Kid's Bargain Style

Princess Perfect

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 12:30:26 +0000

I was never a princess girl. Rather, I was a baseball, match box car, tire swing kind of girl. I always enjoyed playing house and kitchen but I never got into the princess scene. However, I know two little girls who do everything princess. My nieces, Kaitlyn and Emma are obsessed. So, this post goes out to them.

Mookla carries this fabulous Princess Bed…fit for any princess who can never feel the pea under the mattress.
It is a tad pricey, to say the least, but what is money when it comes to a princess? For $1579.00 this solid birch bed later turns into a stand alone.

Pair the desk with it and you have the entiree bedroom set!

But, what is a princess without her costumes and her wand? Land of Nod has the ballerina covered

Girls Play Tutus with Rose Applique - Tutu (Lavender )
and so does Duck Duck Goose with the new ballerina tutu styles
Little Pea Book By Amy Krause Rosenthal - Little Peav

One of Gail Carson Levine’s first books, Ella Enchanted is just that…enchanted. My middle school students loved this book, especially in the 6th grade. Its fun and magical and appeals to younger middle school readers.

Next comes The Princess Tales in which Levine weaves three tales into a happily ever after.

And finally, Volume Two of the Princess Tales wherein a boy tries to win Princess Charming’s heart.

Make sure you also pick up the frog…because no princess is complete without her frog to kiss. As the Brother’s Grimm Legend has it… a spoiled princess reluctantly befriends a frog, who magically transforms into a handsome prince. In modern versions the transformation is sometimes triggered by the princess kissing the frog but that is the modernest version of the story. I am still a romantic and believe in the man rescuing the woman.

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Lilly’s Kids Sale

Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:22:41 +0000

If you know that I also write My Two Boys then you also know that I am a firm believer of Lead Free Toys. Lilly’s Kids is not necessarily known for Lead Free Toys and does not even have a statement on their site. However, there are several products that I would recommend. You can find a wholesome selection of choices for kids of all ages, from newborns to teens and everyone in between.

This double sided easel and chalkboard has wood trays that hold chalk on one side and dry erase and paint on the other. It is a natural beechwood frame and on sale for $44.98

This 2006 Topps Collection of 650 Baseball Trading Cards is sealed for the investor. Any young boy would love this for Christmas even though its a year out. I know my brother collected them 20 years ago and they are worth a mint now. On sale for $39.99 from $54.98

This portable MP3 Player Case is poly/nylon and stretches to fit most players. Right now it is only $1.98

These cardboard bricks have been a tradition in preschools for generations. They are strong enough to withstand the toughest kids and light enough to lift. Add ons available.

And here is one that looks fantastic but I don’t know agree with the recommendation for 3 months and up. Small items can get caught. (And I don’t know about what it is made of)

Get Free Personalization on Kids Décor at Lillian Vernon!

Lillian Vernon-The Best Store for Baby Gifts

Shop by age at Lilly’s Kids

Count your blessings and the money you’ll save with $1 shipping on $60 orders using media code 887860100!

This holiday season, enjoy our gift to you of $5.99 flat-rate shipping using media code 987860100 thru November 30, 2007.

Life is Good

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 03:30:17 +0000

When is Life Good? Is it when you first hold your child? Is it when you first see him smile at you? Or is it when he takes his first steps or finally learns to talk after a huge battle with speech?

When LG awards you $18,000. Thats when. The prizes actually total $30,000 when you add in the finalists and the second and third prize winners. LG has teamed up with YouTube to bring you the chance to win $18,000 in prizes (and others will be awarded too!) just for submitting a video of an experience of a moment that has made life good for you.

What do you need to do?
Create a 15-30 second video from your own footage, photos or real life situations or one that has been staged and shot for the contest. You can also download the LG logo “Life’s Good” to include in the video. (I recommend this for good advertising).

Each video should complete the thought, “Life’s Good when…” The only restriction are the rules and regulations, of course, so head to the website to read those.

You only have until November 10th to enter so you better hurry. Voting begins on November 14th on YouTube.

Check out the prizes for Grand, Second, Third, and the 20 Finalists…Gosh do I want to win. This is motivation to redo the entire kitchen! And trust me…our 1917 bungalow sure needs it! “We’re talking HDTVs, home theater, an energy-efficient washer/dryer (in pink?), a stove, fridge and more…”

Watch for my entry… I think you might see AJ out there somewhere!

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Baby Registry at Land of Nod

Tue, 30 Oct 2007 03:25:09 +0000

Since we are now adopting domestically I am in need of baby items. We adopted our first child when he was two years old and granted we needed plenty of “baby” items because he was very delayed. He was still in diapers, had just learned to walk, did not have any language skills, and was still not chewing so all of his food was baby food or formula. We got all the essential baby/toddler products like bottles, sippy cups, a crib and bedding, a changing table, toys and toy storage, diaper bag, potty chair, car seat, stroller, etc.

