Category — Mom blogosphere

Happy Holidays! We’re back with another edition of the mom blog roundup. Got a blog you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments!

• Looking to help your child get a jump in school? My Little Patch of Sunshine reviews a popular online tutoring service.
• The Crunchy Chicken keeps her house cooler in the winter, but everywhere else she goes is kept super warm—making her super uncomfortable. What about you?
• Yum! The Pomegranate Not-tini from Celebrate Green might be the perfect drink for a family-friendly New Year’s party.
• After opening all the gifts on Christmas morning, Natural as Possible Mom reminds us: recycle that wrap!
• If you’re still searching for last-minute gifts, try these homemade ideas from Green SAHM.

-Marygrace, staff writer

It’s been a while, but we’re back with another edition of the mom blog roundup. Got a blog you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments!

• In the throes of shopping madness? Take a step back, and see why Crunchy Domestic Goddess suggests giving experiential gifts instead.
• Water’s a precious resource, but that can be hard hard for kids to grasp. Teach them about conservation with tips from Green SAHM.
• Cloth Diaper Blog says yes, you can travel with cloth diapers! Some diapers might work better than others, though.
• Think “unscented” and “fragrance-free” mean the same thing? So did Mom Goes Green—til she found out otherwise!
• You’ve read our children’s book reviews, now see more: Ph.D. in Parenting shares her kids book recommendations.

-Marygrace, staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Fresh off the heels of Meatless Monday, the Tranquil Parent shares tips for packing a vegetarian lunch for kids and adults.
• A staple-free stapler? It really works and is a safe, waste-free option for students, says the Green Mom Review.
• Hooray, you’re using cloth diapers! But now your baby’s clothes don’t fit right. Green Baby Guide knows how to make it work.
• Painting with watercolors is super fun—but it can also be super messy. Find out how to keep it organized via Make and Takes.
• Warm days spent outdoors means lots of dirt tracked inside, but Green SAHM says there are plenty of ways to keep your indoor air cleaner.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Baby Potential stopped going to church as a young adult, but now she wonders whether raising kids without religion is a good idea.
• All month long, Motherhood Uncensored is challenging herself to be a better parent, starting with being present with her kids. 
• Family road trip? Your kids could see some inappropriate billboards, says Mommy Instincts.
• Mom-101 shares her experience taking her daughter to work. 
• Being a parent is hard work—especially when you have to parent in public, says Ask Moxie.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Want to feed your family food that’s healthy, simple to make, and good for the environment? Check out Mark Bittman, says Enviromom. 
• Muthering Heights shares advice for determining your child’s strengths and weaknesses (it’s easy!). 
• Natural remedies handbook, Smart Medicine for a Healthier Child, is a must-read, according to Recycle Your Day. 
• Is motherhood oppressive? PhD in Parenting talks parenting, happiness, and the pressure cooker. 
• Attention crafty moms: Make and Takes is giving one lucky reader a cordless glue gun!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Do you work from home? There are plenty of ways to make your office more earth-friendly, says Green SAHM. 
• One way to build a better breakfast might be tossing the Corn Flakes. Natural as Possible Mom covers the latest Kellog’s cereal recall. 
• Frugal Family Fun Blog shares their favorite activity of the summer—building giant bubble wands!
• Tomorrow marks the 41st anniversary of the first moon landing! Multi-Minding Mom is celebrating by reading moon-themed books with her kids. 
• Ever wonder how other eco-conscious moms do it? The Crunchy Chicken shares a day in her green life. 

