Megan Desiato – www.BurritoBuzz.com

Minivan Mama

Published on January 13, 2017January 12, 2017 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I officially gained my “soccer mom” status this summer when we traded in my little blue SUV for a MINIVAN. And let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made!! It’s true love. I knew I always wanted a minivan someday, because I grew up with my parents always having one, and it always just seemed like the most practical with kiddos. What I didn’t know is how much I would not miss my old car and absolutely love this van!

My husband I had been talking about them for a while and finally buckled down and started researching them after we had our second child. We were tired of not having a lot of room in the car especially if we needed to take any extra people anywhere. Two car seats take up a lot of space. We looked at several minivans on the market, but narrowed it down to the Toyota and Honda. We did have a rental Chrysler that we were happy with as well. After test driving, we were actually surprised at how easy the decision was with the Honda Odyssey. The vans were priced roughly the same, but the Honda just felt like it was made better. We didn’t dislike the Toyota (my hubby drives a Toyota Tundra), but the Honda was just better.

We waited several weeks for the specific model and color to come in that we wanted, but once it arrived, it was love at first sight. I was so anxious and excited that Saturday morning we were able to go and pick it up with the kids. Our 3 year old was excited for the “new van!” too. It was bittersweet leaving our old SUV, but there are new reasons every day why I am so thankful to be a minivan mama now . . .

Here’s a few of them . . .

1. The automatic sliding side doors… need I say more?! I don’t have to worry about my kids or I banging any cars parked next to us with our doors. You know how loading and unloading our kiddos goes, these door make it a dream come true!! Because of the sliding doors, the opening is so much bigger than an average car door – WONDERFUL! The doors also open and close by the simple push of a button from either the key fob, by the driver’s seat, or on the inside of the sliding doors themselves.

2. Not only is there more room in the doorways, there’s more room EVERYWHERE in this car. I can honestly say I’ve been a passenger in every seat and never once did I feel like I had no space to move. And if you need more room . . . You can MAKE more room . . .

3. . . . You can make that extra space because of the movable seats. I know this is typical with most minivans and vehicles with a third row of seats, but the way the Honda was set up was another big selling point for me. Our Odyssey has the option to have an eighth seat. All of the seats are removable (except the front), but with the Odyssey you can have an eighth seat in the middle of the second row. You can easily remove that middle seat of the second row to have 2 captains chairs and an aisle way to the back row, or you can leave it in place to complete the row and have an extra seat. The seat also folds down as an arm rest if it’s left in place. The third row of seats EASILY folds down into the trunk of the van. When we drove to the beach this summer, we opted to fold the third row down so we had TONS of room for luggage and could still see out the back window.

4. Handles on the high way – We drove the minivan on the West Virginia turnpike on our way to Myrtle Beach this past summer, and it handled so much better than my husband’s truck the year before. We could set the cruise control and not have to waver and hit the brake on those winding highway turns.

5. Good on gas – I know the gas tank in the minivan is bigger than my tank was in my SUV, but I swear still that the van gets better gas mileage. According to Honda, the Odyssey gets 19 mpg on city streets and 27 mpg highway. Either way, its way better on gas than a huge SUV would be!

6. Does NOT ride like a bus – I traded in a small SUV for my minivan. I had driven it for 5 years. I will say that I was the most anxious that the minivan was going to feel like I was driving a bus after driving my little SUV. I was so wrong. The van does not feel any bigger to me. I would say it sits up off the road the same height as my old car. Even though the van is significantly longer, I really haven’t noticed other than making sure I pull in the garage far enough. The back-up camera has made this easier as well!

7. Bang for the Buck – I’m telling you, you cannot beat a minivan. Even if you have a small family like we do, it is worth considering. For some reason, they get a bad rap, but I can’t think of one negative thing to say about mine. Maybe I don’t look the “coolest” driving the minivan around, but that is the last thing I’m worried about. Most companies offer all the bells and whistles you can find in luxury cars and SUVs, so don’t think those options aren’t available in a van. It’s convenient, affordable, and I know my kids are safe – that’s what matters to me.

If you’re thinking about getting a new vehicle for your new family, growing family, or just want more seats/space, take a look at a minivan. Check out all the options. Take them for a test drive. I think you’ll love it! And if you take the plunge like we did and buy one, you won’t regret it!

-Megan

Book Review: Dreaming in Color {The Adventures of Oliver Poons}

Published on November 28, 2016November 28, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

Author, Lauryn Alyssa Wendus, is at it again with a new children’s book featuring her star character, Oliver Poons! You might remember my previous review about Lauryn’s first book, Oliver Poons and the Bright Yellow Hat. If not, you can read it here! My daughter was nearly 3 at the time, but she really enjoyed the first book, so I was not surprised that she was excited to read another Oliver Poons book. Not only that, my younger son (16 months) was excited about the new “kitty book” too!

Lauryn does a fabulous job telling a simple, rhyming bedtime story about Oliver Poons and his pals working together to bring colors back into Oliver’s dreams. It’s a perfect story for little ones, because the rhyming keeps them interested. Kids are introduced to new animals and colors throughout the story, which is great, too. The same characters are brought back from the first book of the series, so in our house, we often can’t read one book without the other. My oldest is into longer stories “with lots of pages, Mom!” nowadays, but she still remained interested in this book and I love that now my youngest can read along with us.

Lauryn’s mother, Lois Wendus, is the book’s illustrator and she does a beautiful job again in this second book. I just love the mother-daughter duo behind this series and their mission, “our products are designed to inspire a happy day and happy dreams for your child.” And it’s not only about their products bringing joy and smiles, but the Oliver Poons Children’s Company also supports children and animal rescue by donating a portion of their proceeds to organizations like Mission for Orphans, Inc. and No Kitten Left Behind. They also have a campaign right now (#YellowHatsforCats) where they donate a portion of their sales to various animal shelters to raise awareness about animal rescue.

You can find both books of the series online in hardcover, paperback, or an ebook version. You can purchase the hardcover book for $19.95 on the books’ site or here on Amazon. There are other items available on the Oliver Poons website, too. Workbook learning activities, an interactive floor game, Oliver Poons artwork, and even the floppy yellow hat itself are available for purchase on the website.

These books would make a wonderful Christmas gift for any little one, especially those who adore cats like mine! You can feel good about giving these books to a loved one because not only are they receiving a fun loving, adorable read, but somewhere else another little kiddo or kitty will also be a little happier too!

Follow Lauryn and learn more about the adventures of Oliver Poons on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

– Megan

**Burrito Buzz received this product at low or no cost for the purpose of review or testing. No compensation for a positive review was provided. All product reviews are based 100% off of our personal experiences with a product and we never guarantee a positive review.**

Lime and Lotus Organics: Daily Face Cream {REVIEW}

Published on October 16, 2016October 14, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I’ve never been one to use a lot of products on my skin, let alone my face, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t think it’s important to take care of it (especially when you’re young) so it looks good when you age! With that said, I was intrigued when I read about Lime and Lotus Organics and their signature Daily Face Cream. So many products nowadays are filled with harmful chemicals and added junk, it’s a wonder they are even allowed to be sold. It’s scary to think about some of the things we put in our bodies, and even though it’s “just our skin,” it is equally as important what we are putting on it because our bodies absorb it!

Lime and Lotus Organics prize themselves on their high standards and pure products using only natural ingredients. A holistic doctor created Lime and Lotus. Her hope was to design products for both her patients and family that were not filled with harmful chemicals. She did it. The products made are free from synthetic chemicals, paraben preservatives, petrochemicals, phthalates, and artificial colors and fragrances of any kind.

I was able to sample the Daily Face Cream from Lime and Lotus Organics which uses “Shea Butter, Evening Primrose Oil, and Virgin Coconut Oil to hydrate and soothe your skin while ingredients like Organic Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E Oil, and Bulgarian Damask Rose Wax help to reduce wrinkles, age spots, and lines.” I have not used the product long enough to note any real improvements in my complexion, but I have been mostly happy with the product so far! The scent is light and refreshing with the primrose coming through which I enjoyed. Only a very small amount was needed with each use, and it was very hydrating. I’m talking hydrating to the point where my skin remained looking and feeling oily even with the small amount and rubbing it in thoroughly. I only ended up applying the cream once a day (instead of the recommended two times a day) due to the oily/over-hydrating aspect. I will say though that when I applied the cream after showering at night before bed, I noted my skin feeling silky smooth and looking fresh when I woke up the next morning. The oily glow and texture were gone.

Application of the product is super simple – Warm up a small amount of cream between your fingertips and then gently apply

Gorgeous woman with flawless sking applying moisturiser to her cheek

woman-with-face-cream-and-jar-beside-her

Lime and Lotus Organics packages their Daily Face Cream in small glass jars, which means they are BPA free! They also offer and 60-day money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with their product. Please visit their website to read more about their products, mission, and to purchase your very own Daily Face Cream. It is also available on Amazon – Daily Face Cream.

You can also follow Lime and Lotus Organics on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and Twitter!

-Megan

Nuun: Hydrating Electrolyte Tablets {Review}

Published on October 5, 2016October 4, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

Before I was a wife and mom, I was an athlete. I like to think that I am still an athlete some days, so when I discovered this product, my inner athlete was drawn to it. The convenience of a simple tablet put into water with the purpose of hydrating, replenishing electrolytes, and providing an energy boost was super appealing. I quickly contacted Nuun and lucky for us, they were eager to share their product with the BurritoBuzz Moms.

