The Best Baby Shower: SwaddleDesigns SwaddleDuo Receiving Blankets Give Away (US + CAN)

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One thing I didn't expect when I brought Emma home from the hospital was how much we would use all of those swaddle blankets.  Her days were spent wearing them, basically.  It makes such sense now that I think about it; babies are so used to the cramped quarters within your tummy, and it must feel strange to have so much extra space once they're out.  Like the opposite of claustrophobia. In addition to keeping her safe, Emma slept in good lengths when she was properly swaddled.  The … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Cocktail Recipes

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It's kind of a tease for the mom-to-be, but many a brunch cocktail are served at showers.  If you're a shower host and doing it all yourself or hosting at a BYOB restaurant, here are some great cocktail recipes you might consider serving your guests. The mimosa is probably the most universal of all of the morning cocktail recipes, and maybe even the most well-liked. Menning Mimosa recipe adapted from Martha Stewart 6 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice 2 tablespoons freshly … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Diaper Cakewalk Takes the Cake

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There were no diaper cakes at my baby shower.  I've always noticed them at showers for friends and family and was intrigued by them. What exactly are diaper cakes?  Well, it depends on the cake.  They're made mainly of diapers for the mom-to-be, but the "cake" can also be dressed with a number of other items.  Toiletries, clothing, washcloths, and toys among other things. At Diaper Cakewalk, the cakes are categorized by gender or theme and there are so many to choose from that it will … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Milk Nursingwear Review and $40 GC Give Away

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One thing I've noticed when shopping in department stores and maternity stores is a lack of nursingwear. When you think about it, there are tons of moms who nurse - so I'm sure there's a demand, but unfortunately not much supply in brick and mortar stores. Fortunately, there are resources on the web that are dedicated to high quality nursingwear, like Milk. Milk Nursingwear stocks high quality bras, tops, nursing dresses and much more at affordable prices. As a pajama lover and a … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Sticky Bellies Review and Discount

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Everyone says you helicopter with the first kid, and then subsequent kids basically raise themselves.  I guess we'll see about that.  But one thing I know for sure is that I have in my head all of the things I didn't get to do for Emma so I can make sure to do them for baby #2. One of those things has to do with the monthly baby photos.  I was sure to take a picture of her every month for posterity, but I sure wish I had labeled her by month to make it a bit easier to identify.  I've … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Three Season Baby and Toddler Shoes (Stonz Booties Give Away)

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How would you like to have one single pair of shoes that your child can wear in winter, spring and fall?  Stonz has 'em, and they're available for infants and toddlers up to three years of age. A Canadian company, Stonz is about five years old.  Two moms came up with the design of a soft-soled bootie that would keep their children's feet and legs warm while offering protection from the elements, that would also stay put.  They're designed in both solid colors and simple designs. These … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Well-Planned Shower Themes

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This baby shower event has me pinning so many wonderful ideas, and wanting to host an actual baby shower in real life.  If one of my friends can just do me a favor and become pregnant I'll get to work, mm-kay? The little elements that come together certainly carry the shower themes below resulting in amazingly detailed events. How cute is this Rubber Ducky Punch?  Find the recipe at Tidy Mom. It's a rain shower.  Everything from the decorations to the food, games and favors help to … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Sage Spoonfuls Homemade Lifestyle Package Giveaway!

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I remember spending a ridiculous amount of money on jarred baby food for Emma.  The only part about that stage that I miss is she actually ate quite a few vegetables back then.  Not so much anymore! Once I realized how easy it was to make your own baby food, we were out of that stage.  Now I have a second chance to do it the right away, and I'm so fortunate to have such a comprehensive kit to make the process that much easier. The Homemade Lifestyle Package includes all of the following … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Handmade Invitation Do’s and Don’ts

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The first step to throwing a baby shower is deciding on the invitations.  Once you have the guest list, it's time to start planning. There's a special place in my heart for handmade invitations, and you can really get creative here.  Plus, it's the first indication of the good times that will be had at the party, so wouldn't you want to make a statement? I love this adorable onesie invitation by Becky of StampThat.com.  This could work for a boy or a girl by changing up the colors and … [Read more...]

The Best Baby Shower: Maxi Cosi Travel System Giveaway!

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This past fall, I had the opportunity to get a first-hand look at one of the two new collections from Maxi Cosi - the Leila Collection, which has a tan and powder blue theme.  The Piazzo is the other, in tan and red. The timing couldn't be more perfect, and I'm excited to be able to use this brand new mommy gear in just a few short months. The collection features the three essentials for new moms: The travel system, the play yard, and the high chair. But let's talk about the travel system … [Read more...]