Rachel Plus Two, Our Favorite Things: 2013

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Help My Little Koala

Our son, Thomas III, was born September 23, 2013 with a lot of cysts in both of his kidneys. This is called Polycystic Kidney Disease, PKD. This is a progressive disease that ends in Kidney failure. Thomas will eventually need dialysis and a kidney transplant. Thomas' timeline is unknown but the situation is severe.

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Splish Splash Stacking Cups

My little B has never really been a fan of bath time. So I usually have to entice her in with toys and hope for the best. I let her play with the splish splash stacking cups on the kitchen floor before they even made it in the tub. They are a perfect stacking toy alone.

I also let little B use these in sensory activities The stacking cups work perfectly for scooping sand and rice as well. Even if you just use them with water they always manage to entertain. I can never have enough multiply purpose toys with my toddler she gets bored and is on to the next activity.

She is also hitting the phase where she likes to do thing by herself, and with these bath and sensory toys I feel comfortable letting her explore.

The stacking cups are available at most Nuby Retailers.

Disclaimers: This gift was generously donated by the company I have not received any monetary exchange for writing these post or promoting the brand. I have only received in return the amazing feeling of joy, being able to help other moms find cool and useful baby products. Also all post on my blog are original posts made by me. If a contest is posted the company is responsible for fulfillment.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Nuby Pink Potty Seat

The Nuby Pottys are the perfect potty training tool for the children who are ready to start training a little earlier then some. My daughter was able to tell me before she had to go potty at around 16 months but I couldn't find a potty that she could sit on comfortably until Nuby!

The Potty is so simple to use and is the perfect size. With other potty chairs my daughters feet wouldn't reach the floor making it almost impossible to keep her sitting on it long enough to go.

With the right tools my little B will be potty trained in no time.

The Nuby Potty seat is available at most Nuby Retailers.

Disclaimers: This gift was generously donated by the company I have not received any monetary exchange for writing these post or promoting the brand. I have only received in return the amazing feeling of joy, being able to help other moms find cool and useful baby products. Also all post on my blog are original posts made by me. If a contest is posted the company is responsible for fulfillment.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Nuby Usa Step Up Stool

Step Up Stool

I have a 19 month old little girl who loves to climb onto everything and anything, I could not wait to try out the stool for her own safety and my own piece of mind. I love that that Nuby Stool is sturdy and can hold up to 800lbs. While my toddler is no where near 800lbs and Im not either I'm glad that the Nuby stool can safely hold my weight as well.

The little Purple and pink stool is adorable and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb. My daughter loves to drag her little stool over to the t.v and press the on/off button over and over again.

This Nûby™ Step-up Stool has a No-Slip Top and No Skid Base that adds to the sturdy and convenient design. It holds up to 800 pounds and is perfect for getting to those hard to reach places. Textured surface provide the necessary grip for safe usage, and it is small enough to store discreetly.

Colors May Vary.

You Can purchase this stool at one of many Nuby retailers such as Baby Earth online.

Disclaimers: This gift was generously donated by the company I have not received any monetary exchange for writing these post or promoting the brand. I have only received in return the amazing feeling of joy, being able to help other moms find cool and useful baby products. Also all post on my blog are original posts made by me. If a contest is posted the company is responsible for fulfillment.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Smart Bottoms Cloth Diaper Review and Giveaway

Smart Bottoms Diapers are for Moms!

I remember the first time I heard anything about cloth diapers, I was so clueless. I though cloth diapering was something old folks did! I am happy to say I am completely wrong and cloth diapers are completely making a comeback.

Smart Bottom diapers are organic and made 100% in USA.

Features as advertised by Smart Bottoms: Features

New 3.0 Features
-100% Organic Cotton inner provides a trimmer, more absorbent diaper.

-Attached insert can be folded to customize where your child needs the most absorbency, a total of 10 layers!

-Design allows for quick dry-time. Most machines will dry in one cycle on warm.

-Now one size! Four rise settings allow for a perfect fit from 8lbs-35lbs.

-Wider elastic around the legs decreases chance for red marks.

-New colors and prints!

Practical Meets Fashionable
Smart Bottoms one-size, all-in-one diaper is available in six exciting colors with accent colored snaps and three new, fun prints. The trim design will fit under most clothing, no need to buy the next size up in clothing just to fit over the diaper. Our one-size diapers can be used from birth until potty.
Only the Best for Your Baby

We use only 100% certified organic cotton inside our diapers. Your baby’s skin will not be exposed to harmful pesticide residue or petroleum based fabrics when you use Smart Bottoms. The natural fibers will reduce, if not eliminate diaper rashes as well as promote early potty learning.