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Ahh, relief! dkMommySpot shares some surprising natural ways to help your family beat the heat.
• Get crafty with…bread? See what Unplug Your Kids made when they transformed a loaf into modeling clay.
• Sometimes, advocating for green is easier than actually being green, says Organic Mania.
• Angry with BP? Big Green Purse offers an idea that’s more effective than boycotting their gas stations.
• SafeMama helps you combat summer skin woes like bug bites, rashes, sunburn, and more.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Why do girls have to wear swimsuit tops but boys don’t? Crunchy Domestic Goddess weighs in on her daughter’s experience with bathing suit inequality.
• Come, Mommy shares a hilarious (and adorable!) story about getting laundry help from her son.
• The only thing worse than a clogged drain? Having to use a super toxic product to clean it out. No more, says Recycle Your Day, who offers eco-friendly solutions.
• It’s hot outside! If your air conditioner isn’t working as well as you think it should be, try this one simple trick, says Mom Goes Green.
• Your morning java just got greener, thanks to The Green Mom Review‘s post on reusable, hemp coffee filters.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Saying no to plastic is always better for the environment, but not always for your wallet. The Green Phone Booth asks what what you choose—packaging or price?
• Stuttering Awareness Week might’ve just ended, but My Little Patch of Sunshine‘s tips for helping kids who stutter still apply.
• A Mama’s Blog meets another parenting milestone: The first time her son is embarrassed to hug her at school.
• Attention, working moms! Green and Clean Mom shares 4 ways to green your child’s daycare.
• Want to get your kids involved in some volunteer work over the summer? Green SAHM points you in the right direction.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Love the idea of cloth diapers—but wonder how they work while your child’s at daycare? The Cloth Diaper Blog shares some advice.
• SouleMama whips up a batch of violet jam, then spoons it on top of Parmesan crackers with cream cheese. Yum!
• If you think your kid is defiant at age two, just wait til she turns three, says PhD in Parenting.
• BabyMinding offers tips to help your kids break the sugar habit, plus tasty, low-sugar recipes that satisfy a sweet tooth the healthy way.
• Rainy day? Make tye-dye t-shirts, suggests Natural Kids.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Is your kid old enough to use the computer on his own? Consider SafeMama‘s tips to help him surf the web safely.
• Frugal Babe takes another step towards minimalism by reducing her news consumption—and has great results.
• Stay-at-home moms and dads, take note: Living as a one-income family need not be frightening, says Not the Jet Set.
• Walking Upside Down makes spinach-ricotta ravioli (including from-scratch pasta dough!). Yum!
• Birthday party coming up? Take some inspiration from Recycle Your Day‘s homemade birthday banner.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• New to gardening? Smiling Green Mom says if she can do it, you can, too!
• The Confused Homemaker does waste-free lunch right with reusable (and cute!) snack and sandwich bags.
• Yoga pants are great to get your stretch on, but could wearing them everyday be bad for your health? asks 5 Minutes for Mom.
• Think about the best thing happening to you today—then share it with The Mommy Files for Share Your Good News Tuesday. Fun!
• Babies need names, but coming up with one you (and your partner!) both love can be tough, says The Mama Bird Diaries.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Earth Day is right around the corner! To celebrate, we’re highlighting out favorite eco-conscious posts in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• How much water does your family consume? Green and Clean Mom finds an online calculator to help you figure it out.
• Green SAHM knows are more than just pretty to look at. When planted strategically, they’ll provide shade to keep your home cooler in the summer.
• Yoga mat on it’s last legs? Don’t throw it out—recycle it!, says Green Baby Guide.
• Ms. Frizzle is back to save the planet! The Green Parent reviews The Magic School Bus and the Climate Challenge.
• We’re not the only ones who love eco-crafts: Make and Takes shares crafts your kids can make with stuff you’d otherwise throw out.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• The Crunchy Chicken ponders the taboo question: Do you have a favorite child?
• Yum! Living the Frugal Life shares a recipe for seasonal pizza with spinach and spring onions.
• Want to replace your plastic containers for glass—but find it too expensive? Take a tip from Greenhab.
• Yes, dusting is boring work. But Citizen Green lists all the health-related reasons you (or your partner! or your kids!) should do it anyway.
• Ever get a weird look for your sustainable lifestyle? One Green Generation reminds us that living green is not abnormal!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Living green doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Instead, try the 80/20 rule, says The Green Phone Booth.
• Going Green Mama shares some restorative yoga poses to soothe aching muscles after a weekend of gardening.
• An energy audit’s the best way to figure out your home’s carbon footprint. The Conscious Shopper tells you how to do it!
• Looking forward to making popsicles this summer? NatureMoms found molds that are BPA-free!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• A great read that’s just for grown-ups: The Tranquil Parent talks about the importance of fighting fairly with your partner.
• Moms weigh in when the Green Baby Guide asks, “Why did you go green with baby?”.
• Trying to minimize waste at home? Green SAHM shares tips for using less plastic in the kitchen.
• Make and Take’s adorable Easter craft will turn your kid’s face into a funny bunny.
• A simple way to keep your home healthier? Take off your shoes, says Mom Goes Green.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Confessions of a Mean Mommy weighs in on a new study citing the negative effects of helicopter parenting.
• Why do we blog? My Baby Naturally explores the motivating factors behind keeping an online journal.
• Most parents are experts at giving, but knowing how to receive is equally important, says the Uncommon Voice.
• Fresh off the heels of our babywearing post, Just Ask Baby answers whether to sling or not to sling.
• Got some old newspaper lying around? Make Music Making Momma‘s musical shakers.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• We talk a lot about greening your home—but what about your workplace? The Green Phone Booth shares a collection of tips and ideas.
• Just in time for spring! Mom Go Green reports that bike-friendly routes are now available on Google Maps.
• Green Talk shares an easy, all-natural way to keep your garden healthy (and it’s not compost!).
• Good news for kids (and adults) with peanut allergies: Oral treatment may soon be available, AllergyMoms reports.
• Tech Savvy Mama talks up SciGirls, a new TV show that aims to get more girls interested in math, science, and engineering.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

