New Children’s Books to Read in the New Year

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2020. Can you believe it is on our horizon? Just saying it seems a bit surreal! As we look ahead to new beginnings, let’s cozy up with our little ones while reading these exciting new children’s books that are perfect for a chilly winter day.

Disney Stories for 3 Year Olds

By Studio Fun International

From Peter Pan to 101 Dalmatians, three-year-olds will be introduced to wonderful Disney adventures in Disney Stories for 3-Year-Olds! This treasury includes fourteen classic Disney stories retold and simplified for a younger audience. With the same spirit as the extended versions and paired with colorful illustrations, this book is perfect for parents introducing their children to classic Disney adventures or retelling favorites With fourteen stories to choose from, your little ones will love to snuggle up to a favorite Disney classic story anytime!

Yum Yummy Yuck 

by Cree Lane and Amanda Jane Jones

In their hip and often humorous Instagram accounts, Amanda and Cree Jones invite the world into their life with two young kids. Now, the Joneses are sharing another experience–the struggle to keep their kids from putting everything they see into their mouths. Using simple, bright illustrations, irresistible colors, gentle repetition, and a lighthearted tone, this stylish board book teaches babies and toddlers what they should and shouldn’t put in their mouths. Delectable treats like an ice cream cone, a pear, and a donut are interspersed with not-so-yummy things kids find irresistible–like coins, boogers, and sand. Facing pages display the correct use of these items– boogers go in tissues, coins in a piggy bank, and sand in a bucket. Designed to appeal to modern parents, this durable and attractive book will have kids and their parents going back to it and sharing in the fun of all the delicious and disgusting things kids like.

Taxi Ride with Victor 

by Sara Trofa and illustrated by Elsa Klever

This sci-fi inspired taxi trip will have kids roaring with laughter. Victor is everyone’s favorite extraterrestrial taxi driver, but he has a big problem. His memory is terrible! He can never remember his way around the galaxy. When he drops off his passengers at the wrong locations, there are some unexpected and hilarious high jinks. Elsa Klever’s wonderful drawings incorporate every day experiences–like going to the dentist, the library, or the post office–into otherworldly scenes with friendly aliens, talking clouds, grumpy ghosts, and an enormous octopus. The book offers gentle lessons about friendship and opportunity, and children will want to join Victor again and again on his funny, mixed-up, and carefree rides.

A Dragon on the Roof 

by Cecile Alix and illustrated by Fred Sochard

A brave young girl, a whimsical house, and a ticklish dragon help young readers see the world through Gaudí’s eyes. Set in Casa Batlló, one of Antoni Gaudí’s most renowned buildings, this joyful story introduces young readers to the architect’s work, inciting their curiosity and imagination along the way. While her nanny is sleeping, young Paloma hears a noise. She climbs the stairs of her house until she reaches the roof, where a dragon is perched. Unafraid, Paloma reaches out to pet the dragon–but he is ticklish, and as he laughs, he spews a myriad of sea animals that he had unwittingly swallowed. The house is transformed into a dreamy aquarium and the dragon settles into a deep sleep on the roof. Cécile Alix’s playful story and Fred Sochard’s boldly graphic illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to Gaudí’s exuberant vision. As readers make their way through Paloma’s home, they are introduced to its fabulous elements–columns shaped like elephant legs; marine-inspired tiles, glass, and ironwork; and of course the spectacularly undulating, iridescent roof, which resembles a sleeping dragon. The end of the book includes a brief history of Gaudí’s career and provides helpful background to Paloma’s story. Kids will want to linger over the pictures and imagine what their own house would be like if a dragon were living on their roof.

What’s Cooking at 10 Garden Street 

by Felicita Sala

This delightfully illustrated children’s cookbook offers a global menu of dishes to share with friends, family, and neighbors. Something delicious is cooking in the old apartment building on Garden Street! Pilar is mixing gazpacho, Monsieur Ping is stir-frying broccoli, Señora Flores is preparing a pot of beans, and Josef and Rafik are rolling meatballs. Other neighbors are making mini-quiches, baba ganoush, dhal, and peanut butter cookies. When they’re all finished cooking everyone gathers in the garden to enjoy a delicious meal and each other’s company. Each inviting spread in this storybook offers a recipe from a different culinary tradition. Dishes that kids love, like guacamole, spaghetti, and banana bread are interspersed with others that include less familiar ingredients, such as mirin, tahini, and turmeric. The recipes explain how each dish is made and come with fun and detailed illustrations. Combining simple, fresh flavors with recipes from around the world, this book will nourish and inspire budding cooks while whetting the appetites of their more experienced helpers.

