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Guava Lotus Update!

Not sure if anyone remembers, but a few months ago I wrote a blog post talking about how excited I was to receive our GUAVA Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib. I've now been using it for a long enough time that I can give my full and honest review, yay!

I need to start off by saying this isn't your regular play yard. It's a premium product and comes with a more expensive price tag, but for those who need and will use these features, it's so worth it. The feature my family finds most useful is the side zipper door; because Maverick has been out of a crib and in a toddler bed since he turned 1, this feature is used mostly when traveling. Maverick wouldn't sleep in hotel room cribs as he was already used to being able to come and go from the bed as he pleased, so with this we just leave it unzipped throughout the night so that if he needs to get up he can. We've found that he slept great in it as long as the side was open for him to crawl out.

The frame of the Lotus Everywhere Travel crib is aluminum and made with overbuilt hinges, making it strong enough for many, many years of toddler play. Also, it only weighs 13lbs which is 50% lighter than traditional, raised-mattress style portable cribs!

Another feature the Lotus has that your typical play yard wouldn't is their travel backpack. My husband and I already have a million and one things to carry when traveling, so to be able to just toss this on our backs saves us from having to make multiple luggage trips at hotels.

Maverick was a little bit older when we first received the Lotus. The mattress is a plush, insulated foam pad with a waterproof cover to give both you and your babe comfort throughout the night. It’s infant approved, does not have a weight limit as it is supported by the floor, and for all you mamas with newborns, rest assured, every side of this travel crib uses breathable mesh from below the mattress to the top panel.

Overall this is definitely something I would recommend for those parents who love to travel, or even those who have their child go to a sitter’s or their grandparents’ for overnight visits. Maverick is just shy of two years old and we still use this a couple of times a month, so when you think of the price and how many uses we get in a year, it's honestly pretty affordable. Especially considering you're getting something of such great quality that it will be able to be used for MANY years to come. 

(I’m apart of the Guava Family Brand Ambassador Program which has given me the opportunity to review this crib.)

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MomoGo - Shopping Cart & High Chair Cover

Maverick has been big enough to sit in the grocery cart and restaurant high chairs since he was basically 4 months old (he was a big baby.) Unfortunately for us, he's never actually enjoyed sitting in them until now. After looking far and wide for a solution to make him more comfortable, I came across Momogo, a company that makes a baby chair insert for infants and toddlers!

As much as I love grocery shopping, I still feel cautious having him sit in the cart and hold on to the bars while snacking and trying to put everything in his mouth. With the Momogo insert I don’t have to worry about germs. First, how comfy does this thing look? It easily and conveniently fits over the grocery cart seat where your child sits, allowing their legs to fit through the holes very comfortably. It is very secure and attaches to the cart with velcro to keep everything in place. It also features a pocket for storing small personal items!

Same goes for restaurants; the high chairs are typically dirty and very hard to sit on for a long period of time. The Momogo insert completely covers everything surrounding him. It features multiple straps that are securable around the seat, ensuring maximum comfort and safety for him while he's sitting, keeping him relatively germ free. I seriously love this thing! It has made going to the grocery store and out to eat with Maverick even better as I feel so much more comfortable sitting him in this cover that is so easy to bring around with us. As you can see, he is also much happier now when he’s sitting in the cart and high chair.​ 

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Contours Bitsy Compact Fold Stroller

Today's parents are out and about, and their babies are too. That's why a baby travel system is totally essential to a parent's ability to be busy. I'm so happy that Contours reached out to me and offered me their newest Bitsy stroller to review for you guys, my readers!​

The Bitsy by Contours stroller has so many great features which I'll highlight below:

- Fits in most airplane overhead compartments; the Bitsy is ultra-lightweight, fits in most airplane overhead compartments, and features a sandal-friendly, one-step brake.

- Adapter-Free Car Seat Compatibility; compatible with 30+ infant car seat models.

- Ultra-lightweight at only 13.5 lbs, making for an easy one-handed compact fold.