One week closer to spring! Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Cookies for breakfast? You bet. Hip Mountain Mama makes hers with whole wheat flour, raisins, almonds, and flaxseeds.
• File under: Funny. Check out “10 Things I’ve Learned Since Becoming a mom” from The Healthy Moms.
• TheSmartMama explains why mold can be harmful—plus how to keep it from growing in your home (ick!).
• Too many catalogs are bad for the environment and an (organized) living space. Big Green Purse helps you cut the clutter.
• On our must-see list? Eco documentary, Addicted to Plastic, thanks to Nature Moms‘ review.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• SouleMama takes a moment on Fridays to snap a photo of whatever’s happening in the present moment—and appreciate it!
• It might be March, but Waldorf Mama knows winter isn’t over yet. That’s why she knitted a pair of amazing pink mittens for her daughter.
• The Tranquil Parent reviews a book that teaches kids as young as three about chores and allowance. Check it out!
• Looking for ways to conserve water? Mom Goes Green has ideas for reusing your gray water.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• How do movies and TV influence our idea of what it’s like to have a baby? Crunchy Domestic Goddess explores popular culture’s influence on childbirth.
• And speaking of TV: if your family’s in the market for a new one, check out these planet-friendly buying tips from Green and Clean Mom.
• PhD in Parenting questions McDonald’s sponsorship of the Olympics—and how it’s influencing kids.
• One common relationship challenge? Giving partners the attention they need (despite everyone’s busy schedules!). The Tranquil Parent explores.
• Uh-oh! Healthy Green Moms shares her first experience with the dreaded croup.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Cut the carbon footprint of your to-go coffee cup with a DIY cup sleeve. The Big Green Giraffe shares a tutorial—as well as her cute results!
• Natural as Possible Mom tries to reduce her family’s paper use. See how she’s doing!
• Ever get skeeved out when your kid uses a public restroom? Raising a Green Bean reviews an eco-friendly solution.
• A Mama’s Blog attempts cleans the playroom with her sons, then tries to explain the meaning of the word “pigsty.” Funny!
• Healthy Happy Hip Parenting rediscovers her beauty with a fun photo shoot.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• You’re probably aware of the importance of purchasing fair trade coffee and chocolate. Tree Hugging Family asks, what about bananas?
• Recycle Your Day‘s taking Meatless Mondays to the next level with raw meals for her baby.
• There’s a new baby tub out that makes bath time a snap, says Green Mama’s Pad. Break out the bubbles!
• Excess dietary sodium isn’t just a concern for grown-ups; PhD in Parenting says many baby and toddler foods are also too high in salt.
• GreenStyleMom whips up winter salad with roasted beets and tangerines. Yum!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

We’re really excited about KIWI’s 2010 Next Great Young Chef contest, our search for the next generation of culinary experts, so this week we’re featuring cooking-related posts we love from some of our favorite mom blogs.