Frankie’s Food Truck

By Educational Insights and Illustrated by Lucia Gaggiotti

Frankie’s Food Truck serves a different shape of food every day. On Mondays, Frankie serves squares. What kinds of foods are shaped like a square? Lift the flaps to unveil all sorts of tasty treats, learning about shapes and days of the week as you go. From a square piece of toast to a slice of watermelon in the shape of a triangle, readers are invited to see how many shapes and foods they can find on each spread.

Peg + Cat: Up a Tree

By  Jennifer Oxley and Billy Aronson

Peg has a BIG PROBLEM. She is up in a tree with her yo-yo and can’t get down! Luckily, Cat is down below and eager to help. He finds two long poles and some short pieces of wood and ties them all together. But when his makeshift ladder sways and falls, Peg has to pull Cat up, and now they have an even bigger problem. Can their friend Ramone make the ladder’s vertical sides go up and down and the horizontal steps go straight across so they can get down safely? Could Peg’s yo-yo skills come in handy after all? What goes up must come down — somehow — as Peg gets stuck high in a tree and Cat and Ramone try to come to the rescue.

KeeKee’s Big Adventures in London

by Shannon Jones

Join KeeKee, the globe-trotting calico kitty, on her latest brilliant adventures in London. Along with her friend Willamb Sheepspeare, she whisks readers through the majesty of England’s capital city—from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace to a proper English tea. Explorers big and small will have a jolly good time trying out fun British expressions, peeking into royal culture, and navigating London’s beautiful streets on a double-decker bus.  What’s meaningful to me is that I have been to London many times, so sharing this book with my children has been incredibly exciting as we pore over the pages. Plus, the author lives in our current city!

BigFoot Activity Book: Wacky Puzzles, Coloring Pages, Fun Facts, & Cool Stickers

by D.L. Miller

Have a BigFoot fan in your home? Following the success of D.L. Miller’s BigFoot seek-and-find books, publisher Fox Chapel Publishing, under the imprint Happy Fox Books, is proud to introduce a new BigFoot activity book aptly titled BigFoot Activity Book: Wacky Puzzles, Coloring Pages, Fun Facts, & Cool Stickers. The author notes, “It’s not just an activity book—it’s a way to teach children about the world through recreational learning.” 

Ultimate Slime: Extreme Edition

by Alyssa Jagan

Yes, your kids can take their slime to the next level! In Ultimate Slime Extreme Edition, you’ll find 100+ new, awesome, borax-free slime recipes and projects from slime master Alyssa J of @CraftySlimeCreator!

Frozen 2: Make Your Own Bath Bombs

by Jennifer Malone

Frozen fever is real again after the hit movie came out a few weeks ago! Learn formulas, practice ratios, combine chemicals, and use the scientific method to form bath bombs that are uniquely Frozen 2 and uniquely yours!

Learn to Draw: Frozen 2

by Walter Foster Junior Creative Team

So simple and fun, the step-by-step drawing exercises in Learn to Draw Disney Frozen 2 will have you drawing Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, Sven, and the new characters from Disney Frozen 2 in no time!

*Books were generously provided for review. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

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Healthy Sugar Cookies

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Making cookies today? Here is an incredibly delicious sugar cookie which happens to also be nutritious and healthy with only 5 g of sugar by leading Nutritionist and Personal Trainer, Sloane Davis.

Healthy Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

1 scoop Vanilla protein powder (“Mom” prefers Nuzest Clean Lean Protein – Smooth Vanilla)

½ cup oat flour

¼ coconut flour

¾ tsp cornstarch

¾ tsp baking powder

⅛ tsp salt

1 tbsp + 1 tsp unsalted butter or ghee, melted (“Mom” prefers organic)

¼ cup unsweetened almond milk, room temperature

1 tsp vanilla extract

⅓ cup granulated sugar or sugar substitute

For the topping:

3 tbsp granulated sugar or sugar substitute (“Mom” prefers Stevia in the Raw)

Preparation

Mix together the protein powder, oat flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter, almond milk, and vanilla.

Stir in the granulated sugar.

Add in the flour mixture, stirring until barely incorporated. Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 3 hours. (otherwise cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap to avoid it from drying out.)

Preheat the oven to 350°F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

To prepare the topping, place the sugar in a small bowl.

