Mother's Day Giveaway - greeting cards featuring work of Julia Staite

I was recently browsing through pvuk when I came across the work of UK based freelance illustrator Julia Staite. Really love the colours in her whimsical and childlike mixed media collages.

I decided to order some of her work printed on some lovely greeting cards through Imagekind . The cards arrived in the mail today and I was so blown away by the quality of the paper and print. And Imagekind was lovely enough to send me 2 extra sets of prints as a giveaway on Pupsik and my design blog, Laissezfaire!

If you would like to receive a set of 5 greeting cards from Imagekind featuring the work of Julia Staite, please drop an email to ztansl@gmail.com with the subject title "Mother's Day giveaway" by 10 May. Please include your name and contact number in the email. I will pick 2 winners at random on May 11th, Mother's Day. Open to Singapore residents only. Thank you Imagekind!

(above) Mother's Day Giveaway

DIY sticker books

It is a amazing how babies grow up and before we knew it, Vera seems to have officially arrived at the sticker fixation age. If it sticks, she loves it. At the moment, some of her favourite story books are tattered with so many stickers you can't even read the book. There is something about little girls and stickers.

I just know that she would love the diy sticker books from Moo. For just $9.99 you can upload your own photos and make a pretty book of 90 vinyl stickers. I think this will be great as a teaching tool. Perhaps I will try making some myself too!

For the whole of April, Moo will be selling 3 StickerBooks for the price of 2. Just enter this promocode: moostickersfree. For more info, click here.

Latest pics

Dear Family and friends,

In case you are wondering how Vera is doing, you can check out the latest pictures of this little girl here!

xoxo

Paper Dolls

Here's a little digital project for girls or boys that I saw on this blog. You remember those paper dolls and dresses you used to play as a kid. Here is how you can do a little DIY!

"Simply photograph your child in a bathing suit, then photograph the child in other outfits or costumes. Be sure to put he or she in the same position and at the same distance to the camera as you did in the bathing suit.

Print the photos out on to card stock then cut out the full body in the bathing suit. Next cut out just the clothing of the other pictures. Be sure to make tabs on the clothing to fold over the body as you would with regular paper dolls. "

What a great way to personalize a gift or make one for your own children!

Baby Bubble Jacket

Taking your baby somewhere cold? Perhaps it is a good idea to get one of these bubble jackets to keep those tiny hands and feet warm. I love how the way this is designed like a sleeping bag. Available in two colors: sexy black and cute mud. And two sizes: 3 to 6 months and 6 to 12 months. Price: US$225. Order by emailing bill@coolhunter.net.

Win a handmade piece by Sparkle Thots

This is for all handmade jewellery lovers out there! Sparkle Thots is organising a mini contest to find out what you love about them. Anyone can take part, regardless of which country you are in or whether you have bought anything before. All you need to do is to tell them what you love about them, which item you really like in particular and you might get it for FREE!

Contest closes on 14th April and the winner would be randomly selected. For more information, click here.

Want to win a free JOHNSON’S® BEDTIME TODDLER WASH™?

I was recently asked to review Johnson's newest body wash for kids called the JOHNSON’S® BEDTIME TODDLER WASH™ and Sudzing Bar. This body wash is formulated with a unique blend of patent pending NATURALCALM™ essences that has been tested and proven to have relaxing properties. The products were clinically studied by a leading pediatric sleep expert and proven to help babies and toddlers fall asleep easier and longer through the night. The easy-to-use sudzing bar is designed for little toddlers to learn to bathe themselves in the shower.

Of course, I didn't just take their word for it. The baby wash and sudzing bar were tested on Vera, in conjunction with their clinically proven, 3-step before-bed routine for toddlers. The routine consists of a warm bath with JOHNSON’S® BEDTIME TODDLER WASH™ followed by a gentle application of JOHNSON’S® BEDTIME LOTION® and quiet activities (such as reading or talking about the day) before “lights out!”

I know this all sounds like a science experiment but we actually did it and it seems to work! Besides the relaxing properties of a warm bath, I think that the comforting and beautiful scent of the wash also prepares her for bed more easily.

Congrats to Nur, Dorothy and Sabrina for winning the Bedtime Toddler samples from J&J. The samples will be sent to you shortly!

Door hangers

Any parent can probably identify with these hilarious door hangers by Paula Prass's Mimi's Collection.

The Emporor's Laundry

Ok, I admit it. I looove polka dots. They are so classic and fun at the same time. That is why I just can't get over the collection from Australian brand, The Emporor's Laundry. Oh, and those vintage peterpan collars are just too cute!