Nuun is based out of Seattle and over the course their 12 year history, have become “the #1 selling sports drink tab in the cycling, running, and outdoor specialty marketplaces.” I know what you’re thinking, we aren’t athletes. We’re moms. It doesn’t matter. Our sport is life. There are so many days where we feel like we have basically competed in the Olympics, just in the comfort of our own homes, surrounded by our rowdy kids. It is so important for moms to stay healthy and hydrated for our families and ourselves!

“Clean Product, Clean Planet, and Clean Sport” are the principles Nuun strives to abide by, which I think speaks volumes in a world filled with artificial products harming people and our planet. Nuun tablets feature plant-based ingredients, are gluten free, vegan, soy/dairy free, low calorie, contain no preservatives, and are packed with valuable electrolytes. Sounds legit, right? They’re not packed with sugar and artificial sweeteners like so many other products.

Nuun offers different varieties based on your needs. We sampled Nuun Active and Nuun Energy. The products were similar, but the Energy variety does have green tea extract for an added caffeine boost. A friend of mine, who is a competitive runner, sampled the Nuun Active and said “it was perfect for both before and after my long runs” and “it actually tasted really good!” They also have a Plus for Nuun (can be added during endurance activities) and Nuun All Day Hydration. Nuun All Day Hydration is perfect for busy, on-the-go individuals, like moms, who want to make sure they are getting all the right minerals and vitamins along with the appropriate hydration to stay healthy for their families. I will definitely be ordering my own here.

You’re probably wondering what the Nuun tablets taste like. If you’re thinking this product sounds great so there’s no way it can taste good, you’d be wrong. I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed the different flavors. The flavors were very refreshing and not overpowering. Some of their options include orange, tri-berry, citrus fruit, and lemon lime. When you purchase a Nuun tube, you get 10 tablets. Each tablet then goes on to dissolve in 16 oz of water. My only complaint would be that the tablets do take a few minutes to completely dissolve, so be patient! But it’s well worth the wait!

You can purchase Nuun and read all about their mission and products by visiting their website here. They also have an awesome comparison of all of their different products on this page. Nuun is also available on Amazon – Nuun Active, Nuun Energy, and Plus for Nuun.

Don’t forget to follow Nuun on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for updates on products and sales

– Megan

**BurritoBuzz received these products at low or no cost for the purpose of review or testing. No compensation for a positive review was provided. All product reviews are based 100% off of our personal experiences and we never guarantee a positive review.**

Pic’s (Really Good) Peanut Butter {Review}

Published on September 4, 2016September 1, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I don’t know about the rest of the moms and dads out there, but my household would not survive without peanut butter. I love it, my husband loves it and now my kids love it. We can eat it on pretty much anything! When Burrito Buzz got the chance to sample some peanut butter, I was all about it! I will admit, my family and I prefer JIF and Peter Pan, but we remained open-minded to Pic’s Peanut Butter, which is gourmet and all natural.

Pic’s (Really Good) Peanut Butter is simply made in New Zealand from only peanuts and less than 1% of salt. It can’t get much better than that! The company uses hi-oleic peanuts from Australia to make the peanut butter. The hi-oleic peanuts are GMO free and according to Pic’s “are resistant to staleness” and “keep their fresh roasted flavor and crunchiness long after ordinary peanuts go tasteless and mushy.” I can attest that even after having it for several weeks, the crunchy is still crunchy! Like the company states on their website, the crunchy version of their peanut butter is not a typical crunchy with big pieces of peanuts. Pic’s crunchy peanut butter is filled with tons of peanut pieces of varying sizes, making it even crunchier!

Although my family and I ate the peanut butter without major complaints, I’m still not 100% sold on Pic’s Peanut Butter. I just don’t think it can replace our not-so-natural peanut butters (JIF especially) in our home. We did give a fair shot and I plan to continue to give it to my kiddos because it is better for them, but I can’t say I would buy it on my own. If you’re a fan of “all natural” nut butters, this one is probably for you!

Pic’s also features several other nut products on their website (Peanut Slugs, Peanut Oil, Almond Butter and Cashew Butter). Visit their website to purchase your own Pic’s peanut butter or find out how the company got started and why they who they are! I really enjoyed reading about them

Amazon (Burrito Buzz moms love our Amazon) also sells Pic’s Peanut Butter. You can purchase Pic’s Crunchy Peanut Butter, Pic’s Smooth Peanut Butter or a variety pack with both!

– Megan

Silikids Silimap Placemat {Review}

Published on August 31, 2016August 28, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

The moms here at Burrito Buzz have sampled several products from Silikids over the last several months. You can read about them here – Siliskin Sippy & Straw Cup, the Silibib, and Silicone Bags & Spoons. I was able to sample the Silimap from Silikids which is a folding silicone placemat for kids. I was immediately intrigued by it and knew my 3 year old would be the perfect little person to demo it. She is always asking questions and
wanting to try new things, so I was excited to see what she thought of this product. Plus, I knew she would be honest!

The Silimap is a silicone placemat that folds up for easy storing. This placemat is compact once it’s folded (7″x 4.5″x 0.75″), so it can fit into any purse, clutch, or diaper bag for perfect on-the-go usage. It is also great to use at home – we took it outside and used it on our patio table. Another unique feature of the Silimap, is that it can be colored on with washable marker and then wiped clean. So, when your kids are getting restless waiting for their food, they can instead stay busy right on their placemat! The placemat is made of silicone, which keeps it from sliding around and perfect for messy kiddos like mine who are all over the place.

More perks include:

Dishwasher safe – I will admit, I have not tried this with the Silimap. To me, it’s easier just to wash it by hand than have it take up a bunch of room in my dishwasher
Available in two colors: clear or “sea” blue and large in size (18″x 14″)
Perfect learning tool featuring a geographic map of the United States
Can be drawn on with washable markers
100% silicone – making it not a harbor for bacteria, BPA and DEHP free, resistant to high temperatures and hypo-allergenic

I was overall pleased with this product. My only complaint would be that it did not clean up as easily as I thought it would. I will be honest; I’m not certain how “washable” the markers were that my daughter used on it. I ended up soaking the placemat in soapy water and it came clean. My 3 year old really did enjoy being able to color on it. It was perfect for her to use while I was getting her lunch ready and I can teach her about geography in the process – win!

Check out Silikids to purchase the Silimap for $14.95 and to see their other unique products! You can also purchase the Silimap on Amazon by clicking here: Silikids Silimap.

– Megan

Sashka Co. Bracelet {Review}

Published on August 16, 2016August 9, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.com13 Comments

Five of the Burrito Buzz Moms received an awesome offer for us each to review a bracelet from Sashka Co. I connected with the company via Twitter because I was intrigued by their adorable bracelets that appeared to be perfect for moms. I personally am not a big jewelry wearer. I have a few nice piece that my husband bought for me, so I always wear the same thing. I never wear anything too flashy or bulky, and I definitely stay away from jewelry that my kiddos could get a hold of and ruin. This bracelet has met all of my expectations!

Sashka Co. is a unique company because their bracelets are handmade, bead by bead, in Nepal. Artisan women work from home for fair wages in hopes to beat poverty through fair trade. The company is focused on empowering women and promoting gender equality.

Even more reasons to love Sashka Co.:

Each bracelet is 100% unique because they’re handmade.
Bracelets are hand crocheted using glass beads and cotton thread. Because of this, the bracelet will simply roll over your hand and form to your wrist for the perfect fit and fit over any size hand.
Sashka Co. offers a lifetime guarantee. With that said, if your bracelet breaks, they replace it! The company also promises an exchange or return if you are not happy with the fit of your bracelet.
They offer a ton of colors and color combinations to go with any outfit.
The bracelet was durable just as I had hoped. My 1 year old pulled on it when it was around my wrist, and not only did it not break, it didn’t seem to get stretched out.
Bracelets are only $13 from Sashka Co.’s website. I think this is more than reasonable, especially because they also offer free shipping! They also have bracelet sets available.

As a mom of two little toddlers, I think it’s important to feel like I’m put together some days, because most often, I am so far from put together. If a little jewelry will do that, then so be it! This bracelet is dressy enough to add a little flare to any outfit for any occasion, but practical enough to be worn around my little ones. I give it 5 out of 5 stars, and I’m sure my fellow Burrito Buzz Moms will agree! They too love their Sashka Co. bracelets!

Check out Sashka Co. on their website to learn more about their business and to buy some of their beautiful bracelets! Use code LOVE at checkout to buy 3 bracelets and get 3 absolutely free!

Follow Sashka Co. on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!

– Megan

**BurritoBuzz received this product at low or no cost for the purpose of review or testing. No compensation for a positive review was provided. All product reviews are based 100% off of our personal experiences with a product and we never guarantee a positive review.**

MAM Pacifiers & Pacifier Wipes {Review}

Published on August 3, 2016July 30, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I received the MAM pacifiers and pacifier wipes several weeks ago and so far so good! Two more great products from MAM!

Both of my kids have been “binky babies,” so I was kind of anxious to see if my nearly one year old (at the time) would take to a new brand of pacifier. Since birth, we have pretty much stuck to using the AVENT Freeflow Pacifier. I also used them for my daughter when she was younger. I never really shopped around or tried different ones, but these pacifiers seemed to work with my kids, so I stuck with them.

