Goodbye to Little Window Shoppe

May 18, 2009 by Emily · 62 Comments 

My Dearest Window Shoppe Readers and Friends,

This post has taken me over a month to write - partly because this is my last post on this blog. I am so sad to announce that as of today, Little Window Shoppe is closing for good.

The decision was not taken lightly and was really hard to make, but a combination of factors came together that brought me to this post…very much wanting to spend more time with my family (I have a very busy two year old who needs more mommy-time), ;) getting ready for baby #2 in November (I’ve been out sick for two months! But it’s totally worth it as we’re so excited to have a new baby come to our family), and finally getting ready for a move to a new state with my family this Summer (my hubby is starting a new job).

goodbye

{Photo source: Wilson Library Reserve}

I have learned so much from blogging at Little Window Shoppe and will be forever grateful for the kind friends I have made and the amazing experiences that I have had here!! Thank you so much for taking time to make Little Window shoppe a part of your lives and for being such a fantastic community. And also, thank you for all of the nice emails and inquiries about how we are doing.

Before I say goodbye for good, I want to thank a few people who helped me along the way:

First and foremost, my husband Scott. He is an incredibly supportive husband and friend and was the first person to listen to my every idea and concern throughout my blogging adventures. He has also been Superman at my house and has cooked, cleaned, taken care of our two year old and helped me out while I was sick over the last seven weeks! I couldn’t ask for a better man in my life and I love him so much!!

I also wanted to thank Holly of Tutus and Turtles. She is so cool and listened and talked to me for hours on the phone as I worked out how I would end my Window Shoppe blogging days. Her blog has been an inspiration to me from the beginning and I think that her blog ideas rock!!

Finally, I wanted to thank each of the writers and contributors for Little Window Shoppe. Each of them had creative and beautiful ideas to share and I’m so grateful and honored that they wanted to be part of this blog with me. They have become some of my dearest friends and were the best group of writers a blog ever had! They even sent me tulips when I was sick (just about made me cry, I felt so loved).

Please visit each of their blogs to keep up with their cool ideas!

Also, I wanted to leave you with a few additional recommendations of blogs I love - in case you are looking for new places to subscribe:

  • www.simplemom.net - this is my absolute favorite blog to follow…it has the best family tips and ideas that make sense, the ideas are easy to follow and I just can’t get enough of its coolness.
  • www.howaboutorange.blogspot.com - artsy, tons of crafts, diy ideas, printouts, and the best time-wasters ever. ;)
  • www.thepioneerwoman.com - recipes, photoshop tutorials, photography 101, down-to-earth life.
  • www.makeandtakes.com - the coolest (and most creative) kids crafts ever!
  • www.metropolitanmama.net - and for all you contest lovers, this Metro Mama has excellent giveaways all of the time - and she writes helpful articles with tips for parents. Love it.

There are so many more…but I think this is a great start.

If you want to stay in touch with me, you can follow me at a few sites:

  • www.emilyjune.com (I’ll still be designing blogs and websites - starting again this fall). 
  • I’m also going to be checking in and updating my facebook page and my family blog regularly. They will have weekly updates of my family life and the cool fun things we are doing. ;)

**If you want to stay in touch with me at my family blog or on facebook, just email me or leave a comment letting me know and I’ll send you the links.**

Thank you again for making this the best blogging experience I have ever had!!
Always,
Emily

Earthy Mama Chic

March 11, 2009 by Lauren · 7 Comments 

These days, to be hip, you have to be Green. Going organic is not only better for the earth, it’s better for you! And even more importantly, it’s better for your baby. The chemicals used in growing and processing conventional cotton are harsh on a little one’s skin, bad to breathe, and dangerous to ingest. Good thing eco-friendly mama-gear is widely available, and super fashionable! Here are three of my favorites:

The Undercover Baby

By far the best mama-invention to come along is the Nursing Cover, which now comes in beautiful organic patterns from The Undercover Baby. I particularly love clever features like the flexible neckline (so you can easily peek in on baby) and an adjustable buckle, for comfort.

covers

Posh Pads

Why go through box after box of the scratchy white ones? These washable organic nursing pads are not only cute, they’re gentle on both you and the environment. I think the pirate pattern is too cool!

posh-pads

Hot Slings

If I could, I’d do nothing but cuddle my baby all day long. However, since I have two other children who also need my attention (not to mention the cooking and cleaning!) I love the hands-free closeness I can give him with a sling. The organic line at Hot Slings looks especially soft and snuggly!

slings

Each of these companies works hard to ensure the finest quality and workmanship, while also staying conscientious of Mother Earth. Isn’t it refreshing to find baby gear that is both savvy and stylish?

Written by Lauren of Supermom Central

It’s All About Your Baby ~ Giveaway

March 6, 2009 by Emily · 551 Comments 

Contest Update:
*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #185 Trish - Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as we have a 
new contest each week.* 

For everyone who didn’t get a chance to win this contest, you can still save 20% at Zeebabee Designs with code: SPRING

Hold onto your baby hats! We are having a 3-in-1 Baby Shoppe Giveaway to celebrate the weekend. So, scoot on up and take a look at these three super sweet shoppes. I love them. You will love them. Someone’s gonna win!

