{Earth Mama Angel Baby} Review & GIVEAWAY! *CLOSED*

Earth Mama Angel Baby is a company that specializes in natural, herbal skin and body care products for both mama and baby. I especially love that they have mama covered from every aspect of expecting a baby - from pregnancy to labor to postpartum and even to the loss of a baby, Earth Mama Angel Baby (EMAB) has all the products you need to make each transition a bit more easy on you.

Additionally, their products contain only certified organic or organically grown herbs and oils and are toxin-free, cruelty-free, vegan and void of any artificial dyes, preservatives or fragrances. And even more impressive is that every single one of their products rates a "0" for toxins on the Skin Deep database. What's most impressive about this is that no other pregnancy and baby care company can make that claim! {Check the toxicity of your own products you use at home now by visiting here! You'll probably be really surprised with how toxic "safe" items are!}. Their packaging is also eco-friendly, recyclable or reusable - just one more aspect to love about Earth Mama Angel Baby.

So I recently received EMAB's Breastfeeding Support Kit, which includes their "Bosom Buddies," "Organic Milkmaid Tea," "Booby Tubes," and "Natural Nipple Butter." Now, I had breastfed my firstborn, as well, and remembered how awful those first couple weeks were, as I experienced sore, cracked, bleeding nipples. Simply excruciating {and I know you know what I'm talking about if you've been there before!}. So I was really excited to get this package in time to start nursing our secondborn.

The first item I tried was the "Natural Nipple Butter." It worked like a charm to immediately soothe right after a feeding. And what I really love about this stuff is that it is pretty much scent-free (unless you stick your nose in there, and even then, it has a faint hint of olive oil and mango butter, in my opinion), completely natural and glides on really smoothly. It isn't thick at all, so you can put a very small amount on, and just barely rub onto the nipple. This is a huge advantage over other nipple creams I've experienced that are much thicker and must be applied with more force, which is just not what you want to be using on sore nipples! And, of course, no need to rub the nipple butter off before feeding baby - very convenient.

Next up was the "Bosom Buddies." These are EMAB's organic breast compresses to help soothe sore, achy nipples. In my own words, it's essentially tea bags for your breasts. In fact, "Bosom Buddies" has organic herbs, cabbage leaves and black tea in its mix! The jar comes with 2 muslin bags, and you simply fill the bags with the herbal blend, steep in hot water for 5 minutes, and you're all set to go! I've tried just one round of it so far, and it really had a soothing, calming effect. I would suggest trying this out right after a feeding, as the warmth of them could signal your breasts to let down your milk, as happened with me.

Included in the EMAB Breastfeeding Support Kit also is the "Organic Milkmaid Tea," which is a caffeine-free tea for mama. The concept behind this tea blend is that if your milk production is down and needs a little best, this stuff is your ticket. It's made of 100% organic herbs and has a slight licorice taste (due to the fennel seed). While I haven't had any problems with low milk production yet, I did taste it, and I really enjoyed it. And I must confess that I'm NOT a fan of the taste of (black) licorice, so was a little hesitant before trying. I'm please to report, however, that I actually like the tea - it really is just a hint of the licorice flavor, so if you're like me and don't like that particular taste - have no worries. You'll be fine with this tea's flavor. And the added bonus with this tea is that not only will it help support healthy milk production, but it's packed with minerals and vitamins that are just good for mama in general.

And last, but certainly not least in the kit is Earth Mama Angel Baby's "Booby Tubes." Cute little name, eh? I have to say first that I really love the design of these breast packs! They are designed as a double-tubed coil that covers the vast majority of your breast except for the nipples. The "Booby Tubes" are gel-free and both microwavable and freezable for extra versatility. Use warm to encourage milk flow, help prevent clogged milk ducts, help heal mastitis (breast infection) and stimulate milk let-down. Store in the freeze and use cold to help reduce breast swelling and engorgement or to comfort breasts when you decide to start weaning. These are such a fabulous product, I must say! The versatility alone is worth the purchase of this product. And they truly work. My tender breasts were immediately relieved once the cold tubes were placed on them. And a happier mama means healthier milk production, which means a happier baby. You can't go wrong there.

In addition to the aforementioned products included in the Breastfeeding Support Kit, Earth Mama Angel Baby also offers the "No More Milk Tea" to help reduce your milk production when you're starting to wean or stopping breastfeeding altogether. And with each purchase of their Breastfeeding Support Kit, EMAB donates a portion of its proceeds to the Best for Babes Foundation to help moms and babies successfully nurse.

In conclusion, this kit is a great find and would make for a fantastic gift for any breastfeeding mama out there! {I know I'm so thanks I have mind on hand now!} But if there were just one product I could get from the entire Breast Kit, it would be the "Natural Nipple Butter." It comes ready to use and is really a step up from other nipple creams I've seen in that it doesn't contact lanolin and glides on sooo smoothly, not to mention its lack over overbearing scents. And if mama doesn't breastfeed, be sure to check out the other products from EMAB for pregnancy, labor ease, postpartum recovery & baby care.

BUY IT! To get your own Breastfeeding Support Kit ($49.95) or other products from Earth Mama Angel Baby, click here! You can also read more about EMAB and their philosophies & products on their blog.

Win it! One lucky Haute Tot and Baby Couture reader will receive a $25 electronic giftcard to Earth Mama Angel Baby to choose the product/s of their liking, courtesy of EMAB!

Mandatory Entry!

