The Art of Nesting

by Sarah on 21. February 2012 in Good to Know | Pregnancy | Well-Being

 

 

 

Somewhere between 5 months and your due date, you have most likely found yourself with an uncontrollable urge to get things done!  Whether it is deep cleaning, organizing, or tying up loose ends, one thing many soon-to-be moms have in common is the primal instinct to nest.   Have you found yourself irrationally demanding that every square inch of your home be cleaned?  You’re not alone.  It’s a true fact—females of the animal kingdom are all equipped with this same need to ensure that their offspring will be cared for properly after birth.

The experience of nesting is different for all women, and although your hormonal fluctuations may make you act in crazy ways…the sudden burst of energy you may experience when nesting can be a great time to get things accomplished.  It’s important, however, that you keep your own health in mind first and foremost…and try not to over-do. 

Trying to make some sense of how to put this altered state to the best use?  We have included a list below of worthwhile tasks to devote your nesting energy into without pushing yourself too hard. Nesting can be one of the most rewarding parts of pregnancy—and it can also be a bit overwhelming.  We suggest making short and long-term lists to help yourself feel like you’re accomplishing tasks without overwhelming yourself and your body by trying to get it all done at once.  Remember that part of nesting can also be mastering the art of a really good honey-do list! 

 

:: Equip Baby

After you have put the final touches on baby’s room, stock your nursery with all of the baby essentials…. clothes, diapers, baby soap, baby thermometer, nasal syringe, nail clippers, bottles, formula, etc.  Most likely you won’t feel like running to the store multiple times a day, and you’ll be at ease knowing you have these things on hand when they’re needed.

For a great list of baby essentials… check out the What to Expect Buying for Baby Worksheet here .

 

:: Equip Self 

While you’re busy supplying baby’s needs, don’t forget your own! In a fit of nesting, get your hospital bag packed and ready to go!  Read our recent Oilo blog post about hospital bag essentials here.

While you’re at it- stock your personals with post-baby essentials such as post-partum clothing, nursing bras, nursing pads and all of your regular personal care products.  Trust us- sending daddy to the store to buy cosmetics (or worse) is not ideal!

Lastly, equipping yourself and your growing family with a good camera/video camera option during this time is something you will so appreciate having done when baby decides to make his/her arrival.

 

:: Equip Home

Nesting is a wonderful time to deep clean and organize your home.  It’s also a great time to stock your house with essential s such as cleaning supplies, toilet paper, laundering products, etc. You’ll be grateful to have plenty of these products on hand- especially if you’re lucky enough to have the helping hands of others for the first little while.  

In addition to these household items, it’s also a great idea to stock your pantry with staples that your family uses often.  Grocery store runs will probably be one of the last things you want consuming your time- and having your favorite snacks and meals stock piled is an easy way to eliminate some stress.  During the final weeks of your pregnancy when nesting can be at its most powerful peak- cooking in quantity and freezing extra servings of your favorite meals can be the ultimate convenience shortly after baby is born!

 

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SheKnows Parenting Month-Long Baby Shower

by Sarah on 14. February 2012 in As Seen In | Our Favorites | Our Products

Throughout the entire month of February, SheKnows.com is having a baby shower- and you’re invited!  You can enter to win over 30 gender neutral prizes on their site… and for most products… you can enter as often as you like between now and February 29th!

Here are just a few of my favorites…however, they are all fantastic!

 

:: Oilo Bundle- Layette + Play Blanket

An obvious favorite… enter to win our yummy 3-piece layette set (cotton zippered one-piece, fitted hat, and snuggle-friendly swaddling blanket), along with one of our new play blankets!

Enter to win this gift on SheKnows.com here.

 

:: $500 Cash from SheKnows.com

When getting ready for a new baby, could there be a better prize?  Relieve some of the financial burdens a new baby can bring by winning this $500 from SheKnows.com… and buy a little something for yourself while you’re shopping for baby!

Enter to win this gift on SheKnows.com here.

 

:: Beaba Babycook

This countertop appliance functions as a steamer, blender, warmer, and defroster for preparing fresh, healthy meals for baby.  With this giveaway- you can steam veggies, fruits, and meats in less than 15 minutes, and then puree or blend them to a desired consistency.

