[bump] babies Summer 2009 Maternity Line

[bump] babies was founded by Renae Plant, a native Australian and Mom Entrepreneur. Renae moved to NYC in 1994 to pursue a career in modeling and acting but realized that the life of an artist/designer was more suited to her. Renae moved to LA and 2 years later opened a talent management company.

Renae is a true warrior, having battled cervical cancer at the age of 18, and being an egg donor to help infertile couples. In 2003, Renae married and become pregnant with her first child. Renae was thrilled to be expecting yet in the early months was frustrated because she wanted to inform those around her that she "hadn't let herself go" but that she had a "bump on board". She searched unsuccessfully for hip maternity apparel for this initial period of her pregnancy, but had no luck finding anything. With her background in design and fashion, she designed and created her own fun, stylish, sexy maternity designs which attracted immediate positive feedback from those around her. During her 2nd pregnancy, she continued designing and expanding her [bump] line and it was during this time when [bump] babies was born. [bump] stands for "baby under manufacturing process." Many celebrities including Gwen Stefani, Maggie Gyllenhall, Marcia Cross, Brook Burke, Jennie Garth, Amanda Peet, Tori Spelling, Jaime Pressly, Melanie B, Keri Russell, Jenna Elfman, Naomi Watts, Salma Hayek have been spotted in [bump] apparel. Renae lives in L.A. with her husband and 3 children.


[bump] babies offers the following lines: bump dresses, tees, tanks, vees, maroc, yoga, daddy and bling. The line is beautifully designed using high quality materials and stitching, with many styles featuring Swarovski embellishments for that extra special touch. The styles work beautifully from early pregnancy onwards as well as during the transition period (4th trimester), offering plenty of value.

For Summer 2009, here are our top picks:



[bump] vees - The v-neck maternity tee (vees) are hip, fun and sexy and work beautifully paired with jeans, or your favorite skirt. Many designs feature Swarovski crystals for that "extra bling", enough to make any mom-to-be feel gorgeous. For casual days, pair with [bump] yoga pants for workouts or laid back weekends. The vees are very well made and have a flattering v-neck to accentuate your neckline. The vees are made from 100% cotton and are comfortable to wear; allowing for movement.








[bump] dresses
The gorgeous v-neck dress accentuates your growing curves and is a must have item for warm summer days. Designed to maximize movement while maintaining a chic, pulled together look, it will become your favorite go to outfit this summer. The v-neck dress can be dressed up with accessories and paired with a wrap for the evening. Available in solid print or for the bold, solid print with [bump] logo to make a statement. A panel favorite!









[bump] hasn't forgotten Dads with their cool line of apparel for Dads: [bump] daddy. Now dads-to-be can share in the fun and express themselves through the [bump] daddy tees designed with dads in mind. A great gift item.

Another favorite of ours is the post [bump] tee (left) which will alert the world that you have indeed had your baby! Perhaps hospitals and birthing centers should gift these tees on your way out!






Giving Back

A percentage of each [bump] sale goes towards KIVA.com, who's mission is to alleviate poverty through connecting people who wish to lend to an entrepreneur in a third world country (micro-lending). We applaud [bump] babies for this initiative.

PURCHASING

Bump offers a unique sizing chart which can be found here. Shop online at the [bump babies] online store where with shipping available to the USA and international locations.

Find a retail store in your area

For more information, please visit www.bumpbabies.com

Storksak® Summer 2009 Top Picks

Storksak® was founded in 2003 by two professionals and moms, Melanie Marshall and Suzi Bergman, who are based in London. Their goal was to create a line of diaper bags that "didn't sacrifice style for functionality and toughness". Storksak® bags have taken the world by storm and style icon Angelina Jolie has been photographed carrying the Emily Storksak® and other styles from Storksak®.

Storksak® is an innovative British brand of fashionable and functional bags designed for style-conscious mothers who want great looking parent bags that can survive their busy lifestyles. Storksak® bags are meticulously designed by two mothers, both professionals based in London, who hated the "diaper bags" that were on the market. They felt a new category of bag was needed, one that didn't sacrifice style for functionality and toughness. Each Storksak® bag includes a variety of features that adapt to each mom's varied and changing needs. Special features like adjustable shoulder straps, wipe-clean interior and thermo-insulated bottle holders or pockets which keep a bottle warm or cold for up to 4 hours are standard. Certain styles also include a key-ring clip, detachable mirror and individual compartments for diapers and cell phones and several styles are even large enough for a laptop computer.

Storksak's® unmatched versatility and use of high quality fabrics, leathers and hardware, enable their collection of parent bags to appeal not only to moms with babies but also to busy professionals in search of a functional and stylish bag for work, the beach or the gym.

