GoGo Babyz Kidz Travelmate

Now that I’m back in school, I am forced—after many, many years—to stretch my critical thinking skills. And the more I do it, the more I realize that my life as a mother of three is one big word problem. How do you get 1 mom, a 2 month old, a 2 ½ year old and a 3 ½ year old from Cincinnati, Ohio to Frankfurt, Germany while protecting the very precious sanity of said mother? A lot of logistic preparation!

To be very honest, when I fly with my three kids anywhere I start visualizing the process about three weeks out. How many bags, car seats, and strollers will I have? How will I get from the car to the terminal? What’s the easiest way to get through security? I’m a control freak, so I plan down to who holds which bags. When my youngest was born and I knew we would be doing a trans-Atlantic flight soon after, I panicked a little bit. Short of putting all my kids on leashes (no offense if that’s your solution) the GoGo Babyz Travelmate was clearly the best option. My child’s car seat hooked onto it so easily and it’s incredibly easy to maneuver. You don’t even have to remove it to hook into the airline seat, just pop the wheels off and you’re good to go. It’s also so much easier to get through security than a stroller! Prior to GoGo Babyz, there really was no easy way of getting your car seat on the airplane short of dragging it or slinging it on your back (I’ve done both). GoGo Babyz Travelmate makes it easy and you can put it to good use an infinite number of times.

A few traveling tricks I’ve learned along the way….

** If you choose to take a stroller through security and don’t want to, or can’t break it down to get it through the machine, just ask them to “wand it” it may take a few more minutes, but if saves you from unstrapping everyone and trying to keep track of three or more kiddos in the security line, it’s totally worth it.

** When I travel with the GoGo Babyz Travelmate or a stroller I attach a small carabiner and some climbing rope (or something similar) to the handle. I have my oldest hang onto it as we travel through the airport or really anywhere crowded. It makes us both feel better, when I don’t have enough hands for everyone to hold.

Happy travels!

It’s time for a Scavenger Hunt! Don’t get “fooled” by today’s fun at Zoolu!

Heads up to all of our Zoolu! Fans – tomorrow is April Fools’ Day!  Be sure to have your guard up tomorrow so that you don’t fall victim to the crazy people (like me!) that love to have fun with this fun-filled day!  Join the fun today for your chance to be “zapped” with a $20 Gift Coupon to Zoolu! – it’s easy, quick and fun too!  (Please remember to stay on the site for at least 3 minutes.  If you finish early, simply leave your browser open for the remainder of the time.  Thanks!)

A little background for Zoolu! Scavenger Hunt newbies :-)

Why a Scavenger Hunt you might ask? First and foremost, we are always looking for fun ways to interact with our fans.  Secondly, Zoolu! is working on improving our ranking with Google – and these will help greatly!  Apparently, if a shopper searches for a term and then clicks on our listing and stays on our site for a while, Google will see that as a great match for that search term.  The more “great matches” we log in their eyes, the higher up we will move in their listings – which is a big deal for any online store today!

So…not only are you receiving a great chance to win a $20 Gift Coupon, but you will also be helping us improve our Google ranking along the way – it’s a win-win situation!!!

HOW TO PLAY:

1) Enter Baby Boutique in Google’s Search box.

2) Search for Zoolu!’s listing (I’ve found us anywhere from page 8 to page 15 – but it varies for everyone!)

3) Click on that link to be brought to our site and look for the clues on each page.  Each clue will be marked with *** both before and after.  The clue on our Home Page reads: ***Click HERE to begin***

4) The last clue will provide you with a special word (both the clues and the special word will change daily).  E-mail that word and well as which number Google page you found us on at ZooluCares@shopzoolu.com and you will be entered to be zapped.  (For example, my latest search for Baby Boutique on Google found Zoolu! on page 8.  If I followed the clues and was given “lucky” as my special word, I would e-mail “I found you on page 8 and the special word of the day is lucky” to the e-mail address above.)

5) Check back on our Facebook page every day you participate to see if you were the lucky Scavenger Hunt winner :-)

HELPFUL TIPS:

~ Zoolu! is currently listed only with the title Baby Boutique – so please look both for that title and for our address: www.shopzoolu.com to ensure that you don’t miss us in the search.  If you simply look for “Zoolu!” in the title, you will never find us :-(

~ Google lists sites that you have already visited in purple (vs. blue) – so that should help you scan the listings more quickly – just look for the purple links!

~ Google wants people to stay on a site for roughly 3 minutes to be registered as a good fit.  If the Scavenger Hunt takes you less time than that (hopefully it will) – just be sure to keep your browser open to our page for a little bit longer to meet that minimum requirement.

RULES:

~ Your e-mail must include both the Google page you found us on and the special word of the day to be eligible for the “zap”!

~ Even if you have already won…feel free to participate again!  Not only do the clues change every week…but the winner is selected at random, so you are still eligible to be “zapped” again!

