If 2008 was the year of the baby sling than consider 2009 the year of the pregnant and post-pregnant body enhancer. Never before at ABC Kids Expo (September 13-16, 2009) have I seen so many stomach harnesses, pregnancy girdles, special bras, and when those are no longer needed cinchers, girdles, after-cesarean underwear, and bras all meant to lift and slim sagging, after-delivery bodies. Elaborate breast pumps - several which looked like something from old Woody Allen movies - made me glad my baby days are over.

Washable diapers were seen in booth after booth, promoted as an environmentally conscious and healthier alternative to disposables. Vertical tubs that resemble huge plastic flowerpots were popular, although there were horizontal tubs shown, too. And organic, fair-trade, ethically produced items are now the norm.

As far as furniture and wall décor designers, those known for cool, modern collections softened their lines, and shabby chic people went for cleaner looks.

ABC received a shot of glamour with Ali Landry, a former Miss USA, in the house launching Belle Parish, her collection of better girls' dresses. That's Ali (on the left) with friend and business partner Annie Pons.

Author and longtime co-host of ABC's Good Morning America Joan Lunden was in attendance, too, selling KinderKord: an adult and child wrist-to-wrist safety restraint system.

A Glimpse into ABC KIDS EXPO:

A serene moment in the Margery Ellen Baby booth.

Amy Michelle Bags founders Michelle Herbert (left) and Amy Wright working the basic black dress

A high-tech attendee meets and greets in the ABC Expo lobby.

Helen Jackson, founder of Helen Doodle, doodling.

Originally published September 30, 2009