Zeebabee Designs

zeebabee

This posh pink burp cloth set is just a taste of the items you will see at Zeebabee Designs. A must have for your little one (and it fits the definition of cute to a tee)! This shoppe features fun & functional products for the modern Mommy that you & your baby will love. Their goal is to develop products that will visually stimulate your newborn & infant baby.

Prize: The winner will receive a set of burp cloths, your choice.

Born 2 Impress

 

born2impress

Baby accessories truly add color to life. The handmade hats, bows and totes in this shoppe are darling and will probably make you say “Awe…” when adorning your little princess. Born 2 Impress is committed to hand-crafting unique designs with the highest quality materials and the utmost care, for any occasion.

Prize: The winner will receive a $30 gift certificate to Born 2 Impress. Discount: Save 10% with code - Lilwshoppe.

Baby Bug Creations

baby-bug

Baby Bug Creations makes personalized custom items for moms & babies. If you need something to spruce up the nursery or want boutique quality items but can’t afford the outrageous prices, that’s their specialty. With Diap & Wipe Cases, Appliqued Shirts, Boppy Pillow Covers, Tutus, Crayon Roll Ups, Nursing Covers, Burp Rags and more, you’re bound to find an item you love.

Prize: The winner will receive either a Diap & Wipe Case or a Crayon Roll, your choice.

Win It: One VERY Lucky Winner with win ALL THREE of these Prizes!

To Enter:

Please visit these THREE sweet shoppes and then leave a comment letting us know that you want to win. This giveaway ends on Sunday, March 15th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Monday, March 16th. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Subscribers can enter this contest as many times as you want. Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in each additional comment.
  • And (Or) Add this contest to Twitter. Simply let us know about it with your Twitter name in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Add this contest to Stumble Upon. Simply let us know about it with your Stumble Upon name in an additional comment.
  • And (Or) Blog about this giveaway. Simply let us know about your blog link in an additional comment.

Bibbies for Babies with Style

February 10, 2009 by Vanessa · 10 Comments 

Bibbies by Dilly Dally are stylish reversible bibs designed for the busiest of babies and the most particular moms. Not only protective and practical for mealtime, bibbies are also a chic baby accessory for all the “dilly dallying” in your child’s life.

bibbies

The bibbie was created by a mom in 1952 and has proven to be a valuable must-have accessory for three generations. What makes bibbies so unique is their fashionable yet functional design. Not only do they cover and protect clean clothes, they are comfortable and adorable.

The double-sided quilted fabric makes them extra absorbent. They are easy to wash…just throw them in your washing machine on a cold cycle and tumble dry low. And best of all, your little one will have a hard time pulling them off…how I wish I knew about these during the messy months of my baby’s lives!

bibbie-fabric

There are a variety of fabrics to choose from, and for bigger kids, bibbies are a useful yet chic cover-up to wear while cooking with mom, making crafts, drawing or painting. I am planning on picking up a couple for them to use when we play with playdough or do arts and crafts.

Written by Vanessa of I Never Grew Up

Seven Smooches

January 20, 2009 by Vanessa · 7 Comments 

seven-smooches2 

Seven Smooches is an inviting little shoppe with items created and hand sewn by two mothers who have seven children between them. Their company is inspired by the indulgent natural softness of a child’s kiss. All of their beautiful products are one of a kind, machine washable and made out of 100% recycled wool sweaters. Their spring/summer line is made from recycled sheets and feedsacks.

I love the beautiful astrology blankets they offer, each blanket is hand felted and stitched with the constellation of your choice. These would make a perfect little baby gift.

blankets

Astrology Blankets $50 each

Seven Smooches also offers many different types of clothing, from kimonos to cardigans - with attention to every detail.

clothes

Hollywood has gone crazy over this shoppe, rumor has it that Halle Berry, Laila Ali, Marcia Cross and Courtney Cox Arquette’s daughters wear the clothing. I have fallen for it too, I just love everything they offer.

Written by Vanessa of I Never Grew Up

Win It: Sweet Ruby Binky Blanket and Binky Clip

January 16, 2009 by Emily · 286 Comments 

Contest Update:

*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #7 Jessica. Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as we have a new contest each week.*

sweet-ruby-onesie

I have a crush on this apple alphabet onesie from Sweet Ruby. Really, I think it’s totally hip. On that note, it’s nice to find style, comfort and practical ideas work together when venturing into the world of baby clothes, gear and accessories.

sweet-ruby-giveaway

That’s actually what Sweet Ruby is all about.  In addition to carrying alphabet onesies, Sweet Ruby also has stylish Binky Blankets and Binky Clips that are an adorable and practical way to never have to worry about losing your baby’s blanket or binky again. 

And…I just couldn’t tell you about these super-cool accessories without offering a giveaway too.

Win It:

One lucky Window Shoppe Reader will win a Sweet Ruby binky blanket and binky clip of your choice!

