Parenting

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    Strong Girls

  • Left Out of Leadership!

    20 Nov 2009 | 11:55 am
    Today the Washington Post ran an informative article entitled: Our leadership crisis: Where are the women? This timely article states that according to the Whitehouse Benchmark Project on Women, the majority of Americans are comfortable with women leading in all sectors. The bad news is that women hold only 18% of leadership positions across the 10 sectors examined in this project, including politics, business, law, sports, academia, journalism, religion, film/TV, nonprofit, and military. This current research indicates that women continue to be under-represented in all arenas in the halls of…

  • Gender-Bias Live!

    19 Nov 2009 | 1:16 pm
    So, I meet this interesting man on an airplane last month, a superintendent, and we engage in a great conversation about education, our goals, our successes and failures. As our flight ends and we part, we agree to keep in touch and he offers to mentor me in my quest to move into a superintendent’s position. We also discuss the possibility of co-authoring a book together. I excitedly tell two people about this chance meeting…a man I am dating and my mother. Both reply “He probably just wants to have sex with you”.I have an interview for a superintendent’s position. I feel it goes…

  • Teach Your Girls To Tinker

    12 Nov 2009 | 11:02 am
    Girls now surpass boys in nearly every measure of academic success.Yet, even as girls open new gender gaps by outpacing their male peers in most subjects, men still receive roughly 77 percent of the bachelor’s degrees awarded in engineering and 85 percent of those in computer science. Why aren’t girls choosing to enter these critical fields of the future? A Study reviewed in Education Week (November 11,2009) entitled "Teaching Girls To Tinker" indicates that the number of females choosing careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics is low because girls are not encouraged…

  • How Much Is That Doggie In The Window?

    9 Nov 2009 | 2:21 pm
    How much is that doggie in the window?The one with the wagglely tail.How much is that doggie in the window?I do hope that doggie's for sale.Today I was having lunch with two male adminstrators and we began talking about finances. I was amazed when both of these men stated that they manage all the finances in their families. They also stated that their wives have never written a check or paid a household bill! I was shocked. "What", I asked, "will they do should something awful happen to one of you?" This conversation prompted me to ask a few other staff and I found many similar responses. I…

  • Parental Impact on Educational Outcomes...Revisited!

    8 Nov 2009 | 8:35 am
    I was reading a study the other day about the effects of poverty on the educational success of our children (The Impact of Poverty on Educational Outcomes for Children,Ferguson,Bovaird,and Mueller,2007) and was once again reminded of the powerful impact of parents' messages on our children. This study shared that "Children from low-income families often do not receive the stimulation and do not learn the social skills required to prepare them for school. Typical problems are parental inconsistency (with regard to daily routines and parenting), frequent changes of primary caregivers, lack of…
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    The Parenting Post - Parenting.com

  • Gratitude

    My Brown Baby
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:29 pm
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  • The Family CFO

    Mighty Maggie
    19 Nov 2009 | 9:06 am
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  • Becoming a Person

    Daring Young Mom
    18 Nov 2009 | 10:10 am
    It's weird to watch someone become a person a little bit at a time, day by day. She came to us a stranger in her own body. She could think and feel, cry and poop. The rest was a blank slate. She'd stare right through you, seemingly unable to tell people from lamp posts, all but blind and totally startled and amazed by the world around her. read more

  • Black Moms ARE Different, and That's OK

    My Brown Baby
    13 Nov 2009 | 9:26 am
    'You’re so vain, you probably think this [post] is about you.' But it’s not. It’s about me. And a bunch of other African-American moms who are tired of being ignored. Stereotyped. Put in a box. Left to wonder what, exactly, they’re to do with the unique circumstances that come into play when they’re raising black children in a society that all but ignores them, until something horrible happens. What’s got me all in a tizzy? read more

  • Another Round of Correspondence

    Mighty Maggie
    12 Nov 2009 | 7:54 am
    Dear Swine Flu, I am hauling my precious babies to the pediatrician's office tomorrow where they will be injected and sprayed with tiny bits of you, all to protect them from what the newspapers are leading me to believe is The Next Bubonic Plague. I am a little bit terrified, not least because I am taking two children to the pediatrician BY MYSELF, and I do hope you are going to behave yourself and leave them alone. Deal? Respectfully, Maggie Cheung read more
 
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    Parenting at More4Kids

  • In Tough Times More4Kids Uses Creative Fundraising to Help

    More4kids
    19 Nov 2009 | 3:25 pm
    The economic downturn has hurt many people. Businesses have been hurt, families have been hurt, and kids are suffering too. In the wake of this recession, one website, More4Kids.info is working to make things a bit better for kids and other businesses with their new 2010 Sponsorship Project.

  • Christmas Every Day

    More4kids
    18 Nov 2009 | 4:14 pm
    Christmas spirit - the love, kindness, and generosity we often find overflowing at Christmas? Can we help keep that Christmas spirit alive for our children all year long? Here are some ideas.

  • Adopt a Family for Christmas

    More4kids
    17 Nov 2009 | 4:14 pm
    One year, several years ago, we learned of a family who would not have much for Christmas. Both parents had been laid off. So our family played secret Santa and helped this family in need. It soon became a great family tradition.

  • Inspiring Kids to Do Their Best

    More4kids
    15 Nov 2009 | 6:44 am
    Kids tend to have self-doubt and it's always important to convince your child that they can succeed. Here are some ideas to help inspire them find ways to reach their own personal best.

  • Inspirational Kids: Kids Who Have Achieved Great Things

    More4kids
    13 Nov 2009 | 4:27 pm
    KIDS CAN and DO Make a DIFFERENCE! Each and every day kids are learning ways to make a difference in the world that they live in. Here are what some amazing kids are doing.
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    msnbc.com: Parenting

  • What’s in a baby name? Find out — for $1,678

    17 Nov 2009 | 8:32 am
    Do you think Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes would have named their daughter Suri if they'd know that it means “pickpocket” in Japanese? A translation firm will check the meaning of prospective baby names in other languages for you — for just $1,678. Katie Holmes - Tom Cruise - Relationship of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes - Home - Boston

  • 10 most dangerous toys of 2009

    18 Nov 2009 | 5:20 pm
    A foam rocket launcher, children's book and Batman and Wolverine action figures are among the most dangerous toys on store shelves, according to a consumer watchdog group. Action figure - Batman - Wolverine - Shopping - Toys

  • Video: Instilling family values in your kids

    20 Nov 2009 | 5:38 am
    Nov. 20: Teaching values to your children starts at home by being a solid example for them. Family therapist Dr. Jenn Berman has tips for putting family first and ways to instill good qualities in your kids. (Today Show) Today - Family therapy - Family - Kids and Teens - Golf

  • Spare the rod? Struggling with spanking

    17 Nov 2009 | 2:45 pm
    Can spanking be effective? Or is it ultimately harmful? Spanking - BDSM - Adult - Sexuality - Activities and Practices

  • Meredith Vieira: Resist mom pressure

    17 Nov 2009 | 10:26 am
    TODAY’s Meredith Vieira explained how she handles mom peer pressure Family - Parenting - Home - Mothers - Business
 
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    BabyCenter: MOMformation

  • Show team pride — but not in your hair

    Beth Hering
    21 Nov 2009 | 3:54 am
    Do your kids get a student handbook at the beginning of the school year containing a code of conduct? One eighth-grader in Ohio found out the hard way that administrators take those pages of rules seriously.   According to AOL News, the boy is serving an in-school suspension because his hair has been deemed too “extreme and [...]

  • Day 10 Giveaway: Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seals

    Kristina Sauerwein
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:23 pm
    If your teeth are a yellowish yuck or a grimy gray, you still have time to transform them into pearly whites before the December holidays with Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seals, a new, 14-day teeth whitening system with an adhesive that lets you continue with your busy life while you whiten your teeth. According to the [...]

  • Kid-tested: Leapfrog’s My Pals Scout and Violet

    Dina Freeman
    20 Nov 2009 | 11:12 am
    What it is: Leapfrog was right on the money when they created these customizable talking pups My Pal Scout and My Pal Violet. These superdogs have single-handedly expanded my 2yo Jack’s vocabulary to include things like edamame,  alpaca and Bibimbap … which incidentally, I didn’t even know existed until college. The good news for the tech challenged is it [...]

  • Will Work for Waffles

    Melissa Byers
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:45 am
    It’s been awhile since I’ve written, but this story is too big to keep from my fellow parents.  It’s good to be back!   Notice anything missing from your local grocer’s freezer lately?  I have.  They live to the left of the toaster streudel and to the right of the Cool Whip.  Our favorite variety is the Nutri-Grain [...]

  • Mocha Manual Mom: Seeing my slave roots

    Kimberly Seals Allers
    20 Nov 2009 | 7:09 am
    Staring at the computer screen, I could barely make out the letters. But I will never forget what I heard. “These are likely the slave owners of your second great grandfather.”   The very nice researcher from Ancestry.com had warned me when we sat down that she may have found some slave connections, but I figured, of [...]
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    The Dear Dr.MOZ Baby Blog

  • Baby Gear Basics: How to Choose a Stroller

    Dr.MOZ
    20 Nov 2009 | 1:42 pm
    Expecting parents are often shocked to find that your average stroller can cost well over $200. That’s not to say that you’ll actually need an expensive stroller with all the bells and whistles, but you just might be surprised at how many features they have. From bottle holders and built-in diaper bag systems to adjustable handles (so dad won’t need to hunch over), the only limit is your wallet. Before going to the baby store with credit card in hand, I recommend learning the fundamentals with Joie Tamkin of Baby Earth. She’ll walk you through the basics from…

  • Crafty Tutorial: Pot Holder Seat Belt Covers!

    Dr.MOZ
    19 Nov 2009 | 2:30 pm
    Car seats have improved dramatically through the years, but the straps on many models aren’t always comfortable when worn for extended periods of time. Just ask this little guy who rubbed a mark in his neck after a long trip to see his auntie. Luckily, his aunt was the crafty type and created a pair of cozy seat belt covers out of $1 pot holders purchased at Target. Check out her cool tutorial at Obsessively Stitching and tell her the moose sent ya! * Safety Note: Be sure to have your car seat inspected at a local car seat inspection station to ensure you aren’t introducing a…

  • Free Thanksgiving Printables at Living Locurto!

    Dr.MOZ
    18 Nov 2009 | 10:48 am
    It’s about time I featured another cool blogger, don’t ya think? Today’s feature is Living Locurto by Amy Locurto of Texas. When she’s not being a mom of two (family), running design companies (Atomic Egg), or launching cool photography websites (I Love Faces), she’s assorting the best recipes, craft ideas, menu plans, and free printables at Living Locurto. Wow, Amy doesn’t mess around! A great example of a Living Locurto showcase would be a recent post Thanksgiving Free Printables which includes everything from place notecards by Erin Vale Design to Martha…

  • Dear Dr.MOZ: Can my baby see my face?

    Dr.MOZ
    16 Nov 2009 | 4:27 pm
    Dear Dr.MOZ, Is it true that my newborn’s vision is too poor to see my face? If so, at what point would he be able to recognize me? Thanks! Daddy Shawn Hi Daddy Shawn, It’s true that your newborn lacks the focus to see facial details when first born, but he can definitely see enough of you to know you are there. See the description below along with the graphic example above to help determine how clearly your newborn will be able to see during development: Newborns: are able to see light and blurry shapes. He’ll see your head and outlines of facial features, but will be…

  • Dr.MOZ’s Veterans Day Link Roundup 2009

    Dr.MOZ
    11 Nov 2009 | 10:21 am
    Today is November 11th which means it’s time to give thanks to all of those who have served our great country! I’ve put together a small collection of favorite parenting sites and teaching resources featuring Veterans Day, but feel free to open up the text box by clicking on the comment bubble to add your own. Crazy Adventures in Parenting: Veterans Day Military Family Style Wired’s GeekDad: GeekDad Salutes Our Veterans My Kids’ Cookies Weblog: Thank you to our Veterans Cool Mom Picks: Celebrate Veteran’s Day at the Park Elizabeth’s Children’s Book…
 
 
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    On Parenting

  • What Working Mother's attack on custody says about dads

    20 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    When I first became an at-home dad, way back in 2002, I was sure I was part of an exploding trend. The number of at-home dads seemed to be growing exponentially, and all the signs pointed to continued growth. That was what it felt like. The reality was somewhat different. The number of dads at home had indeed, from a small number to a slightly larger (but still small) number. If you squinted at the statistics the right way, it looked impressive. But the raw numbers told a different story. The number of guys doing the at-home thing was only 105,000. In a country of 300 million, that's a…

  • When baby gets airbrushed

    19 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    Anyone with even the vaguest knowledge of what goes on in the publishing industry probably realizes all those sexy, magazine-cover images of movie stars and models are usually -- shocker! -- airbrushed. But for some reason, most of us may not have considered that the cherubic faces beaming at readers from the front of some parenting mags also have been retouched to make them look more attractive. The Telegraph, expanding on information first uncovered in a BBC documentary called "My Supermodel Baby," reported earlier this week that Practical Parenting and Pregnancy, a UK magazine, alters some…

  • Understanding why toddlers say 'why'

    18 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    There are more than a million pieces of scholarship published in peer reviewed journals every year, and yet -- despite all of that frothy research-- some of the biggest mysteries in our world remain unexplained. Among the questions we have not had a good answer for: Why do toddlers ask "Why?" all of the time. It's a brutal phase, and I've yet to meet a parent who hasn't had to endure months and months of getting that one-word reply. I've heard various strategies for getting around it, including nonsense answers that seek to break the cycle and rules that bar one-word questions. But getting…

  • Raising little artists when dad is artistically challenged

    17 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    One of the best parts of adulthood is that I am no longer graded on my ability to draw. For whatever reason, I never really got past the stick-figure stage. Fortunately, I now live in an adult world where PowerPoint can cover up my freehand liabilities and stick figures are more or less acceptable on those rare occasions when I absolutely must communicate visually. But this leaves me a bit stuck when it comes to playing an active role in exposing my kids to visual arts. I'm a passable musician, so I'm capable of giving some guidance there. But when it comes to art, I'm at a loss. I'm now…

  • Cooking with gas: The first 5 solo recipes for the elementary-aged

    16 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    Last week, my oldest had her braces adjusted, which ushered in a 48-hour period in which she'd wince at the sight of anything firmer than a banana. Being an occasionally short-sighted parent, I hadn't adjusted the dinner menus to reflect her opposition to chewing. So with the hour getting late, and the little one beginning to melt down, I thrust my older a box of mac and cheese and told her to get cracking. "Dad," she pleaded. "I've never made this stuff. What do I do?" I was momentarily awestruck by my poor parenting -- mac and cheese is a skill every bit as important as learning…
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    Parents Blog

  • Are You a Closet "Twilight" Mom?

    19 Nov 2009 | 11:33 pm
    What is it about a vampire-werewolf-teenage schoolgirl love triangle that turns some moms to mush? "Some" moms... hmmm... make that millions of moms.

  • Chubby Babies Don't Make Desirable Cover Models

    18 Nov 2009 | 11:58 pm
    In my opinion there's nothing more delicious than a marshmallow-cheeked baby with Michelin Man arms and chunky monkey thighs. Unfortunately, my penchant for chubby infants is one of the reasons why I would never make it as a magazine editor in Britain.

  • Deciphering Teen Speak: Derogatory Words Boys Use About Girls

    17 Nov 2009 | 5:23 pm
    In a previous article Deciphering Teen Speak: Words parents should know I discuses a list words that teens use that parents need to know. I also wrote Deciphering Teen Speak: Drug Related Words Parents Should Know.

  • How Often Do You Argue With Your Kids?

    16 Nov 2009 | 11:56 pm
    Raise your hand if you NEVER argue with your kids. Scores of childhood experts claim that parents should take the high road and never quarrel with their kids.

  • Deciperhing Teen Speak: Sex Words Parents Should Know

    15 Nov 2009 | 3:45 pm
    In a previous article Deciphering Teen Speak: Words parents should know I discussed a list words that teens use that parents need to know. I also wrote Deciperhing Teen Speak: Drug Related Words Parents Should Know.
 
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    Daddy Types

  • Muji X Lego Papercraft Colabo

    greg
    21 Nov 2009 | 4:55 am
    Just in time for Kurisumasu! Muji x Lego had a genius product breakthrough: combine cut paper with Lego bricks to make--whatever you want. Muji designed four play sets, complete with pre-cut paper and all the tiny little bricks needed...

  • Bojesen Auction Awesomeness

    greg
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:55 pm
    See that, learning a new vintage toy is just like learning a new word: now you notice when they start turning up. Take this beautiful for example: the rattan doll pram Kay Bojesen designed in 1949 for Wengler, which...

  • Good Googly Moogly, Tiny Tim Singing To Real Children

    greg
    20 Nov 2009 | 5:10 pm
    When all is said and done, and we're all dead, and all the history's written, I suspect the people who are now called Gen X will be known as the lucky, unscarred-childhooded few who were too young for Tiny...

  • On Not Quite Grasping The Concept

    greg
    20 Nov 2009 | 1:55 pm
    K2 just came running into the room. "Mommy come help! Wow Wubzy stuck in car!"...

  • Whoa, The Awesome Leander Crib Is Available In The US!

    greg
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:13 am
    I was just surfing through Inhabitots, thinking to myself, "Day-um, I sure don't cover the emergence of every single piece of shiny, new eco-blahblahblah baby gear like I used to," when I saw that the Leander Crib/ Toddler Bed/...
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    Essential Questions

  • What can education learn from three Nobel Prize winners?

    Graham Scharf
    20 Nov 2009 | 6:16 am
    Why do military leaders care about early education?What would inspire the retired NATO supreme commander and retired top brass of the US military to form Mission: Readiness, an organization devoted to promoting early childhood education? At present, seventy-five percent of young people ages 17 to 24 are unable to enlist in the military because they fail to graduate high school, have a criminal record, or are physically unfit. These military leaders recognize that the trajectory of young people is set very, very early and are lobbying hard for high quality early education programs –…

  • 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…
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    Half Full: Science for Raising Happy Kids

  • Cheater, Cheater, Pumpkin Eater

    Janine
    20 Nov 2009 | 10:45 am
    It doesn’t feel all that festive to talk about cheating around Thanksgiving. But as kids head into their finals, I think it is appropriate to understand how and why we are raising a generation of cheaters. We’ve created such a fixed-mindset environment in our schools that college-bound students are now more likely than not to cheat in order to reach the seemingly super-heroic levels of achievement required for college admissions.

  • Is Happiness Actually Important?

    Janine
    19 Nov 2009 | 9:30 am
    Is it worth staying in a marriage that makes you unhappy? That question has generated more than a little heat on this blog. But in order to answer that question, we have to answer an even deeper one: Does happiness actually matter? Is happiness really an important part of a meaningful life, or are other things more important?

  • The Takeaway: Blushing is a Good Thing

    Kalai
    13 Nov 2009 | 11:00 am
    The other day Molly, my nearly-seven-year-old, whacked her sister playfully, but too hard. Like a puppy, she recoiled when she realized her mistake, feeling embarrassed because Fiona’s cool third-grade friends witnessed the gaff and were commenting. (She’s very self-conscious about seeming like the “baby” sister.) “Don’t be embarrassed,” I said to Molly, thinking I was being extra growth-mindset. “It’s okay to make mistakes so long as you apologize and learn from them. “Sorry I hit you, Fiona,” Molly said, red in the face. Hating to see Molly uncomfortable over what to…

  • Comment Round-up: Should We Stay Together for the Kids?

    Kalai
    10 Nov 2009 | 10:10 am
    Thank you for all of the thoughtful and heartfelt comments last week regarding the question of whether or not to stay in a marriage once children are involved. Nancy Prisby had a very important clarification about conflict and what isn’t good for children: I just want to comment on the statement “Parental conflict is not good for children’s happiness.” I would change it to “Acting on the anger/strong emotions that result from parental conflict is not good for children’s happiness.” This is why: Shying away from conflict and putting on a facade that everything is always OK…

  • 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…
 
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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

  • Small Talk Six: Counting My Blessings

    21 Nov 2009 | 5:26 am
    This week’s topic on Small Talk Six is “6 things you are most thankful for this year”! (What’s Small Talk Six? Click here to find out.) Following are the things on my gratitude list:1. Employment. So many people have lost their jobs this year. I’m so grateful that my husband and I are still working, and I pray that those who have been laid off will find new jobs soon!2. Health. Many people have been sick this year, whether with H1N1 or just all the other bugs that have been going around. I’m thankful that my family has been healthy so far.3. My kids. Yes, they can be incredibly…

  • Banish Eye Wrinkles with L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Deep-Set Wrinkle 24HR Eye Repair Duo!

    20 Nov 2009 | 7:28 pm
    Thanks to BzzAgent.com, I was given the opportunity to try out the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Deep-Set Wrinkle 24HR Eye Repair Duo. I’m in my forties and live in Florida, where we’re always squinting into the sun, so it’s especially important that I do what I can to combat those crow’s feet that love to pop up around the eyes! The Eye Repair Duo consists of two different creams. The AM Eye Cream helps to repair the intricate fibrous support around the eye area and protects the skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays with SPF 15 sunscreen. The PM Eye Cream is designed to boost the…

  • Kids Have a Blast with the Blast Pad from Growing Tree Toys!

    20 Nov 2009 | 9:55 am
    Growing Tree Toys recently gave me the opportunity to try out one of their wonderful products. My twin boys received a Blast Pad, which is described as an “advanced missile launch system.” It’s called a Blast Pad because not only do you blast “missiles” in the air, but kids really have a blast playing with this toy! My boys absolutely loved it.Growing Tree Toys specializes in educational toys. Their goal is to promote awareness about how essential play is to children’s healthy physical, emotional, and social well-being. Their toys inspire creativity, foster imagination, and are…

  • Are You an OXOniac? You Could Win Big in Their New Contest!

    20 Nov 2009 | 8:45 am
    OXO is dedicated to creating innovative consumer products that make everyday living easier. And to put this mission into action, they are looking for the World’s Biggest OXOniacs! They’re developing a series of “how-to” videos to play on the web, and they want their fans to star in them. So, they’re holding a contest! Three Grand Prize Winners will win a trip to New York City, $1,000 worth of OXO tools, and a starring role in OXO’s how-to videos. If you think you have what it takes, create a 30-90 second audition video to show off your demo skills. OXO is looking for fans who are…

  • Design Your Inspiration -- and a Great Holiday Gift -- with Successories!

    20 Nov 2009 | 5:36 am
    Do you have a favorite saying or quote that really guides your life? It might be a Bible verse, a quote from a famous author, or a life lesson from an inspirational person. When we’re going through tough times, or even just need a little pick-me-up, it often helps to revisit words of wisdom that inspire. And when we find a life-changing quote, it’s something we often want to share with others so they can also benefit from it. Now there’s a perfect way to do that:“Design Your Inspiration” is a new concept being offered by Successories.com (a 25-year veteran in inspirational art). In…
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    Totally Her, Totally Real - TotallyHer.com

  • The Dog Who Saved Christmas | TV Movie Review

    Sarah Eve
    20 Nov 2009 | 6:01 am
    If you have a dog this is a great movie to watch as a family! However, if you don’t want a dog and don’t want your kids asking for one, this movie is definitely not for you. The Dog Who Saved Christmas follows a dog who gets adopted into a family, but needs to prove his worth as a watch dog.

  • What’s In a Name? Everything!

    Lores
    20 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am
    Did you know that most people are affected by the names of food they eat? This information can be very helpful around the holidays!

  • Purlisse Pur-Lip Comfort Lip Balm | Product Review

    Denise
    19 Nov 2009 | 6:01 am
    As a self-professed lip balm junkie, I love trying different kinds and finding new favorites. Plus, I need at least 5 tubes of lip balm at all times because I am constantly losing them! With that being said, I was excited to try Purlisse Pur-Lip Comfort Lip Balm and see how it stacked up against my current favorites.

  • Stressed Out Kids

    Lores
    19 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am
    What are young kids stressed about? More than what we may think. The American Psychological Association just released its annual Stress in America survey, which reveals the causes of stress for children.

  • TotallyHer and Marriott Travel Voucher Giveaway

    Kelli
    18 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am
    the new Marriott.com was developed through a two-way dialogue between Marriott and thousands of our customers. The results? Search front and center. Improved navigation. A more modern and elegant look and feel. And, of course, enhanced functionality overall. To celebrate the re-design and get the word out, we’re running a promotion that gives TotallyHer visitors a chance to win a $100 Marriott TravelCard.
 
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    CafeMom Daily Buzz: Baby

  • Your Baby's Future Career

    20 Nov 2009 | 8:37 am
    Photo by sstepph In Baby of the Week I ask moms to guess what their little ones to be when they grow up based on their curent personalities. Some of the answers are pretty funny! Moms in the Babies group are having a similar chat -- here are some of their best guesses as to what baby will be when he grows up:-- I could see my son doing something with music because he loves to play the drums. I think my daughter will be a good actress because she is such a drama queen. -- My husband and I own a barbershop and I like to think that someday he will take over the family business. We both joke that…

  • How to Lift a Baby the Right Way

    20 Nov 2009 | 4:10 am
    Photo by serialmommy My back never hurt more than when my kids were babies and I had to pick them up all the time. Mr. Bad Back himself, my husband, constantly scolded me: "Stop bending over; lift with your legs!" It's one of those tasks, those parts of motherhood that seems so natural and basic that you don't even stop to think about whether you are doing it correctly. But you should definitely think about it, trust me. Here are some back-safe reminders when picking up babies and small children:Do ... Maintain a wide base of support with your feet. Bend your knees before lifting your child.

  • Jeans and Other Annoying Baby Clothes

    19 Nov 2009 | 11:03 am
    Photo by IsabelsMommy Baby clothes today are so adorable. I often say I wish they made certain articles in adult sizes. I would totally wear them. Like the new Stella McCartney line for Gap -- scrumptious! I think footed cashmere pants for adults are a great idea, but I wonder if I'd still be able to get my spiked-heel boots on, hmm ... Blue jeans were the one type of clothing that I could never stand putting on my kids as babies. Stiff blue jeans and soft babies don't mix. Boy, oh, boy, I know plenty of you disagree with me -- they did over in a post I left in Babies.Let me explain, I love…

  • Baby of the Week: Luke

    19 Nov 2009 | 4:10 am
    Photo by amw529 A weekly post to help us get to know some of our CafeMom cuties ... Who: Luke Edward, 5 1/2 months old, son of amw529. He was born on June 3 and didn't want to come out. I was due May 26, but he decided to stay in there. I ended up having a C-section since even with inducing he didn't budge. The doctor made the cut and there he was looking up at them like, "Who, me?" How long does he sleep at night? He's been sleeping since mid-July through the night after his 10 p.m. bottle through to his 7:30 am bottle. Sometimes when I'm taking him to day care at 6:15 a.m., he'll wake up…

  • New Mom Secrets: I Hate Breastfeeding

    18 Nov 2009 | 8:30 am
    It's hard being a new mom (or even an experienced mom to a new baby) and sometimes we do things we know we shouldn't, despite what all the experts say. But this is a safe place to share your secrets—we won't tell.  This Week's Secret: I hate breastfeeding.I've chosen to breastfeed because I feel it's best for my baby, but I hate doing it. My baby has a hard time latching, gets easily distracted, is fidgety, and rarely stays awake but even when it's not a battle, I still don't like it. — anonymousSee this poll at CafeMom. We all have secrets and opinions—so thanks to this brave mom for…
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    CafeMom Daily Buzz: Toddler

  • Toddler Gifts Under $10

    21 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am
    [slideshow id="6"]

  • Mom Confessions: I Accidentally Left My Toddler

    20 Nov 2009 | 8:30 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 accidentally left my toddler at church. I thought my mom had her, my mom thought I had her, so she was left. The people at church watched her but I felt so bad! — 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…

  • 2-Year Old Boy Helps Mom Deliver Baby Brother

    20 Nov 2009 | 4:30 am
    Photo by Shinde-Kudasai This recent news story about a toddler boy who helped his mom deliver his baby brother completely blows my mind. I can't even get my 3-year old to sit up to the table for dinner, let alone assist in childbirth!In summary, Babbye Favazza of Tennessee was scheduled for an early December C-section but went into labor at home early. With emergency services on the way, Favazza's water broke and the baby boy began to make his arrival. Big brother Jeremiha, age 2, got his mom a towel without being asked and, when his baby brother Kamron made his quick 2-3 minute arrival into…

  • The Holidays and Autism: Special Needs Living

    19 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    This week, CafeMom aurorabunny shares several strategies she has learned and uses to prepare herself and her son with autism for all the changes that come with celebrating the holidays. Each week in Special Needs Living, aurorabunny, mom to 3-year old Brody, who has autism, shares her ongoing triumphs and struggles parenting a child with special needs.Making Holidays Special for Children with Special Needs by aurorabunny Bright lights, loud noises, unusual foods, and relatives who may be virtual strangers... sometimes the sights and sounds of the holidays are enough to make MY head spin. So I…

  • 3 Simple Thanksgiving Crafts for Toddlers

    18 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am
    Photo from My Paper Crane I've been keeping my eye out for simple Thanksgiving crafts to do with toddlers, and I found a few that make me happy. Loving this family hands turkey card from My Paper Crane. This puts a little spin on the traditional kid handprint turkey we see year after year. And if you have a larger family, stretched out this could make an adorable mantle decoration. :) Photo from Parents.com Found this Thanksgiving banner craft on Parents.com, via the ღ Susie Homemaker ღ group here on CafeMom. The banner is made with paper and raffia and is decorated with dry beans,…
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    CafeMom Daily Buzz: Big Kid

  • Cop Tasers 10-Year-Old With Mom's Permission

    20 Nov 2009 | 9:38 am
    There've been times when I've had the urge to use a taser on my son. Oh, have there. Like last night when I told him to go to his room after he batted his sister in the head with a light saber and he matter-of-factly said, "No. No, thank you, not happening," cloaked in that irritating 6 year old attitude of his ... But I can't imagine I would ever really do that ... or even ask a police officer to! An Arkansas mom did! Last week, on Veteran's Day, she called police after her 11 year old daughter refused to take a shower. She gave the responding officer permission to "tase" the unruly girl if…

  • New Moon Night! Is Your Tween or Teen Going?

