tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16479075524475323622024-02-20T08:54:28.809-08:00plum tot baby essentialsplum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-90079157574407385052010-04-01T11:11:00.000-07:002010-04-01T12:05:19.945-07:00Bird Nest Cookies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tf5ZcWnWXsEG5PjFeTVCZsv1fJn6KOP4SlT5rS8z4d82Of35kzVH4v8SwIwTFP_RqWYCAZRNvRe3MSZiGHKju27toB8QEiXhuWEjy2POtXEg_x6XuUkEu1-mLSLwfDIuK57vpZYsSJo/s1600/IMG_2760.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tf5ZcWnWXsEG5PjFeTVCZsv1fJn6KOP4SlT5rS8z4d82Of35kzVH4v8SwIwTFP_RqWYCAZRNvRe3MSZiGHKju27toB8QEiXhuWEjy2POtXEg_x6XuUkEu1-mLSLwfDIuK57vpZYsSJo/s320/IMG_2760.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455234611269741090" border="0" /></a><br />These cookies are darling, delicious, and perfect for Easter. Or for Spring. I mean, who really needs an excuse to eat cookies?!<br /><br />Peanut Butter Bird Nest Cookies<br /><br />2 2/3 cups flour<br />2 teaspoons baking soda<br />1 teaspoon salt<br />1 cup butter<br />2/3 cup creamy peanut butter<br />1 cup sugar<br />1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed<br />2 eggs<br />2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />Additional sugar (for rolling)<br />Cadbury mini eggs (solid chocolate with a shell) or peanut M & Ms in pastel colors<br /><br />Directions:<br /><br />Preheat oven to 375 degrees. <br /><br />In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking soda. Add butter and peanut butter and mix until smooth. Add sugars and beat until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla and mix until smooth.<br /><br />Make balls out of level tablespoon of dough -- add flour if needed. Roll in sugar.<br /><br />Bake 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet for 8 minutes. Remove from oven and press 3 chocolate candies into the center of each cookie. Return to the oven and bake for 2 more minutes. <br /><br />Cool and enjoy!plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-57827373777528494782010-02-10T21:24:00.000-08:002010-02-10T22:25:11.864-08:00All Ages Valentine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic73kmmd6Tpuuvt4zhA3_diVN8mg3Vpjm7Q56fPn11fXK_ttys6emEIwxmAVE5xLVabf542vmdBl_R8LwrblCMP_q3m8TrvWgf3ms-D1WsZRsrYIlUzVAzFn0ay1hILI0tgA1QHtVVTz4/s1600-h/IMG_0304.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic73kmmd6Tpuuvt4zhA3_diVN8mg3Vpjm7Q56fPn11fXK_ttys6emEIwxmAVE5xLVabf542vmdBl_R8LwrblCMP_q3m8TrvWgf3ms-D1WsZRsrYIlUzVAzFn0ay1hILI0tgA1QHtVVTz4/s320/IMG_0304.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436860117541616562" border="0" /></a>I love this project for creating Valentine cards because even younger kiddos can participate. Both my boys did this project this year and it was a hit with everyone (even me - I was so impressed with the end result!)<br /><br />Supplies:<br /><br />A roll of clear contact paper<br />Scraps of paper, tissue, light-weight fabric, foil, etc.<br />A variety of hearts (in different sizes)<br />Glitter and/or sequins<br />Scissors<br />Ribbon<br />Hole Punch<br />Masking or painter's tape<br /><br />Cut out two pieces of contact paper in the same size. Peel off the backing of one sheet and place it on the workspace, sticky side up. Secure corners with tape to hold the contact paper in place. Let your child use the paper, scraps, glitter, etc. to decorate the entire sheet (if your child is older and can use scissors, have them help prepare the scraps by cutting and tearing them before they begin). When they've finished decorating, peel the backing off the second sheet of contact paper and cover the decorated sheet, sticky side to sticky side. Work from one side to the other making sure to smooth out the wrinkles as you go. Cut out heart shapes from the sheet, punch a hole in the top of each one and tie with a ribbon.<br /><br />Check out the pictures from our project, including the finished product above. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFToO5acvSQj8CAv9-jHS19YfuLW57TpzGcwDCspk9OWuMfmqLJkk8Ao_0ce5gKxuXaK49QQjnpqa7P2E5oR99B7GdGCdykVCjuxS3peGVwSqYXyG5PSrviEHIb7NSkFBBUX8JMCM8HBM/s1600-h/IMG_0297.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFToO5acvSQj8CAv9-jHS19YfuLW57TpzGcwDCspk9OWuMfmqLJkk8Ao_0ce5gKxuXaK49QQjnpqa7P2E5oR99B7GdGCdykVCjuxS3peGVwSqYXyG5PSrviEHIb7NSkFBBUX8JMCM8HBM/s320/IMG_0297.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436860104714759362" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXXBIJV0C4sbat3SVsma17VwBH6snG67b7HMCZuMk5xr3tcrQiyvXmuYSc4uvLF4-WUy-VOY3fSME7q6O_-I3XhrL4Hr2fDmYCDy49zw67lt267GoOlMqYE2BzWu9tbaIZUhifkTQp1ds/s1600-h/IMG_0295.