Hometown Hurrah --
I just found this NY Times article about Hollywood, FL..... personally, I'd rather see Hollywood get her glitz on rather than hold onto what the writer euphemistically writes about as old-world charm.... but we'll see
http://travel.nytimes.com/2008/01/06/travel/06next.html
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Baby Bump Burn: The New Workout in Town
Kettlebell workouts are one of the latest fitness crazes to hit tinseltown. Geri Haliwell, Mariska Hargitay, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Biel and Matthew McConaughey are all doing it to keep themselves in tip-top shape. And no wonder—it works! The workout, which includes squats, lunges and swinging the kettlebell from side to side, can burn up to 1500 calories in just one hour. It’s no wonder then that this is currently becoming an increasingly popular workout with new mums trying to get back in shape.
Sarah Lurie, herself recently postpartum, and a self-described kettlebell fanatic and expert recently got in touch with me regarding her new BABY BUMP BURN workout, which incorporates a variety of “Mommy Moves,” designed to help yummy mummy's get their bodies back fast after giving birth
The goal is strengthening your core and building endurance. Strong core muscles mean less back pain and the developed strength and support to carry junior on your hip all day. The DVDs routines are all between 10 and 30 minutes long so they are easy to do at home when baby is sleeping. Though it might be more tempting to crash on the couch with a cuppa and a biscuit, I have to say the benefits to this workout are immediate—more energy and an increased feeling of strength. Ready to conquer the world? You can purchase your Sarah Lurie’s Kettlebells workout DVDs on Amazon.com. Need more persuading? I took ten minutes with a six-week post-partum Sarah to find out more about this craze.
KK: What got you interested in kettlebell workouts?
SL: I was intrigued after incorporating The Swing and the Turkish Get Up, two of the basic moves, into my exercise routine. Immediately my body started to change shape. I had leaner abs and a firmer butt and the results were noticeable in a very short amount of time!
KK: What's the ethos behind kettlebell?
SL: Kettlebells produce quick results, so after a couple workouts people feel the instant effects of the workout and they are hooked. It’s something totally different and unique, which is part of what makes it so fun! If you’re not having a good time with your workout, you’re not going to continue with the program—but kettlebells are a sustainable workout for all ages and athletic levels, and people keep coming back for more.
KK: What do you see are its benefits over other types of exercise routines?
SL: The main benefit of using kettlebells is the ability to combine cardio, strength and flexibility for a complete and efficient three-in-one workout. You can spend 30 minutes working out with kettlebells, and your body will feel the same as it would if you were in the gym performing a traditional workout for two hours.
KK: What can you expect to achieve with a kettlebell workout?
SL: Simple: Fat loss and increased strength—fast. Your body will become incredibly lean and strong. Not bulky muscles just toned, lean and sleek in all the right areas.
KK: How quickly can you expect to see results?
SL: Most people report results after three weeks of working out with kettlebells.
KK: How soon after giving birth can you start a kettlebell workout?
SL: I started walking with my newborn daughter in a sling at four days. We went two miles and it felt great. The next day I decided to pick three simple kettlebell exercises and do reps equal to her age. So at five days post partum I was using my kettlebells again. I worked out with kettlebells for six years before giving birth, and I worked with them up until a few days before labor. My doctor would probably be horrified that I started lifting kettlebells at five days post-partum, but I know my body and it needs to be active in order to feel good. However, I do advise getting your doctors approval first. I had an all natural birth, so I wasn't dealing with having to heal. Most doctors will probably want you to wait four to six weeks.
KK: Are there post-partum benefits to a kettlebell workout?
SL: So far I have lost 26 pounds of the 35 that I gained during my pregnancy. I think getting up and moving has tremendous benefits. I am also breastfeeding, so that burns a lot of calories too!
KK: How many times per week do you advise you do a kettlebell workout?
SL: Three to five days a week is a good goal to shoot for. You can alternate between walking with the baby in a sling, which gives you great resistance as workout, and kettlebell workouts. I haven’t even taken my stroller out of the box yet.
KK: What type of eating plan do you advise you combine with the kettlebell workout?
SL: I have always followed a good eating plan that includes protein, fruit and vegetables for every meal with a snack or two in between. Often time’s women don't eat enough protein and don't get enough fruit or vegetable servings. During pregnancy I was diligent about getting the recommended allowance every day and I continue to eat that way now.