    20 Nov 2009 | 4:03 am
    I know what a lot of you will be doing tonight! The Twilight Saga: New Moon opens in theaters today. They say Thanksgiving is the worst travel day of the year, but I'd say this is the night to stear clear of the areas of town that have movie theaters. Lots of CafeMoms love Twilight as much -- or even more! -- than their kids and have been making plans for today for a while. I hope you were lucky enough to get a ticket for tonight or this weekend. Will your tween or teen be joining you? See this poll at CafeMom. Are your children excited to see New Moon? How long have they been talking about…

  • Do You Make Your Kids Dress Up for the Holidays?

    19 Nov 2009 | 10:07 am
    Photo by lilysmommy8503 Every year for both Thanksgiving and Christmas, my mom would dress my sister and I up in what she called our "special holiday dresses." Oh how I hated that. I was such a little tomboy and the idea of putting on itchy tights and a bow that never stayed in place made me quite the holiday Grinch (at least until it was time to eat Thanksgiving dinner or open presents). However, looking back at family holiday photos, my sister and I did look pretty darn cute, and I now understand why my mom tortured us insisted that we dress up. I mean, just look at this photo from Celeb…

  • Fighting Siblings -- Life with 3 Teens

    19 Nov 2009 | 4:17 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. Fighting Siblings My teens usually get along fairly well. A few times I've heard name calling, which I hate. They are all my babies and I don't  like when they hurt each other. So on Saturday, Andrea and Zack were really going at each other. Andrea turned off the video game while Zack was out of the room. He came back and threw a punch at her, and she did a good job of blocking it. I was completely…

  • Working Moms Are Losing Custody

    18 Nov 2009 | 10:43 am
    Photo by Emily_Dollface Oh, great. It's not enough that this working mom already feels guilty about not spending enough time with my kids. Now here's another bit of info I'm going to stash away and hopefully never use ... Being a working mom is not looked on too favorably by the courts during custody battles. No one likes to think about divorce and I don't wish it on any of us. But according to a report in Working Mother magazine, more fathers, stay-at-home dads particularly, are fighting for primary custody of their children -- and winning.Used to be that the child always went to the mother.
 
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    Moms & Dads: A Parenting Blog | Sun-Sentinel Blogs

  • All I want for Christmas....

    20 Nov 2009 | 3:58 am
    Though we've vowed to take it easy this gift season, there's still been a lot of talk in my house lately about wish lists. My husband wants camping and hiking gear. My son wants a new Xbox and games. My daughter wants a laptop (not a chance) and socks (this I can handle). Me? Aside from what my mom has always wished for -- "I just want us all to be together as a family" -- my needs and wants are very simple. 10. Towels to be used more than once. 9. Shoes that put themselves away. 8. I want my children to like the same foods, particularly fruits and vegetables. 7. A self-filling dishwasher. 6.

  • The gift of life — Precious no matter how long

    18 Nov 2009 | 8:22 am
    This morning I was checking my Facebook page and I found a note from a very good friend. His wife had just given birth! However, this normally celebrated occasion was a bit tempered as the baby is extremely premature. Weighing in at only one pound, the child has been given a 40% chance of survival by her team of doctors. I told him "congratulations", but it just didn't sound right. After hanging up the phone, my mind started wandering back to my own experience with the birth of my first child. Although nowhere near as severe, my daughter was 6 weeks premature and weighed only 4 lbs. 15 oz. I…

  • Does Shakespeare require translation?

    18 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    Lost in the unfamiliar territory of 16th century English, my 15-year-old sought help on the Internet and found it: a translation of Shakespeare into contemporary language. At first, I scoffed, insisting that if I had to struggle through Shakespeare, so should she. But as I explored the website, "No Fear Shakespeare," from SparkNotes, I decided it was intelligent and effective. Here is their translation for Hamlet's famous soliloquy ("To be or not to be, that is the question"): "The question is: is it better to be alive or dead? Is it nobler to put up with all the nasty things that luck throws…

  • What's your Mommy DNA?

    17 Nov 2009 | 9:02 am
    Every mother has what I call a Mommy DNA –comprised of past experiences that shape who you are as a parent. I was reminded of mine last week, when I spoke with the family of my childhood friend Shannon Melendi. Her parents, sister and U.S. Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen launched a petition drive to keep Shannon’s confessed killer, Colvin C. “Butch” Hinton, III, behind bars when he comes up for parole. (You can sign the petition here.) Shannon’s kidnap and murder are never far from my mind as I raise my two children. If it could happen to a smart, independent 19 year old on a…

  • So the kid is wailing, don't be such a cry baby

    17 Nov 2009 | 7:30 am
    If your baby, toddler or child of any age is crying - you want to know why, right? For instance, if your car were acting up, you might look under the hood before taking the vehicle to the mechanic. If your computer suddenly froze up - you're likely to push a few buttons or scoot the mouse around the pad. So if your infant or baby is all red-faced, teary-eyed, fit-to-be-tied-bawling-his-or-her-eyes-out -- get over it - by checking it out the old-fashioned way: touch, hold, cuddle, sooth, coo, hug and in general assess the situation of said tiny being. But wait, forget all that - don't trouble…
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    Jambav Parenting Blogs!

  • Hurray, Vignesh has made us proud once again!!!

    10 Nov 2009 | 11:12 pm
    It has been raining heavily for the past two days at Chennai.  Yesterday, Vignesh had school, but the younger one, Karthik, whose school is comparatively at a better place than Vignesh, had holiday, as he was in smaller classes. Today when I got up around 5:30 a.m., it was pitch dark outside, and there were heavy showers with lightning as well as thunders.  So, thinking that both the kids might have holiday today, was doing my cooking in a lethargic manner.  At around 6 a.m., made Vignesh to wake up with great difficulty, and also heard from the school’s Porur Campus,…

  • Mid-Life Cris

    10 Nov 2009 | 8:08 pm
    I am suffering from Mid-life crisis? I feel very confused. Haha! Lots has been in my mind......I am soul-searching. Midlife Crisis  Written by a Jambav Parenting Blogger. For more, visit http://blogs.jambav.com

  • 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…
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    Parent Hacks

  • links for 2009-11-20

    Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}
    20 Nov 2009 | 10:30 am
    Craftzine.com blog : Knifty Knitter Loom-Along: Alice Wrist Warmers We've talked about the coolness of the Knifty Knitter here! Great project for kids. A simple Thanksgiving solution | Unclutterer Erin and I are round-tripping the links! But she expanded on the oilcloth/chalk combo beautifully, and I figure y'all might like to know about it. The backlash against over-parenting - TIME Helicopter parenting has made the cover of Time Magazine.

  • Glow stick bracelets as nightlights

    Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:41 am
    Richelle's creative night light solution: When my 3 year-old son was afraid of having bad dreams one night, I gave him a couple glow stick bracelets left over from Halloween. They made a great night light for him. I was thinking they would work especially well for traveling or camping, when plugging in a regular night light wouldn't work. Great idea. One word of caution: I'd only do this for older kids who would understand (and heed) directions not to put the bracelet in their mouths.

  • Thanksgiving tip: Label the serving pieces

    Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:40 am
    Here's a tip I came up with as I was poring through my nifty Thanksgiving Supplies List (available for download at the Parent Toolbox over at Slideshare): label each serving piece with whatever dish you plan to serve. That is, stick a label or Post-It note that reads "mashed potatoes" inside the bowl in which you plan to serve your mashed potatoes. (If you've borrowed the piece from someone, include that person's name on the note.) Not only will you be sure you've got enough serving ware, you can more easily delegate the job of setting up the buffet. If you really want to get serious about…

  • Empty pop-up wet wipe containers make good car tissue holders

    Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}
    20 Nov 2009 | 5:46 am
    Tracy has submitted countless hacks over the years, and they're always so simple...yet smart. Tracy: I anoint you with the Parent Hacks Forehead Smack of Brilliance! We have a couple of those flushable wet wipe containers from when my kids were toilet training. We fill them up with tissues and put them in the car. They're smaller, so they take up less room and much sturdier than a tissue box. If you happen to buy just the right kind of Kleenex and place them in there just so, you can actually use the pop top on the container, as the tissues will come right out, one after another like…

  • Thanksgiving tip: Cut up the turkey before roasting to cut cooking time

    Asha Dornfest {Parent Hacks}
    19 Nov 2009 | 9:37 am
    If you're not attached to the Norman Rockwell-eque image of a big, dressed turkey coming out on a platter, follow Amy's advice: To cook the turkey faster, chop it up. Separate the wings, thighs, legs, breasts, etc. because a breast or thigh cooks much faster than a whole freaking turkey. This way, instead of getting up at 4am to start the turkey you can pop it in the oven an hour or two before you are gonna sit down to eat, depending on how big your bird is. Related: More Thanksgiving tips!
 
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    Tech Savvy Mama

  • Taking a Break to Model...Back Soon with Gift Guides!

    19 Nov 2009 | 1:58 pm
    Yes, you read that right! I have been asked to model purses tonight for an online fashion show. Since I have a serious purse addiction, there’s no way I could say no to seeing gorgeous Sondra Roberts bags in person! I’m so flattered that Twofer Mom (aka @Twincident) asked me to model!Tune in tonight to see what bag I’ll be modeling and have a chance to win one yourself! How do you win?Click here for all the details! Also:Follow along on Twitter with the hashtag #SondraRobertsFollow Tweets from me (@TechSavvyMama), @TwoferMom @ShortPumpPreppy and @ResourcefulMom between 8-9 pm EST for…

  • 2009 Holiday Gift Guide: ELEMENTARY AGES

    18 Nov 2009 | 7:16 pm
    Little Passports Subscription ($10.95-12.95/month)- A Little Passports subscription is a ticket to an exciting global adventure with fictional friends Sam and Sophia, who find a magical scooter in a garage that takes them all over the world. The first month we got our Explorers’ Kit, a suitcase filled with a letter and picture of our new friends, a map, activity sheet, some stickers to use to customize our suitcase, and a passport. The kit also came with a secret code to access an online Boarding Zone for more games and activities. Each subsequent month your children are sent a package…

  • 2009 Holiday Gift Guide: PRESCHOOLERS

    16 Nov 2009 | 6:29 pm
    PlayDoh Burger Builder ($14.99)- PlayDoh is a classic staple of childhood but is even more fun if you can make pretend burgers, fries, and chips with the Burger Builder. The Burger Builder comes with 5 containers of PlayDoh in all the colors you need to build burgers and create fries. Stamp out burgers, pickles, onions, tomatoes, buns, and lettuce while pressing out fries and cranking out chips. The chip maker is Captain Computer’s favorite part of the entire Burger Builder and elicits tons of laughter each time he uses it! Ages 3+ **Win your very own PlayDoh Burger Builder courtesy of…

  • 2009 Holiday Gift Guide: TODDLERS

    15 Nov 2009 | 8:00 pm
    Little Scholastic: TOYS ($8.99)- Interactive components and simple concepts make learning fun for little ones in this amazing book. TOYS thinks outside the box with its intricately designed die-cuts, foil placement, and removable pieces. I love that each colorful spread nests a removable flash card that doubles as a puzzle piece, making this book completely interactive! Ages 0-3 **Scholastic is offering one very lucky Tech Savvy Mama reader a selection of books customized according to their child's age! I received a set of Scholastic titles for review.A Chanukah Present for: Me! ($6.99) by…

  • Tech Savvy Mama's 2009 Holiday Gift Guide!

    15 Nov 2009 | 7:00 pm
    Tech Savvy Mama was founded to bring you the best technology products and websites for your family and I’m thrilled to present to you the second annual Tech Savvy Mama Holiday Gift Guide!

Over the next week, I’ll be bringing you a new list of my favorite products for toddlers, preschoolers, elementary ages, teens & tweens, adults, teachers, CDs & DVDs, and iPhone appswith lots of great giveaways and coupon codes galore to help you save serious cash this holiday season!While many of the items in my gift guide are technology products, some are not. Each list for the designated…
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    Earnest Parenting

  • Fun For Your Friday

    Amy
    20 Nov 2009 | 7:40 am
    Welcome again to Fun For Your Friday! I found a neat new feature over at MckLinky.com and thought I’d try it out for today’s funny. Breakfast In BedCourtesy of MckLinky Stuff – FREE! Courtesy of MckLinky Stuff – FREE! Bwahahahahahahaha! Okay, you’re next! Share a joke, blog post, video, or photo that makes you laugh (family friendly, please) with the world. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did. Next week when I write the new FFYF post, I will go back and close the previous edition. At that time all legitimate links are converted to .html, which means you get some link…

  • RIP SuperHero Pajamas

    Amy
    18 Nov 2009 | 9:32 pm
    It was inevitable. There was no way to stop a day like this from happening. After all, boys grow. Fabric wears out. No way to stop that. Uh-uh, no-how. The superhero jammies first appeared in our family back in 2001, if I recall correctly. That was the Halloween I discovered that pajamas are cheaper than costumes and have a longer life-span. After a jaunt around the neighborhood, the outfits made daily (and nightly) appearances for months. When they’d been outgrown a year or so later, the pajamas were packed away to wait for little boys to discover and love them again. It was 4 years…

  • 6 Tips to Get Your Child Reading

    Amy
    16 Nov 2009 | 9:58 pm
    Gillian from LittleHeroes.com put up a great blog post outlining tips to get your child’s nose into a book and I wanted to share the tips with you. And add some insights of my own. What would life be without my input? (gotta love my modesty today, don’tcha?) 1. Vary for Interest Read different types and styles of book to your child. Don’t become fixated on the types of book or reading material you use. Every little bit of reading helps. One thing we do here at Earnest Parenting is go to the library weekly and let the boys pick out books on their own. It’s amazing what…

  • Little Heroes Book Giveaway – And a Coupon for You!

    Amy
    13 Nov 2009 | 8:13 am
    Did you ever get a personalized book as a kid? I remember seeing one when I was young and thinking it was so amazing that you could have your name printed right in the book. At the time, the regular text would show up in one font and the child’s name was awkwardly inserted in a different font and size. Technology. It’s amazing, in’nt it? You may recall I reviewed a book personalization site earlier this year. Sadly they went out of business, but I was interested enough in the concept to consider trying it myself on the side. Then, Gillian from Little Heroes contacted me, and…

  • Banner Day: Boys Finish Phonics Lessons

    Amy
    10 Nov 2009 | 9:44 pm
    I’m thrilled to announce that Captain Earthquake and The Manager finished their entire phonics book last week. We were using The Ordinary Parent’s Guide to Teaching Reading, which is wonderful and well-done. But it has 231 lessons. 231. We worked on that book for a year and a half. By the time we finished up the rest of school last June, the lessons were intense enough that we just did a few here and there over the summer and had about 30 to go when school started this fall. And last week, we read the last lesson together. They had to sound out the following:…
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    Radical Parenting

  • 11-20-2009 Best Parenting Articles This Week

    Vanessa Van Petten
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am
    Hello Readers, We were in the Washington Post and Techcrunch this week with our new iPhone App: The Arms Race Between Teenagers And Parents Continues NEW! Do You Need a Blog Makeover or Social Media Expert? Learn how to increase traffic, promote your blog through social platforms and monetize your site, just like Radical Parenting. Looking for Chinese Interns and China Parenting ExpertsRadical Parenting heads to China and is in search for Teens and Parents who can help with our expansion. Winter Break Interns: Cool Teen Internship Program Winter vacation is the perfect opportunity to gain…

  • Virtual Campuses: How School Has Gone Online

    Intern
    19 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am
    This post is from our series on Virtual students and how school has become more and more online.  See our other posts from the Virtual Student series here. My freshman year at Emory was the first year of Facebook.  I also picked my roommate on a social network, selected my classes on my laptop and attended the virtual club fair before the actual club fair.  I think every year school is going more and more online. I wanted to write a post about virtual campus as it relates to middle school, high school and college students for parents to get a small view into how campus is changing. 1)…

  • A Day of Pressures in a Teen Life

    Intern
    18 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am
    Rachel is a 16-year-old born and raised in NYC.  She enjoys singing, debating, traveling and writing.  Her favorite subjects are English and Science; she wishes to pursue  a career in either of them in the future. Almost every grown up I talk to always say, “Enjoy your teen years; life is so much easier.”  Sure we have different pressure than adults, but we still have troubles.  Sometimes as you get older, you forget how it was like to be a teen, which is why, I noticed, younger teachers tend to be more popular with teens.  The teachers remember what they did when they were…

  • Teens, Drugs & Alcohol: What Parents Should Know

    Intern
    17 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am
    Alyssa Rae is a 16 year old from Rochester, New York. She loves her friends, her sisters and thunderstorms. I live in a very populated suburban town called Fairport. People from the suburban towns around us call us FairPOT. We have a huge potsmoking population. There is a lot of drinking that goes on as well. I wanted to talk to someone who has been deep into the drug and alcohol scene, so I talked to a girl who has been one of my closest friends, Steph. * Alyssa:  How old were you when you first started? Steph: 12 Alyssa: What about stopping? Steph: It ended officially in the middle of…

  • Looking for Chinese Interns and China Parenting Experts

    Intern
    16 Nov 2009 | 6:32 pm
    Hello Readers! We launched our parenting blog in spanish a few months ago and now we have some more exciting news: 1) We are launching Radical Parenting in China! 2) We are going to China for the next leg of our research for Parenting Is Flat I was a Chinese major in college and have always wanted to bring my business there…now I am finally taking the leap! So, I am yet again asking for help.  Thank you so much to everyone who forwarded my email to those in South America, it looks like we have families in Uruguay, Argentina and Chile (if you know anyone please email us, we could always…
 
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    Mommy Daddy Blog

  • Parenting With No Blueprint & The New Digs

    Mommy
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:48 am
    While working on our media kit, we agreed on a new tagline. We also wanted the media kit to match our blog and I was tired of the light brown overload that was going on. So there you have it, new digs and a new tagline that reflects our parenting philosophy. Thoughts? © Mommy Daddy Blog 2007-2009 Parenting With No Blueprint & The New Digs Blog Housekeeping Much Needed

  • Blog Housekeeping Much Needed

    Mommy
    17 Nov 2009 | 4:53 am
    We Moved – Since we moved in September, we had to dedicate time to taking care of an overflowing home and business todo list. We are still trying to get it together, but things are falling in to place. The Disappearing Dad – As you may have noticed, Greg has gone on hiatus. His blogging mojo has gone out the window and I let that affect mine as well. After many months of frustration, wanting him to write, wondering if I should start a new blog so that there was no obligation from a Dad’s perspective, I’ve decided to keep it moving. Re-branding at this time is a…

  • Udderly Free

    Mommy
    17 Nov 2009 | 12:40 am
    Yesterday, my Udder Nursing Cover arrived. I got it for free using coupon code “onefree”. All I had to pay was $8.95 for shipping! I’m stashing this away for the next baby who is not in the process of being manufactured yet . © Mommy Daddy Blog 2007-2009 Udderly Free No Related Post

  • The Boogie & Popeye Pattern

    Mommy
    13 Nov 2009 | 4:16 am
    It’s been three play dates and counting. Notice a pattern? © Mommy Daddy Blog 2007-2009 The Boogie & Popeye Pattern Their togetherness makes my heart melt.My Head. His Teeth.Batman and BonesCamera Dump 10/21/09: And 1 In The YardCamera Dump 10/13/09: Just Hanging Out

  • Getting Closer To Our Food: Loose Meat Turkey Burgers

    Mommy
    9 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    This holiday season, Viva is all about encouraging families to get closer to their food by ditching the silverware and eating food with your hands. We surely eat a lot of foods that require using our hands, so this “challenge” was a peace of cake. One of our favorite foods to eat with our hands are homemade burgers. There’s nothing like a good ‘ol homemade burger with all of the fixins. My turkey burgers are made with ground turkey, caramelized onions, lettuce, pepperjack or American cheese and condiments of our choice. I like to top mine with ketchup and relish,…
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    Have Kids Will Travel

  • Hygiene Helpers for Traveling Kids

    Catherine
    18 Nov 2009 | 11:57 am
    Is it just me or does someone in your family always get sick when traveling? Whether it’s the stress of being on the move, the climate change or spending more time in confined spaces, it seems at least one of us comes down with something before, during or after a trip – and that’s not [...]

  • The Lure of the Loire from a Kid’s Point of View

    Catherine
    13 Nov 2009 | 8:03 am
    If there’s one region of France that is brimming with kid-appeal it’s the Loire valley, just a few hours southwest of Paris. This is classic castle country, and what child can resist peeking into the bedchambers, poking around the dungeons and dancing in the ball rooms where kings, queens and noblemen used to dwell? You’ll have [...]

  • Round the world travel with kids

    Catherine
    10 Nov 2009 | 10:54 am
    It may be a few years off yet, but I am starting to plan an extended round-the-world trip with my husband and two children. Much to the shock, horror and disbelief of family and friends, we plan to take our girls out of school for up to a year so we can explore various [...]

  • 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 [...]
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    parenting-blogs « WordPress.com Tag Feed

  • Parents Universal Resource Experts - Sue Scheff: Seven Deadly Parenting Styles

    suescheff
    19 Nov 2009 | 6:37 am
    As Part 3 continues in my series about Dr. Michele Borba’s Big Book of Parenting Solutions, we explore detrimental parenting styles. “Take a minute to review each style and be brutally honest. Might any of these be what you’re using as a parenting approach? If so, here is a crucial point to know: before you change your child, you must first change how you respond to your child. Might your parenting approach need altering first?” - Michele Borba. Here are the 7-deadly parenting styles with a brief header. You will have to order this book to find out the answers! That…

  • Parents Universal Resource Experts: Sue Scheff - Parenting Teens can be Challenging

    suescheff
    12 Nov 2009 | 9:06 am
    Parenting teens today has become one of the most challenging jobs with a new generation of technology, peer pressure, substance abuse, and much more. As a Parent Advocate, I continuously help parents with today’s teen issues.  Many call my organization, Parents’ Universal Resource Experts, at their wits end.  Here are some article that I encourage parents of teens and tweens to take the time to read.  An educated parent is a prepared parent.  A prepared parent can lead to a safer teenager. School Violence: The dangers of bullying Teens Shoplifting and Stealing Teen Dating…

  • Feeds Updated for Raleigh Daddy 3.0 (have you seen my parenting blog's new site yet?)

    BRIAN
    8 Nov 2009 | 6:33 pm
    Feeds for the new and improved version of  my daddy blog (yes, you are currently looking at the OLD,

  • 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…
 
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    mummifiedtimesfive.net

  • I should start charging!

    Tina
    19 Nov 2009 | 2:36 am
    OMG! My house has turned into an internet cafe! We were recently asked to review some laptops and since 5 of them were sent, each Mummified kid currently has their own to play on… …they’ve already decided which is their favourite but I’ll tell you their (and my) opinion about the laptops another time. In the meantime, looking at this photo, I really REALLY need to get some prints or something for those blank walls! Edit: the crooked table runner is really annoying me but I refuse to take another photo just so the runner is straight…bloody OCD lol Technorati Tags: laptops,internet…

  • Feeling safe with Norton (+ giveaway!)

    Tina
    18 Nov 2009 | 7:44 pm
    Keep reading to find out how you can win! No-one needs to be told about how important it is to keep your computer safe from viruses, hackers, trojans, etc when you’re connected to the internet. There are so many anti-virus software packages available that it can be difficult to know which one is good for you. I was recently given the opportunity to try out Symantec’s Norton 360 security suite. I currently was using a different anti-virus software but I turned it off and installed Norton 360, which was easy and quick. Version 3.0 indentifies unsafe websites so you can browse and shop…

  • Put a stop to gift snoopers

    Tina
    18 Nov 2009 | 3:13 pm
    When I wrap all the Christmas gifts, I don’t put the kids’ names on the gift tags because I don’t want the kids working out which gifts are theirs. Otherwise they’d be feeling and smelling and shaking the parcels! One year instead of using gift tags, I got different coloured dots, one colour of each child and stuck a dot on each of the gifts. They didn’t know what their colour was until Christmas morning when “Santa” left a note telling them. This year, I’ve decided to assign a reindeer name to each of the kids, and Bill, to keep them guessing again! Do you have a creative way…

  • Needing your input

    Tina
    18 Nov 2009 | 1:50 am
    I’ve been thinking….yes, be scared. Be very scared! LOL I’ve been keeping my eye on stats this week and I noticed that I’m getting decent traffic on the Christmas themed posts that I’ve posted over the last couple of weeks. But while I’m getting more hits, my comment numbers have gone down. So I’ve decided to find out what you enjoy seeing here…do you like informative posts such as the gift ideas, reviews, and blurbs about websites I’ve come across? What about the posts about the Mummified family, photos or posts about nothing in particular (I’m sure there are ALOT of…

  • 42, 41, 40, 39 and 38!

    Tina
    17 Nov 2009 | 2:50 pm
    38 days till Christmas!! Are you prepared? I’ve realised that even with the Countdown to Christmas from the website, 100 Days to Christmas, it’s easy for the days to slip away and everything just falls behind! So I’m adding a note to my Christmas notebook to have a few other things organised before the start of the Countdown next year that has gotten in the way of keeping things on track. So, Day 42 challenge was to take a moment to recognise all the blessings and good fortune you truly have. Day 41 was catch up day. The challenge for Day 40 was to take some time to consider gifts for…
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    Blisstree » Parenting

  • Repurposing with Your Youngsters

    Mary Emma Allen
    20 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm
    Recycling has become known as “repurposing” to many people.  Finding another purpose for items you might otherwise throw out.  This can become a game with your youngsters.  How can they use items around the house and from daily living in other ways once these are empty or no longer good for the original purpose? Youngsters might see how many uses they can discover for a single item, such as a margarine container, whipped topping container, peanut butter jar, plastic grocery bags, greeting cards, boxes and more.  This is a great way to get them to use their imagination and…

  • Disney’s Holiday Guide For Kids and Adults

    Eliza Ferree
    19 Nov 2009 | 12:56 pm
    Disney’s Theatrical department has quite a bit of nice holiday gifts for you to choose from this year from The Lion King to Mary Poppins, there is something for everyone. I was recently contacted to ask if I’d take a peek at the new book, “How Does the Show Go On? an Introduction to the Theater” and I must say this would be the perfect book to give to any collector or child that wants to learn more about the behind the scenes or even Broadway. They sent me the book as well as an eco-friendly Lion King Bag which my kids have already taken and stuffed their own books…

  • Thanksgiving Becomes a National Holiday

    Mary Emma Allen
    18 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm
    Are your children aware that a New Hampshire woman, Sarah Josepha Hale, was responsible for Thanksgiving becoming a national holiday?  Image: sxc.hu Yes, the first Thanksgiving, from which this  holiday of thankfulness originated, took place in Plymouth, MA. However, it wasn’t celebrated nationally until Sarah Josepha Hale, the editor of “Godey’s Lady’s Book,” decided that Thanksgiving should become a national holiday. She initiated a campaign to have a day in late fall set aside for us to give thanks for our harvests and many blessings. From 1846 to 1863, she…

  • Introducing New Foods to Your Kids

    Eliza Ferree
    18 Nov 2009 | 4:22 pm
    Kids are tricky when it comes to figuring out what they will eat and what they won’t eat. One reason so many of us call our children picky or finicky eaters. How many of you have a picky eater? Tonight I decided to introduce my children to a new meal, I’ve come across a few tips for you: IMG: Elizabeth Ferree Tips to Introducing New Foods: 1.  Make sure it isn’t too spicy. Tonight I made chili with actual fresh chilis in it, apparently it made it a bit too spicy for my kids. They could not eat it. 2.  Be prepared. Be prepared that your kids may not take to the new meal.

  • Best Egg Nog Recipe in the World!

