Tuesday, August 19

Why the Zaky deserves a second look


There's something to be said for the transformation that takes place when you become a parent.

All of the "I'll never's" go right out the window the moment you hold your newborn,suddenly replaced with all of the "I will do anything for you's". And all that baby and kiddie stuff that you really thought had no reason to exist except to make you laugh? Well, that thinking is also replaced with a sudden understanding for all things soft and comforting.

Take the Zaky by Zakeez, for example. I have a very distinct memory of laughing my head off at the thought of an infant pillow shaped like a hand when I happened across it online during my pre-pregnancy days. Ask Sweeter (that would be the hubby) and he'll tell you that he laughed even harder when I sent him the link.

And the price? They certainly don't come cheap at $49.95 for one or $79.90 for a set.
Yeah, that brought on the laughter-induced tears. Why would anyone in their right mind buy a HAND for their baby? And an expensive one, at that?
Can you say "freaky"??

But then Buttercup was born, and suddenly it all made sense. Sure, the thing still does look a little weird, but now that I'm a mom, I'm no longer laughing.

Here's the deal: The Zaky is an ergonomic infant pillow used in NICU's across the country.

It's designed to have the scent of mom (just sleep with it or add a teensy dab of your signature fragrance) for extra bonding points.

Yes, I know you are still stuck on the fact that it's a hand, but really, even Sweeter stopped laughing when he realize its benefits.

Originally designed to comfort premature babies during their long hospital stays, the Zaky is an ingenious way to calm babies because it was invented to mimic the size and weight of your hand and forearm by--who else???--a mother of a long-term NICU baby. (See how it is all starting to make sense now?) And don't worry about baby's sensitive skin; the Zaky is hypoallergenic, breathable, and fully washable.

Now, Buttercup didn't receive hers from Mom4Life until she was about 4 months old, and is not now, nor never has been a stuffed-animal kind of baby, but there were plenty of times where I was able to help her settle back to sleep by positinong the Zaky under her arm. Instead of reaching for my fingers, she was able to get the comfort she needed by wrapping her entire hand around a single Saky finger. If I had been brave enough to smap a photo in the dark and chance waking her up, I totally would have.

Instead, I searched through my photos and found the image above, which I think is the only one I have of her with the ZAky while awake.

There are way to many other benefits to list, but they include the chance for working parents to stay connected with their kids, for grandparents to send a little bit of love from far away, and it would make a great baby shower gift.

Now, I only have one, and Buttercup is fine with that. There are some great tips here on what might work for you, but I have had no problem with one since the beginning.

The Zaky is available from Mom4Life in blue, pink, and flesh color. I got pink. The flesh weirded me out.

Now for the best part! Mom4Life is offering one lucky reader the opportunity to snag one Zaky in the colo of their choice! This is perfect for my preggers readers, or those with friends or loved ones who have a little bundle on the way. Entries from US resident only, please.

To be considered for the random drawing, visit Mom4Life and leave me a berrie (read: comment) telling me which other product you'd love to see reviewed. One extra entry is available if you decide to choose one of the following:
* subscribe to my RSS feed and comment letting me know you did so (new subscribers only!)
* Add my button to your sidebar and comment (I'll check!).
* Blog about the contest and link to the giveaway.
* Non-bloggers can email three of their friends about the contest and CC me on the email. Girl Scout's honor that I will never bother these sweet people. I promise!
* Grab my button and place it on your sidebar, linking to Berrie Sweet Picks.
* Follow me on Twitter! (nickname: berriesweetest)
Please note that non-bloggers MUST include a valid email address to be considered for the drawing!

I'll pick one name at midnight (EST) on Aug. 26 and post their name to PRIZEYWinners and on my left-hand sidebar. The winner has four days from the announcement date to contact me, or an alternate winner will be chosen.

More good news! Mom4life is also offering my readers a 10 percent discount on orders through the end of September with code "berriesweet"! But make sure to enter the code into the coupon box on the left side of the homepage for it to apply to your order.


