REVIEW: DreamSacks

I have officially joined the "GREEN" wagon. I've switched out my light bulbs, cloth diaper my baby, and am trying my hand at baby food making. It may be baby steps, but hey, at least I'm going somewhere! So, what's the next step in my verde adventure?

Making my wardrobe environmentally aware!

That's where DreamSacks comes in. I was recently given the opportunity to review a piece of clothing for me and one for CBug! I received the Sophie Short Wrap in Cielo and Caden received the Baby long sleeve tee in the same color.

(Sophie Short Wrap $75)

Dreamsacks was created when Larry, Nancy, and Chelsea Morgan were living overseas. While exploring Asia, they realized the rough sleeping accommodations, and Nancy began sewing sheets together to use while traveling. Eventually, Nancy began to work with one of her students (who worked in a silk factory) to create the first DreamSack. From there the product line grew to include bedding, night wear, yoga wear, and jackets! All products are made from natural fibers including silk, bamboo, soy and cashmere.(Sophie Short Wrap $75)

When I received the wrap and tee, I immediately fell in love. The fabric is so airy and soft! This is the first time I've ever tried clothing made with bamboo and I now understand all the hype! I could wear my wrap with EVERYTHING... EVERYDAY! I love that the wrap is so versitile. You can wear it open as in the picture above, tie it in front, or wrap it around your body to tie in the back!

(Long Sleeve Tee $19)

I also love the long sleeve tee for CBug. I can only imagine what he thinks of the SUPER soft fabric. The color also looks WONDERFUL on him! I paired it with khaki pants for a very simple, but stunning look!

(Cleo Pajama Set $89)

I can only imagine what it feels like to sleep in the DreamSacks bedding, wrapped in the Cleo Pajama Set! Climbing into bed would be a dream in itself! Now that I'm looking for a new bedding set for our new home, I would love to own sheets from Dreamsacks!

(BambooDreams Sheet Set $170-$250)

Make sure to check our DreamSacks and all of their wonderful products! Christmas is coming soon enough... I know that any product from DreamSacks would be a HIT! (or maybe leave your hubby a hint!)

FLUFF BUTT: Diaper Rash

This guest post comes from Holly at The Cloth Diaper Experiment.
She started CDing her son a couple months
before I made the switch,
and has been blogging about the entire journey.
Holly is also one of my close friends IRL!
Her son is 2 weeks younger than CBug.
(which is how we met!)
She is also my inspiration for making the switch!

The Case for Cloth: Diaper Rash

Hi! This is Holly from The Cloth Diaper Experiment, Cassidy is AWESOME and is letting me do a guest post over here so, sorry, but you're stuck with me right now!

I have a 6.5 month old son, Jackson. I switched Jackson to cloth diapers in mid July and I have been in love with it ever since. It's way easier than I thought it would be and the diapers are just freaking adorable!
I now have a NEW reason why I love cloth diapers and that is--The Dreaded Diaper Rash.

Since the beginning of September Jackson has had TWO diaper rashes! Poor kid, he's never had a rash before this month and I feel so bad from him! I'm going to blame the rashes on teething and starting solids. I've dealt with the rashes two different ways...

--Diaper Rash #1--
Being relatively new to cloth diapers, I didn't know how to deal with a rash while in cloth. I bought a pack of Pampers Sensitive Swaddler diapers and some Triple Medicated diaper rash cream. I then typed up a post on my blog asking my followers how to deal with a diaper rash in cloth diapers, as I was terrified of ruining my diaper stash and have read in several places not to use rash cream on your fluff. The rash started on Monday morning (he apparently pooped while he was sleeping and it didn't wake him up, he woke up screaming bloody murder with a bright red booty and a couple raw spots...insert sad face and tears from mom here.) It turns out that the Triple Medicated diaper cream I bought didn't do a darn thing for it so we used Desitin, the Desitin seemed to help a lot more and by Saturday afternoon, we were finally back in cloth.

My blog followers gave me a lot of good advice, which brings me to...

--Diaper Rash #2--
I put Jackson down for bed Tuesday night, he woke up about 3 hours later screaming bloody murder again, my husband went up to check on him and was changing Jackson's diaper and I heard the most awful scream coming from him that I've only heard one other time and knew he had a rash. I ran upstairs and opened the door so there was more light in the room (we keep it dark at night when we check on him and only have a little light to go by). Hubs was using disposable wipes on Jackson and it obviously was hurting him very badly. I asked hubs to stop and use the cloth wipes because his butt was bright red and the disposable wipes hurt him. He hadn't even noticed the rash!

I decided to go about this rash in a different way. (Luckily, Tuesday afternoon while at Target, I had bought some California Baby diaper rash cream...thanks blog readers!) I had my husband put the cream on the rash and I got a diaper ready. I put a fleece wipe so it would sit between Jackson's butt and the diaper. (I had meant to go buy some fleece at the store earlier in the
week but never made it so the wipes are all I had!) Jackson went back to bed after some cuddles and I didn't hear a peep out of him until the next morning.

On Wednesday, I kept him in cloth all day, keeping a fleece wipe barrier between his California Baby cream covered butt and the diapers. I let him hang out around the house with fitted diapers on with no cover so he could air out and I changed him very, very frequently.

This morning, Thursday, the rash is COMPLETELY GONE! In disposables, it took the rash almost a full week to go away! With cloth, it took 1.5 days! I am sooo amazed and thrilled at how much better the cloth worked for getting rid of the rash! Last night I went and bought half a yard of fleece that I am going to cut up to use as diaper liners in case he gets another rash.

Cloth really is better for your baby, it allows their skin to breath and rashes to heal faster. If you still haven't given cloth a shot, do it. You will NOT regret it in the end, I promise.

And now for a shameless plug...
Come stop by my blog! I have a Haute Pocket cloth diaper review and giveaway up right now and I'm going to put up another diaper review and giveaway by tonight!
Who doesn't love free fluff?!

Thanks for reading!

