Baby Tips and Tricks

Hallway Bowling

2010-12-13T10:03:00.000-05:00

I know it has been a LONG while since I have posted. Don't hold it against me. It has been a busy few months!

I was looking for a fun activity for Parker and I to do one night with the cold weather and up popped an idea. Parker has been playing with the plastic disposable party cups since Thanksgiving. I know. I am pretty pathetic. Yes they were still out. But at least they were washed! But from his playing came my idea.

I took 12 party cups and filled about the bottom 1/8th of one of the cups with dry macaroni noodles (I am sure that you could us something else for weight also. Just find something else that cleans up easily and that you aren't using at the time. Please keep in mind those cups sometimes do split down the side. What is going to be easy to sweep or pick up?) I then took the other cup and taped it up side down, with packing tape, to the bottom cup (Lip to Lip). Basically it ends up looking like the bottom 1/2 or the fat part of a bowling pin. Continue the same directions for the last 5 pins. I made 6 pins total so that they could be set in the triangle shape easily. You of course could make the full 10 pins if you like. I just didn't have that much Macaroni! :)

Now set the pins up at the end a hallway and get yourself a ball. The rubber balls about kick ball size work best. The walls will act as you bumpers. Have fun! Parker has been playing EVERY night since we made them. Sophia even gets into the act trying to knock them down herself! What a great semi “free” game for the kids.

Similac Formula Recall

2010-09-24T06:20:00.000-04:00

Similac Users: There has been a recall. Go to this link to read details. There is also a Phone Number you can call and a website to check your cans lot numbers http://abbott.vo.llnwd.net/o18/similac/recall/default.htm

9/11 Tribute: Craig Scott Amundson

2010-09-08T22:34:00.000-04:00

Please forgive me as I depart from my normal tips, tricks, and reviews. I will deviate today in order to leave a remembrance.

Every year I find this this week difficult. We start seeing all of the remembrances for 9/11. I personally had a cousin pass in the Pentagon crash. He was in the military and working in his office when the crash occurred. I can still remember attending his funeral at the Arlington Cemetery, literally in the shadow of the Pentagon. You could look out over the lawn and just behind the trees you could see the Pentagon still with a gaping hole in the side of it and all the rubble that lay there.

He died when he was only 28. He was the same age as my older brother, who is 4 years older than me. It seems to be very odd to think that I am older than he was when he passed. I also find it odd that the Pentagon is rarely remembered when we look back on 9/11. So this is my tribute specifically to that, all those that perished in the 9/11 attacks, specially those on the ground and on the flight that hit the Pentagon. My thoughts and prayers are with all those friends and family members as that date creeps up on us yet again.

To find out more about the Pentagon Crash, the Pentagon Memorial, and the victims please see the links below:

http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/pentagon-attack.htm

AMUNDSON, CRAIG SCOTT (Age 28)
SPECIALIST US ARMY

Of Fort Belvoir, Virginia, on September 11, 2001. Beloved husband of Amber Ann; father of Elliot Reed and Charlotte Marion. Also survived by his parents, Orland and Karen Amundson of Missouri; two brothers, Barry Amundson of Texas and Ryan Amundson of Missouri and his grandparents, Marion Brusven and Arthur and Sophia Amundson, all of North Dakota.

Spec. Craig S. Amundson, 28, was assigned to the Army's Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel as a graphic artist. Amundson, who was living at Fort Belvoir, enlisted in the Army in August 1998 in Kansas City, Mo., near his parents' home. After basic training at Fort Knox, Ky., he worked for three months as a multimedia illustrator at Fort Meade. In May 1999, the Iowa native was moved to the Pentagon, where he worked for the Army's deputy chief of staff for personnel.

Amundson had recently joined the Military Career Transition Program at Old Dominion University and was working toward becoming an elementary school teacher, the Virginian-Pilot reported.

Source: The Washington Post, AP and washingtonpost.com

Zoo Review: Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

2010-08-24T14:43:00.001-04:00

Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Rating: **** (out of five)
Website: http://www.pittsburghzoo.com/

Review:
I am having a hard time doing this review because Pittsburgh was a very good zoo but I am very spoiled and partial to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo. Pittsburgh had some really great attributes but some pitfalls as well.

