Saturday, August 28, 2010

Extended Breastfeeding Shot published in Business Magazine

New Zealand's leading business women's magazine, "Her Magazine", have done an article on Belly Beyond in their September issue and they have published a shot, taken during a recent photo shoot, where Louisa happens to be breastfeeding her 2 and a half year old.

So what you ask?

Well, while NZ is considered on the whole to have a fairly breastfeeding friendly society, extended breastfeeding is almost NEVER shown in mainstream media - unless of course it's in some documentary that at worst ridicules, or at best pigeon-holes, extended breastfeeders as hairy legged hippies who can't let go.

So this is the first time that we know of, that a leading main-stream publication has published a shot of a mum breastfeeding a child that is clearly well beyond the "baby" age.

What we love about the image, is that it's a great snapshot of life as business women and mothers and shows us just doing our thing.   Sure, it's not like we normally hang out in full hair and make up but as working mums we do often have to juggle laptop with children in this manner.

Big thumbs up and thank you to Her Magazine editor, Annah Stretton, for pushing the boundaries and making the call to show breast feeding as normal - even when your little one is closer to 3 years old, not 3 months old.

Here's the full size image (click to enlarge) and you can read the article by clicking on the page thumbnails below or visiting our media page.

Some interesting feedback, from mothers on our Facebook page, about how 'ick' the shot is in their opinion -  show's there is still much work to be done.
Photo:  Jo Frances Photography

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Review 2 Win Competition


Was it absolutely awesome?  Or maybe it disappointed?  Tell us about it!

Items on our website have lived and died by customer review - your opinion really matters, so please let us know how you feel about a product. 

In return for your feedback, every product you review, gives you an entry into the draw to win a $50 Belly Beyond voucher.

See the competition page here

Sex every day for a month: the wrap-up

In preparation for my final blog update on the challenge here's a wrap-up of how we did!


1 May 2010

There was an article last week in the UK Daily Mail about a couple who after 12 years together, attempted to make love every day for 30 days.  Now this isn't a new concept.  In 2008 a Florida Preacher gave his congregation the same task and a book The 30 Day Sex Challenge was the result.

When Mr Belly Beyond forwarded me through the link to the UK article, I couldn't help but think he was ever the optimist.  But it got me thinking.  We've just celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary and have two children under five.  This coupled with my workaholic tendencies means time for him and I is rare these days.

So we've decided to give it a a try.  We are realistic - I work upwards of 80 hours a week - a lot of that is clocked up at the weekend when he is home so that someone has an eye on the kids, and late into the night when the children are in bed.  The English couple in the article didn't quite make the full tally and they didn't have the challenges and time constraints that come with parenting two energetic, curious and very early waking pre-schoolers!

I am going to track our progress on the blog.  It's not going to be a sex dairy, this is a family show after all, so details will be deliberately kept to a minimum.  I will focus instead on the changes we find in our relationship.

DAY ONE

Decision made.  Our self imposed rule for this challenge is that it's counted if one of us has an orgasm.  Mission accomplished x 2 then.  

DAY TWO
I found myself thinking about sex as I had a shower this morning.  No, not like that - just working out how we are going to fit it in today and wondering whereabouts and when it would happen.  It might sound rather unromantic to have to schedule in sex appointments but it was quite the opposite and yes, definitely appealed to my list-writing nature.

In the end we sneak away while the kids are watching a DVD.


4 May

DAY THREE

First "work" day where the real world demands really start to encroach on our best intentions.  It's freezing cold so we stay in the dining room where the heater is, once the kids are in bed.

DAY FOUR
Mr Belly Beyond surprises me by coming home from the gym instead of going straight to work.  He brings coffee and is duly rewarded although I'm really more focused on the day ahead - whose idea was this again?

5 May

There is no doubt that there is a spring in Mr Belly Beyond's step - men are such simple creatures when it comes down to it aren't they?

We've talked a lot about sex in the last 5 days and in particular the reasons why we don't get together as much as we'd like.  Identifying and sharing those factors has obvious positive benefits and is something we should have done a long time ago.  Mr BB says that he feels like a huge weight has been lifted off his shoulders because he doesn't spend his day mentally planning his "approach" to me, wondering if he'll get lucky tonight - he knows that it's highly likely!  This doesn't mean he just turns up and  expects to be attended to - he has started coming home in the mornings from the gym instead of going straight to work.  He brings me a coffee, makes the kids lunches and gets them sorted for day thereby completely removing my morning stresses.