Holly (The Cloth Diaper Experiment)

REVIEW/GIVEAWAY: See Kai Run

I love love love shoes. Especially shoes for me... and shoes for C-Bug. Before he was even here, he had more shoes than I did. And he's had better brands! (For the most part... I DO have a Coach shoe obsession. My hubby has learned to buy me a pair at each major holiday, hehe.) He has little Puma sneaks (like Daddy!), converse, nikes, and more! His latest pair, by See Kai Runs line "Smaller", are my current FAVE!
There are three lines of See Kai Run shoes:

• Smaller, which is made for infants/toddlers 0-24 months
• See Kai Run, fitting 6 month through 3 years
• Eleven, made for those 3 years to 8 years

We received the "Jake" pair of sneakers from the See Kai Run line "Smaller". They seriously are one of the cutest pair of Boys Infant Shoes that I've EVER seen! I love that See Kai Run has a variety of boys shoes choices. They carry everything from brown little sandals to bowling style shoes to sneakers!
When I found out I was pregnant with a boy, I was a little disappointed at first. I wanted all the pink frilly items, to be able to walk into a store and 3/4 of it be pink. I've quickly learned that I put my foot in my mouth. It's business's like See Kai Run that make me see how close minded I was at first!

(Ok, I may have and LOVE my little man, but I'm allowed to drool over the girl stuff still!)

I'm very impressed with the quality of shoes that we received for Caden. He's worn them many times already and they still look brand new. (granted he's not walking unassisted, but he is rolling and walking assisted. Actually he spends alot of time close to or on the ground :) ) We received them in a size 9-12 months. I was actually a little worried when I ordered them because CBug is growing at an alarming rate. All of his size 2 shoes are now too small and I really wanted the "Jake" shoes to at least last through fall. So I tried them on him, with socks, as soon as I received them. PHEW, I'm safe for now, as he has alot of room to grow into them! Since they have a velcro strap across the top, he can even wear them now with the strap tight! Also, I HIGHLY recommend them for any child that has wide feet. I think you would be suprised at the width of Caden's feet if you saw them! Most of his shoes are really tight. (and SUPER hard to get on.) Not our See Kai Run's. They slide on and off with ease and do not fit tight across his feet at all. (My mother even commented on it!)(Caden in his "Jake" shoes, in our latest family picture!)

FROM THE SITE:

Why See Kai Run?

Healthy Fit

• Very flexible soles are healthy for developing feet.
• Wide opening and toe box accommodate even the chubbiest little feet.
• Velcro closure allows for adjustable fit and easy on and off.
• Leather lining is breathable and durable.
• Padded collar adds comfort and helps our shoes stay on little feet.

Quality Construction

• Leather used for our footwear meets the most stringent available U.S. and international guidelines.
• Sheepskin leather uppers are butter-soft and more durable by weight than cow leather used by many other brands.
• Durable construction and rubber sole stand up to heavy play indoors and out.

Urban Style

• Hip, urban styles in modern color palettes.
• Bold designs and detailing.
• Modern takes on classic styles.

  

I couldn't speak more HIGHLY of See Kai Run!
The styles are EXTREMELY cute,
the fit is wonderful,
and the quality great.

I'm so excited to announce
that that See Kai Run
has donated a pair of shoes
for one of my readers to win!
The winner may choose any ONE style of shoe
from the "See Kai Run" or "Smaller" line!

To Win:

~ you must fulfill the mandatory entry before additional entries!
~ you must leave each entry in a separate comment in order for them to count!
~ you must leave an email address that I can reach you at!
(entries not following these rules will be DELETED!)

~Mandatory Entry~
Answer the question:
What's YOUR favorite pair of shoes from the site?

~Additional Entries~

1 entry- Follow me! Let me know in a comment!
1 entry- Become a subscriber! Let me know here!
1 entry- Sign up for the See Kai Run newsletter on their homepage!
1 entry- Fan both See Kai Run and The First Time Around on Facebook... Let me know here!
(ATTENTION: we have a new FB Fan Page. Please rejoin!!)
1 entry- Fave me on Technorati and let me know here! (found on left side column)
1 entry- Grab my Fluff Butt button and let me know where to find it!
1 entry- Follow The First Time Around on twitter and tweet the following (let me know that you did)(this can be done once a day!):

Win a pair of See Kai Run or Smaller shoes
from @1sttimearound
http://twurl.nl/jwgui3

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway, linking to See Kai Run and this giveaway. Leave me a comment with it's URL!
1 Entry~ per each of my other CURRENT giveaways that you enter! Must leave a comment here letting me know!

This giveaway will end on October 9th, 2009 at 11:59 pm. At that time I will choose a winner using random.org and let them know via email. Winner will have 48 hrs to respond before I choose a new winner using random.org.

FLUFF BUTT: Let's Go Strolling/ Wet Bag

I have now been been CDing for over a month! I have used pockets, AIO, AI2s, Pre-folds, fitteds, and covers. I have CD'd at home, overnight, and on the go. I take the CD out of the clean containers, onto the baby, and then into a dirty container to await the laundry machine.

At home I was using a cheap Safety 1st diaper pail that I had bought at Babies R Us to use with our SPOSIES! It even has a compartment in the lid to stick a deoderant tablet in to keep the stinkies at bay! (I've since switched to a Bummis LARGE Wet Bag)

On the road, I was using plastic baggies. I had bought the Sassy brand scented plastic bags with dispenser to use with my sposies when we went on vacay, and had found that they were working with my CDs while out and about. BUT it was getting annoying and cramped having a bunch of CDs in plastic baggies taking up my diaper bag! Not to mention, isn't one of the reasons I CD cutting back on diapering waste? Not very green of me!


