BellyBuds

BellyBuds were not around when I was pregnant, but if they were, I would have used them! Music is a huge part of my family's life...it's playing most days from the minute we wake up to the minute we go to bed...and none of it is "kid's music." My children have been learning to appreciate the good stuff from birth. Although with the help of BellyBuds, you can take this even a step further...before birth!

BellyBuds are safe and convenient for prenatal bonding with your baby. They are custom headphones (or bellyphones) that gently adhere to the belly and play directly into the womb, so your developing baby can hear prenatal music, voices, soothing sounds, or whatever you like.

To learn more and to purchase, visit bellybuds.com where the entire pack retails for $49.99 or amazon.com where they ship free for $47.58!.

My Robot Friend

I had my son August watch My Robot Friend's video for the acoustic song Waiting yesterday morning. As a self-proclaimed future movie director, he was interested in the process required to make such a video.

But I post it here, not only because it's a beautiful song and relaxing video to watch, but because I think it's magical even for those children not looking to create cinematic masterpieces in the future. I think this video is a great example of what beauty can be created with a lowly pencil and piece of paper.

After watching the video August immediately grabbed a sheet of cardstock and some scissors and made an airplane by cutting out the parts...even slits to insert the wings, tail fins, and nose into. I had no idea he had thought that through. Share this video with your children...who knows what they'll learn and make!

Renee & Jeremy

Last week, amidst the craziness of baby Hazel celebrating her first birthday, Renee & Jeremy released their second album C'mon! My children and I had high hopes and were anticipating it since their debut album It's a Big World should be paying rent in our CD player it's in there so often.

I'm happy to say that the album was worth the wait...it's happy and thoughtful and was instantly adored by my children...and me! But you don't have to take my word for it, you can watch a video for the title song below. Or, you can receive a free download at reneeandjeremy.com.

If you like what hear, C'mon is available for purchase at barnesandnoble.com for $11.99. What a great holiday gift it would make for any family on your giving list!

The Sea and Cake - Weekend

While my children are creating their own summer memories, I thought I'd share The Sea and Cake's video for Weekend which reminds me so much of my own summers as a kid...and probably will bring back some good feelings for you as well!

It's full of bike riding, lake swimming, wooded walks, Pop Rocks candy, and video games of course. It's relaxing and breathtaking...and I guarantee the summer vibe will lower your blood pressure! Enjoy!



Director: Tim Suton
Cinematographer: Chris Scarafile
Editor: Paul Snyder/lost planet

Like it? Check out other hits by The Sea and Cake...they're great!

Schoenhut's My First Piano

I love the My First Piano by Schoenhut...a company that's been in business for 135 years. My daughter Martha received this beautifully made wooden piano for Christmas two years ago when she was 7 months old and it was perfect for her to sit at and play.

I love musical instruments to teach young children cause and effect rather than electronic toys (and hopefully a love of music as well)! And I'm happy to report that she's now moved on to the large piano in the house.

Available at amazon.com for $48.74.

Happy 4th of July!

Today is a day for celebrating the red, white and blue with parades, picnics, fireworks, and American pride...and thanksgiving for all of our freedoms: Freedom to express ourselves and worship what we believe...and the freedom to raise our children how we believe is best. We are very fortunate...and I'm very proud of that fortune!

If you haven't done so already, today is a great day to start teaching your children the words and lyrics to The Pledge of Allegiance, The Star Spangled Banner, and America the Beautiful...and Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

Happy Independence Day!

Renee & Jeremy On Oprah...You Can Help!

I've received an email from Jeremy Toback of Renee & Jeremy...half of the amazing duo I wrote about last month. He asked me to pass along the following in hopes of being featured on the Oprah show.

"I KNOW you are massively busy but if you don't mind sending this around to some folks when you have a moment....

We have been chatting with the Oprah people for a while now. Now it looks like there is a way for our friends and supporters to help our cause, particularly if they’ve received or given our CD as a baby shower gift.

Here's the page to let your voice ring out re R&J / pass along to friends who might do the same ....

much gratitude!

Jeremy"

Jeremy, I'm happy to post the link and I encourage you all to follow it and say kind things about Renee & Jeremy's album It's a Big World. Their music is as inspirational for adults as it is for children...and if any item deserves Oprah's recognition in terms of an appropriate and thoughtful new baby gift, this is it!

Renee & Jeremy

Take two talented, successful musicians who happen to be parents and put them together...what do you get? One of the best children's albums I've ever heard! And I'm married to a guy who used to own and run an indie label, so we're picky!

Renee & Jeremy's album sounds like Ida meets Nick Drake. I guarantee it's an album that not only will you tolerate, but you will truly enjoy...gladly have it taking up space on your iPod! After all, there are times I leave the music play long after the kids are napping.

The lyrics seem inspired by true parental love and the anticipation we all feel as we watch our children grow and bloom. I will admit there are a few songs that actually made me stop and choke up a bit during my first listen. It seemed as though Renee and Jeremy stole thoughts from my head and put them to music! My own parental soundtrack!

To hear more of their music, learn more about them, or to purchase the album, visit reneeandjeremymusic.com.

You're listening to It's A Big World by Renee & Jeremy

Ten Thousand Villages

Ten Thousand Villages partners with artisans who depend on the international market for sustainable employment. And I have found many great musical instruments and puzzles on their site, including this terracotta bird water whistle shown here.

There are biographies of the artisans to read and photographs to look at to bring you even closer to those your purchases are benefiting. The online store is certainly worth checking out the next time you're searching for a little gift for a birthday party or your hard-to-shop-for girlfriend!

Terracotta water whistle available from Ten Thousand Villages for $6.00.