    Jennifer Walker-Journey
    18 Nov 2009 | 1:13 pm
    When my mom died and my sister and I divvied up her belongings that my father did not need, I ended up with the coveted “The New Fannie Farmer Boston Cooking-School Cook Book.” It was profoundly sentimental to me because it was the duct-taped book that my parents had used to prepare our world famous Holiday Egg Nog. While the fabulous Walker Family Christmas Eve Party dated back to the early 1970s, the addition of the Holiday Egg Nog did not come to be part of the tradition until I was in high school or college. I’m going to take full credit for adding it to our lineup of Midnight Rum…
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    Raising A Healthy Family

  • Large Batch Pasta Salad Recipe

    Char
    16 Nov 2009 | 8:59 am
    This past weekend my daughter’s swim team hosted their first meet of the season. As parents that means time to chip in – time volunteering and food for concessions. Personally, I don’t mind doing any of it, because I know that it takes a team to make youth sports events successful. I was assigned the task of bringing 2 lbs. of pasta salad for concessions. Luckily, pasta salad is pretty easy to put together – even at the last minute – and you can really create recipes from just about anything you have in the fridge. A good pasta salad starts with a fun pasta…

  • Menu Plan Monday – November 9

    Char
    9 Nov 2009 | 5:54 am
    I am so glad we took yesterday to just stay home and recharge, because this week looks to be pretty busy. In addition to our normal crazy week, we also have to factor in that two of the kids are swimming in a swim meet this weekend and my oldest is getting braces on Thursday. I’ll have to print out the 30 Foods Your Orthodontist Hates list as a refresher ahead of time and adjust our menus accordingly until he gets used to them. Monday – Leftover Chinese food from Sunday Tuesday – School Spirit Night at Foster’s Grille Wednesday – Broccoli Cheddar Quiche and…

  • 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,…
 
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    gspn.tv » Full Time Mom

  • 106 Full Time Mom – I Turned Into That Mom

    Cliff Ravenscraft
    10 Nov 2009 | 3:48 am
    [See post to listen to audio] Full Time Mom Podcast Episode 106 I Turned Into That Mom 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…

  • 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…
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    FreeRangeKids

  • Welcome, TIME Magazine Readers!

    lskenazy
    20 Nov 2009 | 5:43 am
    Hi Folks! Welcome to Free-Range Kids, where we (mostly) look at new ways to raise safe, self-reliant kids — kids at home in the world, happy outdoors, and even capable of entertaining themselves without the aid of Steve Jobs. We also look at stories in the news that illustrate Free-Range ideas in action — or [...]

  • Dear Santa: Are You A Sex Offender?

    lskenazy
    20 Nov 2009 | 3:55 am
    Hi Readers — What’s Christmas without a little overkill, this time at the hands of the U.S. Postal Service? It is acting to keep our children “safe” — and joyless! That’s the true spirit of the season, the way things are going. The Post Office is afraid of sex offenders responding to childrens’ letters to [...]

  • Outrage of the Week: No Wine In Front of The Kids

    lskenazy
    19 Nov 2009 | 1:22 pm
    Hi Readers! Here’s an advice column that had me reaching for the scotch. And I don’t even drink: Dear Amy: My husband and I adore our grandson, who is a toddler. We watch him at our house overnight two times a month while his parents attend art classes. Now that he is getting older, my daughter would [...]

  • “Can These Parents Be Saved?” asks TIME Magazine Cover Story

    lskenazy
    19 Nov 2009 | 8:52 am
    Hi Readers — Wow. This is my dream article, and (perhaps) not just because it is high on Free-Range Kids! Check it out! Yay, Time! And please allow me to quote a part I find particularly salient: Obsessing about kids’ safety and success became the norm, a kind of orthodoxy took hold, and heaven help the [...]

  • Beware the Creepy Guy Offering You A Ride, Kids! …Or Not.

    lskenazy
    19 Nov 2009 | 8:38 am
    Hi Free-Rangers! You’ll like this one. And greetings from Boston where I’ve come to give a talk and also meet with the so-called “Sandwich Moms”! (A lovely group of moms from Sandwich who believe in Free-Ranging. Always nice to meet fellow believers!) — Lenore
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    Graco Heart to Heart Blog

  • Pregnancy update - It’s almost time!

    Amy Trice
    20 Nov 2009 | 3:09 pm
    It’s hard to believe I’m down to my last 7 weeks with this pregnancy. It has gone by quickly. People ask me if I’m ready. I think I am. I tell people I am. But, really the answer is no. By this point in my pregnancy with Slick, his nursery was finished, the baby clothes were washed and all the baby stuff was organized. We had a name picked… and a back up name just in case we changed our minds. I even had all my Christmas shopping done before Slick’s arrival in early November. This time around, I’m back to my usual procrastinating self. (Kelly has been asking for an update, so…

  • Baby’s First Day of Daycare

    Melissa Parlaman
    19 Nov 2009 | 11:34 am
    My baby’s first day of daycare was a completely different experience the second time around. For my first born, PP, she had family care for her, an in-home nanny, then finally daycare. By the time we started PP in daycare, she was 10 months old and at the peak of her separation anxiety. Needless to say, her first day of day care was not a good one. PP sobbed when I dropped her off (I did too) then I had to hear that she really didn’t sleep much. Fast forward almost 3 years, little sister, Pinkie Pie, just had her first day of daycare. This time, my husband has been awarded the…

  • Wondrous Wednesday #98

    Karen Hartzell
    18 Nov 2009 | 3:57 pm
    Snuggly sweater, adorable hat (with the cutest ear flaps mind you) and picking apples…an obviously perfect Fall celebration combo for Channel Manager Jessica DiGirolamo’s 2 year old nephew, “Cookie Pie”! And knowing Jessica, you can easily conclude that the cuteness gene in her family doesn’t fall far from the tree. 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.

  • Imaginary Friends…when has it gone too far?

    Kim Lefko
    17 Nov 2009 | 2:40 pm
    (Bear pictured here with her best buddy/cousin in their matching STEWART T-Shirts) Everything you read about parenting says encourage kids to be creative and use their imaginations. My question is; when has it gone too far? Here is the reason for asking. Bear (now 3 ½ years old) has two imaginary friends Stewart and Dunkin. Anyone who knows Bear knows who I’m talking about. Stewart and Dunkin are imaginary donkeys (pink donkeys to be specific). And they have been in our family for almost 2 years. It sounds weird I’m sure…Stewart came into our family first after a ride to church and we…

  • Your Babysitter - Naughty or Nice?

    Donna Donnelly
    16 Nov 2009 | 3:01 pm
    One of the most important relationships a family can cultivate is with their babysitter.Leaving your precious children in the care of another is an anxiety-invoking prospect.You want to make sure that the person you charge them with will maintain consistency with your parenting style and the children’s environment, particularly if they are coming into your home.  In short, you want someone who will care for your children the way you do, but it is a tall order. How does one go about finding someone who fits the bill?You tell me because I surely DO NOT know!As a child of a single working…
 
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    Family Of Five

  • Not Coping With Grief and Loss

    Gerard
    18 Nov 2009 | 5:27 am
    As the regular readers among you will know, my father died in June from lung cancer. I guess the survivors have dealt with the grief in their own individual ways. For my own part, I was devastated and temporarily paralysed by the grief I felt afterward. A cornerstone of my life...gone. But strangely enough, real life intruded, and I was forced to snap out of it. The possibility of returning to work, as well as dealing with my father's financial affairs certainly kept me grounded. As well as that, my own family needed me. read more

  • How my Primary School teacher stopped me from smoking

    Gerard
    17 Nov 2009 | 10:13 am
    Seamus was a substitute teacher who taught our class in the last year of primary school. We kind of called him Seamus behind his back because he lived just down the road from us, and that's what the parents called him. I remember we'd been doing some lessons about the dangers of smoking. It was the usual stuff - rancid, rotting lungs that had been damaged by years of smoke filling them. Do you remember those specimens? The little microscopic bits of lung that were blackened and corroded? Yuck. But one morning Seamus took the anti-smoking campaign to an entirely new level - he strutted into…

  • 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
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    UnchartedParent.com

  • It’s True: I Don’t Clean My House

    Tracy Hahn-Burkett
    19 Nov 2009 | 5:55 am
    It’s no secret to readers of this blog, but now everyone knows.  My latest essay, “Dirty Little Secret: Why I Don’t Clean My House” is published today in Babble.com’s Bad Parent column.  Read it by clicking on the title and feel better about your own housekeeping habits!

  • Where’s the Milk?

    Tracy Hahn-Burkett
    17 Nov 2009 | 11:23 am
    Katherine Lee over at one of About.com’s parenting blogs asked yesterday for readers to weigh in regarding their opinions about the National Dairy Council’s new ad campaign promoting chocolate milk in schools.  In this age of struggling to teach our kids healthy eating habits and trying to curb obesity, many people are questioning the wisdom of persuading kids to drink milk that comes with extra calories.  Others think that the calories are worth it if chocolate will persuade reluctant milk drinkers to partake. I have a different question regarding milk in schools, one that relates to…

  • A New Column

    Tracy Hahn-Burkett
    14 Nov 2009 | 7:21 am
    Uncharted Parent keeps getting busier! I’m now writing an occasional column for my local newspaper, the Concord Monitor. Please check out my first one, “Cycle of hatred feels sadly familiar,” which ran in today’s edition.

  • How a Kid Says, “I Love You”

    Tracy Hahn-Burkett
    12 Nov 2009 | 5:15 am
    The only kid-free moments I’ve had this week have involved either meetings or sleep, and there hasn’t been a whole lot of the latter. Flu, respiratory bugs, colds, coughs, holidays from school, escalating outside responsibilities—you name it, we’ve had it in the past few days. Even the cat contributed by suddenly becoming ill and requiring an urgent visit to the vet. The week has offered a few positive notes, however. Four-and-a-half year old “Emmie” has been glued to my side all week due to her cold-flu-whatever-the-heck-it-is, and she’s made it clear that despite feeling icky,…

  • Definition

    Tracy Hahn-Burkett
    10 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    One of the things we try to teach our kids is to be proud of who they are. Tall or short, extrovert or introvert, lover of sports or music or math or computers—we want our kids to discover their true selves and not to be ashamed of what they find. So I’m going to set a good example here and proclaim to everyone that I am officially a geek. Specifically, I’m a word geek. Recently, I found myself in need of a dictionary definition of the phrase, “blended family.” I checked both online and in a dictionary made of actual paper, and here is what I found: blended family—noun a family…
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    The Parenting Weblog

  • H2Organics Moms Nutrient Enhanced Waters with Fenugreek

    15 Nov 2009 | 6:17 am
    Fenugreek is a well-known lactagogue (milk producing agent) used by nursing mothers to increase inadequate breast milk supply. Fenugreek supplements are available in most health stores in capsule form or as an ingredient in herbal teas that claim to support healthy lactation. Now, there's also fenugreek in so-called "enhanced waters" like H2Organics Moms. H2Organics Postnatal formula contains fenugreek, which increases milk production, promotes healthy glucose levels and maintains healthy digestion and increases breast size. These USDA certified organic nutrient enhanced waters each contain…

  • Plasmavironments™ Fireplace DVD

    1 Nov 2009 | 1:27 am
    I know of some families whose family holiday traditions include having a picnic in front of the fireplace. Sharing a meal together, snuggling up together, perhaps reading a Christmas story until the kids drift off to sleep. But what if you don't have a real fireplace? Well, now you can turn your tv into one with the Plasmavironments™ Fireplace DVD! The Plasmavironments™ DVD features warm, glowing flames that fill the entire screen. Twinkling embers add a cozy touch that lights up any room. Select the ...

  • 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 ...
 
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    ModernMom.com Recent Articles

  • Home-Work: Get Your Home Maintenance Buttoned Up

    18 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    When you’re working, wrangling the kids, and generally living a full life, it’s easy to let taking care of your home fall to the bottom of the priority list. But you need to stay on top of your maintenance chores if you want to keep your home and all the good things in it functioning smoothly. As fall approaches, it’s time to start thinking about a top to bottom inspection to check for any damage and prepare for the upcoming cold, winter months.

  • Tricks To Packing A Healthy Lunch Your Kids Will Eat

    12 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    While conducting research for my new book, I discovered that parents struggle with how to pack a healthy school lunch that their kids will actually eat! I found that often moms and dads avoid, or give in to whining, temper tantrums or begging, so that school lunch becomes a sugar-stuffed, fat-filled, no-protein meal.

  • A Teachable Moment

    12 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    None

  • A Teachable Moment

    12 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    None

  • Entertaining the Kids At Thanksgiving

    11 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Cleaning the house, shopping for all the ingredients, cooking the large meal, baking desserts and everything else that is associated with Thanksgiving — by the time the wonderful day comes you want to spend time catching up with your family. However, if you have a lot of kids in the family like we do, it can often become difficult to relax when you’re constantly watching the children. This is especially true since the meal is longer than most, and while there may be a lot of cousins to play with, the weather may keep everyone cooped up inside. Here are some ideas to entertain the kids who…
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    Parenting, Child Development, Shopping Resources, Recalls and Reviews

  • Will the Swine Flu Vaccine Become Mandatory?

    16 Nov 2009 | 6:19 am
    I came across this great article on the web this weekend, written by Adam Murdock, MD out of Texas. He discusses the media hype of the swine flu and the need for the swine flu and whether it will become mandatory or should become mandatory. One state, Pennsylvania has proposed such legislation, according to Murdock. My family and kids are overall healthy, therefore we will not get the swine flu

  • A Reason to End a Baby's life??

    13 Nov 2009 | 12:32 pm
    A British hospital wants to remove a 1-year-old boy born with[Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome] a rare neuromuscular condition from life support, but the child's father is fighting to keep him alive.The baby's mother agrees with hospital officials, who sought High Court permission Monday to remove the boy from the ventilator that allows him to breathe, British media reported."RB's mother

  • Teen Violence on The Rise

    8 Nov 2009 | 1:37 pm
    The past month I have highlighted stories on here that have occurred in recent news reports across the country regarding teens who commit adult crimes. The number of them lately is epidemic and outrageous. I question what is going on in society that is leaving teens so callous to commit such heinous crimes. From the gang beating of an honor student in Chicago to the setting on fire of a young

  • 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
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    Just Spotted

  • This Weekend in Orange County

    20 Nov 2009 | 12:21 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 20th:* Nutcracker Craft Boutique: 9am - 6pm, $2* Tot Walk, 9am at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Reservations required: 949-923-2235.* Toddler Class at the Orange County Zoo, 10-11am. Come learn at the zoo... class includes hands-on learning & fun crafts. Phone registration required (714)973-6846. $5 for one child & parent (Irvine Park parking Fee not included). Ages 3-4.* Pier Plaza Art-A-Faire, an arts & crafts event at Pier Plaza in…

  • Kids Save the Beach - Family Beach Clean-up

    19 Nov 2009 | 10:00 am
    Get out your calendars, & grab that big red marker, because this is one event you definitely don't want to forget... This coming Wednesday, November 25th, from 10 am - Noon, is the first ever "Kids Save the Beach."Living in Southern California, I'm sure we can ALL agree that our beaches are something we are very extremely thankful for! This being the season of gratitude, we decided to team up with SaveOurBeach.org & This is Me - A Kid's First Keepsake Journal to bring you "Kids Save the Beach," a family beach clean-up morning.So, Wednesday morning, November 25th (the day before…

  • the Warehouse Sale

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:40 am
    Looking for a way to fight the recession, update your wardrobe & save a few pennies all at the same time? Then THIS might be your answer. Saturday & Sunday (November 21st & 22nd) the Warehouse Sale will be coming to Orange County.Not exactly sure what the Warehouse Sale is? Straight from their website "The Warehouse Sale is an exclusive, invite-only denim sample sale that offers the newest and hottest styles of the season in your favorite brands for both MEN & WOMEN. Get ahead of the trends and be the first to rock up-an-coming labels. With everything priced BELOW WHOLESALE,…

  • O'Neill, Lost, Rusty & Metal Mulisha Warehouse Sale

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:31 am
    It's definitely warehouse sale season. Which is fabulous, considering everyone is pinching their pennies & really watching what the spend. Unfortunately, my kids are growing like weeds, so I love that I can outfit them "on the cheap" at all these sales. The latest one I've been "alerted" to is the Lost , O'Neill, Rusty & Metal Mulisha Warehouse Sale happening Thursday November 19th - Sunday, November 22nd.Here are all the details...Date: Thursday, November 19th - Sunday, November 22ndTime: Thursday & Friday 11am - 7pm, Saturday & Sunday 9am - 5pmLocation: 17 Pasteur, Irvine,…

  • LXM Pro Lacrosse Music Tour featuring Akon

    19 Nov 2009 | 8:34 am
    This Saturday, November 21st, LXM PRO the first professional lacrosse event of its kind, is taking Orange County by storm... LXM PRO features a "Showcase" lacrosse game highlighting 40 of the best players in the world, an MCLA game featuring powerhouse Chapman vs. UCSB, live comedy and a BLOWOUT concert event featuring today's hottest artists.LXM PRO will also feature an on-the-field casting call, powered by Sports Studio Casting, searching for fresh athletic-actors to cast in upcoming Hollywood productions, LAX clinics, and much more entertainment throughout the day.Obviously, this is sooo…
 
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    Happy Healthy Hip Parenting

  • Twitter’s Finest

    hipm0m
    20 Nov 2009 | 5:15 am
    Somehow, I manage to follow over 6,000 people on Twitter (on two accounts), although it’s hard to keep up.  With the new list feature, I’ve tried to separate these wonderful and funny people which helps me find who and what I need at a given moment. Since the lists feature was created, I’ve discovered some pretty amazing people who I might not otherwise find. What I find the most interesting are the names of the lists I’ve come across that have made me laugh out loud (LOL) and want to follow everyone included. Luckily, I don’t have to. I can just follow the list…

  • Yo Gabba Gabba – Music is Awesome

    hipm0m
    19 Nov 2009 | 10:01 am
    Even though we’ve never seen Yo Gabba Gabba on TV, my son and I were introduced to the characters on the Nick Jr. website where there are games, videos and music available. I received an email from the PR company that’s promoting the new Music Is Awesome CD featuring hit songs from the TV show, wanting to know if I would be interested in reviewing the CD. Since and were listed on the list of artists who are included, I figured this would be music that both my son and I could enjoy. Music is Awesome When the CD arrived, my son asked me to put it in right away so on the way to…

  • Single Dads wanted

    hipm0m
    18 Nov 2009 | 6:02 am
    Now is the time to get a little excited….SingleDad.com is past the stages of development and is now looking to cast 3 to 4 additional fathers for their TV Reality show by December 4, 2009! We need your help finding the “perfect fit”. Here is what we are looking for: Dads residing anywhere in the Greater Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange and San Diego Counties. Any type of fatherhood situation that is in the early stages of transitioning to being a single parent. Fathers never married with children, newly divorced with children or widowed fathers raising their children. To qualify, single…

  • Putting it all in perspective

    hipm0m
    17 Nov 2009 | 5:57 pm
    Over the last few days, for no reason whatsoever, I’ve been feeling pretty low. I’ve been keeping quiet, staying away from my usual connections – both online and in real life. Today, I had a ton of things to do after dropping off my son at school and I was starting to feel really anxious, frustrated and impatient – with myself and my office equipment. As I was trying frantically to get this week’s newsletter out before 5pm (my personal deadline), I decided to check in to my Facebook page for a quick distraction and to see what everyone’s been up to today.

  • Happy Healthy Hip Holiday Gift Guide

    hipm0m
    15 Nov 2009 | 7:25 am
    It’s that time of year, once again. Check out these hot products, hip toys and haute clothes for the lucky people on your gift list. play Prudence Owl Doll by blabla BMW 3-series convertible (for kids) A-Frame Doll House Build Your Own Robot Baby Giraffe Teething Toy Turner’s Tunnel Magnetic Nature Theatre House of Cards Build a Treehouse Tin Can Robot wear Childhood Clothing Fat Tie Pink Lightning Tank Dress (with removable silver cape) Floor Plan Dress by Katricewear Right Bank Babies Taupe Lamb Hat by blabla Naturino Mommy | Daddy Cape Clogs read A Friend Singing to the Sun…
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    Crazy Adventures in Parenting

  • HugaMonkey Babywearing Giveaway

    20 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm
    I missed out on the opportunity to wear Baby Dude at BlogHer and show everyone our new HugaMonkey sling, but we're making up for lost time, because I also have one to giveaway to one of you!To win:Leave a comment here about your favorite part of babywearing. If you've posted about it, leave a link to your post! (If you've posted about it many times, leave one comment for each post, I'd love for others to be able to read about your experiences! Let's pass along some babywearing love!)Extra entries:Follow Hugamonkey on TwitterFan Hugamonkey on FacebookSubscribe, follow my blog, and/or follow me…

  • Happy Blogsgiving!

    20 Nov 2009 | 9:30 am
    In honor of my birthday and of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, Trisha from Sweet and Sassy Girls and I have come up with a Happy Blogsgiving blog hop. We want to show our thanks to some of our great online friends, as well as spread some awesome blog love.During the week of November 23rd to November 27th, we will be showcasing a few bloggers on our blogs, one each day, with a master MckLinky up for you to link up on. To participate, all you have to do is post about 5 (or more!) of your bloggy friends, one post a day. Share with us what makes them special. Be sure to link back to us in your…

  • Birthday Celebratory Goodness (and My Husband's Sneak Attack)

    19 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm
    Today it's my birthday. I'm not ashamed to say, I am 33 years young today.It has been an emotional, life-changing 32nd year for me, I can't imagine what my 33rd year will bring. This is the year I finally lost weight. This is the year I finally realized, it's okay to follow what you love. This is the year I bought the camera of my dreams to take wonderful pictures with. This year I met many amazing bloggy friends, traveled to visit Mickey and hey, I'm bringing my family to meet him at DisneyWorld, too! (As in, right now we're probably on our way, driving! Eeek!)My bestest birthday present…

  • Life as an Army Wife

    18 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm
    My husband's jump yesterday was successful, but what many don't realize is how difficult it is to be the wife to an Airborne soldier. They jump. A lot. Airplanes are meant to take you from point A to point B really really fast. For whatever reason, the Army likes Airborne soldiers to jump out of those super-fast airplanes and helicopters, propelling my husband and his friends through the air, careening with a cloth-like balloon on his back until he lands, hard, rolling, spitting dust and grass out of his mouth as he stands.Of course, they think it's cool. Me? Not-so-much.On the days he jumps,…

  • Apparently, I'm a Racist?

    18 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am
    This morning was one in which my stomach was (is) tied eleventy-billion times over, worrying about my husband jumping out of a perfectly good airplane today, all while the flurries in my belly awoke to an all-time high, heart heavy with grief over Anissa and her family. There was excessive traffic this morning, much like the thoughts flooding my mind and heart about how Anissa is doing and whether my husband has jumped and landed safely. I almost made Super M late to school, and couldn't help but think about Peter, Anissa's husband, how he did this morning in getting their children off to…
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    Boutique Café

  • Vintage Baby Quilt Pattern – Kati Cupcake

    daria
    20 Nov 2009 | 10:21 am
    I’m in serious baby mode now, with only a few weeks to go until our little girls arrival. When shopping Fat Quarter Shop this morning, I came across this adorable quilt pattern and HAD to share it with you! Be sure to check out all of the awesome goodies at Fat Quarter Shop, and take advantage of the deal they are giving Boutique Cafe readers in our Holiday Gift Guide. 20% off a single order till Jan 1. 2010!! Use PromoCode “BoutiqueCafe”

  • yubo lunchboxes are all about you…

    Emily
    19 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    …and the environment. With the latest info about phthalates and BPA and the move away from plastic bags and non-reusable containers when it comes to packing your child’s lunch, a few companies have taken up the cause to create lunchboxes that are both child friend and earth friendly. I’ve reviewed both the Kids Konserve lunch bag and the OOTS! Lunchbox and today I have a new one for you. Though my girls don’t pack their lunches very often I am still trying to take baby steps on my way to helping our family be a bit more “green.” A reusable, eco-friendly…

  • Are you ready for your closeup?

    Emily
    18 Nov 2009 | 11:16 pm
    Article by: Emily Hill I don’t foresee myself being in front of a camera any time soon (one can hope though, right?) but I was still extremely interested in attending the Startup Princess Image & Media Academy. I’m all about putting my best foot—or outfit or eyeshadow or authentic self—forward! The event took place last weekend at a beautiful cabin in Sundance (Utah), and thanks to Seth Jenks (@SethJenks) and APX Alarm I was able to attend. The company sponsored myself and two other gals including my good friend Quinn Curtis of CreatedByChicks.com and Limelight Food…

  • This Just In – Swanky Community

    daria
    17 Nov 2009 | 11:17 am
    This news just in from Amber Hewitt (owner of Swanky Moms website). There is now a brand NEW Swanky Community where moms can connect, share photos/videos and more, create groups and the list goes on. They have over 200 members so far and are looking for fun moms to join in! Sign up for the Swanky Community>>

  • U-Play Mat is an all-around fun learning game

    Emily
    17 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    And by “all-around” I mean literally all-around! This unique learning game–okay, it’s more like an interactive tool disguised as a game–incorporates a u-shaped mat so learning takes place all around your child. I am always up for reviewing and testing any product that takes a new twist on learning! The U-Play Mat was designed by a New York pediatrician and mother of four. The design allows your child to sit and the floor, inside the opening of the U, and have full access to 15 clear pockets (5 on each side and 5 in front). The mat comes with about 8 sets of…
 
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    Today Is Fun

  • Thankfulness Tag

    21 Nov 2009 | 6:48 am
      We like to play tag and we also like thankfulness, so we put the two together and "Thankfulness Tag" came out the other end. Here is how you play.    A group of players (two or more) decide who is going...

  • Guess Your Seat

    21 Nov 2009 | 6:48 am
    Today's craft is a special way for your kids announce how thankful they are for each person around the Thanksgiving table.  All you will need for the craft are a few pieces of Fall-colored construction paper (red, brown or yellow will work nice...

  • We need an artist!

    21 Nov 2009 | 6:48 am
    It's almost Thanksgiving, everyone's confused we need an artist to draw our foods.  We don't know what we're going to eat its almost Thanksgiving and our meal's incomplete. The Artist must be able to draw our m...

  • Kids Choice

    21 Nov 2009 | 6:48 am
    Part of the fun of Thanksgiving is the meal, and part of the fun of the meal is anticipating it.  Most of the time, however, kids are not consulted when the Thanksgiving menu is being put together.  Today we have the solution: a fun activity that yo...

  • Hide the Thankfulness

    21 Nov 2009 | 6:48 am
    Thanksgiving is coming, and TIF is your go-to source for daily Thanksgiving activities every day over the next two weeks. We all know that the best part of Thanksgiving is in the name -- it's about being thankful.  For today's ac...
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    The Committed Parent

  • The Myth of the Rugged Individualist

    Mark Brady
    15 Nov 2009 | 4:24 am
    As a kid I spent a lot of time alone. My role models were mostly TV characters like Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, Bronco Layne, Bret Maverick, and Richard Boone as Paladin. Iconoclasts and rugged individualists all, they each worked diligently in the service of good against the forces of evil. They were mostly strong, silent types – men of action living in a black and white world. You didn’t mess with them unless you were out of your mind. In the light of current brain science research, most of my childhood heroes would very likely turn out to be clinically diagnosable, the inevitable result…

  • The Perils of Taking Life Sitting Down

    Mark Brady
    8 Nov 2009 | 5:04 am
    I once had a girlfriend in my late teens named Marlyce Greco. She was a starstruck fan of Arthur Lee and Love, and so one summer Saturday night we went to see him and the band at the Whiskey a Go-Go on Sunset Strip in Hollywood. Around midnight, after we came over Mullholland and cruised down into the Valley on my Triumph motorcycle, a woman who’d had too much to drink, made a sudden left turn in front of us just as we entered the intersection at Coldwater Canyon and Moorpark. We broadsided her at 40 miles an hour, sending Marlyce and I flying over the top of her station wagon and out into…

  • 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…
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    My Home Sweet Home

  • Searching for Thankful at (in)courage Today

    Dawn
    19 Nov 2009 | 8:51 am
    “Lately I’ve been on a mission to grow in thankfulness, to actively seek it in my life; the kind of thankfulness that helps give perspective on the rough days.” Please join me at (in)courage today for a peek at some of the things for which I’m thankful.

  • Goodies from DaySpring and (in)courage

    Dawn
    18 Nov 2009 | 7:40 am
    We are the only ones in our circle of friends who never get around to making Christmas cards. My intentions are good, but the reality is that it just never happens. Never. This year, however, I am quite pleased to announce that not only will we have Christmas cards, they’re already made and ordered in mid-November! Studio DaySpring makes ordering your cards easy. You can create your own or start with their design templates, which is what I did. I’ve been given a coupon code to share with you for 15% off your purchase with coupon code: CHILDREN15. The best part? 6% of your sale…

  • Harumika: Style Your Imagination

    Dawn
    16 Nov 2009 | 11:31 am
    Rarely has a review product entered our home that has created quite the buzz and anticipation of the Harumika, a dress designing kit containing a dress form, three pieces of fabric, fashion stickers, accessories, and a stylus design tool. My girls were so excited that they sketched fashions before we opened the box, adding another creative aspect to the toy. The dress form has an opening in the back, lined with a rubber insert that is cut in a wavy line down the middle. Fabric is wrapped around the doll to create outfits and tucked into the opening with the enclosed stylus tool. The rubbery…

  • Notable NAPP Links November 15, 2009

    Dawn
    15 Nov 2009 | 4:24 pm
    10 Ways to Relax Your Next Portrait Subject by Scott Bourne “One of the reasons I am a photographer is that I thought it would help insulate me from having to be in the picture. I am not alone. Lots of people don’t like to have their picture taken.” Scott is a talented photographer and just an all-around nice guy that I had the pleasure of meeting at Photoshop World. I totally get what he is saying here, and I love this great set of tips. Just? by David duChemin “Just an amateur? Amateur comes from the same word from which we get words like Amorous; it means to love.

