Preparing for the New Year 2015

As December rolls around, I start thinking of the new year. From resolutions to cleaning out the house, the December holiday season is a perfect opportunity to clean up and clean out to prepare for the new year. This year, we were blessed with my husband being off work for almost two weeks. I focused on baking, cooking, and cleaning out the closets. I made room for the new clothes, items and toys by selecting items to donate, to hand down to family members, and to recycle.

>> How are you preparing for 2015??
  

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My Vegetarian Holiday Recipes

My approach to holiday cooking is to make a dish that I make every year and try a new dish. This way, people enjoy their favorite dishes, but also get introduced to a new dish. Although I eat some organic/grass-fed meat these day, I am still focusing on vegetarian recipes for the Holidays. This year's vegetarian Christmas recipes include an Easy Cranberry Sauce, a decadent and creamy Triple Onion Tart, and hearty Cranberry Pecan Quinoa salad.

Easy Cranberry Sauce (the rum is a must!)

Triple Onion Tart

Cranberry Pecan Quinoa (I substituted couscous for quinoa)

>> What is your favorite holiday dish??

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Blogger Opp: Holiday Mighty Leaf Tea [Giveaway]

Here is a free blogger opportunity for you from Crafty Spices. Blogger opportunities are a great way to grow your blog and increase your follower counts for free, while helping to promote the giveaway. Mighty Leaf Tea is the sponsor for this giveaway. The prize package includes Mighty Leaf Tea Holiday Collection Tea Chest and Tea Top Brew Mug.  

You get a free Twitter link with announcement. Read on to find out about the prize. 

This giveaway will begin December 8th and will end December 22nd. Two winners will be selected: first one will win the Mighty Leaf Tea Prize Pack (Mighty Leaf Holiday Collection Tea Chest and a Tea Top Brew Mug); second winner will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card (Code will be sent via email).

To get HTML Code for this announcement Click Here.

Details:

• With announcement each blogger receives 1 free link (Twitter or Facebook)
• Additional Links can be purchased at $2 each. These links can be Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest or any link as long as you provide (Social network name, user name and your direct link). 
• Co-host spots are available for $5 each. This includes 3 links for the giveaway event, and a back link to your blog on the giveaway page. It also gives you the privilege to purchase additional links for just $1 each
• The giveaway html will be sent out at least 2 days before the giveaway goes live and you should post before midnight the day the giveaway starts. We will not be sending out reminder emails to bloggers who forget to post and report link, we will just remove from the giveaway. 

Payments 

• Payments should be made as Gift via Paypal to cj [at] craftyspices [dot] com 

If you post and Follow @CraftySpices you get 5 additional entries into the giveaway.

Click Here to Sign Up!

Please tell Jay @CraftySpices that All Natural Katie sent you.

If you have any questions or comments, contact Jay @Craftyspices

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Eco-Friendly Holiday Gift Ideas 2014

As we get into November, my mind turns to the upcoming holiday season. Now that I have a toddler in the house, I am even more careful about selecting eco-friendly and non-toxic gifts. I hope this list will give you some good ideas for your own children, significant others, friends, family, etc. Some of the items we own and use. I would recommend these products. Other items we would like to receive as gifts this year (denoted with WANT). I will continue to add to this list as ideas pop up.


Holiday Gifts Under $25

Tropical Traditions - non-toxic body and beauty products would make a great basket or great bonus gifts. We use Tropical Traditions natural soap on a daily basis. They also started carrying a great selection of pure essential oils.

Halo Organic Sleep Sack - we have been using organic cotton Halo SleepSack Wearable Blankets for almost 1.5 years. These sleep sacks are perfect for all seasons to keep baby warm and comfortable. Cotton provides breathability and reduces the possibility of babies overheating.

Stainless Steel Straws - Eco at Heart makes wide straws that are perfect for any drink or smoothie. The straws come with a cleaning brush.

