Mama Wellness

Best Baby Sunscreen

Looking for the best baby sunscreen? Meet the new line of sunscreens from Earth Mama Organics!

What’s IN the sunscreen is just as important as what’s NOT. If an ingredient is available organic, Earth Mama uses it. Each and every ingredient is purposefully sourced with great consideration — and they either boost the sunscreen’s SPF value, moisturize like crazy or make sure it’s safely gentle on uber-sensitive skin. And do you know what’s not in them? Chemicals that are potentially harmful to people and the planet like oxybenzone or octinoxate, artificial fragrance, nano particles or parabens.

Reef friendly: NO chemical sunscreens
Pediatrician and dermatologist tested, clinically tested for irritation
Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection
Water Resistant (40 Min)
NSF/ANSI 305 Certified by Oregon Tilth (Contains Organic Shea Butter & Organic Calendula)

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Mother’s Day Gift Guide

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and we’re excited to introduce you to some fantastic gifts for moms-to-be, new moms, and seasoned mamas, too! Read on to learn more about our Mother’s Day gift picks and some exclusive discounts for Gugu Guru readers, too!

Kindred Bravely Louisa Leggings: When it comes to moms, you can’t go wrong with leggings as a gift, and we’re obsessed with the Louisa Leggings from Kindred Bravely. Kindred Bravely is known for their empowering, comforting, and fashion forward clothing for all women, but most especially moms and moms-to-be. The Louisa Leggings are made from a thick, high quality fabric that’s super soft and stretchy, and provide full protection, as they aren’t see-through at all. They’re soft enough even for the most sensitive of skin, and provide comforting compression for both pregnant or post-partum moms. They can be worn with the waist-band folded over or unfolded to provide additional coverage for nursing moms. Speaking of nursing moms, breastfeeding moms love the Louisa Leggings as they allow for greater coverage and modesty, which means you can breastfeed confidently in public. If you’re packing your hospital bag, don’t forget the Kindred Bravely Louisa Leggings, as the soft, stretchy waistband can be folded over or rise above a baby bump, pospartum stomach, and won’t irritate your c-section incision. The Louisa Leggings are the perfect Mother’s Day gift, and you can use GUGULEGGINGS for 20% off your leggings.

Monica Rich Kosann’s Slim Locket Collection: Mother’s Day is all about spoiling mom, and what a better way to spoil any special mom in your life than with meaningful jewelry? We’re swooning over these lockets from Monica Rich Kosann; with a sleek modern look, these timeless pieces are the ultimate Mother’s Day gift for mom, aunt, grandma, or yourself. The lockets are a wonderful way for any mother to tell her story, whether with photos, quotes, or special moments, you can kick-off the collection this Mother’s Day with a slim locket necklace, and there are so many varieties to choose from. You’re sure to find a style that fits any special mom in your life, and uploading your photos couldn’t be easier. Wow mom this Mother’s Day with a Monica Rich Kosann locket, and give her the gift of a family heirloom.

Parabo Press 14 Month Calendar: Looking for a Mother’s Day gift for the mom who has everything? We love giving personalized gifts to moms, and even better when style meets function, such as these 14 month calendars from Parabo Press. These stylish wall calendars feature 14 of mom’s favorite photos and is printed on thick matte photos paper, so it looks chic enough for any home or office wall. The calendar is 8.25” wide by 12” tall and what we love most of all is that it is printed on perforated paper, so that when the month is up, mom can detach the square photo print and frame it or save it elsewhere – no more throwing away personalized calendars! Not only would the Parabo Press calendar make a perfect Mother’s Day gift for mom or grandma, but we love that you can begin the calendar on any month, so it’s totally customizable and would make an affordable and great gift year round.

Stuck on You Keychain and Key-ring: If you’re looking for an affordable and customized Mother’s Day gift for mom this year, we’re loving the keychains and key-rings from Stuck on You. The Mother’s Day wood key ring is made from beech wood and features a long lasting silicone loop attachment. You can choose from a triangle, circle, square and star shapes, and personalize with fonts and colors your mom will love. For the mom who loves to travel, this is a great gift to remind her how much she is loved! The Mother’s Day acrylic keychain is a sturdy gift for mom which can be personalized and is ideal for travel bags and purses. Need a thoughtful gift for grandma, aunt or babysitter? These Stuck on You keychains is a perfect way to surprise someone you love with an affordable and personalized gift! Use code soy-gugu19 for 20% off sitewide.