Attributes - Great location. Located in Pittsburgh City limits but still feels like you are in the countryside in a beautiful wooded hilly area. You won't need any sunscreen here. The trees form a perfect canopy. They had some wonderful animals. This is the first zoo that I have been to that the lions were actually up and around. Usually they are laying about. As we were walking up the Lion started roaring! How AWESOME and the lioness was pacing about. It made for some great pictures. They also have this WONDERFUL play area that is about 1/2 way through. The area has lots of different slides that are all a different levels. Parker LOVED it and would have stayed forever had we let him. There is also a play area that is just about to the end that has lots of different things for the kids to play on, including a toddler area. They also have a beautiful aquarium. We had fun walking around and seeing all of the different things to see.

Pitfalls - This zoo is arranged in a path format. Meaning that everything is in one continuous path. You can't just go and say I want to see this area if you only have so much time. You really need to continue the path till you get to the end. Or know in advance that you are going to have to walk past a bunch of stuff to get to where you want to be and have the long walk back when you are finished. The Aquarium is beautiful. However, it actually didn't have as many animals/fish in it as I had expected. The building is fairly big. It was very nicely done however. Shortly after you go through the aquarium you will get to the polar bear/shark exhibit. I was VERY excited about this part as the website builds it up quite a bit. Go check out there site to see what I am talking about. Be sure to watch the video on the main page and not skip past it. There are two tunnels that go under the water through the polar bear tank and the shark tank. Very cool! However, as we were walking through the Polar Bear tunnel he was no were to be seen. I completely understand this as they can't be out 100% of the time. But, both tank tunnels were covered in a thin layer of algae and sort of gave you the ewww feeling.

Over all I really enjoyed this zoo. It is a great one to take your kids to as they obviously understand that kids get tired and need a break from the animals to play. Great job with the play areas. There were also VERY FEW closed exhibits which happens from time to time. And one other plus for my local readership. This Zoo was FREE with our FW Children's Zoo membership. We also were able to get a discount of 10% in the gift shop. Very Cool.

Zoo Review: Fort Wayne Children's Zoo

2010-07-29T13:16:00.002-04:00

Location: Fort Wayne, Indiana
Rating: ***** (out of five)
Website: http://www.kidszoo.org/

Review:
Fort Wayne Children's Zoo (FWC) is our "Local" Zoo and the one that my family has a membership to. I would have to say, out of all the zoos that I have been to, this is my favorite. It was rated "One of the nation's Ten Best Zoos for Kids" Parents, 2009.
One of the reasons that I like FWC so much is its lay out. It is sort of laid out on a spoke pattern. There is a center portion of the zoo and then there are different areas that shoot off of it. There for, if you are on a limited amount of time, you can choose what you would like to see and go to that section. This is great rather than having to make time to go to the whole zoo beginning to end. This makes it PERFECT for the locals who would like to get a membership. It makes it easy to plan a day at the zoo around a trip to the store. You know you have 2 hours open to relax at the zoo. Why not pick your 1 or 2 favorite sections and spend an hour looking around.
Other high points! On HOT days the zoo has their misters going. They have several mister stations throughout the zoo that allow you to walk through a mist to cool yourself down. They also have a couple of fountains that are open for the kids to play in. I let Parker go to the Zoo in his swim trunks and a t-shirt. I just take an extra change of cloths to change him right before we leave. Perfect!
There is a downfall....There are several rides through out the zoo for the kids and adults alike. They only accept tokens. Tokens are $1 a piece! For example. There is a Live Pony Ride. This ride costs 4 tokens. So, if you are looking for a cheep day at the zoo, avoid the rides if possible or negotiate with your child(ren) for one. Although also keep in mind all $ spent on these rides stays within the zoo to maintain and support their efforts.
On the topic of memberships: I have noticed that this one is a little on the high side however keep in mind you get what you pay for and this is one of the best! In just two visits our family was able to have the membership paid for in relationship to what we would have had to pay at the gate. In all actuality, my family had our membership paid for before we even set foot on their grounds.
To Explain: FWC has a reciprocal membership. There are over 150 Zoos in North America that with you FWC Membership you are able to get in Free or at a reduced rate. To see a list of the member zoos go too: http://www.kidszoo.org/membership/reciprocalzoos.htm On our recent family vacation we were able to get in at a reduced or free rate. Our membership also helped out in the gift shops at those zoos by giving us a % off. I highly suggest a membership to the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo or the local zoo in your area. They are typically a great deal!