Eco-Kids Eco-Finger Paint (WANT) - powder based paint made with natural ingredients and natural colors. Mix powder with water to create paint. No need to worry about the baby or the toddler putting it in their mouth.

Epicurean Eco Plastic Cutting Board (WANT) - I have a regular Epicurean cutting board and would love to have a bigger one in the eco plastic.

Mason Jar Pour Caps (WANT) - this is a perfect gift for any Mason jar lover. Transform canning jars into containers for drinks, snacks, and more. Sizes available for regular mouth jars and wide mouth jars.


Holiday Gifts Over $25

Swell Stainless Steel Water Bottle (WANT) - I need to replace my old stainless steel water bottle and need something that can withstand dropping by a toddler. I love the shape of this bottle. Insulation helps to keep drinks cold.

Organic Cotton Half Apron (WANT) - I have never used an apron, but have found myself always searching for a towel. This organic cotton half apron from A Green Kitchen is adorable and functional.

ERGObaby - 19 months later, we are still using the ERGObaby carrier on a regular basis. The baby carrier was especially useful during the recent 18 month sleep regression. My 19 month old son weights about 24 pounds. Wearing him in the ERGObaby is still comfortable.

Envirosax Shopping Bags - I have a couple of these and I absolutely love them! The handles are big enough that I can easily sling them over my shoulder, even when I am carrying a toddler with the other arm. Strong as can be! Easy to stuff in any bag. Purchase a set or just one reusable shopping bag.

Excalibur Dehydrator (WANT) - I have a cheaper dehydrator that works very well, but I have always had my eye on this one. I love the polyscreen tray inserts and large capacity.

Le Creuset Dutch Oven - I use my Le Creuset Dutch Oven (in Cobalt) for just about anything. I feel comfortable that toxic chemicals, like those in non-stick pans, are not leaching into my food.


If you have any questions about these products or our experiences with them, please contact me. I am always willing to share eco-friendly and green products for your baby and your family. Happy holiday shopping!


Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links to where I usually shop. Your purchases support this blog at no additional cost to you. Regardless, I feature and recommend only brands and products that I myself would use.

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What To Do With Unwanted Gifts

One of the topics my husband and I have been discussing during the past month is gifts. I am always focused on offering natural toys for my baby to play with. I love wooden toys and organic cotton toys. On the other hand, my husband has proclaimed (half jokingly) that he is supporting the plastic industry. LOL. While some family members know that there is a preference towards non-plastic, non-battery operated toys, inevitably, we are going to receive plastic, battery operated toys.

The big question is: what do you do with the toys that you would rather not have your baby or child play with? How do you get rid of unwanted gifts?

1. Keep toy and play with sparingly
2. Return toy to store
3. Regift toy
4. Donate toy

I always have to look at the big picture and realize that the majority of our baby's toys are made from wood or fabric (about half of the toys made from organic cotton). I can compromise and keep some of the plastic and battery operated toys. Let's face it, some toys are not available in natural forms. Each parenting team should decide together how toys they would like for their babies to play with.  

>> Did you receive any unwanted gifts for the holidays?? What do you do with unwanted gifts??
  

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Top 10 Posts for 2013

We are only a few days away from the new year. Wow! This year has been tremendous. My husband and I completed our family with a little baby who is growing up right before our eyes. I am so blessed to be able to spend every day at home, watching him learn about the world and teaching him all about life. I have started to write a little bit about green family life. I look forward to incorporating more green parenting topics in the coming year. After birth, I took a little bit of time to settle into being a new mama and was glad to be be able to get back into consistent blogging.

Here are All Natural Katie's top 10 posts for 2013, not including giveaway or review posts:

1. 3 Ways to Make Time For Myself
2. Sometimes You Just Have To...
3. How to Green Your Husband
4. Eco-Friendly Resolutions Update
5. Can You Recycle Receipts?
6. Yes, I Took That Out of the Trash
7. Chipotle Ingredients List Published
8. Compostable Plastic Cup?
9. Random Acts of Green Kindness
10. Garden Spring Cleaning

Here are All Natural Katie's top 5 review posts for 2013:

1. Caffeine Free Energy Boost with Teeccino
2. Smoothest Coffee from 100% Organic Coffee Co.
3. Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder is the Ancient Secret to Health
4. Thirsties AIO Cloth Diaper with New Hook & Loop
5. Oscillo Relieves Flu-Like Symptoms

Happy New Year 2014!