Pacifiers…love them or hate them (a dentist’s point of view)!

My children have always LOVED their paci…and given that I love a little serenity in my life, I am not to “anti” to these little “suckers” either!  Unfortunately, there exists a fine line in society where pacifiers shift from an acceptable soother for young babies to an unnecessary accessory for growing toddlers!  Not only are new parents concerned about their little one becoming dependent upon their pacifier far longer than they really should…but there are also the dental risks that come with allowing our children to suck to their hearts content! 

Read below as Molly, our resident dentist, weighs in on this hot topic – shedding light on both the pros and the cons to pacifiers. 

We’ve all heard the warning that pacifiers will cause our children to have bad teeth if we allow them to use them for too long.  What is your advice to parents regarding pacifiers and at what age do you recommend the children be completely done (day and night) with the paci?

Pacifiers are considered a must-have for most parents.  They can be very beneficial for infants but they can also be very damaging if they are used for a prolonged time. Pacifiers have some great benefits such as lowering the risk of SIDS in infants, soothing a child to sleep or calming a child at those unwanted Doctor's appointments. Pacifiers also have many cons as well.  They can interfere with speech development, infants that use pacifiers are more likely to get middle ear infections, and the biggest concern is damage to permanent teeth. Permanent teeth start erupting between 5-6 years old, so the child should definitely not be using a pacifier at that age. I would recommend weening the child off the paci between age 2-3. Start by letting them have the paci just at nap time and night time, and maybe stressful times (like those trips to the Doctor). The earlier you can stop the paci habit, the better. However, it is important to remember that a pacifier habit is much easier to break than a thumb sucking habit!

For those of us that have braved the dreaded task of weening our child off of his/her paci, we know that there are a number of tricks needed to successfully break them free from this habit.  We want to hear your tricks…what did you do that worked for your little one?

Menu Monday

I think “Menu Monday” is going to become “Recipe Monday”. Hope that’s ok!  

I can’t wait to try out this new recipe for Coconut Chicken Salad. It’s going to be in the 80’s this week. I always crave yummy salads when its warmer out. What do you crave when the weather starts turning warmer?

Coconut Chicken Salad

• 6 (about 12 oz) chicken tenderloins
• 6 tbsp shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup panko crumbs
• 2 tbsp crushed cornflake crumbs
• 1/3 cup egg substitute or egg whites
• pinch salt
• olive oil spray

• 6 cups mixed baby greens
• 3/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1 small cucumber, sliced

Vinaigrette

• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp white vinegar (balsamic would work too)
• 2 tsp dijon mustard

Whisk

all vinaigrette ingredients; set aside.

Preheat oven to 375°.

Combine coconut flakes, panko, cornflake crumbs and salt in a bowl. Put egg whites or egg beaters in another bowl.

Lightly season chicken with salt. Dip the chicken in the egg, then in the coconut crumb mixture. Place chicken on a cookie sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup. Lightly spray with olive oil spray and bake for 30 minutes turning halfway, or until chicken is cooked through.

Place 2 cups baby greens on each plate. Divide carrots, cucumber, tomato evenly between each plate. When chicken is ready slice on the diagonal and place on top of greens. Heat dressing in the microwave a few seconds and divide equally between each salad; a little over 1 tbsp each.

Can’t wait to eat this tomorrow!

Last weekend we hosted a birthday party at our house. We had so much fun…nothing like barbequing with some friends and eating a little cake! Below is the recipe for the “cake poppers” I made. They remind me of mini burgers. I was calling them cupcake sliders though….they’re so cute!

Cake Poppers (from Betty Crocker)

• 1 box Betty Crocker® SuperMoist® white cake mix
• Water, vegetable oil and egg whites called for on cake mix box
• 1/4 tsp each gel or liquid food colors

Frosting

• 1 1/2 cups marshmallow creme
• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• Gel or liquid food colors (neon pink, neon purple, neon orange, neon green, classic blue)

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Spray 60 mini muffin cups. Make cake batter as directed on box. Divide batter among 5 small bowls, about 3/4 cup each. Make 5 different colors of batter by adding 1/4 teaspoon food color to each bowl; blend well.
2. 2 Fill each muffin cup with 1 level measuring tablespoon batter, making 12 cupcakes of each color.
3. 3 Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely, about 10 minutes.
4. 4 In large bowl, beat marshmallow creme and butter with electric mixer on medium speed until blended. Beat in powdered sugar until fluffy. Divide frosting among 5 small bowls, about 1/3 cup each. Using the same 5 food colors, lightly tint frosting in each bowl to match the cupcake colors.
5. 5 Assemble each popper using 2 mini cupcakes. Cut tops off each cupcake horizontally (save bottoms for another use). Spread or pipe about 1 tablespoon frosting on cut side of 1 cupcake top. Form a sandwich by placing cut side of second cupcake top on frosting; press lightly. Repeat with remaining cupcake tops. Store loosely covered.

