Parenting

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  Strong Girls

• The Power of Words!

  28 Oct 2009 | 7:45 pm

  I was reviewing student achievement literature the other day and was reminded of an astonishing piece of information. Did you know that one of the main differences in children being ready to learn in kindergarten is the number of words that they know when they start? Children who fair the best at school enter kindergarten knowing around 20,000 words. Those who do not do so well enter school with a vocabulary of only about 5,000 words.What does that tell us as parents? It tells us that how we speak to our children greatly influences their future success in school. By engaging our children in…

• High-Achieving Women Discuss Resisting the Pressure to Be Perfect

  20 Oct 2009 | 6:53 pm

  I received an email today about an amazing event that took place on October 13th in the Big Apple!Girls Incorporated,a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, hosted a panel discussion on girls, women, and stress in New York City. This event brought together women leaders in the areas of business, media, and health and wellness to discuss how this issue is a factor in their lives, their stress management strategies, and helping the next generation of women leaders navigate these pressures.This was a great gathering of amazing women. Please take…

• Hear The Seven Secrets on WomenSpeak.com

  19 Oct 2009 | 7:48 am

  I had the great opportunity to speak with Dr. Nancy O'Reilly from WomenSpeak.com for inclusion on Webtalkradio.net. We spoke about the messages sent our girls about being female, the effect of media messages on our girls , my research and the Seven Secrets of Parenting Girls. We had a stimulating discussion and I would love to share it with you. You can tune in right now and listen to that broadcast on WebTalk Radio! Just go to WomenSpeak.com and scroll down to Timeless Women Raise Strong Girls. The broadcast is archived so you can pass it on to your friends and family!Give it a listen and…

• A Chance Meeting With a Strong Girl!

  18 Oct 2009 | 4:04 pm

  I stopped at a diner in a rural area of Ohio today while spending the day enjoying the leaves and the covered bridges in that area. When ordering my lunch I was fortunate to meet, Macie, my waitress. She was a young girl, pregnant and very friendly. I asked her about the area and what there was to do there. She quickly replied "Not a thing". This response prompted me to ask her if she had plans to leave the area. She said she did but she had to finish high school first. She said she was seventeen and a senior, currently finishing her last year through home schooling. I asked her if she was…

• Strong Girls Needed in Congress!!!

  15 Oct 2009 | 5:35 pm

  I read an interesting article the other day about gender bias in insurance coverage. Findings by the National Women's Law Center revealed some troubling facts. Did you know that in eight states, plus the District of Columbia, it's legal for insurance companies to deny health coverage to women victimized by domestic violence?Did you also know that women who buy insurance in the private market pay as much as 50 percent more than men! These insurance companies ague that women should pay more because they cost more, especially during childbearing years! It seems to me that men have a little…

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  The Parenting Post - Parenting.com

• The Joys (and Pains!) of Kinky, Curly Black Girl Hair

  My Brown Baby

  6 Nov 2009 | 1:46 pm

  The torture usually came on Saturday evenings, in the kitchen. I’d be sitting on a stack of thick yellow phone books and a pillow, squished between my mother’s knees; she’d be perched on the hard wooden kitchen chair, bent over and leaning in at some ungodly angle, trying hard to tame the kinky curls at the nape of my neck with gobs of thick grease and a scorching hot comb. read more

• I have no idea. Do you?

  Mighty Maggie

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:01 am

  I'm not a very observant mom. Actually, a better way to put that is: I am not observant AT ALL. I'm rarely the first person to notice if one of my kids has a bump or a scratch, and when I'm in the throes of dealing with a whiny, unhappy kid, it hardly ever occurs to me that he might not be feeling well. I'm much more apt to assume he's just being a brat. I know, I know. That's, like, forty Mom Demerits. read more

• A Note to the Halloween Witch

  Daring Young Mom

  4 Nov 2009 | 10:19 am

  For the last two years we’ve adopted the tradition of sacrificing our sugary goods to earn the good graces and fabulous gifts of the Halloween Witch. She flies through the night sky two days after Halloween, collecting all treats that have not yet been consumed by the children of the land to add to her sticky, sugary, tooth-destroying stash. In return for these leftover treats, she leaves a toy for each child who gives up his or her candy completely. read more

• Forty Is Not the New Thirty. Thankfully!

  Mommy Needs Coffee

  3 Nov 2009 | 9:03 am

  First, let me thank you for all of your sweet words and concern for my daughter. She is not back to one hundred percent health yet, but they felt she was healing enough to avoid putting her through too many tests that may or may not find answers when they see her on the upswing. She is still fatigued and suffers from headaches but we are keeping a close eye on her. Thank you for the kindness you showed me after my last post. It means a lot to me! read more

• Hello. My name is Denene Millner, and I’m a screamer.

  My Brown Baby

  30 Oct 2009 | 10:43 am

  I don’t mean to holler and yell like a banshee when my kids get out of line. It just, like, happens. Usually, I yell after I’ve asked them nicely five times to do something -- like move their crap off the kitchen table or straighten up their rooms or go to sleep already because it’s 10:30 p.m. and I put you in your bed two hours ago and I’m tired, dammit, and I want to give your father some so that I can pass out from exhaustion. read more

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  Parenting at More4Kids

• Its Not Fair! - Thanksgiving Thoughts on Fairness and Gratitude

  More4kids

  4 Nov 2009 | 6:19 pm

  With Thanksgiving approaching, I am struck by thoughts of fairness and gratitude. This Thanksgiving season, I am going to outlaw "No fair" outbreaks from me and the kids alike. Why don't you join us as we focus on our blessings and practice gratitude?

• Hosting the most Spoo-tacular Halloween Party!

  More4kids

  28 Oct 2009 | 5:44 pm

  Halloween is just around the corner. If you are thinking of hosting a fun Halloween party for your kids here are some tips.

• The Essentialness of Play and Make Believe

  More4kids

  27 Oct 2009 | 6:45 pm

  Today, not as many children play as much or use their imagination as much as when we were kids... and that may cripple them in the long run. Here are some tips for encouraging play and imagination.

• Ten Things your Teen would like to Hear you say to Them

  More4kids

  25 Oct 2009 | 6:17 pm

  We are generally aware of what we say to our teens. But did you ever think about what you don't say to your teen? Are there things that you aren't saying to your teen that they want or need to hear?

• Cute Baby Animals - Natures Gift

  More4kids

  25 Oct 2009 | 9:54 am

  One way is to help our children understand life is to simply step back and look at nature all around us. Here is a Youtube video of some really cute baby animals.

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  msnbc.com: Parenting

• How one mom learned to translate baby cries

  4 Nov 2009 | 8:15 am

  Your infant is screaming and nothing you do seems to satisfy her. In her book, "Child Sense," child development expert Priscilla J. Dunstan shares how to decode your baby's crying. In this excerpt, she writes about how she learned the language.

• Economy adds stress to clashes over parenting

  4 Nov 2009 | 8:29 am

  Meals. Bedtime. Discipline. The reasons parents clash over the kids are endless, especially now that more unemployed dads are filling in for back-to-work moms as the bad economy grinds through a second year.

• Video: How to raise a leader

  5 Nov 2009 | 6:52 am

  Nov. 5: New findings suggest your parenting style is more important than genetics in determining who’s the boss. Psychiatrist Dr. Gail Saltz shares advice on teaching your kid leadership skills. (Today Show)

• After having 15 abortions, motherhood saved her

  2 Nov 2009 | 3:02 pm

  In “Impossible Motherhood: Testimony of an Abortion Addict,” editor and literary agent Irene Vilar shares her controversial story of having had 15 abortions in 15 years. Here, she talks to TODAY Moms about why she had so many abortions and how motherhood eventually saved her.

• Book excerpt: Testimony of an abortion addict

  2 Nov 2009 | 2:31 pm

  In her book “Impossible Motherhood: Testimony of an Abortion Addict,” editor and literary agent Irene Vilar shares her controversial story of having had 15 abortions in 15 years. In this excerpt, she writes about coming to terms with her addiction and shares what compelled her cycle of destructive behavior.

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  BabyCenter: MOMformation

• Royalty gets dethroned

  Beth Hering

  7 Nov 2009 | 4:05 am

  My niece’s room used to be a shrine to Disney princesses. A Cinderella CD player, a Snow White tea set, a Little Mermaid comforter — she definitely put one of Walt’s descendants through college.   But like most stuff that is so important at one point in life, the gals are now boxed up in Rubbermaid bins rather than [...]

• My sunshine gets a shade

  MotherProof

  6 Nov 2009 | 12:35 pm

  In Colorado we get more than 320 days of sunshine each year. San Diego has nothing on us (except that large body of water they call the Pacific Ocean). The sunshine is great, but the sun exposure – especially in the car – makes me worry. Why do only rear-facing infant car seats have [...]

• Babes’ Blog, Week 114: Little girls need their mommies to sleep with them

  Betsy Shaw

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:19 am

  It’s hard to believe Isla’s going to be four. On the other hand, considering the time I’ve spent awake with her when I should have, could have, been sleeping, shouldn’t she be about eighteen by now? “What are you doing, Isla?” I asked her after breakfast yesterday, the day she learned that something called her birthday was [...]

• Ask Annie: The toddler who won’t stop talking

  Ann Pleshette Murphy

  6 Nov 2009 | 5:35 am

  Renowned parenting pro Ann Pleshette Murphy has volunteered to field your childrearing questions.   This week, Annie gives advice on how to keep your sanity when your child’s developing love of language is pushing you to the brink.   Michelle Says:   My 23-month-old daughter is very energetic and creative. Her vocabulary is very clear and I’m very grateful for that. [...]

• Friday fun: Bring back the Cunninghams

  Beth Hering

  6 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  Scouting around my CD collection to find something new to work out to (yes, I am that rare person who does not have an iPod), I came across the soundtrack for a television show called American Dreams. The show, which ran from 2002-05, took place in Philadelphia in the 1960s and centered around an all-American family [...]

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  The Dear Dr.MOZ Baby Blog

• Happy 40th Birthday Sesame Street!

  Dr.MOZ

  4 Nov 2009 | 4:47 pm

  If you’ve run a Google search lately, you probably learned that Sesame Street is celebrating 40 seasons on air on November 10th! I couldn’t let Big Bird’s birthday pass without a shout-out to everyone on 123 Sesame Street, so here’s a best of collection starting from their 1969 debut. What is your favorite Sesame Street memory? Do you prefer watching classic episodes from the Bert and Ernie days, or have you adopted Elmo into the family? Share your Sesame Street stories in the comment box below. Enjoy! Dr.MOZ

• Contests and Giveaways for Mom and Baby!

  Dr.MOZ

  2 Nov 2009 | 5:43 pm

  It’s been ages since I’ve hosted a giveaway here at the baby blog, but I’m happy to announce that I’m getting back into the giving mood later this month! Until then, I recommend visiting a few of favorite stores and baby blogs for a great collection of prizes: Due Maternity: and Tea Collection are partnering to offer an incredible $1,000 Baby and Me  wardrobe giveaway with $200 (2nd place ) and $100 (3rd place) prizes! “Deal”ectible Mommies: is giving away a complete BPA-free feeding set by SproutBaby. Mommy PR:  is hosting a Beibi Shoes review and…

• Happy Halloween Weekend Everyone!

  Dr.MOZ

  30 Oct 2009 | 4:36 pm

  Have a safe and happy Halloween everyone! Oh, and for those of you who wanted costume ideas for the “other kids” in the family (you know who you are)…here are a few costumes that your dog doesn’t want you to know about. Have fun and stay healthy, Dr.MOZ > images thanks to SnootyPaws and Smelling the Coffee!

• Part 2: Simply Fun Halloween Costume Ideas

  Dr.MOZ

  29 Oct 2009 | 11:22 am

  I don’t know what happened, but October is flying by! I planned on having more fun baby and toddler costume ideas posted by now, but Halloween is only 2 days away. This is going to require a little backup, so I’ve linked to a great collection of  fun costume ideas that I think you’ll love below. Parenting.com: 27 Easy Homemade Halloween Costumes for Kids Inhabitots: Homemade Green Halloween Costumes for Babies Family Fun: Last Minute Kids Halloween Costumes HuffingtonPost: Hilarious and Adorable Halloween Costumes for Kids Do you already have your kids’ Halloween…

• The Krispies Hit the Fan in California

  Dr.MOZ

  28 Oct 2009 | 10:48 am

  Now I don’t know about you, but when I’m feeling run down and need a quick boost to the immune system…I pour myself a big bowl of chocolatey, sweetened rice cereal full of processed sugars and partially hydrogenated vegetable oil. Well…maybe not, but if you see a box of Cocoa Krispies by Kellogg’s in the supermarket you might be led to believe that it’s full of nutrition and a responsible choice for help building your child’s immunity. According to a letter sent yesterday, San Francisco’s attorney general wants to see the scientific research…

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  Yahoo! News: Parenting/Kids News

• Singing in Pregnancy May Be Harder Work (HealthDay)

  6 Nov 2009 | 2:03 pm

  HealthDay - FRIDAY, Nov. 6 (HealthDay News) -- Hormonal fluctuations make it harder for women to sing during pregnancy, a new study finds.

• Another reason to cover your cough: pets at risk (Reuters)

  6 Nov 2009 | 1:56 pm

  Reuters - People who think they may have H1N1 flu need to stay away from work, avoid sneezing on their spouses and children and now, they have someone else to worry about infecting too -- their pets.

• What kids drink at 5 could affect weight at 15 (Reuters)

  6 Nov 2009 | 1:24 pm

  Reuters - Parents may be setting their daughters up for weight problems simply by allowing them to drink two or more sweetened drinks daily while young, study findings hint.

• Poll: One-third able to get swine flu vaccine (AP)

  6 Nov 2009 | 12:29 pm

  AP - Only about a third of adults who have tried to get a swine flu vaccine have been able to get it, according to a new national poll released Friday.

• Gene Therapy for Fatal Brain Disorder 'Just the Beginning' (HealthDay)

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:48 pm

  HealthDay - THURSDAY, Nov. 5 (HealthDay News) -- The reported success of gene therapy in treating two children with adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) brings hope to patients with the potentially crippling and fatal brain disorder and their families, says a nonprofit group that supports ALD research.

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  PARENTING NEWS - Google News

• Organic Parenting - The Daily News Online

  7 Nov 2009 | 1:09 am

  Organic ParentingThe Daily News OnlineCalled organic parenting, or natural parenting, and even "green parenting," the movement consists of very specific parenting choices in building a certain

• Author to speak on parenting - Tulsa World

  7 Nov 2009 | 12:29 am

  Author to speak on parentingTulsa WorldShe will share her insight into parenting and sign books at 10 am Sunday at Congregation B'nai Emunah, 1719 S. Owasso Ave. "She's truly interesting

• When mom and dad clash - MiamiHerald.com

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:01 pm

  MiamiHerald.comWhen mom and dad clashMiamiHerald.comBorba and other parenting experts suggest a game plan that recognizes differences between partners as positives rather than sources of conflict. and more »

• The Way We Live Now - New York Times

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:24 pm

  New York TimesThe Way We Live NowNew York TimesWe approach parenting with a single-mindedness that baffles our own parents, and certainly their parents, who thought children should be seen and not heard. Gay adoption complex, controversial issueThe Reflector onlineGay couples: A close look at this modern familyUSA TodayGay Families Are So Special Yet SO Just Like Us, Aren't They?Autostraddle (blog)Duke Chronicle -Newspaper Tree -Examiner.comall 8 news articles »

• Pa. moms follow holistic approach to parenting - York Daily Record

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:03 pm

  Pa. moms follow holistic approach to parentingYork Daily RecordBecoming a parent for the first time three years ago, Kim Murphy tried to do everything the way she was raised by her parents and from what she read in Holistic Moms Network creates an education-oriented community, locally and Appleton Post Crescentall 6 news articles »

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  Parenting News

• Pa. moms follow holistic approach to parenting

  7 Nov 2009 | 2:04 am

  Becoming a parent for the first time three years ago, Kim Murphy tried to do everything the way she was raised by her parents and from what she read in pediatricians' handbooks, but it just didn't feel right.

• Jackson's father seeks allowance

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:42 pm

  Michael Jackson's father wants a judge to order the pop star's estate to pay him a monthly allowance, according to papers filed in court Friday.

• Tips For Stress-Free Travel With Kids

  6 Nov 2009 | 2:46 pm

  Whether it's a weekend trip or a cross-country road trip, travel with kids comes with its own set of unique challenges.

• Michael Lohan to release more tapes

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:29 am

  Michael Lohan has been tipped over the edge by his daughter Lindsay's latest allegations - he's threatened to release more tapes to prove she is lying.

• Gay Couples: A Close Look At This Modern Family, Parenting

  6 Nov 2009 | 6:05 am

  So many gay couples today have kids that it has become a cultural phenomenon - there's even a new TV show about a modern family that includes a gay couple with an adopted baby.

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  On Parenting

• How to get your kids to bond with your parents (even if your bond isn't so strong)

  6 Nov 2009 | 7:56 am

  I'm traveling this week with my wife, a professional trip that meant that the kids needed to stay home. Fortunately, Grammy is keeping an eye on the girls this week. Earlier in the year, the other grandparents bailed me out by watching the kids when I was on the road. We're not physically close to family, so getting this help takes some logistical juggling, but we can make it work. Not everyone is so lucky. As we were preparing to leave, an old classmate flashed me a wry smile when I told him that my mother-in-law was holding down the fort. He was somewhat estranged from his parents, not in…

• Holiday cheer, the cheap way

  5 Nov 2009 | 5:18 am

  Most of us may still be consuming the last reminders of Halloween -- miniature-sized Snickers, itty-bitty bags of Skittles -- during our afternoon (and morning, and evening, and midnight) snacks. But if TV commercials, Friday's release of "Disney's A Christmas Carol" and the recent release of the Toys "R" Us Big Toy Book are any indication, the holiday season is more or less upon us. With its arrival comes this survey conducted by Consumer Reports, which finds that one-third of adults plan to spend less money on holiday gifts this year than they did in 2008. Two-thirds of the 1,000 people…

• Why I fear the first bra

  5 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  My oldest has begun to excitedly ask me when I think that she'll get to 5 feet tall (she has a few inches to go yet). She seems to think that breaking the 5-foot barrier marks some sort of milestone on the progression to young adulthood. I have to be honest: It's not hitting 5 feet that worries me. It's all of the other indicators of creeping young adulthood. Among the biggest, to me, is the bra: a cloth marker of the passage from childhood into adolescence. The bra is also tricky for me, because it marks the departure from a stage of her life that I understand relatively well into one that…

• Babysitting: Is it worth the investment?

  4 Nov 2009 | 3:37 am

  My wife and I went out last Friday night (no, we didn't go pumpkin smashing), and our college-aged babysitter let it drop that she was sitting even though the party she had thought was Saturday was actually happening that night. I quickly apologized -- we could have found a replacement -- but the sitter wasn't concerned in the least. "It's OK," she said. "I'll just go when you guys get back. You never stay out late." "You never stay out late." It was a dagger to my middle-aged heart. We could spend hours painting the town red and roll back home at 11 p.m., and our sitter could still pack in a…

• How do you raise kids who aren't bystanders?

  3 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  A week ago, a 15-year-old California girl was raped and beaten by several people for 2 hours outside of a high school homecoming dance. The horror of the crime is almost too much for me to take in. In a case like this, no matter how much I think about it, I'm always left with more questions than answers. As the news on the subject evolved, more and more questions are being raised not only about the attackers (at least four have been charged), but about the dozen or so individuals who witnessed the crime and did nothing to stop it. There have been a number of theories thrown about on why so…

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  MedPage Today Pediatrics

• Cooling Baby May Mitigate Effects of Oxygen Deprivation (CME/CE)

  5 Nov 2009 | 2:30 pm

  Inducing hypothermia in newborns with oxygen deprivation may limit its potential damage, researchers say.

• Vaccine Effective Against Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CME/CE)

  4 Nov 2009 | 1:00 pm

  An experimental vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV) can produce complete responses in some patients with precancers, Dutch researchers found.

• 'Wolfing' Down Food Could Pack on the Pounds (CME/CE, with audio)

  4 Nov 2009 | 7:03 am

  Eating fast may curtail the release of hormones that help regulate appetite, potentially leading to overeating, researchers said.

• IDSA: Vaccination Link to Health Problems Discounted (CME/CE)

  3 Nov 2009 | 6:29 am

  PHILADELPHIA (MedPage Today) -- Vaccination does not appear to cause autism or other health problems in children with inborn errors of metabolism, a researcher said here.

• Half of American Children Receive Food Stamps (CME/CE)

  2 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

  Many American children live in households that receive food stamps, an indicator of the kind of poverty and food insecurity that can seriously jeopardize a child's overall health, a new study found.

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  Parents Blog

• Do You Use Your TV as a Babysitter?

  5 Nov 2009 | 11:58 pm

  Don't be ashamed if you answered "yes." My BFF in Hawaii pays a TON of money to get Noggin, Nick Jr. and the Disney Channel, which is one of the reasons she unabashedly refers to her satellite provider as Diego, Dora and Kai-Lan's pimp.

• Teens and The N Word

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:48 pm

  Miriam Caldwell wrote about Saying No especially when people are asking for favors. Her blog post was primarily discussing requests for service in the church and knowing when to draw the line so that we can care for ourselves.

• Should Kids Move Out at 18

  4 Nov 2009 | 11:05 pm

  A blog post at timberdoodle.com asks Is it time to kick the kids out of the house? Moving out at eighteen is a fairly recent, definitely cultural idea, one which regardless of the spiritual implications makes no economic or ecological sense...

• Christmas Music in October?!

  4 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  I rarely listen to the radio while driving, but my 5-year-old insisted on hearing some tunes as we navigated our way to yet another Halloween event last week.

• Do You Discipline Your Child in Public?

  3 Nov 2009 | 3:53 am

  When it comes to disciplining a child, consistency is key. However, these days when screaming is the new spanking and swatting a child on the butt could land you in jail, some parents feel forced to ignore their tot when he has meltdown in public.

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  Daddy Types

• DT Friday Freakout: Shocked, Shocked Edition

  greg

  6 Nov 2009 | 11:14 am

  Calm, relaxing autumn weekend with the kid? Not if the publicizers of these stories from the worlds of science, medicine, education, safety, and parenting have anything to do with it: What better way to start the Friday Freakout than...

• Struts RIP, Or They Shot Whorses, Didn't They?

  greg

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:19 am

  It started this summer, and so it has nothing to do with having kindergarten friends who take riding lessons. But otherwise, we are unable to account for the intensity of the kid's current horse-and-unicorn fixation. The one bright spot...

• Yeah, So, Damien Hirst's Sausage-in-a-Baby-Bottle Sculpture

  greg

  5 Nov 2009 | 9:20 am

  The funny thing is, I could look at Damien Hirst's bisected calf in formaldehyde while eating veal carpaccio. I could grind my own hamburger next to his installation withmaggots and a rotting cow's head. I could lose myself in...

• Must Credit Dadcentric!! Ford Announces Inflatable Seat Belts

  greg

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:35 am

  Jason Avant of Dadcentric is representin' for the dadblogging community at a lavish Ford Safety press event in the US Virgin Islands this weekend. Now that he's livetweeted the big news--inflatable rear seat belts!!--he has the entire weekend free...

• Goodnight, Dead Turks: The Decemberists' Childrens' Book Is Finally At The Printer

  greg

  5 Nov 2009 | 7:57 am

  I know that when fans read in Paste Oct '06 that The Decemberists' Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis would put out a children's book "about a talking cat who lives in turn-of-the-century Butte, Montana," many people stopped uploading greenscreen...

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  Essential Questions

• Is preschool prevention, or just early treatment?

  Graham Scharf

  29 Oct 2009 | 1:52 pm

  What is the key to solving the education crisis? Speaking to educators in Atlanta, US Secretary of Education Arne Duncan "says the key to solving the education crisis in the United States is offering quality early childhood programs to every child" (AP Report). In the same week, Colorado's Lieutenant Governor Barbara O'Brien cited the famous Hart/Risley study on language development: By age three, children whose parents are on welfare have vocabularies of about 500 words, children of working class parents have about 700 words, and children of college-educated parents have vocabularies of…

• How do parents inspire their children?

  Graham Scharf

  21 Oct 2009 | 8:21 pm

  Journey to the end of the worldNear the end of C.S. Lewis' great adventure The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, the crew of the small Narnian ship bound for "the end of the world" encounters a crisis of leadership. Many of the ship's sailors are tempted to stay on a comfortable island rather than complete their quest to sail to the end of the world."At this point [King] Caspian jumped to his feet. 'Friends,' he said, 'I think that you have not quite understood our purpose. You talk as if we had come to you with our hat in our hand, begging for shipmates. It isn't like that at all. We and our royal…

• Do parents really need the village?

  Graham Scharf

  21 Oct 2009 | 7:56 pm

  Village Advisors It is not only the case that parents always fulfill their role and responsibility in the context of community because there is no way of escaping it; it is equally true that parents need community. They need the village to advise, encourage, and challenge them. There will undoubtedly be areas in which parents are weak – and it is in precisely these areas that the village plays such a vital role. In some cases parents are aware of their need and can seek out advice. I, for example, would make a miserable music teacher for any child. Knowing that I need help, I seek out…

• Doesn't it take a village to raise a child?

  Graham Scharf

  8 Oct 2009 | 6:30 am

  In the past decade, the proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” has become part of our cultural vocabulary. Its acceptance is not without reason: childrearing is always an effort in the context of community. Does the bold claim that “parents play the primary role in shaping the lens through which their children understand and make their way in the world” contradict or undermine the importance of the village? Responsible people live and act in community It is important at the outset to recognize that there is no contradiction between claiming that a person has primary…

• How do we learn what is normal?

  Graham Scharf

  5 Oct 2009 | 2:07 pm

  Are traffic lights reliable?In the course of our daily lives, we have expectations about what is normal, and what is normative. Those things that are normal are those that we have come to expect to be a certain way. For example, I expect that the traffic lights are going to work on any given day when I walk out the door to go to the park. This expectation is a function of my experience. Since my earliest days I have found traffic lights to be reliable. That there are occasions every year or two that a traffic light does not work is abnormal; it further reinforces my sense that operational…

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  Half Full: Science for Raising Happy Kids

• Should We Stay Together for the Kids?

  Christine Carter

  3 Nov 2009 | 10:30 pm

  Last night, one of my best friends called my cell phone twice in one minute—our signal for distress, the indication that I needed to pick up the phone right then, even if I was in the middle of dinner. I’d gotten previous distress calls when she found a suspicious lump (the biopsy was, thank goodness, benign) and when her daughter was in an accident. I knew that whatever was coming on the other line wasn’t good. “He is SO MEAN TO ME,” she sobbed into the phone. “It’s the same crap year after year after year. I’m at that breaking point where it doesn’t seem sane to…

• Holiday Happiness: Is it all About Forgiveness?

  Kalai

  28 Oct 2009 | 7:59 pm

  As Halloween excitement mounts in our household and the nip of fall is finally forcing us to find our jackets (I know, it is good to be a Californian), one thing is clear: The holidays are right around the corner. I’m the first to feel annoyed when I see Hallmark Thanksgiving and Christmas stuff in store windows the day after Halloween. But I find the holidays far less stressful if I give them plenty of time and space, both for planning and for enjoying. So forgive me: I’m starting to think about my New Year’s resolutions now. The holidays are not always the happy time they can be for…

• How to Love Bigger, Better, More

  Kalai

  20 Oct 2009 | 12:08 pm

  Let’s not lie. Despite his controversial views on parenting, I love Michael Lewis. I LOVE his book about parenting, even though much of it goes against what I preach; I love his sense of humor; I love that he predicted the current financial meltdown 20 years before it happened in a book that Thomas Wolfe says is the funniest non-fiction book ever written about Wall Street. I love that Michael Lewis has been writing about corruption in the financial and mortgage industries ever since. The excerpt from Homegame that was printed in the July issue of O, The Oprah Magazine, made me PEE MY PANTS…

• Are Parents Today Too Needy?

  Alexandra

  9 Oct 2009 | 11:41 am

  Michael Lewis is worried that now that he isn’t writing about his kids, he isn’t going to pay enough attention to them. To quote Jon Stewart, this is one of the worst things I’ve ever heard a parent admit on national television. He then dismisses his worry with the notion that kids don’t really need to be lavished with attention, anyway. Parents today are too needy, he says. They worry too much that their kids aren’t going to be perfect. His solution? Back off. Many of life’s problems solve themselves, he says, if you just let them be. (And kids fall into the category of life’s…

• Friday Photo 10/9

  Neda

  9 Oct 2009 | 7:00 am

  We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools. –Martin Luther King, Jr. Want to see a photo of your happy child in this space? You can share your photos with us by following 3 simple steps: Create a Flickr account, if you don’t already have one Upload your photos to your Flickr account Join our Raising Happy Kids group Thank you for all the wonderful photos you’ve shared with us so far! We have uploaded them into the Raising Happy Kids Photo Pool on Flickr.

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  Attachment Parenting Blog: Raising Children with Love

• Fighting H1N1 with a cool soap dispenser

  Dave Taylor

  3 Nov 2009 | 9:24 pm

  I'm not a big fan of vaccinations. I think that it's one of the reasons that we're seeing more and more extreme allergies and auto-immune deficiency illnesses, a path that only seems to have one direction for us to travel: to a world where people are more and more sickly, more reliant on the vaccinations and big pharma medications. Probably makes me sound a bit paranoid. Ah well, can't be helped, I'm just being transparent. My kids have never been vaccinated for anything and they've had remarkably healthy childhoods and when they've gotten sick, they're returned to health quite quickly.

• Dad + daughter's hair: an inherent disaster?

  Dave Taylor

  27 Oct 2009 | 4:37 pm

  I'm lucky, I know. I'm a single dad to two girls, 12 and 5, and while it'd be a bit odd for the tween to be asking me for help with the latest hair style, it's a miracle that my 5yo daughter can do her own hair and never asks me for more than finding those darn hair bands. Most dads don't have it that easy, and there's little more intimidating than a little girl asking you to "do that pretty braid like mommy does" or "fix my hair for photo day". Turns out I'm not alone in my misigivings and angst in this area: a chap called Craig Lawrey contacted me a few weeks ago about a book he's written…

• Jif Peanut Butter is gluten-free, but ...

  Dave Taylor

  22 Oct 2009 | 8:53 am

  The PR agency behind Jif peanut butter has a promotion where they're asking for the best recipes that include Jif peanut butter. Okay, not a bad idea. When I got a copy of the query I responded that to me the real question is the quality of the food: two of my three children are on gluten-free diets. To my surprise, they informed me that Jif actually is a gluten-free product. Now, before you say "well, yeah, it's peanuts and oil", you should know that just about all foods on the shelf now have the ambiguous "natural flavoring" and that's often where gluten is hiding, as an additive or…

• The economics of driving a taxi in Las Vegas

  Dave Taylor

  17 Oct 2009 | 9:12 am

  I'm in Las Vegas right now for the Blogworld and New Media Expo and took a cab, as I often do, cruising around from hotel to hotel, party to party. This time the driver, Frank, was in a talkative mood and revealed some very interesting information about the economics of being a cab driver here in Las Vegas. Wondering how these guys get paid? Turns out that one of their biggest sources of revenue is dropping fares off at strip clubs. In fact, there's a "price war" going on with the strip clubs here in Vegas and a cabbie can earn up to $100 per person for dropping people off at the door. They…

• For me, the Hilton Grand Vacation Club timeshare numbers didn't end up working

  Dave Taylor

  14 Oct 2009 | 10:59 am

  A pal of mine emailed me a few days ago asking: Do you have a hilton grand vacations hgvc timeshare? Which resort do you usually go to? Are you happy with it? We went back and forth in email, including me explaining some of the math behind time shares and why they're such a bad idea for most people (myself included, in hindsight) and so I thought I'd publish the back and forth here, add some additional comments, and invite you readers to add your own two cents and your experiences with timeshares, whether you jumped or not. Ready? Here we go... I responded: We paid $110,000 for a…

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  Susan Heim on Parenting

• Chicken Soup for the Soul: All in the Family (Giveaway)

  6 Nov 2009 | 4:46 pm

  Just in time for the holidays, I’m pleased to announce the publication of my new book, Chicken Soup for the Soul: All in the Family! If you’re familiar with the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, you know that they have many great books for fathers, mothers, sisters, grandmothers and other family members. So, what makes this book different? It’s weird!Yes, this book is a lot “edgier” than other Chicken Soup for the Soul books because we were really looking for stories that showed how dysfunctional most of our families are. We wanted to know about people’s quirky, strange,…

• From My Mama’s Kitchen: “Home for the Holidays”

  5 Nov 2009 | 2:31 pm

  NOTE FROM SUSAN: This wonderful article was written by Johnny Tan, author of the book, From My Mama’s Kitchen, which contains very wise “recipes for living” that he learned from all the “moms” in his life. As we kick off this holiday season, this article provides a gentle reminder that this should really be a season of the heart. Family, friends and togetherness are the real gifts of the season.From My Mama’s Kitchen -- “Home for the Holidays”A Celebration of the Heart with a Gift from the Soul!Some of us already realize this, and others will experience it for the first time:…

• Showing This Weekend on the Disney Channel -- My Little Pony: Twinkle Wish Adventure!