The MAM pacifiers I received are very similar. My son honestly didn’t miss a beat when I swapped his usual soother for the new ones – that’s a huge plus! Now, I do know that some kids are more particular about certain products, so I think it’s important to note that my kids really haven’t been picky when it comes to pacifiers, teethers, bottles, etc. The specific MAM pacifier I reviewed is the Glow in the Dark Night Orthodontic Pacifier 6+ months.

Here are some of its key features:

1. It glows in the dark – This is great! I thought this feature wouldn’t be that big of a deal to me, and then I saw how well it glowed in the crib in the dark room at night. I was immediately sold. It was so much easier to find! And I didn’t wake my little one in the process! The only part that glows in the dark is the portion directly opposite the nipple, not the entire shield.

2. Silicone nipple – The pacifier my little guy was used to was also silicone. I’m sure this made the transition easier for him. The silicone is said to feel “familiar, like mom,” so I thought this was important for my breastfed babies.

3. Symmetrical nipple is also “anti-slip”. I like that there isn’t a right or wrong side with these pacifiers. It just makes it more convenient and easier for babies to put their binkies in their mouth independently. It is also better for their incoming teeth. I honestly didn’t notice any differences with the “anti-slip.” You might notice this more with younger babies.

4. They’re BPA Free!

5. There are small openings on the curved pacifier shield. This is important to me because the holes allow air to circulate and my little guy’s skin to breathe better. I don’t have to worry about him getting rashy or his skin breaking down and he is comfortable with the curved shape!

6. MAM offers two sizes, 0-6 month and the 6+ month size pacifier to accommodate growing babies and their development.

7. $5.99 for a 2-pack on Amazon – you can’t beat the price! These pacifiers last and are of good quality. Perfect registry item or shower gift. Buy yours here: MAM Glow in the Dark Night Orthodontic Pacifier

To go along with my new pacifiers, I also reviewed MAM’s Pacifier Wipes. These were not a product that I was super accustomed to using. I’m a Mom who finds a bathroom and rinses off her baby supplies or applies the 5-second rule when things get dropped. I will admit, these were nice to have in a bind or on-the–go and their small size (each wipe is 4”x6”) made them even more convenient. I still would not consider them a “must- have.” 40 wipes come in the package and they are advertised as not containing any harsh chemicals and also as being non-toxic. They contain no alcohol, dyes, or parabens. To me, those are important things, especially when I’m wiping off items my kids are going to put right back in their mouths. I wasn’t crazy about the scent. It wasn’t overpowering, it was just unpleasant to me. You could use these to clean any baby item – teethers, toys, pacifiers, etc. You can purchase MAM Pacifier wipes on Amazon for $3.99 here: MAM Pacifier Wipes

Overall, I would give both products great ratings. My son adapted to the pacifier right away, which I think speaks volumes. Even though I wouldn’t use the wipes on a daily basis, they are smart and convenient to use, especially in a pinch.

Be sure to take a minute to visit MAM’s website to check out more of their innovative, and award-winning products for every stage of baby that they have been developing for the last 40 years!

You can also follow them on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook!

– Megan

Baby in Tow: Spoon Cocoon {Review}

Published on July 20, 2016July 16, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.com1 Comment

Hey Moms, Dads, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and caregivers of all kinds – have you ever been super frustrated out in public when it comes time to feed the little one in your life? I know that I have, on multiple occasions. I either can’t find my feeding utensils in the depths of my big, dark diaper bag, they have fallen on the ground in the process of finding them or I just forgot to bring them altogether. I’m about to introduce you to a product that will make feeding our little one out in public a little less aggravating. It is the Spoon Cocoon from Baby in Tow.

Spoon Cocoon is an infant feeding spoon that comes with a caterpillar-shaped travel container. It is such a neat little product and it can be used with most all other infant feeding utensils, even your child’s toothbrush! The caterpillar case also doubles as an adorable little toy for your little one.

More perks:

BPA Free!
PVC Free!
Environmentally friendly for more than one reason. 1. The Spoon Cocoon is made of recycled plastic. 2. I know I used plastic bags to carry utensils for my kids when we went out, so this product eliminates that waste!
Caterpillar-shaped case twists on and off with ease, but not too easily. It feels tightly closed and secure when it’s twisted on.
The case and bright color makes finding the spoon in the bottom of the diaper bag so much easier.
The green color is gender neutral! Baby in Tow plans to release additional colors in the future.

Our family gives this product 5 out of 5 stars. It is super sweet and simple, but a necessity for on-the-go parents and caregivers. It would be a perfect registry item or shower gift for any mom-to-be. You can purchase it on Amazon here: Spoon Cocoon.

Be sure to check out Baby in Tow’s website to learn more about the Spoon Cocoon.

– Megan

Aden + Anais Bath Products {Review}

Published on July 18, 2016June 27, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I was so excited to learn that BurritoBuzz would be working with Aden + Anais, a company I have been a customer of since I became pregnant with my first child nearly 4 years ago. Back then, I knew A + A for their super soft muslin swaddle blankets. I loved them, my kids loved them and they have held up all this time. I could not wait to try their other products.

Casey, a fellow BurritoBuzz mom, and I chose to try items from their baby skincare line. The Hair + Body Wash, Bubble Bath and Ultra-Gentle Lotion were items we sampled. I also received a set of washcloths and a toddler bath towel. So far, all of the products are fabulous. My kids have been happy with them, my husband has used them and loves them, and I know I will for sure continue to use them.

Here’s the rundown:

The Hair + Body Wash, Bubble Bath and Ultra-Gentle Lotion were all developed by leading New York dermatologist Ellen Gendler, MD and are naturally derived. Each one is tear-free and lightly scented, which I found to be completely accurate. I really loved the light, clean fresh scent of each product and the scent lasts. Baby’s hair smells so good for hours after bathtime. These products are free of phthalates, parabens, BPA, gluten and soy. Buy the lotion and body wash together on Amazon here.

Hair + Body Wash – First of all, any bath soap that comes with the pump is already an A+ in my book. It is so easy having that pump when you’re bathing two toddlers rather than having to pick up and pour soap into your washcloth. Aden + Anais put their soap and lotion both bottled with the pump. I’ll be honest, my husband usually bathes our kids, so I had him try out the Hair + Body Wash immediately. We have been trying out other soaps ever since our baby shower supply ran out. We haven’t really found any that we absolutely love, but A + A comes close! My husband said the soap “made a good lather.” It is moisturizing and gentle on my little ones’ skin which is necessary. We do use conditioner on my daughter’s hair quite often, so I can’t honestly say if this shampoo on its own would be moisturizing enough for her. I may have to buy the conditioner as well! On Amazon, you can find Hair + Body Wash in a 12 oz bottle for under $15.95.

Bubble Bath – My kids both love bubbles of any kind. Honestly, who doesn’t love a good bubble bath every once in awhile? Very simply pour 1 to 3 capfuls of the Bubble Bath directly under running water. Bath time was fresh and clean with the added bubble and my little ones loved it. It was also moisturizing to their skin. You can buy it here: Aden + Anais Bubble Bath.

Ultra-Gentle Lotion – I’m not embarrassed to say I used the lotion on myself. Don’t judge! Since I’ve gotten some sun lately, my skin has been dry so I thought that’d be a true test of this lotion. I knew I already loved the scent, so why not? It worked like a charm! I loved that it wasn’t greasy like many lotions I’ve used. The scent is refreshing but not overpowering. I will continue to use it daily, especially in the winter months and on my babies. Amazon has Ultra-Gentle Lotion for less than 20 dollars also or you can get it bundled with the Hair + Body Wash.

Toddler Bath Towel – This is the A + A product I was most excited to try. I don’t know about you, but infant/baby towels infuriate me. Most are so small and thin, barely dry my child and leave them shivering. This towel is legit. It’s nearly the size of an adult towel (50” x 30”) and super soft. The towel is made of pre-washed cotton and muslin, making it plush and soft. It washed up well for me and it‘s the perfect size for both my 3 year old and 1 year old. It keeps them dry, warm and is gentle to their skin. I don’t have to worry about it being too small like most hooded towels, but it’s not too bulky either. The Toddler Towel can be found on Amazon for $29.95.

Classic Washcloth – I also received a set of three 100% cotton muslin washcloths. The washcloths are pre-washed just like other products by Aden + Anais, so they get softer wash after wash. They washed up with ease and seem to be durable (I have only washed them twice). They even have a convenient loop, so the washcloth can be hung to dry between each use. I will say, the washcloths are quite large for babies/toddlers (12” x 12”), so they take some getting used to but you can’t beat that soft muslin fabric across their delicate skin. The set of three is available on Amazon for $20.00. You can find it by going here: Classic Washcloth.

Although the price point for these Aden + Anais products may seem high, I promise you, the quality is there. The washcloths and towels come in the most adorable prints (I received Fluro Blue), and some of the prints are perfect for gender neutral gifts. I know I
will be on the lookout for sales and clearance so I can continue to buy these products and others from A + A.

Aden + Anais definitely receives a 5 out of 5 stars from my family and I for the bath products and towels. After sampling, I had to get on Aden + Anais’ site and check out the rest of their bath time and skin care line. You can check it out right here!

A big Thank You to Aden + Anais for the opportunity to review their products! Be sure to follow A + A on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook!

– Megan

pureWash Pro {Review}

Published on July 16, 2016July 13, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

Over the course of the last several weeks, my family and I have been sampling the pureWash Pro distributed by GreenTech. I reached out to pureWash via Twitter because I was curious about their product and its benefits to my household. I, along with the other BurritoBuzz Moms, am always interested in new technology, especially products that can improve the efficiency of my home. Since I contacted pureWash, they have been nothing but easy to work with and it is true with their product as well. I was skeptical of it at first, but it has continued to surprise me!

