Travel & Lifestyle

Review: Evenflo Classic Glass Feeding Bottle Featuring Proflow

April 14, 2014

I must admit, I hardly use bottles to feed my 6 1/2 month-old-son.

Yep, I’m one of those moms who breastfeeds on demand all day, everyday. It’s easy for me and my son loves the comfort and nourishment that it provides. However, when my outfit or a particular public location or outing isn’t conducive to breastfeeding, Evenflo’s new bottle line with Proflow vented nipples has been my substitute.

Evenflo Classic + Vented Bottles with Proflow Vented Nipples (trio of 8 oz) available exclusively at Babies R Us, $9.99

I prefer the classic glass option because it cuts down on germs and mold that can creep in with plastic ones. Plus, with the Proflow innovation, the vented nipples direct those dreaded air bubbles straight into the bottle instead of my son’s stomach, reducing gassy fussiness.

Being a second-time mom, I’ve never found a bottle and nipple that my children actually like as much as the “real thing.” My firstborn used bottles a lot more frequently than my son, so I’ve tried a wide variety. The classic glass ProFlow doesn’t leak either, which is a true bonus. And, since we moms are always short on time, the one-piece nipple eliminates extra dish duty.

If you’re on the hunt for a good glass bottle, give the new Evenflo ones with Proflow nipples a go!

Do you prefer glass or plastic bottles?

Category: Baby, Health, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 2 Comments

Cool Spring Styles for Kids at The Children’s Place

April 9, 2014

When it comes to buying clothes for my kids, The Children’s Place is my go-to store.

Ever since Ava was a newborn, I’ve been shopping at the kid-centric store. They have fashionable clothes that are comfortable and affordable. Usually when you find kids’ clothing that isn’t overly expensive, the quality is usually compromised. Luckily, that is not the case at The Children’s Place.

Ava visiting The Children’s Place located in Union Square (NYC).

From seasonal dresses to fun graphic tees to girly accessories, Ava always enjoys a visit to TCP. The fact that there’s one only 3 blocks away from our apartment makes it even easier and convenient to stop by and browse the latest styles. In fact, we’ve been to the store three times in the last two weeks!

Now that I have a 6-month-old son, I’ve been hitting up the boys’ side of the store and have been equally impressed. The items aren’t overrun with licensed characters, which is a nod to its design aesthetic. The clothes are on-trend and practical.

It’s hard to believe that TCP wasn’t established until 1989 (when I was 9-years-old). I don’t remember ever shopping there as a child, but if I had, I probably would’ve been one of the best-dressed kids on the block!

Check out some of my favorite looks for spring:

Watercolor Floral Jacket available here, $27

Icon Sweatshirt available here, $9.50

Floral Jeggings available here, $12

Smile Rainbow Bag available here, $6

Plaid Shirt available here, $12

Full-Zip Hoodie available here, $10

Camo Knit Cargo Pants available here, $6

Boys Camera Graphic Tee available here, $6

*Disclosure: I received compensation in the form of a gift card for this post.

Do you shop at The Children’s Place? If not, where do you like to shop for kids’ clothes?

Category: Baby, Style, Travel & Lifestyle | 1 Comment

Brown Baby ‘Boy’ Gumbo Is Here!

October 8, 2013

If you’ve been wondering why I haven’t updated my blog in over a week, it’s been for a very good reason—the birth of my son!

Ava now has a baby brother who will surely become her partner in crime. Since he came into the world 10 days ago, I’ve already had my fair share of emotional mommy meltdowns and unwarranted anxiety, but those feelings pale in comparison to the love and adoration I have for my baby boy!

For the next few weeks, my posts will probably be sporadic since I’m still navigating the world of mommy-hood part two!

Here’s a pick of my pride and joy:

Category: Featured, Features, Gumbo Mix, Health, Misc., Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 9 Comments

GIVEAWAY: Grace Hightower De Niro & Coffee of Rwanda Gift Set

September 27, 2013

In case you didn’t know, today is National Coffee Day!

Although I’m not a ‘cup of joe’ drinker, Grace Hightower De Niro is making me reconsider. Wife of the legendary actor, Robert De Niro, Grace is the woman behind the newly launched Grace Hightower De Niro & Coffee of Rwanda.

Inspired by the spirit of Rwandans, De Niro decided to create this line of fair trade coffees to celebrate, support and give back to the coffee farmers and citizens of the African country. Through direct sourcing, ethical practices and environmental stewardship, her commitment to the betterment of the hardworking farmers and their surrounding communities allows them to create a sustainable business that can be passed from one generation to the next.