  5 Nov 2009 | 5:29 am

  For those of you who entered the giveaway on this blog for a My Little Pony: Twinkle Wish Adventure DVD -- and didn’t win -- you’ll be happy to know that it will air on the Disney Channel this Saturday, November 7 at 11 a.m.! My Little Pony: Twinkle Wish Adventure follows Pinkie Pie and all her pony friends on a fun-filled adventure as they discover that friendship can make wishes come true. All the ponies can’t wait for the Winter Wishes festival where the Wishing Star grants each pony one special wish. But when the Wishing Star disappears, they go on a journey to find it. Will they…

• Apericots: Organic Baby Clothes That Are Adorable and Even Customizable! (Giveaway)

  4 Nov 2009 | 5:41 pm

  If I had a baby, I would be so excited to shop at Apericots! This online baby clothing retailer focuses on customizable, eco-friendly/organic, high-quality products. Their clothes are made of 100% organic materials (mostly cotton), which makes them super soft. Not only should they last longer, but they’re also very cute and trendy! You can select any of their adorable designs or customize/personalize almost any product they offer. For example, you can order a cloth diaper, bib, hat, or onesie and print your own custom text or personal photo on it. Here are a few examples of products I liked…

• The November 3 Best of the Mommy Bloggers Carnival

  3 Nov 2009 | 5:19 am

  I’m thrilled to be the host of A Modern Mother’s “Best of the Mommy Bloggers Carnival”! Every two weeks, a different mommy blogger (like me) collects the “best of” columns from other bloggers for the previous month and shares them with you. (To find out more about the carnival or volunteer to be a host, click HERE.) Following are the terrific submissions I received. Please support your fellow moms by visiting their blogs and commenting on their stories!Click HERE to read Susanna’s delightful post on “A Modern Mother” about what she most looks forward to!Click HERE to read…

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  Totally Her, Totally Real - TotallyHer.com

• Why Do We Eat Too Much?

  Lores

  6 Nov 2009 | 6:01 am

  If you think that the only reason you eat too much is that the food is simply too delicious to stop or that you just don't have self control, think again. Did you know that there are actual triggers to eating more than we should? Recognizing the triggers can help us gain some of our control and waist line!

• The Prince & Me 3: Holiday Honeymoon | TV Movie Review

  Sarah Eve

  6 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

  Get into the holiday spirit early and watch The Prince & Me: Holiday Honeymoon on ABC Family throughout November. This is the 3rd installment of The Prince & Me movie series and keeps the fantasy of alive following Paige and Prince Edward now married celebrating their honeymoon vacation.

• Making up Little Girls

  Tzan

  5 Nov 2009 | 6:01 am

  With all the teen and preteen shows that are on television, in movies, and merchandised in stores, the market for more realistic makeup and beauty items has greatly increased. Store shelves are full of themed cosmetic items for such shows as Hannah Montana and High School Musical.

• No Way: Froot Loops Labeled ‘Smart Choice’

  Lores

  5 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

  Have you noticed the new "Smart Choice" labels on some breakfast foods in the grocery store? Did you take note that Froot Loops bears that label? What nutritional value does sugar have?! The federal government is cracking down on some of these labels. The question is: shouldn't we consumers be able to simply figure it out on our own?

• How to Avoid “Raccoon Eyes” When Applying Mascara

  Denise

  4 Nov 2009 | 5:01 am

  Even the best beauty mavens have to deal with smudged mascara from time to time. These simple tricks can help you prevent the dreaded "racoon eye" look when you're trying to look your best.

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  CafeMom Daily Buzz: Baby

• Falling With Baby and Other New Mom Fears

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:06 am

  Photo by StarrMom2Xander Carrying my babies up and down our slippery wooden stairway was always one of my biggest new mom fears. There were a couple of near misses, but we made it to toddlerhood unscathed. I'm making up for it now. Just the other day, I sledded down the last few treads on my butt. I'm just so klutzy. natalies_mama's husband did fall down the stairs the other day with their 2 1/2 month old daughter. Their stairs are carpeted but narrow, and her husband is tall. Every time he ventures down with the baby, she holds her breath and listens. The other night, that ended with…

• Babies Born on Sidewalks and Other Strange Sites

  6 Nov 2009 | 4:26 am

  Photo by ventichaitea One CafeMom had a surprise home birth. (Not unusual unless you're not planning on it.) Cafe MicheleZ, who's expecting twins in another month, is worried that her babies might come so fast (she should be so lucky!) that her midwife or doctor of choice may not make it to the delivery room in time. She's thinking of creating a Birth Plan B and C just in case. This is probably a good idea considering the strange and unexpected places babies decide to pop out. Just this week, a woman in Eau Claire, Wisconsin gave birth on the sidewalk outside the hospital.According to the Eau…

• Breastfeeding Is Best, But Moms Need Help

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:29 am

  Photo by fern624 The American Dietetic Association, the nation's largest professional organization of nutritionists and dietitians, has come out even more strongly in favor of breastfeeding, calling it the "optimal feeding method for infants." But its report was also quick follow that statement up, in its very diplomatic and roundabout way, with a call for a lot more support and encouragement than moms are getting right now. CafeMoms in the Breastfeeding Moms group couldn't agree more: Arisce: "I think America is slowly moving in the right direction. I'm a little concerned though that we're…

• Baby of the Week: Joseph

  5 Nov 2009 | 4:38 am

  Photo by nily A weekly post to help us get to know some of our CafeMom cuties ... Who: Joseph Anthony, 1 year, son of nily. When I was 35 weeks pregnant I had an accident and fell on the sidewalk, landing on my very preggo belly. Because of that he was born premature through emergency c-section and spent seven days in the NICU. He weighed 5 lbs, 10 oz and measured 19 inches. Joseph defeated all odds of a rough start, so I'm very proud of him. To me he is a warrior. Right now he has no sign of any delay. He does everything a full-term baby does. How long does he sleep at night? My little man…

• Stella McCartney Baby Gap Line

  4 Nov 2009 | 10:00 am

  Stella McCartney Cashmere Cardigan; $58 Cafe MicheleZ was just swooning a few feet away from me over something online, and then I heard her mention "a leopard print shirt and skinny jeans." At first I was thinking, Wow, how dramatic will that twin prego belly of hers look dressed in all those spots! But since most of Michele's thoughts are on her forthcoming babies these days, I wasn't surprised when she told me she was talking about the new clothing line designed by Stella McCartney for Baby Gap and Gap Kids. I clicked straight to the site and this is what I found: Kanga Footed One-Piece;…

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  CafeMom Daily Buzz: Toddler

• Mom Confessions: I Let My Toddler Watch Way Too Much TV

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am

  It's time for a Mom Confession -- because, let's face it, we're real mothers and sometimes it doesn't work the way the parenting books say it should. This Week's Confession:  I let my son watch way way too much TV. We would do things like go to the park but I don't have a car. — anonymousSee this poll at CafeMom. We all have secrets -- so thanks to this brave mom for sharing her honest thoughts, and thank you for keeping this conversation non-judgmental! Do you have a Mom Confession you want to share? PM me. We can share your confession with your CafeMom screenname or anonymously. Past…

• Gap's New Stella McCartney Collection for Toddlers

  6 Nov 2009 | 4:30 am

  Designer Stella McCartney has a new collection for toddlers at Gap. Lovely materials and soft muted colors in her pretty apparel, which I can't wait to go on SALE. Hee hee.Shown above (line by line, from the top): Puffer jacket, $88 Bow belt coat, $98 Solid T, $24 Turtleneck, $24 Corduroy pants, $58 Pleated pants, $58 Stella has apparel in the new line for big kid boys, big kid girls, baby boys, and baby girls, too! In fact, Cafe Cynthia's talked about Stella McCartney's Baby collection the other day. Check 'em out. I know the prices are steep, but what do you think of the look of the…

• Sandra Bullock Fights for Custody of 5-Year Old Stepdaughter

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am

  Photo from Getty/Kevin Winter Actress Sandra Bullock and her husband Jesse James are fighting for sole custody of Jesse's five-year old daughter Sunny James, according to E! Online. Sandra and Jesse had sole custody of Sunny while the toddler's previously drug-addicted, adult film star mom Janine Lindemulder served time in jail for tax evasion, and now that mom's out, the couple wants to keep it that way. Janine's ongoing troubles haven't made life easy for little Sunny, and now Mom is married to ex-con Jeremy Aikman. Hmm, doesn't sound promising... Read the whole story on E! Online. Has your…

• Sick Special Needs Kid Woe: Special Needs Living

  5 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  CafeMom aurorabunny is back with another edition of Special Needs Living. aurorabunny's 3-year old son Brody was diagnosed with classic autism at one year, falling on the severe side of the spectrum in terms of development. At present, Brody is still mostly nonverbal, using a few words, sign language, and PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) to communicate. Each week, aurorabunny discusses the everyday struggles and triumphs of raising a child with special needs and an invisible disability.When Kids with Special Needs Get Sick by aurorabunny Before I start, let me say that I know sick…

• Gender Roles: How Strictly Do You Define Them?

  4 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

  Photo by rockerchic One mom's question about whether or not to pierce her 4-year old's ears sure sparked some debate over in The CafeMom Newcomers Club recently. What's interesting to me is that age wasn't the controversy, it was gender — her child is a boy. So in an era when many CafeMoms agree that little boys should be allowed to do ballet, many at the same time believe that earrings are only for girls, not boys. Wow. What year is it?My 3-year old and 6-year old boys happen to like this navy blue nail polish I have, and both asked for me to paint their nails. I obliged, warning the…

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  CafeMom Daily Buzz: Big Kid

• Love Notes Left by 6 Year Old Cancer Victim

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:43 am

  See this video at CafeMom. This is one of those sad but sweet stories that makes me take pause and not worry so much about the Legos and the laundry. Elena Desserich was diagnosed with brain cancer just before her sixth birthday, and was only given about four months to live. She lived a bit longer than that, and during that time she hid little loves notes to her parents and little sister Grace all over the house, where her family later found them after she died. Click the upcoming link and scroll to the bottom of that page to see some of Elena's hidden notes.Her parents have written a book…

• Hey, You Stole My Kid's Birthday Day!

  6 Nov 2009 | 4:15 am

  Photo by yeager_79 I dropped the ball a couple times this week. The first grade parent-teacher conference that we scheduled months ago is coming up, but I lost my reminder card and now have no idea when it is. I fear I may have missed it. Then, while bringing my daughter to preschool this morning, another mom handed me an invitation to her son's birthday party -- on the same day that my daughter is turning 5. On the same weekend that I should have already had a party planned, scheduled, and invited guests for weeks ago. How did it get to be November already?Now that day is "claimed" and I…

• Kids Want a Pet? Get a Rat!

  5 Nov 2009 | 1:04 pm

  Photo by mystica97 After reading what CafeMoms in the Advice for Moms group said, I'm seriously thinking of getting my children a rat for a pet. They really want a dog, but I only like big outdoor pooches like huskies or sheepdogs and we're not set up for that. Plus, we are right in the middle of reading Charlotte's Web, and we all think Templeton is so cool. I never in a million years would have considered a rat until I read this post, in which moms give reasons why rats are the ideal pet: Rats are the best especially if you get them as a baby, and hand raise them. You can train them, and…

• Parents Sue to Stop Students From Performing "Rent"

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:00 am

  See this video at CafeMom. Rent is one of my favorite musicals...ever! Everytime I watch it, you can guarantee I will cry and sing very loudly to the songs. It's a classic.But, yes, the subject matter is a little taboo. That's why some parents at a Nevada high school are suing the school to keep students from performing Rent in a play. The storyline is about an eclectic group of friends living in New York City. The characters include a drug-addicted stripper, drag queen, homosexual and heterosexual couples, and many of the characters are HIV-positive. It follows this group for one year…

• Teen Drinking? -- Life With 3 Teens

  5 Nov 2009 | 4:36 am

  Photo by RAZmom88 It's hard enough raising one teen -- but three?! Welcome to RAZmom88's wild and wonderful life. Check back every Thursday to find out what drama or joy she encountered this week. Alcohol on campus Ryan, 18, got caught with beer in his dorm room. They made him dump it out and write a letter home. He claims that the beer actually belonged to a 21 year old friend who was visiting, but the rule is no alcohol in the dorms.  I gave him the whole, "You are in school studying criminal justice, think about your future!" speech. He insists that he is behaving himself. I told him I…

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  Moms & Dads: A Parenting Blog | Sun-Sentinel Blogs

• The holiday spirit will be different this year

  6 Nov 2009 | 3:44 am

  With Halloween past, the official Christmas/Hanukkah season has started. The TV ads are being unveiled. The catalogs are filling the mailbox. The pumpkin pie filling and cranberries are lining grocery store shelves. But I'm not feeling it. Are you? Unemployment in Florida is at 11 percent. And I have too many friends and family who fall into that number, or who got pay cuts this year. It's still rough out there. Many kids have had to deal with the reality of doing with less. A study released earlier this week suggested up to 50 percent of U.S. kids will be on food stamps sometime during their…

• Get great handbags -- and support charity this weekend

  5 Nov 2009 | 6:30 am

  Who doesn't love a handbag sale? At prices starting as low as $1. And, benifiting a good cause. What's not to love? On Saturday's the Sun Sentinel's News in Education program is hosting a sale of new and gently used purses, pocketbooks and totes, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Westfield Mall (formerly Broward Mall). Designer bags include Coach, Dooney Bourke, Fendi and others. The sale benefits Women in Distress, the nationally accredited domestic violence center that has served Broward County since 1974. The sale also benefits NIE, which provides educational curriculum in schools throughout South…

• Sesame Street still educating our kids 40 years later

  4 Nov 2009 | 7:00 am

  As much as I try to avoid turning on the TV in our house, you can be assured that PBS is on for a least a few shows a day. The same held true at my house when I was growing up in the 70s. The amazing thing about Sesame Street is that I think you could say that it has touched almost every American's life in some way since it began on November 10th, 1969. Even Google is giving a shout out to Big Bird and the gang today. One of the most incredible things about the show for me is how it has adapted to each new generation without losing its identity. Wish I could say the same thing for the…

• Should I get a mammogram?

  4 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  The public health messages about mammograms have never been more confusing. For years, we were told every woman over 40 should get a mammogram every year so doctors could detect breast cancer before it became widespread. Although the American Cancer Society is continuing that recommendation, they admitted last month that mammography can “miss cancers that need treatment, and in some cases find disease that does not need treatment.” That means women are going through chemotherapy and radiation for tumors that don't need intervention. Unfortunately, doctors can't tell the difference yet.

• Florida KidCare contest: Kids can win scholarship money

  3 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

  Middle and high school students can compete for a $5,000 scholarship by creating a 30-second TV commercial or a billboard promoting Florida KidCare, the insurance program for kids who otherwise would be without affordable health insurance. Last year, the Act-Our for Health Contest drew 100 contestants. For guidelines and an entry form is at www.actout4health.org. The winning PSA commercial will air on TV and on YouTube, the winning billboard will be erected in the winner's hometown. Regional winners will also be picked, and, kids have the chance to vote online for a Kids Choice winner.

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  Jambav Parenting Blogs!

• Tweenspeak - Conversations and Vocabulary building

  1 Nov 2009 | 5:46 am

  Being well read has its own disadvantages I think. Most kids in Akanks class don't seem to be inclined to reading. Where as Akank reads all the time. It is either the books in her library, or about the books in her library. Like the other day, I saw her browsing for information on Christopher Paolini's unpublished Book 4 of the Inheritance cycle. Sometimes Akank feels "left out" in class situations. The other day she recalled that her conversations with her classmates almost always revolved around what that person likes the most.  " I am very generous that way. I speak to…

• What did you learn first ?

  6 Oct 2009 | 11:23 am

  Last week we were away on a holiday to Coorg where Nitu and I saw a little girl of about 2 ½  walking down stairs without support.  We have been extremely protective of Niyati and till date are very anxious when she tries doing anything on her own.  She is almost never allowed to walk without someone holding her hand. Today on our way back from our Karate class I happened to notice that Niyati was not comfortable getting down stairs without support. I mentally recalled the sprightly 2 ½ from Coorg and mentioned that  Niyati should try and walk down…

• Play date at an English household

  14 Sep 2009 | 5:52 am

  Mridu got an invitation to come to tea at her best friend Elizabeth's house. I picked her up from school at 3 pm and went straight to Lizzie's house. Inspite of living in England for 4 and a half years, I was still confused as to what an invitation to tea was. Last week I had invited Lizzie and her mum for a tea at our place and I gave them just that - tea and tea biscuits. Only when I went to their's for tea did I realise that the English's equivalent to tea is our "dinner". But you would hardly call it that, because who in India would have dinner at 4 pm? Apparently the English do!! So…

• School Discipline

  22 Jul 2009 | 7:47 pm

  I have wanted to update my observation about public school for a long time. It's time for review. It would also appear that each time I start to write about it, I see an arrow pointing to another direction. Is this a sign? And if yes, why am I still waiting? Perhaps I am in denial, perhaps I might not be.....it really doesn't matter anymore. I had a parent who came to me and said - wake up, make a move elsewhere, stop lying to yourself and keeping your son in school. It hurts, because like any parent, I also wish to see my son given a chance for normal schooling (if only if it is deemed…

• Red Riding Hood - 2.0

  11 Apr 2009 | 12:17 pm

  Sometimes an infinite access to almost everything with infinitesimal delay all the time, is DETRIMENTAL. I recently saw a video about a new invention out there at the Media Lab of MIT, where a wearable device becomes your sixth-sense piping the Internet right into your day-to-day sensations. If that were to catch up, it wouldn't be long before our children come up with new versions of classic stories, like this. Totally shorn of emotion, thoroughly laced with information, almost like the demon of distraction took over the mind! Take a look! Slagsmålsklubben - Sponsored by destiny from…

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  Parent Hacks

• Remove gum from your kid's hair with olive oil

  Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}

  6 Nov 2009 | 5:54 am

  Not just gum in hair: gum in hair WHILE CAMPING. Brava, Jessie!My daughter got gum stuck in her hair the other day when she fell asleep with it in her mouth (I thought that was a myth, but it really does happen).  Since she was out for the night (yes, I'm a bad parent and she had sugar free gum right before bed), I decided to wait until morning.  It wasn't at the end where it could easily be cut, it was right by the root, and in a lot of hair. Ugh!  The next day I grabbed some olive oil (we were camping), and put some on my fingers and rubbed it in her hair. …

• How to get your kids to leave their favorite objects at home

  Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}

  6 Nov 2009 | 5:36 am

  Jennifer is a smart, smart mom. Here's her secret for getting out the door relatively unburdened by her kids' "special" treasures: As the mom of five kids age 11 and under, I have had a lot of experience dealing with little ones. It takes an enormous amount of time and energy to get my family up, dressed, and ready to leave in the morning, whether it is to school or somewhere else. Many times, I have been hustling my family out the door and the 3 year-old (or even one of the slightly older ones) insists on taking some toy or other random object that I would rather leave at…

• Store bibs on the back of the high chair

  Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}

  5 Nov 2009 | 5:55 am

  Janell's got the right idea when it comes to keeping bibs close at hand:We have so many bibs and no storage space for them. We noticed there was a bar on the back of our high chair that could hold all our bibs! They are out of site and exactly where we need them when we need them!

• Need a dress-up skirt? Use a poncho!

  Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}

  4 Nov 2009 | 11:35 am

  For the dress-uppers in your life, from Tracy: We had a bunch of neighbor kids over and ran out of dress-up dresses and skirts... so we took one of our play sweater ponchos and just used it as a skirt. This particular poncho has a tie around the collar, so we were able to tie it a little tighter to cinch it around the waist when worn. Everyone was happy and we were back to our tea party :)

• Clean sticky faces at the table using a spray bottle

  Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}

  4 Nov 2009 | 11:32 am

  Tracy's face-and-table cleaning hack is as fun as it is practical:Back when my kids were babies, we'd keep a box of baby wipes on the kitchen table to use for post-mealtime cleanup. Once the kids got older, the wipes dried up because they just weren't getting used as much. But we still occasionally have sticky messes (like when the kids drink the melted ice cream out of a bowl of ice cream and manage to get ice cream on their foreheads) that could use some wet wiping. So one day my daughter had sticky fingers after dinner and I had an idea - I spritzed her hands with the water…

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  Tech Savvy Mama

• Moonlighting

  6 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  Speaking of hand sanitizer, I posted about how I didn’t mind a 3 ½ hour wait for the H1N1 vaccine. Yes, the children were with me and no, that wasn’t a typo! 3 ½ hours! Read all about it on DC Metro Moms!Also, I’m thrilled to announce that I have a regular column on The Washington Times. My Tech Savvy Mama column is part of the Family Today Community! Feel free to stop by, leave a comment there, and while you are there, take a look at the other Family Today columnists. All I can say is that I am am in awe of the company I'm in!Have a great weekend!Thanks for reading Tech Savvy Mama…

• Alcohol-Free Smart & Silky Hand Sanitizer Wages the War Against Germs

  5 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  The fact that computer keyboards are hotbeds for harmful bacteria that invite illnesses is the reason why I stand at the door of our school’s computer lab and dispense hand sanitizer by the gallon. With H1N1 making the rounds with the regular seasonal illnesses, I try to make sure that the germs stop at the door so they aren’t passed through the school on our computer lab’s keyboards. Everyone gets a squirt at the door but trying to model proper hygiene for my students through my constant use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a nightmare on my hands.Before school started, I was…

• Oyster Hotel Reviews for Kid & Budget Friendly Travel Options

  3 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  Last fall we were in beautiful Kauai after my brother competed in his second Ironman World Championship and I find myself longing to head to the island again. For me, Kauai is pure relaxation. Not only is the scenery absolutely breathtaking with pristine beaches and the bluest skies you have ever seen, but the pace of life is just slower. Unfortunately flights to any of the Hawaiian islands aren’t cheap and the cost of accommodations can be sky high.What’s a family to do when trying to plan a family vacation to a destination like Hawaii while staying on a budget? As someone who likes to…

• Daniel Koontz from Casual Kitchen Shares How to Get the Benefits of Organic Foods-Without Paying Organic Prices

  1 Nov 2009 | 6:00 pm

  As you know, I love food. It isn't just fancy meals with locally grown and sustainable ingredients made by famous chefs or Top Chef Cheftestants. I love everything about food- from planning a meal that uses a new recipe or ingredient to harvesting items from our backyard garden, I'm always trying to learn new things to expand my culinary horizons.Through Twitter I met today's Tech Savvy guest and fellow blogger and foodie, Daniel Koontz. I've enjoyed Daniel's popular food philosophy blog,Casual Kitchen because he teaches his readers how to cook more, think more and spend less.Today Daniel is…

• Halloween Tips from Ice Age 3’s Sid (& Win 1 of 5 DVDs)

  29 Oct 2009 | 11:00 am

  Can you feel the excitement? Not only is Halloween right around the corner but Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs just came out on DVD! If you are a fan of the Ice Age movies, you can now see all of your favorite Ice Age friends on the new DVD that was released on Tuesday or better yet, leave a comment below to win 1 of 5 copies that I have courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox!Today Sid from Ice Age 3 has some safety tips to help your family have a very happy Halloween:It is best to travel in a herd, preferably in one that includes an adult human-type.Stick to familiar neighborhoods and never…

• 
  Earnest Parenting

• Fun For Your Friday

  Amy

  5 Nov 2009 | 9:33 pm

  Hullo again, friends! It’s officially Friday and time for our weekly chuckle. For my offering this week, I bring to you a story from the past that still makes me giggle. (Originally posted it in August of 2007.) The Mercenary had opted to clean the van for 50 cents. When he reported being finished, I asked, “Will I think it’s clean when I look at it?” “Oh, yes!” he told me. I opened the van, and sure enough the job was incomplete. After pointing out a couple of things that needed his attention, I told him that he should go over the van with a fine toothed comb. He was very…

• Fun For Your Friday

  Amy

  29 Oct 2009 | 11:23 pm

  Good Friday to you, Internets! This week I bring to you spamjokes. What might that be, you ask? About a week ago the spambots started sharing jokes with me, and enough of them make me laugh that I thought I’d collect a few and share. Why are spambots telling me jokes? I have no idea. It’s too bad they’re spam, because the jokes are pretty good. Why did Willie Nelson get hit by a car? He was playing On The Road Again. What do ghouls wear on their feet in the rain?!? GHOULOSHES!!! Did you hear about the dyslexic Satanist? He sold his soul to Santa. What happens to illegally…

• Dreambox Learning: Math Made Fun Online

  Amy

  29 Oct 2009 | 12:47 am

  Do you recall when I told you about the DreamBox Video contest? I’ve been learning more about the program and boy howdy is it neat! Dreambox is a learning site that teaches math to children in kindergarten, first, and second grades. Children play games, and the software responds to create an individualized learning path based on each child’s needs. This individualized curriculum is based on national standards, and there are games and rewards to make it fun. Parents can monitor progress via the Parents Dashboard, and get e-mail progress alerts, printable awards, and additional…

• The Lazy Mom’s Guide to Fall Decorating

  Amy

  28 Oct 2009 | 8:19 am

  Growing up, my mom always had adorable decorations around the house for every season. She even had ceramic figurines that she’d painted herself, and there were adornments for every room. I have routinely failed to even approach her holiday spirit, mainly because I’m a workaholic and keep finding other things to do so I never have time to drag out the decorations (which are, ironically, neatly stored by category because the organizing part? I like that part). The other reason is I’m cheap and tend not to buy decorations very often. If they’re 70% off the day after the…

• Working Towards Balance

  Amy

  27 Oct 2009 | 2:56 am

  [begin somber voice-over]As the pendulum swings…these are the days of our lives.[end voice-over] Ever feel like you live your life swinging from one extreme to another? It’s maddening, isn’t it? I don’t like extremes much. Absolutes are fine, but extremes I avoid. Schooling the older boys in particular has not been easy over the years. The good news is that it’s gotten better each year, but it feels like that improvement has come at a glacially slow pace. More often than not, we’d have tantrums and tears on a daily basis. Gradually that has slowed to the…

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  Radical Parenting

• Ask-A-Teen Column: The Sex Talk

  Vanessa Van Petten

  6 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

  This article is by Renae and Maria Elena, the writers of the Ask A Teen Column where readers can write in to ask our teens for advice, email boostforyouth@gmail.com for your question. “How should parents have the “sex talk?” What do parents do wrong and what should we do right?” It’s usually really uncomfortable for teens to talk to their parents about sex. I think the easiest way to make the transition from not talking about sex at all to at least approaching the subject would be to watch TV shows or movies with your teens that have sexual references. Not only…

• 11/6/09: Articles This Week

  Vanessa Van Petten

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am

  Hello Readers, We were on CNN this week, check out the video here: http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/living/2009/11/03/dcl.blog.social.kids.cnn Looking for Families in Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Santiago Please! Top Articles: The Top 10 Problems with the Internet for Youth From online gambling to online harassment, some common concerns of youth and the Internet. Social Networks for Teachers and Students: 5 Ways to Use Them There are many ways social networks can enhance education, like having online debates and combining fun with school work. Articles from Guests: 11-3-2009 Picks of the Week…

• Teens Cutting: 5 Things to Know About Teens Who Cut Themselves

  Intern

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:02 am

  Cutting has been around a long time and it seems to be a topic no one talks about, but everyone knows exists.  I get about 5 to 10 emails per week specifically about self-mutilation.  Cutting, bruising, puncturing or pulling out hair or eyelashes—these are all forms of self-mutilation. If you have thought about cutting or are worried about someone in your life who might be, here are a few ideas to think about.  After speaking with a couple of therapists, former cutters and teen interns, here are a list of topics I wanted to mention. What to Know About Teens and Cutting or Self-Mutilation…

• Looking for Families in Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Santiago Please!

  Intern

  4 Nov 2009 | 9:29 am

  Hello Readers, We are working hard to get all of our countries done for our next book Parenting Is Flat: How Globalization Has Changed Familynomics and Parenting Overview: For families and individuals to get greater insight into how digitalization is changing family structure and prepare and prevent for negative changes and encourage the positive effects globalization brings.  Many young people also need to gain a more global perspective and understand how important it is to be aware of the world around them. We just came back from Japan, Korea and Singapore and are now headed to: Buenos…

• Talking to Your Kids About, ahem, You Know What (S.E.X) [Guest Post]

  Intern

  4 Nov 2009 | 7:36 am

  By Melissa Havard, M.A Public Health Communications Specialist, Instructor, LA Film School, and Advice Columnist, LovetoKnow.com/Ask the Teen Team and HangProud.com. It’s often one of the most feared moments for parents– ever.  (CUE theme from Jaws here)  That time and place when you start getting THOSE questions from your son or daughter:  Where did I come from?  How are babies made? What’s a penis? And, finally, Mom or Dad, did you have sex before marriage? It seems like we can talk to our children about so many things: the importance of getting good grades and staying in…

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  Mommy Daddy Blog

• My Head. His Teeth.

  Mommy

  5 Nov 2009 | 4:06 am

  He’s been a Cranky McCrankers off and on for the last 3-4 days, randomly shrieking. He’s had a fever, no flu symptoms. His bottom canines have surfaced and they weren’t playing. And now all is well. This post was written October 28th, 2009. © Mommy Daddy Blog 2007-2009 My Head. His Teeth. Batman and BonesCamera Dump 10/21/09: And 1 In The YardCamera Dump 10/13/09: Just Hanging OutMy Pursuit of HappinessPhotos From Yesterday :-)

• It’s about time.

  Mommy

  4 Nov 2009 | 1:14 am

  Last Wednesday, Boogie and I went to hang out with some friends at Michelle’s. It was our first time getting together with other moms and their kids with the exception of going on the General Mills trip. It felt like home; cozy kick your shoes off, help yourself to the fridge, let the kids roam free home. {more on flickr} Today, we’re doing it again. I’m looking forward to seeing Jaymi (thanks for the nudge), Michelle, Carrington, Sheryl, and Toni (if she stops by) again, catching up with Steph and meeting Jen for the first time. I’m glad to have them in this new…

• The Cirque du Soleil I Would Love To See

  Mommy

  3 Nov 2009 | 11:06 am

  One of my goals for next year is to participate in local events and entertainment. Boogie is older now and I think he’d really enjoy getting out and experiencing the whimsy. Banana Shpeel is coming here in Chicago and I’d love to go as a family. It is a hilarious unpredictable narrative fueled by eccentric dance and slapstick humor. Here’s a sneak peek: An unpredictable narrative describes our lives exactly and sometimes some humor is thrown in the mix. Surprisingly enough, most of these family friendly humorous moments deal with poop or gas. Take the time Boogie pooped on…

• I Heart Faces: Balloons

  Mommy

  2 Nov 2009 | 8:58 pm

  I think I was called to participate in this challenge. When we took the trash to the curb tonight, we noticed a red balloon sitting on our trash can. We thought nothing of it. I just bumped up on this week’s I Heart Faces challenge and low and behold, a balloon challenge. I took this picture of Boogie and Greg at my cousin’s daughter’s 2nd birthday party back in August. It just may end up in our blog header. © Mommy Daddy Blog 2007-2009 I Heart Faces: Balloons Batman and BonesCamera Dump 10/21/09: And 1 In The YardCamera Dump 10/13/09: Just Hanging OutMy Pursuit of…

• Batman and Bones

  Mommy

  31 Oct 2009 | 7:59 pm

  Halloween has made it’s appearance and now it is slowly fading away. So what did you guys do today? Boogie’s great grandmother took him to a party they had going on at her school (she’s a teacher) and he had a blast running around and helping with the candy. I’m hoping to get pictures from that. Right now I’m thinking about cracking open the pumpkin and baking the seeds, maybe even snuggling up for a movie. We’re now shopping around for next year’s Halloween costume so that we can luck up on a deal. This year it was either order a costume and pay…

• 
  Have Kids Will Travel

• A D-Day at the Beach

  Catherine

  6 Nov 2009 | 6:55 am

  I was a little apprehensive to visit Omaha Beach with my young kids. I didn’t really want to contaminate their innocence with the knowledge of war and the horrors that man can inflict on man just yet. At ages 4 and 6, do they really need to be aware of world events like D-Day and [...]