Then Let's Go Strolling contacted me. (I know, I know... "Let's Go Strolling"?? Strollers right? WRONG! They have a WIDE assortment of products!) They carry a small wet bag by Wet Happened?. Perfect for my diaper bag!
Not only does Lets Go Strolling carry these super cute wet bags, they also carrying everything from strollers (duh!) and accessories to diaper bags, clothing, and toys! They're all at great prices too! My mom has the Mutsy 4-Rider Stroller for CBug (how Grandma got a better stroller than Mom still gets me :P ). She really wants to get the funseat for it. (Its like a little driving seat, complete with steering wheel!) Let's Go Strolling carries them on sale for $70 compared to $100+ everywhere else! (Jo, expect an order from her soon!!)Jo, from the site, sent me a SUPER CUTE black and white Licorice Swirl Wet Happened? wet bag. I don't know how I managed to survive without this! Its such a convenience to have in my diaper bag. I stick ALL Caden's dirty diapers (holds about 4 or 5 CDs) in there while we're out, along with any other wet items. (he spits up ALOT!) Once I'm home, I just dump the contents into the washer! No more untying/ripping open wet plastic bags.

• Size – 11” x 14” (holds 4-6 cloth diapers).
• 100% cotton designer fabric exterior with zipper closure and PVC-free, polyurethane lining.
• Easily folds to take anywhere without taking up space.
• Will not wick from even the wettest items.
• Machine washable on delicate cycle, line dry or tumble-dry low

I love my new travel sized wet bag and Let's Go Strolling! It was so enjoyable to work with Jo and her store!

Now... Thanks to Jo and Let's Go Strolling you get the chance
to try out a Wet Happened? wet bag!

To Win:

~ you must fulfill the mandatory entry before additional entries!
~ you must leave each entry in a separate comment in order for them to count!
~ you must leave an email address that I can reach you at!
(entries not following these rules will be DELETED!)

~Mandatory Entry~
SIGN UP FOR LET'S GO STROLLING's NEWSLETTER
(on left hand sidebar!)

AND answer the following question in a comment.
What do you do with your dirty diapers?

~Additional Entries~

1 entry- Follow me! Let me know in a comment!
1 entry- Become a subscriber! Let me know here! (will be checked)
1 entry- Fan The First Time Around on Facebook... Let me know here!
(ATTENTION: we have a new FB Fan Page. Please rejoin!!)
1 entry- Fave me on Technorati and let me know here! (found on left side column)
1 entry- Grab my Fluff Butt button and let me know where to find it!
1 entry- Follow The First Time Around on twitter and tweet the following (let me know that you did)(this can be done once a day!):

Win a Wet Happened? Wet Bag from Let's Go Strolling
from @1sttimearound during
THE FLUFF BUTT EVENT
http://twurl.nl/jwgui3

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway, linking to Let's Go Strolling and this giveaway. Leave me a comment with it's URL!
1 Entry~ per each of my other CURRENT giveaways that you enter! Must leave a comment here letting me know!

This giveaway will end on October 9th, 2009 at 11:59 pm. At that time I will choose a winner using random.org and let them know via email. Winner will have 48 hrs to respond before I choose a new winner using random.org.

FLUFF BUTT: Pop-Up Wipes

This guest post comes from a wonderful blogging mom!
Beth, at Happily Domestic, is a CDing mom to 4!!
(well three with one on the way!)
I will be posting a "Why I CD" article by Beth in a few days!
Make sure to check back for it!

How to make easy pop up wipes... for CHEAP!
This is the wipes system I have been using
since day-1 of my cloth diapering journey.
It is very inexpensive, yet works!

This is what you will need:

I bought 9 packages of thin baby washcloths from the DollarTree.
Cost- $9.00
That gives you 36 cloth wipes.

(Click to see larger)

I fold the wipes in a layering manner.
See instructions above.

1. Place layer fold wipes in empty pop up tub
2. Mix solution
   
3. Pour solution over wipes
4. Feed first wipe through lid slit
5. Close and pull up
6. Wipes will pop up in order, with no need to open container

Easy as that!

I always prefer to use cloth wipes when using cloth diapers. It is much easier to throw the wipe in the pail with the diaper, then to make an extra effort to get a dirty wipe to the trash can. My husband prefers non-cloth wipes, so I do buy them from time to time to make him happy. I also use disposable wipes for when we leave the house.


I highly recommend this wipe solution:

Here is some information on it:


The LuSa Organics Diaper Wipe Concentrate has healing essential oils combines with witch hazel, aloe, vera juice, and skin soothing oils. No mixing individual oils neccessary - just add water and pour over your wipes. This concentrate is free of synthetic fragrances and preservatives found in so many commercial wipes. After using a wipe just toss it in with your diapers to be washed.

The LuSa Organics Diaper Wipe Concentrate is the least expensive and easiest way to make your own wipes!

Directions: Shake well before use. Combine 1-3 tsp. LuSa Organics Diaper Wipe Concentrate with 1 cup water. Pour over cloth wipes or paper towels. Store in a sterilized plastic tub. For travel, toss a few wipes in a zip bag and go!

Please note separation in the bottle is normal so shake well before each use.

Comes in 8 oz bottle and will make approximately 2 gallons.

This costs $14.99. I bought mine from Nicki's Diapers 14 months ago and still have around 1/4 of the bottle left. I mix 3 teaspoons solution to 2 cups water for each full tub of wipes. I am amazed at how long this solution has lasted. I love it! It smells great, doesn't mildew or get musty and I love the fact that it is all organic, and full of essential oils. Nothing synthetic touching my baby's bum. :-)

THANK YOU BETH FOR THE WONDERFUL GUEST POST!
MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT BETH AT HAPPILY DOMESTIC!!

FLUFF BUTT: Cloth Wipes 101

This guest post comes from Emi at The Cloth Diaper Report!
She's an awesome mom (and blogger!)
who has now been CDing for over 16 months!
Her blog is wonderful,
with great information,
and AWESOME reviews and giveaways!

Cloth Wipes 101

I will be the first to openly admit that I did not use cloth wipes when I first started cloth diapering. It was probably almost 3 months of cloth diapering before I started using cloth wipes and 6 months before I found my favorite method/routine with it. Why? Like many moms who venture into the waters of cloth diapering it is all VERY overwhelming in the beginning and you add a newborn and a deployed husband to the mix and I just thought it would be more work. I kick myself in the butt now, because it may have made life a pinch easier.

If you are just starting to cloth diaper this may not make sense at first, because all you can think about is more laundry. But cloth wipes are thrown in the same diaper pail/bag as the diapers and go in the wash at the same time. So you won't be running any extra loads. The only extra step is taking them out of the laundry and folding them in half (if you choose). I still keep some limited disposable wipes on hand for different purposes, but use cloth wipes with diapering 98% of the time.

