A couple great things I've found and love

When I started this post this morning, my intention was to post all my favorite kid-related gizmos, etc. Two down and the day is gone. I guess this may end up being more of an ongoing blog ...

This is my most recent find and favorite purchase. We have a convertible crib that we've attempted to use with all three kids. Unfortunately, it is still pretty far off the floor (unlike an actual toddler bed) and my kids simply fell out. The only bed rail option available prior was $75+ ... I could just buy a toddler bed instead! Enter KidCo's Mesh Convertible Crib Rail. Unfortunately, it does not have any magic powers to lull busy toddlers to sleep or keep them from climbing out on their own. Oh, well. http://www.onestepahead.com/catalog/product.jsp?productId=536672&cmSource=Search

I initially balked at the price tag on this item ($40), but it has been worth EVERY penny. My two boys share a room and they began to wake at obscenely early hours ... 4:30 a.m. ... certain it was "morning." This delightful item allows you to set the "waking" time. At night you simply turn the alarm on and a red light displays -- "red means stay in bed". There is the option to also turn the yellow light on as your night light. When you reach the time of day you have set your alarm, the green light comes on, indicating it is OK to get out of bed. (There is also an adjustment to set an audible alarm to wake them when they get older. Doesn't feel like we'll ever need that these days!)  It is beautiful! It took a period of adjustment, but the boys know to stay in bed (red) and be quiet (yellow) until the light turns green! Sweet morning sleep. http://www.amazon.com/Stoplight-Sleep-Enhancing-Groovy-Butterflies/dp/B002TKLN3W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1327414833&sr=8-1