(cool) ideas: kleynimals

If you're a frequent reader of (cool) progeny, you know I have a thing for smart, modern, eco-conscience design. Anything that helps make the crazy that can be the life of a modern mom a little easier.

So when Claudia (Charm City's own toy maven) at aMuse Toys introduced me to Kleynimals, it was awe at first site. When she mentioned that they were created by a local mom, I had to learn more.

What are Kleynimals? Fun, stainless steel, non-toxic animal shaped keys designed for babies. A simply brilliant idea created by Annapolis area mom Kirsten Chapman.

5 smart office tips for mompreneurs

Thanks to Tervis for sponsoring my writing. Visit their website http://www.tervis.com to learn more about the world’s first smart cup.
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Chances are, if you're a mompreneur, that your office pulls double duty. Perhaps you've carved a little space in your bedroom, half a counter in the kitchen or were lucky enough to nab a desk in the family room. Even if you have a coveted separate space, it probably needs to double as kidspace. At the very least, be kid friendly.

I am lucky enough to have a space outside my home to run my office. Only having daycare 3.5 days a week, the space is often inhabited by the Bug for short periods of time. I had three guiding principles when I started designing the space: 1) must be colorful -- no boring beige in my new venture; 2) must NOT resemble my kitchen junk drawer (i.e. must be clutter-free); and 3) MUST be Bug friendly.

My office is still a work in progress, but I thought I'd share some tips to inspire your own kid-friendly workspace! 

baltimore kneebouncers want you to play... and they're giving away an app!

 Kneebouncers love play. And the local dad-owned company wants to share the play -- with everyone.

KneeBouncers is GIVING AWAY five of their fan favorite games in one app. KneeBouncers Big Little Games Vol 1 will be available for Android, iPhone, iPad and iPodTouch FOR FREE for a limited time. All to kick off their new Bounce, Play, Learn! Initiative.

“We love this app and we want to share it with the world. You get five fun educational and entertaining games, so you're really getting five apps,”  added co-creator Kurt Dommermuth. “The games are some of the very favorites directly from KneeBouncers.com, so they have been test driven by millions of babies and toddlers worldwide!”

the skinny on charm city kids club -- and a sneak peek at their grand opening fun!

Stacy Bekman Radz and Lindsay Klatsky are two moms on a mission -- and the founders of Charm City's newest kid hotspot, Charm City Kids Club. With a soft launch last week and their grand opening festivities this weekend, Stacy and Lindsay are excited to debut their family friendly oasis that caters to the younger kid crowd: infants through age 6. They were kind enough to answer a few questions about their new Lutherville-based business via email.

Tell us the story of Charm City Kids Club? What led you to pursue this idea?

We came up with the idea of Charm City Kids Club after we were dissatisfied with the options for young children offered in the Baltimore area. We both lived in New York City where there was a vast array of unique and fun children’s classes taught in child friendly environments. We decided that we were going to bring to Baltimore what many other large cities already had in place- an all in one children’s development center. We are taking our prior work experience as well as our expertise as moms of two and collaborating to create the perfect place for children and their families. At Charm City Kids Club, we are redefining the childhood experience in Baltimore.

What makes Charm City Kids Club different from other "kid friendly" places in Baltimore? What makes you unique?

Charm City Kids Club is the first place in Baltimore County to offer a one stop place geared towards children and their families. From the moment one enters CCKC, it is obvious that CCKC is a place for children and their families because of the bright colors and inviting atmosphere. CCKC offers educational and socialization opportunities for expectant parents and new parents through luncheons, dinners and special events with various speakers. These events will also allow parents to meet other parents with children in the same age group who share similar interests and concerns. CCKC also offers classes that include: parent/infant classes, interactive children’s music classes, art classes geared toward different themes, cooking classes geared toward different themes, science classes, book clubs, and infant and child yoga. CCKC also features birthday parties with a choice of over 10 birthday party themes. CCKC has an indoor play town for families to enjoy with a soft play area for the babies and a Whole Foods Mt. Washington Market and delivery truck, diner and theater for the older ones to play. In addition, CCKC has a retail area with high-end (yet reasonably priced) products for babies and young children. CCKC is the ONLY company in Baltimore County that provides all of these services in ONE location with easy access, convenient parking and high quality customer service.

We heard through the grapevine that you had hoped to open last fall. What were some of the challenges you ran into?

We wanted to find the perfect location that would be easily accessible from many locations, had ample parking and was on the main level to make things easier for parents and caregivers. Most importantly, we were looking for the perfect space that would appeal to the little ones.

What can parents expect when they visit Charm City Kids Club? What can kids expect?

CCKC is approximately 4700 square feet, clean, safe and child friendly and a place where a child walks in and says “this place is for me.” From the moment they walk in, they will be comfortable and happy with the bright colored walls, enthusiastic staff and super fun and beautifully painted play town. Parents will be thrilled that CCKC is located in a first floor building with ample parking and is accessible to both 695 and 83. CCKC is environmentally friendly, as the facilities were constructed using VOC free paint, cleaned using green products and will offer classes using recyclable materials. CCKC has a no shoe policy in the play town because our focus is being CLEAN and safe for little ones.CCKC offers a wide range of classes, events, retail selection and birthday parties so parents don’t have to take the same class over and over again. Our 1500 feet play town is in one self contained room so parents will feel comfortable bringing multiple children.

We're psyched about some of your upcoming classes. Which upcoming class are you most excited about? Why?

We are really excited about all of the classes that we are offering. We are offering great classes for children 6 weeks to age 5. One of the many classes we are really excited about is one of our music classes called Minishakers featuring music by Milkshake and other children’s favorites for children birth through age 5. Minishakers is a rockin music class that encourages kids to sing, play instruments and dance to live music. The class will feature music by Grammy nominated children’s band Milkshake as well as traditional children’s songs and adults favorites. The classes include songs, finger plays, bubbles, parachute and other exploration. Minishakers is not only an enjoyable class for children, but parents/caregivers will also have a great time! Not only do they have a great time with the class, all children enrolled in Minishakers will have the unique opportunity to experience an exclusive performance by Lisa and Mikel of Milkshake, who TOTALLY rock, in an intimate setting.

Entrepreneurial moms are always juggling. So we're curious - what's your day like since you've opened?

Our days are very busy!! We pack lunches for everyone, drop the older kids off at camp and take the younger ones with us to CCKC. We are up really early and stay up really late answering and writing tons of emails and planning events, parties and classes. We are extremely busy, but are enjoying every minute of it!

We're so bummed that we're going to miss your grand opening because we're out of town! Here's your chance to make us even more bummed -- what cool stuff are we going to miss?

We are so excited about our grand opening celebration which is on Saturday, July 30th from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Some of the fun includes a performance by Lisa and Mikel of Milkshake at 11 a.m., delicious and nutritious food and make your own trail mix from Whole Foods Market Mt. Washington, and make your own smoothies from Happy Family along with samples, coupons and tons of great raffle prizes. CCKC will also be giving away many amazing prizes. Additionally, there will be grand opening specials. We encourage everyone to check out CCKC’s play town, buy some retail, sign up for classes or book a party! For more information about CCKC, please check out our website at www.charmcitykidsclub.com or email us at info@charmcitykidsclub.com.

