Go Shop

If you are looking for the latest trends in baby and toddler services, furniture, gear and toys, then check out Bebe Paluzza this weekend. They have over 125 vendors, educational seminars and even a Mommy Pampering Lounge.  They will have licensed babysitters available to watch the kids, while you get to enjoy a manicure and spa treatments.

They will also have live music including Mr. Singer and the Sharp Cookies on Sunday at 11:30 on the Mamapalooza stage.

  • Where – Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center
  • When – July 31-August 1
  • Cost – $10 (kids under 5 are free)
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Farmers Market 300x200 Hooray! Its Farmers Market Season!

I love going to the Farmers Market with my girls.  Last weekend we took our first trip of the season to The Green City Market in Lincoln Park.  We did a bit of shopping, bought some berries and a smoothies, and then enjoyed the live music.  It is the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning in Chicago, and en excellent way to shop local!

This year I plan to branch out and try a few of the other neighborhood markets including the one at Wicker Park.  I would love to hear which ones are you favorites.

Following is a list of some of the other great farmers markets here in the city and their summer schedules. Most have started, but a few don’t start until June. For a complete list, visit www.chicagofarmersmarkets.us.

Wicker Park & Bucktown Farmers Market

  • Where – 1500 N. Damen Ave
  • When – Sundays June 6 through Oct. 24
  • Hours – 8am-2pm

Daley Plaza Farmers Market

  • Where – Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington)
  • When – Thursdays May 13 through Oct. 14
  • Hours – 7am-3pm

Lincoln Park Farmers Market

  • Where – Lincoln Park High School (Corner of Armitage Ave.and Orchard St.)
  • When – Saturdays from May 15-Oct. 30
  • Hours – 7am-1pm

Lincoln Square Evening Farmers Market

  • Where – Lincoln Square (Corner of Lincoln & Leland)
  • When – Every THursday from Jun 17 to Sept. 2
  • Hours – 4-8pm

Willis Tower Plaza Farmers Market

  • Where – Willis Tower (233 S. Wacker Dr.)
  • When – Thursdays from June 17 through Oct. 14
  • Hours – 7am-3pm

Uptown Farmers Market

  • Where – Weiss Memorial Hospital (4646 N. Marine Dr.)
  • When -Thursdays from June 24 through Oct. 7
  • Hours – 8am-1pm

Division Street Farmers Market

  • Where – On Division between State & Clark
  • When – Saturdays May 15 through Oct. 30
  • Hours – 7am-1pm

Northcenter Farmers Market

  • Where – Northcenter Town Square (4100 N. Damen)
  • When – Saturdays June 19 through Oct. 30
  • Hours – 7am-1pm

Southport Green Market

  • Where – Blaine School (1420 Grace St.)
  • When – Saturdays June 12 through Oct. 9
  • Hours – 8am-2pm

Beverly Farmers Market

  • Where – 9500 S. Longwood Dr.
  • When – Sundays May 16-Oct. 24
  • Hours – 7am-1pm
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I was thinking to myself this morning about Mother’s Day, and how I wanted to spend the day.  My girlfriend Ami, and fellow blogger, did a great post called Luxury Redefined.  She talks about what we used to consider a luxury and what now, as mothers, we consider a luxury. This got me thinking about how I would love to spend Sunday with my family, but would also love to enjoy some of the “mommy” luxuries I long for…things like going to the bathroom by MYSELF, sleeping in past 7:15am, and call me crazy, but not wiping a tushy for an entire day.  Now that would be a luxury!

In addition to a bit of me time, I would be lying if I said I did not want a gift.  Call me materialistic, but I love getting gifts.  They don’t have be extravagant, just thoughtful.  My husband does not look at shopping as a hobby, so read on honey (and the rest of you hubbies out there)…here are a few hints.

Jewelry to remind you of your little one:

Twinkle Twinkle Little One (3224 N. Damen) has a great selection of unique jewelry that will remind you of your little ones.  Everything from a victorian edge ring and beautiful leather bracelet with your little ones face on them to a beautiful silver name tag necklaces.

bracelette 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...

Tags 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...

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- Bellybum Boutique (4347 N. Lincoln) carries ID Tag initial jewelry by local jewelry artist, Jules Schwanbeck; jules. jewelry.  They have a sleek, modern feel to them.

ID Tags 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...

- Custom Silhouette Jewelry – I found a couple of stores on Etsy that will make a custom charm out of your little ones silhouette.  Lucky Me Beads does them in vintage brass and Stella and Hodge does them in Pewter.  So precious!

silhouette 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...silhouette 2 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...

Jewelry Just For You:

- Another friend of mine, Hadley Denny, is also a local jewelry artist.  She makes beautiful, organic pieces designed with shells and semi precious stones in sterling and gold.  Her work can be found at Elizabeth Grace (2438 N. Clark), or you can contact her directly at hadleymdenny@gmail.com.

earings 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...

Stroller Envy  & Other Gifts For Mom’s On The Go:

- Last year my hubby gave me these amazing little speakers for my iPhone, iHome Rechargeable Mini Speaker.  They are perfect to bring along to the beach or a picnic with my girls.  Now we can have a dance party anywhere.

Speakers 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...

- The Today Show recently did a story on tricking out your stroller.  Who knew you could pimp out your stroller?  A few of these can be found at Giggle (2116 N. Halsted) including the Strollometer and Valet Stroller Clips, which I have and love.

strollometer 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...valet clip 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...

Some of the Today Show’s other featured products included MyCyFi.com wireless iPhone speaker, Munchkin cup-holder and a super cool holder for you phone or Blackberry, TheTexthook.com.

wireless 134x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...text hook 150x150 All I want for Mothers Day is...cupholder All I want for Mothers Day is...

