Plug in to MOPS!

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Looking for a place to experience real spiritual growth, break away from the little one(s) and connect with like-minded moms? Then look no further than MOPS International. Founded in Colorado by eight women in 1973, MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) exists to emphasize the fact that "mothering matters" by providing support groups for local moms, as well as various resources. The organization boasts more than 3,900 groups across the U.S. and in 35 countries. Each local group meets regularly to support and encourage mothers with children aged birth through kindergarten to be the best mom possible. There's a robust handful of MOPS groups within the Fort Worth area; to find a group nearest you, click here then click on Find a Group in Your Area Now!

To view the current issue of MOPS publication, MOMSense magazine, click here.

Green Your Diaper Routine

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Whether you're the ultimate green maverick or simply a mom who's concerned about providing the healthiest environment for your little one, taking small steps to a greener diaper routine is something we can all cheer. That's why we love the concept of homemade baby wipes (because let's be honest, though it's noble, the thought of replacing disposable diapers with cloth is a bit overwhelming).

To make your own at-home wipe solution, follow this recipe, excerpted from Green Baby by Susanna Marriott. Simply spritz this cleansing lotion onto paper towels or washable cloths, and you have a green alternative to the chemical-laden mass-manufactured wipes.

1) Pour boiling water into a teapot containing two chamomile tea bags. Let the tea steep for 15 minutes.
2) Combine 1 tbsp hemp oil with 1 cup of the warm tea. If baby is older than 1 year, add 1 tbsp pasteurized clear honey and whisk well to combine.
3) Fill a reusable spray bottle (glass is best) with the solution and shake well. Use immediately, or once completely cooled, store in the refrigerator.
4) At diaper change time, spray the solution onto the cloth or paper towel then use as you would a store-bought wipe. Make a new batch every few days and keep refrigerated.

You can also find two additional homemade wipes recipe by visiting: http://www.christian-mommies.com/ages/babies/homemade-baby-wipes.

The Sweetest Thing

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Baptisms, dedications, birthday parties, baby showers ... we love any reason to celebrate. And now your celebratory occasions can be even sweeter with charming sweet treats from Fort Worth's first cupcake shop, The Cupcake Cottage. Owned by husband-and-wife duo Sandra and Juaquin Bradshaw, The Cupcake Cottage creates delectable cakes in such scrumptious flavors as banana, cinnamon chocolate, cookies and cream, kahlua, red velvet and more. Each cake is topped with fresh buttercream frosting, and the tiny treats are made with preservative-free ingredients, including fresh fruits and unsalted butter. Bon appetit!

5015 El Campo Ave.
Fort Worth
817.732.5670
www.thecupcakecottage.com

Work it Out!

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Losing those post-baby pounds can be a difficult, often daunting task. As badly as we'd like to don our skinny jeans again, finding the time and energy it takes to squeeze in a workout can seem impossible. But now you can get in shape, spend fun time with your little one and make new mommy friends, all with a workout. Created by a mom and renowned fitness expert, Lisa Druxman, M.A., Stroller Strides is a total fitness program that includes power walking and toning. Each class is taught by a trained instructor. Several classes are offered in the Fort Worth area. Visit Stroller Strideswww.strollerstrides.com for class locations and additional information.

Taters for Tots

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For charming, one-of-a-kind onesies, tops and pants, we can't get enough of Potato Playground. The colorful threads feature bold, graphic images, which are ingeniously created using potatoes. The taters are first carved into various shapes and are then utilized as stamps. Because each design is hand-stamped, no two clothing items are alike. The designs are printed on 100% cotton garments by American Apparel, a Los Angeles-based company that enforces fair-trade practices.

In addition to the adorable wearables, the company was founded by three stay-at-home moms, and we love supporting the ingenuity of creative, crafty moms! Visit www.potatoplayground.com to browse the delightful designs!

Musically Inclined

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Tune your little one into the sound of music with TCU's Early Childhood Music classes. With seven different classes to choose from, your preschooler will be able to discover a symphony of delightful play while bonding with mom and other playmates. For the youngest tots, check out Music Together Babies for infants 0 to 8 months, Music Together Mixed Ages for youngsters 0 to 4 years, and the Preschool Class for 3 to 4 year olds. Older children will enjoy Music Makers: Around the World for 5 to 7 year olds, Music Makers: At the Keyboard I & II for 5 to 7 year olds, and Pre-School Piano Readiness for 4 and 5 year olds.

Open registration begins August 5. Register online by visiting www.musicprep.tcu.edu (or clicking the title link) or call 817.257.6134. To find out more about the Music Together program, visit www.musictogether.com or call 800.728.2692.

Bold Textiles for Little Citizens

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For bold, artful, mix-and-match children's knitwear, check out Daily Tea, a collection of stylish , playful wear for little citizens of the world. Daily Tea's pieces are inspired by various regions around the globe, and the clothing boasts colors, patterns and textures beloved the world over. The collection can be viewed at www.teacollection.com (click the title link to be redirected there). Check the site daily for their Every Day Deal, and shop online now to save 75% off select summer styles. Also enter promotion code tcard20 to get 20% off your first purchase.

You can also find Daily Tea at BabyBliss in Snider Plaza (6721 Snider Plaza, Dallas) or in the Southlake Town Square (1243 Main Street).