The reality of diapering when out and about:

Most public restrooms have less than ideal facilities for a parent to diaper their baby. Often there is no room to put down your diaper bag and when there is, it is often dirty. Babies are squirmy and love to wriggle especially during diaper changes so for safety purposes, we have to strongly recommend that parents keep one hand/arm on their baby at ALL times during a diaper change. This can simply not be accomplished without investing in a diaper bag that will allow you to wear it securely around your body (messenger style, so that is stays secure). A bag which allows easy access to the contents, is a must. Most diaper bags on the market have a large exterior flap which you need to flip up in order to access the contents of the bag. Realistically, trying to hold the flap up and then reach in for what you need requires two hands, which leaves baby unattended to.

Our Summer 2009 Top Picks from Storksak® can both we worn across your shoulder for good stability and are both designed for easy access allowing parents to reach in easily with one hand and grab diapering essentials without ever having to put the diaper bag down! Lets looks at the two styles in greater detail:

Suzi Red Label Navy


The Suzi Red Label Navy is the perfect bag for Summer 2009 and features a "kasbah" print which is timeless and elegant and pairs beautifully with every outfit, from jeans to skirts. The bag is made from PVC-free PU, which is easy to clean (both exterior and interior) and less of an impact on the environment. The bag features a very high quality adjustable shoulder strap, which resembles a well made belt and can be worn messenger style or over one shoulder. The square design, material and rigid bottom enable this bag to hold its shape and to stand on its own. This will come in handy when you are out for coffee or lunch as it won't keep tipping over, picking up dirt as it falls. The four well placed "feet" on the bottom protect the bag from scuffing and add to the stability of the bag.


The Suzi Red Label Navy has ample storage options, which are cleverly designed with the modern mom in mind. The front of the bag has 2 pockets, a small one for your cell phone and a larger one for other essentials. The most innovative feature of this bag is the dual side insulated side pockets, which are brilliantly designed. No-one would every guess that the 2 built in zippered pockets actually hold your baby's bottle and your water bottle! These pockets will keep fluids warm or cold for up to 4 hrs (depending on the external temperature) and will prove to be invaluable especially during the warmer months ahead. The built in insulated compartments are designed so that no passerby would know that they are there, which is a true tribute to the brilliant design of this bag which doesn't scream "I am a diaper bag". The back of the bag has a large pocket with amagnetic closure, which is ideal for storing wet or soiled items, which will be held in their own separate compartment.


Looking inside the bag, you will be pleasantly surprised at how roomy it is for a small bag measuring H12" W13" F6", which is largely in part to the square design which maximizes space. The light interior color prevents the "black hole effect", allowing busy parents to easily and quickly grab essentials without having to dig around to find something. Included is a large, padded changing pad which measures 13.75 x 23.5 inches and folds compactly (6.5 x 7") and secures with a velcro tab. The machine washable changing pad coordinates beautifully with the bag and is a good deal larger than most compact changing pads, making it ideal for use with babies AND toddlers. The 4 elasticized "drop in" pockets (2 smaller, 2 larger) are great for storing diapers, wipes, toys, the changing pad and other essentials and will hold their contents securely in place. A zip pocket is found above the "Storksak® logo". A detachable key clip is a nice touch, helping you to locate your keys easily, saving you time and frustration!

The Storksak® Suzy Red Label features tassels on the zippers which means that moms or grandmothers with arthritis or other conditions which limit dexterity will be able to open and close the compartments with ease. Not to forget your toddler who can assert his independence under your supervision and take an active role in helping mom! The stitching, fabric and hardware used is of the highest quality and the perfect summer bag for any stylish mom.

Jess Red Label

The Jess Red Label is a great satchel for all seasons. The satchel is made from a very durable, heavy duty water resistant canvas, which will stand up to plenty of abuse and still end up looking like new. The large bag measures H15" W18" D5" and features a hip design with chunky brass hardware yet still maintains some femininity with the patent leather accents and feminine lines. The bag features a very high quality adjustable shoulder strap, which resembles a well made belt and can be worn messenger style or over one shoulder.

The bag is not designed in typical satchel style and instead of a full flap which lifts up to reveal the main compartment of the bag, it has 2 "faux flaps" which open independently to reveal two roomy front pockets. This non traditional satchel style offers a significant advantage because the main compartment of the bag is easily accessed independent of the flaps, which allows parents to easily open the main compartment with one hand, with no large flaps to deal with. The rear of the bag has one very large deep pocket with magnetic closure which is ideal for storing wet or soiled items, independent from the main compartment.

The inside of the bag is lightly colored, and has ample storage so finding essentials will be easy and stress-free. Included is a large, padded changing pad which measures 13.75 x 23.5 inches and folds compactly (6.5" x 7") and it secures with a velcro tab. The machine washable changing pad coordinates beautifully with the bag and is a good deal larger than most compact changing pads, making it ideal for use with babies AND toddlers. A removable drawstring bottle holder is included with the bag and will keep fluids warm or cold for up to 4 hrs (depending on the external temperature). There are 5 elasticized pockets in the interior of the bag, 2 large and 3 small, perfect for storing the changing pad, diapers, wipes, toys etc. There is a zippered pocket above the Storksak® logo. This diaper bag will serve you well during the diapering days and well beyond and its top quality canvas fabric, hardware and stitching will prolong the life of the bag.