All The Things I Have Done

2010-06-28T13:49:00.000-04:00

Well, I guess I need to say I am sorry again. I am a very bad blogger. Ok but at least I am trying to be a better person and a good mom. :)

Since I last posted have planned and took a family vacation on a very fixed budget and succeeded! I have helped plan and conduct our church's vacation bible school and survived. I have started walking on my lunch breaks with my office buddy. (Thus my lack of blogging. I had been blogging on my lunch breaks) And I have done all this while being a full time working mom. Oh yes and lost 10 lbs of baby weight! Wooo whooo!

To all those busy moms out there, who don't know how they are going to fit one more things into their busy schedule, I applaud you! You do it all plus some!!!

In my future posts some things you can look forward to:

Review of the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium - Pittsburgh, PA
Review of the National Aquarium - Baltimore, MA
Review of the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo - Fort Wayne, IN
How to plan a vacation on a budget
Continued Zoo Reviews as we visit them throughout the summer (Ohio Based)

The Perfect Swaddling Blanket

2010-05-21T13:50:00.001-04:00

I have the perfect swaddling blanket instructions! You will have to thank my mom for this one. THANKS MOM!

My mother started making Receiving Blankets for us girls and the babies as soon as her first grandchild arrived. It always had bothered her that a Receiving Blanket was only big enough for a new born and not even square. How can you possibly swaddle in a blanket that isn't square! So she figured out how to make one on her own and you get the benefit. My kids STILL love their blankets and sleep with at least one every night.
Making a Receiving/Swaddling Blanket:

Pick your favorite piece of Flannel
Buy about a 1 1/3 yards
Tear it square! (you will be down to about a yard and 1/4)
Machine wash and dry (This will shrink your fabric and you will be left with approximately 1 yard of square fabric)
Fold your raw edges under and stitch

You are now done with your blanket.

What is so great about this blanket is that it grows with your baby. It can be wrapped as tightly as needed for a new born and will still be big enough to swaddle a growing baby even up to 6-10 months, depending on the size of the child. If you do not know how to swaddle or would like step by step instruction please go to: http://www.ivillage.com/how-swaddle-your-baby-they-did-hospital/6-a-127850

My son, who is 4 years old, still has many of his original baby blankets that Grandma made for him. He still wants me to cover him up with at least one of them every night. Even better, it is still big enough to do so!

Annoucements Galore

2010-05-05T20:50:00.000-04:00

I have to gush over a good friend of mine for a minute..... I have a wonderfully talented friend that manages to have a full time job, 2 beautiful children, husband, and manage two successful websites. She just saved my tail this week. There are moments that I wonder how I manage to get through a day without leaving my children accidentally somewhere. Seriously, I would forget my head if it wasn't attached.

To get to my point... I had created a 1st birthday invitation for my baby girl’s birthday next week, SEVERAL weeks ago. Here is the problem. I never actually ordered them! So, by the time that I figured it out it was to late. I called Dawn, owner of Announcements Galore, and asked her if she could help. She of course said yes. Within 2 day she created and printed beautiful invitations for my little girl so that I was able to get them in the mail.

What a great friend! Please if you haven't already, go check out her work. She has reasonable rates and great timing. I can't promise that you will get them quite as quickly as I have, but I am sure she is very timely with regular orders.

You have heard me talk about her before.... She also runs Market Mommy. :)

Dawn's Sites:
http://www.announcementsgalore.com/
http://www.marketmommy.com/
Find her on Facebook by searching on: Announcements Galore and Market Mommy
She is also on Twitter: Search on MarketMommy

Book Review: Melvin the Magnificent Molar

2010-05-04T13:59:00.000-04:00

I was asked to do another book review. And what a cute book it was! Parker asked to take it to pre-school the next day so that he could share it with his classroom! I haven't gotten any notes back from his teacher as of yet as to how the rest of the class liked it, but I am sure if they are anything like Parker they asked their teacher to read it again.

Melvin is the Molar all the way in the back of your mouth who we need to make sure we brush. He educates your child through "his eyes" on teeth and how to keep them healthy. He does it in a cute old fashioned rhyming way. The illustrations are just wonderful! They did a great job.

Even at 4 years old I still find myself struggling to get Parker to brush his teeth well. Now all I have to say is make sure you get Melvin and you can see him push that brush a little farther back to reach him. :)

Written by: Julia Cook and Laura Jana, MD and Illustrated by by Allison Valentine. You can find more information about Julia at: http://www.juliacookonline.com/index.html and Laura at: http://www.drlaurajana.com/index.php

The book retails for $9.95 and can be purchase on both of their website and on Amazon.

Ear Infections and Tubes

2010-05-04T13:31:00.000-04:00

Both of my children now have tubes. Sophia just had her first pair put in last Thursday. I have to say, as for any surgery that your children under go you are scared for them that nothing with go wrong and the pain that they will go through after it is all over. There were times in the recovery room that I was in tears right along with her. Now that it is done and over it is of course a relief. Everything went well and she is just as happy a little girl as she always was. Maybe even happier, if that is possible. For those of you who know Sophia you will understand. :) To explain to the rest of you.... She rarely ever cries, even when she is sick, the only time I hear this is in the middle of the night when she is scared, lonely, or hungry. Or of course when she is hungry during the day (You dare not show her food as she loves it and can't wait another minute for it!). She has only slept through the night a hand full of times in her, almost 1 year, life. Last night for the first time in a long time I only awoke once to here her whimpers, I believe out of habit. I was able to give her pacifier back and she was back to sleep. Wow, to get a full nights sleep, what an amazing thing!

For all those of you who are contemplating tubes for you little one or have been told tubes may be the next step please keep my thoughts in mind when deciding. Ear infections are painful, for you and your child. Repeated ear infections can cause hearing damage. Although tubes can cause hearing damage it is far less likely than it is for chronic ear infection. Keep in mind that the ear drum can also possibly burst from build up of fluid on the ear with ear infections. This is a very painful thing too. The tubes help to keep the ear drum dry and allow the air to pass more freely cutting down the chances of infection dramatically. I can not promise you that you child will not get sick again once they have tubes. But I can say from my experience with my first child that tubes made a lot of difference in his life. He was rarely sick after they were put in and a MUCH happier child. He also paid more attention to the things around him. I think he was finally able to hear them better. Sophia is a much different child than her brother. But non the less if last night was a testament.... She is sleeping! If that is all it takes for my children to live and feel better..... Then I am willing to do it.

For more information on Ear Infections and Tube Surgery go to: http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/ears/ear_infections.html

Sophia - 11 Months, 1 Week

2010-04-25T16:37:00.002-04:00

As I sit here preparing for my baby girls first birthday I am struck how quickly this year has gone by. I know that everyone says that and that time truly does fly... But I just don't remember being this struck by the first year of my little boy’s life flying by. I am flipping through pictures of her trying to find one that is just right for her birthday invitations. I am amazed by how much she has grown, how here little personality has become her own, and how it is odd thinking of life without her. Every mother needs the reminder to slow down and enjoy their children. Remember that they won't be little forever. So, hold on, cuddle love, and enjoy them every step of the way. This is my little reminder I guess.

Sophia also will be getting tubes next week. Yup, yet another child with ear infections. How did I get so lucky?! I find my self wishing this little step of her life away. I wish that we were already past it and on to the birthday party. But in doing so, I am mentally skipping 3 weeks of her life. How can I do this when every step, every moment, every restless night is just another moment in her life that I get to care for her and cuddle that little baby. Ok I am getting a little sappy here and tearful. Tip of the day. Hold on to them! And every time you think.... I haven't taken a picture of them lately. Go grab that camera and click away! You can't get that perfect picture unless you try. They will not be this size forever and at this age they my only be this size for a day!

2010-04-22T13:47:00.000-04:00

I have been a BAD Blogger. Please forgive me. BUT... if you are a mom that likes free stuff or a mom that has your own business you will want to check out the information below!

My wonderful friend Dawn is having a blog party again this week at: http://marketmommy.blogspot.com/ Check it out and take part in the great giveaways!

Party Theme is: Think Spring! You have through the end of the day on April 23rd to take part. (I know I didn't give you much time. Sorry!)

OFFICIAL PRIZE LIST:

250 Custom Business Cards from Market Mommy
Month of free advertising on Market Mommy {website and e-newsletter}
A Turn Back Time Capsule sample with three days Celloxylin Skin Care , one day Lifeoxylin Elixir and two days Sugar Beet Crystal/Papaya Enzyme Microscrub from Apriori Beauty
Winner's choice of a set of Ficklets from Ficklets
$30 Limited Edition Collection Gift Certificate from Heavenly Flower
$10 Limited Edition Collection Gift Certificate from Heavenly Flower
$10 Limited Edition Collection Gift Certificate from Heavenly Flower
One bag of My Homemade Organic Granola and one 1/4 Lb. nut cluster from Nicole’s Homemade Treats
Gift certificate for 50% off one online item from Heather Hill
Island Coconut Oatmeal Soap from BellaHoney Body Care
Facial Mud Masque from BellaHoney Body Care
A punch out mini guitar pick charm from Metal Pressions

Homemade Laundry Detergent in HE Machines

2010-04-07T14:03:00.000-04:00

I have had several requests for information on Homemade Laundry Detergent in HE Machines. So I have been doing a little research. What I have found is that most people don't have a problem with it in their HE machine. Reason being... They is simply because of the low suds factor. With HE machines you must have a low suds soap. Because you are actually using so little "Soap" in this detergent there shouldn't be to much of a factor. Now, that being said you will need to watch yourself as to how much you put in. In my original post I note that you should used 1 Tbs. for regular loads and 2 Tbs. for large loads. I have seen several posts in other blogs that have noted that people with HE washers generally use half of what normal washer would. If you know you have a tendency to put in a little more soap then you really should then simply cut back. You may also want to experiment with what happens with your washer. If you find that it suds up a little to much simply cut back. Now, keep in mind I do not have an HE washer! However, if I did I would be willing to experiment a little to see how things work out. If I ever get an HE I will be more than happy to update you on my progress.

Inside Play Idea

2010-04-02T13:39:00.001-04:00

All mothers and care givers look for inside play ideas at one time or another. Most of those times are in the winter months or on rain days. It is one gorgeous day out there so it really doesn't fit the time frame to post this idea but I suppose it is the season. Spring = Rain. I am sure that we will have a few more of those days here soon.

Inside Sand Box:
1- Cookie Sheet (the deeper the better)
1 Container - Salt (Kosher works best as the grain is larger.)
A Few - Match Box Car Size Construction Equipment Vehicles.
Notes:
-Pour the salt on the cookie sheet and let the kids have fun. They will know what to do. :)
-Salt does not become sticky as sugar would.
-Salt is also an natural preservative, you can use it over and over again.
-It won't harm your child if swallowed.
-Easy to clean up.

*I have to give credit to my mom on this one. She found the idea on line. Thanks Mom!

Warning: Plastic Easter Eggs!

2010-04-01T14:02:00.003-04:00

Warning To All Mom's And Dad's With Babies And Toddlers!

Plastic Easter Eggs Do Pose a Danger:
Just I few days ago I allowed my baby girl to play with some plastic Easter eggs that I had out for decoration. These eggs are of the traditional plastic variety that split in the middle, or side to side, allowing the top to separate from the bottom. (Not the newer style that split the egg down the side with the split going from top to bottom.) I in no way thought that this could pose a danger to my child. She played contently on the floor with the eggs and eventually lost interest with them and moved on to something else.
The same story occurred the following day as she was at the baby sitter. The sitter thought nothing of allowing her to play with the eggs, just as I had. However, this day my baby decided to put one of the eggs in her mouth, no problem, she wouldn't be able to swallowing the thing. Right?! Sophia has been very stuffy as of late and hasn't been able to breath through her nose. As she put the egg in her mouth it became lodged. She had the bottom half of the egg in her mouth and it was the same circumference around as her mouth, forming an "O". Her mouth formed a perfect seal around it. She wasn't able to breath. The sitter, because it was such a tight fit, was unable to slide her finger into the corner of her mouth to pop it out. Sophia of course began to gag and panic. The sitter manage to squeeze Sophia's cheeks together enough, with the egg having enough pliability to squeeze slightly together and pop out. What would have happened had she not been watching?! What would have happened had it happened the day prior? I had been making dinner as she was playing with them. She did not have my full attention. Luckily the sitter was there, it happened in a split second, and a second later it was over.

Book Review: Danny the Dragon DVD

2010-03-30T13:32:00.001-04:00

All I have to say is what a neat idea! The book Danny the Dragon "Meets Jimmy" was adapted to sign for the deaf audiance. Although it has been adapted to sign it is great for people with their hearing too! If you have read my review of Danny the Dragon you already know my feelings on the book. If you haven't, Please see this link: http://babytipsbytricia.blogspot.com/2010/03/book-review-danny-dragon.html This DVD is an exact replica of the book. If you are looking for a book that has been recreated in animated form this is not it. It simply has been redone as if the author is reading it to you with the pages turning. The sign narator is then in the right side of the screen reading along for the deaf audiance.

This book would be perfect for a classroom that may be full of deaf students or as an aide for those teachers that may have a mix of sighted, non sighted, hearing or non hearing students. The DVD can be purchased at: http://www.dannythedragon.com/ or http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0980072107?ie=UTF8&tag=dannthedrag-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0980072107
For more information on the Author and her interests go to: http://www.tinaturbin.com/ and http://www.glutenfreehelp.info/

The below links are to Amazon.com:
Danny the Dragon Meets Jimmy: DVD

Homemade Laundry Detergent, Again!

2010-03-19T13:50:00.000-04:00

For all of my local readers out there. I have yet another update on Homemade Laundry Detergent. I have been asked several times as to where I have found the items need for the Detergent. Go To Pick 'n Save! They are a one stop shop for all your Laundry Detergent making needs. Look in the detergent isle for the Washing Soda, Borax and OxyClean. Go to the isle with the bar soap, on the bottom shelf, and look for the Fels Naptha or castille soap.

Original Location of Homemade Laundry Detergent in this blog:
http://babytipsbytricia.blogspot.com/2010/01/homemade-laundry-detergent.html
Other links on the topic:
http://babytipsbytricia.blogspot.com/2010/03/homemade-laundry-detergent-continued.html
http://modcottage.com/?p=117

Homemade Laundry Detergent Continued!

2010-03-16T14:29:00.000-04:00

I had promised way back when to fill you in on how the making and using of the homemade laundry detergent was coming. I didn't and I am sorry..... But here you go!
1) I love it!
2) I use so much less detergent
3) It is much more eco friendly
4) It is EASY
5) It works very well

Tips:
1) When grating your bar of soap find an old Food Processor that has the grating feature on it and buy it just for this! You can find them at resale shops such as Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc. Then you won't be concerned about using it for your food as well.
2) If you are a mom still using baby formula for you child..... The scoop measures exactly 1 Tbs. Use your old cleaned out can for storage of the mixed detergent and scoop for easy measuring! Perfect! (There I go recycling again!)
3) For hard stains mix a little bit of the detergent with a tiny bit of water to make a paste and put directly on the stain.

Happy Stain Fighting!

Professional Pictures on the Cheap!

2010-03-09T13:58:00.000-05:00

I have been asked many times by friends and family how I can afford to get my children photographed so frequently, "I must be spending a fortune!". Really I am not. I promise! Anyone who has $25-30 extra dollars a month can do it.

For the first year of my children's lives I get them photographed once a month. I love to watch them grow in pictures. I scrapbook them every month and I still have enough photos to hand out to some relatives.

1st You need to find a photo studio that is chain and has great coupons. This would be something like JCPenny, Sears, or Picture People. ( I use JCPenny exclusively. They just seem to offer the best coupons. )

2nd Study your coupons. Do you have to order a package or can you by any picture for a specific price per sheet? Do you have to pay a sitting fee? Do you get any thing free or at an additional discount. (Example: My favorite coupon from JCP is the one that is $3.99/sheet. You get a free traditional 8x10. And there is no Sitting Fee - Regardless if you are a portrait club member or not.)

3rd Make sure the package, if any, does not have to be all of one pose or that you can purchase a-la-cart on that coupon or package.

4th You have to find a photographer that you like and is good with your kids, at the studio. I am a little lucky as I have a JCP to either direction of me, within 30 mins. I have my choice.

5th Make a list (and stick to it) of all of the photos that you want for you, your relatives, in what sizes (Don't go overboard! Remember you are trying to keep the pricing down) [Example- I order: 1-8x10, 2 sheets-5x7 (4 total), 2 sheets-3x5 (8 total), and 1 sheet-wallets] I am usually able to walk out of the store for about $24 plus tax.

Things you will want to keep in mind:

Try to stay away from portrait studios that require you to purchase a package of all one picture and then add on the extra pictures you want/need. You will end up spending way more than you wanted on a pose that they pick rather than you. Although it may look like a good deal you will end up paying way more for pictures that you don't want.
Try to stay away from studios that require you to buy a package prior to buying a-la-cart.

Book Review: Danny the Dragon

2010-03-02T14:32:00.002-05:00

I LOVE CHILDREN'S BOOKS! Any one who knows me knows that I love children's books and that I have for many years. I was asked recently to do a book review and I jumped at the chance because I just keep my hands off of fun little books for kids. As I stand in line for a register at Wal-Mart I usually pick the lane closest to the book section so that I can pull one off the shelf and entertain myself as I am waiting. :)

Danny and the Dragon:

Danny the Dragon was a great delight in my eyes. How fun and how sweet! I won't spoil the story for you by telling you about it. Ok maybe just a little. It is about a little boy that goes to the beach and gains a new friend and companion. The dragon has such great manners you will want your own children to read it to so they may learn something from them or reinforce the things you have been teaching them. I can not wait for the release for the next in the series to get it for my little guy. To see more information please go to: http://dannythedragon.com/ The book can also be purchased there for $8.95, soft cover. Well, worth it!

Tina Turbin, the author, has also released this book as an audio version and a DVD version. I was excited to watch my little guy (3 1/2 yrs) sit on the bed and flip through to pages as he listened to the story. It reminded me of the days that I sat in my own room and did the same thing with my favorite books. He loved it so much he quickly asked if he could listen again! It is now one of his favorites and asks for it about every day. The DVD was created with the deaf in mind. What a great tool for the classroom or for home if you have deaf child! Although the DVD was created with the deaf in mind it still has a wonderful audio narration with full picture. How Neat!!! To see more information on the author please go to: http://tinaturbin.com/

Tina is also very interested and committed to the research of a gluten free diet and Celiac Disease. If you do or know of anyone you suffers from Celiac Disease it is well worth checking out! http://glutenfreehelp.info/ She generously donates the profits for the audio book to support research and help raise awareness of celiac disease, Columbia University- Celiac Disease Center, Dr. Peter Green

Coffee Filter Uses

2010-02-23T11:01:00.000-05:00

A few days ago I received an email from my sis about coffee filters. I laughed as I read all of the uses for them but then I thought.... WOW who knew! I have a bunch of coffee filters, of the wrong size at my house from a previous coffee maker. What great ways to use them up! Enjoy... And Thanks Sis!

I know this really isn't a baby/kid tip but hey it's my blog. I can add what I want. :)

COFFEE FILTERS
Better than paper towels and a lot less expensive...

Coffee filters ..... Who knew! And you can buy 1,000 at the Dollar Tree for almost nothing even the large ones.
1. Cover bowls or dishes when cooking in the microwave. Coffee filters make excellent covers.
2. Clean windows, mirrors, and chrome... Coffee filters are lint-free so they'll leave windows sparkling.
3. Protect China by separating your good dishes with a coffee filter between each dish.
4. Filter broken cork from wine. If you break the cork when opening a wine bottle, filter the wine through a coffee filter.
5. Protect a cast-iron skillet. Place a coffee filter in the skillet to absorb moisture and prevent rust.
6. Apply shoe polish. Ball up a lint-free coffee filter.
7. Recycle frying oil. After frying, strain oil through a sieve lined with a coffee filter.
8. Weigh chopped foods. Place chopped ingredients in a coffee filter on a kitchen scale.
9. Hold tacos. Coffee filters make convenient wrappers for messy foods.
10. Stop the soil from leaking out of a plant pot. Line a plant pot with a coffee filter to prevent the soil from going through the drainage holes.
11. Prevent a Popsicle from dripping. Poke one or two holes as needed in a coffee filter..
12. Do you think we used expensive strips to wax eyebrows? Use strips of coffee filters..
13. Put a few in a plate and put your fried bacon, French fries, chicken fingers, etc on them. It soaks out all the grease.
14. Keep in the bathroom. They make great "razor nick fixers."
15. As a sewing backing. Use a filter as an easy-to-tear backing for embroidering or appliquéing soft fabrics.
16. Put baking soda into a coffee filter and insert into shoes or a closet to absorb or prevent odors.
17. Use them to strain soup stock and to tie fresh herbs in to put in soups and stews.
18. Use a coffee filter to prevent spilling when you add fluids to your car.
19. Use them as a spoon rest while cooking and clean up small counter spills.
20. Can use to hold dry ingredients when baking or when cutting a piece of fruit or veggies.. Saves on having extra bowls to wash.
21. Use them to wrap Christmas ornaments for storage.
22. Use them to remove fingernail polish when out of cotton balls.
23. Use them to sprout seeds.. Simply dampen the coffee filter, place seeds inside, fold it and place it into a plastic baggie until they sprout.
24. Use coffee filters as blotting paper for pressed flowers. Place the flowers between two coffee filters and put the coffee filters in phone book..
25. Use as a disposable "snack bowl" for popcorn, chips, etc.