• Real Mom Kitchen‘s Super Bean Burritos are perfect fare for Meatless Mondays (or any day of the week!).
• Looking for a fun after-school treat? Try the UnGourmet‘s toasted coconut and chocolate chip cookies.
• 3 Kids and Us makes butter-browned potatoes that’ll hit the spot on a cold night.
• Why buy bread when it’s so easy to make your own? Check out Milk and Honey Mommy‘s whole wheat sandwich loaf.
• Tomorrow’s Groundhog’s Day! Warm up with Gourmet Mom on-the-Go‘s Groundhog Hot Cocoa.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Photo by SOCIALisBETTER, flickr

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Green and Clean Mom explores the idea of reforming the Toxic Substance Control Act, which could save $5 billion a year in health care costs.
• Want to slow down? Mama-Om shares three ways she practices peace and finds self-connection.
• Enviromom reduces waste with reusable baby wipes.
• The next time your kid wants a new plaything, check out Green SAHM‘s four toys you can make rather than buy.
• A campfire in the winter? PhD in Parenting did it, and has a great picture to prove it.

Are you a mom blogger? Enter our Mom Blogger Giveaway to win a natural cold and flu care pack from Boiron!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Happy New Year! This week, we’re highlighting bloggers that are participating in One Small Change. Started by Hip Mountain Mama, the project is challenging families to adopt one planet-friendly change each month leading up to Earth Day (4/22/10). Want to participate? Learn more here.