This giveaway is for HTBC blog followers only! (So if you're not one, become one today via Google Friend!) Visit Earth Mama Angel Baby and come back here to tell me what product you'd like to buy ALONG WITH one of their "101 Reasons to Breastfeed" (must include both answers to qualify for giveaway - 1 entry)! Be sure to leave your email address in the entry so that I have a way to contact the winner! If there is NO EMAIL left, another winner will be drawn. Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be chosen. Entrants can enter through May 25th. Winner to be chosen May 26th, 2010.

Additional Entries!

Once you've completed the mandatory entries, do any of the following for more chances to win! {Again, please be sure to leave your email address in each entry!}

*Subscribe to our blog (2 entries possible; 1 via google & 1 via email feedburner (must be activated to count as entry)).

*Include our blog in your blog roll and include URL (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Adam's Blankie on Facebook (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Earth Mama Angel Baby on Facebook (1 entry).

*Follow Adam's Blankie on twitter AND tweet about this giveaway with the following tweet, (1 entry - can be done daily):
"Win Earth Mama Angel Baby products @adamsblankie! Enter at www.hautetotandbabycouture.blogspot.com!"

(Be sure to leave a link to your tweet/s!).

*Post our blog buttons on your blog and include link to blog. (6 entries possible - 3 for Adam's Blankie Etsy shop button and 3 for Haute Tot Couture blog button).

*Blog about this giveaway and include the link to your post (3 entries).

*Enter any of our other current giveaways for one entry each (up to 3 entries possible) and leave a comment letting me know which giveaway/s you entered.

Please note, I was not paid to do this review.
Opinions are strictly my own, and no one or nothing else has influenced me in my review.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED.

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO ENTERED!

WINNER: SIMYPLYMERRY

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

{Shedding Some Light}

I'm dedicating the month of May as my own "National Awareness Month" on the blog {although, there will also be scattered give-aways throughout the month, as well!}. As I have my own very near-and-dear-to-my-heart issue {drowning prevention} that I will be blogging about, I will be touching upon some others, as well.

That being said, I'm no expert in diseases, disorders and preventative causes, but I do want to spread the awareness of issues out there! Soooo....I need your help! If you have a cause you'd like me to shed some light on, please, please email me at adamsblankie@gmail.com! You can share your own story, give us links to pages about your cause, send statistics, etcetera...however you want to do it!

So, don't delay! Get sending your info in to me, and let's spread the word on the very important causes out there!

Have a blessed day!

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

{Knotty Tots} Review & GIVEAWAY! *CLOSED*

I had always been envious of Moms with little girls and all their adorable, frilly & fancy clothing and accessories they were able to dress them in. That is, until I had my own baby girl! Now I'm digging in to all the girly goodness out there!

One accessory I've always loved are the leg warmers for girls {although, yes, I do realize you can get them for boys, too, but they're obviously not as versatile for them, as they don't wear skirts and such...}. Now, most of the leg warmers you'll find on the market are a cotton weave. But Knotty Tots offers something more original and oh-so-cute to boot! How about some adorable warmers crocheted with yarn? They are sooooooo utterly cute ~ really! ~ these are a must-have for any girl's wardrobe!

Knotty Tots Leg Warmers (size: newborn) in magenta with lamb clips

The leg warmers are not only handcrafted {always a huge plus, in my opinion!} but very well handcrafted. No snags or seams, evenly crafted loops, and they're not too tight or loose. Additionally, the leg warmers come in 36 delicious colors, and can be customized for the specific size you need ~ all the way from those to fit a newborn up to a size 12 for older girls! Even better yet? You can also get matching crocheted flower clips to attach to them for extra adorableness! The clips are very versatile and can also be used to attach directly to the hair or onto headbands, too.

We are absolutely smitten with our set! And Baby K will be able to wear these for a while, as now they go all the way to the tops of her legs! I can hardly wait for her to be able to sit up or crawl on her own so that I can capture some even more precious photos of her in these little gems!


Additionally, Knotty Tots also offers crocheted dresses, blankets and beanies, too. So be sure to stop by and grab some goodies for your own blessing, or to give at the next baby shower you are to attend!

BUY IT! Visit Knotty Tots to purchase your own leg warmers or other crocheted accessories.

WIN IT! Knotty Tots is graciously giving one lucky HTBC blog reader their own pair of leg warmers in their color & size of choice!

Mandatory Entry!
Visit Knotty Tots and come back here to tell me what color you'd select if you won (1 entry)!

Be sure to leave your email address in the entry so that I have a way to contact the winner! If there is NO EMAIL left, another winner will be drawn. Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be chosen. Entrants can enter through May 18th. Winner to be chosen May 19th, 2010.

Additional Entries!

Once you've completed the mandatory entries, do any of the following for more chances to win! {Again, please be sure to leave your email address in each entry!}

*Subscribe to our blog (2 entries possible; 1 via google & 1 via email feedburner (must be activated to count as entry)).

*Include our blog in your blog roll and include URL (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Adam's Blankie on Facebook (1 entry).

*Follow Adam's Blankie on twitter AND tweet about this giveaway with the following tweet, (1 entry - can be done daily):
"Win the Miracle Blanket swaddling blanket @adamsblankie! Enter at www.hautetotandbabycouture.blogspot.com!"

(Be sure to leave a link to your tweet/s!).

*Post our blog buttons on your blog and include link to blog. (6 entries possible - 3 for Adam's Blankie Etsy shop button and 3 for Haute Tot Couture blog button).

*Blog about this giveaway and include the link to your post (3 entries).

*Enter any of our other current giveaways for one entry each (up to 3 entries possible) and leave a comment letting me know which giveaway/s you entered.

Please note, I was not paid to do this review.
Opinions are strictly my own, and no one or nothing else has influenced me in my review.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED.

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO ENTERED!

WINNER: KATIA

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

{Snugs Boutique} Review & GIVEAWAY!