The Jess Red Label is available in Army (sold out until September 2009), Navy and Red.

Storksak® bags are in a class of their own and fashionistas around the globe turn to Storksak® for chic bags, whether they have babies or not! The impeccably designed and crafted bags successfully merge function and style and are well worth the investment.

Storksak® Stroller Clips

The Storksak® stroller clips are high quality and very well designed and allow parents the option to attach their storksak diaper bag easily to their stroller. The stroller clips latch onto nearly all of the Storksak® designs and attach via a strap system with a velcro closure for added security. The Storksak® clips are particularly useful for moms and dads with shoulder, neck, back, hip or knee problems, moms who have recently given birth and parents with high needs infants, who need to be held frequently. Attaching your diaper bag to your stroller handle means that you no longer need to bend down to the underneath storage basket to reach for your diaper bag, which is often not accessible in a fully reclined position. From a safety point of view, having your diaper bag closer to your body is far safer than having it stashed in the underneath basket.

Please keep in mind that before you attach your bag to your stroller, you need to carefully select a stroller which has a very stable base, to avoid the stroller tipping over.

PURCHASING

*Storksak® bags and accessories are available at retailers like Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, BabyStyle, Due Maternity and online at www.storksak.com.


To view the full collection of Storksak® Bags, please visit:

www.StorkSak.com

The 2009 Bumbleride Flyer - The most ergonomic stroller on the market.

Bumbleride Inc. was launched in San Diego, California in 2004 by a husband and wife team, Matthew and Emily Reichardt, who were less than impressed by the stroller market at the time. Through design and research, they developed Bumbleride, a brand inspired by the current young and modern family. Bumbleride's collection of strollers is playful, responsive and fun.

"We are reshaping baby mobility in a way to flow seamlessly into your modern lifestyle. Our design inspiration comes from you: the young and modern family. We strive to create products that are urban, stylish and functional while remaining sound and durable. Our collection is versatile and multi-faceted and includes a variety of features, vibrant colors and clever accessories."

Bumbleride is an eco-minded company, sponsoring recycling programs and offering employee carpooling incentives. Bumbleride strollers are innovative, ergonomic, stylish, colorful and fun, keeping modern parents in mind. Bumbleride strollers have won several awards, and just recently, Indie and Indie Twin won the iParenting award and the Indie Twin also won NAPPA honors award.

Today, we are focusing on the 2009 Bumbleride Flyer, a well made, ergonomic stroller which will take you from the newborn years, through the toddler years and well beyond.

2009 Flyer Standard Accessories:

*Rain cover
*Bumper Bar
*Infant headrest
*Infant Car Seat Adapter and Safety Belt
*Cup Holder
*Headrest and Shoulder Pads





2009 Flyer Optional Accessories:

*Carrycot
*Footmuff & liner
*Jam Pack



New for 2009

*One push release safety harness
*New sporty wheels
*Responsive steering
*Slimmer design

The 2009 Bumbleride Flyer

Ergonomic

The innovative flyer is the most ergonomic stroller on the market, allowing parents to adjust the stroller so that both parent and baby are strolling in optimum comfort to support good posture. Parents will really appreciate the fully adjustable handlebars, which will accommodate parents of different heights. The stroller can be used from birth, as it is one of the few strollers on the market that can be transformed into an "infant bed" by adjusting the seat back to the lowest position and raising the footrest. The backrest has 3 different positions to accommodate your baby/child as they grow in length. As your baby grows and develops posture control and strength, you simply adjust the settings on the Flyer to allow baby to stroll in a more upright position. This stroller is one of the few on the market that will take you from infancy, through the toddler years and beyond, making it worthwhile purchase.


Handlebars

The ERGONOMIC, fully height adjustable handle bars on the 2009 Bumbleride Flyer are truly exceptional...certainly one of the best that we have seen in the industry!

Why is a fully height adjustable handle so imperative?

Quite simply, if you are not maintaining a good posture when you are pushing a stroller, you may very well find yourself developing back and shoulder pain. Glance in the mirror when you are pushing your stroller and note if your shoulders are relaxed in a neutral position, vs hunched. How does your body feel after you have been pushing the stroller? With many adjustment height settings, you are assured that you will find the ideal height for each member of the family. The padded handle bars of the flyer are comfy to grip. If you suffer from any wrist problems, (carpal tunnel, etc) you can easily find a neutral position for your wrist, which you will find invaluable. This neutral position allows you to steer the stroller as you would hold a steering wheel. The added advantage of having many height options will soon become apparent when you need tight maneuverability in crowded places or grocery stores. A quality stroller with reversible handle bars is very hard to find in this price range and this feature alone, makes the 2009 Bumbleride Flyer an outstanding buy.

Why are reversible handles so useful?

Well both parents and baby will agree that being able to see each other is reassuring for both and is especially useful to first time parents, babies who are being transitioned from carriers, fussy babies or babies who are experiencing separation anxiety.


