A New Little Monkey

My newest little monkey has arrived! Ava Juliana was born April 8th weighing 7 lbs. 2 oz. She's a beautiful little princess and we adore her.

I have so much to share! From my labor experience to my decision to cloth diaper. Plus I have so many little reviews to write on the wonderful products I wanted to try out and am finally using like Aden & Anais, the Ergo Carrier, the different cloth diapers I chose and of course the Simple & Sweet Nursing Curtain.

Keep coming by for my little posts.

Much Monkey Love,

Evie

Baby On Board

When I was a little girl I didn't really have a dream to become a mother someday. I can't say that I was one of those girls that always dreamt of having a husband and large family. If I ever played house with my sisters and brother, I was always the sister or daughter role but never was I the mother. Then again I was the third child so maybe my overpowering older sisters took that role permanantly away from me.

My choice of make believe time was believing I was a baker with my own business. My display of breads and rolls was a very detailed process. Buckets of pool water on the side of the house was crucial along with digging in the dry dirt and adding the pool water slowly. My hands slowly folded the dirt and water into a nice and thick mixture. My brother usually accompanied me during this make believe time and was what we loved to do. We would then take precise fistful amounts of mud, mold them and then place them on the fence to dry. Once they were all sun baked we would display our goods on our bakery floor, right next to the empty bucket that held our pool water and would pretend to enjoy each delicate pastry . Later, make believe became office boss or secretary with my cousin and office supplies were a must. I remember I was obsessed with pens, stationary and of course colorful stickers there for a while. I mean you can't run a office with out beautiful stickers. To dramatize the clicking of our calculators my cousin and I made Lee Press on Nails a must before starting "office time". Oh, the good ole days.

So as I get myself prepared for the arrival of my forth child I wonder how this all happened? I was the High School student who could only imagine going to college and becoming successful. I had no plans for children or at least it wasn't high on my goal list. I mean, I know cupid got me good. Did he ever attack me with his bow and arrows. The next thing I know I'm married with children and maintaining a home, family, baby on the way and a little business.

Our new baby girl will arrive sometime in early April. So as you may ask yourself, "how will she/can she do it with 4 children?" I want you to know I have asked myself the same question. How will I run a business, manage a family, my home, everything I have on my plate on a daily basis? In fact I've asked myself those questions more than a couple of times and as her arrival date draws closer. I have found myself wondering about how my life will change so much very soon. I guess my remedy of not wanting to freak myself out too much is to just try not to think about it and then calm my dramatic self down. Realistically I just tell myself to take one day at a time and to remember I've done this before and doing it again will be fine. I know once I meet her tiny little face and get to know her personality I will wonder how life could ever be without her.

As for how my three little monkeys are taking it, well let's just say I'm amazed at how naturally excited children can be when they know a little brother or sister is on their way. I have had such a great time experiencing this pregnancy with them. I love seeing their amazed faces when she kicks and wiggles around and I especially love to hear them sing and talk to her through my gigantic belly. I know she's going to be a sweet addition to our family and that all will be fine.

As for what lies ahead and what I have planned, I guess I've realized it's not always about what I have planned but that sometimes I need to surrender for what "he" has planned for me. I'm sticking to my rule of taking it one day at a time and embracing what is happening to my family and myself. I guess the first thing I'll do is get something I've long deserved. I've never had one of those signs that reads "Baby on Board" for my car before. Maybe now would be a good time to get one.

Happy Thanksgiving to you from Mommy's Little Monkey

This year has been a great one and I'm so thankful for all the little blessings in my life right now. From the addition of more boutiques for Mommy's Little Monkey products, the addition of the Mommy's Little Monkey magic helper (a.k.a Kathy) to the little monkey addition growing and arriving this spring, I am so thankful. I am especially thankful to all of you who use Mommy's Little Monkey products, because of you my business has grown.

Thank you!

DRESS FOR THE NINES
Look Gorgeous During Pregnancy- And Beyond!

Working with Evie and visiting boutiques has opened my eyes. The word 'boutique' had me thinking super expensive products, cold sales associates, and over-the-top clothing designs. I couldn't have been more wrong.


One boutique in particular is a shop in the Hillcrest area called 'Dress For The Nines". Walking in and seeing all the chic, classy clothing and accessories I had to remind myself- this is maternity wear. But it was all too fabulous! The jeans and tank top paired with a gorgeous purse (it was a diaper bag... kinda different from the awkward, pastel, vinyl monster I had), and the dresses and sleepwear!!