Here’s a picture of mine. They don’t look nearly as perfect as Betty Crocker’s! Don’t judge.  

Hope you enjoy these recipes!!

Personalized Name Train Giveaway WINNER

The WINNER of the personalized name train is….

LeeannaH…I'm not sure what theme I'd pick! Maybe green, lime, and tan polka dots with safari animals to match my sons room. I'm sure it would be adorable no matter what! March 20, 2011 3:41 PM

Congratulations LeeannaH! This will be such a fun addition for your little man’s room! Please come back and let us know what design you decide to go with! Don’t forget to contact us at megan@shopzoolu.com within the next 24 hours so that you can start personalizing your name train!

Didn’t win? Stop by your favorite baby boutique to customize YOUR very own train too.

Scavenger Hunt Thursday…let the fun begin!

If you have not yet participated in Zoolu!’s Scavenger Hunts, you are missing out!!!  Join the fun today for your chance to be “zapped” with a $20 Gift Coupon to Zoolu! – it’s easy, quick and fun too!  (Please remember to stay on the site for at least 3 minutes.  If you finish early, simply leave your browser open for the remainder of the time.  Thanks!)

A little background for Zoolu! Scavenger Hunt newbies :-)

Why a Scavenger Hunt you might ask? First and foremost, we are always looking for fun ways to interact with our fans.  Secondly, Zoolu! is working on improving our ranking with Google – and these will help greatly!  Apparently, if a shopper searches for a term and then clicks on our listing and stays on our site for a while, Google will see that as a great match for that search term.  The more “great matches” we log in their eyes, the higher up we will move in their listings – which is a big deal for any online store today!

So…not only are you receiving a great chance to win a $20 Gift Coupon, but you will also be helping us improve our Google ranking along the way – it’s a win-win situation!!!

HOW TO PLAY:

1) Enter Baby Boutique in Google’s Search box.

2) Search for Zoolu!’s listing (I’ve found us anywhere from page 8 to page 15 – but it varies for everyone!)

3) Click on that link to be brought to our site and look for the clues on each page.  Each clue will be marked with *** both before and after.  The clue on our Home Page reads: ***Click HERE to begin***

4) The last clue will provide you with a special word (both the clues and the special word will change daily).  E-mail that word and well as which number Google page you found us on at ZooluCares@shopzoolu.com and you will be entered to be zapped.  (For example, my latest search for Baby Boutique on Google found Zoolu! on page 8.  If I followed the clues and was given “lucky” as my special word, I would e-mail “I found you on page 8 and the special word of the day is lucky” to the e-mail address above.)

5) Check back on our Facebook page every day you participate to see if you were the lucky Scavenger Hunt winner :-)

HELPFUL TIPS:

~ Zoolu! is currently listed only with the title Baby Boutique – so please look both for that title and for our address: www.shopzoolu.com to ensure that you don’t miss us in the search.  If you simply look for “Zoolu!” in the title, you will never find us :-(

~ Google lists sites that you have already visited in purple (vs. blue) – so that should help you scan the listings more quickly – just look for the purple links!

~ Google wants people to stay on a site for roughly 3 minutes to be registered as a good fit.  If the Scavenger Hunt takes you less time than that (hopefully it will) – just be sure to keep your browser open to our page for a little bit longer to meet that minimum requirement.

RULES:

~ Your e-mail must include both the Google page you found us on and the special word of the day to be eligible for the “zap”!

~ Even if you have already won…feel free to participate again!  Not only do the clues change every week…but the winner is selected at random, so you are still eligible to be “zapped” again!

“Would You Rather…” Wednesday A day without your TV or your computer

And yet another Zoolu! “Would You Rather…” Wednesday!  It’s hard to believe that less than 15 years ago, many of us were just signing up for our first e-mail address!  Today, Zoolu! would like to know…Would you rather go a day without your TV (and you couldn’t get those shows back) or a day without your computer?

What Your Pediatrician Wishes You Knew….

Wives Tale Exposed

You often hear “Don't give milk to a child who has a cold - it will worsen the congestion.”

If your child has a cold and wants milk (breastmilk, formula or regular milk for an older child), by all means let them have it! Milk has more protein than juice or water and will help them heal faster.

Please remember that if you have questions for me, I am ready to answer. Many of your questions and answers can be found by using Doctor Google. However, don’t forget that the answers are not necessarily from a Doctor. I’d love to hear from you all. There are no stupid questions – EVER!

JJ Cole Blanket

“Tummy time”….if my BG could talk she would scream “NOOOOO"!!!!” She can't stand tummy time. Really, I can't stand it either because I know how unhappy it makes my baby girl. There is one thing though that makes it a little better for me....I always lay a blanket down, even in my own home, when BG is on the floor. Between the spit up and drool, I was adding a lot of blankets to my already huge laundry pile. This quickly ended when I found the JJ Cole travel blanket!