- Reclining seat with adjustable leg rest.

- Expandable UPF 50+  canopy with Peek-a-Boo Window.

- Contours Bitsy Travel Bag! (Sold separately and ONLY available to be shipped within the US.)​

My family has tried and owned many strollers over the years. We've traveled locally and and flown with them. I’ve bought them in new or used condition in a wide range of prices, but can now confidently say the Bitsy by Contours is my favorite. I just love how compact and easy to fold it is.

 One reason I wanted this stroller was because we live in an apartment where there is limited stroller storage; the Bitsy by Contours is perfect for stowing in small spaces. One of the features I'm actually most excited about is that it can be stored in the overhead bins on most airplanes. We are planning some travels in the next couple of years and I am thrilled to have this as an option. ​

Overall, I'm very happy with this stroller and hoping it'll be our last. It's great for almost all of our needs, and sure, I can't do a major Costco shop with it, but I can do pretty much anything else! Definitely would recommend. ​ 

*Canadians can purchase the Bitsy by Contours at your local Babies R’ Us

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United Letters - The Ocean Adventure

A couple of months ago Maverick received a very special book from a company called United Letters. This book is so special because it’s personalized to includes Maverick’s name throughout the book!

I went to https://www.united-letters.com/en and pressed the Create Book button to get started. It begins by asking your child’s name, preferred language (English or German), and the sex of your character (boy or girl). Next you’ll pick a character that most resembles your child - we chose the blonde haired, blue eyed boy as those are two of Maverick’s most distinct characteristics! Finally, you hit Preview and can then see what your child’s new book will look like.

Without giving away too much of the story, the Ocean Adventure book teaches ocean preservation and how to curb plastic pollution! You’ll just have to order yourself a copy to find out the rest.​ 

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Alilo Honey Bunny

I think we now have the entire Alilo bunny family but Hunny Bunny is definitely the coolest of ‘em all. He has a Bluetooth speaker so I can play my music through him when maverick isn’t using it.Main Features are it’s rich entertainment content; comes pre-loaded 59 popular nursery rhymes and 9 bedtime stories. It also has a voice recording feature which Maverick loves speaking into and hearing his voice playback.

Honey Bunny’s LED Luminous Ears are made of soft teether silicone and not only are they chewable but also light up with colour when playing with the bunny. It also comes with 8GB TF card and USB data cable, supporting up to 32GB TF card so you can download whatever your kids may like.

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Picasso Tiles Take-A-Part Suitcase Tool Table

Maverick received this awesome play tool work bench from Picasso Tiles and he loves it.

Inside the box you’ll find 46 pieces of plastic tools, including bench vise, wrench, saw, sticker, hammer, screwdrivers, with interchangeable attachments, tray, table extension, bolts, and nuts; for those wondering the tool table dimensions are 18.5 x 13.75 x 23.25 inches, the right size for any playroom.

The reason I as a parent love this toy is because of its learning features disguised as normal play. Playing with this can help train fine motor skill and hand eye coordination. It also cultivated creativity, visual learning and S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, art and mechanic skills)

Although the recommend age is 3+ I just put aside the nuts and bolts until Mavericks old enough to play with those and for the time being he’ll always be supervised when playing with this tool-bench!

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When We Wear Young

It’s surprisingly rare that I get to work with Canadian shops. America is so big that it just ends up working out that way; recently I had the opportunity to collaborate with a Canadian shop called When We Wear Young, they’re an online clothing store-shop based out of that sells gender-neutral basics and splurge-worthy organic pieces. 

I was gifted a jacket and hat from the brand House of Jamie from When We Wear Young’s store and they are the coziest staples for a Fall and Winter wardrobe. You can also see a couple pieces from the company Miles Baby, another brand When We Wear Young carries. 

Below is a screen shot of the current brands When We Wear Young carries:

Oh and don’t forget, to use my discount code: elle10to receive 10% off your order at @when_we_wear_young 

As always, thanks for reading! 