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXXBIJV0C4sbat3SVsma17VwBH6snG67b7HMCZuMk5xr3tcrQiyvXmuYSc4uvLF4-WUy-VOY3fSME7q6O_-I3XhrL4Hr2fDmYCDy49zw67lt267GoOlMqYE2BzWu9tbaIZUhifkTQp1ds/s320/IMG_0295.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436860093709097938" border="0" /></a>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-12992669784877808262009-12-02T15:47:00.000-08:002009-12-02T16:18:19.577-08:00Check Out One of Our Upcoming Shows: Part II<span style="font-weight: bold;">Holiday Shopping Soiree</span><br /><br />Shop the hottest local boutiques while enjoying complimentary wine and appetizers! Fabulous swag, raffles, free gifts and event only sales.<br /><br />Monday, December 7th, 6-8:30 pm<br />Me Too! Cafe<br />16755 Baseline Rd. #102<br />Beaverton, OR 97006<br /><br />Get all the details by checking out the blog dedicated to this event:<br /><a href="http://www.holidaysoiree.blogspot.com/"><br /></a><a href="http://www.holidaysoiree.blogspot.com/">www.holidaysoiree.blogspot.com</a>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-35280609398080903922009-12-02T15:35:00.000-08:002009-12-02T15:47:51.428-08:00Check Out One of Our Upcoming Shows: Part I<span style="font-weight: bold;">Young Life Holiday Boutique</span><br /><br />Please join us for the 4TH annual YOUNG LIFE HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE! It will be an amazing afternoon of holiday shopping for handmade items made by local artisans! Don't forget -- 15% of all sales will be donated to Young Life in addition to the proceeds of some silent auction/raffle items provided by some of the artisans.<br /><br />Sunday, December 6th, 2-6 pm<br />NLF Conference Room:<br />717 Tacoma Avenue South<br />Tacoma, WA 98402<br /><br />ARTISTS THAT WILL BE SHOWING:<br />Hum Designs Jewelry (Semi-precious stones set in sterling silver & 14kt GF)<br />by Shannon Stewart<br /><a href="http://www.humdesigns.com/">http://www.humdesigns.com<br /></a><br />Plum Tot (Unique Baby Essentials)<br />by Ami Roberts<br /><a href="http://www.plumtot.com/">http://www.plumtot.com</a><br /><br />Bow Dacious (Designer Hairbows and Headbands for Girls)<br />by Anna Petree<br /><br />CandleDance (Handmade Soy Candles with Autumn, Christmas & Aromatherapy scents)<br />By Crystel Raines<br /><a href="http://www.candledance.com/">http://www.candledance.com</a><br /><br />Hand Maid Foot Prince (Baby Blankets & Spats)<br />By Linda Hannigan<br /><a href="http://www.handmaidfootprince.com/">http://www.handmaidfootprince.com</a><br /><br />Lillibelle (Felted Purses, Scarves, Accessories & Children's Clothes)<br />By Abby Schuette<br /><br />Whimsical Wireworks (Tea Light Lanterns & Fused Glass)<br />By Lisa Caldwell<br /><br />Carol's Bakery Basket (Gourmet Treats & Retro Aprons)<br />By Carol Lockman<br /> <br />Petal Custom Floral Design Raffle<br />By Casie Swanson<br /><br />Towne House Creations (Gift Items & Home Decor)<br />By Sheri Towne<br /><br />Hand Made with Love (Hand crafted greeting cards, note cards, monogrammed cards, invitations, announcements and more)<br />by Sandra Kuharic and Joan Whitlock<br /><br />Tiny House (Unique gift items such as pin cushions, crayon rolls, pouches, bobby pins for girls etc.)<br />by Jessie Keating<br /><a href="http://atinyhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this),">http://atinyhouse.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br />Polka Dot Ink. (Handmade Earrings)<br />by Grace D and Sarah J-Fplum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-39785300977445989422009-11-14T22:03:00.000-08:002009-11-14T22:45:20.314-08:00New Favorite Resource for Kid CraftsI am creative. I am crafty. I also spent years in my former, pre-mama life as an elementary school teacher. Despite all this, I still seem to find that I need inspiration for projects and activities to do with my little guys. <a href="http://belladia.typepad.com/crafty_crow/">Crafty Crow</a> to the rescue. I just stumbled on a wonderful blog for child craft projects that has so many lovely, inspiring ideas I can hardly stand it! The Crafty Crow has a huge archive of projects and so many different categories (age, event, medium just to name a few), you are bound to find something perfect for everyone. I also love that there are projects for even the littlest of hands. (Plus they have awesome giveaways.) Check them out!<br /><br />P.S. --I know I've been absolutely terrible about updating this blog. I've got lots of posts from recent plum tot newsletters to add and some great post ideas that have just not made their way here...yet. Check back soon. They'll be here-I promise.plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-51222278559880550662009-08-03T14:47:00.000-07:002009-11-14T22:47:16.447-08:00Hugs and Kisses for Mary MurphyI Kissed the Baby! by Mary Murphy has been a favorite book of both my boys. It's got simple lyrical text, bold and contrasting illustrations, and a warm lovey feeling emanating from it's pages. A perfect shower gift (matched with a Plum Tot bib, perhaps?)