Wiggles: Top-Notch Toddler Entertainment

The Wiggles

I realize there isn't a parent on the planet who doesn't know about the Wiggles. Though I'm risking being obvious, it seems remiss not to mention the #1 form of TV entertainment in our house. After all, before I became a mom I knew nothing about the Wiggles and mesmerizing appeal they have over toddlers. I also highly recommend seeing them live and in person if you have a chance!

Cool Pick: Record (Tivo etc.) the last five episodes so you always have the most current on demand; you can buy the DVD's for on the go, but you'll want them on your own TV for free.

Clean Baby's Face Gently; Perfect for Toddler Too

Pampers Sensitive Wipes

This one may seem obvious, but when Bella was a baby I searched everywhere for a product gentle enough to clean her face. After discovering Pampers sensitive wipes there's been no turning back. We buy them in bulk and stock up the changing stations, feeding station (drawer next to high chair), and diaper bag. Frankly, I'm not sure what I would do without them!

Cool Pick: Buy Pampers Sensitive Wipes and cut in half or thirds to use on nose for colds etc.

Saving for Kid's College; Free Money, Seriously!

UPromise College Savings Program

I can't believe I didn't learn about this sooner! Here's the skinny: register with upromise.com and then register your credit cards, debit cards, grocery etc. Every time you shop, a percentage of the money you spend will go into your child's UPromise account if the store or company participates. An even better way to save college bucks is to shop online through the UPromise link at participating merchants (there are a ton like ebay, Overstock, Snapfish, etc.) Granted, some percentages are small, ranging from 1% up, but it's all FREE!! I'm now obsessed with trying to get as many UPromise dollars into my account by shopping at participating stores, like getting gas at Exxon & Mobil (both contribute 1 cent per gallon.)

Cool Pick: Buy online and pick-up in store; you get the contribution but don't pay shipping

Baby's Sleep Problems Solved

Ferber Sleep Method

Yesterday a colleague greeted me with a hug in the morning because, on my advice, she tried the Ferber method and after one weekend her sleep issues were solved. I realized at that moment the most influential book I read thus far wasn't on my blog! How could that be? I know different families have different philosophies, but for us, it worked. It was easier than we thought and Bella has been sleeping through the night since 4.5 months old (minus teething!) like a charm. To me, Richard Ferber rocks! Update: Ferberizing Baby #2

Cool Pick: Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems by Richard Ferber (Don't wing it-buy the book!)

My Favorite Nursing Bra

Bravado Nursing Bras

I received a Bravado nursing bra in a "nursing basket" given to me by a friend for my baby shower. I had no idea at the time it would be my favorite nursing bra and favorite "around the house" bra even when I wasn't nursing. For me to put a bra on my Chrismtas list, as I did this year since one just wasn't enough, it must be good! (Side Note: Hubby bought one for me as a gift. It's white with black polka dots...don't wear this bra with a light colored shirt.) Though I haven't tried the others, Bravado also carries bras for out and about as well.

Cool Pick: Original Nursing Bra in White; Buy a Bravado Nursing Bra Here