Twilight Fans get Bella's jewellery!

I came across Illuminating Designs by Connie through Etsy. What a great selection of jewellery she has. If you are a Twilight fan you have to check out her shop. I just received my BELLA's TURQUOISE BRACELET and Bellas Moonstone Ring. Simply lovely. Connie takes the time to write a note to you. It's very well packaged and presented. She is very quick in responding to inquiries and shipping your order. Highly recommend her shop.

Here is her shop link: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6277760

Happy shopping!

This Little Piggie - Boot Bonanza!!

This Little Piggie Inc.
Milton Mall
55 Ontario St. S.
Milton, Ontario
L9T 2M3
Tel: (905) 864-9100www.thislittlepiggie.com

Baby on Board, Shhh Baby Sleeping signs and Oakville Moms Eco bags

Have you seen the Oakville Moms products?
Baby on Board, Shhh Baby Sleeping signs and Oakville Moms Eco bags.
Check out this page for more information:

http://www.oakvillemoms.com/om_products.html

THE YOGA CLINIC (TYC) - Yoga Classes and Babysitting services

Christine Aragon Hons B.A. OYA-R, the director of THE YOGA CLINIC (TYC) and mother of 1, was first introduced to yoga at age 23. She successfully completed intensive training in Hatha, Vinyasa, Power Flow and Prenatal Yoga through the Yoga Teacher Training program at Tula Studios in 2007, and became a fully registered yoga instructor through the Federation of Yoga Teachers Association (FOYT) in 2008. She maintains certification from St. John Ambulance in First Aid and CPR Level-C. Christine now teaches on Thursday evenings from 7-8PM at THE YOGA CLINIC, located at St.Aidan's Church.

TYC Mission is to help clients in all stages of life achieve their fitness objectives by providing excellent yoga instruction in a comfortable non-competitive environment. TYC Objectives are to provide excellent customer service along with quality yoga instruction. TYCoffers pre-registered babysitting and has created 2 customer appreciation programs- the TYC Loyalty Program & the Client Entitlement Program supported by the TYC Family of Partners. Pre-registration for Monday evening classes & teen classes is on Monday October 5th from 7-8PM at St. Aidan's Church-318 Queen Mary Drive. For further inquiries, contact TYC at info@theyogaclinic.pro/647-880-1636, or check out the TYC website at www.theyogaclinic.pro.

CASH FOR YOUR KIDS' USED TOYS, CLOTHING & FURNITURE, AGES 0-12

CASH FOR YOUR KIDS' USED TOYS, CLOTHING & FURNITURE, AGES 0-12
CHANCE TO WIN $$1000$$ CASH (First 1000 Consigners)

We PICK UP kids' used toys, clothing & furniture with over $250 of value. Call 416-546-9997 or info@momandtotsale.com. We sell them for you at the Mom and Tot Show & Sale. For items with under $250 value, register at www.momandtotsale.com as a consignor, drop off your items in October at Downsview Park and we'll sell them for you and you will get a cheque in the mail after the sale.

The Mom and Tot Sale, on November 20-22 & 27-29, 2009, is Canada's largest children's sale featuring NEW and GENTLY USED name brand products for up to 70% off! Located at Downsview Park, 40 Carl Hall Road, Hall 3, (Sheppard Avenue West, east of Keele Street) at the former Downsview Airport.

GO GREEN. RECYCLE. DON'T BE TRASHY!!
Register at: WWW.MOMANDTOTSALE.COM

What a mess!

What a mess!
Drop off workshops and after school workshops at what a mess! drop off your 3 to 5 year old child for a wonderful creative experience at what a mess! Monday to Thursday afternoons from 1 to 3pm!! We offer intimate class sizes and all the creative outlets your child needs to discover their creative identities!

After school workshops are also available for our older artists!! Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons for two hours of creative fun! 430 to 630!!

Visit our website for more details!!
whatamess.ca
905-465-9996

Yoga for Pregnancy

Yoga for Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an exciting and overwhelming time. Yoga for Pregnancy classes explore poses that bring comfort and restfulness to your unique body and happiness and calm to your mind. Nurture yourself. Time for discussion and to share your pregnancy experiences. Have fun. Feel supported by other moms-to-be. Cultivate new friendships. No yoga experience required. Note: this is not a prenatal yoga class for labour preparation and should not replace your current healthcare program. Classes complement your healthy lifestyle during pregnancy.

For full schedules and registration details:
Lisa Nevar-Landsmann
lnevar@hotmail.com
(905) 465-3533

Hopedale Preschool

Hopedale Preschool
JK/SK "Readers Count" Enrichment
web site: hopedalepreschool.org
phone: 905.847.1672

This Little Piggie Inc. - Back to School Sale

This Little Piggie Inc. - Back to School Sale
Milton Mall
55 Ontario St. S. Milton,
Ontario L9T 2M3
Tel: (905) 864-9100 www.thislittlepiggie.com

Two African Lion Safari tickets

I have two African Lion Safari tickets (child admission 3-12 yrs). One for $12 or 2 tickets for $20 . If interested contact me.

September contests

Contest #1: Enter for your chance to win a $50 puzzle pack from By Design Gifts. Click here for more information.

Contest #2: Enter for your chance to win one of two $15 Steward Bags packs. Click here for more information.

Steward Bags Review

Steward Bags is a reusable bag company that was born out of a Canadian family's love for the outdoors and their passion for stewardship of the Earth. http://www.oakvillemoms.com/product_reviews_Steward_Bags.html

Fall Registration: Canada's Professional School of Music & Arts

MUSIC, DANCE, ART CLASSES for ALL AGES
This fall, discover the joy and benefits of music, art and dance instruction at Canada's Professional School of Music & Arts. Choose from a wide variety of world-leading programs, designed to meet the need of Canadians at every stage of live.

Preschoolers: Kindermusik (0-7years); Toddler & Kinder Dance (1.5-5 years); KidsFitness & Yoga (2-5years); Song & Dance (3-5 years); Kinder Art (3-5 years); Play Dates ( 1.5-5 years)
Children (4-12), Teens, Adults:
MUSIC LESSONS: piano, guitar, violin,voice, drums, flute, computer piano

DANCE CLASSES: ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap,modern,ballroom
ART CLASSES: drawing & sculpting, portfolio preparation, private instruction.

Call today (905)901 -3000, Oakville or visit www.canadamusicschool.com
CP School of Music & Arts
2387 Trafalgar Road, Oakville ON

Fall Registration

MUSIC, DANCE, ART CLASSES for ALL AGES
This Fall, discover the joy and benefits of music, art and dance instruction at Canada's Professional School of Music & Arts. Choose from a wide variety of world-leading programs, designed to meet the need of Canadians at every stage of live.

Preschoolers: Kindermusik (0-7years); Toddler & Kinder Dance (1.5-5 years); KidsFitness & Yoga (2-5years); Song & Dance (3-5 years); Kinder Art (3-5 years); Play Dates ( 1.5-5 years)

Children (4-12), Teens, Adults:MUSIC LESSONS: piano, guitar, violin,voice, drums, flute, computer piano
DANCE CLASSES: ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, modern, ballroom
ART CLASSES: drawing & sculpting, portfolio preparation, private instruction

Call today (905)901 -3000, Oakville or visit www.canadamusicschool.com
CP School of Music & Arts
2387 Trafalgar Road, Oakville ON

Nike Sale August 22-29th

This Little Piggie Inc.

Milton Mall
55 Ontario St. S.
Milton, Ontario
L9T 2M3
Tel: (905) 864-9100
www.thislittlepiggie.com

Sat. Aug 22, 2009 5KM RUN/WALK/STROLLER ROLL

2009 5KM RUN/WALK/STROLLER ROLL for the Children of the Merendon Mountains Our Run/Walk/Stroller Roll is being held this year on August 22nd, once again this year, the event will take place at Spencer Smith Park in Burlington. This is a wonderful area in which to have a run as the path goes along the waterfront which is a beautiful area. Last year we opened the event up to include a "stroller roll" which we are once again offering this year. So all you moms can also participate. It's a great way to get some exercise and help a worthy cause. Registration can be done online at www.vrpro.ca or by cheque, made payable to CCARE and mailed to 561 Brant Street, PO Box 85030, Burlington L7R 4K3. Run Fliers with pledge sheets will be available in Running Room stores in Oakville, Mississauga and Burlington in late June, so you can get registration and run information there as well. So, gather up a group of friends, pack your van and head to Spencer Smith Park and participate in this year's RUN/WALK/STROLLER ROLL.
http://www.canadiancare.org

The Mom and Tot Sale, on November 20-22 & 27-29, 2009

$$CASH$$ FOR YOUR KIDS’ TOYS, CLOTHING & FURNITURE, AGES 0-12
We PICK UP your kids' used toys, clothing & furniture with over $250 of combined value. Call 416-546-9997 or info@momandtotsale.com.

We sell them for you at the Mom and Tot Show & Sale. For items with under $250 value, register at http://www.momandtotsale.com/

The Mom and Tot Sale, on November 20-22 & 27-29, 2009, is Canada’s largest children’s sale featuring NEW and GENTLY USED name brand products for up to 70% off!