Enter to win this gift on SheKnows.com here.

 

:: Babyhome Dream Cot

This lightweight mini cot is stylish, fresh, and functional.  It has 3 interchangeable positions (break, wheels, and rocker).  It also comes with a convenient travel bag… LOVE this as an option for when baby needs to sleep away from the comforts of home.

 

Enter to win this gift on SheKnows.com here.

 

:: Crabtree & Evelyn: La Source Collection

Win this gift, and receive spa treatments without having to leave home.  Enjoy a gift for yourself of Crabtree & Evelyn Warming Foot Smoother, Intensive Conditioning Food Mask, Ultra Moisturizing Foot Remedy, and Reviving Foot and Leg Mist.

Enter to win this gift on SheKnows.com  here.

 

:: Munchkin Bundle

The perfect prize to equip yourself with Munchin’s best products for keeping life with a baby sanitary!  This bundle comes with the following Arm & Hammer products: Diaper Pail, 3-in-1 Potty Seat, Pacifier, Wipes, and Nursery Wipes.

Enter to win this gift on SheKnows.com here.

 

:: $100 Pediped Gift Card

Some of my favorite shoes for baby, Pediped is offering a $100 gift card toward their darling new Spring/Summer Originals line.  Their shoes are easy to put on, adjustable, and the optimal fit for baby’s feet.

Enter to win this gift on SheKnows.com here.

 

:: Phillips Avent Video Monitor

With this fantastic prize, feel close to baby- even when you can’t be in the same room! Keep an eye on baby with this 2.4” color video monitor, with automatic screen activation, and infrared night vision.

Enter to win this gift on SheKnows.com here.

 

 

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Feeling Great About Yourself Postpartum

by Sarah on 7. February 2012 in Parenting | Pregnancy | Well-Being

It seems like positive attention is spoon fed to you during your many months of pregnancy.  In addition to the marvel and wonderment others look at you with, there is plenty of talk on how to feel great and look your best while you’re pregnant.  However, shortly after you little bundle of joy arrives, the focus changes, and it’s easy to feel negativity come creeping in.  Combine sleep deprivation, your changed body, lack of time, and a number of awkward transitions… it’s not uncommon for those joyous feelings of pregnancy to be clouded by a postpartum funk.  As much as a new mother relishes the time with her sweet newborn, we understand that feeling great about yourself post-delivery isn’t always the easiest feat.  Here are some tips that may help you to fully enjoy this unique time and to feel great about yourself… no matter what size jeans you’re wearing or if your life resembles that of a zombie!

 

:: Be Real.  Be Prepared.

As excited as you may be to rid your wardrobe of maternity gear, it’s important to recognize that most likely you won’t be jumping into your favorite jeans for a few weeks, months, or longer! This is normal! When you think of all that your body has been through, it only stands to reason that it won’t bounce back to normal overnight.  They say it takes 4-6 weeks just for your uterus to return back to normal shape—give your body and yourself a break—and be ok with wearing pants that may be a size or two bigger than normal.  In the very beginning, allow yourself to revisit your maternity jeans from your first trimester.  There is nothing wrong with this, and in all reality will look better for a short while until your body starts to recover.  Resist the urge to continue this habit longer than necessary, and if needed, invest in some bigger pants to get you through the transition.  Saying goodbye to the panel will boost your spirits no matter what size you’re wearing!

We suggest investing in a few mix-n-match staples for the weeks following pregnancy to help you through this awkward fashion time.  While comfort is still key, you can still look put together.  We suggest stocking up with items like Maxi skirts, nice fitting tanks or layering camisoles, longer cardigans, and some stylish active wear.  Also equipping yourself with some fun accessories can help you to feel like you still have some fashion sense.  Jewelry, scarves, or a cute new pair of shoes can do wonders for your slimming black wardrobe for a while!  Prepare yourself with a few of these items before baby arrives… consider it a gift waiting for you at home after the hospital!