See you soon with another berrie sweet review and contest!

127 comments:

Crunchy Green Mom - Suzanne said...

I would love to see that Suzy pack reviewed... cute item! and for 70$ that isn't bad!

Crunchy Green Mom - Suzanne said...

And I am a Twitter-by friend :)

Meredith said...

The Downtime Sleepy Hat looks funny and great! I would love to see that on a baby other than the one in the picture. It is so cute.

~Meredith
rosesaremyfavorite at hotmail dot com

Jessica said...

Oh, I would love this! Having triplets, I can't always get to all three when they're upset to comfort them... Unfortunately, it's too expensive for me to buy, so I just HAVE to win it!! I'd also like to see if the Baby Goga Baby Bottle and Baby Food Warmer works. That would come in so handy. Now when I'm out and about I have to crank the car to plug my car bottle warmer in.

Jessica

Unknown said...

Elasticity Belly Oil by Belli Pregnancy would be my pick.

Unknown said...

The suzy pack

kygirl said...

I would like to see the Baby Light & Clip Lighted Safety Nail Clippers reviewed.

HilLesha O'Nan said...

I love the The Madeline Baby Girl Shoe by Mia Joie.

HilLesha O'Nan said...

I'm following you on Twitter.

SN: HilLesha

Anonymous said...

Suzy pack

jdine said...

I would like to see Making Me The Pregnancy Activity Book for My Big Brother or Sister by Motherly Way reviewed! Thanks!

Unknown said...

I'd like to see the Moby Wrap reviewed. I can't live without mine and I'd love others to know how great it is.

Jenn S. said...

I would love to see the Mini Night Light for Youngsters by Mommy Bee Happy or the Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight by Cloud B reviewd.

dani said...

I would like the Cozy Cocoon Baby Body Sock-Sweet Pea to be reviewed. I also have to say the downtime sleepy hat is sooo cute.

louiseb130 said...

I like the Downtime Sleepy Hat

Stephanie said...

Rileyroos Jakester Flexible Shoes for Boys
tvollowitz at aol dot com

Anonymous said...

I'd love to see the Moby Wrap...have always wanted to try one! Thanks!!

PS said...

I don't think you're pregnant, but I'd love to see the Bamboo Maternity Mix-It Dress by Rockstarmoms. Wow, what versitilty! It looks great! Review it, and let me win it!

EJW said...

I'd get the nursing PJ dress, for when #2 comes.

Sky said...

I'd love for you to review the Potty Hammock. Mom4Life is such a great store. I've purchase a Razberry Teether...and love it!

seeryusfam@msn.com

Sky said...

I have your button on my sidebar!

Maja said...

Suzy pack. :)

angelina115@hotmail.com

Unknown said...

I'd love a review on the ITZBEEN™ Baby Care Timer by Coast Innovations- I'd like to know if its as easy to use as they claim! :)

Miss Spoken said...

I'd be interested in reading a review of the Twilight Turtle Constellation Nightlight.
gkstratos@yahoo.com

Miss Spoken said...

Subscribed.
gkstratos@yahoo.com

Blessings Abound said...

The Adiri Natural Nurser would be a great review. I've been wondering how well they actually work. Thanks!

akblessingsabound[at]gmail.com

Blessings Abound said...

I've but your button on my sidebar. Thanks!

akblessingsabound@gmail.com

agordon10 said...

Mini Night Light for Youngsters should be reviewed

Meredith said...

Please review the Ultimate Water Resistent Throw! Sound great for ballgames in the Fall!!

Meredith said...

I subscribed to your RSS feed Thankyou!! Love your website.

Anonymous said...

Suzy

mverno said...

Mini Night Light for Youngsters is my choice

jw1966 said...

Cozy Cocoon Baby Body Sock-Sweet Pea

JennyG said...