To Enter:

Simply leave a quick comment letting us know which blanket and clip you would want if you win. This giveaway ends on Sunday, January 25th at midnight PST. The winners will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Monday, January 26th. Good luck, everyone!! (Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in an additional comment.
  • And/Or blog about this giveaway and include your blog link in an additional comment.

Cute Shoppes: Ajo Bebe and CityBird Designs

January 2, 2009 by Emily · 6 Comments 

I love that it’s Friday! ;) Today we’re doing a little window shopping with these two cute shoppes:

Ajo Bebe

Ajo Bebe’s contemporary, handmade baby & children accessory line is perfect for cool moms on the go.

Using vintage-inspired fabrics, you will find one-of-a-kind bibs, changing pads, baby wipes cases, burp clothes and nursing covers. You can buy these items at any of the “where to shop” locations listed on Ajo Bebe.

CityBird Designs

CityBird Designs is a paper design shop offering unique, hand-made invitations and cards. Currently they are having a sale for $1 cards! Check it out here.

These cute circle shaped tags are made from reclaimed file folders (recycled!) and have been distressed for the old-timey look. The birds are made out of vintage dictionary pages and are hand embroidered with cranberry colored floss. These tags were originally meant for the holidays, but I thought that they looked perfect for using throughout the year too.

Win It: Mutsy Spider Stroller!

December 29, 2008 by Emily · 822 Comments 

Contest Update:

*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #476 Shannon S. Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as there are new contests each week.*

That’s right, you can win this gorgeous Mutsy Spider Stroller right here at Little Window Shoppe. You know you want this!

The Details: “Revolutionary in design technology, the Spider Stroller is a remarkably innovative product offering all the benefits of a lightweight buggy with the most compact and simple fold available. Its extremely unique 3-wheel design supports a fashionable reclining seat with side protection. The Spider is also equipped with an adjustable handle, a fully protective hood and a basket for storage.”

With rave reviews and excellent ratings, I don’t think you can really go wrong with this one. You can purchase this stroller at www.kiwikidsgear.com - or at any of these other locations too.

Discount:

Receive a 10% discount on any Mutsy order from www.kiwikidsgear.com with code: lws10

Win It:

One lucky Window Shoppe reader will win this Mutsy Spider Stroller ($200 value)!

To Enter:

Stop by Mutsy or Kiwi Kids Gear to check out the stroller and then leave a quick comment letting us know that you want to win!

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(Optional) For extra entries:

  • Are you a Subscriber? Just let us know you’re subscribed to Little Window Shoppe in an additional comment.
  • Blog about this giveaway and include your blog link in an additional comment.
  • Stumble our main web page or blog page (www.littlewindowshoppe.com or www.littlewindowshoppe.com/daily-blog) and leave us your Stumble Upon name in an additional comment.

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This giveaway ends on Tuesday, January 6th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Wednesday, January 7th. Good luck, everyone!!

(Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

Win It: Kushies My Bag

December 19, 2008 by Emily · 465 Comments 

Contest Update:

*We have a winner!! The randomly chosen winner for this contest is: #381 Amy A. Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who participated - please stop by again as there are new contests each week.*

Running out of cool bags that are ready to go when you are? Introducing Kushies My Bag, an innovative all-in-one bag designed for any ”on-the-go” activites, these bags are perfect for daycare, overnight and travel activities. Featuring a fun array of compartments for kid’s “stuff”, My Bag is also designed to make mom and dad’s life easier by helping keep the on-the-go stuff a little more organized.

My Bag includes:

  • An insulated snack box
  • An insulated medicine box
  • A clean clothes bag
  • A dirty clothes bag
  • A soiled clothes bag with laundry bag insert
  • A spare clothes bag
  • A pillow and blanket
  • A handy hook for hanging

Win It:

One lucky Window Shoppe reader will win a Kushies My Bag ($80 value), any color of your choice!

To Enter:

Stop by Kushies to check out the My Bags and then leave a quick comment letting us know which one you would choose if you win!

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(Optional) For extra entries:

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This giveaway ends on Sunday December 28th at midnight PST. The winner will be chosen randomly and will be announced at this post Monday, December 29th. Good luck, everyone!!

(Please feel free to read our contest rules for additional details)

Sweet Shoppe: All the Numbers

December 16, 2008 by Emily · 7 Comments 

Laura C. - one our creative readers sent a tip about this charming, modern shoppe called All the Numbers. The instant I looked at it, my mouth dropped, and well…here’s the rest. 

This set of 6 stitched note cards (made with fabric scraps) consists of heavy white card stock made with 100% post consumer recycled materials, so that you can send eco-friendly notes to your friends. Woo! Pretty and friendly, all in one card.

Modern {Red} Poppy Quilt, where have you been all my life?!? This signature baby/toddler quilt generously measures 48 x 39 inches and is made with the softest white flannel for your little tot. Looking for colors to match your nursery? No problem! All the Numbers accepts custom orders too.

These intricate quilts make a perfect play mat and if you want something smaller, you can purchase a handmade mini “security blanket” quilt for $36.

 

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