that has 16 USB ports? Aside from all those practical and sometimes boring accessories you can use with these ports, how about livening up his day with some fun and entertaining USB gadgets. And it looks like even the fun ones are pretty practical too. One is even small enough to fit in your wallet.
Click here for the full list.
Star Trek Gifts for Dads
Whether he goes by Trekker or Trekkie, or even if he only knows about this series because he saw the recent film, your dad might want to get his hands on some of these extraordinary Star Trek gifts. Most of the gifts listed here are for fans of the original series, but the one gift that every Trek fan needs on their shelf is the all-encompassing and ridiculously detailed Star Trek Encyclopedia.
Click here for the full list.
Gifts for Retro Gamer Dads
These are for the dads that grew up as gamers. If you know that your dad loves classic games, you might want to get him something from this gift list. If he grew up playing Nintendo games, the portable NES will definitely take his breath away.
Click here for the full list.
Drinking Gadget Gifts for Dads
How would your dad feel about a gadget that quickly carves fruit into shot glasses? Maybe your dad would also be interested in a distillation device from Mississippi? And for connoisseur dads out there you can sign them up for a beer or wine of the month club.
Click here for the full list.
Classy Gifts for Dads
Do people describe your dad as dapper? Maybe he needs a whole new style, or perhaps he just needs a little extra something to keep him classy and cool. He might appreciate a new pocket watch, or a bamboo bathrobe. To top off his father’s day, and to make his future days just a little more pleasant and comfy, get him a towel warmer.
Click here for the full list.
Gifts for Young At Heart Dads
Whether they are at an office or at home, some dads just need to have things to play with. You can get him a remote controlled car or helicopter, and if you think he’s up to the challenge, a paper airplane launcher. For the nomadic, chaotic, and scheming dad, you can’t go wrong with a Wooden War Engine Kit.
Click here for the full list.
And calling all dads some great ideas for you to add to your father’s day wish list!
TOT TECH: PDAS FOR KIDS
LEAPFROG LAUNCHES A CHILD-FRIENDLY VERSION OF THE ADULT GADGET ADDICTION
If you’ve ever had to entertain a child in a fix, you know that technology is a convenient babysitter, as kids are mesmerized by gadgets ranging from simple mobile phones to iPhones and BlackBerrys. Considering that consumers don’t typically go anywhere without their personal tech, kid-focused apps come in handy when there’s nothing else to stop a child from screaming and crying. Covered in the iPhone Sitter trend in The Intelligence Group’s New Family Report (which you’ll be learning more about in next week’strendcentral), a pop-the-bubbles app could turn a cranky subway ride into a giggly trip downtown. However, for those who’ve seen more than a few cracked screens or sticky keyboards, a new wave of tech for tots that imitates their parents’ devices is emerging. While toy gadgets are certainly not new, they are certainly becoming more sophisticated.
Taking advantage of children’s desire for their parents’ handheld gadgets, edutainment tech trendsetter LeapFrog recently introduced the Text & Learn. Resembling a jumbo-sized, kid-colored BlackBerry, kids ages three and up can text back and forth on the full QWERTY keyboard with virtual guide "Scout," who also helps them navigate through a pretend browser. Games are included to help children learn the alphabet, spelling, and basic computer skills. Keeping kids entertained, learning, and away from their parents’ more easily destructible gadgets, the device’s $25 price doesn’t seem like too much to ask.
add one to your wish list today!
gift girl
TOY BOX PARTY INSPIRATION
By: Stephanie Frazier Grimm
You’re a Mom. It is the most rewarding title you will ever have. But let’s face it…you wear many hats. Chauffeur, short order cook, housekeeper, Guidance counselor, ATM, Social Secretary, Referee and Party Planner… just to name a few. Worrying about planning your child’s next party doesn’t have to be an added stress, let’s face it you have enough to worry about! I have always been the “party girl”. Whether it is going to, getting together with friends and family, or hosting a party, I have learned the most important thing to remember is…LESS IS MORE. Keep this in mind as you go through the steps of the planning process, small details make big impressions. The little extra details are what people are going to remember…not what games were played. Here are some tips to get you thru your child’s next party.
• Pick a theme. The easiest way to decide is to pick something that your child loves (favorite stuffed animal, sport, video game, hobby etc.) This will make it so much easier when looking for décor because it will actually be fun for you (and your child) because it means something to them. Use this theme throughout your party (invitations, decorations, food & party favors) Pick two colors that coordinated with your theme and use it towards your inspiration.
• Chose a date and location. If you have a younger child schedule the party around their nap time (I promise it makes for a better experience for you and them) having it at your home is always nice, but your local play gym offers free clean up!
• Decorations. This is my favorite part!
• Look in your child’s toy box first; if you pick a theme they love you are going to have toys already. Recycling them for party decorations is ideal.
• Let ribbon, paper, stickers, and fabric be your friend. Fabric makes a great tablecloth (no one is going to notice that you did not sew the edges) Gluing ribbon onto a clear vase with filled with flowers will add an extra touch. Rolling paper into cones and securing with a sticker is an instant snack holder for little hands. Buy clear plastic cups and put your theme sticker on the front.