• 10 Tips for Home Exchange Newbies

  Catherine

  3 Nov 2009 | 6:31 am

  I confess, I have a new online addiction. While some have fallen prey to time zappers like Facebook, Twitter or Wordscraper, I can get lost for hours on home exchange websites. For a travel junkie like me, sniffing around various house-swapping possibilities around the world is like wanderlust crack. Pick a country, any country, and I [...]

• Nuts About Art

  Catherine

  30 Oct 2009 | 8:14 am

  My daughters test their artistic skills in Monet’s garden in Giverny. This summer we exposed our 4- and 6-year-old daughters to most of the major museums and galleries throughout Paris - and they loved it! This was their first taste of the formal “art world” and they took to it more in than we anticipated. The secret [...]

• A Swapping Success

  Catherine

  26 Oct 2009 | 9:12 am

  We made our first foray into the world of house swapping this summer. To the raised eyebrows of friends and family everywhere, we let virtual “strangers” live in our home while we lived in theirs, a win-win mutual accommodation solution particularly good for travellers with kids. Home exchange is a phenomenon that is really starting to [...]

• Going for the brass ring

  Catherine

  22 Oct 2009 | 9:37 pm

  You know that that expression “going for the brass ring”? It comes from an old carousel tradition where children try to reach out and hook a metal loop as their horse gallops around the ride. You don’t see this feature in many merry-go-rounds these days, but it is alive and well in at least one [...]

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  parenting-blogs « WordPress.com Tag Feed

• Sue Scheff: Holiday Gift Ideas for Teens

  suescheff

  4 Nov 2009 | 6:48 am

  It is not a secret buying for teens at the holidays can not only be expensive, it can be difficult. They seem to want items we barely understand (technology). With this comes high ticket gadgets which are difficult for many families struggling in today’s economy. Most can’t go wrong with gift cards to their favorite stores, movie gift cards, mall gift certificates and don’t forget good old fashion cold cash is the best to satisfy most teens. However when I speak with parents of teens today, their financial resources is strained more than usual. Buying gift certificates are always…

• Parents Universal Resource Experts - Sue Scheff: Teens Hiding Drugs from Parents

  suescheff

  30 Oct 2009 | 7:11 am

  Wake up parents and read this critical article if you suspect your teen is using drugs.  One of the most important parts of this article is the opening your lines of communication with your child. Are you noticing a change in behavior? Withdrawn? Depressed? Changing peer groups? Becoming secretive? Be an educated parent – you will have a safer teen.  Source: Connect with Kids  Hiding Drugs from Parents  “The car is a big one. A lot of kids will hide it in the car now because they think the parents aren’t going to go through the car.” – Heather Hayes, Licensed Drug Counselor…

• Lay off the parents already!

  Bonnie

  28 Oct 2009 | 8:22 am

  I have a tip for you. Cheerio Road is a blog about parenthood. The author is Karen Maezen Miller. You’ll find the following description of her when you visit her blog. Errant mother, delinquent wife, reluctant dog walker, expert laundress, and stationmaster of the full catastrophe. Author of “Momma Zen: Walking the Crooked Path of Motherhood” and the forthcoming “Hand Wash Cold: Care Instructions for An Ordinary Life.” If you’re a parent or grandparent, you’ll enjoy one of her recent posts, Lay off the parents already!

• Raleigh Daddy 3.0 has a new home: raleighdaddyblog.com/blog (please update your bookmarks and RSS feeds)

  BRIAN

  24 Oct 2009 | 7:02 pm

  the new home of Raleigh Daddy 3.0 Dad blogs are awesome. But they are even more awesome when you can do more fun stuff with them. Since January, I’ve been blogging with the free version of WordPress. It’s been great, and I’m very thankful to Matt Mullenweg (the founder of WordPress) for giving me this creative outlet, this awesome online tool, this communication channel, this DADDY BLOG … for free! But the more I learned about blogging (through attending conferences like WordCamp, reading various ’blogging tips’ websites and books, as well as networking…

• Parent Coach Tips: Who Wants A Parenting Makeover?

  dawnroth

  19 Oct 2009 | 10:45 am

  Your Parenting Cheat Sheet You don’t have to be ugly to benefit from a beauty makeover.  Parenting is the same.  You can freshen your outlook and results with a few tricks of the trade and simple tools that will stop your minor parenting issues in their tracks.  Go Live. At a parent conference, workshop or course, you can get so much accomplished.  See how you are making power struggles last longer and more frequent due to a parent’s bad habits.  Communication Gears clear up so many repetitive conversations.  You get to ask questions and hear the coaching of other…

• 
  mummifiedtimesfive.net

• But we don’t have a chimney!

  Tina

  6 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

  I like to keep the magic of Santa alive during Christmas and it was all good in our old house because we had a fireplace with a chimney that Santa could come down. But in this house there is no fireplace so we had to think of another way that Santa could come in on Christmas Eve, put the gifts under the tree and enjoy the cupcake and glass of milk that we always leave out for him. So what will we do? We’ll get ourselves a magic Santa key like this one or this one or maybe even make one like this! Problem solved! Technorati Tags: no chimney,magic santa key

• Pureau water (+ giveaway!)

  Tina

  6 Nov 2009 | 1:47 am

  Keep reading to find out how you can win! I often buy bottled water when I’m out and I’m also guilty of reusing the bottle by refilling it with normal tap water. But when I read about the possibility of chemicals from the petroleum plastic bottles leaking into the water, I quickly stopped doing that. So when Noble Beverages offered to send me a couple of SIGG bottles to try out, I jumped at the chance. SIGG bottles: are lightweight – similar to a thick plastic sports bottle have a patented internal lining which is baked on and won’t crack even if the bottle is dented have…

• Prepaid Christmas Hampers

  Tina

  5 Nov 2009 | 1:08 pm

  Having one less thing to worry about at Christmas always helps because it’s such a crazy time of year! So I take advantage of the pre-paid Christmas hampers that Chrisco and Castle offer. This year’s delivery will be the Traditional Hamper which has everything that we need for Christmas Day. My only problem is that I need to make room for it all in our freezer and pantry! Being able to pay a small amount each fortnight throughout the year is so much better than having to fork out a couple hundred dollars in one hit for Christmas lunch! This post is linked to Works For Me Wednesday.

• Note to self: Renew license!

  Tina

  5 Nov 2009 | 1:47 am

  What a dope! I received a letter from the RTA today reminding me to renew my driver’s license which was due 18 OCTOBER! I had been driving with an expired license since then! OMG!!! I freaked out when I read the letter and have refused to get in the driver’s seat, and won’t be, until I can get to the RTA to renew it. Bugger! That means that Bill will have to be the designated driver at the wedding on the weekend! LOL Technorati Tags: drivers license,rta,expired license

• Look what I bought!

  Tina

  4 Nov 2009 | 9:28 pm

  I {heart} eBay! Especially when I find, and WIN, an awesome bargain like these:   Both the hall stand and the bar/wine rack for a grand total of $41!! Technorati Tags: ebay,bargain,furniture,hall stand,bar,wine rack

• 
  Blisstree » Parenting

• Will Texting Affect Childrens’ Spelling?

  Mary Emma Allen

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  As more and more people (children and adults) use text messaging as a means of communication via their cell phones, will we find that correct spelling becomes obsolete?  Image: sxc.hu Many young people use numbers and letters (4 instead of for, u for you) to speed up the process so they often don’t remember the correct spelling. Adults also have developed this trend, and I find myself (as a teacher, author and English minor) doing the same.  However, most adults have learned to correctly spell.  Many youngsters have not, so they begin to substitute the text spelling into their work…

• A Potty Question: Using the Potty

  Eliza Ferree

  6 Nov 2009 | 5:20 pm

  This category is full of everything from getting kids ready for school to picking out those summer fun activities. So it shouldn’t surprize you that when someone emailed and asked me:IMG: Elizabeth Ferree My son is 3 years old and refusing use his potty chair. Any recommendations? My first question would be to ask if something has happened between said child and the toilet? I remember my 3 year old reacting the same way just after she learned to use her new potty, only it tried eating her. That’s what she said when she came running out of the bathroom holding her butt in her…

• Why Laughter Really is the Best Medicine

  Jennifer Walker-Journey

  6 Nov 2009 | 7:28 am

  I swiped this from my sister’s Facebook page. It’s a great feel-good video aptly named “Anti-Depression Video.” I think any parent would dig this. For centuries, people have touted the benefits of laughter. Experts say that a good laugh can reduce stress by relaxing tense muscles and energizing you by sending more oxygen into your bloodstream. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure. Loma Linda University School of Medicine researchers Drs. Lee Berk and Stanley Tan have conducted studies that show laughter lowers serum cortisol levels, increases the amount of activated T…

• Children’s Small Treasures Appreciated

  Mary Emma Allen

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  Do you have “small treasures” made by children and grandchildren that you’ve saved over the years?  Do these take on special significance for you? Pincushion Image: sxc.hu  I’ve saved a number of these and find the memories joyful.  ONe is a pincushion my daughter made by herself and gave me as a surprise Christmas gift when she was about eight years old. Even though she’s grown with a daughter in college, I still use this and treasure it. My daughter has Christmas ornaments her son and daughter made in art class in elementary school.  Each year she puts them…

• Making Christmas Gifts with Children

  Mary Emma Allen

  4 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  Making Christmas gifts with your children can be a fun family project and one that creates happy memories, too. Image:sxc.hu It’s not too early to start these projects so you’ll have plenty of time and won’t be rushed in December. When my daughter was small, we were involved in many types of crafts and often made gifts for our holiday giving.  (Grandparents, especially, express appreciation for these items…whether they’re really useful or not!) What types of items can you and your youngsters create? This all depends on the age of the children. Woven and…

• 
  Raising A Healthy Family

• Pretty Toes – Its a Girl Thing

  Char

  5 Nov 2009 | 7:54 pm

  When I was a teen I remember getting together with my friends to do our nails, but it usually meant painting our fingers and toes with a simple pink or red polish that we had bummed off Mom. If we wanted to get real fancy we would paint our nails alternating colors. My 11 year old daughter and her friends have taken that whole girly activity to another level. When they get together and paint nails they go all out – coming up with intricate designs, using special nail art sets and changing out the designs every few days. Her collection of nail polish grew to the point where I had to get…

• Looking for a New Pet? Try the Shelter First

  Char

  4 Nov 2009 | 8:58 am

  While I don’t think the holidays are the right time to introduce a new pet into your family, many people do get pets for their loved ones at the holidays. If you are considering a new pet at the holidays or any other time of the year, check with your local shelter first. Animals who come from the shelter are good animals who have found themselves in a shelter situation due to events that they do not control. The Shelter Pet Project has just launched a campaign to help dispel myths about shelter animals and increase the awareness of the benefits of adopting shelter pets. Check out this…

• Menu Plan Monday – November 2

  Char

  1 Nov 2009 | 12:55 pm

  If  I have said it once, I have said it a million times – life around here goes so much smoother when I plan and post the menu for the week on Sunday!! I haven’t posted it in a while and it has not been a good scene. With so many icky germs going around, proper nutrition for the kids really goes a long way – add that to the long list of reasons why menu planning is so important for your family. I have checked the pantry and freezer and have made it my goal to make meals from what we have rather than going shopping again without a plan.Taking a look at what you already have,…

• Join the Fitness.com Walk Around the World Challenge

  Char

  12 Oct 2009 | 10:49 am

  Fitness.com is hosting a wonderful challenge just in time for the cooler weather. They are challenging each and everyone of us to get up, get moving and log the miles we walk on the Fitness Magazine website. Fitness Magazine figures if each of us walk daily and log our miles (individually or as a team) then we can walk around the world (all 24, 901 miles of it) in just 31 days. Join in and reap the benefits of a healthier heart, but also get support and encouragement from being a part of a fun group effort!

• Menu Plan Monday – October 5

  Char

  4 Oct 2009 | 5:50 pm

  It occurred to me that I have not posted my Menu Plan for a few weeks and while I had it scratched out on a piece of paper, it just isn’t as good as getting online. We are back into our normal schedule with afterschool activities for one of the kids every day of the week. While that sounds crazy, it really isn’t too bad and each of the kids have plenty of time to get their homework done. On the menu this week: Sunday – we made steak fajitas tonight with refried beans and rice. So yummy and the left overs will be put to good use – as in my lunch. Monday – I am in…

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  gspn.tv » Full Time Mom

• 105 Full Time Mom – I Know You Could Have Died But You Didnt

  Cliff Ravenscraft

  25 Oct 2009 | 4:25 pm

  [See post to listen to audio] Full Time Mom Podcast Episode 105 I Know You Could Have Died But You Didn’t Right-Click Here To Download Note: The Full Time Mom podcast is recorded on a weekly basis and made available to gspn.tv Plus Members on the new gspn.tv Plus Feed for the Full Time Mom podcast. However, those subscribed to the free feed will only receive an episode about once per month. If you want to receive every episode of the Full Time Mom podcast, please visit http://gspn.tv/plus to learn how to become a gspn.tv Plus Member. Thanks For Subscribing To The Full Time Mom Podcast:…

• 102 Full Time Mom – Fight For Your Marriage

  Cliff Ravenscraft

  5 Oct 2009 | 7:33 pm

  [See post to listen to audio] Full Time Mom Podcast Episode 102 Fight For Your Marriage Right-Click Here To Download Note: The Full Time Mom podcast is recorded on a weekly basis and made available to gspn.tv Plus Members on the new gspn.tv Plus Feed for the Full Time Mom podcast. However, those subscribed to the free feed will only receive an episode about once per month. If you want to receive every episode of the Full Time Mom podcast, please visit http://gspn.tv/plus to learn how to become a gspn.tv Plus Member. Thanks For Subscribing To The Full Time Mom Podcast: Plus Members Subscribe…

• 100 Full Time Mom – Sarah Googled

  Cliff Ravenscraft

  21 Sep 2009 | 5:41 am

  [See post to listen to audio] Full Time Mom Podcast Episode 100 Sarah Googled Right-Click Here To Download Note: The Full Time Mom podcast is recorded on a weekly basis and made available to gspn.tv Plus Members on the new gspn.tv Plus Feed for the Full Time Mom podcast. However, those subscribed to the free feed will only receive an episode about once per month. If you want to receive every episode of the Full Time Mom podcast, please visit http://gspn.tv/plus to learn how to become a gspn.tv Plus Member. Thanks For Subscribing To The Full Time Mom Podcast: Plus Members Subscribe Using Plus…

• 097 Full Time Mom – My Family Comes First

  Cliff Ravenscraft

  31 Aug 2009 | 1:23 pm

  [See post to listen to audio] Full Time Mom Podcast Episode 097 My Family Comes First Right-Click Here To Download Looking for episode 090, 092, 093 and 095? The Full Time Mom podcast is recorded on a weekly basis and made available to gspn.tv Plus Members on the new gspn.tv Plus Feed for the Full Time Mom podcast. However, those subscribed to the free feed will only receive an episode about once per month. If you want to continue to receive every episode of the Full Time Mom podcast, please visit http://gspn.tv/plus to learn how to become a gspn.tv Plus Member. Thanks For Subscribing To The…

• 096 Full Time Mom – What Does God Expect of Us?

  Cliff Ravenscraft

  24 Aug 2009 | 8:01 am

  [See post to listen to audio] Full Time Mom Podcast Episode 096 What Does God Expect of Us? Right-Click Here To Download Looking for episode 090, 092, and 093? The Full Time Mom podcast is recorded on a weekly basis and made available to gspn.tv Plus Members on the new gspn.tv Plus Feed for the Full Time Mom podcast. However, those subscribed to the free feed will only receive an episode about once per month. If you want to continue to receive every episode of the Full Time Mom podcast, please visit http://gspn.tv/plus to learn how to become a gspn.tv Plus Member. Thanks For Subscribing To…

• 
  FreeRangeKids

• The Real Threat Online

  lskenazy

  6 Nov 2009 | 3:29 pm

  Hi Folks! Wow, leave your blog for one little day and the talk turns to porn. I feel like the Free-Range Parent of a blog. Anyway, I was in D.C. at the Family Online Safety Institute’s annual conference and it was fantastic to be among all sort of bigwigs from places like Yahoo and Disney and [...]

• Family Online Safety Institute Conference

  lskenazy

  5 Nov 2009 | 6:01 am

  That’s where I’m at, in Washington D.C.  I’ll let you know what I find out! So far, it’s just nice being reminded that the Internet is safer than the headlines make it sound.  You know — same as the real world. Virtually.

• A Wonderful Essay About Afterschool TV…and Life

  lskenazy

  5 Nov 2009 | 5:55 am

  Loved this essay about Soupy Sales. Maybe you will too. Note the last couple of paragraphs. And thanks to Angela Gunn for sending it in.  – Lenore

• Deep-ish Thoughts on Play

  lskenazy

  4 Nov 2009 | 9:28 pm

  Hi Readers! Modern-day parenting keeps replacing playing time with “teaching time,” whether that’s time devoted to Sanskrit or soccer. Here’s a rather philosophical look at why play could be the ingredient that REALLY makes kids soar. (And society, too.) Thanks to Steve DeSanto for sending it in! Dear Free-Range Kids: Your posting of the Gever Tulley [...]

• Yay! Another Car Story — But Much Happier!

  lskenazy

  4 Nov 2009 | 7:24 am

  Hi Readers — When you get right down to it, a lot of Free-Range Kids ends up being a plea for more community. More helping each other, more trusting each other, even more hanging out with each other. And here is a story of just that: A brief glimpse of how nice it is when [...]

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  Graco Heart to Heart Blog

• November and December are months to CELEBRATE!!

  Kelly Voelker

  6 Nov 2009 | 2:52 pm

  We all know the holiday season is upon us - a reason for anyone to celebrate! But beyond that, we at Graco have a lot to celebrate too. We’re excited to be adding some new faces to our blog team (coming soon!), we’re planning lots of fun new content, there will be final months of pregnancy, new homes, babies on the way and travel for the team - so for the next two months it will be all about CELEBRATION to get you in the spirit (or help you cope with it.) Here’s some of the fun you can expect over the next two months: - Stories from Melissa’s maternity leave -…

• Graco Monthly Nods - November

  Kelly Voelker

  5 Nov 2009 | 4:54 pm

  Donna Donnelly - The Breakup That Hurts More Than Anything: Getting Dumped By Your Babysitter - The Storked Blog Did you ever have someone breakup with you? How terrible was it? Now imagine it’s your babysitter!!! The Storked Blog page at Glamour.com had an interesting post this month discussing the dreaded end of babysitter relationships. Finding good babysitters and cultivating the relationship between your child(ren) and you and them is very difficult, especially for single parents. As a child of a single working mother, I remember well, the parade of babysitters that went through our…

• Wondrous Wednesday #96

  Karen Hartzell

  4 Nov 2009 | 2:50 pm

  We had too many adorable costumed children to post just one picture for our usual Wondrous Wednesday spotlight this week. So to celebrate ALL of the cuteness, we posted a short slide show for your viewing pleasure. Which one do you love? Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com Every Wednesday we’ll be sharing a photo showing off a little bit of wonder in the lives of our extended Graco family of customers, employees and friends.

• Graco Guest Celebrity Blogger - Actress and Mom - Gena Lee Nolin

  Kelly Voelker

  3 Nov 2009 | 3:44 pm

  Best known from the international smash hit “Baywatch” - Gena Lee Nolin, actress and mom, is returning after having three children, Spencer (12), Hudson Lee (3) and baby Stella, with an entirely new image and outlook on life - and we’re thrilled to have Gena here with us on the Graco blog to chat about it! Gena is set to host a new television series, which is currently in development. Also in the works, this gorgeous mom is working on a book which delves into her own experience of postpartum depression. After experiencing postpartum depression with all three of her children,…

• Car Seat Safety Tips - Week 2 Recap

  Kelly Voelker

  2 Nov 2009 | 1:01 pm

  As you may have seen, we’ve been posting car seat safety tips on Twitter (follow us!) over the last month. We know it’s not easy to know all the answers, especially when it comes to the safety of your most precious cargo, so we hope these tips offer some help. Here are some of our most recent safety tips: - The chest clip (on the harness straps) should be placed on the child’s chest at child’s armpit level - For used car seats, make sure you know the car seat’s history, know it hasn’t been recalled & have all instruction manuals - For your child’s safety it is…

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  Family Of Five

• Halloween story: Collecting junk for the bonfire

  Gerard

  31 Oct 2009 | 7:45 am

  It seems the lost art of Halloween bonfire building is actually lost. Aside from officially sanctioned bonfires and fireworks displays, there are very few ad-hoc bonfires being built in neighbourhoods. So today I'm going to play old-timer and recount for you how we built bonfires back in the day. read more

• Parent education classes in London, UK

  snowrose

  28 Oct 2009 | 5:29 am

  Parenting Books When it comes to parenting tips, new parents are always on the receiving end. Everyone in their family and friends are with certain exciting tips for them. Especially the older members of the family always have something or the other to tell the new parent. Sometimes the parents themselves get confused listening to all this and just want a guide to help them be the best of the parents. read more

• Six Rules To Raise Your Children By

  Familytastic Staff

  22 Oct 2009 | 1:53 pm

  What are the core values that we should be raising our children to? Psychologist Kevin Leman, there are six simple rules that should be at the heart of each family. The rules, which may seem a little harsh on first read, center mostly around respect for the parents as heads of the house, and some basic life lessons. Here are Leman's six rules: read more

• Should children call parents by their first name?

  Gerard

  22 Oct 2009 | 7:55 am

  Do you call your parents Mum and Dad, or do you use their first name? Or, more importantly, do you allow your children to call you by your first name? I've been meaning to ask this question on Familytastic for a while now, because our daughter - quite of her own free will - has been calling me "Gerard" and "Dad" intermittently for almost as long as she could talk. And to be honest, a little part of me likes the idea of being on first-name terms with my children. read more

• Is repeating a year good for a child's confidence?

  Gerard

  19 Oct 2009 | 12:35 pm

  I was tucking Daniel into the car tonight after football practice when I heard a roar beside me - "BYE BYE DAVID!" It was coming from the other side of the car, where my other son Jake was waving a salute to his friend who was on the other side of the car park This was unusual, to say the least. read more

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  UnchartedParent.com

• The Best Laugh You’ll Have All Week

  Tracy Hahn-Burkett

  5 Nov 2009 | 7:23 am

  For today’s post, I’m just going to strongly encourage you to click through to “How to Survive a Mid-Air Disaster” by Johanna Stein. (I mean it. Look, I’m a mom, and I’m using my you-better-do-this-or-else tone. Click on the link NOW.) If this doesn’t make you laugh out loud in sympathy, horror and/or delight, you are still suffering from a sugar-induced semi-coma and it’s time to cut back on the Halloween candy you’re stealing from your kid’s plastic pumpkin. Plus, regardless of whether you are a parent or not, you will never look at children—or parents—on a plane the…

• What’s Up with Seven-Year-Old Boys?

  Tracy Hahn-Burkett

  3 Nov 2009 | 6:38 am

  This post is directed at the mothers of boys out there, or child-development types, or even the men who remember what it was like to be seven or eight years old. In general, I’ve found seven to be a great age. I’ve had such a delightful year listening to “Jack’s” increasingly sophisticated ideas, his application of actual reasoning to his arguments, the beginning of his inevitable joke-and-riddle phase. He can stump me sometimes, he catches me off guard with his humor and we’ve begun to find a few common interests. I’m hoping to hang on to this phase of his development for as…

• Oops

  Tracy Hahn-Burkett

  1 Nov 2009 | 6:21 am

  Sorry everyone, I did miss a post last week without offering so much as a tweet in explanation. That’s what near-total immersion in a fictional world of one’s own creation can do to a person (even if I was researching the non-fictional background for my novel). Then, as soon as my plane touched New England tarmac, I traded that immersion for one of macaroni-and-cheese, laundry and Halloween. I’m still digging out from the sugar-and-chocolate avalanche, but I should nevertheless be back on my regular blogging schedule this week. Oh, and to any locals reading this: Where were the Junior…

• What a Mom Has to Do to Get Out of Dodge

  Tracy Hahn-Burkett

  27 Oct 2009 | 6:00 am

  Here’s what I had to accomplish in order to get out of the house and on a plane this morning for an out-of-town research trip: • Thump self on head for scheduling a trip the week leading up to Halloween; • Do eight loads of laundry in two days in violation of our house’s drainage-related limit of three loads per day; • Plan and shop for meal options which husband can feed to children and explain said options; • Ensure all components of son’s Harry Potter costume and daughter’s princess costume are purchased and placed in obvious location for mid-week Halloween events (I’m…

• I Need an Explanation, Please

  Tracy Hahn-Burkett

  22 Oct 2009 | 6:23 am

  Gentlemen, could I get a little help here? As a rule, I don’t like to believe in stereotypes. If I can find a way to disprove one, I will. I therefore find it frustrating when anecdotal evidence presents itself in a way that backs up a stereotype. So, men, I would very much appreciate it if you could explain one thing to me: why is it that for a man, the onset of a head cold is just one degree short of The End of The World? Here’s the day I had yesterday: first, my seven-year-old son, “Jack,” stayed home from school because of what is definitely a cold and cough and may be the flu.

• 
  The Parenting Weblog

• Lansinoh 25 Year Anniversary Gift Basket Giveaway

  31 Oct 2009 | 6:36 am

  In celebration of their 25th anniversary, Lansinoh is giving away 25 gift baskets filled with the products that support breastfeeding mothers. Each basket includes the entire line of Lansinoh products, including the Double Electric Breast Pump, Manual Breast Pump, HPA Lanolin, Disposable Nursing Pads, Soothies by Lansinoh Gel Pads, LatchAssist, Breastmilk Storage Bags, Breastmilk Storage Bottles, Diaper Rash Ointment, and Clean and Condition Cloths. To enter the giveaway, write about your most rewarding breastfeeding experience in a comment here. Twenty-five winners will be randomly selected.

• Pink Power Moms and Bright Starts' Pretty in Pink Collection

  22 Oct 2009 | 1:54 am

  In the the third annual 2009 Pink Power Mom™ contest, Bright Starts™ honored eight mothers who have survived breast cancer and used their experience to make a difference in the lives of others who are also affected by the disease. Get to know each of these great moms here. To support the Pink Power Mom program, Bright Starts will donate a portion of the proceeds from its top-selling Pretty in Pink™ collection to support breast cancer research. Know that when you purchase this line of you ...

• Green Halloween: What to Give Out Instead of Candy

  18 Oct 2009 | 1:09 am

  Halloween is an occasion that is traditionally associated with candy, lots and lots of candy. But really, does it have to be? I know my kids get more fun out of the the activities like treat o'treating, pumpkin carving, costumes and the like. The candies being just the "necessary evil". So I wonder, can we do Halloween minus the candy? Corey Colwell-Lipson, founder of Green Halloween, thinks we could, and probably should. An excerpt from a press release: Colwell-Lipson proved that children would be open to giving ...

• 2009 Gap Casting Call

  10 Oct 2009 | 6:43 am

  The search is on for the next faces of babyGap and GapKids! Gap has launched its annual casting call in partnership with Disney Family.com. Enter your babies (ages four and under) and kids (ages 5 to 10) for a chance to be featured in the store windows of babyGap and GapKids in February 2010. In addition to a professional photo shoot and a $1000 Gap GiftCard, the winners will receive a VIP vacation for four to see Disney's THE LION KING in either New York or ...

• Protecting Your Kids Teeth at Halloween

  1 Oct 2009 | 7:23 am

  © ninahale Halloween... Trick o' Treat... Candies! Looking for some damage control? Dr. Margaret Mitchell, DDS, owner of Mitchell Dental Spa, a dental spa facility in Chicago’s Water Tower Place, offers the following tips to for protecting your kids teeth at Halloween: Avoid sticky candy such as taffy, gummy bears, caramel, etc. Sticky Candy adheres to teeth and causes decay. Kids can eat candy ANYTIME, there is not a good time of day/night to eat candy. Brush immediately after eating candy, especially sticky candy. Prior to Halloween, visit your dentist ...

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  ModernMom.com Recent Articles

• Organizing a Thanksgiving Feast When Time & Money Are Short

  4 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  Even if money and time are tight, you can have a wonderfully rich and full Thanksgiving. All it takes is a little organization and some willingness to let go of the need to do everything.

• Sugar Mommas’ Boy Scout Campfire Bars

  3 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  Boy Scout season has begun. (We haven’t forgotten about the Girl Scouts. They get a spotlight later.) The Sugar Mommas’ cubs just want to go outside and find some mud to roll in, a stick to swat, or a bow and arrow to shoot. All camping events end in…S’Mores. Here’s our take…a treat that can be packed to take anywhere and eaten anytime.

• Jack-O-Lantern Cupcake

  27 Oct 2009 | 1:00 am

  Using candy to decorate seasonal goodies is a fun family activity and great way to add flare to your celebration. Turn your average cupcake into a Jack-O-Lantern. Start by baking and frosting a batch of 2” cupcakes. While you wait for the cupcakes to cool completely, wrangle up your favorite gum and candies. Gum is easy for kids to work because they can cut, twist and shape it to create patterns and details on your treats making them ready for display in the bakery window!

• Organizing a Few Things for a Spooktacular Halloween!

  26 Oct 2009 | 1:00 am

  Don’t let Halloween sneak up on you without doing anything to set the stage. You can organize few simple things with minimum effort to create a spooktacular evening. Below are ten ideas to get you started.