Charm City Kids Club is located at 1500 Riderwood Drive, Lutherville, MD 21093. You can find them on the web, facebook or twitter.

consigning at the totswap: this mom's experience

I just lost my consignment virginity. And couldn't wait to tell you all about it.

Because it was so easy. (SO easy).

This weekend is the spring Timonium TotSwap Consignment Sale. It's only THE biggest consignment sale in the region. And some lucky buyer is going to walk away with some of the Bug's infant wardrobe.

I had eight (yes! 8!) bins of clothes sizes 0-24 months sitting in my basement collecting dust. It wasn't really for sentimental reasons as much as it was a result of my sometimes frenzied life. Seemed easier to throw all of the clothes in a bin and send them into storage as opposed to sorting, storing, consigning and giving away. But as I was cramming more clothes into overcrowded bins last weekend, I decided enough was enough.

I registered as a consignor for the TotSwap online. It cost $10, but got me access to the database to register my items and two tickets to the coveted pre-sale event on Thursday night.

Then I got busy sorting. I did a first-run through all the bins and went with an immediate gut reaction (didn't want to get too bogged down in the 'ohhh-- I remember when she wore that for 30 seconds!): Keep, Trash, Donate, Consign. All of the Consign items then went through a second round of scrutiny as I sorted into piles by size (you can only consign 25 items per size, per TotSwap rules).

After I was happy with my selections, I sat down and entered each item into the TotSwap database. I had received a tip from Kimberly at The Muddy Princess to price well. So I usually erred on pricing lower than higher for my items. I also made a point of putting outfits together rather than consigning individual pieces. I'm not sure if this strategy was smart - - I'll let you know on Sunday! For each item, I needed to note whether or not I wanted the item marked down to 1/2 price if they don't sell before Sunday (YES -- sell, sell, sell) and whether or not I wanted them donated if they didn't sell (another YES. I don't want any of it coming home!).

Once each item was entered and priced, the database provided me with a PDF file of all of my tags so I could print them on cardstock and cut. Super easy.

Then came the tagging and hanging. By far this was the most tedious part of the process; however, I'm pretty sure it was self-induced tediousness as my Type-A personality came out in full force. (cool) progeny reader Heather White gave me a great suggestion of marking my hangers -- to make my clothing items stand out amongst the thousands at the sale. So I tied brightly colored ribbon around each hanger. I was also a bit neurotic about pieces getting separated or the tag being misplaced. I may of od'd on safety pins.

All of the clothes went into a plastic bin for transport. Once I got to the sale for drop off, I stood in line for maybe 10 minutes before an inspection station was free. All of my clothes were inspected and then I was free to place them on the sale floor.

Despite my scrutiny (and I'm pretty picky!) two of my items weren't up to snuff. Honestly, I didn't even pick up on the stains until I was looking at them in the florescent lights at the sale. Note to self: don't sort clothes in the basement and then tag at night. Make sure you're looking at all of the items in daylight.

So there you have it. All in all, I put about 4 hours into prepping for the sale and put 60 items on the TotSwap Sale floor.

I'm pretty sure it was worth it - - but I'll let you know for sure when I receive my check. It's due to arrive 7 days after the sale. {{Pretty sweet, right?}}

Just in time to buy the Bug a few new spring clothes.

(cool) tip: Headed to the TotSwap as a buyer? Check out our 10 tips for navigating the sale! Have things piling up that you too could part with? Like the TotSwap on Facebook to be notified of their next sale!

fab find: shoezooz

It's one of those nifty little ideas. A simple one. One that makes your harried, chaotic morning just a little easier. One of those ideas that you wish YOU had thought of first.

Is this scene familiar: You're ten minutes late and every time you turn around your toddler has taken off her coat. You call over and ask her to pick-up her shoes so that you can put them on. She INSISTS that she can do it herself and begins tugging furiously at the shoes, frantically trying to pull them on... to the wrong feet. When you try to intervene, you're pushed away. After all -- she can "do it herself."

Shoezooz to the rescue.

Animal puzzle stickers. One for the left foot. One for the right foot. Now toddlers can easily identify which shoe goes one which foot without the tears, tantrums, or insistent cries of "I can do it myself" followed by toe-tripping when their rainboots are inevitably on the wrong feet.

Told you you'd wish you'd thought of this idea yourself...

"There is nothing cuter than a toddler waddling around with their shoes on the wrong feet," said Kirsten Mackin, public relations manager for Shoezooz. "Except when it's your kid!"

Creator Ellen Lichtman couldn't agree more. Created to help her then-three-year-old daughter be more independent, Shoezooz was a reaction to her daughter's tenacity and Ellen's need to get out of the door.

Her daughter was elated -- and empowered -- when she could put her own shoes on properly. Ellen thought other kids would be, too.

Shoezooz designs are meant to have a modern edge and feel current. Ellen didn't want a cutsie look. She wanted something fun, fashionable and practical for the modern pre schooler. We think she scored a home run.

What do we love about this entirely mom-run, Mt. Washington-area business? That Ellen and Kirsten are involving their daughters in the entrepreneurial process. Ellen's daughter helps brainstorm possible retailers for the product, and Kirsten's daughter helps monitor the company's social media activities. Seems fitting since Ellen was the inventor of Shoezooz (and her daughter Lilah would like to be one!), and Kirsten runs the marketing arm of the business.

Did we mention their daughters are elementary-aged? Pretty darn (cool).

What's next for Shoezooz? They're branching in to new markets, as parents with differently abled children and occupational therapists are excited to try their product. A company committed to starting locally, Shoezooz is also going global. They just negotiated a deal with a distributor in Africa and are in discussions with a national educational store chain.

You can nab your own pair of Shoezooz from aMuse Toys, Trovh or Soft and Cozy Baby. Or you can hit up the (cool) progeny play date at The Mt. Washington Tavern Grilled Cheese Cook-Off on Sunday. Ellen and Kirsten have been kind enough to help us stuff the goodie bags - - and the first 30 families to stop by and say 'hi' to us will be getting their own pack to try!

(cool) tip: You can also find shoezooz on facebook!

Disclaimer: Shoezooz provided us with a pack of stickers to try with the Bug. We love them! If we didn't, you wouldn't have heard about their product. I also had a wonderful opportunity to sit down with these two fabulous ladies over coffee at the Mt. Washington Starbucks. Truly a delight. We all bought our own drinks, so no - - they didn't sway my affinity for their product with high octane caffeine, either.

the man behind 123 Baltimore, why you need to hit up aMuse Toys, and a giveaway

Who is Puck?

According to wikipedia, Puck is a character in William Shakespeare's play A Midsummer Night's Dream that was based on the ancient figure in English mythology, also called Puck. Puck is a clever and mischievous elf and personifies the trickster or the wise knave.

It's also the pseudonym of Charm City area author and owner of duopress, Mauricio Velázquez de León.

Why does Mauricio publish his creative, modern board books for young kiddos under the name of Puck? Velázquez de León is just too darn long.

Not to mention the Mt. Washington dad is a bit of a wise knave. He has created a series of hip children's books that will charm the most discerning artistic palate. And six-month-old.

