shoo-foo

Three cheers for this awesome Vancouver company who is committed to providing quality products, while reducing their carbon footprint and leading an overall healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle!

The idea behind shoo-foo began in 2006 when the owner, Dany Filion, learned just how bamboo can be used for textiles without the harsh use of pesticides. I guess you could say that a light bulb went off in her head. She began researching exactly how she could bring bamboo into the daily lives of others, especially if it was such an amazing, environmentally-friendly resource.

Shoo-foo was born a year later, with Dany on the road hitting tradeshows all across Canada with her amazing line of bamboo towels.

From there, shoo-foo expanded in popularity and shortly after began their line of bamboo baby essentials.

Today shoo-foo not only carries bath linens, including their original bamboo towels, and their essentials for babies (wipes, diapers, robes, sheets etc.) but, also super soft and silky bamboo duvet covers,  bamboo sheets and more!

Why bamboo:

(just a few ++ for you to ponder)

• Fastest growing plant on Earth
• No need to re-plant, as it grows like a weed
• Bamboo is good for the air by its high absorbency of carbon dioxide and
  its capacity to produce 35 per cent more oxygen than other types of
  forest
• No fertilizers, no pesticides, no water irrigation, thus no soil pollution, no soil erosion, no underground water pollution (taken from here)
• Grows naturally in China 
•  The bamboo crops used by shoo-foo's manufacturers are certified organic by the USDA seal
• Soft and silky on your skin ( the smooth material made from the cellulose of bamboo, not the bamboo reeds haha)
• Absorbant
• Breathable
• Light-weight
• Moisture-wicking 

 Shoo-foo uses ONLY luxury bamboo, ethically and sustainably grown and always using 100% viscose.

You are guaranteed quality, organic bamboo every time.

We were sent the Soft & Cozy Bamboo Throw for Cool Summer Nights.

 It arrived at my doorstep in this giant, beautifully wrapped, box.

Perfect gift for a friend, or family member, with no extra wrapping needed!

I felt it and it was love at first sight.

SOFT

Silky edged

and

GIGANTIC (especially for a throw).

For those of you that know me, I am a blanket addict, I really am. 

I cannot walk by blankets in the store without stopping to pet them.

Roll your eyes, friends... it's ok.

Maybe it's the sleep-deprived mother in me but, I dream of hotel rooms with giant beds covered in crisp white sheets, fluffy pillows and soft blankets such as these.

Ahh. Heavenly. 

What I especially LOVE about this bamboo throw/blanket in particular, is not only the feel.. but the size.

 At 152 x 213 cm (60 x 84 in), this is a "throw" you can easily curl up on the couch with it, or even snuggle with in bed without having to worry about your feet, or any other body parts, sticking out.

You can be totally and completely wrapped up in softness.

 Made from 80% organic bamboo fibers, 20% organic cotton and trimmed in a pure silk border, this blanket is amazingly luxurious.

The weight is perfect for all seasons and is neither too heavy, nor too light.

I cannot be the only one who loves a blanket even during the Summer months, can I?

I am totally bringing it with me on allll camping and road trips this year, and from now on.

What an easy way to keep the comfort of home with you no matter where you go.

Another added bonus, the shoo-foo soft and cozy bamboo throw, is a natural colour, and completely dye-free so it fits the decor no matter where you bring it!

My girls have been feeling under the weather lately, so this blanket could not have come at a more perfect time. 

We have been snuggling pretty much non-stop under it.

Marathon cuddle/nursing-fests are a little cozier when covered in a blanket such as this one.

When was the last time that you splurged on something beautiful for yourself?

I do not know about your homes, but mine is filled with soft, yet TINY blankets created solely for for children and infants, fancy toys, and beautiful clothes.

My kids dress better than I do. Yep, it's true. Even their hand-me downs are adorable!

For some reason I find it so much easier to spend money on my little ones than on myself.

However, when I actually DO cave and finally do something for myself, I rarely regret it.

Why don't I do it more often, I always ask myself...

That "something" does not have to be HUGE, like a vacation or even a trip to the spa...

Sometimes, it is as simple and beautiful as curling up beneath a soft blanket for a nap or story with your child.