GoSili Straw Cup Marble Collection: If you’re looking for a Mother’s Day gift for an active mom, breastfeeding mom, or mom who needs to take better care of herself and drink more water, we have the perfect gift for you. We’re big fans of Go Sili, and their Marble Collection pairs function with style when it comes to on-the-go drinking. This all silicone straw cup is the first of its kind, as it is made from 100% European grade silicone and holds its shape! This means it is super safe to drink from and won’t collapse when gripped. It uses GoSoli’s patented technology pairing the silicone with an embedded stainless steel ring to ensure the shape is held. The GoSili Straw Cup is dishwasher safe, easy to clean, and most importantly, easy to use! Mom will love using her GoSili straw cup in the car, on her travels, for work, or on the playground. Use code GSGUGU for 10% off.

Perry Mackin’s Paris Diaper Backpack: Nothing makes a mom feel better about herself than a stylish and functional diaper bag! The Perry Mackin Paris Diaper Backpack is the perfect marriage of style and function for a fantastic Mother’s Day gift. The Perry Mackin backpack offers a stylish spin on the traditional diaper bag with quilted nylon and faux leather trim detail. The pop of pink color is bound to make any mom smile even on the most chaotic days! The bag features tons of storage and compartments, so mom can get organized and know she has everything she needs for heading out with baby. Between the glam style of the bag and organizational components, even the most seasoned of moms will feel confident while out with her little ones. Diaper Backpacks are a great alternative to the traditional diaper bag, as they provide hands free carrying, which means you can babywear and carry what you need, or have your hands free to push a stroller or hold a hand. With enough pockets all the necessities, we know mom will fall in love with this Perry Mackin Backpack for Mother’s Day. Use code THANKYOUMOM to get 30% off entire purchase.

Mommee Coffee: What better gift for Mother’s Day than coffee? Check out Mommee Coffee, which offers guilt free coffee for all stages of motherhood. Mommee Coffee features four unique caffeine content levels to match your needs at any stage of the Mommee journey. With their four content levels, decaf, quarter caf, half caf, and full caf, any mom can safely enjoy coffee during pregnancy, breastfeeding and beyond. What makes Mommee Coffee different? Besides their unique content levels, Mommee Coffee features an organic certification and a decaffeination process without the use of harmful chemicals. Another reason there’s no coffee like Mommee Coffee is that they use a proprietary roasting process, which results in a low acid coffee, that retains all its flavor; low acid is generally gentler for a new mom and gentle enough for baby’s sensitive stomachs and bones.

4moms mamaRoo4: It may seem funny to have a baby item on the Mother’s Day gift guide, but when it comes to the 4moms mamaRoo4, it truly is more of a gift to moms than babies! What makes the 4moms mamaRoo4 so unique and special? As we all know, comforting a baby is about moving and rocking, but mom cannot do that forever, she needs a little time to shower and eat, too! Thankfully, the 4moms mamaRoo4 mimics the movement of a parent soothing a baby with its swaying from side to side and bouncing gently up and down. The 4moms mamaRoo4 features five unique motions and five speed options for a total of 25 different combinations, so you’re bound to find a combination which soothes your baby day-to-day. The mamaRoo4 is also Bluetooth enabled so you can control the motion, sound, speed and volume from your smartphone without disturbing baby! It also offers a full recline to allow baby to lie back and relax or sit up and play. When you’re thinking about Mother’s Day gifts this year, think about a gift which is going to make life much easier for the new mom in your life and surprise her with the 4moms mamaRoo4!

Looking for other Mother’s Day gifts for the special mom in your life? Check out these guides:

Thank you to 4moms, Mommee Coffee, Parabo Press, Perry Mackin, GoSili, Monica Rich Kosann, Stuck on You and Kindred Bravely for making this post possible – we are so appreciative!

What’s New on Gugu: March 6, 2019

by Abby Ludwig Leave a Comment

We’re back with another What’s New on Gugu! This week we’re sharing some items that are brand new to the market and others are oldies but goodies that you may not know about. For loads of our other favorites, please check out our Explore page!

Preggo Pickles: After trying this product at a baby show this past weekend, I was blown away! Not only are they delicious but they will truly satisfy that pickle craving that haunts many moms during pregnancy. Their unique flavors have also been created to support pregnant/new mom challenges (i.e. nausea and nursing). As an added bonus, they are extremely low in sodium when compared to other pickles on the market. So pregnant mamas crunch away!

bblüv Foöd and Döse: While National Snack Month may have ended (bye February!) we are still loving these new food storage containers from bblüv. Perfect for meals on the go, Foöd (coming soon!) is leak and odor proof and will keep your food warm (or cold) with it’s insulated walls. Plus the top can be used as a shallow bowl (with built in spoon!). Paired with the Döse stackable snack container, you will be set for on-the-go eating!

Magnetic Me Clothing: While these are not new to the market, the Magnetic Me Footies are always on my list of must-haves for new parents. The magnetic closure on these newborn essentials will be a game changer for those early days. The fabrics are so soft (I love the eco-friendly modal) and the patterns are adorable!