• Whatever you do, DO NOT go to the party aisle of your local store and by EVERYTHING you see that has to do with your party theme…remember, LESS IS MORE! Plain colored plates with the plastic sticker cup and a toy centerpiece will be enough embellishment for the table. Leftover colored plates are easier to serve dinner on then the ones with Care Bears plastered all over them (your husband will thank you). If your child insists on the character plates, buy the smaller ones and use them for the cake and ice cream.
• Personalizing your party looks fantastic! In your favorite computer art program, you can print out letters that say “Happy Birthday (insert child’s name)” Hole punch or cut out each letter individually and thread with coordinating ribbon, for an instant Party Banner!
• Activities. Kids know how to play, it’s in their blood. They work with whatever they got (which really amazes me) If you decide to have a moon bounce, just have the moon bounce. Having a pool party? Swimming is all they need, but of course a pool party is not complete without beach balls, super soakers, and rafts! Still want some games? Only plan on 2 or 3. A craft table is always fun for kids of all ages (age appropriate crafts are key) something the kids can do themselves gives them more gratification. A Play-doh table is wonderful for the little ones. I through a superhero party and set up a small table with all action figures on it (My little ponies for the girls on a separate table) and in between playing games and having snacks, the kids thought these tables were bliss. Again, recycle your kid’s toys!
• Food. Again, follow your theme if possible. Use a shaped cookie cutter to cut grilled cheese or other sandwiches into shapes. Healthy options are a must. (The Mom’s will thank you) Small plastic cups with a spoon full of your favorite dip and some cut up vegetables inserted is perfect for your mini guest. (Bonus: the kids are not double dipping with the adults!) Fruit snacks come in every shape and theme and drinkable yogurts with swirly straws are always desirable. mmmmm….Cake. A big cake is great, but cupcakes are just as popular. Cupcake toppers are a great DIY project using paper, stickers, and toothpicks. Or you can purchase them from one of my FAVORITE resources, ETSY. There are some talented artists on there. Want to skip the cake altogether? Offer an ice cream bar where kids chose their favorite ice cream and toppings (get the camera ready because this is SO much fun!)
• Party Favors. Parents are tired of those little nick-nacks the kids come home with. There is no need to go overboard. A bottle of bubbles with a ribbon tied around it with a personalized tag is always a hit. Having a Circus theme party? Fill clear plastic bags with animal crackers and staple coordinating paper to the top adding a personalized label for that extra oomph. Another option is the ever popular candy bar. Set up a table with your child’s favorite candies (purchased at your local warehouse store) and use beach pails (as the candy containers) to give it that “kid friendly” feel. Supply small plastic bags, so the kids get to fill their own loot bag with what they want. First birthday party, rubber duckies are always a favorite, but downloading your child’s favorite songs onto a CD is the gift that keeps on giving.
Now that your party is planned, it is most important to enjoy your child’s day. Take a lot of pictures. Also know that it is not mandatory to open the gifts while all the kids are watching (WOW that is a HUGE relief)! A simple Thank you note is a definite. It just shows your guests that you appreciate them to celebrate your child’s special day. (It also teaches your child etiquette and graciousness) With proper planning, your next children’s party doesn’t have to be so hard! But of course if after reading this you still find it completely overwhelming, hire a professional. If you can get someone to clean the house, cut the lawn, cook the food, or plan the party no one has to know you had “an extra set of hands”! That’s why people (like me) are in the service industry, to help others out. Your secret is safe with me!
Author, Stephanie Frazier Grimm, is Mommy to Carter and Ellie, and is the owner of Couture Parties, one of a kind event planning and design in Newport, RI. Couture Parties offers event design/planning for weddings, dinner parties, cocktail parties, baby showers, bridal showers, children’s parties, fundraising and so much more. Couture Parties was started after her second child was born and her first business, Mama & Bambino was sold. Being a work at home mom-entrepreneur and designer is something Stephanie is passionate about. Stephanie is available for planning, advising, and inspiration. Her website is www.CoutureParties.com
and follow her on twitter @CoutureParties.
Use your Wishpot Wish lists to save your party supplies too!
gift girl
May 12, 2009 · Filed under Pondering
This is one of the prettiest kids cutlery sets you will find. The little Bean and I demoed it a few weeks ago when we first introduced you to the wonderful online store,NoPlastic.ca. Check it out in action here.
This beautiful, stainless steel set comes with a spoon, a fork, chopsticks and a really pretty little case so that you don’t need to dump goopy utensils in your purse or wipe them off with your tee shirt.
The sweet bird engravings on the spoon and fork are exquisite. They’re like those antique sewing scissors my grandmother used.
And the chopsticks unscrew for easy storage. How cool is that?
Best of all? No plastic. BPA-Free. Dishwasher safe.
Best best of all? Thanks to NoPlastic.ca we’re giving a set away to one lucky Babies Gotta Have It reader. Pair it with a pretty BPA-free feeding set for a gorgeous baby shower gift! Want to enter? Read on.