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Delta Children Furniture

It can be super tempting to take the cheap and easy way out when it comes to purchasing furniture for your kids, but chances are you will regret this decision. Recently I received two pieces of Delta Children's furniture and '’am nothing but impressed with the quality.

Pictured above is the Delta Children small ladder shelf. This shelf is built to last! It took my husband about 30 minutes to build which for a shelf,  isn't too bad if you ask me. We're using this shelf as a toy shelf for all of Maverick's toys that didn't seem to have a home in his playroom. Once Maverick's older I can definitely see myself transitioning this shelf into my family living room.. it'll be perfect for storing photo albums and just displaying our family photos.

We also received Delta Children grow-with-me table and let me tell you, this table is awesome. It comes with two sets of legs so it can start as a shorter play table for when your little's are really little and once they're bigger you just unscrew and replace the legs with the taller second set. Like the ladder shelf this piece can be used in a playroom but also in your living room as a regular "coffee" table. 

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Picasso Tiles Camping Set + Magnetic Tiles

Picasso Tiles has SO many great products but the ones we received recently are our new faves. The first product you’ll see below is Picasso Tiles 20 piece camping set.

The Picasso Tiles 20-Piece Camping Set for Kids includes the following accessories: camping tent, toy gas stove, toy oil lamp, water bottle, 2 walkie-talkies, pan, shovel, pretend food, 2 plates, First-Aid kit box, binoculars, multi-function whistle, utility knives, and watch.

Maverick’s favorite is the multi-function whistle; this thing is cool! It’s a whistle on one side, compass on the top and light on the other side. Once Maverick figured out how to press the button it was game over.. he loves ANYTHING that can be turned on and off. He also really enjoys playing with the water bottle which comes as no surprise for this mom since he’s a total water fiend.

The second product we’ve been playing with lately is Picasso Tiles’ super popular 60 piece Magnetic Building Tiles. These are so fun for both Maverick and myself to play with. I love a toy that can be used for years to come and this is one of them.

In the box you’ll find  4 x large squares (6" x 6"), 24 x small squares (3" x 3”), 18 x small triangles (3" x 3"), 8 x medium triangles (3" x 4"), and 6 x tall triangles (3" x 5.5”). These tiles are great for learning and will provide your children hours of entertainment; the possibilities of what can be built are endless. The best part? You can continue adding to this set by purchasing new sets since they’re all compatible!

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Guava Family

I am so excited to share with you guys news about a new product I'm receiving. It's the Guava Lotus travel crib! My family is really looking forward to receiving our's for many reasons but the main being how quick the set up is (15 seconds)!  

It's designed for easy travel and lightweight making for a perfect play area with a side access door. There's no weight limit as the mattress is supported by the floor but does have an approved use for newborns and toddlers under 35" in height. 

The Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib is machine washable which as parent we know is a key must-have feature when it comes to children's products. Another cool feature is that it's stored in a backpack bag so it can be easily carried hands-free.

I’m apart of the Guava Family Brand Ambassador Program which has given me the opportunity to review this crib. Stay tuned for a future blog post of my personal review, once I receive it!

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“Avoid people who mess with your head. Avoid people who intentionally and repeatedly do and say things that they know upset you. Avoid people who expect you to prioritize them but refuse to prioritize you. Avoid people who can’t and won’t apologize sincerely. Avoid. Avoid.”

— Unknown

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Ameriwood Carson Electric Fireplace TV console.

I’d always dreamed of owning a fireplace one day, and luckily for me, that day came sooner than expected thanks to Ameriwood.

I received this Ameriwood Carson Electric Fireplace TV console in the colour black for collaboration purposes, and let me tell you, I am so happy about it. It was a 2-person job setting it up, and took approximately 3 hours. I know that may seem like a lot of time to some people, but I prefer assembling my own furniture.