Mauricio's innovative board books embody all that is cool. The 123 series mixes together regional icons and counting sequences with a splash of modern art, funky typeset and crazy colors. So even the youngest of cuties can begin learning about their city or state (or their parents'/grandparents' home city or state).

"As parents, we want to give our kids a little bit of the things we love," says Mauricio. "We feel very proud of the city where we live, where we were born, where we went to school." The 123 series lets you share just that with your kiddos in an oh-so-hip way.

After all, our kids are mini-hipsters, right?

Enter the 123 Baltimore book. Your next baby gift dilemma is now solved. Your tot can learn their numbers counting crabs, flamingos, Baltimore Ravens, and painted ladies.

Mauricio, who honed his writing skills in the editorial departments of children's book publishers, brings a sense of contemporary whimsy to all of the works duopress puts on the market. Their latest sensation? A book for mini gourmets called My Foodie ABC. You can buy it in it's original board book format or {{wait for the genius idea... wait for it...}} as a set of bound, tear-them-out-as-you-need-them disposable placemats (aptly called My Foodie ABC Placemats). Perfect for enticing picky eaters or providing your own clean surface at your favorite local restaurant.

Just be prepared to explain concepts like locavore... brought to you by the letter L.

Mauricio and his family have become true Charm City lovers after relocating here from New York City two years ago. His twin boys love spending their weekends riding the Charm City Circulator and hitting up cultural locales like the Baltimore Museum of Art and the Aquarium. A favorite food spot for this urban fam? Golden West Cafe in Hampden or Stone Mill Bakery at Green Spring Station. Apparently, his two five-year-olds can't get enough of Stone Mill's ginormous hot dogs...

You can meet Mauricio and pick up a copy of 123 Baltimore at aMuse Toy's Quarry Lake location on Sunday! Starting at 11:00 AM, our favorite local toy store will host Mauricio (aka Puck) for a reading, book signing and coloring workshop.

Claudia Towles, owner of aMuse Toys, knows a good thing when she sees it.

"We love supporting Baltimore based independents," said Claudia. "And we embrace opportunites to highlight beautiful, purposeful playthings."

Guess what? TWO (cool) progeny readers are going to be sharing duopress products for FREE with their pint sizers. We're giving away a copy of 123 Baltimore and the pack of My Foodie ABC Placemats. Want to win one of them? All you need to do is fill out this form. Want a second entry? Leave a comment on this post telling us your favorite Baltimore City icon. **fine print: this giveaway is only open to residents of the US and Canada... And you have until 5:00 PM on Monday, February 28th to enter.

Purposeful. Playful. Hip. Clever. That about says it all.

(cool) fact: Out of all of the pseudonyms in the world, how did Mauricio settle on Puck? His grandfather was a journalist (in Spain and later in Mexico) and he wrote a column for years using the name Puck. It's all in the family.

fab find: saurette spring dresses

Whimsical.

One word describes all of the dresses in Saurette's spring collection.

Well, add in 'beautifully constructed' and 'gorgeous.' But if you're Saurette lovers like we are, that's a given.

Saurette designer Lisa Kanouse seems to have modern little girls --and quite honestly, their mothers who buy the clothes -- pegged. Each season, she designs a slightly sassy line that feels NY runway but is romantically inspired and ready for play. You might remember that Lisa is mom to two adorable boys from our interview with her last fall. Given that she spends her mornings pulling together the t-shirt and khakis look for her kids, it always amazes me that she knows moms and little girls (at least this mom and her little girl) so darn well.

Saurette has just released their brilliant spring line. Although each piece in the line is fabulous, the spring dresses particularly caught my eye. Hence why they are this week's fab find.

In today's post, Lisa kindly answers a few questions about her spring collection. She shares her inspiration, creative process and why she loves spotting little girls wearing her clothes on the streets of NYC.

What inspired your spring dresses?
Spring is inspired by fruits & flowers. All of our colors are named after juicy, vibrant flavors that translate into deliciously irresistible colors: Grape, Blueberry, Raspberry, Lemon, Limon, Tangerine, and Strawberry all tie back to white, grey and black. Even our black and white striped pieces offer a surprise pop of color to make that item extra special. Our prints include a Raspberry heart, and a Mosaic Print in Blueberry & Grape. I wanted this sophisticated angelic mood to the Spring collection. Little girls are so angelic to me. I designed all of the hair accessories from flowers, vine and raw fabric scraps as a sort of angelic halo look to accentuate their beauty while being tied to a earthen theme.

Can you describe your design process? How do you go from idea to sketch to fabric selection?
I start with color selection. Some sort of pink and purple is always included, because it sells! It’s just plain silly, to avoid them. The trick is selecting unique hues of the colors that cause excitement when you spot them. Nothing is better than seeing a little girl’s eyes light up when she spots something she loves! After color, I work on prints. I shop all of the local print shows in NYC and research what the upcoming trends are, but mostly, I just select what I like and what I think is a bit unexpected for the childrenswear market. I don’t like seeing little girls in the typical soft pink ditzy print dress. I want to give them something more modern, more fun, sometimes sassy, definitely stylish. Then I start working on silhouettes. Keeping in mind what little girls like, what mom will be happy with and tying that together with the contemporary influences that is playing out in womenswear. It has to be fashionable, but appropriate for a little girl at the same time.

Can you describe the fabric selections for each dress?
I believe in 100% cotton as a staple where ever possible. It’s a natural fiber, wears well, is comfortable and easy to care for. Most of our dresses are made with 100% cotton voile that has a fine yarn size which offers a really soft hand feel which feels great next to the skin. We also use cotton/spandex for and 100% Pima Cotton for our basics and 100% viscose for our pieces that require more fluidity or drape.

Where are you hoping you spot one of your dresses this spring?
Honestly, I take pleasure in seeing the local girls wearing Saurette. It’s nice to walk down the street in New York City and spot one of my designs on a little girl. I really love if I have the opportunity to talk to them and get to ask them what they like about the dress, and if it is comfortable. I like to learn from them and continue to evolve the collection based on what they like.

Love Lisa and Saurette? "Like" Saurette on facebook. Go ahead. Do it. You'll thank me later.

(cool) tip: check out Saurette's dresses (and other items!) at Wee Chic - A Baby Boutique. They are the exclusive boutique on our area to offer the line.

designer consignment for pint-sizers: the lily pad of towson

What do a Hasbro miniature Shetland pony, Apple Bottom beadazzled jeans outfit, Gymboree and Papo d’anjo have in common?

You can find all of them -- gently loved and at a great price -- at The Lily Pad of Towson.

With thoughts of warmer weather springing into mind, you may be pondering picking up a few new staples for your mini hipsters - - or unloading some of their gently used items. Boutique consignment may be something to consider.

Sarah Weiskittel, founder of The Lily Pad, believes the biggest difference between selling your used items through a boutique likes hers or your other options is the effort a consignor has to put into the sale. When you take your items to a regional sale or have a yard sale of your own, you have to tag your own items, schlep them, and, depending on the sale, perhaps even try to sell them yourself. The Lily Pad will handle all of that. They will price,tag, hang and sell -- for you.