Hopedale Community Nursery School

Hopedale Community Nursery School
tel. 905.847.1672
www.hopedalepreschool.org

August Contest: Enter for your chance to win a Nuevo Designs Art Decor Print

ENTER TO WIN: Enter for your chance to win a Nuevo Designs Art Decor Print. There are 3 giveaways!!!

one 8 x 10 print (your choice of style)
one 8 x 10 print (your choice of style)
one 11 x 14 print (your choice of style)

Looking to add some colour and personalized art to your child's room? Look no further. Check out the playful and colourful styles for your child's room. Stay tuned for more designs.

Nuevo Designs is a design company that specialized in web+graphic designs, customizes photo cards for all occasions: birth announcements, baptism, birthday celebrations, holidays, wedding, thank you cards and now recently launched it's art decor prints. Wholesale inquiries are welcomed.Order now and receive 10 % off (code:oakvillemoms). Free delivery in Oakville.

web site: www.nuevodesigns.com

ENTER CONTEST NOW: This contest is open until August 31, 2009. One entry per family. We want to hear from you! It's open to members ONLY (you must be in our mailing list). Tell us which is your favourite art decor print from Nuevo Designs. Send your email to Oakville Moms to enter contest. Please enter your contact info. We will be randomly drawing a name at the end of the month. Good luck!

August Business Feature: My Feet Squeak

Providing quality shoes for the extraordinary child in your life!
Squeaky shoes are a fun and fashionable way for your toddler to learn how to walk properly! These cute shoes squeak when your child compresses a cushion of air in the heel, the air is forced out through a tiny squeaker and thus the squeaky noise is made.

Squeaky shoes will give your child, family and friends loads of pleasure and make your toddler the Belle or Beau of the ball.Additionally they discourage incorrect "toe walking". Plus, you will find peace of mind hearing where your precious child is. Whether you are in your home, at the mall or at a busy airport, YOU WILL be able to hear at where your child is at all times and that’s especially helpful for parents or grandparents that are hard of hearing.

But, if you ever have the occasion when you need the squeaker to be silent,it can be removed by an adult and re-inserted later. This gives busy momsthe control and peace of mind they need.
Our Squeaky shoes are a cut above the rest! They come in sizes 3-8 and are fashioned from premium leather. There are lots of styles and colours to choose from and for safety they have a flexible, non-slip gripper sole. A Velcro strap makes closing the shoe easy for everyone, from tiny toddler fingers to Grandma's helping hand.

We’ve gotten so much positive feed-back and repeat business that we are confident that you too will be impressed with our Squeaky shoes. We look forward to meeting you and your child so you can see for yourself what a hit Squeaky shoes really are!
web site: http://www.myfeetsqueak.com
email: Myfeetsqueak@ymail.com
tel. 905-388-0103

Review: Stuck On You

Stuck on You vinyl labels will stick to everything from books, sippy cups, and toys to lunchboxes, baby bottles, and even pacifiers! These durable vinyl labels have been tested to withstand the rough and tumble of the playground so your child’s belongings will stick around! These vinyl name labels are dishwasher and microwave safe and they’re UV resistant, so they won’t fade either!

Stuck on You labels are as individual as your children. Let them choose the shape, clolour, size and fun icon themselves. Whether your children are into animals, pirates, fairies, puppies, ponies, dragons, ballerina’s or sport with over eighty different designs there’s one for your child.

To check out the labels that combine practicality, quality and fun, go to www.stuckonyou.biz or call 1-866-904-9790 for a free brochure.

Free delivery with all orders!!!

Stuck on You iron-on clothing labels and clothing transfers bond permanently to fabric. They’re guaranteed to stay put even after frequent machine laundering and drying. The innovative easily to apply clothing transfers are colourful and practical. They are a permanent, iron-on transfer for clothing, so all your children’s clothing for daycare, school or the weekend can be easily labelled.

Oakville Moms Review:
It's hard to believe summer is almost over and we'll be seeing the Back to School ads very soon! I am in the process of looking for products that my son needs for his JK class, and Stuck on You is a great choice for labelling my son's items. They have a huge collection of styles and colours: clothing labels, shoe labels, vinyl labels, bag tags, wrist bands, allergy alerts, calling cards, and so much more. You have to check out their site to see it all! Labelling your child's items for school is a must as we all know kids tend to lose things easily. Stuck on You has great icons & fonts that your child can choose so it will be more personalized to his/her liking. The labels are water resistant so they don't come off easily. My son can now read his own name on his label so it will be easy for him to make sure he has his own belongings at school! Check out their Lastest Offer page to see the deals and packages you can start off with.
An added bonus: Take advantage of their free shipping!!!

PlasmCar review: A cool ride for all kids!

PlaSmart is a Canadian toy distributor, founded by Timothy Kimber in 2003. It first released the PlasmaCar, a multiple award-winning ride-on toy, and has steadily grew its business by adding smart, unique, and educational toys to its product line. Latest products include award-winning i-Gami and Rubbabu toys.

PlaSmart has since expanded Internationally with distribution in 5 continents and over 20 countries. It has also continued to grow its operations in Canada by partnering with major US manufacturers to expand distribution of other award-winning brands in the Canadian market.
In 2008, PlaSmart was Canada's 13th fastest growing business (Profit100)."

TWITTER www.twitter.com/plasmart
COMPANY WEBSITE http://www.plasmarttoys.com/
FACEBOOK http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ottawa-ON/PlaSmart/87088915874
BLOG http://www.plasmartinc.blogspot.com/

Oakville Moms Review:
My boys (including my hubby) and I recently tested out the PlasmaCar. We have had so much fun trying it out. It was easy to assemble, very few parts to put together and away you go. It takes about a minute to figure out how it works. You don't have to push yourself to run it, all you have to do is move the steering wheel left to right and with that your PlasmaCar gains momentum and moves forward. The best part is that it can hold up to 220 lbs on smooth, flat surfaces which means I can ride with my boys! I actually do take my turn on the PlasmaCar and ride it around my house. Makes feel like a kid again. We are currently using the PlasmaCar in our house since we have enough space to ride it and it doesn't leave any marks on our hardwood floors. My boys are having a blast but I still have to watch over them and make sure they don't do any stunts. It's not recommended for children under 3. Everyone that has come over to our house has tried it and think it's a great ride. There are six colours to choose from and price is CAD: $69.95.

My boys give the PlasmaCar thumbs up and so do I. It's well made and designed to keep your child entertained. Here's a pic of my son riding the PlasmaCar.

To learn more about the Plasmacar, please visit their web site.

By Design Gifts is pleased to announce the opening of their new Burlington storefront

After 2 successful years online... By Design Gifts is pleased to announce the opening of their new Burlington storefront ... 364 Plains Road East between King and Waterdown. What this means for you, is that now you can come IN and see our practical, unique and custom gifts for all occasions ... or shop online anytime at www.bydesigngifts.ca for more details.

What we carry:

Diaper cakes- for baby showers, new baby gifts, Baptism and Christenings. A very practical way to celebrate, built primarily from diapers accented by various baby needs from baby wash to teethers, to delightfully colorful plush to adorn the top! We welcome custom themes, colors and ideas. Personalization on the diaper cakes is offered at no additional cost.

Religious Occasions- Baptism, Christening, 1st Communion, Confirmation, if we don't have it we may be able to find it, just ask.

Wedding- we have just added a line of wedding/ bridal favors, place card holders, and bridesmaid gifts in addition to our custom Towel Cakes, Time Capsules, Frams, Photo Albums, Baskets, and Champagne Glasses ... An one of our favorite mug sets, "Mr. Right and Mrs. Always Right"

Baby Gifts- Canadian Made Bed Jacket, Hat and Booties Sets, Gift Baskets, Organic Clothing, Toys and Hand Print Kits

Baby Shower Supplies- diaper cakes, favors and accessories

Coming soon... watch for our Corporate Gifts (conferences, retirements, appreciation)

Hours: 10-5 Mon-Wed, Fri & Sat
10-7 Thurs

Phone: 905.681.6444

Email: sales@bydesigngifts.ca

Website: www.bydesigngifts.ca

Lovable Labels Back To School Giveaway

Great giveaway of personalized kids labels! Great for Back To School. http://www.lovetolabel.com

This Little Piggie Inc. 40-50% off everything!!!

This Little Piggie Inc.
Milton Mall
55 Ontario St. S.
Milton, Ontario
L9T 2M3
Tel: (905) 864-9100
www.thislittlepiggie.com

My Feet Squeak

Providing quality shoes for the extraordinary child in your life!Squeaky shoes are a fun and fashionable way for your toddler to learn how to walk properly! These cute shoes squeak when your child compresses a cushion of air in the heel, the air is forced out through a tiny squeaker and thus the squeaky noise is made.