What is pureWash Pro?

“pureWash is an environmentally friendly appliance designed to work with your residential washing machine, adding enhanced oxygen and Photo Catalytic Oxidizers to the cold water supply. Water treated by pureWash aids in cleaning laundry and killing bacteria without leaving residual detergent in the fabric.”

How is pureWash installed?

My husband installed our pureWash Pro with ease shortly after we received it. It simply hooks up to the cold water supply that normally runs to your washing machine. We have a traditional top loading washing machine, but pureWash can be installed to any model. pureWash needs to be attached to a secure surface at installation to ensure it remains stable and level for its usage. My husband attached ours to the shelving unit next to our washing machine, using the mounting bracket that was included.

Once pureWash is installed, it’s ready to use! Easy, right? Simply operate your washing machine like you normally would. The only difference with using the pureWash is that you can only use the cold water setting to experience the benefits of the pureWash. “If hot water is used, it dilutes and defeats the effectiveness of the oxidizers that the pureWash has introduced into the wash water.”

Some things we noticed immediately after using pureWash:

The first load of laundry we did with the pureWash was towels. We noticed right away that they felt softer and fluffier than normal. We did not use any detergent and the towels were soft, appeared clean and had a fresh scent. I was anxious to keep washing after that!

I mentioned the fresh, clean scent above. This is true for every single load that is washed, not just that first load of towels. This is the “ozone smell”. I love it. The laundry smells so clean once it’s washed. This is not a smell that can be found in any type of detergent or fabric softener.

The purpose of the pureWash is to use little or no detergent. This is where I was skeptical. Really, no detergent at all? How in the world would anything get clean with just water? But it does. Most often, we have not washed with any detergent using the pureWash. Unbelievably, our laundry is clean with only the cold, oxidized water. “Detergent build-up promotes mold growth and does not kill bacteria. Independent, scientific studies have proven pureWash Pro kills 99.9% of both with cold water.” (Sounds clean to me!) I do appreciate that I can add detergent if I want to. When I wash what I would consider a heavily soiled load of clothes (my nursing work scrubs, for example) I can still add detergent to the machine.

Stains on laundry still need to be pre-treated before washing them using the pureWash. Sure it has worked great, but it’s not a miracle worker. When my kids’ clothes are covered in food or dirt, it’s going to take more than cold water to get those stains out. Once they’re treated with the stain remover you would normally use, simply throw your clothes in and wash like normal.

There is a “Household Water Out” option on the bottom of the pureWash that allows you to use the water for other household cleaning needs. It can be used to clean, water plants, wash pets or rinse fruits and vegetables. I liked this option and plan on taking advantage of it.

With babies and toddlers in my home, we often separate the laundry and use different detergent for the them. This is not necessary with pureWash. It’s so much easier washing everyone’s laundry together and not worrying about my kids breaking out in a rash from soap and detergent. pureWash is “ideal for those who suffer from allergies triggered by bacteria and mold found living in our laundry.”

I think it’s important to note that we use city water and a water softener with our pureWash hook-up. According to pureWash, “it will work with all typical household water qualities, but the better the quality of the water, the better results you will have. If you have hard water, pureWash recommends a water softener and the removal of chlorine will improve the unit’s performance.” pureWash also recommends consulting a water filtration expert if you have any concerns about the quality of your water (high iron content for example) while using the pureWash.”

Overall, my family gives the pureWash 5 out of 5 stars. I have never seen a product quite like this, but it has surprised me with its ease of installation and use. It’s comforting to know I’m not using tons of chemicals and soap in my family’s laundry and it is still clean. And you know what else, I am saving money! I’m saving money by not using as much detergent and also eliminating the energy waste from washing with hot/warm water.

You can read more about the pureWash here or purchase it through Amazon using this link: pureWash PRO by GreenTech. If you are unhappy with your pureWash after 30 days, they offer a money back guarantee if you are not 100% satisfied with it. Trust me, it’s definitely worth trying and you won’t want to send it back!

Here’s a short video explaining how the pureWash works:

– Megan

**Burrito Buzz received this product at low or no cost for the purpose of product review. No compensation for a positive review was provided. All product reviews are based 100% off of our personal experiences and we never guarantee a positive review.**

Zulily – Unique Products

Published on June 9, 2016June 16, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I don’t know about the rest of the moms out there, but ever since I became a mommy, I cannot shop like I used to. Before my kiddos, I could enjoy several hours shopping for nothing in particular. There isn’t time for that now. It is the furthest thing from enjoyable to take my kidd out for a few hours of shopping. It also makes me incredibly anxious just thinking about getting them in and out of the car, in and out of the store, and through the parking lot. It is DEFINITELY not my idea of a good time anymore. With that said, I am so thankful for the website Zulily. Because of Zulily, I don’t even miss being able to “get out of the house” to go shopping.

I was a new mom when I first downloaded my Zulily app. I wasn’t shopping for anything specific, I just wanted to browse. I knew that Zulily targeted moms and specialized in unique brands and products. I was curious then, and I have been hooked ever since.

I love Zulily because of the wide variety of products and brand names. Items on their site include anything from shoes, toys, clothing, décor, and household items. Here is a listing of some of their most popular brands. You’ll see brands like Vera Bradley, Carters, Coach, Graco, Nike, Crocs, Burt’s Bees, and Aden and Anais are amongst the lengthy list. These brands and others open new “shops” of products that start up every morning, so there is always something new to see, which I LOVE. The catch is that these “shops” do not stay open for long. Most often, it’s only 48-72 hours, and then those items are gone; those “shops” are closed.

To me, Zulily is tough to beat. I know they have competitors out there, but they have kept me loyal and coming back. I have bought a variety of items over the last few years including baby items, shoes, kids’ clothes, purses, bathing suits, kitchen gadgets, bed sheets, toys, and magazine subscriptions. They even have personalization with some shops. You really can’t beat their prices either. They advertise their prices to be up to 70% off every day and offer a $15 credit for every new customer you refer. Most often their shipping times are lengthy (10-14 days), but I have gotten used to that. You also aren’t able to return items if you are unhappy with them.

Overall, Zulily is a great site, especially if you are a busy Mommy like me and crave the shopping you can’t find the time to squeeze in anymore. The app is user friendly and there are always new shops and products to browse. Check it out ASAP – there is something for everyone!

-Megan

Little Tikes Spiralin’ Seas Waterpark Play Table {Review}

Published on May 29, 2016May 31, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

We bought this for my oldest child’s first birthday 2 years ago, and it has been such a great toy for her. Now, we are preparing to use it all summer long with both of my kids. My oldest is now 3 and she still enjoys playing with it. My youngest is almost a year ol and he already loves it. We usually have it set-up on our deck out back. We have a hose nearby which makes it easy for us to fill up when needed. When we are ready to empty it, we just unplug the drain and let it empty through the deck. Perfect. Even when it’s not filled with water (all winter long it was stored in our basement), the kids still love playing with it!

Here are some more cool features:

– Five character balls were included with the table that fit down the spiral slide in the middle of the table. They also squirt water – what kid doesn’t love to squirt their parents?! You can also scoop them up using the attached Ferris wheel or included water cup. I love that you can see through the spiral slide so the kids can watch as the balls come down.

– The kiddos can use the included water cup to pick up the character balls, pour water through the spiral slide, funnel or Ferris wheel, or just splash each other. My daughter loves that the cup has little holes in the bottom of it too.

– The water table is the perfect height for toddlers. Even my youngest stands and plays at it well. He can’t reach to put the balls down the spiral slide, but he is able to play with everything else with ease and loves it!

– The table is advertised to hold 7 gallons of water. I don’t know if this is exactly true, but either way, it holds enough to make it sturdy to not be pushed or moved around. When my little ones are standing at it, I can trust that it’s not going to push out from under them and they will be safe. The table is light enough when it’s empty (10 lbs) that is can be picked up and moved around with ease to wherever your kiddos want to play.

Our family gives this Spiralin’ Seas Waterpark Play Table 5 out of 5 stars. I can see the table being helpful with my 3 year old in developing her imagination and sharing skills further, especially now that she is a big sister. My littlest will hopefully get stronger and better at cruising around the table as the summer goes on. The only downside I can think of is that the assembly was difficult. It has been a couple of years now since I put it together, but I remember saying a few choice words and needing my husband’s help.

You can find this summer fun item on the Little Tikes website which is offering 10% off currently or on Amazon

This is the perfect toy for your little one’s first or second birthday and this coming up this summer. They will stand and play for hours and years to come!

-Megan

LaLou Boutique: Pacifier Bib {Product Review}

Published on May 5, 2016May 4, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

LaLou Boutique is an adorable little shop on Etsy that is operated by Lacey. Lacey works as a Nurse, but loves to craft in her spare time. More specifically, she crafts precious products for babies. I was lucky enough to receive one of LaLou Boutique’s Pacifier Bibs to try out on my little guy. He has been teething (in reality, it seems like he’s always been teething), so he is constantly wanting to chew on ANYTHING and also has a never ending stream of drool coming from his mouth. I was so anxious to put the bib on him because it is super adorable and it could now catch all that drool as he sucked and gnawed on everything, especially his binky!

Here are just some of the PROS of the Pacifier Bib:

The bib has an adjustable snap neck so it can be used throughout the infant stage and well into the toddler stage, as well (my little guy will be 10 months soon). It grows with the kiddo! I really like the snaps as opposed to Velcro, because I know the bib won’t be pulled off in 2 seconds after it’s put on.