DAY FIVE

We watch the season premier of Underbelly, always a compulsive watch with a racy undertone  and head to bed together.  Fireworks result.

10 May

During this challenge we haven't changed anything else about our relationship except that we are trying to have sex once a day for 30 days.  It's definitely having an effect on us since we began 10 days ago: 
  • We haven't argued since the challenge began.  Not once.  
  • We are definitely more tactile and intimate. 
  • Heidi said at the weekend that she has noticed that I'm not as stressed as I normally am. 
  • Mr Belly Beyond has been overheard as saying he reckons it's brought back feelings of  when we first fell in love.
DAY SIX
Mr BB is heading off for work overnight.  He comes home to change for the trip and we have a quicky before I have to pick up the kids from kindy.   Two positions not seen since before the kids were born slip back into our repertoire.

DAY SEVEN
I'm absolutely shattered after a very long day.  Master 2 up at 5.15am, full day meetings and a lot of set up work for the site.  Mr BB gives me a back rub and we make love before drifting off to sleep.

DAY EIGHT
Night time, when the kids are in bed, is usually my most productive work time and it's not unusual for me to work past midnight.  9.30pm comes around, Mr BB is already in bed, and my preference is to join him so I surprise myself by closing my laptop lid and heading to bed too.

DAY NINE
Well it's not as if you can just turn a switch and instantly have matching sex drives.  Mr BB is in the mood but I'm pretty tired again and a nice hot cup of tea would be my preference tonight.  But I'm never one to just give up on a goal and I enjoy the closeness and get another wicked backrub.  

We have talked about what might happen at the end of the 30 day challenge and both laugh that a day 30 blog consisting of , "I'm pregnant", definitely isn't in the plans!! 


16 May


So we are half way there.   Mr BB has lost 4 kg and I seem to have gained weight - how does that work???

DAY TEN
A late email that needs my attention means I'm distracted for 45 minutes after saying I'd be right to bed which results in a small disagreement.  I make the point that I will need to work late over the coming weeks as the schedule is so full-on and we might have  to look options on getting together that aren't last thing at night.  We manage to work it out and Mr BB will be coming home from the gym to shower rather than shower there and go straight to work.  At least it gives us another option (and I get coffee in the mornings!!)

DAY ELEVEN
Mr BB back from the gym and we meet up in the shower.  Sounds ideal and all rather sexy but our acrobatic days are over it seems as it's impossible to get comfortable (one ear out for the kids doesn't help).  We sneak out to the bedroom and try again although by this time the mood is somewhat lost and I have instructions not to look at Mr BB so he can concentrate.  It could have been a sour moment but it was actually really funny.

DAY TWELVE
Missed the opportunity this morning but it's Underbelly night so all things point to a good outcome.  It actually feels like we haven't done it for a while - it has been over 24 hours after all! 

DAY THIRTEEN
Well the honeymoon is over.  It seems no amount of sex and intimacy makes up for respect for each others feelings.  Mr BB comes home in a grump and it's not in my nature to be quiet when snapped at.  Fireworks result and not of a good kind.  Lucky we did it this morning as there is no way even make up sex in on the cards tonight.  Woof.

DAY FOURTEEN
I'm still smarting from our disagreement but feel rather better when Mr BB turns up with flowers.  He smiles sheepishly and says "they're not from me".   It breaks the tension anyway and 5 minutes before Miss 4 is due to be picked up for kindy we get it together for make up sex.  Wham, bam, thank-you ma'am and smiles all round.

DAY FIFTEEN
I'm away with Heidi overnight at a conference and get back around dinner time.  After the drive and the adrenalin of the day's speaking engagement I'm in bed early - asleep.

So we are 14/15 - not bad for a couple of boring married folk!
23 May

Another week down and now only 7 days to go in our 30 day challenge.

