Baby Bargains: Secrets to Saving 20% to 50% on Baby Furniture, Equipment, Clothes, Toys, Maternity Wear and Much, Much More!
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (09 April, 2001)
list price: $15.95
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Editorial Review

Congratulations, you're expecting a baby!What you may not be expecting is all of the requisite gear you "need" to look after your dear bundle. Fear not. Denise and Alan Fields, authors of Bridal Bargains, are here to tell you what's super and what's silly, and how to find it at the best price. You'll learn all about how (and where) to shop for a crib and dresser (including how to get European styling at reasonable prices), what you need in bedding and what can be skipped (a hint: no baby requires the $200 quilt!), which clothing brands are safest and least expensive, and how to shop for monitors, toys, car seats, strollers, books, videos, and more. The authors have field-tested every major brand (and several of the minor ones), and they provide star ratings and annotations at the end of every chapter. A helpful feature in each chapter called "Wastes of Money" will steer you away from $35 Baby Air Jordans and frilly diaper stackers that match your bedding. If that's not enough, they offer a money-back guarantee: If the book doesn't save you at least $250 in baby expenses, they'll refund the price of the book. Well researched and written in a witty and comfortable tone, Baby Bargains should be required reading for every safety- and money-conscious parent-to-be.--Rebecca A. Staffel ... Read more

Reviews (320)

Buy Consumer Reports Best Baby Products instead
I found the Consumer Reports book to be more informative in terms of which products to buy, how to know which brand/model is right for you, features to look for and the safety and money saving info is outstanding. Baby Bargains covers lots of ground, but doesn't go into detail about any one product. It's also confusing because the product info is scattered throughout the book rather than in one spot. I liked the Consumer Reports book much better.

Fantastic
This book should be required reading for anyone about to enter into the realm of parenthood.It provided great information on manufacturers, brands and what to look for when purchasing all of the things 'necessary' to parenthood these days.They do a great job of weeding thru the 'needs vs nice to haves vs don't waste your moneys'. I also liked that they don't only focus on low end items - they'll tell you if it is worth paying a bit extra and why.
This book is the first thing that I get for any of my friends that tell me that they are expecting.
** PS I totally agree that the Consumer Reports Baby is a waste!!

Excellent broad coverage
Provides both a succinct and detailed review of the essential baby products.If you are in a hurry they have excellent summary sections, if you want to complement your online research there are detailed reviews of various products.An excellent buy. ... Read more

Isbn: 188939209X
Subjects:  1. Catalogs    2. Child Care    3. Commercial catalogs    4. Consumer Guides    5. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    6. Infants & Toddlers - Infants    7. Infants' supplies    8. Mail-order business    9. Reference   

Night & Day Bottle Warmer
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $37.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

About the size of a coffee maker, this electric baby bottlecooler/warmer will be a big convenience for bleary-eyed parents who are tired ofstumbling down to the kitchen in the middle of the night. At the rear of theunit, an insulated compartment keeps two 8-ounce bottles cool for up to eighthours. (There's no refrigerant, just a specially shaped container that can befilled with water, frozen, and then slipped into place.) At the front, anelectrically heated water container produces steam, which heats one bottle tothe correct temperature in about five minutes. There's also a night-light builtinto the front of the unit. Note that the unit cannot be used with glass bottles. --Richard Farr ... Read more

Features

• Warms a cold bottle in less than 5 minutes
• Insulated water chamber chills 2 standard bottles for up to 8 hours
• Automatic shutoff and night-light
• Ready-light indicator

Reviews (163)

Too hot to handle
This warmer is a piece of junk.You will not only burn yourself taking the bottle out of the warmer, but it will burn your little one's mouth too.Don't waste your $$$$.

Great Invention for Tired Mommies
I used the Playtex nursers with mine and I loved it. It kept the bottles cool all through the night. And when it was time for a feeding, the bottle heated quickly so my little one wasn't wide awake by the time the bottle was ready.

horrible
This warmer is a piece of junk! I was using the platex ventaire "natural shape" 6oz bottles and it would heat the bottom so hot to the point it would burn you if you touched it and the rest of the bottle would still be cold. Plus the cooler does not do a very good job about keeping the bottles cold. Whatever you do, DO NOT BUY THIS! ... Read more

Asin: B000056HMB
Subjects:  1. Feeding    2. Bottle Accessories   

Deluxe Glider Rocker with padded arms and ottoman in cream
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product (04 October, 2003)
-- our price: $199.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

With its heavily padded comfort and effortless gliding motion, the glider rocker is a wonderfully luxurious improvement on the traditional wooden rocking chair. This deluxe version from Shermag sports an attractive cream fabric cover over thick polyurethane foam, and an all-wood frame with a natural finish. A matching ottoman that moves in sync with the rocker has also been included to provide an extra measure of comfort and luxury for the exhausted parents of a newborn or infant. Arriving from the manufacturer in two large pieces (the seat and the base), the glider rocker itself is very easy to put together and requires only a screwdriver to assemble. --Chris Burns ... Read more

Features

• All-wood frame and natural finish
• Attractive cream fabric cover
• Easy assembly

Reviews (97)

Very poor quality
This glider was not very comfortable for nursing at all.It did not even last a year in our house before it fell apart.Not something I would ever buy again.

Poor Quality and Very Uncomfortable
The cushions are very thin and springs seem to poke through the thin cushions.It is not a chair that you would sit in for more than 15 minutes at a time.The straps have now ripped away from the buttons that secure it to the frame, which shows you how poor the quality of the cushions are since we rarely use this chair.The frame also looks very thin and chincy.We would definitely suggest staying away from this chair if you can afford to.Spend the extra money and buy something else.