Create balls from the cookie dough.

Place the ball of cookie dough in the bowl of sugar.

Make sure it is fully coated and place on the prepared baking sheet. If the cookie dough was chilled longer than 1 hour, flatten the cookie dough balls slightly.

Bake the cookies at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Makes 9 LARGE cookies

Macros per cookie: 119 calories, 17g carbs, 4g fat, 5g protein and only 5g sugar

About Sloane Davis
Sloane Davis is a Certified Nutritionist and Personal Trainer who has helped thousands of people, both men and women, around the world get in to top shape both mentally and physically. Sloane has her undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Arts from Syracuse University and became accredited through ISSA with her degree in Sports Nutrition and Personal Training. She works personally and online with thousands of clients around the US and globally.

She has been featured in People, Fitness Magazine, New Beauty Magazine, Apple News, The Daily Mail, Yahoo News, FOX Good Day New York, FOX Good Day DC, NY1, Bay Area Focus, Women’s Fitness, Womanista, Livestrong, Mind Body Green and Westchester Magazine.

*Recipe and images courtesy of Sloane Davis, Pancakes and Push-ups.*

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Top 5 Eco-Gifts for Babies & Toddlers 2017

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It’s that time of the year again! With Christmas sneaking up on us once again, Tiny Green Mom has put together their ‘Top 5 Eco-Gifts for Babies & Toddlers!‘ While the tiniest member of your family may be more intrigued by the twinkling lights, wrapping paper, and boxes, Mom and Dad will appreciate the following gifts for little ones!

Lovey-Organic-Taxi-Lovey-or-Baby-Toy-Security-Blanket-1-low_grande

Organic Taxi Lovey by Estella NYC

This adorable and super-soft organic cotton lovey features an iconic NYC taxi, and is made perfectly-sized for tiny hands! With bold black and white stripes, tactile pom poms for the wheels, and a plush knit cotton feel that makes it easy to cuddle and hold, the Organic Taxi Lovey is a fantastic eco-stocking stuffer this holiday season! Hand knit in Peru. Machine wash on gentle. For additional ideas for baby’s 1st Christmas, check out their gift guide, too!

gunapod

Gunapod

A favorite last year, Gunapod continues to make our eco-friendly gift list! With gorgeous new prints and sizes that fit infants to toddlers, your little one will stay toasty and warm all night long in this safe, smart, and extremely soft wearable blanket! (Yes, we wish it came in adult size, too!) Like sleeping wrapped in a cloud, Gunapod features the WONDERZiP® system for easy changing in the night and temperature control to prevent overheating. The WONDERZiP® opens completely from underarm to underarm, with 4 separate pulls functioning in a multitude of ways as you choose. Generously sized for maximum comfort, Gunapod provides baby with plenty of space to fold legs or spread out, as well as move arms freely. In addition, you can unzip the Gunapod® along the bottom to accommodate a carseat or stroller safety strap, which allows your baby to kick freely. Gunapod® adheres to the strictest standards of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CPSIA. Now that our little guy is a toddler, we love that it prevents him climbing out of the crib, too!

Baby Mum Mum carrot blueberry combo

Organic Baby Mum-Mum

Tuck these favorite teething biscuits into your little one’s stocking! Baby Mum-Mum now offers two new organic varieties…Organic Sweet Potato & Carrot and Organic Blueberry & Goji. These all-natural teething biscuits are always a hit with my little teethers, and now that my youngest is a toddler, the line has Organic Strawberry Rice Biscuits for toddlers! Baby and Toddler Mum-Mums are made without GMOs, artificial flavors and preservatives. Gluten, lactose, egg and peanut-free. Plus, each serving is individually wrapped for convenience, making it a breeze to take a few along in a diaper bag or purse!

Baby Butz

Baby Butz Cream

They may not appreciate it… but mom and dad will! To treat baby’s diaper rash naturally and effectively,
Olen Cosmetics’ Baby Butz cream is a trusted brand, recommended by pediatricians and used in hospital neonatal units. Baby Butz cream is a barrier and a healing cream that prevents and relieves diaper rash in as little as 4 hours. It’s all-natural, free of perfume, alcohol or chemicals. Baby Butz Cream can be purchased on www.amazon.com.