Goodfather gift CD-rom for new and expecting dads

The Goodfather has arrived in Singapore!

If you are looking for a gift for a new and expecting father and don't know what to get, this will be perfect for you.

There's not a lot out there for new and expecting fathers so Dr.MOZ ® created The GoodFather to be a baby shower and "new dad" gift that men find both educational and entertaining. The GoodFather’s baby lessons were created by experienced dads and grandfathers, and edited by licensed nurse-midwives to ensure the content is relevant to new dads and medically sound. Hundreds of baby lessons and definitions, thousands of baby names, and a baby card and announcement maker all set to a fun gangster parody makes The GoodFather an offer you can't refuse!

Features include:

- The GoodFather's Laptop: hundreds of searchable interactive baby lessons and definitions for dads with babies up to 12 months-old.

- Baby Name Book: approximately 15,000 baby boy and baby girl names and fun naming tips.

- Baby Card Maker: dad will create double fold and certificate style baby cards and invitations using the GoodFather's art or importing his own baby images from his computer.

- Packaging: custom CD-ROM presentation gift box with flap front makes for great baby shower or "new daddy" gift.

- Featuring: baby-toting mobsters and the GoodFather. Men love it!

- Dual Platform: Windows ® and Macintosh ® friendly, and made in the USA.

Now available in Pupsik Studio. To buy, click here! Do check out what Dr Moz has to say about Pupsik Studio here too!

Plush Pad® by Ah Goo Baby

Pupsik Studio is proud to announce that we are currently retailing the gorgeous Plush Pads® by Ah Goo Baby in our online store! Owned by hollywood celebrities such as Naomi Watts and Diane Farr, Ah Goo Baby Plush Pads represent the highest luxury in portable changing stations. Featuring body-contouring memory foam for the baby's pressure points, it comes in many chic styles and is the only portable changing pad that focuses on comfort for the baby.

The body-contouring memory foam, US patent pending, insert is designed to soothe your baby's sensitive pressure points and vibrant cotton and minkee fabrics, it is the only portable changing station that is not only comfortable for the child, but also machine washable and water-repellant.

Whether you live in the city, the country or the beach, there’s a style for you. The Plush Pad® is for the mom or dad on the go – taking the comfort of the nursery with you when working, traveling, or at home. Throw it in your diaper bag, or leave it open for a week in a hotel. Use it as a second diaper changing station downstairs, or give it to Grandma for when she takes the kids. Style meets practical. Baby meets plush. Upgrade your choice... Get The Plush Pad® for you and your baby. Perfect as a baby shower gift too!

Click here to buy.

Imagekind Story Frame™

I recently found out about Imagekind, the world's fastest-growing online community for creating, buying and selling custom framed artwork and photography. Imagekind recently released their "Story Frame™" collection, a group of customized framing products that allows anyone to transform a series of digital images into a story worth telling.

It has been a few months since I got the very talented Ron Lee of Eyedea's photography to capture the moments of my little girl Vera playing in a park. Some of the gorgeous pictures Ron took were sent to Imagekind and transformed in a gorgeous story frame that is now hanging in Vera's room. I really like the idea that Imagekind’s high museum quality framed works will ensure that the pictures will be preserved and kept as a wonderful keepsake for my child as she grows up.

If you have a kiddo, you may be interested to know that Imagekind is currently organising a "First Moments" Contest. Between now and March 15th, you can send 2 or 3 digital photos of your child’s “firsts” - first day of school, baby’s first bites, first trip to the beach, first time meeting Grandma, that together tell a great story. It could be a collection of different “firsts” or a few shots of one great moment. Imagekind will choose four lucky winners whose photos tell the best story to receive a custom Story Frame™ worth $100. To enter, simply email them your digital photos along with a brief explanation to firstmoments@imagekind.com

Pupsik™ Studio - featured in Livewell

A Big Thank You to Livewell baby magazine for featuring Pupsik in their Feb-Mar issue! Livewell Baby is one of SIngapore definitive guides to pregnancy, babycare and parenting and we are excited to be in it!

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SAVE YOUR ARMS

" A tote bag for baby? Why not? The new stylish and compact carrier by Pupsik™ Studio eliminates the need to fuss with straps, rings and buckles. It safely holds newborns and toddlers (up to 20kg) close to you and your warm embrace wherever you go. This definitely beats lugging that heavy car seat or stroller around.

Available at www.pupsikstudio.com for SGD$42.90."