Poor quality...
I purchased this glider for my wife, who is expecting our first child soon.The decision to purchase this glider was based almost soley on the reviews we found here on Amazon (which I normally trust, as an avid amazon shopper).For this item, however, I am inclined to believe that the product must have recently changed... as I can find no other reason why people would be giving it such high reviews.

This glider has a whole host of problems, in my opinion:

1. It just feels cheap.From the moment I put it together I found myself thinking "Hmm...this isn't going ot be good."

2. The cushions, wich are supposed to be very soft, are actually quite thin and really don't provide a lot of comfort.

3. Whenever anyone sits in the glider, the spings in the back and seat make strange cracking sounds.And I'm not talking about big people sitting down...this is with anyone.

4. The back on the chair is way too short.I'm 6'1" and could care less if it's too short for me - but it's even too short for my wife at 5'8".

5. The back position is almost straight up, not a very relaxing position at all.

The bottom line is that the combination of all of these problems results in the chair being almost useless.No one can sit in it for more than 20 minutes without being uncomfortable.You can feel the springs through the cushions well before that.I've learned my lesson... we'll find a store that sells gliders we can actually try in the future before buying a second one...

Assembly was the only thing the glider had going for it - sit the top on the bottom and attach 4 bolts. This is why I'll give it two stars instead of just one.Once together, however, it squeaks during the gliding motion. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QTVS
Subjects:  1. Nursery    2. Furniture    3. Gliders    4. Ottomans   

Tiny Love Gymini 3D Activity Gym in Black, White and Red
Average Customer Review:
Toy
-- our price: $39.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Sometimes you just have to put down your little bundle of joy and give your arms a rest! Butwhere can you set someone who may not be able to sit upright? The Gymini 3-D Activity Gym may be theperfect answer. This award-winning portable, washable gym is easy to assemble. Simply spread the3-foot-square quilt on the floor and enjoy a vivid animal circus in red, white, and black. Slide two pliablearches into the corner sockets of the quilt, so that they cross diagonally. Clip the beads, rattles, and mirrorsinto the hole-punched arches. The dangles can be repositioned for endless variety. Babies can lie on theirbacks and stare up at the colorful dangling toys. The gym will improve babies' hand-eye coordination, andsoon they'll be reaching, stretching, kicking, pulling, and rolling--an adorable sight! To put away the gym,simply remove the arches, fold up the quilt, and tuck all the parts into a handy waterproof carrying case.--Kathryn Gustafson ... Read more

Reviews (247)

Can't get enough
We couldn't find very many black, white and red toys so we purchased this as soon as we saw it...and thank goodness we did.Our son loves it and can't get enough of it.

My son can't take his eyes off of it!!
My son loves this product.I love the bright colors and all the different interchangable toys you can purchase to go with it.Easy to wash and folds easily to store!LOVE IT!!!

THE BEST EVER
This gymni is a great buy. I bought this for my daughter when she was two months old and it was the greatest toy ever.She loved looking at the toys at first and begun to kick her legs.Within a few weeks she would bat at the toys and pretty soon she could grab them.This was the greatest toy for my newborn she could lay under it for hours.Which made housework so easy for me because she was very happy under her play gym.Great toy and I recommend it for any newborn.After she was to old for the gym at about six months when she could sit up.She now enjoys playing with the detachable rattle, mirror and music box. ... Read more

Asin: B00000J4SP
Subjects:  1. Activity    2. Gyms    3. Baby and Infant    4. Learning    5. Toddler    6. Stuffed Toys   

Baby Bjorn Original Carrier: City Black
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product
list price: $89.99 -- our price: $84.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

While a tad more expensive than most other baby carriers, BabyBjörn carriers offer parents some wonderful design features thatmake it well worth the extra money. By allowing you to hold your babysnugly against your chest, the carrier promotes a sense of comfort andcloseness between a parent and a child. It also allows you to maintaineye contact with and talk to your little one during trips to the store,walks around the house, and short hikes (for both mom and dad). Thecarrier's other big advantage is that it frees up both your hands whileyou carry your infant. The black carrier consists of a large triangularfront piece that supports baby's head and body, along with a set ofthick padded straps that are worn like a shoulder-and-waist harness.Newborns and smaller babies should always ride rear-facing in thecarrier, while older babies who can hold their heads upright unassistedcan ride forward-facing and enjoy the view ahead of them. Made ofmachine-washable 100 percent cotton, the carrier can be easily adjustedfrom the front for your baby's size. Although the carrier has beentested for use with babies who weigh from 8 to 25 pounds, some parentsfound that the carrier became uncomfortable to wear and placed a lot ofstrain on the lower back when it was used to carry a child weighingmore than 20 pounds. --Chris Burns ... Read more

Features

• Can be worn while breastfeeding
• Machine washable, 100 percent cotton
• Tested for 8 to 25 pounds
• Promotes bonding and closeness
• Size adjustable

Reviews (483)

Worth the Money
The Baby Bjorn is great...very secure and comfortable...Both my husband and I wear it...We use it frequently and the baby seems to enjoy it...It's great that you have both hands free!

look at discount store
I found this at Marshalls for $59.99.They had original and XL staps.