KK: I know you recently gave birth, congratulations! How much weight did you gain in your pregnancy and how is the weight loss going?
SL: My daughter is only a few weeks old so motherhood is new to me. But by starting to exercise sooner rather than later and keeping up with my good eating habits I have established a standard for myself that I will stick to no matter how crazy life gets. I gained 35 pounds during my pregnancy. So far at day eight, I have lost 26 pounds. I am losing weight by exercising, eating well and breastfeeding. Even if I haven't slept the night before, I still make a point to exercise even if it is just a walk. I have been busy since coming home with my daughter, but I decided before she was born that I would stick with working out. During my pregnancy I worked out three to four days a week with kettlebells. During the last trimester, when I slept very little, I still stayed committed to working out, even if I couldn't do as much as before. I knew if I waited until I wasn't tired or until I "felt like working out"— that time would never come.
KK: What's your advice to busy moms who are trying to fit exercise into their hectic schedules?
SL: The bottom line is if you want to be in shape and look and feel good, you need to carve out time. The great thing about kettlebells is you can pick one up while your baby is napping and get in a quick workout. You can start with 10 minutes and build up from there.
For more information on Sarah Lurie and ketllebells workouts, head to http://www.ironcorekettlebells.com/
Article tags:
Hannah Claire Shapiro, Knocked-Up Knockout, KUKO, Sarah Lurie, kettlebells, Jennifer Lopez, post-partum, Jessica Biel, Matthew McConaughey, Mommy Moves, Baby Bump Burn, Mariska Hargitay, pregnancy, weight gain, exercise, weight loss
Sarah Lurie, herself recently postpartum, and a self-described kettlebell fanatic and expert recently got in touch with me regarding her new BABY BUMP BURN workout, which incorporates a variety of “Mommy Moves,” designed to help yummy mummy's get their bodies back fast after giving birth
The goal is strengthening your core and building endurance. Strong core muscles mean less back pain and the developed strength and support to carry junior on your hip all day. The DVDs routines are all between 10 and 30 minutes long so they are easy to do at home when baby is sleeping. Though it might be more tempting to crash on the couch with a cuppa and a biscuit, I have to say the benefits to this workout are immediate—more energy and an increased feeling of strength. Ready to conquer the world? You can purchase your Sarah Lurie’s Kettlebells workout DVDs on Amazon.com. Need more persuading? I took ten minutes with a six-week post-partum Sarah to find out more about this craze.
KK: What got you interested in kettlebell workouts?
SL: I was intrigued after incorporating The Swing and the Turkish Get Up, two of the basic moves, into my exercise routine. Immediately my body started to change shape. I had leaner abs and a firmer butt and the results were noticeable in a very short amount of time!
KK: What's the ethos behind kettlebell?
SL: Kettlebells produce quick results, so after a couple workouts people feel the instant effects of the workout and they are hooked. It’s something totally different and unique, which is part of what makes it so fun! If you’re not having a good time with your workout, you’re not going to continue with the program—but kettlebells are a sustainable workout for all ages and athletic levels, and people keep coming back for more.
KK: What do you see are its benefits over other types of exercise routines?
SL: The main benefit of using kettlebells is the ability to combine cardio, strength and flexibility for a complete and efficient three-in-one workout. You can spend 30 minutes working out with kettlebells, and your body will feel the same as it would if you were in the gym performing a traditional workout for two hours.
KK: What can you expect to achieve with a kettlebell workout?
SL: Simple: Fat loss and increased strength—fast. Your body will become incredibly lean and strong. Not bulky muscles just toned, lean and sleek in all the right areas.
KK: How quickly can you expect to see results?
SL: Most people report results after three weeks of working out with kettlebells.
KK: How soon after giving birth can you start a kettlebell workout?
SL: I started walking with my newborn daughter in a sling at four days. We went two miles and it felt great. The next day I decided to pick three simple kettlebell exercises and do reps equal to her age. So at five days post partum I was using my kettlebells again. I worked out with kettlebells for six years before giving birth, and I worked with them up until a few days before labor. My doctor would probably be horrified that I started lifting kettlebells at five days post-partum, but I know my body and it needs to be active in order to feel good. However, I do advise getting your doctors approval first. I had an all natural birth, so I wasn't dealing with having to heal. Most doctors will probably want you to wait four to six weeks.