Snugs Boutique is a small Canadian shop owned by Andrea, the mother of a "very spirited" 2yo, in her own words! Andrea was so inspired by him that she started creating her own line of cloth diapers when he was just 6 months old {where does one find the time!?}. Her shop carries everything from one sized diapers to fitted ones, along with covers, wipes, inserts, "mama pads" and more!

Off first glance, I especially love that she carries some unique fabrics for her diapers. While there are plain, solid colored ones available, there are also some fab patterns in her fitted diapers for those of you who'd like a bit more spunk on your baby's bottom! This is an aspect that you usually just simply do not find in the big brands of manufactured cloth diapers {and if you do, they're usually significantly more expensive}.

Snugs Boutique sent us both a one size cloth pocket diaper in their mod chocolate brown color, along with a one size diaper cover in a baby blue. The Snugs Boutique one sized pocket diaper features different snap settings to allow for up to 3 different fittings to fit babies from about 10-35 pounds. That being said, we did try it one our newborn (8 pounds), and it fit just fine, so I think you can use it from birth, too {as long as they're not a tiny baby perhaps}. The diaper has Aplix (velcro) closure on top to ensure a snug fit around the waist, as well. Now I know I've always said I love the durability of snaps, but I have to also say that I {and especially my husband!} love the convenience, fit, and ease of using Aplix closures. My only concern, as usual, with Aplix is to see how long it lasts after many washes...only time will tell there. But so far, I'm really happy with this diaper!

The fitted pocket cloth diaper also features a super soft & lofty fleece interior, waterproof exterior lining and comes with an adjustable {via 2 different snap settings} microfiber insert. I especially love that the insert can be adjusted and will stay put with the snap settings! And did I mention it comes in 15 different color choices? Not too shabby....

When it came time to wash, we just removed the insert, and folded over the Aplix tabs {to keep them from sticking to everything in the wash!}, and we were all set to go. The diaper washed up beautifully, and might I also mention that there were no leaks ~ even with her being only 8 pounds!

We also tested out the Snugs Boutique one size diaper cover on our newborn {as you can see in the picture at right, she still has her "plug" in!}. Like their pocket diaper, the cover also features their signature snap settings to allow for up to 3 different sizes. The exterior is waterproof, of course, and the inner layer is a soft, plush lamb-like material. And this is certainly a unique feature for a cover because normally covers don't have any interior fabric. It proved easy to adjust to the proper setting I needed, kept all wetness inside and washed up perfectly, too.

The one sized cloth pocket diapers retail for just $16, and the covers for $8. These are great deals, considering they'll last you from birth to potty training! Also be sure to check out their adorable line of appliqued prefold diapers, if you're using those!

BUY IT! To get your own cloth diapers, visit Snugs Boutique!

WIN IT! Snugs Boutique is graciously offering one HTBC reader a $15 giftcard to use on any product of choice from their store!

Mandatory Entry!

Visit Snugs Boutique and come back here to tell me what product and fabric selection you'd pick if you won (1 entry)! Be sure to leave your email address in the entry so that I have a way to contact the winner! If there is NO EMAIL left, another winner will be drawn. Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be chosen. Entrants can enter through May 12th. Winner to be chosen May 13th, 2010 {open internationally!}.

Additional Entries!

Once you've completed the mandatory entries, do any of the following for more chances to win! {Again, please be sure to leave your email address in each entry!}

*Subscribe to our blog (2 entries possible; 1 via google & 1 via email feedburner (must be activated to count as entry)).

*Include our blog in your blog roll and include URL (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Adam's Blankie on Facebook (1 entry).

*Follow Adam's Blankie on twitter AND tweet about this giveaway with the following tweet, (1 entry - can be done daily):
"Win a giftcard for Snugs Boutique #clothdiapers @adamsblankie! Enter at www.hautetotandbabycouture.blogspot.com!"

(Be sure to leave a link to your tweet/s!).

*Post our blog buttons on your blog and include link to blog. (6 entries possible - 3 for Adam's Blankie Etsy shop button and 3 for Haute Tot Couture blog button).

*Blog about this giveaway and include the link to your post (3 entries).

*Enter any of our other current giveaways for one entry each (up to 3 entries possible) and leave a comment letting me know which giveaway/s you entered.

Please note, I was not paid to do this review.
Opinions are strictly my own, and no one or nothing else has influenced me in my review.

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

{The Miracle Blanket} Review & GIVEAWAY! *CLOSED*

The Miracle Blanket has got to be thee most unique swaddling blanket I've ever seen, hands-down. This is simply just not your typical large square blanket, but oh-so-much-more! The Miracle Blanket uses its patented "wing" design to swaddle baby and do so as a "lateral belly wrap," meaning the most effective solution to calm a fussy baby. In fact, the Miracle Blanket is the "world's most
pediatrician-recommended swaddler" out there. Not too shabby.

The swaddler not only soothes fussy babies, but also promotes good sleep {for both baby and mommy!}, stops facial scratches and twitches that wake baby, and helps babies sleep on their backs better.

Furthermore, the Miracle Blanket does all this without zippers, velcro, buttons or knots. It looks a bit complicated at first, I will be the first to admit, but after a couple times of doing it yourself, you'll find it's quite easy. In fact, here is a video showing how it works.

I found this blanket to deliver just as promised. I really love that baby K could not fuss her way out of this one. As soon as I got this on her the first time, she stopped crying. It was pretty impressive. What I also love is its mid-weight. I often find swaddlers that are too warm, and this one should suit just about every climate.