• Hip Mountain Mama‘s first small change towards living greener? Cutting back on TP use with the family cloth.
• Plain and Joyful Living isn’t giving up coffee—but her family is saving energy by brewing the drink on a wood stove.
• Green Acres in the City shares some pretty pictures of the snow and her family’s first small change: Installing a low-flow shower head.
• Earthmonkey Mama‘s family is cutting back on their meat consumption, opting for 2-3 veg meals each week.
• Recycling isn’t yet commonplace in Gypsy Forest‘s southern Louisiana community, but it’s her family’s small change for this month.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Attachment parenting or tough love? Crunchy Domestic Goddess weighs in on getting your little one to sleep soundly.
• Healthy Green Moms talk the benefits of raw milk, plus the controversy behind it.
• Looking for last minute holiday  crafts? Make Prairie Mama‘s tree homemade ornaments.
• It’s easy to say no to blow drying your hair in the summer, but not so much in the winter. EnviroMom is looking for tips  on air drying minus the chill.
• Tree Hugging Family shares three disposable habits to beat for the new year. Add them to your list of resolutions!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• A Mama’s Blog shares a cute story about her son while marveling at childhood innocence.
• Would you forego toilet paper for cloth wipes? Cloth Diaper Blog explores an issue most of us have probably never thought twice about.
• If you feel like there’s no time to sleep during the holiday season, you’re not alone. But Crunchy Green Lovin’ Mom has some tips to make shut-eye come easier.
• Green Baby Guide is looking for tips that’ll help new moms avoid staying housebound with a new baby in the winter.
• PhD in Parenting weighs in on an interesting controversy over helmets and the responsibility of the media to portray bike safety.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Adventures in Babywearing is promoting Blog.Bid.Hope to raise money on behalf of the Liz Logelin Foundation and Anissa Mayhew. Learn how you can help!
• Want to make your own cute baby legwarmers? Check out The Clothesline‘s easy tutorial.
• Just in time for snapping all those holiday photos: Learn five techniques to take better pictures of your kid from SimpleMom.
• Mindful Momma shares her tips on seeking out the best heirloom holiday decorations. Fun!
• Kudos to the moms in Michigan who are supporting toxic chemical reform. Read all about it at Green and Clean Mom.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Giving back is one of the best things you can do during the holidays—and throughout the year. Natural as Possible Mom shares her family’s experience of paying it forward.
• Multi-Minding Mom has some great, green holiday shopping picks. (Want more gift ideas? Check out the KIWI 2009 Best Green Toys & Gifts Guide!)
• Kids say the darndest things! Check out some laugh-out-loud quotes from Jenny ‘N John.
• Non-Toxic Kids warns that even though phthalates and lead have been banned in toys, there’s still room for concern.
• If you’ve yet to settle on a holiday greeting card, consider this one from Cool Mom Picks.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Our first featured dad blog! Why My Hair Don’t Grow No More‘s two-year-old plays a silly trick.
• Louloupink shares her ten favorite resources for nontoxic family living.
• Has your kid recently outgrown an old pair of shoes? BusyMom knows a great way to get rid of them.
• So much fun! Make and Takes transforms an ordinary plastic bowling set into a Thanksgiving turkey bowl.
• EnviroMom finds a new use for an old filing cabinet.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• There’s a Healthy Child Healthy World virtual party happening at And That’s All I’ve Got to Say About That. Check it out!
• Natural as Possible Mom has two kids that sleep great—and she shares how yours can, too.
• Do you apologize to your kids? Parenting By Trial and Error does, and she explains why.
• Yum! ReadyMom’s Best Ever Banana Muffins look delicious.
• Want to get creative with this year’s holiday cards? Try Origami Mommy‘s easy tutorial for a pretty, flowery option.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Crunchy Domestic Goddess grapples with BPA in canned goods, and says it might be time to cook her own beans.
• Any mom with more than one kid is knows all about sibling rivalry—but what about with twins? Here’s what The Bean Blog has to say.
• Wow! Waldorf Mama‘s photos capture the beauty of autumn.
• It’s the simple things that count: Muthering Heights finds joy in the everyday.
• Mom Goes Green says gather your bottles and cans! November 15th is America Recycles Day.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Pampers disposables give babies a better night’s sleep than cloth diapers? We’re not sure we believe it, and neither is The Cloth Diaper Blog.
• Green & Clean Mom has the tools to help your family get through cold and flu season—naturally.
• The Soft Landing Blog explains whether or not it’s safe to wash plastics in the dishwasher.
• Ever wonder what it’s like to homeschool? Renaissance Mama answers your questions.
• This Mama Makes Stuff gives us some crafty inspiration in the form of a homemade infant wrap dress.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Pink and Blue Avenue shares easy, DIY baby food recipes like apple cabbage or green beans, collards, and rice.