Pure Spoon Butternut

Pure Spoon Fresh Organic Purées

Is your little one learning to self-feed? The gift of Pure Spoon will be a welcome one! Pure Spoon Fresh Organic Purées are 100% fresh certified organic fruits and veggies that are cold pressed, cold packed and delivered right to your door! Yes, your little ones will love them… and you will love that they are nourishing their growing bodies. Flavors available include Apples & Broccoli, Blueberries, Bananas & Apples, Butternut Squash, Apples & Oats, Carrots & Zucchini, Creamy Avocado & Apples, Simply Apples, Simply Carrots, Simply Pears, Spinach, Pear & Bananas, and Sweet Potato & Apples.

*Companies generously provided samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

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6 Non-Candy Easter Basket Treats & Surprises

Instead of chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, and other sugar-filled treats, we have compiled our favorite Easter basket surprises that children will delight in finding on Easter morning! We think that they are just as sweet!

An Easter Surprise and Plush Gift Set

An Easter Surprise & Plush Gift Set

Make Easter morning extra magical by taking your little one on an “eggs-traordinary” egg-hiding adventure around the world! An Easter Surprise gives your child the chance to plan his or her very own Easter mission! Soaring as high as the moon in a hot air balloon, delivering eggs all over town, and stashing tasty treats all down the streets, your little one will be thrilled at the surprise twist in this Easter adventure!

This entertaining Easter storybook can be personalized with your child’s name and hometown, along with a special message and photo on the dedication page. The incredibly soft, snuggly bunny that comes with the gift set is the perfect addition to your child’s Easter basket… and for lots of cuddles while reading together. $19.99 paperback, $34.99 hardcover, $44.99 gift set. http://www.putmeinthestory.com/personalized-gifts-for-kids/an-easter-surprise-and-plush-gift-set.html

Sophie the Giraffe

Sophie the Giraffe

Tuck the iconic Sophie the Giraffe into your baby’s Easter basket! There is just something magical about Sophie, isn’t there? From the way she looks, to the way she smells (faintly of vanilla), to how easy she is to grab and wave, it’s no surprise Sophie is one of the first toys babies adore! Handmade exclusively in France, Sophie the Giraffe is a timeless design that has been capturing the imagination and tiny hands and mouths of babies since 1961. Every Sophie is painstakingly made from 100% natural rubber and painted with food grade dyes so babies can chew and squish to their hearts’ delight. Easy to clean – simply wipe the surface with a clean, damp cloth after baby has drooled on and played with Sophie. https://www.sophiethegiraffe-usa.com/

Mackenzie I Love You More Romper

Tenth & Pine Romper

Looking for a cute and egg-citing outfit to place in your child’s Easter basket? At Tenth & Pine, they offer a variety of gender neutral clothing pieces that will help your little boy or girl look their Sunday best! With everything from footwear to rompers, onesies, beanies, tees, and leggings, you can pick out the perfect outfit for them. Keep your little one up with the latest fashion as they go on their Easter egg hunt! “Mom’s” pick for her little guy – a full length romper that moves easily for all of the running and playing he does! Available in sizes for a newborn all the up to a 4-year-old toddler!

Zoonicorns

Zoonicorns

If you have a child who loves unicorns, they will love finding one or more of the Zoonicorns inside their basket on Easter morning! Zoonicorns are a collection of four adorable plush toys that are a combination of an exotic zebra and mythical creature, each with their own unique and loveable personality. In addition to the plush toys, Zoonicorn offers a new children’s app, online games, and stories that make the perfect gifts to stimulate your child’s mind, sharpen critical thinking skills and discover prominent life lessons through magical adventures. Named Valeo, Aleil, Ene or Promithea – your child will love seeing a favorite creature brought to life on the new app! If you are traveling over the holiday, the app will engage and inspire your child on a long car or plane ride! www.zoonicorn.com.

Wee Blessing

Wee Blessing

Give the gift of an adorable Easter outfit, or a special outfit to wear throughout the year with Wee Blessing. Wee Blessing is a professional children’s styling service tailored to your taste, budget and lifestyle that helps you feel your best and gives you back what matters most… your time! Wee Blessing provides parents and children hand-picked outfits from the most-popular and top name brand companies for 40-60% off retail price. Available for newborns to children aged 14 years-old, you pick the box that works best for you.