Curling up under my  shoo-foo bamboo blanket, I can: 

- snuggle in a little closer to my children & husband,

- ignore the clock for a bit and not feel one minute of guilt,

- pretend my three hours of sleep is really twelve,

- curl up with a good book even if I only get through a chapter or two,

- pretend that I am really at that fancy hotel from my dreams,

- breathe deeply and try to take a moment to reflect on just how blessed I truly am, for my days are not always going to be full of giggles, tears, sleepless nights, dirty handprints and running through the house. 

I really, truly, am one lucky mama. 

What will you dream of, whilst curled up with your soft & cozy shoo-foo blanket?

Oh.

P.s. If you really feel like spoiling your babe with softness, there is a mini bamboo blanket available as well:

 http://shoo-foo.com/bamboo-linen-shop/bamboo-baby-blanket-doudou-bambou/

Thanks so much to Dany at shoo-foo for making this review happen!

 http://shoo-foo.com/

"Like" shoo-foo on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/shoofoo

Follow shoo-foo on twitter: https://twitter.com/shoo_foo

Follow shoo-foo on Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/shoofoo/

Find a retailer near you HERE: http://shoo-foo.com/find-a-retailer/

**PSSSSST**
ACT FAST
Dany just told me that you have until TOMORROW, Wednesday May 15th, to score a GREAT deal on their soft & cozy shoo-foo blanket (51%off):
http://ethicaldeal.com/vancouver/deal/51-off-a-cozy,-eco-friendly,-bamboo-blanket-throw-with-a-pure-silk-border-($98.00-value)

Stationery Bike Designs & Paper Products

http://www.stationerybikedesigns.com/

Planning a wedding, shower or party and/or looking for one of a kind business cards, invitations, note cards, stationary or other unique paper products? 

Well, I am happy to say you have stumbled upon the right place... 

Introducing:

Stationery Bike

Designs & Paper Products

This Vancouver based company is brand new on the scene and full of energy, excitement and graphic design excellence!

Let's face it, going to the store and picking out already made invitations is easy however, when you really want to make an impression, hand made, one of a kind, is the way to go. Though, we were not all blessed with a creative gene, others were... and that is why there are companies such as Stationery Bike Designs. 

They take your ideas, dreams and visions and make them a reality.

Email Sarah: sarah@ stationerybikedesigns dot com to get the ball rolling and see for yourself what a graphic designer can do for you!

She will gladly talk through, and even meet you in person (where possible), to discuss and help you dream up the perfect design to meet your needs.

Sarah offers many different options and tailored packages, such as a wedding package that not only includes invitations, but save the dates, map cards, RSVP cards and MORE!

Aren't these Save the Date cards awesome??

Check out more samples from this

'a perfect pair brews love and happiness'

wedding package here:

http://www.stationerybikedesigns.com/a-perfect-pair-brews-love-and-happiness/

Think outside the box, and make your special day as unique as you are.

Not planning a party any time soon but, still looking for something a little special?

How about sending your love notes on these??

 'just be-cogs' 

Single: here

Ten Pack: click here

Size: 3" x 4"
Paper: 16pt heavy card stock
Printing: Offset lithography
Specialty Inks: Spot UV coating
Ships with: 3.25" x 4.75" envelope, white, open end

Or:

'oh deer'

Single: here

Five Pack: click here

Size: 4" x 6"
Paper: 16pt heavy card stock
Printing: Offset lithography
Specialty Inks: Spot Akuafoil, Spot UV coating
Ships with: 4.125" x 6.125" envelope, white, open side

These fun cards, also can be framed and hung up and make a great addition to any office, bedroom or nursery.

I could totally see my little Cupcake girl loving the 'oh deer' print in her room...

ORRRR... a special love birds print... just sayin' Sarah!

Don't see what you are looking for in the Etsy shop?? Have no fear!!

Stationery Bike Designs is gearing up for the Great Canadian Craft Spring Fling  May 11 & 12, which is. 

 THIS WEEKEND!!!

There is more information about this event at http://www.greatcanadiancraft.com/

I cannot wait to see what Sarah has up her sleeves for THAT, and if I know her, she has been burning the midnight oil in order to bring you something pretty amazing...