• 10 Tips To Keep Children Safe from Sexual Abuse

  25 Oct 2009 | 1:00 am

  Keeping your children safe from child predators sounds like a scary proposition, but it doesn’t have to be. We used to teach children about “stranger danger”, but studies have shown that most sexual abuse occurs at the hands of someone known to the child. He might seem like the friendliest teacher, neighbor, uncle or coach. Unfortunately, this person, who is always showing an interest in your child and working to develop trust, can sometimes be a child predator. It is difficult for adults to recognize these people for who they really are, and of course, it is even more difficult for…

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  Parenting, Child Development, Shopping Resources, Recalls and Reviews

• Mother Kills Five Year Old Daughter to Protect Rapist Boyfriend

  31 Oct 2009 | 2:06 pm

  This is outrageous and sad that a mother would put someone like this before her innocent and defenseless child! I couldn't believe this headline when I saw it today. I just had to share it and comment on it...what is this world coming to when teens are beating to death,raping and setting one another on fire and mothers are protecting rapists over their children? This is a sad reflection of our

• A Halloween Tale

  30 Oct 2009 | 7:15 am

  Image via Wikipedia google_protectAndRun("ads_core.google_render_ad", google_handleError, google_render_ad);An allegory"What treat would you like?" I asked the two costumed children at my door."Thirty-eight thousand, seven hundred fifty-two dollars and sixty-five cents," said the girl.My hand froze inside the candy jar. "...Apiece," added

• Booster Seats Recommended for Children Through Age 8

  19 Oct 2009 | 7:40 am

  Image via WikipediaPHILADELPHIA, Oct. 19 PA-CHOP-carseats-stdyBoosters especially effective in side impact crashesPHILADELPHIA, Oct. 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A study released today in Pediatrics by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia offers updated evidence that children ages 4 to 8 who are restrained in the rear seat of a car in a belt-positioning booster seat are 45 percent less likely

• The baby boy she feared she would never hold-Swine flu mom shares her story

  17 Oct 2009 | 7:25 am

  He is the beautiful baby boy she feared she might never live to see.When Sharon Pentleton was five-months pregnant, a virulent case of swine flu left her fighting for life.Plunged into a coma, the 27-year-old was airlifted abroad for emergency treatment. The prospects for her and her unborn baby were bleak.Sharon Pentleton pictured with baby son, SpencerMiracle: Sharon Pentleton holds Spencer,

• Mom of Boy Set on Fire: It's "Disgusting"

  16 Oct 2009 | 8:56 pm

  Please say a prayer for Michael and his family as you read this! (CBS) The mother of a 15-year-old boy who was set on fire by his classmates said on "The Early Show" that violence among children needs to stop.Valerie Brewer said what happened to her son Michael Brewer is "disgusting.""Our country, our world, needs to wake up and see what is going on with our children," she said. "They need to do

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  Just Spotted

• This Weekend in Orange County

  6 Nov 2009 | 6:36 am

  Wondering what to do or where to go this weekend in Orange County? Then check out one, or two or all of these happening events...Friday, November 6th:* Holiday Boutique at Newport Height Elementary School, 10 am - 4pm. FREE admission, 29 vendors selling unique gifts for the holidays.* Wild Tales at the Peter & Mary Muth Interpretive Center, 10:30 - 11:15 am. Story telling fun. After the story, learn more about the natural history of the bay through crafts and nature walks. Pre-registration required: (949)923-2275, $5 per participant, ages 2-7.* Irvine Lake Trout Opener* Stuart Little at…

• Stuart Little, A Musical Fantasy

  6 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

  Based on the book by E.B. White, Stuart Little, A Musical Fantasy promises to be a play the whole family would enjoy. The play tells the story we all know & love... that of an itty-bitty mouse trying to survive in a "real people's world."Stuart Little, A Musical Fantasy is playing at the Laguna Playhouse:Friday, November 6th: 7:30pmSaturday, November 7th: 2pm & 7:30pmSunday, November 8th: 1pm & 5pmThursday, November 12th: 10amFriday, November 13th: 10am & 7:30pmSaturday, November 14th: 2pm & 7:3pmSunday, November 15th: 1pm & 5pmBuy your tickets HERE.xoxo, Kimage via…

• Harvest Faire

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:40 am

  You are cordially invited to Join the Journey School for their annual Harvest Faire, THIS Saturdy, November 7th, 2009 from noon until 4pm. Don't be fooled into thinking this is your typical holiday boutique, because it's so much more. This family event will be featuring tons of activities, crafts and games for the kids: fairy house decorating, hat making, apple stamping, felt gnome creation, candle making, a hay bale maze, pixie potion creation, a cake walk, potato sack races & more. There will be live music, a hearty lunch courtesy of Soup Plantation, sweets & coffee for sale as well…

• Thank You For Your Kindness

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:05 am

  I think, no I know I'm in love with these Thank You For Your Kindess headbands, clips & elastic bands. They are so cute & simple, plus they are made by an Orange County mama. Now, I have to decide just which one I'm actually going to order, because I want one of everything! (Be sure to check out their new winter collection with an extra added bling!)xoxo, Kimage via Thank You For Your Kindess

• Newport Heights School Annual Holiday Boutique

  5 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  The Holiday Season is upon us. ( Can this really be true? Excuse me while I hyperventilate for a moment!) Well, have no fear... with the holiday season, comes holiday boutiques. Get a start on your holiday shopping this weekend at the Newport Heights Elementary School's Annual Holiday Boutique. Nearly 30 different local artists are vendors selling jewelry, unique accessories, holiday items, handbags, home & garden decor, boutique clothing, children's goodies, greeting cards, stationary, stocking stuffers, gift certificates and more. Plus, you can feel good about the money you spend, your…

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  Happy Healthy Hip Parenting

• Life and Death and Writing it All Down

  hipm0m

  6 Nov 2009 | 11:26 pm

  If you’re related to me, you may want to stop reading…or perhaps you should just start back at the beginning…For those of you who are a part of my online family, please (lie to me and) tell me you can relate. Too Much Information (TMI) I share everything here on this blog, more than I probably should. From the time I had to go to Urgent Care after a night of sex to the frustrations around my co-parenting challenges, my personal stories, along with all the emotions they stir, can be found here. I have nothing to hide. Why then, do the important people in my life feel as…

• Forever Families

  hipm0m

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:56 pm

  My son is an only child. Since his father and I divorced, I have changed my mind, nearly a dozen times, about having a second or even third child. My biological clock is ticking, and yet, I know that there are thousands of children that need a permanent address and I don’t know if I could bring another child into this world when there are so many already waiting… My sister had her second child a few years ago, which prompted many questions from my son. I answered with age-appropriate and accurate information. Recently, he’s been telling me that he wants a baby brother or…

• How Thirsty Are You?

  hipm0m

  4 Nov 2009 | 11:17 am

  By Steve Goodier Isn’t it wonderful when we get thirsty – not for water, but thirsty to chase a dream or to so something different?  I think it is those people who crave something with an unquenchable thirst who, in the end, are likely to be most satisfied with their lives. Alan C. Elliott talks in his book, A Daily Dose of the American Dream, of a five-year study that was undertaken to discover what made some people extraordinarily successful. The study consisted of detailed research into the lives of 120 of the nation’s top artists, athletes, and scholars. He reports that…

• Come Together

  hipm0m

  2 Nov 2009 | 3:46 pm

  The last few days have been pretty emotional for me. On Wednesday, my ex-husband and I met at Family Court for Mediation. Just before we were called in for our appointment, my boyfriend sent me a text from the airport. He should have been boarding a plane to San Diego, but instead, he was in line trying to get on another flight since his had been canceled. I felt helpless in so many ways. It was a bittersweet experience for me when, less than an hour later, my son’s father and I came to an agreement regarding custody of our nearly 6-year-old son. It was such a relief knowing that our…

• Today’s Scary Word

  hipm0m

  27 Oct 2009 | 10:37 am

  The scary word for today, October 27, is “frightening.” Now head back over to the Indie Biz Chicks website to enter to win! One lucky winner will receive a copy of The Twitter Book, by Tim O’Reilly. Good luck! Happy Healthy Hip Parenting Peace Begins in the Home

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  Crazy Adventures in Parenting

• Meeting Robin Miller and Cookbook Giveaway

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  Just over a month ago, I had the extreme pleasure to go to New York City and meet Robin Miller face to face.After having interviewed her a few months back, I took some of the advice she offered and applied it to how I cook for my family. At that time, I was given a complimentary copy of her cookbook to evaluate. I sat down, opened the binding and began to dig in, seeing exactly how she could help "rescue" us. She did. After months of use, it meant a great deal to walk up, shake her hand, and thank her for creating that cookbook, Robin Rescues Dinners.I've written before about my fondness for…

• The Aftermath of Fort Hood

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  As a military wife, living on a military base with her military family, what happened yesterday hit entirely too close to home for those in the military community. Wives and mothers were locked inside buildings, shying away from windows, while separated from their husbands and school-aged children, the post locked down, hearts racing, blood shed, families shattered.On our own soil.In our backyard.How does that happen? How do you wake up one morning, struggling to prepare to send your soldier off to war, grappling with those stresses, the clock ticking down the days until he leaves, always…

• How to Install a Printer, Kid Style

  4 Nov 2009 | 11:45 pm

  First, you open the box:Then, while mommy fiddles with the install CD and settings, you discover you can sit and stand in the packing foam while ripping it apart. Cool!Also, the bag it came with makes for a good makeshift pom-pom. It makes a lot of noise! Sweet!Ooh, when you break off the foam, you can use a piece of cardboard as an easel, and pretend to color, like me! See?This foam makes a pretty good necklace, too. How ya like my bling, mom?This is how we roll, printer-installation-style. Whatcha think?(Psst, we're participating in Beth's You Capture today)Never miss a thing! Subscribe…

• How to Make a Super Hero Costume

  4 Nov 2009 | 9:15 pm

  I will readily admit to you that, while I did make this Super Hero Costume myself, I had a little help. I didn't make the entire thing from scratch, I went easy on myself and bought this compression shirt (or something like it if your child is smaller) for the shirt. I also used a pair of basketball shorts for the shorts, and some leggings from an old costume for under them. If you don't have an old costume lying around, you can search out any local sporting goods store or sporting section of Walmart or Target to find "compression pants" which are tight-fitting. See? You can improvise, too.

• Top Teeth

  3 Nov 2009 | 8:30 pm

  We literally had to hang Baby Dude by the rafters to get a shot of his new tooth poking through. (Alright, we don't have any rafters, but still...) Operation Dangle Baby Dude had to be done, he wouldn't let us pry his baby mouth open long enough to get a picture of it, and it's finally broken through!Doesn't he understand how important it is to me, as a momma, to photograph his entire baby life? Every tooth, step, smile, walk, talk- every first he and his siblings have! I gotta snap it for posterity! Dangle away, dude. {flash} We've got you, and the picture! See?Now please, Baby Dude, do not…

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  Boutique Café

• Zippity-do-da-ing our way to fun

  Emily

  5 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  I. Love. LeapFrog. That pretty much says it all. The company has sent me their Tag Reader and Tag Junior to review on Boutique Cafe’s Daily Dish and adore them both, as do my kids ranging in age from 2 to 12. Okay, so maybe the 12-year-old doesn’t use the Tag Readers but she did think they were super cool. Basically, whenever LeapFrog has a new product they want me to review on the Daily Dish I’m all over it…because I know my kids will be too. The latest addition to LeapFrog’s line of electronic learning products is the Zippity Learning System. This not-so-little…

• Calling All New Parents – 100 Testers Needed!

  daria

  3 Nov 2009 | 7:29 am

  Giving Away 100 Tubs to Parents In A New Product Testing Challenge Are you a new parent? PUJ is looking for you!! We love to share great opportunities with our readership, and this is one you don’t want to miss: Vancouver, WA – November 2, 2009 – Puj, a leading designer of modern baby products that help Simplify Parenthood, is putting its new Puj Tub to the test, literally. The company is looking for 100 parents to act as official product testers for its new Puj Tub. The Puj Tub has been hailed as one of the best baby products to come on the market in years, offering a revolutionary…

• JelliBee Baby’s super NEAT bibs

  Emily

  3 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  I’ve been writing reviews on Boutique Cafe for almost four years and have four children so it should be no surprise I’ve reviewed quite a few bibs on the Daily Dish. I’m not complaining; I have the messiest kids around and we’re always more than willing to review one. Trust me, we give it a thorough testing in this house! I have my favorites such as the ones by DaBib and OOTS! and today’s review can be added to the list. JelliBee Baby offers a line of bibs aptly named NEAT that feature the coolest prints (Pop Girl and Purple Ink are my faves) and a style that…

• Vintage Hair Pins

  daria

  2 Nov 2009 | 5:06 pm

  Aren’t these pretty?! I just discovered them in this cool shop on Etsy called Sumikoshop. While you’re there be sure to browse through their jewelry and accessories, they have some really great finds! Snag your Vintage Hair Pin here >>

• Eva Apron – Modern June

  daria

  29 Oct 2009 | 1:54 pm

  Modern June on Etsy has some lovely aprons for sale. Check out this gorgeous Eva apron, isn’t it pretty?! “The mix of high end Designer Fabrics give the slinky new Eva Apron an eclectic bohemian elegance. Our Eva Apron has a great size range that looks every hot on sizes 4-14. ” You can snag this sweet apron for yourself right here>> **See all of our amazing apron finds on My ApronADay Blog >>

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  Today Is Fun

• Homebrew Space ship

  7 Nov 2009 | 4:48 am

  Spaceships are inspirational.  They are made by a few dreamers destined to become legendary explorers.  (They are also useful for battling enemies, for saving galaxies and for general interplanetary transportation.)  Today's spacesh...

• Traveler Memory

  7 Nov 2009 | 4:48 am

  Here at TIF we like adventure and going to new places is one of our favorite activities.  This weekend however we can not afford to go to anywhere exotic so we created a memory game with some famous world and U.S. locations.  This game will help tea...

• Traveler Memory

  7 Nov 2009 | 4:48 am

    Here at TIF we like adventure and going to new places is one of our favorite activities.  This weekend however we can not afford to go to anywhere exotic so we created a memory game with some famous world and U.S. locations.  Thi...

• GIANT MENU

  7 Nov 2009 | 4:48 am

  Here at TIF, we toil night and day to bring you the very best in free crafts and entertainment for your kids.  But sometimes an idea is so easy and right in front of our faces that we ask ourselves why did we not think of it sooner -- today's activit...

• Add Some Words To My Story

  7 Nov 2009 | 4:48 am

  Next time you need a quick activity that's certain to get your kids riled up, try to add some words to the story.  You can play anywhere and with any age kids.   Try it -- you'll like it. Here is how you play: &nb...

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  The Committed Parent

• Invoking the Gravitas of Affirmation

  Mark Brady

  1 Nov 2009 | 4:20 am

  More than 50 years have passed and I can still clearly remember Mrs. Lieberman, my fourth grade teacher, announcing to the rest of the class: “Mark is a very good reader. He reads with excellent comprehension.” That single piece of praise shaped a significant part of my life thereafter – reading became a daily mainstay, as necessary for me as food, air and water. And then, in my early twenties I attended a talk in Ojai, California by the renown Indian spiritual teacher, J. Krishnamurti. I was flabbergasted when I heard him say that he never read books, that books were a distraction on…

• The High Cost of Kvetching

  Mark Brady

  25 Oct 2009 | 4:34 am

  The older I get the more whining and kvetching (naggy, critical griping) I seem to find myself doing. One example: I need to cut down on my American news-watching, especially the political/financial reporting, because I spend too much time finger-pointing and barking at the TV. In the either/or world between strategic optimism or defensive pessimism, I generally tend to excel on defense. It’s interesting to explore what goes on internally when I find myself reacting in this way. At the root of much of my reactivity often lies … fear. Fear that politicians are going to make the mess…

• How to Beautify Your Disorganized Brain

  Mark Brady

  18 Oct 2009 | 5:05 am

  In my early thirties I took a job as a psychology intern at a private residential treatment center for emotionally disturbed adolescents. Many of the residents came to that center having been physically, emotionally and sexually abused as young kids. As a result they had to be removed from their upper middle class home environments. The center was located on an abandoned farm up in northwestern Connecticut – a bucolic paradise, replete with old barns converted into cozy bunkhouses and comfortable work and meeting spaces, with acres of gardens and lovely hiking trails woven through the…

• The End of Kids as We Know Them

  Mark Brady

  11 Oct 2009 | 7:15 am

  These days I often find myself feeling blessed that I’m not a kid growing up in today’s world. Change happens way too fast, and the amount of information that assaults the senses daily often feels tsunami-like. According to science writer, Jonah Lehrer, there are roughly 35,000 new neuroscience studies published every year alone! Who could possibly keep up? Dr. Drew Endy Trying to prepare kids for the world of today deserves a purple heart and a medal of honor; preparing them for the world of tomorrow, that’s pretty far outside what my aging brain can even begin to imagine. Still, one…

• Lies, Damn Lies, and Raising Hearty Children

  Mark Brady

  4 Oct 2009 | 4:18 am

  Pithy quotations often provide motivating inspiration for these columns. Here’s one often attributed to former British Prime Minister, Benjamin Disraeli: “There are three kinds of lies: lies, damn lies and statistics.” A second inspiration – if we can call it that – comes from this astonishing statistic: 92.5% of adult Americans show up with increased risk for heart disease … 92.5%! What does this mean exactly? Well, might it mean that something essential that could have happened for more than nine out of ten Americans when they were kids, didn’t? Something that should have,…

• 
  My Home Sweet Home

• An Easel, a Cookie Recipe, a Baptism, and a Post at The Post

  Dawn

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:07 pm

  I’ve got four things to share with you: First, I bought the coolest easel picture frame at T.J. Maxx today with room for five 8×10 photographs. In a surprising degree of promptness, I have already printed photos from Bouchon, the ultra-fab restaurant where the speaker dinner that I attended at the Type-A Mom conference was held; framed them; and set it up in my dining room. Although I cleaned the glass, it’s obvious from these pictures that the frame needs a once-over with some furniture polish. I can’t wait to see how surprised my bunch is when they see it in the…

• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: The One that Started it All

  Dawn

  29 Oct 2009 | 8:17 pm

  Disney has released Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the beloved original Disney classic, for the first time in high-definition Blu-Ray. The Diamond Edition combo pack offers both Blu-ray and DVD format. Years ago we owned Snow White on VHS, so our oldest son was familiar with it, but the new edition has been a treat for my younger children. This hand drawn cartoon is a pleasant change from a lot of today’s fare, which is often not particularly kid-friendly. I had forgotten how charming and childlike the dwarfs are, surprised at discovering an intruder in their home who cleaned and…

• Please Join Me at (in)courage Today

  Dawn

  29 Oct 2009 | 4:38 am

  I have a photo essay posted at (in)courage today, inspired by photos from an afternoon walk at the beginning of fall with my daughters. Please visit me there!

• A Child’s Brain is Like a Sponge: Don’t Discount the Memory Work

  Dawn

  28 Oct 2009 | 8:51 am

  If asked, I can quote the exact dictionary definition of hypothesis; a conversational dialogue from the first week of high school French; and the most difficult to pronounce sentence assigned to me in college Russian. Why? I had to memorize them. Young children have fresh and powerful memories; they are capable of progressing from crying newborns to speaking their native language in such a relatively short period of time. Sometimes rote memorization gets a bad name in the realm of homeschooling (or schooling in general). We taken a different approach this year as we participate for the first…

• Wordless Wednesday: Beginning of the Trail

  Dawn

  27 Oct 2009 | 3:26 pm

  Visit 5 Minutes for Mom or Wordless Wednesday for more Wordless Wednesday participants.

• 
  Postcards from the Mothership

• Holiday cards – your preferences?

  DaniGirl

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:44 am

  Yes, it’s early. I know, not even the second week of November and it’s my second post about Christmas — third if you count the Christmas light in my 365 post! But I’m trying to wrench a little organization into my life and planning ahead is giving me a small sense of control. So! Christmas and holiday cards. Given that I’m such an avid photographer, you’d think I would like photo cards, but I’m not terribly fond of them for us. In the past, we’ve sent the boys’ Sitting With Santa photos as our annual card, but I’m more partial to an…

• Project 365: Sigh. Again. I know. I’m sick of it, too.

  DaniGirl

  6 Nov 2009 | 5:52 am

  Ugh. November. If there were a contest for the least-photographic month on the calendar, November would win it hands-down. Grey, barren, sleety. Ugh. Usually, I love writing up this weekly summary of my 365 pictures, but I’m so abysmally lacking in inspiration right now neither the photographic opportunities nor writing about them is appealing. I’m really hoping this ennui is as transient as the autumn leaves. Speaking of leaves, could I possibly wrest one last dead-leaf image out of the season? How about the ghostly imprint of the leaves of autumn departed? Heck, even the geese…

• Lucas speaks

  DaniGirl

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:47 am

  Yesterday, Lucas said his first sentence, complete with subject, verb, object and preposition: “I play with Lego!” (Yes, the exclamation point was obviously in there.) Funny, he is exactly the same age – not quite 21 months – that Tristan was when Tristan said his first full sentence: “I bump head.” Sadly, Simon’s first sentence has been lost to the sands of time. It’s a relief to finally be able to interact with Lucas on a verbal level. He clearly understands almost everything we say, and mimics us with startling clarity. With words come…

• The Internet scares me

  DaniGirl

  3 Nov 2009 | 6:11 am

  I’m not even sure where to start deconstructing this search query that led some poor confused soul to my blog this morning. Related posts (automatically generated):Solidarity, sistaThe mothership believes in the lower case, tooHalf decent? Okay, I can do that

• DaniGirl versus the Mouse, round 1

  DaniGirl

  3 Nov 2009 | 5:27 am

  It may or may not be coincidence, but it was right around the time we had to put down our 17 year old cat this summer that the first mouse appeared. I would have liked to type “when the mouse first appeared” but I’ve come to believe he is Legion. I actually managed to catch the first mouse by hand the very first time we saw him, trapping him in a little toy bucket and releasing him in the field across the street. That was some time this summer and I more or less forgot about mice in the interim. Many happy mouseless weeks passed. While waiting for the bus one morning not too…

• 
  Dinker and Giggles

• I Love You but…

  Alaina Frederick

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:31 pm

  You are driving me nuts. Really, I do love you with all my heart and soul. Don’t get me wrong I love my children, but the last few weeks it has been really bad. When we have good moments they are amazing, but the bad. Oh, the bad is just horrid. I just want to scream by 2pm each day. I really can’t blame them. Things have been changing again in our house and it’s a lot for kids to deal with. First our oldest, Dinker, is now in kindergarten. He loves it and he is doing well from my understanding. It’s a new school, new faces, new routines. Giggles is also attending…

• I’m Grateful For Itches

  Alaina Frederick

  6 Nov 2009 | 12:37 am

  So this week’s grateful post is a short and simple, but it’s one of those things that without it my night wouldn’t have been the same. Thursday night as I was getting home from a local event I must have been talking too loud. Giggle, my newly turned 4 son, got up and came and asked me to scratch his back. Cute Little Giggles I hustled him back into his bed and scratched his back. His perfect little back that I’m sure did not itch, but it was a great excuse to get out of bed again. So as I was scratching he sad in his cute little voice “Thank you mommy. My itchy…

• Important Safety Update: Toobeez

  Alaina Frederick

  3 Nov 2009 | 12:11 pm

  Almost a year ago I had the chance to review a fun and educational toy called Toobeez. My two eldest had a blast in creating different designs and their father even got involved and helped them create a ‘fort’ that filled our entire playroom. As time went by and as the youngest started getting involved in playtime I was being more cautious with the toys. I noticed that where the different parts of the building sticks linked together were breaking off very easily. It created an environment that was not safe. So if you do have the Toobeez building products please be very careful if…

• Michael Bublé Is Crazy Love

  Alaina Frederick

  2 Nov 2009 | 8:46 am

  Michael Bublé – I just love saying his name. Ahhhh…..drooling over. Okay I lied! I don’t know why as his music has never been my style or my taste, but I have a number of his songs that I recently bought off of iTunes. My most recent purchase is Home and Haven’t Met You Yet. Home is more of what I think of when the name Michael Bublé is mentioned. It’s slow and one of those types of songs you can just hold the baby and sway along too. Both closing their eyes and just relaxing to each beat. Haven’t Met You Yet one of his newest songs and definitely his…

• Need Quality Prescription Eyeglasses For Little Money?

  Alaina Frederick

  2 Nov 2009 | 5:26 am

  I have the perfect answer for you! A while back I was lucky enough to be able to test and review a shopping experience with EyeBuyDirect.com. I have since then signed up as an affiliate and tell everyone about the site when the opportunity arises. Today is one of those chances. This week is one of their totally awesome sales – Buy One Get One Free. So to begin they have frames for as little as $7.95 and prescription lenses are not that much either. When I got my main glasses that I wear all the time I spent well over $300 for them at the eye doctors.Mara in Green I did not have any…

• 
  Babies Online - The Blog

• Send a little boy his last Christmas Card

  Here's your opportunity to kick off the holiday season by doing something nice. Even the most time-strapped parents of toddlers can take the time to send a Christmas card to a little boy for what may be his last Christmas. Five-year-old Noah Biorkman has been battling neuroblastoma cancer for two-and-a-half years. ...

• Study Claims That Children Equal Happiness

  According to a recent study by the University of Glasgow in Scotland, the more children a couple have, the happier they are.  The catch?  This only holds true for married couples.  The same children and happiness correlation didn't apply to single, co-habiting or separated parents. The study took into ...

• The First Official Lab Created Sperm

  Before there was an embryo, there were an egg and a sperm, collectively called gametes. And before the gametes, there were germ cells. The pathway from germ cells to gametes to embryo is long and complicated and occurs only in the human reproductive organs. Or at least it used ...

• Wearing Contact Lenses May be Good for Children?

  A surprising study which was recently published is offering great news to parents. A new type of contact lens is said to be creating solutions for some eye problems that plague children. The contact lenses made especially for short-sighted persons work to correct or improve the condition while they sleep. How ...

• What’s Going On in November

  Road traffic safety and prematurity are just a few of the many interesting health-related events going on in November. However, I've prepared a short list focusing on family health. GLOBAL EVENTS AND OBSERVANCES November 14 is World Diabetes Day November 16 is World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims November 19 to 20 ...

• 
  ZRecommends

• Three inspired Lego projects

  jmcnichols@gmail.com

  6 Nov 2009 | 12:09 pm

  I saved my personal favorite for last.

• Making safe homemade moon sand

  jmcnichols@gmail.com

  5 Nov 2009 | 1:16 am

  Z and I adapted instructions from the craft blog Skip to My Lou and made homemade "moon sand" the other day. It was easy to make, and given Z's enthusiastic use of it for the hour or so after we made it, this stuff could give our homemade play dough a serious run for its money. Most "play sand" is made of pulverized quartz rock. The problem with this form of sand is that it contains crystallized silica, which is a known carcinogen that is nasty for little lungs to breathe in during play sessions. That's why most play sand has a Prop 65 warning on it, required for it to be sold in California.

• Class action lawsuit filed against Gaiam for BPA in aluminum water bottles

  jmcnichols@gmail.com

  3 Nov 2009 | 7:21 pm

  Lawyers in Gaiam's home state of Colorado filed suit last week seeking class-action status for a lawsuit against Gaiam for BPA in their aluminum water bottles. ZRecs broke the story accusing Gaiam of hiding BPA in their water bottles, followed it up by breaking the story of Gaiam's admission of BPA at far greater levels than SIGG, and have continued to follow the story as Gaiam has released testing data and cleaned up their own website. After Caddell & Chapman filed its lawsuit against SIGG in October (we also did most of the original reporting on that story), multiple firms' lawyers were…

• Recent family photos

  jmcnichols@gmail.com

  2 Nov 2009 | 11:41 am

  Z was a fairy princess riding a unicorn for Halloween. Jenni made the cape (it has wings attached) and we had planned to retrofit her cowgirl horse to unicorn status, but it was looking awfully brown and we found a pink unicorn at Target on sale a few days before Halloween, so we sprung for it. We spent the evening "trick-or-treating" at a local church carnival. A few more photos from the last few weeks: At the Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, a few weeks ago. It was warm. Still is, some days, here in central Texas. Yesterday we went bowling with some friends. It was Z and her four-year-old friend's…

• The Britax Blink: A nice compact stroller at a great price point

  jmcnichols@gmail.com

  29 Oct 2009 | 12:24 pm

  We've been playing with Britax's new compact, lightweight stroller, the Blink, for a few months now, and are ready to share our impressions with you. We're also ready to experiment with more video reviewing, so today's post is a combination of the two. I'll share a few highlights about the Blink in text form, drop in our video demo review, and follow up with a few things you'll see us tweak as we get further into this video reviewing thing. What Britax does for $150 is impressive. The Blink's basic bone structure is nearly identical to the MacLaren Triumph, but at about $40 less MSRP and with…

• 
  The Tranquil Parent

• Organizing children’s books for young children: A simple category method

  jlfmcnichols@gmail.com

  6 Nov 2009 | 1:53 pm

  We have a lot of children's books. Jeremiah and I are each borderline bibliophiles. When we moved to Texas from San Francisco we shipped back 37 boxes of books. Thirty-seven. We've since pared down our personal collection to books that we love and absolutely must own but they still over-fill a wall-sized bookshelf. We seem to be passing on our love of books to Z. Through a combination of books collected from library sales ($20 for a paper bag full!), used book stores, and gifts, we've filled a bookcase for Z. The great majority of these books are actually age-appropriate for her now - we do…

• ZRecs Family follow-up: Dealing with challenging grandparents

  jlfmcnichols@gmail.com

  5 Nov 2009 | 7:04 pm

  We received some great reader comments to the ZRecs Family post on grandparents and family rules, and I wanted to follow up with some additional thoughts and suggestions. In particular, I wanted to touch on how some of the challenges new parents face in dealing with their own parents can relate to deep-seated issues that need to be addressed if your relationships are going to improve. One comment gave some great examples of issues that have come up with a mother-in-law. One issue was the mother-in-law wanting to bottle feed a newborn immediately at birth and insisting that breastfeeding was…

• Day of the Dead, day of the living

  jlfmcnichols@gmail.com

  3 Nov 2009 | 1:14 am

  Z and her grandmother decided to initiate a family Day of the Dead celebration this year. They prepared for this by setting up an altar for a couple of family members who had died, as well as taking a couple of trips to the local cemetery where many of Jenni's Czech ancestors, including Z's great-grandfather, Marcel Konecny, are interred. Z knew Marcel as an oblivious toddler but has no memory of him now. On their pre-Day of the Dead cemetery visit, Z and her grandmother collected plastic flowers from every garbage can in the cemetery and decorated Marcel's grave with them. Since these were…

• Did you almost miss Vegetarian Awareness Month? It’s never too late to eat healthier!

  jlfmcnichols@gmail.com

  30 Oct 2009 | 12:00 pm

  Leading health and environmental experts report that a vegetarian diet can improve your health in numerous ways and decrease your carbon footprint. Raising animals for slaughter and shipping the final meat product to consumers uses an enormous amount of the earth's resources, especially when compared to those needed to grow fruits and vegetables. According to a 2008 New York Times article, "ReThinking the Meat Guzzler," "To put the energy-using demand of meat production into easy-to-understand terms, Gidon Eshel, a geophysicist at the Bard Center, and Pamela A. Martin, an assistant professor…

• Whose rules rule? Parenting and the role of the grandparent

  jlfmcnichols@gmail.com

  29 Oct 2009 | 8:33 pm

  I repeatedly encounter conflict between grandparents and their adult children regarding whose rules should govern a grandparent's interactions with their grandchild. In one corner we find the elders, full of knowledge and advice, wanting to be validated and honored for their years of experience, confident that they know what's best for the child. In the other corner, we find the young or new parents, full of book knowledge, research findings, training classes, experience gleaned from close friends, their own personal values, and their unique experience with their child, who need to assert…

• 
  PARENTise BLOG

• Unexpected Milestones

  andrea@parentise.com

  28 Oct 2009 | 4:55 pm

  Before I became a parent I didn’t know about all the little milestones you reach when you have kids. First there was holding the head up. Then came the first giggle, the first smile, the first pincer grasp…the list went on. After the first year and the big milestones, the first word, first step, etc…things seemed to slow down. So it came as a surprise when we hit another unexpected and admittedly different milestone. My daughter is no longer being weighed (at the doctor’s office) on the baby scale. She’s transitioning to 1% milk and she’s getting measured…

• The Neverending Debate

  andrea@parentise.com

  21 Oct 2009 | 7:11 am

  As a working Mom I’ve always heard about the Stay at Home vs. Working Mom debate. Thankfully, much like Sarah over at the LA Mom’s Blog, “In all seriousness, I haven’t read or seen anything proving to me the Mommy Wars are still raging on, EXCEPT on Dr. Phil.” Mentally though - I find it exhausting and frustrating. Last week - the debate gained new legs when Dr. Phil did a show he titled “Guilty Moms”. I didn’t see the show, but I’ve watched clips and read all about it since it aired. When I first heard the title I didn’t associate…

• Flexibility is key

  andrea@parentise.com

  16 Oct 2009 | 9:26 am

  As most parents learn, flexibility is key when dealing with kids. You have to be flexible enough to understand that while the brown shoes go best with the outfit - sometimes the yellow polka dot shoes feel the best. Sometimes when it’s 100 degrees outside, a long sleeve t-shirt and stockings are going to be preferred by your 4 year old, when other times it’s a frigid 50 degrees and putting a heavy sweatshirt on your 3 year old will get you out of the house faster than insisting on the winter coat. Flexibility is something we have to exhibit on a daily basis. I’m learning…

• The Birthday Party Conundrum

  andrea@parentise.com

  4 Oct 2009 | 5:12 pm

  I love throwing my baby girls birthday parties. We do it at home, invite all of our family and close friends and have fun. We have a small home, so we do it outside on the deck and have lots of activities in the yard. Last year, we had sack races, 3-legged races, a moon bounce (small) and of course our own play ground equipment. If I do say so myself - the kids had so much fun. I look forward to doing it every year, but this year is different and it is causing me anxiety. This year, my daughter has moved up in her class at school and is now in a room with kids aged 3-5. Last year she was in a…

• Nanny or Manny?

  andrea@parentise.com

  27 Sep 2009 | 1:10 pm

  “Would you trust your children with a male au pair?” The title of the article in the Main Line Today magazine caught my eye - for mostly obvious reasons. I was interested in the idea of a male nanny/au-pair - it’s something that to be honest hasn’t really crossed my mind. (I think there was a “manny” on a television show that got canceled a few years ago, but other than that…) I however seem to be out of the loop, “male nannies, aka, mannies, are becoming more widely accepted–or at least hip. After all, Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow both…

• 
  From My Perspective

• Playground Bullies have Morphed into our Worst Nightmare

  15 Oct 2009 | 4:21 am

  Michael Brewer, a 15 year old boy from Deerfield Beach, Florida, was purposely set on fire by several classmates between 13 and 15 years old. When classmates tried to steel his father's bike from him, he didn't threaten the kids, he didn't spread viral, internet rumors about them, Michael Brewer responded in an appropriate manner, filing a report with the police. He 'followed the rules' of society. Sadly, Michael's mature response to having his property threatened was the catalyst to his being in an incubated and painful state in a hopsital bed. Every school has had the challenge of dealing…

• Children are Born Negotiators

  12 Jul 2009 | 11:28 am

  Kids of all ages have an innate and natural talent for negotiating to get what they want. From three year-olds wrangling for later bedtimes, to teenagers rattling off reasons to stay out late, they all have something in common - the overwhelming drive to say whatever it takes to get what they want. Sometimes, in our efforts to be the parent who listens and shows their child respect by taking into consideration their child's perspective, we allow ourselves to get get wrapped up in the dance, and lose our parental position in the process. The rules of engagement that apply to parenting three…

• DC Suburb Middle School Embraces Twitter to Communicate to Parents!

