Friday, April 27, 2012

***Mommy Deals***


Mrs. Beasley's- $10 off Mother's Day gifts & free shipping, with code SPRSHIP.

Pottery Barn Kids- 40% of Dr Seuss backpacks & beach towels, no code needed.  Today Only!!! Hurry!!

Loft- 40% off everything, with code SHOP40.

Tiny Prints- $10 off of invites, with code APRINVITES10.  Free shipping, with code FREESHIP12.

Shutterfly- 50% of photobooks (12x12 books). No code needed, until May 2nd. Free shipping (orders $30+), with code SHIP30.

Snapfish- Free shipping on orders $25+, with code FSAPR25 (thru 4/30).

Old Navy- 30% if you use a Gap card, with code ONSTUFF30; or 20% off without card, with code ONSAVE20.

Macys- 15% off and free shipping, with code SPRING.

Watching Grass Grow!!


There is an item in my house, that gets more attention than anything else. (no not my dog!!)




It is our Grass Countertop Drying Rack, by Boon.  I am not sure if this speaks more about the product, or my lack of decorating skills.  I am going to lean towards the product, because it is pretty fantastic.  It was one of the first things that I bought, when I found out I was pregnant with my son.  After losing my daughter, I was terrified of buying anything baby related ahead of time...however I knew that I would find a use for this rack regardless of what happened.  Luckily I have been able to use the rack for it's main function (drying bottles and nipples).

Besides looking cute on my counter, the rack is very functional.  The "blades of grass", help you stand products up to dry.  There is a tray below the rack that catches water, so it doesn't spread across the counter top.  I usually scrub this about once a week.  It is easy to use, and easy to clean...and is only $14.99.  It will bring a  smile to your face every time you look at it, and it is guaranteed to bring in a ton of compliments.  I plan on using mine to dry things, even when we stop using baby items.  I also think it would work well in a bathroom to put jewelry or make up on.   hmmmm maybe I need another:)

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Come ti chiami?


I love personalized gifts so much!!

For one they show that you put a lot of thought into the gift, and there is always something special about seeing your name or your loved ones name in print.

However how many items can you have with a block print name, or monogram on them??(personally I don't think you can ever have enough items with monograms on them, but I know most people have their limit).

This is why I went in search of some unique personalized gifts.  Here are some of my favorites...


 
Personalized Art Made From Vintage Peter Rabbit Book- Etsy Celadon Home



Birth Announcement Wall Art- Etsy Stationary Sisters



Personalized Baseball Bat- Personalization Mall.com




Personalized Firetruck Lunchbox- Frecklebox




Personalized Super Hero Plate- Etsy SimplySublimeBaby

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Tee Time!!

I hope I don't offend anyone, but I really hate most of the cheesy tee shirts that are available for kids.  They have the lamest sayings on them, and usually very boring repetitive images.  I am constantly looking for something different.

One of my favorite tee shirt lines is called Threadless Tees.  They have tee shirts for everyone, including onesies and toddler shirts.  Designers send in their own images, and the company picks out their favorites and produces them.  They are creative, and the images are anything but boring. 

Here are some of my current favorites:

The site is currently running a 24 hour sale...all tee shirts are $10 for today only!! 

Head over soon, you can grab something for the entire family!!

Monday, April 23, 2012

"We're luxurious like Egyptian cotton"


Do buy designer items for your little ones??

I bought my son a few designer items when he was first born....then I realized how fast he grows out of things, and stopped:)

If I were to suddenly have a disposable income (and a bunch of little boys to pass all of these things on to), here are some items that would make my shopping list:

Ralph Lauren Italy World Championship 1934 Polo- $128.98


Dior Wooden Car in Box- $196.69


Young Versace Black 2 Piece Wool Tuxedo- $482.05


Armani Junior Navy and White Deck Shoes- $88.67


Young Versace White and Blue Toweling Bath Robe- $172.51



All items are from the site ChildrenSalon.  Head over and check it out.  They have so many beautiful items:)  While you are browsing, feel free to send us anything that you think we would love:)

Friday, April 20, 2012

Happy Earth Day!!


In honor of Earth Day this weekend, I wanted to share something fun yet great for the environment.



The Miracle Gro Ready Set Gro Terrarium, comes with everything that you need to start your very own vegetable garden.  What a great way to get kids started in the garden, and most experts say that growing vegetables with your kids encourages them to eat them. 