Squeaky shoes will give your child, family and friends loads of pleasure and make your toddler the Belle or Beau of the ball. Additionally they discourage incorrect "toe walking". Plus, you will find peace of mind hearing where your precious child is.

web site: http://www.myfeetsqueak.com

Balanced School Day (BSD)

Balanced School Day (BSD) is a different way of organizing the school day.This lunch bag has two separate compartments for Break 1 and Break 2. Now, children can easily determine which foods are meant for morning and afternoon breaks. Parents can pack their child's lunch according to their own unique eating habits. Handy elastic straps inside each compartment for drinks, ice packs, spoons, or anything else that needs to stay in place! With an easy to clean vinyl shell and insulated liner, The Balanced Day Lunch Kit will take the stress out of packing for your child's balanced day!

web site: http://www.balanceddaylunchkit.com

Hard lump on muscle after vaccination

For those of you who have had their little one experience a hard lump on their muscle after their vaccination, check out this article for more information:
http://www.kidsgrowth.com/resources/articledetail.cfm?id=970

This months contests

Contest # 1: Enter for your chance to win a Brag About It giveaway package: Family Locket Brag, Cell Phone Brag, and Earrings!
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/contest.html

Contest # 2: Enter for your chance to win one of two The Groove Mamma Goes Gourmet – Easy Ways To Put The Fun Back Into Entertaining ebook!
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/contest.html#contest2

This months reviews:

Oliver's Labels makes high quality personalized labels for kids that are both durable and beautiful .
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/product_reviews_OliversLabels.html

Hatley For tots to toddlers, mums and dads, from cozy pj's to hoodies, tees and kitchen gifts, Hatley has everyone in the family covered.
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/product_reviews_Hatley.html

This month's Business Feature: Peek-A-Boo Creations

Peek-A-Boo Creations is an earth friendly boutique dedicated to offering customers, unique organic and eco-friendly products for babies, toddlers and moms too.

http://www.oakvillemoms.com/business_feature.html

This Little Piggie Inc. - Summer Clearance

This Little Piggie Inc.
Milton Mall
55 Ontario St. S.
Milton, Ontario
L9T 2M3
Tel: (905) 864-9100
http://www.thislittlepiggie.com/
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/special_promo.html

Helping Mackenzie - Fundraising Event - Saturday, June 20, 2009

Two events, one great location!

Carnival day: 10am - 3pm. Fun for the whole family. Tickets on sale at the carnival: 10 tickets for $10 / 25 tickets for $20. (each daytime event uses tickets, ie: carnival games = 1 ticket, BBQ = 3 tickets, etc.)

Come join us and enjoy a BBQ, cotton candy, snow cones, bouncy castle, lots of games and prizes, 50/50 draw, great raffles, special needs sensory area, teddy bears hospital (don't forget to bring your bear) ... and so much more! Parking on site (with overflow parking at Morden School across the street.)

Evening dinner/dance: Tickets $20.00 per person 7pm - 11pm. Entertainment (DJ and Live Band), dinner, exciting silent auction items, fabulous raffle prizes and many great door prizes (you need not be present to win a door prize!)

At 8:30pm we will have a video presentation of Mackenzie and her family.Please reserve tickets in advance to avoid disappointment!

Location:St. Paul's United Church, 454 Rebecca Street, Oakville (between Fourth Line and Dorval Drive, next to YMCA)

web site: http://www.helpingmackenzie.ca

STYLE EXPRESSIONS

We at style expressions are totally dedicated to our clients! Whatever your needs we can help you with. Decorating can be very stressful and frustrating at times; having professional advice can save you time and costly mistakes.If you are selling your house we can help you make it the one they all want to buy! We now also offer staging consultations on line! Check it out! Making sure you make all the right choices is what we do!

STYLE EXPRESSIONS
Design and staging Professional
Now offering on-line services!!
Tel. 905 847 4693
C 905 399 6647
www.styleexpressions.ca

Nuevo Designs is a design company specializing in web and graphic design.

Nuevo Designs is a design company specializing in web and graphic design. Nuevo Designs has now expanded to design custom photo cards for all occasions: birth announcements, baptism, birthday celebrations, holidays, wedding, and thank you cards. NEW: Art Decor - create personal art work for your home and child's room. Visit our web site to see our work and visit often as we add more designs all the time.

web site: www.nuevodesigns.com

Discount: mention this ad and receive 15% discount.Free local delivery in Oakville.

See what's going on with Oakville Moms this month June

This month's Business Feature: uba BABY : http://www.oakvillemoms.com/business_feature.html
Contest: ENTER TO WIN: Bebé In Style is giving away 2 personalized items for your little one.
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/contest.html

Reviews: Paperpod has developed an innovative concept in creative toys for children
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/product_reviews_Paperpod.html

Healthy Home Tour & Healthy Home, Body, Garden, Animals/Smart Living News
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/product_reviews_HealthyHomeTour.html

Special Promo:
STYLE EXPRESSIONS
Nuevo Designs
http://www.oakvillemoms.com/special_promo.html

Oakville Moms got mentioned on Breakfast Television

A big thanks to Breakfast Television (BT) for mentioning OakvilleMoms.com this morning!

Today is HERBIE DAY

Help kids around the world get help they need at Toronto's Sick Kids Hospital. Go to www.herbiefund.com

Tips to streetproof kids

Halton police give tips to streetproof kids:

Playing

• know who your child plays with and where
• keep a list of your child's friends' addresses and tel. numbers
• teach your child to play safe and together
• tell your child never to play in remote areas of parks or take shortcuts through the woods
• encourage your child to use a buddy system instead of walking alone
• tell your child not to loiter on the way to and from school

Supervision

• Do not leave your child in unsupervised areas such as cars, parks, public washrooms, arenas and plazas
• accompany your child to the bus stop and meet them when they return from school
• ensure your child always notifies you as to where they are going and who they will be with

*PLEASE* Sign Petition for the Amber Alert

Please sign the enclosed page from PetitionOnline.com:
http://www.PetitionOnline.com/vict888/petition.html

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all moms and moms-to-be, have a wonderful day!
Oakville Moms

Noinkee's Inc.

Functional Fashion, Accessories, and Gifts for Women, Moms to Be, Children, and Infant. Our selection is unique, earth friendly, fair trade, organic, or Made in Canada. We offer a wide selection in clothing, jewelery, bath and body, handbags, meal accessories, toys, games, and more! Sign up as a customer (under customer login), and receive your first on-line regular priced purchase at 10% off. A "do good-feel good" purchase, where every purchase plants a tree.

Shop online at www.noinkees.com or contact at tel. 519-855-4496, email: info@noinkees.com

DS Wall Art is an Oakville based small business that specializes in oil paintings on canvas

The paintings are both abstract and personalized. Each piece is done by hand therefore making it a" one of a kind". Why keep that favourite photo in a photoalbum or frame when you can have it displayed on a large canvas.Makes for a great unique gift. Bring the walls in your home to life with paintings of the ones you love.

Our popular request is the Doodle Art Work. See why everyone is ordering a Doodle of their child. Order a Doodle of your child and husband. Make this a great gift for Father's Day.

Free delivery in Oakville.
Discount: Mention this ad and receive 15% off on all orders.
website: www.dswallart.com

Are We Poisoning Our Children and Our Pets?

How Safe is Your Home?Over 1,000,000 children annually are accidentally poisoned in their homes, 250,000 are hospitalized, and an estimated 3,000 will end up in intensive c are. Dozens more will die. Thousands of children and adults are permanently disfigured or injured through contact with chemicals in the home.

The amazing fact is, the most common substance that children are poisoned by is household cleaners! Your own home probably has numerous cleaners, containing hundreds of chemicals.
Could an accident happen in your home?Find out today by taking our Healthy Home Tour.

CALLING ALL PARENTS!Household cleaning and personal care products are not the only source of chemicals in your home, however, they are some of the most toxic and deadly. Fortunately, they are the EASIEST to replace.

Now that you know the chemicals in your home can seriously harm or even kill your precious children and/or pets, don't you want them out of your home? There are SAFER, more effective and more economical alternatives available. Why place your loved ones at risk another day? Don't wait! E-mail us today for more information: How Do I Get $120 Free Products?

Get started now and get your FREE e-book!
All of our products are 100% satisfaction guaranteed!!
E-mail: GreenForLife@mypowermail.net
Phone: 905-847-6218

Contest: ENTER TO WIN: Nuevo Designs is giving away 2 sets of 30 custom photo cards.

Contest: ENTER TO WIN: Nuevo Designs is giving away 2 sets of 30 custom photo cards. Nuevo Designs customizes photo cards for all occasions: birth announcements, baptism, birthday celebrations, holidays, wedding, and thank you cards. http://www.oakvillemoms.com/contest.html

See what's going on with Oakville Moms this month: May 2009

This month's Business Feature: The Design Route: http://www.oakvillemoms.com/business_feature.html

This month's reviews:

uba BABY: http://www.oakvillemoms.com/product_reviews_ubababy.html

Norwex Enviro Products: http://www.oakvillemoms.com/product_reviews_Norwex.html

MyPacifier™: http://www.oakvillemoms.com/product_reviews_mypacifier.html

Summer Camp:
Canada’s Professional School of Music & Arts
Mojo Music more>>

Expecting a Baby? For you and your baby on the way...a BABY SHOW !!

Admission is free for you and a guest! The first 100 expectant moms will receive a free gift bag and there are over $1,200 in Door Prizes to be given away!!!!

Welcome Wagon Baby Showers are held in local communities across the country, featuring guest speakers with valuable information and demonstrations designed to help you at this special time. You can expect to see various displays from local business and civic organizations, specifically with you in mind to assist you and your new baby. Why not bring the Dad-to-be and enter him in the diapering contest...or bring the Grandparent-to-be and enter them in the Grandparents draw...... it's fun and there are exciting door prizes!