Well made, but kids grow out of it quickly
I really liked this carrier, however, unless you plan on using it ALOT when the baby is small, you won't get your money's worth.My son was too big for this by 3 months.By the time I decided to take him out of the house, he barely fit in it.It might be a better idea to get a cheaper carrier. ... Read more

Asin: B000059XOD
Subjects:  1. Gear    2. Soft Carrier   

The Runaway Bunny
Average Customer Review:
Board book (27 February, 1991)
list price: $7.99 -- our price: $7.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Since its publication in 1942, The Runaway Bunny has never been out of print. Generations of sleepy children and grateful parents have loved the classics of Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd, including Goodnight Moon. The Runaway Bunny begins with a young bunny who decides to run away: "'If you run away,' said his mother, 'I will run after you. For you are my little bunny.'" And so begins a delightful, imaginary game of chase. No matter how many forms the little bunny takes--a fish in a stream, a crocus in a hidden garden, a rock on a mountain--his steadfast, adoring, protective mother finds a way of retrieving him. The soothing rhythm of the bunny banter--along with the surreal, dream-like pictures--never fail to infuse young readers with a complete sense of security and peace. For any small child who has toyed with the idea of running away or testing the strength of Mom's love, this old favorite will comfort and reassure. (Baby to preschool) ... Read more

Reviews (83)

Great family book
My son and I love reading this book.He recognized it from daycare and was happy to read it at home too.It really makes me feel warm and connected to him. It shows him how much I love him.

controlling mommy bunny
Though a classic, this book rubbed me the wrong way from the first time I read it and the feeling hasn't changed. We have a copy that was given to us and my son sometimes asks for me to read it to him. I cringe every time. I should just get rid of it. The baby bunny wants to run away and every idea he comes up with is squashed by his mother until he is so defeated he just gives up and decides he'll stay after all. The mother bunny doesn't talk to him about what feelings are causing him to want to run away or all the reasons that running away is not a good idea nor does she try to distract him with positive attention. Instead she forces him back to her. I am sure that this baby bunny will turn into a rebellious teenage bunny because he has such a rigid, controlling mother bunny. There are many other books out there that do a much better job of portraying a mother's love. On a positive note, the color illustrations are lovely.

Bunnies do not talk.
This book gives children the wrong impression. As we all know, bunnies do not talk, fish, climb, or run away.This is yet another one of those books that will likely ruin a young child forever.If you read it to your child, he will likely grow up to be a serial killer.Consider yourself warned. ... Read more

Isbn: 0061074292
Subjects:  1. Animals - Rabbits    2. Children's Baby - Boardbooks    3. Children: Preschool    4. Classics    5. Family - Parents    6. Fiction    7. Juvenile Fiction    8. Mother and child    9. Rabbits    10. Social Situations - Runaways    11. Juvenile Fiction / Animals / Rabbits   

Baby Sleep
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (22 April, 1997)
list price: $15.98 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

I think this music is intended for adults, though the photo on the cover is of a sleepingbaby. In any event, Schumann's work, Scenes From Childhood, Op. 15, featured here ismore likely to bolt you out of bed than put you to sleep, as the mike is far too close to the pianobeing played by Cyprien Katsaris. Purcell's Adagio from The Indian Queen is magnificent,performed by John Elliott Gardiner and the English Baroque Soloists. The Weird Award goes totriple harpist Tim Hobrough and lutenist Stephen Barber for their bizarre, spiky rendition ofMinuets Nos. 4 and 5 from the Notebook of Anna Magdalena Bach. I would like to meet BillHolland, producer of all these Atlantic Records classical compilations. He's programmed Satie'sGymnopedie No. 1 on three different CDs, billed alternately as sensuous, romantic, and now here:good for a long snooze. --Gwendolyn Freed ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Fantastic sleep time music
Not only does our baby love this music, but it is beautiful for us adults to listen to as well. There are 24 tunes, all strictly instumental except the last one. It runs over an hour and does not have any major "loud spots" despite a very nice variety of music.

Highly recommended!!!

Great for ages 0-101!
I am a trained classical musician, and father of 3. I generally steer away from most compilations, which generally consist of the same old classical top-40 stuff, in dumbed-down packaging. This CD is different- it is "smarted-up"! Still, it is totally accessible, and the selections are perfectly chosen to soothe the little ones. I like to play it while they are playing, to help them wind down towards nap time.

The selections, and the performances, are first rate. THere is a wide variety of styles, periods, and instrumental combinations. Some are off the beaten track, such as the Elgar. You will buy this for the baby, and use it for the baby, but will probably listen to it yourself for years to come!

This makes a great gift, much nicer than that "Music makes you smarter" junk. Music makes you musical, and that is its justification. This CD will foster music appreciation (and help at naptime too!).

This CD makes a wonderful baby gift for new parents.
I have given this CD to several new parents and have never received less than a rave review.Many of these folks are musicians by profession, andwithout fail they have been very enthusiastic about the soothing qualitiesof the music on the album.My own daughter who is 14 listens to thisrecording while going to sleep at night.I highly recommend this CD as agift for new parents who will enjoy spending some quiet time with theirbabies! ... Read more

Asin: B000005E5H
Subjects:  1. Chamber    2. Childrens   

Black Sable Pliko Strollr
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product

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Editorial Review

This Pliko Matic stroller from Peg Pérego is a goodchoice for parents who want the portability of a lightweight strollerwith some of the convenience and design features of a midsize stroller.Mounted on an aluminum frame and four sets of sturdy plastic wheels,the stroller's seat is nicely cushioned--with thick padding on andaround the seat itself, and an additional thin layer of padding aroundthe legs and across the front safety bar. The seat can be adjusted tothree different recline angles, but it requires two hands to make theadjustment to a lower angle. The stroller is also equipped with afive-point harness, and the retractable canopy over the seat can beflipped all the way forward to act as an emergency rain or wind guardif you get caught outside in poor weather. Sporting sleekblack-and-gray styling, the stroller can be easily collapsed forstorage or transport, and it is surprisingly lightweight for a midsizestroller. --Chris Burns ... Read more

Reviews (89)