What we are missing? The infant products and I’m craving products from stores like Land of Nod because of the quality and the cute factor. No, this is not some random…I found this site and thought I would promote them…I LOVE this store and have since my friend Carrie had the catalogs in her living room about four years ago. I used to browse while I was babysitting her newborn and dreaming of mine.

So, I went to their site this evening and created my very own registry (which you can hide until you want to show others) and made one for fun. I’m not showing anyone until we are matched with a birth mother.

What we will need:
1. Quality Baby Moses Baskets for sleeping in our room (we have a small house and it would be difficult to fit a bassinet).
2. Baby Girl Diamond Crib Bedding , if its a girl of course. If its a boy again…I have everything.
3. Bebe Pod Infant Seat
4. Chenille, Velvet, and Satin Pastel Baby Blanket
5. Primo Baby EuroBath
6. Good Will Baby Bunting
7. Britax Companion Infant Car Seat - Britax Companion Infant Car Seat
8. Ultra MobiCam Video Monitor - Mobicam Monitor System because I want to keep an eye on AJ…and our monitor is shot!
9. BABYBJÃ–RN(r) Soft Bib These are my FAVORITE bibs and you can NEVER have enough of them. They are the only ones I used with AJ.
10. Baby Pacifier Pack…AJ ate all the ones I had.
11. Maclaren Rocker . Every baby needs a good rocker, right?
12. Orbit Rocker Cradle. Or, Simply combine the rocker, cradle all in one? And, it fits right into the stroller! Orbit Infant Stroller System

After I created that list I took a look at the Nods and Ends Outlet . Some beautiful blankets, photo albums, and a mobile! I can’t wait to buy baby things!

Ooh! Don’t forget the coupons!
Sure it may be early, but Santa’s reindeer are already in the giving spirit. They’re offering free shipping for our customers on select holiday items. For the best selection, it’s best to shop early. So hoof it on over to landofnod.com, because Santa’s reindeer can’t work gratis forever. Through 12/19/07

And, Free Shipping on all Gift Cards through 12/19/07.

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Giveaways!

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 16:23:04 +0000

You’re waiting, right?

You’re excited, right?

So am I.

I love giving…and so do these companies.

All November you have the chance to win Non-Toxic Toys from Hazelnut Kids, Therapy Shoppe, Lala Naturals, Natural Pod, Quiet Hour Toys, Mookla, and Duck Duck Goose.

Excited now?

Starting November 1 and lasting ALL November.

What Day is Today?

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 15:48:48 +0000

Seriously…I can’t seem to think straight I’ve been working so stinkin’ hard on something for another blog that I don’t know what day it is. But, the good thing is that you all are going to be able to reap the benefits too.

All you have to do is visit my site, My Two Boys, starting November 1, and cash in on some surprises. hee hee.

But, to give you a hint…I’ve been reconfiguring the Lead Free Toys List for the Holidays, working on this post because I totally don’t agree with Toy’s R’ Us’s list of the top Holiday Toys, unless, of course, you’re in to plastic.

Anyway, holiday toy sales are starting to pop up all over the place. Some are from my treasured non-toxic sites and some are from sites that I love but just can’t list (ahhh, Pokka Dots, you’re killin’ me!). Nonetheless, here are some great sales on incredible fun toys.

Tiddley Widdley has this beautiful kitchen set on sale for one third its original price. It has a matching refrigerator that is just as cute. Free shipping over $75.

Monkey Bean Toys has Plan Toys on Sale and that Fabulous Doll House I talked about on My Two Boys is on SALE! AJ is getting the Plan City toys, specifically the Parking Garage, for Christmas (its compatible with Brio Trains!) but he may get the City Station because it connects directly to the train track and I don’t have enough funding to get him more car track. He’ll live, right?

One of my favorite stores, Oompa
has sleigh bells on sale.

eBeanstalk, an incredible developmental toy store, especially for sensory kids like mine and Melissa’s does not have sale prices. Instead, they have lowered all of their prices just in time for the Holiday season. What they have is a unique opportunity to create what they like to call . Please check them out. And, check out the Mom’s Favorites

Stay tuned for more…

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Stroller Sales

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 12:22:47 +0000

Its hard to find a good 1, that I know. We have two; one for everyday fold and go and one for jogging, which I have never used for that but is great for off-roading and using in the grass. The fold and go stroller we have is a Graco stroller that was only about $35 and has been used to its death. Because we adopted AJ at the age of two we never had a need for a car seat stroller, what one calls a travel system. However, we are now in need of TWO new stroller with the adoption of an infant. We will need a travel system and a double stroller, preferably a Sit and Stand because AJ will obviously be at an age wherein he will want to walk and sit/stand.

Instead of finding two different strollers, I found one. Great, huh? I found a sit-n-stand that accommodates an infant seat.

Our first stroller on sale is the Joovy Caboose Ultralight.