The flaps to hold down baby's arms are a huge asset to its effectiveness, and it's one detail that a lot of other swaddling blankets miss. Afterall, that's pretty much the point of swaddling, because if baby can get their arms out, she'll probably wake herself up with flailing, and hence, the purpose of swaddling is pretty well lost. And the fact that it all can be done without having to have a sized swaddling blanket or confusing straps or velcro or complicated folding speaks volumes. On the other hand, if you happen to have a baby that prefers her arms out, go ahead and forgo the "arm restraints" ~ that's always an option, which makes it a nice versatile blanket.

BUY IT! Visit Miracle Blanket to purchase your own swaddling blanket today, and sleep better tonight! {Seriously! Check out some of their amazing testimonials!}

WIN IT! Miracle Blanket is giving one super lucky HTBC reader a Miracle Blanket {MSRP $29.95} in their color choice! {Open to US & Canada only}.

Mandatory Entry!

Visit Miracle Blanket and come back to tell me what color you'd select if you won (1 entry)!

Be sure to leave your email address in the entry so that I have a way to contact the winner! If there is NO EMAIL left, another winner will be drawn. Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be chosen. Entrants can enter through May 11th. Winner to be chosen May 12th, 2010.

Additional Entries!

Once you've completed the mandatory entries, do any of the following for more chances to win! {Again, please be sure to leave your email address in each entry!}

*Subscribe to our blog (2 entries possible; 1 via google & 1 via email feedburner (must be activated to count as entry)).

*Include our blog in your blog roll and include URL (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Adam's Blankie on Facebook (1 entry).

*Follow Adam's Blankie on twitter AND tweet about this giveaway with the following tweet, (1 entry - can be done daily):
"Win the Miracle Blanket swaddling blanket @adamsblankie! Enter at www.hautetotandbabycouture.blogspot.com!"

(Be sure to leave a link to your tweet/s!).

*Post our blog buttons on your blog and include link to blog. (6 entries possible - 3 for Adam's Blankie Etsy shop button and 3 for Haute Tot Couture blog button).

*Blog about this giveaway and include the link to your post (3 entries).

*Enter any of our other current giveaways for one entry each (up to 3 entries possible) and leave a comment letting me know which giveaway/s you entered.

Please note, I was not paid to do this review.
Opinions are strictly my own, and no one or nothing else has influenced me in my review.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED.

WINNER: ANDREA

THANKS FOR ENTERING!

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

Handmade Spring Cards

Instead of buying and giving out traditional cards this Spring, how about making your own floral ones that mean more to the recipient and are certainly less expensive {And I totally dig these more than the silk flowers...you just can't get better than the real thing, right?}?


These are perfect for using for your kids' "thank you's" after birthday parties, for "thank you's" for baby shower gifts and really for any time you need to send a little special note out.... Make a bunch at a time so that you have them on hand when you need them in a jiffy. They'd also make a fabulous gift for a new Mommy if you make some blank ones up and bundle them in twine, so that she has some "thank you" notecards on hand to give to all those lovelies who sent her a baby gift. She'll certainly appreciate such a thoughtful gift and especially being able to stay at home with the little one instead of having to go out to find "thank you" cards.

What you'll need:
fine-petaled flowers
cardstock
glue or other adhesive (spray, Mod Podge, glue stick, etc.)
embellishments (optional)

Optional:
writing tools (pens, markers, crayons)
embellishments (glitter, stickers, ribbon, etcetera...get creative!)

1. Pick some delicate flowers from your garden (pansies and daisies work well).
2. Place between the pages of a large, heavy book. Leave in there for about 2 weeks.

dried pansies

3. Have the kiddos glue (or mod podge) the flowers onto cardstock to make their own Easter cards or Spring pictures (great to give to grandparents!).

pansies dried onto cardstock (we used Amy Butler paper)

4. Add a handmade note on the front (or back...up to you, the artist!) such as "Thank You," "With regards," or "Thinking of You," for example.

one of the finished products...will add handwritten note on back

5. If you're really crafty (or a scrapbooker and have tons of materials on hand!), add as many intricate details to them as you like...like ribbons, buttons, bows and punch designs!

I made up these the other day to give to all the generous Mommies who have been bringing us meals since we got home from the hospital with our baby girl. I thought a homemade "thank you" was a great way to show our appreciation for a homemade meal.

Now, how easy was that?

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com
www.hautetotcouture.etsy.com

{Dimples Baby} Review & GIVEAWAY!

Dimples Baby is a fantastic one-stop shop for all haute accessories for a baby! From their hats, headbands, & hair clips to their designer socks, baby slings and blankets, you're sure to find an adorable, chic baby gift here! They are a company based out of Canada, but one that also services the whole world, as they are internet-based {although they do have a brick-and-mortar location in Rainbow Lake, Alberta, for those of you in the area!}, so be sure to swing in to their shop, no matter where you reside, and take a peek at what they have to offer.

Their website is set up with you, the shopper, in mind, as you can shop not only by category, but also by brand. And better yet, if you're going to be having a baby {and hence, baby shower}, you can also set up a gift registry there. And as a buyer of baby showers and birthdays myself, I, for one, appreciate gift registries, as they make my life as a buyer, oh-so-convenient!

So I recently had the chance to review one of their Pippalily baby slings (in "burgundy gothic rose," as shown at right) with our new baby girl. Pippalily products are made in Canada, 100% cotton and are machine-washable {Yay! for convenience!}. Among some of its most lovable traits are that it is easy to use, as it has no confusing snaps, buckles or D-rings, and that it fits quite easily into our diaper bag. Instead of having such confusing apparatus like most slings out there, the Pippalily slings are offered in 4 sizes (according to your own shirt size), and putting them on is easy as pie. You just slip over your head & shoulder, and "wah-lah," it's on! The fabric choices in which the Pippalily sling is available is also a huge bonus ~ they're all made from the highly lauded Amy Butler designer fabrics and very couture, which means you, as a modern & chic Mom, will love wearing them!