I ended up using my Smart Bottom 3.0 in a panic one day when I ran out of diapers for my toddler, I could of sworn I had a nice stash but I had clearly over estimated and Smart Bottoms 3.0 came in handy and was more wonderful then disposables!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimers: This gift was generously donated by the company I have not received any monetary exchange for writing these post or promoting the brand. I have only received in return the amazing feeling of joy, being able to help other moms find cool and useful baby products. Also all post on my blog are original posts made by me. If a contest is posted the company is responsible for fulfillment.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Baby Bee-Haven Cush-N Go Giveaway

Chance to win your own Cush N Go!

Lately I feel like I've been slacking on posting lately so I'm happy to say I am back with vengeance and some totally awesome giveaways and reviews!

This Cush N Go is and amazing cushion for strollers and is reversible. The other side is an adorable leopard print that is perfect for my little B. This also allows parents with a gender neutral stroller to jazz it up for their sons or daughters and allow and super cozy stroll.

Its a dream come true for keeping your child safe and comfy in there stroller.

Visit their site too see all the coolness!

To win your own Baby Bee Haven Cush N Go Comment below with boy or girl.

Sunday, February 3, 2013

KiddoLogic Bib It all

KiddoLogic Came out with the most awesome Bib ever!

I was looking back through some of my old reviews and could of sworn that I had already sung its praises on my blog. I guess it was just a case of mommy brain though because here I am.

I started using this Bib on Thanksgiving of 2012. I started hunting for a Bib that would hold up to all the yummies that the holidays would offer.

Little B is notorious for making sure her food ends up all over her face hair and clothes, and I did not want to clean up a messy baby and a huge family feast! The Bib it all held up very nicely the cloth cover absorbed amazingly and it didn't soak through to her clothing but also the sleeves helped protect everything else from getting messy.

Check them out on there website!

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Nuby Easy Go Suction Bowl and Spoon

Nuby's Easy Go Suction Bowl and Spoon Review.

I received the pink Suction Bowl and Spoon and my daughter uses it every morning. This bowl is perfect for babies and toddlers learning to self feed. The bowl will suction to the feeding surface making it virtually impossible for them to throw it on the floor.

I also like the convenience of the Spoon being stored into the lid for on the go travel. Little B usually eats her yogurt, mac and cheese or cereal in this bowl. It goes from breakfast to lunch and dinner with no problems. It is also dishwasher and microwave safe.

Nûby™ is putting the “FUN” in feeding. The Easy Go™ Suction Bowl and Spoon is perfect for daycare, travel, or any on-the-go occasion. The bowl is conveniently sized just right for dry cereal or other baby foods and features a suctioned base that keeps the bowl firmly in place during feeding. It also features a lid that seals tightly to keep food fresh during storage. The spoon makes a perfect travel companion because it snaps onto the lid of the bowl for easy storage. The Easy Go™ Suction Bowl and Spoon is available in a variety of fun colors so you can mix and match to create your own stylish combinations. And because they are made from break resistant plastics, they are dishwasher/microwave safe and can stand up to the rigors of everyday use.

You can find these Easy Go Bowls at most Nuby Retailers.

Monday, January 28, 2013

No Spill Sports Sipper NUBY Review

No Spill Sports Sipper

No matter what recreational activity your child is engaged in, the No-Spill™ Sport Sipper by Nûby™ is perfect for parents and children on the go! Why? Because Nûby™ developed the Sport Sipper with an innovative, ergonomic shape with easy grips that ensures a comfortable and secure grasp for you child. Also included is the unique soft silicone straw with a built-in valve; it opens with sucking action and closes when not in use

The Nuby USA purple No Spill Sports Sipper is my daughters favorite cup, I gave it to her upon its arrival and she took off with it literally! The grips made it easy for her to hold while running around and playing with toys. She loved this cup so much that I found it in the bottom of her toy box and have no idea how it got there.

I took it away to wash and she cried and held on too my leg until it was clean.

Nuby clearly hit the nail on its head with this cup, its perfect. I have a feeling I will be stocking up on these cups on my next trip to the store.

Available at most NUBY USA Retailers.

Nuby Loopy Lites

The Nûby™ Loopy Lites™ is designed to stimulate your baby's hand and eye co-ordination. The bright lights and fun sounds will keep your baby entertained for hours, while the hard and soft surfaces are great for younger children to teethe on. The small lightweight toy makes it easy for little hands to hold making it small in size but big on fun!