Joovy Caboose Ultralight - $ 229.95
Retail Price: 249.95
You Save: $20.00
From: Stroller Depot Stores It is 21 pounds with a stand and a seat for toddlers. It also comes with a parent organizer, canopy and sun visor, accommodates children from 6-45 pounds, and is compatible with 12 infant car seats.

Right now take $20 off and get free shipping.

Baby Trend Sit-n-Stand Plus with Parent Tray is on sale with free shipping as well.

Baby Trend Sit-n-Stand Plus with Parent Tray (On Sale) - $ 159.95
Retail Price: 179.95
You Save: $20.00
From: Stroller Depot Stores This one features the same frame as the original sit-n-stand but adds a second seat for tired toddlers (note that when the seat is functional, a toddler can not stand). The weight capacity in each seat is 40 pounds and both seats now include a 5 point harness for safety. This stroller is also compatible with several infant car seats including; Designer 35, Cosco Ariva, Peg Perego, Evenflo Cozy Carry & Portabout, Evenflo On My Way, Evenflo Embrace, Century Vante, Graco Snug Ride, and Baby Trend.

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All Natural

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:35:43 +0000

Everyone is going green, right? Well, why not have all natural organic clothing as well? Of course, they are not necessarily a bargain deal all the time, but they will certainly hold up over time.

Soy Baby USA has fantastic line of Soy based products > and look at this beautiful wrapping.

Soybean fiber is a sustainable textile fiber made from renewable natural resources. It is part of an effort moving consumers away from petrochemical textile products and turning waste into useful products.

Check out the gorgeous gift box title="image_giftbox_image.jpg" width="96" height="96" border="0" /> for a gift.

Not bad prices either…$14.00 for a long sleeve all natural onesie? I would pay that.

One of my new favorite organic clothing sites is Happy Green Bee because of the colors. Most of the organic clothing I have found seems to be washed out and dull but this brand is bright, cheery, and just fun. They carry infant, toddler and toys.

But, there is also Lala Natural. I love this onesie from them…their Zen Collection.

Green Nest is making its way into the baby industry with its collection of baby clothing, bedding, and slings.

Our Green House is also making its way into the market with natural diapers, organic toys, and clothing for babies and kids.
Shop there for products like California Baby, natural cleaners, and all natural toys.

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Best Kids Winterwear

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 15:24:20 +0000

I purchased AJ’s winter coat two years ago (yes, I know) at Gymboree for only $5. Yes, you can growl at me but I just could not pass up the price and I knew that eventually he would need a size five warm winter coat, especially with the winters in Chicago. I also got last years size four there at the same time (as well as a few sweaters for $3).
So, I have found you the cutest winter gear and the best sale winter gear. If wasn’t easy though because winter gear is rarely on sale this time of year. Make sure you check back later when the real stuff goes on sale and I bring you that.

I’m not going to kid you, this Alice the Elephant Coat

is on of the cutest around, just like the
Sam Monkey Coat but they certainly don’t look that warm. At $90 I can find a much warmer winter coat but, if one wants a dress coat for a toddler this would be the way to go.

Leaps and Bounds has great prices on winter gear including Easy On Boots, the 3-in-one-jacket, the essential snow proof Elbow Mittens, and to top it off, the STAY PUT Fleece Hat.

Tea has a fantastic selection of warm winter coats at decent prices but at this time of year one will pay full price.

The girls coat is just as fluffy with 450 fill down with elastic to keep the chill out. It is a 70/30 cotton nylon shell but is also dry clean only.

At $110 these coats are not a bad price but I am certain there are better. Like these from Lands End? My Favorite ANY YEAR. And the girls have just as much style and warmth. And the Boots? Never have to worry about warmth or wet. And this hat would go perfectly with AJ’s Gymboree Bomber jacket.

Now, here are a few from Children’s Place that are absolutely adorable and can be used everyday or as dress. Go ahead…splurge. For the price you can actually get two.

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Sock Monkeys are Back!

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 12:43:13 +0000

When I was little I remember my cousin had a fascination with sock monkeys. It was her lovey and she carried it around everywhere. When one fell apart another one miraculously appeared. Sock monkey’s have been around forever but they are hotter than ever now and the stores are selling out of them like crazy. So, get some Christmas shopping done early and stock up on your socks.

But, what is so special about the Sock Monkey? Well, for one they are from the Chicago Area! They are also a tradition in so many families that I know here. But, you can also make them yourselves. See today’s posting of Discussing Autism to learn how. But, if you are needing to cut corners you can simply order a kit from Super Sock Monkey and get started from there.

There are also some cool printables, finger puppets, and mazes on the site…including a history of why sock monkeys are so popular!

The Land of Nod: They have updated a retro toy and made it all the more classic.

Pokka Dots has these fabulous sock monkey kids slippers on sale right now for only $14.95 and adults can get matching ones for only $18.95.

I found a fantastic sock monkey backpack at Monkey Goods…

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