Check out the facebook Page:  http://www.facebook.com/StationeryBikeDesigns

for sneak peaks!

 Thanks, Sarah!!

Website:

http://www.stationerybikedesigns.com/

Jess' Crunchy Shop

Looking for a crunchy, eco-friendly Canadian shop in your area??

Check out this new-ish shop based out of Kitchener, Ontario.

Jess, a busy mama of two and one on the way, is a firm believer in leading a more simple, eco-friendly life.
I love her mission statement:

"Much research has come out over the years on how toxins in our environment are contributing to numerous ailments, including some mental health issues. We can minimize these risks by choosing healthier products for ourselves, and preserving the earth for our childrens' futures.  We at Jess' Crunchy Shop are committed to finding products for families that are healthier, safer and more earth friendly. "

With new products being added all the time, Jess' Crunchy Shop has something for everyone no matter what your crunchy level is at.

From wool dryer balls,

to stainless steel kids cutlery,

and  stainless steel ice cubes,

to  veggie crayons

and  mama cloth

and so much more.



 The Silisipper Trainer Cups from Be Kind really seem interesting to me and Jess' Crunchy shop is Canada's exclusive retailer for them.

The silicone lid snaps onto tumblers with ease and your toddler learns to sip from a regular glass right from the start! No spouts, no valves, just one piece. I don't know about you, but I hate the multiple pieces on a sippy cup. I hate washing them. I hate how mold can get trapped in the little valves Ugh. It's about time someone came out with something so simple. When your child outgrows this cup, simply remove the lid and you are good to go. No more wasting money on a ton of different sippy cups and gimmicky items for your child.
 Choose from Picardie (7.4 oz) or Gigogne (7.75 oz) style of tumbler in four fun colours. 
Which colour would you pick?
 
Pssst... the lid is dishwasher/microwave safe and can even go in the freezer.



The item that caught my eye right away however, was the Bamboo Bottle.

I am a water addict. I love carrying my water bottle around with me.
 In my early 20s I could always be found carrying around my brightly coloured, sticker covered, plastic wide mouth water bottle. I took that thing EVERYWHERE from sporting events, outdoor concerts, camping trips, university classes... seriously, everywhere.
That was until the big BPA warnings came about. So diligently, but sadly, I tossed my trusty water bottle out with the week's recycling and began the hunt for a replacement.
Unfortunately, it was not as easy as I had hoped and I began to travel sans water bottle (oh how thirsty I was haha).
Over the years I have tried pretty much every bottle on the market: glass, metal, BPA free plastics... everything.
 I really liked the idea and feel of a glass bottle but, hated the fact that it wasn't durable; I was always afraid that I was going to break it somehow.
Fail.

The thing that I love about this glass water bottle, is that it is encased in a tough but smooth, durable (and removable) bamboo sleeve. No more worrying about chemicals leeching into your delicious drink, the yucky taste of metal, or the fear of dropping your bottle out of your car and having it smash into a million tiny smithereens on the pavement while you watch in horror.
 

I love the refreshing taste of pure, clean, cold water from a glass.

I no longer am missing out on my "go-to" bottle.

This bottle can stand the constant travel, the concerts, the sporting events, the long university classes etc. 
Another awesome thing, is that this bottle can be used for not only cold drinks, but for hot as well, so your tea, smoothies, or plain old water can easily be carted around with you.
Hooray! I can hear the sound of college students cheering from here!

A little heavy, but worth it in terms of function, practicality, durability and eco-friendliness.
Ditch the plastic water bottles for good, and invest in one of these quality, reusable bottles.  
No more buying water, when you can easily refill at home, and on the go.

For cleaning, simply screw off the top and slip the bamboo sleeve off, and toss into the dishwasher... the glass is completely dishwasher safe. No little parts to lose, no little tiny parts to clean.
Awesome, right??

Jess' Crunchy shop also carries one of our family's favorite staples: Baltic Amber Necklaces:
 http://www.jesscrunchyshop.com/shop/natural-baby-care/amber-teething-necklaces/

Both my girls and I wear Baltic Amber and I swear by it.
Made for wearing, not actually chewing on, this little necklace is a life saver.
I wore two strands twisted during my entire third pregnancy and my girls have both worn their necklaces since they were two months old.
Fashionable AND useful.