  

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How To Decorate a Christmas Tree ANK Style!

We FINALLY bought a Christmas tree today! I would call this a little bit last minute since we are less than 2 weeks away from Christmas. Nonetheless, we have a real live tree in our house! If you have not gone Christmas tree shopping, it's not too late. On my way to the grocery store, I saw three lots with Christmas trees. Trying to decide whether to buy a real tree or a fake one, read my real vs. fake Christmas tree post.

Now that we have the tree, let's decorate! Our family strategy for decorating is below.

1. Husband hangs lights
2. Wife ensures lights are evenly spaced
3. Baby watches lights being hung
4. Husband, wife, and baby stand back and enjoy the lit tree (no ornaments yet)
5. Wife selects first ornament to hang and recalls the origin of the ornament
6. Husband selects second ornament to hang and recalls the origin of the ornament
7. Baby selects third ornament to hang
8. The remaining ornaments are laid out on the coffee table
9. When someone walks by the tree, they select an ornament to hang on the tree

I do not remember how we came up with this strategy. Maybe we were too tired after buying the tree, setting it up, and putting lights on it that we decided to space out the ornament hanging. Maybe we liked the lights-only tree. Either way, we are starting a family tradition!

>> What are your family traditions for tree decoration??
  

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Ergobaby 15% Off Discount Now Through 12/25

LAST ERGO BABY CARRIER SALE OF THE YEAR! 

ERGObaby 15% off all purchases!

ERGObaby is offering the last major sale of the year. Get 15% of all purchases made through current affiliate links. Just in time for Holiday gift shopping. Discount will be automatically applied at the check out screen.

The ERGObaby sale includes a 15% off discount that starts NOW through Wednesday, December 25.

FREE shipping on purchases of $50 or more.

If you have any questions about ERGObaby carriers, message me for my experience. I would highly recommend an ERGObaby carrier to any current or expecting mother.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to where I usually shop. Your purchases support this blog at no additional cost to you. Regardless, I feature and recommend only brands and products that I myself currently use or would use.

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Holiday Random Acts of Kindness

Imagine being the parent of a 10 month old baby who is told he would not live past the age of 1 because of spinal muscular atrophy type I. The baby grows up to become a teenager, 14 years old, but is left with no movements in his body. Lucas Hoelscher is this teenager, part of triplet sons, can only communicate through eye movements and sounds. Because his day is so routine, he enjoys being read to, which helps in dealing with a difficult disease.

Lucas's wish for the holiday is mail! From anyone, near and far. From you!

Lucas Hoelscher
3092 Wyandot Drive
Springfield, Ohio 45502

What a perfect way to perform random acts of kindness during the holiday season. Send a card, a letter, or some of your child's artwork!

You can also join Lucas's Facebook group, Letters for Lucas, if you prefer to communicate digitally.

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A Vegetarian Thanksgiving 2013

I have upheld my tradition of a vegetarian Thanksgiving meal! You can read about my first vegetarian Thanksgiving and the vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes I made last year. This year's vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes included an Easy Cranberry Sauce, a smooth and fluffy Carrot Souffle (inspired by The Fresh Market), and Pumpkin Spice Scones (recipe to come).

My vegetarian Thanksgiving plate: roll, broccoli casserole, stuffing, Easy Cranberry Sauce, green beans, and Carrot Souffle.

The smooth and fluffy Carrot Souffle (before it settled)

Pumpkin Spice Scones

 >> What was your favorite dish at Thanksgiving??

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Ergobaby 20% Off Promotion Starts Thursday, November 28

BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR for ERGOBABY! 