Here’s how it works: Fill out the personal style profile with your child’s name, clothing size, favorite colors, princesses, superheroes and more, then choose a one-time service, monthly or quarterly box that all come complete with four outfits, or you can choose a one-time outfit for a gift. You will only be charged for what you keep and a flat $5 shipping and handling fee. You will not have to pay return shipping or restocking fee. If you decide to keep all four outfits, Wee Blessing will give you an additional 10% off. Perfect for Easter for newborns on up! www.weeblessing.com

strawberry-banana Sunkist Trail Mix

Sunkist® Fruit Lover’s Trail Mix™ Single Serve Packs

If you want to add a treat that is nutritious and delicious, Sunkist Snacks’ new Sunkist® Fruit Lover’s Trail Mix™ Single Serve packs are a perfect choice for a healthy Easter basket. Small enough to fit in an Easter egg, Sunkist Snacks single serve packs contain delicious premium fruit and tree nuts (no low cost fillers like raisins and peanuts) to give you and the kids a satisfying, perfectly portioned snack. Choose from Strawberry Banana Blend, Pineapple Coconut Blend and Breakfast Espresso & Granola Blend. The Strawberry Banana Blend is a definite kid-pleaser with Cranberries, Banana Chips, Papaya, Strawberries, Almonds, and Cashews! We love that there are no artificial colors or flavors… just 6 nutritious ingredients! Sold at major grocers such as Walmart and Ralph’s as well as online at SunkistSnacks.com.

*Companies generously provided samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own. Image courtesy of jannoon028 from FreeDigitalPhotos.net*

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2016 Eco-Baby Gift Guide

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It’s that time of the year again! We have put together our absolute favorites this year for the tiny eco-babies in your life!

Mati Mati Baby 1

MatiMati Baby Bandana Bibs

For stylish little droolers, MatiMati Bandana Bibs are “Mom’s” new favorite for her little guy! Made with 100% organic cotton, these super-soft and extra-absorbent bibs are as functional as they are practical…and your baby will look absolutely adorable, too! No velcro here – the bibs feature two nickel-free adjustable snaps so the bib can adjust as baby grows, and will not irritate delicate skin. Snaps stay put, too, making it more difficult for little fingers to pull off! Available in a variety of trendy patterns that go with baby’s outfits, rather than clash with them, MatiMati Bandana Bibs are sold in a set of four for $21.95. Visit www.matimatibaby.com.

MatiMati Baby Pacifier clips

MatiMati Baby Pacifier Clips

Does your little one use a paci? If so, grab a 4-pack of these stylin’ pacifier clips from MatiMati Baby, available in the same on-trend patterns and prints as their fashionable Bandana Bibs! No more worries for parents about losing pacifiers at home or on-the-go, the pacifier clips keep your child’s pacifier close by and off the ground! The clips can also be used for teething toys. With cute patterns to match all of your baby’s outfits, MatiMati Baby Pacifier Clips can be found at www.matimatibaby.com.

Marcus & Marcus Bath Toys

Marcus & Marcus’ NEW Mold Free Squirting Bath Toys

Safe + fun = a win-win for parents of little ones! Have you ever squeezed a bath toy only to be blasted with scary black chunks of mold? Most bath squeezers on the market are breeding grounds for molds that you don’t want your little one’s bathing in (or even worse drinking). YUCK! Break the mold cycle with Marcus & Marcus’ NEW Mold Free Squirting Bath Toys that allow parents to clean and air dry the toys after each use to prevent mold growth inside. The soft silicone material also makes it perfect for babies to hold and play with providing hours of bath time fun! Each Marcus & Marcus Toy is BPA Free, PVC Free & Phthalate Free 100% Smell Free and it’s made with nontoxic silicone, so it’s completely safe for kids. Available in 5 animal characters (Marcus the Lion (Red), Pokey the Pig (Pink), Lola the Giraffe (Yellow), Ollie the Elephant (Green and Willo the Whale (Purple), as well as a Submarine or Rocket Ship. $7.99 – $9.99. Available online at www.Sears.com.

Chewbeads 1

Chewbeads

This is the perfect stocking stuffer for a mom with a little one! Chewbeads offers teething jewelry for moms that are completely safe for infants! Not only is the jewelry fashionable, but the soft silicone that’s used in the jewelry won’t hurt emerging teeth or sensitive gums. Chewbeads do not contain lead, BPA, phthalates, cadmium, or other metals, so you can let your little one chew to his or her heart’s content. Breakaway clasps enhance the overall safety of the necklaces, as little fingers do like to tug & pull! Plus, the jewelry can safely be washed in the dishwasher. Visit www.chewbeads.com.