  17 Jun 2009 | 9:17 am

  Rockville, MD. June 17th, 2009. Redland Middle School . Principal, Robert Sinclair announced today, via his email distribution list to parents, the school's new utilization of Twitter as an additional communications tool to reach out to parents and school community members as needed. For those of you not already enjoying the big buzz of connecting via Twitter, is a free, social messaging utility for staying connected in real-time. When asked, Why Twitter? Mr. Sinclair responded, "My reasoning is to get more parents more actively involved in their children’s education and to inform parents…

• Alice's Palace - Extended Family Love

  14 Jun 2009 | 10:13 am

  Many families today just don't embrace, or know their extended families. I'm always shocked when I hear kids talk about a grandparent they have only met once or twice in their lives, yet their grandparents are still alive and well. Growing up, events involving extended family were always something I looked forward to, thoroughly enjoyed, and are my most cherished childhood memories.Gandmother Alice went to great lengths to make sure her children, and her children's children understood and appreciated what an incredible gift we all are to each other. I am the youngest of Alice's 18…

• FREE STUFF - Texas Roadhouse

  12 Jun 2009 | 6:23 am

  Texas Roadhouse FREE Appetizer: w/Adult entree purchase. Sounds like an excuse for a mom and dad DATENIGHT to me. Get 'em while their hot - Valid through June 30th. Click on over to one of my fave sites, Coupon Divas for the coupon! From My Perspective - we could all use more date nights!

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  pleasestoptherollercoaster.com

• Teens, Dirty Dancing…

  Sue Blaney

  3 Nov 2009 | 4:06 am

  Lisa Belken’s Motherlode post Dirty Halloween Dancing offers interesting commentary on teenagers’ and their dances. Certainly it’s not new that parents and school officials are imposing rules to keep behavior appropriate…seems our society has fought this battle in every generation.  But what kids are doing at these dances today does take it to another level. One high school teacher describes the scene: … please know that what we are talking about is not just dirty dancing. Please know that what teenagers do when they think their parents won’t find out is…

• Teen Freedom, Staying in Touch and Courage in Your Convictions

  Sue Blaney

  28 Oct 2009 | 6:57 am

  Random thoughts this morning…. a little disjointed, but food for thought.  First, I want to applaud and recognize all parents of teenagers who have the courage of your convictions. As I talk to parents, peruse the web and consider the choices, decisions, and issues you face every day, I just want to recognize the difficulty of this job today. And I want to encourage you to keep the courage of your convictions… if you believe you are making the best choices and decisions that you can, that is the best you can do. Let’s face it; our experiences just don’t translate in…

• When Teens’ Parents Disagree

  Sue Blaney

  27 Oct 2009 | 11:09 am

  Whether or not you are married to your teen’s other parent, disagreements are going to arise as you raise your teenagers. How to manage your way through these disagreements is a sensitive topic without clear answers. In my QUESTION OF THE WEEK at our Facebook “Parenting Teenagers” page I asked parents how they handle it when they disagree, and it was clear parents are looking for some direction on this. Parenting teenagers requires us to examine and consider issues we haven’t faced before. How do you feel about premaritial sex? Your answer may be quite different when…

• Lost Generation? No Way

  Sue Blaney

  22 Oct 2009 | 4:32 am

  You’ll love this…. just stick with it all the way through. Such creativity on the web. Bookmark this: Hide Sites

• 100 Best Blogs for Healthy Parents

  Sue Blaney

  15 Oct 2009 | 3:20 am

  Round-ups of best web sites are really helpful as we sort through the overwhelm on the web. Here’s a particularly helpful post from a nursing site on the 100 Best Blogs for Healthy Parents. (Yes, we made it on their list. :>) It is divided into groupings such as From Health Professionals Nutrition and Healthy Living Parenting Advice Specifically about Daughters or Sons Teenage Years Food allergies Childhood illness Support and Information Bookmark this: Hide Sites

• 
  News Moms Need

• Child proofing your home

  Anne

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:05 am

  Our daughter is on the verge of crawling. I’m excited, but nervous at the same time. Everywhere I look around our house I see a potential hazard — the stairs, furniture, cabinets, outlets, lamp cords and book cases. We have a lot of work to do! We plan to go through one room at a time on our hands and knees to make sure we don’t miss anything, remove/secure potential risks and make a shopping list as we go. A close friend of mine (hi Tricia!) appeared on the evening news a couple of days ago. Her home was assessed by a professional who offered some great recommendations on…

• Is there thimerosal in the H1N1 vaccine?

  Lindsay

  5 Nov 2009 | 5:32 am

  Some H1N1 flu vaccines have a preservative called thimerosal. Although some people have suggested a link between thimerosal and autism,  medical experts from the Institutes of Medicine (IOM) have thoroughly researched the issue and concluded that thimerosal-containing vaccines are NOT associated with autism. However, if you’re still concerned, a thimerosal-free version of the H1N1 vaccine is available. The 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccines that FDA is licensing (approving) will be manufactured in several formulations. Some will come in multi-dose vials and will contain thimerosal as a…

• Wordless Wednesday

  Wendy

  4 Nov 2009 | 8:06 am

• Some antibiotics linked to increased risk of several birth defects

  Pam

  3 Nov 2009 | 1:16 pm

  An exploratory study has found that two types of antibiotics taken during pregnancy are linked to an increased risk of several birth defects.  The two types of antibiotics are: * Nitrofurantoins, including Macrobid and Furadantin  * Sulfonamides (also known as sulfa drugs), including Bactrim  Penicillins appear to be the safest of the drugs studied. Antiobiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections. Bacterial infections can be dangerous to the fetus if untreated. So antibiotic treatment is sometimes appropriate for pregnant women. If a pregnant woman…

• Fight for Preemies

  Beverly

  3 Nov 2009 | 11:42 am

  It’s Prematurity Awareness Month, when everyone’s focused on premature birth and the families touched by it. In our country alone, more than half a million babies are born too soon each year, some very sick. Maybe you had a premature baby yourself. Or you may know someone who did. This November, do something special for a baby you love. Click over to marchofdimes.com/fightforpreemies and create a virtual band in honor or memory of a baby in your life. Your gift funds research and programs that give premature babies a fighting chance. If you have a blog, help us spread the word. Unite with…

• 
  The Erin Experiment

• Great Resources for Stepmoms

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:40 am

  I consider myself one of the luckiest Stepmoms on earth. I not only get along with my stepkids' mom, I also have an extremely awesome group of Stepmoms I consider my friends. I've termed them the "Stepmom Posse." The Stepmom Posse is made up of PhD's, authors, hoping-to-be authors, yoga instructors and as well as many other women who are along side me in the quest to debunk the wicked myths about being a Stepmom.In addition to the Posse, there are numerous other women, sites and communities available that Stepmoms can turn to for support or just to meet other moms like them. I'm listing a few…

• More than you ever really wanted to know about the Erin behind the Experiment

  5 Nov 2009 | 11:22 am

  I'm a list whore. It doesn't matter what, where or when, if I'm idle it usually means I'm usually making a list somewhere in my head, on my iPhone or on actual paper.Because it is no where near my 34th birthday and because I'm sick in a hotel room right now, it seemed only appropriate for me to rattle off a list of 33 things about me you may, or may not, have ever wanted to know. Feel free to ask me more although I'm pretty sure by the end of this list you'll know me better than my husband, my mother and my gynocologist.I am a Stepkid as well as a Stepmom. I attribute nearly all of my rockin'…

• Commenting on The Erin Experiment Blog

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:38 am

  It's been almost two weeks since I received my first negative blog comment. In those two weeks, I've had some time to look inward and contemplate why I felt so angry by the poster's opinion. Other than the fact that I'd already had a few blows to my Stepmom psyche that week, I also determined that I take most anti-Stepmom sentiments personally. I've always been a "when life hands you lemons, make lemonade" person so the negative comment prompted me to establish a commenting policy for my blog. Being a personal blog, it's in the best interest of my sanity to have a policy.The Erin Experiment…

• Religion and Stepkids: Heaven or Hell?

  4 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  The other day, while driving home from a doctor's appointment, my stepkids and I got into a conversation about Heaven and Hell.My stepkids are Catholic. They go to religious education classes with their mom, cousins, and other grandkids, etc.My husband is an atheist. He believes in the flying spaghetti monster (FSM) while I am spiritual but not religious. I believe there's something bigger than me but I can't say it's a thing called God. I've been to vacation bible school and just about every kind of religious worshiping place there is during my 33 years on earth. I'd like to think I know…

• Ask Erin: How much is too much when it comes to chores with my stepkids?

  3 Nov 2009 | 9:02 am

  Dear Erin,I would like to sit down with my husband this weekend and work on a chore sheet for my stepkids. I'm getting tired of being the "maid" of the house and not having any help. How many chores is too many for an 8 year old? Signed,Tired StepmomDear Tired,I ask myself this question nearly every day. The kids are with me from the time they get home from school (and when I pick up the youngest) until their mom gets them around 7 p.m. As part of the House Rules, homework is to be accomplished first; then chores second; then if the kids have time to watch t.v. or play on the computer…

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  Connect with your Teens through Pop Culture and Technology

• Twilight Saga: New Moon at Habbo Hotel Virtual World for Teens

  Jennifer Wagner

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:53 am

  Habbo Hotel is a multi-dimensional virtual world and community for teens. Teens create online characters and can explore public hang-outs, activities, connect with friends and decorate their own rooms. Habbo has partnered with Summit Entertainment to add The Twilight Saga: New Moon themed activities, rooms, virtual goods and more to celebrate the release of the New Moon movie on November 20. Twilight and New Moon have been very popular topics on Habbo for a long time, so it made sense to actually bring them to the virtual world. Now Habbo members have even more ways to share their excitement…

• 2009 Virgin Mobile FreeFest Concert Documentary made by Teen Contest Winners

  Jennifer Wagner

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:14 am

  The Virgin Mobile FreeFest took place on August 30, 2009 and featured 17 bands on multiple stages in Maryland. The free concert included the bands Weezer (in photo on right), Franz Ferdinand, Public Enemy, Taking Back Sunday and Blink-182. A contest was held before the concert to choose 14 aspiring filmmakers between the ages of 16 and 22 to be given backstage access to the concert and make a documentary. Kyocera was the premier sponsor the Virgin Mobile FreeFest and also created the contest to choose the filmmakers. The "All Access" rock documentary is now ready to air. Leading up to its…

• Nightlight: A Parody - Twilight Lampooned

  Jennifer Wagner

  3 Nov 2009 | 4:23 pm

  When the Twilight book series first caught on, I wondered if it would become the next Harry Potter. I think I can say at this point that the Twilight phenomenon has definitely reached Harry Potter levels. A new sign of its pop culture status is the Twilight parody, Nightlight: A Parody, written by The Harvard Lampoon and released today.  The National Lampoon has not written a book parody since Bored of the Rings in 1969. Nightlight's heroine is named Belle Goose. When she moves to Switchblade, Oregon, she meets super-hot computer nerd Edwart Mullen. Belle is described as "pale and…

• What are Your Embarrassing Family Moments?

  Jennifer Wagner

  3 Nov 2009 | 11:02 am

  While watching The Middle on ABC, I've noticed that the parents on the show are very often embarrassed because of their children. Whether its Patricia Heaton's character, Frankie as the mom wearing a superhero costume to school because her son told her the wrong day or watching her daughter destroy the Show Choir because she is distracted by waving to her parents. Those parents with teenagers are used to embarrassing their kids, but do your kids ever put you in embarrassing situations at their school? Thankfully I've never experienced anything near the embarrassment that Frankie regularly…

• Educational Games Fun for Teens and Parents

  Jennifer Wagner

  2 Nov 2009 | 11:55 am

  Out of the Box Publishing makes educational games for kids and families. Most of their games are for ages 8+ or 10+, therefore perfect for tweens. However, Out of the Box publishes about a dozen games for 12+, games that will more likely interest teens. My husband and I played two of their games with our family and we all had lots of fun. The two games we played were: 1. Word on the Street - Brainstorm words that fit the category card you pull, trying to find a word that contains the letters you need to advance on the board. The rules encourage the other team to try and distract the team that…

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  MommyQ

• My Apologies to Peep Toe Ankle Boots

  admin

  6 Nov 2009 | 1:41 pm

  I happily ragged on all forms of the peep toe ankle boot not too long ago. You can read my rantings in this post here. My friends and I shared a few good laughs about the Gucci-loving, Versace-wearing, Kardashian-embracing divas strutting around Lake Austin in those freaky flops. Fall has brought with it some gorgeous boots [...]

• Cupcake Swirl Is A Sweet Escape

  admin

  5 Nov 2009 | 12:58 pm

  I was thumbing through Parents Magazine and spotted some cute cupcake toppers. When I went to the site, Cupcake Swirl, I was immediately in love. From adorable tea towels to retro-inspired aprons, Michelle serves up some yummy fun. In fact, those awesome aprons even make me want to cook or bake. Well, maybe a little [...]

• My Five Mommy Must-Haves

  admin

  4 Nov 2009 | 2:50 pm

  Before I had children, I imagined the products I couldn’t live without. A magnificent pram with gorgeous white fluffy linens, a Baby Bjorn that would be glued to my chest, a designer diaper bag with perfectly sized pockets and so on. Fast forward to five years later and the reality of that list is laughable. [...]

• The Irony of Being a Mom Blogger

  admin

  3 Nov 2009 | 1:51 pm

  The one thing that makes you great happens to be the one thing that stands in your way of greatness. Make sense? Absofreakinlutely! I’ve always been enamored with writing ever since I can remember. When I was little, I wrote stories about my Barbies and movie scripts for my Barbies. Yep, I’ve always enjoyed it. Writing [...]

• Baby Gear, Clothes & Goodies a la Droolicious

  admin

  30 Oct 2009 | 7:21 am

  It’s hard to believe, but MommyQ has been writing for Droolicious for almost a year! Wow. The folks at Babble are just incredible and I’m constantly impressed with the talented writers. You have no idea how much creativity and dedication it takes to keep Droolicious and Strollerderby rolling. Here’s a quick list of some of may [...]

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  Priceless Parenting

• Annoying kids with unwanted help

  5 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

  Bill described how much he wanted to help his 5th grade son with his math homework. Bill enjoys math and was looking forward to sharing his knowledge with his son, Mark.He joined Mark at the table where he was doing homework and asked Mark to explain the problem he was working on. Mark explained the problem but was clearly annoyed with having to do this. Bill interrupted Mark’s explanation when he saw that Mark was taking the wrong approach on solving the problem. Eventually Mark and Bill became so irritated and frustrated that they blew up at each other.Bill left feeling rejected. After…

• Problems with praise

  2 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

  Researchers studying the effects of praising children for general abilities like their intelligence or their artistic ability have found that this type of praise encourages children to take fewer risks and not try as hard. General praise might sound like:“You’re really smart.”“You’re an awesome soccer player!”“Your drawing ability is remarkable.”What could possibly be wrong with general praise? Children receiving this type of praise may conclude that all they need is their natural ability and do not need to work hard. They may also become afraid of trying anything risky that…

• Children irritating others

  29 Oct 2009 | 6:00 am

  Recently I’ve read a number of stories where people are upset by parents who are not appropriately responding to their children’s misbehavior. When children are irritating others or destroying other’s property, parents have a responsibility to step in and set some limits. These are some examples of situations where parents were not responding and others were becoming upset:A young boy was ripping up church brochures and leaving a mess. His parents were nearby but didn’t do anything. A girl made a rude comment to a stranger. The parents ignored it although it upset the stranger. A…

• Teaching babies sign language

  26 Oct 2009 | 6:00 am

  Babies as young as 5-months-old can learn to use sign language to communicate. Parents can teach their babies how to sign things like:“Milk” “I would like more.” “My head hurts.” "My diaper needs to be changed.”Nancy Hanauer, founder of Hop to Signaroo, explains “Signing reduces the frustration you and your baby feel when your little one can't express his or her needs.” You can learn basic sign language from various websites, books and classes (if you live near Seattle, you can take one of Nancy's awesome classes!). Nancy recommends Li'L Pick Me Up! Fun Songs for Learning…

• Dealing with potty talk

  22 Oct 2009 | 6:00 am

  At a recent parenting presentation, one mom of 4-year-old twins and a 5-year-old complained about how tired she was of hearing potty talk. One child would say something like “poopy pudding” and soon the others would join in with “fart face” and more potty talk. She had tried everything from ignoring it to giving time outs and nothing stopped it.Another mom explained what worked for her. She told her children that potty talk needed to be done in the bathroom. They were welcome to go into the bathroom, shut the door and enjoy as much potty talk as they wanted!

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  Wired for Noise

• Of Girls, Boys, and Gender

  Summer

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:51 am

  photo credit: beelerspace There was a time when I wanted a daughter. A girl that I could share the stuff of female-ness with. I got 2 boys. But that was OK. The more I looked around the world and looked back on my own experiences, the more I decided trying to raise a girl was tough. And I didn’t think I had it in me to battle the nonstop sexualizing of little girls. So naturally, I was then visited by the surprise pregnancy faerie who brought me a daughter. And with her an overwhelming supply of Disney princess themed, bubblegum pink, gender enforcing rules on a stick. Or on a Wii mote.

• Cloth Diaper Love

  Summer

  4 Nov 2009 | 5:06 am

  photo credit: tiffanywashko Once upon a time I was disgusted by the idea of cloth diapers. I turned my nose up at them, made faces at the idea of washing and reusing a diaper, and became grossed out when I read other bloggers talk about them. And then I had a child with a severe reaction to the chemicals in disposable diapers. Evan was only 9 months old and covered in a blistering rash that nothing could touch. I tried every cream on the market, let him be naked as much as I could, and took him to the doctor over and over again. Finally, frustrated and a bit scared, I bought some cheap cloth…

• November Is Family Literacy Month

  Summer

  2 Nov 2009 | 9:07 am

  photo credit: ninahale I remember being little and having my own big book of children’s stories. It was a mixed lot stuff, from classic stories to newer ones. I fell in love with Richard Scarry in that book, everything he wrote seemed to be made of magic. I was lucky that I had family members that valued reading, encouraged it and pushed me to be a reader. In case you didn’t know, November is Family Literacy Month. To celebrate this month Better World Books is hosting a special sale: buy any four used children’s books for only $10. The great thing about buying from Better…

• Time To Move On

  Summer

  2 Nov 2009 | 4:50 am

  photo credit: brownpau When we moved into this house last year I had hoped it would be a short solution. The house was cute at first, but it seemed like each day a new problem appeared. Now I think it should just be knocked down and a descent house put in it’s place. The last few months we’ve spent every free minute searching for a new place to live. Something more permanent, more secure, and preferibly with a landlord that actually gives a crap. Despite there being a flood of homes on the market we’ve had no luck. Everything was either out of our budget, as bad as the one…

• Halloween Photos

  Summer

  1 Nov 2009 | 11:55 am

  Saturday night I was attacked by a punk rocker, a clown, and a baby mouse. It was frightening, especially after the sugar kicked in. The kids had a blast, got far too much candy, and are already making plans for next year’s event. We made Evan’s costume from clothes he already had, and got Trey’s and Saffron’s costumes at a thrift shop for a couple bucks. Trey’s had a rip in the leg that I had to sew, but it was small and manageable. Evan Saff had a great time. She spent the whole time in the sling squealing and bouncing her body. Everything was just so fun and…

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  Telling It Like It Is

• Earn Extra Money From Home in Your Spare Time Freelance Writing Online

  Lin

  5 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  Do you need to make online cash? A lot of people feel the need to make money online and if you are someone who wants to earn extra money from home in your spare time or on a full-time basis to help pay the bills, freelance writing should be at the top of your list of things to learn how to do. There are a lot of ways to make money from home, and I’m not referring to stuffing envelopes, doing paid online surveys or trying to make money mystery shopping. Nor am I going to recommend any kind of “earn money at home” job that is nothing but a scam. If you want or need to earn money from…

• Freelance Writing Guide to Freelance Writing – Get Paid to Write Online

  Lin

  4 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  Do you want to become a freelance writer and get paid to write online or offline as a well paid writer? Do you know what freelance writing is and how much money you can make as a freelancer? Do you want to quit your job and work from home writing freelance articles, perhaps as a newspaper or magazine writer, and get paid to write? Maybe you are a stay-at-home mom or you lost your job in the recession and want to know how to become a freelance writer and work for yourself without the stress and worry of where the next paycheck will come from. Well then, you should seriously consider the fact…

• How to Manipulate Parents and Get Parents to Do What You Want

  Lin

  29 Oct 2009 | 8:21 pm

  Learning how to manipulate parents, and doing whatever is deemed necessary to get parents to do what kids, teens and adult children want, sometimes turns into a virtual war between kids and parents. Manipulating parents, often referred to as emotional extortion, means that there are kids of all ages who will do just about anything to get parents to say yes to something, even when saying yes puts parents in a precarious position. Do children manipulate parents? Oh yes they do, and adult children are just as good at stooping to whatever level they see fit to get their parents to do what the kid…

• Genealogy, Family Tree Maker Family History Software, Genealogy Records Research

  Lin

  28 Oct 2009 | 4:00 am

  Genealogy research and tracing my family tree history has been an interest and hobby of mine for several years. October is Family History Month and there is no better way to celebrate but to begin creating a family tree of your own with names, stories, photos, vital records, birth dates, marriages, divorces, deaths etc for a complete family history of your ancestry and roots. Genealogy or ancestry research can seem rather daunting for a beginner, especially when you consider the time it takes collecting family documents and records kept in old Bibles, going to libraries checking through large…

• Need a Divorce Lawyer? Common Divorce Mistakes Women Make

  Lin

  24 Oct 2009 | 3:33 pm

  Amy writes, “Do I need a divorce lawyer or can I represent myself?” After 30 years of marriage her husband wants a divorce, which begs the questions: Do you need a divorce lawyer to handle your divorce case? Why? When should you hire a divorce lawyer, and when is it okay to get a do-it-yourself divorce with or without the help of divorce books or online divorce forms? Divorce laws are different in each state, and while you can get a divorce without a lawyer, doing so can be very risky if you don’t know what you are doing. One of the biggest mistakes women (and men) make in matters…

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  I Never Signed Up For This

• Girls Gone Greek

  Darryle Pollack

  7 Nov 2009 | 12:11 am

  Lately people tell me my blog-life sounds like one big party.  Which is pretty ironic.  I might be partly a party animal but I’m not exactly living in a party town. Actually that’s been one of the hardest parts of learning to live in a small town.  Especially this small town—where they roll up the sidewalk at 6 and you can barely get  a glass of wine after dark. Though the party scene for me lately has been fueled by something else. No—not what you’re thinking.   I mean  Estrogen. My birthday parties,  the trip to Big Sur, to the Women’s Conference; it’s been a…

• The secret of raising a responsible kid

  Darryle Pollack

  5 Nov 2009 | 1:59 am

  I have that rarest of treasures:  two of them.  Two children who did the stuff everyone wants their kids to do: Not losing sweaters and jackets. Getting school permissions slips signed and turned in on time. Not forgetting lunchboxes at home  (okay,  just once or twice) Now they’re older– and they’ve turned into two responsible adults. They fill out their own forms and applications. They handle their own finances. They remember to write thank you notes without being reminded. People who know my kids often ask me— what’s the secret?    I give a little Mona Lisa…

• brain power

  Darryle Pollack

  4 Nov 2009 | 12:16 am

  Possibly I”m one of the last people on the planet to hear about Jill Bolte Taylor. I didn’t read her book, or watch her with Oprah, or see the video of her talk at TED that went viral.  I didn’t  know that in 2008, TIME Magazine  named her one of the 100 Most Influential People in the world. I read her bio in the program, just before she spoke at a luncheon I attended today.   And she didn’t exactly have me at “hello.” “Just what I need,”  I thought.  “Besides cancer and Alzheimer’s , a new thing to worry about:  getting a…

• From grateful—to greedy

  Darryle Pollack

  2 Nov 2009 | 11:57 pm

  Life is short; eat dessert first. As a breast cancer survivor, I’ve always  followed that rule. Life is short.   I  feel  amazingly lucky just to be here; to be alive;  blessed by extra time I didn’t expect to have—so far, 14 years and counting. I’ve always felt young and optimistic and full of life and a sense of possibility with all that’s still ahead of me.  And yet lately there’s something else.   I feel a little window starting to close, and a new idea dawning—-” I might only have a few good years left.” Suddenly, just being…

• Is the nest half-empty or half-full?

  Darryle Pollack

  1 Nov 2009 | 11:00 pm

  One day after Halloween and I’m eating my words (in addition to eating all the leftover candy…) There are some advantages to an empty nest.   With the kids gone,  you can act like kids. Here’s how V and I spent the night:  No costumes.  No handing out candy.  No tricks. Just treats.    We went to a slumber party. Not a big party;  just us sleeping over at Jane’s….so we wouldn’t have to drive home.   I HIGHLY recommend this. I also recommend— for the ultimate sleepover experience —-you find a friend like Jane—-always generous and…

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  MommyKnows.com

• OH NO it’s November!

  MommyKnows

  3 Nov 2009 | 9:48 pm

  For those of us above the 49th parallel, November generally means the end of fall and beginning of winter (snow and freezing temps). For me it means lost mittens and hats, melt downs over outerwear (see previous year –> here) and a much larger heating bill. It’s painful. Last year I took the pain one step further and I did the NaBloPoMo requiring me to write a blog post each day in the month of November or admit defeat (no defeat admitting permitted here). To spice life up a little, I started my medication (eight injections a week) and decided to drive to California, take part in…

• Not to Be Forgotten …

  MommyKnows

  1 Nov 2009 | 11:31 am

  Aren’t you happy Halloween is over? I’m not really a Halloween lover, it’s a lot of fuss for Candy. I do remember how much I loved it as a kid though, and I try not to be a ‘Scrooge’! This year, I decided that the kids could be whatever they wanted, only rule … we weren’t buying any costumes or expensive supplies. You saw Lizzy’s Headless Marie Antoinette (she won first place at school … YAY!). We did have to buy some spray foam and duct tape for this one, otherwise this was totally made from stuff around the house. **EDIT: Lizzy’s…

• With Her Head in Her Hands …

  MommyKnows

  30 Oct 2009 | 10:13 am

  **EDIT: Lizzy’s Costume has been chosen as a finalist in the Inhabitat Contest: Can you vote for this one? http://greenhalloween.inhabitat.com/finalist/ and in this contest ScanDigital Halloween Photo Contest — to vote you just have to click on the ‘like’ link under the photo (it’s on facebook, so if you are a member there is no sign up … just one click) or go here: www.facebook.com/scandigital - Thank you! ** I sent Lizzy to school today with her head in her hands, LITERALLY! Told yah! We were up way too early doing hair and make up! It’s been a week…

• The Coolest & Creepiest Potion Labels – FREE

  MommyKnows

  26 Oct 2009 | 9:03 am

  The kids had friends over Friday evening to do some Halloween crafts. I decided to get into the Halloween spirit and decorate the dining room (just a little bit). They were very excited. It takes so very little … I should do it more! We covered most ALL of our kitchen jars and canned goods with these free printable labels from Love Manor. How cool are these? Sam and his buddies loved them. Unfortunately, all our dry goods are back on the counters with creepy labels still intact and it looks like the only thing cooking in my kitchen is witch’s broth (DON’T even go there!)…

• Colourful Kool-Aid Jammers Lunch Sack Craft (How-To)

  MommyKnows

  21 Oct 2009 | 4:48 pm

  Edit: I have been having problems with the comments (some getting through, others not). I am hoping the issue is fixed, however, if you have trouble posting a comment please let me know –> kim (at) mommyknows (dot) com. Thank you! Sam is home sick. He’s definitely not well, but not unwell enough to lay in bed all day. Truthfully in a non-H1N1 world he’d be at school. They sent him home yesterday, as he was pale, complaining of a sore throat and didn’t go out for recess. Apparently, if he doesn’t go out for recess … he IS sick. I think he has a cold, nothing…

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  SafetyClicks

• Status Update Netiquette

  Francis Duncan

  6 Nov 2009 | 4:54 am

  Filed under: Internet Lingo, Social Networking, Articles of InterestAn article I read recently points out some of the unwritten rules of Facebook status updates. Your status update should be something of interest, it suggests. "Interesting" means different things to different people.In looking at my own Facebook page, here are some ways my contacts, or "friends" use Facebook status updates. One friend updates to say where he is working for the day. (He works remotely some days, some days in one office, some days in another office.) His status serves as a notice to colleagues where he can be…

• Friending the Family

  Francis Duncan

  26 Oct 2009 | 1:18 am

  Filed under: Internet Lingo, Social Networking, Technology, Articles of InterestSwitched.com recently had an article giving some good (and cheeky) advice about being friends with family members on social networking sites such as Facebook.This has been talked about on the SafetyClicks Blog It speaks to a common theme - behave online as you would offline. Understand that privacy is not synonymous with social networking. And lastly - if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all.What advice do you have regarding social networking, friending family members, and online…

• Teens and Texting

  Francis Duncan

  23 Oct 2009 | 7:11 am

  Filed under: Technology, Safety News, Articles of Interest, SextingThis article by Intelihealth gives some basic statistics about teens and texting: * Nearly 80% of teenagers own cell phones, up 36% from 2005. * The average age for getting a first cell phone is between 10 and 11; about 50% of kids 8 to 12 years old have one. * Teens with cell phones average 2,272 texts per month (that works out to 75 per day), and only 203 calls. * More than 40% say they can text blindfolded. Advantages to teen texting: - Most carriers have a relatively inexpensive "unlimited texting" plan.- You don't have to…

• The SafetyClicks Blog Has Moved!