The price your items will obtain through a local consignment boutique will likely be much higher than what your items will net at a larger sale venue. The perceived down side? The consignor only takes 40% of the sale price when you work through a local boutique. Notice I said perceived downfall. 40% of a larger starting price most likely results in a larger cut for you, with less effort.

So what types of items does Sarah look for from consignors? Designer and brand name items.

"Some of the brands that sell the best at the Lily Pad are mini Boden, crewcuts, Lilly Pulitzer, Gap, Tea, Janie & Jack, Hanna Andersson, Eland and Gymboree," said Sarah. "We love the French and Italian designers such as Lily Gaufrette and Papo d’anjo. We also take some gear: highchairs, Pack-N-Plays, strollers, bumbo seats, etc. We only take these items as space allows, so we ask that consignors call to see if we have room for their items before bringing them to the store."

All consignment journeys through The Lily Pad start with an appointment. Interested consignors are asked to select thirty of their very best items, freshly laundered and laid flat (The Lily Pad uses their own hangers). It's also recommended that the items be ironed because they'll show better. A better show equals a better sale. The Lily Pad staff then selects the items from the consignors collection that they believe will sell. Trust them. They know their clientele.

After the item sells, the consignor receives 40% of the sale price - -and you have your choice of receiving your payment by check OR store credit.

Sarah's favorite item that's in the store right now? Hands down.. Butterscotch! The Hasbro FurReal Friends Shetland pony. It's more than three feet tall - - so any little girl will feel like she's going for a ride. She came in last week and is residing in the store window.

You never know what treasure you'll find at a local consignment store. One of Sarah's clients found her favorite hoodie.

Not one she fell in love with. One that had been lost.

"She pulled it off the rack and showed her Mom and said 'look mom this looks just like my favorite hoodie that I lost at school!' The mother looked at the hoodie and turned the tag over to find her daughter’s initials," said Sarah. "It was the EXACT same hoodie that the girl had lost! I just smiled and said, that’s Smalltimore for you! And of course I let her take the hoodie, on the house!"

(cool) tip: Thinking about consigning but don't know if the whole appointment process is for you? Every season, The Lily Pad runs a "Leave it and Leap" promotion. Just drop off any 15 items you'd like to sell with no appointment. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for details!

the skinny on kneebouncers: they're moving to a subscription model and we support it

One of our favorite toddler app developers is moving from freemium to premium today - - and we 100% support this transition.

Kneebouncers, a website dedicated to developing toddler and pre-school friendly online games, has been in existence for the last seven years. The passion project of marketing and media gurus Jim Robinson and Kurt Dommermuth, the website has served up hours of educational fun to our family and countless others around the world. Kneebouncers gets millions of hits each year, offers 19 different games for the itty bitty ones, and family-friendly downloads/printables. The site is 100% advertising free. Currently, 6,248 people have 'liked' Kneebouncers on Facebook.

Jim and Kurt have been doing all of this for FREE.

This is not a corporate Cinderella story. These two local dads developed the Kneebouncer site not because they saw a void in the marketplace and desired to make tons of money, but because they wanted to provide a rich, online experience for their own young children. The rest of us got to get in on the action, too. For free.

While free is nice, it doesn't keep the lights on or provide meals for their families. It doesn't provide the opportunity and creative space to develop new games and activities because, let's face it, you can only be so creative when your limited to working on a project after all of the kids are tucked in at night.

And free doesn't equip one to respond to demand. There has been tons of demand for the Kneebouncers site, which was up against highly-funded corporate kids' websites like Sprout and Webkinz for a SheKnows Best Kids' Website award in 2010. Consumers (that's us) have been asking Jim and Kurt for more games, more printables, more languages...

We want MORE.

{{But we aren't willing to pay for it?}}

In the collaborative cultural currency that is the web, we frequently forget that there are people behind the content on the internet that need actual currency to continue to produce. If we want to continue consuming their content, we need to show our support with our dollars.

I know that's tough in today's rocky economy. Especially when we're used to freemium. But we can't expect more from our creative community without funding it.

Jim and Kurt have taken some public punches when they announced their move to a subscription-based model. One mom called the annual $19.95 subscription fee 'ridiculous.' Several others said they would be taking their online traffic to free sites like Nick, Jr. Another mom wrote that her two year old loves Kneebouncers, but since her husband is out of work they cannot afford the subscription and it was 'sad that [her] toddler would have to feel the squeeze on one of his favorite things.'

Comments like that weighed heavily on the founder's decision to move to a subscription model. Therefore, some of their games will continue to be free while others (including three new ones about to be released) will only be available to subscription members.

Ironically, when I reviewed the facebook posts, no one said they wouldn't pay the money because the Kneebouncers' products were lacking in quality. The criticism was "I had this resource for free and now you want me to pay for it, so I'll look elsewhere for free."

Personally, I want my child to be able to access this resource. I want the company to be able to develop more quality educational experiences. And that's why I'll be buying an annual subscription today.

How about you?

things we {heart}: valentines from bitsy creations (+giveaway!)

Valentine's Day. Legit holiday or Hallmark-induced card and candy craze?

Graphic designer Joan Orchard thinks a little bit of both.

"Honestly, I definitely think Valentine's Day is a huge way for people to make money, but I've still always loved it," says Orchard, proprietor of graphic design firm BitsyCreations. "You certainly don't need an excuse to tell your family & special ones you love them, but I like the extra push!"

Come to find out, it just so happens that Valentine's Day is the anniversary of her engagement. {So how could she not love it?} A 3 AM pounding on her dorm room door Valentine's Day during her senior year of college turned out to be a tuxedo-clad future husband asking her to marry him.

Joan asked him if she could go brush her teeth.

Romantic whimsy-meets-realism permeates all of Joan's designs - - which is exactly why we love them! Her Valentine's Day collection spans toddler-friendly-print-and-color valentines, to custom printables, to traditional print-n-mail cards. Something for every budget and every stationery need.

Our favorite? The Kidlet Valentine pictured in this post. Tres adorable. Customized to look just like your adorable cutie. Joan can print and ship the cards to you, or can email you a high resolution PDF for you to print at will.

Joan is giving away a free custom printable Kidlet Valentine to a (cool) progeny reader. Yeah - we're taking the frantic drug store run for fold 'n tear 'n add a lollipop cards out your life. Your kids will have the most chic cards in class -- because instead of Mickey Mouse, the card will feature well - - your (cool) kid!

Joan will work with the winner to design the card, which will then be emailed as a high resolution file and you can print it as many times as you need.

Want to win the free custom design? All you have to do is fill out this quick form. Want another chance to win? "Like" us on facebook and leave a comment right here on this post. A third chance? Leave a comment letting us know how you're celebrating Heart Day this year.

You have until 5:00 PM on Tuesday, February 1st to enter!

(cool) tip: Love Joan's work? Our friends at Certifikid have a fabulous deal going on today through Sunday. Purchase a customized Kidlet Printable for $7, or have 15 custom Kidlet Valentines printed and shipped for $14! That's up to 50% off the regular price.

fab find: joyababy

We have a lot of new babies coming in to our life recently. Many friends and family members are expecting and I've been on the hunt for the perfect 'welcome to the world' gift for each one. I'm one of those people that enjoys buying 'off registry' and hunting for something I think the parents to be will simply {love}.