We were also sent a beautiful bath set from SwaddleDesigns, a brand that Dimples Baby carries, which included one of their hooded towels and matching wash cloth sets. The towel and wash cloths are made out of plush Turkish terry velour with chocolate satin trim. Doesn't that sound divine {when are they going to start making these for us Moms anyway!?}? The fabric pattern & colors {choices in green, blue or pink with the ever-popular chocolate brown} are completely modern, yet simple enough that I think every Mom, no matter her style, will love these! Yet beyond chic, the SwaddleDesigns towel & washcloths are abundantly soft & absorbant, not to mention an absolute everyday essential for baby. Quite frankly, they are beyond comparison to any other hooded towel I've come across regarding softness ~ and isn't that what we want cocooning our babies afterall? This all translates into a fabulous baby shower gift, if I do say so myself.

Dimples Baby is also affiliated with their exclusive toy store, "Play and Learn Toys." So once you're done shopping for your baby gift accessories, you can head on over there to find some must-have toys. Additionally, you can check out their blog here to see what they've been up to!

BUY IT! Visit Dimples Baby to check out their adorable baby accessories to buy for yourself or a special friend who's expecting! Receive 5% off your purchase from Dimples Baby with code Adams5, and receive 10% off your purchase from Play and Learn Toys with code Adams10.

WIN IT! And now what you've been waiting for...Dimples Baby is generously offering one lucky Haute Tot & Baby Couture reader their own SwaddleDesigns hooded towel and matching wash cloth set in the color of their choice {prize value of $49.98}!

Mandatory Entry!
This giveaway is for public HTBC followers only - so if you haven't become one yet, now is the time to do so (1 entry)! THEN Visit Dimples Baby and find one other item you'd like to try AND WHY. Then come back here and tell me what it is AND WHY in a comment (must include BOTH ANSWERS to quality! - 1 entry).
Be sure to leave your email address in the entry so that I have a way to contact the winner! If there is NO EMAIL left, another winner will be drawn. Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be chosen. Entrants can enter through May 4th. Winner to be chosen May 5th, 2010. {Open to US & Canadian residents only}.

Additional Entries!
Once you've completed the mandatory entry, do any of the following for more entries! {Again, please be sure to leave your email address in each entry!}

*Subscribe to our blog (2 entries possible; via google - 1 entry, via email feedburner - 1 entry (must be activated to count as entry)).

*Include our blog in your blog roll and include URL (must leave link to
your blog in comment - 1 entry).

*Become a fan of Adam's Blankie on Facebook (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Play and Learn Toys on Facebook (1 entry).

*Follow Adam's Blankie on twitter AND tweet about this giveaway with the following tweet (copy and paste), (1 entry - can be done daily):
"Win a SwaddleDesigns hooded towel & matching washcloths from Dimples Baby @adamsblankie! Enter at www.hautetotandbabycouture.blogspot.com!"
(Be sure to leave a link to your tweet/s!).

*Follow Dimples Baby/Play and Learn Toys on twitter (1 entry).

*Post our blog buttons on your blog and include link to blog. (6 entries possible - 3 for Adam's Blankie Etsy shop button and 3 for Haute Tot Couture blog button).

*Blog about this giveaway and include the link to your post (3 entries).

*Enter any of our other giveaways for one entry each (up to 3 entries possible) and leave a comment letting me know which giveaway/s you entered.

Please note, I was not paid to do this review.
Opinions are strictly my own, and no one or nothing else has influenced me in my review.

DRAWING CLOSED.

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

{Koala Kuddles} Review & GIVEAWAY!

You all probably already know by now what a big fan I am of swaddling babies. There is just so much research out there showing how beneficial it is to baby....

Koala Kuddles began when a mother from Australia moved to the USA, and was surprised to learn that her new friends hadn't seen swaddling wraps like they used in Australia! After giving many away to her friends, she decided to create her own here to sell.

So what makes the swaddling blankets from Koala Kuddles a bit different than other more "traditional" swaddling blankets? They are made of muslin instead of the heavier cottons I've seen others made from. Muslin {pronounced muzz-lin} is a very thin, light-weight, "breathable" fabric, and because of this quality, it helps prevent baby from overheating. Another great trait of muslin is that it doesn't pile {essentially, meaning it doesn't become bumpy} as a lot of other cotton swaddling blankets on the market do after being washed.

We received a pair of the muslin swaddling blankets from Koala Kuddles and were quite impressed with them. They provided just enough stretch for baby to comfortably move about within it, yet kept her contained well. We didn't experience the overheating issue we've found with some others, which is absolutely perfect for swaddling in warmer climates. Additionally, the blankets also got softer with each wash. I also love their generous size {39"x39"}, so that you can use them for tummy time or covering up baby in the stroller or for your own coverup while nursing.


The Koala Kuddles swaddling blankets come packaged as 3 in a cute box with an open window, and their prints are quite fitting, as they include some of the most iconic Australian animals, including the kookabura, platypus, turtle, crocodile & kangaroo. The blankets are also available in a simple polka-dot pattern, or you can get their assorted set, which includes both the animals and polka dots. Swaddling instructions {with pictures} are also printed right on the box for your convenience and easy gift-giving, but you can also view a video of the process at KoalaKuddles.com.


BUY IT! Visit Koala Kuddles to purchase your own set as an adorable {yet practical!} baby shower gift, or for your own baby!

WIN IT! Koala Kuddles is giving one very lucky lucky Haute Tot and Baby Couture reader their own set of swaddling blankets!