Some reasons to consider cloth wipes:

1. Save money.

Okay, so let's say you purchase 24 high quality Bamboo Terry wipes totaling $36. Disposable wipes over 3 years (for diapering alone) can cost an average of $500 (depending on brand). That is a savings of $444 for buying NICE wipes. You can also find cotton wipes for pretty cheap or make your own for pennies to the dollar. Spend $44 on nice wipes solution materials or formulas over the years and you'll still be saving $400.

2. Less trash.

The last thing you want is to be lugging more smelly trash to the garage during the week. Using cloth diapers and wipes were a lifesaver after I was in a car accident and could not take the trash out or drive to the store. I could get my laundry in the washer though!

3. Convenient.

No last minute trips to the supermarket to buy wipes when you realize you've used the last one. And we all know that you never have a coupon or find a sale when you really need them!

4. Better for Baby.

Control what goes on your baby's bottom when you make or purchase your own wipes solution. Disposable wipes often contain alcohol and other drying chemicals. Some mamas use just water, but I choose to have some cleansing elements in my wipes solution. And cloth wipes are super soft! My favorites are bamboo terry and velour.

For more information on Cloth Wipes, Cloth Diapering and Family Friendly products visit my blog at www.theclothdiaperreport.com

IF THERE ARE ANY QUESTIONS ON CLOTH WIPES,
FEEL FREE TO LEAVE THEM IN THE COMMENTS,
FOR EMI TO ANSWER!

FLUFF BUTT: Against It

I can't believe that I was soo against cloth diapering when I was pregnant! I was one of those girls that would have looked at you like your crazy for even thinking about CDing! "EW GROSS!"

Now... I can't believe that I wasn't CDing from the start! Even though I haven't fully gotten the hang of it all, I LOVE IT! I love the shopping, the laundry, the good for my baby and for the enviroment!

BUT...
When I started this CDing journey, I didn't know if I would keep with it. I was just "trying" it. AND I WAS DEFINITELY NOT DOING CLOTH WIPES. LOL I don't know why I thought I couldn't handle the poop on cloth wipes when I would have to handle the poop in cloth diapers!

FAST FORWARD a few weeks, lots of cloth diapers, and a TON of disposable wipes. GUESS WHAT. I'm now convienced that I NEED to do cloth wipes! It's such a pain in the BOOTY using disposables! I have to find a place to stick them while I'm wiping his butt, and then find the nearest trash can to throw them away. It would be soooo much EASIER to just stick the wipe in the diaper, and then throw it in the pail with the diapers! OK I sound so lazy but when I have a 7 month old baby boy to entertain, I look for every shortcut possible!

So, I will be trying cloth wipes while at home. (and maybe eventually when I'm out. We'll see.) Tomorrow I will have a guest post about using Cloth Wipes by Emi over at The Cloth Diaper Report! Also, look forward to a how-to post on Pop-Up wipes in a few days. (thanks to Beth @ Happily Domestic!)

WISH ME LUCK!
I'll let you know how it goes!
(Oh and p.s. I am NO longer "Just Trying"... I'm in this for the LONG HAUL!)

REVIEW/GIVEAWAY: Wanchai Ferry

I am SUCH a foodie.

Oh, it's bad.
If it wouldn't leaving me weighing a GAZILLION pounds,
I would eat ALL day.
The worst part of it all??
I'm NOT a picky eater!
I have only met a few foods I don't like!
(aka cottage cheese. BLECH!)

So, when I was given the opportunity to do a review and giveaway on the new Wanchai Ferry Frozen Entrees, you can bet your right arm I jumped at the chance! " Each frozen entrée has all the ingredients needed to prepare a great-tasting, complete Chinese meal for 2 in only 14 minutes! They come in five delicious flavors including Orange Chicken, Shrimp Lo Mein, Spicy Garlic Chicken, Sweet & Sour Chicken and Sweet & Spicy Shrimp. Additionally, all of the entrees have no added MSG! "

I recieved ONE package of the frozen Orange Chicken package, a coupon for another free product, and the Asian inspired meal set!( two little bowls, two bamboo placemats, and chopsticks!) All the ingredients for a great date night!
So I set out to make this wonderful meal for my husband! First of all, let me warn you... I CANNOT COOK. I once put a frozen pizza in the oven, set it for 7 HOURS instead of minutes, and walked away. Thank goodness my sister happened to be there! But, I have become pretty good at preparing frozen dishes!

This meal was a walk in the park. Anyone could make it, and it would turn out tasting like you just ordered in from a Chinese restaurant! It's also super quick to prepare! It took me probably 10-15 minutes start to finish! AND HOLY MOLY the finish! SOOO yummy! I actually got super excited the other day because I saw it on sale for $4.00 and I have a stash of $2.00 coupons at home! I'm sooo stocking up!The only cons that I have on this product is A. portion size. It says that it should feed 2 people. I think 1 1/2 is more appropriate. While I was full from my half, my husband asked what else was for dinner! B. Make sure that you have vegetable oil! Thank goodness I had it in my cabinet or I would have had to pitch it halfway through!

Overall, Great dinner plan! I will definitely be stocking up on Wanchai Ferry Frozen Entrees!

You can find a $1.50 coupon at www.wanchaiferry.com
or
Win a Wancha Ferry Set which includes: two coupons and the Asian inspired meal set!

To Win:

~ you must fulfill the mandatory entry before additional entries!
~ you must leave each entry in a separate comment in order for them to count!
~ you must leave an email address that I can reach you at!
(entries not following these rules will be DELETED!)

~Mandatory Entry~

Answer the following question in a comment.
What´s the best fortune from a fortune cookie you´ve ever received?