Toofeze: You’ve all been there (or will be soon!). Your little one is in pain from teething and nothing seems to be helping. Until Toofeze! A teether made of food-grade silicone and stainless steel, your baby will instantly be drawn to the cool relief. When the stainless disc finally does warm up, simply stick it into a glass of cool (or ice) water and it will instantly chill. This will quickly become one of baby’s favorite toys.

Solly Baby Spring Collection: Another oldie but goodie, we often recommend the Solly Wrap to our users as a must-have for the fourth trimester. Not only do they have exceptional wrap carriers, but we also love the swaddle blankets and layette sets. Their new Spring collection is few of beautiful colors, and even a few patterns all great for Mom or Dad!

Like what you see? Check out some other What’s New on Gugu posts:

What’s New on Gugu: February 6 2019

What’s New on Gugu: February 13, 2019

What’s New on Gugu: February 20, 2019

What’s New on Gugu: February 27, 2019

Meet the Mompreneur: Jessica Hill from The Parent Collective

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Giving birth and caring for a newborn leaves parents-to-be with many questions. Jessica Hill, founder of The Parent Collective, realized several of her friends in the United States felt unprepared for birth and isolated when caring for their infant. In the UK, where Jessica delivered her children, parents-to-be could ask questions and connect with one another in prenatal classes. Jessica knew American parents needed a similar resource and created The Parent Collective. The Parent Collective provides parents with a safe space to learn unbiased and straightforward information about birth and infant care. We are excited to introduce you to Jessica as she shares details about The Parent Collective and why she is so passionate about this platform.

GG: How and why did you start The Parent Collective?

I had my boys in the UK and benefitted from a prenatal class which helped me and my husband to meet friends who were having babies at the same time. My early days were filled with friends and support and in speaking with moms back home, I was shocked to hear how lonely and isolated they felt, without much in the way of community long after their babies were born. I created The Parent Collective (TPC) in hopes of changing that! TPC is a new take on prenatal and parenting classes that is designed to not only provide the information you need to get through delivery and have a successful transition home with your new little one, but also to offer the added benefits of a social network to lean on long after the classes have ended. As expectant parents, we are all so vulnerable, excited, terrified about the changes that are about to happen to us and that vulnerability makes us open to connections with people who are going through the same things. It’s hard to make friends as adults as evidenced by the onslaught of mommy-tinder apps designed to help connect us as new parents. But with pregnancy as the common thread, it’s so much easier. With TPC classes, our participants develop their modern day village – a support network of couples that helps each other through illness, loneliness, marital problems, and the run of the mill baby drama. Not to mention companionship during those sometimes endless and monotonous days with a newborn.

GG: Where did you come up with the name?

The name was part of a long branding process which involved identifying words that were important to us in describing the business idea. Words like support, network, knowledge and experience. We then brainstormed a bunch of names that conveyed those and settled on The Parent Collective. The process was so helpful because it really solidified our voice and how we communicate our offering.

GG: How do you balance work and family?

I’m not great at it, to be honest! I struggle to turn off but having a flexible schedule helps a lot. I can work until the kids get home, get them settled, fit in a bit more work and then manage the nighttime routine. Because I am juggling the kids, a business, and our home all without childcare, my brain runs constantly and leaves me exhausted by the end of the day. But I wouldn’t trade it – the alternatives all have their drawbacks too. We are all just trying to make it work!

GG: What’s the best part about being a “Mompreneur” and running your own business?

I love seeing a concept that at its core served me so well when I had my babies, taking hold here. It has been a labor (no pun intended) of love and I take pride in seeing The Parent Collective grow. Running my own business means I can be at the bus to pick my kids up or attend the random Valentine’s Day parties (which are always in the middle of the day – what’s up with that!?). I don’t have a ‘boss’ but I feel responsible for making this business as successful as possible – not just for me but for our team in New York City, New Jersey, Long Island, and Connecticut. I am definitely my harshest critic but I love having the flexibility to create a schedule that works for my family.

Meet the Mompreneur: Sahra Cahoon of the Mama App

Mompreneur Spotlight: Jessica Rolph of Lovevery

Mompreneur Spotlight: Leche Libre Plus Size Nursing Clothing Line

Meet the Mompreneur: Sahra Cahoon of the Mama App

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Motherhood can be a long and winding journey, and often our own self-care as mothers can get pushed aside or lost; we’re excited to introduce you to new app for mothers that’s changing the way we take care of ourselves (spoiler alert: and thus, change the way we help our families, too!). Maven Mamas is dedicated to helping mothers on their self-care journey; their app, Mama, sends daily affirmations and encouragement directly to your phone! With the simplicity of a push notification the Mama app offers a simple encouragement each day. Behind each notification is a beautifully designed wisdom with additional self-care empowering resources for mamas. We love that! We’re excited to introduce you to the founder of the Mama app, Sahra Cahoon, as she shares about starting the app and why she’s so passionate about helping moms.

