Babywearing Buzz

ERGO Baby Holiday Promotion!

2011-11-13T17:47:00.000-08:00

November 14 - December 25th, ERGO Baby is permitting a holiday promotion! Woo hoo! For every full priced ERGO Baby Carrier purchased, you'll receive a free Heart 2 Heart Infant Insert (in Natural)!

Are you nesting? (I know I am!) This is a great time to upgrade to one of the newest colors for a new baby one the way! Check out the Mystic Purple or the two new Performance colors: Charcoal and True Blue!

When checking out, please put "H2H" in the comments/message section to receive your free infant insert with your baby carrier! Please email Amber (amber (at) heavenlyhold (dot) com) with any questions!! I'm always happy to help!

Boba 3G Baby Carrier

2011-10-03T11:59:00.001-07:00

Boba Soho

I'm so excited to share the release of the new Boba 3G Baby Carrier with you! I recently had the pleasure of receiving one of these in the mail to try out (actually I'm wearing my 2 yo in it in the post below!) and was VERY impressed with the comfort and functionality changes that Boba has made. I already was a fan of the 2G, but this one is LOVE!!!!!

The Boba Baby Carrier now is just that...a baby carrier...while the 2G was recommended for babies 15 lbs and up, the 3G is for babies 7lbs- toddlers 45 lbs. No infant insert is needed for using the carrier with an infant. The conversion to an infant carrier is simple!

Another change to the 3G is the addition of a pocket to stow away the sleeping hood, a small pocket on the waist belt, AND changes to the chest strap. The chest strap now will go about 1-2 inches lower than the chest strap on the 2G did (I'm sure a big help to bigger/taller mommies and daddies!). The chest strap is also on a new sliding mechanism.

One more notable change are the purse straps. The carrier has unique straps around the shoulders that will allow you to snap the strap of a purse into place. OR you can purchase the new Boba Bag, which snaps onto the carrier, to coordinate with the carrier!

Boba Kangaroo

The Boba 3G Baby Carrier still will "hug" your little one to you and keep them nice and close. It can still be worn on the front and the back. The patent pending removable footstraps are also still a part of the design as well as the extra 2-3 inches in height it gives you over most other carriers.

The Boba 3G Baby Carrier is in stock at Heavenly Hold and ready to be shipped to you for free!

Babywearing While Pregnant

2011-08-22T17:21:00.001-07:00

Is it possible to babywear while pregnant?

Yes!! Absolutely! Most definitely! The little one you wear while pregnant will still receive all the wonderful benefits of babywearing, and you'll also still be able to enjoy the free hands! I'm currently 22 weeks pregnant with my third daughter and I'm still constantly wearing my second daughter that is 2 years old (and heavy!).

Some people believe that medically, babywearing while pregnant may not safe. I am not a doctor, so please consult your doctor before making your own decision...but I am a Mom! And I've done plenty of babywearing while preggo!

In fact, in this picture, I was 39 weeks and 5 days pregnant with my second daughter. I am wearing my first daughter on my back in a soft structured carrier. She was 2.5 years at the time.

There are many ways to wear while pregnant. Some ladies like to wear a Mei Tai and tie it above their belly. What was most comfortable for me, was to wear a soft structured carrier and buckle the waist low, beneath my belly, nice and snug!

Happy Babywearing!

My Baby Doesn't Like to be Worn....

2011-08-09T17:05:00.000-07:00

"But my baby just doesn't like to be worn!" is a phrase that I've heard from mamas that want to babywear. I don't hear it too often, but I have heard it. I try to help them problem solve and come up with a solution, which is what I'll try to do here as well.

Possible Problem: Baby is very young (possibly newborn) and is uncomfortable.

Solution: When babies are very young, their hips and spines are so fragile. They will have a difficult time doing a full "split" of their legs in a baby carrier, which is why they should have their legs "froggied." Froggying an infants legs means that you put them in the carrier on their knees, with their feet tucked underneath them, or in the carrier criss cross applesauce style. This is a very natural position for a newborn as that's probably similar to how their were squished up in mamas womb! A baby will let you know when they are ready to "unfroggy" their legs. Sometimes they try to stand up in a carrier! When you think that they are ready to split those legs, try keeping one leg froggied and allowing one leg to be split before going to a full split.

Possible Problem: Baby cries when in a carrier for reasons unknown.

Solution: Baby could be crying for any number of reasons while being worn. One could be wanting to nurse. If your baby is on your front, he or she may be rooting and want to nurse...totally natural. Mastering nursing in the carrier will greatly help your cause of getting baby to "like" being worn!

Baby could also be crying for any number of reasons. The carrier could just be an unfamiliar place for them. You can change that by being persistent in wearing. Continue to try to wear baby in a variety of different environments. Take baby to the mall or a park, where there is a lot of stimulation and lots to look at, listen to and smell! See if they forget about the carrier and relax and enjoy the sights! If baby is old enough, try wearing him or her on your back for a change of scenery as well!

Possible problem: Baby is not happy in a carrier because they can't see what is going on around them.

Solution: Sometimes parents complain that their baby isn't happy because they need to be facing outward in the carrier. It is true that most correctly made carriers do not allow for the front facing out position. This is for a variety of reasons. The beco Gemini Baby Carrier is one carrier that does do the front facing out position, and it does do the position a lot more ergonomically than a carrier like the Baby Bjorn or a Snugli does. If you don't own a beco Gemini, there is still hope for the curious baby! The answer is the same as the answer above! Be persistent in trying at various times of day...sleepy time, errand time, dancing time...and try wearing in various stimulating environments. Also, again, if baby is old enough (has good head control) try wearing baby on your back because they'll have that view that they are craving!

And if you still have a fussy baby!? Keep trying! Babies change ALL THE TIME! In another week, or another month, you may have a "velcro baby" that loves to be worn and snuggled!! And then you'll be happy you have that carrier....

Babywearing is Comforting!

2011-08-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

My littlest girl has just recently turned 2. Many times this is what we see of her...she's on the run, or is running away from us! She is busy and loves her independence. But there are (many) times when she is in need of some comfort and closeness.

In this picture she was having an "off" morning. She just wasn't herself and really just wanted the comfort of being close to mommy. Sometimes, I walk around with a carrier clipped to my waist and dangling in back...just in case somebody wants up. It comes in handy!

There are some parents that believe that once a child can walk, they no longer will need or want to be worn. That may be the case sometimes, but I think more often than not, little ones will still enjoy these close times.

Whenever we are in an unfamiliar place or have a lot of new people around, my youngest will run up to me and say "Ca we a! Ca we a!" I know this to mean that she is asking to be worn in a carrier.

Manufacturers are getting savvy to the fact that many kiddos still enjoy being worn through toddlerhood (and beyond). For example, the Boba Baby Carrier is made for kiddos ages 1-4 and all the way up to 45 lbs. I still wear my 4.5 yo comfortably in mine. The Babyhawk Oh Snap is another example of a carrier that is built for bigger kiddos as well.

Parents enjoy all the cuddly, snuggly time you can snatch with your little ones!

Petunia Pickle Bottom ERGO Baby Carriers!

2011-04-25T11:10:00.001-07:00

Portofino Petunia Pickle Bottom ERGO Baby Carrier

Holland Petunia Pickle Bottom ERGO Baby Carrier

Innsbruck Petunia Pickle Bottom ERGO Baby Carrier

These three new ERGO/Petunia Pickle Bottom ERGO Baby Carriers will arrive sometime in May! Lots of moms (and some dads) have been complaining that ERGO's are so "ugly," "plain," or "utilitarian looking." Not anymore!!! These Petunia Pickle Bottom ERGO Baby Carriers are anything but plain looking!

What's even better is that they are 100% organic. I mentioned some time ago that I never really was an ERGO lover until I traded up to an organic ERGO. So this makes these carriers all the more wearable!

These new ERGO's are the same in design and function as an original ERGO. They will do a front, back and hip carry. They have the same great support and comfort that I love, plus they also have the wonderful sleeping hood which is my favorite of any carrier EVER!

Heavenly Hold is now taking preorders on the new Petunia Pickle Bottom ERGO Baby Carriers. With your preorder, you'll receive either free sucking pads or a free Teething Bling necklace (your choice) as well as free shipping of course! Email Amber to place a preorder reservation now!

The ONLY way to travel...

2011-04-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

We LOVE to travel with our kiddos! But, part of those fun, traveling times, involve packing LOTS of stuff to take with us! And that's not so fun. We've actually cut down on some of our baby paraphenelia, though, but leaving the stroller at home!

On a trip to Tampa Bay's Busch Gardens recently, we left our stroller at home and instead packed a few carriers. Hubby took his Action Baby Carrier to wear our oldest in and I took my trusty ERGO Baby Carrier to wear our littlest in.

Hubby took the ABC because we were going to Florida, and his carrier is a Florida Gators custom carrier! He was eager to show it off to people who appreciated it! I took my ERGO, because its one of my "go to" carriers AND in my opinion has the BEST sleeping hood of any carrier I've ever tried. I knew that we would have sleeping girls on our backs at many points throughout the trip, so a good hood was a must!

As hubby and I zoomed through the park on our two legs with our two girls on our backs, we let the stroller pushing mommies and daddies eat our dust and be stuck in the stroller gridlock. We covered some ground for sure with our carriers! Also, our girls were very content riding on our backs because they were able to be up close near our faces and be up high and see all of the exhibits without us having to pull them out of a stroller and lift them up to see! Much simpler!

So, for our family, traveling with carriers is an essential! I can't imagine traveling without one (or more!).

Beco Luna!

2011-04-20T10:43:00.001-07:00

The newest bECO print is here! Luna has arrived at Heavenly Hold in time for spring babywearing! Luna is organic and comes with espresso straps. It's gender neutral enough for a boy with it's avocado, sienna and turquoise accents.

The Luna print is also available in the bECO Gemini Baby Carrier as well!

Babywearing Around the World Wednesday

2011-04-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

Wearing Podaegi's in Korea.

And a mommy using her Podaegi at home.

Babywearing Bliss

2011-03-31T18:37:00.000-07:00

When I found out I was pregnant and thought about the arrival of our new baby, I will honestly say that with my excitement came a fear that I'd never get to participate in my own personal interests again. Walking, anything outdoors, painting, all would be thrown out the window because I'd have a little baby to feed and hold all the time. I know this sounds selfish, and it is, but I wasn't sure how to go from having a job and doing whatever I want in my free time to taking care of our little baby not only in the day, but all through the night. Those first days and weeks were filled with an abundance of love for our new child, challenged with sleep deprivation and painful breastfeeding, but being in awe of my helpful and caring husband and our sweet baby was thrilling! Instantly my fear of never having time to myself dissolved, and all I could think about was how to keep this precious baby close to me as much as possible. I suppose it was my motherly instincts kicking in, but I found myself feeling an urgency to receive the sling (a Christmas gift) that was coming with the in-laws shortly after our baby was born. My achy body recovering from labor and sore arms from marathon nursing were ready for some relief. Once we got used to positioning our newborn in the sling, it was wonderful. The baby felt secure and would sleep away in there, and we could go about our business hardly needing to fuss with him at all. It was bliss, and it gave me a new sense of freedom. All of a sudden I could see a bright future in participating in varied activities while our little one was cozy in the sling right next to my body as if I was holding him. We've even been able to take him hiking up Kennesaw Mountain when he was 2 months old. He just slept peacefully in the sling the whole time. Later, when hanging out with some old college buddies, I wore our baby while we played bocce ball at the park. Its been wonderful being able to do things with family and friends without needing to lug around our giant stroller. Or feel like he is stuck being dragged around from one sort of baby contraption to another all day long (i.e. crib, bouncer, swing, stroller...). From the sling he can sit up and view the world at my level, and learn new things about the environment. Also, babywearing promotes one of the eight principles of attachment parenting, use nurturing touch.