I honestly can’t say enough good things about this blanket.We literally use it every.single.day. Now when BG spits up all I have to do is quickly wipe it up since the blanket is water-resistant. It’s the easiest thing to clean. I also love how padded it is. The other plus is that it folds up small so you can throw it in a closet when you’re cleaning up or grab it when you’re running out the door.

Although we mainly use the blanket for tummy/play time, I look forward to using it when the weather gets warmer because when BG isn’t sitting in her Fem * high chair, she will be rolling around on the JJ Cole blanket!

Now you can donate those big bulky comforters to the Good Will and buy one of these. It’s almost Spring, so you might as well start cleaning out that linen closet. While you’re at it add a cute, affordable and PRACTICAL blanket that the entire family can use! I know the Fourth of July is a ways off still, but wouldn’t this be perfect!?

Stop by your favorite baby boutique today and buy one for you…..and your best friend!

Do you own one of these fabulous blankets? If you do, where have you used yours?

Zoolu!’s Sunday Scavenger Hunt…enjoy!

Congratulations Rachel Bonson – you are the lucky winner of yesterday’s Scavenger Hunt!   Join the fun today for your chance to be “zapped” – it’s easy, quick and fun too!  Have a great Sunday, Zoolu! Fans!  (Please remember to stay on the site for at least 3 minutes.  If you finish early, simply leave your browser open for the remainder of the time.  Thanks!)

A little background for Zoolu! Scavenger Hunt newbies :-)

Why a Scavenger Hunt you might ask? First and foremost, we are always looking for fun ways to interact with our fans.  Secondly, Zoolu! is working on improving our ranking with Google – and these will help greatly!  Apparently, if a shopper searches for a term and then clicks on our listing and stays on our site for a while, Google will see that as a great match for that search term.  The more “great matches” we log in their eyes, the higher up we will move in their listings – which is a big deal for any online store today!

So…not only are you receiving a great chance to win a $20 Gift Coupon, but you will also be helping us improve our Google ranking along the way – it’s a win-win situation!!!

HOW TO PLAY:

1) Enter Baby Boutique in Google’s Search box.

2) Search for Zoolu!’s listing (I’ve found us anywhere from page 8 to page 15 – but it varies for everyone!)

3) Click on that link to be brought to our site and look for the clues on each page.  Each clue will be marked with *** both before and after.  The clue on our Home Page reads: ***Click HERE to begin***

4) The last clue will provide you with a special word (both the clues and the special word will change daily).  E-mail that word and well as which number Google page you found us on at ZooluCares@shopzoolu.com and you will be entered to be zapped.  (For example, my latest search for Baby Boutique on Google found Zoolu! on page 8.  If I followed the clues and was given “lucky” as my special word, I would e-mail “I found you on page 8 and the special word of the day is lucky” to the e-mail address above.)

5) Check back on our Facebook page every day you participate to see if you were the lucky Scavenger Hunt winner :-)

HELPFUL TIPS:

~ Zoolu! is currently listed only with the title Baby Boutique – so please look both for that title and for our address: www.shopzoolu.com to ensure that you don’t miss us in the search.  If you simply look for “Zoolu!” in the title, you will never find us :-(

~ Google lists sites that you have already visited in purple (vs. blue) – so that should help you scan the listings more quickly – just look for the purple links!

~ Google wants people to stay on a site for roughly 3 minutes to be registered as a good fit.  If the Scavenger Hunt takes you less time than that (hopefully it will) – just be sure to keep your browser open to our page for a little bit longer to meet that minimum requirement.

RULES:

~ You may enter daily (the clues will change each day)

~ Your e-mail must include both the Google page you found us on and the special word of the day to be eligible for the “zap”!

The fun continues with Zoolu!’s Scavenger Hunts – play today for your chance to be “zapped”!

Congratulations Philip Clark – you are the lucky winner of yesterday’s Scavenger Hunt!   There is yet another set of clues today awaiting those of you that are eager to be zapped.  Happy Hunting!  (Please remember to stay on the site for at least 3 minutes.  If you finish early, simply leave your browser open for the remainder of the time.  Thanks!)

***Scavenger Hunts will continue daily through tomorrow and then weekly thereafter!***  (See below for Rules, Tips and more!)

A little background for Zoolu! Scavenger Hunt newbies :-)

Why a Scavenger Hunt you might ask? First and foremost, we are always looking for fun ways to interact with our fans.  Secondly, Zoolu! is working on improving our ranking with Google – and these will help greatly!  Apparently, if a shopper searches for a term and then clicks on our listing and stays on our site for a while, Google will see that as a great match for that search term.  The more “great matches” we log in their eyes, the higher up we will move in their listings – which is a big deal for any online store today!

So…not only are you receiving a great chance to win a $20 Gift Coupon, but you will also be helping us improve our Google ranking along the way – it’s a win-win situation!!!