What catches your eye in Jess' Crunchy Shop??
If you find something quickly you can take advantage of the awesome Mother's Day sale that is going on RIGHT now:
Use coupon code MAMA15 to receive 15% off your entire order! (Yes, this includes sale/clearance items!)

Thank YOU, Jess!

Find Jess' Crunchy Shop on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessCrunchyShop?fref=ts
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/crunchyjess/

Fait Pour Toi

http://www.faitpourtoi.com/index.html

I first discovered fait pour toi at an outdoor farmer's market in Vancouver, BC earlier this Spring. 

My children shyly looked at the dolls but since it was the first sunny day in awhile (gah rainy Vancouver), the market was crowded and we did not stay long. I picked up a business card and we went on our way, but I could not get the sweet dolls out of my head. 

I emailed Anne-Marie later that week, and through talking back and forth, got to learn a bit about her amazing little dolls.

Each one is hand-made with love, and completely different from the next. In all her years of doll making, Anne-Marie has never made two dolls the same, so you are guaranteed to get a completely special and unique doll. What I love the most, is that each piece of fabric and notion used in the doll, has a history perhaps not history known to us, but history nonetheless. All of the fabrics used come from Anne-Marie's past, whether it be a piece cut from one of her old dresses or shirts, or buttons from her grandmother's old coat. Each doll has a story to tell. 

You can even send in a piece of your own fabric and she will use it to create a special doll just for you or your child. What an awesome way to hold onto a special dress, outfit or blankie that your child outgrows.

Each doll, is carefully stitched, embroidered and pieced together by Anne herself and the  fabrics and stuffing are soft, and totally huggable. No rough edges, no giant plastic heads, and no tiny accessories to swallow or lose.

I would much rather spend my hard earned dollars on a beautiful handmade doll for my children over a store-bought generic one, any day. 

Supporting local artisans do what they love means so much, both for them and for us. 

What a way to bring home the "bacon"!

Anne-Marie kindly invited us to meet up with her at an amazing local indie craft/art fair called  Make It Vancouver where we could meet in person and my daughter could choose her very own doll. 

She even sent us coupons in the mail so we would get a discount on the entry fee.

Let me just say, Anne is THE SWEETEST ever. For real. 

Not only was she working on her BIRTHDAY (don't worry, we brought her macaroons), but she was happy about it. Her heart seems to genuinely be in her community and in her dolls.

Meeting in person was like meeting up with an old friend. 

She not only greeted my children with open arms, but got down to their level and rooted around through bins along side them. She never once rushed them either. AND BOY were there bins, bins filled to the BRIM! She had been BUSY getting ready for the fair, that's for sure. 

My cupcake was overwhelmed. 

Bin after bin of beautiful dollies for her to look at, touch, hug and kiss, and if you know my Cupcake, she absolutely LOOOOVES dolls.

She would choose one, and then another, and then another.

She just could not decide. 

I don't blame her, each one was more adorable than the next.

We just let her do her thing, though I secretly hoped that she would choose a little boy.

Are they not the sweetest??

Cupcake-girl nearly chose the one on the top right  with the cute little headband and the ballet slippers, wearing a dress made out of a dress that belonged to Anne's sister. So sweet. Each one seemed to have its own little personality.

However, the little beauty that called out to her wore a dress full of happy little raspberries. Trust my little foodie to choose a doll with raspberries on it haha.

So cute.

The smile on my cupcake's face was priceless as she hugged Anne- Marie and thanked her. 

We were told to wander around and come back later, as Anne quickly embroidered Cupcake's name on the back.

SEE!? It's the added little touches, and love that make buying handmade SO worth it.

 So soft, and one piece, she snuggled it close and even used it as a pillow as she road through the fair on her daddy's back.

Want to meet Anne-Marie & fait pour toi yourself??

If you are local and in the Vancouver-area, you are in luck my friends!

Check out the upcoming markets that fait pour toi will be at:

Trout Lake Farmers Market

June 8, August 24, September 14

Kerrisdale Farmers Market

June 15, September 21

Main Street Farmers Market

June 19, September 18

West End Farmers Market

August 17

Looking for something to do this summer?? 