~Additional Entries~

1 entry- Follow me! Let me know in a comment!
1 entry- Become a subscriber! Let me know here! (will be checked)
1 entry- Fan The First Time Around on Facebook... Let me know here!
(ATTENTION: we have a new FB Fan Page. Please rejoin!!)
1 entry- Fave me on Technorati and let me know here! (found on left side column)
1 entry- Grab my Fluff Butt button and let me know where to find it!
1 entry- Follow First Time Around on twitter and tweet about this giveaway! let me know


This giveaway will end on October 6th, 2009 at 11:59 pm. At that time I will choose a winner using random.org and let them know via email. Winner will have 48 hrs to respond before I choose a new winner using random.org.

This giveaway was provided by MyBlogSparkTM!!

FLUFF BUTT: FuzziBunz

Ok I'm not going to lie to you all.

I'm having terrible writers block tonight,
and am having a hard time writing an opening paragraph!
I think it's because
I'm so stressed about our move!
(We need to be out of our house by the end of the month, and I started packing today!)
SOO I'm just going to jump right into telling you all about FuzziBunz, ok?!?!We recently received a FuzziBunz One Size Pocket diaper for reviewing purposes. I know I sound like a broken record, but I REALLY DO like this diaper! (We haven't really had problems with any so far! lol). I find that this diaper is another one in my stash that I reach for quite a bit.

About the diaper:
"The FuzziBunz® One-Size Diapers are the most adjustable and innovative one-size cloth diapers on the market today! Adjust the diapers to fit babies 7-35 pounds and get a snug fit every time with the button-adjusted waist and leg casings. The leg casings adjust to 8+ settings and the waist adjusts to 4+ settings. Never before has a pocket-style cloth diaper been SO adjustable!" (according to FuzziBunz.com)My own HUMBLE opinion:
This diaper has held up very well for us. With it being one of the first that I received, it is also one of the most/longest used. It's withheld "longer-than-I-should-have-waited-between-changes" and "should-have-been-blowouts"!

One of the features that I really like about this one-size fits most diaper is the adjustable elastic in the legs and pocket! At the top and bottom of each leg, you have the option of 8 different settings, allowing you to customize the diaper fit to your child! (The waist has 4 settings.) Since CBug-Chunky-Butt has probably the fattest thighs ever, but is pretty trim through the waist, this is an important feature for us!

I also love the quality of this diapers snaps! They are very sturdy and actually pretty cute. It doesn't feel like it's just going to pop out!(I SOOO need a girl, just so I can buy this diaper!)

"The great thing about FuzziBunz® is that they always use sturdy snap closures which will withstand 3+ years of use and elastic that is easily replaceable if it ever fails making it a long standing and dependable diapering system for years to come. "

Last but not least, I'm such a HUGE fan of their inserts! The FuzziBunz OS Pocket came with two inserts, one infant and one toddler sized. I love how thick they are. I would LOVE to replace my whole insert stash with these! They are always the first insert I reach for when clean, because I never have to worry about them not lasting!SO, after my RAVE review on FuzziBunz, you are soo wanting to try them... right?!?!

WELLLLL, FuzziBunz is flipping awesome and has donated 3, yes folks that's right... THREE Fuzzibunz One Size Pocket diapers (retailing at $18.95 each!) for ONE of my readers to win!

To Win:

~ you must fulfill the mandatory entry before additional entries!
~ you must leave each entry in a separate comment in order for them to count!
~ you must leave an email address that I can reach you at!
(entries not following these rules will be DELETED!)

~Mandatory Entry~

Answer the following questions in a comment.
How many diapers do you think is a "complete" stash?

~Additional Entries~

1 entry- Follow me! Let me know in a comment!
1 entry- Become a subscriber! Let me know here! (will be checked)
1 entry- Fan The First Time Around on Facebook... Let me know here!
(ATTENTION: we have a new FB Fan Page. Please rejoin!!)
1 entry- Fave me on Technorati and let me know here! (found on left side column)
1 entry- Grab my Fluff Butt button and let me know where to find it!
1 entry- Follow FuzziBunz and The First Time Around on twitter and tweet the following (let me know that you did)(this can be done once a day!):

Win THREE @FuzziBunz OS Pocket #clothdiapers from
@1sttimearound during
THE FLUFF BUTT EVENT
http://twurl.nl/jwgui3

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway, linking to FuzziBunz and this giveaway. Leave me a comment with it's URL!
1 Entry~ per each of my other CURRENT giveaways that you enter! Must leave a comment here letting me know!

This giveaway will end on October 6th, 2009 at 11:59 pm. At that time I will choose a winner using random.org and let them know via email. Winner will have 48 hrs to respond before I choose a new winner using random.org.

FLUFF BUTT: Weekend Away

I have come to the conclusion that I NEED a new washer.
I'm not just saying it because I WANT one though, I promise!

It's leaked ever since we moved last year.

ANDDD
We stayed at Zac's parents this weekend, and his momma just got a new washer.

I just received some new prefolds from CuddleWuddle.com (Fort Wayne's FINEST diaper company!) and wanted to get them all prepped for use, so I took them with me! (I actually packed almost every diaper we have... I have a fear of running out!) She had told me last time that I could wash there, so I let loose on her new machine :) !! It has the option of cold, cool, warm, or hot water cycles. My old clunker has cold/cold, warm/warm, and hot/cold. Not very helpful when I just want HOT! It was soo nice to wash my diapers EXACTLY how I wanted to. AND guess what...

THE STINKIES ARE GONE (for now!)

Sooo, I'm now putting aside money for a new washer.
(and hopefully a dryer.)

I managed to keep Caden in cloth diapers the ENTIRE weekend. We went down for a wedding, so I packed some sposies for Zac's mom to use while we were at the reception. They never got used! A. We came home early... and B. She dove right into using cloth! She even did a poo diaper! It was awesome!

ALSO , Zac changed his first cloth diaper!!!! I was faking sleep this morning when he got Caden up, and the next thing I knew, Caden was in a fresh CLOTH DIAPER! Later, he tried to get out of it again, but said that the morning change was easy! (He's just afraid of getting a pooey one. :( )

SOOO, successful CD weekend.
I washed all the diapers I could before we came home,
so (almost) our entire stash is ready to go!

SNEAK PEEK: Michael Angela

You may have noticed the addition

of the Michael Angela banner (bottom of page)

and button (under sponsor tab)!

