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too good to be true: unreal chocolate

 Feeding the Little Walnuts, The Green Walnut
Sep 282012
 

The supermarket aisles have been overflowing with Halloween candy since August, and I refuse to fall victim to their relentless beckoning. Milky Ways and Nestle bars may tantalize me with their colorful packaging, but so far, I’m not budging. Maybe it’s because I’m desperately trying to make smarter choices when it comes to snacking. Even with Halloween right around the corner, I’m striving to find something sweet that’s not necessarily bad to eat. My search may indeed be over. The just-released UNREAL line of chocolate candy is just what I’ve been craving. Made with all-natural ingredients like cacao beans, organic palm oil and dairy from free-range cows, this brand is proof-positive that candy doesn’t have to pumped with artificial sweeteners to taste delicious. We put our resident tasters to the test to confirm these findings and the reviews were favorable across the board. My 8- and 4-year-old devoured UNREAL 41 Candy Coated Chocolates, bite-sized pieces in a softer palette of rainbow colors compared to similar brands. They reported the chocolate as “sweet, but too sweet”…and then asked for more (thumbs up in our book). My husband and I indulged ourselves with the UNREAL 77 Peanut Butter Cups, and noted the peanut butter’s smooth, creamy texture  and no discernible aftertaste. With no corn syrup, hydrogenated oil or artificial colors to speak of, the UNREAL line is unbelievably scrumptious. And now I can brave the candy aisle once more with unwavering courage.

In a Nutshell: No tricks necessary: With candy this good for you, Halloween is sure to be a real treat this year.

 

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sitting tall and proud: safety 1st sit! booster

 Feeding the Little Walnuts, Gear for Baby Walnuts
Sep 262012
 

When my younger daughter moved from her high chair to a booster seat, it was a memorable moment. Not only could she now truly join us at the dinner table, but having her in our company literally put her at our same level–and judging from the look on her little face, it meant the world and more. If the transition from baby to big kid chair is looming in your child’s near future, consider your options carefully. While some seats claim to make the move a smooth one, not all offer the extra comfort and security your toddler still needs. We’ve got our eye (and our bum) on the latest booster seat to hit the market. Safety 1st’s Sit! Booster gives a much-needed lift to your growing tot who’s too big for a high chair, but not quite ready for a grown-up seat. It boasts a firm back for extra support when sitting “way up there,” and a 3-point harness to protect against potential spills. We love the cushy styling that fits with most contemporary decor and the fact that it wipes clean–something any modern-day mom can appreciate. In fact, we love this booster so much, we’re giving away one free Safety 1st Sit! Booster to a random reader. Enter to win by contacting  The Talking Walnut and include your name and address. The contest ends on Friday, September 28, 2012 at 5 p.m. Good luck!

In a Nutshell: Look who’s at the dinner table now. This booster gives toddlers a leg up and keeps them sitting safely.

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space (and sanity) saver seat: quicksmart fold n go bouncer

 Gear for Baby Walnuts, The Traveling Walnuts
Sep 252012
 

When my daughter was a baby, you could tell when I was planning to visit my parents simply by gazing into the back of my car. The amount of baby gear rivaled a Babies R Us boutique, if there ever was one. Sandwiched in between my diaper bag and umbrella stroller was the all-important fish-printed bouncer. Even though it was rather cumbersome and bulky, it was my American Express of baby stuff: I never left home without it. Not only did this seat act as a secure place for my just-sitting-up babe, but it often gave her the opportunity to doze off, courtesy of its soothing vibrations and bubble-making. Despite its immeasurable value during that first year, that seat and I had a love/hate relationship. On my ride home from Grandma’s, you could find me silently swearing at its massive frame that obstructed my rear view. Couldn’t I find something that wasn’t a towering mass of metal? Today’s new moms won’t have to commit internal road rage, thanks to a new bouncer seat that knows its place. QuickSmart’s Fold N Go Bouncer delivers on its promise to keep baby gear compact. In a matter of seconds, this soft seat folds in half and its metal legs tuck underneath the frame, resulting in a flat, portable seat that can assume a suitable spot for itself in your car, in a suitcase or anywhere space is tight. The flexible design doesn’t compromise on function, either. All the bells and whistles of a standard bouncer –3-point safety harness, 3 levels of music/vibrations and machine-washable fabric on the seat– are accounted for. Finally, a baby seat that lives up to its name. And one that doesn’t mess with my view.

In a Nutshell: Baby gear that’s small on space, but big on versatility. We’re sold on a compact seat that gives us some extra breathing room (and cargo space).

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mother tongue: big bang boom’s because i said so!