Sunday, May 3rd
The Holiday Inn
2525 Wyecroft Road
Oakville, ON.
Registration begins at 12 p.m.

ITSY BITSY YOGA SUPER SUMMER SESSIONS!

ITSY BITSY YOGA SUPER SUMMER SESSIONS!

Check out the fun and happy energy of an Itsy Bitsy Yoga workshop or mini-session! Classes are full of developmentally enriching poses for your Baby or Tot. Choose a fabulous Mother's Day one-hour workshop for yourself. Or Daddy can share a workshop with your little one for Father's Day. Enjoy mini-sessions through the summer; a great way to bond in between your holiday plans.

GOOD FOR BABY AND TOT. Babies are Newborn to Almost Crawling and enjoy poses on their backs, tummies and held in loving arms. Tots, who are Crawlers to 24 Months, will thrill at the sitting, standing and jumping poses!

GOOD FOR YOU TOO!You'll love bonding with your little yogi and spending time with other great moms. I look forward to sharing Itsy Bitsy Yoga with you soon.

Contact me for dates, times and locations!Lisa Nevar-Landsmann Certified IBY Facilitator since 2006

mailto:2006lnevar@hotmail.com

tel. (905) 465-3533

See what's going on with Oakville Moms this month: April 2009

Summer Camp:
Canada’s Professional School of Music & Arts more>>

Contest:ENTER TO WIN: A Disk Swing from DreamGYM Inc.DreamGYM Inc. is the first company in Canada to produce indoor jungle gyms for home use. They have created a product, which allows children to stay physically active all year round. Click here for more information.

This month's Business Feature: Little Miss Clips. Baby and toddler hair clips that stay put! Whether you have a wee baby with just a sprout of hair or a toddler with a mass of very-fine hair, Little Miss Clips’ slip-proof hair clips are guaranteed to stay put.
more>>

This Month's Review: Child’s Own StudioLittle Designers: Plush toys from children’s drawings. Child's Own Studio, based in Vancouver, BC, is a thriving on-line toy company that makes unique plush toys, or softies, from children’s drawings. more>

Special Promo:
what a mess! Creative Playcentres
Hopedale Community Nursery School
Oakville Comedy Kids
Lil' Monkeys Indoor Playgrounds Inc.
Little Miss Clips
DS Wall Art
Canada’s Professional School of Music & Arts more>>

Easter events for the kids

Easter Egg Travaganza
Thursday April 9, 20094 pm - 7 pm.
Free Easter treats for the kids.
Location: Hopedale Mall (3rd Line)

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Milton Egg Drop
Friday April 10, 2009
Thousands of plastic eggs falling from a hot air ballon.
Free candy and prizes for all, face painting and coffee and snacks.
Location: Milton Fair Grounds (136 Robert St. off of Main St.)Time: 10 amhttp://www.miltoneggdrop.ca/

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Make and Take an Easter Craft
Saturday April 11, 200911 am- 2 pm.
Location: Hopedale Mall (3rd Line)

Child’s Own Studio: Plush toys from children’s drawings.

Here is the drawing of my son's blue batman and the end result from Child's Own Studio creation. A wonderful job!

Oakville Comedy Kids

The Comedy Kids program is designed for children, ages 8-13, and it starts with 3 classes on improvisation (improv) training, designed to boost students' self-esteem, bring out their inner comedian, introduce a sense of fun, and reinforce the value of uninhibitedlaughter and friendship. The program, developed and led by Second City-trained instructors, concludes with 4 classes on sketch comedy culminating in a live performance of original material for family and friends.

The Oakville Beaver states, “Comedy Kids helps students lose their inhibitions, use their imagination, and problem-solve. This new comedy program is giving kids confidence.”

Parents agree.
“Our daughter loved the entire experience, and can’t wait for the next session.” Jennifer Hobbes.
“You did a wonderful job with the children...” Laura McLaughlin.
“Superb. We’ll be back!” Connie Miller.

Programs are offered Saturday mornings, 10:30-12:00 for 7 consecutive weeks. Now Booking May 30th session. Space is limited.
http://www.comedykids.ca/
905-338-9537

Special Discount: Receive a 10% discount for members of Oakville Moms on a single sign up, and 15% for two kids signing up at the same time. Special discount available until April 30th.

Let's have a discussion

Hello everyone,
We are excited to announce that our forum is back up! We have customized our forums to target moms in Oakville and surrounding cities. Lots of topics to discuss so get involved and meet other moms just like you.

Select your city to connect with moms in your community:
Oakville Moms Forum
Burlington Moms Forum
Mississauga Moms Forum
Milton Moms Forum
Toronto Moms Forum

http://www.oakvillemoms.com/forum.html

Looking forward to chatting with you all in our forums.

Oakville Moms

Halton Region's Diaper Bag Tag Program

Since the implementation of weekly Blue Box and GreenCart collection and once every other week collection of garbage, the Region has received very few inquiries/complaints from residents regarding the disposal of diaper waste. Because of the volume of calls received to date, in addition to the public's acceptance of the new curbside program, the Region did not see a need to change the current waste collection schedule. Regarding the garbage bag limit, residents are allowed to place up to six bags at the curbside every other week.

Diapers and regular plastic items do not break down through the compost process and as a result lessen the quality of the finished product. Due to the contamination of plastic in the compost it is very difficult to market this material and therefore may not be reused in agricultural applications as intended and eventually end up in landfill. Halton Region has decided to keep diapers and plastics out of the GreenCart program as we have seen other municipalities like York, Peel, and Niagara struggle with their compost programs that contain plastic.

At the request of Regional Council we did investigate a number of options for the disposal of diapers, including a review of services offered in other municipalities with a collection service similar to ours. Here is the link to the Council report for your information http://sirepub.halton.ca/cache/2/kx1za0ugmgq44fa05ehw5555/6829611072008120209982.PDF.

The Diaper Bag Tag program recently approved by Regional Council permits households with young children in diapers or households that use diapers as a result of a medical condition, to dispose of diapers at no additional charge at the Halton Waste Management Site in Milton. These households may also utilize the Diaper Bag Tag to place more than the allowable six bags of garbage at curbside on their scheduled garbage collection day. Residents that have registered for the Diaper Bag Tag program will not receive weekly garbage collection; they will continue to have garbage collected once every other week. More information, including diaper service providers, can be found on our website at http://www.halton.ca/ppw/waste/diapers.htm.

Residents may call in to Halton Region at 905-825-6000 to request an application to join the program. Once the application has been accepted, residents will receive 30 bag tags that can be used throughout the year. The Region will monitor and evaluate the Diaper Bag Tag program and will report back to Council on the progress and findings of the program.

Movies For Mommies

Movies For Mommies is the original parent and baby movie event in Canada. We have screenings every Thursday at 1pm at Oakville's Encore Cinemas (171 Speers Rd.). At Movies For Mommies, moms can enjoy movies in a baby friendly cinema. There is a change table in the theatre, bottle warming, wipes, special events, FREE give aways each week, breast feeding friendly. Dads, Grandparents, Caregivers and Friends are also welcome! For more information and to join our weekly newsletter which informs you about upcoming movies and special events please visit our website and select Mailing List.
http://www.moviesformommies.com

Monday February 16, 2009 - Free Family Day Activities

River Oaks Community Centre
Time
Activity
9 - 9:30 a.m.
Family Stretch

9 - 9:45 a.m.
Family Indoor Cycling Class
9:40 - 10:10 a.m.
Mother Daughter Dance Fit
10 - 10:45 a.m.
Family Indoor Cycling Class
10 a.m. - noon
All Ages Run Jump Throw
10 a.m. - noon
BodyWise Nutritional Consultant
10 - 11:30 a.m.
Family Public Skating
10:20 - 10:50 a.m.
Family Bellydance Class
11 a.m. - noon
Family Fitness Scavenger Hunt
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Shooter Pad Practice
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Face Painting
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Panago Pizza
11:15 a.m. - noon
Jump and Play (8 to 24 months)
noon - 2 p.m.
Speed Skating
noon - 2 p.m.
Carpet Bowling
12:30 - 1:15 p.m.
Family Bootcamp
12:30 - 3 p.m.
Family Golf Mini Putt
1 - 3 p.m.
Skating Club Synchronized Skating
1 - 3 p.m.
Squash Clinic
2 - 4 p.m.
Family Cosom Hockey
3:30 - 5 p.m
Family Public Skate

Glen Abbey Community Centre
The Glen Abbey Library branch will be open from 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Time
Activity
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Kinder Gym
10 -11:30 a.m.
Recreational Skate
10 -11:30 a.m.
Recreational Swim
10 a.m. - noon
Oakville Fire Department Ladder Truck Demo
10 a.m. - noon
Wheelchair Basketball
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Dance Dance Revolution & Rock Band Demo
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Fitness Assessments
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Face Painting
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Panago Pizza
11:30 a.m. - noon
Water Jogging
noon - 2 p.m.
Sledge Hockey
noon - 2 p.m.
Lengths Swim
noon - 2 p.m.
All Ages Sportball
noon - 1 p.m.
Family Ball Drumming
1 - 1:45 p.m.
Family Zumba Dance Class
1 - 3 p.m.
Squash Clinic
1 - 3 p.m.
BodyWise Nutritional Consultant
1 - 4 p.m.
Oakville Gymnastics Club
1:30 - 3 p.m.
Recreational Skate
1:45 - 2:30 p.m.
Family Zumba Class
2 - 4 p.m.
Drop-in Badminton
2 - 3:30 p.m.
Recreational Swim
2:30 - 3:15 p.m.
Family Yogalates
3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
H20 Water Sports
6:30 - 8 p.m.
Recreational Swim