As our baby grew, I quickly realized a need for something more secure, something that distributed his weight evenly. Especially for longer trips like grocery shopping or on walks around the park. He is in the 90th percentile for height, so you kind have have to support his bobble head in the sling since he prefers to sit upright (which means I'm not completely hands free). I started putting him in the bouncer more often when making meals since he was in the way being in front of me in the sling, I couldn't reach the sink to do dishes and it probably isn't safe with him being so close to the stove. I began researching other carriers online, one where he could hang out on my back, and tried some out at nearby stores. Growing up in in Korea, I remembered seeing my halmoni (grandmother in Korean) and most others wearing grandchildren all over. It had been so many years since I had this memory of the podaegi. My husband was concerned with the soft structured carriers not having a liner for him to "sit" in. So I found one that did, the Beco Butterfly II. It did cost a pretty penny, but its worth being able to be hands free while he sleeps away in there. When I received it in the mail from Heavenly Hold (with superfast shipping), I was so excited that I tried it on (having previously watched the video's online) immediately... still in my pj's! My 2.5 month old baby didn't seem to mind all the fidgeting of the straps to get him in place for our first time, and shortly after I wore him around, he fell asleep. In fact, almost every time I put him in there he falls asleep. Our baby is such a light sleeper, normally I would often find myself stuck sitting in the place where he fell asleep after nursing, afraid to lay him down since he'll just wake right up and be cranky. Although I love holding my sleeping baby, that also meant I couldn't get much done around the house. My husband is a pilot and is usually out of town for several days in a row, so most of the week I am by myself without an extra pair of helping hands. So now with the baby asleep in the carrier, I can do so much more. I've even started painting again. I am excited about things I can do now with my baby in the BBII. Besides being hands free and the secure inside panel (and infant insert), I also like the removable head rest (with a pocket to store in the BBII). It's useful to block the sun as well as hold baby's head when he's sleeping. One helpful addition to get for the BBII is a drool cover for the straps, my baby likes to suck on the fabric, and the covers will help reduce the amount of times I have to wash the carrier. All in all, babywearing has definitely enrichened our time as a family.

This was a guest post by Sheena.

Breastfeeding and Babywearing: A Match Made in Heaven

2011-03-31T18:04:00.000-07:00

When Isaiah was a newborn, I would take off my shirt, remove his clothes, and tuck him into a wrap. We'd wander around the house in a state of babymoon bliss, seeking to escalate the bonding experience as much as possible to encourage our breastfeeding relationship. Our bodies are amazing things; as most of you know, skin-to-skin contact is incredibly beneficial to newborns, as it helps regulate their body temperatures and it allows both mother and child to release oxytocin, the love hormone.

Oxytocin is released during all sorts of things --- but it is like God knew exactly what He was doing when He allowed oxytocin to be released when a mother holds her child, breastfeeds him, and even wears him close to her body. Aha! Babywearing promotes bonding, breastfeeding, and the connection between mother and child that is essential for our happiness.

So, not only does babywearing free up our hands and allow us to snuggle our little loves, but it allows us as mothers to have milk production continually stimulated. Babywearing is endorsed by La Leche League and by Dr. Sears as a beneficial component to breastfeeding relationship. Dr. Sears notes that "Proximity to mother encourages a baby to feed more frequently", which is incredibly beneficial for those infants that are dubbed "failure to thrive". Sears explains that as a result of babywearing, mothers' milk will exhibit more human growth hormones and enzymes that are beneficial for babies who are lagging behind. Babies will not only nurse more, but also be receiving the benefits of breastmilk that has been tailored exactly to their needs.

In my own experience, between our two children, the distinct differences in breastfeeding relationships in correlation with growth and amount of babywearing, I believe this to be true. Our first daughter, Grace, was rarely worn in baby carriers and our breastfeeding relationship suffered severely; her own failure to thrive causing me to switch her to formula when she was 7 months old. I often wonder what would have become of our breastfeeding relationship if I had worn in baby carriers more frequently. My son, on the other hand, was worn on a near daily basis, and my milk production still exeeds his demands. I noticed that my body would instinctively let down milk when he was in carriers, hungry or not, simply because of the oxytocin that was continually produced and that feeling of love for him that I was frequently experiencing.

Babywearing has a wealth of benefits, but breastfeeding is the unsung benefit that goes unnoticed. Not only are parents' hands freed up, but for mothers, our bodies are stimulated and further attuned to our children's needs. Before you begin to supplement with formula because your pediatrician has dubbed your baby "failure to thrive", consider the natural options to increasing your supply, like babywearing.

The opinions and beliefs expressed in this post can not replace the advice of a medical professional. It is merely my hope that these thoughts can be taken into account and all measures explored before ending a breastfeeding relationship.

This is a guest post by Nicole.

Beco Gemini Review

2011-03-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

I have had an amazing experience with Beco Gemini Baby Carrier. Let me start first by saying I debated over many carriers and after searching for a carrier with various carrying options I chose the Beco Gemini. The beauty of this carrier is it has four wonderful positions so it grows with your baby! My son wanted to see what was going on from about 3-6 months. With the front carry facing out position, you have the ability to allow your baby to see the world and still get the feeling of closeness! I took him on various shopping expeditions and he was happy as a clam in the front carry facing out position. When he would get hungry and wanted to nurse I would simply turn him to the forward facing position and nurse him while shopping.

I also have a 3 year old, so this is a wonderful carrier for a mom that needs two hands free to chase another child! The material is amazingly durable, I take it everywhere, the park , the beach, the store! I even carry a 33 pound child in this carrier, and not one stitch has loosened after having it for a year! As my son has grown the carrier has grown with us. The hip carry position is fantastic when your baby is in a cuddling mood and is great even for heavier toddlers. I have been known to put my three year old in it and carrier him around the kitchen after a long day! If you have two children this carrier is a great solution to a cranky baby that you can't put down at the end of the day, you can continue to make dinner and do chores while having two hands free!

If you are an active mom who loves taking walks this is a great choice! My son is now almost a year old and he loves the back carry position and so does my 3 year old! I have walked for miles with him on my back and have had no problems! If you have back problems you don't have to worry with this carrier, I have used other carriers and the Beco Gemini is the only one that has not affected my back! I would consider myself petite and this has been a perfect fit for me! I have also found that an investment in a great carrier is on of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your child. With my first child I was a part time babywearer because I had not yet discovered the perfect carrier and with my second child I was fortunate enough to find Heavenly Hold and the perfect carrier for my second son. Now I am a full time babywearing mom and my two sons are happier because of it!

This was a guest post by Abbi.

Choosing the Right Carriers from Newborn Stage through Toddlerhood

2011-03-31T17:30:00.000-07:00

This is a guest post by Diana

Once your interest in baby carriers has been fired up, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the vast selection of carriers out there. Don't be afraid! These are waters that have been navigated by many women who love the sailing and are more than willing to help you aboard and teach you the ropes. Many baby carrier stores have friendly owners who are prompt in replying with helpful information. Babywearing is more available than ever, thanks to the internet. Let the variety inspire you!

One thing you can do is to start out simple with a couple of highly-recommended carriers. For newborns, they are small, light, and sleepy. It's nice to start out with something very easy to use, like a pouch or ring sling. A wrap is just dreamy to use with a newborn, because it's snuggly and adjusts infinitely to any body type. If your baby has a strong preference for being upright and is long in the body, then you can look into a soft-structured carrier or a mei tai. For my fourth I decided I wanted one of everything. It's easy to practice wearing newborns because you're around the house all day recovering from giving birth and they want to be held constantly anyway. So you'll have plenty of opportunities to try out your carriers and find what works best for you.

There are three elements in choosing a great carrier: The mommy's body, the baby's body and the carrier itself. The first two are subject to change, especially the baby. The carrier, while rather sturdy, can be tweaked in different ways to work for you depending on what carrier you are using. In the case of pouch slings, many are sized, meaning you need to carefully choose the right size pouch using the manufacturer's sizing guide.

Keep in mind that not all carriers work for every person. There's the style issue, with mommy just preferring the use of one over another. Some mamas rock the easy pop-in and pop-out of the pouch sling, some love the structure and no-nonsense support of the buckle carrier, some love the snuggly support of a wrap, and some love the way a mei tai is a wonderful blend of structure and adjustability. And some people love all of the above, but it's hard not to have favorites. And it's normal to change favorites. For instance, the pouch sling that was so easy for the newborn stage will get a lot more uncomfortable for long-periods of wearing baby because as baby gets heavier, it's hard to have all that weight on one shoulder. If you tend to wear baby while out and about frequently, you may not want to deal with mei tai straps in a parking lot. So don't get set on one carrier for the newborn stage and expect it to be perfect through your entire babywearing career.

My first major favorite was the Beco Butterfly. I'd first started using it when my third child, Sweet Pea, was a few weeks old and wore her in it until she was 18 months old and I was too pregnant to buckle it comfortably. So with Scooby, my next baby, I started using it right away. I found out that the size of the baby can make a big difference in carrier usage. The Beco worked great until Scooby prooved to have an immensely long torso. The Beco was 16 inches tall, without enough body height to be supportive for a tall little guy with a wobbly head. So I went back to researching about carriers. I found that my mei tai was tall enough and still very snuggly. I also got an Angelpack soft structured carrier for when I didn't want to deal with tying the long straps.

If you find you are experiencing frustrations with a carrier, first look around and find ways to tweak it. Check the carrier maker's website for tips on using. Check thebabywearer.com for questions that aren't answered there. Email the retailer you got it from. Other people before you have had the same questions, and there are many things you can do differently to make a carrier work. For example, Scooby kept slipping down when I was tying him in the mei tai. I found out two other different ways of tying it, experimented, found a way that worked, and was able to make the mei tai work for us.

However, if the style of the particular carrier is what's bugging you, it may just be time to try a different type. Take what bugs you about what you are using and find something else that helps. For example, if your baby wishes to be upright, tummy to tummy, and that hold isn't comfortable with only one shoulder in a ring sling, it's time to look at something that will work tummy to tummy with supports on two shoulders. And what if your Moby wrap worked wonderfully, but now that baby's getting bigger it's too stretchy and not supportive enough? It's time to try a woven wrap! If you want to wrap, keep in mind wraps come in different lengths. This is both for people of different sizes and different ties that use more length than others.

If you love the style and use of the carrier but it's not comfortable, then it could be that the carrier itself isn't a good fit for your body type, and it's time to try a different brand. For example, I have narrow shoulders. The first mei tai I tried with my second baby worked great for back carries. However, when I wanted to use it for my third baby in a front carry, the straps were placed too widely for me to wear it comfortably. It kept slipping off my shoulders. While I was expecting my fourth, I was looking for new carriers to try and knew to check for strap placement and carriers recommended for small-shouldered wearers. I later found a mei tai that fit wonderfully and made wearing it a snuggly comfortable experience.

As baby ages, you may find the fit of your carrier changes, and you need to change the way you wear it or change the carrier itself. When baby gets taller, you may find that back carries are more comfortable for you. This also completely frees up your arms to do almost anything you can do without baby, like reach the rice box on the top shelf, unload the dishwasher. I found that one particular soft structured carrier worked perfectly until baby got to be around 21 pounds, then I suddenly got shoulder aches. I realized it was time for a bigger carrier that distributed weight better. I found one rated well for toddlers, keeping in mind my narrow shoulders and normal torso length. When I tried it on and got it adjusted, it was a perfect fit and baby felt light as a feather on my back and front. I could wear my thirty pound toddler in it with ease as well.

If you have access to a local babywearing group, a local store that sells baby carriers, or a friend with a nice stash, you have the added bonus of trying before you buy. You should try on carriers with a well-rested, fed, and calm baby. However, even without anywhere local to try carriers, I've found the internet to be a wealth of useful information on carriers and have been pleased with every one I've researched well.

It helps to think of carriers like shoes. Even not accounting for the difference in sizes, feet are shaped very differently from person to person. There's a lot of overlap and some shoes work good for the majority of people, but not every style suits every person. For instance, when Chuck Taylors were all the rage, I found that my feet were too wide for the Converse style. Sketchers, on the other hand, fit very nicely. And just like flip flops are perfect for the beach and athletic shoes are best for basketball, you may have different needs with carriers. I have a pouch sling for quick grocery runs when I'm just grabbing a few items. But when I need to do the 2.5 hour weekly shopping for my family of six, I want my Dream Carrier SSC that holds my huge, heavy eight month old so he can take a nap when he needs to. When I had a newborn hanging around the house, I loved snuggling him in my wrap. But when I'm going out running errands in the rain (and here in Oregon that's 9-10 months of the year) I don't want my wrap or mei tai straps touching the soggy grody parking lot pavement.

The bottom line is in order to find a carrier that is useful for you, you will probably wind up owning a few. As your needs change, sometimes your carrier must as well. The good news is that carriers have resale value. And because you are going to spend more time wearing baby, you will be more efficient at your job of being a mommy, wherever it takes you. Your baby will be more content, and need less of the plastic baby entertaining toys that rock, sing, stimulate, and cost a bundle! You will be free to go forth on new adventures with less limits when baby rides easy. When in your carrier search, you find one that wears like a dream come true and meets your needs perfectly, you will feel great satisfaction and freedom.

Party ON!