This garden is perfect for any age (secretly I would get one even if I did not have kids), and great for any living situation.  Just put it in your window, or on your balcony.  On the Miracle Gro website, it says that they are releasing Mickey Mouse, Pixie Hollow, and Disney Princess Terrariums...  I can't wait to see them!!!  If you haven't checked out the Miracle Gro site before you should head over!!  They have a bunch of cute projects, and fun facts about gardens:)


.....and everyone needs a great hat to garden in, so I went looking for a cute affordable one.

Here is one from the Gap (it is only $12.95)



Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Travel Land!!


Due to my husband's illness, we have had to spend a lot more time waiting in the car and at appointments.  I am constantly looking for things to keep my son busy.  The number one item is still our Kindle Fire.  I download his favorite shows, and then we sing along (anyone that took music class with me knows that this is probably not a pleasant thing for those around me;)

I found a great item last night in my Parents Magazine, and can't wait to get him a set...



They are the Sushi Touch and Feel Stroller Cards...they attach to anything (stroller, diaper bag, carseat etc...) Each card has an image, and something that your child can touch or do.  For example the seaweed card crinkles. 

My son is very into touching things and scratching and picking at them right now, so I know he will love these.  I went to the company's website, and they have a few other versions (Eric Carle, Julius Monkey, Big Trucks and Diggers, Moma Shapes and Colors, and Mrs Mustard's Baby Faces). 



Now just to decide which set to get....

What items do you take to doctor's appointments, on vacation, or anytime you have to wait with a little one??  I would love to see all of your suggestions!!!

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Please Read ♥

I am sorry that my posts have been a little sporadic lately.  My husband (Daddy Orso), is currently battling melanoma.  If you would like to read about his story, or join his fundraiser here is the link:

https://www.facebook.com/events/213202642121934/

Please do not feel like you need to donate anything!!  Joining the event shows him that you are sending good thoughts and prayers, and believe that he can beat it!!!



I love to share things that I love, and want to buy or already own on here.  However my favorite thing is to share things that make life easier, or even better safer!!!  My good friend, Michelle, shared this link with me yesterday and I wanted to pass it on.

http://breakingnews.ewg.org/2011sunscreen/hall-of-shame-whats-wrong-with-the-sunscreen-protection-business/http://breakingnews.ewg.org/2011sunscreen/hall-of-shame-whats-wrong-with-the-sunscreen-protection-business/

It discusses which sunscreens are great, and which are actually more harmful to use.  Please please please read it, and buy one of the ones on the good list.  I don't ever want to see another person that I care about battle this horrible illness!!!

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Soft Soft Skin:)


We have featured Aden and Anais products on here a few times, including a post about my favorite Dribble Burpy Bibs.  Most people know them as the company that makes the swaddle blankets, that are draped across most celebrity strollers.  The company was started by a mom that could not find swaddle cloths as soft as the ones that she had back home (Australia).  A few years later, and they now have a line of spectacular baby items...



Their latest item has me really excited.  Besides being obsessed with baby stuff and purses, I love skin care. I like to try everything new, and when I have a second to myself (barely happens these days) I like to do masks and hand scrubs:)  I seem to be passing on my love for skin care and bathing to my son, because I can barely get him out of the tub.  When I do finally get him out, he loves putting lotion on his skin:)  This is why I am so excited about the new Aden and Anais skin care products.  They have hair and body wash, ultra gentle lotion, and soothing ointment  (made with paw paw fruit).


All products are for baby and mom (and dad..), and are free of parabens and petroleum oil.



I was in a baby store this weekend, and they had the ultra gentle lotion on the counter to try...my hands have  felt good ever since. (almost like my pre-baby hands...before I washed my hands a thousand times a day;) )  I can't wait to go back and stock up.

Have any of you had a chance to try any of these products yet??

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Love, Love Love... Sleepover Edition:)


Love 1 is the cookie and milk mug!! 



How cool is this!!  The mouth is actually an opening where you can store your cookies.  I love this Elmo one, but there is also a Big Bird, Kermit, and Cookie Monster mug.  They come from the Etsy store Mypolkadotpottery, and she offers a deal if you buy all four together.  These are great for movie time, or in the morning with a cinnamon roll or pastry.


Love 2 is a super hero mask!!




They come in 8 colors, and are only $4.50:)  Order them today at Etsy store superkidcapes. Great for late night superhero time, or as a party favor to send home with each kid!!



Love 3 is the essential sleepover item...




I love this personalized puppy dog sleeping bag, from Personalized Mall.  The face, paws and tail are made from super soft fleece, and you can have them personalized for each kid.  Makes a great birthday gift, or buy a few non personalized ones and keep them for overnight guests!!!