This TV console has 2 storage cabinets on each side of it with doors that close, which is perfect for people who have kids in the home who constantly try to pull things out.  It’s also great for those of us who aren’t super organized... there can be a mess inside your cabinets but close the door and voila, mess disappears. It can accommodate 50” - 70” flat screen TVs up to 120lbs.

The best part about this console by far is the electric fireplace.  You have the option of turning on just the fireplace without the heat for that relaxing, calming atmosphere, or you can turn on the electric heat portion with the fire effect to add some extra warmth to rooms up to 400 sq.

If you’re in the market for a new, sleek home entertainment unit, this has to be your go-to. Be sure to check out all of the other awesome furniture Ameriwood has to offer.

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DockATot

We’ve officially been using our DockATot for 30 days and I’ve gotta say, it’s a total game changer.

My husband and I knew it was time to transition Maverick into a toddler bed, but like any parents we were concerned with him rolling off the bed. The fall isn’t anything that could really hurt him, but I imagine rolling off the bed to be a pretty traumatic experience for a kid. We were sent the DockATot Grand for review purposes, and below you’ll find details on the two different sizes they offer and my thoughts about it.

The DockAtTot is available in two sizes, the Deluxe+ and the Grand. The Deluxe+ is recommended for babies aged 0-8 months, and was made to mimic the safe and snug environment of the womb. They’re handmade in Europe and designed in Sweden made of all natural, 100% cotton. It’s also a perfect area to do tummy time, and those of us with hardwood floors know the struggle of tummy time. The Grand model is recommended for toddlers aged 9-36 months and is used for lounging, traveling, and what we’re using it for - crib to bed transition.

It only took one night after taking the crib bars off for my son to stop climbing out of his bed/DockAtTot and start going to sleep with no troubles. We started by using the dock in his crib for short, supervised periods during his first and second nap. After only two supervised crib naps, I knew he was ready. We took the crib bars off in the evening for his overnight sleep and although he got up twice more than normal, he slept straight through the night thereafter.

I was concerned he’d feel cramped since he’s a mover, but he has no problem rolling onto his belly, because the DockATot was tested for breath-ability I didn’t worry! You can also see in the photos he has no trouble climbing in and out if he needs to. I would definitely recommend this to other mamas who are looking for a solution on how to easily transition from a crib to toddler bed.

Lastly, I wanted tell you guys that DockATot also sells accessories. For their Deluxe+ model you can purchase a toy arch and different toy sets that hang from the arch and both sizes of the Dock’s you can order a variety of different covers. We only have the marble cover right now but  have a few on our Christmas wish list. This is definitely a must have and if it’s not already, add the Deluxe+ to your baby registry at Target!

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Alilo Bunny + Picasso 2-in-1 Drum Piano.

Meet Alilio Bunny! Mavericks new best friend.

As soon as we took bunny out of her packaging Maverick instantly went to play. The features that Alilo is included are her Belly Drum where you can tap on her belly and create your own beats. There are also a variety of different drum sounds! 

Our favourite feature of Alilo is all the awesome songs she sings and story’s she tells. There are lots of classic like if you’re happy and you know it.

Another cool toy I wanted to tell you guys about is this Picasso Tiles 2-in-1 Drum Piano toy.

With 10 demo songs and a 24 key keyboard your kids are going to be glued to this thing for hours just like Maverick and his dad seemed to be. The built-in speaker which allows you to record and has a playback function makes recording your music so fun.

What I love most about toys like this is the sharing aspect. If you’re a multi-child family this would be great for a variety of age groups, your kids can play together and you won’t hear any arguing over who’s turn it is since both children can be playing at the same time

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Lily Jade Diaper Bag

The highly talked about Lily Jade diaper bag. You’ve heard of em, your mom tribe has heard of em, and your might already own one.

I had been eyeing up this bag for quite some time now, and am happy to say I am now the proud owner of the Madeline Black / Jade & Silver, Lily Jade diaper bag. The standout feature of this backpack diaper bag is how easy and unique the backpack carry is. It's not like your regular diaper bag that's for sure.