I would like to hear more about the The Babykeeper For Public Restrooms by Mommysentials.

jfg06001[at]yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

I'd like to see the supersoft shopping cart cover reviewed

Anonymous said...

The Babybonkie swaddling wrap!
www.kccpets.com click contact

Aisling said...

I think the Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight by Cloud B is absolutely darling, but I'd love to read an independent review of it. (Hope you didn't already do one and I missed it!)

Karen said...

Would love to see the suzy pack reviewed.

123connie said...

The Zaky is a great idea!! I would like theBaby Light & Clip Lighted Safety Nail Clippers reviewed!!

ariyana9501 said...

I'm also a big fan of the Moby Wrap....don't know how I'd get around without it! Thanks for a cool contest!

Anonymous said...

The Infant Towel by Yikes Twins in Bear design is so cute. I would love to give it to my nephew. Makes bath time a play time, too.

applez_55@yahoo.com

mom2nji said...

i would love to see a review for the The Peanut Shell Reversible Flip Baby Sling by Goo-ga. its so cute but I am pretty clueless when it comes to slings.

anny32 said...

Breast Soother by SmartChoices my DD will be breast feeding in jan. i wish i had these-sure could have used them! as far as the hands thats prety neat and different! thanx

Anonymous said...

I would love to see this product reviewed: Flo Water Deflector, Faucet Protector & Bubble Bath Dispenser by Boon
clenna@aol.com

CanCan said...

Mom 4 Life is a great store!
I have always been interested in the inflatable toddler bed rails.

onlycancan at hotmail dot com

windycindy said...

Hi, The "Twilight Ladybug" and "Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight are two items I would like to see reviewed. Please enter me in your drawing. Many thanks, Cindi
jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

strawberry3d said...

i think your babysparewear mini makeover should be reviewed.

idahomom said...

Inflatable bed rails. I keep wondering if they are sturdy enough.

Anonymous said...

LOVE TO WIN THIS FOR MY GRANDDAUGHTER

Superdumb Supervillain said...

I am curious about My Little Seat. It looks handy! The Jackaboo BabySit, too.

EG said...

I'd love to see the slings evaluated against each other!

Sharon said...

The Potty Hammock...thanks!
fenway07@msn.com

Sharon said...

Hi again...have you on my sidebar at
http://middle-aged-mama.blogspot.com/
THANKS!

vboackle said...

Rileyroos Jakester Flexible Shoes for Boys.

mogrill said...

I love the Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight and would like to see it reviewed!

Unknown said...

I would be interested in hearing about the Moby Wrap

ce613 at hotmail

Annie said...

G Diapers please-

OnTray 2 Go please and those teething necklaces :)

Anonymous said...

duck feathers

Anonymous said...

I'd like to know more about the potty hammock. (in the midst of potty training our toddler) I love these pillows and would be thrilled to win for our wee one due this winter. Thanks!
cbeargie (at) yahoo (dot) com

llinda29 said...

Moby Wrap

kristilb19 said...

The Tait Baby Boy Shoes by Mia Joie, these look cute! I'm not sure if they're made well though? Great contest! I'd LOVE to win the blue one for my son due in October!!!!

kristilb19@yahoo.com

furygirl3132 said...

I would like to see the Baby K'tan Baby Carrier reviewed. This looks very interesting and I would be curious to see how it worked. Thans for a great giveaway!

Eloise
furygirl@comcast.net

bfox74 said...

I'd like to see the Tee Pee for Me
reviewed. Can a kid put it up by themselves?

Millie said...

I would like the Cozy Cocoon Baby Body Sock-Sweet Pea to be reviewed.
Thanks for the chance to win such a great prize!
cadewill14[at]yahoo[dot]com

Millie said...

I have your button on my blog :)
cadewill14[at]yahoo[dot]com

Teresa690 said...

I would love to see the Flo Water Deflector, Faucet Protector & Bubble Bath Dispenser by Boon! Thanks!

Anonymous said...