2011-03-31T17:12:00.000-07:00

Hello! I'm Amber Stevens, owner of Heavenly Hold and author of Babywearing Buzz (the blog you're reading!). This year, I'm including Babywearing Buzz in The Ultimate Blog Pary 2011. 5 Minutes 4 Mom puts on this great party which encourages moms to visit blogs of other moms! If you're reading this post, welcome to the party and thanks for visiting! I hope that you'll also visit my store, Heavenly Hold and peruse all the selection of beautiful baby carriers there, too!

I'm A Believer!!!

2011-03-30T05:46:00.000-07:00

I always thought that using a Baby Bjorn meant that I was a true baby wearer. Ha! Was I wrong. It didn't ever occur to me that there was anything else out there other than the Bjorn that might actually work for me. Little did I know that my life would soon be turned upside down by the world of babywearing. Wow... will I ever be the same? Nope! And I am better for it!

So, up until now, all I knew was the Bjorn. I had been happy in my own little bubble just sort of getting by with it. I dealt with the back and shoulder pain when I would wear it. I never really was able to go "hands free" because I was always afraid to let my child go in fear that the harness would malfunction and down baby would go. Yes, I am that mother that would happen to. My luck is that bad. So wearing it was more for just keeping the baby happy rather than me getting anything done around the house or even having an extra hand. So you might be asking yourself at this point why I even bothered with the Bjorn? I don't know. Because I thought I was "babywearing" and by golly I was gonna do it.

So in the process of trying to do the right thing by my 4th child, I have gone soft, or is it crunchy? I'm not really sure. I have transformed from the mother that used to formula feed, throw away diapers, and use a Bjorn into the mom that breastfeeds, cloth diapers, and babywears! Yes I am a believer now! I have seen the error of my ways when it comes to the Bjorn and now am using a true babywearing device!

I was introduced to my first one a few weeks ago and it was nice. Then a few moments later is when I fell in love. Yes, it was love at first wear. The Ergo. I put it on and it was as if it was meant to be. It had to become mine. It is just one of those things that you know is right from the moment you try it out. It made the Bjorn feel so inferior. I can't believe I had gone so long without having such a wonderful thing in my gear collection! How did I survive?!

I made it my goal to attain one of these wonderful carriers. I am now the proud owner of a River Rock Green Organic Ergo. I absolutely adore it. I believe that it makes my life easier and my child and I bond as a result of us being able to be closer. I am able to be hands free more often as well as being comfortable while doing so. Not only am I able to carry my infant, I am able to carry my 4 year old on my back which, by the way, is comfortable as well. He thinks it is cool to ride piggy back. So I have turned into a believer of babywearing!

This was a guest post by Leah.

Two Children Under Two: An Adventure in Babywearing!

2011-03-24T10:33:00.001-07:00

In my personal opinion I think the hospital should send every family home with some kind of baby carrier when you have your second child. Don’t get me wrong I wore my first child too, but it wasn’t until I had my second child that I found out that babywearing was essential for everyone’s safety and well being.

Jason was born almost 18 months to the day after my daughter Lauren. Although I was thrilled to have two and relieved that getting pregnant the second time was easier than the first time I was a bit worried about how to meet the needs of a newborn and a very active toddler. I also worried that I would never leave the house again. How would I manage to have a life outside of the house and keep the kids safe? My toddler was use to getting out of the house and going to the park or some other energy burning outing everyday.

When Jason was a few weeks old I tried taking the stroller to the park but between the different surfaces, bark, sand, and grass as well as the swings, slide and other climbing equipment it was impossible to keep up with my toddler lugging a stroller. Leaving the stroller in one place to go help my toddler did not feel very safe. Wearing the baby on outings really allows me to feel free to follow my toddler all around the playground and to even pick her up and put her in a swing or help her climb up to the taller slide she likes. The baby is safer too, staying right next to me.

With my new found confidence I even enrolled Lauren in a mommy and me gymnastics class. This was a challenge because she needs some help staying with the group as well as doing some of the exercises and activities. I can’t lug a stroller across the work out mats so again the carrier solved my problem. Lauren is happy to be playing with her friends in class and Jason loves to be snuggled. One of the moms even said to me after about a month of class, “I don’t think I have ever heard your baby cry.” As Jason has gotten a little bigger I now often do a back carry because it gives me more reach and flexibility to help Lauren as some of the exercises have become a little harder. The receptionist said I was the pioneer at their gym. She had never seen someone wear a baby in a mommy and me class and now since I have done it she has 4 or 5 moms who wear their babies in the mommy and me class. I am often tired afterward, but so is Lauren and she often takes a longer nap on gymnastic days.

Having two small children can seem daunting, but with a good carrier, like an ERGO Baby Carrier, and some practice it is possible to keep your busy toddler engaged and stimulated and your newborn safe and happy. The added bonus is some good socialization with other mommies since you don’t have to sit on the sidelines. My advice is don’t be afraid to venture out with two kids. That first trip is a little scary but practice wearing the baby at home and picking up the toddler. Start with a short trip close to home, like a small neighborhood park. Enlist the help of friend or spouse the first time for moral support, but mostly just enjoy all the fun and zany moments with your wonderful children.

This was a guest post by Julie.

Babywearing Evolution

2011-03-24T10:25:00.000-07:00

This is a guest post and contest entry by Danielle.

I have been a baby wearer for as long as I can remember. I started out wearing a little girl I used to watch in a Bjorn over 10 years ago. Boy have we come a long way in that time! When I used to pack her around I loved the convienience and versatility of it. I also totally adored this little pumpkin and still do.

Now that I have my own children (the oldest just turned 8) baby wearing is essential. In order for me to keep up with my 8 year old son, 2 year old daughter and keep my youngest happy and close, it is a MUST. I find myself wearing him around the house, in the grocery store, out for a walk, running errands. It is a great way for me to keep him close and help him feel totally secure but still have my hands free to wrangle in everyone else and get a few things done. I still use a Bjorn because my littlest is so small; the Bjorn has been easy to use, it is washable and comfortable for me but it's hard for my hubby to wear. I have to admit I have been longing for an ERGO for almost 2 years. The idea that I could continue to pack my pumpkin around with me or my two year old for that matter is absolutely amazing to me! Who wouldn't want the versatility of wearing your baby on the front or on your back. I recently learned more about the Beco and am totally LOVING the features. It seems as though it is so much easier to get a kiddo in and out of it. However I have several friends who rave about the ERGO. Regardless, baby wearing is essential to you and your little pumpkin.

A Babywearing Addiction!

2011-03-15T07:03:00.001-07:00

This is a guest post (and contest entry) by Megan:

When I found out I was pregnant, I researched everything about pregnancy, labor, breastfeeding, parenting and baby gear from cribs to carriers. My goal with baby carriers was to find one I could use from newborn to toddler as they were pretty expensive and I could only afford to buy one (even though I learned through research that many mommy's had multiple carriers). I decided to order the Maya Wrap (Ring Sling). This one was great for nursing a younger baby in either the cradle or tummy to tummy carry and an older baby with a modified hip carry.

Around three months, my son enjoyed facing out to the world and this sling allowed him to do that cross-legged with less strain on his hips/spine versus some other carriers that the baby just dangles. Despite all the types of carries and convenience of this carrier (could slip on and off quickly), I was never completely hands-free and, at 6 months old, my son was getting heavy on my hip at nearly 20lbs.

I guess you know you're officially a mommy when you put baby gear on your Christmas list but I was very glad when I received my Babyhawk! The fabric patterns were fun, being hands-free was awesome and I was able to nurse more discreetly too. This mei tai style carrier was easy to wad up in the diaper bag and go but by the next Christmas, after a baby wearing hiatus do to learning to walk, my 18 month old was feeling too heavy on my front and I found trying to tie him to my back difficult.

That's when I contacted Amber at Heavenly Hold and she recommended the Boba. I received it as a gift this Christmas and have loved the freedom of having my little cling-on child on my back! He really enjoys looking over my shoulder while I cook and I enjoy being able to still carry him without my arms/shoulders/back burning!

Even though I think I might have a slight addiction to baby carriers, I can't imagine just one being best for a baby AND a toddler. Looking back, I probably could have skipped the mei tei and gone straight to the Boba but neither of those provided the versatility of the ring sling. If you are short on cash and far from receiving a baby wearing Christmas gift like I did, then I would recommend buying a Boba or a similar buckle carrier and making your own sling or wrap. Regardless of which you pick, I think you'll quickly find out why babywearing is so addictive!

ERGO Performance Back Carry Demo Video

2011-03-10T09:58:00.000-08:00

Here is a quick video I made to help you figure out how to do a back carry with the ERGO Performance Baby Carrier. Since the Performance is a Soft Structured Carrier, you can use the hip scoot method with any other SSC that you have, too.

Babywearing Around The World Wednesday

2011-03-09T04:14:00.001-08:00

Mozambique

Babywearing Around The World Wednesday

2011-03-02T10:34:00.001-08:00

Mayan Babywearing.

Ella Belly Baby Carrier!

2011-02-23T11:02:00.000-08:00

We'll have a new baby carrier join the family soon! From March 1-15, Heavenly Hold will be accepting preorders for the Ella Belly Full CLICK, Ella Belly CLICK, and the Ella Belly Mei Tai. With your preorder, you'll receive a discount and free shipping.

All of the Ella Belly Baby Carriers are made with love by a sweet, Georgia mommy (like myself!) named Kelly.

The Ella Belly Full CLICK is a soft structured carrier that can be fully customized! If you're petite, you can order the petite sized carrier. If you have a toddler, you can order a toddler sized carrier....or the good ol' standard! In addition to size customizations, you can also choose your strap color as well as fabric for the body of your carrier (or you can send your own in). Choose from a standard headrest or swap the headrest out for a sleeping hood (my preference!).

In a front carry, the shoulder straps criss cross over your back. In a back carry, use the chest strap to secure the straps over your shoulders. Little baby or big baby, this carrier will give you your hands free and distribute the baby's weight to your hips and quads rather than your shoulders, back and neck.

The Ella Belly CLICK is a reversible half buckle soft structured carrier. Instead of straps that buckle into place on the shoulders, there are Mei Tai like straps that allow you to really find the sweet spot for wearing your baby. The waist belt is a buckle and snaps into place and adjusts to fit more than one person.

The Ella Belly Mei Tai is a reversible Mei Tai baby carrier. Super supportive straps and many fabric choices. Tie around your waist and shoulders to secure baby into the carrier.

To get started choosing your Ella Belly, start browsing fabric selections and strap color choices!

Preorders being accepted only March 1 through March 15 at Heavenly Hold.

Babywearing Around The World Wednesday

2011-02-23T06:28:00.001-08:00

Celebrity Babywearing

2011-02-15T17:59:00.000-08:00

Here's a photo of Mario Treadway (who is the husband of Alanis Morissette). Looks like he's wearing a Chocolate Moby Wrap with is 1 1/2 month old little one snuggled inside. How sweet!!!

Boba Baby Carrier Sale

2011-02-14T18:47:00.001-08:00

If you have a bigger baby or a toddler, the Boba Baby Carrier might just be the carrier for you. It has a slightly taller back and wider body than the average carrier that is specifically designed for babies 15-45 lbs. I use it with both my girls ages 4 years and 18 months...and we love it!

February 17-21, Heavenly Hold will be having a HUGE sale on three Boba Classic Baby Carriers. The Earth, Mist and Glacier Boba's will be 40% off!!! This will be the time to add another carrier to your collection, get Dad his own, or get a friend started babywearing! Also during the sale, all other Boba Baby Carriers will be an additional 10% off, too! All the sale details are here.

Beco Bonanza!

2011-02-02T18:29:00.001-08:00

Beco Gemini Ginger

Duke Beco Butterfly II Limited Edition

Ginger Beco Butterfly II

Three new carriers are on their way to Heavenly Hold!! First up is a new Beco Gemini print, Ginger! She's sweet and saucy! Chocolate brown straps and a fun, modern dot print on the body with tiny, sweet birds. The Beco Gemini still does 4 different positions for wearing your little one: front facing in, front facing out, hip carries and back carries.

Next up is my new favorite! Duke has me wishing I had a little boy to wear! The Duke is a limited edition Beco Butterfly II carrier and will only be around for a short time. Duke has sand colored straps and the body is an echino royal and turquoise print with...helicopters!!

Last up is the Ginger Beco Butterfly II. She'll be here to stay for a while. But for how long? The Beco Butterfly II is one of my favorite options for wearing a newborn in a soft structured carrier. The infant insert is divine and great for keeping teeny babies up nice and high.

All Beco Butterfly and Gemini carriers ship for free from Heavenly Hold! Please contact Amber to preorder one.

Babywearing Around The World Wednesday

2011-02-02T05:39:00.001-08:00

What a happy baby!

ERGO Baby Features I LOVE!!

