Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Baby Roo Sling Giveaway Winner

And the winner is.... Adam B!

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Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Undercover Mama

Congrats to our Undercover Mama giveaway winner.... Heidi Maxwell!
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Result: 34

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Friday, April 16, 2010

Groupon

Check out Groupon Sioux Falls!
Today and this weekend we are the feature. $20 Gift Certificate for only $10! It's good on clothing and accessories, sorry not cloth diapers.

http://www.groupon.com/r/uu1548773

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Baby Wearing

Mei Tai, Ergo, K'Tan, Moby, Maya, Beco
For those of you new to baby wearing, this may sound like a foreign language, however it's just the tip of the iceberg of baby wearing accessories. I was overwhelmed by the different baby wearing accoutrements available as well as the range in price. There are websites that show you how to make a wrap for $5 and ones that sell handcrafted silk slings for over $1,000.



Here is a basic overview of the types of carriers we carry at Elegant Mommy:

Photo from Babyrooslings.com
Ring Slings:

Baby ‘Roo slings are designed to be simple to use and comfortable. Our unique structure makes it easy to wear the sling on either shoulder for extended periods of time. Plus, they are the perfect width for easy, discreet nursing. (The tail works wonderfully as a cover!)

Baby ‘Roo carriers are not just stylish and fun to wear. They are safe, strong and durable, capable of cozily cuddling newborns or hauling 35-pound toddlers.

Our ring slings come in ‘one size fits most’, and adjust to fit most adults and their little passengers. If you are very petite, you may want to request a sling custom tailored to the length you need.

These cotton ring slings are perfect for the beginning baby-wearer. They are extra wide to create a safe, deep pouch for the baby. Easily adjustable and the tail is long enough to be used as a cover for nursing, sun shade, etc.



Knit Wraps:


From MamaBaby Threads

Long, narrow knit cloth used to securely wear baby 

Mom, dad, or care-provider is hands-free and baby stays contentedly close

One size is easily adjustable, measures about 21” X 15’

Soft, preshrunk, breathable cotton and cotton blend knits slightly stretch to assure a comfortable fit for mom and baby

Chiropractor recommended as knit wrap disperses baby’s weight evenly across both shoulders and provides additional support for lower back



Photo from Babyrooslings.com
Mei Tai:

Baby ‘Roo Tai’s have a slightly contour body, meaning the bottom of the body of the carrier is just a little narrower. This allows the baby to be worn legs out sooner and more comfortably. The shoulder straps are extra long and are padded for comfort. They are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time and/or with a heavier baby. The bottom strap is not padded and can be rolled once to create a shorter mei tai for newborns or petite toddlers. The top has a curved edge that you can use for head support or roll down so it is out of the way. Roo Tai’s are reversible, and great for mom and dad to share.  You can have the fun/bright/funky pattern you want on one side and a solid color on the other!

 



There are LOTS of other carriers, wraps, and slings out there. If you have any questions, please feel free to stop by Elegant Mommy and we can help you out.

What carrier do you use? Any tips for families just started to wear their babies?

Monday, April 12, 2010

Ten Reasons to Wear your Baby!

Ten Reasons to Wear your Baby


by Laura Simeon, MA, MLIS

1. Wearing a baby is convenient.

When we carry a baby in a sling, we can walk around freely and not have to worry about negotiating steps, crowds or narrow aisles with a stroller. Plastic "baby buckets" and removable car seats are heavy and awkward for parents, babies often look uncomfortable, and they are kept at knee level. A sling can block out excess stimuli when breastfeeding a distractible baby, and it allows for discreet nursing in public places. A sling can also double as a changing pad, blanket, or cushion when away from home. I’ve found my sling especially handy when negotiating busy airports with a small child and several bags!

2. Wearing a baby promotes physical development.

When a baby rides in a sling attached to his mother, he is in tune with the rhythm of her breathing, the sound of her heartbeat, and the movements his mother makes – walking, bending, and reaching. This stimulation helps him to regulate his own physical responses, and exercises his vestibular system, which controls balance. The sling is in essence a "transitional womb" for the new baby, who has not yet learned to control his bodily functions and movements. Research has shown that premature babies who are touched and held gain weight faster and are healthier than babies who are not1. Mechanical swings and other holding devices do not provide these same benefits.

3. Babies worn in slings are happier.

Studies have shown that the more babies are held, the less they cry and fuss2. In indigenous cultures where baby-wearing is the norm, babies often cry for only a few minutes a day – in contrast to Western babies, who often cry for hours each day. Crying is exhausting for both the baby and his parents, and may cause long-term damage as the baby’s developing brain is continually flooded with stress hormones.3 Babies who do not need to spend their energy on crying are calmly observing and actively learning about their environment. Baby-wearing is especially useful for colicky or "high need" babies, who are far happier being worn, but placid, content babies and children will also benefit greatly from the warmth and security of being held close.