LaLou Boutique offers several other prints in this specific bib (you can even custom order). They are all super adorable. I tried out the white/black stripe. It’s gender neutral, which I love, and it has washed up well. It hasn’t stained or faded. The bib is made of soft chenille fabric with terry cloth backing.

You can attach a pacifier – Biggest perk! This bib sure beats the heck out of a typical pacifier clip. I found that the snap loop part of the bib could be used for toys or teething rings for my little guy too. It’s so nice knowing he isn’t going to lose his binky or toy – It will be right with him. This is perfect right now because he is so mobile or for when we are in the car and on the go. He has what he needs.

With all the teething, sucking, and drooling, the bib seemed more than sufficient in its level of absorbency – thanks to the terry cloth backing I believe. My little guy wore it for several hours and his shirt remained dry throughout.

Super reasonable price at $12.00 from the LaLou Boutique Etsy shop.

The only downside to this product that I could possible think of is that when my little guy decided he did not want to use his binky, it would just drag across the ground as he crawled. This is not that big of a deal while at home, but if we were out somewhere else, I would not want all the dirt and germs getting on the binky. Once he is walking, this won’t be a problem at all.

Overall, this is a great product that I will continue to use with my kiddos. It would make such a good gift idea for any mom you know and their little ones. It is perfect for any little one who uses a bib, even if they don’t use a pacifier. LaLou Boutique has several other products (burp cloths, onesies, regular bibs, blankets) and even offers custom orders! Check them out!

-Megan

Pacidose {Product Review}

Published on April 4, 2016April 3, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I find it super frustrating as a parent and as a nurse when I have to give little ones medications. Usually, kiddos are already fussy, snotty, and cranky, and then we come along and try to force some nasty medication in them. We cross our fingers and hope they get the proper dose and dread the next time we have to medicate them. This has not been the case with my little experience with the Pacidose. The Pacidose is a product designed to medicate our kiddos using a typical syringe and a pacifier. GENIUS, especially if you have a binky baby. My kids have both been binky babies, so I think that aided in the success with using this product with them. I think it would work for non-pacifier babies as well.

The Pacidose is easy to use by just drawing up the desired amount of medication through the syringe like you would normally (it also works with syringes other than the one it comes with!). Once the med is drawn up, the syringe just attaches to the binky portion of the product. There is a narrow tube going down the middle of the pacifier that then delivers the liquid med. According to the Pacidose, this tube “prevents wasted medicine. Medicine is delivered to the back of the tongue, decreasing the chance of rejection.” I found this to be accurate with my 8 month old. He fortunately has not had a lot of experience with taking medications, but he received the whole dose I drew up using the Pacidose. Once he started sucking on the binky, I started to slowly push the plunger of the syringe until he had swallowed all of the medication.

Here were some other benefits I found with the Pacidose:

– Available in 3 different sizes (0-6 month, 6-18 month, and 18+ month) Although I only sampled the 6-18 month, if I have any more new babies, I will be investing in the smallest size!

– The pacifier end actually feels like a pacifier! I thought this was important because then it didn’t seem as foreign to my little guy. The package recommended putting the pacifier into another type of liquid (formula, breastmilk) and then giving it to your kiddo so they can get used to the pacifier before you use it with medication. I think this would be good if your child doesn’t do well with pacifiers.

– The syringe is easy to read to ensure you are giving the right amount of medication. I haven’t noticed the markings wearing off at all, but I also have not used the product very much. Hopefully they hold up!

– As a nurse, I would LOVE to have something like this to dispense medication to our little ones that come in for surgery. where I work. So often the kids are upset, and they almost always have to take oral medication before and after their procedure. They DO NOT want to take it from me, a total stranger!! This would be great to have in the hospital/doctor’s office setting.

The only downfall I can think of with this product would be that it is not dishwasher safe. Some reviews I have read talked about the pacifier portion falling apart after only minimal usage. I have not experienced this. I think if the product is taken care of properly (not put through the dishwasher); there won’t be any trouble with this. It seems to be of good quality and very well made.

You can purchase the Pacidose for $12.99 right from their site or from Amazon Prime for $14.99. This might seem like a steep price, but I think it is worth it. This product would also make a fabulous baby gift for new moms and moms-to-be! In my mind, you can’t put a price on making sure your kiddos are healthy and happy and this product does both!

-Megan

I want to keep my kiddos in their bubble forever!!

Published on March 18, 2016March 16, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

Lately, I have been quickly reminded that as parents, we are not always going to be able to protect our little ones. For some reason, I thought that as my babies got older, things would get easier. Boy was I ever wrong!! It is only going to get more and more difficult to protect them. What was I thinking?! I should have known better!! I just hope I can get better at “letting go” and “dealing with” the fact that I can’t control everything. I can’t keep my kiddos in a little safe bubble forever and ever (even though I wish I could).

Just recently, my oldest (she’s almost 3) slipped and fell in the shower. This was not her first time in the shower with her dad or I, and it wasn’t even the first time she has slipped. Kids slip, kids fall, kids can even get hurt, but this time was different. She developed a goose egg above her eye immediately that I noticed as soon as I scooped her up off the floor. I had a pit in my stomach and the “I want to vomit” feeling instantly, but did my best to remain calm and get my husband. She never lost consciousness and eventually stopped crying, but her eye kept swelling, to the point where she could barely see out of it. We put ice on it and got some advice from a family member who is a physician (it was a Saturday night of course). She ended up going to bed that night, but I couldn’t help but worry about her and if it was going to be okay. My husband ended up taking her to the ER the next day (here’s a helpful site on when to take your kiddos to the hospital). Everything turned out to be fine, but it’s over 3 weeks later and the little thing still has a bruise and a bump. If I could just protect her from everything, this never would have happened! I couldn’t help but blame myself.

As parents, we’re going to beat ourselves up about every little thing that happens to our kids. We can’t help it; it’s how we’re programmed. It doesn’t mean that we are bad parents when our little ones get hurt or injured. It just means that we love them when we sit and think about not wanting anything to ever happen to them! We have to lighten up on ourselves though! I took total responsibility when my little girl got her first black eye/goose egg. I was worried sick about her. I felt like the worst parent in the world, but it happens. It wasn’t my fault. I’m not the worst mother on the planet. She’s probably going to have more goose eggs. It took me a long time to come to terms with this, and I am still working on it.

We experience this feeling of guilt for a multitude of reasons and on a daily basis. My “mom guilt” occurred instantly when my little girl slipped and fell. Sharing what happened with others and hearing them respond with stories of their kiddos having similar accidents, made me feel like I wasn’t alone. People reminded me that things like this are going to happen, no matter how much I try to prevent them. It’s how my kids are going to learn and grow, but we have to let them. They can’t aren’t going to stay babies forever.

So, for all you parents out there who might have experienced something similar with your little ones or are just worried that someday you will . . . IT IS OKAY!!! You’re still a fantastic parent and your kiddo is going to turn out fine! If you still worry all the time, that’s okay too, but cut yourself a break sometimes. You’re not alone. We are never going to stop worrying about our kids. We are always going to want what is best for them and to protect them. It just means we care!

Check out the Parents website for more helpful links related to infant emergency situations. They have links to common infant health scares and first aid tips.

-Megan

The Wet Brush {Product Review}

Published on February 28, 2016February 28, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.com2 Comments

This is by far one of the best gifts my nearly 3 year old has received. Her auntie is a hair dresser, so she knew The Wet Brush was a top-notch product. Mommy, on the other hand, had no idea there was a product on the market this awesome or we would have had a long time ago! My little lady has never really fussed or complained when we comb/brush her hair, but as she gets older, she wants to do it herself and her hair is only getting thicker and longer.

This brush looks like any ordinary old brush, but don’t be fooled; this thing is a miracle worker! I could not believe the ease that this brush made it through my little girl’s messy hair. It wasn’t even necessary to use a detangler spray prior to using it. I cannot wait to tackle her knotty hair after a day at the pool or when we visit the beach this summer. The Wet Brush is advertised to “quickly and painlessly detangle even the thickest, most stubborn hair thanks to its revolutionary bristles.” The bristles are called “IntelliFlex” and are “designed to be ultra thin and flexible, yet still have rapid recovery memory to instantly bounce back to its original form. In addition, the ball tip bristles provide a massaging action that stimulates circulation at the follicle and is a proven benefit for hair health.” I know, I know, this sounds very high-tech for a “hair brush,” but I’m telling you, whatever it does, it works

My little one’s hair is long (never been cut yet) and thick, so after showers, playing all day, putting her foodie hands in it; it can be a mess when it comes time to brush it. The Wet Brush works with ease, no matter if her hair is wet, dry, sticky, or somewhere in between. She can use it herself without difficulty too.

You can find The Wet Brush at beauty supply stores or Target, but if you’re an online shopper like me, there are several places you can go. On Amazon, you can pick from TONS of colors and it runs about $8.95 there – totally worth every last penny. Here’s another link on Groupon where you can buy 2 for $12.99. You can also check out the official website for The Wet Brush where they offer free shipping on orders over 10 bucks. They have other options available too, including brushes for baby, combs, hair clips, and brushes for men, etc.

I honestly do not have anything negative to say about The Wet Brush and would give it 5 out of 5 stars without hesitation. We’ve had it for several months now, it’s used on a daily basis, and it has held up perfectly. All of the bristles remain intact and they’re still sturdy as ever. I’m anxious to see how long it really does last.