You definitely have to swing by one of these markets and check out her little dolls yourself!

Not in the area? 

Do not fear! 

fait pour toi is on Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/faitpourtoivancouver

or email Anne directly at: moi@faitpourtoi.com

Anne-Marie, thank you SO much for making my little girl's day!

We will definitely see you again this Summer, and perhaps get a little brother for Raspberry!

Thanks for reading!!!

Moa pô

Introducing:

Moa Po

Based out of Quebec,  Myriam Duchesneau has been the creativity behind this amazing Canadian company since 2007.

Moa pô is best known for their amazing hand-made coat the "Mama Parka".

The Mama Parka is built to last a lifetime, including throughout pregnancy, and can accommodate a baby carrier either worn on the front or the back.

The best thing is, this coat is FAR from dorky.

It is actually BEAUTIFUL, hip, and stylish.

This is definitely NOT you average babywearing coat that's for sure.

 Sounds too good to be true, right?

See for yourself:

 The exterior of the Mama Parka is made of wool-felt, while the lining is luscious satin.

Mmmm. 

Would you not love to wrap up in one all winter long?

Read more about the Mama Parka here: http://moapo.ca/MAMAPARKA-1

or purchase one for yourself on Etsy here: http://www.etsy.com/listing/110907911/mama-parka-rouge-red-mp-401?ref=shop_home_active

However, Moa pô is more than just a company with beautiful handmade coats.

They also carry:

Mei Tai baby carriers

Carrier Covers

and MORE,
 such as clothes for children 3months-6years.

"The" Review:

I was lucky enough to get to try an awesome Moa Po made with these rich & sparkly colours:

The Moa Po mei tai carrier is an asian style carrier made from soft and strong organic cotton twill with unbleached cotton padding, all fabric dyes and eco-friendly treatments.

It's good to know that I do not need to worry about harsh chemicals, or dyes leeching into my baby's mouth if she decides to suck on the fabric of the carrier (which happens quite often in this house... the sucking on wrap straps, not the chemical leeching). 

Mei tai carriers have been around for centuries.

These carriers can be safely worn on your back, front or even side.

Don't worry, a DVD is included with every Moa pô, chalk full of video demonstrations so you can figure out exactly what you are doing before you try anything with your baby. 

Safety first, babywearers!!

(Remember to try all new carries over a soft surface such as a bed, and/or have a spotter available).

If you lose your DVD have no fear, there is always youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F46I9x1fNmM

The Moa Po 2013 collection is wearable art at its finest.

Dublin, Paris, Amsterdam, Vancouver

Circling the globe has never been so easy with these fun, travel inspired prints of 2013.

Which is your favorite? 

 https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.566207210059292.107342874.123875074292510&type=3

I LOVE the Vancouver one, although it is missing mountains, the ocean and, well, RAINDROPS. 

April showers must be bringing a heap of May flowers is all I can say about that.

What I LOVE about our Moa pô carrier is the versatility it brings.

I can go from wearing our 2.5year old, 29lber to wearing our 6month old, 16lber in a flash.

It is as easy as putting one down and picking up the other.

Both are equally as comfortable, and equally as supported.

And it is EASY. 

(I should technically have the shoulder straps more on my shoulders, to avoid that creeping up the neck thing that is happening in these photos.Easily fixed though, man I need to invest in a photographer so I can get better product shots. *wink*)

The straps are lightly padded, and flare out into wider wrap style straps so they can be spread for added support, while still helping achieve the knee to knee positioning on an older child.

 The straps themselves, are new and improved: long, large and wide to help with long-lasting comfort from 9lbs-35lbs, so your child will not grow out of this carrier for a very.long.time..

Sorry for the crooked photo.

The actual body of the carrier is nice and light and feels not only trim in your hands but on your body, as well. The improved contoured body shape helps to get baby in the proper positioning with minimal effort on your part, baby seems to just fall into place.

I was worried that the contours would make the carrier feel somewhat smaller in the body, but was pleasantly surprised when that was not the case. As I said before, both my girls were equally as comfortable in it, as was I, and felt pretty much weightless for me.

Bonus: no "diggy" straps either.