1. How did you decide to launch your business? Tell us a little more about Mama, the app.

Honestly, we needed Mama the app in our own lives (and we both use it)! We were both running businesses and parenting plus trying to figure out how to have any form of self-care and all the while being one another’s confidants and cheer leaders. “Can’t someone just make an app that reminds me that I’m doing a amazing job, that I’m a rock star, and that motherhood is hard and amazing at the same time, and it’s ok to admit that???” This was the conception of Maven Mamas. Two exhausted, passionate, entrepreneurial mamas got together just to have coffee to catch up on life – and two weeks later the plans were coming together for an app to support mamas and remind them how beautiful, powerful and amazing they are. We floated the idea by a few friends and they said, yes, do it! And so we did.

2. You get to see a lot of affirmations and self-care tips every day, what’s one piece of wisdom that really resonated with you personally?

My favorite piece of wisdom is one that I wrote before our third daughter was born, we had no idea how much more true it would become in our home. “embrace the chaos” Sometimes as a mom, wife, entrepreneur, woman, I get stuck in wanting things a certain way or thinking that my house will never again be clean and orderly. We a one month old baby and a 3 year old who has all the sass our lives are never anything but organized (or not so organized) chaos. It is messy and beautiful. Instead of constantly fighting against it I am truly working on allowing it to just be.

3. If a new mama could say just one mantra to herself each morning to help her brave the journey of motherhood, what do you suggest that mantra be?

Breathe, you can do this, just breathe. Our breath is essential for thriving in motherhood. It not only allows that pause that can be exactly what I need in the middle of the chaos. It helps with creating space when things feel overwhelming or out of control. I realize after the last month of not sleeping just how sleep deprivation messes with the mind and when i can remember to stop and take a deep breath, I am less reactive, more present and don’t have to apologize so much because i am just more connected and kind. I also use Brene Brown’s: don’t shrink, don’t puff up, just stand your sacred ground as a mantra when i am going into a group or PTO meeting. It really helps me stay true to myself and not get so wrapped up in the drama of preschool parents.

4. How do you balance work and family?

I don’t, I gave up trying to balance it around the birth of our second daughter. If home life is in balance work life is likely out of wack and visa versa. The thing is at our house we want our girls to know that they are loved and we have time for them. We eat dinner together almost every night around the table with no technology. Sometimes our toddler watches PBS so that I can do a conference call – or write a Q&A for an awesome blog partnership- sometimes i have to wake at 5am to get started before the mom day begins and sometimes I have to skip family dinner to go to hot yoga so that I can stay sane. There are weeks when I travel or my husband is working on a project 10+ hours a day and there are weeks where we visit the museum take a family hike and then make homemade ice cream. Maybe the balance can be seen when looking at the years instead of the days.

5. What’s the best part of being a mompreneur?

The opportunity to create. I love that there are no limits, we dream up new ideas and then figure out how to make them a reality. Working with other mamas, the love and support that mompreneurs show for one another and the incredible things being brought to life from apps to hands-free breast pumps, women are amazing and powerful – including my badass business partner Christy who has such a huge heart and serious business savvy, she is stunning.

What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for #3

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

We’re so excited to have a guest post today by our urban mama, Megan – she just delivered her third child and she’s here to tell you all about everything she packed in her hospital bag this time around! You can follow Megan at her hysterically funny Instagram, GirlGoneChildinNYC.

Hi Gugu Guru Moms! I’m GirlgonechildinNYC and I just returned home from having my third baby in four years. Yes, I do not how it keeps happening. I’m a planner, an expert packer for vacations and a somewhat know-it-all when it comes to new mom products. Some women geek out on fashion and shoes, I geek out on new breast pumps. I work on the Merch Team over at Jetblack and my job is to know all the coolest new products coming on the market for moms and babies. I got a ton of questions about what I was packing in my hospital bag for baby #3 so Gugu Guru was nice enough to let me share all my top must have mom products for your hospital bag here.

The Hospital Bag: The Signature NONA Bag is my go to for everything parenting and as a bonus it’s beautiful. I use it for everyday essentials as a working mom to lugging the kids around the city. It’s even spacious enough for me to use to as my hospital bag for my personal items. You can see more about the NONA bag in our fashion gift guide, too.

A Soft Robe: I love a good soft robe that is also photo worthy and I love the cute designs at Pink Blush. This robe was a hit at the hospital by other moms and even the nursing staff!