 The Playful Walnut
Sep 242012
 

Dissonance. It’s become one of my favorite words lately, especially when explaining to my 8-year-old why the sound of her voice by day’s end causes my brain “to do funny things. It’s kind of like when your father blasts Sleater-Kinney on his iPod and I cover my ears.” She gets what I’m saying, without taking too much offense. In the realm of kiddie music, the just-released “Because I Said So!” is the antithesis of dissonance. It’s filled with songs designed for my kids’ listening ears that I don’t mind hearing myself. And if you’re a parent with kids who don’t yet own their own iPods, you know that one’s of the highest compliments we can pay a musician. This trio of rockin’ dads must have the magic touch when it comes to creating a unique sound that mixes a variety of sounds and styles, from rock to country. The result are tunes with a vibrant, fresh sound, and one that doesn’t have me reaching for the Advil. Fresh out the of the gate, the first track’s “Green Light” had us all fired up and ready for more. We really liked “I Can Sing,” giving a special nod to individuality” and of course, the title track just because it forces us to realize that the apple indeed does not fall far from the tree. Hmmm…does that mean my daughter will someday be reminding me about dissonance? Guess it’s good preparation for those teenage years.

In a Nutshell: Get ready to rock out with a kid CD so adult-friendly, you may just find yourself coveting it after preschool drop-off.

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this won’t hurt a bit: doc mcstuffins time for your check-up doll

 The Playful Walnut
Sep 202012
 

I don’t know what my 4-year-old likes more: watching Disney’s “Doc McStuffins,” or emulating the main character. Right after watching an episode, she opens up her pretend pet vet kit, grabs an unsuspecting plush pal and sets up shop. (Luckily, our cat has yet to enlist as a patient.) I can’t say I’m surprised, as the animated TV show that stars the pint-sized physician has already made quite a name for itself with the preschool crowd. It gives kids their daily dosage of cute (how adorable is Lambie?), while delivering a parent-approved message of staying healthy. So when Toys R Us came out with its list of top toys for this year’s holiday shoppers, we knew Doc McStuffins Time for Your Check-up Doll would make the cut. We were able to get our hands on an early release sample, and let’s just say we don’t think Doc fans will be disappointed. Looking like she stepped right out of the TV and into your living room, the wide-eyed Doc dons her signature white coat, along with her magical stethoscope. Much to the delight of our resident preschooler, this tender-hearted dolly talks and sings as she takes care of her patients (wouldn’t it be great if all medical professionals could follow her lead?) Bonus: the endearing Lambie (one of McStuffin’s ensemble) makes a compliant companion as she “responds” to Doc’s thorough check-up of ears, heart and temperature. Be sure to keep plenty of lollipops on hand for your own resident M.D.

In a Nutshell: The doctor is definitely in. Bound to be a favorite on this year’s Christmas wish list, this Doc McStuffins doll practices good medicine and makes house calls.

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frosty feathered friends: wild birds bird food feeders

 The Playful Walnut, The Smart Walnut
Sep 192012
 

As the first leaves over our pond slowly begin to show hints of red, I’ve been noticing more of the local wildlife anticipating the coming change in seasons. Squirrels that have scampered playfully these last few months are suddenly scampering to gather nuts (yes, already!), while the Canadian geese have returned to claim their share of the pond waters. It won’t be long before all the trees are dressed in a rich palette of reds, oranges and yellows and, dare I say, the first snowflakes decide to fall. Because my family delights in watching these changes in nature take place, we try to do our part in caring for our fellow “friends”–and that includes those of the feathered variety. If you think birdwatching/bird-feeding is…well, for the birds, then consider a creative way to keep your child interested and engaged in their care-taking. We’ve become quite enamored with Wild Birds Unlimited’ line of novelty bird feeders. Their whimsical collection of specially shaped bird food cylinders, including Preston the Penguin, Hoot the Owl and Buttons the Snowman, are bound to catch the eye of any budding bird lover. Simply remove the feeders from their packaging, pick an ideal viewing spot for outdoor display and await your backyard visitors. Each cylinder is packed with a variety of seeds and dried fruits like peanuts, black oil sunflower and safflower to attract the most discriminating diners. Not only will the birds appreciate the sustenance for the cold winter months, but you may wind up cultivating a future orinthologist. Or birds of a feather, as they call them in my family.

In a Nutshell: Nature becomes front and center for kids with these limited-edition bird feeders in an array of entertaining styles.

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ready for her christmas card close-up: skylar luna

 The Accessorized Walnut, The Green Walnut
Sep 182012
 

Last week, I received a mailer for Christmas card photo ideas. With Halloween candy already arriving on store shelves, does this mean the holiday season can be that far off? If you don’t go by the name “Supermom” and haven’t given any thought yet to your family Christmas cards, consider a warm-and-fuzzy scene with the kids decked out in festive PJs that set the mood all on their own. Skylar Luna‘s new collection of eco-friendly sleepwear for babies through big kids has some delightful ensembles just begging to be photographed. The 100-percent organic cotton, two-piece sets provide ample coverage, while sporting a simple, understated style that’s easy on, easy off. With no snaps and buttons to contend with, that makes for smooth diaper changes for your little guys. Whether you opt for seasonal red or green stripes or (our favorite) a sweet candy cane motif, your little elves are bound to be the stars of your holiday photo shoot. Now maybe you can convince your resident Santa to don a red suit, and you’ll be all set…

In a Nutshell: Throw a log on the fire and grab your digital camera. These holiday PJs are ideal for family photos to be shared with your loved ones this coming season.