If you or your little ones struggle with tangles in your hair, or you just need a new brush, I’m telling you, this brush is for you. You will be so glad you bought this product!!

-Megan

Valentine’s Day, EVERYDAY!

Published on February 10, 2016February 9, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

For those of you who don’t know, Valentine’s Day is coming up this weekend. I think the Moms here with BurritoBuzz can all agree that it’s just another “Hallmark holiday” to us. Sure it’s great to celebrate it if that’s what you want, but to us, it’s the other 364 days of the year that matter most. We shouldn’t save our romance, thoughtfulness, and gifts for one night out of the year. Now I know finding time for you and your spouse sometimes is far and few between if you have little ones running around, but you have to make it work and find the time.

After talking with some of the Moms with BurritoBuzz, here are some of our recommendations to maintaining a happy, healthy relationship – not JUST on Valentine’s Day!

Deliberate and scheduled date nights – It doesn’t matter if they are once a week, once a month, an overnighter, or just a couple hours away, make these happen. It is normal to feel guilty while you’re away, but you won’t regret it. You and your significant other need those moments together. It will get easier to be away from your kiddos. Try not to be on your phone texting, talking to your sitter ABOUT the kiddos while you’re gone either! There’s actually a really unique company called Datebox. It’s a subscription service where couples receive, “everything you need for a fun and creative date delivered to your door step every month!” One of the Moms with BurritoBuzz is going to be trying a box out here soon!!

Scheduled family meetings (just the two of you) – Take this time to go over that months budget, schedule, events, etc. (It’s virtually impossible to fight about money and not keeping each other in the loop if you have a meeting specifically about it). Use a calendar, phone apps, etc. to keep a sort of family command post. This way everyone knows when things are occurring, who is babysitting, when bills are due, etc.

“It’s the little things” – Just taking the little bit of time to let the other person know you are thinking about them is worth more than any bouquet of flowers or box of chocolates in my book. Put something by the bathroom sink before you got work, put a note in the others lunch, leave their favorite treat in their car cup holder, etc. Even if it’s as simple as sending a text saying, “I hope you’re having a good day.” It just lets the other person know that they’re on your mind. Who wouldn’t love this!?!?

YOUR time – Every couple’s schedules are different, but I believe it’s extremely important to be able to devote some portion of your day to each other. It might only be a few minutes of peace in quiet in the mornings before the kiddos are awake or right after the kiddos fall asleep for the night. Maybe it’s a Saturday afternoon and both kids are actually asleep at the same time. Either way, its quiet time, and those moments are important. I look forward to the evenings after we get both kids to bed. It might only be a half hour some nights, but it is still time that my husband and I can talk about our days, catch up on our DVR, and just be together. We try to limit using our cell phones, tablets, etc. at this time. It’s not quality time unless your both present, and I don’t think you’re really present if you’re glued to your phone.

“Divide and Conquer” – This applies to everything in your household. I think if you and your significant other can work together, not only will you get to spend time together in the end, you won’t feel like you’re doing all the work all the time. Usually I’m the one who makes dinner, which I actually enjoy doing most of the time. In return, my husband is the one who cleans up afterwards. Bath time is another thing we split up as well. Sometimes we each do one of the kids and sometimes one of us has to do them both, but I don’t consider it my job or his job; we share it. We help each other get the kids ready to go in the morning before we go to work when we can. There are other chores we do not split evenly. For instance, my husband takes out the trash, mows the lawn, and shovels the driveway, while I’m usually the one who packs lunches. Bottom line – we work together and it works for us.

Talk – If something is bothering you, your significant other should be there for you to talk to. They should be one of the only people who you can be completely open and honest with about anything and everything. The issue may or may not pertain to them, but either way, you should be able to talk to them about it. Sometimes just talking about something that has been on your mind and getting it off your chest will make you feel 1000 times better afterwards!

Listen – It’s so important to be honest and open with your partner about everything, but along with that is also being a good listener. Sometimes your better half just needs to vent, cry, or talk, and you need to be that person for them. Even if they had the day off work and were home all day with the kids, that doesn’t mean it was just “a walk in the park” kind of day. They might just need a few minutes to talk to an adult about their day filled with baby talk and Paw Patrol.

Don’t forget YOU – Try not to forget about yourself. If Mommy isn’t happy and loving herself, it will show in her household! You have to find time for YOU. Whether it’s a night out with girlfriends, getting groceries alone, painting your nails; sometimes a little time away can have a big affect on your mood and emotional well-being. I know I can get caught up in day-to-day Mommy tasks – work, eat, sleep, take care of the kids, repeat. I have to remember to take a little bit of time for myself from time to time. IT IS OKAY! It’s important for my whole family!! Keep this in my mind when it comes to your spouse/significant other too. Make sure you allow some time for him to get away too – playing video games, going to a football game, etc.

Be away from work – Technology is great, but sometimes that means that you are available to your job 24/7. When you are at home make sure you are actually at home and not still finishing up things from work. Sometimes you can’t avoid it, but if you are doing it every day, it is time to make a change. You’re family needs you to be present when you’re home. Leave work at work.

I think I could go on and on with this list. I think it’s so important to not forget about your relationship with your better half. It’s not all over after kiddos, it can just get better, but not without a little thought and care! You don’t have to go on a big elaborate date and spend tons of money to let the other person know you still love them. Keep it simple and do it every day of the year!

-Megan

Water Wow! {Product Review}

Published on February 3, 2016February 2, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.com2 Comments

Melissa & Doug have done it again! My oldest received a Water Wow coloring book as a gift when we had her younger brother, and I am still in awe of it! I cannot tell you how many times I have showed this to people who haven’t heard of it or recommended it to fellow mommies out there. It is so great!

If anyone knows my husband, you know that he is not a fan of messes or anything that makes a mess. Things like markers, paint, play dough, etc. are not played with in our house without supervision. We keep all food in the kitchen, take off our shoes at the door, and wash our kids’ hands good after they play outside or eat. That being said, when I discovered this AMAZING toy, I could not wait to get on Amazon and order many more!! Water Wow is a unique toy in that it is basically water color painting, but it can be done over and over and over again in the books that it comes with. All the kiddos have to do is let the pages dry, refill their pen with water, and then do it all over again!!

Pros:

Literally, NO MESS. Unless you’re worried about a little water (and I mean a little) that is the only “mess” that comes along with this toy. We’re even comfortable with our child playing with this on the carpet and furniture because the water stays on the pages and rarely leaks from the pen.

The refillable pen is great because . . .

1. It’s refillable. You don’t have to worry about buying new because it ran out of ink. The two pieces that make up the pen easily screw together so refilling is simple to do and can be done wherever water is available!

2. It can be stored in the plastic compartment on the front cover of the book. This makes it great for taking on trips and ensures it’s not easily lost.

3. I mentioned it rarely leaks. We don’t even take the time to empty it at the end of each use. We haven’t experienced any problems with it leaking when it’s stored on the front of the book.

4. It’s “chunky,” so little ones can easily hold it and use it for fine motor development.

The book itself is spiral bound and compact. I find this is important because kiddos can carry it around themselves and not lug around a big coloring book and box of crayons. Everything is all together in one little book and they can easily turn the pages as they please.

The pages are durable. You would think that the constant water on these pages would eventually make the pages soggy or warp. I will say that ours has held up great after several months of use. The color is still vibrant on the pages and the spiral binding is still sturdy.

Melissa & Doug offer several options for this product. On Amazon, you can find single activity books for $4.99 and sets of 3 books for $14.99. We’ve also tried out the Water Wow Splash cards with our oldest, and they are equally as awesome. There isn’t a convenient place to store the pen if you don’t keep the box, but the cards can be bound together with a ring which is nice too. These are $9.99 on Amazon.

It’s a great learning toy for your kiddos. Letters, numbers, colors, animals, are just a few of the book options offered. Not only will your kiddos’ imaginations and creativity be triggered with this toy, their fine motor and writing skills will develop.

Cons:

I’m really pulling at strings to come up with something negative to say about this product. My kid loves it. It’s clean, it promotes learning and development, and it can be taken anywhere we go . . . what more could you ask for in a toy?! I think it’d be great if Melissa & Doug came out with a less compact version. This may not be as convenient to take places, but I’m sure my little one would love even larger pictures to paint and play with.

We would give this toy 6 out of 5 stars if we could, and it will definitely be a go-to gift for any birthday parties we have in the future. I have a feeling my nearly 3 year old is going to be loving this toy for a few years to come, and I am totally okay with that!!

Another round of applause Melissa & Doug – thanks!

-Megan

PLEASE parents, do this ONE thing!

Published on January 27, 2016January 26, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

As parents, we have tons of responsibilities. There’s work, household chores, bath time, grocery shopping, making dinner . . . I could go on and on and on. Our jobs never end and there are no days off. We always have to be on top of our game and ready to take on anything our lives or kiddos throw at us (sometimes what they literally throw at us).

I feel one of the MOST important things on this list of responsibilities needs to be taking care of ourselves. I don’t just mean trying to eat as healthily as we can or trying to fit in some form of exercise a few times a week. I’m talking about seeing a primary care physician (PCP) regularly. This doesn’t mean you have to go to the doctor every week or every other month, but just go once a year for a full head-to-toe history and physical (H&P).

How many of you actually have a PCP?