ERGObaby 20% off all purchases!

*CORRECTION: This blog post has been updated per update from ERGObaby after being published. ERGObaby is offering a 20% off discount

Just in time for Black Friday shopping, ERGObaby is offering a 20% off promotion on all purchases made through current affiliate links. Discount will be automatically applied at the check out screen.

Promotion starts Thursday, November 28 through Sunday, December 1.

FREE shipping on purchases of $50 or more.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to where I usually shop. Your purchases support this blog at no additional cost to you. Regardless, I feature and recommend only brands and products that I myself currently use or would use.

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Preparing For The Winter Months

I have been posting a lot of review and giveaway posts lately, so I thought I would share a personal post. I am grateful to try new-to-me eco-friendly and natural products. Maybe they will inspire gift ideas for the Holidays. In our neck of the woods, the temperatures have fallen and the clouds cover the sun most of the days. The trees have lost all of their leaves. Anyone who goes outside is bundled up tightly. I am glad to see that the neighbors continue to go outside for walks and runs, even with their babies. Aside from spending my days caring for and playing with a baby, keeping the house in order, and trying to get out of the house often, we are busy with the following activities.

Winterizing the Yard

I am always a little sad when it is time to winterize the yard because it means that the colder months are here. The garden has been cleaned up. I am letting the plants dry up and will till them under the soil instead of composting. This method will put nutrients back into the soil. I put away the garden hose and watering can into the garage. The rain barrel has also been put up. Bushes have been pruned back. I left some of the leaves that gathered around the front garden bed plants to act as natural mulch for the winter.

Preparing for the Holidays

Gift lists are traditionally exchanged among our family at Thanksgiving. Therefore, we have been busy creating a gift list for ourselves and the baby. Check out my Green Baby Holiday Gift Guide for eco-friendly and green gift ideas for a baby. This year, we decided to do holiday gift shopping online to save time, money, and be environmentally conscious. Buying online reduces our carbon footprint because we are not driving to the store. Yes, the item is still being transported, but it is only transported once instead of twice (shipped to the store and then we drive to buy it).

Working Out Indoors

I cancelled my gym membership a few months ago. Gasp! After having the baby, I preferred to spend time with the baby instead of going to the gym and putting him in the gym's day care. We recently bought a jogging stroller, so I am able to run during the day. My husband found our old Jillian Michael's workout DVDs. I will continue to run outside as long as it is safe with the jogging stroller and transition to the workout DVDs.

Decluttering the House

November and December have become our months for cleaning out clutter and donating old and unused items to Goodwill. We also save items for my parents' neighborhood garage sale in May. Even though we have done a mass decluttering of the house every December for the past 3 years, we always find something that we can donate or pass on to someone else. There is nothing better than getting rid of old and unused stuff that someone can find a use for. Goodwill and Freecycle are the best ways to find a new home for an old or unused item.

I cannot believe this year is almost over. We began the year with me being pregnant and preparing for the arrival of our first baby. We have experienced lots of joys, and some challenges, with this new chapter and we look forward to ending this year on a positive note by spending time with our families.

>> How do you end the year? How are you preparing for the Holiday season??
  

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Alexa Studded Calfskin Leather Bag [Giveaway]

 

One of my guilty non-eco-friendly pleasures is a high quality leather bag. Here is an opportunity to win an Alexa Studded Calfskin Leather Bag, worth $159! This giveaway is hosted by Happy Mothering and sponsored by BagInc.com. The Alexa bag is a matte black duffel bag with gorgeous metal studs in rows on the bottom. You can feel confident about placing this bag on the floor without the leather getting scuffed. The Alexa bag is one of the most coveted bags of the year. Business on top and part on the bottom! Perfect for running errands or taking to the office.

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Free Blogger Opp: Alexa Studded Calfskin Leather Bag [Giveaway]

In my eco-friendly and green world, there is one item that I have to have - a high quality leather bag. Although there are vegan leather options out there, a real leather bag will last you for a very long time. For me, a  leather bag has to have the right hardware, like a studded bottom. Here is an opportunity to win an Alexa Studded Calfskin Leather Bag and a free opportunity for a blog giveaway.