Don't believe the hype!
I had a horrible, very cheap stroller for my first child so when we found out we were having another, I was adamant about getting "the best" stroller I could get.I had heard Peg Perego was just that.After owning the Plikomatic for a little over a year I have to say there is definitely room for improvement.The stroller has a five-point harness which I am very grateful for because my son is an escape artist.However, the harness attaches to the stroller at the top with a little loop and plastic tab.This is absolutely ludicrous!My 14-month old only has to squirm a little to get it free.The storage underneath is useless and inaccessible.The metal frame takes up all the space and I still haven't found the secret to slipping my bag in and out.The cup holder is a lie.It only holds those skinny bottles of water.If you get a drink from a vending machine or even a standard soft drink cup you end up holding it because it won't fit.Besides, mine fell off the second time I tried to use it and won't stay on anymore.This stroller is very difficult to maneuver with one hand, but I'm mastering that.I do kick the wheels frequently while walking quickly, even with the handles extended, and I'm only 5'6".It is a very smooth riding stroller, but when I try to push it up and down narrow aisles I always end up stuck.Even with the front wheels locked they seem to get caught.My son loves this stroller, however.It snuggles around him like a little cocoon and he's very comfortable.The canopy folds all the way down which is great for keeping the sun or rain out.I absolutely love that.I also love all the adjustments you can make to the baby's positioning.It has come in handy as my son has grown.We ordered our stroller with the snack tray, which is the only way to go.I really wish there was a parent tray, though.You definitely cannot close the stroller with one hand, but once you break it in it isn't hard to do at all.I love how lightweight it is and it only takes up a little space in my car and I have a Honda CRV.I also have a Chicco stroller but I never use it since it doesn't have nearly as many features as the Peg Perego and weighs almost as much.Plan on taking some time to put it together.The directions were not easy to follow.All in all it is a nice stroller.I always get comments on its appearance, but it feels a little cheaply made for the price we paid.Do your research!!!

very fashionable
I bought this stroller for my 3rd child. I like that the seat reclines so far back, but when the baby falls asleep it is difficult to recline smoothly. I find that one side drops down and the other has to be pushed down. This is the same in reverse. One side comes up before the other. It is super easy to get the baby in and out of this stroller. This stroller is very light weight and folds up pretty small. I hate the cup holder and wish I'd never bothered to attach it. It doesn't hold anything except for my keys which I clip onto the holder. I had to buy hooks to hang packages from the handles b/c it is very difficult to access the basket underneath. This is a very attractive stroller that is convenient if you need a small lightweight stroller.

there arebetter
We found this stroller very comfy for our son- he likes it. The fabric has ripped away from the canopy, the straps come out almost everytime we take him out, it's very wide in stores, and is almost impossible to manuever with one hand.We bought this for my fourth child the others had a Graco/Evenflo.I guess we didn't know how good we had it with graco/evenflo! I learned quickly that a higher price tag does not mean it's better! ... Read more

Asin: B00005RF4Z

Boppy 5 In 1 Fun
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product (08 November, 2001)
list price: $44.99
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Editorial Review

No ordinary Boppy (which is already quite extraordinary), thisfive-in-one version of the popular nursing pillow comes with its ownactivity arch that hooks on to four clips on the base of the pillow.The pillow itself is made of hypoallergenic, 100 percent cotton and canbe used just like a standard Boppy pillow--for nursing, helping babysit up during playtime, and as a cozy pillow for lying on. With ninefabric loops, detachable plastic clips, and room for up to six Sassydevelopment toys, the black-and-white activity arch adds an additionallevel of visual stimulation for little ones. The Boppy comes with threecolorful Sassy toys, but you can easily add additional toys to the archor change their positions to keep baby interested. The Boppy 5-in-1 Funpillow is machine washable. --Chris Burns ... Read more

Reviews (101)

fun for baby, great for mom...
my husband loved this at first sight but I didn't register for it... thankfully, a friend got it for us as a shower present!Not only is it cute but it's really versatile.I only used it as a nursing pillow for the first month, while my son was having trouble latching on.Instead of worrying about having a cover for it, I just folded a receiving blanket in half and put it between my son & the pillow to keep it clean from baby leaks.These days it's a great source of entertainment for my 12-week-old son: the only way to get him to do tummy time without getting frustrated and a great "gym" for him to bop toys with his arms or legs.If you get this, just remember to rotate where the toys hang from to keep it interesting, and buy a few extras for variety (I've added a Sassy Smoochie Poochie to the gym and also use the toys from his Fisher Price Infant to Toddler Rocker).If I'd known how much use I'd get out of this, I would've definitely registered for it.However, if you want this primarily as a nursing pillow, get the plain Boppy instead -- I agree with previous reviewers that it's cumbersome to add & remove the hanging bars.

BOPPY GOOD, BUT 5-IN-1 BOPPY A DISASTER !!!
I got this after having a simple Boppy pillow for me to use for my son when I fed him.The original simple boppy was great.I used it all the time to feed him since he ate for the first few months almost hourly (you moms know what I am talking about)... and my poor arms and back would get tired and sore from holding him, plus sometimes I was sooo tired during those 3, 4, or 6 a.m. feedings it was great to have something to support his weight for me.

Anyways, I then got this Boppy 5-in-1 Gym for him to play with.It was a disaster as every time he played with it the little loops and hooks that held it together would come undone and the whole "gym"/toy bars would come crashing down on him.He would get hit in the head or face Every Time!After several attempts to try to get them to stay and make them safer, I gave up.The boppy part worked great (after I took the bars off and used it as a second boppy for feeding) and the toys definitely caught his attention but it kept falling apart and hurting him so the use of it as a 5-in-1 toy/play-thing made it's purchase a waste.Also, whenever I would use the boppy to prop my baby up (like the 5-in-1 suggests) he would just either slide down it with his neck bent in a bad way, roll completely off it, or would get wedged into it wrong.It did not support him as it should of and the scariest thing was when he slid on his stomach (laying across the boppy propped up) face down into it and couldn't breathe!