I received the Loopy Lites for my daughter B. At first I thought this toy looked very young for her age. I let her play with it anyway and she loves it. She loves to pretend that it is a cars steering wheel a press the button over and over again. She also uses it when its dark to see the lights and have the cool noise.

I only wish that it made multiple noises because she pushes the button so much that it be nice to hear a different noise.

But all around It was a very nice toy and I was very surprised how much she actually played with it.

You can find at most Nuby Retailers.

Disclaimers: This gift was generously donated by the company I have not received any monetary exchange for writing these post or promoting the brand. I have only received in return the amazing feeling of joy, being able to help other moms find cool and useful baby products. Also all post on my blog are original posts made by me. If a contest is posted the company is responsible for fulfillment.

Lullaby Paints Review and Win

Lullaby Paints Chalkboard Paint Review and Giveaway!

While perusing p-interest I come across tons of ideas involving chalkboard paint, so when receiving Lullaby Paints Chalkboard paint I was so excited.

Lullaby Paint is also kid, nursery and pregnant mommy safe.

Lullaby Paints:

There’s no good reason why a premium quality, hard wearing, beautiful paint needs to contain toxic chemicals. Know how we know that? At Lullaby Paints, after years of development, we have proven it. We are pioneers in paint-making and extremely proud of our final product: the safest paint available. Newborn baby-safe. Pregnant mom-safe. Safe enough for kids to paint with.

I have always tried to use the safest products around my daughter so paint that can be used safely without the harsh chemicals was the smartest thing I could think to do.

You can Visit Lullaby Paints Here to view colors and types of paints they carry.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, January 25, 2013

Nuby Natural Flex Cherry Pacifiers

Nuby Usa has these amazing Cherry Flex Pacifiers that I have recently tested out on my daughter.

As we know from Prior post Little B has not taken a pacifier other then soothies or gumdrop since birth.. Which left me no cute design choices and very limited colors.

So when I offered Little B the Natural Flex Cherry I was so surprised that she actually took to them. She likes to use them on her baby dolls, I dont think she quite understands that they are for her.

These Pacifiers are available in two sizes.

0-6, 6-12+

Nuby USA Says:Natural Flex™ Cherry Pacifiers have been specially designed to flex, stretch and move like a mother’s breast. The natural sucking action of a baby is promoted with the flex and movement of the nipple, while the patented nubs gently massage the gums. Discreet, stylish and made to the highest quality standards, the Natural Flex™ pacifiers come with a cherry shaped nipple.

You can Visit Nuby USA retailers to find these wonderful pacifiers.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Posh Little Tutus Review and Giveaway

POSH LITTLE TUTUS

I recently came across Posh Little Tutus when I was browsing for some cute baby legwarmers. Posh Little Tutus is perfect for all your cute baby girl needs. I found so many pairs of legwarmers and tutus that I could of probably maxed out a credit card! Posh Little Tutus kindly offered me a few pairs for review and a giveaway for all my blog readers. Hooray!

My absolute favorite pairs are the pink damask and vanilla creme. So girly! You can click here to see. They also created this adorable hat seen on their facebook model.

Join us on Facebook for Specials & Coupons

<http://www.facebook.com/pages/Posh-Little-Tutus/104482446870>

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Moon Jar

Teach Good Money Habits Young With

Moon Jar.

Moon Jar is the best way to teach young children the value of Money.

Moon Jar has three sections. One for Saving, Spending and Sharing.

Each allowance my daughter is allowed to put a little in each section and it really helps her understand that the money she puts in each are for separate things.

Moon Jar also has a story that goes along with it, that was very cute for the smaller crowd.

My daughters moon jar gets a ton of use in the spend category as the Mr. doesn't like, but we think its cute and a fun way to teach

a very important topic.

Baby Roll Asleep

Not just for babies anymore.

My Toddler loved this as soon as we pulled it out of the box. She has been using it as a wagon and also to pull around her puppy and toys. I wish we would of had this when she was a baby its so much easier to move around then a crib or bassinet and the rocking makes it easy for baby to fall asleep.

With the hard wood floors in our home this Baby Roll Asleep has found itself a new home in my heart.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Peter Rabbit Organic Pouches

Peter Rabbit Organics Pouches

I recently joined the baby food pouch craze when I tried these Peter Rabbit Pouches.

My Toddler has never been a horrible teether, but as soon as I received these in the mail teething striked! She refused to eat anything and I was even tempting her to eat with Popsicles. After many failed attempts I realized, maybe if I put some of the pouches in the fridge or a few minutes she would eat it, and it and these would be much more nutritional then the popsicle I was trying.