HOW TO PLAY:

1) Enter Baby Boutique in Google’s Search box.

2) Search for Zoolu!’s listing (I’ve found us anywhere from page 8 to page 15 – but it varies for everyone!)

3) Click on that link to be brought to our site and look for the clues on each page.  Each clue will be marked with *** both before and after.  The clue on our Home Page reads: ***Click HERE to begin***

4) The last clue will provide you with a special word (both the clues and the special word will change daily).  E-mail that word and well as which number Google page you found us on at ZooluCares@shopzoolu.com and you will be entered to be zapped.  (For example, my latest search for Baby Boutique on Google found Zoolu! on page 8.  If I followed the clues and was given “lucky” as my special word, I would e-mail “I found you on page 8 and the special word of the day is lucky” to the e-mail address above.)

5) Check back on our Facebook page every day you participate to see if you were the lucky Scavenger Hunt winner :-)

HELPFUL TIPS:

~ Zoolu! is currently listed only with the title Baby Boutique – so please look both for that title and for our address: www.shopzoolu.com to ensure that you don’t miss us in the search.  If you simply look for “Zoolu!” in the title, you will never find us :-(

~ Google lists sites that you have already visited in purple (vs. blue) – so that should help you scan the listings more quickly – just look for the purple links!

~ Google wants people to stay on a site for roughly 3 minutes to be registered as a good fit.  If the Scavenger Hunt takes you less time than that (hopefully it will) – just be sure to keep your browser open to our page for a little bit longer to meet that minimum requirement.

RULES:

~ You may enter daily (the clues will change each day)

~ Your e-mail must include both the Google page you found us on and the special word of the day to be eligible for the “zap”!

Zoolu!’s Scavenger Hunt (Day 2)…play for your chance to be “zapped”!

Congratulations Jerrinne Haas – you are the lucky winner of our first-ever St. Patrick’s Day Scavenger Hunt!  Our leprechauns have been hard at work changing up today’s clues to ensure another round of fun!  Do you have 5 minutes (at the most)?  Then why not play along for your chance to be “zapped” with a $20 Gift Coupon to Zoolu!  (Please remember to stay on the site for at least 3 minutes – thanks!!!  If you finish early, simply leave your browser open for the remainder of the time.)

***Scavenger Hunts will continue daily throughout this weekend and then weekly thereafter!***  (See below for Rules, Tips and more!)

A little background for the newbies :-)

Why a Scavenger Hunt you might ask? First and foremost, we are always looking for fun ways to interact with our fans.  Secondly, Zoolu! is working on improving our ranking with Google – and these will help greatly!  Apparently, if a shopper searches for a term and then clicks on our listing and stays on our site for a while, Google will see that as a great match for that search term.  The more “great matches” we log in their eyes, the higher up we will move in their listings – which is a big deal for any online store today!

So…not only are you receiving a great chance to win a $20 Gift Coupon, but you will also be helping us improve our Google ranking along the way – it’s a win-win situation!!!

HOW TO PLAY:

1) Enter Baby Boutique in Google’s Search box.

2) Search for Zoolu!’s listing (I’ve found us anywhere from page 8 to page 15 – but it varies for everyone!)

3) Click on that link to be brought to our site and look for the clues on each page.  Each clue will be marked with *** both before and after.  The clue on our Home Page reads: ***Click HERE to begin***

4) The last clue will provide you with a special word (both the clues and the special word will change daily).  E-mail that word and well as which number Google page you found us on at ZooluCares@shopzoolu.com and you will be entered to be zapped.  (For example, my latest search for Baby Boutique on Google found Zoolu! on page 8.  If I followed the clues and was given “lucky” as my special word, I would e-mail “I found you on page 8 and the special word of the day is lucky” to the e-mail address above.)

5) Check back on our Facebook page every day you participate to see if you were the lucky Scavenger Hunt winner :-)

HELPFUL TIPS:

~ Zoolu! is currently listed only with the title Baby Boutique – so please look both for that title and for our address: www.shopzoolu.com to ensure that you don’t miss us in the search.  If you simply look for “Zoolu!” in the title, you will never find us :-(

~ Google lists sites that you have already visited in purple (vs. blue) – so that should help you scan the listings more quickly – just look for the purple links!

~ Google wants people to stay on a site for roughly 3 minutes to be registered as a good fit.  If the Scavenger Hunt takes you less time than that (hopefully it will) – just be sure to keep your browser open to our page for a little bit longer to meet that minimum requirement.

RULES:

~ You may enter daily (the clues will change each day)

~ Your e-mail must include both the Google page you found us on and the special word of the day to be eligible for the “zap”!

~ If you are “zapped” – you will have 24 hours to contact us to receive your special code.

Zoolu!’s first ever Scavenger Hunt…play for your chance to be “zapped”!

