gDiapers - are you using them?

I was so excited when I heard about the first biodegradable, flushable diapers that I almost wet myself. (I wonder if they come in adult sizes?) GDiapers mean no more diaper pail, no more smell, no more landfill guilt. You can buy them at stores like New Seasons, Wild Oats, Market of Choice and probably Whole Foods. It's a 2-part system: there is a cloth panty with a plastic liner and the flushable insert, which is about the size of a maxi-pad. The insert fits into the panty, and when it's soiled you simply take it out and flush it. Unless you have a toilet like mine.

The first time I tried it, I ended up sticking my hand into the flush hole to retrieve the stuck insert. Lovely. The second time I tried it, I let the insert soak in the toilet for about two hours hoping it would break down. It did, and it flushed. Neither of these scenarios where particularly appealing to me, so I gave up on it. But then my neighbor, Shelly, told me that you can pull apart the insert and it will flush easily. Excellent. So I'm going to give it another try. I'm wondering how often you have to change the insert...after every little pee? Because gDiapers aren't cheap. It costs about $15 for 32 medium flushable inserts. I'd love to hear whether anyone else has gone the gDiaper route.

(Note: Originally published/posted by Heather on ReadySetMom.com)

Ladybug Nature Hikes by Portland Parks and Recreation

I took the kids to our first Ladybug Hike a few weeks ago at Elk Rock Island in Milwaukie. Never heard of it? Neither had I, but it's fantastic. The guides passed out ladybug backpacks chock full with magnifying glasses, specimen cups, animal masks (for getting into character) and other goodies appropriate for a walk in nature. There were lots of big rocks that the kids had to climb over to get through the hike, but they did great and we all had fun. I knew it was a success when my daughter, who is usually squeamish about insects, mollusks and the like, threw a tantrum when she couldn't stay longer and catch more snails.

There are only seven hikes left this year, so try to get to one! The next hike is this Friday, September 22 from 10 - 11:30 at Leach Botanical Garden, and it costs $2 per child. If you are considering bringing a baby jogger, check the hike schedule to see if the trail is stroller-friendly.

(Note: Originally published/posted by Heather on ReadySetMom.com)