My somewhat frumpy maternity clothes were found on sale at Target or Ross. That was many years ago, and there are thankfully more options now. Dress For The Nines offers maternity clothes you can keep on wearing even after baby comes out, and you will still look great! And the prices aren't scary! It's worth the little splurge to feel and look great.

(click on the pics for a closer look)



And the owners couldn't be nicer or more welcoming. Allison and Kyle are genuinely sweet ladies, their passion is to bring great products to moms at a reasonable price. They were also very earth friendly when decorating and furnishing the place. It's clean, cool and relaxing. Not pregnant? Come in and find the perfect baby shower/new mom gift. There's lotions, books, onesies and more. And of course they carry the Simple & Sweet Nursing Cover! Yes, they have Mommy's Little Monkey products, and we're so proud to be among such beautiful products for such beautiful moms!

So grab a coffee or tea, and visit the lovely new boutique where
you are always welcomed, never pressured or hurried. Not sure where it is? Find out here.


-Kathy

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE HOSPITAL

I know Evie has touched on this subject before, but things are forever changing and lists can vary from mom to mom (and from baby #1 to #2...). So if you are planning a hospital delivery, you might consider the following:

• socks and slippers- hospitals tend to be cool, and you can wear your slippers to shuffle around the room. If you can walk normal right away, great. But it's ok to shuffle a bit .
• a favorite snack- you might be lucky to be at a hospital that serves great food. But babies like to arrive at odd hours. A sandwich bag with your favorite cookies, crackers, granola, etc. might help in between meal times.
• sandals (flip-flops)- you might want to wear these while you shower.
• comfy bra and/or camis w/shelf bra- whether you plan to breastfeed or not, your milk might start to drip (or pour) out. Breast pads help, but your bra/cami can still get soaked so pack extra. The added pressure can help to slow or stop the leak. Sports bras tend to give you more room in case of engorgement and can easily be lifted or pulled down for nursing.

Also consider packing an extra bag to leave in the car. You might not need these extra things, but Dad, a friend or grandparent can easily get them for you. A magazine, more snacks, extra clothes, your "What To Expect..." book, bottled water, etc.

We know there are many lists out there, and if you have a suggestion to share then feel free to leave us a comment!

-Kathy

New Fabric Prints!!!

We are excited to bring you the new spring line of Simple & Sweet nursing cover prints! Check out our beautiful models showing our fresh new prints and fabulous features like our lovely front pocket, beautiful embellishing ribbon, and the most coverage on the market.

As you can see in the pictures, if your shirt or blouse rides up on the side or in the back while nursing, the Simple & Sweet cover will have you covered!

The website will be updated with more pictures, so check back soon!

-Kathy

New Fabrics!

Just wanted to let everyone know that there will be new fabric designs coming soon to the Simple & Sweet nursing covers! Evie looked through hundreds of samples and asked for swatches to make sure the nursing covers she offers are not only beautiful, but light and comfortable too!

Do you have a suggestion on a type of fabric print you'd like to see on the Simple & Sweet? Your thoughts and suggestions are always welcome.

Make sure you check out our burp cloths, too. They match your nursing covers, and also come in a mini size, perfect for your diaper bag or purse!

-Kathy

Hello, my name is Kathy and I'll be helping Evie out here at Mommy's Little Monkey. My goal is to help out in any way possible and get the name and and products of Mommy's Little Monkey out there.

Evie was VERY kind when she introduced me in her blog! As she said I am a mom of 2, I have a 10yr old son and a 6yr old daughter. I nursed both and have experienced a lot of the frustrations and joys that comes with it!

I look forward to working with customers, visiting boutiques, contributing to the blog, and anything else Evie trusts me with! Please feel free to leave questions or comments. Thanks for stopping by the blog!

Kathy

Business Growth

As a New Year Resolution I've made a commitment to myself for myself and my business to get a little BRAVE. That said I am taking steps to grow this business every way I can because it's time to take those steps and strides.
The first thing I've done to help with that resolution is I've asked a good friend to come on board with me and Mommy's Little Monkey to get organized, help with inspiration and motivation and of course so much more that comes with having a business.
Let me introduce you to Kathy! Kathy is a mommy of 2 monkeys and is one of the sweetest women you'll ever meet. She's caring, kind and very attentive to detail plus a very special quality I personally admire in Kathy is that she is a philanthropist and very passionate about it. I know Kathy will contribute so much to Mommy's Little Monkey and we have plans already set for her to do some great contributing to this blog in the near future so look out for that soon.
With that said, I'm proud to have Kathy on board and wanted to personally introduce you to her before she writes a bit to you herself.