Canopy
The dual ratcheting canopy is a feature that Bumbleride is known for. The canopy can be pulled down to the level of the bumper bar, providing your baby with full protection from the elements as well as sensory overload (e.g busy grocery store). The canopy has a peek-a-boo window which will allow you to keep an eye on your child. The rear of the canopy features a pocket for light essentials. The rear of the canopy can unzip to allow air to circulate more effeciently in warmer conditions.

Seat
The well padded seat features a head rest for babies, and new for 2009, a one push release, 5 point padded safety harness system. The backrest adjusts with a swift, one handed maneuver to 4 different positions, ranging from nearly flat to upright, so that you can customize the seat include to your child's age, size, postural ability and mood.

Wheels
New for 2009, the Flyer features newly designed wheels with a sporty look. The improved responsive steering allows your to navigate tight corners with greater ease and the front and rear suspension ensure a smooth ride.

Bumper Bar
The bumper bar comes standard with the 2009 Flyer and offers additional protection for your child. It is easily removable and the location where it attaches to the frame is the some location where the carry cot and jam pack attach, allow your customize your stroller as your child grows.


Storage Basket
The large storage basket can hold a medium to large diaper bag with ease and best of all, can be accessed even with the seat fully reclined. Now that is great engineering.








Operation
Opening and closing the 2009 Flyer is surprisingly simple and easy to do with its one step fold. The Flyer weighs in at 19 pounds. For additional information, please see the demo.

Road Test
The 2009 Flyer handles itself very well in a variety of situations, whether in the mall, grocery shopping, or strolling to the park. The front and rear suspension ensure a smooth ride. Bumbleride recommends that you lock the wheels closest to you, for smoother more responsive steering and we found this advice to be very accurate.


Optional Accessories:

The Carrycot
The carrycot is easy to assemble and snaps into the same slot that the bumper bar connects to. The study carrycot has a thin, firm mattress for baby's comfort and safety. The carrycot has 2 sturdy straps which allow you to safely lift the canopy from the stroller. The carrycot comes standard with the Bumbleride Footmuff (and seat liner to be used later with the stroller minus the carrycot), to help protect baby from the cooler weather. The carry cot is also compatible with the Bumbleride Indie, and Twin Indie.











Footmuff and Liner
The footmuff and liner are wonderful for the cooler season, and will keep baby snug and warm during outdoor walks. The liner sits on top of the stroller seat and then the footmuff zips onto it. There is a small zippered pocket on the outside of the footmuff, perfect for storing small items including keys, cash or a cell phone. The footmuff and liner are compatible with the Bumbleride India and twin Indie. The footmuff and seat liner can also be purchased separately.










The Jam Pack is the only bag on the market that we know of that is designed to be used by both parents and children!


The PVC-free Jam Pack's unisex design makes it suitable for moms or dads and its small size makes it ideal to grab when running a quick errand. A quick access zippered pocket on the front can hold a few diapers. There are 2 pockets for holding bottles on either side of the bag, to ensure that both you and your child are always kept well hydrated. The interior of the bag is lightly colored so there is no black hold effect. An elasticized mesh ouch can hold wipes and extra diapers. The remaining interior can hold a few baby essentials such as bibs, toys and a change of clothing for baby.A well made zipper and a magnetic closure ensure that all your contents stay safely in place.

There are 3 slim pockets on the back of the bag to hold items such as mini hand sanitizer, an energy bar, mp3 player, cell phone etc which are within easy reach.

By simply re-threading the strap, the Jam Pack can convert into a back pack for kids. The Jam Pack doubles as a back pack for your child and can fit his lunch, hat, sunblock, water and even his homework. This hybrid bag comes highly recommended.







Snack Pack

Our panel was really impressed with the snack pack is a zipper pouch which can hold a juice or yogurt and some snacks for both baby and parent. The snack pack will prove to be very handy during long outdoor walks, and especially during the summer when staying hydrated is a must.













Purchasing information:

2009 model is available in the following 5 colors: Lava, Ruby, Seagrass, Spice, and Vita.

Retail store or direct from the bumbleride online store

For more information, please visit www.Bumbleride.com

BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light

With the peak travel season just around the corner, families are busy making vacation plans and deciding where to stay at their destination. Whether you plan
to stay at a hotel, motel or resort, give some thought to where you little one will sleeping during while on vacation.

Most traveling families use cribs and play yards provided by motels and hotels. Estimates show that children under age 2 spend more than 7 million nights per year in hotels, motels and resorts. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that there are about approximately 65,000 hotels and motels in the U.S. In an ongoing investigation, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National SAFE KIDS® Campaign found unsafe cribs and play yards in the majority of hotels they visited around the country. In several random surveys from 2001-2006, Safe Kids Worldwide found many hotel-issued cribs to be defective, damaged or even recalled from the market. From motels to luxury resorts, SAFE KIDS found that four out of five of the hotels they checked had cribs with at least one safety hazard including: loose hardware; soft bedding, comforters or pillows that could cause suffocation; or adult-sized sheets that pose a strangulation and suffocation hazard. So even if you are staying at a very pricey, upscale hotel, don't assume that the cribs that they will provide you with are any safer. Surprising, is that at the time of the investigation, only one hotel chain committed to making a concerted effort to providing safe cribs at their hotels, while the remaining hotels, motels and resorts did not.