Iroquois Ridge Community Centre
The Iroquois Ridge Library branch will be open from 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Time
Activity

9:30 -11:30 a.m.
Kidfit
9:30 - 11 a.m.
Aquatics Club
10:30 a.m. - noon
Family Creative Dance
11 - 11:50 a.m.
Jimbo's Magic and Puppet Show
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Face Painting
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Panago Pizza
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Lengths Swim
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Steel Pan Music and African Drumming by the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton
1 - 2:25 p.m.
Family Hoop Challenge
1 - 2:25 p.m.
All Ages Pilates
1 - 3 p.m.
Nordic Walking
1 - 2:25 p.m.
Parent & Kid Karate
1:30 - 2 p.m.
Itsy Bitsy Yoga Babes
2:10 - 2:40 p.m.
Itsy Bitsy Yoga Tots
2:30 - 4 p.m.
Summer Sizzlers & Eco-Art Camp Sampler
2:30 - 4 p.m.
Family Zumba Dance Class
2:30 - 4 p.m.
Boot Camp Boogie
2:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Leisure Swim
2:45 - 4 p.m.
Table Tennis
7:30 - 9 p.m.
Combo Swim
9 - 10 p.m.
Lengths Swim

Public Skating
Location / Time
Activity
Joshua's Creek Arenas

10 - 11:20 a.m.
Family Skate
12 - 1:20 p.m.
Adult Shinny Hockey
2 - 4 p.m.
Family Skate with the Oakville Blades

Kinoak Arena

1 - 2:50 p.m.
Family Recreational Skate
3:30 - 4:45 p.m.
Family Public Skate

Oakville Arena

1-2:50 p.m.
Adult & Preschool Instructional Hockey
3 - 4:30 p.m.
Family Public Skate

Maple Grove

9 - 10:50 a.m.
Family Recreational Skate
noon - 1:20 p.m.
Adult Recreational Skate

Sending an email to Oakville Moms

I receive a lot of emails on a daily basis but lately I've been getting a lot of weird emails. Specially from people who are asking me 20 questions and don't even sign their email or let me know who they are. There are some requirements in the email to be fill out and as stated in the contact us/advertising page. Please fill this out otherwise your email will not be answered.

Happy New Year!

See what's going on with Oakville Moms this month:

Contest:ENTER TO WIN: A Spa Baby tub, the European style baby tub, allows your baby to bathe in a natural upright position. Click here for more information.
Please note: Winner must respond within 7 days to accept prize otherwise another winner will be selected.

This month's Business Feature: Bella’s Corner Toy Store is a family based toy store in Woodstock, Ontario. As the parents of two young children, we were frustrated with the selection of toys at local department stores. more>>

This month's review:
Pookafun: The Noobee® is a wonderful educational toy that was first developed to be used by nursing moms when little fingers scratch, poke or pull. more>>

Special Promo of the month:
Hopedale Community Nursery School
Itsy Bitsy Yoga®
Nuevo Designs - custom photo cards and invitations
Charnwood School more>>

Happy Holidays from Oakville Moms

Oakville Moms would like to thank all of our members and sponsors for making this another successful year. We greatly appreciate all of your wonderful feedback. Stay tuned for some exciting new changes to our site next year.

All the best from Oakville Moms.
P.S. Oakville Moms will be on holidays starting December 20th to January 2nd.

Oakville Moms Review: Wee Piggies & Paws

We recently received my son's foot ornament from Wee Piggies & Paws. It is so beautiful. It shows all the details of his foot. It captured the moment as I know his foot won't be that size for long. It is certainly something sentimental and we will treasure it.

Wee Piggies & Paws also does LifeCast Statues of the whole family's hands. I saw a sample and it was truly a piece of art. Wee Piggies & Paws provides a product that is quite unique. This is a great Christmas gift for your family and loved ones.

For more information check out their site: www.weepiggies.com

Volunteers Needed! For the Halton Breastfeeding Connection

We believe in the value of breastfeeding. We are a group of volunteer women providing mother-to-mother telephone support.

Would you like to join our team of volunteers? Our volunteers need:

• A belief in the value of breastfeeding
• At least 4 months of breastfeeding experience and intent to breastfeed for at least 6 months.

We offer a 4-hour training session on a regular basis. Trainings are held in different locations throughout Halton. Snacks and lunch are provided and babies are welcome. Telephone calls are made from the comfort of your home. Ability to speak a second language is an asset.
To learn more or to register for the next training session, please call or email: Judith Conley, 905-825-6000 x2933 / Judith.conley@halton.ca

Santa Claus Parades around Halton

November 14, 2008 Downtown Oakville Tree Lighting Ceremony
Celebrate the lights, the magic, and the charm of downtown Oakville this Christmas as the businesses kick-off the holiday season with the lighting of the Towne Square Tree. Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves will treat all to hot apple cider and holiday cheer. The fun begins at 7:00 p.m. in Towne Square with a Christmas Carol sing-along with Oakville's Mayor and the Salvation Army Band, followed by the lighting of the tree at 7:30 p.m.

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November 15, 2008 Oakville Santa Claus Parade
The Oakville Santa Claus Parade has been delighting families, residents and visitors for over 50 years. Come early and reserve your spot on the parade route as it winds its way through downtown Oakville at approximately 9:00a.m. Call (905) 815-5981 for more information.

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November 28 to December 21, 2008 Christmas in Downtown Oakville
Enjoy your holiday shopping in beautiful downtown Oakville, featuring over 450 fine shops, services and eateries "Christmas in Downtown Oakville” brings together the warmth and friendliness found in a downtown, featuring strolling carollers and festive horse drawn holiday wagon-rides with Santa, along historic Lakeshore Road every weekend. Truly an unforgettable holiday shopping experience.

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Christmas Parade in Milton - Sunday November 23, 2008 at 2:00pm
The parade will begin at Bronte and Barton Street with entries staged on Bronte Street from Derry Road. Click here for route.

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Mississauga Santa Claus Parade on Sunday, November 30, 2008
The parade will start at 12:50pm on Queen Street South at Britannia Road and travel south through the Village to disperse at various locations after the Church Street junction.

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Sunday December 7th, 2008 - 2 p.m.
Christmas Parade in Burlington
Santa Claus is coming to Town. The parade starts at Burlington Mall and marches along Guelph Line to New Street, travels west along New to James Street, then north on Brant Street. The parade route finishes at Brant Street and Caroline.

This Month's Review: Tail Wags

It's always a struggle to get a child to put on their helmet. Tail Wags has come up with a creative and safe way to make helmet wearing more fun for kids (and adults too!). Canadian made by a mom of 2, Tail Wags helmet covers are great for wearing while bike riding, skating, skiing, tobogganing etc. There are over 35 designs and colours to choose from. If you are having problems with your little one to wear a helmet, why not consider Tail Wags and see which animal characters he/she loves best. It's a great holiday gift idea!

For more information check out their site: www.tail-wags.com

Contaminated Halloween candy from Costco

Warning: Contaminated Halloween candy from Costco

With Halloween fast approaching comes a warning to parents and kids regarding Sherwood brand Pirate's Gold milk chocolate coins imported from China.The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is warning the public not to eat, distribute or sell the candy.It is sold across Canada by Costco and may also have been sold in bulk packages or as individual pieces at various dollar and bulk stores.The chocolate contains melamine which is the same chemical responsible for killing several babies in China, and sickening thousands more.

Free Jack O' Lantern and Pumpkin Carving Patterns

Here is a site where you can get some Free Jack O' Lantern and Pumpkin Carving Patterns:

http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&category_id=273&article=21465

Sophie's Walk Toronto

On October 4th, Oakville Moms participated in Sophie's Walk. My nephew passed away at birth almost 4 years ago due to undiagnosed Vasa Previa.

This year there was a total of 7 VP babies represented. We walked in Honour Of 3 VP miracles, little Ava B., Ava J. and Mika. We also walked in Memory Of Matthew, Katarina, Jacob and Sophie. Sadly and tragically our list of VP angles continues to grow. The awareness raised through this fund raiser and word of mouth is helping to make a difference. Clearly our job is not done and we need to continue to spread the word in an effort to save some of those 130 babies that are affected by Vasa Previa each year in Canada.

Risk Factors, Testing, and IVPF Management Recommendations for Vasa Previa:http://IVPF.org/education/recommendations.htm

Medical Resources http://IVPF.org/resources/resources.htm

Sophie's Walk for Vasa Previahttp://SophiesWalk.org/walk

Help us research vasa previa by filling in the IVPF research questionnaire: http://IVPF.org/education/questions.htm

In Memory of Matthew: http://www.ourangelmatthew.com

Email problems

Hello,
In case anyone has been sending emails the last few days, please resend it as there has been some email technical problems.