  Sangeetha Narasimhan

  2 Oct 2009 | 10:55 am

  As you have probably noticed, the SafetyClicks Blog now has a new home at http://blog.safetyclicks.com Please update your bookmarks with our new Web site address. We will continue to provide parents, teens and kids with information and tools to help keep you and your family safer online. Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

• Top 5 Social Networking Sites

  Francis Duncan

  30 Sep 2009 | 11:06 pm

  Filed under: Internet Safety Tips, Sharing Info Online, Social Networking, Articles of InterestAccording to this article from examiner.com, the top five social networking sites (based on number of users) are:MySpace (263 Million users)Facebook (250 Million users)Friendster (90 Million users)Tagged (70 Million users)Bebo ( 40 Million users)Do you know all of these sites? Do your teens? Do they have profiles on any or all of them?In the spirit of National Cyber Security Month, take some time to learn about the top social networking sites you don't already know about. Then talk about what you…

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  Kids Stuff World

• Toodley Do Lists

  Stacy

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:14 pm

  That’s right – it’s about that time. Time to start gearing up for all things holly and jolly and bright. The process won’t seem nearly as daunting with this adorable Christmas download from Tricia Rennea. Suddenly my list looks cheery, not scary… * Just wait till you see all the goodies we have for those folks on the Not-Naughty lists * Related posts:Gift Tags Galore This has most certainly been a season of giving...Free Holiday Music Downloads !!!! Did you know that Amazon is giving away a...Just had to share this Giveaway I came across this cute little giveaway…

• What to wear for Family Portraits

  Stacy

  4 Nov 2009 | 7:24 pm

  You may recall a few weeks ago we offered our services FOR FREE to any willing takers for all matters decor, style, and shopping. The perfect gift from us to you, just in time for the holiday season. Well, today – we had our first opportunity to help a friend out with a style dilemma. Many of you may already know Jackie from her fantabulous site, Sweetie Pie Pumpkin Noodle {how can you not love her with a website name like that}. Jackie found herself in quite a conundrum when preparing for family portraits this week. I know the feeling – I usually end up buying WAY TOO MANY pieces…

• Family Time – Snow White Movie Night

  Stacy

  1 Nov 2009 | 9:10 pm

  Halloween may be over, but chances are your child is still craving a little dress up time and imaginative play. What better way to give in to their desires, than with a themed movie night that is bound to be fun for your whole family! I’m starting a new KSW series, I’ll call - Family Movie Nights – it’s kind of fitting that our first movie in the series is known as The One That Started Them All,  the first animated feature film in America, ~*~*~ Snow White ~*~*~. From time to time, KSW will feature fun ideas for family togetherness that will not only help bring your…

• KSW’s Handmade Toddler Costumes

  Stacy

  29 Oct 2009 | 3:58 pm

  I’ve gotten alot of requests recently to share my personal creations here on the website, and there’s something I must confess — while I have no issue publishing all the creative things I find during my countless hours scouring the Blog World, I’m a bit camera shy when it comes to publishing my own endeavors. Nevertheless, I’ve been working up the courage for quite some time now and I guess if I have to make a personal debut … what better time then now! These were my toddlers handmade costumes last year and they were quite a hit with my kids and the…

• Hoo wants to be an owl?

  Stacy

  29 Oct 2009 | 12:01 pm

  I DO! I DO! Ellen from The Long Thread has long been a hero of KSW since sharing her Scrappy Owl Treat bag last year. I’ll go as far as to say, she has outdone herself this year with this simple, DIY owl costume. I want to make one for everyone in my family {except the baby – he’ll still be the superhero owl posted below} Happy Halloween! Related posts:Martha to the Rescue By now, you all know I have somewhat of...Coolest DIY Costume Ever! Hands down my favorite DIY Halloween Costume, EVER!!! Better...Sea Inspired DIY Costumes I’m super impressed with the new addition…

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  My Thoughts, Ideas, and Ramblings

• Wanna Get Away?

  Lisa

  4 Nov 2009 | 8:59 am

  What mother hasn’t felt this way? With the past week (broken laptop, couldn’t find flu shots for my kids, now Will’s sick), I definitely would love to get away just for a weekend.  When Country Inn & Suites by Carlson asked if I’d like a woman’s weekend retreat, how could I say no? Next weekend, I’ll be heading to a local Country Inn & Suites by Carlson for a night.  My goal is get away from it all — work, reviews, the internet (though I am going to bring the laptop with since I can’t completely walk away from my internet addiction),…

• Wednesday’s Hero

  Lisa

  4 Nov 2009 | 8:39 am

  This Week’s Post Was Written By Greta Col. Henry J. Cook Past National Commander, Military Order of the Purple Heart, after serving over fifteen years with MOPH, gaining invaluable experience while in the positions of National Aide-de-Camp, Chapter Commander, Region Commander, National Junior Vice Commander and National Senior Vice Commander. He was a career Special Forces (Green Beret) officer for thirty-three of the total forty-two years that he was on combined active and reserve duty. His combat tours began in 1967-68 when he operated behind enemy lines in for extended periods of…

• Please Help Our Soldiers

  Lisa

  2 Nov 2009 | 10:16 am

  My son’s teacher heads up this great cause and I wanted to make you all aware of it. This is the letter she sends home at the beginning of her classes: My name is Jacky and I am an early education instructor with the Oak Lawn Park District.  I started mailing boxes when one of my student’s only parent was sent to Iraq.  Now, boxes go out weekly to each soldier on my list who shares the boxes with their units.  I know first hand from the soldiers who return stateside that these boxes mean so much more than their contents;  they mean people care.  The families back home also…

• Green, Green Grass

  Lisa

  1 Nov 2009 | 5:53 am

  Up until recently, we lived next door to an abandoned house.  The prior owners didn’t abandon it.  Actually, it was the builder and the bank.  It was terrible.  In the summer, the grass was taller than I am (now granted, I am short — but still, taller than me).  When we would take the kids for a walk around the block, we would actually have to carry them through  the jungle that was taking over the sidewalk in front of their house.  It was obvious that a landscaping company had not been called to take care of the mess.  How did that effect our lawn care?  Well, we ended…

• A Little Pest Here, A Little Pest There

  Lisa

  31 Oct 2009 | 6:52 am

  With that title, you may think I’m talking about the kids. This time, I’m not.  I’m not even talking about the Halloween kids that will be knocking at my door shortly!    Instead,  I’m talking about real pest control.  I’ll be honest — this isn’t something I even thought about until I owned a home.  When we lived in a Aurora, we had a huge pest problem.  We didn’t need termite control or anything like that.  Instead, we kept getting those worm looking bugs.  They covered our basement, and they were just gross.  Here, we just have a box…

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  And You Will

• Mental Abusive Relationships

  HART KAHUNA

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:01 pm

  Relationships look like a walk in the park when they are smooth and nice with a loving touch to it, making a whole variety of an aroma. But what if it goes all wrong, and what if the partner changes to a totally different person to what you have expected and experienced so far? It becomes a total disaster if the turning point has also been passed. Well this is why it is so important to identify mentally abusive relationships as soon as you can. For both the profession and the personal life of ones; these mentally abusive relationships are a huge threat. It could make things look horrible and…

• Be Smart When Choosing Your Bed And Breakfast.

  HART KAHUNA

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:44 pm

  All hopes to receive good time during the holiday. The majority of people which leave for Bed and Breakfast are on the budget and do not so care of number, they simply want a convenient bed and a bathroom with warm water. However, all can go not so during your holiday if you need to spend a lot of time for a place, you can find out that it is not a correct choice for your rest. What happens, if the rain goes during all your stay in a bed and a breakfast? It is obvious that even if it is raining during a holiday, all of you still want as much as possible to use it. Unfortunately, the rain many…

• Instant Expert: Fly Fishing Collectibles

  HART (1-800-HART)

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am

  A one-of-a-kind resource – covering the history and how-tos of collecting fly fishing gear – from its English origins to present day techniques and equipment, with in-depth information about rods, …   $19.50 | Collectibles Books | Read more... » Post Ad Purchase:  Intext Link

• Find Out More Information About Casino Bonus inside this Blog Publication

  HART KAHUNA

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:02 pm

  32Red Internet casino 32Red is registered in the United Kingdom casinos which are based in Gibraltar which aspires to give the best experience of casino online. All of them are casino games you would expect to find in an Internet casino, including bones, the Share poker, roulette and is much more with everyone quantity of variants for a choice, and also a large quantity of slot machines. Bonus for when you sign with 32Red online of a casino you can apply for a salutatory bonus at the rate of £ 100 in a gift. They are welcomed by bonuses on 100 % that is they will double the first…

• Email Marketing Campaign Software

  HART KAHUNA

  5 Nov 2009 | 9:19 pm

  Any business that strives to be competitive on the Internet needs to use email marketing as a form of keeping communications with clients open. If you manage to integrate new prospects into business plans and provide great advantages to returning clients, business profitability increases. When there are too many contacts in the mailing list to write to individually and manually, an email marketing campaign software becomes necessary. Email bulk senders or email blusters are other names for the same strategic tool meant to customize messages and spread the news about your latest service or…

• 
  Play-Activities.com

• Things we like to do when we are 3

  Melitsa

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:08 pm

  …well almost 4! There have been a few discussions on Momslikeme  that got me thinking, asking about learning games or activities to play with their preschool  children at home. Here’s what my MO does…………… Find the hidden objects in the magazine He doesn’t have to sit and stay. He can bounce in place and skip pages. It’s all in fun. He can get lost in the page and determined to find that last hidden object. He laughs because the pictures are funny. He sees things differently now. He gets that things aren’t always what they seem. He…

• Chums

  Melitsa

  4 Nov 2009 | 10:33 pm

  The Wordless Wednesday was a photograph of babies on a mat. This was one of those classic mummy moments. We were a group of friends who had gotten pregnant one after each other by sheer coincidence. December, January, February and the March one was being nursed somewhere else for this shot. They are all our second children. This was one of those lovely Italian days when the big kids could jump in and out of the supervised pool and the mummy’s could chat and finally plonk down the little ones for some outdoor time while we could visit. The babies had been fascinated with the edges of the…

• WW: Chums

  Melitsa

  4 Nov 2009 | 5:26 am

  Happy Wordless Wednesday! Find out the story behind this Wordless Wednesday post tomorrow. For more Wordless Wednesday posts go to WordlessWednesday.com and 5minutesformom.com

• What kids music are you listening to?

  Melitsa

  3 Nov 2009 | 12:39 pm

  This post was inspired by winning a Putumayo Kids CD from Parentingunpluggedradio.com. Can’t wait to get it and dance around to it. We love Nursery Rhymes because of all the great things you learn. But if we want to develop a diverse musical taste in our kids we can’t have the Nursery Rhymes CD on repeat all the time. Our kids listen to our musical tastes and smile, wince and turn off ( now they can) ones they don’t like. There are lots of kids music CDs out there and lots of diverse music that is kid friendly. We’re looking to expand our musical at home- what child…

• 10 tried and tested alternatives to Baby Einstein DVDs

  Melitsa

  29 Oct 2009 | 11:19 pm

  I shared our Baby Einstein story earlier this week and left saying, ..It is possible to not use Einstein DVDs as a babysitter but it does require you to be a lot more creative. It’s not always possible .. I asked on Twitter what other people do as an alternative to TV as an electronic babysitter for babies and toddlers. Here are 10 play activities or suggestions in no particular order. Toddlers and babies NoFlashcards: My standby is play dough with new exciting tools ( potato masher, safety scissors) or this http://tiny.cc/iaiya taramcclenahan: BOOKS are a love of my little guy. Also a ball…

• 
  Bedtime Stories My Kids Love

• Can You See the Ghost?

  24 Oct 2009 | 4:35 pm

  This is a car advertisement from Great Britain. When they finished filming the ad, the film editor noticed something moving along the side of the car, like a ghostly white mist. They found out that a person had been killed a year earlier in that exact same spot. The ad was never put on TV because of the unexplained ghostly phenomenon. Watch the front end of the car as it clears the trees in the middle of the screen and you'll see the white mist crossing in front of the car then following it along the road....Spooky! Is it a ghost, or is it simply mist? You decide. If you listen to the ad,…

• Where's My BIG Toe?

  17 Oct 2009 | 3:55 pm

  The Ghoul is out of the Graveyard and tells a terrifying tale of a missing big toe! Hear this terrifying Halloween tale on today's Bedtime Stories My Kids Love.MP3 File - Click Here to Download Podcast GREAT DEALS FOR BEDTIME STORIES LISTENERS! Save 10% on all your pet's needs at PetMeds.com Up to 20% off on great athletic gear at Eastbay.com Get your own .com domain name for $7.49* bedtime7

• The Text Message

  10 Oct 2009 | 8:20 pm

  It's October and that means we let loose the Graveyard Ghoul to spin some of his favorite spooky Bedtime Stories and today he brings a graveyard favorite, The Text Message. Enjoy our special Halloween edition of Bedtime Stories My Kids Love.MP3 File - Click Here to Download Podcast GREAT DEALS FOR BEDTIME STORIES LISTENERS! Save 10% on all your pet's needs at PetMeds.com Up to 20% off on great athletic gear at Eastbay.com Get your own .com domain name for $7.49* bedtime7

• Adventures of Microscopic Man - Redefining the Creature

  19 Sep 2009 | 1:11 pm

  YaiYai is on the procedure table and waiting for the scientists of NanoFuture to bring back his lost memories. Will the process work? Will he survive the procedure?Find out what happens in today's episode of the Adventures of Microscopic Man.MP3 File - Click Here to Download Podcast GREAT DEALS FOR BEDTIME STORIES LISTENERS! Up to 10% off the coolest gear at Brookstone.comSave 10% on all your pet's needs at PetMeds.com Up to 20% off on great athletic gear at Eastbay.com Get your own .com domain name for $7.49* bedtime7

• We Will Never Forget - A Tribute to 9-11

  9 Sep 2009 | 7:50 pm

  For one week, let's put aside the Adventures Microscopic Man and remember those who died for our freedoms on our own soil. MP3 File - Click Here to Download Podcast

• 
  Jodifur

• Shoe Friday #53

  jodifur

  6 Nov 2009 | 3:12 am

  Danielle's shoes.

• Critical and Judgmental: That's Me!

  jodifur

  4 Nov 2009 | 4:21 am

  Last week I went to a training for work.  Part of that training was discovering our True colors.  You know, some of that What Color Is Your Parachute stuff that is sure to completely change the way you live your life and increase your productivity at work.I'm a Gold.  Which is also, the most boring color of the rainbow.  I'm dependable, and conservative.  The person you would like to guide you out of a storm and do your taxes.  WAHOO!  Be my friend.  Hang out with me!  Let's have a beer and you can be fun and I'll sit there like a lump on a log.  And also,…

• Proudly Passing Guilt From One Generation To The Next Since 2005

  jodifur

  3 Nov 2009 | 4:43 am

  After going potty, Michael turns to me and asks me this question-"Mommy, did we move because I broke my old toilet?"I have to leave the room I'm laughing so hard."Why are you laughing at me?""I'm not laughing at you Michael, that is just a very silly thing to say.""Well, is that why we moved?""No Michael, you did nothing wrong.  We moved because I wanted you have a big backyard to play in.""Oh.  Thank you, Mommy."   This poor child.  I wonder what else he has been carrying around for months.  No wonder he is having…

• Jam Packed Action Packed Halloween Weekend

  jodifur

  2 Nov 2009 | 4:56 am

  Wow, um how many Halloween activities can one 4 year old have?  Between a party at school, trick or treating, OT, swimming, and Disney on Ice** thrown in for good measure, we were on the go all weekend. I spent 3 hours at the school on Friday, and let's just say I didn't see what they are seeing.  The school and I are at an impasse.  Over the next two weeks we will have two private evaluators going in and then decisions will be made on that front. But Michael seemed to enjoy his school's Halloween party and parade, and that is the most important thing. But, on to happier…

• Shoe Friday #52: A Year Of Shoe Friday

  jodifur

  30 Oct 2009 | 4:09 am

  We have been doing this nonsense for a year.  I thought this was a call for celebration.  I decided to celebrate by driving myself crazy and creating a collage of shoes.  Don't ask. Thank you for all the submissions so far and here is to another year of shoes.

• 
  Parenting Advice Blog

• Oct 24, Baby Sleep Problems - getting baby to sleep, toddler sleep problems,

  24 Oct 2009 | 5:56 am

  Getting baby to sleep seems to be the focus of much of baby sleep problems in the early days of new parenting

• Oct 24, Toddlers Sharing - Teaching Your Toddler to Share

  24 Oct 2009 | 5:41 am

  What about toddlers sharing or children sharing toys? Read more about teaching your toddler to share and understand the developmental process about children sharing toys.

• Oct 24, Parenting Links - 2

  24 Oct 2009 | 5:10 am

  These parenting links are here to benefit you. Only recommended sites will be included.

• Oct 16, Uninvolved Parenting Style - Neglectful, Indifferent, or Dismissive Parents

  16 Oct 2009 | 12:35 pm

  An Uninvolved Parenting style, often called neglectful, indifferent or dismissive parenting, is both unresponsive and undemanding toward the child

• Oct 14, Self Esteem - ways to improve self esteem, self confidence, self respect, self image

  14 Oct 2009 | 11:34 am

  Self esteem - how we think about ourselves and whether we find value in our selves, translates into how we teach, show and mirror these qualities to our children.

• 
  Shaman Mother

• Cherish or Perish….Balloon Boy, Jon & Kate, Michael Jackson

  Shaman Mother

  19 Oct 2009 | 11:50 am

  CHERISH…..what a lovely word.  Our children need to be cherished. Society says that children are our national treasure, but our actions say otherwise.  The recent balloon boy incident is clearly a demonstration of using children for the parents’ own self-interest.  The poor child spoke the truth and seconds later, vomited in fear of his father’s wrath. Michael Jackson is another example of a child used for his Father’s ambitions;  he  craved for his childhood to be returned to him by creating his Neverland ranch.  Clearly Michael never healed from being forced…

• Will they put ‘How much I Weigh’ on my Gravestone?

  Shaman Mother

  19 Apr 2009 | 7:26 pm

  Women’s daily obsession with their weight got me to ask this question. I have to admit that I weigh myself on a daily basis. It started during my teen age years. I was always very slim.  Criticism from my mother and her fears about me getting fat like her Mother, planted negative thought forms about weight. Bridget Jones, the beloved character of books and movies depicts how most of us are riding the wave of weight gain fear. Our whole sense of our self seems to weigh-in on what the number on the scale says. WOW! Is this how we want to spend our energy…worrying, and grading who…

• Shaman Mother’s “7″ Golden Rules before you get pregnant - #7 Game Day(…my husband’s term)!

  Shaman Mother

  16 Apr 2009 | 7:18 am

  Golden Rule #7 - Game Day! You have been studying the Golden Rules and it’s time for Game Day (OK…… I compromised on this term with my husband)!  Preparing yourself for motherhood is the most important thing you can do in your life. We spend time preparing for exams, events, and many other outside activities, but we give little thought to this most sacred happening. We all know by now, that the stork doesn’t drop off a baby in a bundle to earth. The sexual act creates life. Many couples come to a point where they decide to get pregnant and suddenly, the act of making…

• Shaman Mother’s “7″ Golden Rules before you get pregnant - #6 Find Fulfillment within Yourself!

  Shaman Mother

  16 Apr 2009 | 6:23 am

  Golden Rule #6 - Find fulfillment within yourself! I have often heard excited new mothers stating that they felt complete after giving birth. It is wonderful to feel complete with a new baby, but really believing your words can ultimately lead you down a difficult road with your relationship with your child.  No one here on earth is here to complete you. This is your job. Wholeness comes from within.  The more you accept this as a truth, you will not be placing unrealistic expectations on your child. How many people have you witnessed that are living through their children? What to do /…

• Shaman Mother’s “7″ Golden Rules before you get pregnant - #5 Heal your Physical Body!

  Shaman Mother

  28 Feb 2009 | 7:14 am

  Golden Rule #5 - Heal your Physical Body!  A  V.I P. is coming to your home for dinner (possibly President Obama or the Dali Lama).  What would you do? You would probably clean your house; dress in your finest clothing and prepare a glorious feast. Your upcoming pregnancy needs to be viewed with the same perspective…. an important guest is arriving soon. Your body is the temple which will be hosting this great guest. What will you do to prepare?  What to do / action steps:  Clean and detoxify your body of any bad habits such as smoking, drugs, and excessive drinking and eating.

• 
  Dater's Ed

• Technology Trap

  mama j

  19 Oct 2009 | 8:48 am

  Run a red light, event burnt orange in California and a high-tech camera takes a picture of your license plate so that the police department can send you a ticket. Crazy. No officer within miles. The camera doesn’t lie. Laws are enforced. Technology can sometimes be your worst enemy. Your student was dead wrong when she thought she wouldn’t get caught.Recently, a young man in our town thought he wouldn’t get caught either; “sexting” two underage girls didn’t just leave tangible evidence on the cells phones but could possibly prove “without a shadow…” While police officers…

• Best Choice

  mama j

  12 Oct 2009 | 11:03 am

• She's so HOT!!!

  mama j

  1 Oct 2009 | 9:09 am

  What could be better than driving a convertible in Southern California with the warm ocean breeze blowing your hair and the sun on your face? Sounds divine, right? Well, there is a point at which “hot” takes on a new meaning. My car is adorable, metallic blue with a black top. The “idea” of driving this hot little car around town made me giggle with anticipation. The reality was, however, that this particular car has no air conditioning and on my first day of driving the temperature reached 105. Not fun. Trapped inside this sweatbox with no escape from the ball of fire in the sky…

• Repo-Man

  mama j

  7 Sep 2009 | 9:31 am

• Too Good to be True

  mama j

  10 Aug 2009 | 6:33 am

  My husband and I went to a lovely wedding last week. Over 200 people dancing and celebrating the beginning of what we all hope will be a beautiful marriage. The food would have made Martha Stewart proud and the music kept my toes tappin’ in my “too-tight-wedding-only” shoes.At one point the DJ asked all married couples to please make their way past the dessert table to the dance floor. As the couples young and old began to slow dance, the DJ would intermittently ask each pair to leave the floor if they had been married less than one year, two years, five years…you get the idea.Each…

• 
  Oooh Baby Green Living and Parenting Ideas

• SWINE FLU SYMPTOMS

  J Claire

  31 Oct 2009 | 10:50 am

  I'm happy to post that after a long haul, the swine flu symptoms are on the decline around my house. Another happy dance that I'm willing to do is in celebration of the fact that for some odd reason that I'm the only one in the family that got sick. One of the comments that I got was from a visitor who asked me how I knew that I had the swine flu and not your garden variety seasonal flu virus. The answer to that question is that I do not know for certain because as bad as I felt, I never felt the need to visit the emergency room or for that matter to even contact our doctor for antiviral…

• SWINE FLU and MRSA

  J Claire

  25 Oct 2009 | 10:11 am

  I’m here to tell you that the swine flu and MRSA infections are a painful match. My family is exhausted and while I feel that every day brings me a little relief from the symptoms, there are moments when I feel that I’m about to relapse...big time. Of all times for the only adult male in the house to have a full blown MRSA episode this is not a great time and perhaps one of the worst. To give you some background that illness has kept me from sharing, the man of the house has had a little accident that has left him with some cuts and scrapes which at first seemed to be no big deal. Moms…

• DO YOU THINK THERE IS TOO MUCH VIOLENCE ON TV

  J Claire

  19 Oct 2009 | 7:41 am

  I just got off the phone with a mom who asked me, "Do you think there is too much violence on TV?" Would you like to know what my knee jerk reaction to this question was? Well, since you asked so nicely I will tell you that I almost replied that there was nothing BUT violence on television. The only reason that I bit my tongue and tempered my remarks was that I realized that I would be wrong because there is some excellent kids' programming available. Sure, some of it is terrible and sets a very poor example for children. And the fact that "Reading Rainbows" has been cancelled hacked me off…

• PUMPKIN BREAD RECIPE with CANNED PUMPKIN

  J Claire

  17 Oct 2009 | 10:34 am

  I would rather use pumpkin that I process myself but I have kept a pumpkin bread recipe with canned pumpkin handy for those times when I need to whip up a batch and don't have any pumpkins around.J CLAIRE'S PUNKIN BREAD3 cups of sifted plain flour 1 tsp cinnamon 1 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice or allspice1/2 tsp of baking powder 1 cup Crisco or 2 sticks of margarine1 tsp of baking soda 2 3/4 cup sugar 1 tsp nutmeg 3 eggs1 tsp vanilla (1) 1 pound can of pumpkinLine two small coffee cans with waxed paper without poking holes in the paper or leaving seams where your bread batter can leak…

• RECYCLING BABY STUFF

  J Claire

  8 Oct 2009 | 8:04 am

  I’m all for recycling baby stuff not only to keep the landfills from spilling over but to save money. Not willing to be penny rich and pound poor or spend a dime to save a nickel or vice versa, I bought quality baby clothes and shoes for my first daughter in gender neutral (well most of the time) styles. Knowing that there would be more little ones coming down the pike (odd name for a vagina, right?) and that I could reap huge financial benefits by using these items to dress, feed and entertain more than one newborn. Some of my efforts were more rewarding than others, but for the most part…

• 
  Mommy in Pink

• Shopping as Therapy

  Mommy In Pink

  28 Oct 2009 | 3:46 pm

  Today was a good day! It all started with the idea that I would just relax, stay in my pajamas and catch up on some cleaning. That all soon ended, when my husband came home with a handful of cash and told me to spend it any way I liked. Well...You Don't Have To Tell Me Twice! He must really LOVE me! The baby and I were outta there within 15 minutes and on our way to the downtown boutiques to get in some much needed shopping! And, what fun we had. While I tried on dresses and skirts and shoes galore, my baby played happily in her stroller while eating treats. I snagged some gorgeous designer…

• Untitled

  Mommy In Pink

  27 Oct 2009 | 11:17 am

  Sometimes, we all just need a break in life. I've been more than absent on this blog for the past few months due to personal issues, family matters, etc. After all, Life Happens!It's not that I don't want to write, but lately I just haven't felt compelled to do so other than getting out some feelings on the passing of my dog. I'm still dealing with that, but it definitely gets a little easier every day. I've been so busy trying to keep up with my one-year old daughter that I sometimes forget I'm even pregnant with another one on the way so very soon. How on earth am I going to handle a…

• Pregnancy Products I'm LOVING!

  Mommy In Pink

  27 Oct 2009 | 7:09 am

  So, now that I'm coasting through my second trimester, I've been pretty generous with the amount of creams and lotions that I apply.Thanks to the wonderful people over at Eden Fantasys, I was able to test out two incredible products designed specifically for Mama's-to-be! The Blooming Belly Balm & Healing Salve has been wonderful for my expanding waistline and the Breast Balm leaves my skin not only feeling soft but smelling great boasting a subtle scent of "Blossoming Rose." The ingredients listed are simple, including organic olive oil, pure essential oils, vitamin E and sweet almond…

• More Than You Know

  Mommy In Pink

  14 Oct 2009 | 6:18 pm

  I just wanted to say thank you to the outpouring of kindness and support that has come my way since the passing of my beloved dog "Holly Marie." The tears just stroll down my face as I read each and every comment. Your support means more to me than you all know. Thank You!This sadness has just overcome me the past couple of days and I find myself breaking down constantly. Like today for instance, when my daughter was snacking on Cheerios's, she usually has a tendency to throw or drop about half of what's given to her, and Holly would always be there to "hoover" up the mess, whereas my other…

• Today I Mourn...

  Mommy In Pink

  13 Oct 2009 | 6:56 am

  This is such a hard post to write, but I feel compelled to write it anyways...Yesterday, I made one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make, when I opted to put my beloved Mini Dachshund "Holly Marie" of 13 wonderful years to rest. She fell very ill last week and has not been able to recover, she was rapidly deteriorating and her quality of life diminished before our very eyes. She was sad, she was in pain and we all knew it was her time. I have cried so many tears, that I feel I have none left to spare. As my husband drove me to the vet yesterday, it was a time filled with sadness, as…

• 
  ecomii parenting blog

• Baby Deluxe

  Heather O'Neill

  3 Nov 2009 | 11:04 am

  With all of the delicious eco-friendly baby products on the market I often find myself coveting items made especially for infants. Recently I found myself fervently wishing that the Ruffle Blanket from Organica Deluxe would morph into an adult-sized wrap. Alas, it did not. One consolation is that if you wrap your baby in this delicious blanket [...]

• This Little Piggy Went Chemical-Free

  Heather O'Neill

  29 Oct 2009 | 9:01 am

  What is more precious than your baby? Knowing that your baby is completely chemical-free. We brought some of our littlest road testers on board for the Nascar of bathing events to find the best phthalates- and paraben-free (and in most cases organic) products on the market. So get ready to get all lathered up.

• 10 Environmental Toxins to Avoid

  Marie Oser

  9 Oct 2009 | 10:07 am

  While still in the womb, children are exposed to chemicals that can impair normal growth and development. This internal pollution persists as we are exposed to environmental toxins throughout life. Chemicals accumulate and interact within the body, causing illness¹. The range of maladies include, autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), epilepsy, Tourette syndrome and [...]

• A Banner Day for Reuse

  Heather O'Neill

  21 Sep 2009 | 6:25 am

  For parents of school-aged children the beginning of the school year means the beginning of another season altogether: birthday party season. Hosting an Earth-friendly birthday is no small feat for green-thinking parents but here is one part of the celebration that will earn you decoration from Mother Nature herself. Celebrate your little one’s special day again and [...]

• America’s Next Top Bottle

  Justin O'Neill

  18 Sep 2009 | 2:00 am

  By now, you’ve probably seen the grim statistics about water bottles.  The issue seems to be getting more and more media coverage lately. In case you haven’t heard the case against bottled water, here’s a brief summary: Pollution: 38 billion plastic water bottles are thrown out each year, contributing to a frightening “plastic stew” in the [...]

• 
  Organize Our Family Update

• Oct 11, Family Vacation Planning

  11 Oct 2009 | 2:47 am

  Family vacation planning guides you through the steps needed to plan your perfect holiday.

• Oct 6, A Focus on the Family and Home Getting Started Guide

  5 Oct 2009 | 5:38 pm

  Focus on the family and home with this getting started guide to Home Organization

• Sep 23, Time Management Skills to Help Organize Your Life

  22 Sep 2009 | 8:37 pm

  Practical time management skills to help organize your home and life. These tips help reduce stress and create valuable family time.

• Sep 23, Home and Garden Time Management Survival Skills

  22 Sep 2009 | 8:22 pm

  Your home and garden can be easily kept organized with these helpful time management skills

• Sep 23, How to Manage Family Activities well with Time Management Skills

  22 Sep 2009 | 8:12 pm

  Family activities and events can be made more meaningful when using these time management skills

• 
  Jolly Mom

• Get Your Family Organized with BusyBodyBooks Personal & Family Organizers & Calendars {Review & Giveaway}

  Jolly Mom

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:43 am

  If there's one thing that most all moms want more of, it is time. Besides magical powers that I do not possess, the only way that I know to get more time out of my day is to organize and manage my time wisely. Admittedly, I stink at managing my time so I need all the help that I can get from calendars and planners. That's why I was super excited to try out BusyBodyBook's line of family planners and calendars.BusyBodyBook sent me two Family/Personal Organizers and the Wall Calendar for me to review. The Family Organizers are available dated with either the school year in mind {August to…

• FREEbie Friday!

  Jolly Mom

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:11 pm

  Thank you to Lori from Moms by Heart for sharing her Big Fat Freebies List with us! For the full list, please make sure to visit Moms by Heart and tune in every Friday for a new list of FREEbies!FREEBIES & SAMPLES-Free sample Garnier Nutritioniste HERE-Mystery freebie when you become a Facebook fan of Clarins HERE-Free sample Kirkland Signature Supreme diapers HERE-2 free issues of Family Circle magazine HERE-Free soccer ball with purchase HERE-Free 5 sample pack from Nescafe HERE-Free subscription to Remedy Life magazine HERE-Free 2010 calendar from Eukanuba HERE-Free sample of Greenies…

• Win a Zigo Leader X2 Carrier Bicycle! {RV $1,399 Open to US & International!)