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Dino Times


If your kids are anything like mine, then they probably love Dino Dan on Nick Jr... even if they don't watch that show, most kids love dinosaurs.  I know I did!!


I saw these and immediately thought... "How cool for summer camp!!!"






They come in three sizes, the one above is the full sized...

Here is the half pack, for your younger dinos:)

And the coolest lunch box I have seen, since my Dukes of Hazards one back in the day...

Don't worry the spikes are made of soft fabric, so they are not dangerous. You can find them, and a ton of other cute dinosaur stuff (like dino rainboots, excavator game, towels...), at www.chasing-fireflies.com.

Monday, April 9, 2012

Still Standing Magazine ♥


One of my dear friends (and my blog designer), has developed a magazine geared towards those that have lost a child or struggle with infertility.  Still Standing Magazine officially launches on May 5th 2012!!




I know I gained a lot of new followers in February (when I featured infant loss organizations), so I assumed that many Little Orso readers would be interested in this magazine. Franchesca is brilliant (those that follow her blog already know this), so I am sure that this magazine will be amazing and help many people.

Make sure you like them on Facebook now, so you can receive updates about their launch:)

Construction Zone!!


How cool are the new Tike Stix from Little Tikes??



They are designed for preschool aged kids, and allow them to actually sit in their creations!!  Right now they have four different sets that you can choose from: Clubhouse, Doghouse, Playhouse, and Rocket.

These are definitely on our list to buy.  I love how you can use them inside and outside, and that they are easy enough for kids build by themselves.  I figure that we can build the clubhouse for my son now, and then when he gets older he can make his own alterations:)

Here is a coupon from Little Tikes to get $5 off of your set of Tike Stix.  I am printing mine out right now:)

Thursday, April 5, 2012

....of the month club!!


I have always wanted to join one of those monthly clubs, like beer of the month, meat of the month, cheese of the month, fruit of the month, potato chips of the month... But I always end up talking myself out of it!!  For one I don't need to encourage my chip addiction anymore than it already is:)




However I think I may have recently found one that I will actually sign up for!! Tee of the Month Club by Babesta.  For one year (or the time frame that you decide on)  you will receive a new onesie or t- shirt each month.  They promise they will send the newest and coolest items they have, and to adjust the size each month according to your child's size.  I figure I buy my son at least one new shirt a month, and we all know that we always find extra money for our kids.  (My son's wardrobe is better than mine has ever been, even when I worked full time in fashion.)

I'm thinking this is a great baby shower, or birthday gift!!  We all buy kid's clothes, and then a few weeks later they grow out of them.  This gift guarantees a year of enjoyment:)  It is a little costly though...one year is $290, 6 months of tees is $150, and 3 months is $75... However think of how much excitement it will bring.  I know other people are as obsessed with mail and packages as I am...right??!!

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Support Autism Research and Look Stylish!!


Today I am featuring a special item that one of my good friends, Heather a stylist with Stella and Dot, shared with me.  They are the Stella and Dot Shine and Sole Bracelets.


"Children on the autism spectrum experience color more intensely than we do, so we designed our Shine Bracelet to reflect the vibrant rainbow of colors that make up an autistic child's world. Help us shine the light on Autism by supporting Autism research and awareness, ­20% of proceeds from the sale of the Shine and Sole bracelets in April will be donated to Autism Speaks."
 

They are a limited edition item, and will only be available during the month of April.  Once they sell out that is it.  Make sure that you get one now before they are all gone!!!  They also make a great gift, since they come in a cute gift box with a card that lets the recipient know a donation was made by purchasing it.

Heather set up a special promotion for Little Orso readers...Starting today you can purchase these bracelets, and anything else that you see on the website, and get shipping for only $5.95 (delivery time is usually within 5 days) Make sure that you click on the Little Orso Trunk Show link to receive this special shipping rate.

Heather has also made herself available for styling tips, and help purchasing items.  You can contact her directly at Lernerheather@yahoo.com.



***Also please take a moment to educate yourself about Autism.

Autistic Disorder

What is autistic disorder?