 

:: Take Time for Yourself

As mothers here at Oilo, we understand that there is a very real period of time after baby comes home where routines seem to fly out of the window.  Cut yourself some slack about this, and just try your best to create new (possibly short lasting) routines that work for your new situation.  One habit we feel is absolutely worth getting into is to take a little bit of time for yourself every single day.  It may require forcing your tired self out of bed 10 minutes earlier, or accepting some help with baby (even if it is in the form of a baby swing)!  The power of getting yourself up, dressed, and ready for a day is real.  Some days you may only have the time to pull your hair back, put on some quick mascara, clean clothes, and lip gloss… but, you will feel better about yourself and the day ahead of you having taken this time to take care of yourself. 

 

:: Be Confident

Firstly, there is a very real and proven connection between looking and feeling good.   Even if you are competing with a less than desirable roll around the mid-section, you can still look good and have confidence.  There is no reason that just because you recently had a baby, you have to forfeit doing the things that make you feel better about yourself.   Get your hair cut/colored, indulge in a mani/pedi, or have a relaxing facial.  Feeling good about how you look can help ward off those post-baby blues…it’s worth investing in!

Most importantly, find confidence in yourself and the fact that you just brought another life into this world.  Your body is amazing, no matter its shape…and you have a darling child to remind you of that every time you hold him/her.  Force yourself to admire what you have been through.  Grant yourself the confidence that you deserve in your new role as a parent.  Trust your decisions, your abilities, and yourself as a mother.  Let go (for now) of how you used to look, and embrace the “scars” left and the beautiful time that is those precious days after baby arrives.

 

 

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The Name Game Part 2: An Empty List

by Sarah on 31. January 2012 in Parenting | Pregnancy | Trends

 

A few months ago, I wrote a post titled, The Name Game, about some of the complexities and solutions of naming your baby.  As of late, I am reminded of just how many complexities there are!  Weeks away from my baby being born, I still whole heartedly agree with my earlier advice from that post.  The only problem is that I forgot to address one major issue in the dilemma.  What do you do when you can’t even think of a name? 

Truthfully, I can think of a name I would consider using… but not one more.  My husband hates my choice of name, and can only offer silly suggestions in return… so here we are…with a list that is blank.   I have found myself in desperation turning to cyberspace for answers…name suggestions…anything to help me out through this process!  Heavens, I audibly gasped when I humored myself by playing on BabyNameGenie.com, and the animated genie randomly suggested my one name choice as “the one” meant for my child.  Surely that was a sign…or, maybe not.  After this experience, I had to really come to grips with letting my desired name go, because when a genie couldn’t even convince my husband of it, I knew I didn’t stand a chance!

I’ve visited name generating sites  for suggestions, turned to lists of the latest celebrity naming trends, looked to 2011’s most popular lists, and read up on finding true baby name happiness…and  still… I am left searching. 

I suppose when it comes down to it, baby can’t go on forever without a name…and I need to be at peace with not having this figured out today.  Maybe I just need to turn my faith on a good old fashioned parenting game of Rock-Paper-Scissors to settle this dispute with my spouse…and just maybe I’ll get my name after all!  In all truthfulness, I do believe there is something to be said for meeting your child before choosing their name…and when the pressure is truly on…I’m sure it’ll all be settled. 

In the meantime, I’ll keep looking for my inspiration in the form of a Google search!

Are you also looking for a perfect name?  Here are some of my recent site-searches for some help on the matter (even if they don’t give you the perfect name… they’ll surely entertain you!)

Name of the Year

This website is naming entertainment at its finest!  The mission of Name of the Year is to discover, verify, nominate, and elect some of the most unique names you’ll ever find.  With chart toppers (all real names) such as Honka Monka, and Nojah Nimpson—you’ll quickly see what I mean by entertainment.  You’ll be shocked to hear some of these real names…there seems to be far more possibilities than I was even aware of!

Nymbler Name Generator

Nymbler allows you to choose several names based on your liking, and then it offers endless suggestions influenced by your taste. 

Baby Name Generator Genie            

Truly entertaining (and my only name ally at this point), this Genie pumps out name combinations to go with your last name.

Baby Center’s Top 100 Names of 2011

Browse 2011’s top picks for baby names, and learn about their popularity over time.