  • A Mother’s Hope

    Dawn
    14 Nov 2009 | 11:26 am
    [This post was originally published at (in)courage.] I’d like to share with you the homeschooling tale of our 18-year-old son, the most difficult child I’ve ever taught. It’s a story of hope, the lessons that both my son and I learned along the way, and the rewards at the end of the journey. I think there’s a little bit of truth in it for all of us… Humility As a homeschooling mother of eight, lots of undeserved pats on the back come my way. “I don’t know how you do it,” is something I hear on a weekly, if not daily, basis. My 18-year-old son has always…
 
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    Postcards from the Mothership

  • Project365: 300 days and more than 10,000 shutter clicks!

    DaniGirl
    20 Nov 2009 | 3:32 am
    Can you believe I’m already past day 300 on my 365 project? Two months from today I’ll be done! And just the other day, I noticed that my Nikon is using the same file numbers it was assigning to pictures back in March, which means I’ve taken more than (gasp!) ten thousand pictures in a little over eight months. Sheesh, that’s a LOT of shutter clicks!! Eek, now that I do the math, that’s an average — AVERAGE, mind you — of 33 pictures a day every day. No wonder I feel like the Nikon is permanently affixed to my left arm! It was such a busy week, it was…

  • The power of positive thinking, or Good things are worth waiting for

    DaniGirl
    19 Nov 2009 | 3:15 am
    Guess what I’m doing today? *impish grin* I’m starting my new job!!! Yes, that job, the one that appeared out of the blue to land on my lap like a gift, then broke my heart when it disappeared due to budget constraints. The one with the excellent team, the cool social media factor, the 2-hours-less-per-day commuting time, the wicked-cool multimedia aspect… yep, that job! *happy dance* For a couple of weeks around the end of October into the beginning of November, partly because of losing the opportunity and partly due to whatever else ever causes the blues, I was in quite a…

  • Strollers on buses revisted

    DaniGirl
    18 Nov 2009 | 12:11 pm
    Today, OC Transpo is issuing new guidelines on the management of the priority seating on buses. The guidelines will no doubt be both controversial and divisive, because the gist of the proposed guidelines include a new “stroller policy” that “limits the size and number of open strollers on board at at any one time, while encouraging customers to fold and stow upon boarding the bus. Customers are expected to be able to manage the stroller, the child any other items they have with them.” (Please excuse me while I pause to snort, roll my eyes and recompose myself. Ahem,…

  • Ottawa Olympic Torch Relay meets Parliament Hill Christmas lights!!

    DaniGirl
    17 Nov 2009 | 12:18 pm
    How cool is this? According to the NCC’s website, the annual Christmas Lights Across the Capital festival, otherwise known as the lighting of the downtown holiday lights, will this year coincide with the arrival of the Olympic Torch in Ottawa: On Saturday, December 12, at 7 p.m., the 25th edition of Christmas Lights Across Canada will be launched with an illumination ceremony on Parliament Hill. This year, the celebration is set to coincide with the arrival of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Flame, as the Olympic Torch Relay reaches the heart of Canada’s Capital Region. This brilliant…

  • And I thought the list was limited to “breasts.”

    DaniGirl
    17 Nov 2009 | 12:14 pm
    Another laugh-out-loud search return from the traffic log! I mean really, what kind of odd things *would* someone put in a bra??? Related posts (automatically generated):So Dani, what was your first clue that maybe you reveal a little *too* much of yourself on your blog?My internet legacyMy mother will be so proud
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    Dinker and Giggles

  • I’m Grateful For People Not Things

    Alaina Frederick
    20 Nov 2009 | 6:47 am
    As we hit the one week mark to the USA holiday of Thanksgiving it has started to stir some emotions in me that I really wasn’t expecting. Perhaps it was because of the recent and sudden struggles of a woman that I don’t even know. Perhaps it has been the thoughts and worries of the ‘what if’s’ in my own life. You can listen to what I’m grateful for – and when you are done. I’d love to hear what you are grateful for this week!

  • Professional Bloggers Deserve To Get Paid

    Alaina Frederick
    16 Nov 2009 | 6:44 am
    Yes I said professional bloggers. Simply because some bloggers just don’t deserve to get paid. They are happy to whore themselves out. They are happy accepting things in hopes of bigger projects to come along. They are making a bad name for all bloggers. This is a hot topic all around the blogosphere. It has ticked a few people off – and woken many up. However, there will still always be those that are happy with a free trip or bottle of shampoo. I sadly use to be one of them. May I focus on the use to be part. I use to think that getting a toy for the kids was the greatest thing…

  • I’m Grateful For Time Alone

    Alaina Frederick
    15 Nov 2009 | 6:17 pm
    I’m so thankful I have the husband that I do. Letting me take time away from the family so that I can just ‘be’. He’s always there for me. Now matter how crazy I get from PPD (post pardum depression) or just from spending eight hours with very tired and cranky kids – he’s always there for me. When I say I just need time. I’m locking myself in our room and no one is to disturb me – he goes along with it. It’s this time alone and even away from home that makes me appreciate the craziness that is my family. Makes me see that no matter how…

  • How Long Should You Let Your Car Idle?

    Alaina Frederick
    12 Nov 2009 | 7:42 pm
    This afternoon started off with me wanting to get to my sons school early so I could have some time to just sit and veg. A few moments to myself – over 20 moments actually. I wasn’t the only one early to the preschool. One of the bus/van was already there. Running. The driver looked like he had already been there for a while as he was relaxed and playing on his phone. The moment I pulled into my spot I made a split second decision (totally unlike me) to get out and ask him to turn the van off. Why does he need to sit there for over 20 minutes letting the van run? I could possibly…

  • Would You Like Fries With That?

    Alaina Frederick
    11 Nov 2009 | 7:27 pm
    The other night we decided to go totally unhealthy and expose ourselves to all kinds of germs. Okay so we really didn’t decide that but it did end up happening. Dinner at the ‘Golden Arches’ wasn’t exactly what I had in mind but they do have some killer indoor, might I add enclosed, play areas. The family sitting next to us really struck a cord in me. Father in business dress, mom talking about all different kinds of school events, and three little boys each just a few months older then our own. Perhaps in a way it reminded me of our own family or it wasn’t that…
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    Babies Online - The Blog

  • Adriana Lima Welcomes Daughter

    Victoria's Secret model Adriana Lima has given birth to a baby girl, her first with NBA star Marco Jaric of the Memphis Grizzlies. They have christened their daughter with the name Valentina Lima Jaric. A representative for the couple has announced that "Mother, father and baby are all doing ...

  • How I Celebrated Universal Children’s Day

    It goes by many different names. The International Day of the Child. The Universal Children's Day. The National Child Day in individual countries. However, it doesn't matter what it's called. November 20 is a special day for children all over the world. When it all started It was almost 55 years ago when ...

  • Pacifiers Recalled Due to Choking Hazard

    Grand World Recalls 'Bobby Chupete' Pacifiers WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. Name of Product: 'Bobby Chupete' Pacifiers Units: About 641,000 Importer: Grand World...

  • Premature Birth is on the Rise

    November 18 is Prematurity Awareness Day. I am one of those moms who had firsthand experience with prematurity. My twin boys were born 5 weeks early 6 years ago. Even though they’ve grown to be healthy boys, we had to struggle with low birth weight and health problems during the first ...

  • Parenting Tips for First Time Dads

    After months of waiting, the time has come and gone. For a little under a year you've rubbed feet, and lower back. You've braved various "birthing" classes and read as many books as your time allowed. You've been given tips from other fathers, whether solicited, or not. The moment you ...
 
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    ZRecommends

  • Links for 2009-11-20 [del.icio.us]

    jmcnichols@gmail.com
    21 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    Widely Used Nanoparticles Could Cause Cancer "Recent studies however have raised serious concerns about the health impacts of nanoparticles in a plethora of consumer products and now, researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have discovered that titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles could cause genetic damage."

  • World’s best in-flight magazine publishes world’s best article on the mommyblogging mess

    jmcnichols@gmail.com
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:30 pm
    United Airlines' Hemispheres in-flight magazine was recently taken over by Ink Publishing, a team of people with a track record of turning filler magazines into magazines that print stories that you might actually want to read. For the past several months they've been publishing, in addition to the travel and food stories you'd expect to read at 30,000 feet, some quality short-form features with a surprisingly web-savvy perspective - ice hockey, Etsy, and now, the tangled web of so-called "mommybloggers" and the brands that are munching on their brains and turning a growing segment of the…

  • Can you help ZRecs get a lead-tainted onesie recalled this weekend?

    jmcnichols@gmail.com
    20 Nov 2009 | 3:02 am
    As many of you know, we have been investigating the ingredients in tagless onesies in an attempt to help consumers identify what might be causing allergic reactions in their children. We've partnered with the Center for Environmental Health, a grant-funded organization that is testing products sold in the state of California for violations of that state's and federal lead limits, and have sent them dozens of infant bodysuits we purchased at a number of big-box stores. Working with CEH, we have identified a onesie with a tagless label that appears to contain lead at nearly double the current…

  • 2009 ZRecs Gift Guide, Part 2: The best learning products for holiday gifts

    jmcnichols@gmail.com
    19 Nov 2009 | 1:15 pm
    Welcome to the second installment of ZRecs' five-part 2009 holiday gift guide, which will feature 12 of our favorite items of the year in each of five sections of our fantasy kids' superstore. Although we believe that all play is educational, today we'll be highlighting twelve exceptional toys, games and other play items focused on helping kids learn and grow in specific areas. As with our Cuddly Creatures section, all items here have been used in our home or handled extensively at trade shows. Treasure Chests: Activity kits containing reading material, craft projects, toys and games for…

  • Health Canada recalls Natursutten pacifiers; will a U.S. recall follow?

    jmcnichols@gmail.com
    17 Nov 2009 | 3:00 pm
    Back in July, Nuby announced a U.S. recall of its entire stock of gel-filled teethers, a month after Health Canada recalled more than 125,000 Nuby teethers in Canada. The cause? Bacteria found in the liquid that wasn't supposed to be there, which could cause health effects in infants with compromised immune systems. So when Health Canada recalled about 2,500 liquid-filled teethers made by German company Natursutten yesterday, we had to wonder if history would repeat itself. Canada's requirements for liquid-filled teethers are more different than those in the U.S. As we wrote back in July: Our…
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    The Tranquil Parent

  • Make holiday pop-up cards with help from Robert Sabuda

    jmcnichols@gmail.com
    17 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm
    Here's a great resource for simple pop-ups for older kids or for parents and young kids to make together, courtesty of the creator of some of the best pop-up books on the planet. Can't wait to try a few of these with Z! - Jeremiah

  • Our favorite homeschooling resources for all families

    jmcnichols@gmail.com
    13 Nov 2009 | 1:17 pm
    I get a lot of questions from parents who are considering homeschooling and just beginning their journey. We're just beginning our journey too (this is the year Z would have gone to kindergarten if she was attending public school) although we have known for years that we wanted to homeschool. Since Jeremiah and I tend to do a lot of reading, both online and in print, to support whatever project we happen to be taking on, we have collected a pretty substantial list of learning resources we have found very useful as we have begun homeschooling, and I wanted to share some of them with you - our…

  • How “I” statements can help dislodge disagreements and dispel dischord

    jmcnichols@gmail.com
    13 Nov 2009 | 12:17 am
    Just after writing my last post and claiming that I don't give advice unless asked, I broke my own rule. During a recent wonderfully intense family visit, I gave some unsolicited advice regarding the care and tending of my precious grandchildren! My daughter, who has been taught by the expert, was quick to bring this error to my attention, using perfect "I" statements. Alas, I took offense, defended myself, and was just a little bit hurt. We were able to talk through the situation, and I managed to remember that an "I" statement is meant merely to express one's feelings and try to come up…

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

    jmcnichols@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

    jmcnichols@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…
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    PARENTise BLOG

  • A Touch of Phever

    admin
    20 Nov 2009 | 5:04 pm
    A guest post all about the great American tradition and experiencing it through our children. For the past three weeks, I have been known around the house as “Chase Ug-ley” and my son has been answering to “Jayson Werth.”  We have Phillies Fever – and we have no clue what we will do for bedtime wind-down when the World Series is over. During the regular season, baseball seeps into our lives thanks to Pop-Pop, who brings over souvenirs from time to time – commemorative gear, stuffed mascots, etc.  But watching this postseason has been a true family event night after night, and…

  • 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…
 
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    pleasestoptherollercoaster.com

  • Communication Changes… and Personal Interactions Still Take Precedence

    Sue Blaney
    19 Nov 2009 | 7:02 am
    I hear many parents of teenagers express concern about their teens’ over-use of cellphones, computers etc. to communicate with their friends. Parents say “I’m worried our kids are not developing skills for inter-personal communication. They spend too much time texting and IM’ing and writing on Facebook…” Yes, but. New research says not to worry. The technological tools that enable us to connect with one another online, are helping us to increase our personal, in-the-flesh connections too. I have huge empathy for the parents of teenagers who are struggling…

  • New Research About What Matters Most in Parenting Teenagers

    Sue Blaney
    18 Nov 2009 | 6:23 am
    Great segment on NBC’s Today Show yesterday morning: research-based report with Frank Luntz and Michele Borba on what really matters the most in successfully parenting teenagers. 6 great tips that help you focus on the most important things. You’ll love it when Frank Luntz throws away his Blackberry! Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy I particularly like the reference to the importance of family vacations. Many veteran parents of teenagers say that family vacations are one of the most valuable opportunities to share precious time together.

  • Be the Change You Want to Teach

    Sue Blaney
    16 Nov 2009 | 5:51 pm
    “As the mom in my home, I kind of set the tone. I can make things better, or worse, by the part I play in our family dynamics. I realize that I have a choice. I can be angry at them, or I can focus on improving my behavior and be a better influence in our home environment.” These were Kate’s words at the end of a lovely women’s retreat day on Sunday. I don’t know Kate personally, but she hit the nail on the head as she shared her take-away in our end-of-day reflections. She felt empowered by identifying a change she can make. Change surrounds me today as I begin…

  • The Stigma of Mental Illness… Culture Change Needed

    Sue Blaney
    16 Nov 2009 | 5:02 am
    “Mental illness affects one in six Americans, and yet it is still an illness people are reluctant to talk about, let alone admit they have.” So says Anne Thompson in a recent NBC’s Nightly News segment on Glenn Close’s efforts to change the perception of and stigma associated with mental illness. This makes me think of  the sentiments a mom recently shared with me about her trials in raising a son with bipolar disorder. She said “I had to call the police on my son twice, which was the most devastating thing in the world.” A year after his downward,…

  • Holiday Gift Ideas for Teens – ID Tags for Your Outdoor Athlete

    Sue Blaney
    15 Nov 2009 | 4:42 am
    My eldest is a mountain bike fanatic, mountain climber and extreme skier. Do I worry about him? You bet! It makes him crazy that I do – he is 25 after all. But I figure that is a mother’s prerogative. Now I really hope he isn’t reading this blog post because he will know one of his Christmas gifts this year. If you have an active outdoors-ey teenager, you will love this safety-oriented gift idea courtesy of the Daily Grommet. Road-ID Personal Identification Gear provides personalized ID tags for the runner, biker or adventurer that will provide vital information should an…
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    News Moms Need

  • ACOG revises Pap smear recommendations

    Ivette
    20 Nov 2009 | 7:27 am
    The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) today announced new guidelines on Pap smears and cervical cancer screenings. The organization says that women can wait until they’re age 21 to have their first Pap tests. ACOG also says that women between the ages of 21 and 30 should have a Pap test and cervical cancer screening once every two years instead of once every year. Women aged 30 and older who’ve had no previous complications in their last three screenings can have a Pap test once every three years. The organization revised its recommendations based on the…

  • Mumps outbreak

    Ivette
    20 Nov 2009 | 6:24 am
    When was the last time you ever heard of someone getting the mumps? While most of us can say it’s been a while (if not, never), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting the largest outbreak of mumps in three years. Most of these outbreaks took place in New York and New Jersey. Friendly reminder – the best way to protect kids from getting the mumps is by getting kids vaccinated. The combination measles-mumps-rubella immunization helps protect kids against these illnesses, which are less common thanks to the large number of kids and people who’ve been vaccinated…

  • What is PROM?

    Lindsay
    19 Nov 2009 | 7:12 am
    Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is the breaking open of the bag of waters surrounding the baby, the amniotic sac, before labor begins. If PROM occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is called preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).  With few exceptions, once the membrane ruptures a woman usually delivers her baby within one week. In a full-term pregnancy, membranes rupture because their strength has weakened over time and the force of contractions becomes too difficult to withstand.  Before term, however, membranes can rupture for some reasons we understand and for other…

  • Bobby Chupete pacifiers recalled

    Pam
    19 Nov 2009 | 7:09 am
    Over 600,000 Bobby Chupete pacifiers have been recalled. The mouthguard is too small and is a choking hazard for  infants and toddlers. The pacifiers are distributed by the Grand World company. For more information and pictures of the pacifiers, visit the Web site of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

  • Wordless Wednesday

    Wendy
    17 Nov 2009 | 8:11 pm
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    The Erin Experiment

  • Perception and People Pleasing Paranoia

    19 Nov 2009 | 6:58 am
    I sometimes think I'm too introspective for my own good. Where most people would have paused to think long and hard about their own parenting perceptions versus facts, I decided I need to go a step further and start to second guess my own actions.Earlier this week, my husband and I were having a heated discussion about something relating to the kids. It's the first time in a long time over the course of 9 months that he's been home and with the kids and I during the evenings. The discussion started out as a misunderstanding but blossomed into a series of verbal spears thrown back and forth…

  • The November Wickedly Awesome Blog Award Goes to: Izzy Rose of Stepmother's Milk

    18 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    What do you get when you cross an incredibly charming, impressively sophisticated single gal with a man and his two kids? Izzy Rose's Stepmother's Milk, that's what.If you don't know who Izzy is or what her site is all about, I would suggest you mozy over to her site right now and check it out. Go ahead. I'll wait. Just make sure you click back.Izzy and her Stepmother's Milk are to Stepmom sites what Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik are to designer shoes: a total must-have.Izzy's site was one of the first sites I started reading once my own blog started turning more stepmom-centric. Her style…

  • The Reality and The Perception of (Step)motherhood

    17 Nov 2009 | 6:29 am
    Over the course of a person's life, they're bound to do and say things they'll regret. This weekend, I said something to my mom that I now regret.My mother is my best friend in the world. She's more of a friend to me than my own husband and the girls I've known since kindergarten. She can tell you nearly every detail about me and almost predict my next behavior or movement better than I can.For the past 5-6 months, I've been attempting to write a memoir. My mother figures prominently in my memoir; in fact, she's a major force behind some of the choices I've made in my life. One of the things…

  • Stepmom Product Reviews

    13 Nov 2009 | 7:39 am
    While I know most people come to this blog for Stepmom advice, I can't help myself sometimes when I tell people about products, books, services, etc. that sweep me off my feet.I'm a hard woman to woo, so when I find something I like, I tend to want to tell the world about it. Given I have a publishing platform and the ability to string words into sentences, I'm going my powers for good and let my blog friends know about things I've found that I feel like they might want to do too.Consider this page your one stop shop for things I've reviewed or have gotten excited about. The more I get…

  • Another Erin Fashion Pick: The Work Bag

    13 Nov 2009 | 7:07 am
    As you may recall from my post, Keeping up with the Fashionista Stepdaughter, I have an added benefit (or is it a curse?) of having a really fashion forward stepdaughter right down the hall from me.Her fashion sense comes in handy when I need help accessorizing my wardrobe or when I've grown tired of my look and could use a new set of eyes in my otherwise dark, drab closet.The side effect of having the fashionista in the house is that it makes it tougher to let yourself get away with looking, how can I say it delicately...Boring While I'm not trying to compete with my stepdaughter for the…
 
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    Connect with your Teens through Pop Culture and Technology

  • Top 70 Lost Quotes - Seasons 1 - 5

    Jennifer Wagner
    19 Nov 2009 | 6:38 pm
    Lost has more memorable quotes than any other television show currently on the air. Many funny, some serious, they all remind us just how great the writing and characters on Lost are. Season 1 1. Sawyer: I am a complex guy, sweetheart. 2. Locke: This is my destiny! Don't tell me what I can't do! 3. Kate: It's just that you... and the tattoos... don't add up. Were you one of those hardcore spinal surgeons or something? Jack: That's me. Hardcore. Charlie: If you two are done verbally copulating, we should get a move on. 4. Sawyer: Baby, I am tied to a tree in the jungle of mystery. I just got…

  • Anna Quindlen's Son's YA Novel adapted into Deadlocke Comic and Movie

    Jennifer Wagner
    17 Nov 2009 | 9:11 am
    Anna Quindlen is one of the most acclaimed columnists, journalists and authors of our time. I especially love the essays she wrote about her family, published in her book, Living Out Loud. They say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, and in Quindlen's case that is true. Her 24 year old son, Chris Krovatin, is the author of two young adult novels and it working on his third. His YA novel Venemous, has been adapted into a comic book, Deadlocke, which will go on sale Wednesday, November 18th, 2009. The book is also being adapted into a feature film. Listen to Chris talk about sharing his…

  • Top 20 Holiday Gifts for Teens

    Jennifer Wagner
    16 Nov 2009 | 6:44 am
    The older our kids get, the more difficult gift giving becomes. Before they become teens, they usually will like almost any gift you buy them. Once they become teenagers that all changes. Hopefully you will find my suggestions helpful. Video Games According to a recent survey, 86% of teens and tweens plan to ask for at least one video game this year for the holidays. Here are recommended games that are very hot with teens: Rock games - Guitar Hero 5, Lego Rock Band, Beatles Rock Band and DJ Hero. The great thing about these games is that they are unisex and you will enjoy them also. Play…

  • 10 Engaging Articles on Technology, Teens and Pop Culture

    Jennifer Wagner
    15 Nov 2009 | 8:06 am
    I hope you enjoy these 10 articles from all around the web relating to pop culture, technology and/or teens: How to Connect with your Teens & Tweens who Love the Twilight Series - Just Parenting Advice New Nickelodeon Research Study finds Generation Gap Closing, Reflecting changing attitudes and values; Families now connected by tech, tastes and entertainment - PR Newswire The Intergenerational Appeal of Classic Comedy - Ypulse The Addams Family's latest incarnation is a Broadway musical - TV Squad Rick Castle, the most charming man in prime time - Zap 2 it's TV Gal The best TV series of…

  • 10 Cool New Gadgets from Consumer Electronic Show NY Press Preview

    Jennifer Wagner
    13 Nov 2009 | 10:05 am
    The CES NY Press Preview was just a tiny fraction of what will be shown at CES Las Vegas in January, but it was still impressive. As technology advances, new gadgets and electronic are being made and sold that do some amazing new things. Here is a sample of what I saw at the CES NY Press Preview held November 10, 2009: 1. Dexim - The P-Flip Dexim Foldable Power Dock is the first foldable, portable, rechargeable power dock. In addition to using it on your desktop to charge and sync your iPhone/iPod Touch, you can also charge them on the go. It will extend your talk time up to 8 hours, video or…
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    MommyQ

  • Win iPhone App: Peekaboo Wild For Tiny Gamers

    admin
    19 Nov 2009 | 7:11 am
    Win on of the cutest iPhone apps for youngsters, Peekaboo Wild, at Droolicious!  I announced this great giveaway today - a free Peekaboo Wild app for five lucky winners. This game is a lifesaver if you have extra time to spare waiting in line at the grocery store, at the doctor’s office, at the restaurant [...]

  • Because Moms Need to Know: Shopping & Dining

    admin
    18 Nov 2009 | 12:19 pm
    MommyQ’s Inbox is always overflowing with information. Sales, grand openings, new products, special events, community giving and more. Seriously, I have 125 unread messages and they ALL pertain to motherhood. I never knew it was such an email-intensive job. Here are some of the highlights so you don’t miss out on something special or as [...]

  • Delight in Oromono Christmas Stockings

    admin
    17 Nov 2009 | 2:17 pm
    Like most moms, I appreciate holiday decor that doesn’t scream HOLIDAYS! I like my joy subtle, hip and unique. Take a look at these gorgeous Christmas Stocking from Oromono. I featured them on Droolicious for a good reason. Read more about them and grab a few for your mantle. Retail for $77.

  • Project Runway: Who’s Getting Auf’d Tonight?

    admin
    12 Nov 2009 | 3:17 pm
    Well, nobody actually. Tonight is The Finale Part I of Project Runway and I’m so excited. This has been an interesting season, but not due to the contestants. I actually think there isn’t enough drama between them this season. Other than the tiny amount of tension between Irina and Althea because of an enormous sweater thingy, [...]

  • A Foodie Event in Austin: Four Days of Outrageous Feasting

    admin
    12 Nov 2009 | 10:32 am
    Skip the turkey swimming in gravy and opt for something a bit more unique. A bit more Austin. A bit more weird… If you’re staying in Austin for the Thanksgiving holiday, you’re in luck! Thanks to Hosteria Verde Supper Club & Catering and FLAVORS of Austin, you can experience four consecutive days of foodie delights. Plus, [...]
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    Priceless Parenting

  • What's the tone of your home?

    19 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am
    Parents play a lead role in setting the overall tone in their families. Parents whose overall tone tends to be negative often have homes filled with stress and tension. While parents who take a more positive approach create calmer, happier homes.A Home Filled with TensionOne mom told me about all the stress in her home. One of her three sons was doing very poorly in school. She and her husband were constantly nagging Joe to do his homework although it didn't seem to help much. Sometimes Joe even skipped school and they responded by yelling at him and grounding him. However, Joe would leave…

  • Orders disguised as questions

    16 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am
    Parents sometimes use questions when what they are saying is really a statement, not a question. For example, when it was time to get ready for bed one mom asked her daughter, Anna, “Do you think it’s time to get ready for bed?” Believing she had a choice, Anna responded “No, it’s not time.” When mom told her that in fact it was time to get ready for bed, Anna threw herself on the floor sobbing and complaining. This wasn’t exactly the result mom wanted! Mom may have gotten a better response had she either just stated it was time to get ready for bed or given Anna a choice like…

  • Setting expectations ahead of time

    12 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am
    One Mom explained how much better her son behaved when she went over her expectations for his behavior beforehand. For example, as they were driving to the park, she would go through what was going to happen:We’re going to park our car by the playground.We’ll hold hands when we walk through the parking lot to the playground.You can play for 30 minutes.I will give you a 5 minute warning before your time is up.We will walk calmly back to the car.She would ask him questions like “What will it look like when we’re walking back to the car?” “Will you be kicking and screaming?” When…

  • New parenting guidebook!

    9 Nov 2009 | 7:45 am
    Parenting is the most important job we’ll ever have. How we choose to parent our children will significantly impact both our current and future happiness. Parents have told me they wish their children came with an owners manual to tell them how to handle the tough situations without breaking a sweat! Unfortunately, babies don’t come with manuals. However, there is a universal body of research and knowledge about how effective parents raise respectful, responsible children. The new Priceless Parenting Guidebook: Ideas for Handling Everyday Parenting Challenges captures this knowledge.

  • 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…
 
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    Wired for Noise

  • Formula Fed America – The Documentary

    Summer
    20 Nov 2009 | 7:16 am
    My thoughts coming later, I just wanted to get this up now. Go ahead and start the discussion in the comments. And I’m putting this out here now, anti-breastfeeding trolls will be deleted. Don’t like it, suck it. Hey! What are you doing reading this in your feed reader? Click over and leave me a comment, damn it! I promise I don’t bite. Unless you’re into that sort of thing… Related Reading: The Ultimate Breastfeeding Book of Answers: The Most Comprehensive Problem-Solving Guide to Breastfeeding from the Foremost Expert in North America, Revised & Updated Edition…

  • Putting My Money Where My Mouth Is

    Summer
    19 Nov 2009 | 3:25 am
    photo credit: Rob Lee 4396710 So Michael and I walk into a furniture store … Wait, let me back up a little bit. Michael got a fat bonus from work, a really fat bonus. And we decided to spend part of it on a new bed for the boys. At the old house they each had a small bed of their own. But their room in this house is shaped different and fitting in 2 beds along with toys and a dresser doesn’t work. So we decided to go the bunk bed route. So Michael and I walk into a furniture store. Several actually, for what felt like days and days. We walk into this last one and I’m ready…

  • Jesus Needs A New PR Rep

    Summer
    18 Nov 2009 | 5:48 pm
    photo credit: kyz Remember when I said I don’t like Christians? This doesn’t help change my mind: The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington said Wednesday that it will be unable to continue the social service programs it runs for the District if the city doesn’t change a proposed same-sex marriage law, a threat that could affect tens of thousands of people the church helps with adoption, homelessness and health care. And neither does this. But now, it turns out, that he joins the ranks of the unjust kings of ancient Israel, unjust rulers, to which all these Biblical allusions…

  • A Mother By Choice

    Summer
    18 Nov 2009 | 4:41 am
    photo credit: jetheriot The Stupak amendment has stirred back up the abortion debate in the public sphere. Not that the debate ever really ends, just that it simmers for a while under other headline topics. There are two areas where abortion gets people screaming mad. Fundamentalist religious people, especially those who are male and will never face this choice in their lifetimes. And mothers. Oh we mothers can get testy over the abortion debate. Some women experience pregnancy and birth and decide a woman deserves the choice of where she wants this experience herself. Others go the other…

  • Spammer Discovered!