What’s on your wish list this year?

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I recently learned of two interesting family friendly events happening this weekend on the North Side, and I thought I would share the details with you.

Kids in the SquareEnjoy spring in Lincoln Square this Saturday.  More than 20 neighborhood businesses will open their doors and host activities, discounts and treats for the kids.  A few of the most interesting include a teddy bear picnic at Timeless Toys (story time, crafts, etc.), 20% off at Piggy Toes if you wear your PJs, 35% off spring and summer kids clothes at Bellybum, 15% off kids books at the Book Cellar and bring in a plastic bottle to recycle and get 15% off at Little Green Baby.

  • Where – Lincoln Square
  • When – Saturday, April 24th from 10am-4pm
  • Cost – FREE

Sones de Mexico concert at Women & Children First BookstoreEnjoy an unplugged performance by two-time Grammy-nominated Chicago musical group Sones de Mexico Ensemble, celebrating their new release, Fiesta MexicanaFiesta Mexicana offers something new to a generation of kids growing up in a globalized world.

  • Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark St.)
  • When – Saturday, April 24 at 10am
  • Cost – FREE
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Check out my other Go Green posts: Chicago Area Earth Day CelebrationsWhere to buy used children’s’ books and Do you want to be greener on the go?

As part of my Go Green series, I did a bit of research on resale shops that sell maternity and kids clothes.  Not only can you find some high-end designer kids clothes for a fraction of the cost (I found 2T Lucky Jeans for less than $10), you can also make a buck or two selling your old maternity and kids clothes.

I recommend calling the stores prior to brining in any clothes you hope to sell.  They usually purchase clothes by season, and sometimes are only excepting specific sizes.  If you plan to sell them furniture or gear (strollers, etc.), I recommend checking Craig’s List first to ensure you are not getting significantly less than you could sell them for privately.

Many of the stores also keep lists of wanted items.  For example, I was looking for a Maclaren umbrealla stroller last summer.  Once Upon A Child took my name and number, and called me about a month later when one came in.

I wanted to provide a complete listing of Chicago resale shops, so I utilized the descriptions from their websites for the stores I have not visited.

Kids Clothes

  • The Second Child (954 W. Armitage Ave.) - Second Child is an upscale children’s and maternity wear resale boutique.  They regularly have designer children’s clothes by Oilily, Jacadi, Cakewalk, Lilly Pulitzer, and Baby Lulu. I’ve visited this boutique a couple of times, and found some really cute stuff for my girls.  They also carry some baby gear.
  • Pish Posh (3950 N. Southport Ave.) – Pish Posh carries certified pre-owned children’s clothing and accessories.  If you are looking for something special or if you have something special you would like to consign, you’ve found the right place.
  • Jordan’s Closet (106 E. 51st St.) - Jordan’s Closets is a resale boutique that caters to little girls newborn to size 16. They carry lovingly cared for clothing, accessories, shoes, and outerwear. Their clothing is freshly laundered and carefully inspected to insure to that they are free from stains rips or excessive fading. They offer brand name clothing such as Carter’s, Osh Kosh B’Gosh, The Children’s Place, Guess, Little Me, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger just to name a few.
  • All New To Me (4546 N. Western Ave.) – This store recently opened in the old Thrifty Baby location.  I have not visited it yet, but have read some favorable reviews. They do not have a website, so I could not include a description.
  • Once Upon A Child (7246 W. Foster Ave., plus multiple suburban locations) -They buy and sell gently used clothes, furniture, equipment and more. Once Upon A Child carries all of the fashionable brands-new and gently used Tyco, Baby Gap, Graco and more. I have sold and purchased clothes at this location.  I’ve found some great deals on clothes (Lucky Jeans, Ralph Lauren dress, gap shirt, etc.), but was disappointed with what they offered me for an umbrella stroller I was selling.
  • My Sister’s Closet (5413 W. Devon Ave.) -My Sister’s Closet carries women’s, some men’s, children’s and a small selection of maternity clothes.  They also carry books, toys and shoes.

Maternity

  • The Second Child (954 W. Armitage Ave.) - Second Child is an upscale children’s and maternity wear resale boutique.  Their inventory of maternity clothing is carefully selected to ensure that the styles are current and the condition is excellent. You’ll find everything from casual to business to black tie apparel. Inventory can include Citizens for Humanity, Michael Stars, Japanese Weekend, 3dot and Mimi.
  • McShane’s Exchange (815 W. Armitage Ave.)  - Since 1988, McShane’s Exchange has set the stage with their premier shops in Lincoln Park.  “If You Can’t Afford Your Own Designer Wardrobe, Buy Someone Else’s.”  There’s a certain sophistication that comes with a $1,800 Armani Jacket.  But if you can’t (or simply won’t) part with that kind of money, McShane’s is the boutique you’re looking for.
  • My Sister’s Closet (5413 W. Devon Ave.) -My Sister’s Closet carries women’s, some men’s, children’s and a small selection of maternity clothes.  They also carry books, toys and shoes.
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Can someone please explain to be the concept behind outlets these days?

I rarely rant, but today is going to be an exception.  I am totally baffled by the retail industries use of the word “outlet.”  Years ago an outlet meant outlet.  You could find last season’s merchandise, overstock and some slightly damaged (color not perfect, missing button, scratched) merchandise at REAL discounts.  It seems like most outlets these days are not really outlets at all.  Some companies (Gap, J.Crew, Etc.) actually make an entire line of clothes just for their MANY outlet stores.