Thanks,
Oakville Moms

This month's review

Oakville Moms Review:
What a delight it was to receive my peg rack and all the way from New Brunswick. It's truly a beautiful piece of art. It's a great decorative accent to any room and it also gives you the functionality to hang coats, hats, umbrella, keys etc. Choose from nine different colours and 6 animal tile designs. Shaker Peg Racks comes in single tile/peg rack and three tile/peg rack. Since I've had my peg rack in my foyer, it's the first thing everyone notices. My toddler can reach and hang his own sweater and hat (a nice way to keep our foyer tidy!).

To learn more about Parsnip Designs products, check out their http://www.parsnipdesigns.com/

Maple Leaf Plant Closure Extended As More Products Added To Recall

Check out these links to get the latest info:

http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_26151.aspx
http://www.mapleleaf.ca

On vacation this week

Hello,

Just catching up with all the emails from this week. Was on vacation. Will try to respond as soon as I can!

Enjoy this great weather!

This month's review

Oakville Moms Review:
The Pippalily Sling is easy to use and comfortable for mom and baby. The fabric is beautiful and soft. I've been using it with my baby son and it's great to be able to have my hands free and yet having my baby secured beside me. It also gives me a chance to bond further with my son and giving him a break from the stroller.

The Toy Strap has come in so handy as my son would always throw his teether or toy whenever he was in his carseat. The Toy Strap keeps his toy in one place and no need to worry about it falling on the floor.

Be sure to check out these products and video instructions at www.pippalily.com.

Get a FREE Interactive Potty Training DVD

I just received the free Interactive Potty Training DVD and it's great. Be sure to check out Huggies Pull-Ups to order your copy.

This month's review

Oakville Moms review: Since I've been using Teach My Toddler with my son, I have been impressed with how my son is learning. In a short amount of time he has learned to identify the colours and most of the shapes covered in Teach My Toddler. He loves to open the tote himself and he tells me which part he wants to do. Teach My Toddler is a great learning tool for your little one as it has many components that helps to reinforce each topic, from puzzles, flashcards, posters and books. It's well designed, visually stimulating and easy to follow. Teach My Toddler is a tool that your little one will enjoy and learn at the same time.

Where to get it: http://www.teach-my.com

Baby On Board and Shhh Baby Sleeping winners ...

Thanks to everyone that sent in their comments. Here are the winners:

My mom picks up both of my kids and takes them to preschool. I would really like to have one for her car. It would be great to show other drivers that little ones are in the car.
Pat. B.

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I had put a sign on my doorbell but it never seems to stay on very long. The wind and the rain doesn’t help. It always seems to fly away. Your sign would be perfect. I need this badly so my little one can sleep throughout her naptime! Thanks.
Norma M.

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I recently had my car seat inspected and I was told the baby on board sign I have is a projectile. Now you are offering this and its just what I needed. I will be so glad when the sign is up and it won’t fall off.
Lisa R.

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Hi,
I definitely need the "shhhh baby sleeping" sign because not only has my baby been awoken several Saturday and Sunday afternoons during her nap time because of Jehovah's Witness or Cancer Society solicitors, I even made my own sign on a yellow stick-it that says "Do NOT ring bell" and placed it in the centre of the front door at eye-level, and one solicitor admitted that she only saw it immediately AFTER she had rung the bell...and of course, my baby woke up and I couldn't put her down. I'm hopeful though that your sign may work better! Please help me keep my baby asleep during the afternoon!!!
Julie C.

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I saw someone the other day driving with the same baby on board sign and I caught the website address. Now are you selling them. This is just what I was looking for. Please can I have one.
Frances R.

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I need the “baby sleeping” sign because my husband works from home a lot…and when Canada Post or a courier comes to deliver a package, they always ring the bell…..even if I put masking tape over the bell button. And we have a dog……so, just someone approaching the front porch gets her attention. The next thing I know, there’s commotion at the door, and barking, and door bell ringing, and everyone is now wide awake. And, the fact that we are going to have another baby in the house this summer (addition to the current baby we have now)….there will be 2 sleepy heads in the house that need their beauty rest.
Larysa S.

Wishing you all a

Happy Mother's Day!

Special Announcement

Oakville Moms is proud to announce the launch of our own products: Baby On Board and Shhh Baby Sleeping signs.

We are giving away 3 of each. Tell us why you need one and the best responses will win one! We will post the responses on our Blog. To find out more about these products, click here.

This month's review: Ah Goo Baby

Oakville Moms review: The first thing I noticed with the Ah Goo Baby Plush Pad®, which makes it stand out, is the memory foam cushion. It has a very soft feel for your baby's bottom. It's a high quality portable changing station. Beautiful selection of fabrics. It's machine washable and water-repellent. How many times have you been out in public and had to use the change table in the restroom and noticed how hard and uncomfortable it is? Ah Goo Baby Plush Pad® is the answer to your baby's comfort out on the go. Since I've been using Ah Goo Baby Plush Pad®, it's the portable changing station that I don't leave home without.

Where to get it:Canadian online retailer: http://www.goneshopping.ca/
Shop Direct at http://www.ahgoobaby.com/ for 10% off
Enter Promo: VIP123

Go Green This Earth Day!

1. Boiling water for tea in a pot on your gas stove uses one-third the energy of a plug-in kettle, according to Godo Stoyke's The Carbon Buster’s Home Energy Handbook.
2. Buying a new computer? Choose a laptop - it uses about six times less electricity than a desktop, according to The Carbon Buster’s Home Energy Handbook.
3. Screen savers don’t save electricity. Instead, set your computer to go into sleep mode when you aren’t actively using it. That can cut your power consumption by five times, cutting your electricity bills by more than 500 kilowatt hours per year, according to The Carbon Buster’s Home Energy Handbook.
4. Two large power plants have to run constantly to supply enough electricity to run North American television sets WHILE THEY ARE TURNED OFF. They’re called power vampires, as they suck energy to stay in a constant state of standby. Plug your television into a power bar and turn that off when you aren’t watching. That will save about 40 kilowatt hours over a year.
5. Wash your clothes in cold water. Since 80 per cent of the electricity in washing your clothes comes from heating the water, using cold rather than hot water will save you as much as 2,500 kilowatt-hours of power a year - more than twice the average household’s monthly energy bill. (Source: The Canadian Energy Efficiency Centre)
6. Think of a bath as a luxury. Instead, take a five-minute shower. If you have a low-flow showerhead, that will use less than half the water, saving around 40 litres each time.
7. Install a low-flow aerator on your showerhead. If you have an old shower, it could cut your water use for that five-minute morning shower down by two-thirds - from 150 litres to 50. The city of Toronto sells them as part of their $13 indoor water efficiency retrofit kits.
8. Set the photocopier to print double-sided only. It takes ten times as much energy to make a piece of paper than it takes to copy onto it, according to Godo Stoyke's The Carbon Buster’s Home Energy Handbook.
9. Get rid of that old fridge in your basement that chills a few lonely bottles of beer. A 1975 fridge sucks up four times as much electricity as new Energy Star model, according to the Ontario Power Authority. It will even pick up your old fridge for you.
10. If you drive to work, commit to car-pooling or taking public transit one day a week. Each time you carpool, you’ll keep 2.5 kg of greenhouse gases from billowing into the atmosphere (assuming an average 16 kilometre round-trip commute). Every time you jump on a bus, you’ll avoid 4.5 kg, according to World Wildlife Fund Canada. That, over a year, will add up to 216 kilograms of emissions - the equivalent of driving from Toronto to Sault Ste. Marie in a mid-sized car.
11. Clean - or replace - your furnace filter. A dirty filter forces your furnace to work harder to heat your home. According to the Ontario Conservation Bureau, a clean filter can cut your energy use by five per cent.
12. Turn your thermostat down at night, when you are tucked warmly into bed. A 4-degree Celsius difference at night will cut your gas bill by 10 per cent, according to Kingston's Energy Advisory Forum.
13. Buy some caulking and a caulking gun, and spend an hour sealing all your window frames. Is the weather stripping around your doors worn or ripped? Buy some new pads. For a few dollars, you could cut your heating bills by 10 per cent, according to Ontario’s Conservation Bureau.
14. Buy foam sleeve insulation for your hot water pipes at the hardware store and wrap it around the first nine feet off your water heater. It will cost only a few dollars and save around 13 kilograms of greenhouse gases a year, according to Godo Styoke's The Carbon Buster's Home Energy Handbook.
15. Replace your gas-powered lawnmower with an old-fashioned push-and-pull model. That will cut back your home's carbon load by almost 100 kg a year, according to WWF-Canada. 16 - By hanging up your laundry on a clotheshorse or line instead of throwing them in the dryer, you’ll save about 950 kilowatt hours of electricity a year. That translates to a whole month’s worth in the average Ontario household.
17. Wash, dry and iron in the early morning or evening when the demand on your cooling system is less, says the Chicago Solar Partnership. The same goes for ranges, lighting and TV. Save moisture-producing activities for cooler times.
18. When summer comes, keep your home cool by using window coverings and a couple of fans instead of air conditioning, says the Conservation Council of Ontario. Open windows and run fans at night when it’s cooler outside. Shut and curtain most windows during the day. A stand up fan uses 75 watts; a window unit, 100 watts. Running them continuously for 12 hours a day will use 2.1 kilowatt-hours of electricity, costing about 21 cents. A 1,000-watt air-conditioner, running for three-quarters of the day will use 18 kilowatt hours, and cost about $1.80. A central air-conditioner can use up to 3,500 watts, or 63 kilowatt hours a day, and set you back about $6.30.
19. Preheating your oven is often unnecessary for any food requiring more than a full hour of cooking time, says the Chicago Solar Partnership. Check your recipe instructions. Don't open the oven door when cooking; it will let heat escape and cause your oven to work harder. And thaw meat before you cook it. Roasting time will be shortened, energy will be saved and the meat will be more uniformly cooked.
20. To cut heating energy and costs in winter, on sunny days open your south-facing drapes and let the sun in, says SaskEnergy. It's a natural source of heat. If you have large windows that don't receive direct sun, keep the drapes closed. And close your drapes and blinds during the night.
21. Get rid of an old dishwasher. New Energy Star models use one-third of the electricity required by the average mid-’80s vintage, says Natural Resources Canada, for savings of about $80 a year. Do a load only when the machine is full, keep its drain clear and don’t pre-soak dishes. Use the shortest cycle that works, and let dishes air dry.
22. Unplug your chargers when you’re not charging you’re your cellphones, PDAs, digital cameras, cordless tools and other gadgets, says the National Resources Defence Council. Keep them unplugged until you need them.
23. Set your refrigerator temperature at 2 to 5.5 C (38 to 42 F); your freezer should be set between minus-15 C and minus-17.5 C (0 and 5 F). Use the power-save switch if your fridge has one, and make sure the door seals tightly. You can check this by making sure a $5 bill closed between the door gaskets is difficult to pull out. If it slides easily between the gaskets, replace them.
24. Replace your 18-year-old fridge with a new Energy Star model. That will save enough energy to light your home for nearly four months, according to Ed Begley Jr.'s Living Like Ed: A Guide to the Eco-Friendly Life.
25. Forgot to pick up a carton of eggs for your cake recipe? Walk or bike to the nearest store instead of driving. For every 6.5 kilometres you bike, you keep around 7 kilograms of pollutants out of the air we breathe, according to according to Ed Begley Jr.'s Living Like Ed: A Guide to the Eco-Friendly Life. According to his wife, the Hollywood actor regularly cycles to Vanity Fair parties.26. Check your toilet for leaks by putting dye in the tank. If the colour appears in the bowl within about half an hour, you need to check for worn out, corroded or bent parts. Repairs will cut your water bill, and Toronto Water will require less electricity. It takes a kilowatt-hour to purify, deliver and treat every cubic metre (1,000 litres). Last year, the city consumed 374 million cubic metres.27. Drive at the speed limit. Slowing from 120 kilometres an hour to 100 cuts your fuel consumption by 20 per cent.28. Hang your clothes up to dry. Even now, in winter. One load in the dryer uses enough energy to toast 250 pieces of bread, according to Change The World for Ten Bucks: 50 Ways To Make A Difference - a book put out by the “movement” We Are What We Do. (http://www.wearewhatwedo.ca/)29. This is action 13 from Change The World for Ten Bucks: 50 Ways To Make A Difference: “There are 9.3 million mobile phones replaced in Canada every year. That’s a heck of a lot of annoying ringtones and worse, it equate to around 1,000 tonnes of landfill (and a whole bunch of nasty chemicals).” Instead of throwing your old broken down phone in the garbage, take it to a collection centre - where it will be either refurbished or recycled. There are many around Toronto - in high schools, community centres, even Pizza Pizza outlets. Find the nearest one to you at: http://www.pitch-in.ca/Pitch-In.php%20