I've seen a lot of reviews on Boon's feeding products, but I'd love to see a review of their Flo.
beccachristensen at hotmail dot com

BOJESNE said...

Tell me about the Tee Pee for Me!

sabb266 said...

I would love to see a review of Kangaroo Bath Towel by Small Made Simple. I am wondering if this would be awkward to use. Thanks for the great giveaway

Aura said...

What an amazing site- I must place an order! I love their selection of barrettes! I think you should review the medibottle- it's ingenious!! Having a sick child we are constantly having to mix meds with formula and then not having him drink it all. We finally found preemie bottles that are only 2 ounces so their easier to finish and you don't have to fill them up too much. Syringes are the most accurate way to measure and I see way too many parents measuring incorrectly and thereby overdosing or underdosing their child. I must stock up on some. Btw, we saw the Zaky in use in the ICU it's such a nice product and there are mothers that sleep with it the night before they give it to their baby so that their baby can have their scent.
aahaft at gmail dot com

LINDALSHOT said...

The downtime sleepy hate it cute.

madangle said...

i would like to see the Mini Night Light for Youngsters by Mommy Bee Happy reviewed

Erin said...

I love Mom 4 Life!!
I would love to see a reveiw of the downtime sleepy hats. That one is a little freakier looking than the Zaky! But, I wonder if it really works...
I have been wanting a Zaky... I hope I win! And, I would want it in flesh!

Ane said...

I have a baby on the way andI think the BurpCatcher Pocket Burp Cloth would be a great review, because it's a great and useful product!

kenzkween at hotmail dot com

Ane said...

I have your button in my sidebar!!

kenzkween at hotmail dot com

Anonymous said...

I would love to see the Small & Large Body Hugger Pillow by Cuddoozle have a review. They look very helpful. Thank you.

Unknown said...

I would love to see a review on the Goin' Cozy Shopping Cart Cover. I have always wanted one of these but wondered if they really are easy to use. Thanks for the great contest. ecghick@yahoo.com

Kari said...

Elasticity Belly Oil would be great but I have to say, I'd be thrilled to win a Zaky! They look really great!!!

Melanie @ Whimsical Creations said...

I would like to see the Flo Water Deflector, Faucet Protector & Bubble Bath Dispenser by Boon reviewed.

=) melanie
www.melaniescrafts.etsy.com
www.melaniescrafts.blogspot.com
melanieadey at hotmail dot com

Melanie @ Whimsical Creations said...

I have your button on my blog.

=) melanie
www.melaniescrafts.etsy.com
www.melaniescrafts.blogspot.com
melanieadey at hotmail dot com

LadyOrchid said...

I would love to see the Cuskiboo bamboo baby comforter.

Anonymous said...

Honestly I would have wanted a review on the Zaky. Been wondering how good they were.. My dd is having surgery when she is 6 months old (only 2 now so a few months to go) and I'm thinking this might be the ticket after your review... Otherwise, perhaps the ToddlerCoddler Head & Neck Car Support for all the traveling we do for my older son of course... wiicked13 [at] yahoo [dot] com

Anonymous said...

I would like to see the Tee Pee for Me reviewed! Thanks Melissa Sciandra spinmel@aol.com

Anonymous said...

Please review the Ultimate Water Resistent Throw!
Thank you.

Anonymous said...

I would like to see the Suzy pack reviewed.

bison61 said...

I'd like to see a review of the Baby Light & Clip Lighted Safety Nail Clippers

tiramisu392 (at) yahoo.com

Jinxy and Me said...

A review of the Peanut Shell Reversible Flip Baby Sling by Goo-ga would be good.

Anonymous said...

I think the Time Out Spot Discipline Rugs should be reviewed. Would be interested in if they worked. I'd like to win one of these in pink.
-Terra
partymix25(at)hotmail(dot)com

Anonymous said...

The Teepee for me, thank you.l Icetwofire[at]aol[dot]com

Anonymous said...