2011-01-21T10:57:00.000-08:00

I do love my ERGO Baby Carriers! My favorite is the orignal. But it has to be an organic original. I wasn't always a fan of the ERGO. When I first got mine, I thought that it was just too much carrier for me. I thought it was stiff and bulky. But then, I "upgraded" to an organic ERGO Baby Carrier and was in LOVE! The organic carrier was so much softer and nicer than the non organic. HUGE difference! Ever since I've gotten that organic one, I've only come to love the ERGO more and more.

You ask what do I love about the ERGO Baby Carriers? Ah! A LOT! I love the straps! Yes, I didn't at first, but I came to love them as they offere a ton of support and do a great job of distributing the weight of the baby.

I also love the seat darts. Many people complain that the back of the ERGO isn't as "tall" as the back of other carriers, and it's not. But since the ERGO has a nice, deep seat for the baby to sit in, the height of the back isn't so much of an issue. I really like that my girls are able to be comfortably seated in the ERGO and have their weight distributed throughout their bottoms (the way it should be naturally).

I also love the pocket on the ERGO. It is HUGE! The pocket can hold my wallet, sunglasses and keys no problem. The sleeping hood can also be stowed away on top of the pocket when not being used.

Speaking of the sleeping hood....I have yet to find a baby carrier that has a sleeping hood superior to the ERGO Baby Carrier's sleeping hood. The hood on the ERGO is soft and forms to the baby's head. It snaps into place on the shoulder straps and gently cradles the baby's head while sleeping.

My girls are 18 months and nearly 4 years old now and I still use the ERGO Baby Carrier for both of them comfortably. We have travelled a good bit with it and use it around the house and around town plenty! Great carrier and great investment!

Babywearing Fosters Confidence

2011-01-17T11:32:00.001-08:00

You may be wondering why you see a picture of me with a clown...This is a picture my husband made me take because he knows that clowns are not my thing. Well, that's actually putting it mildly. I'm afraid of clowns! And come on...I know I'm not alone!

We know that there are a multitude of benefits to babywearing. Another one is confidence. A baby that is worn is a confident baby. When you wear your baby, you are fostering that sense of confidence through security. Baby is secure and near mom (or dad) when being worn and protected. This feeling translates into confidence as baby grows into toddler, toddler grows into preschooler and so on.

So..while I'm wearing my sweet daughter in my Sienna Sunset ERGO, she is confident and secure that no clown is going to harm her! And what's more is she's learning to become a more confident baby from the experience of being worn.

Special Edition Beco Butterfly Melody!

2011-01-12T11:22:00.000-08:00

Beco has just released a special edition beco Butterfly II. Melody is the new print and it's sooo pretty!! Only 299 units were produced, so if you're in love, get one quickly! The Melody is on brushed canvas lavender straps and the body has birds sitting on a twig. The body is made from a luxurious canvas/cotton blend. Like all beco Butterfly II baby carriers, Melody will ship for free!

ERGO Options Baby Carrier

2010-12-21T06:17:00.000-08:00

If you've hesitated in purchasing an ERGO Baby Carrier because you thought they were plain, drab or utilitarian looking, you now have some Options! ERGO has come out with a new baby carrier called the ERGO Options Baby Carrier that gives you just that...options!

The baby carrier comes in plain black, which is perfect for most babywearing dads. Then, if you want some pattern or color, you have a choice! The Options Pack comes with three slipcovers that snap on the body of the carrier easily. The slipcovers can be changed in and out depending on your mood and give your baby carrier a whole new look.

Enjoy free shipping on your ERGO Baby Carrier from Heavenly Hold.

My Little Babywearing Shadow

2010-11-04T17:17:00.000-07:00

Had to post these pictures of my little babywearing shadow...also known as my sweet daughter. She attends local Koala Mommas meetings with me and brings her carriers to show off and share, too. On our way to a recent meeting we were just turning out of the neighborhood when she said, "Oh no! Mom! You forgot the ERGO Performance!" And I thought for a second, doing a mental inventory of all the carriers I had in the car...and she was right! I had forgotten the ERGO Performance.

She is truly my shadow and can name the brand names of pretty much every carrier and even knows that the bECO's have "military buckles!" I hope that she becomes a babywearing mom some day!

Babywearing a Newborn Baby in a Baby Carrier

2010-11-02T19:30:00.001-07:00

Moms ask: What is the best baby carrier for a newborn? There really isn't a simple answer. My answer usually is, bring your baby over to my home and try them all on for a test drive! BUT if that's not possible, I have a few answers. One great baby carrier for a newborn baby is the Freehand Mei Tai. I'm not a huge mei tai fan myself, BUT the Freehand is just shaped so well that it lends itself to carrying a newborn. The small body was made to wear a froggied (legs tucked underneath the body) baby! I wore my daughter in the Marie print and still do from time to time at 15 months. The Mei Tai can be worn on the front back or hip. But until your baby has good head control, it's perfect to snuggle them close on your front.
Next up is the Sleepy Wrap. I took my Sleepy Wrap to the hospital with me and wore DD2 in it as soon as I was physically able to get out of the bed. I wanted as much skin to skin contact with her as soon as I could possibly get it. I wanted the milk to start flowing!!! The Sleepy Wrap is a wonderful carrier for a newborn because it does a fantastic job of mimicking the womb (which as a new mother is one of your main jobs!). The Sleepy Wrap is made of a stretchy material (T shirt like) and wraps around your body. You can pop your baby in and out throughout the day in the cradle position or in the tummy to tummy position. I even nursed discreetly in it!
Last but certainly not least, is the bECO Butterfly II. When someone really wants a buckle carrier or a carrier that will last them all the way through toddlerhood (or in our case, preschoolhood), I will many times suggest the Butterfly. The Butterfly is soooo wonderful for newborns because it has a built in infant insert that allows the newborn baby to be up higher in the baby carrier. Once the baby reaches 15 lbs, the insert is no longer needed and can be removed and the baby carrier can be used all the way up until 45 lbs. The bECO Butterfly II also has a sleeping hood (that can be removed) for sleepy babies (and we all know that newborns are that!). The sleeping hood simply supports the baby's head while sleeping...wonderful!

New Organic ERGO Baby Carrier Designs!

2010-10-12T18:03:00.000-07:00

They're here!!! Well....almost! The new ERGO's have been debuted and are now available for preorder from Heavenly Hold. I became a true ERGO lover when I traded up to an Organic ERGO...it was such a huge difference in feel and comfort! The Organic ERGO Baby Carrier was a lot sleeker and softer...a vast improvement over my first non organic ERGO!

There are 3 new organic designs available: River Rock Green (my favorite and pictured above), Desert Bloom (love the hood on that one!), and Highland Navy. All three designs can be preordered and will be shipped for free early November.

Which one do you like best?

Indianapolis Babywearers!

2010-10-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

Are you an Indy mommy? Are you a babywearing or a wannabe babywearing Indy mommy? Even better! I'm going to be in Indianapolis, IN this coming weekend (October the 9-10, 2010) and I want to meet up with some babywearing mommies!

If you are wanting to try out some of the newest carriers, I'll have them! If you have a request for something from Heavenly Hold you'd like to try, let me know and I'll do my best to bring it! The best way to know what carrier you'll like the best, it to try out as many as you can!

Come meet me in Downtown at the Embassy Suites on Sunday afternoon at 4pm for a babywearing pow wow! I'll be the one in the lobby with all the babywearing paraphenelia! Please email me or let me know on Facebook if you are coming! Looking forward to meeting you!

The Ages and Stages of Babywearing

2010-10-03T17:32:00.001-07:00

There is time to babywear...and a time not to babywear. I've heard lots of moms say that they're done babywearing because their child has begun walking. Pshaw! I myself was in mourning when my first daughter seemed to lose interest shortly after learning to walk. BUT after the novelty of it all blew over, she had a renewed interest in being worn...and I was a happy mama!

Wearing a newborn is always wonderful...they're so sleepy and snuggly at that age. A Sleepy Wrap is a wonderful way to wear a newborn as it does a fantastic job of mimicking the womb.

When babywearing a child that has learned to walk, you're mostly back wearing at that time and a Soft Structured Carrier (or Buckle Carrier) is a fantastic option. My favorites for wearing older babies or toddlers are the ERGO, Action Baby Carrier or the Boba.

Even now that my oldest daughter is 3 1/2, she is still worn. She loves to be worn in the Scootababy and in the beco Butterfly II on my back.

So, don't let walking throw you off track. Give your babies some time to discover their new found world and then let them come back to your back for some more babywearing time!

Investing in a Baby Carrier

2010-10-03T17:31:00.001-07:00

Many folks have the surprise of their lives when they find out the cost of a high quality baby carrier. I know I did...I was a (hides eyes) Snugli wearer for the first few months of Kaelin's life. I knew no better until a friend steered me in the right direction. I though $29.95 was what a carrier should cost...wrong! When I saw that ERGO Baby Carriers were just over the $100 mark, I said, "Never!" "No way!" And here I am today...peddling the very same baby carriers and some that cost even more.

I have since learned that there are even some Baby Bjorn carriers that cost nearly $100 and some that cost even more...and those carriers are NOT good....not good for baby and not good for the babywearer=not a good investment.

So, yes...I see a baby carrier as an investment. Just like a crib, a diaper bag, or any other piece of baby paraphenelia. A baby carrier is an item that has such a positive effect on your baby's development, learning, muscle tone, digestion, sleeping habits and general comfort and security that I believe it to be one of the most important baby investments!

A baby carrier is something that can last you from birth all the way through preschool. I am wearing my 3 1/2 year old daughter in some of the same carriers that I recently wore my newborn in! A baby carrier lasts and lasts!

Another reason to invest in a good one: high resale value! I've often had customers come by to purchase a particular brand carrier and say that they searched for one on craigslist or ebay that was used so they could save a little money and found that the used ones were nearly as much as the brand new ones! So why not buy a brand new one and support a work at home mom (like me!). Once you are past your babywearing days, you can resell your high quality baby carrier for a high price! You'll be able to recoup a fair amount of your investment and get the enjoyment and peace of mind out of wearing your child in a beautiful and SAFE baby carrier!

If you think that a good carrier is out of your reach financially, consider putting one on layaway. Breaking the price up into several payments takes away a bit of the sting of the investment.

Happy Babywearing!

ERGO Baby Love!

2010-09-20T17:18:00.000-07:00

I'm the first to admit that when I first started babywearing, the ERGO Baby Carrier was not my first carrier to grab. The above picture is me wearing my oldest daughter in my first (non organic) ERGO Baby Carrier. It did it's job as far as distributing the weight of the baby and taking the pressure off of my neck and back, but it just was missing something. As a result, I just thought that I wasn't an ERGO Lover.

Later on, I had a mom exchange the Sienna Sunset Organic ERGO for a solid colored organic ERGO. I loved the color of the Sienna Sunset, so I decided to upgrade. I took her organic ERGO and sold my non organic...WOW! What a difference! I no longer had the feeling that something was missing. I realized that I wasn't loving the first ERGO because the shoulder straps were so stiff. My new organic ERGO was unbelievably soft and even....sleek! I never thought I'd use the word sleek to describe the ERGO Baby Carrier, but I was! Since I've upgraded, I've found that many moms already knew this secret and were wiser for it. If you're in the market for an ERGO, I'd for sure pick an organic one over a non organic. HUGE difference! If you're in the market for an ERGO, be sure to check out Heavenly Hold! We offer free shipping on ERGO Baby Carriers!

Baby Carrier Trial Program

2010-09-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

I've been working on adding a Baby Carrier Trial Program to Heavenly Hold for quite some time...and I've finally got it up and running! Hooray!

I often talk with moms on the phone who have a hard time deciding which carrier will work for them. I give them my honest opinions about each and every carrier knowing that many times I'll probably muddle the waters even more with all the information I have! It's unfortunate that most folks don't have a local store that will have many brands for them to try out in person...but it's reality (for now). I'm hoping that with the new Baby Carrier Trial Program, this will help people make a better choice.

It's one thing to read all about a carrier online, but it's quite another to actually get to "test drive" a carrier. You can read and read all you want, but until you actually have a baby carrier on your body with your baby in it, you're not really going to know if it's going to work out for you.

Heavenly Hold's Baby Carrier Trial Program is fairly simple. You will rent a carrier from the site. Rental fee is $8 and shipping is a flat $6. You can rent as many carriers as you like. Once the carrier(s) arrive at your home, you'll have 14 days to test drive the baby carrier(s). At the end of your trial period, hopefully you'll know whether you've found a winner or not! You will have the choice to purchase the carrier you've tried (price will be dependent upon condition and age of carrier), or to send back and purchase another carrier, or to send back the carrier and hold off. If you do purchase a carrier, you'll get your rental fee ($8) as credit towards your baby carrier purchase.