KK: Are there post-partum benefits to a kettlebell workout?
SL: So far I have lost 26 pounds of the 35 that I gained during my pregnancy. I think getting up and moving has tremendous benefits. I am also breastfeeding, so that burns a lot of calories too!
KK: How many times per week do you advise you do a kettlebell workout?
SL: Three to five days a week is a good goal to shoot for. You can alternate between walking with the baby in a sling, which gives you great resistance as workout, and kettlebell workouts. I haven’t even taken my stroller out of the box yet.
KK: What type of eating plan do you advise you combine with the kettlebell workout?
SL: I have always followed a good eating plan that includes protein, fruit and vegetables for every meal with a snack or two in between. Often time’s women don't eat enough protein and don't get enough fruit or vegetable servings. During pregnancy I was diligent about getting the recommended allowance every day and I continue to eat that way now.
KK: I know you recently gave birth, congratulations! How much weight did you gain in your pregnancy and how is the weight loss going?
SL: My daughter is only a few weeks old so motherhood is new to me. But by starting to exercise sooner rather than later and keeping up with my good eating habits I have established a standard for myself that I will stick to no matter how crazy life gets. I gained 35 pounds during my pregnancy. So far at day eight, I have lost 26 pounds. I am losing weight by exercising, eating well and breastfeeding. Even if I haven't slept the night before, I still make a point to exercise even if it is just a walk. I have been busy since coming home with my daughter, but I decided before she was born that I would stick with working out. During my pregnancy I worked out three to four days a week with kettlebells. During the last trimester, when I slept very little, I still stayed committed to working out, even if I couldn't do as much as before. I knew if I waited until I wasn't tired or until I "felt like working out"— that time would never come.
KK: What's your advice to busy moms who are trying to fit exercise into their hectic schedules?
SL: The bottom line is if you want to be in shape and look and feel good, you need to carve out time. The great thing about kettlebells is you can pick one up while your baby is napping and get in a quick workout. You can start with 10 minutes and build up from there.
For more information on Sarah Lurie and ketllebells workouts, head to http://www.ironcorekettlebells.com/
Article tags:
Hannah Claire Shapiro, Knocked-Up Knockout, KUKO, Sarah Lurie, kettlebells, Jennifer Lopez, post-partum, Jessica Biel, Matthew McConaughey, Mommy Moves, Baby Bump Burn, Mariska Hargitay, pregnancy, weight gain, exercise, weight loss
Sunday, September 21, 2008
so sad...
... to hear about the fatal plane crash on friday that killed four people and almost killed DJ AM and Travis Barker. What a miracle that they both survived. Such tragedies always serve as reminders to treasure each and every day for what it brings you, to not sweat the small stuff and to relish all these beautiful moments with my gorgeous family.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
My Top 10 Current obsessions...
1. Bravo TV shows: Project Runway, Top Design, Million Dollar Listing, Jo and Slade: Date my Ex, Flipping Out, The Rachel Zoe Project... You name it, I watch it AND love it!
2. Artichoke: Peel, dip, eat. Yum. Healthy decadence.
3. sTori Telling, by Tori Spelling: New. Found. Respect. What a woman!
4. Cookie magazine: High-end lifestyle for the Mommy set. My magazine de jour.
5. American politics: Current inner struggle--If I'm Republican, I'm racist and if I'm Democratic, I'm sexist... but seriously, I'm no longer so absolutely certain which is the winning ticket.
6. Sancerre: Ice cold. The perfect anecdote to a long day.
7. The ocean: Nothing is a better reminder of how lucky I am to live where I do.
8. Giada de Laurentis: Simple, tasty home cooking. This is my new go-to book for dinner-time inspiration.
9. My new iPhone: Email, NY Times, AP Wire, Facebook and phone on the go. Amazing!
10. My children, of course: Asher and Lola are my life and raison d'etre. I feel so blessed to be their mother and have their sweet souls in my life.
2. Artichoke: Peel, dip, eat. Yum. Healthy decadence.
3. sTori Telling, by Tori Spelling: New. Found. Respect. What a woman!
4. Cookie magazine: High-end lifestyle for the Mommy set. My magazine de jour.
5. American politics: Current inner struggle--If I'm Republican, I'm racist and if I'm Democratic, I'm sexist... but seriously, I'm no longer so absolutely certain which is the winning ticket.