Article: 5 Routes to Baby Name Happiness

This Nameberry article confronts common struggles that come with naming baby and offers some viable solutions.

The Nameberry website also offers several guides and lists when it comes to choosing the perfect name for baby!

 

You can also read our earlier Name Game Post here.

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Hospital Must Haves

by Sarah on 24. January 2012 in Good to Know | Pregnancy | Well-Being

Among the seemingly endless list of to-do’s in preparation for baby, is the task of getting your bag ready for your anticipated delivery and hospital stay.  Below you will find our checklist of must haves when packing this infamous bag.  There are obviously several things that will need to be thrown in at the last minute, but there are even more things that can be prepared and packed weeks ahead of time…just in case!

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS:

When your find yourself in labor, scrambling to find your insurance cards is probably the last thing you’ll feel like doing! Have these following items on hand and ready to eliminate unnecessary last-minute stress.

:: Insurance Cards

:: ID

:: Hospital Paperwork

:: Birth Plan (if you have one)

:: Wallet with Checkbook, Credit Card, Spare Cash/Change

 

PERSONAL ITEMS FOR MOMMY (and a few for DADDY):

While there are many things that the hospital will provide for you, being prepared with your own personal items can only enrich the hospital experience and help you to feel all the more like yourself during this time of transition.  We are firm believers that taking good care of yourself at this time will only make you feel better faster! Plus, with constant photo opts, and endless visitors, it’s always nice to feel put together (or somewhat…at least!).

 :: Toiletries:

   Soap

   Shampoo

   Toothpaste/Toothbrush

   Hairdryer

   Light Makeup

   Razor

   Hair Bands

   Deodorant

   Your Favorite Lotion

   Lip Balm

 

:: Electronics:

   Cell Phone

   iPod and Earphones

   Camera

   Video Camera

   Batteries

   Chargers/Cords

 

:: Nursing Pads/ Nipple Cream

:: Nursing Bra/Sports Bra

:: Flip Flops (For Showering)  

:: Nice Socks or Slippers

:: Sleepwear: Nightgowns or Comfy Pajamas, Bathrobe

 You’re sure to feel better after changing out of that revealing hospital gown!

:: LIGHT Reading Material

 Grab a People Magazine or two…save your deep reading for later!

:: Music

Prepare a few playlists ahead of time… during labor or restless nights recovering, music just might be your saving grace!

:: Snacks

 Of course there will be food to be found at the hospital, but having a few of your favorite snacks on hand is always nice for both parents at any stage of the hospital stay.

:: Notebook/Journal

 Have a book set aside to record your birth story, feelings, gifts given, and hospital visitors.

:: Thank You Cards

You may find yourself with more time while you’re in the hospital to get through writing thank you notes than once you are home.   They are also nice to have on hand if you have a particular doctor or nurse you’d like to thank before leaving the hospital.

 

FOR BABY:

When it comes to baby, the hospital will provide essentially everything you need during your stay.  Here are a few items you’ll need to have on hand when you make that journey home from the hospital.

:: Swaddling/Receiving Blanket(s)

:: Soft, Warm Outfit for Baby to Travel Home In (see our Oilo Layette Sets here.)

:: Infant Car Seat


 

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Great Gift Idea: Citrus Lane

by Sarah on 17. January 2012 in Our Favorites

When it comes to parenting…finding wonderful products, tips, and ideas is one of our favorite things!  Not only do we love making these discoveries, we equally love sharing them!  One new find we can’t wait to share with you comes from the company, Citrus Lane.  With so many new baby/toddler products constantly hitting the market, it can be difficult to keep up on them all and to know exactly what products you and your child will like.  If you are looking for a great way to learn about and try new products for your baby as they grow- Citrus Lane offers you the perfect way to do just that!

Citrus Lane provides an easy and affordable way for you to discover and enjoy new products monthly.  Each month, Citrus Lane follows a theme, and organizes gift boxes containing products that they love from brands they trust.  Because they are committed to discovering the very best items on the market, their boxes are always filled with products that work great and fulfill realistic needs. Citrus Lane has several options for subscription, which include a monthly box delivered right to your doorstep full of these great products!  One of the best parts is that they track the age of your baby from birth to 3 years old, and each box received is always tailored for your child’s current age and stage.