Since I had such a good experience with the original boppy I thought I'd be loyal and take this "bad unit" back to the store and get it exchanged for a new 5-in-1 (after all I was still under my 30 days purchased time for store return)... perhaps the one I had gotten was defective.I was Soooo wrong.The second Boppy 5-in-1 I bought did the same exact thing.Do your baby a favor and go and get another toy for a play mat and an original boppy for you (it'll save you arms and back from the strain during feeding time).I got rid of my Boppy 5-in-1 for my baby's safety... and I did watch him all the time in it.Imagine what could of happened if I had ever left for even just a momment.It looks very cute (comes in sooo many patterns), and is very inexpensive, but it is not quality safety planning on the company's part.
Incidentaly, I did find a play mat (very nice cloth one my son loves - - - still and he's now 3 1/2) that has bright colors, baby safe mirror, and toys on it that is very safe that is made by fischer-price for just around $20, and they still sell it.It is a simple looking cloth play mat that baby either sits on or lays on but it is very entertaining and several kids I introduced to it for play over the years still like it deespite getting to be up to 2 or 3 years old.It is also easy to clean... just throw in the washing machine and hang it up to dry.It is great and I will be using it with the baby I am currently expecting... and an original, simple boppy for feeding.

Looks good!
I was very excited about purchasing this boppy as compared to just the breastfeeding ones without the toys, however, I found the boppy awkward to use during breastfeeding as my baby kept sliding down between the boppy and me.She too (now 3 months) has the problem of not resting comfortably in it while playing as she constantly slides down and becomes fussy.

I'm now a little disappointed I didn't buy the similar playset where the baby lays down flat on their back. ... Read more

Asin: B00005BW3F
Subjects:  1. Feeding    2. Breastfeeding   

Olympus Camedia D-550 3MP Digital Camera w/ 2.8x Optical Zoom
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $449.99
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Editorial Review

Sporting a similar design to previous Olympus D-series digicams, the D-550 Zoom features a 3-megapixel CCD, 2.8x optical zoom, and a 3.6x digital zoom. With its familiar film-camera style and high-resolution imagery, the D-550 is a great choice for vacation photos as well as family snapshots.

Optics and Resolution
The DS-550's 3-megapixel sensor captures ample detail for sharp prints at sizes up to 8 by 10 inches. For a serious amateur photographer, 3 megapixels is a great resolution, providing enough detail to perform some cropping and still have crisp prints.

The all-glass autofocus Olympus lens has a 2.8x zoom range that's equivalent to a 36-100mm zoom lens on a 35mm camera. For technophiles, its aperture ranges from f2.9 to f4.4 depending on the zoom setting, with a normal focal range from 2.6 feet to infinity. There's also a 3.6x digital zoom, but remember that digital zoom tends to reduce the sharpness and detail of your image, so it's best used sparingly.

To compose your images, either use the traditional camera viewfinder or the 1.8-inch LCD display (also used to review the shots you've taken). Having both types of viewfinders offers the best of both worlds: if you're used to a film camera or want to conserve battery life, use the viewfinder. If you want to see exactly the picture you'll be capturing, use the LCD display.

More Features
A sliding clamshell lens cover simultaneously protects the D-550's lens and provides a simple way to turn the camera on and off, and the all-plastic body feels both lightweight and durable. While the D-550 offers automatic settings for point-and-shooters and beginning photographers, there are several manual features for more adventurous photographers, including macro mode, adjustable white-balance settings, exposure compensation, and the ability to shoot black-and-white and sepia images.

Power
Power is provided by four AA batteries (alkalines are included). We recommend getting a set or two of rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries and a charger. A digital camera will kill a set of alkaline batteries extremely quickly, especially if you're using the camera's LCD display, so they aren't recommended except in a pinch. To ensure you'll always be ready for action, we recommend having two sets of rechargeables so you can always have one set in the camera and the other set in the charger.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the camera captures silent video clips at resolutions of either 320 x 240 pixels (up to 33 seconds per movie) or 160 x 120 pixels (up to 148 seconds per movie). The limited duration and resolution of your movies guarantees that this feature won't replace your camcorder, but it's perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on SmartMedia memory cards. The included 16 MB card holds approximately 21 images at the camera's default settings. SmartMedia cards are reusable, but if you tend to take more than 21 images per outing (or plan to use the video feature much), then you'll want a bigger card. A 64 MB card will store well over 100 pictures. With most cameras, the brand of memory card you use is irrelevant, but genuine Olympus cards have a panorama feature not found on cards from other manufacturers. This feature makes it easier to stitch together a series of pictures you've taken into a single panoramic photo, and may justify the slightly higher price of the card if it's a feature you plan to use frequently.

To transfer images to your computer, simply attach the included USB cable between your PC and your camera. Your computer should automatically recognize your camera and let you move the pictures to your hard drive.

Size
At 4.6 by 2.6 by 2 inches and 8.5 ounces, the D-550 is fairly thin and small, making it easy to bring along on outings--but it won't easily fit in your shirt pocket.

Contents and Recommended Accessories
The package includes the camera, 16 MB SmartMedia card, four AA alkaline batteries, USB cable, video cable, carrying strap, and software on CD.

Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we recommend these accessories to make the most of your camera: a carrying case, a set of NiMH rechargeable size AA batteries, and a higher-capacity SmartMedia memory card. Compatible accessories for this camera are listed near the top of this page. ... Read more

Features

• 2.8x optical plus 3.6x digital (10x total) zoom lens with autofocus
• Included 16 MB Smartmedia card stores 21 images at default settings
• Movie mode captures up to 33 seconds of video with no audio
• Uses 2 CR-V3 lithium batteries or 4 AA batteries (rechargeables recommended); connects with Macs and PCs via USB port
• 3-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create prints up to 11 x 14

Reviews (61)

GREAT PICTURES
I HAVE THE OLYMPUS D550Z FOR 2 YEARS AND HAVE TAKEN PICTURES EVERY WEEK END THIS CAMERA IS GREAT PEOPLE REMARK ABOUT THE CLARITY IN THE SNAP SHOTS I HAVE TAKEN WHILE RIDING IN A CAR IT IS THE BEST INVESTMENT I HAVE MADE AND IT IS EASY TO USE ALSO OLYMPUS HAS A GREAT WEB SITE FOR HELPFUL INFORMATION

TechGeek's Review
This review is based on three years of use and 3000 pictures:
*This camera is durable.The sliding cover and flip-up flash show now signs of wear
*haven't worried about keeping the lens pristine
*switched to rechargeable AA batteries early on and they still work.have to recharge them every 200 pics (get 158 exposures on the default setting on a 128MB card resulting in 700KB file sizes--enough for 8x10 pics!)
*use the default Camedia picture software (got the upgrade) exclusively for picture printing and decent editing
*software could use better 'templates' aside from 'happy bday'
*plugging in the camera to the TV video inputs and running your own slide show is great for family get togethers (especially at the end of a trip before you leave is a nice recap of family events)
*it's not a compact camera, but it's designed to hold well in your one hand to take pics
*find myself adjusting the 'gamma' up a couple of notches before printing out the pics
*night mode works great if you have a tripod

Could definitely be better
We received this camera as a Christmas gift from my husband's parents.While we were both extremely excited to get a digital camera, especially one that seemed to be packed with features, now that we've had it a couple of years, I'm looking to replace it.

My biggest complaint is that the picture quality when using the autofocus program is mediocre.I suppose if you had time to read the manual and learn how to use all the different options and menus, you *might* be able to get some great pictures out of this camera, but for a point-and-shoot, I prefer to do just that, point and shoot and get great photos.Moreover, the frame guides in the viewfinder aren't true to life at all - I often find thatthe photos are far off from what I thought the center of focus would be.

The night scene setting in this camera is awful.You have to use a tripod and hold down the button for several seconds to get anything halfway decent.Pretty much all the photos I've ever taken using the night scene settings are just trash.

For the $300 or so that my in-laws spent on this camera back in 2002, I think we could have gotten something much better for that money.No more Olympus cameras for me. ... Read more

Asin: B000068BRB
Subjects:  1. Digital Camera (Cameras)    2. Photograph (Photography)   

The Red Tent (Bestselling Backlist)
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (15 September, 1998)
list price: $14.00 -- our price: $11.20
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The red tent is the place where women gathered during their cycles of birthing, menses, and even illness. Like the conversations and mysteries held within this feminine tent, this sweeping piece of fiction offers an insider's look at the daily life of a biblical sorority of mothers and wives and their one and only daughter, Dinah. Told in the voice of Jacob's daughter Dinah (who only received a glimpse of recognition in the Book of Genesis), we are privy to the fascinating feminine characters who bled within the red tent. In a confiding and poetic voice, Dinah whispers stories of her four mothers, Rachel, Leah, Zilpah, and Bilhah--all wives to Jacob, and each one embodying unique feminine traits. As she reveals these sensual and emotionally charged stories we learn of birthing miracles, slaves, artisans, household gods, and sisterhood secrets. Eventually Dinah delves into her own saga of betrayals, grief, and a call to midwifery.

"Like any sisters who live together and share a husband, my mother and aunties spun a sticky web of loyalties and grudges," Anita Diamant writes in the voice of Dinah. "They traded secrets like bracelets, and these were handed down to me the only surviving girl. They told me things I was too young to hear. They held my face between their hands and made me swear to remember." Remembering women's earthy stories and passionate history is indeed the theme of this magnificent book. In fact, it's been said that The Red Tent is what the Bible might have been had it been written by God's daughters, instead of her sons. --Gail Hudson ... Read more

Reviews (1132)

Dynamic Women in Bibical time
This book put a unique perspective on a women's role during Bibical times. I love it and found the historical content seemlessly interwined with a creative plot so you can't help learning soemthing new with each turn of the page.

A wonderful story well told
"The Red Tent" is part of a wonderful compilation of books, which cover the lives of the women of the Bible.There is so little written about the women who populate the books of the bible, just a name here or there, which leaves great amounts of room for the story teller to work with.

In this case Anita Diamant tells us the story of Dinah, the sister of Joseph.As far as I can remember the only mention of her in the bible is to tell us she was raped, and how her brothers killed the men of Shechemite to avenge her.In this book we find the story of her birth and place within the family of Jacob.We are told of her four Mother's, Jacob wives, Leah [Dinah birth mother], Rachel [the beautiful one], Zilpah, and Bilhah, and how their relationships affect Dinah.With in this book we find that Dinah becomes a strong women, who is respected and loved.She becomes a wife and mother and a midwife of standing, but not among her own family.

I loved reading this book, and quite literally could not put it down once I began to read it.Ms. Diamant's writing style is comfortable to read, and flows smoothly.I found that I could relate to the feelings and need of Dinah and her mother's.I mourned the end of the book, as much for Dinah's death as for the ending of a great story.