Mandatory Entry!

To enter, please visit Koala Kuddles and find a sleeping tip from their site. Then come back here to tell me one (1 entry). Be sure to leave your email address in the entry so that I have a way to contact the winner! If there is NO EMAIL left, another winner will be drawn. Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be chosen. Entrants can enter through May 9th. Winner to be chosen May 10th, 2010. {Contest open to US, Canadian & Australian residents only}.

Additional Entries!

Once you've completed the mandatory above step, do any of the following for more chances to win! {Again, please be sure to leave your email address in each entry!}

*Become a public HTBC follower on google friend (1 entry).

*Subscribe to our blog (2 entries possible; via google - 1 entry, via email feedburner - 1 entry (must be activated to count as entry)).

*Include our blog in your blog roll and include URL (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Adam's Blankie on Facebook (1 entry).

*Follow Adam's Blankie on twitter AND tweet about this giveaway with the following tweet (copy and paste), (1 entry - can be done daily):
"Win a 3-pack of Australian Swaddling Blankets from Koala Kuddles @adamsblankie! Enter at www.hautetotandbabycouture.blogspot.com!"
(Be sure to leave a link to your tweet/s!).

*Post our blog buttons on your blog and include link to blog. (6 entries possible - 3 for Adam's Blankie Etsy shop button and 3 for Haute Tot Couture blog button).

*Blog about this giveaway and include the link to your post (3 entries).

Please note, I was not paid to do this review.
Opinions are strictly my own, and no one or nothing else has influenced me in my review.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED.

THANKS FOR ENTERING!

WINNER: EMILY B

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

winners, WINNERS!

Congrats!
to the latest winners of the HTBC {giveaways}!

Plan Toys - Tabathia - tba******01@gmail.com
Sweet Arts Design - Tina Reynolds eag*******ack@gmail.com
Designer Label Gal - Strawberry Kids str************les@gmail.com
ImagiPLAY - Jessica jja***03@gmail.com

{Thanks} to all who entered!
More fab giveaways to come!!

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

{Tot Wraps} Review & GIVEAWAY!

Krysta is the owner and creator of all Tot Wraps cloth diapering products. Like many other cloth diapering businesses out there, it all began with making cloth diapers for her own children and progressed into a business from there. She first purchased a license to use another pattern to sew her cloth diapers from, but has since created her own. That first original pattern was for their signature, "Dream Diaper," and since then, Krysta's created other products, including the "Dream Cover" and "Dream Trainer" amongst others. As the business has grown, other WAHM have been enlisted to help her produce her products, but quite fascinatingly, Krysta still sews at least one part of every product they make!

The "Dream Diaper" includes all the features Krysta found that every diaper should have in order to be a "dream," per se. Let me count the ways.... It is a one-size-fits-all diaper, for starters, and will fit an 8-pound newborn up to a 35-pound or so toddler. Two rows made up of closure snaps allow for easy adjustment around both the legs and waist. There is just one row for rise-adjustment, meaning a pretty uncomplicated diaper {that even Daddy should be able to do!}. Plus, as you all probably know by now, I'm a big fan of snaps because they are so much more durable (than velcro) in the long run after many washes. Additionally, it is an all-in-one (AIO) diaper, meaning it's ready to be worn immediately after washing and drying. But the fabulous part? It's also a hybrid diaper, meaning there is also a pocket for stuffing an additional insert as an absorbancy booster ~ great for all those heavy-wetters or for night-time use.


We tested out the Dream Diaper and were quite pleased with it. One of my husband's "big beefs" with cloth diapers is how large it makes the baby's bottoms look {kinda cute, if you ask me!}. This diaper used as an AIO is about as bulky as a full disposable diaper - not too bad relative to many others out there. However, if you are going to add one of their optional inserts, your diaper will be significantly bigger. But then again...this is necessary if you have an extremely heavy wetter. {I should mention that their Dream Diaper does not come with an insert, as you don't need one in order to use the diaper, but they are available for an additional & affordable $2.00 each}. The inserts are a nice hour-glass shape, and so fit well inside the diaper without added bulk on the sides. Additionally, their liners have a stitched fold-line {which say "Tot Wraps" - convenient for pairing up the right liner with the right diaper!) that you can use as a guideline to fold in the case of using with a smaller rise setting.

Tot Wraps Dream Diaper OS Hybrid AIO

Additionally, the Dream Diaper sports a velvety velour interior lining {love that!} and also is made up of a "Zorb" middle layer. Now, I was introduced {and introduced you, as well!} to the product "Zorb" not too long ago, and really was quite impressed with it. And if you don't remember {or didn't read my earlier review of a diaper with it}, there are some quite fascinating statistics on this material. But before I break it down, I do just want you to know that it's not made of some strange alienesque materials out there...so you can rest your head knowing that. In fact, here's a quote I found on its makeup:

"Zorb contains only tangled cellulose fibers from bamboo/cotton/viscose and poly micro fiber, the same fibers found in virtually every AIO diaper on the market – nothing else. These non-allergenic fibers are non-allergenic, durable and easy to sanitize We manufacture Zorb in the USA and Canadian in modern facilities that are safe & friendly for workers and the environment." - Mike, the head of textile design at Wazoodle {maker of the product}.

That being said, here's the rest of the lowdown on "Zorb":

1 layer of Zorb is the same {thickness-wise} as:

• 3 layers of flannel
• 2.25 layers of French terry
• 1.3 layers of cotton fleece
• 1 layer of sherpa.

To get the same absorbency as 2 layers of Zorb, you would need:

• 8 layers of flannel
• 6 layers of French terry
• 5 layers of cotton fleece
• 4 layers of sherpa.