A couple of queries have come up about the challenge that I thought I'd clarify.
  • Although I don't talk about doing 'it' in every days update, the chillis indicate how hot the event that day was.  So if there are chillis on an update then we met the target for the day.  The X means its a big zero in the love shack that day.
  • What happens when you have your period?  Well, I have a Mirena, which means I don't get a period (yay for me!)
A huge workload to meet a looming deadline meant I was a zombie most of this week.  Both kids had colds so were we also having (more than usual) broken nights.  All of these things pointed to our 30 day challenge falling apart and when on days 18 and 20 we missed getting together, there was a definite whiff of defeat in the air.  But in the modern way, I emailed Mr Belly Beyond and he replied:

I understand that it's just the way of things particularly this week but you’ll have noticed that this hasn’t changed my approach. I’m still coming home to help with the kids and still staying up later to be with you (and give us a chance if one presents itself).  That in itself is actually reflective of the good that has come out of the challenge for me, that I want to be where you are.

So it's all good in the hood and we are full steam ahead.

DAY 16
It's the day of our Cake Lingerie Real NZ Mums shoot so I abandon the kids to Mr Belly Beyond and take off for the studio with Heidi at 6.15am. I'm home early in the afternoon and get to spend the rest of the day relaxing and reconnecting with the family.  It's nice to catch up after the kids are in bed and then go to bed together and get back on the horse, so to speak. ;)

DAY 17
I take the laptop to bed.  I have the decency to stop looking at it but this deadline is my total focus at the moment and I'll admit it's a "lie back and think of England" moment.  Possibly the first time this challenge that I really would rather be doing something else.  Can't imagine it would have been the bees knees for Mr BB either.

DAY 18
X Oops it's another late one burning the midnight oil and another miss for us.  I am getting the kids cold and we agree to take a pass.

DAY 19
For those that have been following this challenge you'll know that Underbelly night is like the third Thursday of the month used to be.  Guaranteed good times.

DAY 20
XGroundhog day.  A replay of Day 18 except this time Mr Belly Beyond isn't quite so understanding.  He doesn't say anything of course but I can feel that he is worried the wheels are well and truely falling off.

DAY 21
An email exchange confirms we are both still invested in the challenge.  The positive change in our relationship is undeniable and I'm excited that it's the weekend and the opportunity for us to sneak some proper time together.  It's a fraught afternoon with technical issues and a stupid mistake from me almost causing a complete fail of our deadline.  Mr BB brings home takeaways and the laptop gets turned off for the night! 

DAY 22
Kids get an early morning DVD and we retreat back to bed to prove there is definitely still something to the claim quality not quantity!

So what does Jane Public think of this idea?

I did a status update this week on our Facebook page this week.

"Relationship Challenge: sex every day for 30 days. Have you? could you? would you?"

It was surprising in that there was little middle ground.  The majority response was "absolutely no way" and "before kids yes, but now too tired" but there were a few responses along the lines of "are you kidding?  this is us normally". 

Of the Dads that answered, they were super keen to do something like this - funny that. 

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Ultimate Product Review - ERGObaby A Year in the Life

Guest Blogger: Gill, our Year in a Life Winner

 9th August 2010 - 3 weeks old

So far, so FABULOUS! I just love my ErgoBaby, so does my son William. He is so settled and sleeps well when he is snuggled in the Heart2Heart. Since William is only a few weeks old, we haven’t been out that much, but when we have the ErgoBaby is my preferred choice of carrying him. The 2 times I have used the old stroller has just been annoying, cumbersome and baby doesn’t settle well. Also the weather has been so miserable, our journeys have just been limited to inside venues such as the mall. Not very exciting outings, but so easy when going in and out of the shops.

The other day I also got to use the rain hood to keep baby dry! I loved it, just being able to pull it out to shelter him as I dodged the rain– its great! He stayed warm and dry and completely covered up. Also I love the front zip pocket – perfect for cell phone, tissues & a muslin facecloth.

We also went out to dinner at a Restaurant and I just unclipped the straps and held him in the Heart2Heart, even managed to breastfeed him – all while he was still snuggled up. The Heart2Heart also provided a bit of privacy while feeding him, which was a bonus.

All in all, I really love the carrier. It’s comfy, great quality and feels very secure. It’s easy to use, even on my own to get William in and out. Tomorrow he will be 4 weeks old – the adventure is just beginning.





15th August 2010 - 1 month old

I can't tell you how much we love the carrier! It is so perfect for me. I love carrying my baby and he loves to be snuggled in and falls asleep with in minutes. Life this time around with our newborn is completely different in a great way. I was so sick for a long time after my other 2 babies and could barely hold them or lift them up. So this time around I'm not sick and I'm not putting my baby down!! So thank you again so much for this opportunity :-) I'm very grateful! Hubby & I feel very blessed.