We love the idea of using these great boxes as gifts for others just as much as we love it as a gift for yourself!  Talk about a gift that keeps on giving!   Who wouldn’t love having a box of treasures showing up every month, ideal for the stage your child is currently going through?  Packaged darling, and always full of useful surprises, these seem like just the thing to give a new mom a boost!  They also offer a wonderful Deluxe Shower Box, which serves as a great gift of assorted treasures before baby arrives.

 

 

 

Not only do we love the concept… we love the fact that their prices are super reasonable… and that the folks at Citrus Lane handpick these items knowing that they will be enjoyed by both babies and parents, alike! 

See just what the folks at Citrus Lane have to offer here.

 

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Pregnancy Resolutions

by Sarah on 10. January 2012 in Pregnancy | Well-Being

During the last couple of weeks as my family and friends have been making their resolutions for the New Year, I found myself opting out… I am pregnant after all.  In many avenues I feel like I’m on a hormonal planet of my own where opting out of normal activities seems normal.  Truth be told, being pregnant serves as a pretty good excuse for sitting a lot of things out.  However, I have recently decided that there is probably no better time to jump on the resolution bandwagon than when I am pregnant!

As all expecting mothers know, health and wellness during these vital 40 weeks is of utmost importance.  So, for my resolutions, I am looking to recommit myself to bettering my overall health and wellness for both myself and my baby.  I've decided on 3 main goals, and have provided some tools below to help any of you expectant moms out there as well!

 1. Maintain Good Nutrition

   At my current stage of pregnancy, I am always hungry and always able to eat plenty! With this said, it can become pretty easy to let good nutrition slide.  While the old “eating for two”   theory holds some merit, it’s important not to use it as an excuse to allow yourself to eat whatever, whenever! Making sure that you are getting the right nutrients each day will not only be a gift to yourself, but to your baby as well.

   The American Pregnancy Association provides a valuable guide for pregnancy nutrition…what you should be eating, and how much of it you need to ensure that you’re getting all the essentials needed for you and baby.  You can find their guidelines here.

   I also love the article, Organized Eats from Pregnancy and Newborn…offering a week’s worth of realistic meals, broken down to help you cover all of your food group and caloric bases.

2. Participate in Daily Exercise/Stretching  

    I wish I could say that I have been as diligent with exercise this pregnancy as I was with my first.  Feeling sick combined with cold weather have served as decent excuses, at best.  Now I’m feeling the urge to improve in this avenue.  Better late than never, right?

    I’m going to commit to making a physical effort during my final trimester, and the following workout plan from the Bump seems like one I can actually follow and maintain.  I can do just about anything for 20-30 minutes a day!  Check out their plan here.

3. Enjoy the Ride

    It’s incredibly easy to find displeasure in pregnancy, with unbelievable body transformation, unattractive side effects, and less than becoming moods.  However, my goal to enjoy the ride of pregnancy is one to benefit my overall wellness and level of happiness at this stage of my life.

    If I have learned anything from being a mother to my oldest, it is that time goes fast.  I know that the second this baby is born, the myriad of milestones in his life will come and pass with increasing speed no matter how hard I try to slow it down.  I am committed to remind myself that every time I get to hear my baby’s heartbeat, or feel his movements inside me, that this too will be a phase that shall pass, and will truly be missed.  I am going to love being pregnant, even when I feel like I don’t.  Being uncomfortable cannot mask the fact that carrying a baby is a truly wonderful and unique experience… one that can never be replaced or fully described. 

   As I work to embrace my growing belly, I want to stop to appreciate the strength and capacity of my body.  Not only will I relish this unique time with my baby, I am consciously trying to  recognize the value of this precious time with my first born, with my spouse, and with my pregnant self.

   Check out what a group of What to Expect  mamas love most about pregnancy here.

 

 

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Transitions: From Crib to Bed

by Sarah on 4. January 2012 in Good to Know | Parenting

 

We are now several days into 2012, and amidst closing the door on 2011 and starting new resolutions, transitions are already in full effect!