Instead of playing Russian roulette and waiting to see what kind of crib your hotel will provide you with on the day (some may not have any on site or not enough to go around), why not take the initiative and plan ahead. Introducing the BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light, the innovative lightweight travel crib which will change the way that you vacation with your child forever. Used correctly, the Travel Crib Light from BABYBJÖRN the safest travel crib on the market, bar none. Photo (right) Copyright BABYBJÖRN




The innovative BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light is true to its name and weighs in at just 5kg/11lbs, making it lightweight enough to transport with ease. The BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light comes in its own carry case which measures 24" x 19" x 7" even has a sturdy carry strap.


Once you have arrived at your destination, setting up the BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light couldn't be any easier or any quicker. Simply unzip the carrying case and remove the contents from the bag. Set the mattress aside and holding the travel crib frame in both hands, unfold with one swift movement. Check to make sure that the legs are fully extended and locked into place and then place the mattress inside the crib. That is it, you are done! Even a pregnant mom can set it up with lightening speed, as demonstrated in this demo.

The exceptional Swedish engineering enables the Travel Crib Light to unfold in one swift movement, which is truly remarkable. The engineer on our panel was very impressed when he saw this being demonstrated this first hand at the ABC Kids Trade Show in 2008 and it left a lasting impression with him. Even though the Travel Crib weighs in at just 5 lbs, the unique design and solid construction makes it very stable. The mattress cover and fabric parts that come into contact with your baby meet Oeko-Tex standards, so parents can rest easy knowing that no harmful chemicals are coming into contact with your baby. The fabric components of the travel crib are easy to remove and are washable. The mattress measures 42 x 24 in and features a water repellent mattress cover to protect it from accidents. Traveling can be especially tough on little ones and adding to that a strange new environment which can push your baby into sensory overload. Bringing your own travel crib which your baby is familiar with, can help ease the anxiety of travel, and despite the new surroundings, baby is sleeping in his own familiar travel crib which can help to calm and soothe him. Photos (above and below left) Copyright BABYBJÖRN.


BABYBJÖRN offers an organic cotton fitted sheet (Oeko-Tex certified) which is designed to fit the travel crib mattress perfectly, ensuring a snug and safe fit. Baby will love the soft organic cotton against his skin.

Folding the travel crib is just as easy. Reach in and remove the mattress and place it in the carry bag. Then flip the crib over and following the printed diagram, proceed to fold each leg of the crib so that they criss cross each other. Fold the crib in half and place it inside the mattress, zip the bag and you are ready to go. A clip detailing setting the crib up and folding it can be seen here.


The BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light is very versatile and will prove to be invaluable during sleepovers at grandmas house, or simply nap times at home so that mom can keep a close eye on baby during the day, while contining with the household chores.

The BABYBJÖRN Travel Crib Light is ideal for newborns to age 3. For purchasing information, please click here

For additional information, please visit: www.BABYBJÖRN.com

Select photographs are Copyright BABYBJÖRN. Please see above.

Anka by Svan High Chair from Scandinavian Child

Brenda Berg, CEO and founder of Scandinavian Child:


"Scandinavian Child represents 7 brands from around the world. All of them fall within the Designs without Compromise Philosophy. Every product in the collection meets criteria for both functionality, safety and design.
You don't have to compromise style to have a great functioning product."


Anka by Svan of Sweden.

The Anka by Svan of Sweden is the lower priced cousin to the Svan High Chair, yet is sturdy and full featured, offering great value in these tough economic times. It is JPMA/ASTM Safety Certified to give parents piece of mind. The Anka Chair arrives almost completely pre-assembled. Simply follow the directions in the manual and attach the 2 floor bases, the cushion and the wooden tray and you are all set. Each Anka by Svan High Chair comes with a plastic tray and a cushion included, for additional value.

FEATURES



Design:

The Anka Chair is a solidly constructed chair, designed with the modern parent in mind and features clean and simple lines. The chair is available in 3 finishes: Honey (cream cushion), Espresso (cream cushion) and Natural (with Chocolate Cushion) and will blend in beautifully with any kitchen and dining room decor. The Anka feature is made from solid wood which is smooth to the touch. The Anka Chair features a set of wooden bases which lends tremendous stability to the chair, particularly in the anterior posterior direction, where other high chairs fall flat.






Safety:

The Anka High Chair features a 3 point restraint system which is easy to fasten and unfasten, to keep your baby/child securely in place. A child who is under 3 years of age must always be secured in the restraint system. The Anka High Chair features a metal brace which locks down to keep the legs of the chair open, much like a ladder.