<br /><br />Check it out <a style="color: rgb(204, 0, 51);" track="on" href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/66-9781844287918-0" linktype="link">here</a>.plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-82889281305398146522009-08-03T14:45:00.000-07:002009-11-14T22:48:52.788-08:00Shopper's Guide to PesticidesWe do out best to buy local and organic produce whenever possible but I find there are times when I don't have that option. I'm often wondering about which types of produce to avoid and what is considered safer for my family and especially for my young children. The Environmental Working Group has created a Shopper's Guide to Pesticides that outlines "the Dirty Dozen" --the 12 most pesticide laden types of produce along with the "Clean 15" --the 15 kinds of produce with the lowest amount of pesticides. Click <a style="text-decoration: underline;" track="on" href="http://www.foodnews.org/EWG-shoppers-guide-download-final.pdf" linktype="link"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 51); text-decoration: underline;">here</span></a> for a wallet size print out and for more information about produce and pesticide use.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 51); font-weight: bold;">Here's the list:</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;font-size:100%;" >Dirty Dozen</span> (Produce with the most pesticides)<br /><br />1. Peach<br />2. Apple<br />3. Bell Pepper<br />4. Celery<br />5. Nectarine<br />6. Strawberries<br />7. Cherries<br />8. Kale<br />9. Lettuce<br />10. Grapes (Imported)<br />11. Carrot<br />12. Pear<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Clean 15</span></span><br />(Lowest in pesticides--ranked with the very lowest first)<br /><br />1. Onion<br />2. Avocado<br />3. Sweet Corn<br />4. Pineapple<br />5. Mango<br />6. Asparagus<br />7. Sweet Peas<br />8. Kiwi<br />9. Cabbage<br />10. Eggplant<br />11. Papaya<br />12. Watermelon<br />13. Broccoli<br />14. Tomato<br />15. Sweet Potatoplum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-800692987776418412009-07-31T13:53:00.000-07:002009-08-03T14:42:15.119-07:00Look, Look! Our New Favorite Book!Just the other day, my youngest son grabbed this book off our bookshelf, toddled it over to me, and, in his little baby way (a series of earnest grunts) insisted that I read it to him. Look, Look! is perfect for even the littlest munchkins with it's bold illustrations, simple text, and high contrast pages in black, white, and red. It's definitely a favorite in our house.<br /><br />For a look at "Look, Look!", <a track="on" href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/62-9780525420286-0" linktype="link">look</a> here.plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-71291377012875623782009-07-31T13:30:00.000-07:002009-08-03T14:42:03.323-07:00Flower Pressing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg7vUOA8mjonXDvy5OxDm0zddePjYNCWdo8EqhVxEsSp1vYOvn3VpPekOwE_gpHLiwaYEQZHkMxC1rsHHeNqy2CKadJuCQiP1kYG_TGwbkf435mRcfksRo5MHDdPOsLyw_E8pfbGwAxm0/s1600-h/DSC_0571.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg7vUOA8mjonXDvy5OxDm0zddePjYNCWdo8EqhVxEsSp1vYOvn3VpPekOwE_gpHLiwaYEQZHkMxC1rsHHeNqy2CKadJuCQiP1kYG_TGwbkf435mRcfksRo5MHDdPOsLyw_E8pfbGwAxm0/s320/DSC_0571.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365854559034954290" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-size:100%;">I had a flower press when I was a kid. From time to time, I'd unscrew the knobs and look through the different layers to see all the paper thin memories from summers' past. Many of the flowers and leaves that I'd pressed were from my neighborhood walks and from my backyard. This year, my oldest son and I plan to press some flowers from our backyard garden.<br /><br />If you's like to press flowers with your child, you will need:<br />*tissue or blotting paper (construction paper can also work)<br />*cardboard<br />*large, heavy books for pressing<br />*an assortment of flowers and leaves<br /><br />Lay a sheet of tissue paper over a piece of cardboard. Arrange your flowers and leaves on the tissue. It's also fun to include a small note tucked in with the flowers detailing where they came from to help your child remember what you collected and why. Cover with another sheet of tissue paper, a piece of cardboard and a very heavy book (or two). Leave pressed for at least two weeks and up to six months. The longer the press, the better the preservation.