In the same boat? Let me introduce you to joyababy. Joya Mukerjee Logue is a Chicago-based eco-conscious designer with fashionable, on-the-go moms and babies in mind. The staples of her collection? A diaper clutch, luxe blanket and reversible travel bib. In the sometimes indulgent baby product market where some are trying to convince newbie parents that wipe warmers are critical, Joya has designed three beautiful, functional - - and necessary - - pieces of (cool) parenting gear. I'm a huge fan of the elephant detail.

It's not just Joya's designs that nabbed my attention - - but her business philosophy. Joyababy is a company dedicated to giving back. In her own words: “Every time I step foot onto the soil of India, I am reminded of the beauty and richness of the culture to which I am a part, and at the same time, the severe poverty that exists," writes Joya on the joyababy website. "It is because of this feeling and need, that joyababy will continue on a path of philanthropy."

Ironically, you can't buy her products from any retailer in our area but you can buy them online. {{We should remedy this}}

Plus, you have to love mom that can balance work, play and mommyhood with class. Check out Joya's office. Grown up with a sense of fun. Functional meets mompreneur. Gorgeous.

I think my office needs a facelift.

PS: If you like Joya's designs, you'll LOVE her blog.

Images courtesy of joyababy

Tu Vida Mommies: Two Entrepreneurial Moms that Are Giving Back (and giving away a necklace, too!)

UPDATE: We have extended the Tu Vida Jewelry giveaway until WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 22nd at 5:00 PM EST!

- - - -

We have a soft spot in our heart for gorgeous handmade creations - - especially by mompreneurs! So let us introduce you to Tu Vida Jewelry, run by sister-in-laws (and mommies!) Katie Ramirez and Melissa Ramirez. Not only do these two ladies create fabulous designs, but they run their company based on a philosophy of giving back. You can find them at around town at local art shows, on the web, on facebook, and at their online etsy store.

Katie and Melissa know moms are always in need of a little reward, so they are giving one of their beautiful triple strand necklace to a (cool) progeny reader! Want to win it? Just fill out this quick form. Want a second entry? Friend Tu Vida Jewelry on facebook and leave a comment here letting us know you did! A third entry? It's an easy one. Just leave a comment letting us know about your favorite item in Tara's shop! You have until Wednesday, December 22 at 5:00 PM EST to enter!

Want to learn a little more about Katie and Melissa? They're sharing the story of their business, what inspires them and their holiday traditions in an interview below! Thanks, ladies!

_ _
Tell us the story of Tu Vida. What inspired you to start creating these handmade items?
Tu Vida started in January 2004 when sister-in-laws Katie Ramirez and Melissa Ramirez realized that they had a shared passion. Working with their mother-in-law who lives in Colombia, South America, Katie and Melissa began designing and selling necklaces and bracelets to friends. In an effort to raise funds for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Katie and Melissa quickly starting hosting jewelry parties selling Cancer Awareness bracelets and unique jewelry with a Spanish flare. Word spread and what started as a hobby quickly turned into a business opportunity. The company name Tu Vida means “your life” in Spanish.

You create such cool stuff. What inspires you (and your creations)?
We are of course inspired each and every day by our little ones. Our "Initial Jewelry" has become very popular and we starting selling it once we became moms and realized how proud you are of your offspring. What better way to show the world how much you love your children (or grandchildren), then with one of our initial necklaces or bracelets. We are also inspired by the idea of giving back and fun, funky designs with a Spanish flare!

Entrepreneurial moms are always juggling. So we're curious - what's the first thing you do when you get up in the morning? The last thing you do before you go to bed?
First thing in the morning, drink coffee!! Last thing before going to bed, check email and Facebook!!!

Favorite holiday tradition?
Kennedy Kreiger Festival of Trees

What must-have items are on your holiday wish list?
Always new ornaments for the tree, gift cards to go out to dinner (cause we rarely get a date night!!)

Parent in the Know: Tara Rose (and she's giving away a Custom Owlet, too!)

It's amazing how life changes when you bring that new little bundle of joy home. Just ask Tara Rose, today's parent in the know. Her adorable daughter Emma inspired her to create her own Etsy shop that specializes in hand crafted accessories, baby and toddler items: TZBurps.

It all started with burp cloths, but now Tara carries and creates an entire line of bird and owl items, too. Tara and her husband Steve live in Bel Air, and gave us the inside scoop about their favorite holiday traditions, too!

In the true spirit of giving, Tara is also giving away a custom owlet from her online store! The winner will get to choose owlet's body color, wing color, beak color and 2 eye colors. Want to win it? Just fill out this quick form. Want a second entry? Friend TZBurps on facebook and leave a comment here letting us know you did! A third entry? It's an easy one. Just leave a comment letting us know about your favorite item in Tara's shop! You have until Friday, December 10th at 5:00 PM EST to enter!

Thanks, Tara, Emma and Steve for letting us know a little bit more about your family!

_ _ _

Tell us the story of TZBurps. What inspired you to start creating these handmade items?
When Emma was 2 months old I had my mom show me how to sew bibs and burp cloths because we were going through them like crazy. Emma was always spitting up or drooling and
I wanted her to look cute if she had to wear a bib all day! My mom is excellent with a sewing machine and showed me how to make skirts when I was younger. So I thought if I could do that I
could do bibs!

From there I have expanded my products to meet my daughter’s requests and/or stage in her life. I went onto ribbon blankies, XL changing pads, fairy wands, hair clips, and now the newest sensation...OWLS and birds!! We moved this summer and she chose owls as her new bedroom theme. From there, I began playing around with fleece to create different owls to match her room. Now I have all sizes and shapes. I don’t use any patterns just cut and go. The best part is seeing each owl’s personality come out when they are completed. I chose fleece because I wanted to use something that would be soft and washable. Spot clean only stuffed animals drive me crazy-lets face it animals go everywhere with kids and need a bath every now and again. I also don’t use tags because they just get in the way of the soft and cuddliness. Whooo would’ve thought my daughter would have been such a trend setter. I had no idea owls were so popular. She even helps me design the owls!

Entrepreneurial moms are always juggling. So we're curious - what's the first thing you do when you get up in the morning? The last thing you do before you go to bed?
First thing? Respond to Emma by going in her room to get her or, if she comes to get me, we head to the bathroom! Last thing?Go potty! Ha ha besides that...I peep in on Emma every night before I go to bed.

If you had an entire day to do anything with Emma, what would you do?
Anything outside or with animals-we love nature, outside and animals-it is something we have in common and love doing.

Favorite holiday tradition?
Christmas-everything about it-Bel Air parade, decorating, making cookies and crafts, getting a tree, time with friends and family, lights in O.C....

What do you consider to be Maryland's best family friendly holiday event/activity/thing to do?
We enjoy the Northside Park Holiday Lights in Ocean City.

What must-have items are on your holiday wish list?
None for me-I enjoy buying/making things for others. There is nothing that I must-have this year. I am thankful and very happy for what I already have.

