Managing the MotherLoad by Jennifer Applin

May Writer Mama Column

My May column for the Writer Mama Zine is up on the blog. It is titled "Cultivate Your Professional Side."  If you'd like to subscribe to the entire zine, just sign up here.

Green Living-Product Review

In my attempt to make our immediate home environment more "green" I've been getting rid of plastic. I've been swapping out the plastic dishes, water bottles, etc. for better glass and stainless steel options.

We're now using the Foogo sippy cups by Thermos. Below are the product features:

• The vacuum insulated stainless steel interior and exterior is non-reactive to all food and beverages.
• Keeps beverages cold & fresh for 6 hours; Kid proof unbreakable design is perfect for infants and toddlers
• Insulation helps inhibits dangerous bacteria growth
• BPA Free materials ¿ Stainless steel interior and exterior ; Soft drinking spout is made from food contact safe Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)
• Dishwasher safe for easy care; Sweat proof design won't leave water rings

These have worked great! We haven't had any leaks and since it keeps the beverage cold for so long we haven't been wasting as much if my son wonders around with his cup for a bit.

I also purchased Klean Kanteen water bottles with the insulated sleeve. We really like these water bottles! I definitely recommend paying a little extra for the insulated sleeve. This keeps your hands from getting cold. It makes them easy to carry and tell apart if you get different colors.