This free blogger opportunity is a giveaway for a Alexa Studded Calfskin Leather Bag in Black ($159 value) to one lucky reader! With the holidays coming up, your readers will be excited to have the chance to win this gorgeous bag!

At first glance, the Alexa is a simple, matte black duffel. Don’t be fooled by first glances. Turn the bag upside down and you will be greeted by an army of chic metal studs in perfect golden rows. This style touch has made the Alexa one of our most coveted bags of the year. If you want a bag that’s business on top and party on the bottom, this bag’s for you.

The giveaway will run from November 22 through December 13, 2013.

About BagInc.com

Baginc.com is comprised of a team of energetic fashion aficionados with a passion for celebrity-inspired, designer handbags. They have a great selection of designer-inspiredhandbag styles at affordable prices. They don’t charge sales tax and provide free worldwide shipping for all orders over $100. They even offer a money-back guarantee for customers who are unsatisfied with their purchase.

Share the giveaway with your readers
All bloggers that participate in this giveaway event will receive one FREE Twitter link on the Rafflecopter entry form! Bloggers with over 10,000 Facebook fans can choose from a Facebook or Twitter link. You can add your Pinterest, Email or Facebook links for an additional fee.
We simply ask that you post the HTML and Rafflecopter to your blog, and promote the event at least 3 times per week on Facebook, Twitter or the social media outlet of your choice. The giveaway is open Worldwide!

Please fill out this form to sign up!

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This studded calfskin leather bag will make a great gift for the female on your holiday gift list or for yourself. Soft leather on top, sturdy studded bottom, and you're set for any adventure that life throws your way.

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$300 TARGET Gift Card [Giveaway]

Celebrate Your Holiday Wish Giveaway

Nov 11-30, 2013 Open to US

Target is one of the stores I frequent for home and holiday decor. I always find something unique and high quality that will add that special touch to my house. Every once in a while, I can even find something green and eco-friendly. I am excited to share this giveaway for a $300 Target store gift card with my readers.

Bringing You Moments To Celebrate

Sponsored by Celebrate Woman Today

What would be your Holiday Wish this year? The one that could warm your heart and have a powerful effect on you and your living for a long year ahead, may be even your entire life? I encourage you to go for it and take the steps to get what you wish for yourself and for other people in your life. This event would send a lucky winner on a shopping spree to Target. Who wouldn't love that? Lot's of choices there to satisfy all ages and tastes. Ready to enter your chances to make one of your wishes come true and purchase something special for the special person or persons in your life?

Prize – $300 Target Gift Card To Make Your Wish Come True This Season

I have been spying some really cute eco-friendly baskets made of natural fibers at Target. I would love to add them to my living room. On the other hand, my husband has been searching for the annual nutcracker display at Target. I guess he is ready to decorate for Christmas!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Carrot Souffle for a Vegetarian Thanksgiving [Recipe]

For the last few Thanksgivings, I have gone meat-free. No turkey or ham for this gal! You can read about my first vegetarian Thanksgiving and the vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes I made last year. I am continuing my personal tradition this year with Easy Cranberry Sauce and a new recipe, Carrot Souffle.

The Carrot Souffle is quick and easy to prepare and turns out to be soft clouds of carrot goodness. The first time I made this recipe, I could not believe how amazingly delicious the dish turned out. My husband and I agreed that this would make a perfect dish for a family Thanksgiving dinner. Although I was inspired by The Fresh Market Carrot Souffle dish in their prepared food case, the original recipe comes from Cooking Light magazine and has been adapted by me.