Best thing about being a mom? Ok - - spill. How about the worst?
The best? Seeing myself in Emma; Seeing all the things we have in common. Enjoying them together and laughing together. Learning more about me from Emma. One thing we share is our strong will. Makes me understand why I am the way that I am sometimes!

The worst thing about being a mom? It's exhausting. A lot of the time I don't get any time for myself. My husband works a lot, Emma is out growing naps and is always on the go and testing limits...some days I just wanna scream!

If a children's picture book was going to be written about your life, what would the title be?
The Crazy Animal Lady

Wednesday's Find: Savvy Savings through GiftCardRescue (yepp - - they're local!)

It's one of those things that's happened to all of us. A very well meaning person (let's call them a relative) painstakingly thought about and beautifully wrapped the perfect holiday or birthday gift for you: a $50 gift card to the store that makes your skin crawl.

You smile, graciously thank them and then do one of two things: 1) force yourself through the store doors to buy something you don't want nor need; or 2) throw it into the dungeons of the junk drawer, never to be seen again.

Wouldn't it be nice to redeem those gift cards for cash? Enter GiftCardRescue.com.

The genius idea of Ellicott City resident Kwame Kuade, GiftCardRescue allows you to sell your unwanted gift cards for up to 90% of the face value or purchase discounted gift cards for up to 30% off of the face value. Not a bad trick to pull out of your holiday magic hat. Or any time of year for that matter.

It's not an eBay type of venture. You sell and buy your cards directly though GiftCardRescue - - not to a third party who "finds" you or your "find" through the site. If you have a card to sell, you simply provide GiftCardRescue with the information about the card and they make an offer. Want to buy a card? Their site functions just like any other online retailer. Just browse their market place, select your cards, and purchase with a credit card.

Kwame was kind enough to share some insider tips for entrepreneurial parents trying to stretch their money this holiday gift-giving season (which, not surprisingly, happens to be GiftCardRescue's busiest time of year!):

• From now until Christmas, you'll find an abundance of department store cards for sale on the site. Think Macy's, Nordstroms, Bloomingdales… When you buy a gift card for 15% off the face value, and then combine them with store sales (rumored to be even better than last year's holiday discounts!), you can easily save 30-50%. Remember, gift cards aren't coupons. They function same as cash with the stores, so you can combine them with other offers.
• After Christmas, you can pretty much have your pick of restaurant gift cards since a lot of consumers choose to sell those for cash in January. Want to take your family out to dinner for much much less? Pick up a few fab restaurant cards post-holidays.
• Best selling gift cards? Wal-Mart and Target. (Is anyone really surprised?) Those cards are sold within hours of going live in GiftCardRescue's Marketplace. And you'll receive top dollar if you're trying to sell those cards.
• Worst selling cards? Ann Taylor. Honestly, this shocked me. Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft are BY FAR my favorite retail clothing non-boutiques. So if you're trying to unload Ann Taylor gift cards, you'll probably only be offered 60% of the face value. That said, if you're trying to pick a few up, you'll get them 30% off. Score.
• Think beyond retail. You'll oftentimes find gas cards and travel cards on the site which will help ease the financial burden of the holiday-see-all-the-grandmas-great-aunts-and-second-cousins-shuffle.
  

Don't worry. Gift Cards sold on the site have at least a six month shelf life before expiration (and those that do expire are really only bank-issued cards such as American Express Gift Cards).

Although it's an online business, GiftCardRescue is 100% local to the Greater Baltimore area. Kwame and his wife are working parents - - just like us. They have a precocious two year old who loves Chuck E. Cheese and another bundle due any day now.

Founding GiftCardRescue (which started as his MBA student project) has given Kwame flexibility with his family - - which he loves. But he admits, he has to be careful to stick to his schedule and often has to work post-bedtime routine. Sound like an all-too-familiar story?

You can find GiftCardRescue online, on facebook and on twitter. To get the best deals, sign up for their email newsletter and be sure to check out the GiftCardRescue blog.

So go clean out the junk drawer. Guaranteed you'll find more $ in there than the coins in your sofa will give -- thanks to GiftCardRescue.

(cool) tip: Sell ANY giftcard between now and December 31st to be automatically entered in an iPad raffle! Looking for a particular retailer to snap a gift card from? Add it to your wishlist and be notified when a card becomes available.

Parent in the Know: Jennifer Cooper of Ellie Bellie Kids

Do you know about Ellie Bellie Kids? This Baltimore-based company makes classic toys that cultivate imagination. One of the masterminds behind this simply (cool) local company is toymaker Jennifer Cooper. Today's parent in the know!

As if she doesn't have enough to do, Jennifer also is the editor of the Classic Play online magazine and blog. She talks with (cool) progeny today about establishing rituals with your kids (did someone say after school tea?) and getting in touch with your inner creative spark.

Jennifer and her husband Dave (filmmaker/photographer/graphic designer) are parents to two adorable kids Ellie (8) and Jonah(5), who also very much inspire their work!

You'll find Ellie Bellie Kids' products in some of (cool) progeny's favorite local independent stores like aMuse Toys, online and on Twitter.
_ _ _ _

What's the story behind Ellie Bellie Kids? How did it come to be?
When I started off in this parenting gig. I was struck by how few toys I could find that didn’t come with unnecessary bells and whistles. I believe it's important to guide children, not do everything for them. I also learned from my years of working with kids that most adult brains have forgotten how to play. It’s now wired for things like knowing how to: write in cursive, read big words, work a computer, drive a car, iron clothes and use the vacuum cleaner.* So I, along with my sister and our mom created Ellie Bellie Kids. It was a way to help parents guide kids toward creative thinking and play.

*This list of things grown ups know how to do was generated by my kids.

And what about Classic Play? What's the story there? (And boy, you must be busy!!)
Classic Play started loosely a couple years ago as another sort of creative outlet. I wanted to create a thoughtful space where writers, crafters and other artists could come together to explore a theme as it relates to childhood or families. We’ve come a long way since the beginning and now it’s developed into a quarterly online magazine as well as a blog.

So far we’ve some of the topics we’ve covered are: music, food, giving, sports and love. Our next issue which comes out in October is all about science. Meanwhile on the blog portion, we’ve been offering up some fun, playful ideas for parents that are intended to spark their own creativity. Us parents need to exercise our creativity too.

We think routine can tell a lot about a person. What's the first thing you do when you get up in the morning? The last thing you do before you go to bed?
First I hit the snooze button. Then I make coffee and warm up some milk for my kids (it’s a habit I got into years ago and I kept it up because I figured if I need a hot drink in the morning, then hey maybe they do too). After that, everything is a blur until they get out the door to the bus stop. And the last thing I do before bed? I watch something funny on tv. I like to go to bed happy.

What three items are in your dream playroom?
Besides our products? *wink, wink* Let’s see, I’d have some sort of theater type curtain (for shows), a chalkboard painted wall and bookshelf filled with books.

We love to get the inside scoop on where to shop for kids. What are your fav kid-inspired stores in the area? What makes them great?
One of my favorite toy shops is aMuse. Not only do they carry our line, but they really are committed to local designers and are strong advocates for toys that encourage kids to think outside the box. I heart them! I'm also a fan of cosmic comix in Catonsville. They carry a variety of comics for younger kids. Our favorite is Tiny Titans.