~Evie

Francie Pants

I see London, I see France, I can't see any girly underpants with Francie Pants. If you're wondering what the heck I'm talking about let me tell you all about them. First, let me take you back to elementary school when you loved to play hard on those monkey bars, climb anything you could, chase everyone around and compete with anyone at tether ball. Now remember the days you wanted to look cute in your favorite dress plus do all of those great things and sit comfortably at circle time. I bet you those undies came exposed a couple of times making it very embarrassing for you not to mention unforgettable.

Well, Ciaran Blumenfeld, a mommy of 4 monkeys (two princess monkeys) designed a little solution to this timeless problem you or your little girl has probably experienced....drum roll please...Francie Pants!

My princess monkeys checked out the fabulous Francie Website Launch Party during December and begged for a Francie in their favorite print. Blue and Rainbow hearts won them over. When they got a pair in their stocking Christmas morning they were so excited and put them on right away. I can't tell you how cute my princess monkeys looked placing their Fancies right over their Pajama pants! The best thing is that they really serve their purpose, look great and feel so good on(according to my little fashionistas).

Check out Francies and have fun picking out a pair for your little girl. Oh, and don't forget to have fun on the website while picking your favorite Francie.

~Evie

Happy New Years!

Mommy's Little Monkey wishes you a very Happy and prosperous 2009!

Bitter Sweet

Hi everyone! It's been a while since my last post. I apologize for being lost for weeks or more like months at a time. Business has been busy and picking up so I'm usually a little too exhausted to write at times. Today is a great day to catch up and write to you so here I am :-)


Since October I've been working hard and getting into boutiques. I'm up to 7!!! Make sure to check back soon because my retailers link will be updated. I'm grateful that my products are are being received so well and are in beautiful boutiques but the journey has been bitter sweet. I love the work, pressure, goal setting and creating easier pathways to accomplishing all that I have to do BUT I don't always wear every hat comfortably. The hat that fits a bit snug is the sales hat. I'm forcing that baby on the best that I can and making it fit because there is no other head at this moment that I can fit that hat on but mine. I really believe I have to make it work for myself before handing it over to someone else. I need to know the job, force myself into the position so that one day when it is on someone else I'll know and have the experience plus the knowledge for the proper direction.

I've been praying so much for guidance, and especially for confidence. I've been reading and forcing myself to get on the phone and to get into more boutiques somehow. This is the part that kills me the most-cold calling. You wonder how a phone call can be so difficult? I really don't know! Meeting with a potential customer is exciting and I'm very confident when I go to my appointments. I mean I can still get a bit nervous but there's nothing like trying to make a great first impression on the phone with someone who doesn't know you, your business or your products and it's left up to you discussing it all and selling yourself in seconds on the phone to get an appointment. I'm looking forward to the day it doesn't kill me, make me a bit light headed or nauseous after making a simple phone call for my business.

For you who don't know what cold calling is, simply put it's calling up a boutique owner with a scripted spiel and asking for an appointment to show or present your business and products to him or her. I mean it doesn't sound so bad right? Well, I don't like this part and after so much thought my conclusion is that I don't want to hear "NO thanks" or "I don't have the time" or how about "I'm happy with what I carry right now". So here's what I do to get myself over the pain in cold calling and negative thoughts in my head. (I've taken tips from Amber at Babyfabulous. If you're starting up your own business and want to know some great advice, tips and direction then she's the one to read up on). I lay a script out in front of me after I've gone over it a couple times and make sure I feel confident to call and then I do it, I dial my contact and wait for the answer and usually after I get an owner or purchasing agent on the phone I give my spiel and lately I've received those appointments to get in and show my products. Once I'm in I usually get a great response. I do have to say that I've been doing pretty good at it lately even though I still get a little light headed after making calls. I'll make sure to post a write up when the day comes that I don't have side effects after making my phone calls.

until then
~Evie

The safest choice is clear: Breastfeed your baby whenever possible

I ran into this article taken from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website on the latest research on toxic chemicals found in the lining of formula packaging. Read more details here.

Liquid infant formula from the top manufacturers is sold in cans lined with a toxic chemical linked to reproductive disorders and neurobehavioral problems in laboratory animals, according to an investigation by Environmental Working Group (EWG). The chemical is almost as common in the packaging of powdered formula, with 4 of the top 5 companies acknowledging its use.
The chemical is bisphenol A, or BPA, a component of the plastic epoxy resins used to line metal food cans. Dozens of laboratory studies show that BPA affects the developing brain and reproductive systems of animals exposed to low doses during pregnancy and early life.