4. Baby-wearing is healthy for you!

It can be challenging for new mothers to find time to exercise, but if you carry your baby around with you most of the day or go for a brisk walk with your baby in her sling, you will enjoy the dual benefits of walking and "weightlifting". A long walk in the sling is also an excellent way to help a tired but over-stimulated child fall asleep.

5. Toddlers appreciate the security of the sling.

Slings are usually associated with infants, but they can be very useful for toddlers as well; most slings accommodate children up to 35 or 40 pounds. The world can be a scary place for toddlers, who feel more confident when they can retreat to the security of the sling when they need to do so. Toddlers often become over-stimulated, and a ride in the sling helps to soothe and comfort them before (or after!) a "melt-down" occurs. It can be very helpful in places like the zoo, aquarium, or museum, where a small child in a stroller would miss many of the exhibits.

6. Baby-wearing helps you and your baby to communicate with each other.

The more confidence we have in our parenting, the more we can relax and enjoy our children. A large part of feeling confident as a parent is the ability to read our baby’s cues successfully. When we hold our baby close in a sling, we become finely attuned to his gestures and facial expressions. Many baby-wearing parents report that they have never learned to distinguish their baby’s cries – because their babies are able to communicate effectively without crying! Every time a baby is able to let us know that she is hungry, bored or wet without having to cry, her trust in us is increased, her learning is enhanced, and our own confidence is reinforced. This cycle of positive interaction enhances the mutual attachment between parent and child, and makes life more enjoyable for everyone.

7. Slings are a bonding tool for fathers, grandparents, and other caregivers.

Slings are a useful tool for every adult in a baby’s life. It makes me smile when I see a new father going for a walk with his baby in a sling. The baby is becoming used to his voice, heartbeat, movements and facial expressions, and the two are forging a strong attachment of their own. Fathers don’t have the automatic head-start on bonding that comes with gestation, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make up for this once their baby is born. The same goes for babysitters, grandparents and all other caregivers. Cuddling up close in the sling is a wonderful way to get to know the baby in your life, and for the baby to get to know you!

8. Slings are a safe place for a child to be.

Instead of running loose in crowded or dangerous places, a child in a sling is held safe and secure right next to your body. Slings also provide emotional safety when needed, so that children can venture into the world and become independent at their own pace.

9. Slings are economical.

Slings cost far less than strollers, front-carriers or backpacks. Many mothers consider the sling to be one of their most useful and economical possessions. Inexpensive used slings can be found in consignment and thrift stores, and new ones can be bought for about $25 -$50 (U.S.) - not bad for an item many parents use daily for two years or more! A sling can also be sewn for the price of a length of cotton, some rings and batting; sling patterns are available.

10. Baby-wearing is fun.

Who doesn’t love to cuddle a precious little baby? And when your baby is older, having her in the sling makes conversations easier and allows you to observe her reactions to the wonders of the world around her. It’s also fun for baby, because when she is up at eye level, other adults notice and interact with her more. Your child will feel more a part of your life when she is in her sling, and you will find yourself becoming more and more enchanted with this special little person.

www.BabyRooSlings.com

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Baby Roo Sling Giveaway!

Baby 'Roo ring slings are designed to be comfortable to wear on either shoulder. The unique fold lets the fabric fan out across your back eliminating pressure points and creating a more secure babywearing experience. We use only rings from SlingRings, which are made specifically for baby carriers. Baby 'Roo slings are adjustable to fit both mom and dad. The tail is the perfect length to be used as a cover for nursing, sunshade or for those times you have to run from the store to the car in the rain!

This periwinkle hemp ring sling is made from a hemp/tencel blend and is absolutely exquisite. Hemp's amazing durability, environmental sustainability, and intricate weaves create some of Baby 'Roos absolute favorite slings.
Remember a few things about giveaways: Always do the main entry. Nothing else counts with out it. Always leave a way to reach you. Please remember to leave a comment for EACH entry you complete. That is our only way to count the entries. Also, if you already are doing something that is an extra entry it still counts so just leave a comment for your entry! Good luck!



So here are the rules for entry:



Main entry :

Become a follower of the Elegant Mommy Blog.

(If you already are, your main entry is to visit Elegant Mommy's website and tell me another product that we carry or should carry for Baby Wearing. Being a follower already means you get an extra entry.)



Extra Entries:

Follow us on Twitter. (1 Entry)


Become a Facebook Fan of Elegant Mommy. (1 Entry)


Become a Facebook Fan of Baby 'Roo Slings (1 Entry)


Tell us what you would like to see carried on the Elegant Mommy Website (1 Entry)


What blog topics would you like to see covered? (1 Entry)



Is there anything else we can do on our website or blog to better improve our services? (1 Entry)



Give away ends at 7 PM CST 4/25/10
Good Luck!

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Undercover Mama Review and Giveaway

Undercover Mama turns any shirt into a nursing shirt.