What could have been...
Dinah, only daughter of Old Testament Jacob, narrates this story of her mother Leah's meeting her father, Leah's feelings of inferiority towards Rachel, the foolishness of Laban and the growth of her family.Once Dinah is born, the story switches to her life and in particular, and her relationship with her mothers (father's wives) during their time of month in the Red Tent, her brothers, and even her grandmother Rebecca.I enjoyed the author's colorful characterizations of these familiar names and the way she made it easy to visualize the arid environment where they lived and traveled.Though Dinah was only mentioned twice in Genesis, this book does a marvelous job of building a whole personality and story about this woman who endures such terrible hardship but promptly disappears from the pages of history. ... Read more

Isbn: 0312195516
Subjects:  1. (Biblical character)    2. Bible    3. Bible.    4. Dinah    5. Fiction    6. Fiction - Religious    7. Genesis    8. Historical - General    9. History of Biblical events    10. O.T    11. O.T.    12. Religious - Biblical    13. Women in the Bible    14. Fiction / Religious    15. Reading Group Guide   

NursingStool - Natural Oak
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product (04 October, 2003)
-- our price: $24.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Reviews (36)

Good value
I bought this stool 7 month ago when my son was born.I bought it to pair with the glider I got.It worked out so great.The stool is angled just right to elevate my feet for breastfeeding.I'm so glad I did not spend the money to buy the match ottorman.

Never thought it would make such a difference!
I never thought I would need this product.It's a slanted stool, for Pete's sake!But when my baby was in the NICU for six weeks, they had these there (as well as my Brest Friend boppy pillow, which I also highly recommend!) and there is no way my son would have been able to breast feed without it.It seems like a minor thing, but it's not.This stool puts your body into the exact right position for breastfeeding.For what I call "picky breast feeders" this is a lifesaver.Plus I still use it now that he's weaned.When I rock him to a dreamy state before bed and naps, this stool is essential......A plus!

nursing time
I didn't have it when I started, but I really appreciated it once I got it. A definate improvement. The only part that I don't like, and this is an individual thing, is the ridges (tread). I am usually bare foot and they irritate my apparently sensative feet. I've put a dish towel over it to make it more comfortable for me. ... Read more

Asin: B000056JIH
Sales Rank: 399
Subjects:  1. Feeding    2. Breastfeeding    3. Nursing Stools   

What to Expect the First Year
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (03 January, 1989)
list price: $13.95
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Editorial Review

Is our baby eating enough?Is this much crying normal? How do I knowwhen she is really sick? This hefty, 671-page guide to your baby's first year isbrought to you by the creators of the bestselling What to Expect When You'reExpecting. The three authors, all mothers themselves, are calm, clear,and encouraging as they tackle the first year of child-rearing, month by month.The easy-to-absorb, chronological format includes sections such as "WhatYour Baby May Be Doing," "What You Can Expect at This Month'sCheckups," "Feeding Your Baby This Month," "What You May BeConcerned About," and "What It's Important to Know."

Part Two addresses special concerns such as illness, first aid do's and don'ts,the low-birthweight baby, the adopted baby, becoming a father, and siblingrelationships. You'll also find discussions of breastfeeding and bottlefeeding,selecting a physician for the baby, diapers and clothing, safety, and many waysof stimulating the baby's development. The recipes for babies and toddlers inPart Three are useful, as are the recommended home remedies; charts on commonchildhood illnesses; height and weight; and the thorough index. (A particularstrength of the book is the authors' careful attention to diet and nutrition forboth mother and baby, incorporating the American Academy of Pediatrics' latestrecommendations on infant nutrition.) While some of the authors' perspectivesare controversial (such as whether to let your baby "cry it out" or not), thisbook remains one of the most comprehensive resources for new parents as theytoddle through their baby's first year. ... Read more

Reviews (260)

Too calloused for my families needs
Let me first state that every child is different and every household has different needs. One method of childrearing may work for one family and child but work horribly for the next.

This book did not fit well or feel right to my family at all. I found myself shaking my head in disbelief at most of the methods they advise. For example, they strongly advocate letting your child `cry it out' especially at night. I tried this and it was heart wrenching for my husband and I, not to mention extremely stressful for my son. We discarded that method very quickly. We now respond to my son's needs when he expresses them. This book gives a quiet undertone that if you pamper your child too much then you're going to end up with a spoilt brat. I say that's rubbish.

Also, this book strongly discourages co-sleeping, a method that works very well for my family. I'll be darned if I'm going to get up when my son wakes for a feeding, nurse him, lull him back to sleep, and then try to get myself settled for sleep. I can't tell you how much better our son and I slept when we decided to just put him in the bed with us. Yes, there are arguments on both sides stating pros and cons. You just need to be smart about it.

This book has a very patronizing tone leaving you feel like you need to rule over your child with an iron fist or you'll be left with a kid that walks all over you. Everything about this book felt very calloused and cruel.

The only redeeming aspect of this book is that it does serve as a good reference as far as developmental milestones. It's good for reference, and that's pretty much it.

I strongly advise parents to explore a vast array of books as well as going with their gut. One method that works for one baby may not work for another; every baby is different and has different needs. This book did not work for us. We found `The Baby Book' by Dr. Sears to fit the needs of our family much more appropriately.

make sure you get and review the 2nd edition, NOT the first
The problem with the previous reviewer's comments is that she's looking at the older edition of the book. THe 2nd edition, published in 2003 clearly states on page 437:

"The AAP recommends that breastfeeding continue for AT LEAST a full year and then for as long as baby and mother both want to keep it up..... Many women choose to continue nursing into the second year and beyond, and that's fine.... Older children who breastfeed are just as likely to be secure, happy, and independent as those who wean early."

