Joovy Too Qool double stroller review

Won't you be mine, my Valentine, oh won't you be mine....

Well that's what I thought the first time I laid eyes on the Joovy Too Quool. It was the first time anyone, anywhere, had laid eyes on it, in fact. It was at the ClubMomMe Fall Fest.

Peg Perego Pliko P3 Compact Review

Valentine P3

Roses are red,

violets are blue, 

this P3 is Iris, 

I love it, don't you? 

My first stroller was a Peg Perego Pliko (actually second, but my first was a Silver Cross, and that was a pram, so technically, I am correct.) I remember how the salesperson enthusiastically showed how to fold it and unfold it. To close it, you pulled up on the levers, then yanked on a lower handle. 

 

But his biggest glee was saved for the grand opening. It was one quick shake, and voila, it flew open. 

 

 I traveled with it everywhere, as one is wont to do with one child. And never once was it worse for the wear. You could load it down with bags, and it never tipped. The quick umbrella fold was perfect planes, trains, and taxis.

 

 It had a nice deep recline, and an extendable leg rest. Such a nice napping bed for all day outings. 

 

 But the two features that really got me were the HUGE canopy. So many times it came in handy for sudden downpours. 

 

And then, there was that incredibly unique feature--the rear steps for another child to catch a ride! Even at that time, I told my DH, I will never, ever, part with this. This is the most useful piece of baby gear that we have. In fact, I better get two, just in case they discontinue it! 

Of course, they didn't. And years pass; fashions change. The navy dots and stripes were unique at one time, but, well, now there were new and fresher colors out. Plaids became popular. And adorable patterns. There were ones whose names we never knew, so we made them up. The Van Gough- like "Starry Night". The Scarecrow "Fall Pliko." The pastoral scene "Farm Pliko." The "Frog Prince", "Easter Bunny", and "Martians." 

The solids became en vogue. A few more I had: the red, yellow, and blue "Primary Colors". The red and silver "Metallic." Mint green "FreeStyle". Burberry-esqe "Moda". Orange "Hip Hop.Vibrant, matching framed "Mod Blu". "Polka Dot "Revi Black."        Yes I, as with most citizens of Strollerland, was never without a P3 in the stable. Although the colors changed, the good ol' P3 remained largely the same. Still able to carry 99 pounds of two little ones, still a universal favorite of most babies, (the seat is very padded, and very upright), still light and practical.      Nice big basket, with side access.   Hinged snack tray.     Cupholder, that can be placed in 4 different locations!    height adjustable handles,      peekaboo window with mesh vent,      good sized wheels.     The latest Pliko is called the "P3 Compact."     Because, it boasts a 20% smaller fold.   Now the hardest part now is trying to decide which yummy color to choose for 2011. The soft leather trimmed "Paloma", or choclately "Java"? The exquisitely elegant "Pois Grey", or "Pois Black?" The vivid scarlet "Geranium"?   Or this year's hottest colors--the lavender and royal purple "Iris"?   I bow to the trend.     One trend the Peregos are bucking is the move to manufacture all strollers in China. Recently, Mr. Lucio Perego told me that he agonized over closing his factories in Italy. He said many of his employees had been with him for decades. They were like family, and he couldn't bear to bounce them out of their jobs. And so, they said "Ciao" to China, and kept the  Italian factories open for business.       One day, the Pliko will be retired, as will SP 2.0's cupid costume. Happily, that day is not today. Happy Valentine's Day, Strollerland!  P3 Compact Peg-Perego Weight:                             19 lbs.    Seat to canopy:                 24" Seat back:                         20.5" Seat width:                        12" Seat depth:                        11-15.5"   Drop to footrest:               10" Seat to ground:                  19" Width                                21" Length:                              31"                                           Height:                               41-43" Folded:                              40"L x 14"W x 18"H For more 2011 models, or for help choosing a stroller, go to StrollerQueen.com

Valco Matrix stroller review

Valentine Matrix

  

This stroller is red,
so don't you be blue
the ride is so sweet
it's perfect for you! 

Bowing to the realities of our slow economy, Valco has introduced a lower priced version of their popular TriMode. It's more than a hundred dollars less, but it is still pretty nice. Like it's more expensive sister, it can take an add-on toddler seat. Which means you can make a single into a double. It is also compatible with the new Husssh (compact and portable bassinette) bassinette, hitchhiker, footmuff, cupholder, snack tray, sun shade, and travel bag. 

  

It only comes in two colors in the US--black and red. They are both true and vibrant. The Matrix (isn't that a cool name!) also has the infamous airgo fabric, and reflective harness.  

There are two peekaboo windows, both on the back of the canopy, and the top.

The one on the back has a zippered pouch on top of it.  

Even though the Matrix is "the bargain stroller", it still doesn't skimp on features. The handle is height adjustable, and the front wheel unlocks to swivel, or locks to stationary. 

 

The tires are air, for smooth ride. I kinda' like the "whitewall look." Tire pump is included.

The recline is one-handed, easy and swift. Harness has the typical Valco buckle. LOVE the angle of the front napper bar. Perfect for a little cupid to hang on to. Hope I installed it right, lol!  

The seat sits up pretty straight, too, so no straining forward. 

My one complaint is the racheting sound the canopy makes when you retract it. I wish it was quieter. And I wish the canopy was more generous. I guess that's two??? Oh well, the larger canopy can be found on the Tri-mode, for a hundred dollars more (and a raincover, headhugger, more colors, saddlebags on the basket, different tires, a different brake system, and a third "tilt" position on the front wheel.)

Fold is also fast and easy. Just pull up the two side handles, then lift the red safety release. The fold is a reasonable size, and feels easier to lift than it's 26 pounds would suggest.

And the steering? I saved the best for last. It is AWESOME, wonderful! I pushed it one-handed along the entire SQ Obstacle Course, with no problems. Up and down grass banks, through mud, rocks, bricks, cobblestones, gravel, broken sidewalks...So no baby whiplash worries if you need to hold the hand of another little one, or the leash of a dog, or a latte', or a cell phone, or....

  Happy Valentine's Day! Here's hoping cupid has a good aim, and hits the target of your affection! :

Valco Matrix
Weight:                    26 pounds

Seat Back:               19"

Seat to canopy:       26"

Seat Width:              12"

Seat Depth:               9"

Drop to footrest:       9"-15"

Seat to ground:        19"

Length:                       39"

Width:                         24"

Height:                       26"-44"

Folded:                      34"L x 25"W x 19"H

I can help you find the perfect stroller for YOUR needs. Don't let a salesperson sell you a stroller that won't work for you! For more info on consultations, visit strollerqueen.com There are lots more reviews here, and info on how to get the 2010 BIG Stroller Roll-Out, an online video magazine of all the new stroller models.    strollerqueen.com  

Teutonia Stroller Review

My Teutonia Valentine

He scrambled quickly into the stroller, crying.  It was his first Valentine's Dance. Well, it was actually his big sister's dance, and he had tagged along. I expected a little shyness, a little nervousness. He was only two. But tears? "What's the matter?" I asked. Between sobs, he said