Carrot Souffle

Yield: 6 servings, about 7 cups

Prep time: 20 minutes

Baking time: 40 minutes

Vegetarian, Cane Sugar Free, Grain-Free (sub non-grain flour)

Ingredients:

7 cups chopped carrots (about 2 lbs)

1/3 cup honey (can sub sugar or agave syrup; can add more sugar if prefer sweeter)

1/4 cup sour cream (for vegan: sub 1/4 cup non-dairy creamer and 1 tsp vinegar)

3 tbsp flour (all purpose, whole wheat, or non-grain flour)

2 tbsp coconut oil (can sub butter, unsweetened applesauce, or pumpkin puree)

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp salt

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

Note: I add 1-2 tbsp of homemade Pumpkin Pie spice. I also add 1 tbsp of nutritional yeast. Fall/pumpkin spices can also be added to enhance the souffle.

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Oil/butter a 2 quart baking dish.
3. Cook carrots in boiling water for 10-15 minutes until very tender; drain.
4. Place cooked carrots in food processor (be careful, carrots will be hot) and process until smooth. Can also use a potato ricer.
5. Add remaining ingredients and process until mixed.
6. Spoon into prepared pan. 
7. Bake for 40 minutes. Souffle should be puffed and set. 
8. Enjoy!

Nutrition: Based on above ingredients, one cup of the baked Carrot Souffle has about 200 calories and 5.6g protein.

My next goal is to adapt this recipe to be vegan. Do you have any suggestions for an egg-free souffle??

This recipe was adapted by All Natural Katie based on another recipe. If you post the recipe on a blog/website, please link back to the original post or cite the original post. If you see this exactly recipe anywhere else, please email me.
  

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Ergobaby 10% Off Promotion Starts Monday, November 11

The ERGObaby carrier is probably my most beloved baby item. Many times, the ERGObaby carrier saved me by either helping to calm an inconsolable baby, allow the baby to nap when nothing else was working, or allow me to do housework and "hold" my baby at the same time. I usually choose the ERGObaby carrier over the stroller when grocery shopping. I can get in and out much quicker and do not have to worry about pushing a cart and a stroller. I would highly recommend the ERGObaby to anyone because of the ergonomic design that distributes the weight of the baby evenly over my hips. If you know someone who is pregnant or just had a baby, the ERGObaby would make a great holiday or shower gift. 

ERGObaby is offering a 10% off promotion starting on Monday, November 11 and going through Wednesday, November 20. The 10% discount will apply to all purchases made through current affiliate links. The 10% discount will appear on the check out page.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to where I usually shop. Your purchases support this blog at no additional cost to you. Regardless, I feature and recommend only brands and products that I myself currently use or would use.

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Free Blogger Opp: Tady Tote [Giveaway]

I discovered some really great new brands at ABC Kids Expo last month, and today I’m excited to bring you an opportunity from one of them – Tady Tote!

The Tady Tote transforms from a plush, cushioned mat to a bag—instantly! From tummy time to preschool and beyond, a child will love playing, napping and cuddling on this comfy mat.

Before

After

• Tummy time mat (cushioned for hard floors)
• Picnic blanket (water-resistant)
• Toddler nap mat & preschool mat
• Quick clean up (leave items on mat, and simply fold & go)
• Snuggly blanket (removable and an embroidered teddy bear)

Watch this video to learn more:

As you can see, the Tady Tote would make a great Christmas gift for a family with a young child or a shower gift for a friend or family member who is expecting! So I’m super excited that we’ll be giving away 2 of them to our readers! The winners will have their choice from the current Tady Tote styles! Tady Tote offers girl, boy, and gender neutral prints. 

All participating bloggers will receive one FREE Twitter link on the Rafflecopter entry form! You can add your Facebook, Pinterest, Email or RSS link for a small additional fee. 

 We simply ask that you post the HTML and Rafflecopter to your blog, and promote the event at least 3 times per week on Facebook, Twitter or the social media outlet of your choice. The giveaway is open to US only! I’m excited for another great event!  

Please fill out this form to sign up!