Through Grace’s dedication, she helps make it possible for their products to be enjoyed and shared with people from all over the world. Available in four unique blends ranging from citrusy medium light roasts to deep espresso roasts, Coffees of Rwanda will surely satisfy the cravings of any coffee consumer!

Grace Hightower & Coffees of Rwanda available here and at specialty stores including Whole Foods, $12.50 each

As a celebration of her journey to Rwanda, check out this video titled, “LOVE!”

**GIVEAWAY: One lucky reader will win a Coffees of Rwanda gift set, a $25 value! Simply leave a comment sharing your favorite coffee flavor! The winner will be randomly selected and announced on Monday, Sept. 30.

Also, in honor of National Coffee Day, Grace Hightower & Coffees of Rwanda will have a GH&COR food truck driving around NYC giving out free coffee on Friday, September 27th and Saturday, September 28th from 8 AM to 5 PM! Be sure to follow @coffeeofgrace on Twitter and on Facebook.com/CoffeeOfGrace for updates, etc.

Category: Gumbo Mix, Health, Misc., Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 4 Comments

3 Sunscreen Tips That You Need to Know Now

July 29, 2013

If you’re still planning that summer getaway, don’t leave home without a few sun protection essentials from my friends at Aveeno.

Since becoming an Aveeno Brand Ambassador, I’ve tested and tried several options from the skincare brand. When my daughter was a baby I used, Baby Natural Protection Face Stick w/Broad Spectrum 50 SPF, which was super easy to apply and worked marvelously. My husband and I currently use the new Protect + Hydrate Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30. I’m a stickler for smelly sunscreens and this one is nearly fragrance-free, which is a major plus.

Aveeno Active Naturals Protect + Hydrate SPF 30 Lotion available here, $10.99

Also, with skin cancers on the rise, we need to make sure that we take the proper precautions to prevent the deadly disease. Dermatologist Dr. Jeanine Downie shared three highly-overlooked skincare tips that we all need to know while having fun in the sun:

1. Remember to use sunscreen on ears, posterier neck, and the tops of feet because they are the most overlooked places for sun protection.

2. Use a hypoallergenic, non-comedegenic sunscreen underneath your eyes consistently and do not rub your eyes. This alone will decrease dark circles.

3. Don’t forget your scalp! “I am seeing more scalp skin cancers, many of which can be avoided. Protect your scalp from the sun by applying a spray sunscreen like Aveeno’s Hydrosport Wet Skin Spray Sunscreen w/Broad Spectrum 30 to your hair, on your part.

Do you apply sunscreen everyday?

Category: Beauty, Health, Sunscreen, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | Leave a Comment

Black History Month: Disney Junior to Air ‘We Are Doc McStuffins’

February 1, 2013

While I try to monitor the amount of television my toddler watches, there’s one show that always gets the green-light in our house—Disney Junior’s “Doc McStuffins.”

This entertaining and educational cartoon debuted last March and features an adorable young African-American girl named “Doc,” who aspires to be a doctor like her mom. In the series, “Doc,” diagnoses and “finds cures” for her “ailing” toys.

The animated show helps to diminish toddlers’ fears associated with visiting doctors for routine check-ups, while teaching them the importance of being active and healthy. Plus, it promotes positive images for all children, especially those of color.

Disney Junior's "Doc McStuffins," airs weekdays at 10:30 am and 4:30 pm.

Disney Junior’s “Doc McStuffins,” airs weekdays at 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.

In honor of Black History Month, Disney Junior is debuting “We Are Doc McStuffins” interstitials that will feature three real-life African-American physicians sharing what their jobs entail, and saluting their heroes. They will begin airing today on Disney Junior (10:25 am and 4:25 pm EST ) followed by a brand new Valentine’s Day episode of “Doc Mcstuffins.” The short segments will run through spring.

Dr. Aletha Maybank, Queen Majesty Ruffin Photo Courtesy: Disney Junior

The interstitials feature three of the founding members of the “We Are Doc McStuffins” movement – Dr. Myiesha Taylor, an emergency doctor based in Dallas; Dr. Aletha Maybank, a pediatrician in New York City; and Dr. Naeemah Ghafur, a family doctor in Los Angeles who provides specialized care for the underserved, including the elderly and patients with high-risk illnesses.