A File Folder: You go to the hospital with a ton of paper and you leave the hospital with a ton of papers. Make it easier on yourself by packing a file folder to store everything so you don’t lose any important information.

Slippers: Comfy slippers are key to a good hospital stay. Whether you’re pacing the hallways before an epidural or taking your first steps after a C-sections you want to be in something comfy. I’m loving my new Birdies. These indoor/outdoor slippers are perfect for feeling like a Queen after delivery.

Portable Speaker: While I’ve had three C-sections I did do my time in labor with my first son at 57 hours and trust me, it would have been a lot worse if I did not have a portable speaker with me. There is only so much daytime TV one can handle. Also, if you get a cool doctor she may even let you take the speaker into the OR if you have a c-section. My middle child was pulled out of my belly to Billy Joel’s Uptown Girl and my newest daughter was born to Ziggy Stardust blasting in the OR.

Pillow and Eye Pillow: I learned the hard way to bring my own pillow to the hospital. Hospital pillows aren’t known for being super comfortable and you’ll want as much sleep as you can get with a new baby. Luckily my favorite pillow, Night Pillow makes a Compression Travel Case that makes traveling with it super convenient. Also, don’t forget an Eye Pillow to help you get some shut eye.

Comfy PJs: Comfy PJ’s are key to lying around the hospital. I love my pajamas from Bestaroo and the V-neck makes it easy to breastfeed in.

Mom’s Going Home Outfit: When you finally make your escape from the hospital with your new bundle of joy don’t forget something comfy and easy to put on. I love a good cashmere matching sweat suit like the one I have from Design History.

Toiletry Bag: I love my toiletry bag from Hudson+Bleecker!

Under Eye Masks: I swear by a good under eye mask and my favorite is still Baggage Claim by Wander Beauty.

Brightening Essence: After labor or major surgery you’ll need something to brighten up your face and bonus if it’s all natural plus it works, Matrescence.

Dry Shampoo: We all have our favorite brand depending on hair type.

Waterproof Mascara: There will be tears and cameras. Regular mascara isn’t going to cut it.

Towel: Hospital towels are not known for being large and even though you’ll be feeling 10 lbs lighter you’ll still need a bigger towel than they offer.

Compression Sock: When you think compression socks you might think little old lady but Vim&Vigr makes the most stylish compression socks and you’ll need them for that postpartum swelling.

Corset: I’ve slipped a Bellefit on 24 hours after both kids were born even with a C-section. Corsets can help reduce swelling, they can protect and support the c section incision and also help with recovering from Diastiasis Recti which I unfortunately get having big babies. I also recommend purchasing some in several different sizes to help with your waistline as time goes on.

Diapers for Her: Yes we’ve all seen the horrified post by Chrissy Teigen but truth is the hospital underwear is awful and pads just don’t do the trick postpartum.

Stool Softener: Did you know most hospitals won’t let you leave until you’ve had a postpartum poop. The only thing worse about pushing a baby out of you or being split open is being expected to poop 24 hours later. If you don’t like taking pills might I suggest a nice smooth move tea as well.

Lollipops: If you’re in labor and at risk of having a C-section you’ll be cut off from food and water which isn’t pleasant when you’re having contractions. The silver lining? You’re allowed to have Lollipops. Don’t get stuck with Dum-Dums and bring the Yum Organics good stuff.

Mom Washer: I don’t have to explain why you need this but Fridababy makes a cutely marketed product called the Fridet so it makes the reality of why you can’t wash yourself a little less painful.

Ice Pack: This particular ice pack is not for your head, it’s for your vagina. I’ve never had natural birth but my girlfriends have told me Vagikool does wonders.

Femme Wipes: Parasol makes the cutest little wipes for women plus they’re flushable and biodegradable.

Nursing Pillow: The nursing pillow at the hospital is key if you’re planning on breastfeeding. The last thing you want to do after labor or a c-section is to get a cramp in your back. The Nook Niche feeding pillow is changing the game for nursing moms everywhere.

Nursing Bra: I first saw the Milx nursing bra a few months ago at mom event at Of Mercer. I love that this bra doesn’t have snaps and I can easily just pull the bra to the side and it also is pump friendly. It’s the most comfortable.

Nipple Balm: I always love the products from Earth Mama Organics and their nipple balm has always helped keep my nipples from cracking.

Nursing Top: Loyal Hana has one of the cutest nursing tanks with the hidden zipper design. You can’t even tell it’s a breastfeeding top. Plus you get a wow factor to other moms when you bust out your boob with the hidden zipper in a public place.

Nursing Consultant: Boober is an NYC based lactation consultant who can come to you or answer questions over the phone about nursing. Even if you don’t live in the NYC area I recommend you finding a lactation consultant near you to help with breastfeeding. Especially with your first child and you’re new to the whole process. I personally find nursing harder than pregnancy and you had a someone help you throughout pregnancy why not nursing?