<br /><br /><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-62828536455127245912009-07-31T13:25:00.000-07:002009-08-03T14:41:51.771-07:00Safer Children's Sunscreens, Just in Time for SummerBoth my boys have inherited their mother's sensitive skin issues so I've been on the hunt for safer sunscreens that work on their skin without harmful chemicals. Check out <a track="on" href="http://safemama.com/2009/04/13/safemamas-2009-safer-sunscreen-cheat-sheet/" linktype="link">Safemama's Sunscreen Cheat Sheet</a> to find a list of safer sun options for your little one (and yourself).<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-2356629957637680432009-07-31T13:23:00.000-07:002009-08-03T14:41:40.495-07:00Blog LoveI just love, love this blog and thought I would share it. Check out Inhabitots.com --a blog devoted to eco-friendly design for the next generation. I always find great product and design ideas for children and feel especially inspired by their commitment to sustainability. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><br /></span><a style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);" track="on" href="http://www.inhabitots.com/" linktype="link">www.inhabitots.com</a>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-3676253284363638752009-07-31T13:19:00.000-07:002009-08-03T14:41:24.082-07:00Blocks and Books all Rolled into OneDylan, my ten month old, has recently discovered the colorful box sitting on the playroom bookshelf. Inside there are 26 little board books representing each letter of the alphabet. The books are perfectly sized for little hands and can be stacked, grabbed, and chewed, in addition to being read. Check out <a style="color: rgb(0, 204, 204);" track="on" href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/72-9780811824743-0" linktype="link">ABC Block Books</a> for your little one.plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-63675112759573675722009-07-31T13:15:00.000-07:002009-08-03T14:40:34.910-07:00Goody Bags for...Well, Goodies!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOwhttwz8wug0PqNpXSkhmI0cbmwZxNJnsiACZEP6FlVU0oqDSZdMAv_0dgnVtxeTPV54D5dRJI9mSx82qZXPjboWSQVtzPHPSTSUSUG0-t0qHMdG86pYVSunLh64y3_ToY_1gMdZQ68/s1600-h/IMG_2728%232.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 293px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOwhttwz8wug0PqNpXSkhmI0cbmwZxNJnsiACZEP6FlVU0oqDSZdMAv_0dgnVtxeTPV54D5dRJI9mSx82qZXPjboWSQVtzPHPSTSUSUG0-t0qHMdG86pYVSunLh64y3_ToY_1gMdZQ68/s320/IMG_2728%232.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5365855210419110530" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >These bags are perfect for small treats or used as an alternative to paper gift wrap. They're also reusable and super easy to make!<br /><br />You will need:.<br /><br />*Fabric and ribbon scraps<br />*A sewing machine (unless you want to spend hours sewing by hand)<br />*Pinking shears<br /><br />Cut two pieces of fabric in a rectangle size of your choice. (I made a variety of sizes but began with a 6"x 9"). Place them print side in and stitch around three sides leaving one side open. Turn the bag right side out and finish by cutting the top edge with pinking shears for a fun and easy finish. Fill and tie with a ribbon. Voila!<br /></span><br /></span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-53263288436708832842009-04-29T21:24:00.000-07:002009-07-31T13:58:48.005-07:00Marble Painting-- Sounds like fun, doesn't it?<span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I'm always looking for fun things to do with my kids. I found this project idea from FamilyFun.com.</span></span><br /><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">This project is a lot of fun for little ones and looks beautiful with bright colors!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">You will need:</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">*A handful of marbles</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">*A sturdy (non-breakable) plate or flat-bottomed container with a lip </span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />*A muffin tin (or small dishes) and tempera paints </span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />*Paper </span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />*Spoons</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">First, trim a sheet of paper to fit on your plate (or in your container). Fill the cups of a muffin tin with different colored tempera paints. Show your child how to gently drop a marble into the paint and roll it around with the bowl of a spoon. When the marble is well coated, transfer it by spoon to the paper-lined plate. Use a gentle wrist action to swirl the marble around until the paint wears off. Or try using two or three marbles simultaneously. To preserve the hues, use a different marble for each color. Lift the artwork from the paper plate to dry.