PLUS -- there's an entire chapter dedicated to breastfeeding... with tons of reasons why it's a good thing. So I don't get why so many reviewers here keep on blasting this book for not being pro-breastfeeding.This book is so well balanced on so many issues -- like co-sleeping and baby wearing, etc. Looking at a ten year old version of the book that's been passed down from friend to friend and then REVIEWING it here -- instead of actually going out to the store or library to get the actual current book is unfair.

This book has been so helpful to me. As a first time parent, this book had all the answers I needed. Sure, I may not agree with everything in the book, but I'm intelligent enough to not take everything I read and treat it as gospel. I'm able to make my own decision when it comes to parenting, and not only does this book give me the tools to do that, but the authors even encourage that parents ultimately do what feels best to them.

I highly recommend it!

I threw this book in the trash can... literally
I didn't want any other parents getting their hands on it.I have several issues with this book.Their view on breastfeeding is that you should wean at age one or you will have problems.Even the AAP and World Health Organization recommends that you breastfeed for at least two years and let your baby self-wean.Also, they repeatedly call parents who won't let their babies cry it out 'soft'.If my baby is crying, I'm going to her: enough said.Also, they give only negatives and no positives to co-sleeping.I really liked their pregnancy book, but this one is garbage and I got the Dr Sears 'The Baby Book' instead. ... Read more

Isbn: 0894805770
Subjects:  1. Care    2. Care and hygiene    3. Child Care/Parenting    4. Child rearing    5. Children    6. Family / Parenting / Childbirth    7. Infants    8. Infants & Toddlers - Infants   

LeapStart Learning Table
Average Customer Review:
Toy (14 August, 2002)
list price: $44.99 -- our price: $39.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

This is a happy, noisy toy that should amuse most toddlers. Everything that can be touched reacts in some way, from a trombone-playing frog to a book that sings the alphabet. Our favorite is the colored keyboard that sings each color you press. The tabletop can be placed on the floor for those still in the crawling phase, or can sit on the included legs for a sturdy surface and leaning spot for little ones who are new to walking. If there is any fault with the Learning Table, it may be that it has too many features: each element of the table reacts in two different ways, depending on whether it's in Learn Mode or Music Mode. (Modes are switched by flipping the page of the book mounted in the center of the table.) Though this means more fun stuff for kids to hear, the mode concept is not one that they can be expected to understand, and the effect of the toy's inconsistent reactions is likely to be confusion. --David Stoesz ... Read more

Reviews (726)

- Baby's Favorite Toy! -
I bought this toy for my twins when they were 6 months old.I thought it looked like no big deal for the price.But I read the reviews and it was so highly rated, I figured I'd give it a try.Well, I base almost all of my baby toy purchases on amazon reviews now.They were right on the money!

My twins absolutely LOVE this table.It helped them when they were learning to pull themselves up on things.And the constant standing up and down, playing with this toy...has made them so strong and confident on their feet.I was worried that it wouldn't be sturdy enough when they pulled up on it.But it sure is sturdy.Very solid and well built.

And it keeps them entertained for awhile!They play with it for at least an hour total each day.I'll spread out a bunch of toys and they still go to this learning table first.And then to the other toys...and then back to the table.They can't get enough of it!They just love to turn the page of the book...over and over again.It's so amazing to watch and see how they have learned to spin the maraca, flick the banjo, pull down on the violin, push the trombone and open/close the lid.Even after 5 months of playing with this toy, they still enjoy it.That's money well spent!

This is a must have!

Toy for the Movies!
I used this in the movie for the little girl during a scene were she had to play with it to make her laugh and smile and it worked great! She smiled and laughed. It was the perfect scene!

My 8 month old's FAVORITE!!
I got this toy when my daughter was six months old.She wasn't pulling up on things yet, so I left the legs off and she played with it on her tummy.A month later (when she did start pulling up in things) I put the legs on, and it's the first toy she goes for.She plays with it ALL the time.I would say this toy is by FAR her favorite.She'll play with it for hours (with tiny little breaks to rest her legs) But it's always been the first toy she goes for in the morning, and the last she plays with at night. Definetly worth the money. ... Read more

Asin: B000062XQ8
Subjects:  1. Baby and Infant    2. Learning    3. Toddler    4. Activity    5. Electronic Learning Aids (ELA)    6. Electronic    7. Hand-Eye Coordination    8. Musical    9. Electronic Learning Aids   

Fold N Go Booster
Average Customer Review:
Baby Product
-- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Removable tray
• Retractable safety straps
• 3-point restraint with one-hand release
• High back seat

Reviews (191)

Great Long Lasting Product
We purchased this product when my son was strong enough to sit without help, wich was at around 6 or 7 months. My son is now 2 years old and we still use this great booster seat. Almost all restaurants have booster seats, but they cannot be secured to a seat, nor do they have seat belts. So when the child outgrows the high chair, this is the perfect thing to have. It's been tossed around plenty of times, and has taken a lot of beating, but the parts are very sturdy and has not broken. I highly recommend purchase of this product.

tough little seat
I love this product, very tidy, very small, Easy to clean.

Some reviewers have said this chair is weak. I can not understand that at all. while the tray is pretty light weight it takes a licking and keeps on ticking.
Mostly we do not use the tray anymore, and use this seat just as a booster at our table.
It folds down in about 1.5 seconds. Then just push your dining chair in under the table and you would hardly know a tot just ate dinner there.
I am buying another right now for my second child , she is just ready to upgrade.

Hard to use
I found that it was difficult for my five month old to sit up in this chair without falling over. The storage unit was very small, too small for anything but a bib. My mom used it one day and broke the hook that holds the tray on. ... Read more

Asin: B00005QXPE
Sales Rank: 292
Subjects:  1. Feeding    2. Solid Feeding    3. Booster Seats