I recently visited the Chicago Premium Outlets in Aurora.  I have to say, I was not impressed.  At the majority of the stores I visited, the prices were no better than what you would find in a department store.  The Sketcher’s Outlet was offering toddler Sketcher’s for the EXACT same price as Nordstrom.  How can you call yourself an outlet, and have the same prices as other stores or even your mall stores?  I did find a few deals after a lot of digging and searching including a pair of Converse Chuck Taylor sneakers for $9.95, but all and all the deals were few and far between and definitely not worth the drive.

Yesterday I tried out the Sketcher’s Outlet on North Avenue (Corner of North and Cicero).  Maybe my expectations are too high, but I was again very disappointed.  Their selection of toddler shoes was quite small, and the prices were, again, the EXACT same as Nordstrom’s prices.  In all fairness, they were having a buy one get one half off sale, but because of their tiny selection I could not find two pairs of shoes I really wanted to buy.

When it comes to finding good deals on name brand toddler sneakers, I would still recommend Nordstrom Rack and the Nordstrom’s sale section of their website.  Read my review on Nordstrom’s from a few months ago, Check out Nordstrom Rack for amazing deals on kids clothes and shoes!

I am always looking for a deal, so let me know if you have any cool finds for toddler shoes.

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In honor of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, April 22nd, I thought I would expand on my blog post “Do you want to be greener On The Go?“ by creating a series of articles on how to be a bit greener.   As I mentioned in my previous post, I would by no means consider my household to be “green,” but I am committed to making incremental changes in my lifestyle to reduce my “Shaq” size green foot print to something I am less embarrassed by and could actually stand “in” proudly!

books 150x150 Go Green   Where to buy used Childrens books in ChicagoFirst on my list is used books! Used books are not only a lot greener, but they are also a lot cheaper! Like most children, my kids LOVE books. To my chagrin, they tend to like to read the same books over and over again.  In an attempt to maintain some level of sanity, I try to introduce a new book to the rotation as often as possible.

We love our local Chicago Public Library branch, but have found that my one and two year old are just a bit too hard on books for me to borrow them in good conscience!  This led me to do some research on used bookstores.  To my surprise, a number of the Chicago area used bookstores carry children’s books.

Following is a list of Chicago area used bookstores that have a substantial number of children’s books (more than a couple shelves):

Open Books is a nonprofit social venture that operates an extraordinary bookstore, provides community programs, and mobilizes passionate volunteers to promote literacy in Chicago and beyond. They have a huge selection of children’s books (over 10,000 at the moment).  Plus, the money raised from selling books goes towards their literacy programs.

  • Location – 213 W. Institute Pl.
  • Phone – 312.475.1355
  • Neighborhood – Near North Side
  • Events – weekly storytime, monthly puppet show and craft nights

Ravenswood Used Books is a full service used book store with thousands of fine titles packed into an intimate space.  They carry books in nearly every category, including children’s.  They buy or trade for store credit.

  • Location – 4626 N. Lincoln Ave.
  • Phone – 773.593.9166
  • Neighborhood – Ravenswood/Lincoln Square

Myopic Books is one of Chicago’s oldest and largest used bookstores.  They have three floors full of books, an amount totaling over 80,000 editions.  They carry sections such as fiction, art, architecture, music, film, philosophy, science, religion, psychology, literary criticism, mythology, children’s, cooking, sci-fi, biography and local history/interest… and many more.

  • Location – 1564 N. Milwaukee Ave.
  • Phone – 773.862.4882
  • Neighborhood – Wicker Park

After-Words has shelves upon shelves stocked with current fiction and nonfiction; as well as used books at a substantial discount. The store searches for obscure and out-of-print books upon request and buys used books from customers, offering cash or store credit in exchange.

  • Location – 23 E. Illinois St.
  • Phone – 312.464.1110
  • Neighborhood – Near North Side

Booklegger’s Used Books has over 10,000 used books in stock on all subjects (including children’s), plus CDs, cassettes, books on cassette and videos.

  • Location – 2907 N. Broadway St.
  • Phone – 773.404.8780
  • Neighborhood – Lakeview

Bookworks offers quality, hardbacks & paperbacks (including children’s books), select new titles and out of print and rare books. Hard to locate and antiquarian items always part of our extensive stock. They also sell used and rare records and CDs with a selection especially strong in jazz, blues and classical music. Other unusual offerings include vintage paperbacks, old paper items and antique photographs.

  • Location – 3444 N. Clark St.
  • Phone – 773.871.5318
  • Neighborhood – Lakeview

Powell’s Bookstore specializes in quality used, rare, and discounted books, primarily academic and scholarly. They are particularly strong in medieval studies and classics, philosophy and books on books, but they also carry many other subjects including children’s books.

  • Location – 1501 E. 57th St.
  • Phone – 773.955.7780
  • Neighborhood – Hyde Park


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Like most new parents, my green footprint significantly increased when I had children. I think significantly increased is putting it mildly.  It was something like going from a size 9 shoe to Shaquille O’Neal’s size 23!

Unfortunately, my desire to be green competes with my need for convenience.  I have resigned myself to making small incremental lifestyle changes in the hope that over time I can significantly reduce my family’s footprint.

It was amazing to me the amount of trash I was generating on my average outing with the girls.  Between Ziploc bags (several a day), shopping bags and water bottles I felt like I was emptying out half my diaper bag into the trash when we got home.

So this year I am focusing my efforts on being greener On The Go!

I am sure most of you have already switched to re-useable grocery bags and stainless steel water bottles, but following are a few tips on other small changes you can make to be greener on the go.