Environmentally friendly:

The Anka High Chair is made with sustainable materials; solid Birch wood with a non-toxic finish. The cushions are PBDE-free, and are machine washable. The plastic tray is both BPA and Phthalate free and and is dishwasher safe. Keeping your Anka High Chair looking fresh and new has never been easier.



Convertible:

The Anka by Svan High Chair is completely convertible and converts easily from a high chair, to youth chair to a kid chair up to 5 yrs of age (remove the wooden guard). A high chair that grows with your child offers unbeatable value.

Ergonomic

Like its cousin, the Svan High Chair, the Anka by High Chair offers many ergonomic features, which set it apart from other high chairs on the market. There are many advantages to purchasing a high chair which can grow with your baby, with good posture during eating being the main advantage. A baby/child who is well supported during eating will not have to waste energy on trying to maintain a good posture and can focus on the task of eating, which is what every parent wants! There are 3 main components of the Anka by Svan High Chair which are adjustable. The wooden guard on the Anka by Svan High Chair adjusts in 2 positions, depending on the age of your baby/child. This essentially adjusts the "depth of the seat" as your child grows. The wooden tray can lock into 3 different slots, depending on the size of your child. This feature, along with the adjustable wooden guard with ensure that your baby/child is positioned correctly for food to land mostly on the tray and not on his lap. A number of high end high chairs on the market are designed with a tray which is positioned very far from the child, with the food ending up in the child's lap! The footrest adjusts in 4 different positions, ensuring that your child's legs can be well supported during eating, providing him with stability.





Why is an Adjustable Footrest so imperative?

If you child's feet are being supported, he will be able to focus on the task of eating. If an adjustable footrest is not present or is inadequate, he will spend the majority of his energy trying to keep himself upright and will tire himself out. Would you be comfortable eating all of your meals while your legs are dangling?











Compact:

The Anka by Svan High Chair Folds Compactly for storage and is great for those with limited space or for grandmas house. The wooden tray is removable and can be stored on the back of the chair which will allow you to pull the chair right up the dining room table.





Weight limit:

When your baby is able to sit upright independently and has good sitting balance, typically around 6 months of age, he is ready to start using the Anka Chair. The Chair can accommodate a weight limit of 5 years or up to 50 pounds.


Purchasing:

The Anka by Svan High Chair is distributed exclusively by Scandinavian Child. To find a retailer, please click here.

To learn more about this product and other products from Scandinavian Child, please visit: www.scichild.com

Diaper Dude Dad Survival Kit: The Perfect Father's Day Gift!

Gone are the days when Dads stand idly by and watch as their spouses raise their baby. Today's modern dads are stepping up and taking an active role in caring for their baby. Given the fact that almost all of the parent products on the market today are geared towards moms, it's no wonder that Dads may be feeling left out! With Father's Day just around the corner, we have kept Dads in mind and have searched high and low for the coolest products for dad this Father's Day.

One thing is for certain; men don't want to schlep around feminine Diaper Bags, period! Sorry ladies but expecting your man to share your floral silk diaper bag is just out of the question. Dads want and deserve a bag just for themselves! Diaper Dude has come to the rescue! Diaper Dude was founded by Chris Pegula, a young, cool hip dad who grew tired of carrying around his diapering essentials in a gym bag and decided to take the initiate to create a line of masculine diaper bags designed with dads in mind.

Dads have their own unique sense of style, and seek out masculine, rugged products which are packed with features and which help to streamline their activities of daily living.

The Dad Survival Kit meets these all of these specifications and consists of a Diaper Dude Bag, a mini waist pouch aka the Mini Dude and a Bottle Holder. These three products are very well designed using high quality materials and components. Diaper Dude delivers and dads everywhere won't be disappointed.



Diaper Dude Bag

The Original Diaper Dude Bag is the sporty messenger bag which started the Diaper Dude phenomenon! Dads will be able to access the contents of their bag without ever having to take it off, which means both hands are free to care for their baby. The ergonomically designed strap adjusts easily for a custom fit. The Over-the-Shoulder design makes it easy to toss on and take off and is very comfortable as it stays in place on the shoulder while reaching for items or catching a wayward child. Attached to the strap is a cellphone pouch which is easy to access and won't leave you fumbling thorough your bag. Taking a closer look at the bag, working your way from front to back, the Diaper Dude Bag boasts 3 generously sized exterior zip-closed pockets which can be easily and quickly accessed and are ideal for storing diapers, wipes, bibs, food and other diapering essentials. The main compartment of the bag is lightly colored so there is no black hole effect. It can accommodate items for baby and dad (a change of clothing for baby, toys, a hat, snacks, additional diapers) and additionally houses the changing pad in its own sub compartment which is great for hygienic reasons. Also included is a key ring clip which will put an end to frantically searching through your bag to locate the car keys, and a bottle holder. The rear of the bag features two large elasticized pouches, which are great for storing a baby blanket, books and perhaps even a mini notebook computer. The rear of the bag (part against your body) is padded, offering even more comfort especially when filled with hard wooden toys, glass baby bottles and other items heavy and solid items. This is a solid bag, clearly designed with Dads in mind who need an easy to use, rugged bag that look like a guys equipment.