About Peter Rabbit Organics: Peter Rabbit Organics is a small, privately-owned company. We are passionate about what we do and have a lot of fun working together! We started Peter Rabbit Organics for the simple reason that we found it hard to find healthy snacks with no added salt, sugar or artificial ingredients. We wanted to create a product that was healthy, delicious, convenient and suitable for both you and your little ones. We never cut corners and ensure that whatever we make gets a full thumbs up from all the team and our special taste testers before it goes into the stores.

All our products are produced in Oregon, USA and where possible we use local ingredients sourced from within the US.

I received the Carrot Apple and Squash, Mango Banana Orange and Pea Spinach Apple.

My daughter enjoyed all of the flavors but her favorite was the Carrot Apple Squash. She literally couldn't get enough!

So I am definitely joining the pouch craze that has hit, whats not to love right!

Sunday, January 13, 2013

Tear Free Rinse Pail by NUBY USA

In Honor of National Rubber Ducky Day,

The Nuby USA Tear Free Rinse Pail!

I received the pink and purple rinse pail by Nuby USA

Bria has always hated water in her face unless were splashing in the pool. Bath time would always leave one crabby toddler and one tired mom until I tried this rinse pail.

Heres the specs from Nuby USA's Website:The Tear-Free Rinse Pail is another great Nûby product designed to make bath time easier and more enjoyable for you and your little one. It features a comfortable grip for mom, a deep, slender base for easy filling in shallow water and a unique tear-free edge. The tear-free edge is soft and contoured so it can be gently placed against your baby's skin to help prevent water from running into your baby's eyes while rinsing their hair.

This Rinse pail was a dream come true and did everything I hoped it would. The deep pail was way more gentle then me trying to dump countless cups of water on my screaming child's hair while having her trying to cling to my shirt. Yes this rinse pail does it all keeps the water out of the eyes and bath time more enjoyable for all.

Availabe at Buy Buy Baby Direct!

More Colors Available.

Flower Child Feeding Set By Nuby Usa

When babies begin to show interest in feeding themselves, having the right equipment is a must! Nûby™ feeding accessories are made to withstand the challenges of daily use and retain their bright color. This Toddler Plate and Bowl are ideal for children who are beginning to feed themselves. Suitable for warm or cold foods. Microwave safe. Not only is it important to have utensils that are safe for the baby, but they should be specially designed to be easy for little hands to hold and use. Our colorful forks and spoons are designed to meet all of these special needs for either left handed or right handed babies. Nuby USA

These non skid plates worked wonders, and are so girly. My toddler loves the design of the flower feeding set so much she never throws them on the floor like other plates and bowls we have tried.

These bowls plates and spoons hold up great in the microwave and dishwasher. Which is great because she loves to help me by grabbing all her feeding items out of the dishwasher to put away.

Nuby has made my these stylish feeding items perfect for any toddler and for that i'm impressed.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Nuby USA Fun Drinking Cups

Fun Cups By Nuby Usa Review

This is my second Nuby Usa product I reviewed the Fun Cups. I am starting the transition to regular cups with my toddler and these are perfect to start. They are for 18m+ and the bright colors are very appealing. My daughter received the pink and lime green, the colors are bright and she just loves them.

These cups are wide enough and carry just enough liquid for any toddler or pre-schooler. I loved that these cups stack so easily that they fit in my cabinets and don't take up as much space. I love these cups so much I may have to go buy more for my daughter and my preschool classroom.

Disclaimers: This gift was generously donated and I have not received any monetary exchange for writing these post or promoting the brand. I have only received in return the amazing feeling of joy, being able to help other moms find cool and useful baby products. Also all post on my blog are original posts made by me. If a contest is posted the company is responsible for fulfillment.

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Smart Mom Jewelry and Teething Bling Giveaway!

Teething Bling Jewelry For Smart Moms

What is Teething Bling all about? Teething Bling is jewelry for moms that is completely safe for a teething baby. Teething Bling keeps moms from retiring their jewelry all together by giving them a stylish alternative, and also saves your nice jewelry from babys grasp. I received the Black Onyx Necklace, before receiving the necklace I had retired necklaces from the everyday jewelry I would wear. Now I can wear necklaces again! My daughter can pull and chew on it and I don't need to worry.

Teething Bling has many different styles.

They just launched the new beaded line.

They also have a line for tweens with scented necklaces.

I also received a teething bangle. My daughter has gotten into putting on my jewelry so I wanted something that would be safe for her to play with. She absolutely loves to put on these bangles.