Say goodbye to Ziplocs and hello to re-useable bags - I was using Ziploc bags for snacks, sandwiches and often times I put all my little Ziplocs in one big gallon size bag.  I’ve tried out a number of different re-useable bags and like different ones for different uses.  All of them are washable, BPA free and relatively affordable (especially when you consider the price of Ziplocs and how fast we went through them).

  • Snack Taxi – This product was showcased on Oprah, and is among the most popular re-useable snack/sandwich options.  I also recently had the good fortune of meeting one of the owners (Chicagoan) of MightyNest.com – a website dedicated to helping parents research and purchase non-toxic alternatives for a safe and healthy home. They too highly recommend the Snack Taxi as a Ziploc alternative.  I’ve tried out both thesnack taxi 150x150 Do you want to be greener on the go? sandwich and snack size, but prefer this product for sandwiches.  My two year old has a hard time opening and holding the snack size.  The sandwich size works great and really washes up easily.  Even sticky PB&J wipes right off.  The Snack Taxi was the most durable of all the re-useable bags I tested.
  • Fresh Snack Pack – These bags look more like a traditional Ziploc, but are BPA free and re-useable. Fresh Snack Pack 150x150 Do you want to be greener on the go?The sandwich size unfolds to create a little placemat too, which can be handy.  Like the Snack Taxi, my two year old has a hard time opening and holding the snack size bag, but we love the sandwich size bag.  It is surprisingly durable and REALLY easy to clean.
  • FoodStuffs Reusable Snack Package – These bags have a velcro closure that is easy for my twofoodstuff 150x150 Do you want to be greener on the go? year old to operate. They are also bigger on the bottom, so they sit on the table nicely and hold A LOT.  This bag was the easiest for my two year old to operate.  I currently have the owner of this store sewing me a gallon size bag.  In all of my online research, I have yet to find a large re-usable bag to replace gallon size Ziplocs.  I’ll let you know what I think once I receive it.
  • Kids Konserve Sandwich Bag – This product is also available at MightyNest,Kids Konserve 150x150 Do you want to be greener on the go? and works great for sandwiches.  I love that it turns into a placemat too. Like the others, it washes up easily and seems pretty durable.
  • Snack Trap – They now offer BPA free Snack Traps.  Like all moms I know, I could not live without this product.  They don’t completely eliminate the mess, but they sure do cut down on the number of flying Cheerios coming from my stroller. One more tip, they make lids forsnack trap 150x109 Do you want to be greener on the go? Snack Traps.  I might be the only one, but I was unaware of the lids for the first year I used them.  Why oh why do they sell them separately?

Lunch Bags/Lunch Boxes - Did you know that during a school year, one child creates an lunch bag 150x150 Do you want to be greener on the go?average of 67 pounds of lunch waste? (Environmental Protection Agency).  Since my kids don’t go to school yet, I asked my friends at MightyNest for a recommendation.  They love the Kids Konserve Waste-Free Lunch Set.

Re-useable Shopping Bags - As mentioned above, I am sure most of you have seen, if not switched to, re-useable shopping bags for your groceries.  I have made a concerted effort to not only use re-useable bags when I go grocery shopping but for all types of shopping.  I found the biggest obstacle to using re-useable bags at the pharmacy, convenience store or mall was that I never seemed to haveIMG 0705 150x150 Do you want to be greener on the go? them with me or the right size.  I now have two re-usable shopping bags in my purse (the kind that roll-up and snap into a little ball), two in my stroller and one in my diaper bag.  I also have two large plastic shopping bags (similar to the paper ones you receive from a department store) in my car.  They only cost $3.99 at the Container Store, and fold up pretty small.  I now bring them with me when I go shopping, and have not used a bag from a clothing or shoe store all year.

I by no means consider my self to be “green”, but I do feel like I can make little changes in my life to help shrink my “Shaq” size foot print into something a little more reasonable.  Let me know what your family is doing to be greener. I would love some new ideas!

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I recently embarked on the bumpy, sometimes soggy, adventure called potty training.  Since this is my first time attempting to teach another human being this life skill, I am by no means planning on providing you with any advice on how to best accomplish this task.  Instead, I thought I would highlight a few of the products I’ve found, through word of mouth and research, that are designed to make potty training a bit easier on the go.

Please note that these products can be found at a number of different Chicago retailers, but I included where I purchased mine and the price below so that you would have an idea of their costs.

potty seat 150x150 Potty Training On The GoToilet Seat Covers - Since my daughter could walk into a bathroom with me, I have been, frantically, trying to keep her from touching ANYTHING.  Now that I am teaching her how to use public toilets, the task has become a bit more daunting.  Here are two products that I’ve found with the dual purpose of keeping your little one’s hands off the toilet and keeping them from falling in…ewww! Two of my girlfriends recommended the Primo Travel Potty Seat.  It fully covers the public toilet seat and has convenient handles for them to hold on.  It is VERY compact.  The only down-side is that it does not come in a bag.  You can use either a Ziploc or a Nappy Sack (see below).  I bought mine at Giggle potty toppers1 150x150 Potty Training On The Goon Halstead for $12.  If the idea of a disposable seat cover is more to your liking, I found the Neat Solutions Potty Toppers at Babies R Us for $5.99.  They drape over the side of the potty, so your kids can hold on without touching the toilet.

portable potty 150x150 Potty Training On The GoPortable Potty – My hubby and I go on a lot of long car rides and driving vacations with our girls.  Given the urgency my two-year-old has in her voice when she says, “Mommy, I need to go potty”, I do not want to take any chances with waiting to find a public bathroom.  I also thought that it would come in handy to have a portable potty at the park.  The two parks closest to me do not have bathrooms. There are a number of options on the market that range from plastic to cardboard models.  I bought the On The Go Potty by Kalencorn at Babies R Us.  For $14.99, it was affordable, compact and sturdy.  It even comes with its own carrying case.