6. Sancerre: Ice cold. The perfect anecdote to a long day.
7. The ocean: Nothing is a better reminder of how lucky I am to live where I do.
8. Giada de Laurentis: Simple, tasty home cooking. This is my new go-to book for dinner-time inspiration.
9. My new iPhone: Email, NY Times, AP Wire, Facebook and phone on the go. Amazing!
10. My children, of course: Asher and Lola are my life and raison d'etre. I feel so blessed to be their mother and have their sweet souls in my life.
A South Beach Soiree: Girls Gone Not-So Wild
Having lived all over the place and made friends in each port, I am always finding myself missing someone. Travelling to see friends used to be a fantastic way to take advantage of a great last-minute flight deal but these days, with child and hubby thrown into the mix it is simply no longer feasible—London for the weekend with toddler in tow isn’t an enticing prospect no matter which way you look at it.
So, instead, I rely on my friends wanting to see me and purchasing the necessary plane tickets to South Florida. (Of course, the great climate, private pool and close proximity to the beach are an additional enticer!) Thank goodness, it is rare for more than a couple of months to pass without the descent of a very friendly face. And praise the L-rd, I have a husband who understands our necessity of a spare room.
Recently, two of my oldest and dearest girlfriends, Lauren and Natalie, arrived at Casa Shapiro to celebrate Lauren’s 30th birthday. Now, I have always been a bit of a home-body but these days, more than ever, a good night with friends translates to a delicious at-home supper accompanied by dear friends and washed down with gorgeous wines... oh, and bed by midnight (at the latest) if I can politely get away with it!
But as wonderful as that is, and there were sure to be plenty of such evenings in the mix, it just wasn’t going to cut it for this friend’s birthday. I was determined to dust off my dancing shoes and plan a night to remember...
Sleep
The Sagamore Hotel
1671 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
T: (305) 535-8088 F: (305) 535-8185
www.sagamorehotel.com
The Sagamore Hotel (also known as The Art Hotel, thanks to its impressive private collection of contemporary works) on Miami’s South Beach is quintessentially Miami Art Deco, and boasts just 93 one-and-two-bedroom suites, including 15 two-story penthouses and bungalows. The rooms are both spacious and airy and, if rear-facing as our room was, boast terrific views of both the beautiful pool and infamous beach. Every room comprises a separate bedroom, living room (with sofa bed), dining area, wet bar and bathroom facilities, each with a whirlpool and separate W.C. so is perfectly comfortable for three or four girls sharing. The contemporary, high-end furnishings and 100% Egyptian cotton sheets combine to nurture your inner principessa. What’s more, this is an ideal place to escape to, as it is not overrun with guests so lends itself to quality pre-party girl time. It would equally be a fabulous spot for a weekend getaway without the children. (Hint, hint.)
Eat
NOBU @ The Shore Club
T: (305) 695 3232
www.shoreclub.com
NOBU has become synonymous with fabulous, cutting-edge food and it does not disappoint at its Shore Club location. Here, Chef Nobu Matsuhista serves up his signature dishes, such as Yellowtail with jalapeno and Rock Shrimp with Ponzu, to his throngs of adoring fans, which include Miami scenesters and tourists, and everyone in between. Reservations are suggested for parties of six or more or, alternatively, get on a first-name basis with the doormen. Otherwise, be prepared to wait.
Party
SET
320 Lincoln Road
T: (305) 531 2800 E: info@setmiami.com
For tables: (786) 303 5872
www.setmiami.com
This is currently the place to see and be seen in Miami’s South Beach. Be warned: dress to impress or your place on the guest list means nothing to the most obnoxious doormen you have ever met. However, worth putting up with to get inside. Burlesque go-go girls and luxurious décor add supreme glamour to this VIP venue, not to mention the strong girl: guy ration, which makes it superb for girls’ night out.
Party on…
Nikki Beach
1 Ocean Drive
T: 305.538.1111
www.nikkibeach.com/miami
Simply put: This is Miami at its best. Nikki Beach is an ideal place to conclude your girls’ night out on South Beach, whether direct from the club or for the infamously good weekend brunch after a few hours’ post-party shut-eye. Minimum attire is de rigeur, whether it be day or night, as is a European luxury car in which to pull up.