I was totally guilty of not having a PCP before I had my kiddos. I went to STAT care if I thought I really needed to be seen or just went to the campus nurse when I was a student in college. I thought going to see my GYN for my yearly appointment was sufficient. It wasn’t until I graduated, got married, got my own job, and my own health insurance that I really made an effort to find my own PCP and go for a yearly exam. Luckily, my husband agrees and never put up a fight about also going.

For most insurances, an annual H&P with blood work is covered. It’s considered “preventive” care and encouraged – so take advantage of it!! So many insurances also cover the yearly GYN visit and dentist appointments (these are so important too!!). Even if your insurance doesn’t cover it 100%, I’m sure a good chunk will be covered – you won’t regret looking into it.

It’s so comforting to be familiar with your doctors and to know that if there ever is an illness/problem/question (of course we hope there never is) you will know exactly who to call. Sometimes it’s tough finding a doctor in the beginning. Some won’t accept new patients, there’s new patient paperwork to be completed, and not all doctors are covered under every insurance company. Imagine having to go through all that when you really do have a problem and need to be seen. Find a doctor you like now while you’re healthy! Then, make it a point to see that doctor every year. What have you got to lose?

If you’re still not convinced, think about those little kiddos or grand kiddos. Think about your nieces and nephews. Think about your loved ones who really care about you and your family. Do it for those people. Those people need you, love you, and don’t want anything to happen to you. You owe it to them to be responsible about your health – see a doctor!

If you already are known to a doctor – great for you! Does everyone in your family go too – your spouse, your parents, and your siblings? You love and care about them too, right? Encourage them to do the same. It took a lot of convincing, but my husband and I had this discussion with our parents. We told them it was very important to us, especially since we were starting our own family. We want them to be around to love and care about our kids the way they did for us. Now, all 4 of them see a primary care physician regularly!! It’s a peace of mind for everybody, and didn’t cause any pain or suffering. It starts with a simple phone call.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine refers to MedlinePlus and here they list several things to consider when choosing a PCP:

“Is the office staff friendly and helpful? Is the office good about returning calls?
Are the office hours convenient to your schedule?
How easy is it to reach the provider? Does the provider use email?
Do you prefer a provider whose communication style is friendly and warm, or more formal?
Do you prefer a provider focused on disease treatment, or wellness and prevention?
Does the provider have a conservative or aggressive approach to treatment?
Does the provider order a lot of tests?
Does the provider refer to other specialists frequently or infrequently?
What do colleagues and patients say about the provider?
Does the provider invite you to be involved in your care? Does the provider view your patient-doctor relationship as a true partnership?”

I know I’m probably adding to your already lengthy to-do list, but I promise this is one of the most important things you can do for your own well-being and your family. You won’t regret it and they will be proud of you for doing it!

-Megan

Oliver Poons and the Bright Yellow Hat {Book Review}

Published on January 25, 2016January 24, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

The mommas at BurritoBuzz recently connected with author Lauryn Alyssa Wendus and were able to review her popular childrens’ book, Oliver Poons and the Bright Yellow Hat. We also checked out some of her workbook activity pages that feature main character, Oliver Poons.

My nearly 3 year old was super excited about the “new book” as soon as we opened it. We have read it several times now in that last few days and Mommy and Daddy aren’t tired of it! She loves “kittens,” so she was immediately interested in the cute kitten, Oliver Poons, on the cover. The story rhymes, so it’s catchy and kept my kiddo interested. It was a good fit for her age. She isn’t to the point where she can sit through pages with lots of words, and this one was a perfect length for her. She enjoyed talking about the different colors and animals mentioned in the story, too. It’s a simple story for kids to understand that shows how the main character turns to his friends to solve a problem. Oliver Poons is actually a real life rescue cat who served as the author’s inspiration to the story. There’s a photo of the real Oliver at the end of the book and my daughter loved seeing the “real kitty.”

You can find this cute story online in a hardcover, paperback, or e-book version. The hardcover you can purchase for $19.95 on the book’s site or from Amazon. This might seem steep, but as you read further on the website, you’ll find that the author, Lauryn, donates a portion of all proceeds to Mission for Orphans, Inc. She also personalizes all copies of the book with her signature at the beginning.

There are several other options for purchase available on the Oliver Poons website. Workbook learning activities for up to the second grade, a learning bundle, and even Oliver Poons artwork are some of the options. These would be great for at home learning and even nursery decor.

I love that this author teamed up with her Mom (she’s the illustrator!) and has created such a good story for kids and is giving back to help other kids across the world. I’m sure we will be reading this book quite often especially as my youngest gets older. My daughter will be excited to see what adventures Oliver Poons will get into next, as there are more books to come from author Lauryn Alyssa Wendus.

-Megan

VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker {Product Review}

Published on January 14, 2016January 14, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I forgot how amazing this toy was until I got it back out for baby #2. It costs $29.88 on Amazon and it is absolutely worth every penny.

I love the versatility of this thing. My little guy is sitting up on his own now, so I can remove the front panel and he can sit and play with it. Once he does start to pull himself up to stand he can use it and then he will be off and running (hopefully walking first!) Amazon advertises the item to be “meant for babies and toddlers 9 months to 3 years old.” I guess my kiddos will be starting to fight over this one!

Here are some other cool features:

Wheels – I think it’s super important to note that this walker will move well on hard and carpeted flooring. We have both in our home, and I remember thinking how awesome this was with my daughter when she would walk with it. There are also adjustments on the rear wheels to add more tension so the walker will move slower. I noticed this helped especially when my daughter was a rookie walker.

Noise – this has everything from songs, short phrases, sounds, and music. This walker has a wide variety. On Amazon, it is advertised at having “over 70” different sound effects and songs. I never kept track, but I will say it is not one of the loud annoying toys I wish I could throw out!

Modes – The walker features 2 separate modes. One being a musical mode and the other a learning mode. I didn’t think I would really care that much about this feature, but I will say as my oldest grew, I found that we would use the music mode less and learning mode more because she could listen and understand.

Phone – My oldest loved the phone on the walker. It’s removable and makes sound effects to play along. It was the first thing she went for when I got it back out for my youngest and she is going to be 3 soon!

Activities – Along with the phone, there are several other activities on this walker that are in a farm theme. Rollers, gear spinners, removable shape sorters, light-up buttons, and piano keys are amongst the different items on the walker encouraging hours of play time and learning. Your little ones will be learning shapes, animals, colors, and songs as they play along. As your kiddos start to walk with the walker, it is actually motion-activated, so the panel will still be playing sounds and music as they are on the go.

Assembly – If I remember correctly, it was super easy to put together and batteries were included. It also is available in a pink version for the same price on Amazon. Can’t beat that! Everything is in bright colors and assembled well. We haven’t had any issues with stickers coming off or anything breaking on the walker.

I can honestly say that I can’t think of anything I don’t like about this toy. Some of the reviews I read before choosing this one talked about it being too light and tipping; my kids have not had this problem. I can’t say that my daughter never fell when she pushed it, but it was usually just because she was new to walking and it was never anything serious.

I think it’s a great buy for the cost and I’m excited to use it again for my second kiddo. If your little one has a first birthday coming up, I highly recommend this item!! Good job, VTech!

-Megan

ABCs of Parenthood

Published on January 8, 2016January 7, 2016 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

Alcohol – Now that you’ve experienced your near 10 months of sobriety and been your hubby’s DD, it’s your turn! If you’re breastfeeding, it’s okay to take advantage as well, to an extent. Beer can even help boost your milk supply. After those long days and nights the first few weeks, you’re going to want to indulge a little, believe me! Even if alcohol isn’t your thing, I’m sure there is something that can help you unwind – exercise, ice cream, a good book, etc.

Breastfeeding – If you are able and want to breastfeed, this is going to be a big part of your life now that your baby is here. At the end of the day, do what is best for you and your new baby. Seek out support from friends, support groups, blogs, or a lactation consultant if you have questions or concerns. YOU can do it! The first few weeks can be the roughest, but don’t let that stop you. You’ll be glad you did it in the end. Plus, it’s totally convenient, saves money, and is super healthy for you and your baby.

Coffee – If you’re like me, you will find that there will NEVER be enough coffee some days. Drink up! If you avoided caffeine while you were pregnant, good for you. Now it’s time to welcome it back! I look forward to my morning cup of coffee, whether I’m drinking hurriedly on my way to work or sipping on it cold after several hours of chasing my kiddos around the house, it still tastes good. Enjoy!

Diapers – Whether cloth or disposable, these will be a part of your life for quite some time, especially if you have multiple little ones. You’ll change a bazillion (thats an understatement) of them and get quite good at it! Sometimes I think of it as a game – how fast can I get the dirty one off and the new one on – especially with my newest little guy. I have to get him changed before he decides he’s going to pee all over us both.

Eating – Make sure you’re not only feeding your baby and your family, but you’re not forgetting to feed yourself. Mommy needs food for fuel. You might think you’ve eaten enough by eating your toddlers’ leftovers or grabbing a quick bite on your way out the door in the morning, but more than likely it’s not enough. Try to eat 5-6 small meals throughout the day if it’s too hard to sit down for 3 meals. Your kids keep you busy, but you need to make sure your eating so you have the energy to keep up!

Fights – Pick your battles with your kiddos. Don’t argue over things that at the end of the day are unimportant. I know I haven’t even reached the peak of this because my kiddos are still little, but even with my almost 3 year old it has started. I’ve learned to not argue over the shirt she picked out or whether she has her shoes on the right feet but instead about brushing her teeth or holding my hand in a busy parking lot.