Calling all Zoolu! Fans!  Today is your lucky day!  Yes, it’s St. Patrick’s Day – a lucky day indeed – but it is also the first ever Scavenger Hunt being hosted by Zoolu!  With only 5 minutes (at the most), you will follow a number of clues on our site to receive the special daily word.  E-mail us this special clue at ZooluCares@shopzoolu.com and you will be automatically entered to be “zapped” with a $20 Gift Coupon to Zoolu! 

Why a Scavenger Hunt you might ask? First and foremost, we are always looking for fun ways to interact with our fans.  Secondly, Zoolu! is working on improving our ranking with Google – and these will help greatly!  Apparently, if a shopper searches for a term and then clicks on our listing and stays on our site for a while, Google will see that as a great match for that search term.  The more “great matches” we log in their eyes, the higher up we will move in their listings – which is a big deal for any online store today!

So…not only are you receiving a great chance to win a $20 Gift Coupon, but you will also be helping us improve our Google ranking along the way – it’s a win-win situation!!!

HOW TO PLAY:

1) Enter Baby Boutique in Google’s Search box.

2) Search for Zoolu!’s listing (I’ve found us anywhere from page 8 to page 15 – but it varies for everyone!)

3) Click on that link to be brought to our site and look for the clues on each page.  Each clue will be marked with *** both before and after.  The clue on our Home Page reads: ***Click HERE to begin***

4) The last clue will provide you with a special word (both the clues and the special word will change daily).  E-mail that word and well as which number Google page you found us on at ZooluCares@shopzoolu.com and you will be entered to be zapped.  (For example, my latest search for Baby Boutique on Google found Zoolu! on page 8.  If I followed the clues and was given “lucky” as my special word, I would e-mail “I found you on page 8 and the special word of the day is lucky” to the e-mail address above.)

5) Check back on our Facebook page every day you participate to see if you were the lucky Scavenger Hunt winner :-)

HELPFUL TIPS:

~ Zoolu! is currently listed only with the title Baby Boutique – so please look both for that title and for our address: www.shopzoolu.com to ensure that you don’t miss us in the search.  If you simply look for “Zoolu!” in the title, you will never find us :-(

~ Google lists sites that you have already visited in purple (vs. blue) – so that should help you scan the listings more quickly – just look for the purple links!

~ Google wants people to stay on a site for roughly 3 minutes to be registered as a good fit.  If the Scavenger Hunt takes you less time than that (hopefully it will) – just be sure to keep your browser open to our page for a little bit longer to meet that minimum requirement.

RULES:

~ You may enter daily (the clues will change each day)

~ Your e-mail must include both the Google page you found us on and the special word of the day to be eligible for the “zap”!

~ If you are “zapped” – you will have 24 hours to contact us to receive your special code.

“Would You Rather…” Wednesday Shopping Spree or a day at the Day Spa

It’s Wednesday again! And that means today is Zoolu!’s “Would You Rather…” Wednesday! We all know that “Me” time is hard to come by once we are graced with little munchkins. Today Zoolu! wants to know…Would you rather indulge in a shopping spree or pamper yourself to a day at the Day Spa?

I’m 39 weeks and the doctor keeps throwing all these numbers at me…what do they mean???

Just tonight I received a call from one of my closest friends who is 38 weeks and 6 days (but who is counting right?).  She was driving home from her doctor’s appointment and was dying to know if what her nurse had told her – “You are 3 cm dilated and 80% effaced” -- was “good news” or “bad news”.  Going into labor, we all know that being 10 cm dilated and 100% effaced is our goal…but we aren’t always sure how the information the nurse or doctor tells us during an appointment relates to our ultimate goal. 

So…for those of you that are dying to know – here’s the low-down on dilating (the opening of the cervix) and effacing (the thinning of the cervix)!  I have an analogy – bear with me!  If I were to give you a balloon that was as thick as a rubber eraser – you probably would not be too successful at blowing it up, right?  Most people when handed a balloon will stretch and pull it for a few seconds before blowing it up.  Why?  To thin the latex so that it stretches and expands more easily, right? 

With that analogy in mind, during the early stages of pregnancy, your cervix is closed and thick (just like the rubber eraser).  As the end of your labor approaches, your cervix will ideally begin to thin to make it easier for it to open, or dilate.  As a doula, I am far more excited for the expecting Mommy if she is effaced, than if she is dilated.  If you are 0 cm dilated and 70% effaced…that means that your cervix is much more similar to a stretched balloon and is likely to dilate much more easily once the contractions set in.  On the contrary, if you are 2 cm dilated and 0% effaced, your body is going to have to work a lot harder to open your cervix (which is still as thick as an eraser) and labor will therefore, in most cases, take a little bit longer. 