As a nursing mom I have lived in my nursing tanks, however they do not support me like they should. I was recently introduced to Undercover Mama, so I can turn any nursing bra into a nursing tank. It very easily hooks to your bra and turns it into a tank. I loved how it keeps my belly covered cause my daughter has recently discovered my belly button, but it also keeps my back warm while nursing. I don't feel like I'm 'hanging out'. I highly recomend this product to any nursing mom!

Undercover Mama come in a variety of colors and sizes. Stop by Elegant Mommy and check them out! We are one giving away in your choice of size. You can also choose Black or White.
Enter our contest now!

Remember a few things about giveaways: Always do the main entry. Nothing else counts with out it. Always leave a way to reach you. Please remember to leave a comment for EACH entry you complete. That is our only way to count the entries. Also, if you already are doing something that is an extra entry it still counts so just leave a comment for your entry! Good luck!



So here are the rules for entry:



Main entry :
Become a follower of the Elegant Mommy Blog.

 
(If you already are, Your main entry is to visit Elegant Mommy's website and tell me another product that we carry or should carry that would help a nursing mom. Being a follower already means you get an extra entry.)



Extra Entries:


Follow us on Twitter. (1 Entry)

Become a Facebook Fan of Elegant Mommy. (1 Entry)

Become a Facebook Fan of Undercover Mama (1 Entry)

Tell us what you would like to see carried on the Elegant Mommy Website (1 Entry)

What blog topics would you like to see covered? (1 Entry)

Is there anything else we can do on our website or blog to better improve our services? (1 Entry)

Extra Bonus Entry-- Attent La Leche Legue meeting at Elegant Mommy at 6:30 on Thursday, April 8th (10 Entries!)

Give away ends at 7 PM CST 4/18/10

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Guest Post from The Original Sioux Falls Frugal Mom!!

5 Money Saving Tips for Moms




Hello Everyone!



My name is Shaina Herrmann. Some of you may already know me as Sioux Falls Frugal Mom (http://www.siouxfallsfrugalmom.com/). I am married and have a sweet little 2 year old girl. I am a huge fan of Elegant Mommy and thrilled to do this guest post!



I am blessed to be able to stay home full time with my daughter. However, with my husband being in school full-time and working a part-time job, we have to be extremely careful with the money we have. Over the past few years I've discovered several great ways to save money and I'd like to share some of them with you!



1. Wise Purchases - Discerning "Needs" vs "Wants": Only buy what you need. It may be a no-brainer for some people but for many, this is something that is very difficult to do, especially if you have access to credit cards. Always ask yourself before you make a purchase, "Do I need this?" or "Is this a wise purchase?". Even if it is a $5 shirt from Wal Mart. Every purchase should be a wise purchase. No more spur of the moment purchases. Clothing is a necessity, but you can easily go overboard when buying clothes. For this reason, I buy clothing one or two times a year and all the money spent on clothing has been carefully planned in our budget.



2. Money Saving Coupons: 50 cents off toilet paper may not seem like much, and really, it isn't! But if you combine that with $1.00 off natural dish soap, $1.00 off yogurt, 75 cents off glass cleaner... it begins to add up. Three months into 2010 and I have already saved over $230 on groceries & household items by using coupons alone. Coupons are not only available in your newspapers, they are all over the place. You just need to know where to find them! On my website I have a special Couponing 101 section to help you get started!



3. Plan a Weekly or Monthly Menu: Planning your menu each week or month will not only help prevent you from spur of the moment fast food excursions, but it will help you to be more excited about cooking for your family! When planning a menu, make sure you watch the sales, consider your coupons, and refer to a master menu list of all of your favorite meals. For more tips on Menu Planning, please visit my site!



4. Do It Yourself: You'd be surprised just how many things you could do yourself if you give it a try! You can cut your own hair, make your own deodorant, laundry soap, or all-purpose cleaner. Give homemade bread a try! It's far more nutritious than store bought bread and only a fraction of the cost. In the same amount of time it would take you to drive to the local smoothie store, stand in line, and pay for your $4 drink, you could make your own homemade smoothie for about half the cost! No matter what it is you are purchasing, make it a habit to first think "Could I make this?".



5. Go Reusable: Rather than spending a ton of money each year on diapers, baby wipes, paper towels, plastic baggies, and water bottles, we save money by purchasing reusable items. Cloth diapers and cloth baby wipes can be purchased at Elegant Mommy, plastic or glass containers can be purchased in place of plastic baggies, washcloths/rags can be used in place of paper towels, and you can buy one good reusable water bottle and use it for a year or two rather than buying individual water bottles.



I hope these tips will encourage you to take some extra steps to save money for your family. It does take a little bit of time and effort but I can assure you that it is well-worth it! To check out the rest of my money-saving tips, go to http://www.siouxfallsfrugalmom.com/