Giggles – There is nothing better than hearing our little babies giggle. Even though my oldest is going on 3, I still can’t get enough of her little belly laughs and the way her face lights up when she is happy and giggly. My youngest is 6 months old and in the phase where we can make him laugh now. I love hearing him and trying new ways to make him giggle at me.

Hero – I hope that someday my kids can say that I am their hero (or one of them). It’s actually something that I think about a lot and something that I strive to be for them. As their Mommy, I try to always keep in mind their best interest and to do things I would want them to be proud of me for. I want them to be able to look up to me as their role model. I need to be a positive influence and make good decisions in my life for them.

Inseparable – I didn’t leave my almost 3 year old overnight until right before her 2^nd birthday. Am I crazy? Maybe just a little. I never had a reason to spend a night away from her so I just never did it. I’m inseparable from my kids, but at the same time I know and need to remember that someday I will have to let them go. I have to let my kids become their own individuals but that doesn’t mean I never, ever want to leave them!

Juggling – A great blog written by one of my fellow mommies here with Burrito Buzz. As mommies, we do all kinds of juggling! It’s an adjustment being a parent, but it’s the greatest adjustment we will ever adapt to. We aren’t perfect and being a Mommy is a lot of work, but we sure do know how to juggle it all in the end. You’re all pretty amazing!

Kitchen – You might be spending more time in here now that you have bottles and other baby items to wash which means your mobile little ones might be too. Make sure this area is safe. Make sure you have the cupboards and drawers kid-locked, especially those with sharp objects and harmful chemicals. We tried to keep at least one drawer and one cupboard accessible to our little ones so they could play in them with more kid friendly kitchen items. They love that!

Laundry – It is never ending, literally. The minute I feel like I’m all caught up, another load comes down the laundry chute. I’m so lucky that my husband and I share this chore, because it is time consuming. I wish I was better at doing like a load or two everyday instead of waiting and doing load after load all in one day. Maybe that way it wouldn’t seem like so much!

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse –Will this show ever go away!? I’m sure as my daughter who will be 3 in April grows out of Mickey Mouse, my 6 month old son will just be starting to like it. And the cycle will just continue – I’m stuck with it forever! We always have episodes saved in our DVR and it’s by far my daughter’s favorite cartoon. I guess there are worse things than hearing the Hot Dog song 5-6 times a day.

Naked – Our little ones have super sensitive skin and much of the time they are dressed, so take advantage of the naked times and make sure their skin is still precious as ever! Check for any new skin rashes, bumps, bruises, etc.

Outside – Get out when you can and when the weather allows it. I always want my kids to want to be outside playing. I never want them to be the kids that are inside glued to the TV sitting on the couch. The activities outdoors are endless. Some of our favorites at home include the swing set, sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and going for walks.

Pack – I’ve become quite the packer. Nights before I work the next day, I always get everything packed up for me, my husband, and the kiddos. It makes it a thousand times easier getting out the door in the morning. I also always have a fully stocked and ready to go diaper bag. I try to have a small bag left in each of our cars too with the basic essentials so my husband and I both always have whatever we might need when we are out.

Quiet time – You will learn to value the quiet moments. Being a Mommy can be chaotic, overwhelming, and just plain busy. I feel like I’m in a constant rush, rush, rush mode; especially through the work week. That quiet time, whether it’s in the mornings when I’m pumping before everyone else in the house is up or at night when I get to get a shower by myself, uninterrupted, is precious time. Enjoy it, soak it up.

Responsibility – There is no greater responsibility than being a parent. Not only are you responsible for making sure the essential daily needs of your children are met, but you are responsible for being a positive role model and support system. It’s the best responsibility but also the most crucial.

Spouse – I am a firm believer in spouses working together as a team when it comes to family and their household. You have to stick together on everything – discipline, chores, good times, bad times – your kids will sense when you don’t see eye to eye. If you do have fights (because let’s face it, you will) do it behind closed doors and don’t take it out on your kiddos. But at the end of the day, stick together and love one another.

Toddler – Although a super fun stage of our kiddos lives, it also brings its challenges. My oldest is a toddler. It’s so rewarding to watch her constantly learn, grow, and develop into a little girl who isn’t a baby any longer. I can see her own personality more and more. With that brings opinions, arguments, and tantrums, but it’s part of who she is becoming. Even in the most trying of moments, I know some day I will look back and miss these times! Enjoy them.

Unconditional love – There is not a better term to describe the relationship between parents and their kiddos. No matter how angry they make you or how disgusting they can be, we still love them. There will be days when they make you want to pull all of your hair out and nights where they won’t let you sleep, but we love them no matter what.

Versatile – “able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities” – This is very important as a parent with little ones running around. I have quickly learned since becoming a mother that I have to be versatile. My plans may not always go the way I envisioned and I may never be on time again, but I can’t let that get me down. What matters is that me, my husband, and my little ones are happy.

Water – It is the best beverage for you and yours kiddos. If you struggle with drinking just plain water, add some lemon or lime. My kiddos only drink juice on rare occasions because I think it’s important for them to actually like water. I didn’t grow up that way and it took me until I was pregnant with my first to really start to like water and drink it all the time. I hope my kids can be the same because water is so important!!

XOXO – As a parent, there is NEVER enough of these!! I especially love the before bed hugs and kisses and when my toddler kisses my 6 month old. It just makes my heart smile! I also love the hugs and kisses from my husband. I think our kids need to see that lovable connection between their parents.

Yelling – It is so difficult as a parent sometimes to keep your composure and not go off the handle on your kiddos, especially when it is over something minuscule. Maybe you’re just having a bad day. No matter what, try to think about it first before you yell at your little ones. I think there are moments when you need to raise your voice to get your point across, but if all you’re doing is yelling; your kids aren’t going to listen.

ZZZZZZ – Have you been missing this lately?! I’ve learned to greatly appreciate every little bit of “ZZZZZs” that I can get since becoming a Mommy, even more so the second time around. With my first kiddo, I could rest and nap when she did, but that is so not the case with baby #2. One of them usually always needs me. I find myself doing things around the house or watching my DVR on the off chance they are both napping because there is always something to catch up on!

-Megan

Bella Materna Nursing Bra {Product Review}

Published on December 12, 2015December 12, 2015 by Megan Desiato - www.BurritoBuzz.comLeave a comment

I’m a breastfeeding mom for the second time now, and I still struggle with finding an appropriately fitting bra that is comfortable. I would say the majority of the time I end up wearing nursing camisoles with the built in bra, but I know this isn’t what is best. Recently, BurritoBuzz connected with Bella Materna, and I was able to try out one of their nursing bras of my choice. I decided on a Smooth Wirefree Nursing Bra. I’ve never been a fan of wires, so this one sounded perfect. I only looked briefly at other options through their website and this specific bra received 5 stars, which further sold me. Here’s my verdict . . .

The PROS

Comfortable – So far, I’ve worn this bra to work (I work full-time as an RN and I’m always on my feet and moving), around the house, out running errands for a few hours, to bed, and even to do a small work out. Throughout every activity this bra was never uncomfortable.
Bella Materna advertises this specific bra as having “spacer fabric cups for nursing pad coverage and a flexible fit.” I found this point to be true. I wore my fabric nursing pads in the bra and still found it to fit appropriately and comfortably. The nursing pads also stayed in place well within the bra.
I found the bra to be sized appropriately. I find it hard to decide what size to buy once you start breastfeeding and your milk comes in; luckily I guessed right with this bra with the help of the sizing chart found on the website. I feel like the fabric and coverage allow for some flexibility so the bra still fit well when my breasts were fuller in the morning versus the evenings when they are less full.
The bra is easy on the eyes. It was offered in two colors online, Rose and Black. I opted for the black. I think its difficult to find a nursing bra that looks “normal,” and this bra did that for me. The bra has a “vintage” look which I also liked.
The clips on either side of the cup/strap are easily undone with one hand for nursing, but not too easily that they came undone on their own. I’m often wishing I had more hands when I’m getting ready to start breastfeeding my little guy, so I appreciated that I could undo the bra using one hand. This way I’m ready to go quickly when baby is hungry.
I did not take advantage of this feature, but on the website, Bella Materna advertises, “Add the Racerback Accessory . . . turns any bra into a racerback bra!” I think this is an awesome idea and something unique to nursing bras especially. So definitely check this out if you’re interested!

The CONS

I’m cheap. I thought this bra was overpriced for what it was. I have never been one to spend much on undergarments though, so others may not agree. I know it is difficult to find a good fitting nursing bra with the perks of it being a nursing bra, but I thought $78 bucks was pretty steep. My nursing camisoles from Motherhood Maternity are often on sale and at $24.98, a no brainer in my eyes.
Although very comfortable, breathable, and flexibly fitting, I thought the fabric was too thin. I know most nursing mommas can relate to the firmer nipples we get with breastfeeding. I felt that they were still noticeable with the bra and a nursing pad because of the thin fabric.

Overall, I give the Bella Materna Smooth Wirefree Nursing Bra 4 stars. It met my needs in the areas of comfort, quality, ease of use, and appearance. I just found it pricey and the fabric too thin. If you are interested in finding good quality nursing bras, I would recommend atleast looking into Bella Materna, because they had other options on their site and the bra I sampled was of good quality. This company also offers a variety of other products for Mommas out there – loungewear, breast pads, and even breast pumps. Right now, their website is offering a 10% discount on your first purchase by just entering your e-mail address and also Free Shipping in the U.S. Check them out!

-Megan