Ava with her favorite toy, “Doc McStuffins.” She sleeps with her every night!

Watch a sneak peek:

If you haven’t seen “Doc McStuffins,” definitely check it out! I enjoy watching it with my daughter because it’s an awesome animated show that encourages children to aspire to greatness!

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Featured, Features, Gumbo Mix, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 2 Comments

Interview & GIVEAWAY: Dr. Ian Smith On Shredding Pounds Once and For All!

January 7, 2013

Now that we’re a full week into the new year, are you still on track with your resolutions? If you’re like countless Americans who’ve made the commitment to get in shape this year, Dr. Ian K. Smith’s new book, Shred: The Revolutionary Diet—Six Weeks, Four Inches, Two Sizes, will make it easier to keep your promise, and keep those pesky unwanted pounds in the past.

The New York Times best-selling author’s latest effort serves as a comprehensive weight-loss manual. Think of it as a book version of a hard-nosed personal trainer and nutritionist, outlining in reader-friendly detail what it takes to well, shred those hard-to-ditch pounds. From stressing the importance of meal planning to strategic ways to switch up workout routines to increase weight loss, Shred doesn’t skimp on articulating the methods and techniques needed to complete the six-week program. Plus, it includes easy recipes for delicious smoothies, soups and stews to help maintain the plan.

But don’t be mistaken, this isn’t your typical diet book. There are no gimmicks to getting in shape. It takes hard work, dedication and will power to see successful results as the former “Celebrity Fit Club” medical expert expresses throughout the book.

I recently spoke with Dr. Smith to discuss Shred, working with the president and his favorite pig-out food!

The Shred: Revolutionary Diet—6 Weeks, 4 Inches, 2 inches

Shred: The Revolutionary Diet—6 Weeks, 4 Inches, 2 inches; Available here, $15

BGG: What sets Shred apart from your other books?

Dr. Ian Smith: It’s all of my best strategies in one place!

BGG: Tell me your thoughts on the key to losing weight with Shred.

DS: It’s not really a diet, it’s a way of life. It’s about a way of living. A lot of people think that they should go on a diet if they’re going to a reunion, birthday or on vacation. It’s fine to lose weight for those purposes, but I am interested in you losing weight permanently and for long-term healthy reasons, as well as aesthetic reasons.

BGG: Why is it so difficult for individuals to lose those last few pounds?

DS: When you’re so close to your target weight, it’s in general just more difficult to lose weight. People who have been successful at losing weight reach a plateau because they’ve done what they’ve been doing and their body has settled in and now they have to shake it up. The body has to see different foods, different quantities, etc. That’s what “Diet Confusion” is all about. “Diet Confusion” is about keeping the body off kilter so that you keep your metabolism going and your body won’t get adjusted to the same foods.

BGG: What do you want to convey to women about weight loss?

DS: I want women to know that weight loss is possible and weight loss is possible through making lifestyle changes. It is not about gimmicks to get those last few pounds off because once you stop the gimmick, the weight is going to come back. It’s not about perfection. It’s about finding a way to eat and exercising comfortably. It’s about making smart choices and balance.

BGG: Did you always want to work in the healthcare field?

DS: I always wanted to be a physician since I was a little boy; so my dream has come true. I was supposed to be a surgeon, but I got into weight loss and nutrition by accident. I was a columnist for Time magazine and a lot of my readers would and in questions about diet, weight loss and supplements. In order to fulfill the needs of my readers to understand in a complicated and frustrated marketplace I started becoming an expert in nutrition and weight loss.

BGG: Tell me about your involvement with President Barack Obama’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition.

DS: We (ambassadors for the White House) go around the country whether it’s on TV, in schools or churches to spread the importance of getting people to eat better and exercise more.

BGG: You’ve had many notable accomplishments throughout your career. What makes you the most proud?

DS: I think the 50-million pound challenge and having the ability to enhance the national dialogue about the need for us to lose weight and to be healthier. I think that was a big deal.

BGG: We all know that you’re incredibly fit, but what’s your indulgence when you just want to pig out?

DS: I was recently on “Rachael Ray” making barbecue steak, buttered mashed potatoes, and honey glazed carrots!

Watch Dr. Smith cooking in the kitchen below:

Be sure to follow @DoctorIanSmith on Twitter for daily health tips, quotes, etc.

Is losing weight one of your New Year’s resolutions? If so, leave a comment below and you could win a copy of Shred! One lucky reader will be randomly selected and announced later this week!