Mini Dude

The mini dude resembles a cool tool belt and is a great choice to grab when heading out on a short errand. It can hold a pack of wipes and two diapers. In addition, it can 2 bottles on either side of the main compartment which means that both dad and baby can stay well hydrated when on the go. Aside from wearing it around the waist, dads can also sling it messenger style. This innovative diaper waist pouch is a panel favorite!







Bottle Holder.

The bottle pouch measures 4 inches wide and 8 inches and clips on easily to the Diaper Dude Bag.
It is insulated to ensure that baby's bottle stays cool in the summer heat.





The Diaper Dude Dad Survival Kit will make a wonderful Father's Day Gift and will help dads not only survive fatherhood but thrive. For additional gift ideas, consider one of these eco-friendly products for the Earth Conscious Dads!

For expecting couples, consider registering with the Diaper Dude Gift Registry and you will be assured of receiving cool, practical and high quality products which will help make your transition into parenthood that much easier.

Earth Conscious dads will love the new eco-friendly line from Diaper Dude.

This and many other innovative Diaper Dude products can be purchased directly from the Diaper Dude online store or to locate a store near you, please click here.

For additional information, please visit www.DiaperDude.com

Beating PCOS Naturally

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is known as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome and is complex endocrine disorder associated with anovulation (lack of ovulation) and hyperandrogenism (excess male sex hormones). It is estimated that 70% of women with PCOS have elevated androgen levels. Women with PCOS may also have high levels of the following:

Estrogen: Higher levels associated with infertility and may also increase risk of hormone related cancers.

Gonadotropins: Higher levels affect fertility and the menstrual cycle

Insulin: Higher levels of insulin and glucose intolerance which makes losing weight very difficult.

Women with PCOS are at significantly higher risk of developing Type II Diabetes and Heart Disease. Pregnant women who have PCOS, are at increased risk of developing gestational diabetes and hypertension, which can make their pregnancy high risk, requiring very close monitoring. Most women with PCOS have irregular cycles. PCOS is under-recognized and under diagnosed. Since a high percentage of women who have PCOS also suffer from infertility, women will often receive their diagnosis following a consult with a reproductive endocrinologist.

Conventional treatment will often include oral contraceptives to regulate the menstrual cycle and hormone levels, an insulin sensitizer to reduce insulin resistance and a prescription of a low carb diet plus an exercise program. Additional medication may be prescribed on an individual basis. Women who are trying to get pregnant will be given a full work-up may be given a drug to induce regular ovulation, which is carefully monitored.

A member of our parent panel, Sarah, aged 26, was diagnosed with PCOS in 2008. Sarah, unlike most women with PCOS, have regular menstrual cycles. Here is her profile:

Sarah has struggled with her weight since her teen years. She reports having a lack of energy throughout the day and strong cravings for carbs and sweets, particularly during her "PMS week". Sarah has a high stress job which exacerbates her symptoms.

Stats pre-alternative treatment program

Fasting blood glucose: 103 (pre-diabetic)
Weight: 180 lbs (BMI: 27.4 overweight)
Blood pressure: 120/80 (above normal)
Height: 5"8
Hirsutism: moderate

Sarah, is determined to control her PCOS symptoms and obtain a healthy body weight through exploring alternative treatments. What follows is Sarah's plan and not a personalized prescription plan. Please consult with your health care professional prior to starting any new treatments, conventional or alternative.

*Pilates Reformer Machine (resistance training) strength training 3 x per week

*Walking (Aerobic) 30 mins walk in the AM, 30 minutes walk in the PM

*Yoga and meditation 3 x per week to reduce stress and improve endurance and stamina.

*Low GI vegan diet: Sarah has started a low glycemic diet and includes foods in her diet which are classified as either low or medium on the GI scale. Whole grains are emphasized including: quinoa, amaranth, kasha, brown basmati rice, beans and pulses, low starchy vegetables and fresh fruit in moderation. Instead of eating 3 large meals, Sarah began eating 5 or 6 small meals and snacks every 3 hours to help keep her blood sugar stable throughout the day. Adopting a well balanced, vegan diet (consult an Registered Dietician for advice) can be especially beneficial to women with PCOS, since a well balanced, vegan diet is free of dietary cholesterol, high in dietary fiber, legumes and vegetables which can significantly lower your risk of cardiovasular disease.

*Cinnamon: 1 tsp a day which has been shown in studies to reduce insulin resistance. Cinnamon powder can become toxic in higher dosages, so cinnamon sticks boiled may be a healthier alternative.

*Supplement: Chiral Balance D-chiro-inositol (DCI)

In two peer-reviewed, double blind studies, D-chiro-inositol, a member of the B nutrient family, was found to help both lean and obese women with PCOS reduce many of their primary clinical symptoms. Researchers hypothesize that women with PCOS are insulin resistant due to a deficiency of D-chiro-inositol which helps to regulate insulin levels. D-chiro-inositol is found naturally in several foods including buckwheat bran (farinetta), chickpeas, soy lethicin and carob syrup however taking a DCI supplement is an easier way to ensure that you are getting the sufficient quantity for your body weight. Women who are overweight will require higher levels of DCI which is also a consideration.