Ants on the Apple

Thought I will share a fantastic find on Pupsik. If you have not heard about it, there is a wonderful Phonics book out there in stores called "Ants on the Apple". It has a really catchy tune and teaches children the sounds of the alphabet. Vera loves it and even my husband and I are hooked! The pictures in the book are really old school too. A wonderful educational tool that is sure to be a hit with your child if you are teaching them the alphabet.

Click here to listen to the song. Available at IMM (Singapore) , Children's world #02-47 for $28

Warning: it may be difficult to get it out of your head if you listen to it too long.

Baby Bonkie - stylish infant swaddle

I recently came across the most luxurious swaddle blankets ever by Baby Bonkie. Their swaddle design imitates the womb which soothes and calms newborns. The Happiest Baby on the Block, written by Dr. Harvey Karp, a leading authority on newborns, explains that "Swaddling allows babies to pay attention to their calming reflex. It also keeps them from flailing their arms and startling themselves." In case you are wondering, this snug feeling that newborn babies like can also be achieved by carrying them in our Pupsik pouch when you are out and about!

With a wide range of gorgeous designer fabrics to choose from, these magic blankets are as pretty and practical as can be. And they are machine washable too!

Pupsik Studio - featured in Today's Parents (Feb)

A big THANK YOU to Today's Parents for featuring our baby pouches in their February 08 issue!

"It's cuddle-time this month as stylish Pupsik Baby Pouch Carrier brings you closer to baby. Made with soft and stretchable cotton fabric, this lightweight baby pouch slings easily and comfortably across your shoulders during outings, without the fuss of buckles and straps. Tested safe for newborns and babies up to 20kg, this machine washable baby pouch keeps babies heartbeat close to yours.

Available at http://www.pupsikstudio.com/ at SGD $42.90."

Pupsik Blog - featured in YOUNGPARENTS (Feb)

The recently released February issue of Youngparents did a short feature of the Pupsik blog in an article entitled "How r u grandma". The article was basically about how grandparents use creative ways to keep in touch with their grandchildren in the digital age.

The magazine had learned about Vera's grandparents in Russia and were interested to find out how we kept in touch with them, given the distance and language barrier we had. We shared that other than "talking" over the telephone, we had maintained our "long-distance relationship" though this blog and videos posted on youtube which document Vera's developments, such as "the first time Vera cried because she didn't like our singing, the first time she walked" etc.

I really think that blogging is such an amazing tool to connect with your loved ones and friends both near and afar and is probably one of the greatest cybernet inventions over the last 2-3 years. Am also thankful that this new media has given me the opportunity to know many parents round the world, especially during my early days of adjusting as a new mom at home. Really hope that I will be able to continue bringing interesting finds, articles and new experiences to share with everyone on this blog (not just the grandparents!) =)

Thank you Young Parents for featuring us and thank you readers for reading our blog!

Tutu-tastic tutorial

I DIY-ed a tutu for Vera's first birthday 3 months ago. Guess in a way, I was playing out my prima ballerina fantasies on my unsuspecting little one. If you think you might like to make one for yourself, the tutorial is here. Go on and try it! You can buy the gorgeous tutu fabric from Arab St (Singapore) for $3-5 a metre. Have a great weekend!

Noah and the Ark

These toy blocks by Plantoy are so cute! A wonderful way to engage your child's imagination and teach then the biblical story of how God punished and destroyed mankind for their sins through the flood and saved Noah and some animals in the ark!

This play-set comes with 12 pairs of brightly colored animals and figures of Noah and his wife. The roof can be removed for easy access to the cabin and the gangway can be opened to access the cargohold that has three portholes to allow children to see the animals inside.

Wearing instructions - Kangaroo carry (3-6months)

Wearing Instructions - Front Carry

Wearing instructions - Cradle Carry (newborn)

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year everyone! We are finally back after a short Christmas and New Year break! We really give thanks to God for a wonderful 2007 and for the precious and fulfilling time I could spend taking care of Vera as a full-time mom over the last year.

It has been a busy few weeks for us. Vera's grandparents from Russia are here with us in Singapore to visit their granddaughter for the first time (see video above)! Vera has definitely taken a liking to them and appears to be picking up the Russian language from them as well!

I have to start the new year by saying a big thank you to all for your encouraging words and support since the recent launch of our Pupsik online store. So far, the store has also been doing well beyond our expectations and we could not have done it without you all out there helping us spread the word about it! While it has been quite a challenge getting everything started (especially while taking care of a one year old baby full-time) I am really thankful to God for friends, family and even online acquaintances who have helped and encouraged me in big ways and small. We are also absolutely delighted to have Pupsik featured in the Jan 08 issue of Young Parents and DrMoz.com! Thank you Young Parents and DrMoz.com!