We went to Sumner beach on Tuesday and I climbed all over the rocks, went in a cave and hubby took lots of photos, we went out for dinner and I held William in the Heart2Heart only - plus at the end of the week we are going to Queenstown to stay in a family house, and all we are taking is the Ergobaby - no stroller!!. So its going to be great not having to fit a stroller in the boot and also when we are up in the snow and around the lake etc. There will be a ton of photos for your blog (this time with Mike wearing the Ergobaby) Might even try and carry our 3yr old son - he is just over 18kgs.

Belly Beyond is a finalist in the Top Shop Retail Excellence Awards 2010


Very excited to announce that Belly Beyond has been named as a Finalist in the Online Category of the Top Shop Retail Excellence Awards 2010.

We scored 100% in our mystery shop so well done team Belly Beyond!  Looking forward to the gala dinner in October.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Safe Start Programme: Baby Essentials Online

Change for Children is a government funded agency whose mission is to build a strong culture of respect for children that is visible in our country’s systems and services, conversations and communities, hearts and homes.

As part of this they have designed the Baby Essentials packages which includes the essential information parents need to know to ensure their baby reaches its first birthday, and they want as many people in NZ to view it.

It doesn't take long to do the online course (I did it in under 10 minutes) and even if you are the most educated of parent, I bet you learn something. 

Take the online course here and please share this page with all your friends and family!

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Bedwetting - when will my child be dry at night?

Our 5 year old has only just celebrated her very first week of being dry every night - hooray!!   We've been pretty lucky that it's been an easier road because of Brolly Sheets.  Instead of having to strip the entire bed, we just pull of the brolly sheet and throw it in the wash - so much easier!

But that's not to say we didn't constantly ask ourselves when she was going to grow out of it.  In my search for answers I came across some interesting statistics.

Wikipedia says:

Most girls can stay dry at night by age six and most boys stay dry by age seven.

  • Age 5: 20%
  • Age 6: 10–15%
  • Age 7: 7%
  • Age 10: 5%
  • Age 15: 1–2%
  • Age 18–64: 0.5–1%
Fingers crossed dry nights are here to stay, but for now we are leaving the Brolly Sheet on the bed!

    Bedwetting - A Parent's Guide

    Brolly Sheets are such a sanity saver in our house.  Our 5 year old has only just celebrated her very first week of being dry every night.  But it's been a pretty easy road with Brolly Sheets.  Instead of having to strip the entire bed, we just pull of the brolly sheet and throw it in the wash - so much easier!

    Diane, the inventor of Brolly Sheets, knows her stuff when it comes to bedwetting too - she has done countless hours research on the subject to get her fantastic product to where it is today.  Here's one article from her that she has kindly allowed us to share with you.

    A Parent's Guide to Bedwetting

    Most parents dread the thought of having their sleep interrupted again. Just when you thought it was over – getting up twice (or more times) in the night to deal to the new born baby or the curious or fretful toddler who has realised that they are no longer in a cot and can walk through to mum and dad’s room. You’ve managed to put all that behind you and now the baby sleeps through the night and so does the toddler.

    But suddenly the toddler has mastered a new skill and is dry during the day and no longer wears nappies or pull ups. She realises that you put her into a pull up at night to go to bed, but she wants to be a big girl and not wear one anymore! Here we go – into the next phase. It’s all right, you may be lucky and it doesn’t take too long – a few disturbances in the night – your sleep is interrupted for a bit and then before you realise its’ all over and done and except for a few mishaps – you child is dry through the night. Or not!

    How can you help?

    • Be patient and understanding - reassure your child, especially if they are upset.
    • Keeping a record will show progress.
    • Praise and reward your child for staying dry or getting up to toilet.
    • Respond gently if your child wets the bed even if you feel angry.
    • Prepare the bed and the child - Protect the mattress with a funky Brolly Sheet, absorbent pads or towels, use a mattress protector and supply the child with extra-thick underwear and pyjamas. Merino pyjamas or thermals can stay warm even if wet.
    • Give the child plenty of fluid during the day, but avoid caffeinated drinks e.g. tea chocolate and fizzy drinks before bedtime.
    • Have the child urinate before bedtime.
    • If you get your child up to urinate after being asleep for several hours make sure they are fully awake.
    • Shower or bath in the morning before they go to school. The smell of urine may embarrass your child and lead to teasing.
    • Don't punish the child for what he can't control, or put him back into nappies or use plastic pants if the child is over four or is embarrassed.
    If the bedwetting is prolonged (goes beyond an acceptable age range - statistics) then medical advice should be sort. Lab tests on blood and urine may be performed to rule out any medical conditions.