Grab the Button:

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Green Baby Holiday Gift Guide 2013

We are just about 8 weeks away from the holidays! I feel like this year has flown by, but that is expected with the arrival of a baby that completed our family earlier this year. I have loved putting to use some of the green and natural products that I have researched and received as gifts during the baby showers and post birth. The following are products that I personally use or would recommend to anyone who is expecting or knows someone that is expecting.

_________________________________________________________________
ERGObaby

This was my first purchase when I was pregnant. After much research on the best baby carriers, an organic ERGObaby was the right choice for our family. The ERGObaby carrier never leaves my side. I take it everywhere! Sometimes, wearing the baby is the only thing that will calm him down. Other times, it is easier to wear a baby in a grocery store or at a festival than pushing around a stroller through crods. The ERGObaby is quick to put on and distributes the weight of the baby evenly over my hips. Every mom should have an ERGObaby carrier for hands-free childcare.

Ergobaby Special 15% Off Discount through Wednesday, December 25 . The 15% discount will be applied at checkout.
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Tropical Traditions

Tropical Traditions is not only about organic, high quality coconut oil. My favorite products, besides the organic Gold Label Coconut Oil, are the non-toxic All Purpose Household Cleaner and Powdered Laundry Detergent. The All Purpose Household Cleaner is tough on grease and stains. Use this cleaner on any hand-me-down toys, equipment, or furniture. Also works well to clean up any baby messes. We wash all of our laundry with the Powdered Laundry Detergent (baby safe, cloth diaper safe). A container of this detergent is perfect for washing all of those brand new baby clothes, blankets, and bedding prior to use. Look to Household Traditions by Tropic Traditions for non-toxic household cleaners safe for the family and for babies.

_________________________________________________________________
Episencial

Babies' skin is extremely sensitive to anything that it comes in contact with. When choosing body products for my baby, I choose eco-friendly baby products with organic and all natural ingredients. Episencial is the #1 organic brand in hospital birthing centers and offers a gentle way to clean, moisturize, and protect baby's sensitive skin. My husband loves the Episencial Sunny Sunscreen, which goes on clear without the nano-chemicals. Playful Wash is our favorite product for bathtub. Perfect for babies with sensitive skin! Available at Pure and Simple Baby.

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Soap Nuts

Another detergent that I sometimes use for cloth diaper laundry and baby laundry is organic Soap Nuts. I have used Soap Nuts eco-friendly laundry detergent a few times for non-toxic cloth diaper laundry and everything came out smelling clean. Soap Nuts is the ultimate green laundry product because it leaves no residue and is compostable after all of the saponins are released. Check out my review of Soap Nuts for more information.

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Smitten by Rearz

Yes, cloth diapers are a perfect holiday gift! What better was to pay it forward in terms of saving money, precious baby skin, and the environment. Cloth diapers might be an investment up front, but pay dividends going forward. Although I prefer All In One (AIO) diapers, I like the economics of fitted diapers and covers. Rearz Smitten diapers hold a lot of liquid and wick moisture away from baby's skin. They are made from unbleached cotton and colored with 100% organic dyes. If someone is expecting or just gave birth, this might be a perfect little gift. Read my review of the Smitten Fitted Cloth Diaper.

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Halo Sleep Sack

I registered for a newborn Halo Sleep Sack Swaddle which has the velcro across the chest. Our baby preferred to have his hands out, which worked well with this sleep sack. I have since purchased two more Halo Sleep Sacks to last past 1 year. These are available in organic cotton. Sleep sacks keep your baby warm and allow for breathability because they are made from 100% cotton. Halo Sleep Sacks are a great way to layer and keep the baby comfortable at night without using blankets that can pose hazards to the baby. We are currently using the organic Cotton Wearable Blanket.

_________________________________________________________________

If you have any questions about these products or our experiences with them, please contact me. I am always willing to share eco-friendly and green products for your baby and your family. Happy holiday shopping!


Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links to where I usually shop. Your purchases support this blog at no additional cost to you. This post may also contain links to reviews where I received a complimentary media sample to facilitate the review. Regardless, I feature and recommend only brands and products that I myself would use.

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