As of today I have added quite a few carriers to the Baby Carrier Trial Program. So far I have ERGO Sport, ERGO Baby Carrier, beco Butterfly II, beco Gemini Baby Carrier, Action Baby Carrier, Boba Organic Baby Carrier and Boba Classic. I will be adding more brands in the near future and if you have any suggestions, feel free to suggest!

Action Baby Carrier New Prints!!!

2010-08-31T10:42:00.001-07:00

I have long raved about the Action Baby Carrier in the babywearing world. It's truly one of my favorites! Not only is it super reasonably priced, but it's super duper simple, lightweight and supportive.

The Action Baby Carrier is a baby carrier that can be used front, back and hip with babies 8lbs - 40 lbs. You will only need one carrier from newborn to toddlerhood. When wearing your baby on the front in the Action Baby Carrier, you criss cross the straps over your back to make it comfy and supportive. When wearing the baby carrier on your back, use the chest strap the secure the carrier.

I recommend the Action Baby Carrier as a summertime option for babywearing because it is so lightweight. The body of the carrier is completely unpadded which allows for more breathability....hopefully keeping mom (or dad) and baby a little bit cooler!

The Action Baby Carrier is one of the few baby carriers that are made in the USA. Action Baby Carriers is truly a "mom and pop" operation, so when you purchase an ABC, you're supporting a small business, but more importantly, a hard working family business! Heavenly Hold, also a family owned/run business stocks all prints and colors of the Action Baby Carrier and ships them for free all over the US.

Email me amber (at) heavenlyhold (dot) com with any baby carrier or babywearing questions. I'm always super happy to help!

Boba Classic Baby Carrier

2010-08-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

The Boba Classic Baby Carriers just arrived on my doorstep and we were all (the girls and I) SO excited!!! The Boba Classics are the same in design as the Boba Organic 2G's. They still are baby carriers designed for babies ages 1-4 (toddlers) or 15-45 lbs. My daughter fit fine in the Boba Organic when she was nearly 8 months.

The Boba Classic has the detachable sleeping hood, a taller back to accomodate toddlers, and the patent pending detachable foot stirrups (which ensure that the baby's legs have optimal circulation while in the carrier...keeping them at a 90 degree angle). Unlike the Boba Organic, the Classic is manufactured in China under fair trade working conditions.

Like the Boba Organic 2G, the Boba Classic also comes in earth inspired colors: Glacier, Mist, Breeze, Earth, Dusk, and Twilight. I chose the Dusk for myself..love it!

Heavenly Hold carries the Boba Classic in stock and ready to ship for free! The Boba Classic is a quality carrier for a very reasonable price.

Babywearing Grandparents!

2010-08-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

I took this photo of my mom wearing Kiley on a recent visit to my parents...priceless! I was excited to share babywearing with my mom! My dad actually wore me when I was little in a frame backpack, so I was a worn baby too!

A question that I occasionally get is: What is a good carrier for a grandparent or a caregiver? Well, first off, yay for grandparent or caregiver babywearing! Awesome decision! Usually a grandparent or caregiver will want something relatively easy and simple to use...no fuss babywearing. This probably means that wraps and mei tais are out as they do have a little bit of a learning curve. A grandparent or caregiver quite probably will also be sharing the carrier with another person...you or another grandparent or caregiver. This means that it needs to be adjustable...nothing sized!

The answer: A Soft Structured Carrier! My personal favorite for ease of use and the support level. My petite mom was able to wear my Sienna Sunset ERGO with it cinched all the way down. I'm a bit taller (and less sleek) than she is and I'm able to wear the same carrier as is my husband.

I'd suggest an ERGO, an Action Baby Carrier or a Boba as they are all very similar in design and are all very simple to use. Happy Babywearing Grandmas and Grandpas!

ERGO Performance Review

2010-08-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

Sleeping hood/pocket compartment

Shoulder Straps and Chest Strap

Inside of Body and Structured Waist (note the mesh lining on parts of the body)

Heavenly Hold carries the new ERGO Performance baby carrier in stock and ready to ship (for FREE!).

My thoughts on ERGO's newest innovation are pretty positive so far at this early stage! I love, love, love all shades of green, so I'm a real sucker for the Spring Green ERGO Performance. The Grey is pretty sharp looking too!

There are quite a few differences between the ERGO Performance and the Standard ERGO. The shoulder straps are a big one...the straps on the Performance are waaaay less padded, but in a good way! The straps still felt supportive with my chubby girl and I, of course with a chubby baby, LOVE the ERGO's seat darts which really give the baby a true, ergonomic seat to sit in. I also like that there is a touch of leg padding on the sides of the body to cushion baby's legs.

The Performance is 1/3 lighter than the standard ERGO (yippee for summertime babywearing!) and it's made of breathable fabric. It does still have a sleeping hood, but instead of just rolling up in the pocket (yes! There IS a pocket!!!), it rolls up and then the pocket can zip shut (and the hood will stay put!). The hood seems really breathable, too and can also be detached.

The inside of the body is lined with mesh panels and Cool Max lining which also gives it more breathability. Not sure how much cooler this will actually make you when babywearing in the heat, but every little bit helps!

If you have any questions about the ERGO Performance or any other baby carriers, feel free to contact me! I'm always super happy to help...and sell you an ERGO!

Babywearing...er....Bearwearing?

2010-06-26T18:08:00.000-07:00

Kaelin has been babywearing...er...bearwearing all.day.long. I snapped this pic of her wearing her Galaxy Grey ERGO at the end of her naptime and discovered that she even wore her bear while she was sleeping! Now, that's dedicated babywearing!

ERGO Sport in Blue!

2010-06-26T17:29:00.000-07:00

The ERGO Sport is a great summertime babywearing solution. This baby carrier helps keep babywearer and baby slightly cooler due to the lightweight fabric and the built in "vent" that allows some airflow. Before, the ERGO Sport was only available in boring black. The carrier was solid black with white stitching and not very interesting. But now, the ERGO Sport is available in blue as well! Same great design, but a little bit more visually interesting!!

Toddler Babywearing and Toddler Carriers

2010-05-24T10:30:00.001-07:00

Kaelin in the Beco Butterfly II in "Zoye"

Kaelin in the "Pine" Boba.

I often hear many people say that they're buying a carrier for their baby, "Until she learns to walk." To some, wearing a toddler or preschooler just doesn't occur to them...but in fact, more and more people are wearing their older babies and children! And I say "Yay!!" for toddlerwearing!

My oldest daughter is 3 and we still wear her quite a bit. She had started to walk a lot more when we went out...until daughter #2 arrived! Then she became very interested in being worn again! AND, get this...she wanted to be worn on my front (because the baby was being worn on my front). So. Picture me, walking through the grocery store with a 37" toddler on my front...I couldn't see! It was pretty funny.

I've finally convinced her that she can be happy on my back and now I don't bump into things anymore. When we went to the zoo last month, I wore Kaelin on my back the entire time. It was very beneficial. She was happy as could be because she was up high and could see all the animals. I was happy as could be because I wasn't having to lift her up and down to see everything AND she was close to me...I knew where she was all the time. She was never running away from me.

Some of my favorite carriers for toddlers are Soft Structured Carriers. The Boba is what I wore Kaelin in at the zoo. It's designed for babies ages 1-4 (although I wear my 10 month old in it as well). It's all organic and super soft, sleek and lightweight! I also wear Kaelin in my ERGO, Action Baby Carrier, Oh Snap, and beco quite a bit.

I intend to toddler (or preschool) babywear for as long as my sweetie and I enjoy it!

Oh Snap!

2010-05-22T19:13:00.001-07:00

Oh Snap! is the newest Soft Structured Baby Carrier manufactured by Babyhawk. Yes, they also make great mei tai's but the Oh Snap is a fantastic buckle carrier that gives you the ease of buckles instead of ties.

Oh Snap Carriers can be worn on the front or back and are intended to be used for babies 6 months and up through 45 lbs. It has a soft structured waist that will take the weight of the baby or toddler being worn and distribute it to your hips and quads...making your child seem weightless (and give you two free hands at the same time!).

When wearing your baby on your front, you have the ability to wear the shoulder straps in the criss cross position which is VERY comfy.

Although the Oh Snap does not have a sleeping hood, it does have a taller back and the headrest can be used folded down or up all the way. You can also add a Freehand Universal Hood to the OS if you wish.

The Oh Snap comes in TONS of different prints and many different strap color choices as well. All carriers on the Heavenly Hold site are in stock and ready to be shipped, but if you're interested in a custom, you'll be waiting a few weeks, but contact us!

The pictures above are my sweet friend and neighbor and her 6 month old son. LOVE the print she chose...Garden Tiles. She is wearing the Oh Snap on her front with the straps criss crossed over her back.

Babywearing in the Summer

2010-05-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

Lots of people ask me about babywearing in the summer or in the heat. Where we live, it's hot....and it's humid! So we are experienced summertime babywearers over here.

Question: "What is the coolest baby carrier out there?"

My Answer: "There are a few lighterweight carriers out there, but no matter which carrier you choose, you're going to be hot in the summer. Your body generates body heat. Your baby's body generates body heat. The two bodies together generate even MORE body heat...hot and sticky!"

However, if you want a cooler Buckle Carrier, I would recommend the Action Baby Carrier. It's going to be slightly cooler simply because it is very lightweight compared to the bulk of the carriers on the market. It's body is also unpadded which will allow for a little more airflow through the carrier.

The ERGO Sport is much lighterweight that the original ERGO and it also has an "air vent" that allows some air flow between the carrier and the baby's body.

The Freehand Mei Tai is one of the most lightweight mei tais that I have tried, and since the body is on the smaller side, there will be more air flow to baby and babywearer.

A Water Mesh Ring Sling or an Organic Cotton Mesh Ring Sling will also be slightly cooler because the mesh fabric allows more air to flow through the fabric and reach the baby and babywearer's bodies. These carriers are also great options to wear in the water and they dry quickly, too!

Have fun babywearing in the summer!

Babywearing is Beautiful

2010-05-05T18:03:00.000-07:00

One of the main reasons why I babywear is the benefits that my baby receives from being worn. She will have more self confidence, be more intelligent, be healthier...the list goes on and on of the benefits she'll get from being worn. There are also many benefits to me. Mainly being that I can carry my baby and her weight will be evenly distributed throughout my body. No more will my back or neck be pinched or ache from lugging around my 20 lb'er!

BUT another big reason why I wear my babies, is to be cute! I am not a huge diaper bag mama like many moms are. I know moms that have a vast collection of diaper bags that would equal the down payment on a house for some people! I'm not one of those moms. I used that freebie diaper bag that the hospital gave me until it broke!

BUT...I'm a sucker for a cute (and of course, comfortable) baby carrier! I LOVE wearing my baby and looking cute doing it! I love color...I love print....I....LOVE....FABRIC!!

A super sweet local mom took a few pictures of me recently wearing Kiley in my Action Baby Carrier. I will treasure these pictures forever...way beyond my babywearing days!

New Scootababy Print on the Way!

2010-04-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

Heavenly Hold LOVES Scootababy! I use mine a LOT with both my girls ages 3 years and 9 months. I use carriers a lot in general, but I find myself grabbing my Scootababy a lot when we're in the house and baby is fussy or big girl just wants some extra mommy time. Scootababy is great for times like these because it's a quick carrier to grab and throw on...not a whole lot of adjusting needed to get it to feel right or to get baby in the "sweet spot."

I use my Scootababy to cook dinner (gasp! Don't try this at home babywearers...stoves and babywearing don't mix--but let's be real, here...sometimes you HAVE to cook with a baby in tow!), to vaccum (my daughters are terrified of the vacuum cleaner) or to do things like clean mirror or windows. It's very handy and super comfy.

I usually stay away from one sided carriers because they eventually put too much stress on one side of my body with my heavy babes and start hurting my back. The Scootababy is different because it has a SOFT STRUCTURED WAIST. The soft structured waist helps take the weight of the baby off your shoulder and back and transfers it to the most powerful muscle in your body...your quads! This makes your baby feel much lighter!

Scootababy has recently added a new print to their already gorgeous line. It's a beautiful fabric called "Kapaia" that was snagged by the manufacturer on a trip to Hawaii. Doesn't it look cool and breezy!? I love it! It has Espresso Twill straps and brown microfiber lining.

Also, don't forget that they also just added a Charcoal solid that is manufactured (fair trade) in China that comes at a lower price point!