    Five years old and still not dry?

    The vast majority of children who are not dry at night by the age of 5 years have nothing physically wrong with their urinary system. A small number may have a physical problem, such as an overactive bladder or a urine infection. If your child’s urine has a ‘fishy’ smell, if he or she has difficulty or pain in passing water, is constantly thirsty or is frequently wet during the day as well as the night, it is best to consult your GP.

    Young children (5-7yr) may not yet have learnt to hold on or to recognize when they feel the full bladder sensation. They still need to develop bladder control. Here are some suggestions to help accomplish this:

    1. Easy access to the toilet.
    2. If the toilet is downstairs or some distance away, a potty near the bed is helpful.
    3. Use a bottom rather than a top bunk bed.
    4. If your child is afraid of the dark, keep the light on or position the bed near to the light switch.

    Food and drink
    Encourage your child to drink a reasonable amount during the whole day (about 6-8 glasses, with 2-3 during the school day).

    Cutting back on drinks does not help – the bladder tends to adjust to less fluid and as a result holds less, before feelings of fullness occur. However, be careful about fizzy drinks and tea or coffee, particularly last thing at night, as these can stimulate the kidneys to produce more than average amounts of urine.

    Your child could experiment to see if cutting out particular drinks makes a difference. Do make sure that your child uses the toilet before going to bed.

    Try to prevent your child becoming constipated, as this may irritate the bladder and result in more frequent urination. A diet with plenty of roughage may help, e.g. wholemeal bread, bran, cereal, baked beans and fresh fruit and vegetables.

    Praise
    Praise your child for dry nights, or if they wake by themselves, for using the toilet during the night Try not to show your frustration at wet beds, even though you may be feeling this way! A mattress protector or Brolly Sheet can help ease your irritation at having to change the bed.

    Waking up (or ‘lifting’)
    You may be lucky and reduce the number and extent of wet patches in the bed, but this method does not in itself help your child to react to the sensation that the bladder is full - and wake up or hold on. If you do lift, it is important, where practical, to remember the following:

    1. Make sure that your child is fully awake
    2. Wake at a different time each night
    3. Even if already wet, it is helpful for your child to go to the toilet

    Seven years old (and older) and still not dry?

    As well as continuing to do all the things mentioned above, talking to your child calmly about the problem can sometimes uncover fears or anxieties. It may also be reassuring for your child to know that all children find their bodies are good at some things and poor at others e.g. some are good swimmers or footballers, while others are less good at these things. It is also important to reassure your child that there will probably be others with this difficulty in the school class.

    You could find out whether your child really wants to become dry at night. Gently asking your child what they think are the good things about being dry can give some idea of the extent of your child’s wish to be free of bedwetting. Wanting to be dry helps your child make sense of the methods you might be trying. If your child appears to be disinterested or not bothered, although it is understandably very frustrating for you as a parent, it is perhaps best not to pressurise them at this stage, but to encourage them to think about what the good things about being dry might be for the future.

    A helpful guide about Nocturnal Enuresis
    Bed wetting can be extremely frustrating, especially for parents. Children consider this problem as one terribly humiliating experience. It is worse than the monsters under their beds and in their closets. The medical term for bedwetting is Nocturnal Enuresis. Involuntary bedwetting can in some cases last into the teenage years. (Statistics) The causes of nocturnal enuresis are not exactly known, but it does tend to be more common in boys than in girls.

    How do you know if your child has Nocturnal Enuresis?
    Just because a child wets the bed at one time does not mean that he has Nocturnal Enuresis. If you do have concerns the best thing to do is see your family doctor and discuss this possiblity with them. A doctor would complete a thorough physical examination and probably do a urine test to rule out a urinary tract infection, before reaching a diagnosis. He’d also consider the medical history of the child as well as the family history of bedwetting as it can also be genetic. If a child’s nocturnal enuresis is caused by a medical condition or problem, then treatment should be started based on the doctor’s prescription for the condition.