Flushable 150x150 Potty Training On The GoFlushable Wipes - Is it just me or are tushies harder to wipe standing up?  Regardless of how you’re doing the wiping, you want to make sure you are using flushable wipes if you are putting them in a toilet.  My daughter’s skin is very sensitive, so we like the chlorine-free wipes by Earth’s Best.  They are $7.98 for 50.  If your little one is not as “sensitive”, many of the flushable wipes on the market (Charmin, Kaboodle, etc.) come in on-the-go packaging.

Extra Clothes & Bag – Unfortunately, along with potty training comes a few accidents.  When I first had Grace, I always had a spare set of clothes in my diaper bag.  Now that we are potty training I, again, have a spare set in my diaper bag and another set in the car.  In addition, I keep a waterproof bag in my diaper bag.  The owner of Giggle turned me on to the Mio Nappy Bag.  One of my resolutions has been to use fewer Ziplocs.  The Nappy Bag is a great, green, alternative for only $12.  I keep my portable seat and wipes in it and it is perfect to put wet clothes in if we do have an accident.  You can also use it for wet bathing suits.  It has two inner pockets, a leak-proof nappy bag 150x150 Potty Training On The Gozip closure and a convenient carrying strap. This picture shows it stuffed full.  It is no bigger or bulkier than a gallon size Ziploc.

Finding a Bathroom – I recently found a great website and iPhone app for finding the closest clean public restroom, www.sitorsquat.com. Now that Spring is here (or at least coming) we will be spending more time at parks.  The Chicago Park District does not have a list of parks with bathrooms, but most of the parks with classes have public restrooms open during the day.

I am always looking for great “on the go” products.  Let me know what your favorites are.

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When it comes to shoes…I have a serious weekness.  I LOVE them.  To my husbands dismay, my love for buying shoes has transfered to my two daughters.  I justify buying my older daughter shoes by saying the baby will wear them one day too.  Funny…I can always find a way to justify a new pair of shoes for me or them!

If you haven’t checked out Nordstrom’s kids shoe department, you should.  It is almost as awesome as their women’s shoe department.  They carry a wide variety of styles and price points.  I think they have the best selection of athletic shoes for toddlers in the city. I know you are probably thinking their shoes are too pricey, but they have Converse Chuck Taylors for the same price as the Gap and I got my daughter a pair of adorable brown patent leather Mary Jane shoes for less that a similar pair at Stride Rite. They also have killer sales.  Click here to view huge assortment of kid, toddler and baby shoes currently on sale.

Not to say there aren’t some incredible bargains and CUTE shoes on Nordstrom’s website, but that’s nothing compared to the MOTHER LOAD I found today!  A friend told me that the Nordstrom Rack in Northbrook (199 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook.  It is less than a mile from Northbrook Court Mall)IMG 0604 150x150 Check out Nordstrom Rack for amazing deals on kids clothes and shoes! carried kids clothes and shoes.  They do, and they are having a SALE!  It was a regular bonanza of adorable clothes and shoes at ridiculously low prices.  Seriously, you need to check it out.  It is well worth the 20 mile drive from the city.  I got my daughter a pair of Roxy tennis shoes and flip flops for under $15…yes, both pairs.  The flip flops were $3 and the tennis shoes were $10!

There are three Nordstrom Rack locations in Chicago and the burbs: Northbrook (199 Skokie Blvd.), State Street (24 North State, Chicago) and Oak Brook Place (2155 West 22nd Street, Oak Brook). Unfortunately the State Street location does not carry kids clothes or shoes.

Happy shoe shopping!  Pick up a pair for yourself while your at it.  They had a huge selection boots on sale!

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Looking for trendy kids clothes, but don’t want to pay boutique prices?  Check out Zara and H&M.  Both have great kids clothes at reasonable prices, but browse their sales for some really great deals!  Even better, you can pick up something new for you too!

I use to travel internationally for business and fell in love with Zara (originated in Spain).  I was thrilled when it finally made its way to the U.S.  They have great trendy clothes for men, women, kids and even maternity at very affordable prices.  I would describe Zara as a more mature and upscale H&M.  Click here to view their current kids catalog.  I just visited their Old Orchard location and got my daughter some SUPER cute clothes for next to nothing.  All of their winter stuff is on sale (shirts 7.99 , sweaters $9.99 and cute pants for $12.99).  They now have three Chicagoland locations, but not all of them carry baby or maternity.

H&M make clothes, shoes and accessories for men, women, kids, babies and even maternity.  Not all Chicago locations carry kids and maternity (see below).  I have found some great clothes for my girls and even a few pairs of shoes.  One of my favorite H&M finds is knee socks.  Whenever my kids sit in their stroller, it seems like their pants shrink!  About three inches of leg tends to show between their socks and pants.  H&M carries knee socks, which alleviates this little winter problem.  Not to mention they look adorable in the Fall and Spring with skirts.

Unfortunately neither H&M nor Zara let you purchase items online, so here is a list of their Chicago area locations.