It really is quite an impressive product, in my opinion, and I find myself gravitating more toward diapers that use it due to its superior performance. Love the ultra plush interior, hybrid feature, and Zorb materials used, in particular.

Tot Wraps Dream Diaper - AIO, one-size, hybrid features...on baby K at just 8 days old

Other than that, I can tell you we experienced no leaks {always the point, right??} and found the Dream Diaper to be a very professionally & exceptionally well-crafted product.

We also tested out the Tot Wraps "Little Starter Cover." It is, of course, the perfect {and absolutely necessary, for that matter!} accessory for your fitted {non-waterproof} cloth diapers, or flat and pre-folds. The Tot Wraps Little Starter Covers are made of waterproof PUL fabric, and feature a front-snapping system and gussets to help prevent leaks. Another fabulous feature is the flap on the front inside for tucking a pre-fold into.

We found it very easy to get on and nice and trim-fitting, as they're unlined on the inside. As we did opt for the one-size-fits-all option, it was a bit bulkier, as we had a folded front with extra fabric, of course. But that's one of the choices you'll have to make for yourself: go with the one-size to last through all the diapering experience to save money but experience bulk, or get sized covers that fit better but that you must order multiples of (in different sizes) to fit your baby through their growing stages. And again, like the Dream Diaper, these covers are a very well-crafted product. The Little Starter Covers are available in an amazing 7 sizes, ranging all the way from preemies to their one-size cover, and all for a very reasonable $10 each!

BUY IT! Visit Tot Wraps to purchase your own Dream Diaper ($15-22) or Little Starter Cover ($10)!

WIN IT! One lucky Haute Tot and Baby Couture reader will win a Dream Diaper in their color and size of choice! {Open to US & Canadian residents only}.

Mandatory Entry!

You must be {or become} a public HTBC blog follower on Google Friend to enter (1 entry)! Then visit Tot Wraps and come back here to tell me something you learned about their cloth diapers (1 entry)! Be sure to leave your email address in the entry so that I have a way to contact the winner! If there is NO EMAIL left, another winner will be drawn. Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be chosen. Entrants can enter through April 28th. Winner to be chosen April 29th, 2010.

Additional Entries!

Once you've completed the mandatory entry, do any of the following for more chances to win! {Again, please be sure to leave your email address in each entry!}

*Subscribe to our blog (2 entries possible; 1 via google & 1 via email feedburner (must be activated to count as entry)).

*Include our blog in your blog roll and include URL (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Adam's Blankie on Facebook (1 entry).

*Follow Adam's Blankie on twitter AND tweet about this giveaway with the following tweet, (1 entry - can be done daily):
"Win a Dream Diaper in choice of color and size from Tot Wraps @adamsblankie! Enter at www.hautetotandbabycouture.blogspot.com!"

(Be sure to leave a link to your tweet/s!).

*Post our blog buttons on your blog and include link to blog. (6 entries possible - 3 for Adam's Blankie Etsy shop button and 3 for Haute Tot Couture blog button).

*Blog about this giveaway and include the link to your post (3 entries).

*Enter any of our other current giveaways for one entry each (up to 3 entries possible) and leave a comment letting me know which giveaway/s you entered.

Please note, I was not paid to do this review.
Opinions are strictly my own, and no one or nothing else has influenced me in my review.

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

{SwaddleDesigns} Review & GIVEAWAY!

Ever since having my firstborn, I've always been a fan of SwaddleDesigns. While being pregnant that initial time, I wasn't really familiar with the concept of swaddling babies, but having received a swaddling blanket as a baby shower gift, and later using it on our newborn, I was instantly a fan of its "magical powers"!

SwaddleDesigns was founded by Lynette Damir, a registered nurse who knows that "Swaddled Babies Sleep Better." Their Ultimate Receiving Blanket is what initiated the business, in hopes of babies {and thereby, parents} sleeping better through the night {Amen to that!} so that you can actually function the next day, right?

We tested out the {Organic} Ultimate Receiving Blanket on our newborn girl and loved it! Of course, I wasn't expecting otherwise, since I'd already used one with our first child. I particularly love the soft yet modern & simple designs of SwaddleDesigns {most feature lots of circles and geometric shapes in soft pink, blue, or green with white or chocolate brown, although there are a few other choices & designs, including their "kiwi paisley," of which I'm a huge fan!}, and especially appreciate that they are crafted out of organic cotton preshrunk flannel {although they do have other choices that are not organic}. Another adorable feature is their ornate {yet, again, simple} trim around the blanket's edges - love it! But what's best is that the swaddling instructions are sewn right onto the blanket, meaning you {and Grandma and Daddy and the babysitter...} can easily get baby swaddled and do so quickly and without much fuss or frustration. And because of its generous size, you don't have to be a pro to get this thing on and most importantly, to stay on. Furthermore, their blankets are a generous 42"x42" blanket, made in the USA and the proud recipient of the iParenting Media Award for Best Products.

And I am happy to report that our baby girl slept well in the Ultimate Receiving Blanket and was oh-so-cute in it {you KNOW that counts for something...okay, a lot!}. Additionally, the blanket washes up well; it doesn't come out of the dryer as "smooth" as when you first receive it, but it does soften and get cozier. As it's a cotton flannel and so large, I wouldn't recommend it for hot weather, but for cooler nights, it's perfect - really.


And here are some swaddling tips, provided by SwaddleDesigns, that medical experts recommend:

*Maintain room temperature of around 68 degrees fehrenheit or 20 degrees celsius. *Remove a layer of clothing if your baby's neck, back or stomach is sweaty or damp. *Do not overdress your baby for sleep; this blanket and a diaper may be sufficient. *Always remember to play your baby on back to sleep. *Never leave baby unattended with loose blanket. *Consult your doctor with any questions or concerns.