Gunapod 1

Gunapod

‘Sleep in heavenly peace!’ Your little one will stay toasty and warm all night long in this safe, smart, and extremely soft wearable blanket! Like sleeping wrapped in a cloud, Gunapod features the WONDERZiP® system for easy changing in the night and temperature control to prevent overheating. The WONDERZiP® opens completely from underarm to underarm, with 4 separate pulls functioning in a multitude of ways as you choose. Generously sized for maximum comfort, Gunapod provides baby with plenty of space to fold legs or spread out, as well as move arms freely. In addition, you can unzip the Gunapod® along the bottom to accomodate a carseat or stroller safety strap, which allows your baby to kick freely. Gunapod® adheres to the strictest standards of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CPSIA. http://www.gunamuna.com/

Bears for Humanity

Bears For Humanity Premium Sherpa Bear

The bear that gives back! Bears for Humanity™ is a leading social commerce company committed to helping its community and the earth. From farm to fulfillment, the products are made using only certified organic materials and Fair Trade practices, while employing at-risk women from welfare-work programs right in the U.S. The “BUY One, give ONE” program provides a bear to a child in need for every bear purchased. Sourced from the world’s finest Himalayan organic cotton, the original 16” Sherpa Bear is as soft and huggable as ever. Choose from natural white, beige, dark brown, soft pink and blue. $49.99. www.bearsforhumanity.com

California Baby Aloe Cream

California Baby Aloe & Arnica Cream

Made with certified organically grown aloe vera, California Baby Aloe & Arnica Cream is recommended for dry, irritated, or parched skin. Botanically based, this light and fluffy non-greasy cream contains Aloe Vera and Arnica Montana infused with herbs and essential oils known for their soothing properties. It smells delightful, and living in FL, “Mom” uses this cream year-round on her children’s skin. It makes a fantastic stocking stuffer for babies (and adults!), as this ultra-hydrating cream can be used as a moisturizing lotion for all ages – newborn and up! www.californiababy.com

*Companies generously provided samples and images for this piece. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

*Photo by Serge Bertasius Photography.*

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Strawberry Mascarpone Dip

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Delicious red organic strawberries delight the senses in this dessert dip that is almost too pretty to eat! Paired with crisp New York Style Pita Chips, this is sure to be a crowd-pleaser this holiday season!

Strawberry Mascarpone Dip

Ingredients

1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (“Mom” prefers organic)
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
1 Tablespoon Grand Marnier (optional)
½ cup sliced strawberries (“Mom” prefers organic)
3 tablespoons balsamic glaze

Preparation

Beat mascarpone with ricotta, maple syrup, and Grand Marnier in large bowl with electric mixer until thoroughly combined and smooth.

Spoon mascarpone mixture into serving bowl. Top with strawberries and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve with New York Style Pita Chips.

Makes 2 1/2 cups.

*Recipe and image courtesy of New York Style Pita Chips.*

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Give Back with Deep River Snacks’

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This holiday season, and beyond, you can inspire others to ‘give a chip!’ Deep River Snacks’ offers a wonderful and simple way to give to others while at the same time giving back to what matters most to the recipient with their Chips & Charity gift basket for the holiday season! As charitable giving is a growing trend, this is a perfect gift for anyone from your loved ones to co-workers! Essentially who loves to give back, it’s the gift that keeps on giving!

Deep River Snacks 2

Chips & Charity is a delicious assortment of kettle chips + a $10 charity gift card that the recipient can use to make a donation to the non-profit of their choice via justgive.org.

These aren’t just any chips – Deep River Snacks’ are proudly made in the USA without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and they are Non-GMO, Certified Gluten-Free, and Nut-Free, too! In addition, each bag features a great charity partner with a back story that means something important to a Deep River Snacks’ founder or employee.

The $10 gift certificate is redeemable on justgive.org and allows the recipient to choose from over 2 million charities! What non-profit did “Mom” choose? Lucy’s Love Bus! This incredible organization allowed “Mom’s” daughter to receive Traditional Chinese Medicine while battling neuroblastoma, a rare childhood cancer, for close to three years. Unfortunately, “Mom’s” oldest daughter passed away at the tender age of 5 this year, and this will be her first Christmas without her sweet daughter. Giving back to Lucy’s Love Bus was truly such a wonderful way to honor her little girl and bring hope to other families going through similar situations this holiday season!

Available for purchase on Amazon.com for $24.99, which included 12-2oz bags + $10 charity gift card.