• Halloween is just around the corner, and The Full Mommy has trick-or-treating safety tips.
• Flu season in full swing, but A Mama’s Blog wonders about the safety of the H1N1 vaccine.
• Is your kid a daredevil? You’re not alone, says TeachingMommy.
• SafeMama shares her pick for (adorable) PVC-free rain gear for kids.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Looking for another way to preserve fall fruit? NatureMoms says try dehydrating!
• More about meat: Why families should choose organic beef, according to Annie’s Organic Baby.
• Fruit flies are annoying, but EnviroMom knows an easy way to banish them from your house.
• Out of the Crayon Box shows how easy it is to make a DIY play kitchen—out of an old nightstand!
• Looking for a fun costume idea to enter in our DIY Halloween costume contest? Try Helping Little Hands‘ poodle outfit.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Heather at A Mama’s Blog is training for the Komen Denver Race for the Cure.
• Feeling foggy? Learn the top three ways to get energized at Mom On The Run.
• GeekyMomma gets back to teaching, and notices that while the kids have stayed the same, other things at school have changed.
• How do you know an item you’re buying is really green? Tree Hugging Family shares their criteria for green product reviews.
• A new way to use pumpkin: Kingdom Twindom shares her method for pumpkin pie puffs.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Are you a city mom or a country mom? Being the latter, BusyMom discusses her fascination with life in New York and Chicago.
• We found out from Wisconsin Mommy that September 23rd was National Family Game Night. Perhaps a little late, but who says your family game night can’t be September 28th instead?
• Petite Planet recounts the childhood pleasure of hanging out under the kitchen table, and links to some cool photos, too!
• How to get your kid to like broccoli? The Mom Slant explains why she doesn’t buy branded character foods for her family.
• Mom-101 recalls her own ballet experience when taking her daughter to her first class.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Life transitions of all kinds can be tough for kids and grown-ups alike. The Tranquil Parent finds wisdom in the words of Winnie the Pooh author A.A. Milne.
• On our quest to always be a little greener, Pure Mothers asks: Can environmentalism go too far?
• Mama-Om documents her son’s experience with the giant octopus tree. Talk about kids exploring nature!
• Caught up in the Swine Flu scare? Mom Go Green shares tips to keep your kids safe.
• Via Green Me: Due to the recent BPA controversy, Patagonia has terminated their relationship with SIGG.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Are peaches still available at your local farmer’s market? If so, try canning some of them for the winter with this tutorial from Naturally Knocked Up.
• The Tranquil Parent encourages moms and dads to check your child’s car seat to make sure it’s properly installed.
• Next time you have an opportunity to take a relaxing bath, try Frugal Granola’s recipe for Mama’s Passion Bath Salt.
• Make and Takes says you can  preserve family memories by  encouraging your kids to journal.
• Slowly but surely, cities are providing curbside composting. Learn about it at Green Mama’s Pad.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Trying to cut back on grocery bills? See how Melanie of My Little Patch of Sunshine does it.
• Crunchy Domestic Goddess is encouraging families to reduce their impacts on the planet with the Ditch the Disposables Challenge 2009.
• Apple season is upon us, and GreenStyleMom takes her kids to pick their own. Fun!
• Tree Hugging Family knows greening your trash bags isn’t the most exciting thing–but it’s still important.
• Ever thought about how the color pink affects gender cues? PhD in Parenting makes some interesting points.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Too many tomatoes? The Green Baby Guide has ideas on how to use them!
• Nature Moms Blog says kids in the city need adventures, too–and she’s got some great suggestions!
• PrairieMama copes with her little one’s first day of kindergarten.
• Learn how to stop procrastinating and get more done with tips from The Tranquil Parent.
• What are you grateful for? Waldorf Mama gives thanks on Gratitude Friday.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Funny stories of the last week of summer from Green Kiddos.
• On our never-ending quest to live more earth-friendly, Green & Clean Mom reminds us that we’re only human.
• Chicky Chicky Baby realizes her kids won’t be kids forever.
• Crafty projects like felt toys and cute skirts, from Nested.
• According to The Green Mom Review, SIGG’s reusable bottles for kids do contain BPA.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• PrairieMama’s friend, Joe Heywood, guest blogs about the importance of attunement, and how it can improve parent-child relationships.
• Read one mom’s thoughts about the benefits of breastmilk over cow’s milk, then check out how others weigh in with the Breastfeeding Carnival at Pure Mothers.
• So simple (and fun!), why didn’t we think of this? This Mama Makes Stuff does homemade bread with cookie cutters.
• You’ve tried cloth diapers, but what about cloth wipes? Learn how to make them work for you at the Cloth Diaper Blog.
• Living green definitely goes hand in hand with saving money. A lot of us are pinching pennies now, but the Green Baby Guide wants to know: were you frugal before the recession?