  Jolly Mom

  5 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  I am really excited about today because I get to partner with two of my best bloggy friends: BabyLuxe {daily} and Go Graham Go for a huge giveaway! Among the three blogs, we will be offering you several options and entries for the exclusive giveaway below...Why? After you see what we're offering, you'll know why, since you'll want to enter as many times as you can to win this fabulous prize!Months back Dana from BabyLuxe {daily} happened upon a Twitter link about this revolutionary product called the Zigo. I had never seen or heard of anything like it, but as soon as I saw the Zigo--I knew…

• EyeClops Mini Projector by Jakks Pacific {Review}

  Jolly Mom

  4 Nov 2009 | 9:21 pm

  Technology just keeps getting better and better. With the EyeClops Mini Projector by Jakks Pacific you can now take a big screen TV wherever you go. The EyeClops is a small (I mean really small…it fits in the palm of your hand) projector with audio and video inputs so that you can plug and play just about anything.Your iPod video, video game console, DVD player, computer...whatever you want. Just find a flat light colored space, turn off the lights, and project away. You can make the screen larger or smaller simply by moving the projector closer or father away from the screen. It uses LED…

• Promote Your Giveaways! Giveaways Galore

  Jolly Mom

  4 Nov 2009 | 9:10 pm

  Link up your giveaways!Please make sure to link directly to the giveaway and list the name of the giveaway along with the expiration date. Don't forget to stop by Go Graham Go to link up over there as well!

• 
  Pink & Posh

• FASHION FRIDAY – Holiday Maternity Fashion

  Jeri Maxedon

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:50 am

  So with all the options for holiday attire, if you are pregnant, it can be so challenging. I can remember when I was pregnant with my first child, I had the worst time finding an outfit for my company holiday party. Everything was either really ugly or shaped (and sized) like a tent! I think [...]

• For Her: Healthy Roller-Ball Gift Set

  Nicole Ibarrondo

  6 Nov 2009 | 6:50 am

  For those who like change… Our next gift suggestion, the Lavanila Healthy Roller-Ball Gift Set, is an affordable option that offers the recipient a variety of their favorite scents including, Vanilla Coconut, Pure Vanilla, Vanilla Grapefruit and Vanilla Lavender. For only $28 you will receive a beautifully packaged gift box containing four .15 oz roll-on bottles, [...]

• For Him: Personalized Gifts from Things Remembered

  Nicole Ibarrondo

  5 Nov 2009 | 5:31 am

  For the business man… Men can be tricky to buy gifts for, am I right? Certain gifts may come off as too personal and others not personal enough. Especially when you’re shopping for a co-worker or other men outside of your family. Boxers? That might be a bit insulting to his wife. Cologne? What if he [...]

• Hello Smokey!

  Nicole Ibarrondo

  4 Nov 2009 | 2:13 pm

  I know, I know. Smoking is bad. It will kill you. If it doesn’t kill you, it will make you so sick that you’ll wish you were dead. Then, you’ll stay sick because no health insurance company will cover you and you’re too broke to afford out-of-pocket care because you wasted $80 a week on [...]

• Lansinoh Celebrates 25 Years

  Kristy Rossman

  4 Nov 2009 | 9:47 am

  Lansinoh, a company that specializes in and supports breastfeeding mothers around the world, is celebrating their 25th Anniversary! Congrats! But, that’s not the best part…. In honor of this great accomplishment, Lansinoh is giving away 25 gift baskets on their breastfeeding blog to 25 very LUCKY winners this month! Each gift basket includes some mega prizes that [...]

• 
  My Mommy Manual

• Positive Parenting Tip: Add Some Fun

  Contributor

  6 Nov 2009 | 7:39 am

  Our Yogi Parenting audio tips are presented every Friday by Michaela Turner, BS Ed, CYKT, YKT, Co-Founder Yogi Parenting Let your kids teach you how!!! Listen to this :15 AUDIO TIP: — Michaela is a 30 year veteran educator and a Certified YogaKids Teacher and Trainer. She teaches yoga baby and yoga kids classes for children throughout St. Louis, Missouri. As the Co-founder of Yogi Parenting, Michaela offers positive parenting coaching and seminars nationally, blending her joy for yoga with her love for children.

• How to Manage Your Money

  Contributor

  5 Nov 2009 | 12:37 am

  Tips on Purchasing Life Insurance Provided By: (Scott S Niekamp CLU), Northwestern Mutual Financial Network In terms of personal pleasures, buying life insurance doesn’t usually fall in the same category as buying a new car or a new wardrobe. However, despite its lack of glamour and prestige, the decision to buy life insurance can be infinitely more important to a family and its future financial security. Before you begin your search for a life insurance policy, it is important to give some thoughtful consideration to your financial goals. For most individuals, it’s hard to imagine how…

• How to Hire a Sitter for a Sick Child

  Zen Mommy

  5 Nov 2009 | 12:09 am

  With all this flu in our schools, working moms and dads are faced with some tough decisions when it comes to taking time off work. Some schools are closing leaving well kids home on short notice for days on end. I interviewed Expert Mommy Debbie Hipp who has over a decade of experience placing nannies and sitters. Here she offers us some useful tips and answers my questions on sick child care. How do you manage when the kids are out for 3,4, or 7 days in a row (like mine were this month?!?!) Related Articles: How to Protect your Kids from Swine Flu: Nutrition and Wellness How to Protect Your…

• 25 Weeks: Back to BABY NAMES

  Zen Mommy

  4 Nov 2009 | 7:09 pm

  OK. I’m opening it up. I would LOVE to hear your BEST BABY NAME ideas for our twins, now 25 weeks along and pushing two pounds each. Be sure your comment links to an email or web site so I can track you down and thank you if we go with your suggestion! And so you don’t feel like you’re just randomly throwing names out there, let me give you some background on names from where me and my big-belly sit. Our girls are Reilly (9) and Morgan (almost 7). Note they have two syllables AND 6 letters each, that both are also last names AND both could be for a boy or girl (though more…

• How To Talk About Sex & Stay Sane

  Diane Asyre

  4 Nov 2009 | 4:53 pm

  I never thought to tell my toddlers not to put a big magnet against the TV screen. The green and purple spot on the TV screen is a permanent reminder of the warning that I never gave. They are now 11, 12 and 13 years old. The harm they could do or have happen to them has ramped up remarkably. I feel that I’ve entered an awkward stage right along with them.  I’m fretting about how to continue to talk with them about puberty and sex. I want them to have a healthy mental and physical approach to sexual thoughts, drives and actions. And, I don’t want to scare them.  And, I don’t want to…

• 
  The HolisticFM Show

• Protected: August 2009 Class Session 10

  admin

  28 Oct 2009 | 4:33 pm

  There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

• Protected: August 2009 Class Session 9

  admin

  27 Oct 2009 | 3:01 pm

  There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

• Protected: August 2009 Class Session 8

  admin

  27 Oct 2009 | 2:30 pm

  There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

• Beyond Consequences Logic & Control Vol 1 Book Review

  admin

  15 Oct 2009 | 6:09 am

  My book review that I just posted on Amazon.com: “When I first met Heather T Forbes, I interviewed her on my weekly parenting podcast. I was so impressed that I then read her books and it was like a light went on inside of me. Finally after 32 years of being alive someone could explain to me why I was the way that I was. I had many of these behaviors growing up (lying, stealing, hoarding, gorging, aggression, defiance) in private. To the outside world I was beautiful, highly accomplished and friendly. However, my first marriage crumbled, and only because of my second husband’s…

• Online Parenting Class How To, FAQ & Overview

  admin

  8 Oct 2009 | 9:48 pm

  Copyright © 2009 Online Parenting Classes. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement. Please contact legal@parentingonlineclasses.com so we can take legal action immediately.Plugin by Taragana

• 
  For love or funny

• Signs of stupidity

  7 Nov 2009 | 2:45 am

  Now THIS is a sign that can generate all sorts of conversation.

• I love failure

  6 Nov 2009 | 2:45 am

  This may sound weird, but I want my kids to fail.Before you summon the authorities, let me explain. In our house, our kids have one job: homework. Every day after school, we expect them to finish their homework. Now that they are 10 and 13 years old, my husband and I do not check assignment books. We do not proofread. We do not help the kids complete their daily assignments. It is by design; we want our kids to be self-sufficient learners. Not only that, we think it's important that our kids have something that is completely their own.It ain't easy. A little while ago, my daughter realized…

• Autumn makes me grumpy

  5 Nov 2009 | 2:45 am

  Sigh.Autumn stinks.I'm surrounded by people who take delight in every falling leaf... yet I'm suffused in dread.It's coming. Oh, the horror. I don't know how I'll survive.No, I'm not dreading another trip to my dental hygienist. I'm anticipating something far worse: winter.The icy cold, the bone chilling winds, the sleet, the ice, the snow... all of it conspires to coop me up inside. I hate being inside. However, being a sourpuss puts a damper on everyone's fun. So, I've generated a list of things to do during the winter:1) LIsten to the kids quarrel.2) Organize the basement. Woopee.3) Panic…

• The forecast is...

  4 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

  Behold, the "wooly bear" caterpillar. Now is the perfect time to spot these critters in the Northeast. They are on the move, seeking a nice log to crawl under to hibernate. Legend has it that the bigger the brown section on a wooly bear, the milder the winter.Ever searching for ways to serve the greater good, I will now deliver my 2009-2010 winter forecast based on extensive research and pain-staking analysis of the wooly bears in my locale. In other words, I spotted 3 wooly bears on my walk and now I'm ready to tell you whether or not it'll be cold this winter.Ahem. My scientific conclusion…

• Time travel stinks

  3 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  I know that a Time Travel Machine exists. It's sitting somewhere in my garage, and a mad scientist sneaks in and fiddles with the dials. I've got proof, because we're in the beginning of November and somehow I skipped September and October.23 days until Thanksgiving.52 days until Christmas.58 days 'till 2010.I'd really like to find this Time Travel Machine and destroy it, but there's no way I'll unearth it beneath all the junk I gotta throw away our valuables. Instead, I'm going to focus on finding that mad scientist who keeps accelerating time. What a jerk. I could get so much done if he'd…

• 
  Harassed Mom

• The supreme happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved – loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves.

  LauraKim

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:53 pm

  Right now I should be writing notes on my last psychology chapter – instead I am writing this post. I bought Kiara new pyjamas yesterday. She refuses to wear the pants as they are apparently “fat pants”. It is Lent for Liam today. I feel a little disillusioned in peoples response to it all. But like Christel [...]

• 2009 – its been good

  LauraKim

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  Its that time of year – when we look back and evaluate the year gone by. I am using a few of the questions posed by Damaria to start my little look back What has 2009 been like for you? Are you happy with what you have accomplished so far, your life experiences, and [...]

• Quote for the day

  LauraKim

  5 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  “Tomorrow does not exist for real love; time does not exist for real love. If you love a person, you love a person. What will happen tomorrow—who cares? Today is so much, this moment is an eternity. What will happen tomorrow, we will see… when tomorrow comes. And tomorrow never comes. Real love is of the present. . . ” ~OSHO~ Thank you T

• 10 Things I learnt

  LauraKim

  3 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  Being Brazen does these every now and then so I thought I would do one too. It is illegal to make a may day call in a plane if you run out of fuel. I learnt economics and alot of it and it actually wasnt that bad. My car can go rather fast and it doesnt shake, rattle [...]

• A party for a boy

  LauraKim

  3 Nov 2009 | 1:00 am

  We are having our Lent for Liam Thanksgiving tweet up on Saturday at Cool Runnings in Fourways at 13h00. There is also one in Cape Town at 13h00 at the Toad. It has to be said that so far Cape Town are showing more support than the JHB peeps. Right now Christel doesn’t have enough money for [...]

• 
  KidGlue

• VIDEO: New Mexico Soccer Player Displays The Worst In Sportsmanship

  Jeremy Suede

  6 Nov 2009 | 1:22 pm

  Just watch this video and you’ll see the worst of the worst in sportsmanlike conduct.  New Mexico University’s Women’s soccer player Elizabeth Lambert brutally attacks and cheap-shots opposing players from Brigham Young University as her team loses 1-0 in the Mountain West Conference Women’s Soccer Tournament.  She elbows, kicks, trips, punches, pulls hair and cheap-shots players on the ground.   Would you want you son or daughter playing with someone on the field like this?  Better yet, how would you feel if your son or daughter were the one in the video.  How…

• Babies Pick Up Accents in the Womb

  Amber Ortega

  6 Nov 2009 | 11:11 am

  German researchers, lead by Kathleen Wermke from the University of Wurzburg have discovered that babies may be picking up with mother’s accents while still in the womb.  They studied 60 babies whose mothers spoke French and German.  When the babies were still newborns, the French speaking mother had a baby who cried with a rising accent, while the German speaking mother’s baby cried with a falling accent. Wermke believes the babies are crying in the same pattern as their mother’s speech pattern in an attempt to bond.  “Newborns are highly motivated to imitate their…

• PHOTOS: Cool Celeb Parent – Jessica Alba

  CMaclachlan

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:50 am

  She has played a kick butt assassin, a confident stripper, an invisible woman and the object of every man’s affections. However, Jessica Alba’s most impressive role is now that she’s a mother. Check out these photos of the lovely lady and her child Honor Marie Warren.

• MSNBC.com Runs Erroneous Feeling Article Linking Candy to Violence

  Kelly Turner

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:28 am

  Hide that Halloween candy, or you may have a murderer on your hands. A new study shows that kids who ate a lot of sweets as children are more likely to be violent as adults. MSNBC.com recently posted an article entitled ‘Candy-Gobbling Kids May Turn Violent as Adults.’ Toss out that Halloween candy! Panic ensues! I can hear the newest trial defense now: “I was given Reese’s as a child, I cannot be held responsible for my actions.” Hardly. This is another one of those articles that takes a tiny finding and blows it out of proportion- and then by the end takes a…

• Ft. Hood Aftermath: Talking with Kids about Violence in the News

  Sarah Blake

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:13 am

  With all the news today about the tragic Ft. Hood shootings, your kids are bound to hear the stories and have questions. Dramatic events in the news can deeply disturb some children; others ignore it. But for all people of any age, making sense of unexpected violence can be very difficult. As a parent, teacher, or friend, you can make a world of difference in a child’s response to these events.  A short conversation can remind them that no matter what may happen in the world, they’ve got trustworthy adults who love them. A few tips from experts: Know your child. Every child has a…

• 
  Tales From The Trenches of Parenting

• There's A Midget In My Soup!

  TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING

  29 Oct 2009 | 8:18 am

  Every since I discovered that I CAN cook without tossing $50 worth of steaks in the garbage cause not even a knife would cut through them, the kids have found their love of the kitchen as well. Nia has been no exception. It all started when I was pregnant with Nia and was bedridden for quite a long time with morning sickness combined with a nasty bout of pneumonia. Food Network was my choice of TV shows to zone out on for several weeks. What I learned in those weeks completely changed my life in the kitchen. Because of it, I am left with four Sous Chef's who are determined to do exactly what…

• Obama Will Forever Be Immortalized as a Head of Alfalfa

  TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING

  27 Oct 2009 | 7:56 pm

  After all is said and done, Obama will not be remembered just as the President who mounted sweeping changed in health care. Nor will he just be remembered as the President who pulled us out of two wars (well, maybe on that one). President Obama will forever be remembered by Americans, the world, and future historians as..... Chia Obama "What the hell you talking about woman?", you may be asking. Well, I was watching The Real Housewives of Atlanta for the first time last night on the Bravo station when this commercial came on. Frankly, I thought it was a pretty funny joke and was expecting…

• I Am SUCH a Neurotic Ninny!

  TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING

  23 Oct 2009 | 9:38 pm

  So my son goes into the ER tonight because I, the neurotic ninny, think he is dying of some exotic disease from Pluto because his neck is so swollen that he resembles more of an elephants leg than the bocci ball I gave birth to 12 years ago. I imagine after pouring through endless sites on the net, that he has the mumps, diphtheria, or worse - the dreaded "C" word. I cannot find anything to explain the increased swelling and pain my son has had for two days. Not to mention that Toni and Nia had the same bout with it just a few weeks earlier. After going round and round about it with the hubs,…

• A Little Bit of Rambling on a Rainy Day

  TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING

  23 Oct 2009 | 6:44 pm

  Let's see, what' happening in our life today? Well, we woke up to it raining cats, dogs, a few frogs with some ducks thrown in this morning. For some reason, the rain made it impossible for the bus drivers to run their routes because all my kids were left out in the rain as not a one of them showed up. I made two early morning trips to the schools where both of them left so completely drenched from my dash from the garage to the car that I had to completely change my clothes after returning both times. Nothing like squishy Ugg's. Well at least their washed! I had to be extra quiet while…

• The High Cost of Getting an "A"

  TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING

  22 Oct 2009 | 9:23 am

  Toni has a science project due this week. They've been studying the solar system so, well, that's what her project has to be about... duh! After hemming and hawing over what she wanted to do for like.... 2 weeks, she came to the exciting conclusion that she wants to make a comet smashing into Jupiter. I thought we could make a simple model of planets in orbit, but that was waaaay too boring for her. She's a bit like her brother in the smash 'em up department, and if she could get by with blowing a planet up in her classroom; well, that would make her year at school. After brainstorming some…

• 
  Charm City Moms

• Malia Obama's very public science test

  Kate Shatzkin

  6 Nov 2009 | 10:43 am

  The other day, in a speech about his administration's education priorities, President Barack Obama revealed a very personal experience. His daughter, Malia, had come home with a disappointing grade of 73 percent on a science test. According to the president, the two had a conversation about what she could do better, and the moral of the story is that hard work pays off. Malia reportedly scored 95 percent on the next test. I was driving to work when I heard this story on the radio, and I have to admit it sort of stopped me in my tracks. With all the talk about privacy for presidential kids,…

• The "Waddle" winner

  Kate Shatzkin

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:07 am

  Christina wins the "Waddle" book for her question about parent volunteering. Congratulations! And look for an answer to the question soon on Mondays.

• Potty training for dads

  Kate Shatzkin

  6 Nov 2009 | 3:27 am

  Guest Dad Joe Burris writes today about how for a family guy, the toilet inevitably becomes "the potty": A couple of weeks ago, my wife and I were visiting a department store when she decided to try on a garment. “Okay,” I said, while walking out of the store, “I got to go to the potty.” I stood momentarily red faced, wondering if any of the other customers in the store had heard me. Potty -- now there’s a word you rarely hear from anyone who doesn’t have kids. I scarcely uttered it before we had any. Now, in nearly 13 years of parenting, it has become one of the most used in my…

• Is Cookie Monster healthful enough?

  Kate Shatzkin

  5 Nov 2009 | 6:26 am

  Today it's Cookie Monster who's getting all the attention on the Google Doodle as part of the big Sesame Street 40th anniversary celebration. This had me wondering: With all the focus on the problem of childhood obesity these days, and with Michelle Obama -- a champion of healthful eating -- slated to appear on Sesame Street this season, where does Cookie Monster fit in? Turns out Sesame Street has been trying to make the gluttonous blue monster more modest in his appetites for some time. This 2005 article from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer shows what Sesame Street was doing a few years ago…

• Fun with the family this weekend

  Kate Shatzkin

  5 Nov 2009 | 3:23 am

  We're all in something of a Halloween hangover, but there's still fun stuff to do this first weekend in November. To wit: Pumpkin chucking. Thursday, Nov. 5: Harry Potter Potions Class: Scientists from the Edgewood Chemical & Biological Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground demonstrated how to make potions "straight out of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry" from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Edgewood branch of the Harford County Public Library. For grades 3-8. Register by calling 410-612-1600. Nature Storytime:Listen to a story about nature and make a craft at 11 a.m. at the Eden…

• 
  Gummy Lump Toys

• DOLLHOUSE Giveaway from GummyLump.com

  3 Nov 2009 | 7:29 am

  WIN IT! Multi-level Wooden Dollhouse by Melissa & DougAccepting entries thru midnight November 22, 2009 Your child will love playing with this charming wooden dollhouse. It's decorated in purple and pink and features beautiful balconies and lovely, natural, wood trim accents.Any child will love to make this dollhouse home for her doll family. Standing just over 2 feet tall, it's the perfect size for preschool children! It includes19 pieces of hand-painted wooden furniture and the feature I just love is that the furniture actually works! All the drawers and doors open and close! There are…

• FREE Puzzle Storage Promotion

  3 Nov 2009 | 7:25 am

  OFFER EXPIRES 11.08.09GummyLump.com: Toys That Make Sweet Memories

• Buy 3 Get 1 FREE on Melissa & Doug Art Supplies!

  28 Oct 2009 | 10:24 am

  No coupon necessary. Offer good thru 11.03.09.GummyLump.com: Toys That Make Sweet Memories

• Fear and Halloween

  21 Oct 2009 | 9:51 am

  3 yr old Robbie comes running into the kitchen announcing, “Mommy, I want to be a pirate for Halloween and Katie (his 2 yr old sister) wants to be a princess.” They’re so excited!The day arrives to go get costumes. Robbie begins telling Katie all about Halloween night, “We’ll go out after dinner and come back with lots of candy!” Then mom hears Robbie whisper to Katie, “Be good in the store or you’ll lose your costume, okay!”As soon as they see the Halloween isle they both freeze in their tracks. Mom hears Katie say, “Go home!” Robbie says nothing. They both run up to…

• FREE Puzzle Promotion!

  15 Oct 2009 | 12:06 pm

  No coupon necessary. Put all Melissa & Doug puzzles in your shopping cart and free puzzle(s) will be automatically calculated. Need help? Call 1.800.807.8821 today!SHOP NOW!Offer expires 10.29.09GummyLump.com: Toys That Make Sweet Memories

• 
  Parenting Help Me

• Things New Moms Often Feel Guilty About

  Parenting Help

  3 Nov 2009 | 12:47 pm

  Things New Moms Often Feel Guilty About Surveys suggest that feelings of guilt are inescapable for new mothers. Nearly all moms experience guilty pangs at some level for a variety of reasons. Some are chagrined about the time they’re spending (or not spending) with their little ones. Others regret having yelled at their kids. Still others feel ashamed for lacking the budget to provide their babies with certain amenities. These reasons and others trigger intense feelings of guilt in moms everywhere. Even though such pangs can serve as the catalyst for providing the love and attention…

• The New Parent’s Guide To Coping With Colic

  Parenting Help

  29 Oct 2009 | 10:58 am

  The New Parent’s Guide To Coping With Colic When your infant cries, you rush to his side to attend to his needs. This is a normal dynamic shared between babies and their parents. Their only way to communicate is by crying. When mom or dad hears the wail, they come running. It’s part of our programming. One in five babies develop colic. It’s not a disease that new parents need to be concerned about. Instead, it’s a condition in which your little one will cry incessantly for reasons that are inexplicable. The wailing will start mysteriously one day and last for hours. It…

• Halloween Glow in the dark bats

  Parenting Help

  27 Oct 2009 | 9:02 am

  Halloween Glow in the dark bats… Halloween week continues with these versatile and cute glow in the ?dark bats. ?Use them in a mobile, a centerpiece or even hand them out to your party guests. Another quick and easy Halloween Project. How to Make a Glow-in-the-Dark Bat for Halloween Re-Tweet This Post Parenting Help Tips Subscribe to the Parenting Help Me Tips Feed To see more posts from this Author, Click on the Author’s Name Follow us on Twitter

• Your Baby And Your Friendships: Maintaining A Healthy Balance

  Parenting Help

  26 Oct 2009 | 8:45 pm

  Your Baby And Your Friendships: Maintaining A Healthy Balance Being a new mother, while exciting (and exhausting), presents its share of challenges. Among them, it’s often difficult to maintain relationships with your network of girlfriends. With your newborn demanding your attention around the clock, the flexibility you once enjoyed is all but a memory. Last-minute dinner plans are a thing of the past. So too, are quick getaways and hours spent chatting on the phone. Even though you’re no longer able to grab your keys at a moment’s notice and meet your girlfriends for a…

• Halloween Centerpiece

  Parenting Help

  26 Oct 2009 | 8:59 am

  Halloween Centerpiece This week we will be featuring Halloween arts and crafts… Of course we will be looking for ideas that are quick and easy. For our first entry we have a totally creepy Halloween centerpiece ?that is fun, quick and easy. How to Make Fruit Centerpiece for Halloween Re-Tweet This Post Parenting Help Tips Subscribe to the Parenting Help Me Tips Feed To see more posts from this Author, Click on the Author’s Name Follow us on Twitter

• 
  The Official Mommy-Muse.com Blog

• Sweeping Life Changes

  mmuse

  30 Oct 2009 | 6:41 pm

  Sweeping changes are moving through my life, and I have been unable to keep up with my much loved blogging schedule.  Please know I’ll be picking up speed again as my life comes back into order.  In the meantime, consider this interview excerpt from Martha beck on a  Steering by Starlight  interview on The Mommy-Muse Is In.  [...]

• Fresh Serving of The Week’s Best Postpartum Mood Disorder Posts!

  mmuse

  26 Oct 2009 | 8:10 pm

  Here you go! A fresh serving of great blog posts from sister blogs around the web.  I ALWAYS appreciate the first hand accounts of postpartum depression.  They can go a long way toward helping new parents recognize and seek treatment for postpartum issues they might be struggling with. Dealing with Postpartum Depression | Dine and [...]

• Authentic Sharing on Birthing a New Life

  mmuse

  23 Oct 2009 | 6:38 pm

  Have you ever asked for a change in one area of your life and discovered waves of change sweeping through your entire life in order to bring about that “one” thing?  Earlier in the year, I had some marvelous radio interviews with Martha Beck and Meadow DeVor.  I followed up by taking a teleclass with Meadow [...]

• Play AND Feed a Hungry Person at FreeRice.com!

  mmuse

  21 Oct 2009 | 4:12 pm

  WARNING: This game may make you smarter. It may improve your speaking, writing, thinking, grades, job performance and maybe even your parenting! I have just discovered FreeRice.com, a delightful non-profit website run by the United Nations World Food Program.  They offer completely free educational games, with the goal of providing free education while helping to end [...]

• Powerful Answers FAST at LivePerson.com!

  mmuse

  18 Oct 2009 | 5:00 pm

  No tricks, ONLY treats!  Did you know there are over 30,000 experts at LivePerson.com  just waiting to help YOU?  It’s true! Thanks to LivePerson.com, I’ve gone beyond standard e-mail counseling and into the world of instant messaging counseling and coaching!  They provide a secure platform that allows instant access to a world of help.  Anytime I’m online [...]

• 
  Early Childhood Brain Insights

• YES… I Am Going To Say It Again!

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:44 am

  You may have heard me say this before…. The brain learns and make connections through repetition……!Through loving interactions and repeated experiences the best pathways are created. This video says it ALL! ENJOY!

• braininsights® is Giving Thanks This November

  4 Nov 2009 | 7:56 am

  A baby food product will be donated to the local Feeding America® Eastern Wisconsin food bank for every brain activity packet purchased through the month of November.Food plays a vital role in early brain development. Hunger causes stress in the brain due to the lack of nutrients it needs. This causes stress hormones to be released resulting in lack of attention, behavior problems, and the brain not functioning at optimal levels. However, good nutrition can lead to increased serotonin levels in the brain and happier children spending more time playing and learning. You can easily feed two…

• October braininsights Newsletter

  20 Oct 2009 | 7:27 am

  Check out the October braininsights Newsletter! You can subscribe to this Free Monthly Newsletter by clicking on the link in the newsletter

• Interactive Play is MOST Important

  19 Oct 2009 | 1:04 pm

  The holiday shopping season is quickly approaching and parents, grandparents, and loved ones are already beginning to think about what gifts to get the children in their lives. It is important to keep optimal brain development in mind while choosing that perfect present. I am frequently asked what toys promote brain development. Many parents also inquire about DVD’s and programs to teach babies to read. My response always is, “Loving interaction and play with real objects is what a developing brain needs most.” Recently, a report by the National Scientific Council on the Developing…

• Deborah McNelis Selected to Advisory Board for Kids Educational & Entertainment Site

  7 Oct 2009 | 8:31 am

  ZiggityZoom Press Release.doc[1]

• 
  Cool Dad Central

• Editors Note

  Just in case you are wondering, yes Chris is now officially a dad.  He sent the story below in before that happened, and its too good to pass up.  So we’re just going to do this Momento... Keep Reading for More Cool Stuff

• The Heartbreak Kid Part 1

  Written By Chris So I keep peering into my former man room, wondering when in the hell this little bundle of joy is going to come, which is usually followed by me running my hand through my hair. It... Keep Reading for More Cool Stuff

• I Slept Through My Alarm…

  Woah, it has been a while since we last slowed down the Internet with our nonsense.  I’m very sorry it’s taken so long.  We have excuses in tow… Excuse #1 – Chris is now... Keep Reading for More Cool Stuff

• We Have a Winner…

  We have a winner for our ‘Guide to Pirate Parenting’ book giveaway. Entry number 11 according to our Random.org drawing. Click here for the screen capture.  I’d like to thank... Keep Reading for More Cool Stuff

• Manspecting Part 5 – Does the “American Dream” still exist?

  Written By Chris So while I like to tell stories of me getting crunk by the pool and acting like an ass (see: last blog complaining about tearing up my man room so that my impending baby girl does... Keep Reading for More Cool Stuff

• 
  Baby Sleep Help | Toddler Sleep Help - Pick Nick's Brain

• Phew! Daylight Savings is Behind Us

  Nicole

  5 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  The end of Daylight Savings is always the source of worry for many parents, especially when their baby is waking too early. I thought I’d take the time to tell you how ours went and see how yours went, too. Thankfully, our daylight savings went fairly smooth this year. I personally use option 3 when it comes to daylight savings in our house. My boys are just too unpredictable to use another option. On Saturday night, I put the boys to bed around 9:20 p.m. which was a little late for my 21 month old, but Halloween definitely helped in that way. It did hurt us in that because he was…

• How Long to Cry It Out (CIO)

  Nicole

  3 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  This topic “How long to cry it out?” has come up a few times in the last few weeks in one way or another, so I thought I’d talk about it this week. I always preface any discussion about cry it out by making sure that everyone understands that I’m not a “Cry It Out Pusher” and I’m very much NOT an extremist or a hard-core “sleep trainer”. I try to be realistic and just know that all babies are different and all family structures are different and what works for one won’t work for everyone. I even debated Pantley about this very topic,…

• When Baby Won’t Nap

  Nicole

  27 Oct 2009 | 5:00 am

  Naps can be challenging to get from your baby and sometimes it seems like he just won’t nap. Part of the reason your baby won’t nap is because day and night sleep are handled by two different parts of the brain. What your baby knows how to do at night doesn’t necessarily mean he will do the same thing during the day. Depending on how perceptive he is, the sunlight can keep him up or just playing with the smallest piece of lint in the crib. There is a whole lot of fun to miss during the day! Another reason why your baby won’t nap is because the drive for your…

• Your Baby’s Sleep and Daylight Savings 2009

  Nicole

  22 Oct 2009 | 5:00 am

  The end of daylight savings is upon us when we will change our clocks back one hour. In Europe, the clocks change this weekend and for the United States (most of them), they will change on November 1st. For most people this means a baby, toddler, or child who wakes up a dreaded one hour earlier. This is especially painful when your child is already getting up at the crack of dawn! Most people don’t even get why we even have to change the clocks (Note: Nowadays, it’s to save energy). You have three options when it comes to your child’s sleep and the end of the daylight…

• SIDS Awareness Month October Giveaway Winners

  Nicole

  20 Oct 2009 | 11:17 am

  Many thanks to everyone who enter the SIDS Awareness Month October Giveaway. It was truly my hope to help promote awareness about SIDS and provide tips, facts and resources for helping prevent SIDS. Along the way, I  learned about Patti McKenna’s story about the loss of her precious son to SIDS 21 years ago. She has also written a  book, Caution: Children Should Come with Warning Labels,  from which she donates the proceeds from sales to SIDS research. A charming and brutally honest accounting of the adventures of parenting. I was happy to donate three copies of this book the…

• 
  Meet the Hazards

• The Two Sides of My Brain

  jenniferhazard

  28 Oct 2009 | 9:21 am

  Since I decided to leave the 9-5 and work from home part-time, my daily routine has become easier. I can spend more time with Lauren and Will in the morning without feeling rushed. I can visit my daughter’s nursery school and not worry about missing a meeting. And although I’m tired by 5:00 p.m., I don’t feel brain dead when I pick the kids up from daycare. So what’s the problem? These days it’s my inability to shut off the two sides of my brain, not right and left, but the mom side and the work side. When I’m writing, I’m rarely distracted by other thoughts. It’s as though I…

• Will’s First Encounter with Christina Aguilera

  jenniferhazard

  19 Oct 2009 | 8:56 am

  Christina Aguilera and Heidi Klum on Project Runway I was lounging on the couch, eating red Twizzlers and watching Project Runway, where the contestants were designing a Bob Mackie-inspired dress for guest judge, Christina Aguilera. The show is my number one guilty pleasure (reading Entertainment Weekly from cover to cover is a close second), and in rare moments when I can watch Project Runway uninterrupted, I’m in a pure state of couch potato bliss. Just when the contestants’ models were about to walk the runway, a call came from upstairs. “Mama! Where are you?” Will is getting his…

• Thanks Pottery Barn Kids

  jenniferhazard

  7 Oct 2009 | 10:13 am

  PBK's Ultimate Barbie Dream Room Pottery Barn Kids arrived in the mail last week, and as I’m apt to do, I tossed the catalog aside. The high prices, combined with the über-organized kids’ rooms are too much for me. The catalog’s photography instills feelings of inadequacy, as in; I wish my play space looked that good. Or more accurately, I wish I could afford a room like that. I understand that catalogs have to visually appeal to customers to sell merchandise, but I’m asking, does anyone know a kid whose room reflects the catalog? Infants don’t count here.