    Summer
    16 Nov 2009 | 1:05 pm
    For a while now I’ve had a problem with spammers. They rush in, leave long jumbled comments of nonsense, sometimes writing in what appears to be a foreign language. I’ve been racking my brain trying to figure out how these spammers keep finding me. And then, I caught a spammer in the act. Suddenly it all made sense. Look at that sneer, her total lack of remorse, her dedication to spamming up my comment section with her garbled links despite a fully functional keyboard. Oh she’s a wily one. Hey! What are you doing reading this in your feed reader? Click over and leave me a…
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    Telling It Like It Is

  • Female Body Image in the Media – The Pressure to Be Thin in Society

    Lin
    12 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    How thin is too thin? If you think childhood obesity statistics are shocking, there is increasing concern about how the pressure to be thin in society is affecting girls and boys through the media, and how girls in particular are more obsessed with dieting than in previous generations. The obsession to be thin has lead to an increase in eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia in girls as young as 5-years-old, according to recent studies and surveys. Girls whose moms are on a diet are almost twice as likely to suffer from an eating disorder, according to a recent survey of over 500 teenage…

  • Give Up Coffee? Why Should I Stop Drinking Coffee?

    Lin
    9 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    Give up coffee? Who, me? Why should I stop drinking coffee when I like the taste of coffee? Can someone really be addicted to caffeine in coffee? Maybe, maybe not, depending on which research studies and health experts you believe. Almost every morning I enjoy two or three cups of home-brewed coffee to start my day, and it’s not uncommon for me to have two more cups of coffee at night while writing or watching television, especially on cold winter nights. If drinking a freshly brewed cup of coffee or two first thing in the morning doesn’t give you a jolt of energy to get your day started,…

  • 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…
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    I Never Signed Up For This

  • That’s what friends are for

    Darryle Pollack
    21 Nov 2009 | 1:31 am
    Every journalist has a moral obligation to accuracy in reporting.    Even as the gold standard, the New York Times occasionally makes a mistake.  And there’s always some alert reader  to call it to the paper’s attention. Well, I’m far from the New York Times.  I don’t do fact-checking.  Don’t have an editor.  Don’t have two sources for everything I say. Still it’s a little embarrassing when I screw up:  Like saying I had not taken a cooking class in 30 years.  When actually I did—and in my very own kitchen. Fortunately an alert reader…

  • Cooking with class

    Darryle Pollack
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:30 am
    “Maybe you should ask someone who would really appreciate it,”"  I tell Jane.  She’s inviting me to her cooking class, taught by the chef at L’Auberge Carmel, one of Carmel’s most elegant and renowned restaurants. Jane’s cooking skills are so far out of my league;  I’m  not even playing the same sport.    I did take a cooking class soon after I married H.   We were both pretty useless in the kitchen, so we asked a foodie friend to recommend a basic course.   The first lesson for our “basic course”?   Making puff pastry.  It was…

  • When blogging hurts

    Darryle Pollack
    18 Nov 2009 | 5:01 pm
    The other day, I described the fun side of the blogosphere. Well, this is the other side. Because when you meet people online you don’t just share their thoughts and their lives; you also share their battles. This past summer,  the American Cancer Society formed a Blogger council—made up of women with experience or interest in cancer—to help spread the word of the campaign for more birthdays. On the first conference call, we found out a little about the other bloggers.  One of them, Anissa Mayhew,  began her very popular blog when her youngest child was diagnosed with…

  • One boob or two??

    Darryle Pollack
    17 Nov 2009 | 4:38 pm
    I needed some reason to use this picture from the Women’s Conference. And the title could describe me, at various times— when I had two, one— and now, none. But that’s not what I meant. I’m stuck—-on a day with two major new stories both tugging at my heart and my brain.   Do I write about one boob or two? Sarah Palin….or the mammogram controversy? LOL.  Even if no one thinks it’s funny except me,  I couldn’t resist inserting a little humor.   I couldn’t find any humor in the mammogram story, though I did find lots of confusion. And as yet…

  • What to remember, what to forget

    Darryle Pollack
    16 Nov 2009 | 10:33 pm
    Enough procrastination.  Monday morning is the time for starting fresh.   I’m determined to get to the gym and work out. I rush out of the house with my arms full—balancing a cup of coffee without a lid.   Plus I’m slightly disoriented;  today I’m driving V’s car.  In my car,  no one would ever notice a coffee spill. In the car, usually I listen to books on tape or talk on the phone.   I’m vigilant about obeying the law and I have a little portable speaker —which actually made the switch into V’s car.    I turn it on, but the power is fading.  …
 
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    MommyKnows.com

  • Would You Like to Read my Romance Novel?

    MommyKnows
    19 Nov 2009 | 11:23 am
    Would you like to read my romance? You would? Fat chance… I’ve reached the 50,000 word goal of NaNoWriMo.org. Actually, I reached it on the 17th. I’m not done yet though. I still have to write the last few pages of my romance. You know, the part where they declare their undying devotion to each other, strip naked and live happily ever after. Bwahahaha. Truthfully, my romance is what is considered a ‘contemporary romance’ and they’ve been getting naked for quite some time. The HUSSY! The sex love scenes were the most difficult to write and I seriously…

  • Desperately Seeking Pie Crust (I’m Guest Posting …)

    MommyKnows
    17 Nov 2009 | 7:55 am
    I found a great new recipe. I am sharing it today at my friend Sandy’s Blog the Reluctant Entertainer. Sandy and I met at the Kraft Blogger Event in Chicago in August, she is fabulous! She’ll love you all too … so go on over and tell her I sent you :) Raise your hand if you’re afraid of pie crust. I’ve got both of my hands raised high above my head, and I am waving frantically. The fear stops here! There is no need with this EASY NO ROLL PIE CRUST from Joy the Baker. I’ve long heard the ’secrets’ of good crust from both of my grandmothers. One…

  • Who Can Turn the World on with her Smile?

    MommyKnows
    7 Nov 2009 | 2:28 pm
    Who can turn the world on with her Smile? Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? Well it’s you girl, and you should know it With each glance and every little movement you show it “Love is All Around” – by Paul Williams Every time I look at the large image of Georgia walking down the street. I start singing the Mary Tyler-Moore theme song. The image ‘IS’ Georgia. I thought I ought to let you all know, she isn’t difficult ALL the time. Questions for you: If your kiddo had a theme song, what would it be? My NOVEL is coming…

  • 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…
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    SafetyClicks

  • YouTube Online Safety Video

    Francis Duncan
    19 Nov 2009 | 12:32 am
    Filed under: Internet Safety Tips, Online Safety Tips, Social Networking, Safety NewsI recently came back from a conference with the Family Online Safety Institute. This was the third annual conference and each year I am impressed at how many people gather to work toward a common goal of online safety. For example, there were people from the Girl Scouts, Attorneys General, the Chief Technology Officer from the White House, a Member of U.K.'s Parliament, representatives from all the major Internet companies, the non profit groups working toward online safety in many ways, child psychologists…

  • Social Networking, Coming to a Living Room Near You

    Francis Duncan
    16 Nov 2009 | 4:12 am
    Filed under: Social Networking, Technology, Video Gaming, Parental ControlsLater this week, if you are registered as an adult on your Xbox LIVE, you will be able to boast about your latest high score via Facebook or Twitter straight from the gaming system. My prediction is that this feature will be welcomed by Xbox gamers. For those who are under 18, you will have to wait for Microsoft to finalize the parental controls to allow you to do the same. They say it will be a few weeks. The Xbox (and many other gaming systems) have had the ability to connect to the Internet for a while. It now seems…

  • Forced New Technology

    Francis Duncan
    10 Nov 2009 | 5:01 am
    Filed under: Internet Safety Tips, Social Networking, Technology, Safety News, Parental ControlsGetting new technology in your life generally means an "upgrade" from what you had before. If you get a new cell phone, it is probably going to come with a camera (whether or not you want one). Recently I had to replace my laptop and realized that in order to get the features I wanted, I had to get one with a web cam built in.When I read this article saying that 1/3 of students in the UK aged 12 - 15 years old have a web cam in their bedrooms - this made sense to me. Assuming the technology is…

  • 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…
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    Kids Stuff World

  • Setting Up Shop

    Stacy
    18 Nov 2009 | 8:23 pm
    Looking for some fun activities to keep your little ones busy this Thanksgiving Holiday? We’ll be featuring some fun for everyone ideas to keep the wee ones occupied and get them excited about Thanksgiving at the same time! Our first activity is setting up a pretend grocery store ~ talk about Eating Local! The only limit is your imagination and if you’re a recycler, than chances are you have everything you need in your recycling bins {Empty juice bottles, cereal boxes or any boxes for that mater, yogurt or butter containers, etc}. Anything your kids will have fun sorting,…

  • Eureka – We’ve struck Gold!

    Stacy
    16 Nov 2009 | 8:21 pm
    Gift Giving Gold, That is! I’m happy to report I have the perfect solution to just abut all your child gifting occasions – baby showers, birthday parties, christmas, even the first day of school. The First Adventures of Incredible You is truly one of the most amazing gifts you could bestow on a young reader or a soon-to-be parent. Take just one look at this story and you’ll know why – the story is personalized to each child so it really speaks to them and will grow with them as their level of reading grows too. The illustrations are so bold and beautiful, they just…

  • Wait, there’s more …

    Stacy
    12 Nov 2009 | 7:47 pm
    There are a TON of great sales going on right now! Since I have a strong passion for scoring a good deal and a feeling many of you do to, I thought you might appreciate a few more bargains. Good friends will do just about anything to help you save a few bucks, and who doesn’t need all the help they can get just before the holidays, am I right? So here’s a list that will help you get a jump start on your child’s winter clothing. If you happen to take advantage of these terrific deals – stop by and tell me about all your goodies. 25% OFF EVERYTHING In stores or online,…

  • Psssst… I’ve got a secret

    Stacy
    11 Nov 2009 | 9:19 pm
    And you know what they say – a real friend doesn’t keep secrets … she passes them along. This secret is so good, it needs to be shared – tell your mom, tell your neighbor, tell Twitterville, tell all your FB friends – just be sure to spread the word. {Won’t this be great for Christmas shopping? Do you know anyone getting married or moving into a new home – it would be great for that too} RESTORATION HARDWARE & RH BABY & CHILD FRIENDS & FAMILY EVENT 20% OFF EVERYTHING NOV 12-16th 20% Discount is good on catalog items, in the store, or…

  • 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…
 
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    My Thoughts, Ideas, and Ramblings

  • Wednesday’s Hero

    Lisa
    18 Nov 2009 | 4:49 am
    Staff Sgt. Dennisur Thompson Staff Sgt. Dennisur Thompson, 21st Theater Sustainment Command, overcompensates a left turn while on a driving simulator as a part of the Save a Life Tour in Kaiserslautern, Germany. Photo Courtesy of U.S. Army These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero. We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero,…

  • Amazon, You Rock!

    Lisa
    16 Nov 2009 | 6:50 am
    Amazon, I’d still totally make out with you.  Seriously.  If you are a regular reader here, you may remember a post I wrote last year about Frustration Free Packaging.  Basically, they got rid of the annoying clamshells and twisty ties, and all you have to do is open a box.  Brilliant, isn’t it?  I thought so and wrote a post about it.  That lead to an interview with the New York Times.  That was pretty cool but not as cool as what I woke up to this morning. That’s me!!!!!  So welcome new traffic!!!!  And well, I am super…

  • Sick and Sicker

    Lisa
    12 Nov 2009 | 10:16 am
    I didn’t drop off the face of the earth.  I swear.  Instead, everyone in my house has decided to get sick including me.  Seriously.  I started with Will and his nasty cough that was keeping him up all night.  He still has the nasty cough a week later, but it’s not keeping him up.  Then we had me and my runny nose/sore throat.  Mine is off and on and more annoying than anything else.  Lastly, we have Madison.  Oh my Madison.  If you follow me on Twitter, you’ll know what happened.  She threw up.  Now, if you read my blog regularly, you’ll know what happens…

  • Tweetin On A Jet Plane

    Lisa
    12 Nov 2009 | 8:12 am
    I’m sure you’ve all heard about the pilots who missed their destination by 100 miles or so.  I wonder if this is what they were doing? Copyright © 2009 My Thoughts, Ideas, and Ramblings. 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@mythoughtsideasandramblings.com so we can take legal action immediately.Plugin by Taragana

  • The Power Of Parents

    Lisa
    7 Nov 2009 | 6:48 pm
    As parents, we have a lot of power.  We teach our kids right from wrong from the time they are little to the time they reach adulthood.  MADD agrees with this and has created a great website about talking with our kids called The Power Of Parents.  We teach our kids about not sticking things in light sockets, but for some reason, a lot of paretns don’t talk to their kids about underage drinking and drunk driving.  I’ll be honest — I really think as parents we have to show our kids how we want them to act.  Bill and I do not drive drunk.  Ever.  We decide at the…
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    And You Will

  • Playground And Swing Sets

    HART KAHUNA
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:55 pm
    The change is happening and it seems almost inevitable now, as the wooden swing set is slowly becoming the norm in both the backyard and the playground. And swing sets of metal, while they haven’t vanished altogether, appear at least to be losing some ground. Some of the reasons for this change have to do with safety issues, though people may also simply be hunting for a more natural look. Whatever the case, both residential swing sets and their playground cousins are undergoing considerable changes. A wooden swing set is more attractive in many ways because it eliminates the hard,…

  • Casino Bonus Course

    HART KAHUNA
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:09 pm
    This site has, obviously, gone on much to provide the players with experience of all the games which includes qualities of safe environment. The casino is calculated on a food from authoritative group Micro gaming software which does by its councilor of interactive gambling group which guarantees that members of site operate under the strict code of behavior which guarantees the fair game. The site is accessible in several Languages, including the French, German, Italian and Spanish languages. The software and games What is it possible to tell about excellent portfolio of Microgaming games?

  • Traveling New Mexico

    HART (1-800-HART)
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:39 am
    Traveling New Mexico   $21.45 | Travel Books | Read more... » Post Ad Purchase:  Intext Link

  • Shadows…

    HART KAHUNA
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:41 am
    The shadow is a moral problem that challenges the whole ego-personality, for no one can become conscious of the shadow without considerable moral effort. To become conscious of it involves recognizing the dark aspect of the personality as present and real. This act is the essential condition for self-knowledge, and it therefore as a rule meet with considerable resistance. These shadows are repressed elements of the personality which we choose not to be identified with. - Carl Jung Shadows lurk in the deep recesses of the psyche. It is buried in the heart, in the mind; it is part of us. It…

  • Best Ski out France – skiwhite.co.uk

    HART KAHUNA
    19 Nov 2009 | 11:24 pm
    Holidays geared toward skiing and snowboarding are much more popular these days. The upward movement in the number of airlines operated at a low cost and spurt in the number of holiday home rentals had made this to happen. There are a number of ski chalets, holiday villas, farmhouses and self-catering apartments to select from Europe and remaining parts of the world. The most popular winter sports holiday destination is France. Tourists are going to France during snowboarding weekends and long skiing holidays because snowboarding is so popular. The larger groups of snow boarders may want to…
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    Play-Activities.com

  • The alternative Play Activities Holiday Gift Guide #4 Scaling back

    Melitsa
    19 Nov 2009 | 10:40 pm
    Scaling back Since we have so many toys already talk to the toy givers now while there’s time. Share and discuss toy alternatives for your children. Start a conversation about sponsoring a child; gifting a goat or a basketball. Gift cards in small denominations for ice cream or dessert for family nights; Family passes to local museums, parks, or zoos with family year round passes or Physical  activities like swimming, dance,  Mommy and Me, Kindermusic, Playing with clay classes. Even a partial payment goes a long way. Buy the first few books in a book series, or a favourite author,…

  • The alternative Play Activities Holiday Gift Guide #3 Giving away

    Melitsa
    19 Nov 2009 | 4:28 am
    Giving away With all the best plans there will be an influx of new toys and games if you have children every year around the holidays and around their birthdays. To avoid being overrun by toys start sorting though your toys now and think about donating. It’s a great skill to develop giving. This is the second year we have participated in Operation Christmas Child. The kids have fun packing their box and are excited to know that a little boy will receive the items they picked. We sponsor a World Vision child too and during the next week they’ll be drawing pictures to add to the…

  • The alternative Play Activities Holiday Gift Guide #2 Engage vs Entertain

    Melitsa
    17 Nov 2009 | 10:45 pm
    Engaging vs Entertaining …………This is part 2. For the first alternative Play Activities Holiday Gift Guide #1 :Activity & time There are so many more things to do in the day now more than ever. There are more toys and heavier marketing. The quality of toys are truly amazing. As a result there are so many more chances to buy toys and give kids things to do that ENTERTAIN them rather than engage them. We all love a little entertainment and frankly so does your child but what their brains, bodies and muscles really crave is engagement. From when they are lying on your…

  • Teaching gratitude to little ones

    Melitsa
    16 Nov 2009 | 10:25 pm
    I was reading Kidlutions:Cultivating Gratitude in Our Children… and loving all the ideas about raising a child with gratitude. It got me thinking about Thanksgiving, being thankful for the many blessing we have along with Christmas time when we get overwhelmed by generosity that we often times forget to be grateful and show gratitude. Wendy shares many simple and effective ways to encourage gratitude that are practical and you can do today with our kids. I especially like her 3rd item. A physical representation of gratitude shows gratitude in a whole new way. At this time of year…

  • The alternative Play Activities Holiday Gift Guide #1 Activity & Time

    Melitsa
    16 Nov 2009 | 5:11 am
    Yep ’tis the season for gifts. Have you thought about how you can gift play? Activity emails Here at Play Activities I talk about the natural and everyday play activities you can do together with your child. I offer a free weekly email of activities that take little or no money plus the bonus is most of the items used we find in our homes already. Check out the right sidebar. Time Make it priority for you to evaluate your play with your kids. In January I offered a play evaluation to help you look at what type of play and how much of benefit the play you are currently doing. If you…
 
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    Bedtime Stories My Kids Love

  • The Gophers Shop for Thanksgiving

    11 Nov 2009 | 10:02 pm
    Pearl sends Happy and Snappy to the store to buy food for Thanksgiving dinner. But as usual, the Gopher Brothers have plans of their own.Enjoy today's Bedtime Stories My Kids LoveMP3 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

  • Sister Podcast "Build the Church" is a Finalist for the PodcastAward.com Best Podsafe Music Award

    11 Nov 2009 | 7:34 pm
    One of our other podcasts, Build the Church has been selected as a national finalist in the Podsafe Music Award category from PodCast Awards http://www.podcastawards.com . Voting starts November 13 at the PodCast Awards website. Since the finalists are based on listener nominations and a quality review process I want to thank you for your nominations and recommendations and I hope you get the chance to vote for Build the Church once the voting begins (don't worry, I will try to remind everyone...) Considering many of the nominees from various categories are podcasts from national syndicated…

  • 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
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    Jodifur

  • Shoe Friday #55

    jodifur
    20 Nov 2009 | 4:20 am
    Megan's shoes, handpainted from Etsy.

  • Contest! Reminder! And I'm A Model!

    jodifur
    19 Nov 2009 | 5:28 am
    Don't forget about my favorite post contest.  Last year this contest had a ton of entries.  What changed?  (oh yeah, twitter.)  I do love twitter, but I think it is cutting down on blog comments.  The prize is a Starbucks gift card.  Who doesn't love a Starbucks gift card?  (Not sponsored by Starbucks, sponsored by me.)  And in another news, I'm going to be in an online fashion show tonight.  Yeah, stop laughing.  I never thought jodifur=model either.  But handbags are just one step away from shoes.  Tune in, it should be a blast.  I'm missing my couch and…

  • Why Am I Not Doing Na Po Blog Whatever?

    jodifur
    18 Nov 2009 | 11:09 am
    Because I'm too busy stressing about Thanksgiving.  Can we make this another month than November.  Like April.  I've got nothing going on April.  (I say that now.)

  • Maybe, Someday

    jodifur
    17 Nov 2009 | 4:48 am
    I was driving in the car last week and a song came on the radio and it was a song I had never heard before.  It reminded me of this, and how hopeful I was when I wrote it, how I really believed things would be better when we moved.  How I didn't know what what was coming.  How wrong I was. And all of a sudden I was crying, for no reason.On Saturday my parents spent the day with Michael and Doug and I went to see Jersey Boys.  I had already seen it when I went to New York with my mom and sister but I really wanted to see it again.  Doug hates musicals but I managed to convince him he…

  • Blogiversary! Contest!

    jodifur
    16 Nov 2009 | 4:23 am
    3 years!  3 years!  3 years of this nonsense.  Last year I asked you to pick your favorite post of this past year and I'm going to do the same thing this year.  Leave it in the comments and you will be entered to win a Starbucks gift card.  Come on, who doesn't need coffee this time of year?  Contest closes on Sunday and I'll tell you what some of my faves, not listed on my favorite post page are, on Monday when I announce the winner.And come on, no cheating and going here.And on a personal note I could not have survived this year without you all.  I know it is a cheesy…
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    Oooh Baby Green Living and Parenting Ideas

  • FAMILY TRADITIONS

    J Claire
    19 Nov 2009 | 10:34 am
    Digging through my recipe box, what I have in my hands is a box of family traditions. Some of the cards are so stained that I can hardly read them but because the instructions and ingredients are in my grandmother’s handwriting, the thought that someday I will have no choice but to discard them breaks my heart. Each creased and dog-eared rectangle is soaked in memories. And with each passing day, I appreciate more and more the importance of family traditions. It gives me pause to think what part of our lives that my girls are storing away in their minds that will be remembered in their…

  • SWEET POTATO PIE RECIPE

    J Claire
    7 Nov 2009 | 9:33 am
    My family sweet potato pie recipe is soul food at its best. It's delicious, nutritious (so long as you don't mind sugar with your Vitamin A) and sitting down for a slice with your loved ones or even all by yourself with a good cup of coffee is definitely good for the soul. Just to let you know this is a truly SOUTHERN style recipe. It's not fluffy but firm. I use Pet evaporated milk not condensed milk and i am not sure why anybody would want to make it any other way. I'm sure there are other recipes that are delicious but if I tried to change a single ingredient or do something like add…

  • Wound Care

    J Claire
    7 Nov 2009 | 9:12 am
    We are still making trips back and forth to the hospital for wound care for E's MRSA. Blood was drawn yesterday and the white blood count is too high still for the poor guy to be taken off the antibiotic drip. I'm not sure what the plan is at this point because according to the doctor he was hoping for a much better response by now. This is confusing to me because I had read a report that MRSA actually kills white blood cells so I'm making a note to ask the doctor about this. The huge wounds left from the incisions that were made when the boils, carbuncles or abscesses (wound care nurses have…

  • 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…
 
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    Mommy in Pink

  • I Often Wonder...

    Mommy In Pink
    9 Nov 2009 | 10:36 am
    I often wonder why things like this happen?It's not fair, why do babies get so ill? They are so innocent and sweet and I could just go on and on ...If you haven't heard about Stellan and his battle with SVT...please, please pray for this baby boy to recover from the terrible battle he's going through. I can honestly say that I don't know what I would do as the mother in this situation?? She seems so strong, especially in her faith, which is a true inspiration to me! Just hearing about this situation, made me stop completely in my tracks, to thank the Lord for all he has blessed me with,…

  • 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…
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    ecomii parenting blog

  • Give Your Kids Consciousness for Christmas

    Heather O'Neill
    12 Nov 2009 | 10:13 pm
    As a native New Yorker, before I moved to California I thought drinking tea was New Age-y and I didn’t know a chakra from a hole in the wall. After five years in California I go to acupuncture, own a pair of Birkenstocks and my boyfriend’s mother is a healer. Fancy that. The older I get [...]

  • New Research on Twins Confirms Genetic Role in Autism

    Marie Oser
    10 Nov 2009 | 9:28 am
    There has been an unprecedented increase in recent years in the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).  A variety of elements are suspected of playing a role (see our recent post linking environmental toxins to autism).  Researchers have known that a higher incidence of autism exists among twins¹, and this new study [...]

  • 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 [...]
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    Jolly Mom

  • Buy once. Play forever. Shop at Maukilo.com for Unique Toys this Holiday Season! {Review and Gift Card Giveaway}

    Jolly Mom
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    It is so disappointing to go out and buy a toy or gift that your child just ends up tossing aside within a few months. It's a waste of money, time, and it just stinks for the child as well. That's why open-ended play toys are really the way to go whenever possible. You ever heard of wooden blocks going out of style? Nope. It's just not going to happen. Kids will always love them. This holiday season I highly recommend that you check out Maukilo.com when shopping for children's toys. They are an online ecommerce store specializing in European and American toys. Not just any toys…

  • Hess Toy Truck Celebrates a 45 Year Holiday Tradition with the Debut of the 2009 Hess Race Car and Racer {Review}

    Jolly Mom
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:15 pm
    Every year, the race is on to get that year's Hess Toy Truck. It is a tradition that has been around since 1964--every year Hess Corporation debuts a new truck to add to the collection. Hess Toy Truck is actually one of the longest running toy brands on the market! What's unique about this year is that instead of a truck, Hess Corporation is featuring a Race Car. A car hasn't been featured since 1993 when the Patrol Car was first introduced and went on to become the fastest selling Hess Toy Truck ever.Hess Corporation sent me the 2009 Race Car and Racer to review and it blew me away when I…

  • FREEbie Friday!

    Jolly Mom
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:17 am
    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 AND SAMPLES-Earn free gifts with Nielsen Homescan HERE-Free sample Stacy's Pita Chips HERE-Free sample Underjams Nightwear HERE-Free dog toy from Beneful HERE-Free sample Always Infinity HERE-Free sample Tampax Pearl HERE-Free trial pair Acuvue Moist HERE-Free sample Lipton Green Tea HERE-Free sample Pampers Extra Protection HERE-Free meal planner filled with coupons from Mueller's HERE-Free…

  • American Made. Eco-friendly. Green Toys {Review}

    Jolly Mom
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:10 am
    I couldn't put together a Holiday Gift Guide without including one of my all time favorite toy companies--Green Toys! By now, I am sure most moms have heard of them. They have been featured on Live with Regis and Kelly, made People's Gift Guide, won numerous awards--including the highly respected Oppenheim Toy Award Gold 2009, and much more.If by chance you have not heard of Green Toys, here's a little bit of background on them:About Green Toys:Green Toys Inc. makes an awesome line of classic children’s toys constructed from recycled plastic and other environmentally friendly materials.

  • Stocking Stuffers & Holiday Gift Ideas for the Ladies

    Jolly Mom
    18 Nov 2009 | 10:07 pm
    Finally, some gift ideas for us ladies! I had the opportunity to try out a few beauty products that would make wonderful gifts or stocking stuffers this holiday season. Best of all, all three are affordable!First up is the Korres Lip Saver Roll. This is a limited-edition trio of buttery balms that can be used as lip balm AND as cheek tints--they leave just a hint of color on the lips and cheeks. In the package you get Pomegranate, Quince, and Jasmine Lip Butter. These are awesome--the combo of Shea Butter and Rice Wax leaves your lips feeling soft and hydrated. Everyone loves getting some lip…
 
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    Pink & Posh

  • BLOG ROLL

    Jeri Maxedon
    20 Nov 2009 | 2:49 pm
      Tweet This!Share this on FacebookShare this on TechnoratiPost this to MySpaceEmail this to a friend?Subscribe to the comments for this post?Share this on del.icio.usDigg this!Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUponShare this on LinkedinAdd this to Google BookmarksSend this page to Print FriendlyAdd this to NingPost this on DiigoShare this on RedditShare this on [...]

  • It’s Officially Here…

    Kristy Rossman
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:08 am
    The release of New Moon that is, the second installment of the Twilight Saga. I will admit it, I’m a huge fan and will be seeing this movie tomorrow at the 10:30AM showing, since that’s the only time I could arrange for my mother to come and watch the baby. I will be dragging my [...]