I want to bring this wonderful business to everyones attention! I came across Michael Angela on Etsy and immediatly feel in love! As some of you might remember, I announced my sister's engagement a few weeks ago, and they have now set the date for July 31st, 2010! (I'm the MOH!) Michael Angela custom makes and sells BEAUTIFUL items, great for wedding gifts! I am a sucker for anything monogrammed and fell in love with the Marie Antoinette Monogrammed MA towel set and And They Lived Happily Ever After Wedding ceremony Banner. I hope CiCi is not a frequent visitor to TFTA because I really want to buy her the Marie Antoinette towel set for her Bridal Shower gift!

The owner graciously sent me a hoodie for CiCi and a hoodie for CBug for review! I can't wait to bring you the whole review... I'm just waiting for the opportunity to take some great pictures! CiCi's Engagement Party is this weekend, and I'm sure her hoodie will make an appearance, so I'm gonna pounce with the camera then!

So check back in a couple of weeks for the GREAT review!
In the mean time... Check out Michael Angela!
(You can click on either page button to be taken directly there!)

FLUFF BUTT: Snap-Ez Eco

I'm very excited to bring to you one of MY favorite diapers so far!

I find myself reaching for this diaper during the day WHENEVER it is clean!
Which diaper am I talking about?!?!

THE SNAP-EZ ECO!
The Snap-Ez Eco OS (one size) Pocket diaper JUST launched a few weeks ago and I was so lucky to have been sent the diaper and Snap-Ez Eco Soaker for review!About the diaper/insert:
"Snap-EZ Eco Pocket Diaper feature a durable, waterproof outer fabric ( 1 MIL polyurethane Laminate), Custom Milled Microfleece from the makers of Malden Mills microfleece, Polartec,
Polyeurathane Industrial Snaps, and Lastin elastic... and best of all, these are all made by WAHMs right here in the good old USA!"

(How sweet is this? The TINY baby has on a Snap-Ez Eco OS!!)

"The Snap-EZ Eco Pocket Diaper can be ordered with or without the new Snap-EZ Eco Pocket Soaker! This is made from three layers of super absorbent cotton fleece - very absorbent, while remaining trim, and they wash up great and dry quickly!"

MY Diapering Opinion:
As I said above, this pocket diaper has made my list of favorites. (notice the S on favorites! I can't pick just one!)

(Looking cute in his Snap-Ez Eco and Kool Kid Legs!)

I love the way the diaper fits on Caden. It seriously fits him like a glove. It is somewhat stretchy, which means I can snap it tight and it's still comfy for my little man! I haven't found it to cut into his legs and leave imprints or redness. I also find it to be fairly trim. He can also wear all of his normal sized clothes with this diaper, which means nooo tight butt/baggy legged pants. Momma Like!

(looks great under Caden's normal everyday clothes!)

The Snap-Ez Eco OS Pocket is also VERY well made! The inner-fleece is OH SO SOFT and the snaps are very nice! I wash my diapers every other day (believe me when I say that this diaper is ALWAYS in the diaper pail!) and it has held up excellently. Not a single loose thread, and the blue is as bright as ever! While it is by no means a "fru-fru" diaper, it is soooo super cute!

(looks cute with just a tee!)

The only con I have on this diaper is MY soaker fears. During the day it does it's 2-hour job. (I do have to make sure and check the diaper when using this soaker to make sure it hasn't gotten too full. (But I do this with all of his diapers. I'm terrified of leaks!) At night, however, the soaker is very trim and only last for half the night by itself. Whenever I put this diaper on him for beddy-bye I make sure to put an extra extra-thick doubler in the pocket also.
Other than a dampness feel (notice: not soaked through!) when using only the Snap-Ez Eco Soaker at night I have not had a single leak in the Snap-Ez Eco. It has become my "go-to" diaper during the day when I know that I CANNOT have a leak! (Because who REALLY likes to pack 3 extra outfits in their diaper bag?!?!) It's been great when we're out and about, running errands and meeting friends!

Now, on to my favorite part. Announcing that Snap-Ez has been SUPER wonderful and donated a Snap-Ez Eco OS for one of my readers to win! YAY!To Win:

~ you must fulfill the mandatory entry before additional entries!
~ you must leave each entry in a separate comment in order for them to count!
~ you must leave an email address that I can reach you at!
(entries not following these rules will be DELETED!)

~Mandatory Entry~

Answer the following questions in a comment.
What is your FAVORITE daytime diaper
and
nighttime diaper?

~Additional Entries~

1 entry- Follow me! Let me know in a comment!
1 entry- Subscribe to Snap-Ez's newsletter! Let me know here!
1 entry- Become a subscriber! Let me know here! (will be checked)
1 entry- Fan The First Time Around on Facebook... Let me know here!
(ATTENTION: we have a new FB Fan Page. Please rejoin!!)
1 entry- Fave me on Technorati and let me know here! (found on left side column)
1 entry- Grab my Fluff Butt button and let me know where to find it!
1 entry- Follow The First Time Around on twitter and tweet the following (let me know that you did)(this can be done once a day!):

Win a Snap-Ez Eco #clothdiaper from
@1sttimearound during
THE FLUFF BUTT EVENT
http://twurl.nl/jwgui3

1 entry- Blog about this giveaway, linking to Snap-Ez and this giveaway. Leave me a comment with it's URL!

This giveaway will end on October 4th, 2009 at 11:59 pm. At that time I will choose a winner using random.org and let them know via email. Winner will have 48 hrs to respond before I choose a new winner using random.org.

FLUFF BUTT: PPPPP-HEWWWWWW

Oh MAN.
It's happened.
I was scared it would...
and it did!

WE'RE HAVING STINK ISSUES.

There's a super strong ammonia smell after he pees in the diaper. I wash them and they smell so fresh and so clean clean, but about 5 minutes after I take them off of Caden, it's stink city. So far I've tried switching my detergent, extra hot rinse, and striping them with Rockin Green Soap (how it says on instructions.)

I don't know what is causing the stink either. Can it be my hard water?!?! OR is it because of build-up? I don't use a bunch of detergent though and I ALWAYS run 2 hot cycles after the cycle with detergent!