Zara

  • Magnificent Mile (mens, ladies, kids, and baby) – 700 North Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL
  • State Street (mens, ladies, maternity, kids and baby) – 1 W. Randolph St., Chicago, IL
  • Old Orchard Center (mens, ladies, maternity, & kids) - 66 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, IL

H&M

  • Magnificent Mile (men, ladies, maternity, kids and baby) – 840 North Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
  • State Street (ladies, & men) – 20 North State Street, Chicago, IL
  • Oakbrook Center (ladies & men) – 466 Oakbrook Center, Oakbrook, IL
  • Orland Square (men, ladies, kids and baby) – 288 Orland Square Park, Orland, IL
  • The Promenade (ladies) – 619 East Boughton Rd., Bollingbrook, IL
  • Woodfield Shopping Center (men, ladies, maternity,  kids and baby) – 5 Woodfield Shopping Center, Schaumburg, IL
  • Fox Valley Center (men, ladies, kids and baby) – 1276 Fox Valley Center, Aurora, IL
  • Gurnee Mills Mall (men, ladies,kids and baby) – 6170 Grand Ave., Gurnee, IL
  • Geneva Commons (ladies) – 524 Commons Drive, Geneva IL
  • Westfield Hawthorn Shopping Center (ladies) – 122 Hawthorn Center, Vernon Hills, IL
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Nothing makes me smile like watching my children dance.   Kids have this innate love of music, which has been the source of hours of fun for my family.  From living room dance parties and car ride sing-alongs to enjoying live music together around Chicago and taking Wiggleworm classes, much of our time together as a family includes music.

I was at Old Town School of Folk Music earlier this week and I picked up the Wiggleworms Love You CD! It is a collection of over 40 sing-along songs performed by your favorite Wiggleworms’ artists ($15).  I LOVE it!  We have been playing it in the car ever since we got it.  Not only does it remind us of Mr. Angela and our Wiggleworms class, but many of the songs are also ones I sang at camp as a kid.  According to their website, you can purchase the CD on iTunes too.

This was the first children’s music CD I’ve purchased that I truly liked as much as my kids did, and it inspired me to investigate what’s hot in kids music.  I am no music guru, so I found a cool blog that focuses on kids music, Kids Music That Rocks.  The author of this blog also writes for About.com and recently did an article titled The Best Kids Music of 2009.  My husband also recently found an article in U.S.A Today called These kids’ songs are…awesome.

Both lists included three of the same CDs.  I spent some time on iTunes today sampling each of the CDs from both lists.  Honestly, some I liked and some…not so much.  I tended to enjoy the CDs recommended by Kids Music That Rocks the most.  They tended to be more of the folk music genre.

I ended up purchasing a couple songs from a few of the CDs and creating my own CD.  Don’t you just love the flexibility of buying music online.

Here are the two lists.  I noted the ones I really liked in parenthesis.  Let me know what you think.

The Best Kids Music of 2009 by Warren Truitt (Author of Kids Music That Rocks)

  1. Caspar Babypants – “Here I Am!” (Thumbs up!)
  2. Ziggy Marley – “Family Time” (Thumbs up.  Classic reggae and found on both lists)
  3. Billy Kelly and the Blah Blah Blahs – “Thank You for Joining the Happy Club”
  4. Apple Brains – “Get Fruity!!”
  5. They Might be Giants – “Here Comes Science” (Thumbs up. Typical They Might Be Giants sound and on both lists.)
  6. Kesang Marstrand – “Hello Night” (Thumbs up!)
  7. Recess Monkey – “Field Trip” (Thumbs up and on both lists)
  8. The Dreyer Family Band – “Family Photograph” (Thumbs up!)
  9. Dog on Fleas – “Beautiful World” (Thumbs up!)
  10. Lunch Money – “Dizzy” (Thumbs up!)

These Kids’ Songs Are Awesome! by Korina Lopez of USA Today.

  • They Might Be Giants – “Here Comes Science” (Thumbs up and on both lists)
  • Yo Gabba Gabba Music Is….Awesome
  • Peter Himmelman – “My Trampoline” (Thumbs up!)
  • Secret Agent  23 Skidoo – “Easy”
  • Dan Zanes and Friends – “76 Trambones” (Thumbs Up!)
  • Ziggy Marley – “Family Time” (Thumbs up and on both lists)
  • Sarah Lee Guthrie & Family – “Go Waggaloo”
  • Robbert Bobbert – “Robert Bobbert and the Bubble Machine” (Thumbs up!)
  • Bill Jonas – “Happy Accidents” (Thumbs up!)
  • Recess Monkey – “Field Trip” (Thumbs up and on both lists)
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For some reason Ikea has never crossed my mind when I was decorating my children’s nursery or purchasing toys.  A friend recently told me they had easels for $15.  Hard to believe, but TRUE.  Yesterday I decided to make the trek out to Ikea in Shaumburg (1800 McConnor Parkway). From my house in Lakeview it is 22 miles, but at 10am on at Tuesday it took me less than a half hour. FYI – there is also another local Ikea in Bolingbrook.

I was pleansantly surprised by the variety of children’s products .  Click here to see all the children’s products offered.

easel 150x150 Who knew the Ikea in Schaumburg was so kid friendly and inexpensive?They  had furniture, lighting, bedding, toys, and small furniture (e.g., kitchen sets, tables and chairs).  There was a wide variety of styles from cute and traditional to modern and simplistic. I picked up two easels that have dry erase boards on one side, chalk boards on the other side and an optional roll of paper.  The easel was $14.99 and the optional paper roll was $5.99.  MUCH cheaper than what I’ve seen similar products for elsewhere.

The good and the not so good…

The other things I really like about Ikea were

  • the play car shopping carts (always a big hit with my two year old),
  • the dining area with YUMMY Swedish meatballs, an extensive kids menu ($.99 each or three items for $2.49) and a play area in the cafeteria with toys and movies,
  • the 0-3 year old ball pit/play area on the third floor, and
  • the free drop off one hour day care for kids between 37 inches and 54 inches tall.