Around our house, the biggest transition in store for 2012 is getting ready for baby #2!  Not only are we clearing space and shuffling furniture about, we also have the task of preparing a toddler to become a big brother!  With this transition, which has admittedly caused a few teary days for this mama, comes a major graduation for big brother as he moves from crib to “big boy bed.”  While this may seem like an exciting milestone… I find myself dragging my swollen feet to take the plunge!  Not only are my sentimental tendencies kicking in full force, I can’t help but fear that his currently perfect sleeping habits aren’t compatible with a real bed. 

I knew I surely wasn’t the only mom out there unsure about rocking the toddler boat with this transition, and thankfully I’ve found many great articles on the issue written for moms with my exact worries.  With this being my first time at the bed transitioning rodeo, I looked to the experts to help me out on the issue.

Some Helpful Information:

:: There is no set time for when to make the switch from crib to bed.  Every child is different, and        unlike potty training or starting solids, moving to a big-kid bed doesn’t involve an obvious checklist of signs telling you they’re ready.  Typically, toddlers make the switch sometime between 2 and 3 ½, either because a sibling is on the way, they are too big for their crib, or they are climbing out of their crib excessively.

:: Some children adjust readily to a toddler or regular bed.  Others may struggle.  Some toddlers just aren’t ready for the switch.  Keep in mind that it takes a certain amount of cognitive development for a child to understand a bed has imaginary boundaries to stay within.  If your child is never sleeping, and is getting out of bed constantly, it may not be their time for the switch.

:: Take the transition slowly.  Start introducing your child to the concept of beds for several weeks before they ever try out their own bed.  Get your toddler excited by letting them help you set up their bed and having others over to see it.  Celebrate the novelty of a real bed!

:: Ease the transition by putting their bed in the same place their crib used to be.  Wait to make an immediate switch to grown up sheets and blankets.  Remember that there is nothing wrong with using their old crib blankets and trying to create a similar atmosphere to their crib.

:: Dismantle your child’s crib or store it in a room out of sight during the transition.  Out of sight, out of mind can be a powerful help in this process.  If your child knows that they can just go right back to their crib, their efforts to stay in a new bed may not be as successful. 

:: Transitioning to a bed is just one of the many changes in a toddler’s life.  Try not to pile too many changes on at once.  If possible, wait to potty train until sleeping in a real bed has been mastered.

:: Maintain your child’s bedtime routine.  If you haven’t already established one, getting into good bedtime habits is recommended before ever trying to make the switch.  Following a predictable bedtime routine will help your toddler feel grounded, and will help them prepare for sleep instead of play once they have their newfound freedom outside of a crib.

:: If your child is making the jump to a bed because of the impending arrival of a new baby, try to make the switch 6-8 weeks before your due date.  Give your toddler time to settle in to their new bed before baby takes over “his” crib.  If you plan to have your newborn in a bassinet, this can buy you a couple of months before making the switch.  A new baby is a sensitive time for the older child.  Try to avoid making them feel displaced.

:: Safety is an important factor when making the switch to a bed.  Many parents put their child’s mattress directly on the floor at first to ease any falls. Guard rails are also a good way to prevent your toddler from falling out of bed, and also create a similar feeling to a crib during this transition period. 

:: Patience is an important virtue in teaching your child the ground rules of sleeping in a bed. Don’t give up right away if your child is having a hard time.  Give it a few days.  If your child is frequently getting out of bed, take their hand and walk them back to bed.  Prepare yourself to repeat this process several times, and to be firm with your child about staying in bed. 

:: Remember that your child’s move from crib to bed is a milestone in YOUR life, too.  It is a sign of your baby growing up.  Take time to prepare yourself for the switch.  When you feel like your toddler is ready for the switch, pick a date and mark it on your calendar so that you have time to prepare emotionally as well as with all of the necessary tools to make it a successful transition!

 

Good luck to any parents out there that are with me in the midst of this transition!!  The date has been set at our house… and our fingers are crossed! 

 

 Guard Rails

PRIMO Adjustable Bed Guard Rail

Regalo Hide Away Bed Rail

Summer Infant Sure and Secure Double Bedrail

Munchkin Safety Toddler Bed Rail

 

Articles on Transitioning from Crib to Bed

Baby Center: How and When Should I Move My Toddler From a Crib to a Bed?