I don't know what to do... I'm heading to Krogers later today for some Bac-Out though.

I will not give up on my BEAUTIFUL cloth diapers! Anyone have suggestions?!?!

FLUFF BUTT: The Switch

September 5th, 2009

OK GIRLS. Here's a tell truth Cloth Diapering Post.
I love it. I really do. I love the cloth diapers, the shopping, the doing good for the enviroment... I EVEN love the laundry. But... it's been hard actually making the switch.

First because I didn't get all of my diapers BEFORE making the switch. I didn't anticipate that you have to change the baby more often in the CDS. I also didn't anticipate how long it would take me to actually WASH the diapers. I'm VERY A.D.D. and have a hard time remembering, "OH the washer stopped, my first rinse is done, I need to start the next rinse." So it takes me a few hours to get them all washed. I have found that I run out of diapers before they are all washed and whatnot. Which means Caden's back in sposies while I'm waiting on my diapers.

Since my goal is to have a completely sposie free house... this will not do. But I'm working on it. I need to set some kind of timer to go off and remind me to do the laundry. I need to set my computer down and ACTUALLY do it!

Caden's been in and out of disposables for the last few days. At night he's been completely in sposies. Today I WILL finish my CD laundry and put the sposies in the crawl space. I NEED TO MAKE MYSELF WORK IT ALL OUT.

Hold me to it girls!

FLUFF BUTT: A Question For You!

Ok I would like a little bit of CDing advice from all of you PLEASE!

If your going out for the day, how do you go about CDing?

We live about half an hour from the main part of our city. (where all the malls are, Target, ect.) So when I drive in, I try to get a ton done in one day. With CDing, I feel like i'm packing an overnight bag to take with me instead of just a diaper bag!!

How and what do you pack,
if you're going to be away from the house for the entire day?!?!

REVIEW: Bebe Au Lait

I was recently given the opportunity to review a Bebe Au Lait Nursing Cover! I was so excited because I had always seen them at our local Von Maur and thought they were gorgeous!

I received the Bebe Au Lait Nursing Cover in the Chocolat pattern. It is super cute! I like that the pattern is flowery, which is girlie for me, but also brown, blue, red, and yellow, which is masculine enough to use with my son!
These award winning nursing covers are the *NEW* mommy must-have. They make nursing in public a breeze! When I was pregnant and decided to breast-feed, that was what I was MOST afraid of. I was so scared that someone would catch a glimpse or the blanket I would use would fall off, exposing me! Not the case with this nursing cover! It has a strap that goes around your neck, preventing any accidents! It also has a unique rigid neckline, allowing ventilation and eye-contact with baby! Not once did I ever question if CBug was able to breathe. I like that the cover is light, and there is no pulling at the neck strap. A extra little cool detail is the terrycloth pocket, perfect for storing extra breast pads or binky!
All in all, I really loved my Bebe Au Lait nursing cover. It is so versatile, you can use it as the nursing cover, a blanket or sun shade! The design is great, patterns gorgeous, and the quality is superb! I HIGHLY recommend it to ANY new mom! I am no longer nursing, but have packed this cover away to use again the next time around!

Fluff Butt: Out and About

Tuesday, September 1st, 2009

Today was a busy, busy day. Messy day.

We were suppose to meet Maggie from the local Fort Wayne Cloth Diapering business, CuddleWuddle.com, at 9:30 am. Only my alarm clock never went off... and I woke up 9am when my husbands went off. No big deal right? NOPE. We live 45 minutes away :( . I felt terrible writing the email with my excuse! Good thing she's AWESOME and we're meeting tomorrow morning instead.

After we were suppose to meet with Maggie, we were suppose to meet my college BFF, Marina, and her daughter, Izzy (Caden's Fiance... so what that he's only 6 months old. and she's 2.). After getting there 15 minutes after I was suppose to... I realized that I had forgotten my debit card, cash, and my ID. OH, and how about how my gas light had came on halfway there?!?! UGH. I also forgot formula and shoes for CBug. I'm on the bad mom list today. Good thing I remembered Caden at all... and his 15 million cloth diapers I decided to bring. Also, my husband is a life saver and met me to give me HIS debit card. MUCH LOVE TO Z!

Oh and for the final terrible day story... I just received my Petunia Picklebottom Diaper Bag yesterday from Layla Grayce. I was so excited to use it that I packed it for our outing today. We were finished hanging out at the mall and had to meet my In-Laws at Babies-R-Us. I pushed Caden out to the car and loaded up all the bags in the trunk. I then wheeled him around to load him in the front. In order to take him out and not have my stroller capsize, I have to set my diaper bag on the ground. So I did. I then loaded CBug and my stroller into the backseat, got in the front seat and headed to B-R-US. Only to get out, unpack the boy and stroller, and reach in for my new $165 diaperbag... THAT WAS NOT THERE!!! I had left it laying in the parking lot of the mall. THANK GOODNESS for the kind lady that was walking it to the mall office when I practically pounced on her!!! It had my (empty) wallet, digital camera, and CLOTH DIAPERS in it!!! I owe her alot!! (p.s. It is not easy to run through the parking lot/mall carrying a 20 lb. 6 month old. FYI)

But for some good news... It was a pretty good CDing day for us.

Even though I'm still terrified to cloth diapering while I'm out and about, I decided to give it a go again today. I packed pretty much every cloth diaper I own since we'd be in town all day. We started out in the Thirsties combo (Fab Fitted+Duo Wrap). That lasted until we got to the mall to meet my HS BFF and her son for lunch. I looked over during and saw a bright red little face. I then changed him into the Snap-Ez Eco. That one lasted until I got to Babies-R-Us (after the fiasco above.) I could smell some stink so I took him into their (disguistingly gross) bathroom. (Seriously. They didn't have changing table cover and toilet paper was everywhere but in the dispenser.) Sure enough, big ole' diaper full of poo. Snap-Ez Eco did a wonder job of holding it all in though! It only took me half an hour to get it all off my baby's behind though. :( After that it was the GroBaby with extra insert. Which actually lasted a long time. I only changed it because I changed his whole outfit. (He also has reflux. Which means constant outfit changes due to spit up.) At that time it was into the Happy Heiny he went. Just a few minutes ago he woke up screaming. I thought it might be a dirty diaper since I KNOW that he is full. HOLY COW. It was the worst diaper I have ever changed. That Happy Heiny did not fail me when it held in his gross, smelly, explosive diaherea. Something he ate today did not agree with him, it seriously was that bad. Since he seems to be having some bad pooey reactions right now, he's back in sposies for the night. I'm still working on handling the poo in CDs. :)

Overall... My day stunk (Seriously. poo is SMELLY!) but Cloth Diaper wise I was very pleased.