The morning after the night before
News Café
800 Ocean Drive
www.newscafe.com
This 24-hour café-cum-bar-cum-newsstand is a South Beach mecca for celebrities, locals and tourists alike. No trip to SoBe is complete without brunch at the News Café: it’s a great spot to eat, people watch and soak in the daytime essence of South Beach.
So, instead, I rely on my friends wanting to see me and purchasing the necessary plane tickets to South Florida. (Of course, the great climate, private pool and close proximity to the beach are an additional enticer!) Thank goodness, it is rare for more than a couple of months to pass without the descent of a very friendly face. And praise the L-rd, I have a husband who understands our necessity of a spare room.
Recently, two of my oldest and dearest girlfriends, Lauren and Natalie, arrived at Casa Shapiro to celebrate Lauren’s 30th birthday. Now, I have always been a bit of a home-body but these days, more than ever, a good night with friends translates to a delicious at-home supper accompanied by dear friends and washed down with gorgeous wines... oh, and bed by midnight (at the latest) if I can politely get away with it!
But as wonderful as that is, and there were sure to be plenty of such evenings in the mix, it just wasn’t going to cut it for this friend’s birthday. I was determined to dust off my dancing shoes and plan a night to remember...
Sleep
The Sagamore Hotel
1671 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139
T: (305) 535-8088 F: (305) 535-8185
www.sagamorehotel.com
The Sagamore Hotel (also known as The Art Hotel, thanks to its impressive private collection of contemporary works) on Miami’s South Beach is quintessentially Miami Art Deco, and boasts just 93 one-and-two-bedroom suites, including 15 two-story penthouses and bungalows. The rooms are both spacious and airy and, if rear-facing as our room was, boast terrific views of both the beautiful pool and infamous beach. Every room comprises a separate bedroom, living room (with sofa bed), dining area, wet bar and bathroom facilities, each with a whirlpool and separate W.C. so is perfectly comfortable for three or four girls sharing. The contemporary, high-end furnishings and 100% Egyptian cotton sheets combine to nurture your inner principessa. What’s more, this is an ideal place to escape to, as it is not overrun with guests so lends itself to quality pre-party girl time. It would equally be a fabulous spot for a weekend getaway without the children. (Hint, hint.)
Eat
NOBU @ The Shore Club
T: (305) 695 3232
www.shoreclub.com
NOBU has become synonymous with fabulous, cutting-edge food and it does not disappoint at its Shore Club location. Here, Chef Nobu Matsuhista serves up his signature dishes, such as Yellowtail with jalapeno and Rock Shrimp with Ponzu, to his throngs of adoring fans, which include Miami scenesters and tourists, and everyone in between. Reservations are suggested for parties of six or more or, alternatively, get on a first-name basis with the doormen. Otherwise, be prepared to wait.
Party
SET
320 Lincoln Road
T: (305) 531 2800 E: info@setmiami.com
For tables: (786) 303 5872
www.setmiami.com
This is currently the place to see and be seen in Miami’s South Beach. Be warned: dress to impress or your place on the guest list means nothing to the most obnoxious doormen you have ever met. However, worth putting up with to get inside. Burlesque go-go girls and luxurious décor add supreme glamour to this VIP venue, not to mention the strong girl: guy ration, which makes it superb for girls’ night out.
Party on…
Nikki Beach
1 Ocean Drive
T: 305.538.1111
www.nikkibeach.com/miami
Simply put: This is Miami at its best. Nikki Beach is an ideal place to conclude your girls’ night out on South Beach, whether direct from the club or for the infamously good weekend brunch after a few hours’ post-party shut-eye. Minimum attire is de rigeur, whether it be day or night, as is a European luxury car in which to pull up.
The morning after the night before
News Café
800 Ocean Drive
www.newscafe.com
This 24-hour café-cum-bar-cum-newsstand is a South Beach mecca for celebrities, locals and tourists alike. No trip to SoBe is complete without brunch at the News Café: it’s a great spot to eat, people watch and soak in the daytime essence of South Beach.
Getting Ready for Baby
Hard to believe, but in two weeks’ time I will be a mother of two and I am now in the throes of getting ready for baby. With this being the second time around, I am a slightly more discerning consumer of baby goods than I was two years ago when every baby gadget seemed to scream “YOU NEED ME.” However, that this forthcoming arrival is a girl has thrown a whole new dilemma my way: resisting all those incredible pink outfits! Be that as it may, here I have my current list of must-haves with a few frivolities (read: great gift ideas) thrown in for good measure.