*Company generously provided samples and images for this article.*

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Terra’s Kitchen White Chocolate Ginger Cookies

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Tis’ the season to indulge, and why not indulge in these delicious White Chocolate Ginger Cookies made with fresh ginger, vanilla paste and white chocolate chips?

Terra’s Kitchen White Chocolate Ginger Cookies

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour (“Mom” prefers organic)
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup butter, softened (“Mom” prefers organic)
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs, room temperature (“Mom” prefers organic, cage-free eggs)
1 teaspoon vanilla paste, can substitute vanilla extract
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger (we suggest using a microplane)
11 ounces white chocolate chips

Preparation

Preheat oven to 350º F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, salt and baking soda.

In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a hand mixer cream together the butter and sugars. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully combined. Add in the vanilla paste and ginger, mixing until just combined. Gradually add in the flour mixture 1 cup at a time. Add the white chocolate chips.

Drop by the heaping tablespoon full onto the prepared baking sheet and bake until lightly golden (12-15 minutes), cookies will appear still slightly soft in the middle, but will set up firmly as they cool. (Note: For smaller, less decadent cookies use a teaspoon measure and bake for 8-10 minutes). Using a spatula, remove cookies from the parchment to cool. Repeat with the remaining cookie dough.

Makes 2 dozen big/over indulged cookies.
Makes 4 dozen smaller/less decadent cookies.

*Recipe and image courtesy of Terra’s Kitchen.* 

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Sweet Eco-Finds for Little Ones This Holiday Season

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Tiny Green Mom has put together a wish list for the tiniest ones on your gift-giving list this year! From super-soft swaddle blankets and bibs to the perfect eco-minded toys for tots, these gorgeous finds for babies and toddlers will please both children and parents alike!

aden + anais high seas burpy bibs 2

aden + anais burpy bibs

For your little drooler, these incredibly soft burpy bibs from beloved eco-friendly line, aden + anais, are a must-have for any newborn! This Fall, aden + anais added 6 brand new print collections that “Mom” absolutely adores! With each washing, these bibs become softer and softer. In addition to the burpy bibs, these new classic and silky soft bamboo prints are also available in swaddles, dream blankets, & sleeping bags. https://www.adenandanais.com/new/

aden + anais high seas swaddles 2

aden + anais classic swaddles

These breathable, silky soft 100% cotton muslin swaddle blankets from aden + anais are a staple in “Mom’s” home and a necessity for new parents! The gorgeous prints and incredibly soft swaddles are wonderful not only for swaddling your sweet baby, but can be used as an impromptu nursing cover, stroller blanket, or clean place to lay baby on the floor for tummy time! https://www.adenandanais.com/new/

cloud B Hugginz Sheep

Cloud b Hugginz Musical Plushies

A sweet find for little ones, Cloud b Hugginz Musical Plushies calm and soothe baby at home or on-the-go! When baby pulls on the plush star, a soothing lullaby begins to play. These super soft, oh-so-lovable six-inch characters can be easily attached to strollers, cribs, car seats, and activity gyms by their Velcro tabs. http://cloudb.com/

jj rabbit dryBIB

jj rabbit dryBIB™

For babies that have moved onto solid feeding, jj rabbit has designed an incredible eco-conscious bib for your little one! Made from organic cotton, this practical bib is also waterproof (without the plastic!) and has a convenent catch-pocket to help keep messes to a minimum! “Mom” loves that the dryBIB™ is machine-washable as well as BPA-Free, Phthalate free, and PVC Free. It is designed for babies ages 3 – 18 months.
http://jjrabbit.com/

Numbble Rumbler Dino

Begin Again Toys Dino Nubble Rumbler

Chunky and eye-catching, this adorable wooden brontosaurus from Begin Again Toys has a tactile Nubble tummy made from natural rubber. Tiny hands will love to grasp, push and play with the Nubble Rumbler Dino, encouraging the development of both fine and large motor skills. “Mom” was thrilled to learn about this eco-company, which makes this toy from sustainably harvested rubber wood with non-toxic, child safe stains. http://www.beginagaintoys.com/

jj rabbit CUPPIES_Piglet_Milk

jj rabbit CUPPIES®

Bright and cheerful, these adorable cups make it fun for little ones to transition to a real cup! With a hidden animal at the bottom of each CUPPIES®, your child will finish their nutritious beverage every time to see their favorite friend! CUPPIES® are available in Frog, Piglet, Penguin and Rabbit. http://jjrabbit.com/

PBS Kids - Stacking Giraffe

PBS KIDS & Whole Foods Market® Earth-Friendly Toys

Classic toys for little ones, these earth-friendly toys exclusively from PBS KIDS & Whole Foods Market® inspire creativity and spark imaginative play! Made using responsibly-sourced materials, including PlanWood, which is high density fiber composite wood from rubber trees, as well as organic color pigment, and rubber wood. The xylophone & drum are tried and loved musical instruments that little ones love, and the wooden Stacking Giraffe provides hours of laughter & fun!