Swaddles: ErgoPouch is one of the easiest to use swaddles on the market! Plus they have adorable designs too.

Baby Hats: I always find the cutest newborn hats and mittens on Etsy or Monica & Andy have the best sets too.

Portable Sound Machine: Wavhello Soundbub is a product I will never stop raving about. I love multifunctional products and the Soundbub is a sound machine and portable speaker in one. Inside the womb is noisy so when the baby comes they aren’t used to the silence. The sound machine works wonders for this transition.

Sleepers: I always bring several sleepers for the baby to change into after birth.

Coconut Oil: Coconut Oil is key to putting on the babies butt before they have their first poop. The Coconut oil helps wipe away all that sticky meconium.

Infant Car Seat: Always bring your infant car seat to the hospital for the ride home. A game changer car seat/stroller on the market right now is the Doona. It’s perfect for city living and hopping in and out of a taxi.

Something Instagramable: Even your ex-boyfriend who doesn’t post on Facebook posts a picture of his new baby, right? I always pack a cute swaddle and name tag to make that first picture extra adorable.

Going Home Outfit: Don’t forget to pack an adorable and seasonally appropriate outfit for the baby to wear home. My go to brand for the cold weather is Polarn O Pyret.

Electronics

Camera
Extra Long Phone Charger (you never know how far away the socket will be)
SD Card Adapter
Laptop
Airpods

Nurses Gifts: I always pack a small gift for the nurses. Truth is: if the hospital catches on fire I want her to like me more than the girl next to me.

Coffee Gift Cards
Sephora does amazing $15 goodie bags
Matcha Sticks
Grab a gift card from a manicure place close by the hospital

Sibling Gifts: Becoming a Big Sibling is a lot for kid to adjust to. Sometimes a little gift from the newest addition helps ease the transition.

Big Bro/Big Sis Tattoos
Baby Doll Carrier
Big Bro/Big Sis T-shirt
Activity Book

Best Bras for Everyday Wear: Knix Wireless

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

The struggle to find the best bras for women is real. Whether it’s bras for nursing mamas or for work outs, it’s a topic that seems to come up often in forums like the Gugu Village. Probably the most important bra in a woman’s wardrobe is her everyday bra. Today, we would like to introduce you to a line of wireless, ultra-comfortable bras from Knix – that have quickly become a favorite over here at Gugu Guru.

So, first, a little background on Knix. The company was initially founded in 2013 as a line of underwear designed to help women deal with “little leaks.” A problem that many, many moms can relate to when they’re pregnant or after having children. Since the successful launch of that product, the brand has focused on taking different products in the intimates category to the next level when it comes to comfort and innovation. Now, Knix is leading the way with super comfortable wire-free bras and functional underwear.

Spotlight on the 8-in-1 Evolution Bra

From Knix’s collection, we love the 8-in-1 Evolution Bra. It’s both super comfortable as an everyday bra or as a low-impact option to wear to yoga or pilates. You’ll even love it for a brisk around-the-block with the stroller!

It’s made with moisture-wicking, odor-killing, quick-dry fabric that keeps you feeling fresh even when you work up a sweat. (Yes, boob sweat is a thing.) As you know, at Gugu Guru we love personalization. With full reversibility and swappable straps, you can customize the look and feel that you love. Plus, the strap can unhook in front for easy nursing accessibility. The Evolution Bra’s design molds to your unique shape, ensuring that you can move and stretch with freedom.

Knix has used patented technology to to create seamless, chafe-free designs, as well as fabrics with support structures built right into them. The result is beautiful bras to support all shapes and sizes without uncomfortable wires or seams. All of their bras are absorbent, are available in a range of styles. Knix styles are suitable for plus size breasts as well.

Knix believes their bras will become a woman’s “best friend for life” and with something so thoughtfully designed for comfort – we tend to agree with them.

Thank you to our friends at Knix for sponsoring this post.

Why “Me Time” Matters

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

This week’s post on “Me Time” is from our good friend Natalie Diaz founder of Twiniversity -the world’s leading support network for multiple birth families.

I consider myself a lucky person. I’m surrounded by my twinnies, hubby, extended family, and a bunch of wild friends that help me make good (and sometimes bad) choices.

One thing that everyone in my circle can agree on: I’m HORRIBLE at taking time for myself. You should know that things are bad when your mother-in-law says, “Nat, you need to do more for yourself. Why don’t you take a break and go to a movie?”

