Olivia's Pick--27 April 2009

It doesn't take long for the weather to warm up in the Northeast. What I mean is, once Old Man Winter finally releases his death grip on the region, we usually go from 40 degrees to 80 degrees in the space of about six days.

This weekend, the mercury spiked and our backyard became a summer-like wonderland. Sure, the leaves on the trees were still curled tightly into little buds, but the sprinkler was out and Olivia & Co. were running, jumping and laughing their way into the season.

Her Green Toys sand play set is still her favorite outdoor dirt & sand kit. It's made from recycled milk jugs, but you'd never know it. It's cute, durable and "eco-groovy." And if that's not enough, it's made right here in the USA.

Olivia Pick--1 June 2008

Beach, beach, beach! She can't get enough of our pretty little piece of coastal heaven, and truthfully, I'm loving it too. But Girls of Summer need gear, right? Shade on the shore is a must, but you don't need to break the bank on a good beach umbrella. Castle building goes green with this Sand Play Set by Green Toys. Made from recycled plastic, this playset is manufactured, assembled and tested in the USA and is BPA and Pthalate-free. And no day at the beach is complete without snacks. This summer, skip the hot dogs and nachos and freeze some fresh fruit the night before, to keep it cooler, longer. Cut up watermelon, mango, pineapple or whatever your little one loves and freeze it. Then, pack it on ice for your day of fun in the sun! And Mamas, don't forget the sunscreen!