Being Safe While Babywearing

2010-03-23T18:32:00.000-07:00

A "Bag Sling"

As of late, babywearing has come under the scrutiny of the federal government. Unfortunately there have been some injuries and even deaths related to a certain type of carrier called a "bag sling". While bag slings are easy to come by, readily available at large national retailers, they are not the optimal choice for comfortable or safe babywearing. Though low in price, they're not worth the money consumers pay for them. Bag slings are slings that are, essentially, "bag-like" and would you put your baby in a bag? I think not!

The reason that bag slings are unsafe is that the baby is riding too low in the sling and is not secure against the body of the babywearer...the sling should never be able to swing away from the body. Correct slings should be fitted to the users body. When the baby is in the sling, the lowest point of the sling should be either right at or a little above the babywearer's belly button. Some quality brands of safe baby slings include: Slinglings, Hotslings, and Kangaroo Korner.

If you've been considering wearing your baby, please do not let these recent events deter you. The benefits of babywearing are numerous for you and your baby and if you do it correctly, your baby's safety will not even be in question.

Happy Birthday My Sweet Girl!

2010-03-07T13:30:00.000-08:00

This post is a little late, but my sweet Kaelin turned three a couple weeks ago and had (her defenition of) a party: balloons, birthday cake and friends!!

I Thought I Was...

2010-02-26T18:12:00.000-08:00

a Ring Sling flunkee!

But it turns out...I'm not!

The other night, we had a "babywearing emergency" over here, and..

I grabbed my Taylormade ring sling and plopped Kiley into it! Happy baby=happy mommy!

Just Had to Share...

2010-02-12T17:48:00.000-08:00

...these super sweet photos of my sweet (and sassy!) almost three year old!

I could just smooch her all day!!

New Scootababy Line Available

2010-02-10T11:19:00.001-08:00

Everyone that's everyone in the world of babywearing knows how comfortable and luxurious the Scootababy is. The reason the Scootababy is so comfortable is the soft structured waist does a fantastic job of taking the weight of your child off of your back or side and transferring it to your most powerful muscle...your quads!

But...the Scootababy is a pretty pricey carrier. Now there is a new Scootababy line out that has all the great features and qualities of the classic Scootababy, but with a lower price point! The carrier comes in a solid, charcoal gray and is $92.

We're taking preorders at Heavenly Hold for the new Scootababy from February 10th - February 15th. You can order the carrier on the site and use the discount code: happy2010 to save an additional 10% and still get free shipping on this great new hip carrier!

Ellevill Wait List! New Designs!!

2010-02-08T12:31:00.000-08:00

New designs are coming from Norway and they're gorgeous!! Read all about them here. Then get your name on the wait list before Feb 12th!!!

Our Cloth Diapering Adventure

2010-01-17T17:30:00.000-08:00

Yep. I'm officially a cloth diaper addict now...thought it couldn't happen to me, but it has! I love 'em! I love fluffy buns! Never thought that diapering your baby could be so much fun!

I have tried LOTS of different kinds of cloth diapers so far. Thirsties, bumGenius, g diapers, Cute in Cloth, Tail Feathers, fuzzi bunz, swaddlebees, GAD's, and probably a few others!

My all time favorite brand is bumGenius, though...I always come back to it because ...well... because they work....REALLY WELL! We don't have leaks, they wash up really easily and they last!

I have both the sized AIO's with velcro and the one sized kinds. I really like the organic one sized AIO's with snaps the best.

One mistake I made early on, was not fully prepping my diapers. I was so eager to use them that I didn't wash them enough to get them fluffed up and to their full absorbancy.

Oh! And by the way, if I didn't mention it, I have cloth diapers at Heavenly Hold. And, if you're in metro Atlanta and want some help with cloth or you want to learn more about cloth diapering your little one, I'm happy to help (even if you're not buying).

Look What Just Flew In!!!!

2010-01-16T11:45:00.000-08:00

The Beco Butterfly II has now been added to Heavenly Hold! I'm so excited to not only get to snag one for myself, but to begin working with customers searching for Beco's! There is currently no one in Georgia retailing the Beco Butterfly, so if you're an Atlanta babywearer and want to try out a Butterfly, give me a call or email me!

The Beco Butterfly II is a baby carrier that works on your front or your back for babies 7-45 lbs. It also has an internal infant insert (that is removeable) to make it easier to wear a newborn in the upright position.

I am also stocking the two newest prints of Butterflies at my shop...Zoye and Paige! I think that I'll be choosing one of these prints as my personal (and demo) carrier...but I'm having a hard time deciding which one!

WW

2009-12-15T18:14:00.001-08:00

What Age Should I Start Back Carrying My Baby?

2009-12-03T17:39:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe it, but Kiley is almost 5 months old!!! In the blink of an eye...

About two weeks ago, I was making a really complex, gourmet meal (hot dogs, mac and cheese and pineapples) and I had a lot going on...no really, I had to chop up the pineapple and I was making the mac and cheese from scratch! Seriously! Kaelin was occupied, but Kiley was SO over the bouncy seat. I tried wearing her in my ERGO Baby Carrier on my front, but then it was really hard (and unsafe) to use my arms in the kitchen.

I thought it over for about a minute and decided that her head control was good enough to attempt a back carry. The girl still wants her legs "froggied" but here we were doing a back carry! I really thought that I wouldn't be doing this until about 8 months, but I needed my full range of motion. Wearing your baby on your back is SO freeing!! Kiley did OK in her first back carry. I think I will end up waiting a couple of more weeks before trying it again, because my hubby said she did look a little freaked out at one point, but she didn't fuss! Wearing your baby on your back (unless using a mei tai with a high back carry or a woven wrap) shouldn't be attempted until your baby has stable head control.

Please excuse the frazzled look I'm sporting (can I still claim "new mom" as my excuse?). In the pictures, I'm wearing my new Organic Sienna Sunset ERGO that has some really gorgeous embroidery on it and it's super soft! I love it!

Going for a Walk!

2009-11-14T11:26:00.001-08:00

This is Daddy's hat, but Kaelin MUST wear it on our walks!

Cyber Monday Deals!!

2009-11-05T12:30:00.000-08:00

If you're shopping online this year, here are some great deals including one from my shop, Heavenly Hold!

Gifts for Baby and Kids
Something About Baby:
Deal: 10% off all items in the boutique.
Coupon Code: Use code SAB10. Offer expires 12/31/09
http://www.somethingaboutbaby.com
Dreamscapes Baby: Designer baby products.
Deal: 20% off
Coupon Code: Use Coupon Code: cyber
http://www.dreamscapesbaby.com
Heavenly Hold: Baby carriers, nursing pads and more:
Deal: 10% off
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code: code: NEWBABY
http://www.heavenlyhold.com
Milos Creations: Adorable Costumes for baby girls, boys, toddler girls and boys , big kids and adults.
Deal: Free shipping on orders over $100.00,and FREE embroidered name personalization of costumes.
See Cyber Monday link
for full details.
Coupon Code: Use code FREESHIP09 at checkout
http://www.miloscreations.com
Shop Baby Tree:
Deal: Store wide sale on baby products. Save up to 40% off.
Coupon Code: No coupon code needed.
http://www.shopbabytree.com
The Pitter Patter Boutique: Baby Travel Gear, Gifts for Mom and more.
Deal: 15% Discount
Coupon Code: Enter Coupon Code: CyberSave
http://thepitterpatterboutique.com/
The Crafty Moms: Girls hair accessories, binky clips, diaper wipes cases and more.
Deal: Free Shipping all day.
Coupon Code: No coupon code needed
http://www.thecraftymoms.blogspot.com/
I am the Princess: Princess and girly items for baby girls, little girls and big girls.
Deal: 15% off everything including sale items.
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code: cybermondayseog
http://www.iamtheprincess.com
Itzy Ritzy:
Deal:Celebrate Cyber Monday with 15% OFF celebrity loved baby gear at www.ItzyRitzy.com
Coupon Code: MONDAY
http://www.itzyritzy.com
Katey Jades Baby Boutique: Christmas Clothing for kids, personalized gifts, baby products and more.
Deal: 20% off
Coupon Code: hol20
http://www.kateyjadesbabyboutique.com
Lollipop Book Club: Children's book of the club month:
Deal: $10 off any 12-month package
Coupon Code:Please use Coupon Code: sale10off
http://www.lollipopbookclub.com/
Che Demis Boutique: Upscale and Baby boutique.
Deal: 10% off
Coupon Code: GIFT4U
http://chedemisboutique.com
Abby N Kay: Designer Baby Products: Diaper bags, crib bedding and more:
Deal: Free Shipping Use Code: FreeShip plus 10% off all Ride On Toys from Warehouse 36. No
coupon code need for the ride on toys.
http://www.abbykayboutique.com/
Merrimack Valley Diapers: Cloth Diapers and Accessories:
Deal: Good for $5 off a purchase of $50 or more plus free shipping.
Coupon Code: Please use Coupon Code CyberMonday
http://www.merrimackvalleydiapers.com
Snotty Booty Diapers:
Deal: Free shipping on any order, plus a $5 gift certificate for each $50 spent. These offers will be in
addition to any product markdowns in
the store.
Coupon Code: Use Code: cmonday
http://www.snootybootydiapers.com
Shabby Bebe: Designer Children's products
Deal: 15% off your order of $50 or more use coupon code: shabby15 and 10% off your order if less
then $50 Please use code shabby10
http://www.shabbybebe.com/
Teacups and Mudpies: Trendy children's clothing, baby girl and baby boy clothing and more.
Deal: Free shipping on all purchases.
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code: CYBER09
http://www.teacupsandmudpies.com/
Corn Bag Critters: A natural, earth-friendly, and non-toxic way to help children and adults soothe
pain.
Deal: 20% off:
Coupon Code: Use coupon code: holi21109
http://www.cornbagcritters.com
Born Fabulous:
Deal: We will do free shipping on all orders.
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code:FREESHIP
http://www.bornfabulousboutique.com
Laughing Ladybugs Boutique: Couture Girls Clothing:
Deal: 10% off the entire store.
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code: CYBER10
http://www.laughingladybugsboutique.com
Clothing, Hand Bags and Accessories for Men or Women
Get Dolled Up Boutique: Personalized and Monogrammed handbags, diaper bags, garment bags and
more.
Deal: 15% off plus Free Shipping.
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code: 15OFF
Http://www.getdolledupboutique.com
QT Sunglasses: Designer Inspired Sunglasses:
Deal: FREE SHIPPING and 20% off on all orders. Free Shipping for US and Canada orders only.
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code:Cyber09
http://www.qtsunglasses.net
Hair Accessories
Little Miss Julia: Hair bows, barrettes and more.
Deal:15% off everything
Coupon Code: Use coupon code: Promo20
My Bonita Boutique: Crochet Headbands, Flower Headbands, Hair Bows and More.
Deal: 25% off all items.
Coupon Code: Please sure coupon code: cyber25
http://www.mybonitaboutique.com
Pop Tots Boutique: Fabulous hair accessories for girls and beanie hats:
Deal: Free shipping
Coupon Code: Please Use code: Cyber Monday
http://www.poptotsboutique.com/
Gifts
Nanny Deprived: Gifts for Moms.
Deal: Free Shipping.
Coupon Code: Use coupon code: FREESHIP
http://www.nannydeprived.com
Lone Star graphics: Custom Vinyl Decals, Custom Shirts, Hats and More!
Deal: 20% off any order of $20 or more
Coupon code: cyber20
http://www.lonestargraphics.biz
Label Creations: Personalized Address Labels, Canning Labels, Tic-Tac Labels, Bag Tags, Checkbook
Covers, Canning Labels, Bookplates, Favor tags, Note Cards, Hang Tags for Crafters & Events
Deal: 20 % off and Free Shipping for US only.
Coupon Code: Use DISCOUNT COUPON: LC1115
http://www.labelcreations.com
Sassy Sparkle: Personalized Rhinestone Clothing:
Deal: 15% off any order
Coupon Code: cyber09
http://www.sassysparkle.com
Home and Garden
Melt Ur Scentz: Have you melted your Scentsy today? Free Shipping - email me @
melturscentz.com with your order and Freeship in subject line.
Http:www.melturscentz.com
Jewelry
TLC Silver Jewelry:
Deal: 20% off Jewelry and Holders. Valid Cyber Monday only.
Coupon Code: Use coupon code: Checkout
http://www.tlcsilverjewelry.com
Caribbean Jewelz: Handmade Artisan Jewelry:
Deal: 25% off total purchase.
Coupon Code: Use coupon code: cyber60
http://www.caribbeanjewelz.com/
Pendora Pendants: Glass Tile Pendants:
Deal: 25% off all items.
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code: cybermonday.
http://www.pendorapendants.com/
Organic Products:
Tidbit Couture: Organic cloth diapers and Baby products.
Deal: Free Shipping. Plus, additional sales will be offered throughout website.
Coupon Code: Please use code: FREESHIP
Http://www.tidbit-couture.com
Krave Natural: Earth Friendly products for Home, Baby and Body:
Deal: Free site wide shipping and there will also be additional savings on items throughout the
store.
Coupon Code: No coupon code needed
http://www.kravenatural.com
Pet Products
Punk Luxury Dog Carriers : Buy luxury dog collars, high end dog carriers and a Christmas costume
or two for your dog.
Deal: Free Shipping for US buyers all day long.
Coupon Code: No coupon code needed
Http://badasspetz.com
Photo and Greeting Cards
Fun and Sassy Designs: Modern Photo Cards and Personalized Gifts for Adults and Kids:
Deal: Free Shipping on Orders over $50 + $15 off Orders of $99 or more through 11/30 at midnight
EST
Coupon Code: Use Code: CYBER15
http://funandsassydesigns.com
Bunny Prints: Personalized Photo Cards for Birthday and Baby Shower plus matching birthday
clothing.
Deal: 10% off
Coupon Code: cyber09
Http://www.bunnyprints.com
Photo Card Designs: Photo Cards for Weddings, Birthdays , Baby Showers and more.
Deal: Good for one day only- 5% off .
Coupon Code: Please Use Code: cybermonday
http://photocarddesigns.com
Pitter Patter Creations: Trendy birth announcements, birthday invitations, baptism invitations and
more!
Deal: Receive free shipping for orders over $30.
Only one promotional code may be used per order and cannot be combined. May not be used on
previous orders.
Coupon Code: Use coupon code: FREESHIP09
http://www.pitterpattercreations.com
Lemon Tree Cards:
Deal: 15% discount expiring 12/25/09
Coupon Code: Please use coupon code: LEMONADE
http://lemontreecards.com