Weiners... I mean WINNERS!

I have some winners to announce! YAYAYAYAY!

The winner of the Boy's Store outfit and $25 gift code is...
Entry #68!!!

Stephanne said...

Daily Tweet: http://twitter.com/SnipsNSnails

themoorehead3@aol.com


AND
The winner of the pair of Kool Kid Legs from Momma Runs With Scissors is...
Entry #62!!!

BabeeLove said...

I LOVE the All Business Argyle. SOOO CUTE!
aechika@hotmail.com

September 2, 2009 4:56 PM

Congrats!

I will be contacting the winners. They have 48 hours to respond to my email. If no response is received I will choose another winner using random.org!

FLUFF BUTT: Nubunz Diapers

One thing I've learned about cloth diapering is that it can be very expensive at first. It is recommended that you start your stash with enough diapers to last you two days. Depending on what kind of diaper you choose to use, the expense varies, but I prefer AIO and Pockets so I used that example!

I found this example on Punkernoodle Baby:

Perfect Fit Diapers all the way:

22 Small pocket/AIO diapers ($17.50 each average): $385

18 Medium pocket/AIO diapers: $315

12 Large pocket/AIO diapers: $210

Waterproof pail liner: $17

Total Cost: $927 to diaper your first child, $0 to diaper your second.

That's a lot to be hit with all at one time! So when I heard about NuBunz Cloth Diapers I was very excited to try them! I first caught wind of them on JustMommies Cloth Diaper Forum and then on DiaperSwappers.com. Everyone was buzzing about the great pocket diapers that are super affordable! ($9.50 a diaper!)
If you recalculate the example above with Nubunz OS Pocket diapers:
25 Nubunz ONE SIZE Pocket diapers: $237.50
(One size fits typically fits from 8 ls to 38 lbs= birth to Potty Training.)
Waterproof Pail Liner: $17
Diapering your child from birth to potty training: $254.50

That is $672.50 cheaper than if you buy a stash of the typical AIO/Pocket diaper!

A little more about the Diaper!:
Nubunz is a USA made OS pocket diaper that is "water proof, durable, safe, reusable, eco friendly, adjustable, one size fits most, and have an anti-wick area to keep baby dry!" They pride themselves on their quality product and wonderful customer service! They offer a good variety of colors and the choice of snaps or velcro! They use the same velcro as the top-brand diapers, and include the laundry tab! (It is super annoying when there is none! I hate pulling the diapers apart!)

The diaper came in a sealed plastic bag with TWO soakers. I inspected the diaper and it looked very neatly made. Also, the colors are GORGEOUS. I received the OS pocket diaper in light orange (salmon) with snaps to review and the Aqua snaps for giveaway. I also notice how thin/trim and soft the diaper is!

I wanted to prep the diaper and inserts right away so that I could add them to my wearable stash! Nubunz recommends a rinse cycle, cyle with detergent, and then another rinse cycle or two, followed by a tumble dry on low. Once I had done that routine a few times, I was ready to use them! I have been using them on and off for the last two weeks and really like the diaper. I have had minimal leaks. (Once again with the forgetting to change him more often than I do in a sposie!) The diaper fits CBug great and will fit him for a long time to come. He's currently wearing it on the medium setting and has room to grow! Since the diaper is so trim, I have had no problems with fitting his clothes over the diaper.

I have only used the Nubunz once at night so far. I stuffed it with both inserts and said a little prayer! In the morning the diaper was a little damp in the front, but his sheets were still dry! I think next time I will try stuffing it with a different/thicker insert.

So far, I really do like this diaper. It's the trimmest that we have for Caden that actually fits him well, so I enjoy having a diaper that still fits under his clothes that are on the brink of being too small. The quality is great, and the price is AMAZING. I highly recommend them, especially to anyone who would love to build onto their stash without spending a fortune! At $9.50 a diaper, I recommend you buy more than one!

On to the really good part... Celine (wonderful woman!) has been gracious enough to give me the opportunity for one of you to try a Nubunz OS Pocket Diaper! The winner will receive an Aqua (gorgeous color!) OS Pocket Diaper with snaps!

To Win:

~ you must fulfill the mandatory entry before additional entries!
~ you must leave each entry in a separate comment in order for them to count!
~ you must leave an email address that I can reach you at!
(entries not following these rules will be DELETED!)

~Mandatory Entry~

Answer the following questions in a comment.
What is your wash routine?
and
How did you find The First Time Around blog?

~Additional Entries~

1 entry- Follow me! Let me know in a comment!
1 entry- Become a subscriber! Let me know here! (will be checked)
1 entry- Fan The First Time Around on Facebook... Let me know here!
(ATTENTION: we have a new FB Fan Page. Please rejoin!!)
1 entry- Fave me on Technorati and let me know here! (found on left side column)
1 entry- Grab my Fluff Butt button and let me know where to find it!
1 entry- Follow The First Time Around on twitter and tweet the following (let me know that you did)(this can be done once a day!):

Win a NUBUNZ #clothdiaper from
@1sttimearound during
THE FLUFF BUTT EVENT
http://twurl.nl/jwgui3

1 entry- Blog about this giveaway, linking to Nubunz and this giveaway. Leave me a comment with it's URL!

This giveaway will end on September 27th, 2009 at 11:59 pm. At that time I will choose a winner using random.org and let them know via email. Winner will have 48 hrs to respond before I choose a new winner using random.org.