The suzy pack,thanks.
erma.hurtt@sbcglobal.net

Anonymous said...

I would like to see the baby pouch and the baby sling reviewed so that I would finally know the difference.

Anonymous said...

Restore Me™ After-Baby Bath Tea

luckydolls123[at]verizon[dot]net

pitaharmon said...

I've never heard anyone talk about the Flo for the bathtub. It looks so cool.

dhunt said...

I would like the Cozy Cocoon Baby Body Sock-Sweet Pea to be reviewed.

NesieBird said...

The Suzy Pack looks cool. I recommend you review it.

redron said...

The Downtime Sleepy Hat

Jodi said...

My niece is due in a few days, this would be a very unique gift for her lol

I would like to see you review the Cozy Cocoon Baby Body Sock

purehrt555(AT)yahoo(DOT)com

OlyveOyl said...

There is always room for a Suzy pack review - thanks for sharing so much! Love your stories!

Izzie said...

Anything called a "Downtime Sleepy Hat" deserves a review!

Anonymous said...

You should review the Honest Baby tshirts. Those are so much fun.
doot65{at}comcast[dot]net
Elizabeth

Storm, The Psychotic Housewife said...

I'd love to see the Baby K'tan baby carrier reviewed! :)

Suzie Williams said...

I like the kangaroo bath towel and I'm interested in how useful it really is. It looks like something I'd wonder how I lived without so I'd like to see it reviewed.

cman said...

I love the Bundleboo Baby Carrier & the Mini Moby Wrap :)

arvard said...

I really like The Madeline Baby Girl Shoe by Mia Joie.

klp1965 said...

i love the Yogaland!-The Australian Adventure DVD

Gus, Clay and Mommy said...

I would love to see the Suzy Pack reviewed!

Chris and Julie said...

I would love to see the Baby Light & Clip Lighted Safety Nail Clippers reviewed-I would love to know if it is worth the money.

dbmt13 said...

I love the the Madeline shoe by Mia Joie

dbmt13 said...

Belli oil sounds great.

SECAVEN said...

very interested in the cuskiboo bamboo baby comforter. name is interesting. this would be perfect for mommy & baby to cuddle together in.

dbmt13 said...

The moby wrap would be great.

Anonymous said...

Moby wrap

carissaad said...

The dwink Box Holder For All Drink Boxes looks useful; I would like to know if it really is.

Thanks!

carissaad at aol dot com

carissaad said...

I subscribed.

Erica G said...

I'd like to see all the nursing covers reviewed and a raqating on all of them.

Anonymous said...

Downtime Sleepy Hat!! Tell us more about that! I love learning about new baby products as I am first time preggo I want it all but unfortunatly won't be able to afford it ALL!! Thanks for the chance!!!

arbonne_wright@hotmail.com

masonsgranny59 said...

Twilight Turtle Plush Constellation Nightlight by Cloud B

Re said...

i'd like to see the teepee for me in a review.

i have hte downtim sleepy hat and it takes some work to keep them from pullin it off :)

LBSGONE said...

I'd like to see a review of the Mini Moby Wrap to see if little girl's really like it.
cherylfrancisco@hotmail.com

Unknown said...

Moby Wrap would be great to read about. Someone told me it was great but have been afraid to spend the money.

lilyk said...

I love the Child's Towel by Yikes Twins!

mrstrooper said...

Flo Water Deflector, Faucet Protector & Bubble Bath Dispenser by Boon

/\Heather/\ said...

How about jogging strollers? That's a good item to review.

Tricia said...

Kangaroo bath towel looks interesting.

mccammacks(at)sbcglobal(dot)net

Anonymous said...

I would like the Cozy Cocoon Baby Body Sock-Sweet Pea to be reviewed.
Thanks for the opportunity to be a winner!

Rockin' Mama said...

I'd love to know more about the Boon Flair high chair

jasonncaryn at yahoo dot com

Jessica said...

I emailed you my info. So excited!

Jessica