For a healthier choice, Breastfeed whenever possible. Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It contains essential fatty acids that help bolster babies’ bodies against the impacts of toxic chemicals. However, there are many reasons why families rely on formula for some or all of their baby’s diet. Seventy percent of babies in the U.S. receive some formula by the time they are 3 months old. These babies need a safe and healthy source of food, and formula should be manufactured in a way that avoids contamination with harmful chemicals. Research breastmilk and why it's best for your baby and you will soon agree that it is the best choice for your baby.

A Trade Show Experience

This last weekend I was able to attend the Mom 2 Be trade show held in Los Angeles at the California Marketplace Center. Being that I've never exhibited at a trade event I contacted the event coordinators and asked if I could walk the event as a future exhibitor. You see, I'm doing my homework. Why you ask? Well, simply put, they cost an arm, a leg plus a head to be in one. It is wise to really do your homework prior to attending not only due to carefully selecting which events to launch and present your products at but also because you want to know all the details that go into displaying your products and brand.

So off I went with my two closest friends (which are also 2 beautiful models I have on my site) in my ever so cool minivan on a road trip to the event. We hit the road in the morning and of course stopped and loaded up on some Java. Some great pastries and interesting conversation was included in that little stop and soon we were back on the road. About an hour later we were in downtown LA and this was very exciting for me being that I've never really been into LA my whole 30 something years of life (ha ha). Getting closer to the trade show my stomach started to get the nervous butterflies fluttering around. I have no idea why I got nervous, maybe it was excitement. I don't feel this emotion too often so it's hard to realize what I'm feeling sometimes. Once we hit the parking garage (which was a pit to hell employed with a million people directing us where to go) we parked my fabulous and ever so cool bus and off we went to the elevator. Once we stepped into the stinky box we realized that it wreaked of stinky feet or french fries...not so sure which it was. The doors opened and it was like a movie. We stepped out into a lobby of glamour and beautiful fashion surrounding us on mannequins and people.

There were beautiful people speaking to each other as if they knew where they were and where they were going. Instantly I was a little confused where to go or really what this place was. Looking up there was about 5-6 floors above and I could only imagine it was loaded with more beautiful fashion and people. I immediately went to the information desk right in front of me and I asked where the Mom 2 Be trade show was being held. The representative told me all the information I needed to know and off we went in search of pregnant mannequins and baby clothes.

Once we reached the trade show desk we met the coordinators of the show which then led us into the showroom where a sea of familiar companies and fantastic displayed products could be seen at every corner. I was literally shocked by the simplicity yet great and elegant way every business chose to display their creations. Excitement and confidence filled me knowing I could do this and possibly do it very well. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to be arrogant just simply put, it's one thing seeing an on line presence for these companies but I've been working hard on my presence and my products and I know I'm ready to play with the big boys.

I left the show happy as could be and knew soon this would be a reality for me. Back on the elevator we all went in to the depths of hell back to my little bus and on the road South to San Diego. Taking a detour into to Long Beach we decided to dine at a cute and delicious Persian restaurant where we giggled and talked more with one another. I have to say, it was a much needed little road trip away from reality and a great time with the girls.

~much monkey love,

Evie

Boutique News

Just wanted to let you know that we've been welcomed into two very important boutiques here in San Diego! Sharp Mary Birch's New Beginnings Boutique and Scripp's Mercy Nursing Notions Boutique have officially added us into their family of products that they carry.

We're very thrilled that we're able to highlight these boutiques for you. If you happen to reside in San Diego remember us when you visit a loved one who just delivered a baby at either hospital!

Much Monkey Love

~Evie

Win a Breastfeeding Package at Supermomz!

Hi Everyone! Happy September and a New school year. Last week was our first week back to school and believe me I was doing the Happy dance the whole week.
We had a nice summer but towards the end of the 11th week I was surely feeling that Mama Monkey needed a break so of course we filled up our last days of summer with the beach, swimming at the pool and picnics at the park. We prepared with some back to school shopping and we were ready for that first day of school. I'm so glad my children get so excited to go to school too and are not over anxious and nervous wrecks like I was back in my good ole monkey days.

On with the Show

Have you had a chance to check out our new site? See anything you may like? Well.....drum roll please...our good friends at Supermomz.com are giving away a prize package of our goodies worth $102. Check it out and simply leave a comment to be entered into the contest. Good Luck!

Make sure to check back for links to other giveaways we're sponsoring to get in on all of the fun.