Autistic disorder (also called autism; more recently described as "mindblindedness") is a neurological and developmental disorder that usually appears during the first three years of life. A child with autism appears to live in his/her own world, showing little interest in others, and a lack of social awareness. The focus of an autistic child is a consistent routine and includes an interest in repeating odd and peculiar behaviors. Autistic children often have problems in communication, avoid eye contact, and show limited attachment to others.
Autism can prevent a child from forming relationships with others (in part, due to an inability to interpret facial expressions or emotions). A child with autism may resist cuddling, play alone, be resistant to change, and/or have delayed speech development. Persons with autism tend to exhibit repeated body movements (such as flapping hands or rocking) and have unusual attachments to objects. However, many persons with autism excel consistently on certain mental tasks (i.e., counting, measuring, art, music, memory).

What causes autism?

The cause of autism is not known. Research suggests that autism is a genetic condition. It is believed that several genes are involved in the development of autism. Research studies in autism have found a variety of abnormalities in the brain structure and chemicals in the brain, however, there have been no consistent findings. One theory is the possibility that autistic disorder is a behavioral syndrome that includes several distinct conditions. However, parenting behaviors are not the cause or a contributing factor to the cause or causes of autism.

Who is affected by autism?

Approximately 3 to 6 out of every 1,000 children born are diagnosed with autism. Autism is more prevalent in boys than girls, with four times as many boys affected than girls. (http://www.choc.org)


Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Little Orso Bookshelf

A while back a great friend of ours (Jamie- she is an amazing cook so of course I listened), recommended a book.  It is called No Whine With Dinner, and is written by two registered dietitians and moms.  The book is filled with over 150 healthy and tasty recipes.  They are all kid tested!! I can't lie when I hear "kid friendly" or "kid tested", I typically think bland or boring...however the recipes in this book are anything but that!!




My son just started being able to really eat with us, so we haven't been able to "kid test" many of these recipes yet.  But we have "parent tested" quite a few, and they are great!! They have a section on basic things you can do to make your own recipes healthier, a section with great recipes they found on people's blogs (I really like that section...I found some new blogs to follow:) ), and a section of recipes just for the slow cooker.  With my crazy life, I am trying to embrace the slow cooker more!!  This is definitely not one of those cookbooks that you will only take out every once in a while, you can literally use it for every meal.

Head out and grab No Whine with Dinner Today!! 

In the mean time enjoy one of our favorites from the book. (even our dog loved this one!!)



Chicken Pot Pie Bundles



1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil divided
1 large carrot peeled and cut into 1/4 inch dice
1/2 small onion, cut into 1/4 inch dice
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1/2 inch dice
2 teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon or 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 pinch of pepper
1cup of all natural chicken broth
4 teaspoons cornstarch
3/4 cup frozen petite peas, thawed
3/4 cup frozen corn, thawed
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan Cheese
12 egg roll wraps (not the smaller wonton wraps)
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the carrot and onion and cook, stirring frequently, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, and cook 1 minute more.
  2. Stir in the chicken, tarragon, salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  3. Place the broth and cornstarch in a bowl and whisk until well combined. Add to the skillet along with the peas and corn, and bring the liquid to a simmer, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer and stir gently until the sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
  4. To prepare the bundles, use a muffin pan with 12 medium-size cups (do not coat with nonstick cooking spray). Gently place 1 egg roll wrap into each cup, letting it extend over the sides.
  5. Place a generous 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture into each wrap, and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top. Fold the corners up and over the top of the filling and press to seal the edges (it doesn’t have to be perfect!). Brush the remaining oil on top of each bundle.
  6. Bake until golden and crisp,12 to 15 minutes. Cool slightly before eating.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Time to Fill That Basket :)


For the 1st Easter...

Personalized Onesie- PersonalizationMall.com





For the 50th Easter...

Easter Parade 2 disc Special Edition- Amazon.com






For your Lego Lover...

Bunny and Chick- Lego.com



For the Candy Enthusiast...

Edible Easter Grass- Dylan's Candy Bar



For Your Little Reader...

Easter Bunny- Amazon.com



For the Stuffed Animal Adopter...

Stuffed Bunny- Etsy (Cotuitbayknitter)



For Your Teething "Bunny"...

Organic Veggies Teething Toys for Baby- Amazon.com



For the Makeup Artist...

Peter Cottontail Nail Set- Spilsbury.com



For the "Bored Kid"...

I'm Not Bored Anymore Art Jar- Land Of Nod



For the Person that Needs a Break... (several people may answer to this title in your home- thank God they are not too expensive)

Travel Ultra Light Hawaiian Hammock- Dick's Sporting Goods



For the Jewelery Collector... (hint hint Daddy Orso)

Vintage Paas Scrabble Tile Pendant- Etsy (missingpiecesstudio)



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