All and all the store is  VERY family friendly, but there were two design features that made it challenging to shop with two small kids by myself.

  1. The cafeteria is not big enough to bring your cart in.  That meant I had to carry my “grabby” 10 month old and a tray full of food while convincing my hungry two year old to walk next to me without touching anything.  Not the easiest thing…but we managed.
  2. They also don’t allow you to bring your shopping cart into the parking lot.  Like Target and Costco, I could not leave without buying all kinds of random things that I did not know I needed (wrapping paper, finger puppets, glasses, etc.).  Add these purchases to the two easels I originally planned to buy, and clearly there was no way I was making to my car with my purchases without the use of a cart.  I ended up having to abandon my cart with all of my new loot in the loading area while I retrieved my car with my two children.

I will definitely be going back when I am ready to upgrade from cribs to beds..but next time I will be bringing my husband to help!

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If you are looking for one of a kind or handcrafted gifts, check out one of Chicago’s great Christmas Markets and craft fairs.  Not only can you cross off a few gifts from your Christmas list, but you can also enjoy some family entertainment and seasonal munchies.

Plus, if you are looking for family friendly Christmas activities or the best place to visit the big guy in the red suit, check out my other to Holiday posts: “Looking for the best place to visit Santa in Chicago?” and “Jingle all the way to these fun family friendly holiday events in Chicago!”


Christkindlmarket ChicagoThis annual German Christmas Market in Daley Plaza includes over 50 vendors that offer handcrafted gifts from around the world.  You can also enjoy festive performances, gluhwein (spiced wine), bratwurst, schnitzel, potato pancakes and other German treats.

  • When – 11/27-12/23 11am-8pm (Sun-Thur) & 11am-9pm (Fri. & Sat.), 12/24 11am-4pm
  • Where – Daley Plaza (50 Washington St.)
  • Neighborhood – Loop
  • Cost – FREE


Lincoln Square Christkindl MarketIf your idea of Chirstmas shopping includes sipping hot spiced wine, eating bratwurst and listening to german carolers; the 2nd annual German holiday market in Lincoln Square is the perfecet place for you.

  • When -12/4 from 12-10pm, 12/5 from 9am-10pm and 12/6 from 10am-7pm
  • Where – Lincoln Square (Lincoln Ave & Leland Ave.)
  • Neighborhood – Lincoln Square
  • Cost – $3 suggested donation for adults, children FREE

Irish Christmas Bazaar and Bake SaleWhile shopping for traditional Irish crafts, you can enjoy live Irish music, munch on yummy treats from the Jolly Holly Bake Shop, watch a performance on myths of ancient Ireland and a visit with Santa.

  • When – December 6 from 9am-3pm
  • Where – Irish American Heritage Center (4626 N. Knox Ave.)
  • Neighborhood – Irving Park
  • Costs – Bazaar is FREE (Breakfast $8 adults, $4 kids)

Julmarknad Christmas Bazaar- Shop for traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts and games, while enjoying a Lucia procession, folk dancers and kaffestuga.

  • When – December 5 from 10am-5pm and December 6 from 10am-4pm
  • Where – Swedish American Museum (5211 N. Clark St.)
  • Neighborhood – Andersonville
  • Cost – $2

Late Night AndersonvilleFor four hours stores and restaurants will be offering discounts on great gifts and meals.  Enjoy complimentary refreshments and entertainment while you shop.

  • When – December 4 & 18 from 6-10pm
  • Where – Andersonville (Clark Street)
  • Neighborhood – Andersonville
  • Cost - FREE

Green Family Holiday Fair at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum- Enjoy a day of fun at the museum and shop for green products from more than 30 companies.

  • When – December 6 at 10am-5pm
  • Where – Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N. Cannon)
  • Neighborhood – Lincoln Park
  • Cost – Free with Admission ($9 adults, $6 children 3+)

Bucktown Holiday Artshow

  • When – Decebmer 12 & 13 from 12-5pm
  • Where – Holstein Park (2200 N. Oakley Ave)
  • Neighborhood – Bucktown
  • Cost -$2

14th Annual Southport Holiday StrollEnjoy holiday carollers, horse-drawn sleigh rides and special shopping deals.

  • When – December 4 from 5-9pm
  • Where – Southport (between Belmont and Irving Park)
  • Neighborhood – Lakeview
  • Cost - FREE

Logan Square Holiday Art & Craft Event

  • When – Decenber 5 from 9am-6pm
  • Where – Good News Center (2156 W. Wellington)
  • Neighborhood – Logan Square
  • Cost - FREE

Indie Art Market – Check out great gift ideas by more than 30 local Chicago artist.  Handcrafted art including jewelry, collages, sculptures, silkscreen prints, letterpress, zines, textiles, stationary and much more will be on sale.

  • When – Saturday, December 19th from 11am-4pm.
  • Where – Schubas (music room) – 3159 Southport
  • Neighborhood – Lakeview
  • Cost - FREE

One of a Kind Show & Sale500 of North America’s best artists and craftspeople

  • When – December 3-6
  • Where – The Merchandise Mart (8th Floor)
  • Neighborhood – Loop
  • Cost – $10 Adult, $7 Children

29th Annual Lambs Farm Holiday Lights Gift & Craft Fair – Choose from the fine art and craftwork of more than 350 vendors.  Stop by the Lambs Farm booth for their famous butter cookies, chocolates and jams.