World Breastfeeding Week

Although it's over it's a constant celebration in my big ole heart. I will remain finding unique celebratory articles, humorous clips and products all on or for breastfeeding in the upcoming weeks. Stay tuned.

Website Update!

It's almost done and here! If you've tried clicking on the website or if you received a newsletter email from Mommy's Little Monkey you probably noticed that some links were down because my genius webmasters are in the process of doing their magic. Check back soon. If you've signed up for our emails then you'll be notified as soon as it happens.

Much Monkey Love

~MLM

Happy 5th World Breastfeeding Day!
Pump Pump Away


Today I dedicate my post to the new yet transitioned mother and nurser.

You have breastfeeding down by now. Your baby is on a every two to three hour nursing schedule so you dare to venture out a bit and take small trips to the supermarket or run errands while baby stays asleep with daddy at home. You may tend to receive the occasional hesitation from Daddy and he may comment that the baby needs you and only you plus he does not have the equipment to calm the baby down while you're gone :-)

Solution: Pump in Style Medela Breast Pump.

Never mind all that crazy talk, you have a dual pump you can pump with when you want to. You have to take the little time for yourself when you can and breastfeeding should not be a reason not to be able to do so.

I purchased mine 10 years ago and the healthy work horse is still ticking away. Of course I'm not so sure if I will use it again but I can honestly say that if I ever had the pleasure to need it that it would work hard for me.

The Pump in style is an investment but it is well worth it.

Let's Laugh

Breast Pumping can take a while to get used and tends to make you feel a bit strange but once you see how much you make and that it means you can leave your little monkey for a while, it's all worth it. Dad labs is my funny new find!

Day 4 of World Breastfeeding Week

Breastfeeding Necessities! Okay, so today I'm dedicating my post to new mommies transitioning into motherhood. We have so much to talk about. Having had three of my own children, that I breastfed for 14 months each, I know of many products I love and want to recommend to you.

FIRST Product: There are some products that you just have to have to function after baby is here and especially to just breastfeed easier with. We all were bras, right? So once baby is here you have to get the right bra to breastfeed with. One I absolutely love is the Glamour Mom bra. Love this company and I've been watching them since their launching. Man, how it has grown! So many styles, so many colors and the best thing they just added is their longer lengthen tanks. Love them!!!! If you're wondering why a tank then let me tell you why. The longer length allows you to pick up your shirt while nursing in public and not having your stomach, sides or sensitive marks (A.K.A stretch Marks) revealed. The tank style bra also allows the new mommy to wear anything she wants while nursing meaning you don't have to purchase a whole new wardrobe of nursing clothes and can get back into your pre-pregnancy cute shirts :-)
Need a bra that costs a lot less? Target has a great tank style bra half the price.

SECOND Product: Next thing you may want to get yourself if you feel the need to breastfeed modestly in public, a nursing cover. Of course I have to recommend my own brand but all women are different and feel the need to cover in different ways. If you're looking for a stylish cover that you can wear in different ways then try out The Simple & Sweet Nursing Curtain™. I have a fabulous new website design launching in the next couple of days so check back to see all of my new prints and products.

Back to the Simple and Sweet Nursing Curtain, this nursing cover is so great. I actually designed it with enough fabric to help cover up those post partum spots (stretch marks, left over skin I needed to loose...you all get my point). It has a great formable neck ring to check in on your little one while nursing, never compromising your privacy and has a little pocket on the front of the cover to hold all of those little things like breastfeeding pads, toys, pacifiers, you name it. Carry your Simple & Sweet Nursing Curtain in the matching drawstring pouch it comes in, add a couple of diapers and some wipes and off you go ready for a while without a bulky diaper bag.

Third Product: Breast Shields. I have to admit it took me a while to get this one down. I hated using disposable pads because of environmental reasons but I hated washing cloth breast pads and lost them all of the time or they leaked on me. I was what you would call a leaker. I leaked all the time. There is nothing like being out and about running after your toddler (s) and holding your newborn, finding a place to nurse and then....oh no I'm wet. Let's just say a leaked nursing bra = wet shirt = embarrassment= back home! So let me share a new product with you that I just purchased for a friend. Lilypadz reusable breast pads. They eliminate leaking even while you sleep, this is a huge plus for me. Once I bought them I have to admit I was a little jealous because I wanted to try them out. I have no baby at this moment to try them out myself but the feedback I received from my friend who is mother leaker says they're great and loves them! So I'll give them an A+.

So those are some great necessities you may chooses to use during your breastfeeding experience. Hope you find my suggestions of some use.

~Evie