What's the best thing about being a mom?
Oh this is a hard question. I don’t think I can chose just one thing. I love it all. Honestly! I can say that now that I’m in that golden age between tantrumming toddlers and tantrumming adolescents. I guess though if I my hand was forced, I’d say, I love getting to read bedtime stories, peering into a world full of possibilities, laughing together, dancing together, and when they ‘pretend’ they don’t like my singing (what do these kids know anyway). Most of all though, the best thing about being a mom is knowing that these two people are forever going to be a part of me.

What's your no-fail after school (or pre-school) snack?
I have a couple things that I like to keep on hand. One is mint tea. The kids love it. We started a tradition of having a cup of tea after school when my daughter went to kindergarten and it’s stuck around. Other favorites: yogurt with honey, hummus with pita and apples dipped in honey. I’d say we’re a little hooked on honey.

How do you and your partner balance parenting responsibilities?
Well it’s a juggling act for sure. One thing we’re big on is making sure we’re on the same team when it comes to discipline. If one of us has said something, it stands. As far as day to day operations go, we both pitch in to get them ready for school (he supervises teeth brushing, face washing, hair brushing and getting dressed while I’m on wake up duty, breakfast making and lunch packing) and we also both pitch in for bedtime too.

What do you think is Baltimore's best kid-friendly place?
The Walters Art Gallery. Their weekend program for the kids, where they can make an art project is the best. Tour the gallery, make something inspired by what you saw. It doesn’t get any better than that. (Note - we love the Walters Art Museum, too! Stay tuned for an article next week about their current exhibit on Walter Wick and thoughts from their education director!)

Favorite children's book? What makes it your favorite?
My all time favorite is, Mo Willems' Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus. I still love it. I love that it’s interactive. Everyone gets to participate in it. Plus I love yelling, “LET ME DRIVE THE BUS!!!” We all giggle. As far as chapter books go, I have to say my favorite is James and the Giant Peach. It was the first chapter book I read as a kid and we read it together as a family over the summer. It’s wildly imaginative. I’m also a fan of the Mercy Watson series.

If you and your family were headed out to dinner tonight, where would we find you?
Oh boy! Where wouldn’t you find us? We enjoy eating out. We’ve done chain restaurants and small independently owned establishments. Our favorites though are places with outdoor seating (well in the warmer months at least).

If a movie was made about your life TODAY, what would be the lead song on the soundtrack?
Three Little Birds.

Raising a role model: Local pre-teen finalist in Discovery Girls Role Model Search!

In February of 2008, 9-year-old animal-lover MaryMargaret O'Neill decided that she had simply had do something to help endangered species.

"Enough, with all of these poor animals," the Frederick native told us in an email interview. "This needs to stop!!!!!"

That same day, her father Gabe just happened to see an interview with Richard Branson, the the Virgin Group owner frequently referred to as the rebel billionaire. It was the first time he had ever heard the term "social entrepreneur" -- which combines the compassion of Mother Teresa with business savvy. He drank the proverbial "good deed" kool-aid, but didn't know what to do next.

Then his daughter asked him to build a website to help her help animals.

Do you believe serendipity?

The father-daughter team co-created the website, Kids Are Heroes, a site that showcases kids under 18 who have taken initiative to develop a social project that's all their own. Everything from raising money for a cause, to matching therapy dogs, to coordinating book donation drives. And, of course, helping animals. So not only is MaryMargaret working toward her personal cause, but she and her father are helping to promote ALL kids working to make a difference in the world.

Two years later, MaryMargaret has been identified as a finalist in the Discovery Girls' Role Model Contest. If she wins, she'll be flown to California with nine other girls for a photo shoot, and will be featured in an upcoming issue of Discovery Girls Magazine.

Kids do the (coolest) things when you facilitate their passion!

MaryMargaret's response to the news that she was in the running?

"Oh my gosh.....is this REALLY HAPPENING?!?!?! NO WAY!!!!! I can't believe it!!!!!!! This is great!!!!!! YAY!!!!!!!!!!!"

Her father wasn't surprised that she is one of thirty finalists in the competition.

"[It] may sound arrogant but I know how much she has done and I truly believe she is a role model," said Gabe. "She has already far exceeded anything significant I have ever done by the time I reached 11. I remember my biggest claim to fame was getting caught stealing a pack of gum!"

Obviously, MaryMargaret is a pretty amazing young woman. Some of her success can be attributed to some phenomenal parenting skills -- and continual cheering from her dad, mom Michelle, and younger (canine) "siblings" Charlie and Lily. What's MaryMargaret's family's secret? Spark and support.

"One thing that Kids Are Heroes stresses and we have learned this along the way, you can't force a kid into a particular direction. It is better to help ignite a passion and then support it," said Gabe.

So help support Mary Margaret! In order to win the competition, she needs YOUR vote. Head over to the Discovery Girls website, create an account and vote for your favorite local young role model. You can vote daily - - so vote now, and vote often. You'll definitely want to check out MaryMargaret's Discovery Girls' interview, too!

And keep Kids Are Heroes in mind if you're looking for a place to volunteer or donate. One thing we learned from talking with MaryMargaret and her dad is that big dreams are important. Here's their collective wish list for Kids Are Heroes:

From MaryMargaret:

• I would wish that, everyone knew about Kids Are Heroes
• And also, that Kids Are Heroes day, was an international day.
• And my 3rd wish would be, that Kids Are Heroes, would save the envirment,all people,and all animals!
  

From Gabe:

• That we get enough funding so I can make it truly my life's work.
• That we become a highly visible international organization (such as the Boy Scouts) in 5 years.
  
• That we can continue to inspire families and provide a mentoring and collaborative environment for these kids as I am convinced many of them will be the leaders of tomorrow.

So how are you inspiring your young ones?

Weely Exciting Wee-cycle Mart Giveaway!

Our friends at Wee-cycle Mart just let us know that they have FREE 3-Day Sale passes to their fall sales - - and wondered if (cool) progeny could help them get rid of them?

We had to think about it. Pondered it for a full 3 seconds. Of course! We are always happy to help our savvy readers save some green!

Very excited to introduce our second contest: The WEELY exciting Wee-cycle Mart Giveaway!

If you haven't been to one of these regional childrens' consignment sales, you need to grab your iPhone, Blackberry, laptop, or that paper thing you carry around called a calendar and pencil the date in (there are four sales this fall!). Check out what we wrote about Wee-cycle Mart and peruse their website. And THEN you need to let us know what new or like-new item you're hoping to nab at the sale by leaving a comment on this post. (Just click "Post a Comment" under the text). Be sure to put your email address on the comment so we know how to get in touch with you.

We'll be using random.org to select 5 winners! Winners will receive a four-pack of a 3-day passes that can be used at ANY Wee-cycle Mart this fall. You have until August 19, 2010 at 9:00 AM ET to enter!

Want an extra entry? Become a fan of (cool) progeny or Wee-cycle Mart on Facebook, or follow either of us on Twitter (@coolprogeny or @weecylemart). Be sure to leave us a comment and let us know that you did! (One comment per 'fanning' or 'follow'). That's a total of 5 chances to win!

