http://www.viewpoints.com/aboutme/julbug Sat, 17 Nov 2007 22:31:50 GMT Reviews by julbug http://www.viewpoints.com/Mothering-review-c4183 I'm so excited each time a new issue arrives.  Mothering contains articles that are truly informative and helps families to make the best possible decisions on issues such as:  healthy pregnancy and childbirth, breastfeeding, nutrition, cloth diapering, environmental awareness, schooling options, vaccinations, traditions, safe toys, organic options, circumcision, disabilities, cosleeping, babywearing and so much more.  All the topics that impact me and my family. — — I read each issue cover to cover, even the ads.  The focus on forming strong family bonds is evident even in the advertisers that choose to partner with Mothering. — — Mothering is my favorite magazine and an ideal gift for anyone considering starting their family. —... Sat, 17 Nov 2007 22:31:50 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Mothering-review-c4183 julbug 5 http://www.viewpoints.com/Britax-Companion-Car-Seat-review-954b2 I wasn't going to get a bucket seat this time around and was going to go straight to a convertible seat.  But as my due date approached and we didn't have the cash for the seat we planned on, we decided to buy the Companion used from a friend.  I liked that it worked as a travel system with the Britax Preview stroller which we already owned.   I don't use this option often, preferring to keep my baby with me in a sling.  However I have used the seat on the stroller a few times when he was sleeping and I didn't want to disturb him.  In general I try not to detach the seat from the base though.  It's heavy!  I know that's because of the quality materials it's made of though so I'm not going to complain.  The head cushion is well padded and the straps are secure as well as adjustable to keep a safe snug fit.  You adjust the straps using a ratchet system so it adjusts easily each time.  You can loosen it completely to get baby in... Sat, 17 Nov 2007 20:57:46 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Britax-Companion-Car-Seat-review-954b2 julbug 4 http://www.viewpoints.com/Bummis-Super-Whisper-Wrap-Diaper-Cover-review-3d432 These are one of my favorite covers but I would make some improvements if it were up to me.  The design is really good, they've always fit well and the wrap style enables it to fit smaller builds by overlapping the fasteners.   That was a truly great idea. The fasteners should be bigger though, I think that would help to keep it fastened better when toddlers wiggle, dance, jump and move. The laundry tabs are a great feature too so that the velcro doesn't get stuck to anything while being washed.  — — We have the frog design shown and several of the plain white variety as well.  I do wish they would come out with several more cute prints.  If your toddler has learned to pull them off, try putting them on backwards, they usually can't figure that out. — — One of the velcro fasteners has started to fray a bit, it has seen a lot of use.  Using the snap version instead would of course avoid that issue but we really prefer velcro... Sat, 17 Nov 2007 19:54:54 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Bummis-Super-Whisper-Wrap-Diaper-Cover-review-3d432 julbug 4 http://www.viewpoints.com/Chicco-Hippo-Hook-On-Chair-review-5620 I shopped around for a long time before deciding on this chair. I really liked the idea of having a clean seat for a baby wherever we went. Relying on restaurants to keep their highchairs clean and in safe working order is not a risk I'm comfortable taking for my children. I used to work in restaurants, ask me how I know. — The chair is much more sturdy than the Regalo Easy Diner and stores relatively flat in a convenient carry bag with a shoulder strap. It does take a little practice to get the setup process down quickly. Go through it a few times at home before stashing it in the car. Of course make sure any table you affix it to is sturdy and well-balanced and keep glassware and steak knives out of the little one's reach. — We've taken this chair eight hours away to a family reunion and it definitely took up a lot less room in the van than a full-sized high chair. We've hooked it to the end of picnic tables and washed it (in the washing machine!) several times... Sat, 17 Nov 2007 19:06:13 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Chicco-Hippo-Hook-On-Chair-review-5620 julbug 4 http://www.viewpoints.com/Britax-Marathon-Car-Seat-review-56a5 When I first became a parent I got a car seat (second-hand) because it was the law and didn't really pay much attention to safety features.  I didn't have a lot to spend so I thought I didn't have many options.  I've learned a lot since then and this seat is one of my best investments and one that I'm very proud of because of just how much research went into the decision.  The Marathon far surpasses the seat it replaced.  — — The Marathon has a 5 point harness. Most seats do these days, if you are using one with only a three point harness, check to see that it's not expired.  Seats should have a manufacture date somewhere on the side or base.  If the seat is more than six years old, it needs to be replaced.  Time, heat, cold and moisture all contibute to a weakening of the plastic and other materials that make up the seat.  After six years, it's time to get a new seat. — — This seat is big, and that's a good... Sat, 17 Nov 2007 17:47:44 GMT http://www.viewpoints.com/Britax-Marathon-Car-Seat-review-56a5 julbug 5