• The Hazard Report

  jenniferhazard

  25 Sep 2009 | 8:02 am

  Friends have asked if I have regrets leaving work, if I’m finding it hard staying home and if I’m busy. Lauren and Will try my patience daily, whether it be the refusal to put on pants or not replying when I ask a question three times over. And lately, Will is up nights, almost as if he’s a newborn again. I’m tired most of the time, and I’m drinking more coffee than I ever did at my full-time job. That being said, I wouldn’t change a thing (well, maybe the late nights). I love my days with the kids. It’s been wonderful to deliver Lauren to preschool and not have to rush…

• There Are No Zzz’s in Hazard

  jenniferhazard

  18 Sep 2009 | 8:24 am

  Recently, I signed up for boot camp — a community exercise program that involves running, stretching and lifting weights. I was reluctant to commit to the class at first because a) I haven’t exercised in an embarrassingly long time and b) boot camp begins at 5:30 a.m. On the upside, the class would force me to get up early, and upon return home, I’d have time to prep lunches and enjoy a morning shower before the wee ones rise. Plus, since leaving my job in July, the kiddos and I have been in a pattern of waking at 8:00 a.m. (a luxury in the parenting world). On their days at home, the…

• 
  Parenting With Duct Tape

• Baby Torture - Washing The Blanky

  4 Nov 2009 | 8:27 am

  P.S. I thought I'd post the happy ending to all this emotional trauma.Reunited and it feels so gooooood.....

• This Is For All My Bitches!

  31 Oct 2009 | 9:13 am

  Introducing my new hero...

• This Is EXACTLY Why I'm All About Spanking

  28 Oct 2009 | 1:58 pm

  I'm done. Look at this face and tell me I'm not having any more kids.Wait, that one's kind of gross. Sorry to all the vegetarians out there. And the cows.Also, that might not be a picture of the 2 year old. How am I supposed to tell all 3 girls apart?! Don't judge me.Ok, look at this face and tell me I'll never hold a baby that rode my vagina-slide again: Or this one and tell me I'll never get to see her first sugar rush.Ever.Again.I can't take it. I just can't take it.Why?! Why didn't she stop growing when I told her to? Why aren't the time out's and "talking tos" not working?!I'm done with…

• A Letter: Your Vagina, The Highway of Life

  21 Oct 2009 | 1:15 pm

  So, I've been a slacker blogger lately. Whatever. Want some excuses? I have 3. 4 if you count the husband. I did have time for some correspondence between my oldest sister and I after she harassed me with texts because she has pregnancy amnesia but wants to help her friend who finds herself recently up a pole. I'm gonna share because I want credit for doing something other than wiping asses and slamming baby feet in car doors. So here's one for the new parents to be out there...~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Subject: (unsolicited) advice from someone you don't really know - get used to…

• Phone Sex Anyone? Not Here Apparently.

  3 Oct 2009 | 5:23 pm

  We don't answer our phone. It rings, we hear it, we ignore it. We don't even bother screening our calls. We just let it ring and in, like, a week or so we are completely floored there are 42 messages and 96 missed calls. What?! How did this happen?I'll tell you how it happened. We ignored the ringing apparatuses that are strewn all over our home. I mean, we have four. FOUR handsets for a house with two living spaces and four bedrooms. Guess where we bought the set? Guess where you could get a bargin price on a new cordless phone with 3 more handsets than you actually need? Costco. But even…

• 
  Playground Confidential

• Even Good Moms Pass Out, Right?

  rebecca

  6 Nov 2009 | 9:08 am

  DAILY SNACK I was visiting my parents’ home yesterday afternoon with the kids, And was about to gather up our things And hit the road, When I somehow lay down on a couch for a moment And closed my eyes. When I opened them, My glasses were on upside-down, yes, But there was a hot cup of tea waiting for me. Thank goodness for brothers Who take care of wee children and make you tea When you pass out cold in the middle of the afternoon.

• They Grow Up So Fast

  rebecca

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:03 am

  DAILY SNACK Hey, get back here young lady! Just where do you think you’re going with my wallet and car key?

• Fall, Head Over Heels

  rebecca

  4 Nov 2009 | 7:37 am

  DAILY SNACK We had the park to ourselves yesterday. Must be flu season. But the lush canopy that offers cool shade in the summer Was all shades of orange and yellow, red and brown And the ground was a soft, sweet-smelling blanket of fallen leaves. We jumped and ran and rolled around. We frolicked. And it was amazing.

• A Touch of the Swine Flu?

  rebecca

  3 Nov 2009 | 8:09 am

  DAILY SNACK So last Friday night I started to feel achy, And tired  and dizzy. My throat was sore And by the next morning I had a bit of a cough. Swine flu! Maybe. My symptoms were very mild and most definitely Not worth crowded, germ-ridden clinics. Today I feel almost 100%. By tomorrow I should be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound And maybe even catch up the laundry. (Because I know you’re wondering: The kids seemed to have low-grade fevers a couple days earlier, but have been in normal spirits with a tiny cough since.  Ed has been fighting something off forever and…

• Trick or Treat or Crêpe Pan?

  rebecca

  2 Nov 2009 | 9:13 am

  DAILY SNACK Colum was going to be a ninja turtle for Halloween And Irene was to be a Lady Bug. Until, at the last minute, Colum decided to be a ninja wolf. Hmm. How about a lion? ROAR. We have a lion costume already. And so it was. The trick or treating was good, But not as magical as it was two years ago. (Or last year so I hear but I wouldn’t know because I wasn’t allowed to go because I just birthed a baby and no I’m not still moping.) I blame the swine flu. But there was the nice, sad old drunk guy who was giving out these: Candies for the kids And cookware for the…

• 
  SafeMama.com

• Consumer Reports Tests Find BPA in Canned Soups, Juice, and More

  Kathy

  5 Nov 2009 | 5:21 am

  Here we go … BPA in the news again.  I have been wanting to post something about this since I saw it on the evening news the other night.  Consumer Reports just published new findings (but none of it is really news to us) about levels of BPA in canned food.  We knew it was [...] Related posts:BPA in Canned Food: Tips to Avoid ItMore about Bisphenol in canned foods.Eden Foods Canned Beans Are BPA Free

• Giveaway: BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier Active Organic!

  Kathy

  3 Nov 2009 | 6:29 am

  Boy, do we have some great giveaways for you.  This first one comes to you from the makers of BabyBjörn!  Baby wearing is really popular right now and as the mother of a new baby and an almost 4 year old, baby wearing saves my day.  Hands free is the way to go.   So [...] Related posts:PVC Free PuddleGear & Awesome GiveawayOver The Rain Dough Giveaway!Giveaway: Win a Pixel Organics Footie Sleeper & Skip Hop Dishware from All Modern Baby

• PVC Free PuddleGear & Awesome Giveaway

  Kathy

  23 Oct 2009 | 12:43 pm

  Earlier this year we did an article on PVC free rain gear thanks to some reader questions and stumbled on PuddleGear.  PVC can contain mercury, phthalates and dioxins which al can be harmful to your health and the health of your little ones.  Why smother your kids body in PVC when there are great alternatives [...] Related posts:April Showers Bring PVC Free Rain GearReview & Giveaway: Dimpleskins Naturals Bum Bum Balm Diapering SalveOver The Rain Dough Giveaway!

• H1N1 Vaccine: Get It or Don’t Get It?

  Kathy

  21 Oct 2009 | 7:46 am

  It’s been quiet here, I know.  Having a new baby in the house has really tested my organizational skills and I am failing miserably! I have tons of stuff to write about on SafeMama.com and very little time to actually do it!  To get the ball rolling in the right direction I wanted to post [...] Related posts:Flu Vaccines Without ThimerosalDear SafeMama: Tylenol and MelamineDear SafeMama: Toothpaste, Going Green & Proper Bottle/Cup Care

• Partial Tylenol Recall

  Statia

  22 Sep 2009 | 10:33 am

  Tylenol is issuing a “warehouse recall” on several different types of Infant and Children’s Tylenol due to a contamination.   According to the folks at Babble, the drug is still safe, but you may want to call and find out if your bottle is part of the recall: The best news? The drug is safe. It’s a [...] Related posts:Company Launches Toy Recall Alert WebsiteDear SafeMama: Tylenol and MelamineVelvet Boppy Pillow Slipcovers Recalled

• 
  Family Anatomy

• The impact of rejection: What if kids don’t fit in?

  Dr. Brian MacDonald, C. Psych.

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:19 am

  We’ve all heard the saying “Opposites attract.” When it comes to friendship, though, researchers believe that similarity is an important factor in determining who becomes, and remains, friends. People who are considered to be different from the group are less likely to be popular, and may be the target of bullies. Kids with social problems are also more likely to have academic difficulties as well. A study published in Psychology in the Schools looked at whether kids who are perceived to be different are more likely to be rejected, and examined some of the possible outcomes…

• “People Always Follow the Crowd. But Not Me!”: The Introspection Illusion

  Dr. Giuseppe Spezzano, C. Psych.

  4 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

  Over the past 50 years studies have repeated shown that we have a tendency to believe that others more readily conform to social norms than we do. That is, under the same circumstances, people are significantly less likely to admit that they too are influenced by social norms. In other words, we tend to see others as “sheep” and ourselves as “lone wolves”. The interesting aspect of this is that experiments have also shown that we are typically not aware of our own behavioural conformity. Studies show that, without our conscious knowledge, we tend to conform to social…

• Anatomy of Fitting In (Episode 84)

  Dr. Brian MacDonald, C. Psych.

  3 Nov 2009 | 8:10 am

  Doctors Brian and Giuseppe talk about fitting in, belonging, rejection, and cliques. Why do kids join groups of jocks, goths, or geeks? What if your child is rejected by their group? Find out what we think this week! Listen here: Download audio file (FA084_-_Anatomy_of_Fitting_In.mp3) … or right click here to save the episode for later. You can also get your free podcast subscription in iTunes. If you use iTunes, you can leave a review! Website of the Week: University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital Leave us a comment, or you can e-mail suggestions or questions to…

• How The Need to Fit In Changes Our Behaviour

  Dr. Giuseppe Spezzano, C. Psych.

  2 Nov 2009 | 7:04 am

  All this week on Family Anatomy we’ll be focusing on the phenomenon of “fitting-in” or belonging. Belonging is a fundamental need stemming from the fact that human beings are social creatures. Over the past two decades, researchers have established that peoples’ behaviour can be predictably changed by manipulating their perception of fitting-in. In 2005, an experiment by Gardner, Pickett, Jefferies, and Knowles found that people who scored low on feelings of exclusion or rejection, had more accurate judgments and recall of negative and positive social cues including…

• Do the victims of bullying remain victims?

  Dr. Brian MacDonald, C. Psych.

  29 Oct 2009 | 8:02 am

  Being bullied can lead to a number of pretty serious problems for some kids – an article in the June issue of Archives of General Psychiatry reported a link between being bullied and psychotic symptoms in pre-teens! The first reaction of parents and school staff members when a child is being bullied is often to punish the bully and to work to prevent bullying in the future. But what about the victims? At least one school psychologist believes that working with victims is more important than punishing the bullies! An article in the current issue of the British Journal of Developmental…

• 
  Rave and Review

• MSR Mutha Hubba HP Tent

  Leanne Heilman

  6 Nov 2009 | 12:02 am

  Every year around this time I can’t help but wonder where summer went. It always seems like I had this great list of activities I was going to do; I had all these plans to get outside more and make the best of the good weather that never came to be. Now as fall is fully upon us and the days are increasingly blustery and chilly, I can’t help but feel the regret of opportunity lost. Thankfully, the folks over at our local favorite outdoor company, MSR, have felt this pain, too, and come up with a great solution to the dreaded end of the summer. With the addition of their new HP series to…

• Maclaren Beginning... For Mama and Baby Giveaway

  Leanne Heilman

  5 Nov 2009 | 2:36 am

  At the Baby Show NYC a few weeks back, I had the pleasure of meeting the wonderful reps from Maclaren and seeing their new line of Maclaren Beginning bath and body care products. Beginning holistic care products are a premium line designed to pamper both mother and baby with natural and organic ingredients. From massage oils and bath products to aromatherapy and candles, the Beginning line feels like a day at a high-end salon each time you open them. What makes the Beginning line unique is that it is for both mama and baby, allowing you to share in the experience of their natural indulgence…

• Animal Planet Wooden Dino Playland Giveaway

  Leanne Heilman

  4 Nov 2009 | 1:31 am

  Any parent who has ever watched their living room slowly become engulfed in kids’ toys knows that the absolute best toys are the ones that are big enough to bring hours of fun and creative play, but then break down compactly when playtime is over. The Animal Planet Wooden Dino Playland is my favorite pick in this category of building toys, and something that is sure to make your little adventurer’s day. The Dinosaur Playland is created by sliding the painted interlocking wooden sections into each other to create three tiers of fun dinosaur play. The really great thing about the Wooden…

• Bei Bambini MEGA Giveaway + Discount Code! (Over $600 ARV!)

  Leanne Heilman

  3 Nov 2009 | 9:27 am

  I am so excited to kick off the 2009 Holiday Gift Guide and start things off by announcing the BIGGEST giveaway ever hosted here at Rave and Review! Holiday portraits are just around the corner and I know a bunch of you are wondering what your kids should wear for that all-important family picture, specifically the handful of you that have already been emailing me and asking for help choosing the perfect outfit. Whether or not I’m taking your holiday pictures for you, I still want your photos to be the best, which is why I’m thrilled to introduce you to Bei Bambini, an exclusive Jeanine…

• CARES - The Child Aviation Restraint System

  Leanne Heilman

  2 Nov 2009 | 12:25 am

  With the Holiday travel season quickly approaching, I’ve gotten a ton of emails from readers asking for travel tips for flying with young children. Many have asked what I would recommend after your child graduates from being a lap child and into having their own grownup seat while traveling by plane. My recommendation, of course, would be the CARES Child Aviation Restraint System that secures your child into the airline seat while flying without having to carry their bulky car seat onto the plane. So, how does the CARES toddler harness work? Instead of one single lap belt on a standard…

• 
  MyBrownBaby

• Help MyBrownBaby Support the Greening Youth Foundation

  5 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm

  It’s no secret that I’m a total stan for my sister-in-law, Angelou, and not just because she’s smart, accomplished, passionate and fly. I can’t say it enough: She’s an inspiration (and she lets me rock all her shoes, purses, and cute tops!). An attorney by trade, Angelou founded a little over a year ago her own non-profit environmental education program for kids, GREENING YOUTH, to help encourage

• The MyBrownBaby Beautiful Mind Writing Contest

  4 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm

  The written word is sexy as hell to me. I mean, I adore writers and their turns of phrase like a car lover does the fine, sleek lines of a Porsche—like an art lover does the passion and intricacies of a Romare Bearden collage. When I worked in an office, I used to clip magazine articles, quotes, and turns of phrase by some of my favorite writers and hang them up on my wall for inspiration. They

• Wordless Wednesday: The Cousins In a New York State of Mind

  4 Nov 2009 | 5:31 am

  This is, for sure, one of my favorite pictures of Lila, Miles, Mari, and Cole—taken in the middle of Times Square on the first day of one of our family vacations to New York City. We're native New Yorkers, and when we were living there, it was way too hokey to get caught doing the touristy thing. That's for, like, tourists. But then we all moved South, and when we visited home for the first time,

• Check Out MyBrownBaby On The Rachael Ray Show!

  3 Nov 2009 | 8:28 am

  Exciting news! Today, I'm one of four mommies kicking it with the celebrated chef/author/magazine editorRachael Ray on her fabulous afternoon gabfest, The Rachael Ray Show. I joined Rachael, actress Rikki Lake, and three other moms via Skype to talk about all things motherhood—and, true to form, I gave my own unique perspective on what it means to be a mommy in 2009.To get a sneak peak, click

• A LETTER FOR MY FATHER: A Daughter Reaches Out to the Dad Who Never Was

  1 Nov 2009 | 9:02 pm

  By KAREN MARIE MASONDear Daddy,Mama told me your were dead. Except that was way before you actually died. But when I started acting up around age 16 or so—you know, the age when girls start “feeling their oats,” as Mama used to say—you suddenly came alive again, and next thing I knew, I was talking to you on the phone and not much later, I was on a plane to see you. I’m not mad at Mama any more

• 
  Three Stairs

• Kona with Jonah and Frappe’ with Philippians by Sandra Glahn

  Crystal

  3 Nov 2009 | 11:30 pm

  AMG Publishers July 27, 2009 ISBN-10: 0899573967 ISBN-13: 978-0899573960 Retail: $12.99 AMGPublishers July 27, 2009 ISBN-10: 0899573959 ISBN-13: 978-0899573953 Retail: $12.99 Sandra Glahn, Th.M., is adjunct professor, Christian Education and Pastoral Ministries, at Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS), her alma mater. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Aesthetic Studies (Arts and Humanities) at the University of Texas at Dallas. In addition she serves on the board of the Evangelical Press Association, the advisory board of Hannah’s Prayer, and the women’s executive…

• Children’s Defense Fund Stroller Brigade Kicks Off This Week

  Crystal

  2 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

  From the Children’s Defense (www.childrensdefense.org) website: Join Us In Standing Together for Children: Congress is debating health reform legislation that could leave millions of children worse rather than better off and fails to fix bureaucratic, unfair barriers to care. This must be changed now! What We Are Demanding: Congress and the President must support changes that provide comprehensive, affordable, accessible care for all children no matter where they live. Changes must build on what works in the system and fix what doesn’t work for children now. Actions You Can Take: Join…

• Make Time for CHANGE with Jennifer Garner and Frigidaire

  Crystal

  1 Nov 2009 | 8:01 pm

  Jennifer Garner has become known as an involved parent, and further proves with her latest project: the Make Time for CHANGE (Creating Healthy, Active, and Nurturing Growing-up Environments) campaign from Save the Children and Frigidaire. Here’s some information from the Make Time for CHANGE website: MAKE TIME FOR CHANGE For more than 75 years, Save the Children has been helping children survive and thrive by focusing on early childhood education, literacy and physical activity and nutrition programs. Save the Children created the CHANGE program (Creating Healthy, Active, and Nurturing…

• This Week’s Twitter Blatherings

  Crystal

  31 Oct 2009 | 9:59 pm

  had an awesome weekend at a women's weekend in Tyler; God told me what I'm supposed to talk about! #fb # going to my first MOPS steering meeting this morning; i'm filling in for the creative activities coordinator #fb # trying to get time added to my tracfone – keep getting invalid code; lovely Island lady named Sharon is helping me #fb # MOPS mtg done; now lunch and hopefully a nap before 2pm appt #fb # some deep discussions after school with 7yo Sarah about dating, Sabbath, and church attendance; smart kid – worried and prayerful mama #fb # had to clean fuzz from…

• The Call of Zulina, by Kay Marshall Strom

  Crystal

  27 Oct 2009 | 3:40 am

  Freedom…more than the absence of chains. Grace…more than a name. The Call of Zulina…more than historical fiction… a modern message regarding slave trade and trafficking in the modern world. ISBN: 1426700695 ISBN-13: 9781426700699 Format: Paperback Abingdon Press Pub. Date: August 2009 Retail: $13.99 About the Book: (Eugene, Oregon) – An arranged marriage, a runaway bride, and an ugly family heritage of brutal and inhumane slavery operations leave no room for a fairytale story. Grace Winslow, daughter of an English sea captain and African princess, finds herself in a…

• 
  Babysitterdirectory.com.au blog by Ann Nolan

• Dealing with the Prima Donna or 'Difficult' Nanny

  Ann Nolan, Co-founder

  4 Nov 2009 | 2:04 pm

  "What do you do with a nanny that your kids adore but that your partner and you find bossy and a Prima Donna? Do you confront the nanny? Accept the bossiness and Prima Donna behaviour as part and parcel of the job,telling yourself as long as your children are happy you are happy or do you get rid of said nanny and risk employing someone that you get on fabulous with but your children don't?This is the problem poised to us by a parent via email this week.The parent was from Victoria, but I don't think her "problem" is exclusive to Victorian parents!The parent went onto say that the nanny had…

• Creating & Crafting : Kids can do it why not grownups too?

  Ann Nolan, Co-founder

  26 Oct 2009 | 7:35 pm

  OK first I'm not a "crafty" scrapbooking type person. Never have been and expect never will be. Totally admire those who are into making all sorts of useful, weird and wonderful things and love looking at websites imagining how I could - if I really wanted to that is - make something half similar to what's on the site but my new sewing machine still sits forlornly in the box in which I bought it over six months ago - still untouched and unloved. I'm sure if it could it would prance out of the house and demand another owner far more enthusiastic than the current one it has been landed…

• How 'influential' are Australian Mummy Bloggers?

  Ann Nolan, Co-founder

  19 Oct 2009 | 3:29 pm

  As a blogger and a mum - though I've never put the two words side by side and called myself a"mummy blogger" - I asked myself this week just how influential are "mummy bloggers"?Can mummy bloggers influence the prams other mums will purchase, the shops they will support, the food they will eat?We all know that in terms of publishing clout newspaper and magazine editors not to mention columnist and journalists appear to have it all over bloggers.Your average blogger, regardless of what they blog about, are quite aware that in the pecking order of publishing they are still by and large at the…

• Ending an After School Arrangement

  Ann Nolan, Co-founder

  12 Oct 2009 | 4:46 pm

  What do you do when your After School Carer happens to also be a personal friend but she has just raised her rates and you now feel you want to search for another after school carer alternative for your children but don't quite know how to do it without offending her?This is the question which we received from a parent this week, with the parent needing to balance diplomacy and tact on the one hand with the need to observe what's best for her family on the other.When Casual gets Serious For close to two years this parent has had a personal friend who she met in ante natal classes and who…

• When to allow your child have a sleepover?

  Ann Nolan, Co-founder

  5 Oct 2009 | 6:55 pm

  What is the "right" age to allow your child a sleep over at a friends house?This is the question I asked myself last week when my six year old asked me, once again, when she would be allowed to have sleepovers at her school friends houses."Will it be when I'm seven Mum?" she said munching on her breakfast. I replied with a distracted "Mmm" while at the sametime frantically buttering toast and scratching for the "correct" answer to give her."Perhaps eight mum?" she says with a note of desperation slipping into her voice (eight does seem so long away when you are six after all). I replied with…

• 
  Being a Mummy

• Fashion and Me; The Pitfalls of Mummy Fashion

  zooarchaeologist

  6 Nov 2009 | 7:47 am

  Reading Metropolitan Mum's blog recently about her little girl and fashion made me think. Alright, so I've never been on trend and I have to agree with Metropolitan Mum's theory, my children are far more trendy than me. However, I think this morning things came to a head. I thought I would try to smarten myself up a bit, in order to make myself feel a bit better. I got a nice pencil skirt out the of the cupboard and was going to team it with a casual but smartish (Fat Face) top. I had the following conversation;Toddler Boy; " No! Like Nana"Me; "What you mean this skirt?" OMG I'm turning…

• Toddler Boy and Pre-school

  zooarchaeologist

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:18 am

  This week, Toddler boy struck out alone at pre-school. After the disaster of my last attempt to get him started in the world of education I spent 4 sessions sitting with him and trying to get him to realise that he would be fine and all was great. It was, I have to admit, mind- numbingly boring. I couldn't get involved with any play, didn't really want to interact with any other children and didn't want to talk too much to the staff and distract them from their jobs. Still, it has given me a useful insight into what he actually does there. I can report that its all good, although it is a good…

• Next Generation Childrenswear and Make a Wish Foundation Competition

  zooarchaeologist

  5 Nov 2009 | 9:29 am

  I really love the little girls clothes in Next, so when I was asked to write a bit about their competition in exchange for some vouchers I was only happy to do so. I hope this will be of some interest to readers too, if not, think how I need those vouchers to clothe the little sugar plum fairy Fifi.Right, the competition then; basically if your child is between 4 and 7 years old and would like to be a model this is the one for you. They can win a chance to appear in the Next Directory, a shopping spree at Next and the chance to be represented by a modelling agency. Lets face it though, all of…

• One Day Down

  zooarchaeologist

  2 Nov 2009 | 12:51 pm

  First day back to work, feelings of dread, panic and an overwhelming feeling that my usefulness in life is over. I've had the babies, nurtured them and now I am back where I began. I have worked in more or less the same job for ten years, not a lot has changed, professionally I haven't moved on. Personally, I have moved house a couple of times, got married and had two kids. The kids have become my life.They are all I think about, day in day out. It's really hard to change that frame of mind.So, we all got up at about 6, it was 7.34 before I managed to get them down and eating breakfast. I…

• Things That I Specifically Don't Want for Christmas

  zooarchaeologist

  1 Nov 2009 | 3:48 am

  Bah Humbug, I could do without Christmas altogether. I am forced to enjoy it for the sake of everyone else. However, if you are thinking that you might like to bestow me with a gift. I would rather have nothing than;SocksBubble BathNight dressBooks on parentingCD holdersSmall items of make-up and make-up bagsSo what would I like?A new winter coatSome shoes, I've had the same ones for four yearsSome nice jewelleryOne of several books, I can provide a listA nice new handbag from somewhere poshSOMEONE TO BABYSIT FOR ONE DAY, SO I CAN HAVE SOME PEACEI may well be adding to this list with links,…

• 
  Flying Giggles & Lollipops

• Did You Lose Your Technorati Authority?

  6 Nov 2009 | 7:16 am

  About a month ago, I noticed my Technorati authority was wiped out. It dropped from a 122, down to a measly 1. There were times in the past when my authority dropped and picked up again. I know Technorati has experienced many glitches here and there, but for the most part, my authority always came back.Not this time. And I am not alone, has it affected your site?Apparently, Technorati is doing some upgrading (yay!), but in the mean time, many sites have lost their authority and are no longer displaying their posts (boo!). As they are cleaning up, a lot of sites have not been added to their…

• Littlest Pet Shop for Nintedo DS and Wii

  5 Nov 2009 | 9:35 pm

  Littlest Pet Shop is one of the most popular, quickest growing girl brands and they are adding to their fabulous collection, just in time for the holidays! This is one game my daughter is going to be thrilled to review. It looks like so much fun!Friends video game on Nintendo DS and Wii brings the party to you with a new cast of quirky pets and their best friends.You’ll get to deliver invitations, serve up cake and ice cream, and style out your pets as you prepare for the LPS party of the year!

• It's Friday - Share/Browse Giveaways (McLinky)

  5 Nov 2009 | 8:18 pm

  It is Friday, time to share some fun giveaways! If you have a giveaway you want to share, please add it to the list. You can list as many as you like, but please list them to the giveaway page, rather than your homepage. Do not forget to add your giveaway's end date!Pink Together Inspiring Hope Giveaway - 11/6Fiber One "Morning On The Go" Prize Pack 11/6Nature Valley Snack Pack - 11/6Make-A-Head Meals Book - 11/14simplehuman sensor soap pump - 11/20

• simplehuman Giveaway

  5 Nov 2009 | 4:32 pm

  I got it - the flu.Chloe is almost better. It is barely lingering.Aiyana, still sick.When I wished I could take it away from them, I meant, be sick instead of them, not with them!I have washed my hands probably 500 times since Sunday night. The simplehuman sensor soap pump I reviewed a few weeks ago? Love it! I just wish my faucets had a sensor as well.Giveaway!Win It: One lucky reader will win their own simplehuman sensor soap pump. To enter, visit the simplehuman website and comment with another product you would love to own to help simplify your life.This is going to be a "simple"…

• The Grandparents Handbook: Book Review

  5 Nov 2009 | 7:00 am

  My daughters love going to their Grandparents' house. My mom is always doing fun and exciting things to entertain them. Whether it is baking cupcakes, doing an art project or taking trips to the library, I know they are going to have a great time while they are there.Elizabeth LaBan along with her parents, Nana Barbara Trostler and Grandpa Myron LaBan created The Grandparents Handbook: Games, Activities, Tips, How-Tos, and All-Around Fun. I rarely judge a book by the cover, but this cover is absolutely adorable. The contents inside? Just as great! This handbook is a helpful resource for…

• 
  Simple Father

• Now With Karate Chop Action

  scott

  5 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  Early one morning, a diabolical plan was brewing in the mind of Special K. If only she could escape her prison, use her powers of persuasion to control the Queen, and then lop off the King's head, she could be ruler of the kingdom! But first, Special K had to get the attention of the Queen. This turned out to be much easier than anticipated. As the Queen tried to fully wake from her slumber, Special K let loose her siren's call, which sounded like a mix between a helpless puppy's whimper, and a cat's meow. The Queen didn't stand a chance, the call drew her in and swallowed her up. Special K…

• 5 Parenting Tips From Baseball

  scott

  3 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  As I sat watching the World Series, I had an epiphany. Abner Doubleday, the supposed creator of baseball, must have been a dad. The game of baseball is so full of life lessons and parenting advice that there's no way he wasn't a father. Here are my top 5 (I can never seem to make it to 10) parenting tips from the game of baseball: Don't let the other team steal your signs - Kids are a crafty lot. They'll look for any sign that may give them the advantage. When your kid gets out of hand, maybe you pull on your earlobe, then tap your elbow just before 'parenting.' This allows the child to avoid…

• What if Kids Filled Out Comment Cards?

  scott

  29 Oct 2009 | 4:00 am

  After constantly butting heads with Princess P, I started thinking that perhaps I was the cause of the never ending conflict. As a result, I had her fill out a comment card of sorts. The questions were asked in a low pressure setting over dinner. She was not coached in any way, and the answers were somewhat surprising. Below are the questions and responses. Q: What can we do to make your stay here more enjoyable? A: Play in the basement more with me and my toys. Q: Do you like Mommy and Daddy? A: I love you guys because you're nice. Q: What do you think of Special K (our other daughter, not…

• Batter Up!

  scott

  27 Oct 2009 | 4:00 am

  Have you ever imagined what it would be like to take a few swings in a big league ballpark? A unique opportunity floated my way this week that I thought I would pass along. SIDS Resources out of St. Louis is offering the opportunity to step up to the plate and take 6 swings in Bush Stadium. In return they ask for a $50 donation. As a lifelong baseball fan who grew up watching and playing baseball, this would be quite the experience. So if you're in the St. Louis area, check it out. As always, make sure you research the organization before handing over your hard earned money. I may not agree…

• Infinite Bad Behaviors

  scott

  22 Oct 2009 | 4:00 am

  It's time for the world of computer programming to prove it's usefulness by teaching us a thing or two about parenting. There have been times when even I have written bad code. Sometimes my applications just keep crashing and don't want to do what I've told them to do. However, the real problem is (much to my dismay) that the application is doing exactly what I've told it to do. I've unintentionally gotten the application stuck in an infinite loop... no matter how many times I run it, if I don't change it's behavior, the application will just keep crashing, and spinning it's wheels. The same…