A Word

2009-10-21T17:34:00.000-07:00

Loving these fall days,
Loving my Savior.

Reveling in the scent of my baby's hair.
Praising my God.

Soaking up the songs my sweet girl sings,
Singing a song of worship in my heart.

Thanking my God for all my blessings,
Keeping faith of more to come...

Boba Organic Toddler Carrier

2009-10-16T16:36:00.000-07:00

The newest baby carrier on the market is the "Boba" (short for "Boulder Baby") which is made in Boulder, CO by the makers of the Sleepy Wrap.

The Boba is 100% organic and is a soft structured carrier designed for toddlers ages 1-4 years. This carrier is sleek in design and comes with special health benefits that no other baby carrier can boast. This carrier has special foot rests for the child to use which ensure that his or her knees are kept at a 90 degree angle thereby increasing blood circulation while being worn.

Boba comes in 6 different color combinations all which reflect colors found in nature. Wear the Boba on your front or your back and feel the comfort of having your child's weight be evenly distributed throughout your back. The Boba is offered with FREE shipping at Heavenly Hold.

Which Baby Carrier Is For You?

2009-10-03T17:56:00.000-07:00

Many mamas (and papas) are overwhelmed by the different types and many choices in the babywearing world. Because of the many different brands and types of carriers, babywearers can end up with a carrier that doesn't work well for them or their child. I'm going to try to demystify the many carriers out there on the market today by giving a short description or definition of each type.

A SLING can come in two forms: a pouch sling or a ring sling. A pouch sling is a carrier that must be fitted specifically to the babywearer's body. It is a very simple type of carrier that drapes over one shoulder and it folds up very small to fit in a diaper bag easily. Babies can be worn in five different positions in a pouch sling. A ring sling is an adjustable sling that adjusts with a ring at the babywearer's shoulder. This carrier is much easier to fit different types of bodies. Wear your baby in the same positions that the pouches offer. Wear newborns through toddlers in a sling. Brand examples: Slinglings and Taylormade

A MEI TAI is an Asian style baby carrier that has ties that go around your waist and over your shoulders. This carrier can be worn on your front, back or hip and is good for newborns through toddlers. Some mei tais even allow babywearers to wear their babies in the front facing out position. Mei tai baby carriers are lightweight and are adjustable so that more than one person can wear them. Brand examples: Freehand, Babyhawk

A WRAP is simply a piece of fabric that wraps around your upper body to support the baby in place. Wear your baby or child in several different position with a wrap. Depending on the type of fabric used, a wrap can be one of, if not the most supportive type of baby carrier. Wraps can be used with newborns through toddlers. Brand examples: Sleepy Wrap, Didymos

A SOFT STRUCTURED CARRIER is a buckle carrier that can be worn on the front, back or hip. It is adjustable to more than one babywearer. Many have sleeping hoods that give support to baby's heads while sleeping in a carrier. A soft structured carrier keeps the baby in a natural seated position and gives their hips and spine support while being worn. Brand examples: ERGO Baby Carrier, Action Baby Carrier

WW - Sisters

2009-09-30T10:16:00.000-07:00

WW

2009-09-23T06:54:00.001-07:00

bumGenius Cloth Diaper Laundry Detergent

2009-09-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

Woo-hoo! It's here! I'm excited to announce that Heavenly Hold is now carrying bumGenius Diaper Detergent!

bumGenius Diaper Detergent was developed to work specifically with bumGenius diapers, but it also works great for other diapering systems as well. The detergent is free of dyes, optical brighteners, fragrances, enzymes and phosphates which is all good news for your cloth diapers. They'll come out of the washer smelling clean!

Each box will do 66 loads of diapers and the detergent is even HE washer certified! bumGenius Diaper Detergent is available at Heavenly Hold for $11.95.

Moving and Grooving!

2009-09-19T17:10:00.000-07:00

We're in the process of repurposing our "extra" room. It's currently filled with some really outdated bunk beds that belong to my stepson, but we want to make it more of a multipurpose room that would function for guests as well as Jordan.

I found these and think that they would work much better than what we currently have. I found lots of other bunk beds that would work well for our room as well.

If we had bunk beds with a full bed on the bottom, this would be great for guests. We'd even have a place for my parents to stay other than the pullout in the living room! Plus, the room would still work for my stepson when he is here.

Now, we just need to "de-junkify" the room and repurpose it!

New ERGO Baby Carrier Designs

2009-09-18T06:15:00.000-07:00

Yay! New ERGO Baby Carrier designs are available for preorder from Heavenly Hold until September 23rd. Check out the new designs here. There are some spectacular, gorgeous new carriers to choose from and most have matching front backs and back packs available too!

There's even the cutest little doll carrier in one of the new prints which is a perfect Christmas gift for the littlest babywearer!

When you preorder a new ERGO, you'll pay half now and half before it ships. You will receive free shipping as well as a special gift with your order!

WW

2009-09-09T06:45:00.001-07:00

Kaelin calls this dress " 'dorable"

Babywearing With a Bad Back

2009-09-02T18:52:00.000-07:00

"Oh, my aching back!" This mantra can be heard from many mamas around the world with their very own little "velcro babies" otherwise referred to as babies that want to be held and carried all the time.

I have my own set of little babies like that and until I discovered babywearing, I was complaining of a stiff back, aching neck and pain in my shoulders as well!

Babywearing will help alleviate pain in your back, neck and shoulders because instead of carrying your baby on one side of your body and only using one set of muscles, you'll be better distributing the weight of the baby throughout your back, neck and shoulders.

A classic pouch sling or ring sling (ex. Slinglings, TaylorMade Ring Slings) does this by spreading a piece of fabric across your back and distributing the baby's weight throughout this piece of fabric. A pouch sling can be great for quick carries for older babies or wearing newborns in the cradle carry position. However, for longer periods of babywearing it may not be super comfy because it's only using one shoulder.

For longer periods of babywearing, or for someone with a history of back problems, a two shouldered carry will be much better! Two shouldered carries include: wraps, mei tais (asian style baby carriers) and soft structured carriers (buckle carriers). Two shouldered carriers do a fabulous job of equally distributing the weight of the child to both shoulders and throughout your back. Soft Structured Carriers (ex. ERGO Baby Carrier, Action Baby Carrier) do an even better job of making your child feel weightless because they have structured waists. Structured waists transfer the weight of the baby to your most powerful muscle...your quadriceps.

2009-08-12T13:05:00.001-07:00

The Sleepy Bear has arrived at Heavenly Hold! As a lover of babywearing, I enjoy wearing my children in carriers whenever I can. My daughter is now mimicking me in many of my "motherly acts" as I care for my newest little one. She has been wearing her own dolls in her own carriers for quite some time though...it's so sweet! Just last week she asked me if she could put Kiley in her carrier! Ha!

The maker of Sleepy Wrap has just come out with a new babywearing product, the Sleepy Bear! He is 100% organic and oh, so soft! He helps show little ones what babywearing is all about and they are able to take out and put in the little bear in his carrier!

Use the code: SLEEPY5 to save $5 on a Sleepy Bear or a Sleepy Wrap at Heavenly Hold!

Kiley's Birth Story

2009-08-03T18:36:00.000-07:00

I had an emergency C-Section with Kaelin...she had a prolapsed cord. I had a really tough recovery from the surgery and was not excited about another C Section especially with a toddler to take care of at home!! Also, nine days after I had Kaelin, I got a DVT in my leg (Deep Vein Thrombosis--aka. blood clot). The recovery from that was about as bad as the C Section was!

I got OK'd to try a VBAC from my doctor and I was excited to try laboring again and have a (hopefully) easier recovery!

I thought for sure I would go into labor before my due date since Kaelin was early, but no, I did not. I had a C Section scheduled for my due date (July 9th) if I didn't go into labor.

The day before my due date I was really bummed but gave it over to the Lord with the help of my husband. However at around 1am I woke up with contractions! I waited before getting up to try to figure out what was going on and if they were sticking around. They were! 3-4 minutes apart! I was really excited. The doctor told me to come in and check in to the delivery floor! Yeah!

I was still only 1 cm dilated and no epidural was possible because I'd taken my shot of heparin (to prevent another blood clot) just a few hours earlier. Hubby told me to just try to get some sleep (yeah right!) but it was not do-able...I labored all night and then they checked me again in the morning...still only 1-1.5 cm! I was really discouraged after that awful night I'd had. at 10:30 am when I still hadn't progressed (and couldn't have potossin due to it being a VBAC), I decided to go ahead with the C Section.

The surgery was much different for me this time around since it was emergent. The dr thought that this baby (didn't know the gender at this point) would be as tiny as Kaelin was so he just used the same size incision, but she was bigger! I could hear him and the nurses referred to "her" so I knew it was a girl at that point! The dr. told me that there was NO WAY I would have delivered this little girl vaginally b/c she had one of her feet up by her ear and the other foot down...doing the splits! He had a hard time getting her out because of this!

Kiley Renae was born at 12:53 pm on July 9, 2009 and weighed 6 lbs. 12 oz. and was 19 inches long. She came out squalling and crying...which was different for me to hear because Kaelin was quiet! It was a wonderful experience this time and I experienced so much more JOY at Kiley's birth! I was so happy to be the mother to TWO girls now!

Kiley Renae is here!

2009-07-28T12:10:00.001-07:00

I'll post more about the birth and arrival and adjustment of Kiley but for now, here's a picture!!

My Little Babywearer

2009-07-07T10:31:00.000-07:00

I think babywearing her dolls (and Mrs. Potato Head) is great for her because she can be a little mother to them while I am mothering and babywearing baby #2!

Kaelin has a couple of carriers...one made by me and one purchased on FSOT of thebabywearer.com by me! Here she is wearing her soft structured carrier...she also loves to do back carries! This week, on TUESDAY, 7/7/09, the theme is A FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPH. Post up one of your favorite photographs and a caption that tells the audience about it. Here is a sample: http://mcklinky.blogspot.com/2009/07/mcklinky-photo-blog-on-tuesday-sample.html Do not change any part of this snippet of code except for this paragraph only.... replace the text that falls between (and includes) the opening and closing asterisks. Be sure to enter your own link to your own blog hop post as soon as the blog hop starts!***

"Not Me" Monday

2009-07-06T10:47:00.000-07:00

I'm joining up with MckMama this week for my first "Not Me" Monday...so, here we go!

I did not go down the waterslide with my daughter at the waterpark and "lose" her on the way down and then not be able to get my 9 month pregnant self up again! Not me! (It was really even more embarassing when the 16 year old lifeguards came to help me).

I did not throw away my daughter's beloved Dora swimsuit this week when DH noticed that the elastic was shot in the legs and her 'cheeks' were exposed. I told DD that her Dora suit had to go bye bye!