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Today we’re talking with Micaela Preston, a stay-at-home mom of two living in Minneapolis, MN. Her blog, Mindful Momma, focuses on sharing advice for “living green without going broke”.

First, tell us a little bit about yourself: Where do you live? How old are your kids? What sorts of things does your family enjoy doing together?

I live in Minneapolis, MN, which is the GREATEST CITY EVER in the spring, summer and fall.  Winter?  Not so much.

My husband John and I have two boys – Drew is 9 years old and going into 4th grade and Liam is 4 1/2 but everyone thinks he is 6 because he is so tall.

Minneapolis is full of bike trails and one of our favorite activities is to go on family bike rides.  We started our kids on bike rides at an early age – using a hand-me-down Burley bike trailer and then later graduated to a trail-a-bike attachment (found one cheap at a garage sale!) and then of course to biking on their own.   I highly recommend biking as a great outdoor activity for any family!

What motivated you to create Mindful Momma?

I started my blog about 3 years ago and there’s an interesting story behind it.  We used to belong to Costco and I got in the (bad) habit of buying bottled water by the case…because it was cheap!  When I finally realized just how wasteful that was, I went to REI and bought fancy, plastic reusable water bottles for the whole family…and vowed to stop buying bottled water.  Only weeks later, I read an article about BPA in polycarbonate plastic bottles and realized that was the type we were using.  I was SO frustrated!!  I had only recently discovered the blog medium and was instantly hooked on the conversational style used in blog posts….so I decided to start my own blog about my adventures in living a green & healthy life with my family.  I had absolutely no idea where it would lead me…

[Read more →]

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Crunchy Domestic Goddess warns moms to be wary of greenwashing when it comes to packing school lunches–ditch the organic Oreos in favor of homemade granola bars!
• Check out The Artful Parent’s creative take on watercolors, which sounds like a great rainy-day activity.
• Learn all about the health benefits of wheatgrass, plus how to grow it at home from Earth Mama.
• Slugs on the Refrigerator takes some time to step out of her family’s pattern of busy-ness.
• PhD in Parenting calls for more flexible parenting and maternity leave.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Packing lunch is easy when you’ve got your own garden! Crunchy Domestic Goddess muses over her homegrown cucumbers.
• Muthering Heights is looking for natural colic remedies. Share your advice!
• Ever have a hard time remembering whether or not you turned off the oven upon leaving the house? Locked the front door? Boost your memory power with a simple tip from The Tranquil Parent.
• Tree Hugging Family discusses the benefits of green curriculum in schools. Teach ‘em while they’re young!
• The new school year is just around the corner! Get ready with Non-Toxic Kids’ eco-friendly back to school guide.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Looking for earth-friendly ways to keep pesky mosquitoes at bay? Check out Pink and Blue Avenue‘s all-natural ideas.
• Gift of Green turns popsicle sticks into decorative Countdown Sticks, so your family can count down til the Next Big Thing that’s going on.
• You’ve considered cloth diapers, but what about cloth baby wipes? Read all about them at Green Baby Guide.
• EnviroMom weighs in on making climate change part of the curriculum for high schoolers.
• Looking for a summer treat to help you cool off? Try The Green Parent‘s mouth-watering recipe for Blackberry Chocolate Frozen Yogurt.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Did you know you can recycle drinking straws? What about envelopes with plastic windows? Change Becomes Change has a list of recycle-friendly items that may surprise you.
• Mommy’s Favorite Things helps us sort out all our eco-laundry questions.
• It’s Money-Saving Monday over at My Little Patch of Sunshine. Find out how business loyalty cards can help your budget.
• Eco Women has compiled a whole list of resources for moms looking to be greener, with links regarding everything from car seats to strollers to healthy toys.
• Read all about one mom’s experience with potty training bootcamp at Green Kiddos.

Also, we want more of your blogs! We got a great response on last week’s post, but KiwiLog is still looking for more mom blogs to feature in our blogroll. Please share your links!

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the mom blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Calling all crafty moms! Origami Mommy shares a tutorial for DIY baby booties.
• Confessions of a Mean Mommy discusses the pleasures of a few camp-free weeks of summer with her boys.
• With new outbreaks and recalls being announced so frequently as of late, Mindful Momma‘s post on the importance of food safety couldn’t come at a better time!
• Plastic, plastic, everywhere. Learn about what drinking straws are made of, as well as some alternative options, courtesy of The Soft Landing blog.
• Renaissance Mama chronicles her family’s experience of an all-American summer activity–blueberry picking.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer