Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Great site that I want you to check out

A great site that is all about baby room stuff as well as baby cribs like the Convertible Crib. I have found a lot of good things for mothers on this site.

Preparing for Child Birth

By Amanda Gamdana

Surviving child birth, especially if it is your first child, might be something that enters your mind. If you haven't experienced it then how can you explain your feelings and concerns about child birth until it is all over. How you will experience the event cannot be predicted as it is as individual as you are but help is available to help you get ready for the event.

What's helpful nowadays is the amount of information there is to assist you and what options you have for the birth. One choice you will be given is whether you want to have natural birth or the use of painkillers. It's your choice if you want to have painkillers so don't let anyone change your mind if that is what you want. Just remember, despite a multitude of views on the subject, it is only yours that really means anything. There is always a doctor who can help you with any concerns you may have.

If you listened to every opinion about using painkillers during child birth you will just end up confused so just remember that it is only your opinion that should concern you. Your doctor probably has a great deal of experience so should be able to answer any questions you may have.

While premature births are quite common and baby's today have a greater chance of survival, it can damage their health. Your lifestyle and eating habits are able to affect your baby so eat properly, stay healthy and above all, pay attention to what your doctor says. If they tell you go get more rest, make sure you do so.

Your lifestyle and eating habits are able to affect your baby so eat properly, stay healthy and above all, pay attention to what your doctor says. If they tell you go get more rest, make sure you do so. Attending the local hospital to classes for expectant mothers can be very worthwhile as you will learn about methods to reduce pain for you and stress for your baby. Classes like this are deigned especially to help you with your fears and concerns about giving birth.

If you are still scared when the time comes, remember the outcome of child birth, and you will see that any pain will be well worth it. This will probably be the most important event in your life and bringing a new life into this world should not be something to regret. - 22783

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How to get into Stanford in 30 minutes

By Ivy League Secrets

Take care of your high school GPA from freshman year

This is a no-brainer but should be said anyway. Some students like to slack-off after middle school - it's a new environment, you may not have a solid group of friends, you're still getting use to everything. But a poor freshman year GPA can kill you.

You may think that a few C's can be made up later by strong AP and Honors grades, but Harvard pays attention to your FULL TRANSCRIPT. A few C's and 70's in easy courses like World Geography will make Ivy League schools think that you can't handle basic academic material. Your high school GPA matters - all four years.

Study for and take the SAT now

In an earlier post on SAT secrets for college admissions, I explain the "minimum" score necessary for Ivy League admissions.

My general advice is that you should shoot for a perfect score (why not??) but be happy with a "good score" (anything above 2100). Don't take it more than a couple times - anything more than 2 without 100+ strides each time makes you look like you're not trying very hard.

You should also take the test as early as possible - take the Duke University TIP in 7th grade, take the PSAT in freshman year or sophomore year at least once. It's great practice, and it won't go on your permanent score transcript and Harvard won't be mad that you got a 1800 as a 9th grader in high school.

It's a great opportunity for practice that has no consequences. Why wouldn't you do that?

Get involved in clubs early

Notice my advice here - an early start is ideal for Ivy League candidates. By joining different activities and clubs your freshman year, you demonstrate to Princeton that you are committed to specific interests/passions.

Ideally, you'd stay involved in those same clubs over at least a few years. However, if you find that the French Club is really not where you'd prefer spending Tuesday afternoon, that's ok too - just make sure you're not using the time watch reruns of the Simpsons.

Diversify a little bit

I usually say it's more about stories than it is about being well-rounded. After all, Ivy League schools like Harvard want well-rounded student bodies but don't need everyone to be a perfect microcosm.

Build a core set of commitments

By having a coherent theme - for instance, a passion for inner city issues or a love of music (as shown through participation in things like the String Orchestra and involvement in music-related nonprofits) is a great way to build a CLEAR AND UNIQUE IDENTITY that, if strong enough, is your best shot at getting into Ivy League schools.

Visit campus

By visiting schools, you show a clear and demonstrated interest. Plus, you'll meet people on that visit that will help you determine if you're a better fit for Princeton or Yale, Dartmouth or Brown.

Prepare for admissions interviews

YOU MUST start doing this early. If you're a strong student, you're sure to get an interview and this isn't something that you wait until the last day to prepare for.

The best way to study for college interviews is to practice interviews with older people like teachers and your family - not your best friend. Have them quiz you on your accomplishments, your life challenges, your reasons for wanting to attend Princeton. - 22783

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Monday, May 11, 2009

Safe Crib Sheets Made with Quality

By Rochelle Normski

Potty training, sometimes called potty learning, is generally something parents look toward with eager anticipation. However, some children require a little more motivation to start the toileting process. Parents should select a potty chair that makes children comfortable. In addition, the way the chair is designed might further encourage toddlers to give up their diapers in favor of big kid underwear. Here are some unique seats that might leave children eager to use the toilet.

A thread count of 200 threads per square inch will last longer and be smoother against baby's skin. The higher the number the softer it will be. However, Consumer Reports state that there is little difference in durability for thread counts over 400. The bummer is that most crib sheet manufacturers do not list the thread count on their packages. A simple test is to hold the sheet up to the light. If individual threads can be seen, then the count is too low.

These wooden potty chairs will certainly have little children feeling like a king or queen. Toddlers will be perching their little behinds on "His/Her Majesty's Throne" when they attempt to use the potty. These seats can be personalized with a 4" X 6" photo, further motivating children to use their very own potty. Colorful in design and featuring a crown-shaped back, little princes and princesses might be eager to sit upon their new throne.

It is imperative for infant safety that the sheet fits snuggly on the mattress. If purchasing elastic sheets, be sure that the elastic goes around the entire sheet. Denise and Alan Fields, authors of Baby Bargains, [Windsor Peak Press, 2008] identified some manufacturer's who have sheets with elastic that encases the entire sheet. They included Amy Coe, Circo, Baby Basics, Baby Gap, Cotton Tale, Fleece Baby, Gerber, Hoohobbers, Lands End, Patch Kraft, and Sweet Kyla.

Features of this potty chair include handles for children to grasp on to while training, built in wipes and toilet paper dispenser, two step stools to aid in potty learning, and a drop in pot for ease of clean up. This multipurpose potty seat doubles as a potty chair, adaptable potty seat for regular toilets, and a step stool. The adaptable seat will speed transition from the potty chair to full-size toilets.

Imagine their frustration upon returning home from what was thought to be a successful shopping trip, and the parents discover that they purchased the wrong sized sheet. There are many different kinds of sheets available - standard crib sheets, bassinet sheets, playard sheets, and cradle sheets to name a few. Parents need to double check the crib sheet size before purchasing or registering.

One might say that this potty chair is loaded with bells and whistles. The Fun to Learn Potty incorporates music to reinforce children when they go potty as well as many musical selections to entertain them while they wait.

This potty is modeled to look like the real thing and increase children's comfort when they transition to standard toilets. Other facets that parents will appreciate are the adaptable seat for regular toilets and the removable bowl for clean up. - 22783

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You Can Save Money at Camp

By J.J. Lorenz

Camp is as important as school in a child's development. c Through activities and play, children learn a wide range of skills and develop physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually. Children learn by doing, living, and experiencing things for themselves with out parental intervention. It's one thing to do things at home, but quite another to to be independent and do them for yourself.

Overnight camps can be expensive, even if the experiences are worth it. You can afford to send your child to summer camp just consider the following thoughts.Free Camp

Families that in the past have sent their children to private upper end overnight camps, especially on the east coast, are now looking at alternatives that might be far less expensive. One suggestion is to look in the midwest for a camp that might offer very similar activity programs at a cost 25-30% less than the equivalent east coast camp.

For many you may need to change your private camps look to alternative programs that might be similar to what you have done in the past yet less expensive. This is just a matter of shopping on the internet for price. See Swift Nature Camp as a wonderful value camp.Adventure Camp

Many may need to leave private summer camp altogether and choose to save by attending a YMCA or a even a church program. Savings for these programs are often as much as 35%.

Don't forget your local areas park districts. Many offer some form of day summer camp. These are usually the most cost effective, however, day camps generally do not offer the same opportunities as that of an overnight summer camp.

Most importantly, most camps do have discounts and campership programs, yet rarely do these programs make camp free. Each individual camp determines how to run their own discounts, it's important to ask the director how to take part in a campership program to help make camp affordable for you.

The ACA (American Camp Association) recommends: * Parents should ask whether the camp participates in income-eligible subsidy programs, for instance through Title XX. * A Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account allows parents to be reimbursed on a pre-tax basis for child care or adult dependent care expenses for qualified dependents that are necessary to allow parents to work, look for work, or to attend school full time. Visit the FSA Feds Web site for more information. * In certain circumstances, day care expenses, including transportation by a care provider, may be considered dependent care services and paid with pre-tax dollars. Visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for more information. * Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: The IRS allows an income tax credit of up to $6,000 of dependent care expenses if you have two or more dependents (up to $3,000 for one dependent). The amount of the credit is based on your adjusted gross income and applies only to your federal taxes. This applies to qualifying day camp expenses as well. Visit the FSA Feds Web site for more information.

Remember, all camps are not created equal and cost is often reflected in quality of programs. It is imperative that you do your homework to ensure a quality experience for your child. One areas where camps cut costs is staffing. Some camps use volunteers while others have paid staff. Look at counselor-to-camper ratios to determine how many campers are sleeping in each cabin with how many children. What age are the counselors? If they are not over 18, parents should be wary.

Total cost of the camp is not only tuition, but transportation, canteen and spending money, laundry, off-site trips, and uniforms (if required). So look at the toal package. Ask the director about how much of a deposit is required and if it is refundable. When must the camp fees be paid in full? Ask about refunds. What the policy is if the family's plans change and they withdraw the child from the program before the start of camp? What if problems arise during camp and the child must come home?

Regardless of cost, you want to ensure that your child will be safe and will return home at the end of the program. One way to make sure your camp is safe is to be sure they are a member of of the American Camp Association. The ACA ensures that over 300 standards are met in their accreditation process.

Lastly, It is important to try to remember what it is like being a kid. Summers are long! The experiences at summer camp create a lifetime of memories. Many adults fondly recall their camp days. Do what you must, but don't let this summer pass your child by without a sSummer Camp experience. - 22783

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Sunday, May 10, 2009

Cotbeds: The Benefits

By Barry Waters

Cotbeds can save you money and space. They are built for safety and help to ease that important and sometimes difficult transition from cot to bed. The conversion is often as simple as removing the side panels of the cot thereby making it an easy transition for your child.

Money Saving and Longer Lasting

- Just one purchase in the first 5-6 years: There is no need to purchase a separate moses basket, cot or toddler bed as cotbeds can fulfil all of these functions. *

- No need to buy different bedding: When your child moves from a cot to a bed you dont need to purchase a different mattress or bedding.

- Longer lasting: As your cot and toddler bed are rolled into one your cotbed should last until at least the time that your child starts school.

- Better for the environment: The Requirement for less furniture means less discarded furniture.

Safety First

- Different Positions for the Base: When they are newborns you start them off in the higher position so you have easy access. When they can get up on their hands and knees you can then drop the mattress to make it safer for your baby.

- Teething Safety Rails: These can be found on the majority of cotbeds. They act to protect a baby's teeth and also help to prevent any damage to the cot.

- No Cut Outs: Cut-outs in the head or foot boards can be dangerous for babies and toddlers with their inquisitive head, hands and feet.

- The Spacing of the Slats: This is an important safety aspect and no decent cotbed will have slats that are spread more than 2 3/8 inches apart.

Functional and Practical

- Easy Assembly: A good cotbed should not pose a problem even if you are DIY challenged.

- Drop-sides Available: A number of cotbeds come with easy to operate drop-sides for easy access to your baby. Most drop-sides have a one-handed operation and are recommended if you have a bad back or may encounter problems reaching in and out of the cot.

- Converts easily to a Toddler Bed: In most cases you simply have to remove the sides of the cot. With some cotbeds you get ends that split to reduce their size whilst with others you are provided with additional smaller head or foot boards.

- Less floor space is required: Cotbeds are considerably smaller than adult sized beds meaning that you can free up valuable floor space for much longer.

Practical and Versatile, Cotbeds are quite simply a Good Investment

* It is important to note that the advice from fsid is that the safest place for your baby to sleep for their first six months is either in a crib or a cot in the same room as you. If it is not possible or practical to have a cotbed in your bedroom, or to always be with your baby whilst they are asleep in a cotbed then we would advise that you also get a moses basket or crib for these first few months. - 22783

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Moms making money at home is easier than you think

By Steven Phillips

You took the leap to become a stay at home Mom or Mr. Mom. You exited the work force to stay at home with your newborn or small child. Your household income isnt exactly what it used to be. Finally, you have the time to spend with your kids, keep the house clean, go to ball games, attend school plays etc. And one of the most important things, You time.

I have some good news. A stay at home mom has a huge advantage over people still locked in the workplace. It is more time. Sure you will be busy with the kids but carving out a little time to spend on other things isn't hard. Sometimes you may need a little mental break to focus on other things in your life anyway. You might want to consider starting a home business. Especially if you are worried about your bottom line.

You have an advantage as a stay at home mom. You know a lot of people. Just think about all the places you go and contacts you have. The biggest resource you have are other stay at home moms. Think about how many other stay at home moms have approached with a product party of some sort. Each one of those candle parties is a gold mine for you. The internet is also a great place to get started. Plus you don't even have to leave home if you don't want to.

Getting started isn't hard and doesn't have to be expensive. Once I paid to join my home business program, which is more than affordable at $20.00 a month, I created my own website. I purchased a domain name, my world rocks dot biz, for $18.00 a year and $10.00 a month for hosting. So in the end and after I got started I am spending $30.00 a month. To be clear, You do not have to set up your own website. I set up a website to help my online efforts but it isn't required.

As you are searching for a work from home program for moms, the number one selection criteria is your ability to afford the program. This principle goes levels down. If you can't afford to remain enrolled because you can not afford it, your enrollees probably won't either. It isn't uncommon to pay huge up front fees and reoccurring payments just to remain active and eligible. It is because of this that I decided to join MyWorldPlus at the $20.00 a month level. I can certainly afford that.

This principle has rang true in all the other home businesses I have tried. I couldn't figure out why I could grow a downline just to have is diminish right before my very eyes. Then I realized my downline members couldn't afford it anymore. It is a vicious cycle. You do not want to invest money and time in the business and then jump to another one. It is more money, time and effort wasted. So, take it from me. Find a program you can afford and go from there.

MyWorldPlus will cost you a one time $50.00 fee to sign up as a member/associate and $20.00 a month thereafter to remain enrolled in the program. To be clear, it is $70.00 the first month you start to cover the signup fee and the first monthly installment and $20.00 a month after that for life. Most serious home based entrepreneurs can handle this and so can I. This is what makes this program so attractive to enroll in and stay in. Lets face it, the product can be the best thing since sliced bread, but if you cant afford to stay in you will never make any money. My last program cost me at least $200.00 a month minuimum before I did anything in the way of promotion.

Stay at home moms have a great opportunity with MyWorldPlus. In a program like this everyone can afford to hang around until we grow the business and start getting paid. And Lastly, like I always say, before joining any program, at least make email contact with your enroller if possible to make sure they are there to help you. - 22783

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Saturday, May 9, 2009

How it is: Honest Talk About Home School Weaknesses pt 1

By Christopher Pyle

It's difficult to strike a balanced tone when speaking of reasons people choose to home school their children. In our day to day lives, it's common to happen upon discussions which reflect only one point of view be it on the radio, on television, in classrooms, in our own homes. Unfortunately most major issues are simply too large to tackle from the middle of the road and so people take a side and battle from that position. That said, it's fair to say there are very good schools available to most all US citizens, places wherein children can get a quality education. Of course, there are others and it may be these others that has lead so many to educate their own children, in their own way.

While many have chosen to educate their kids, an honest discussion needs to take place within each parent's self. This is a fresh approach, a sincere approach to improving the home school child's life. The message is straight forward, it's purposely honest and lacking in soft, passive tones. Parents who have chosen to educate their own, deserve the respect this tone imparts: matter of fact, simple, non-labeling or blaming, a voice of aid.

One cannot be all things to a child. Even if the parent/educator is incredibly well adapted and versatile, socialization with others is a positive in personal development. The discussion needs to recognize the incredible strength needed to make such a decision and if the most is to be made of the decision, needs to recognize each parent's weakness in teaching.

A significant drawback to pulling a child out of school is the socialization aspect. Speaking here of socialization in general. Children learn, experientially, that is to say, through experience, by simply being in a structured environment. Our world is filled with rules, structure, it's how we are able to function without stepping on one another, both figuratively and literally.

There are rules of the road, unspoken rules of behavior in a grocery store, rules at the theater, at the movie complex, etc. So, being out and about, in the world is a good thing for kids as they're developing. As a home school parent/educator, one must be hyper-cognizant of getting the home school child into the world, out of the house. Americans have extremely busy lives, this busyness is amplified when the task of educator is added to ones role. School then, is a place kids go and learn life is a series of rules, especially so at school. Home school children can get this experience, school's don't hold exclusivity rights but parent/educators must make concerted efforts make it so.

If learning to be in groups and work in and around people out in the world is global-socialization, then the more specific and much needed socialization is peer-socialization. There are many benefits to home schooling, especially when comparing the ability to drill down and really focus on core subjects; however, the biggest gap in home school child development is peer-to-peer socialization. Parent/educators are recognizing this more and more and groups of home school children go on field trips together etc. In a school setting though, kids are receiving hours of peer socialization day in and day out, 9 months of the year. Therefore, this is an area the parent/educator must be especially sensitive and aware.

Whatever the cost in socialization, home school kids more than excel in text book subjects. It doesn't take but a moment to notice the education and the manner in which he/she was educated is different than what is familiar to most: in the positive. Often these kids can speak at a level well beyond their years on a variety of subjects. This is why so many turn to home school eduction.

What's to be taken from this article? There are clear advantages to home schooling: time, flexibility in subject matter, flexibility in the daily schedule. Since the toughest decision has already been made, the one that lead to home school, what can parent/educators do to avoid some of the pitfalls of home schooling? First, be willing to admit one is not the end all to the educational process. Second, get out in the world with your student and allow them to learn the global-socialization lessons: zoos, grocery stores, live theater, movie theaters, construction zones, bakeries. Take advantage of these places and the lessons they have to teach.

Leaving off here, to be continued in part 2, we'll note the benefits of adventure summer camps. These camps will provide concentrated levels of team building, community building, peer to peer socialization as well as global socialization. There's an added benefit to not having the parent being the voice of authority, giving both child and parent a break from one another. The newness of the environment keys the senses and puts the learning on an intense rocketing upward. If you have the means, summer camp should be on your list of must experience each and every summer, the benefits are phenomenal.

Specifically we recommend a camp that mentions experiential education or speaks of adventure excursions. These camps engage the child in a mind/body manner. The child must engage their bodies in the adventures and their minds in the social settings. You should email or call the camp you're interested in, or the couple you're interested in, and interview them, deciding which you're most comfortable. We strongly encourage a residential camp. These camps address all aspects we've mentioned here as well as the others we'll address in part 2. - 22783

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Does your child suffer from Nature Deficit?

By Lonnie Lorenz

April 22nd, 2010 will be the 40 year celebration of the first Earth Day here in America. Since then many rivers have been cleaned up and smog eliminated from our cities. Despite all that success, today our kids are suffering.

Richard Louv, child advocacy expert, directly blames the lack of nature in the lives on today's wired generation. He calls this phenomenon nature-deficit order and he links it to some of the most alarming trends for our kids. Including rises in obesity, attention disorders, and depression. Kids in Nature

Summer camps since the early days have been removing children from the city and exposing them to Nature. However, the term camp no longer means a time in the woods. It can be anything from arts to legos. As parents we want our kids to gather more knowledge of Nature and thereby see a reason to protect it.. Check in to this. Environmental Camp .

Swift Nature Camp is noncompetitive, Outdoors Summer Camp for boys and girls ages 6-15. The focus is to Appreciate nature while doing traditional camp activities. We make Nature Fun , here are a few camper comments

"We learn and have Fun. We are always doing stuff! The nature and sunsets are wonderful."

"Sometimes learning about nature take place on a walk to the archery range or walking to go for a swim. Its so cool to see the turtles come up and lay their eggs."

"The zoo and the Nature Center are best cause the animals are fun to play with ...I even got to adopt one."

We have a lot of songbirds. If you listen, you can hear a lot of robins, cardinals, woodpeckers, but its the loons at night that make camp amazing"

Lonnie Lorenz says the camp Director says" It a child's natural curiosity that makes our Science Camp work." What kids like best is going on frog hunts and then taking them to the Nature Center for the day. They are always released back from where they were captured. Campers also love our Adventure trips, canoing down an untouched river is wonderful."

As an environmental camp SNC shines, but it's our small size that allows us to help each camper with their development. At summer camp children will have an opportunity to act on their own, be self-reliant and try things for themselves. THis is all part of growing up.

Our Counselors are wonderful role models that promote perseverance, listening, teamwork and appreciation of differences, campers set new and high standards for their own behavior. This in turn brings their new found independence more in linewith what yu are trying to do at home. We are on your side.

We see Swift Nature Camp as an opportunity for each child to come to a new place and try new things and make new friends. Summer camp is a new world. Who you were before has no bearing on who you want to be, because camp is a new beginning. Many of our campers return year after year saying that "Swift allows me to be my real self with real people" and we feel that's a good thing.

the northwoods is a great place for fun & sun. All who come to Swift Nature Camp find this to be their summer home. So be a part of our family this summer?

You can learn more about selecting a wonderful summer camp by visiting Summer Camp Advice Find a Summer Camp - 22783

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Friday, May 8, 2009

Choosing the Appropriate Irish Christening Gown

By Shonda Bien

A christening is a blessed event in a familys life. It signifies not only the birth of a child into a Christian home but the ongoing commitment to their Christian faith. An Irish christening is no different in beliefs but the traditions are uniquely their own. It is an experience to remember and be celebrated in style.

Choosing the appropriate Irish christening gown is a matter of balancing the many different demands that the clothing has to meet and also making it appropriate and attractive. This is the clothing that will mark a childs first tentative steps with their faith. What must an Irish christening gown contain?

First, it must be of pure white clothing to symbolize purity and innocence as she was first brought into this world. Second, a lot of Irish symbolism must be present. Embroidery of the following must be present: shamrocks, said to have represented the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Another popular design would be the four-leaf clover, which was said to stand for good luck, hope, faith and love. Another Irish design is the claddaugh. It depicts two hands holding a heart, and this also symbolizes love. Last is the Irish Celtic knot which is often depicted. Third, the cloth used should be comfortable to the skin of the baby. The use of Cluney lace is also very characteristic of an Irish Christening Gown and is highly suggested. Another recommendation is the use of pure Irish linen or lace. Gold trims are common, particularly amongst Catholics, but not a must.

Any christening gown should be comfortable for the infant. While it should be white in color be sure to choose a fabric that is soft again the skin so it wont irritate the delicate skin of a child and cause your little one to become upset and fussy. That would certainly upset and mar a beautiful ceremony. Cluney lace is often found on Irish christening gowns as an adornment while the mail part of the gown is 100% cotton or pure Irish linen. Along with the gown you can find many matching accessories to compliment the outfit. Today companies often sell them together as a set. These sets could include a robe, bonnet, cap or bow. Besides looking adorable in their outfit the added accessories can keep the child warmer if it happens to be on the cooler side or if the location of the ceremony is at an older location with a draft.

Irish christening gowns do not differ much in style or design from boys or girls. Boys gowns tend to not be as frilly and the head gear is style slightly different as well. For boys the simpler the look the better, as you wouldnt want your little boy to be mistake for a girl. Boys gowns tend to have crosses or Celtic knows on their chest while girls embroidery is frillier and found extensively in the bottom part of the gown.

Traditions are always important and very much so in Irish families. If however the idea of a pure white gown leaves feeling a bit dull there is a subtle way to add some color without completely bucking tradition. You can have the symbols such as a cross or shamrock outlined in a pale blue, pin, green or off-white. It keeps with tradition of old yet adds a little kick of color to may you happy too. - 22783

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Daddy, Happy Mother's Day!

By Jerry Smith

Every mother in the world, wish you a very fruitful Mother's Day on the coming Sunday! You love your children and thus you are loved! Enjoy your day!

For fathers, you must also enjoy the coming Mother's Day with your most lovely wife and you beloved kids, they give you such a great family that you should love the most! How lucky you are!

But why does Mother's Day seem to be treated more seriously than Father's Day? The reality is that daddies are also very hard-working and care about their kids, isn't it unfair for the fathers that Father's Day is treated less seriously?However, mothers are "more appreciated" with reasons!

Mothers are "relatively more adorable" with reasons! Generally speaking, mothers care about celebrating Mother's Day more than fathers do in Father's Day. This is not difficult to explain. Female are usually more sensitive towards festival celebration than male. So no wonder why Mother's Day is treated more seriously!

Also in general speaking, mothers accompany kids more than fathers. Most fathers are the bread-winner of family, so they accompany us less than mummy. Therefore most of us respect daddy but love mummy. Of course also because mummy is more lenient than daddy usually!

Another factor is that mummy is more adorable as she is willing to take up "the worst job" in the world, that is, to be mummy! To be a mother, mummy not only be a mother, she needs to be a wife, a daughter, an employee, and most "awful" one is that, she is treated as the "maid"!

Although I love my mum, sometimes I just can't stop myself from asking my mum to do things for me. "Mummy, would you please get me a cup of drink?", "Mummy, would you please iron my uniform for me?", "Mummy, would you please...." I dare not to do this to dad...

So you see how mothers are so highly appreciated! Daddy, don't be jealous, as you have such a good wife! Let's enjoy the Mother's Day with our most adorable mummy and have fun! Get a little gift for her to make her show a broad smile! Mummy, I love you! - 22783

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Thursday, May 7, 2009

Some Tips in Bringing Your Baby Home

By Amanda Gamdana

Your baby finds it difficult to adapt to the world when he is newly born. The sudden change in his surroundings makes him confused and unhappy whether he has a natural or assisted birth. His protests in the first few weeks hence have to be accepted. A lot of excitement and adjustment will bother you on his or her first day at home. If you stay calm, however, these simple tips will ease the transition for both of you.

Singing a lullaby whenever you can will make your baby extremely comfortable and happy as he is used to your voice since the time he was inside you. By the time he is born, the familiarity of that sound has a remarkable calming effect. The more you communicate with him and the more you use rhyming words the better he feels.

Look at him while you talk so that he is attentive even though he cannot see you that clearly yet. Both you and your newborn have to learn how to best communicate with each other.

Just stroking the arms, legs, back and head will create a marked difference in your bonding with him. If possible, learn about infant massage techniques and incorporate them into your daily routine. Besides strengthening the bond between mother and child, it is a scientifically proven fact that massage also helps to get rid of colic pain and constipation in addition to inducing good sleep pattern.

The confidence of your baby grows when he is held by his mother and this is a proven fact. This keeps him most comfortable. Cuddled next to you, baby feels your warmth as well as the comforting beat of your heart and this familiar rhythm helps him relax and feel secure. Along with your baby even you feel relaxed when you both maintain physical contact.

So attend to him immediately. There are various reasons why your newborn cries. Take him in your arms, cuddle him and try to find out what is ailing him. After that you can respond to his needs quickly.

This is his basic necessity and will not spoil him. Strengthen the bond between you and the baby by always responding to his needs. With the passage of time, moms gradually become conversant with the needs of their babies. When the bond between you and your newborn is created, express your love through all his senses. - 22783

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Parenting Tips

By Jane Bear

Being a parent is one of the toughest jobs anyone may ever have. It is an ongoing process that teaches parents new things each day and leaves much more that needs to be learned before they become a good parent. There are various styles of parents, and each of them has it's own style and characteristics. Basically, there are four styles of parenting namely: authoritarian, permissive, authoritative (also known as egalitarian), and uninvolved.

The first style is authoritarian; these are typically parents who seem to come off as overly strict and even bossy. Authoritarian parents believe in absolute obedience and their children are often more successful in the long run. Some children may seem afraid or fearful of their authoritarian parents, but these parents often encourage communication and encourage their children to be independent.

The second parenting style is the indulgent or permissive parent. Permissive or indulgent parents are generally lenient. They allow a variety of behaviors by their children that some would even describe as immature. Essentially, they let their children look after themselves and they avoid confronting them at all costs.

Another parent style is that of the authoritative parent. Authoritative parents are both demanding and responsive at the same time. While expecting their children to behave in a certain manner, authoritative parents don't impose their authority and welcome a certain amount of questioning. Parents demonstrate a combination of assertiveness coupled with the ability to respond to their children's feedback.

The fourth parent style is uninvolved parents. Those in this category are basically detached from their children in a way where structure and discipline is almost non-existent. They lack the desire and intention to take on responsibility either because they are incapable or circumstance is preventing them from practicing good parent skills.

There are the basics of parenting that every parent should know and these are: being kind to your children, being a good role model, and always keeping lines of communication open. It is never okay to demean your children, instead use positive methods to discipline a child. You should be warm, share interests, and spend time with your kids. In being a good role model to your children, think of everything you want to teach your children and then just do it in front of them every day. Always remember to keep all avenues of conversation open. Good parenting means talking to your kids about important things in life. Let them know that they can tell you anything that happens to them without fear of being rejected.

In relation to parental controls, children nowadays spend a great deal of their childhood playing on the computer and surfing the web and this can be a great source of frustration for many parents. Parents initially welcomed the Internet into their homes, believing it would provide their children with access to a bottomless pit of beneficial and educational information. However, many parents soon realized that their kids were spending hours surfing inappropriate and undesirable websites. Henceforth, when trying to establish the right balance, it is necessary to take some kind of parental controls over your child's computer and Internet use.

In simple terms, parenting just means loving your child and teaching him/ her to be a rounded and caring individual. Children need understanding, love, and a certain guiding hand, which will help them make appropriate choices. - 22783

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Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Baby Furniture Cribs - How To Choose the Right One

By B. Fraley

It is not always easy choosing a crib for your baby, since there are several different types and a variety of different pricing options to consider.

You may also want to consider your design preferences for your baby's nursery, other people that might need to access the baby in its crib, like grandparents, the available space, and your budget.

Let's go over the different types of cribs available:

The Standard Crib is the one that you see everywhere. It is rectangular, though the height will vary, and they tend to have a single or a double drop side. This refers to the fact that one or both sides can drop down and give you quick access to your baby.

You really only need a double drop crib when the crib itself is not pushed against a wall. Consider what kind of access you need to the crib and where you will be putting it.

The Convertible Crib, on the other hand, can be a great investment to make in your child's future. A convertible crib typically has a higher upfront cost than a standard crib, but you will be able to use it for a much longer expanse of time. With the right model it can be converted into a day bed, a toddler bed or even a full sized bed.

Typically, what happens is the head and the foot of the bed can be pulled apart and turned into the head and foot for a full bed. Consider looking for a universally simple design. Look for one that you can continually paint and decorate when you are looking at keeping your baby's room decorated.

Another way to add some elegance and charm to your baby's nursery is through a Canopy Crib. These cribs have posts in all four corners and a canopy will be hung across the top.

You can get a cloth that is meant for that specific canopy or you can consider making the canopy yourself with fabric that matches the nursery. A canopy can give you and the baby more privacy when you share a room with the baby, and it can also help if your baby is sharing a room with his or her sibling.

Only lately have we seen a new crib design - the Round Crib. Their popularity is on the rise and they are especially comfortable for your baby, allowing it to sleep in any position. Just like a standard crib, the round crib typically has a drop side, providing easy access to your baby. Unlike traditional rectangular cribs, round cribs have no corners of concussion points to endanger your child's safety. They provide your baby with an exciting view of the world in all directions. - 22783

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Custody Center - 2 Important Tips to Win Child Custody

By Chris Jensen

If parents come to a decision to have a divorce, the child is always in the middle. Both parents may declare custody. Parents may end up with so many disagreements when it comes to their child. One reliable source on tips on how to win child custody is Custody Center by Dr. Barry Bricklin and Dr. Gail Elliot.

Parents may argue as often as they can on whose gonna take their child's custody. If you wanted to win custody case, there are two important details you must know:

1. Lists down all the things about your situation. The court rooms may love to hear all the information about your child and spouse situation. Always prepare yourself for your ex spouse response. If possible, list down all the activities you have had with your child, where did you go to, how much money you spent and where did that money go. It may sound petty but this could help on winning the case.

2. Never go late on scheduled meetings or court hearings. Being prompt is a big help on decision making. Being on time may leave an impression that you're really serious on winning the custody. Always remember to act educated and civilized individual that could affect the judge's decision. Some may forget to be decent if their emotion is intense. You must control emotions as you can. In that way, they may assume that your child is safe with you.

If you're looking for tips on how to win child custody, Custody Center by Dr. Barry Bricklin and Dr. Gail Elliot is perfect for you. Most people battling for child's custody are not that wealthy. But with this publication, you can learn so much and fortunately win the case. - 22783

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Tuesday, May 5, 2009

9 Tips That Help You Save Money On Scarf Knitting Patterns

By Gina Williams

Scarf knitting patterns are usually popular before the beginning of the cold season as such and although children are the first to benefit from their mothers' and grandmothers' attention, there are scarf knitting patterns for grown-ups too. Although the rules of knitting are the same in terms of stitch making, the originality of the pattern is the merit of the knitter.

Time, patience, care with the color choice and the ability to adapt to the fashion tendencies of the season often become true principles for successful knitting, yet, don't let anything spoil the joy of making great original garments.

Although simple for an experienced knitter, scarf knitting patterns remain challenging for a beginner. Color combinations are pretty easy, for instance, but you still have to be careful to join them at the same scarf side or you risk to create fringes. Why choose colorful scarf knitting patterns? Well, most winter clothes look pretty dull: they are usually gray, black, beige or dark blue.

A colorful scarf surely has the merit to make a winter day brighter. Besides color variations, the great difficulty for knitters is the making of the more intricate stitches specific to the scarf knitting patterns.

More stitches require more attention to the scarf knitting patterns but given the fact that scarves are most of the time straight and not so variable in peculiarities, you won't have problems like increasing or decreasing the size as you usually have for sweaters.

Don't try to learn new scarf knitting patterns while watching TV or talking to a friend, you actually risk to create a very strange looking apparel item you will not want to wear. Plus, you always run the risk the risk of getting holes in the scarf knitting patterns; increased focus is the way to prevent such incidents, but if damage has already been done, try to mend things with a crochet hook and recover the lost stitches.

New scarf knitting patterns make excellent ways to remain trendy and enjoy a nice relaxing hobby. From this perspective, it goes without saying that knitting in general works great for one's mood, brings relaxation, soothes the nerves, stimulates creativity and brings many other benefits that only one who practices it is aware of.

Therefore, enjoy all the details of the scarf knitting patterns application from reading the patterns to buying the yarn and knitting it. And when you come to see results and actually feel the warmth of an original hand-knit scarf, the reward is even better.

Read More At Free Knitting Tips - 22783

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Cloth Diapers - Are They Better?

By Jane Bear

The most important thing when raising a child is to make sure he or she is healthy. It is also very important that the baby should be comfortable, safe, and happy at all times. A way to ensure the baby's comfort is to keep him or her clean. A cloth diaper can help you do the job.

It is a fact that, less than thirty years ago, disposable diapers were considered something of a luxury while today they are the norm and people using cloth diapers for their babies are considered to be strange. There are several reasons that modern parents may choose to utilize a cloth diaper instead of a disposable diaper; however, and in some circles cloth diapers are making a bit of a comeback.

The biggest personal reason that a parent may opt to clothe her baby's bottom in cotton diapers as opposed to disposable diapers is financial. Cloth diapers are simply cheaper than disposable nappies.

Cloth nappies made from natural fibers are a welcome change from disposable diapers as they are soft and soothing to the skin. Disposable nappies are made of chemicals that can harm your baby's sensitive skin. Furthermore, with its synthetic texture, disposable nappies are not comfortable, and babies are more prone to develop rashes or allergies.

It is estimated that cloth nappies only take around six months to degrade in landfill site, while disposable diapers are the third most common consumer product in landfills today, and they may take up to 500 years to decompose.

Today's cotton diapers are much different from those that were used several decades ago. Modern cotton diapers are pre-cut and shaped to cover the baby's backside easily and quickly. They also now have Velcro fasteners or snaps in order to make it easier to secure. Another added feature is that many cotton diapers now come with a flushable, biodegradable paper lining to hold in solid waste so you can easily flush it down the toilet. Now, there are no more stinky diapers sitting around waiting for trash pickup day.

Another advantage to cotton diapers is that they usually lead to earlier toilet training of elder babies because the child actually knows when he or she is wet.

Comfortable, safe, economical, hygienic, environment-friendly, durable; with so many merits, it is no wonder cloth nappies are replacing disposable diapers everywhere. There can be no doubt that a cloth diaper is so good for your baby! - 22783

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Monday, May 4, 2009

Teenagers do more this Summer

By lonnie Lorenz

Summer camp isn't just for young children. Children Summer Camps As an example, Swift Nature Camp offers a coed teen summer camp program that is just for teenaged campers up to 15 years of age, and a Counselor in Training Program for ages 16 and 17.

As a parallel to its summer camp programs for pre-teens, Swift Nature Camp offers a full range of camp activities of interest to teens. Hiking, climbing, ceramics, horseback riding, tennis, kayaking, and whitewater rafting are perennially popular programs among teen campers.

Teen Camps provides teens a special opportunity to make friends in a relaxed and fun-filled environment, build self-esteem and independence, and meet the challenge of new physical and creative activities. Most teens want to do things for themselves and are bored by even the thought of a "normal" camp.

Swift Nature Camp offers teen cabin mates to leave camp together and venture into the wild. The ideal location brings opportunities to take unforgettable trips to the Apostle Islands, the International Wolf Center, and the Mississippi River.

All children, especially those in their teenage years, need a break from the accelerating competition of today's world. An intimate, friendly and non-competetive environment for teens fosters positive encouragement. The atmosphere of acceptance brings a welcome balance to young lives. Even first time campers quickly and smoothly adjust to life as a camper in this kind of setting.

Today's teens grow up too fast and need time to play. An Adventure summer camp should challenge your teen to try new things, but not in a stressful way. Camp is not school! Interaction with animals can be a perfect way for a child to learn by the natural discovery of play. Besides all the fun and excitement of a traditional camp, the kids have the joy of discovering Nature and the world we live in.

Many teen campers return summer after summer, returning to see friends and enjoy the excitement, self-direction, and goofy fun characteristic of camp life.

Summer camp is a great place to find real relief from the pressures of home, school and competetive sports. be oneself and a perfect place to make lifelong friends. Camp is the open door to self discovery.

You can learn more about selecting a wonderful Teen Summer Camp by visiting Summer Camp Advice Find a Summer Camp - 22783

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Make the Most of Your Baby Carrier.

By Jennie Viv

What is it about these baby carriers that made them so popular lately? Parents experience the freedom, comfort, and convenience of a baby carrier. They find themselves lugging around with a lot less equipment, with no back pains at the end of the day from stooping and lifting repeatedly.

It is also important to look for a carrier that can be set up with front or back positions. It should be easily adjusted with your preferred fit. With your level of comfortability, you are confident that both your hands will be able to get things done around the house. Additionally, it is vital that the carrier you choose supports the baby's neck and back as well as yours.

If you are the outdoor type and you want your baby to be cuddled while enjoying the nature, there are carriers that come with accessories that can protect your baby from too much sun exposure, rain, wind, and snow. Your baby stays cozy and shielded from the elements and can cope in both warm and cold weather.

Babies love the feeling of security of the womb, and the cradling from their mother's stomach is all they know. This is why they want to be held all the time. They seek the familiarity of comfort in their mother's womb, especially if they are in motion. While in a baby carrier, they have the luxury of doing both as the baby gets to feel the bond between you. They love the familiar sound of your breathing, and the heartbeat against your chest.

With the correct carrier, parents can experience the freedom, comfort, and convenience in baby wearing. You get no back pain at the end of the day from stooping and lifting repeatedly. It increases your mobility and you can have both hands free for house chores, shopping, dining out, etc.

A baby carrier allows you to do simple things that you don't have time doing because you are dealing with fussy and crying baby. You can carry your child anywhere; you can do whatever you need done for the day, without having to carry bulky and expensive strollers.

Your baby seeks the security and warmth they felt in their mother's womb that's why they want to be held and carried all the time, especially newborn. Babies love to be cradled because they feel safe and secure right next to their parent's body that's why it also shows that Baby wearing helps in decreasing the crying and fussiness of the infants.

There are many types of baby carriers - backpacks specifically, on the market today and choosing the right one can be a little tricky. If you are the outdoor type and you want your baby to cuddled while enjoying the nature, there are carriers that come with accessories that can protect your baby from too much sun exposure, rain, wind, and snow. Your baby stays cozy and shielded from the elements. - 22783

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Sunday, May 3, 2009

Pregnancy After the Age of 40

By Shola Oslo

Pregnancy after 40 can be a somewhat daunting and discouraging task for many aspiring mothers. Much of this can be attributed to a host of misconceptions that surround starting a family so late in life. For example:

a) Lowered fertility with age,

b) Premature delivery or miscarriage,

c) A high probability of delivery by c-section and

d) Complicated delivery or birthing a baby with an abnormality or defect.

The notion that these risks are a threat only to women above 40 is outdated and untrue. It is, in fact, a risk that is shared by all women.

Statistically, 40% more pregnancies are had after age 40 than before, showing that women these days are enjoying different lifestyles than in the past. These numbers are expected to go up, hopefully convincing at least some women of the lack of danger associated with later pregnancies. One other thing that may help convince women is the increase in safe and reliable methods for improving fertility.

Of course there is the standard medical route that one can opt for but before running to your nearest fertility clinic to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the latest fertility drugs, medications, inseminations or IVFs (in vitro fertilization), why not consider alternative medicine as a safe option for helping you to become pregnant?

There are several alternate, diverse medical approaches including natural, holistic and non toxic methods. Other protocols, while seeking to increase fertility in the short run, also rebuild and restore a womans body and overall health in the long run. Frequently, traditional or conventional medicine will dismiss these approaches and will often explain that fertility over 40 decreases due to age. Conventional medicine will explain infertility using conventional wisdom based on statistics and medical fact. Alternative medical protocols are not based upon the same set of facts and often employ unorthodox approaches. It is very rare for a naturopath or a doctor practicing alternative therapy to dismiss the possibility of pregnancy after 40.

Moreover, something worth noting as regards to infertility is the Follicle Stimulating Hormone commonly referred to as the FSH. FSH is the hormone that encourages the production of eggs meaning that if you have a low ovarian reserve and this is compounded by poor egg quality then conception becomes tricky.

Alternatively science also reveals that a high FSH causes infertility. Hence there is always the need for a balance.

There is a very strong difference between treating a medical issue with a pill versus taking care of the body as a whole. Whereas a doctor may prescribe something like Clomid for FSH, an alternative medicine approach to the issue would be to change one's diet, boost the immune system, aid in cleansing and detoxing, enhance the body's fertility with natural goods and stimulate quality, healthy egg production.

It is not to say that conventional treatments do not work. They do; but they have also been known to be ineffective and unsuccessful for a growing number of women. It is therefore a much safer and possibly cheaper choice for many women today desiring to achieve pregnancy after 40 to seek out more natural fertility solutions like the Mature Mothers Kit which with the backing of science, has been confirmed to increase a womans fertility by as much as 660%. - 22783

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Baby Skin Care Problems and How To Solve Them

By Nicole Makray

One of the very first challenges of new motherhood is baby skin care. That soft silky skin that we all love to touch is actually very sensitive and can quickly become red and irritated. Fortunately, most newborn skin problems can be easily treated at home.

Diaper rash is probably the most common baby skin rash. For the most part, it can be prevented by taking some very simple precautions. Keep baby's diaper area as dry as possible by changing wet diapers quickly, and let some air at that area for a few minutes whenever you can. If your baby does develop diaper rash, apply a bit of zinc oxide cream.

Another skin problem you will likely come across is baby acne. This condition is caused by the disruption of hormones in your baby's system after birth. Once these hormones settle back down, the baby acne will disappear. It is never a good idea to apply acne creams or lotions. These are not meant for infants.

Don't be alarmed if your baby's skin appears quite dry. It is generally just the first layer of skin that is like this, and it will quickly be replaced by the second, moister layer of skin. You can then maintain that soft silky baby skin by using lotions, soaps and shampoos that are very gentle and non abrasive. The more natural a product is the better. Chemicals, fragrances and dyes are not good for baby's skin.

As a general rule of thumb, treat baby's skin with very mild soaps, lotions and shampoos. Stick to ingredients that are as natural as possible, avoiding dyes, fragrances and parabens which can cause irritations.

If baby gets too warm, mild heat rash can develop on the neck, arms, and diaper area. This rash will also go away without treatment once the baby cools down. Try not to overdress the baby, and dressing in layers helps you to adjust clothing to match the environment.

Be careful not to overdress a newborn, Heat rash can quickly develop in areas like the armpit, neck and diaper areas if the baby gets too warm. Again, this is not a serious condition and will go away on its own. Try dressing your little one in layers so you can more easily adjust the clothing to match the temperature.

Enjoying your new baby is the most important thing to focus on. Just keep things as simple and natural as possible, and you'll find healthy baby skin care is really quite easy. - 22783

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Saturday, May 2, 2009

The Secret to Happiness is Connection

By Masami Sato

Why are we living? What have we come here for? Every day we hear questions about the aim and purpose of our lives. And most of us continuously search for answers. How can we find happiness? That is one more question forcing us to search for its answer every day. What if the answer to those questions is straightforward? What if all those questions are just about ONE thing? Relationship. The secret of happiness is elucidated in the clear and inspiring voice of Masami Sato in the following excerpt of her book, ONE.

What are we searching for?

There are a host of things that we do in our lives.

However, have we ever wondered why we do what we do? What are we actually looking for?

The world throngs with millions of people of all races, religions, and belief systems, doing myriad things. People look different from each other and behave differently. We have widely varying interests and outlook on life. We communicate in different ways, because we use different languages. We have different hopes and emotions.

Nevertheless, if there was ONE thing that ALL of us are searching for, what could that be?

While I journeyed all over the world, I asked people a seemingly straightforward question, "What would you like to achieve in your life? What do you really want?"

At first, it seemed everyone was looking for different things as they randomly said, "Good job", "My own house", "A nice partner", "A loving family", "A soul mate", "More money", "Wealth". "Freedom", "Peace of mind", "A life purpose" There were many more answers.

I noticed that while some of these were temporal, and more related to day-to-day needs, others were of a more spiritual nature. We yearn for temporal desires because we do not as yet have it, or don't feel that we have it yet. As different from this, spiritual desire is not about getting things we do not have. It is about a 'feeling' we look for, which does not end no matter what we manage to achieve at every moment of our life.

If we take off the temporal desires from the list and look only at the permanent desires, it is clear that all we want is to continue experiencing positive feelings like exhilaration, enjoyment, encouragement, motivation, kindness, love, happiness etc. - in another way, we want to remain happy.

Delightfulness

Happiness is one state of emotion that we are all longing to be in. We all may define it differently. We may value it differently. We may experience it at different levels of intensity. But we surely have something in common when happiness comes to us. And when we discover this secret about happiness, we hold the power to be happier, and to make others around us experience the same feeling too.

This life, that we live, is a mystery. All of us like it in our own different ways. We may also dislike it in different ways. We may wonder about it. We may cherish it. Or we may just accept it in an offhand manner. But what is the ultimate purpose of this life? What if the mystery of our existence is at hand? What if its revelation actually brings us happiness and fulfilment when we come face to face with it?

What if the truth of our life's purpose, and of its happiness, is as simple as this:

It is all about relationship.

Connection is everything

Everything is about connecting. Everything is part of everything else. If we look at our own life, it says it all. Then we will start to see the real purpose of our life.

Why do we do something, ANYTHING in life as human beings?

It is just because we want to connect to others. We make friends to build a relationship. We get married to establish a relationship in a deeper and more permanent manner. We create a family to further strengthen that relationship. We go out to meet more people to connect with them, not only to get benefits out of those relationships, but also to become more connected to the world.

We get ourselves good clothes or go to a beauty parlour to bond better with our physical appearance or aesthetical sense. We choose to try out different types of food to bond better with our sense of savour and aroma. We dine out to get on better with people we would be sharing the meal with. We buy mobiles and computers to bond better with the entire world and its people. We read books and newspapers to remain connected to what is happening around and what others are going through. We study things and learn things to bond better with knowledge that others value.

Every thing that we do is to satisfy the need of keeping alive relationships. It is our relationship to our own body that makes it imperative that we eat and sleep. Because of our relationship to our senses, we are asked to do things to satisfy the demands that body makes. If we ignore the demands that body makes, we have to bear the resultant aches and distress. And above our mundane needs, we yearn for another relationship - a relationship to our very existence - a relationship to our purpose. And without that connection, it is vacant. Just like the blankness so many of us feel when we have no relationship even to ourselves. That is just not the way our lives are supposed to be lived.

Connection is powerful, and yet it's fragile and tender

When we can't feel the sense of connection in a relationship, we go for separation, divorce, arguments, judgment and resentment. It never feels good to feel disconnected. But we could even feel in love with someone one day and feel totally remote and resentful toward that same person the next day. The feeling can change just by a flick of a finger. And it could be your finger or theirs!

When we feel disconnected

When we do not feel the connection, we start seeing problems. We start seeing differences and barriers. We start judging and criticising others. We magnify, dwell on and give energy to those things we perceive as problems. When that happens, we could even turn it all inwards and give ourselves pain and criticism. We cannot feel totally happy when we're feeling disconnected from even one thing.

Relationship: the Secret to Happiness

What if we choose to perceive the entire thing in reverse? When we do that we understand this simple truth: we cannot feel despondent when we are in a strong relationship. It is simply not possible!

Try to feel grouchy when we have a good relationship with the people around us and smiling and sharing things completely. Even when we have 'problems' in life, we can still smile together and feel delighted when we are bound together in a good relationship. At the same time, it is hard to be happy if we do not have that edifying relationship.

Bonding: Our Life

Relationship is the core of everything. That is what life is. Relationship.

Everything is a mere collection of smaller parts. Everything connects together to form a greater unit; like our bodies are collections of smaller parts, organs, cells, atoms and molecules.

Our acts and options also is an expression of the need for a relationship. We are meant to continuously find out ways to relate to each other and to a higher objective.

Connection and Religion

Some of us choose to be part of different religions to feel more connected. The connection they seek could be to God. It could be to the people with the same belief. When we share the same belief, it creates a stronger sense of bonding within that group of people. More giving happens naturally among people who are feeling connected to each other.

Relationship and Business

People start a business to feel a stronger relationship to themselves by having better mastery over their destiny. But quite often in the world of entrepreneurship, there is a greater sense of isolation especially when we start seeing other enterprises as rivals, staff as devices and customers as a source of income. With all that, the main reason for getting into the business was to establish a relationship. So why should we cause any secluding at all? Maybe in an ideal world, all enterprises worked in another way, but jointly.

Relationship and Wars

Some of us even create arguments or wars to experience some sense of 'victory' or supposedly a greater sense of security and significance. But ironically, this rebounds. The moment we 'win' the battle, we are actually more disconnected from others. We now need more security to protect ourselves from being attacked by others. We somehow end up being more insecure and afraid. We can't laugh at this because it actually happens to almost every one of us in different ways.

It could be the disagreements we have with the people around us. It may be the wrong assessment we make when we feel that something or someone is not right. When we make an attempt to be the only one to succeed, we can never succeed in the real way - we feel not connected. We can really enjoy the success when we succeed along with others. Then we will feel the strength of the relationship.

Despite the varied ways in which our needs are expressed, everything we do is to satisfy the yearning we have to feel and have a strong relationship.

The real sense of connection comes only through our heart. We can connect with anybody when we are truly caring for them and feeling connected with them. If we know this, creating the desired state is actually simple, easy and fun. Then we would naturally experience more happiness and joy.

Life is a sport. We feel things and do things in a grand game but in reality the aim of any game is the pleasure we get out of it. It is not about doing something or having something. When the sports finally end, the winners are only the ones who have derived pleasure from the game. Not the ones who had more at the final tally. The upshots and end results of the sports in which we participate do not affect our actual life. But if we lost all our friends to participate in a game just because we wanted to win in that round, would it lead us to a lasting victory?

It is easy to comprehend this when compared to acting in a play, but we often fail to understand it while enacting the play of life. We do not remember that life is also a play.

We have no idea when this game began and when it would be over, all that we know is that it commenced in the past and that it will be over one day. When finally the umpire blows the whistle to stop the game, we can simply say, "Wow, it was a lot of fun. Let us play once again!"

In this game called life, the aim of the game is to 'connect'. We can keep connecting until we all become one. It is the only way to continuously feel connected to our purpose-sense of happiness and joy. We cannot feel disconnected to anything or deny and judge even one thing if we are to achieve the state of total connection.

Life is as simple as that. There is just ONE secret.

And the secret is to bond.

To turn into ONE

To enjoy. - 22783

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Three Gifts for Expecting Mothers

By Kim Wright

What should you buy your best friend for that upcoming baby shower? You want to show her that you care, but you also have a relatively small budget of both time and money. Here is a list of potential ideas (from baby onesies to diapers) along with their advantages and pitfalls.

Pacifiers - Pacifiers are an excellent gift and they can be fun too. This is the type of gift where your friend won't initially be enthralled, but later she'll be thanking you.

Baby Clothing - Receiving baby clothes for an expecting mother is the closest thing to heaven on earth. As an added bonus, you'll probably enjoy shopping for the gift just as much as the mother will enjoy receiving it.

Baby Clothes - This gift is probably the most fun gift to give. Not only do you get to go shopping, but what mother doesn't love getting baby clothes. If you are looking for a good time and you want to play it safe, than baby clothes is an excellent option.

Baby Onesies - A relatively inexpensive option within the baby clothes market. Onesies refers to the one-piece "body suits" that newborn babies often wear. These make a great gift and there is a wide variety to choose from.

The snaps on the bottom of baby onesies are extremely useful. When it is time to change Mr. Baby's diaper, you don't have to undress him completely. You simply have to unsnap the bottom of the onesie, change the diaper, and snap the onesie back up again when you're done.

Baby onesies with funny sayings on them are extremely cute. If you can think of a saying that your expecting mother would like, then I recommend buying them a onesie.

In summary remember that there are advantages and disadvantages to every gift. If all else fails, you can feign sickness and hope they forget that you never gave them a baby gift. - 22783

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Friday, May 1, 2009

Breastfeeding Benefits - Babies aren't the only ones who benefit!

By Kim Allissa

Most people know that breast is best for baby, however they may not be aware that breastfeeding benefits the mother and all of us as a whole. Breastfeeding is something that your body has been preparing for during the entire pregnancy, and should be seen as a natural continuation of the birth process. In the following article, I will give you information on what the benefits of breastfeeding are.

First, we will discuss the breastfeeding benefits for babies:

* Infant formulas have come a long way over the years, but they will never be able to duplicate the beneficial properties found in human breastmilk. When your baby is born, your body initially provides your baby with colostrum. This is a substance that is high in protein, low in fat, and contains high numbers of antibodies. These antibodies are important for your baby in fighting infections, as he has an immature immune system. The colostrum also has a natural laxative effect, making it easier for your baby to pass his first stool, called meconium. Within the first few days after birth, the colostrum is replaced by mature breastmilk, which continues to contain antibodies.

* Your baby is likely to be better protected from ear infections, SIDS, and have less chance of developing allergies and asthma, or becoming obese.

* Because breastmilk is always "on tap", the temperature is always just right, and available when you need it to be. Breastmilk is also "smart", so that it changes to meet the needs of your baby as he grows.

* Breastmilk is digested easier than formula is. This should result in less gas in your baby and consequently, a happier baby.

How breastfeeding benefits moms:

* It is less expensive to breastfeed than it is to buy formula.

* You will save time. Because breastfeeding offers you convenience, you can spend your time doing other things other than cleaning bottles, and making them. Instead, you can spend time doing something that you enjoy such as exercising or even sleeping!

* There is a link between breastfeeding and a decreased risk of cancer of the breasts or ovaries. It is better to breastfeed for as long as you can as this decreases the risks even more.

* Because your body is using up more calories to produce milk, you should notice that you lose weight more easily as you breastfeed your new baby. So enjoy this rare opportunity for the pounds to melt away!

* One of my favorite breastfeeding benefits is that menstruation ceases for many months as you breastfeed. But beware! You can still get pregnant when breastfeeding, because there is still the chance of ovulation when you are not expecting it!

* Your uterus will shrink back to its pre-pregnancy state more quickly as your baby suckles. Menstrual-type cramps, when your baby suckles in the early days, is a sign that your uterus is doing this.

For All of Us:

* The cost to the healthcare system will be reduced if there are less babies and children afflicted with ear infections, diabetes, and obesity, for example. The development of the latter two, in particular, have long-term consequences that continue on into adulthood.

* The promotion of breastfeeding will increase the chances of mothers getting the correct information so that they can make the best choice for both themselves and their babies.

So, as you can see, breastfeeding has benefits for everyone. Most people know that breastfeeding is best for babies, but they do not necessarily know that there are benefits for others as well. It is our job to spread the word that breastfeeding is best for all of us! - 22783

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10 HSM Party Supplies For Dancing Fun

By Patti L.

Kids just love to dance, dance, dance at a birthday party! Get the groove going with an array of HSM birthday supplies.

Start your party planning off the right way with a High School Musical Deluxe Pack. It contains plates, cups, napkins, placemats... everything you need to set the mood for your girl's next birthday party.

Combine it with High School Musical Favor Boxes and you'll have small "Thank You" gifts ready when they sit down at the table. These packs provide a Notepad, Wrist Band, Magic Microphone and Headset. Kids will love the sticker sheets and tattoos, too.

Or, opt for a High School Musical Locker Box. Looks just like the one at school, and comes with 9 locker magnets featuring all the great characters from the movies, plus a 32-page book of mini-posters.

But first send out those cool High School Musical Invitations and invite all your little dancers to jam along with Troy, Gabriella, and the rest of the crew!

When it comes to the party room, that's a great place to hang a High School Musical Personalized Banner to greet the partygoers. You choose the message you want. Select the traditional "Happy Birthday" or design your own unique phrase. At 61" wide and 18" high, no one will miss it.

Looking pretty in pink, the gorgeous Gabriella Montez Stand Up also makes for a great display so the kids can all have a photo taken standing next to her. Some will, naturally, prefer the Troy Stand Up. At 5'11" they'll be looking up in admiration and smiling from ear to ear.

Next, make sure the High School Musical Pull String Pinata is in place. Over 15" long, it will hold a ton of toys or candy for all the kids. The whole crowd will shout "Hooray!" when the goodies come spilling out.

Then get ready to dance because you've laid out the High School Musical Dance Mat. Made of sturdy material (34" by 35" wide), it features photos of many cool characters from the films. The guests can learn new dances by moving their feet to the pre-programmed routines that light up on the mat. Groovy, baby!

If you get the High School Musical Diary your birthday girl can record all her beautiful memories of this special day. Holding 80 pages, it features alphabet stickers so she can personalize the hardcover diary. It will be a long time before she runs out of room to write down all the events of this wonderful day! - 22783

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Thursday, April 30, 2009

Free Camp

By Lonnie Lorenz

Camp children learning through experience. Play gives children a wide range of skills and helps them develop physically, emotionally & intellectually. Kids learn by doing, living, and experiencing things for themselves. It's one thing to watch life on a computer screen yet, quite another to experience real life.

Overnight camps can be expensive, even if the experiences are worth it. You can afford to send your child to summer camp just consider the following thoughts.Free Camp

Families that in the past have sent their children to private sleep away camps, especially on the east coast, are now looking for less expensive alternatives. Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan all provide summer camp with similar activities and programs at a thirty percent savings.

For other families who still want to send their children to private camps, one way to save on summer camp is to look for alternative programs that might be similar to what you have done in the past yet less expensive. This is just a matter of shopping on the internet for price.Adventure Camp

Parents can also choose a less expensive overnight camp program, such as a YMCA or a even a church program. These summer camps can save sometimes half compared to a private camp.

Park Districts also offer a day summer camp. These are usually the most cost effective, however, day camps generally do not offer the same array of activities and benefits that an overnight summer camp provides.

Summer camps do have discounts and campership programs, but seldom are these programs FREE. Each summer camp decides how to run their own discount program, so it is important to ask the camp director how to become a part of their particular program and see if it will help make camp affordable for you.

If these areas still leave summer camp out of the question the ACA (American Camp Association) recommends: * Parents should inquire into whether the camp participates in income-eligible subsidy programs, for instance through Title XX. * A Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account allows parents to be reimbursed on a pre-tax basis for child care or adult dependent care expenses for qualified dependents that are necessary to allow parents to work, look for work, or to attend school full time. Visit the FSA Feds Web site for more information. * In certain circumstances, day care expenses, including transportation by a care provider, may be considered dependent care services and paid with pre-tax dollars. Visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for more information. * Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: The IRS allows an income tax credit of up to $6,000 of dependent care expenses if you have two or more dependents (up to $3,000 for one dependent). The amount of the credit is based on your adjusted gross income and applies only to your federal taxes. This applies to qualifying day camp expenses as well. Visit the FSA Feds Web site for more information.

All camps are not the same and cost is often reflected in quality of programs. Do your homework to ensure a quality experience for your child. Camps can cut costs by useing volunteers while others have paid staff. Generally speaking camps have more control over paid staff. Also asl about counselor-to-camper ratios to determine how many campers are sleeping in each cabin with how many children. It's best if counselors are over 18.

Total cost of the camp is not only tuition, but transportation, canteen and spending money, laundry, off-site trips, and uniforms (if required). So look at the toal package. Ask the director about how much of a deposit is required and if it is refundable. When must the camp fees be paid in full? Ask about refunds. What the policy is if the family's plans change and they withdraw the child from the program before the start of camp? What if problems arise during camp and the child must come home?

Safety is the most important area of any Summer Camp. Regardless of cost, you want to ensure that your child will be safe and will return home at the end of the program. One way to make sure your selected camp is safe is to verify that the camp is an accredited member of the American Camp Association. The ACA ensures that over 300 standards are met in their accreditation process.

Lastly, It is important to try to remember what it is like being a kid. Summers are long! The experiences at summer camp create a lifetime of memories. Many adults fondly recall their camp days. Do what you must, but don't let this summer pass your child by without a Overnight Summer Camp experience. - 22783

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