  • Lifefactory: Smart Alternative for Eco-Conscious Parents

    Kristy Rossman
    19 Nov 2009 | 10:41 am
    Lifefactory, a company with an Eco-Friendly mindset, has addressed the very important issue concerning chemical leaching from plastic baby bottles by bringing back the traditional glass baby bottle with a twist. Not only are Lifefactory’s glass baby bottles absolutely beautiful, but they’re smart too! If you notice that these particular baby bottles are wrapped by a [...]

  • Kombi Sports Winter Gear

    Nicole Ibarrondo
    19 Nov 2009 | 5:54 am
    For the adventurous family… One of the reasons that winter is my favorite season is because of all the covering up layering options you can play with. We break out the winter coats, gloves, hats and scarves — all the cozy gear that keeps us warm.  However, if your family is the adventurous type and you [...]

  • Grown & Sexy at The Lipstick Diaries

    Nicole Ibarrondo
    18 Nov 2009 | 5:14 am
    Normally, we don’t promote other contests here on Pink & Posh. It’s not that we don’t enjoy a good giveaway, it’s just that we would never be able to pick just a few that stand out, too many good ones going around these days. However, I couldn’t help myself with this one…. Visit The Lipstick Diaries [...]
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    My Mommy Manual

  • Positive Parenting Tip: Short and Sweet

    Contributor
    20 Nov 2009 | 7:32 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 tips for parents and seminars nationally, blending her joy for yoga with her love for children.

  • Personalize Those Holiday Treats! $1

    Practical Mommy
    19 Nov 2009 | 11:26 am
    For just $1, you can win this adorable 3 qt. Cookie jar features a cozy airtight place to store your favorite cookies. Designed by world renowned artist, Kathy Davis, this very colorful cookie jar will delight any home. Personalized with your family’s name. Invite your holiday guests to enjoy the “Tweets” inside. And you can win this one for ONE DOLLAR. It’s October’s Power of One prize, valued at $38 from ArtisticSensations.com Click on the widget to donate $1 to Parents As Teachers using your credit card. Easy!

  • How to Pick Your New Mommy Wardrobe

    Julie Verleger
    17 Nov 2009 | 4:40 pm
    Last week a very good friend of mine had her first baby. When I went to see my friend and her beautiful daughter in the hospital we talked about how the pain is more that one can imagine, but its all worth it. We talked about what the best clothes were to wear for breast-feeding and recovery. For those of us who have been through or are going through babydome, the first 2 months become somewhat of a blur. We almost robotically feed, change diapers and rest whenever we can. Somehow we manage to eat, shower and actually be a Mom to our other children and half the time not even remember how we…

  • Zen Mommy Minute: “I Yam What I Yam”

    Zen Mommy
    16 Nov 2009 | 11:28 am
    I can hear Popeye now “I Yam what I Yam…”. Parent or not, this week, let’s embrace the “I” that is our “true-self”. Let’s allow the things we do with our kids during the day, at their schools, etc.. to flow from these innate parts of our personalities… not from only a sense of duty or obligation. Our children will see us in our bliss and learn that they too can love who they are and use their gifts on a daily basis to make a difference in the world. Let’s parent in a way that is in line with our temperaments… not…

  • How to Communicate with Your Teen

    Practical Mommy
    13 Nov 2009 | 12:59 am
    Recently, I’ve been totally dumb founded by a couple of conversations with my 8-year old girl, when something I say that I think is trivial like, “I’m turning on the timer for your homework.” is the cause of major hysteria! WTF?! A recent interview with one of our Guest Experts, Vanessa Van Petten, author of the book, You’re Grounded gave me some great insight into the brains of tweens and teens. Apparently, they think in superlatives, almost exclusively! So how we use this fact to communicate more effectively with our drama queens? Vanessa tells us… Have…
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    The HolisticFM Show

  • Online Parenting Class Feedback

    admin
    18 Nov 2009 | 10:07 pm
    Online Parenting Classes “The Beyond Consequences model is refreshing and hope-filled in its focus on healing the child from within through relationship and unconditional love rather than on just correcting outward behaviors with the traditional, fear-based parenting model.” Margie Magar “Powerful workshop. Left with new insights into myself, and greater confidence in becoming the kind of woman, mother, and helper that I want to be, as well as with some great tools and a support network I truly believe I can count on for help and encouragement on my journey.” Cindy P.

  • Joining Heather T Forbes in San Francisco Bay Area Friday…

    admin
    9 Nov 2009 | 7:16 pm
    Heather T Forbes Offers Free Full Day Parenting Seminar in the San Francisco Bay Area In this economy, free doesn’t usually get you much. But mom, licensed clinical social worker, and best selling author Heather T. Forbes is offering parents a free full day seminar on parenting. Forbes’ book Beyond Consequences Logic and Control, A Love Based approach to Helping attachment-Challenged Children  with Severe Behaviors,  leads the adoption section in sales on Amazon and outlines the parenting paradigm she seeks to share. The mother of two children adopted from Russia, Heather gave up a…

  • 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.
 
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    For love or funny

  • Let's make the holidays easier

    21 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    We're a week away from Black Friday, the biggest shopping day of the year. Personally, crowds give me hives. So, instead of braving the malls, I shop from home.One of the places I like to visit is Etsy.com. It's a great place to find lovingly made, one of a kind items to give as presents. Many of the Etsy stores are run by Moms who supplement their family's income with their craft. I love that.Here are some of the Etsy stores I like:dogartstudio has a huge assortment of pet portraits, and they are gorgeous.katiesegel makes super cute hats for toddlers.WarmCountryMeadows has really cool…

  • Before, During, and After

    20 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    Before...During...After...I miss the leaves.But I don't miss the gnats.

  • Grounds for insanity

    19 Nov 2009 | 2:50 am
    Often, I get in the way of my own fun. Sure, I may look like some hot 25 year old, but I'm really a cranky old lady who desperately needs new glasses. Take playgrounds, for instance. Back when my kids were little, going to the playground was the highlight of their day.I hardly enjoyed it."Mommy, look! A slide!!"Meanwhile, I'd be thinking: "Will I catch you when you come flying off the end?""Mommy, look! I'm going to climb the weird ladder."Me: "Where is the nearest emergency room?""Look, Mommy, a duck!!"Me: "How many swine flu germs are on the handle?Now, I look at playgrounds and remember…

  • I'm not turned on by sexy men any more.

    18 Nov 2009 | 2:23 am
    Gone are the days when a pair of broad shoulders made me swoon. In fact, whiskers used to be my downfall. Got a beard? I'm a goner. I still like beards, but now I need more than that.Nowadays, there's one thing that really turns me on: COMPETENCE.Are you on time? Hello, handsome.Do you actually know what you're talking about? Oh, my. I think I'm developing a crush.Got a manicure? Ick. I like men with dirt under their nails.You can fix something?Hmm. This is getting serious.Wait a second. You said you were going to do something, and you kept your word?Whoa. I'm experiencing an estrogen…

  • As if I don't have enough to do already...

    17 Nov 2009 | 2:40 am
    My "faithful" companion and I were running errands this morning. All seemed well until I glanced over at her and spotted, well, this:Say hello to my little friend.There was a dust bunny on her nose. A big one. This was unusual. Normally, my dog's nose looks, well, like this:Not a dust bunny to be found on this honker.Lately, though, that nose carries more than it should. The other day, she walked around for a half hour with a tiny piece of Kleenex on her snout. Wouldn't that drive you crazy?I guess she has a cold.Side view, 'cause I'm all about good reporting.Yeah, you should be embarrassed.
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    Harassed Mom

  • Its time to P-A-R-T-Y

    LauraKim
    19 Nov 2009 | 11:00 pm
    WOOOT Exams are OVER people!!!!! I survived in one piece and am relatively sane It is now time to PARTY!!!!! And we have much partying planned!

  • Run away with me

    LauraKim
    18 Nov 2009 | 9:10 pm
    Its been a little bit of an odd week. I was very down on Monday and Tuesday and not really sure why. Wednesday was better though – I think its because I got to see my man My last exam is tomorrow and I really am BEYOND excited. I am going to go to Plane [...]

  • Snap

    LauraKim
    17 Nov 2009 | 8:03 pm
    You know at school how you used to play with your rulers and bend it and bend it until it snapped? I felt like that yesterday. The person I snapped at was Plane Boy. I wasnt nice and it was over something so totally silly – the 27 Dinner. Two seconds later I snapped at one [...]

  • There is ALWAYS a silver lining.

    LauraKim
    16 Nov 2009 | 8:15 pm
    I had a bad day yesterday. My exam was horrible. Kiara was in a mood and ended up getting a smack – which calmed her and she went to bed no problems. Plane Boy had a bad day. Wenchy had a bad day. On my way home from my exam their were 4 seperate bumper bashings – they all [...]

  • We do not remember days; we remember moments.

    LauraKim
    15 Nov 2009 | 6:08 am
    This weekend as the stuff memories are made of. It wasnt that we did anything spectacular or out of the ordinary – it was simply that we were doing it together. Friday night we went to watch England beat South Africa at Wanderers. It was one of those unfair matches as it was rained out and the [...]
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    KidGlue

  • Now Heidi Klum Is Just Showing Off For Mom’s Everywhere

    Bonnie Owens
    20 Nov 2009 | 2:55 pm
    Just 5 weeks after giving birth to her fourth child, Heidi Klum is back to strutting her stuff down the runway.  Really, Heidi?   It’s not enough that you are an impossibly gorgeous supermodel.  You have to bounce back from having a baby impossibly quick too? Heidi was slated to serve only as the host of Victoria’s Secret’s Fashion Show in New York City on November 19th, but surprised the audience by leading out the ‘Enchanted Forest’ collection towards the end of the night.  Her outfit was relatively modest for VS.  It was a well-fitted corset dress. …

  • Top 5 iPhone Apps for Preschoolers

    Sarah Matheny
    20 Nov 2009 | 1:18 pm
    At first I thought it was the Wonderbra, which turned me from the cover of National Geographic into a “perky” mom.  Then the DVR came along, ensuring that I could watch Oprah in the middle of the night while breastfeeding (explaining a lot about the National Geographic thing).  Well now, I am crowning a new champion of the best invention of the last twenty years:  the iPhone. This little invention has saved me so many times, of course when I needed to see the You Tube wedding dance, but more importantly in parenting crisis’s:  waiting at the doctor’s office, waking…

  • A Lifebook Can Bring Kids and Parents Closer

    Bonnie Owens
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:19 pm
    The first few months of your baby’s life are a blur.  You’re running on five hours of interrupted sleep and you are trying to take care of a brand new little person who has a lot of needs that they can’t express.  With my first two boys I kept a scrapbook to document all of the things I wanted to remember during their first years.  During my last pregnancy, I heard about a different kind of book–a lifebook. A lifebook goes a step beyond scrapbooking.  With a scrapbook you document all of the big occasions–first tooth, first word, first haircut, etc.   A…

  • ‘New Moon’ Opening Night Sales Break Records

    Germain Lussier
    20 Nov 2009 | 11:19 am
    Forget about Batman, Anakin Skywalker or even Harry Potter. The real midnight champion is Edward Cullen. The late night shows late Thursday Nov. 19, early Nov. 20 of “The Twilight Saga: New Moon” made $26.27 million in 3,514 theaters breaking the old record set by “Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince” with $22.2 and “The Dark Knight” with $18.4 million. Next up in the film’s sights are the one day record held by “The Dark Knight” of $67.1 million. Of course, these records get broken all the time and don’t account for inflation or…

  • Finding Entertainment Appropriate for Kids: ‘Planet 51,’ ‘The Blind Side’ and more

    Germain Lussier
    20 Nov 2009 | 10:04 am
    “Finding Entertainment Appropriate for Kids,” or FEAK, runs every Friday and discusses places – mainly the movie theaters – where parents can look to find things for their kids to watch over the weekend. No matter where you look this weekend, everything is about “The Twilight Saga: New Moon.” People are talking about it, lining up to see it and fans, in general, are walking out satisfied. We reviewed the film (and so did our sister site Twirlit) and – long story short – fans will like it and it’s appropriate for your tween daughter. Younger girls might…
 
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    Tales From The Trenches of Parenting

  • Did You Know That Toilet Training Involves a Blender?

    TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING
    20 Nov 2009 | 7:36 pm
    I was gonna write about how crappy my life has been of late, but who wants to hear that stuff when the holidays are just around the corner. No one wants to be the first Bah Humbug of the season. So instead, the powers of God sent me in the direction of Nia instead. It still amazes the power that a child can have over a situation. Lately I have been having issues with Nia going to the bathroom when she needs to. You know the look; walking with her butt stuck out a mile while holding herself and stubbornly proclaiming "I don't HAVE to go! This has resulted in more accidents and excess laundry…

  • AT&T and iPhone - A Divorce That Needs to Happen NOW!

    TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING
    19 Nov 2009 | 8:21 am
    Dear AT & T, actually, there is NOTHING "Dear" with the way I feel about this letter Though I am totally in love with my iPhone and have been since they day it arrived on my birthday exactly 2 years ago, because of your consistent and unreliable service, it and I are about to part ways. For months I have overlooked the voicemails that arrived sometimes 2 days after they were left. I grumbled in annoyance in the many calls that would be dropped 2 or 3 times before I could actually get through and talk to whomever I was calling. I even managed to grit my teeth through the many phone calls…

  • Tropical Storm Ida - Another Dud Hits the Gulf Coast

    TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING
    10 Nov 2009 | 12:31 pm
    After the storm that "wasn't", I hit the beaches this morning with a little photog time with me, my family in tow, and the man I married's camera; a Canon SX10 IS PowerShot. For a beginning photographer like myself, it's a great camera to use on the fly; easy too!Is Canon endorsing/paying me big bucks to spin a little commentary on their product?Oh Hell No!But, if they ever feel the need to knock on my email door and ask if I'll plug a little diddy for them, name your price baby!Anyway, here's a few shots of the beach entrance into Ft. Pickens since we couldn't actually get in to Ft. Pickens…

  • Some Spooky **late** Stuff

    TALES FROM THE TRENCHES OF PARENTING
    9 Nov 2009 | 9:38 pm
    Okay, so I'm a little late on the Halloween thing. No one could ever blame me for being punctual. So I tossed a few photos in a little scrapblog for you here. Just something I'm experimenting with. Let me know what you think.

  • 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…
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    Charm City Moms

  • Mooning over "New Moon"

    Kate Shatzkin
    20 Nov 2009 | 11:18 am
    "New Moon," the latest movie in the "Twilight" series, is out. And despite some negative reviews, teenage girls are expected to flock to it this weekend. This story from the Vancouver Sun says a study of "Twilight" fans shows that girls are actually attracted to the series because it celebrates a "traditional romance" in which the principal characters don't have sex. Kristen Stewart, who plays Bella, feels her character is a good example for girls. Do you?

  • Toddler Thursday: You've got to walk before you can run

    Sarah Kickler Kelber
    19 Nov 2009 | 2:42 pm
    Sarah K.K. here, back with another installment of Toddler Thursday: That's how the old saw goes, right? "You've got to walk before you can run"? Someone forgot to tell toddlers. When my son first started to walk (right around his 1st birthday), he was understandably pretty unsteady. They call walking a controlled state of falling, and when you observe a child learning the skill, you can definitely see that. Unfortunately, far before his sense of balance was ready, he turned into a wannabe speed demon, rushing around faster than his little legs (or his growing brain) could take…

  • What, no pumpkin? And leggo our Eggos....

    Kate Shatzkin
    19 Nov 2009 | 7:49 am
    Susan Reimer's Garden Variety blog has the news of a pumpkin shortage that may affect our Thanksgiving tables. And this just after my daughter declared pumpkin pie a "must-have" at our meal. Fortunately, I think we have a big can of Libby's squirreled away in the pantry. And there's a kids' breakfast table crisis looming -- apparently there's a big shortage of Eggo waffles. This doesn't affect our family, per se. (Now if there was a shortage of Special K or Fiber One peanut butter granola bars, we'd be in trouble.) But kids get so attached to routine, it might be a problem for yours. I'd look…

  • Things to do this week

    Kate Shatzkin
    19 Nov 2009 | 3:39 am
    Santa's coming to Harborplace this Saturday at 4:30 p.m., with musical performances to welcome him. Here are some other family events slated for the weekend. Thursday, Nov. 19: Thanksgiving Craft: Make a turkey day craft at 4 p.m. at the Govans branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. For ages 3-12. Family Game Night: Play your favorite board and card games with the Games Club of Maryland at 6 p.m. at the Pikesville branch of the Baltimore County Public Library. For all ages; kids under 6 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required; call 410-887-1234. Anime Club: Teens can talk,…

  • Mickey Mouse turns 81

    Kate Shatzkin
    18 Nov 2009 | 8:26 am
    Today, Nov. 18, is apparently Mickey Mouse's 81st birthday. He looks pretty good for his age. Here are ideas on how to give a Mickey birthday party. Here are some Mickey and friends coloring pages. And here are directions on how to make Mickey Mouse pancakes, which should be pretty easy. (Photo courtesy of Disney Enterprises, Inc.)
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    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
 
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    Parenting Help Me

  • Signs That Your Baby Is Teething

    Parenting Help
    17 Nov 2009 | 9:15 am
    Signs That Your Baby Is Teething Babies begin teething sometime between three and twelve months. Some will sail through the episode with nary a whimper. Others will experience a significant amount of discomfort – and they’ll let their parents know about it. While forecasting the beginning of your little one’s ordeal is all but impossible, there are several signs that will alert you. Here are four signs that your infant’s teeth are about to make their first appearance. Seeming Loss Of Appetite During teething, your baby’s gums will ache. If you’re…

  • The Novice Parent’s Guide To Baby Food

    Parenting Help
    9 Nov 2009 | 7:11 am
    The Novice Parent’s Guide To Baby Food Moms and dads who are expecting their second, third, or fourth child are already experts when it comes to baby food. For first-time parents, the grocery store shelves can seem overwhelming. To be sure, there are many types from which to choose and it’s not always clear how long they’ll keep or how to prepare them. In this article, we’ll bring novice parents up to speed on the solid meals they’re providing their infants. What’s Inside The Jar? Baby food manufacturers learned long ago that adults aren’t the only…

  • 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
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    The Official Mommy-Muse.com Blog

  • Holiday Stress? This Will Help!

    mmuse
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:00 pm
    Thanksgiving is almost here.  Are you ready?  Contrary to the picture perfect images in mass media, this is a naturally stressful time of year for almost all of us.  If you a new baby or a small child at home, you may find it takes nothing less than supernatural strength to juggle holiday tasks.  Here are [...]

  • Fresh Serving of The Week’s Best PPD Posts

    mmuse
    19 Nov 2009 | 7:38 pm
    I laughed so hard I cried when I read Amanda Rose’s post on A Day in The Life of Postpartum Depression.  It’s not that I’m not sympathetic.  Quite the contrary, even though I didn’t have the obsessive-compulsive symptoms she described,  I completely related.   Kudos to Amanda for giving us a beautiful inside look at a [...]

  • Mommy-Muse Poll: How Do YOU Feel About Navigating the Upcoming Holidays?

    mmuse
    15 Nov 2009 | 9:07 pm
    How do YOU feel about navigating the upcoming holidays?(online surveys) Related Posts Launching Our Premiere Mommy-Muse.com Three Month Coaching Packages! Mommy-Muse.com co-founder, Linda Semrau, and I have just launched our premiere 3 month Transition To Motherhood Coaching Packages filled with every supportive resource we have to offer .  Private weekly sessions, group [...]

  • Announcing Reviews of Good Stuff!

    mmuse
    13 Nov 2009 | 1:14 pm
    Have you seen the newest addition to my blog?  Reviews of Good Stuff now has its very own home page!  I’ve been reviewing top-notch products, books and services for parents since the Mommy-Muse Blog began, but NOW you can find all of them at a glance in their own section.  This is partly to meet BlogHer’s guidelines [...]

  • In Praise of Ecostore USA

    mmuse
    12 Nov 2009 | 8:06 pm
    When EcostoreUSA.com offered to send me any two of their products to review, I jumped at the chance.  I am always on the lookout for high quality, eco-friendly household products.  Ecostore USA’s promise to deliver highly effective products for everything from bath & body, baby and pet care to household cleaners with No Nasty Chemicals™ [...]
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    Early Childhood Brain Insights

  • Millions of Young And Hungry Brains

    Deborah McNelis
    17 Nov 2009 | 9:38 am
    The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a report yesterday finding that 49 million people –17 million of which are children, did not have enough food to eat during 2008, an increase of 3.5% from 2007. The report goes on to say that children, especially young children are usually shielded from hunger because their parents find a way to provide enough food but in 2008, over a half of million children under the age of six suffered from the most severe hunger. These statistics are startling. . . . and very hard to hear for those of us that care so deeply for our young and…

  • November Newsletter: Holidays With The Brain In Mind

    Deborah McNelis
    13 Nov 2009 | 10:06 am
    Read the November Newsletter with great information on how to have a happy brain and a happy holiday season.  Read the newsletter here

  • HAPPY BIRTHDAY SESAME STREET--- Lessons on Learning!

    Deborah McNelis
    11 Nov 2009 | 7:02 am
    Many of you would be surprised to hear me say there are many positives about Sesame Street.  Those of you that follow my blogs or hear me speak know how I do not support children watching television.  In fact, I frequently demonstrate in presentations how brain connections are made best through interaction and play versus watching TV. And I ALWAYS say … no television before the age of two. However, I do congratulate Sesame Street for the examples the show gives us on how the brain learns .  The brain learns through having fun  The brain learns through positive role…

  • We Can All Benefit!

    Deborah McNelis
    10 Nov 2009 | 6:56 am
    It is important to remember, the adults in children’s lives are making a direct impression through every action. Only a small portion of our brain focuses on verbal communication. So, our actions do speak louder than words.With this in mind I recently learned about a company that is focused on making a positive difference. It is called, Koru Fundraising and I had the chance to have a conversation with the founder last week. As is stated on the Koru website, Corey believes that fundraising is necessary to improve the education of children but believes in transforming the industry too. This…

  • YES… I Am Going To Say It Again!

    Deborah McNelis
    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!
 
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    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
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    Baby Sleep Help | Toddler Sleep Help - Pick Nick's Brain

  • Baby Sleep and Breastfeeding Series: Part 4

    Nicole
    17 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    Welcome to part 4, the final part, of my Baby Sleep and Breastfeeding Series! If you are just joining us, you might want to start at part 1, where I discuss reasons why breastfeeding moms sometimes struggle with sleep. Today, I’ll go over options for breastfeeding moms when it comes to “sleep training coaching” or as I actually prefer to say “helping your baby learn to fall asleep unassisted” (who really wants to think of “training” your baby?). How breastfeeding is different than formula-feeding There are a few things that breastfeeding families…

  • Prematurity Awareness Month

    Nicole
    10 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    November is March of Dimes Prematurity Awareness Month! Many babies (roughly 1,400 per day!) are born premature in the U.S. alone and unfortunately, the numbers are increasing rather than decreasing. Please take a moment to learn more about prematurity and what you can do in pregnancy to reduce your risks by reading When Babies Are Born Premature on the Babble Soft website this week. You can also read about premature development and your baby’s sleep here on this site. Please also consider forwarding the information to friends and family as you can save a life of two sharing the…

  • 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…
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    Meet the Hazards

  • Nothing Says Happy Holidays Like an Oversized Nightie

    jenniferhazard
    11 Nov 2009 | 9:56 am
    The nightshirt in question The holiday catalogs have arrived, and even though I can’t afford much this year, I still look. Most of them offer the expected—Pottery Barn’s picture perfect décor, LL.Bean’s cotton flannel shirts and Hanna Anderson’s red and green striped pajamas. Sure, these companies might mix it up with a few added styles, but other than a sale, new holiday tag line or special offer, the content never really changes. Out of all the catalogs that have come in the mail, Orvis has tripped me up this year, not with their catalog design or product offerings, which are…

  • 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…
 
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    Parenting With Duct Tape

  • Before It's Too Late...

    18 Nov 2009 | 9:54 pm
    I don't know. I'm still new in these blogging parts. You all probably get way more emails asking you to sell stuff than I do. I get a few here and there. There's this one for genetic testing that I keep getting. AND they reference the previous email like they are actually keeping track of their attempts to get a hold of me. Whatever. I'm like totally smarter than that. But they tried to get me with this:Our Genetic Test service has been receiving overwhelmingresponse from parents who care about their children'sfuture.What they should know is I don't care as much about my children's future as…

  • 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…
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    Playground Confidential

  • Sleepless

    rebecca
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:54 am
    DAILY SNACK Sleep is becoming difficult With Irene. We’re living in the nether zone between two naps and one, for one. And night-waking is starting to wear me out. I guess I’ve been kinda nursing her down, Which I NEVER did with this girl when she was a newborn Because it didn’t work. She was sleeping through the night at 8 months And went down for naps in an instant. Not any more. We did some sleep training with Colum at this age, I remember. And it worked, too. But it was so hard. I just don’t have the heart to go through that with Irene. Not yet, not right now. So,…

  • This Feels Like the Losing Team

    rebecca
    19 Nov 2009 | 7:47 am
    DAILY SNACK “I don’t like stew anymore, Mom.” “What? You do like stew. You helped me cook it.” “No, I don’t.” “Okay, but if you eat most of your stew then you can have a cookie.” Fast forward past much arm-twisting and cajoling And a satisfactory amount of stew has been consumed. I give the boy his cookie. “Mom, I’ve decided that I would like a cookie and a Halloween candy for dessert.” Sigh. So I gave it to him.

  • There Are No Shortcuts

    rebecca
    18 Nov 2009 | 7:10 am
    DAILY SNACK Both kids fell asleep in the car last night. Fantastic, I thought, I can skip straight to the peace and quiet. Just as soon as I carry them both up to our second floor apartment By myself. Not wanting to leave either in the dark alleyway, I deposited Colum just inside the door Where he dozed on the bottom step. Irene woke up on the way in So I plopped her in her playpen while I went back down for Colum. And she screamed Bloody murder. She screamed so loud and so hard That even Colum who had stayed firmly asleep On the back stairs and then while I undressed him Finally woke up. The…

  • Fundraiser to Rebuild the Children’s Storefront

    rebecca
    17 Nov 2009 | 10:57 pm
    Fundraiser: Tues, Nov. 24; 1 – 5pm for families, 7 – 11pm evening concert; Tranzac Club 292 Brunswick Ave. There was a horrible fire on Halloween night that engulfed a building near Bathurst and Dupont and burnt it so badly it needed to be torn down. That building had been home to the Children’s Storefront since 1975. It was a free drop-in centre for parents with babies, toddlers, and pre-schoolers, yes. But one gets the sense that it was much more than just a drop-in centre. It housed a wonderful collection of toys and books and was a community hub. It was an institution…

  • Hi Santa Parade!

    rebecca
    16 Nov 2009 | 10:45 am
    DAILY SNACK For two hours we stood by the side of the road Watching the Santa Claus Parade go by. And Colum said hi to each and every float, character, and musician. They were waving at us after all.
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    SafeMama.com

  • Review: Britax Chaperone Travel System

    Kathy
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:24 am
    We were given the unique opportunity to product test Britax’s new Chaperone Travel System.  After spending a few months with it, we are happy to report many positive things about its performance and think it’s an excellent choice of travel systems on the market right now.  I’ll start with the infant carriers features.  The Chaperone [...] Related posts:Review: The New Britax Advocate CSReview: Britax Boulevard CS Car SeatBooster Seat Safety and the Britax Parkway SG

  • Review: Sprout Organic Baby Food

    Statia
    19 Nov 2009 | 1:34 pm
    Now that the days of baby food are here in my house once again, I’ve been on the hunt for all of the “homemade” types of baby food. Now, I’ll confess my snobbery here, for giving my baby only homemade of my own, but I’ll also confess that the second child really does get [...] Related posts:Baby Cubes: BPA & Phthalates Free Food Storage for BabyGerber Baby Food and Number 7 PlasticsDear SafeMama: Yo Baby Organic Yogurt and Polystyrene

  • Dear SafeMama: What’s TPR and Is It Safe? Answer from The Soft Landing!

    Kathy
    10 Nov 2009 | 6:55 am
    Question: Do you know the identity of the soft, non-skid “rubbery” parts that are often included on Sassy or Munchkin products? These seem a lot like PVC to me, but might be silicone. I know they are BPA free and SAY they are PVC free, but then what exactly is the material and is it safe? Answer: [...] Related posts:SafeMama & The Soft Landing Holiday GiveawayFAQ: Teethers made of EVA SafeFAQ: Nuby Products, Which Ones Are Safe?