    What causes Nocturnal Enuresis or Bed Wetting?
    Knowing exactly what causes enuresis is a difficult question to answer, and very hard to pin point. There are many contributing factors and sometimes more than one might be at play. There are some definite signs of things that can trigger bedwetting and it is helpful to be aware of them.
    • The absence of the hormone vasopressin, an antiduretic hormone which decreases the production of urine at night. Until this happens, it's very unlikely that your child is ready to be dry at night.
    • A small or overactive bladder that can't hold much urine or empties before it's full.
    • An underdeveloped bladder control. The signal from the bladder telling your child to wake up when she needs a wee fails to reach her brain.
    • Anxiety or stress, such as a new baby in the house, starting school or parental separation.
    • It may even be that the child is a very deep sleeper and wont wake up to go to the bathroom.
    • Feeling constipated. Children who have persistent constipation often suffer with bedwetting as the hard stool irritates the bladder. Ensure that a healthy diet is adherred to, with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, fibre and water included.
    • Reaction to food. Caffeinated drinks like coffee, soda, and tea increases the production of urine in the kidneys. Avoid giving these to your children, especially just before bed.
    • Hereditary. Bedwetting among children may be caused by some factors that are genetically-linked.

    It is recommended to be aware of the possible causes of nocturnal enuresis and ways to help, treat and prevent it. Remember that mostly it is developmental and can be overcome. It may take a lot of time and patience on your behalf, but take into consideration it is very difficult condition for you child to deal with and impacts on nearly all aspects of his life. Give loads of encouragement and love and have the patience and understanding to ensure that your child’s self esteem remains intact until the bedwetting nights are far behind you.

    Used with permission Brolly Sheets Ltd

    Real Men Wear Their Babies

    “Baby-wearing is great for dads and babies”

    As social trends change, and men are more involved with child-rearing, it seems they are now more comfortable wearing their babies, according to New Zealand baby-wearing advocates, Louisa Currie and Heidi Riley.  “Men are wearing their babies and it seems to be with some pride. It’s like they’re telling the world, look at me, I’m a hands-on dad,” says Louisa, whose online baby store Belly Beyond,  which she runs with best friend and business partner Heidi, promotes baby-wearing in New Zealand and Australia.

    They say that men wearing or carrying babies has become more of an everyday sight in New Zealand, where it was only previously seen overseas or in alternative hippy communities.

    “Dads want to be more involved and baby-wearing fits the bill. Let’s face it, men should have no trouble baby-wearing,” says Heidi, “They tend to have stronger arms and broader shoulders and find carrying babies physically much easier.”

    In fact, baby-wearing has been found to release natural hormones in men; which trigger paternal protective behaviours. These initiate a healthy fathering cycle, leading to relaxed and confident dads, who enjoy being identified as care-givers. “Most women identify as mothers from very early in a pregnancy. The fatherhood identity has a slower start and carrying baby and being involved helps hasten the process,” Louisa says.

    Baby-wearing comes in all shapes and sizes; including slings, pouches and wraps. Many families use two or more styles of baby carrier over the life of a child, depending on age and need. Heidi notes that men look for baby carriers that are not too feminine and don’t inhibit their everyday activities. And, it was only a matter of time before the maternity industry began to look at paternity needs, says Louisa, whose company sells several baby carriers designed with dads in mind.

    Louisa says the popular American-designed ERGObaby Sports Carrier was designed to appeal to men. ERGObaby will launch a new Performance Carrier, for active families, in September, which will be the lightest weight baby carrier available and has many other dad-friendly features. “Men are conscious of body temperature, so they like lighter-weight fabrics. They also prefer neutral and dark colours, avoiding feminine patterns and many prefer buckles over ties or sashes.” says Louisa.

    Louisa’s own husband, Rob, carried their two children and Heidi's husband Chris is also an avid baby-wearing fan. They say men should embrace baby-wearing as a fantastic way to bond with their babies. “If dad becomes confident with the baby, mum is much more relaxed and that’s the best start for a baby and family,” Rob says.

    Hundreds of studies over recent decades have dramatically illustrated the benefits of baby-wearing, particularly proving that worn babies cry less and are more content. We’re now seeing benefits for baby-wearing by fathers too.