 

The carrier could not have come at a better time, as this past week BOTH of my smallest had been feeling under the weather and wanting up for snuggles. 

My Moa Po even helped me do skin to skin contact today whilst wearing my youngest.

 Close enough to kiss definitely came in handy with this croupy little lady.

That is another awesome thing about babywearing, your little one can sleep upright where you can keep a close eye on them at all times! Baby sleeps peacefully and can be easily monitored.

The neck/head support can be tied to the shoulder straps as well for added support for a sleeping baby's heavy head to rest against.

Because of its trim nature, this light-weight carrier can be folded or rolled up and easily stored in a diaper bag, or under the seat of your car for easy access at all times. Toss it in the bottom of your stroller even, and use your stroller to cart around your purse and groceries haha. 

All in all a beautifully made, unique looking Canadian carrier.

Definitely has my seal of approval.

Thank you Moa Po for letting us try one of your beautiful creations, I cannot wait to see what you come out with next.

Follow Moa pô on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Moa-p%C3%B4/123875074292510

Browse their Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/CreationsMoaPo?ref=seller_info

or

Find a store near you: http://www.moapo.ca/POINT-DE-VENTES-STORES

Slingyroo

Slingyroo!

What exactly is a Slingyroo?

A Slingyroo is a bag made out of your favorite woven wrap.

The strap is nice and wide, just like the straps would be on a wrap conversion mei tai (WCMT), so you are able to spread the weight of your bag across your shoulders, just as you would a carrier. 

Much like a wrap conversion ring sling, your Slingyroo also fastens with a pair of metal sling rings so you can adjust the wide strap to suit the length that you need.

 Check out the instructions, for multiple ways to wear your Slingyroo.

This beautiful bag is not only for babywearers.

In fact, anyone can appreciate the beauty of this bag.

I wear it cross-body, and spread the strap over my shoulder nice and wide.

I often suffer from shoulder pain, old rugby injuries you know, and with this bag I feel no pain.

Often, when I am wearing a purse I have to switch sides every now and then because my shoulders start to ache. I love how with this bag, I feel no ache at all. Love it.

Babywear-ers however, will especially love this bag because not only can you get it to match your favorite wrap, but you can wear it WITH your carrier.

Your bag can be worn cross-body under your sling, woven wrap or soft shelled carrier comfortably. No more straps over your baby's face, or slipping off of your shoulder. You can go completely hands free in comfort!
In my photos above, I am wearing my Northern Lights Slingyroo right under my wrap conversion ring sling.

 Wearababy has introduced an awesome brand new Slingyroo:
The DOUBLE STRAP Slingyroo.

Pictured above in the ever-gorgeous Girasol Northern Lights.

Now your favorite bag can be worn with the straps crossed in the back for added support and comfort.

Awesome, hey?

Order directly from Wearababy's: http://www.wearababy.com/shop/bags/category/55-varastovalmiit-laukut

Choose from PAXbaby.com's in stock Slingyroos: http://shop.paxbaby.com/slingyroo/

Or 

Get one made to order

Simply send an email to: orders@wearababy.com

• You pick the woven wrap of your liking
• Pick a second choice, just in case your first choice is unavailable
• Include any other wishes that you may have (for example the color of the rings, shorter or longer shoulder strap)

Made to order bags can take up to 4 weeks but I'm telling you... the wait is so worth it.

After mine was complete, it took less than 2 weeks for it to get to me in Vancouver, BC Canada from Finland.

CRAZY! I can barely send something across Canada and have it arrive that quickly.

I was thoroughly impressed.

 

I was sent an awesome Slingyroo in Northern Lights to try.

Drool.

I was actually surprised at how much I  could fit inside my Slingyroo bag without it feeling too heavy or looking too stuffed.

All packed up.

What was all inside, with room to spare.

Northern Lights was the very first woven wrap I ever wrapped my new Baby#3 in, so it is a wrap I hold close to my heart. 

Now even when my daughter outgrows being carried and worn, I can still wear my NL Slingyroo and think of when she was a teeny, tiny squishy.

Sigh.

Beautiful.

Thank you SO much to Niina at Wearababy.com for sending me this beautiful bag to try out.

I love it.