Don’t get me wrong, I try. I try to take breaks and have a cup of coffee, but it seems like there is always something to be done. A load of laundry, dishes in the sink, bills to pay, school projects to buy supplies for, errands to run, etc. AND when I do find time for myself? The guilt! The guilt gets me. I know I’m not the only one. “Me Time” should not just mean going to the bathroom with the door closed. We should be leading by example and teaching our kids how to balance their own lives instead of showing them how to run around like a chicken without a head.

I can’t be the only one whose temper is a little shorter because I’ve felt like I’ve had a child at my feet all day, or I feel like I’m being pulled in 12 directions on a regular basis. Let’s face it, that’s parenthood. BUT, we need to put on our own oxygen mask first like the flight attendants tell us during a flight safety briefing. We honestly can’t help others unless we help ourselves first.

Today I’m going back to basics. I’ve taken a pledge that for the next 30 days, I will take 10 minutes for myself each and every day. Maybe it will be in the morning after the kids are off to school. Maybe it will be in the afternoon and I’ll actually stop for a real lunch instead of eating at the kitchen counter to just get some extra energy from whatever nutrients I can scrounge up. Maybe it will be in the night, when the eye of the storm arrives and the kids are frustrated with each other over an unfair distribution of chores, or when my husband walks in and dog is running in circles, and the phone is ringing, and the TV is three levels too loud, and the dishwasher is clanging again….AHHHHH!!! Yeah, you see where this is going.

So for the next 30 days (yes, through the holidays), I’m going to find 10 minutes a day to do the following things. This is just my top 5 by the way. I honestly think that I can do it. That’s 70 minutes a week! That’s a heck of a lot of time. I’m so excited.

1. Sit and do nothing. Pop some earplugs in, sit in my bedroom and try to focus on nothing but the sound of my beating heart.

2. Pet my dog more. My beast Betty is one giant mutt. 109lbs of loveable jerk that I need to just pet more and maybe smooch on her tiny black nose.

3. Read a book. Remember those? I remember when I was younger and my mom took me to a bookstore to buy the latest edition of “The Babysitters Club”. Those were such great days. I bought THREE books (yup, over ambitions Nat talking here). An American Marriage by Tayari Jones, Dumplin’ by Julie Murphy and Assassination Vacation by Sarah Vowell. Will I finish them? No idea. Will I get past page 3 of each? That’s more likely.

4. While I’d like to spend my 10 minutes totally disconnected from technology, I also like to listen to podcasts. I found a new one that I’m going to jump into. Dr. Death! It sounds so dark, and it so is! I’ve been enjoying podcasts as a secondary activity. They are on as I’m driving or walking to the subway or whatnot, but I do love ‘em. I want to take some time for me and just enjoy them.

5. About a year ago I started crocheting. I’d like to learn a new stitch a week with my 10 minutes a day. I wish I had more time to dedicate to crocheting, but it seems like most days get away from me. Maybe my extra 10 minutes of me time will light a fire under me to try something new.

Now it’s your turn. What are your top 5 things you’d like to do if you found some spare time? Forget “spare time”, take it! Take 10 minutes for yourself daily for the next 30 days. Will you feel better? Will you yell less? Will you be calmer? LIVE BY EXAMPLE! Leave the guilt at the door and find a minute for you. I’m not suggesting you run off on a weekend to Mexico with your girlfriends. But 10 minutes a day? you can do it.

Natalie Diaz is the Pied Piper of twin families around the globe. Founding Twiniversity — the world’s leading support network for multiple birth families — in 2009, she’s become the global influencer for this small niche community. Reaching over a million families a week through Twiniversity’s Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube channels, moms and dads of twins flock to Twiniversity to find resources, ask questions, explore new products, and find community and support from other twin parents. Natalie is a true connector, bringing parents from all walks of life together, breaking past cultural differences, to share in the highs and lows of parenting twins. Natalie’s book, “What To Do When You’re Having Two” is a global bestseller in Twins & Multiples Parenting.

Must Have for Mama: Breastfeeding Friendly Pajamas

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Any seasoned breastfeeding mom will tell you that the early days of breastfeeding require a lot of taking your top off, on, down, up, and all over the place. Finding the right position, being comfortable, and feeling warm and cozy can all be hard to do if you’re not wearing the right attire. Plus, with the constant stream of guests coming to see the baby…you’ll want to look put-together, too! What’s the solution for all of this clothing chaos? Comfortable, soft, and cute breastfeeding friendly pajamas from Belabumbum.

Since its inception over 15 years ago, Belabumbum and its founder Heidi Rauch have been committed to making pregnant and breastfeeding moms feel their absolute best. Belabumbum is on a mission to encourage moms & moms-to-be to take a moment to care for themselves and to remind them: Self Care=Family Care. We rounded up some of our favorite nursing friendly pajamas for you – these would make great gifts for new moms, too! Belabumbum is currently offering 20% off + free shipping sitewide throughout the month of August with code BFA2018.