    A few baby-wearing positives:

    • Research shows men produce oxytocin while wearing their babies and get to share some of the happy hormones new mums feel.
    • Multiple studies show that babies that are worn display more indicators of ‘bonding’ or ‘being attached’ than babies who are not.
    • Because dads are with babies less; baby-wearing allows earlier bonding between father and child.
    • Paediatrician, Dr Sears, recommends dads try the male-only ‘neck nestle’, where baby is held high enough to be soothed by dad’s voice box vibrations.
    • Babies that are worn regularly spend more time in the beneficial ‘relaxed alert state’, in which infant’s thrive
    • Baby-wearing allows dads to support mums with fussy babies, who are at risk of burn out
    • Touch is a baby’s primary way of understanding the world around them; so baby-wearing plays an important role in baby’s feelings of security.

    Heidi says there are many styles of baby-carriers available in New Zealand and online. But, she advises, choose carefully for safety and one that will last beyond 9 months old. “It’s important to research baby-carriers and check safety standards before you buy and to use it safely too. Mum and dad must always check that baby’s chin is not pressed to the chest to ensure airflow and that they can see the baby. The baby mustn’t be overdressed; and all clips and buckles need to be firmly in place”, she says. Louisa also cautions that anyone wearing or carrying a baby must only do baby-safe activities.

    Use code ERGODAD to get 20% off any ERGObaby Carrier at Belly Beyond!  Only until 3rd Sept or while stocks last.

    Tuesday, August 10, 2010

    NEW: HOTmilk Essentials - Press Release

    oooo - exciting!  Your feedback to us has been received at HOTmilk HQ, they've listened, and come up with an Essentials collection!

    Nursing Bra Sizing:  10-20H

     There is no need to be without diamantes and satin to achieve smooth, seam free, silhouette enhancing nursing lingerie
     
    New HOTmilk Essentials collection with be available from Belly Beyond from January 2011, until then checkout the current collection here or our sale stock starting from only $7.50!

    Monday, August 9, 2010

    The Delish Dozen - Winner

    Last week we began a promo to have one lucky person get the Delish Dozen delivered to their door.
     
    To be in to win a dozen cupcakes delivered anywhere in Auckland,you simply had to nominate a friend (or yourself) by leaving us comment on our blog about how a Dozen Delish might make someones day.

     Our plan was to put all the names into a hat, or more accurately Mr Random.org, and draw a winner but there was one comment, the very first in fact, that was impossible to ignore and we hope that the rest of the entrants won't mind if we arrange to have a Dozen Delish Cupcakes sent out to Trish Te Mana, who was nominated by her friend Linda Jordan.  Linda wrote:

    "My friend Trish Te Mana deserves the fabulous cupcakes as she has just lost her husband, only three months after her daughter passed away. What a ‘sweet’ way of saying I am thinking of you."

     We couldn't agree more Linda, and will organise the prize with the fabulous team at www.delishcupcakes.co.nz

    We so wish we had more to give away to all the entrants, there are some amazing people out there doing a great job in hard times!!

    Sunday, August 8, 2010

    Create your own ERGObaby

    The wonderful team at Babes in Arms are running the coolest promo at the moment and it's open to everyone in Asia Pacific area so definitely worth a looksee!

    It's a chance to create your own stylish ERGObaby carrier and if you have the winning entry you will win a brand new ERGObaby Performance Carrier!

    Check out the Babes in Arms blog here for entry details and you can see and comment on the entries to date on their Facebook page here

    Skip*Hop Pop Flower - Pop Out in Style


    Spring has popped early at Belly Beyond with the new Pop Flower range from Skip*Hop. 

    The Duo features loads of pockets to stash all things baby related. It also comes with convenient Shuttle Clips that attach to the handle bars of any stroller. There are two zip pockets as well as magnetic closures on the others and a comfortable shoulder strap pad. There's a pocket for your cell phone as well as a mesh pocket for water bottle or sunnies.  There aren't thermal bottle pockets in these bags because Skip*Hop is one of the few companies that knows so many of us breastfeed now, that a thermal pockets are a bit unnecessary and a thermal bottle holder will really just sit in the back of the cupboard anyway!

    The Dash has 11 spacious pockets, including a zippered compartment for your personal items. It also includes the Shuttle Clips, magnetic closures for pockets and a comfortable shoulder pad.

    Check them out online, along with our huge range of Nappy Bags here

    Wednesday, August 4, 2010

    The ERGObaby Performance

    Coming to Belly Beyond at the end of September 2010 ...