Getting Buggy with it
Inline Vibe by Phil & Teds: RRP $740
www.philandteds.com
If there is a buggy out there that you might consider calling “sexy,” this is the one.
Phil & Teds inline buggies have received great acclaim for their innovative inline functionality, and now the Vibe model lends the brand a super-stylish flair. The key to success behind Phil & Teds’ buggies is their unique double kit. The add-on attaches to the front or back of your buggy, allowing two children (aged newborn to four-years-old) to ride ‘in line’ with one another. For self-professed klutz’s such as myself, this is a huge selling point as the double buggy is barely larger than a single. What’s more, the buggy is easy to assemble and easy to keep clean thanks to wipe-down fabrics. I can’t wait to get this piece of kit out on the roads!
Carrier
M1 by Lascal: RRP $129
http://www.lascal.se/
There’s nothing like feeling your newborn baby against your body. Lascal’s new M1 carrier offers a secure and perfect fit for newborns whilst being strong enough to support an older toddler (up to 30lbs). What’s more, the carrier is made from a super soft, naturally antibacterial Bamboo fabric, which helps prevent irritation.
A beautiful nursery
Custom bedding: Accessories starting at $24, Sets starting at $490
www.monarch-creations.com
There is something so wonderful about putting together the room that will soon be inhabited by your newborn—picking out colour schemes, fabrics and themes. Of course, you want to make it as special as possible. Tracy at Monarch Creations makes the most beautiful handmade crib bedding and nursery accessories you could imagine. From ethereal toiles to funkier polk-a-dots, there is something for everyone’s taste and Tracy is more than happy to work with the individual customer. The accessories, including toy bags and diaper stackers, make beautiful baby gifts, too.
Hi-Tech
SoundSleep for Babies: RRP $24.95
www.soundscience.us
This is, apparently, the “most accurate womb simulation CD on the market” that gets babies into a deep sleep within minutes. The soundtrack was tested over several years in homes, daycares and hospital NICUs and all reports and testimonials confirmed this CDs ability to make a remarkable difference in an infant’s sleep help. Perhaps it is just weird science, but count me in if it means I get some sleep!
Layette
Totitude: RRP $30-60
www.totitude.com
Frills and dresses might be nice to look at but they can’t be comfortable for a newborn to loll around in. However, with all these guests coming by to check out your new addition, you want to make sure she dazzles. I am currently smitten with Totitude’s collection of infant and children’s loungewear—the onesies and tank-top sets bejewelled with your favourite children’s characters are nothing short of adorable, whilst being funky to boot. What’s more, owner Terri Schneiderman, will gladly accommodate custom orders for baby/ sibling gifts, such as the pink bodysuit Asher will be giving his new little sister upon her arrival, which proudly claims her as “Asher’s Little Sis.” For enquiries, email tcasler1@aol.com.
Diaper Bag
Skip*Hop Duo Deluxe: RRP $54
www.skiphop.com
This is one of the best diaper bags on the market. With it’s many pockets and compartments, the Skip Hop Duo helps to keep even the most dishevelled amongst us organised. The bag’s Shuttle Clips give the bag great versatility—allowing it to either attach to the handlebars of your stroller, or convert into a trend-conscious shoulder bag. What’s more, there is enough room in here for two children’s worth of product!
Memory Maker
Ticche & Bea Baby Clothes Quilt Kit: RRP $35
www.ticcheandbea.com
This is currently one of my favourite baby gifts for the parents who have everything! The baby quilt kit provides the ideal way to preserve some of the treasured pieces from your baby’s first-year closet. The kit contains everything you will need to make the quilt—minus your child’s clothing, of course—minky fabric for alternating squares, batting, a quilt back, safety pins, straight pins, a cutting template and easy-to-follow directions. What’s more, if you don’ have the inclination to sew this quilt yourself, simply send the kit back with your squares of baby clothes and for an additional $30 someone will sew the quilt for you.
Clean Air
Vicks GermFree Humidifier
www.vicks.com
This warm-mist humidifier kills up to 99.999% of germs, mould and bacteria in the water, which generates a healing mist for the stuffy moments you and yours will inevitably succumb to. I plugged this in upon the first signs of Asher’s recent runny nose and within 24 hours the cold was gone. No drugs required.