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /></span></span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-65323082221894238042009-04-29T21:16:00.000-07:002009-04-29T21:23:19.635-07:00Baby Books for Spring<p style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(102, 51, 51);"></span><br /></span></p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">These two little books are made their way into my youngest son's Easter basket. I'm a total sucker for children's books and these are two of my current favorites.</span><br /><br /><a style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204); font-family: trebuchet ms;" track="on" href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/62-9780811865555-0" linktype="link">In My Nest</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> is one of those books that looks like a piece of art to be displayed on a child's bedroom wall. Only it's a book about a little bird and it's nest. A bluebird finger puppet peaks through on each page and adds a unique tactile element to this book.</span><br /><br /> <a style="color: rgb(102, 102, 204); font-family: trebuchet ms;" track="on" href="http://www.powells.com/biblio/1-9781582462752-0" linktype="link">Busy Chickens</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> is part of the "Busy" series of animal books and is geared for little ones. It's got wonderful photos of chickens in action, great vocabulary, rhyming text, and a hint of humor (My personal favorite, "chicken zooming" cracks me up every time I see it.) I haven't read any of the other books in the "Busy" series, but I'm willing to bet they're high quality as well.</span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-76002799643228336012009-03-18T12:27:00.000-07:002009-03-18T12:29:10.107-07:00Product Tip-- Hooded Towels<div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Trebuchet MS,Verdana,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:10pt;" styleclass="style_RightColHead" align="center"><p><span style="font-family:System;"><br /></span></p> </div> <div align="center"><a track="on" href="http://www.plumtot.com/"><img name="ACCOUNT.IMAGE.34" alt="modern clover hooded towel" src="http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs093/1101855869297/img/34.jpg?a=1102511460482" border="0" width="160" height="238" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">After drying off your little one in our hooded towel, try flipping the towel and hood inside out and snuggle your baby in the plush velour on the back side. My boys both loved this! </span></span><br /><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Let us know what you think of our products. <a track="on" href="http://www.plumtot.com/contact.php" linktype="undefined">Email us</a> with your comments or tips and you could be featured on our website or in our newsletter!</span></span></div>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-25252278187546936912009-03-18T12:25:00.000-07:002009-03-18T12:48:15.083-07:00Science for Munchkins<span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0); text-decoration: underline;">Rainbow Flowers</span><br /><br />Introduce the concept of osmosis with flowers, water, and food coloring. I found this activity on the National Geographic Little Kids page and thought it would be a perfect--if not a little messy--science experiment for preschoolers. (If you missed my Little Kids Magazine rave, read it below.) Instead of typing it out in my newsletter, I've provided a link to the directions, which are complete with pictures and notes for parents (so you can look extra smart).<br /><br />Check it out <a style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);" track="on" href="http://littlekids.nationalgeographic.com/littlekids/science-experiments/02-rainbow-flowers.html" linktype="link">here</a>.</span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-76368998545529956432009-03-18T12:22:00.000-07:002009-03-18T12:24:59.127-07:00A Magazine for Wee Ones<p style="font-weight: bold; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" ><a style="color: rgb(255, 102, 51);" track="on" href="http://littlekids.nationalgeographic.com/littlekids/" linktype="link">National Geographic Little Kids</a></span></p><span style=";font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >'Santa' got our oldest son a subscription to Little Kids Magazine and let me tell you --what a hit! His latest issue came yesterday and we were both thrilled. He loves getting mail just for him and wants to read through the whole thing right away. I love it for the content--great photos, a non-fiction emphasis, vocabulary building, pre-reading skills, logic activities, science experiments, a multicultural focus, etc. I could go on and on.... It's geared for the preschool set and just won a Parents' Choice Gold Award in 2008. The only downside? It only comes out once every two months.