  • Recall Alert: Maclaren Recalling Strollers Due to 12 Fingertip Amputations

    Statia
    9 Nov 2009 | 12:16 pm
    We generally don’t post recalls, here, but this is a big one, and so many of my friends have Maclaren strollers.  They’re one of the most popular lightweight strollers out there.   So when I found out they were recalling one million of them because of severed fingers, I figured, I should probably scrape the [...] Related posts:Company Launches Toy Recall Alert WebsitePartial Tylenol RecallPVC Free Stroller Rain Covers

  • 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
 
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    Family Anatomy

  • The Importance of Post-Trauma Treatment

    Dr. Brian MacDonald, C. Psych.
    19 Nov 2009 | 4:28 am
    Survivors of natural disasters, accidents, war, abuse, and crime often face a difficult road to recovery. Children and youth in particular, who are only beginning to learn strategies to cope with stress and worry, may develop chronic difficulties following a traumatic experience; we’ve been writing all week about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In this week’s episode of The Family Anatomy Podcast, William Krill (author of Gentling: A Practical Guide to Treating PTSD in Abused Children) said that some children with whom he’s worked remained in treatment for over two…

  • Reducing the Long-Term Impact of Traumatic Events

    Dr. Giuseppe Spezzano, C. Psych.
    18 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am
    PTSD results from traumatic events such as being raped and beaten, witnessing or experiencing serious injury or death in war, or feeling your life was threatened during a car accident. In younger kids, the re-experiencing of the event may be a different phenomenon. That is, upsetting dreams about the event may quickly change to thoughts or nightmares about monsters or other anxiety provoking thoughts and experiences. In addition, unlike adults who tend to re-live the trauma through flashbacks, kids tend to re-live it through make believe (e.g., a child may smash his toy cars together after a…

  • Anatomy of Gentling (Episode 86)

    Dr. Brian MacDonald, C. Psych.
    17 Nov 2009 | 5:26 am
    Doctors Brian and Giuseppe talk to William Krill, author of “Gentling: A practical guide to treating PTSD in abused children“, about post-traumatic stress and recovery. Please upgrade your browser What’s helpful for stress-reactive kids? Find out in this week’s episode! Listen here: Download audio file (FA086_-_Anatomy_of_Gentling.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: Gentling.org Leave us a comment, or you can e-mail…

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Part 1: What Does It Really Mean?

    Dr. Giuseppe Spezzano, C. Psych.
    16 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am
    Post Traumatic Stress Disorder has been in the news with great frequency as of late. We’re told that up to 30% of the soldiers who return from Iraq and Afghanistan experience it. We’re also told that the recent mass murders by a psychiatrist at a Fort Hood military base may have been in part due to his repeated exposure to the stories recounted to him by soldiers and that he may have suffered from vicarious trauma. There has been a great deal written and said about PTSD. However, at the end of the day, is it simply an unusually stressful experience that makes you very upset for a…

  • How Pretend-Play is Central to “Living in the Moment”

    Dr. Giuseppe Spezzano, C. Psych.
    12 Nov 2009 | 9:00 am
    As adults, we are often either reminding ourselves or being told to remember that we should live every moment and be present in it. Human beings are unique amongst species in being able to reminisce about the past and project our dreams out into the near and distant future. While these abilities have had a profound and enriching impact on our experience, they also open up the possibility of spending too much of our present considering, imagining and yes, living in the past or future rather than in the present. We often see children as being able to live “in the moment” and…
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    Rave and Review

  • Making K’NEXions!

    Leanne Heilman
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:45 pm
    Your childhood dreams have finally come true! Now, you too, can own a piece of Sesame Street real estate. K’NEX, one of the most well known manufacturers of building toys has teamed up with Sesame Street to bring you their new Neighborhood Collection Building Sets for kids ages 2-5. Choose from four sets of buildings and vehicles to make your own little world, complete with buildable Sesame Street characters both new and old. Each set comes with instructions to make the pictured building or accessory, as well as a “Play & Learn” activity sheet that gives your little one ideas and…

  • Friday Random Rave - Pink and Girly

    Leanne Heilman
    20 Nov 2009 | 10:29 am
    It’s not going to be a gender neutral Christmas at our house! For the past two years, all of our kid’s purchases have leaned towards the gender neutral, in some cases bypassing the girl’s section entirely and shopping only in the boys aisles. Our daughter didn’t care what color her toys were, and I refused to have piles of pink I was forcing on any kids down the road, or even friends and consignment shops when our family was complete. Gender nuetral was a hard sell to grandparents who really would like to see a baby girl with something pink and girly, so we would throw in little bits…

  • Ben 10 Toys by Bandai Review and Giveaway

    Leanne Heilman
    19 Nov 2009 | 12:30 pm
    I’ll admit that I know almost nothing about what makes it on little boys’ Christmas lists, so I went on complete instinct when I decided that Ben 10 Alien Force was it this Holiday Season. The wonderful folks at Bandai told me a little background on their Ben 10 Holiday offerings and I was absolutely certain I needed to profile them for our 2009 Holiday Gift Guide. For those who are as clueless as me as to what little boys are watching these days, I will give you a little Ben 10 background so you can fake being knowledgeable once the present is unwrapped. Ben 10 is an animated show on…

  • LeapFrog My Pal Scout Giveaway

    Leanne Heilman
    18 Nov 2009 | 1:00 am
    I would like to introduce you to the only toy my daughter asks for by name, the My Pal Scout interactive puppy (This is of course assuming that his name is, in fact, "Woof Woof" as she insists that it is). When I got to meet the LeapFrog rep at the Time to Play Holiday Showcase and he showed me the different interactive features on the My Pal, I knew instantly it would be a hit with my 16 month old. But I didn't realize what a huge hit he would be at the time. From the moment she opened the box, she snuggled him like an old friend and didn't let him go. She even carried it right off to bed…

  • Zhu Zhu Pets Giveaway!

    Leanne Heilman
    16 Nov 2009 | 10:15 pm
    Remember when we hosted a Zhu Zhu Pets Giveaway in which one lucky Rave and Review reader won a Zhu Zhu Pet of their very own? (hint, it ended yesterday)... Well, we have gotten our little hands on yet another Zhu Zhu Pet and wanted to share the love with our loyal readers. Living under a rock? Zhu Zhu Pets are the newest craze for kids aged 4 and up and are quickly becoming one of the hottest holiday toy offerings this year. Normally I have a hard time understanding what makes the hottest toys fly off the shelves, but in this case I completely understand the kid (and adult) appeal. Zhu Zhu…
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    MyBrownBaby

  • On the MyBrownBaby Table: Candied Yam Sticky Buns

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:32 pm
    By SHELLEY CHAPMANIn addition to November being my birthday month, I have many reasons to love this time of year—particularly because of all the goodies I get to create and consume. Between Halloween treats, birthday dinners, Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas gatherings and New Year's Eve galas, I often find myself in culinary heaven. In past years, my offerings have been confined to my friends and

  • Come Check Out the ATL Screening Of "Happily Ever After: A Positive Image of Black Marriage."

    18 Nov 2009 | 9:10 pm
    It's no secret I stan hard for Lamar and Ronnie Tyler, the dynamic duo behind the fab, award-winning site BlackandMarriedWithKids.com; they're eloquent, smart, and an incredible example of the beauty that is black love. Indeed, the couple is so passionate about the need for African American men and women to figure out the love thing that they made a movie about it—a ground-breaking documentary

  • Wordless Wednesday: How Not To Talk About Africa

    17 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm
    I just adore this video, a satire piece by Binyavanga Wainaina of Kenya—and not just because it stars the absolutely delicious Djimon Hounsou. Wainaina uses this thought-provoking, at times comical commentary to point out the more ignorant attitudes that find their way into Western literature and other written stories about Africa. Personally, I think we could sub in pretty much any group—black

  • Styling a Black Girl's Hair Is No Job For Daddies!

    16 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm
    By MOCHA DADMy daughter, Nee, has absolutely no confidence in my ability to do her hair. Whenever I attempt to style it, she becomes more obnoxious than Rush Limbaugh.Recently, my wife, KayEm, had to run an errand and I thought I would surprise her by combing and styling Nee’s hair (even though, Nee prefers KayEm to do her hair, it’s not a pleasant experience for either party. If you’ve ever

  • Black Moms ARE Different—and That's OK.

    15 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm
    So, after yet another white mom stomped onto MyBrownBaby accusing me of "segregating" myself for writing about issues affecting black moms, my homegirl Akilah over at the fabulous Execumama told me that I should "never freakin' explain again" why I do what I do. She's right, you know; if people bothered to look around and read the actual content on MyBrownBaby, they wouldn't get hung up on the
 
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    Three Stairs

  • This Week’s Twitter Blatherings

    Crystal
    14 Nov 2009 | 7:59 pm
    listening to Crazy Love from Michael Buble' for my review; catch it tomorrow at http://3stairs.com #fb # come read my live review of Michael Buble's Crazy Love as I update after each song! http://bit.ly/2f7pp5 # Found this interesting. http://bit.ly/2gbKm7 # Done with my review of Michael Buble's Crazy Love – come see what I think: http://bit.ly/2f7pp5 # RT @heymego #CSUN not providing interpret services 4 their #Deaf students http://bit.ly/dLRiA <<*totally* unacceptable, #CSUN! # up too late / up too early / makes my eyes a little swirly #fb # getting ready to go pack…

  • Set Apart by Jennifer Kennedy Dean

    Crystal
    10 Nov 2009 | 10:28 pm
    Set Apart Jennifer Kennedy Dean New Hope Publishers ISBN: 10-1596692634 ISBN: 13-978-1596692633 Release Date: 9/1/09 Retail: $14.99 Because Living IN this World Doesn’t Mean Living LIKE the World About the Book: (Marion, Kentucky) – In a world of self-love and materialism it’s reassuring to know that God’s Word has a better plan for living. Renowned author and speaker, Jennifer Kennedy Dean, provides insight to the life of Christ, specifically the Sermon on the Mount, in her new book, Set Apart: A 6 Week Study of the Beatitudes. Through careful study of the Hebrew…

  • Christmas Miracles by Cecil Murphey and Marley Gibson

    Crystal
    10 Nov 2009 | 9:37 pm
    Christmas Miracles Foreword: Don Piper St. Martin’s Press, Oct. 2009 Hardcover, 256 pages ISBN: 978-0312589837 Retail: $14.99 (Atlanta, GA) Many ordinary people experience Christmas miracles—those special moments during the season of giving and receiving when Christmas becomes more than just a holiday. In Christmas Miracles (St. Martin’s Press, October 2009),Cecil Murphey and Marley Gibson share the stories of those who have recognized the special moments that transcend daily experience and transform their lives. In these stories, people overcome desperate situations through a…

  • Sponsor Christmas for a Needy Child for Only Seven Dollars

    Crystal
    8 Nov 2009 | 10:35 am
    The power of a simple gift. Want to make a child’s Christmas? Donate just $7 to cover shipping for an Operation Christmas Child shoebox and a needy child will receive a box full of love and fun for Christmas! Please note: I am not a 501(c)3 organization, so unfortunately, your donation will not be tax-deductible. Thank you so much for your dedication and commitment to bringing Christmas joy to children without thought of monetary benefit. © Crystal Arcand - visit 3Stairs for more great content.

  • Album Review: Crazy Love by Michael Bublé

    Crystal
    7 Nov 2009 | 10:52 pm
    My only exposure to Michael Bublé thus far has been a snippet of a ringtone with him threatening to scat until the person answers the phone. I liked what I heard of that and I like big band, so when I got the opportunity to review his latest album, Crazy Love, I jumped at the chance. I wasn’t sure what to expect, other than a big band sound, but when the first song started, I knew I was in for a surprise. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill big band album. I have to tell you, hearing bass strings and horns in a Bond-esque cadence was not what I was expecting when Cry Me a River…
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    Babysitterdirectory.com.au blog by Ann Nolan

  • Letters of Offer and Nanny Employment Contracts

    Ann Nolan, Co-founder
    16 Nov 2009 | 3:47 pm
    You have selected your preferred nanny, done the necessary checks and now it's time to get down to basics - negotiating the employment contract, deciding on roles and responsibilities and ensuring both employee (nanny)and employer (parent) meet your obligations.At Babysitterdirectory, we often speak to parents who are surprised that they may even need an employment contract.Many parents say they do not have a contract with their nanny as both parties prefer a 'casual' arrangement.This works out reasonably well until the time arrives when the family goes on holidays and the nanny realises she…

  • Nanny & Babysitter Pre-employment Screening Checks

    Ann Nolan, Co-founder
    9 Nov 2009 | 2:19 pm
    You've just interviewed a nanny and you love her! What next? Below are some steps that you may want to consider before you rush out and offer him or her a position caring for your children.1. Recap: Before you go calling your preferred nanny applicant and hiring his or her services take a moment to recap about all your applicants.What did you like / dislike about all the applicants? What exactly did you like about the preferred applicant? What questions arose in your mind about their application? Were all your questions satisfactorily answered during the interview? If not consider calling…

  • 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…
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    Being a Mummy

  • Review; Babyprints Memory Box from Blooming Marvellous

    zooarchaeologist
    21 Nov 2009 | 4:40 am
    One of the things I have been meaning to do for baby Fifi (and me) is to create a memory box filled with things relating to her birth and first year of life. I really enjoy looking at all the things that my mum kept from when I was little. The hospital wrist band, birthday cards and so on and I would like to be able to share similar moments with my little girl.Enter Blooming Marvellous, the independent maternity and baby shop who specialise in stylish maternity wear, baby gifts and useful parenting products. I was a bit pushy, I must admit, I had my eye on one and thought I would see if they…

  • Full. Of. Germs.

    zooarchaeologist
    20 Nov 2009 | 12:47 am
    I don't think that one day goes past when someone in this house doesn't have a lurgy. Talking to parents outside pre-school, it seems that some of them, dare I say generally the ones that are at home anyhow, send their little ones in with really bad lurgy. This is very frustrating, I don't mean general colds, I mean horrible Swine Flu type things, Chest Infections, the Pox and so on.Recent comments include:" Oh, yes he was up all night with a temperature but I thought I'd send him..""He's been so ill that his eczema is so bad that he is bleeding behind his knees, I don't know what to do about…

  • My Stance on Reviews and Advertising

    zooarchaeologist
    19 Nov 2009 | 12:56 am
    As I am sure some of you have noticed, I have decided to include a lot more reviews on this blog and actually try to reply in a positive manner to any PR enquiries/ press releases that I receive. I hope you have also noticed that I am very clear about what I am receiving in return. I think this does make a difference. I would also like to make it clear, that I always write exactly what I feel about a product, and I do not allow any PR company to have any editorial control whatsoever over what I write. This means that you really do get to find out what I feel about a product. If you choose to…

  • Rules for a Perfect Family Christmas

    zooarchaeologist
    18 Nov 2009 | 1:02 pm
    I've been contacted by John Lewis (Britain's favourite retailer) to participate in their latest initiative to help families get inspired for the holiday season. I love John Lewis, we asked for vouchers for them as our wedding gifts. Anyone that knows me will know that it's the one place that I recommend time and time again, and I try to buy most big purchases there. It's also fairly local to me and so extremely practical. I could go on and on, and to be frank I'm sure you don't really want to know the top ten reasons why I love John Lewis. After all, if you are one of my friends you will have…

  • Museums and Kids

    zooarchaeologist
    18 Nov 2009 | 12:03 am
    This is a topic that I have written about in various places, just not very much on this blog. Going to museums is a bit of a busman's holiday for me, so I have to admit that I tend to favour art galleries. I always find it a surprise when I talk to people and I find out that they haven't been to their local museum, yet alone the big City ones. Often, when you get talking to people its related to their own childhood. Their parents never took them to these places, they might have gone once on a school trip, but that's it. They simply don't have the experience and feel that its a bit…
 
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    Flying Giggles & Lollipops

  • I Apologize For All Those Twitter Emails!

    19 Nov 2009 | 7:17 pm
    I am probably a little late in the game, but earlier I found out that I can enter my email address and out pops all the people from my email account who are on Twitter, that I am not yet following. Two seconds later, I am following just over 400 more people.Great, right?Then there is the option to invite people to join Twitter or to invite people to follow you on Twitter. I accepted, about five

  • Link Up Your Giveaway Fridays!

    19 Nov 2009 | 7:02 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 link them to the giveaway page, not your homepage. Do not forget to add your giveaway's end date!simplehuman sensor soap pump - 11/20Snazzy Baby's My Baby's Own Deluxe Travel Chair - 11/23Alphabotz Superphonic Decoder Cards - 11/

  • My Holiday Gift Guide Button Is Fixed!

    19 Nov 2009 | 4:29 pm
    I had no idea my Holiday Gift Guide button was broken. Thank you so much Carol from CeeceeBlogger for letting me know! I fixed it and it is ready to be displayed! I would love if you can post it on your blogs to help promote my guide. Of course, it will help you get extra entries into most of the Holiday Gift Guide giveaways.Thank you for helping me spread the word!

  • Holiday Gift Guide: Our Generation Dolls

    19 Nov 2009 | 3:52 pm
    Our Generation Dolls provide the young girls of today's generation a positive play experience with dolls they can relate to. Each Our Generation doll comes with its own hardcover storybook to help remind the young readers that , "today's dreams lead to tomorrow's accomplishments".Meet the new dolls:Mary Lyn the Music Recital Doll featuring “The Note in the Piano” book – This set will take

  • Holiday Gift Guide: Paul Frank Stocking Stuffers

    19 Nov 2009 | 2:00 pm
    Paul Frank Industries is a company that grew very quickly out of a small garage in Huntington Beach, California. I have always been a fan of this local company and I am thrilled when they expand their product line to include more fun-upbeat products for people of all ages. And it is quite true that Paul Frank's fans are just that, people young and old.This Christmas, you can turn to Paul Frank to
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    Simple Father

  • Tolerance

    scott
    19 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    I saw something today that bothered me. In the increasingly tolerant (or so it seems on the surface) world we live in, the ugly face of intolerance came into the light. People were screaming from the rooftops a message of tolerance, all the while harboring hatred in their heart. Because we are all flawed humans, from different backgrounds, it's to be expected that from time to time opinions will differ. However, there are a few issues that always end in heated discussion... one of which is the sexual preference of cats. Do boy cats choose to keep the company of other boy cats? Or are boy cats…

  • White Space

    scott
    17 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    The words "white space" mean different things to different people. To an artist, it signifies the unmarked areas on a canvas. To a radio broadcaster, it means an open frequency. As a father, it can mean something altogether different. Recently, I had the privilege of hearing Juliet Funt speak. Even though she doesn't live in a van down by the river, she manages to be an effective motivational speaker. One of the things she talked about that hit home with me was making sure that there is plenty "white space," or unplanned time in your day. Often, I find myself too busy, too distracted, too…

  • Review & Giveaway: Draw Star Wars - The Clone Wars

    scott
    11 Nov 2009 | 10:10 pm
    When I was growing up, some of my favorite 'books' were put out by Klutz. So when the opportunity arose to check out their new Draw Star Wars: The Clone Wars, I was curious too see if the books were still top notch. The Book The book is filled with tips and tricks that aim to make you better at drawing. At first I was expecting a howto on drawing various Star Wars characters, however that is only part of what the book offers. There are built-in tracing pages that allow you to trace various characters, with the purpose of getting used to their lines. Draw Star Wars: The Clone Wars also starts…

  • Monthly Roundup - September/October

    scott
    10 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    It's been a busy few months around the Simple Father household, and if your life is anything like mine, you've been keeping busy enough chasing kids every which way. I'd like to highlight some posts from September and October that may have slipped through the cracks. While these weren't the most popular, they're worth checking out. Thank you for reading SimpleFather.com. If you're new to SimpleFather, the 'popular post' section to the right is a good place to start. Thanks again, and without further ado, the September/October highlights: 5 Parenting Hacks for Dads of Toddlers Beware of Dr.

  • 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…
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    Simple Father

  • Tolerance

    scott
    19 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    I saw something today that bothered me. In the increasingly tolerant (or so it seems on the surface) world we live in, the ugly face of intolerance came into the light. People were screaming from the rooftops a message of tolerance, all the while harboring hatred in their heart. Because we are all flawed humans, from different backgrounds, it's to be expected that from time to time opinions will differ. However, there are a few issues that always end in heated discussion... one of which is the sexual preference of cats. Do boy cats choose to keep the company of other boy cats? Or are boy cats…

  • White Space

    scott
    17 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am
    The words "white space" mean different things to different people. To an artist, it signifies the unmarked areas on a canvas. To a radio broadcaster, it means an open frequency. As a father, it can mean something altogether different. Recently, I had the privilege of hearing Juliet Funt speak. Even though she doesn't live in a van down by the river, she manages to be an effective motivational speaker. One of the things she talked about that hit home with me was making sure that there is plenty "white space," or unplanned time in your day. Often, I find myself too busy, too distracted, too…

  • Review & Giveaway: Draw Star Wars - The Clone Wars

    scott
    11 Nov 2009 | 10:10 pm
    When I was growing up, some of my favorite 'books' were put out by Klutz. So when the opportunity arose to check out their new Draw Star Wars: The Clone Wars, I was curious too see if the books were still top notch. The Book The book is filled with tips and tricks that aim to make you better at drawing. At first I was expecting a howto on drawing various Star Wars characters, however that is only part of what the book offers. There are built-in tracing pages that allow you to trace various characters, with the purpose of getting used to their lines. Draw Star Wars: The Clone Wars also starts…

  • Monthly Roundup - September/October

    scott
    10 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am
    It's been a busy few months around the Simple Father household, and if your life is anything like mine, you've been keeping busy enough chasing kids every which way. I'd like to highlight some posts from September and October that may have slipped through the cracks. While these weren't the most popular, they're worth checking out. Thank you for reading SimpleFather.com. If you're new to SimpleFather, the 'popular post' section to the right is a good place to start. Thanks again, and without further ado, the September/October highlights: 5 Parenting Hacks for Dads of Toddlers Beware of Dr.

  • 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…
 
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    My Story Is Not Over

  • I Need an Interview Subjectee

    20 Nov 2009 | 11:17 am
    I have a favor to ask you bloggy friends. For my developmental psych class I've been assigned to do an interview of my grandparents or an age/generation equivalent. Well, as bad luck would have it, I don't have any grandparents left on Earth to interview and I don't know anyone that age, or around there, anymore.So if any of you bloggers are 65+ and wouldn't mind me asking you a few questions, please let me know! Or if you know of anyone that might be interested or willing to help, that would be great, too. I'll just email you the 15 questions and you can fill your answers in there and send…

  • Show Us Your Life - The Pets

    19 Nov 2009 | 6:50 pm
    This week's Show Us How You Live blog hop is about our pets. Technically, I'm the current owner of two dogs, but in reality, it's just one. But I consider all of my parents pets as mine too, because they were all there when I was growing up and were our family dogs. (I think leaving them was the one of the hardest parts about leaving home, ha!) But I am the owner of my old gal Josie, I rescued her when I was 16.It's still a bone of contention with everyone in my family, because they don't believe my story of how I found Josie, but it's the truth! I was driving my friend home from cheerleading…

  • Better Late Than Never

    19 Nov 2009 | 8:37 am

  • My Favorite Books

    16 Nov 2009 | 8:21 pm
    This week's theme on the Mcklinky Blog Hop is our favorite book. I have a few favoritess- there's the intellectual snooty one, the predictable one, the classic one, the fun one, the motivational one, and the mysterious one. I've read them many times over and have multiple copies of each- in my opinion, a book can't really be your favorite unless it never goes out of style with you.My Favorite BookTo Kill a MockingbirdIt's my all time favorite book and I can read it over and over again. I've also never seen the movie because, to me, the book is perfect just as it is. My dad gave me his first…

  • Answers to Your Questions, Part One

    15 Nov 2009 | 9:28 pm
    About two weeks ago I wrote this post and said that if there was anything left you wanted to know, email and ask me and I'd do a question and answer post. I finally got a chance to answer the majority of the questions ya'll sent me, but there will be a part two since this was getting so lengthy! I really enjoyed reading your questions and I hope I've fully answered your questions. Okay, so let's get on to it.Does your mom read your blog? No! She knows I have one, but that's it. She doesn't have the address and even if she did, she still wouldn't read it. I just don't think I could be really…
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    So Not Zen

  • My Endless Love, Redux

    20 Nov 2009 | 10:00 am
    "But I didn't even know why I bothered. I was horrible at this *friends* thing. I said all the wrong things except when I was busy saying all the mean ones. And in the end, I hated everybody and everything." - Augusten Burroughs, "You Better Not Cry"I didn't stand in line to make a lame-assed comment (Oh, I don't have a question, I just lurve you! Can I have a hug?)I did get a signed copy of his new book, but did not get his signature on my arm for a tattoo.I did get to share the same space with his humble brilliance, as well as hang with some of my most favorite ladies evah.All of this, over…

  • My Endless Love

    19 Nov 2009 | 2:31 pm
    I loved you then... mullet and all.And I love you still... aging rock star-ish and all. And I have tickets for Seattle in June 2010.Boo-yah.PS: Don't tell Tim. It's a surprise. For his upcoming birthday. Also? He kind of doesn't want to go. Which will only make it that much more of a surprise, right? RIGHT?Selfish who?

  • T minus four days, and counting

    16 Nov 2009 | 5:32 pm
    Shut up

  • Hypothetical Question

    13 Nov 2009 | 10:53 pm
    Hypothetically speaking, let's say you are at an Eighties themed dance party with your child, and it's all adults except for your child, and there is an Eighties trivia contest, and NO ONE IN THE ROOM KNOWS THE NAME OF THE EXCHANGE STUDENT IN "16 CANDLES." Is it wrong to whisper it to your child and have her scream out LONG DUK DONG to win a prize?Also, if you are in a room full of adults and NO ONE IN THE ROOM KNOWS THE NAME OF THE EXCHANGE STUDENT IN "16 CANDLES," is it wrong to feel completely superior and wonder WHAT THE HELL KIND OF LOSERS they all must be?Sheesh.And lastly, if your…

  • Midweek Monday

    12 Nov 2009 | 8:54 am
    While the extra little holiday yesterday was nice, the end result was that today, Thursday, was more like a Monday morning. Not. So. Nice.Carlie hasn't been to school since Friday. Her teacher sent home her assignments Monday and Tuesday. This morning, she had a huge melt down over an assignment that was due today which she did not complete because she (a) forgot about it and (b) didn't have the book. It is in her desk. At school. Where she hasn't been since Friday.She went ballistic and had a two-year-old sobbing tantrum. Seriously. At age 10 years 11 months.Question to the moms: how much do…
 
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    Parenting Teens Blog

  • DARE time, and huffing.

    Lessa
    20 Nov 2009 | 4:02 pm
    It’s D.A.R.E time for our fifth graders, and the Pup is taking part. Of course, it’s mandatory, so she HAS to take a part, but I’m ok with that. There are ups and downs to the program, of course, depending on your child. Upside to all kids: education on drugs and the harm they cause. Downside to many kids: Sudden superiority and ‘I know everything and will TELL you things that are bad for you ALL THE TIME’ syndrome that ends up with Mama/Auntie strangling 5th graders. (No, I wouldn’t ACTUALLY strangle them! I’d have to put down my bong.) (..totally…

  • Raising Boys: Sticks and Snails and Puppydog Tails…

    Lessa
    19 Nov 2009 | 2:55 pm
    When we had The Boy, I was momentarily terrified. I mean, I had a sister, no brothers, my mother was a sister, no brothers, my dad raised daughters, and well, who knew how to raise a BOY? And more importantly, how do we raise a BOY who is sensitive enough that all the girls (and their mama’s and papa’s) will be pleased to know him, but who can also kick as when he needed too? I mean, I WAS a girl. Girls I understand. (and, sorta, ya know, fear. haha.) But a BOY? Fortunately, as my kids are fond of saying, I have the mind of a 16 year old boy, and I think we’ve managed to do…

  • Raising girls – Caution: land mines ahead!

    Lessa
    18 Nov 2009 | 9:10 am
    Raising girls is a scary scenario for many folks. Girls are moody and unpredictable and prone to self esteem issues and have to fight for careers and equal pay and face the huge dilemma of family vs. career and have to figure out how to juggle that, all while remaining supportive and happy and strong for their families. That’s a LOT of pressure to put on a girl, you know? Add to that the casual sexualization, the images in the media that focus on perfection (of an air brushed quality, of course!) and we find ourselves juggling what we see in print and on screen and what real girls look…

  • It’s that time of year!

    Lessa
    17 Nov 2009 | 1:59 pm
    And no, this time I don’t mean “Holidays”! No, this time it’s all about the Pre-Teen Pup, and her swimming. For the next six months she will be in the pool, thinking about the pool, talking about the pool, dreaming about the pool, and working her hardest to shave time off her her best race each and every time she gets in the pool and competes. It’ll be all backstroke this, and breaststroke that and freestyle splash n dash and omg the butterfly my poor shoulders, block starts, flip turns and streamline, streamline, streamline! It’ll be new suits, team suits,…

  • Gift Ideas: Wear your Music!

    Lessa
    16 Nov 2009 | 7:01 pm
    It’s that time of year again! We suddenly start wondering what the heck we’re going to get the teenagers for Christmas. Their tastes are different, the gifts smaller and way more expensive! So it’s time to plan ahead. I ran into this site on one of those “follow the links and see where you land” forays into the wide world of the internets – and what do you know – something awesome for the music loving teen in your house! It’s called Wear Your Music.org – and they sell bracelets made of guitar strings. They have several that are actual…
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    Boy Crazy

  • Top Books for Young Children

    17 Nov 2009 | 10:49 am
    One of my favorite things to do after the end of a school day was to go up to the library, sit on the ground, and start pulling books off the shelf in search of new discoveries. Here you will find some of my favorite books for children ages 4-6. Some are classics and some were discovered while sipping a cup of tea after a long school day. Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes: Henkes is one of those rare authors who completely understands the psyche of children- the worries, the angst, the joy, oh, it’s an exhausting and wonderfulworld! The use of mice as the main characters in this series of books…

  • It’s Voting Time Again!