Until next time,
Hannah xo
Getting Buggy with it
Inline Vibe by Phil & Teds: RRP $740
www.philandteds.com
If there is a buggy out there that you might consider calling “sexy,” this is the one.
Phil & Teds inline buggies have received great acclaim for their innovative inline functionality, and now the Vibe model lends the brand a super-stylish flair. The key to success behind Phil & Teds’ buggies is their unique double kit. The add-on attaches to the front or back of your buggy, allowing two children (aged newborn to four-years-old) to ride ‘in line’ with one another. For self-professed klutz’s such as myself, this is a huge selling point as the double buggy is barely larger than a single. What’s more, the buggy is easy to assemble and easy to keep clean thanks to wipe-down fabrics. I can’t wait to get this piece of kit out on the roads!
Carrier
M1 by Lascal: RRP $129
http://www.lascal.se/
There’s nothing like feeling your newborn baby against your body. Lascal’s new M1 carrier offers a secure and perfect fit for newborns whilst being strong enough to support an older toddler (up to 30lbs). What’s more, the carrier is made from a super soft, naturally antibacterial Bamboo fabric, which helps prevent irritation.
A beautiful nursery
Custom bedding: Accessories starting at $24, Sets starting at $490
www.monarch-creations.com
There is something so wonderful about putting together the room that will soon be inhabited by your newborn—picking out colour schemes, fabrics and themes. Of course, you want to make it as special as possible. Tracy at Monarch Creations makes the most beautiful handmade crib bedding and nursery accessories you could imagine. From ethereal toiles to funkier polk-a-dots, there is something for everyone’s taste and Tracy is more than happy to work with the individual customer. The accessories, including toy bags and diaper stackers, make beautiful baby gifts, too.
Hi-Tech
SoundSleep for Babies: RRP $24.95
www.soundscience.us
This is, apparently, the “most accurate womb simulation CD on the market” that gets babies into a deep sleep within minutes. The soundtrack was tested over several years in homes, daycares and hospital NICUs and all reports and testimonials confirmed this CDs ability to make a remarkable difference in an infant’s sleep help. Perhaps it is just weird science, but count me in if it means I get some sleep!
Layette
Totitude: RRP $30-60
www.totitude.com
Frills and dresses might be nice to look at but they can’t be comfortable for a newborn to loll around in. However, with all these guests coming by to check out your new addition, you want to make sure she dazzles. I am currently smitten with Totitude’s collection of infant and children’s loungewear—the onesies and tank-top sets bejewelled with your favourite children’s characters are nothing short of adorable, whilst being funky to boot. What’s more, owner Terri Schneiderman, will gladly accommodate custom orders for baby/ sibling gifts, such as the pink bodysuit Asher will be giving his new little sister upon her arrival, which proudly claims her as “Asher’s Little Sis.” For enquiries, email tcasler1@aol.com.
Diaper Bag
Skip*Hop Duo Deluxe: RRP $54
www.skiphop.com
This is one of the best diaper bags on the market. With it’s many pockets and compartments, the Skip Hop Duo helps to keep even the most dishevelled amongst us organised. The bag’s Shuttle Clips give the bag great versatility—allowing it to either attach to the handlebars of your stroller, or convert into a trend-conscious shoulder bag. What’s more, there is enough room in here for two children’s worth of product!
Memory Maker
Ticche & Bea Baby Clothes Quilt Kit: RRP $35
www.ticcheandbea.com
This is currently one of my favourite baby gifts for the parents who have everything! The baby quilt kit provides the ideal way to preserve some of the treasured pieces from your baby’s first-year closet. The kit contains everything you will need to make the quilt—minus your child’s clothing, of course—minky fabric for alternating squares, batting, a quilt back, safety pins, straight pins, a cutting template and easy-to-follow directions. What’s more, if you don’ have the inclination to sew this quilt yourself, simply send the kit back with your squares of baby clothes and for an additional $30 someone will sew the quilt for you.
Clean Air
Vicks GermFree Humidifier
www.vicks.com
This warm-mist humidifier kills up to 99.999% of germs, mould and bacteria in the water, which generates a healing mist for the stuffy moments you and yours will inevitably succumb to. I plugged this in upon the first signs of Asher’s recent runny nose and within 24 hours the cold was gone. No drugs required.
Until next time,
Hannah xo
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