 

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sandwich with a side of silly: lunchbox buddies

 Feeding the Little Walnuts, The Playful Walnut
Sep 132012
 

When I was in third grade, my best friend Jenny had a note from her mom in her lunchbox every day. Nothing that would win a Pulitzer Prize, but just a simple sentiment like “I love you” or “Have a great day.” Maybe this token made up for the fact that Jenny’s lunchbox reeked of hard-boiled egg, but I have to admit I sometimes envied those sweet gestures. Remembering this one day last year, I discreetly tucked a note into my daughter’s lunchbox–nothing mushy or meant to embarrass her, but it didn’t go over very well. “Why did you write to me?,” she asked me later that afternoon. “I don’t know,” I responded. “Besides, didn’t you tell me one of your friends gets a note in her lunch from her mom?” “Yes, but that doesn’t mean I want one,” she countered. While I generally pride myself on my writing, I’ll admit this was not my best work. So when Lunchbox Buddies recently landed in my mailbox, I thought I might replace my note-writing with something a little more edgy. This packet of 20 notes features cartoon characters that embody kid speak in a way that the average parent frankly just doesn’t pull off so well. So if I write “Have an awesome day,” it just doesn’t have the same effect as a kooky-looking dude named Buggy saying it. The same can be said for a one-eyed guy named Ivan proclaiming “I’ve got my eye on you.” So, if notes like these make my kid smile, then I can get past my hurt feelings. (Sniff.) No, really, I can…

In a Nutshell: A fun way to connect with your kid when you’re both on the go, Lunchbox Buddies are a brown-bag best.

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palate expander: bountiful baby purees

 Feeding the Little Walnuts, Reading with Walnuts, The Healthy Walnut
Sep 122012
 

Last night’s dinner was nothing short of a miracle. After nearly a year of repeatedly putting roast chicken on my 4-year-old’s dinner plate, she actually picked up a wing and bit into it…without freaking out. Granted she only took a bite, but at least she finally gave it a try without bursting in hysterics (her older sister can vouch for the sincerity of my word choice). For those of you who have picky eaters (and I’m guessing that’s most of us, at one time or another), it’s extremely easy to lose hope of your child ever consuming healthy nutrients that are not in liquid form. And if you refuse to be one of those parents who makes a separate meal for your fussy non-foodie, then join the club…and then go pick up a copy of Bountiful Baby Purees. Ideal for any household with a toddler having a hard time adjusting to table food, this cookbook joins the ranks of other like-minded reads that cleverly disguise good-for-you foods as part of a nutritious meal. What sets this book apart from its counterparts is the versatile appeal of the recipes that lend themselves to the rest of the family. For instance, apple, squash and raisin puree for your little one can be turned into spiced mini muffins for the older kids (and grown-ups, too). Kale and banana puree do double duty in a side dish of green quinoa…and the list goes on. If you’re a fan of seasonal cooking, you’ll appreciate that Bountiful Baby Purees is divided into sections by month, including special ideas for holiday meals. So, grab an apron and start cooking!

In a Nutshell: Chew on this…here’s a cookbook for young families teeming with multitasking dishes that may just help introduce your baby to the world of “real food.”

 

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amazing arachnoid: itsy bitsy spider pop-up book

 Reading with Walnuts
Sep 102012
 

What’s preschool without nursery rhymes? One of my 4-year-old favorites is “Itsy Bitsy Spider;” we’ve been singing this little ditty ever since she could put her fingers together to make them “climb up the waterspout”–and I’ve no doubt she’s in good company. So, naturally, when the latest  incarnation of this classic song–in the form of a pop-up book–landed on my desk, I knew this afternoon’s story time pick was a no brainer. As a mom who’s already sang this song umpteen times, Itsy Bitsy Spider  is almost as exciting for me to page through as it was for my daughter. On each page, the vivid paper construction give new life to verses already committed to memory. Little details like the baseball cap-wearing spider and teapot-shaped building are a delight for both seasoned and young readers. We loved the life-sized raindrops that practically splashed off the page, only to be followed by the warm rays of the comforting sun. Caldecott medalist Richard Egielski’s creative pop-ups let us see this story through a pair of fresh eyes. After all, isn’t that what childhood is all about?

In a Nutshell: A great addition to any preschool book rack or just some fun accompaniment to finger play, this new take on a children’s classic deserves a look. Itsy Bitsy Spider by Richard Egielski will be available on September 25th.

 

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