</span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-38445359790994989722009-03-18T12:20:00.000-07:002009-03-18T12:21:30.909-07:00Skin Deep Cosmetic Database<span style="font-size:100%;">Ever wonder what is in your skin care products? If so, check out Skin Deep, a cosmetic database that details more than 41,000 personal care products. They list all kind of product information about makeup, sunscreen, baby care products, men's products and more. Here you can find out just how safe (or unsafe) the personal care products your family uses are. If you find that what you're using is unsafe, you can easily find a safer alternative on their website. Phew! <br /><br />Go to <a style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);" track="on" href="http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/" linktype="link">www.cosmeticsdatabase.com</a> for more info.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-34795585980365320462009-03-18T12:12:00.000-07:002009-03-18T12:26:54.524-07:00Our New Wish List Registry<span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:85%;" ><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >Having a baby? Got a preschooler who's birthday is coming? Just love our stuff? We've got a new feature for you. We've had a number of customers ask if they can register for Plum Tot products so we've added a <a style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);" track="on" href="http://www.plumtot.com/info.php?page=14" linktype="link">wish list page</a> to our website. Interested? Simply <a style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);" track="on" href="http://www.plumtot.com/contact.php" linktype="link">email</a> us with your name, contact information, and list of goodies you're wishing for. If you want to tell us who the goodies are for, we like that too. We will keep your information on file and post your name with your wish list on our website for shoppers to see. The rest of your information will remain confidential and will be used for shipping.<br /><br />All that's left to do is let all your friends know and cross your fingers.</span></span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-78360327846378129592009-02-05T21:29:00.000-08:002009-02-06T09:45:08.561-08:00Wall Art<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVbXbneEXiWVPEuf5GARqEKAjKCsOt2-9Dp4ZbnNI6oLQU2D3uiBR5448BJ4P0ehSyC2yo4jysMPI_Yg0jdqEz0xyfLLPTcCuQhz1L1NeQCWu1A6m_w6uk2Iq6l-iNsYhhQ1xTHD35Kek/s1600-h/IMG_2527.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVbXbneEXiWVPEuf5GARqEKAjKCsOt2-9Dp4ZbnNI6oLQU2D3uiBR5448BJ4P0ehSyC2yo4jysMPI_Yg0jdqEz0xyfLLPTcCuQhz1L1NeQCWu1A6m_w6uk2Iq6l-iNsYhhQ1xTHD35Kek/s320/IMG_2527.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299556278326166962" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXFonbKGravkKPdqLgi_no6PbIVOdefE3eS6RtYOas1FnyopLxdPONLWvDZnupVvEVVfIPbiFWM2HPKIJDhPlJuyBiHeV70rLLeccnAdLdYVyUPuR9JAqr0kRlW_ip4qK6MjR_wQLeCrI/s1600-h/IMG_2521.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXFonbKGravkKPdqLgi_no6PbIVOdefE3eS6RtYOas1FnyopLxdPONLWvDZnupVvEVVfIPbiFWM2HPKIJDhPlJuyBiHeV70rLLeccnAdLdYVyUPuR9JAqr0kRlW_ip4qK6MjR_wQLeCrI/s320/IMG_2521.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299556123286948658" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONqV44XpRuoWBZp3JD89HVj5v-wm6uLH8rv8vNGvdzG6lxFPpbgMrUqcGJUSHhGG_S5YG4KwdKyP7C845wlz-U-57tNuxsFlq0UXDCWrkwrCg0MX5Ntf80E63FT_OntGQ9q7obLfC_qs/s1600-h/IMG_2517.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONqV44XpRuoWBZp3JD89HVj5v-wm6uLH8rv8vNGvdzG6lxFPpbgMrUqcGJUSHhGG_S5YG4KwdKyP7C845wlz-U-57tNuxsFlq0UXDCWrkwrCg0MX5Ntf80E63FT_OntGQ9q7obLfC_qs/s320/IMG_2517.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299555644103395650" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Some of you may have already seen the wall art I've made recently. For those of you who've missed them--here are a few photos with some examples. I haven't put them up for sale yet on my website but I'm definitely curious about what people think. I just added a couple shelves in my oldest son's room and I'm loving how the prints look displayed with his favorite books.