30. More than 8 billion disposable cups are thrown out every year in Canada, according to Change The World for Ten Bucks: 50 Ways To Make A Difference. Buy a reusable coffee mug. And take it with you on your morning coffee break.
31. Don’t fill up your kettle. Only pour in as much water as you need right now. If every Canadian did this, we’d save enough electricity to power every street light across the country, according to Change The World for Ten Bucks: 50 Ways To Make A Difference.
32. More than 170 million trees are cut down every year just for paper used in Canadian offices, according to Change The World for Ten Bucks: 50 Ways To Make A Difference. We agree with the book’s Action 46: Use both sides of the paper. Save old copy paper for notes.
33. Cold pours into a house from a poorly insulated or drafty basement or crawlspace. If you have either, says SaskEnergy, check for leaks by looking for spider webs. If there is a web, there is a draft.
34. Plug gaps around pipes, ducts, fans and vents that go through walls, ceilings and floors from heated to unheated spaces.
35. If you have a heated garage, keep it cool until a little while before you’ll use it. Your car doesn’t mind spending a chilly night alone; in fact, warm air makes road salt more likely to damage its metal parts.
36. If you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove, make sure the damper fits tightly and keep it closed when there’s nothing burning. Otherwise, huge amounts of heat will pour up the chimney.
37. Dripping taps can waste 9,000 litres of water each year. If it’s cold water the leak will cost about $16 at Toronto’s current low water rates. Not much, but it’s still money you don’t need to waste and nine kilowatt-hours of electricity the city won’t have to consume. The savings soar if you replace the washers on a leaking hot-water tap.
38. Save up to 50 per cent of your cooking energy costs by using a microwave instead of a conventional oven. Microwave ovens cook faster because the energy goes directly into heating the food, not the oven or utensils. Food cooks faster when placed at the edge of the rotary tray, as more microwaves can interact with it there than at the centre. And in summer, microwave cooking doesn’t heat your kitchen.
39. Irons use a lot of energy. Save it by taking your clothes from the dryer and folding or hanging them up while they’re warm. (Better, hang your clothes to dry.)
40. If you have a yard, consider planting a deciduous tree on the south side of your lawn to block the sun during the summer, and let in solar energy during the winter when it sheds its leaves. If there’s room, plant conifers on the north side to act as winter wind blocks.
41. Don't idle. Any stop longer than 10 seconds will save you gas. The federal government's Office of Energy Efficiency says the average Canadian idles their car for five minutes a day, not counting warming it up on cold mornings. But cutting that out, you’ll save about 42 litres a year - the equivalent of 101 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions.
42. Switch to Bullfrog Power. It’s a small Ontario company that funds green electricity generation - through windmills and small hydro dams. It costs more - president Tom Heintzman says about $1 a day - but it comes with a huge carbon kickback. Over a year, you’ll have cut back on almost 2,900 kilograms of carbon dioxide - enough to drive from Toronto to Hamilton and back 70 times.
43. Americans buy more than 5.1 billion pens every year – most of which end up in the dump, according to Kim McKay and Jenny Bonnin’s True Green @ Work: 100 Ways You Can Make the Environment Your Business. Think about the energy that goes into making that 770 tons of plastic waste every year, let alone the landfill space. Use long-life refillable pens made from recycled plastic, paper or timber.
44. Don’t just chuck that unwanted fax, junk mail into recycling bin. Remove yourself from the mailing list by contacting the company directly or calling the Canadian Marketing Association and asking that your name be taken off their list: 416-391-2362. Also: put up a “No Junk Mail” notice on your mailbox. Canada Post carriers respect it and won’t drop off coupons, flyers and free catalogues.
45. More than three-quarters of dry cleaners use large amounts of the chemical solvent tetrachloroethylene, a powerful degreasing agent that’s a suspected carcinogen, aggravates asthma and allergies and is particularly toxic to fish and wildlife. It breaks down into the toxin phosgene and contributes to smog. So, instead of lugging your shirts to the dry cleaner, wash them by hand in cold water with a gentle, natural soap and hang them to dry. If you are a dead-set dry cleaning type, opt for a green dry cleaner. You can find one in your neighbourhood at: http://www.greenearthcleaningcanada.com/
46. Switch off your computer before you leave work. It will cut its electricity use by about one-quarter, according to Kim McKay and Jenny Bonnin's http://www.betruegreen.com/. Taken over a year, that's about 700 kilowatt hours - about three week's worth of electricity for the average Toronto household.
47. We spend about one-third of our time at work. And that's where almost half of our greenhouse gases come from, according to Kim McKay and Jenny Bonnin's http://www.betruegreen.com/. Form a green team for your office and look at ways to cut back on electricity and waste. Start with simple things like making recycling easy, and switching to recycled copy paper.
48. Thinking of buying a new fancy computer, even though your old one still works fine? Hold back. On a weight-by-weight basis, computers are more environmentally destructive to make than cars, according to Kim McKay and Jenny Bonnin’s http://www.betruegreen.com/. Research by the United Nations University in Tokyo shows making standard desktop computer with 17-inch CRT monitor requires 2 tonnes of materials, including 240 kg of fossil fuels, 22 kg of chemicals and nearly 1,500 litres of water.
49. Don't throw out that toner cartridge. Instead, reuse it. About 167 million toner cartridges are dumped into American landfills every year, totalling about 18 million kg of waste, according to Kim McKay and Jenny Bonnin's http://www.betruegreen.com/. Most can be refilled up to four times.
50. Introduce casual Fridays to your office. Short-sleeved open-necked shirts mean you can set your office thermostat higher. Every degree you save will cut up to 20 per cent of air conditioning costs.
52. Calculate your ecological footprint – how much water, air and land your personal lifestyle gobbles up. Then, commit to reducing it by one hectare by this time next year. Go to http://www.myfootprint.org/.
53. Cancel that flight. One round-trip flight across the country creates 2 to 3 tonnes of CO2 emissions per passenger. In those ten hours, you’ll cancel out the effect of every single energy-saving device you’ve installed in your home. In fact, that round-trip has spewed out more emissions than the average Toronto home’s electricity use for an entire year.
55. If you have to fly, buy carbon offsets. Some people call them guilt money. But, at least by investing in projects that introduce green electricity elsewhere or plant carbon-dioxide sucking trees, you’ll be helping to clean up your mess. Make sure you pick a gold-standard company, certified by the World Wildlife Fund. Here’s one we’ve used: http://www.myclimate.org/
56. More than three-quarters of computers sold in the United States each year end up in a dump. That's why computers and other electronic waste make up 70 per cent of the lead, cadmium, and mercury in landfills, according to Kim McKay and Jenny Bonnin's True Green @ Work: 100 Ways You Can Make the Environment Your Business. Instead of pitching it, recycle it. Give it to the non-profit iRecycle Computers.
57. Organize an "inorganic market" for your community. It will give your neighbours a chance to pitch their old electronic gadgets and computers without sending them to landfill. Instead, they'll be refurbished, reused or recycled.
57. Have a family birthday coming up? Ask for only second-hand gifts from your guests. Go so far as to specify that on your invites. Need inspiration? For every can of garbage you put out, 70 cans are made upstream to produce that product, according to Annie Leonard’s The Story of Stuff. If your daughter worries she’ll be unhip, tell her it’s all the rage in ultra-cool Berkeley, Calif.
58. Spring is on its way and that means it's time to clean your winter-soiled windows. Try doing the chore in a greener way with a cup of white vinegar, a cup of water and, as an option, a half teaspooon of dish soap.
59. In the mood for sprucing up your house? Look for paints and floor finishes that are low in volatile organic compounds. The paints work just about as well as the more toxic varieties, according to Green Remodeling. Water-based polyurethane for floors isn’t as tough as the oil-based version: You’ll need to apply more coats and, in high-traffic areas, re-apply every year or two. On the other hand, it won’t yellow over time.
60. Why buy cleaning cloths and wipes when you can reuse so much of what often goes into the garbage, says Irene Ashby, a 93-year-old who wrote us with plenty of good ideas. Old towels and cotton underwear, well washed, make the best cleaning rags.
61. More than 1.5 billion disposable lighters end up in landfills or incinerators every year, according to Gillian Deacon's Green For Life. They carry an ugly environmental legacy - the casings are made of petroleum-based plastic, and the butane fuel is a petroleum product. Use cardboard matches instead. They are made from recycled paper.
62. If you are a parent of a young child, chuck your baby wipes. Most contain propylene glycol, a derivative of natural gas and hormone-disrupting parabens, according to Gillian Deacon's Green For Life. They've also been bleached in chlorine - a real no-no, since chlorine produces very toxic dioxins. Instead, try wiping your baby's bum with small washcloths and warm water. A handy tip - keep a thermos of warm water on the change table for that purpose alone.63. Are you doing the Easter egg thing? If so, opt for some free-range, organic eggs. Even though most egg dye kits are labeled as non-toxic, some food-grade, government-approved dyes are made from coal tar and other petroleum products, according to The Ideal Bite. They suggest making your own all-natural dyes instead, from things like spinach (green), red onion skins (violet), orange peel (yellow), red cabbage (blue) and beets (pink).64. Need a new crisp, clean, lightweight cotton shirt? The trail behind it is anything but clean. It comes with a half-pound of pesticides, according to Gillian Deacon's Green For Life. Cotton is the world's most heavily sprayed crop, and at least half of those pesticides are classified as known or possible carcinogens. Choose certified organic cotton instead.
66. Become a 'kept woman.' No – that doesn't mean find a wealthy lover. It means that instead of going through dozens of tampons or maxi-pads every month, buy a Keeper. The silicone or latex cups that collect menstrual blood from inside a woman's vagina last 10 years, which means hundreds fewer pads or tampons in landfill. Speaking from experience, you really can't feel them. Check out keeper.com.
67. Instead of having all your bills dropped in the mail, sign up for epost.ca. The bills will arrive in your email inbox instead - saving all that paper and gasoline.
68. Around 8 billion ATM transactions occur each year in the U.S., most of them spitting out receipts. That's a lot of unnecessary paper, considering after a quick look, it all inevitably gets balled up and pitched. Instead, keep tabs over your transactions online. If 10,000 people decided to do that, together they'd save a roll of paper more than 460 metres long, according to The Ideal Bite
69. Buy organic bananas. Even though the pesticides on regular bananas won't make you sick, they're heavy on the health of workers in Costa Rica, where many of our bananas come from. There, only 5 per cent of cultivated land is used for banana plantations, but they account for 35 per cent of the country's pesticide imports, according to Gillian Deacon's Green For Life.
70. Use your dishwasher! Energy-efficient automatic dishwashers use half the energy and one-sixth of the water to the old fashioned way, according to a study out of the University of Bonn in Germany. Sometimes it's easy being green.71.Turn off your lights tonight, from 8 to 9 p.m. Unplug your TV, your computer, your DVD player - or if you’ve been following these tips, just flick off the power bar you have them all plugged into. Head outside and check out the skyline, by foot - not car. And, if you haven’t done so already, print up a copy of all these tips - on recycled paper- and get cracking on reducing your eco-footprint!