    5 Nov 2009 | 12:27 pm
    Yes, I know you have voted before, and it feels like I’m always telling you to vote. Here’s the deal- the websites that I belong to just cleared all of the previous votes in order to give new blogs a chance to rise to the top. It’s a great idea except for the fact that I have now lost all my votes and plummeted to the bottom of these lists! The more votes I receive the higher I am on blog websites, and, therefore, the easier it is for people to find my blog. So if you like my blog please click on the two links below to vote (okay, even if you don’t like my blog and are just passing…

  • “Hoooo” Wants Party Ideas?

    5 Nov 2009 | 7:55 am
    My son loves owls. Though I’m still trying to figure out why he chose the least cuddly animal to befriend, his 1st Birthday theme was an easy choice! Of course we couldn’t have a party without inviting Quinn’s family. The invitation set the stage for our owl theme.The birthday boy wore a special owl shirt to compliment the theme. The shirt came from my favorite new place to internet shop, Crazy 8. I designed owl gift bags filled with fall colored M&Ms (yes, I took the time to take out all the blues and greens). This idea came from a gift bag I found on the website The Party Dress.

  • Seventh Generation Crawls to Congress

    4 Nov 2009 | 1:27 pm
    Seventh Generation, creator of non-toxic household products, is now demanding Congress to support the Toxic Chemical Reform Act that would create a stronger law regarding chemicals used in products. According to the Seventh Generation website “the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has required safety on only 200 of the more than 80,000 chemicals on the market”. As a fan of Seventh Generation products (we regularly use their dish detergent and laundry detergent) and being an eco-friendly mom this is definitely a cause I can support. For more information on how to get involved visit…

  • Infant Tylenol: Do you know what’s in this stuff?

    28 Oct 2009 | 6:01 pm
    It’s tricky being a first-time mom. Amongst solicited (and unsolicited) advice you have to figure out what you believe in and what is best for your kid. So when my pediatrician recommended Infant Tylenol as a cure-all for pain we gave it to Quinn without thinking twice. Slowly I started getting a hunch that tylenol was actually keeping Quinn awake. Yes, it seemed to help with the pain, but he could not fall asleep whenever we gave it to him. In the back of my mind I remembered a colleague telling me about her daughter who had a sensitivity to food dye (she would go bonkers whenever she…
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    The Mother's Handbook

  • Madame Trota Tells it All

    themother
    19 Nov 2009 | 6:22 pm
    Quick recap: Europe, stuck in the dark ages, has only a few second hand medical texts from the good old days of Rome. Mostly Hippocratic “common knowledge” rules the day; Soranus, that great obstetrician of antiquity, has been largely forgotten; Galen has disappeared into the Byzantine Empire. Sudden contact with the Arab world during the crusades brings to Europe copies of Galen, as well as a few good ideas from Muslim physicians. In the midst of this chaos, one city rises to rule all medical knowledge for the next several hundred years–Salerno, Italy. Salerno was truly…

  • To Science, or Not to Science

    themother
    17 Nov 2009 | 10:53 am
    I ran across this study this weekend. A bunch of kids in 7th grade (11 and 12) were polled about future career choices. The results were tabulated against parents’ careers, and the student’s own later education. The results show that kids in the 11 and 12 year age range have a pretty good idea of what they want to do with their lives. I find this terrifying. Not because kids know what they want out of their lives, but because, if it’s true? Science doesn’t have shot. Math, either. How many 11 year olds have had a chance to fall in love with science? How many…

  • The Engineer Syndrome

    themother
    15 Nov 2009 | 2:14 pm
    The nice elderly gentleman bagging my groceries this evening spent a great deal of time stacking them just so. Then he rearranged them. Then stacked. Then rearranged. I must have been staring. Or maybe I had that impatient expression of someone who realizes that it’s 4:30 and she’s not getting any younger. He explained that he was attempting to make them all symmetrical. So they would balance correctly in the trunk of my car. He’s a mechanical engineer, you see. These things are important. It took everything I had not to break into hysterical laughter. (We won’t even…

  • World War II and the WHO

    themother
    13 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am
    We temporarily leave the dark ages to comment on  a study I saw this week about the WHO’s C-section rate recommendations. First, some background. The natural childbirth movement in America began in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The origins are mucky and unclear. It is often touted as a feminist response to the increasingly meddlesome intervention of MEN in the obstetrics business, and the increasingly medicinal, sterile, instrumental approach to obstetrics in general. (BUT, let us not forget, that that increasingly medicinal, sterile, and instrumental approach had finally managed to…

  • Food Wars, Part 5,349

    themother
    10 Nov 2009 | 6:09 pm
    I have expounded, in the past, about the utility of a scorecard when dealing with a child’s food choices. I have since decided that the scorecard is irrelevant. Scorecards only work when the rules stay the same from one game to the next; if the rules of the game change, calculating the stats is virtually impossible. This, of course, is why statistics occasionally seem far-fetched. For instance, the average person in the US has one ovary and one testicle. Now, there’s a stat you can sink your teeth into. I have often been skeptical of the statistics one hears during sports events.
 
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    About.com: Working Moms

  • Site of the Week: Pandora

    20 Nov 2009 | 8:25 am
    For the last 32 hours I have had no Internet access. You can imagine how hard it has been to work! Oddly enough, though, I found that the site I missed the most was Pandora. I could access Google and some email (limited attachments) on my Blackberry, until it ran out of batteries. But without my instant online jukebox I had no running soundtrack to play while I worked. Earlier this month I was in Asia, where I was distraught to find that I couldn't access Pandora! Something about international copyright licenses, but all I could think was that I should've loaded more tunes on my MP3 player…

  • 5 Ways to Annoy a Working Mom

    18 Nov 2009 | 2:33 am
    I was at the playground with a stay-at-home mom friend on a sunny summer day chatting as we watched our two-year olds climb the jungle gym. Our conversation ranged over the usual topics: the news, politics, movies, books. Then she brought up her decision to put her daughter in preschool -- and things got ugly. "I don't see how I can leave her for three hours every day; she's so little!" my friend agonized. I was struck dumb. "Really?" the voice inside me said. "How do you think that comment makes me feel when I've been leaving my daughter at daycare for 9 hours a day since she was 6 months…

  • Sarah Palin Dishes to Oprah Today!

    16 Nov 2009 | 12:30 am
    Sarah Palin's new book, Going Rogue, will be released tomorrow. So naturally, the former Alaska governor and vice presidential candidate is appearing on the Oprah Winfrey Show today as part of the publicity around the book's publication. Unfortunately, the clips of the show that were released in advance don't look that exciting. Palin acknowledges that her disastrous interview with Katie Couric "wasn't a good interview" and says she doesn't want to go "down the road of controversy and drama" regarding Levi Johnston, the father of her grandbaby. Really? Is that the best you could get, Oprah?

  • SOTW: Hybrid Mom

    13 Nov 2009 | 6:56 am
    I've blogged before about how I think the mommy wars are a media myth. So it's no surprise that I gravitate toward voices that speak to our different phases of life -- at-home, part-time work, and full-on career woman -- rather than viewing mothers as fixed in a category of working moms or stay-at-home moms. One of my favorite proponents of this view is Hybrid Mom, the About Working Moms Site of the Week. Both a Web site and a glossy magazine, Hybrid Mom appeals to mothers who are working or thinking about work or starting a business or pursuing volunteer opportunities. You can read a working…

  • On Veterans Day, Let's Thank Military Moms

    11 Nov 2009 | 1:16 am
    Today is Veterans Day, when America honors all living veterans of military service. That includes 1.8 million female veterans, many of whom are working moms. How will you mark Veterans Day? My husband has the day off work, so he'll be watching the kids and may take them down to see one of the many Washington, DC monuments honoring veterans. I suppose I'll catch a parade or perhaps read my children a bedtime story about veterans. What are your plans today? Follow me on Twitter | Join my Facebook page Photo credit: Getty Images/Stockbyte More: Fun Facts About Veterans Day Children's Books…
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    Sprittibee

  • Photographic Homeschool Mama's Software Wishes

    Sprittibee
    20 Nov 2009 | 8:09 am
    Besides being a wife, mama, and homeschooler - I'm a photo nut. This should come as no surprise to those of you who have ever been here before.Photo nuts heart Adobe. That's just a given fact. See? You aren't learning anything new yet. But you will... just wait...The photo up above was altered in Lightroom by my friend Dawn. It looks like a pro photo, right? Well, at least I thought so. I may be a bit biased.I emailed the picture to Dawn to see what she would do with it in Lightroom because I love playing with pictures. And I love seeing what other people create when they play with pictures.

  • Learning Without School

    Sprittibee
    18 Nov 2009 | 9:12 pm
    I'm avoiding the computer lately. Seems that every time I sit down there is another thirty things I have to add to my to-do list. My email box is stuffed to the gills, my paper in-box is overflowing, and my school stuff is heaped in a pile on the corner of my desk. Not to mention Mt. Laundry or the planning that needs to happen so that tomorrow won't be a dismal failure.But then it hits me - like the spit up that hit me earlier today - unexpectedly... I AM GETTING THINGS DONE. Granted, maybe not everything (nowhere near everything), and maybe not even what I had planned to do... but we are…

  • A Life Choice

    Sprittibee
    16 Nov 2009 | 8:36 am
    When I got contacted by PureFlix Entertainment to review their upcoming DVD "Sarah's Choice", I was more than willing to do so. We always are looking for quality films that our whole family can see - since there are so few of them being made by Hollywood these days. I offered to preview the movie if they wanted to send me a copy of it. It helped that the lead actress was Rebecca St. James (a Christian Music pop star that my daughter already loved).Here's one of her songs here if you haven't heard of her and wanted to listen in:On Sunday after dinner we settled down to a "family movie night",…

  • My Interview at Heart of the Matter

    Sprittibee
    13 Nov 2009 | 7:52 pm
    Where did the name Sprittibee come from? Sprittibee is actually a nickname and a last initial put together (and here you thought it was all about honey bee obsession!). When me and my hubby were dating back in the early 90’s, he called me Spritti and I called him Spooker. Sickening, I know. The “SP” was a language addition based on that REM song, “Losing My Religion,” where he said “It’s bigger than you… and you are not me.” He slurred his words and said “Spigger”, which was somehow REAL funny to us barely 20 year old, lovesick kids who were stuck in the car part of…

  • Almost Wordless Wednesday: Beautiful People

    Sprittibee
    10 Nov 2009 | 10:01 pm
    Beautiful on the inside and out. I adore these folks (and their dashing daddy - not pictured). Lucky for me, I got to do a quick photo-shoot of them in their 'natural habitat'.I wanted to take the little ones home with me. Cuter kids are hard to find.
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    Dr. Rene's Parenting Answers

  • Bickering

    Rene Hackney, PhD.
    27 Oct 2009 | 8:17 am
    There are several things to do to put an end to bickering.The first answer is to ignore the bicker. If you can stay out of it, completely out of it, the bickering tends to end. Children find better ways to problem solve, they lose interest and move on. If you involve yourself, try to sort things out and take sides you reinforce the bicker. Getting involved adds fuel to the fire.If you truely can't ignore the bicker, the second answer is to be the blanket, come down on both. You might say, "Wow, this is too loud. I need you both to quiet down," or "This is too much. Both of you find another…

  • Social Competence

    Rene Hackney, PhD.
    21 Oct 2009 | 2:01 pm
    Social Competence is defined as the ability to achieve personal goals while maintaining positive relationships. For children all this jargon means is, can they play while keeping friends. If your child's play is often ending in upset, aggression or rejection, it is time to look at their social skills.Two year olds should be able to work around each other physically, play without hurting each other and start to manage turn-taking. Three year olds should start to notice other's emotions, set common goals in play and realize personal space issues. Four year olds should be improving in social…

  • Preventing Tantrums

    Rene Hackney, PhD.
    16 Oct 2009 | 6:45 am
    The best way to manage tantrums is to prevent them. Here are several tips to prevent the next meltdown.Teach Emotion Language - The more emotion language children have, the less they need to tantrum. The idea is the language can replace to behaviors. If children are able to vent their emotions, they are less likely to boil over. Teach emotion language by labeling and discussing emotions as they happen (yours, theirs and others) and talk about emotions in children's story books. Teach Ways to Calm - Think of teaching them to count or breath when they are angry. Teach them to take a few second…

  • Private Speech

    Rene Hackney, PhD.
    15 Oct 2009 | 5:07 pm
    So folks ask, what is private speech?Private speech is the running commentary we have in our heads that helps to guide our behavior. When you are following a recipe, you may talk yourself through the steps. When a task is particularly challenging - the private speech may become public. We start to talk out loud to ourselves to support the action.Children start to do this often around 3 years old. Think about your child working on a hard puzzle - do you hear him muttering to himself about the piece he is looking for or the plan to get started? This is his still public - private speech. As…

  • Scaffolding - How We Approach Problem Solving

    Rene Hackney, PhD.
    28 Sep 2009 | 6:08 pm
    Scaffolding is how you approach problem solving with your child. Think about a four year old who is struggling with a new type of puzzle or a nine year old plodding through difficult math homework. Scaffolding is the language you use to help them through the problem solving process, it is your approach. Here, it becomes important to realize there are effective and ineffective ways to help children problem solve. Effective ways move the child toward independently problem solving. They encourage the child to work on and learn. Ineffective ways can bring the work to a screeching halt. Let's…
 
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    Attachment Parenting International Blog

  • Regretting my regrets

    Martha
    20 Nov 2009 | 9:27 am
    Before Annika was born I had regrets. I regretted staying with my ex-husband as long as I did. Hell, I regretted ever marrying him. I regretted not finishing school sooner. I regretted financial decisions. I regretted not working out more. I regretted haircuts. Then when I got pregnant I philosophized about how all those bad choices had led me to the place I was in the world and if I hadn’t done things just exactly the way I had, maybe, maybe just maybe, Annika would never have been. Instead of regrets, those bad choices were now stepping stones that led me to give birth to this…

  • Gift-Giving from the Heart and Hands, Not the Wallet

    Rita Brhel
    19 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    This week on The Attached Family online, Attachment Parenting International members can read the debut of the “Professional Parenting” series, a column written by Judy Arnall, Canadian mother of five and author of the widely acclaimed Discipline without Distress – you should see my well-worn copy of the book that gives parents real tried-and-true discipline techniques without resorting to spanking, yelling, or the infamous timeout. This first column of Judy’s, “Gift-Giving from the Heart and Hands, Not the Wallet,” is so timely as the biggest shopping day of the year arrives the…

  • I Never Want to Sleep Alone

    sarah
    18 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am
    “Mommy, do you know why I have all my pets around me when I sleep?” “Why?” “Because I never want to sleep alone!” Why is the idea of sleeping alone such an unpleasant thought for a 4 ½-year-old? My daughter has slept with someone for over 3/4 of her life. She started out in our bed at night time from the day she was born. She and I would nap together during the day. The daily together-nap went on for years. When she was about 2 ½ years old, she and her brother asked to sleep together at night. So she left our bed and joined her older brother in his. She would even nap with him…

  • Born Into the Present Moment

    sonya
    17 Nov 2009 | 9:09 am
    My son turned three yesterday. As I’ve done every year since his birth, I spent the week leading up to the actual day recalling what I was doing and thinking, and who I even was, right before he was born. All of that anticipation about what our lives would be like was the beginning of my mindfulness practice. I grew up in Taos, New Mexico, where my parents moved in 1969 to study with a guru. So I grew up with the “be here now” philosophy but never managed it. Instead I felt bad that I couldn’t manage to live in the present moment, couldn’t meditate, and honestly…

  • If You Love Somebody, Set Them Free.

    Joni
    12 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am
    Originally published on July 30, 2009 at m a m a :: m i l i e u. Okay, yes those are lyrics to a 1985 Sting song, but they rang oh-so-true today when I came across a quote on my igoogle page. I have a daily literary quote rss feed on my google homepage. Yesterday, it featured a quote from American Poet, Mary Oliver, and all I could think about after reading it was “that lady must have kids.” The quote went something like this: “To live in this world, you must be able to do three things: to love what is mortal; to hold it against your bones knowing your own life depends on…
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    Babysitterdirectory.com.au blog by Ann Nolan

  • Letters of Offer and Nanny Employment Contracts

    Ann Nolan, Co-founder
    16 Nov 2009 | 3:47 pm
    You have selected your preferred nanny, done the necessary checks and now it's time to get down to basics - negotiating the employment contract, deciding on roles and responsibilities and ensuring both employee (nanny)and employer (parent) meet your obligations.At Babysitterdirectory, we often speak to parents who are surprised that they may even need an employment contract.Many parents say they do not have a contract with their nanny as both parties prefer a 'casual' arrangement.This works out reasonably well until the time arrives when the family goes on holidays and the nanny realises she…

  • Nanny & Babysitter Pre-employment Screening Checks

    Ann Nolan, Co-founder
    9 Nov 2009 | 2:19 pm
    You've just interviewed a nanny and you love her! What next? Below are some steps that you may want to consider before you rush out and offer him or her a position caring for your children.1. Recap: Before you go calling your preferred nanny applicant and hiring his or her services take a moment to recap about all your applicants.What did you like / dislike about all the applicants? What exactly did you like about the preferred applicant? What questions arose in your mind about their application? Were all your questions satisfactorily answered during the interview? If not consider calling…

  • 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…
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    Pancakes and French Fries

  • Doing What Mommy Bloggers Do

    Jules
    20 Nov 2009 | 11:19 am
    Hello.  Allow me to frantically put up some random pictures of children doing cute! things! so we can end my cyber humiliation in the preceding post.  Yes? Look!  It’s like King Arthur and the legend of the Sword in the Stone except the sword is made from duct tape and PVC pipe and the stone is from Z Gallerie. Why do we own a sword made from duct tape and PVC?  The Mister made it to complete Mikey’s St. Boniface costume for his Saints Day presentation earlier in the month.  The same presentation that required me to tap into my slightly mutagenic crafty gene and sew a 16th…

  • etnies

    Jules
    18 Nov 2009 | 2:58 pm
    I have a rule about the appearance of my car.  I don’t fuss about it too much since I have to park it outside and have small children, but I always like to get it washed when I am going someplace where I will meet people, even if it’s just my sister-in-law.  Much like leaving the house in clean underwear in case you are in an accident, I wash my car before events because you never know who might park next to you or suddenly need to climb in your car for something.  Hey, it could happen. It rained last week, leaving my car extra dirty.  I didn’t have time to wash it and,…

  • Here I Am!

    Jules
    17 Nov 2009 | 5:27 pm
    Mikey took this picture. He also styled this shot and all the others we took this afternoon. I’ve deleted the ones with me stretching my leg behind me, squatting, and looking down into the camera (hello, multiple chins). Today I went to my first media event (look at me! fancy!) at etnies in Lake Forest. I was invited thanks to Suzanne Broughton of Alive in Wonderland, but I’ll go into that later. Right now, I am recuperating from the stress of being social, leaving the house, and worrying about what to wear in a room full of people I was sure would be far cooler than I. …

  • Photo Announcements: Is it you I am looking for?

    Jules
    13 Nov 2009 | 10:24 am
    I check every link from every person who comments on my blog.  That’s how I found Mystery Person, a person who does photo announcements and sends you the digital file to print on your own (my favorite cost cutting measure).  I thought they were really cute, and made a note to use them for our Christmas cards this year.  Of course, I can’t remember the site, which is unusual for me because I really do have an incredible memory for that sort of thing.  Dental appointments–not so much. The plot thickens.  I took some really cute pictures of my new niece last month.  Since…

  • A Chocolate Cake

    Jules
    12 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am
    {chocolate cake, The Joy of Vegan Baking} I tried to hide the Halloween candy from The Mister. Truly, I did. Actually, I was hiding it from The Mister’s notorious, insatiable, unrelenting sweet tooth and a certain 2.5 year old scamp with a nut allergy. I picked out a few favorites for Mikey and put it in my little salt and do-dads cabinet to the right of the stove. I was doing a fine job doling them out piece by piece in Mikey’s lunch box, until this Tuesday I opened my cabinet and found it devoid of candy. Not a Snickers in sight. Clearly, The Mister found my stash. The apple…
 
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    Ziggy's Blog

  • TEEN TRENDS: "HOOKING UP"

    20 Nov 2009 | 7:00 pm
    (This blog is written to inform parents and others of disturbing trends of teenagers.)WARNING: This post contains explicit language, but it's what parents need to know."Hooking up" used to mean meeting up with friends and just hanging out. Today, teens use the phrase "hooking up" to mean anything from kissing to oral sex to intercourse. But just because they're "hooking up", it doesn't mean they're dating. Teens are "hooking up" with friends and strangers, in groups and in public."HOOKING UP" CAN INCLUDE:KissingRubbing & touching, with or without clothesOral sexFingeringAt the college…

  • TEEN TRENDS: 10 Signs of an Abusive Boyfriend

    2 Nov 2009 | 8:14 am
    (This blog is written to inform parents and others of disturbing trends of teenagers.)(Because of school and midterms, I am honored to have a guest writer this week that many of you probably know. Elizabeth Donovan, M. A. of ParentingPink.com is the author of this great post that all parents who have a daughter, who is of dating age, should read and make note of these warning signs. It wouldn't hurt for the parents of sons to also read this article to see if he is displaying some of these signs towards his girlfriend. Remember to leave a comment letting Elizabeth know how much you enjoyed her…

  • I'VE BEEN TAGGED!!

    26 Oct 2009 | 1:21 pm
    I have been tagged by 3 Boys and Adoption. She awarded me with the Honest Scrap award given to others whose blogs you find brilliant in content and/or design, or those who have encouraged you. What an honor. Stop on by her blog and leave a comment.This award comes with some rules:1) Thank the person who gave the award and list their blog and link it.2) Share "10 Honest Things" about yourself.3) Present this award to 7 others whose blogs you find brilliant in content and/or design, or those who have encouraged you.4) Tell those 7 people they've been awarded HONEST SCRAP and inform them of…

  • THE DEATH OF A CHILD

    22 Oct 2009 | 5:48 pm
    After 7-year-old Somer Thompson disappeared on her way home from school, investigators followed nine garbage trucks from her neighborhood to a Georgia landfill nearly fifty miles away. They picked through the trash as each truck dumped its load. They sorted through more than 200,000 tons of garbage before their worst fears came true: Sticking out of the trash were a child's lifeless legs. (I believe this is every mother's worst nightmare.)I only have one question: How long are we going to stand by and let sex offenders continue to kill our children?Please pray for the healing of this family…

  • MODERN DAY SLAVERY

    26 Sep 2009 | 8:42 pm
    What would you say if I told you slavery is the second largest criminal industry in the world today? No, I'm not talking about slavery as it existed in the early 1900's. I'm talking about human trafficking. In the U.S., 200,000 to 350,000 children are at risk of being trafficked into the sex industry each year. This threatens all our children...yours and mine. Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal industry, grossing over $30 million dollars a year.Women and children are at the greatest risk of being trafficked for the purpose of prostitution, strip clubs, pornography, and live sex…
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    icefairy's Treasure Chest

  • New Look Giveaway #14: Nimli

    8 Nov 2009 | 11:54 pm
    I've known Nimli for a while. It's a great place to shop for natural, organic, and sustainable lifestyle products that are both eco-friendly and fashionable. They carry a wide range of name brand green items including clothing, home decor, beauty products, and fashion accessories. In addition to being an online marketplace, Nimli also provides a comprehensive green gift guide, suggests cool

  • New Look Giveaway #13: Outfit Additions

    2 Nov 2009 | 1:56 pm
    When I read fashion magazines, I'm often amazed by how accessories can bring an outfit to life and add charm to plain-looking clothes. To accessorize creatively is an effective way to make your own fashion statement. Outfit Additions is a premium online store featuring a fine collection of women's fashion accessories. You may find a wide variety of high quality accessories, including uniquely

  • Happy Halloween!

    31 Oct 2009 | 10:12 am
    Trick or treat? You know the answer! Wish every one a happy and safe Halloween!

  • Tons of Winners!

    28 Oct 2009 | 4:51 pm
    I've been quite busy lately and wasn't able to update as frequently as I would like. Thank you so much for your patience. Here's the long list of recent winners.Rada Pro Nail Station--Donna (comment #123)DownEast Outfit--rb109972 (comment #348)KN Pink Lady--Grand Prize: Jeanette (comment #619), Runners-up: Karyn (comment #487) and Ellen (comment #4)Bra Barrette Style Pack--Anne (comment #151)

  • Halloween Giveaway: Amazon Gift Card from It's All Free Online:

    25 Oct 2009 | 9:43 pm
    ~~The giveaway is now CLOSED~~Matthew just introduced me to his fun site called It's All Free Online. Just as its name suggests, the site serves as an information hub for all things free over the Internet. Receiving freebies is thrilling, but searching for them can be time consuming. Now Matthew does all the hard work so that we can easily find free stuff in one central place. Not only does It's
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    Single Mom Survives

  • Follow Friday Shake Up

    5 Nov 2009 | 1:07 pm
    I usually suck at Follow Friday's on Twitter. Oh the pressure. I either feel like the kid who gets picked last for dodge ball or the person who forgets to thank their biggest supporter when they win an Oscar. I need to be medicated. But in the meantime.... this is my first of what I hope will be many fun Follow Fridays. I have SO many people I want to include in these, it's just going to take me

  • I Blame Barbie

    4 Nov 2009 | 7:47 pm
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  • My Wednesday is Not Wordless

    4 Nov 2009 | 2:28 pm
    I feel the need to go on a rant today. I might have a pent up aggression issue. Or it could be a lack of blogging much lately issue. Either way I need a good rant. I’ve had this one stored up. So here are my random musings for the week. I’m way behind. Dear Jon Gosselin… you are a fucking moron. If you are genuinely sorry for your douchetastic behavior why are you apologizing to your wife and

  • My HOA Is The Third Ring Of Hell

    28 Oct 2009 | 5:49 pm
    I'm not going to lie, I usually joke about Chuck E Cheese being the third ring of Hell. All the noise and unattended kids running around like crazy little demon spawn seriously make me want to poke my brain out, slowly with a toothpick. Yesterday I learned however that it is not the third ring. My HOA is the third ring of Hell. Chuck E Cheese is more like the second ring. My blog has been

  • HOA Hell

    8 Oct 2009 | 6:54 pm
    Ok guys, Single Mom is in trouble and quite honestly freaking the hell out. I don’t normally talk about myself in the first person so this should be a clue that my nervous breakdown is right around the freaking corner. This time it’s not about my cute sassy little smarty pants and it’s not about my ex-husband. I think my home owners association wants me dead. Ok, maybe not dead, just slowly
 
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    MyBrownBaby

  • On the MyBrownBaby Table: Candied Yam Sticky Buns

    19 Nov 2009 | 9:32 pm
    By SHELLEY CHAPMANIn addition to November being my birthday month, I have many reasons to love this time of year—particularly because of all the goodies I get to create and consume. Between Halloween treats, birthday dinners, Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas gatherings and New Year's Eve galas, I often find myself in culinary heaven. In past years, my offerings have been confined to my friends and

  • Come Check Out the ATL Screening Of "Happily Ever After: A Positive Image of Black Marriage."

    18 Nov 2009 | 9:10 pm
    It's no secret I stan hard for Lamar and Ronnie Tyler, the dynamic duo behind the fab, award-winning site BlackandMarriedWithKids.com; they're eloquent, smart, and an incredible example of the beauty that is black love. Indeed, the couple is so passionate about the need for African American men and women to figure out the love thing that they made a movie about it—a ground-breaking documentary

  • Wordless Wednesday: How Not To Talk About Africa

    17 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm
    I just adore this video, a satire piece by Binyavanga Wainaina of Kenya—and not just because it stars the absolutely delicious Djimon Hounsou. Wainaina uses this thought-provoking, at times comical commentary to point out the more ignorant attitudes that find their way into Western literature and other written stories about Africa. Personally, I think we could sub in pretty much any group—black

  • Styling a Black Girl's Hair Is No Job For Daddies!

    16 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm
    By MOCHA DADMy daughter, Nee, has absolutely no confidence in my ability to do her hair. Whenever I attempt to style it, she becomes more obnoxious than Rush Limbaugh.Recently, my wife, KayEm, had to run an errand and I thought I would surprise her by combing and styling Nee’s hair (even though, Nee prefers KayEm to do her hair, it’s not a pleasant experience for either party. If you’ve ever

  • Black Moms ARE Different—and That's OK.

    15 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm
    So, after yet another white mom stomped onto MyBrownBaby accusing me of "segregating" myself for writing about issues affecting black moms, my homegirl Akilah over at the fabulous Execumama told me that I should "never freakin' explain again" why I do what I do. She's right, you know; if people bothered to look around and read the actual content on MyBrownBaby, they wouldn't get hung up on the
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