</span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-22086241707442614492008-12-09T13:03:00.000-08:002008-12-09T13:04:35.797-08:00Wonderful Winter Book for Kids<a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" track="on" href="http://www.amazon.com/Winters-Tale-Original-Pop-up-Journey/dp/0689853637" linktype="link">Winter's Tale</a><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> by Robert Sabuda is a magical book that takes the pop-up concept to a whole new level. Simple, poetic text pairs with intricate pop-up scenes complete with shiny, glittery loveliness. This book is really a piece of art I'd recommend to parents of slightly older children who can resist tearing the pages. </span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-18442439216607514202008-12-09T12:59:00.001-08:002009-07-31T13:59:29.688-07:00"Gingerbread" Houses<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO0Lqfp4uKBzYg_vq9OS5gKnMm5vIBBer8NFX-ccdqj1NaEv0VBZ3_BP5o72GxbMVsOa_r4mux3QGbOl-TlAazjeUL-Z2Aw_-r3d-jdVGgew3AG0MlLIhc-4ZWWupVsby0pGFvU9IsoDk/s1600-h/IMG_2231.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO0Lqfp4uKBzYg_vq9OS5gKnMm5vIBBer8NFX-ccdqj1NaEv0VBZ3_BP5o72GxbMVsOa_r4mux3QGbOl-TlAazjeUL-Z2Aw_-r3d-jdVGgew3AG0MlLIhc-4ZWWupVsby0pGFvU9IsoDk/s320/IMG_2231.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288296286597613602" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Instead of taking the time to bake separate pieces of gingerbread for a house, use graham crackers instead. For a pint size house perfect for a child, take three standard size graham crackers (like HoneyMaid brand) and break them in half to total six squares. "Glue" them together using royal icing (four for the sides and two for the roof) and let it set up on a small piece of cardboard covered in foil. Then take a variety of decorative candy and the remaining frosting and let your child decorate away. You may want to make an extra one for you to decorate as well!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:trebuchet ms;" > </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >You need:</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:trebuchet ms;" ><br /></span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">-3 graham crackers</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />-foil covered cardboard base</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />-assorted decorative candy</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />-Royal icing</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Royal Icing:</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />-2 egg whites (pasteurized, if possible)</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">-2 teaspoons lemon juice</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br />-3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)</span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><br />Beat the egg whites and lemon juice together using an electric mixer. Slowly add the powdered sugar at a low speed to mix smoothly. Store in an airtight container when not using (icing dries out quickly). To pipe onto the seams of the house use a plastic bag with the corner cut off or a piping bag. </span> <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">*Please note that this recipe contains raw egg whites and is not recommended for little munchkins to <span style="font-style: italic;">eat</span>. There are alternative recipes for Royal icing that call for substitutions if preferred.</span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-74039796426964060862008-12-09T12:54:00.000-08:002008-12-09T12:56:48.180-08:00Alternative Gift Giving<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Here's a new idea for gift giving this holiday season. Give a gift that changes lives. MercyCorps has made it easy by providing a variety of Mercy Kits that go to help people and communities all over the world. Mercy Kits range from $16 all the way up to $2500 and outline exactly how your donation will be spent. You get a card (by mail, email, or as a printable PDF) to give to your gift recipient. Go to </span><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" track="on" href="http://www.mercycorps.org/mercykits?source=11900" linktype="link">mercykits.org</a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> for more information.</span>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1647907552447532362.post-54754846069759447732008-11-21T13:38:00.000-08:002008-11-21T15:25:40.907-08:00Sneak Peak<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Whoa. I've really neglected my brand new blog. I had grand dreams to blog about new ideas and inspirations whenever they hit me. Reality check. New business, new products, new baby, and a not so new three year old (not to mention a husband and a dog). So the blog took a back seat for awhile. My apologies.