Beyond their Ultimate Receiving Blanket, SwaddleDesigns also makes a multitude of practical items for baby, including washcloths, hooded towels, burpies, sleep sacks and lovies, amongst others. SwaddleDesigns was also kind enough to send us one of their Organic Baby Lovies, made of organic cotton flannel and eco-fleece. The blanket includes their signature mod circle designed fabric on the whole back side and front edges and a center square of their fluffy ivory fleece on the front side. It's a great size for babies to be able to hold onto themselves, and you can tote it everywhere due to its convenient small size.

I'm a huge fan of lovies, since I believe every child feels more secure and can self-soothe when they can bring whatever item they've learned to love with them. Furthermore, Mom can keep the blanket up to her own skin so that it has her scent on it, which only further comforts baby when holding it.

BUY IT! Visit SwaddleDesigns to purchase your own Ultimate Receiving Blanket or any number of their other fabulous products I already mentioned! Receive 10% off your order with Promo Code: MadeinUSA.

WIN IT! One lucky Haute Tot and Baby Couture reader is going to win one of their Ultimate Receiving Blankets, valued at $32, in their color of choice! {Open to US & Canadian residents only).

Mandatory Entry!

In order to enter, you must be {or become} a public HTBC blog follower (1 entry). Then simply visit SwaddleDesigns and come back to tell me some benefit you learned about swaddling (1 entry) for your chance to win! Be sure to leave your email address in the entry so that I have a way to contact the winner! If there is NO EMAIL left, another winner will be drawn. Winner will be chosen via random.org and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be chosen. Entrants can enter through May 2nd. Winner to be chosen May 3rd, 2010.

Additional Entries!

Once you've completed the mandatory entry, do any of the following for more chances to win! {Again, please be sure to leave your email address in each entry!}

*Subscribe to our blog (2 entries possible; via google - 1 entry, via email feedburner - 1 entry (must be activated to count as entry)).

*Include our blog in your blog roll and include URL (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Adam's Blankie on Facebook (1 entry).

*Become a fan of Swaddle Designs on Facebook and receive info on promos, new collections and discounts! (1 entry).

*Follow SwaddleDesigns on twitter (1 entry).

*Follow Adam's Blankie on twitter AND tweet about this giveaway with the following tweet (copy and paste), (1 entry - can be done daily):
"Win a SwaddleDesigns Receiving Blanket @adamsblankie! Enter at www.hautetotandbabycouture.blogspot.com!"
(Be sure to leave a link to your tweet/s!).

*Post our blog buttons on your blog and include link to blog. (6 entries possible - 3 for Adam's Blankie Etsy shop button and 3 for Haute Tot Couture blog button).

*Blog about this giveaway and include the link to your post (3 entries).

*Enter any of our other giveaways for one entry each (up to 3 entries possible) and leave a comment letting me know which giveaway/s you entered.

Please note, I was not paid to do this review.
Opinions are strictly my own, and no one or nothing else has influenced me in my review.

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

{GIVEAWAYS}...just around the bend.

Just wanted to post that I'm a bit behind on my reviews and giveaways, as you can see...but no better excuse than a new bundle of joy to love on! That being said, the fantastic giveaways listed on the side are coming soon, so make sure you're checking back often so you don't miss out on your chance to win some fabulously couture products!

Also, please do remember I'm trying to raise money for our Drowning Prevention campaign (I need $1000 by May 15th!), and that all who donate something will be entered into a drawing to receive an oh-so-couture Sushi Bib & Burp set from Adam's Blankie! And so far, we have only 1 contributor, so please, please check it out on the right-hand side bar! As I said before, if all blog followers gave just $5, we'd reach our goal!!

Thank you for considering! Hope your Easter weekend was fabulous (We had a blast dyeing eggs with our 3yo - he really got into it this year!)!

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com

She's Here!

Well, after a highly anticipated wait, our baby girl is FINALLY here! After one failed induction, we successfully had another 2 days later. I was given gels at our first induction, which did produce some intense contractions. In fact, so much so that they could only give me one round of them (apparently you can get up to 3 rounds). They sent me home to labor at home, and of course, wouldn't you know it. The contractions stopped about immediately upon leaving the hospital.

When we went in for our "scheduled" (second) induction, I was told I'd be given something that they can pull out if the contractions get too intense (pardon me, but I just don't remember the name of the drug). But as I was having contractions on my own (very frequent but completely painless and, thus, non-effective), they said they couldn't administer it right away. They also told me this could take up to 12 hours to work, and that if it didn't after 12 hours, they would try another 12-hour round. Sounds fun, right? So after waiting about another hour, they decided they were going to forgo this route altogether and instead do Pitocin. The only thing was, they couldn't give it to me in Triage, and they had no beds available in Labor & Delivery, so we had to wait...again. Oh. And they had no idea how long it would take for a room to become available.

Thank the good Lord, a bed did become available within about 40 minutes or so. And once the Pitocin was given, it took about 3 hours or so for the contractions to finally register as active labor. I asked for an epidural, which they were hesitant to give "so early," but thankfully they did because not more than 40 minutes after I'd been given it, I was at a 10 and ready to push!

So after an hour of pushing, our baby girl arrived at last! She was beautiful and healthy (although she had her cord around her neck and was blue at first), and we are so excited to finally have our little girl!

Now time to rest...(while I can)...and just enjoy her.

Have a product you'd like reviewed?
Contact me at adamsblankie@gmail.com
www.adamsblankie.etsy.com
www.gourmetplay.etsy.com