A high quality DCI supplement on the market is available from a reputable company, Chiral Balance. We sat down with a rep from the company to learn more:

"DCI is made from pinitol, which is a close chemical relative of of DCI. It is made in one step, by demethylation of pinitol and is then purified by HPLC. Every shipment we receive passes through customs and FDA inspection before arriving to us. The pinitol itself is derived primarily from soy husks, but poses not threat to people with soy allergies, because of the numerous purification steps."

The product contains no coatings, binders, fillers, artificial colors or fragrance. It is free of dairy, wheat, yeast, gluten, corn, sugar, starch, soy, preservatives ans hydrogenated oil. The capsules are made from cellulose acetate, so they are suitable for vegans and vegetarians, people with various allergies. DCI supplements from a reputable source such as Chiral Balance do not have any documented side-effects.

To purchase DCI supplements from Chiral Balance, please click here.

Stats following a 2 month period of alternative treatments (diet, supplements, exercise):

Fasting blood glucose: 93 (normal)
Weight: 155lb (BMI: 23.6 normal)
Blood pressure: 110/70 (normal)
Hirustism: facial hair reduced as observed by beautician
Increased energy during the day.

Additional resources:

The Soul Cysters Website is a great place to start! Check out the message boards for online support.

MediFocus Guide Polycystic Guide:
An excellent guide which is easy to understand. Readers will develop insight into PCOS and understand this syndrome in greater depth. Information about PCOS throughout the life cycles is presented, including pregnancy and menopause. References to medical literature are cited.

The Savvy Woman's Guide to PCOS: The many faces of a 21st Century Epidemic...And what you can do about it. by Elizabeth Lee Vliet, MD. This book is an outstanding guide to PCOS where readers will learn all about the syndrome in great detail and will learn about Dr Vliet's recommendations for diagnosing and treating PCOS. Readers will be empowered to be an active, informed patient when navigating the medical system. Dr Vliet, is clearly an expert on hormonal disorders which is evident by her unique insights on PCOS. What is missing however from this book, is information about exploring complimentary and alternative on alternative and complementary therapies .

The New Glucose Revolution Low GI Vegetarian Cookbook
published by Da Capo Press.

This revolutionary cookbook is the FIRST ever vegetarian and vegan cookbook that is written with the GI index in mind. This cookbook includes 80 delectable vegetarian and vegan recipes to take you from breakfast to dinner and is written by the world's foremost authorities on the Glycemic Index. Jennie Brand-Miller, PhD, is a international authority on the GI approach, heading up the GI-testing center in Sydney, Australia. Along with 2 Registered Dietitians, Kaye Foster-Powell, M. Nutr & Diet and Kate Marsh, RD, CD, the nutrition experts begin by outlining a variety of vegetarian sources of protein, fats and carbohydrates to include for a well balanced diet. The authors explain the GI concept in user friendly terminology which is easy to grasp. Vegetarians in particularly need to be mindful of adopting a well balanced diet to ensure that they take in the necessary vitamins and minerals for good health. The authors touch upon vitamins and minerals which are essential to a vegetarian diet including iron, calcium, vitamin B12 an iodine and list the daily recommendations for men and women and which food sources and or supplements will meet your daily requirements. The authors then move onto the advantages of switching to a Low GI diet and include some information specific to women with PCOS. A useful table is included which offers options for replacing a high GI food item with a low GI one and will help to keep you on track. Suggestions for choosing low GI foods for breakfast, lunch, snacks, desserts and dinner are discussed to help apply the principles into creating a daily food plan. A 7 day meal plan for both vegetarians and vegans is included, with separate plans for adults, teenagers and children. The meal plans are a very valuable tool to help you adopt a Low GI lifestyle for your family and provide a wonderful framework for your new lifestyle. The remainder of the book presents 80 mouth watering recipes, nearly each of which is accompanied by an exquisite photograph for culinary inspiration. The recipes are easy to make, and are influenced by many cultures including Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Middle Eastern and Mexican. Adopting a low GI lifestyle doesn't mean that you need to deprive yourself of delicious tasting meals. Our favorite recipes include: Pancakes with Tofu, Basil and Sun-dried tomato, Red lentil dal with spiced basmatic rice, Falafel rolls with hummus, tabbouleh and spicy tomato sauce, Raspberry swirl cheesecakes and Creamy Quinoa Pudding. You don't need to be a strict vegetarian to benefit from this book. Meat eaters can benefit tremendously from eating a few vegetarian meals per week, which will help to reduce their cholesterol and slash their risk of developing heart disease. Overall, an essential guide for anyone who has insulin resistance and or anyone who wishes to have more energy throughout the day. Purchase this book from these retailers.

Glycemic Index Database
Easily reference GI information about your favorite staples.