God willing, we will continue working on expanding on the range of products, that we firmly believe in as parents, to be offered through the Pupsik online store. Meanwhile, we would love to continue hearing from you and would appreciate any feedback you can give us to improve on our existing products! To reach us, just email us at hello@pupsikstudio.com.

Thanks again and stay tuned to Pupsik!

Merry Christmas!

I will be taking a break from blogging to celebrate the Christmas holidays with family and friends at home. Will be back in blogland on Monday, Jan 7th to resume my regular posts.

Here's wishing everyone a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year!

Blesssings,
Su Ling

ps: The instructions for the no-bake cookie cottage you see above can be found here.

Baby Jaden

I was doing some research online for an article about babywearing I am doing for a baby magazine when I came across the story about baby Jaden.

6 month old baby Jaden was born seemingly perfectly healthy. However, he is now diagnosed with a disease called Krabbies that affects the formation of the myelin surrounding the nerves. This poor baby is in constant pain and has been give only a few months to live. Seeing a video of Baby Jaden on his website almost brought me to tears.

Jaden's parents are working hard to keep him comfortable. Apparently, they had bought a sling for him to keep him close to them every second of the day. There are some new drugs that have been used to treat this terrible disease in the UK but the family can’t afford the medical treatment without help. If you can, please pray and consider donating to his medical trust. I know that many of us receive lots of emails like this asking for donations that we can get quite desensitised or even skeptical. If you need more information, check out his website. His parents also keep a blog for him to keep others updated on his progress.

Pupsik™ Online Shop is up!

After months of hard work, I am proud to announce that Pupsik™ Studio online store is finally open! Hurray! Some of you might have already found your way there though the button link on the top right corner of this blog. The site is fairly simple in design and I hope to keep it that way. We are still working on refining some parts of it and would most welcome any feedback as we go along!

Our store is currently dedicated to baby pouch carriers and nursing ponchos. Two products that I truely believe in and have been indispensible to me over my last one year as a nursing mom on the go! I am proud to say that both products have been lovingly developed by moms and endorsed by our very own flesh and blood!

The pouch carrier is an amazing design. Unlike the conventional sarong sling with a ring, the pouch is more stylish-looking, compact and easy-to-use. The whole thing can be rolled up to fit in your handbag. There is no need to fuss with rings or straps and the same size can be used as soon as your baby is born until toddlerhood! As the pouch is made to fit you, we have worked to develop a unique Pupsik™ sizing chart that will cover most Asian frames. Our pouches have even been tested safe by TUD-SUV for being able to carry weights of up to 20kg!

The baby pouch carrier by Pupsik™ Studio currently comes in 5 solid neutral colours and 2 designs that are easy to match your wardrobe. The cotton fabric we use have a slight stretch for comfort and are extremely nice to touch. We hope to introduce more colours and designs with time.

Since launching our website a few days ago, we have had a few questions about our pouches. The most common question being, "What does Pupsik mean?" Well, Pupsik means "Baby Doll" in Russian. It is the nickname of my baby Vera who is half Russian. You can find out more about us here.

To make things easier, I have put together a FAQ page on our website that will address the most common questions that you may have. If you have any additional questions, or may be interested to distribute our pouches through your shop, please email us at (hello@pupsikstudio.com). We strive to answer all emails and orders within 24 hours!

Thank you and happy shopping!

The Cradle

There seems to be more and more "mom" websites, online shops and blogs popping up in the virtual sphere these days. The vast majority of these sites and business have been started by stay home moms who feel that they shouldn't have to choose between rewarding work and nurturing their family. 3 cheers for stay home moms!

I recently came across a cool parenting and social networking website called The Cradle. It is beautifully put together and filled to the brim with very current and interesting articles such as "How to break the news to your boss about your pregnancy", "Is plastic safe?" and decorating tips from the very best experts in the field. What's more, there is even a section just for dads-to-be! My favourite part of this site has got to be "My Cradle", where you get to create your own custom web page and pregnancy blog for free!

To celebrate their launch, The Cradle is offering a super holiday giveaway. You stand a chance to win a Bugaboo stroller, a Svan high chair, wall decals from 2Modern and more if you sign up before 20 Dec. Sadly, the contest is open to US residents only. =(

Twisty Critters

I always think that simple toys like these wooden blocks are the best for stimulating little minds and encouraging imagination. And they are oh so lovely and nolstagic looking! via ohdeedoh.

Huppureppu / Hood Bag

I want a bag like this to go to work!