Ref: http://www.thestar.com/Earth%20Hour/article/295953

Health Canada Ready To Declare Plastic Additive In Baby Bottles Dangerous

It's probably in your home and there's a good chance your baby may be using it. And as of this week, Health Canada may declare it a dangerous chemical. It's called Bisphenol A, a long name for a substance that's found in hard plastic bottles.

BPA is widely used by industry and it's in a lot of products - including baby bottles. That has left many parents worried about the potential harmful effect on their infants and Health Canada has heard their concerns.

A recent study by Environmental Defence raised questions about the material, which manufacturers insist is absolutely safe.

If Health Canada comes out with its widely expected declaration on Wednesday, the chemical could be listed as a toxic substance under the country's Environmental Protection Act - and that would allow officials to severally limit its use in this country.

Studies in the U.S. show 90 per cent of the population there carries some traces of it in their bodies. Figures aren't available yet in Canada. If the federal agency issues the edict, it will be the first regulatory body in the world to rule that BPA endangers people and the environment.
"We would very much hope, if it does happen, that it starts a snowball effect around the world," declares Environmental Defence's Rick Smith. "It's linked to developmental problems in kids, different kinds of cancer like breast cancer in women, prostate cancer in men."

But some companies aren't waiting for the pronouncement. Zeller's and the Bay have already issued a press release proclaiming their stores will only sell baby products that are Bisphenol-A free.

And the Forzani Group, which runs such popular chains as Sports Chek and Athlete's World in Ontario, announced Tuesday it also wouldn't be waiting for Ottawa to act. It's pulling all the products it sells that contain the chemical. The company joins other outlets, including Mountain Equipment Co-op and Lulullemon Athletica, which had already removed the items.

It's a smart business move for the retailers, regardless of what Health Canada does because many parents have been concerned about the problem for months - and they've already made the switch. "I heard about the bottles and I give him glass," assures Laura Mangoes about her son.

Anna Taormina was alarmed enough to make the alteration, too. "Right away, I grabbed my husband and said we have to go to Toys 'R Us and switch the bottles." BPA is also found in the lining of tin cans of foods like tuna, vegetables and baby formula, which means it could be in your kitchen cupboard.

So should you be worried? Manufacturers insist tests show there's nothing to fear about the substance and extensive research has been done to prove it.

Still, most consumers are concerned about what it might be doing to the tiniest amongst us. "When it comes to these kinds of chemicals, kids are the most susceptible because their little bodies are growing," Smith warns.

And right or wrong, that's enough to make some people give this "A" a failing grade.
Environmental Defence fact sheet on BPA
Manufacturers' side
'Toxic baby bottles' report
Products containing Bisphenol A

Reference: http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_21724.aspx

This Month's Review

When Nicola contacted me about her company I was very delighted to check out her products. I was very impressed with the packaging. Great reusable bags, which came in handy already!! I can't tell you how many times I've been soaked to the core when I bathe my baby and toddler. I always put out clothes for me to change as well but not anymore. "Soak it Up" Bath Time Apron is perfect. I didn't get wet after I bathe my boys!! Believe me, my toddler jumps out of the tub whenever I wash his hair and this time I was ready for the splash of water. The "Soak it Up" Bath Time Apron is soft and thick enough that you can gladly rest your wet baby on your chest and not soak your clothes beneath. The Bibs Bag will make your baby's feeding time easier. Put all of your bibs in one place, no more searching for the next clean one. If you like being organized, the Bibs Bag is for you. It's very practical and saves on space. The Top n' Bottom Cloths is another great idea. It's the perfect size and feels soft. This really makes things so much easier when they are labeled. Now I know for sure which cloth was used for which body part. No more guessing! All of these products are certainly a bonus for any mom and mom-to-be. Be sure to visit: http://www.babygiftsformom.com