Parents.com: Transitioning Toddlers from Crib to Bed

One Tough Job: The Crib to Bed Transition

What to Expect: Making the Move to a Toddler Bed

 

Did you know that you can make the transition from crib to bed and still maintain your Oilo style?

See Oilo Twin/Queen Duvet Covers here.

 

 

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Happy and Healthy Holidays!

by Sarah on 23. December 2011 in As Seen In | Good to Know | Well-Being

 

 

Happy Holidays from all of us at Oilo to you and yours! We hope you and your families find yourselves happy, safe, and healthy this holiday season!

Unfortunately, in the midst of holiday cheer… the risk of illness and RSV in infants is particularly heightened this time of year.  Recently, Growing Your Baby posted some of their recommendations for preventing RSV this season.  We highly recommend reading the article in its entirety here. You’ll find, that in addition to encouraging good hand washing practices, they also highly suggest using an infant seat cover- such as Oilo’s new Car Seat Canopies.  Using an infant seat cover can help to prevent strangers from touching your newborn, shield infants from coughs & sneezes, and can block wind and cold weather.  Be sure to check out our Car Seat Canopies here, available January 20, 2012!

Again, we hope you have the happiest of holidays & send our best and healthiest wishes your way!

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Gift Guide: Children's Books

by Sarah on 14. December 2011 in Our Favorites

Holiday shopping is in full swing, and here at Oilo, we think one of the very best gifts you can give your little ones, is the gift of reading!  However, with so many books on the market…what to buy? 

 

 We have put together a combined list of our favorites, recommended reads from the American Library Association, and recent Best of 2011 winners to help guide your shopping! 

 

Aside from loving these literary gems for their vibrant illustrations and charming stories…we also love how easy it is to shop for them all online! Yes, please!

 

Books for Baby

 

 

:: Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell

    ISBN: 9781416947370

 

 

:: Higher, Higher by Leslie Patricelli

   ISBN: 9780763632410

 

:: Peek-a-Who by Nina Laden

   ISBN: 9780811826020

 

 

:: Ten Tiny Babies by Karen Katz

   ISBN: 9781416935469

 

:: The Sleepy Little Alphabet by Judy Sierra

    ISBN: 9780375840029

 

 

 

 Books for Toddler

 

 

:: Let’s Play by Leo Lionni

    ISBN: 970375825286

 

:: My Car by Byron Barton

   ISBN: 9780060589400

 

:: Oops! by David Shannon

    ISBN: 9780439688826

 

:: The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse by Eric Carle

    ISBN: 9780399257131

 

:: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt  by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury   

    ISBN: 9781416987116

 

 

Books for Preschoolers

 

 

 

 

 

:: I Stink! By Kate and Jim McMullan

    ISBN: 9780060298487

 

:: Never Take a Shark to the Dentist (and Other Things Not to Do) by Judy Barrett

    ISBN: 9781416907244 

 

:: The Biggest Thing in the Ocean by Kevin Sherry

    ISBN: 9780803731929

 

 :: The Incredible Book Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers

    ISBN: 9780399247491

 

:: The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

    ISBN: 9780140501827

 

 

For more book suggestions, take a look these previous Oilo posts:

The Power of Reading

Baby Shower Gifts We Love to Give and Get  

 

 

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About Oilo

Though not an actual word, Oilo’s roots are steeped in the Hawaiian words, “lio” (small sprout) and “ho’oilo” (the cool, rainy season).

Every autumn, the Hawaiian sun weakens and tropical trade winds usher in magnificent storms that blanket the islands in a cool, cleansing rain. It’s not beach weather. It’s curl up on the sofa with a good book weather. It’s wrap your baby up tight and rock her to sleep in the moonlight weather. Mostly, it’s about sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying the serenity of life.

That is why Oilo exists. We’re about turning your nursery into the most comfortable, clean, and carefree sanctuary in your home. Because a more enjoyable nursery, means a more constant and enduring bond between you and your baby — or, as we like to say, your little sprout.

©2011 Oilo, LLC. All Rights Reserved.