The bottom line, take your doctor’s updates lightly.  You may be 0 cm dilated and 0% effaced at your appointment, go home, your water breaks and you are holding your baby in your arms before sunset.  Or…you might be 3 cm dilated and 80% effaced (like my friend) and still hold out for another few days (or weeks in some cases) without going into labor.  Just know this…the more effaced you are, the more effective each contraction will be in helping you dilate to 10 cm!

~Megan Glynn, Childbirth Educator and Doula

If you have any questions regarding Pregnancy, Childbirth or Parenting, please do not hesitate to e-mail me directly at megan@shopzoolu.com.  I LOVE working with expecting couples and would love to hear from you!

Menu Monday

This week The Butler Family will be having Chicken Enchilada’s and Spinach Manicotti. Both of these will make enough for leftovers which is great. Hubby will eat the leftovers and I’ll make a simple salad for myself. I’m currently watching what I eat…I don’t think I need a diet really, but I definitely need to cut back on my portion sizes as well as my sweets! I have a MAJOR sweet tooth. If you have some easy healthy meal ideas, let me know!

I’m trying a new enchilada recipe and I am really excited! There’s nothing wrong with my go-to recipe, but I just love trying new recipes.

Chicken Enchilada’s from www.skinnytaste.com

For the sauce:

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-2 tbsp chipotle chilis in adobo sauce
• 1-1/2 cups tomato sauce
• 1/2 tsp chipotle chili powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 3/4 cup fat free chicken broth
• kosher salt and fresh pepper to taste

For the chicken:

• 1 tsp vegetable oil
• 8.5 oz (2 breast halves) cooked shredded chicken breast
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 large clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• kosher salt
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp chipotle chili powder
• 1/3 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

• 8 (6-inch) reduced carb whole wheat flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded low fat Mexican cheese
• Nonstick cooking spray

In a medium saucepan, spray oil and sauté garlic. Add chipotle chiles, chili powder, cumin, chicken broth, tomato sauce, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Set aside until ready to use.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Heat the vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onions and garlic on low until soft, about 2 minutes. Add chicken, salt, cilantro, cumin, oregano, chili powder, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and cook 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Spray a 13 by 9-inch glass baking dish with non-stick spray. Put 1/3 cup chicken mixture into each tortilla and roll it. Place on baking dish seam side down. Top with sauce and cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the oven on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes. Top with low fat sour cream or scallions if you wish. Makes 8 enchiladas.

Spinach Manicotti – This is a great recipe to double and freeze. That’s what I’ll be doing  

• 1 8-oz package manicotti shells
• 1 10-0z frozen chopped spinach
• 1 16-oz ricotta cheese (reduced fat if desired)
• 1 egg white, beaten
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 tsp minced garlic (or one clove fresh garlic)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Cook the manicotti shells according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Thaw & cook frozen spinach according to instructions. Drain well and squeeze out excess liquid (using paper towels makes this easier!)

In a small bowl, combine mozza, ricotta, egg white, nutmeg (and salt and pepper to taste). Stuff mixture into shells. Place in 9x12 baking dish. Pour your favorite homemade or canned spaghetti sauce on top of manicotti. Bake in preheated 350F oven for 40 minutes or until done.

If you want to freeze this, do everything normal except the sauce on top of the shells. Once the noodles have thawed and are ready for the oven THEN put your sauce on. You probably already knew that, but just wanted to make sure!

Nom nom nom!

Personalized Name Train GIVEAWAY!

One of the best things about Zoolu! is the ability to shop for top name-brand items AND personalized items all at the same time! Zoolu!’s growing line of personalized gifts continue to be a huge hit with our customers. From personalized blankets, t-shirts, jewelry, photo blocks, school supplies by Frecklebox, stamps by Noteworthy to these adorable hand-painted personalized name trains – at Zoolu! you are sure to find the perfect gift for that perfect someone!

Our designer for these name trains is VERY talented and does a great job creating exactly what you had hoped for! She is also able to match your child’s room decor – creating a piece truly unique for your child. Here is an example of one she recently completed for a Zoolu! customer… The customer provided the picture of the nursery and our designer took it from there! How cute is that?!?!

The sky is the limit – and we guarantee you will be VERY impressed!

GIVEAWAY:

WIN! A five-car personalized name train with your child’s initials (train includes engine, 3 initials and caboose) – you name the design/style and she will get to work! If you choose, you may have your entire child’s name created (for only $7 more per train car).

HOW TO ENTER: Simply leave a comment below saying what look you would have our designer create for you and you will be entered to win this adorable hand-painted name train!

GIVEAWAY ENDS: Monday, March 21st

“Would You Rather…” Wednesday Deserted Island or Alpine Skiing

Welcome to Zoolu!’s “Would You Rather…” Wednesday! Pack your bags…it’s time for a vacation! Today Zoolu! wants to know…Would you rather escape to a deserted island or hit the Alps for a day of skiing?

I have a preemie…when can I expect her to catch up to her peers developmentally?