Lounge Chic Nursing Pajama + Robe Set: Belabumbum’s chic maternity and nursing pajama 3-piece set has classic styling in soft jersey with piping and a touch of lace. The cami offers easy one handed clip drop down nursing with an inner pull aside shelf bra. This special priced bundle is a must have for lounging, breast feeding, or sleeping. A perfect maternity PJ and robe to wear before and after baby. Makes a great gift and is a hospital bag essential!

Starlit Nursing PJ + Robe Set: Feel radiant in this dreamily soft 3 piece gift set, an essential for all new moms. Perfect for nursing and lounging. The cami features easy underbust pull-up nursing access with lace trim details, adjustable straps, and light support. We love the cute print and that these can be worn in hot or cold weather!

Dottie Maternity and Nursing Tunic & Loungepant: Luxe cotton with a classic polka dot print and pretty lace trim makes this versatile tunic and lounge pant set a feminine option for relaxing during pregnancy and when breastfeeding. A comfy choice to wear when expecting and after baby arrives. The flattering cross over V-neckline offers easy, pull aside nursing.

Best Natural Deodorant – Earth Mama Review

by Gugu Guru Leave a Comment

Best Natural Deodorant – Review of Earth Mama’s New Travel Size Deodorants (Just in Time for Summer!)

Hey everyone! Monica here – founder of Gugu Guru. I distinctly remember a conversation that I had with another mom about ingredient safety when I was pregnant with my first baby. She said to me, “You know what keeps me up at night when it comes to personal care during pregnancy? Anti-perspirant – there’s so much toxic stuff in there.” I hadn’t really thought about it until that moment but it made sense. Clearly there is something in anti-perspirant that represses perspiration, which seems unnatural altogether. In case you didn’t know – aluminum compounds found in many popular anti-perspirant products actually clog the pores of your armpits so that you don’t sweat. So generally, we advise sticking with deodorants and not anti-perspirants because of this. (If you want to learn more about why you should think about toxins lurking in your anti-perspirants, check out this article from Don’t Mess With Mama.)

It was because of this conversation that I started my journey to find the best natural deodorant out there, which leads me to this review of Earth Mama® Organics’ Mini Deodorant 4-pack.

What I Loved:

The variety. You get four different “flavors” to try out: Refreshing ginger-lime GingerAid Deodorant, tangerine-y Bright Citrus Deodorant, unscented Non-Scents Deodorant, and fresh, soothing Calming Lavender Deodorant. If you’re like me and can be picky about the scents you wear (I was once haunted on a business trip by a “powder fresh” fragranced antiperspirant I had accidentally purchased), then being able to give different scents a test-drive is a must.
The ingredients. When you read the list of all-natural ingredients, you can see why the organic formulations are totally safe for pregnant & nursing mamas (and also humankind in general!)
The beneficial scents. When I opened the box, the first thing that struck me is that these deodorants are like the benefits of essential oils for pregnant and nursing mamas + non-toxic deodorants all in one stick. If you feel a little nauseous, try the GingerAid. Tossing and turning at night? Calming Lavender has your back.
The size. These are travel-sized, which means that they’re compact enough to throw in your weekender for getaways, gym bag, beach bag and even your diaper bag. As it’s currently the month of July as I am writing this review – and a scorcher at that – it’s always nice to tote around one of these sticks just in case I need it.

What I Didn’t Love:

Note: I think that the two things that I didn’t love about the Earth Mama® Organics’ Mini Deodorant 4-pack are probably due to user error.

The residue. When you look at the sticks, they look transparent so I figured that these deodorants are invisible once applied. I think I may have applied way too much but when I put on a black t-shirt, I did have streaks on the side. This is not a big deal because the next time I threw something black on, I just more carefully put it on to avoid any streaks.
The volume. Again, I think I may have applied way too much but these did seem to go somewhat quickly. I took the unscented stick on a recent trip to Florida and found that all-in-all the stick lasted me about 6 or 7 days. Since these aren’t full size and I was doing multiple applications each day due to swimming, showering, etc., I am not sure what I was expecting.

UPDATE: In response to our review, our contact at Earth Mama had this to say, “Since the texture is soft, we recommend keeping the amount out of the tube somewhat low, to reduce the amount of waste. Personally, I take the extra off the side of the tube and rub that in too! When I first started using our deodorants, I piled it on – I find now that I don’t need that much.”

Overall, I give the Earth Mama® Organics’ Mini Deodorant 4-pack a big A+ and will now be referring to it as Gugu Guru’s pick for best natural deodorant. (Psst: Pick it up with their organic herbal sitz bath – another must have for prenatal and postpartum mamas.)

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