    The all new ERGObaby Performance Carrier!


    The ERGObaby Performance Carrier is durable, lightweight and breathable - ideal for the active Mum and Dad. Designed for use in the great outdoors, the streamlined design offers a smooth supportive fit for parents and babies, with a longer body and waist belt than the Standard ERGObaby Carrier. A breathable mesh lining and 'CoolMax' panel keeps you and your baby cooler and more comfortable, whatever the weather. The Performance Carrier is suitable in all climates and can even be carried through water when it’s time to cool down. This is thanks to the high performance, quick drying fabric and lack of batting in body of carrier.

    The revolutionary ERGObaby Carrier redefines babywearing. Attracting a multitude of international product awards, it offers hands-free closeness like no other and is perfect from birth to pre-school, up to 18kgs. The ERGObaby supports your child in three easy-to-use positions - front, hip and back - and adapts to your child's growing needs.
    • Perfect for active parents in all climates
    • Offers premium support from newborn to preschoolers up to 18kgs
    • Features high performance fabric
    • Durable, water repellant outer layer ideal for outdoor sports
    • Keeps Baby and Parent cooler
    • Breathable mesh lining features ‘CoolMax’ panel for extra wicking
    • Lightweight and compact
    • Sleek, streamlined design is 1/3 lighter than ‘Standard’ carrier range
    • Offers typical ERGObaby versatility and longevity
    • Perfect from birth to 18kgs with 3 carry positions – front, back, hip
    You will be able to pre-order these carriers from Belly Beyond for delivery at the end of September 2010.   If you can't wait until then, check out the current range of ERGObaby carriers which are still the best carriers in their class.

    RRP is going to NZ$239 approx

      Sweet Cheeks 100% NZ Merino Sleeping Bags SALE!

      Special offer right now on Sweet Cheeks NZ 100% Merino Sleeping Bags. 

      Made right here in New Zealand out of siper soft merino, it's a standard weight baby sleeping bag which means it's good for most climates all year round.

      Fits from 3mths right up to 3yrs.





      Only at Belly Beyond.

      Tuesday, August 3, 2010

      FREE Made4Baby Botty Barrier Creme

      The lovely Rebecca from Made4Baby has sent us through these awesome sample packs of their Botty Barrier Creme, which we will add into every Belly Beyond order while stocks of the samples last.

      The samples work like squeezy tomato sauce packets but we do not recommend putting this on your chips!

      Check out the amazing range of products from this great Kiwi brand, the Starter Packs make a fantastic newborn baby gift or babyshower present. 

      Trivia fact:

      The “4” in Made4Baby stands for the decision Rebecca made regarding the ingredients (and yes these are common in many baby care ranges):

      1. No harsh detergents (which create lather)
      2. No petrochemicals (baby mineral oil is derived from crude oil)
      3. No artificial fragrances (parfum can have hundreds of ingredients)
      4. No parabens (a controversial preservative which we have not included)

      She created some great products, from the Self Foaming Hair and Body Wash (NO Sodium Lauryl Sulphate!) to the Botty Barrier Cr̬me, in a tube Рsay goodbye to double dipping!

      Monday, August 2, 2010

      What people are sharing about Belly Beyond on Facebook

      I love widgets, would stick 'em everywhere if they didn't slow down the site so much.

      This is one of my favourites because it shows just what Belly Beyond links people are sharing on Facebook, and gives us an indication of what what links of ours they liked.

      Sunday, August 1, 2010

      Who Deserves the Delish Dozen?


      As promised here's your chance to win a dozen cupcakes from Delish Cupcakes delivered anywhere in Auckland.

      Do you know someone that would love the Delish Dozen delivered to their door?  Maybe you deserve a little pick me up or have an event coming up that a dozen Delish Cupcakes would be perfect for?

      To be in to win a dozen cupcakes delivered anywhere in Auckland,simply nominate your friend (or yourself) by leaving us comment on our blog about how a Dozen Delish might make someones day.

      You can comment on our Wordpress Blog if you don't have a Blogger account.

      If you share the blog via Twitter and Facebook we'll give you extra points so go nuts!!!

      We've worked with the lovely girls from Delish Cupcakes on a few projects now and they never fail to impress us with the cupcakes they deliver.  Stunning colours, amazing icing, oh and yes they taste as delicious as they look!!

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