PBS Kids Drum

In addition to being eco-friendly, what makes these toys even more appealing this holiday season is that PBS KIDS toys are gifts that give back! Purchasing these toys ultimately gives back to the PBS mission of education for all children as 100% of profits for the supplier, PBS, goes back to their non-profit work! In addition, all PBS holiday products give 1% to Whole Kids Foundation, which helps give parents, teachers and children more tools and opportunities to eat well. http://shop.pbskids.org/

Boppy Pillow

Boppy® Bare Naked® Nursing Pillow and Positioner

For both breastfeeding and positioning, the Boppy® Bare Naked® Nursing Pillow and Positioner is the perfect item for babies from birth to one year old! This extremely versatile nursing pillow lifts baby to a more ergonomic position for comfortable breastfeeding or bottle feeding, giving relief to Mom’s arms and back. Not only for breastfeeding, the Boppy Pillow transitions to a comfortable support pillow for different stages of development such as tummy time and learning to sit. The Boppy Pillow supports baby as she grows and develops and this multi-use pillow can be used for babies up to one year old. The Original Boppy Bare Naked Pillow is the famous Boppy Nursing Pillow without a Boppy® Slipcover. “Mom” prefers the Boppy® 100% Organic Fabric Slipcover. The Boppy Pillow and Boppy Slipcovers are both machine washable for easy clean-up! http://www.boppy.com

Boppy, Shutterfly and Tiny Prints have announced an amazing offer for those who purchase an Original Boppy Pillow. Through December 1, 2015, purchase a specially marked award-winning Original Boppy Pillow (Bare Naked, Slipcovered, Heirloom and Luxe versions) and inside the package you’ll receive a coupon for a FREE $29.99 Shutterfly photo book and $20.00 towards your next order at Tiny Prints ($50 value). Perfect for capturing all of baby’s first!

*Companies generously provided samples, information and images for this article.*

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Five Tips For A Happier Holiday Season

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R.W. Knudsen Mulled CiderIn the midst of the holiday bustle, it’s easy to fall short on good eating habits.

Heeding five hints, however, can help you celebrate a happy holiday season with family, friends and feeling good about yourself.

1. Focus on fun. Holidays often revolve around food and spending time with your loved ones. This year, try a new activity that the entire family will enjoy. Step outside the box and create great memories you’ll have forever.

2. Motivate now. Don’t wait for the New Year to get started on your resolutions. Try integrating best practices into your life today. Aim to take a daily walk or eat vegetables with every meal.

3. Indulge in moderation. No need to skip your favorite seasonal foods. You can still enjoy all the delicious holiday treats without the guilt by planning your portion size and sticking to it.

4. Sip seasonal. Holiday beverages can be delicious and festive. Try a glass of R.W. Knudsen Family® Cider and Spice, made with 100 percent juice from ripe, whole apples and naturally flavored with allspice, cinnamon, cloves, lemon peel and orange peel.

Hot Mulled Cider

Ingredients

4 cups R.W. Knudsen Family® Cider & Spice

5 cloves

1 cinnamon stick

1 orange (peeled and sliced)

6 slices fresh ginger (peeled about ¼ inch thick)

Additional cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan. Simmer 20 to 25 minutes. Strain mixture. Divide warm liquid among individual mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick, if desired.

Serve and enjoy.

5. Enjoy simple things. Using R.W. Knudsen Family® Just Juice® can be the key to creating simple salad dressings, reduction sauces and marinades. R.W. Knudsen Family® believes great juice is the result of great fruit—so for more than 50 years, it’s produced quality juice products, including more than 100 types of natural and organic fruit and vegetable juices, carbonated fruit beverages and specialty items.

Learn More

For facts and recipe ideas, see www.rwknudsenfamily.com and www.facebook.com/RWKnudsen.

*Article courtesy of NAPS. Image of “Woman With Santa Hat” by Ambro courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.*

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