I did not have ice cream twice in one day (plus a few other treats the same day). Nope, not me!

I did not let Kaelin eat grapes out of the bag in the grocery cart to keep her quiet...not me!

I did not tell DD "not to worry about" a daddy long legs spider that she found in a dust bunny infested corner of the kitchen because I didn't feel like getting up and handling it myself...not me!

12 more days to go!!

2009-06-27T18:20:00.000-07:00

I only have 12 more days until my EDD!! I'm hoping that the baby will come close to his or her due date to give me a chance to have a VBAC, but I have to say I'm a little nervous about it, too!

As the days tick by, I'm getting more and more excited to meet this new little boy or girl...very different from how I was feeling when I was pregnant with Kaelin. Now, I know how great being a mom is and I'm excited to do it all over again!

WW

2009-06-23T17:51:00.001-07:00

Here's a pic of the "Blackberry" K and I made for Father's Day...cute! I got the idea from "No Time for Flashcards". Thanks, Danielle for sending me there!

Instilling Discipline

2009-06-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

I am beginning to think that I need to instill more discipline in Kaelin. I was just going along thinking that she was so easy, so compliant and amenable...but at times, I see that changing....and this change isn't a good one...especially with a new baby coming soon.

This morning during our normal Monday morning grocery store jaunt, Kaelin needs to use the potty, then she doesn't, then she wants water, screams when she doesn't get it, then she does need to use the potty, screams when I try to put her in the cart. What gives? So I try to let her walk along side us as we shop. She dilly dallies and I try to give her some leeway, but it just gets ridiculous. I try to shop and carry her (I'm basically 9 mos preggo!). Then she wants back in the cart! Ugh! Can a mom get a break?

I need her to know when it's time to play and when it's time to get down to business. Many times, I've just told myself that an argument or a tantrum from her isn't worth it and I give in and now I think I'm starting to see the results. I'm praying for disciplinary wisdom from the Lord...

Scootababy in Review!

2009-06-16T11:41:00.000-07:00

Heavenly Hold had one of my favorite products recently reviewed by Upscale Baby....the Scootababy! It's a carrier that I will still use with K even now that I am 8 1/2 mos preggo if she wants to be held at an inopportune time!

It is such a luxurious, comfy and supportive carrier. Unfortunatley, mine isn't one of the cute prints that are out now, but a plain jane sample, but I still feel the Scootababy luv with it!

I Love Being a Girl.....

2009-06-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

I am having a week where I'm just really enjoying being a girl!! Yesterday I was soooo happy to be inside while DH and DSS were working in the yard and today I decided to attempt something other than our normal pigtails!

I have to have a show on the TV for Kaelin in order to get her hair done at all b/c it takes daily detangling and lots of spray conditioner each day...it's not a super quick process!

Today I tried a couple of braids and love the result. I'm sure that with some practice my part will get better and my braids will get tighter, but I'm happy with my first attempt!

Baby Carrier Specials for June!

2009-06-15T04:44:00.001-07:00

I just added a new page to Heavenly Hold and it's called Special Deals! Each month, I'll post a new item or items from the shop that will be on sale.

This month, the deal is great! When you spend $100 at Heavenly Hold, you will get a free Teething Bling donut pendant (and FREE shipping!). Please indicate your preferred color choices in the notes/message section at checkout. I can't guarantee the colors, but I'll try.

This means that if you buy a Scootababy, ERGO Baby Carrier, bumGenius package, or just spend over $100, you can take advantage of this deal! It's like you're getting these carriers on sale, but getting a special attachment parenting bonus!!

Almost WW

2009-06-10T18:06:00.000-07:00

This is Kaelin on our way home from Whitewater Park this afternoon...thought there was a break in the storm...but it was short lived and we were shivering in the rain!!

In the Kitchen...

2009-06-08T18:03:00.001-07:00

I really love to bake....I prefer baking something over cooking something any ol' day! Maybe that's because I have a strong sweet tooth!

I have been eating more than my fair share of sweets in this last month of my pregnancy. I was really not craving much until about a month ago...now, in the last week alone, I've had a donut, a milkshake, and now brownies and ice cream!

Kaelin's big brother is here until after the baby is born and she is entralled with him. She asked for him first thing this morning when she woke up!

An Email From My Hubby!!

2009-06-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, this was in my inbox from my hubby:

I was just thinking about our trip to Tn.  Not so much the trip, but more so about how
much I love spending time with.  I know I work a great deal and it's not always ideal.
Just know I do what I do for you and our children.  The Lord says I am to sacrifice
myself for you, as he does for me.  It is me passion to please him and in turn please
you.  You, your love, and your commitment to our family is not taken for granted.  The
day I let go of myself and grabbed on to Christ was the moment you walked into my life.
Although I did not see each step, my faith in the Lord allowed me to know they were
being made towards me.  My words will never truly express how deep my love is for you
.  My actions my fall short at times too.  My heart, on the other hand, will always
hold the truth.  I promise to always meet you at Christ, so you can know my heart,
feel my love, and most importantly: know HIM.

Thank you for being you!

My Water Baby!

2009-05-31T12:27:00.001-07:00

Kaelin LOVES the water! We are having her first swim lesson on Tuesday and I'm really excited to see how she does and if she seems like she'll learn quickly!

This weekend we've spent a lot of time outside because we're still naked potty training (which is still going great!). I've filled her pool up a couple of times and she splashes and plays and jumps all around in it making happy, Kaelin noises.

We also got season passes to our local Six Flags water park, Whitewater. It's literally two miles down the road from us, so its a great thing to do with Kaelin. Today, DH and I took her and we spent a couple of hours at the "Little Squirts" area and had a blast! Because we have season passes and are so close, it's nice to be able to just pop down there for a couple of hours and not feel like we have to spend the whole day there to get our money's worth!

Sleepy Wrap Sale!!

2009-05-29T18:24:00.001-07:00

Sleepy Wraps are $5 off at Heavenly Hold!! Buy them soon!

Get shipping for $1 on any Bamboo Organic Nursing Pads!

Potty Training SOS

2009-05-28T11:13:00.002-07:00

I'm trying to potty train Kaelin and I'd love to have her daytime trained by the time the new baby is here! EDD 7-9-09...not sure if that will happen or not.

We started out with Pull Up like diapers and quickly switched to Gerber cloth trainers. I thought these would be more economical and word work better to train her...and they do! I quickly learned that Kaelin wouldn't tell me AT ALL if she went pee pee in her Pull Ups...it probably felt just like a diaper to her and keep her dry. When she went pee pee in her cloth trainers, she would come and tell me, "Mommy pee pee!" At first I got excited because I thought she was telling me that she had to go potty...but no, she was telling me that she already went.

She seems to do best when we are out, shockingly enough...I have been taking her out in cloth and she stays dry. It's when we're home that she has accidents (on a good day, 2).

One problem I seem to have is getting her to empty her bladder. Sometimes she is in such a rush to finish and please me, that the second she gets any pee in the potty, she stops peeing and jumps up saying, "I went pee pee!" I try to get her to sit back down and go some more, but she always insists that she is done and thats all she has. It's often after these teeny, tiny amounts of pee pee in the potty, that we will have an accident.

ANY and all potty training helps and hints are appreciated! I'm thinking of trying the 3 day naked method, but am not sure I can last three days straight at home!

Late WW

2009-05-28T11:13:00.001-07:00

Gro Baby Grow!!

2009-05-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

I have been interested in these dipes since they were preselling! My friend Tara told me about them and they looked intriguing!

Another friend, Steph, told me about the Facebook contest to get a free Gro Baby! I love that the inside of the diapers has mesh...it seems like it would be so much more breathable than other cloth diapers. I also like the idea of having the inner shells and less "covers".

To become a fan of Gro Baby on FB click here.
To find out more about Gro Baby's, click here.

New ERGO Sport Review!

2009-05-14T12:18:00.001-07:00

ERGO Baby Carrier has come out with a new carrier and it's perfect for summertime babywearing. This new carrier was designed to give the babywearer the same support as the New Generation ERGO, but there are some differences that may even be considered improvements to some!

The ERGO Sport is much lighter weight than the NG ERGO. The original ERGO baby carrier is almost 4 pounds in weight, but the Sport comes in at only around 2 pounds. Lighterweight fabric and less of it means less ways for heat to be trapped in. Plus, the ERGO Sport has an air vent on the back underneath the pocket (see the small slit in the picture above) to allow for some air flow between the baby and the carrier. This is an awesome feature as many babywearers worry that their little ones will get too hot in a baby carrier. The fabric on the ERGO Sport is very soft and smooth which is unlike the thick canvas of the NG....options!

At 32 weeks pregnant, I still wear my two year old on my back in my original ERGO and it's very comfortable, BUT I do use nearly all of the strap to make it around me (and I'm not that big!). The ERGO Sport is designed to fit a wider range of body types and the waist straps and should straps are longer! Waist strap extends an additional 5 inches (total of 48 inches) and the shoulder straps extend an additional 4 inches.

Lastly, the ERGO Sport is a lower price point than the original ERGO. It is $94 and is shipped for FREE from Heavenly Hold!

Zoom, Zoom!

2009-05-14T12:13:00.001-07:00

Kaelin has been asking and asking for a "bike." She sees our bikes hanging on the wall of the garage and always comments on them. Then she found a bike helmet and loves to wear it around the house. Soooooo, here she is on her new tricycle! We got her a Radio Flyer Fold 'n Go that has a little compartment to store stuff in the back. So far she is just scooting on it, but her legs are long enough to pedal. Our neighborhood is not a trike friendly neighborhood because of all the hills, but I plan to take her to a flat area with it soon!

WW

2009-05-12T18:26:00.000-07:00

New Organic Bamboo Nursing Pads

2009-05-07T18:41:00.001-07:00

Posh Pads have just arrived at Heavenly Hold and they are super cute, super soft, and very environmentally friendly! The pads are made from Bamboo and flannel and the top layer is a really cute and fun print. Nursing is functional and fashionable with these reusable, eco friendly pads.

Instead of spending $$$ on disposable pads each month, invest in a package set of 4 or 6 Posh Pads from Heavenly Hold and reuse them!

Bamboo is an extremely sustainable resource and grows quickly. It is also naturally antibacterial and naturally deodorizing!

New Scootababy Print In Stock!

2009-04-17T12:47:00.001-07:00

The latest and greatest Scootababy print is here! Santorini is gorgeous and has taupe straps and waist with chocolate piping accenting the mid panel print which is blue with Greek mosaics. It's fantastic!

These wonderful new baby hip carriers are in stock at Heavenly Hold waiting for your baby or toddler!

A New Art Project

2009-04-17T12:38:00.000-07:00

I got a new Eco Friendly art project in the mail for Kaelin and I to try. It's called Powder Art and it's a "dry paint" made of recycled paper. It comes in six different themes to choose from. We got the Magical Moments theme. To use it, you take off the "sticky" part of the template, dip your paintbrush in the powder and apply it to the open sticky part.

Kaelin LOVES to paint, so we gave it a try. She loved it, but I think she's a little too young for something that has this kind of detail to it. I can't wait to try it again when she gets a little older though!

Spring Break!

2009-04-12T18:07:00.000-07:00

We just got back from visiting my parents in Central California. We miss them so much!

Kaelin driving the backhoe at my dad's business.

Hunting for Easter eggs at Great Grandma's house.
Relaxing in a pile of balloons that Poppa brought Kaelin.
Mommy and Kaelin in Grandma's backyard.

Kaelin's photo shoot

2009-03-29T17:36:00.001-07:00

I had Kaelin's picture made over the weekend...look how cute!!

This one might just be my favorite!

Or maybe this one!!

Coping with Stress...

2009-03-22T17:35:00.000-07:00

So today I went grocery shopping at our Super Walmart. Of course I had little K with me. I HAVE to learn how to better handle her while out NOW, so I can manage when #2 arrives.

Kaelin does not just sit meekly in a grocery cart seat. She wants to walk, but then she gets very easily side tracked and stops or runs in the opposite direction of me. I am trying to get out my coupons, calculate deals and refer to my shopping list during this time. I locked her into one of the shopping carts that has two seats for two kids, but the Houdini got out! Walking again...I picked her up and carried her and pushed the cart for awhile, but that really winded me.

At one point in the frozen section, I almost succumbed to tears...yes, really....tears, over a shopping trip with my 2 year old, but I got a hold myself and found a baggie of Cheeze-Its in my purse! Yeah! That kept her entertaining and SEATED for about 10 minutes. Then we sang the ABC's while riding through the aisles for another 10 minutes.

I am fairly organized before I go grocery shopping, but I need to refine the process even more.