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Some of you have been asking what new products are coming and when will they be here. The first of the cotton top GO blankie line is finished and now online. It's beautiful if I do say so myself! Definitely a sophisticated girly look but some boyish prints and gender neutrals are also on their way and will be online soon. This line has a soft cotton print top and an additional layer of batting inside to keep babies warm. I'm proud to say that the batting in these blankets is made from 100% recycled material as well. It's a soft polyester made from recycled liter bottles. Feels like other batting but has a very light green hue. Check out the Dahlia and Deep Burgundy GO blankie and the sneak peak of other fabrics that will be included in our new line in the near future.</span><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeFf4CjSqZtJO4ulINCTPIj9CX8DF7iT_4bgniGU9knzdnEU_jmksy_FJYvaZdQVwp6-Tu9D8TgYS-AedR5RqhqgQz60x_N2QnN9WmbQJELbBJzHH3Ov49rXjAepaDIBviQqOTJshlOvQ/s1600-h/IMG_1880%232.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeFf4CjSqZtJO4ulINCTPIj9CX8DF7iT_4bgniGU9knzdnEU_jmksy_FJYvaZdQVwp6-Tu9D8TgYS-AedR5RqhqgQz60x_N2QnN9WmbQJELbBJzHH3Ov49rXjAepaDIBviQqOTJshlOvQ/s400/IMG_1880%232.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271247917353103666" border="0" /></a> The new Dahlia and Deep Burgundy GO blankie has arrived!<br /></p><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispXeR74N8ttzEPh5DRC09qrKiLBQY8jrEm9Y624c5NgIpY9yEYcw7XWbuwMjTOE4-8JS63FGhy2KosU4xSEKg-VQKHF56OS7VTPQHRRpwO87MXApLG2rzHpa-CzMIO0yCNLN477pNkwk/s1600-h/Copy+of+IMG_1682%232.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispXeR74N8ttzEPh5DRC09qrKiLBQY8jrEm9Y624c5NgIpY9yEYcw7XWbuwMjTOE4-8JS63FGhy2KosU4xSEKg-VQKHF56OS7VTPQHRRpwO87MXApLG2rzHpa-CzMIO0yCNLN477pNkwk/s400/Copy+of+IMG_1682%232.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271248871713967890" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"> Some of the new prints that are coming soon (not sure if the photos do them justice).</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0F5Sek0-7uE4xJYypxz22CcNa7x3f1FPlpz4eqSVudJ7Ikfkrm_SHzaHQyXzQ6tDyykSq2JUDn7mjObjrqiZoODxAqI0eusNzjaDYGGYQpyqwLvydj9redEnzyBJAl8ISHJ3s67EEME/s1600-h/Copy+of+IMG_1673.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 283px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0F5Sek0-7uE4xJYypxz22CcNa7x3f1FPlpz4eqSVudJ7Ikfkrm_SHzaHQyXzQ6tDyykSq2JUDn7mjObjrqiZoODxAqI0eusNzjaDYGGYQpyqwLvydj9redEnzyBJAl8ISHJ3s67EEME/s400/Copy+of+IMG_1673.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271248865322730642" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I've also got some classic alphabet blocks that should arrive any day. They are made in Michigan by Uncle Goose Blocks, a company that's been in the block-making business for over 20 years. The blocks themselves are made of sustainable Michigan basswood and non-toxic dyes (so no stressing out over your munchkin chewing on these)! The craftmanship on these blocks is beautiful as well. Two sides of each block are embossed with letters and the set features four complete alphabets, numbers, math symbols, and animals. Each block set comes with a sturdy block bag made with our Plum Tot signature fabrics as well. I love these blocks so much, I'm setting aside a set for my three-year-old for Christmas. Shh! Don't tell.</span><br /><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"></p><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTJYGFEcZoO8LoMy6fA1H9-dtWvdmamM6ADGM3NkB_TYFlmqzwT4ax1N5KyjlFpeC-o9HZfEcjKnWzV7kjF0GrLpDuZyolGc5VOqsArwmE8ntUd3Aze9-YiIwtxnFchyphenhyphenqjSN4QpJVRXk/s1600-h/Copy+of+IMG_1886.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 347px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTJYGFEcZoO8LoMy6fA1H9-dtWvdmamM6ADGM3NkB_TYFlmqzwT4ax1N5KyjlFpeC-o9HZfEcjKnWzV7kjF0GrLpDuZyolGc5VOqsArwmE8ntUd3Aze9-YiIwtxnFchyphenhyphenqjSN4QpJVRXk/s400/Copy+of+IMG_1886.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271255451180398722" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqC_09LPxLEjoy91g2e58c9enx0cX-WBZmLP3EBo2lt_sKmySaediU7X20vcAtRInnBIOB7HB2rMLHS4u4VvQMXwOMMoDRzaCOXk9NdBYXIRBPc1hLPA8b68coD_-K2Hfl2eoLlP9Qyp8/s1600-h/IMG_1973%232.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqC_09LPxLEjoy91g2e58c9enx0cX-WBZmLP3EBo2lt_sKmySaediU7X20vcAtRInnBIOB7HB2rMLHS4u4VvQMXwOMMoDRzaCOXk9NdBYXIRBPc1hLPA8b68coD_-K2Hfl2eoLlP9Qyp8/s400/IMG_1973%232.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5271248874765864386" border="0" /></a>plum tot llchttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07989728368886834522noreply@blogger.com0