Pretty (cool), huh? Can't wait to see what items you're hoping to score!

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Sponsor Spotlight: Wee-cycle Mart

We are thrilled to announce our new savvy savings sponsor: Wee-cycle Mart! This mom-inspired organization offers semi-annual consignment sales all around Maryland featuring more than 30,000 new and like-new kids' clothing items, toys, games, puzzles, baby equipment, furniture, books, movies, DVDs, craft supplies and sports gear. Each three day sale runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What are we most excited for? The deals? The steals? No... the pampering! The Saturday of each weekend sale incorporates a Mom Fest featuring vendors and services that cater to the busy mom! Mom Fests feature FREE samples, makeovers, spa services, tastings, and - - wait for it - - CHILDCARE. Yes, there is free childcare for your potty-trained child over the age of 3. A little child-free indulgence and "deal" shopping? I could get on board with that!

Not only can you save a little cash at a Wee-cycle Mart, you can make a little cash too. Consignors earn a minimum 50% commission on their items. If you volunteer for one hour, you make 55%. Have more time? Volunteer for two hours and make 60%. In addition, consignors make 2% more in commission for every friend their refer to the sale. Referred friends must consign a minimum of 20 items. Did you do the math? If you volunteer 2 hours and refer 20 friends, you make 100% commission!

Another phenomenal feature of the Wee-cycle Mart is their fundraising program. Moms groups, school groups, scouts, churches, and all other non-profit organizations can promote the Wee Cycle Sale and raise funds for their organization! Want to put in a little more effort and make even more? Have your organization consign at the sale. Just collect donations from your members, tag them with your organizational code, and make 60% of the consigning price on each item.

The Teens and Tweens racks are a fast-growing trend of the Wee-cycle Mart. These racks feature new (with tags) or like-new items from Abercrombie, Gap, Aeropostale, Banana Republic, Hollister, Limited, Express, Old Navy, etc. as well as prom gowns, and junior formal dresses. Homecoming dress shopping, anyone?

We love that the sale organizers cater to brand new or like-new families! New Moms can purchase a $5 New Mom sale pass and shop the preview sale on Thursday night. There are 100 passes available for each New Mom sale. (New Moms can bring along a guest to the sale - - a porter maybe to carry all of the goodies that Mom really shouldn't be?)

Wee-cycle Mart has a lot of sales coming up! Here's the fall line-up:

• Baltimore Sale
  August 20-22, 2010
  Old Scan Store on York Road
  1830 York Road
  Timonium, MD 21093
  
  
• Harford County/Cecil County
  September 17-19, 2010
  Perryville Outlet Center
  85 Heather Lane
  Perryville MD 21903
  
  
• Carroll County
  October 8-10, 2010
  Carroll County AG Center
  Westminster, MD
  
  
• Anne Arundel
  October 22-24, 2010
  Ft. Meade Pavillion
  Just inside the Llewellyn Gate off 175
  

Admission to each sale costs $2 or $1 with a food bank donation in-hand.Visa, Mastercard and Discover are accepted at all sales.

Be sure to stay up-to-date with Wee-cycle Mart news by joining their mailing list, subscribing to their blog and becoming a Facebook fan!

(cool) tip: Wee-cycle Mart offers online gift certificates! A great idea for a new family!

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Creative Entrepreneurship for Busy Parents: Consign at the TotSwap!

There's no doubt that the modern mom (or dad) has to be creative and entrepreneurial. Even those not in business for themselves are constantly looking for ways to maximize on their investments - - and save a little cash.

Baltimore native Robyn Rutland, founder of the regional TotSwap, is the definition of creative entrepreneur. Not only did she create TotSwap to fill a service void in the Maryland area and give her career/family flexibility, she's helping moms and dads throughout the region sell their children's no longer needed items and acquire new ones. Cost effectively.

What is TotSwap? It's the crème de la crème of consigning markets. (Think upscale tag sale with automation. No haggling. No adding totals on a calculator. No handwritten receipts.) If your living room is starting to feel like an overstuffed storage locker for toys, you may want to consider unloading some of those no longer used items at the sale. If you're in need a spare stroller to stash at your in-laws, it's a great opportunity to get a quality stroller on the cheap! No need to scramble for cash - - they take all credit cards. (Sorry, no checks).

TotSwap is kicking off it's first-ever SUMMER SALE next week, from Friday July 30th through Sunday, August 1st at the Timonium Fair Grounds. Wanna hit the coveted pre-sale on Thursday, July 29th? You'll need to consign, become a sale volunteer, or register for their new mom sale.

I've never consigned before, but Robyn has me convinced to try it once we're ready to unload some of our baby items. It seems pretty painless through her company. All I need to do is create an account on TotSwap, pay a $10 fee, enter and price my 'sale' items through their online inventory system, print pre-generated barcoded tags for my items, tag the items and drop them off for the sale. TotSwap handles the rest. After the sale, they cut me a check for 65% of the income my items bring. That's 15% above most consignment stores. AND - - I won't have to sweat it out in a stoop sale and pray a mom-to-be passes by and falls in love with one of my three exersaucers. (Yeah, three. One for my house, one for my office and one for my parents' house... and yes, the Bug grew out of them at 11 months...)

Want to maximize your TotSwap consigning experience? Volunteer. One shift you gets you an early shopping pass; two shifts gets you 70% of your items' income and you are invited to shop first; three shifts gets you an early shopping pass, 70% AND your registration fee refunded. According to Robyn, volunteering is fun and painless. You'll have a chance to network with other local parents (mostly moms), munch on some snacks, and assist parents hoping to outfit their kids for next season or pick up that toy their two year old has been coveting.

All quality children's items - - tots to teens and everyone in between - - are accepted! The largest consignment check Robyn has cut a consignor from a single sale was $1500. Not too shabby.

Toys are the expected hot ticket item. Especially Little Tikes' products like Cozy Coupe and backyard play items. Books (sometimes bundled - - $1 for the bundle!) are always a great item, as are puzzles. High end clothes like Lily Pulitzer and Ralph Lauren go quickly. New baby items like high chairs, strollers, and pack 'n plays are sure crowd-pleasers, too. A good quality exersaucer can go for as much as $40. Please don't consider consigning your drop-side crib; TotSwap is no longer accepting them due to the massive recalls.

TotSwap has created a handy pricing guide if you're not quite sure what to charge. After all, you want to be sure your items are priced to sell!

If your items don't sell, you have two options: pick them up or have TotSwap acquire them. All items NOT picked up during the designated pick-up time become property of TotSwap and may be donated. If you pick them up, you always have the option of trying to sell them again at another sale.

It's not too late to consign at next week's sale! You have until 2:00 PM on Thursday, July 29th to create you online inventory, tag your items and drop them off. Be sure to check the website for drop-off times and allow at least thirty minutes - - TotSwap staff screen for quality. (So leave the well-worn pants with thinning knees at home...)

If pulling things together for next weekend seems improbable or overwhelming, keep their fall sales in mind. They're hosting sales in Gaithersburg, Frederick County, Columbia and Timonium.

Not interested in consigning but want to know more about the sale? Check out our Ten Tips for Newbies Navigating the TotSwap next week!

Images courtesy of TotSwap.