  • When – December 4-6 (Fri. 11am-9pm, Sat. 9sm-7pm, and Sun. 10am-5pm)
  • Where – Arlington Park Racecourse (2200 W. Euclid Ave.)
  • Suburb – Arlington Heights
  • Cost – adults $6, children FREE (+$6 parking)

Homespun Holiday Market at the Garfield Farm Museum - Shop for gifts made my local artisans and crafters.  All proceeds go to the Garfield Farm.  They will also have people in period clothing doing demonstrations in the museum.

  • When – December 5 & 6 from 12-7pm
  • Where – Garfield Farm (3NO16 Garfield Road)
  • Suburb – Lafox
  • Cost – Market is FREE ($3 adults, $2 children donation requested if you tour the museum.)
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As I talked about in my post “Plan a trip to the mall that promises fun for mom and tot“, I am always looking for ways to make the chores we all have to get done each week more fun for me and my girls.  Darting into a grocery store to grab some milk and other essentials is no longer quick and more of a production than I ever imagine.  Now I have to unload two kids from our car, strap the baby into her sling and the toddler into the shopping cart, bring enough toys, snacks and diapers to last the 30 to 45 minutes we will be in the store and hope to escape before actually needing to use the diapers and wipes!

My experience at the new Whole Foods in Lincoln Park (1550 N. Kingsbury) this morning was more fun than chore, and for that I say THANK YOU!

We headed to Whole Foods just before 10:00.  I grabbed some tea at the cute little coffee bar in the front of the store and settled in for a half hour FREE sing-along with a Bubbles performer.  She was great.  Not only did she do a wonderful job of making it interactive, she also encouraged the kids to come up on stage and dance along.  After the sing-along, we did our weekly shopping.  On the way back to the car (FYI – lots of free and convenient parking) we check out the many snack/lunch options on the second floor.

If you love Whole Foods and the philosophy behind the brand, you will love this new store.  They have truly given it a “Chicago” feel and have embraced families.  They offer special parking spots for alternative fuel vehicles, they used reclaimed materials in the construction of the store, and they offer lots of activities targeted to families.  Check out their calendar for upcoming events.  In November you can enjoy a free sing-along every Wednesday and Thursday at 10:00, Green Mama classes on Wednesdays starting at 10:30 and a handful of other green parenting seminars.

Sing-alongs and shopping…genius!

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Did you know that the Land of Nod Outlet moved to Naperville (1860 Jefferson)?  The store is bigger and better organized than the old store in Northbrook.  Best of all, it is right next to a great Crate & Barrel Outlet (their sister company).

They offer slightly damaged and new discontinued furniture, bedding, books, toys and art .  The discount varies dramatically.  Some of the items don’t seem like much of a deal, but others can be quite the find.

I got a white dresser at the old location that was missing its knobs and had a red scratch (came off with Goo Gone) for $150.  I added some crystal knobs and it is as good as new in my baby’s room.  I was looking for a little table and chairs this time.  Although they had several to choose from, the discount was pretty small.

My only complaint would be that the aisles are too narrow.  My stroller would not fit down most of the aisles in the store, which made shopping difficult.  Given there target market, you would think that they would make the store as stroller friendly as possible.

I would say it is worth the trip (especially with the HUGE Crate & Barrel Outlet next door), but be prepared to hunt through stuff to find a good deal.

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When the weather turned cold, I suddenly realized that my two year old did not have a single long sleeved shirt or a proper winter coat, so off to Old Orchard we went.  When shopping with kids I no longer stroll through stores, leisurely sipping coffee.  I am a strategic shopper now.  I have a plan and a timeline.  That being said, I have learned a valuable lesson…a trip to the mall will be a lot more enjoyable if I plan for some play time too.

I’ve always enjoyed the kid friendly play areas (dragon playground), wide walk ways perfect for strollers and two year olds who insist on walking on their “OWN”, and great kid friendly restaurants (food court, Johnny Rockets & California Pizza Kitchen), but on my most recent trip to Old Orchard, I discovered a few new kid friendly amenities/activities/discounts that made sure all of us had a good time.

  • The Pottery Barn Kids at Old Orchard has FREE story time every Tuesday from 11-11:30am.  They also have free sing-alongs and Barbie Events.  There next sing-along has a Halloween theme and will be on 10/28 at 10:00am and 11:00am.  Check their website for additional events.
  • The Barnes & Noble at Old Orchard has FREE story time and craft every Monday at 10:00am and free story time every Tuesday at 10:00am.  They also have other special events like visits from Clifford.  Check their website for additional events.  There will be a Halloween themed storytime on Oct. 24 at 11:00am.
  • Kids eat FREE at Johnny Rockets from 3-5:00pm every day.  They also have huge booths and 5 highchairs, so they can accommodate a group of mommies.
  • Westfield Family Club (WFamily) – Who knew you could get discounts and invitations to cool kids events from the mall?  Visit the concierge desk in the food court and sign up for the FREE WFamily Club.  Not only do you get special benefits and invitations to kid friendly events, but you also get great discounts.  Every Wednesday you can get special discounts at participating stores by showing your card.  I checked out the list of discounts, and there are some great ones (15% entire purchase at Children’s Place, 25% a single item at Gap, Gap Baby and Gap Kids, 15% off your meal at Johnny Rockets, 15% a regular priced item at Steve Madden, and many more).  If you’re free Saturday, Oct. 24, they are having a giant Harvest Festival for families at the mall.

With storytime as the carrot, my toddler may even be able to tolerate a half hour in the Nordstrom’s shoe department!  Let me know if you have any other tips for surviving the mall with your wee ones!

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