To Enter the NoPlastic.ca Stainless Steel Portable Cutlery Set Giveaway:
- Take a swing by NoPlastic.ca. Check out all the items they have to offer and let me know which one, besides the cutlery set, you’d like to try. If you entered my last NoPlastic giveaway, please stop by the shop again and list a different item. That’s it! Entering is that easy!
***Want extra chances to win? Do anything listed below and leave me additional comments for each one letting me know what you did! Maximum of three entries per person.
- Follow me on twitter (click the birdy button on the left to do so easily) and Twitter this giveaway (I’ve even made it easy for you, just cut and paste): Go plastic-free! @BabiesGottaHavT is giving away a portable stainless steel cutlery set from NoPlastic.ca http://tinyurl.com/owstcj
- Blog this giveaway (send me the url so I can enjoy your post!)
- Subscribe to my blog using the button on the left
- Grab my button and put in on your blog! Button code is in the right sidebar.
Your email address will remain private and not be shared with anyone. Giveaway only open to those with U.S. or Canadian addresses. Giveaway begins on Tuesday May 12th and ends on Tuesday May 26th at 11:59 Eastern Standard Time. On Wednesday May 27th, Random.org will select the winner I’ll email you immediately. After my baby called Larry the Cable guy the last time she did a drawing, we have decided to take a little vacation from her choosing the winner. Random.org is in no way as cute and unpredictable as my baby, but it is much more efficient and does not use any pieces of paper, even recycled ones. I am sure you will understand. Thanks for entering!
A great giveaway from one of our mom experts!
gift girl
Meet Deborah, she’s one of our new baby experts. I asked her a few questions about herself to get the ball rolling:
1.Name one childhood memory that makes you smile from ear to ear.
Pick just one? I am fortunate and have so many to choose from. Summer vacations spent at my grandparents’. Yeah, they spoiled us grandkids.
2. What kind of toys did you play with when you were little?
Barbie dolls, any dolls.
3. What are some of your favorite candy treats?
Hershey kisses, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Butterfingers - none of these are available here in Australia. Oh, how I miss them!
4. Growing up what would you say your favorite age was?
I always wanted to be older. No favorite age really.
5. What childhood song do you remember most? Why?
My grandmother always sang Jesus Loves Me to me when I was very small.
Guest Blog Post {Auntie Bobbie}
That’s right. I’m an Aunt. Though, my nephew won’t call me, "Aunt". Bobbie is not my name. Though, this is what my nephew calls me. He gave me that name as soon as he learned to talk. "Bobbie" has been my name now for four years. And, you know what . . . I like it. I think I will feel great sadness when he no longer calls me by his name for me.
In June, I will welcome my second nephew. Little brother to the four year old who calls me "Bobbie". I wonder if my nephews will ever call me by my given name . . .
My nephews live in Michigan, USA. I was born and raised there. But today I live with my Aussie husband in Queensland, Australia - an ocean and half a continent away. Married two years, hoping for babies of my own, thrilled to celebrate the arrival of my newest nephew. Wish I could be there to hold him in my arms.
May 15 - June 8 I am hosting Mommie Daze Virtual Baby Shower. I’m inviting you to celebrate with me. That’s right. I’m an Aunt.
Deborah Brine
Comfort Joy Designs
comfortjoydesigns.blogspot.com
comfortjoydesigns@gmail.com
Thanks Deborah and Reese’s pieces are the best!
gift girl
Happy Healthy Hip Parenting brings us… a fantastic giveaway. Who can’t use new cookware? Tough endurable cookware is the perfect addition to any kitchen!
Food Service Warehouse is giving away a professional cookware set worth $1,000 as part of introducing their new expanded lines of professional cookware. This cookware is tough, high quality cookware used by top restaurant kitchens throughout the country and cookware would be a great addition for any serious home chef.
There is no obligation, just go to the website and enter their professionalcookware contest.
It can’t hurt to enter.
gift girl
Baby shower baby shower baby shower…. I hear those words and I immediately see large hats and bows and pink and blue ribbons. Kim, of Lilly Lynn Events, a new mom expert shows us a way out of the traditional and into the Stylish.
Stylish Shower :: To me, black and white are such classic colors. They are great to use with a pop of color that you can throw in depending on the sex of the upcoming baby! Here is a great example of how to use the black and white with a zebra print. 
Zebra gives this look a chic elegant look but is also fun and fresh looking. You can’t be scared to mix patterns to give your parties life and boldness. I love this cake and how it is decorated. Modern patterns are such a great look for events. To me patterns and simple accents make me think chic and classic. These are the kinds of moments you will remember your entire life. Why would you want to remember streamers and tacky balloons for your baby shower?
As you are decorating the party for the baby shower, keep small color accents through out the party in pinks or blues so that you have pops of color. This is a great way to tell people what you are having but not over pink or over blue the party.
Flowers, place mats, candles, napkins, candies, and paper lanterns are all great ways to bring in a pop of color! For more ideas or help with your shower clickhere!!
I have some great food and drink ideas as well so check those out!
Thank you Kim! This Baby Shower is Styling!
gift girl