I also love that it doesn't look like a diaper bag, and that they're designed to grow with you and your kids. Once your kids are out of diapers, you can still use the bag by removing the bag organizer and carrying it like a normal purse. That organizer insert seriously comes in handy during those younger years when you want to keep bibs, sunscreen, wipes and diapers organized. It is probably my favourite feature / accessory included with the Lily Jade bags.

I absolutely love wearing my Lily Jade using the backpack carry because it leaves both my arms free to lift and carry my toddler... who I need both hands to carry, trust me.

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Let’s Talk Eyebrows at Brows By G

Brows are sisters, not twins. Have you ever heard that saying before? I have, but after visiting the Brows by G Provencher location in Winnipeg, Manitoba I realized that saying didn’t have to be true.

As soon as you step foot into the Brows by G studio you are greeted by their lovely front desk ladies to confirm your appointment, provide you with the necessary release forms that require signing, and of course offered a beverage.

I had booked my appointment for new micropigmentation freckles & to touch up my existing microbladed eyebrows.

Not having waited for more than ten minutes, my artist Daneige greeted me and directed me to the front of the studio to prep me for my microblading. After asking my permission, the ‘prepping’ process included waxing and tweezing some eyebrow hairs and discussing how and where I wanted the new microblading done. This was also the time where the initial numbing cream was applied, in my case we used zensa numbing cream. Within 20 minutes I was numb and ready to start.

When I walked into the procedure room I immediately took notice of how clean and sterile everything was. The tools were individually packaged, and my brow artist made sure to point that out before taking each tool out of its packaging and using it on my face. Danige started microblading and to my pleasant surprise I couldn’t feel a single thing. Everyone has different pain tolerance, but I was relieved that for me it was nothing.

The entire microblading and micropigmentation procedures took just under two hours but will save me many, many more hours when it comes to how long it takes me to get ready in the morning! I truly can’t recommend Brows by G studios enough. It is the only place in the city I trust with my eyebrows and I promise you will not be disappointed.

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Oribel - Portaplay - Convertible Activity Center

Is your baby ready for an activity seat? Do you hate spending money on baby gear that only lasts 6-8 months? Well Oribel recently sent me their new Portaplay - Convertible Activity Center themed Wonderland Adventures Gleeful Sea ExerSaucer for my son to enjoy, so that I can review it for you guys, and so you can decide if it’s the right one for your baby/toddler.

So let me start out by saying that the Oribel Portaplay Activity Center is designed to grow with your child. It starts out as a classic excersaucer with a seat in the middle that turns and toys surrounding it. The excersaucer portion is recommend for ages 5-12months and because my son is 13 months he’ll be using and I’ll be talking about the table portion of activity center. 

As soon as I put the the table and stools together Maverick sat down and started playing. What I found interesting was how he was playing with his toys, it was different. I assume because he’s normally sitting on the ground he has to slouch to stack blocks making it more difficult to do so but sitting at the table made it a lot easier for him. He was super proud of himself for finally succeeding in stacking the blocks that he’s been trying to do for MONTHS.

Another great feature about this activity table is how easy it is to store. Baby gear tends to takeover a house quite quickly so to store all you have to do is press the legs up, they fold into the table and then it’s just a flat top that you can store pretty much anywhere. However if you’re like us you wont ever want to store it away because of it’s table functionality. 

I really love the look of this table in Mavericks room and the versatility it offers. I’m excited to re-use it when I have another baby and I’ll be able to show you guys the excersaucer function in action! In the meantime it’ll get lot’s of use as a toy table, snack station and whatever else my little boy dreams up for it.

Oh and if you’re wondering what the toy on the wall Maverick’s playing with is it’s one of Oribels new Vertiplay wall toys! This one in particular is called the ‘Busy Woodpecker’, with lights and a tapping sound your child is bound to love it and us as mom’s can enjoy our clutter free floor because these Vertiplay toys stick directly to the wall and leave no damage when taken off.