In general, pediatricians, and other child health experts give preemies until the age of two to catch up with their full-term peers, in terms of their growth and development. However, just like there is huge variation among full-term babies in terms of their growth and development, the same is true for babies born prematurely. In general, the more premature the child is, the longer it will take them to catch-up to their full-term counterparts, and premature infants are at higher risk for developmental delays.

Advice regarding the development of ALL children:

I always emphasize with parents that it is important to look at the “whole picture” in terms of assessing their child’s development. Just like adults, children have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, and children may be mildly delayed in one area, such as motor development, but have more advanced language skills. In looking at language, it is important to recognize your child’s ability to understand language, as well as their speech. If you do have concerns about your child’s development, never be afraid to discuss these concerns with your child’s pediatrician or health care provider. If a developmental delay exists, studies indicate that the sooner services (such as physical or speech therapy) can be initiated, the better the outcome. If you feel that your concerns are not being taken seriously by your health care provider, many states offer Early Intervention programs that offer free developmental evaluations, and therapy if your child is considered delayed in a specific area. All states are required to offer early identification and intervention of developmental disabilities in the preschool years (ages 3-5) and typically those services are coordinated through the county school district.

Menu Monday….

First of all, who’s ready for a giveaway? Over here at Zoolu!, we’re getting antsy to do a giveaway so I think you’ll be seeing one soon!

Today’s menu is going to scream BORRRRRING. Dear husband is going out of town for the week so I’ll be living on the below meals and cereal. I LOVE cereal for dinner! When it’s just you and your little one(s), what do you like to cook?

Monday ~ Tortellini Caesar Salad

Ingredients:
1 pkg. 9 oz. frozen tortellini
½ cup mayo
¼ cup milk
¼ cup parmesan cheese
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic minced
Romain lettuce
Seasoned croutons
Tomatoes (optional)

Directions:
*Cook tortellini according to package.
*In a small bowl combine mayo, milk,cheese, lemon juice, and garlic.
*Drain tortellini.
*Place tortellini on top of salad.
*Drizzle with dressing.
*Top with croutons and tomatoes.

As Rachel Ray would say, YUMMO!!

Fat Tuesday – Traditional Breakfast for Dinner

Chocolate Chip Buttermilk Pancakes
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 egg
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
chocolate chips
In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, melted butter and vanilla. Pour wet ingredients into flour mixture and stir until combined. Batter should be a little bit lumpy. Heat a lightly greased skillet over medium-high heat. When a drop of water sizzles on the surface, drop heaping spoonfuls of batter onto the skillet, making 3-inch pancakes. Place a few chocolate chips (about 6) onto each pancake. Cook for about 2 minutes, until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for an additional minute. Serve immediately, with whipped cream, powdered sugar or maple syrup.
Makes about 15 pancakes.
Serves 3-4.

Since I’ll be eating all 15 pancakes by myself, you probably won’t be hearing from me for a while.  

Wednesday – Sunday

Cereal and salads….

Here’s to a great week ahead of us!

I Spy Chai….Tea

I LOVE CHAI TEA. I could probably just leave it at that, but I won’t because I think everyone needs to know how delicious David Rio’s Chai Teas are! I’m really not a huge tea drinker, but Chai is different to me. I love how milky and spicy it is. I’ve tried two of these teas…

Vanilla Chai ~ This was my first taste of David Rio’s Chai. Yummy in my tummy! I was trying to stay away from the local Starbucks while I was pregnant and this saved me! Talk about saving money! I make mine with milk most of the time. All I do is microwave my milk and/or water, put a couple heaping scoops of the mix into my milk, stir, and enjoy! I drank so much of this though that I started to worry about all the sugar I was happily enjoying. That’s where my next taste of David Rio comes in…..

I do not like drinking my calories. Never have. I’d rather eat a big chunk of chocolate! I was sooooo excited when I found out that David Rio has SUGAR FREE Vanilla Chai!!! It’s not calorie free, but I’ll take sugar free. It’s also decaffeinated so some of you may not like that, but I say give it a shot! It’s so comforting. I love it in the middle of the day when the little one is napping. It’s also super yummy if you throw some ice over it. You can leave it on the rocks or blend it up for something different. I’m starting to think that I was a mini Barista in a past life!

Wouldn’t this be a fun little hostess gift? I think some chai paired with a cute tote bag for the grocery store would be an adorable gift. You could also do chai paired with these spice rubs! I can’t say enough good things about these spice rubs! Mmmmm good. With Spring just around the corner, I’m sure there will be tons of BBQ’s to attend!

Happy shopping!

“Would You Rather…” Wednesday Full-time Maid or a Butler

Wahoo! It’s Zoolu!’s “Would You Rather…” Wednesday! How many times have you thought to yourself…if I only could multiply myself, I could actually get everything done in a day!?!? For today, Zoolu! wants to know…Would you rather have a full-time maid or a butler?