OH YEAH THEY ARE GREAT TO USE IN YOUR COFFEE MAKERS TOO.

Saving Money with Store Brand Diapers

2010-02-18T15:32:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that I used to be one of "Those" moms that didn't use anything but brand name diapers. I just could not see spending what you do on diapers and having problems with them because you used store brand or not so name brand diapers. So, I didn’t even try. Now that I have had my 2nd child I am a little more willing to experiment with what I put on her. Below you will read my finding on the not so name brands and store brands that I have tried.

Wal-Mart (Parent's Choice):
Over All Review- Dislike them but don't hate them....

I can't hate them because I actually haven't had any problems with them yet. I have not had them leak over night or any tabs tear off.
However, they feel very paper like. They just don't have that soft feeling that you have when you touch most modern disposable diapers.
They also have a lot of extra paper on the front sides. You know how you lay the front across your babies belly and then pull the tab from the back across the front to affix it? Well right where there is that over lap there is all this extra paper for no particular reason that adds bulk. My baby is on the chunky side so I know it isn't there for kids like her!
Great price, so that is a plus

Target (Up and Up):
Overall Review - LOVE LOVE LOVE

They perform as well if not better than Huggies or Pampers. I would buy them all the time if I live in a town where there was a target. I have to settle for stocking up any time I am near one.
Great price, about the same as Parent's Choice
Not quite as soft as the Pampers, Swaddlers or Cruisers, or Huggies but better than the Pampers Baby Dry
They also come in this very cute design of great big blue and green polka dots

CVS Pharmacy
I have yet to try … Come Back Soon For Review

Meijer
I have yet to try… Come Back Soon For Review - But ... I have heard from a good source that they are wonderful! - Thanks Stacy

Luvs (Made by P&G the same company that makes Pampers)
Overall Review: OK, but often times I like the store brand better.

They are VERY similar to Pampers: Baby Dry
They have some what paper feeling.
They have a good price point but store brand is better.
They also have a faint perfume smell, you may or may not like this.

Note: I know store brands are a mainly regional thing. Please forgive me if I haven't tried you local brand. Still trying to get to all of the different stores in my area. What? I am a busy working mom! :)

Blog Party

2010-02-18T14:58:00.002-05:00

My wonderful friend Dawn is having a blog party this week at: http://marketmommy.blogspot.com/ Check it out and take part in the great giveaways!

Parker

2010-02-16T14:13:00.001-05:00

There is no real Tip/Trick/Money Savings in this post. It is just some ramblings about my son, Paker. My little boy is 3 years 10 months. Yesterday I found out that he had yet another ear infection, as does his baby sister. Sophia if fine, this is her first, although it may not be her last, it isn't bad at all. Parker on the other hand is another story. His eardrum proceeded to burst last night, just a few hours after his doctors appointment. For all those of you mom's and dad's out there that have to deal with ear infections on a regular basis I feel for you!

Parker has been plagued from birth with reoccurring ear infections. Here is my theory... Parker was born with Torticollis. (That in itself is another story. I would be happy to discuss with you regarding my findings, all that we went through because of it, and the plagiocephaly he had because of it. Just email me!) For all those of you who do not know what Torticollis is: it is literally defined as "twisted neck". You can find more information at: http://www.torticolliskids.org/ and more information about Plagiocephaly at: http://www.plagiocephaly.info/ If you were to look up Torticollis in rabbits (I Know, Parker Isn't A Rabbit) you will find that more often than not that torticollis is caused by a middle ear infection. Once corrected the ear infection can return if so does the Torticollis. So if it can be caused by an ear infection or an ear infection can cause Torticollis in Rabbits then why not so in humans? I have been told numerous times that there is no relationship in humans. But I digress..... My original intent was not to complain about science or our health care workers but rather to vent that my child has yet another ear infection. augh! We will be looking onto our 3rd set of tubes shortly. Any of you parents out there are considering tubes for your child.... if you would like my advise... do it! I can tell you from my experience. Parker had his first set put in at 7 months. We had 1 infection between then and when they fell out. That was immediately after they were put in. He had his second set put in at 2 years 2 months. We had no infections between then and 2 months ago when the left side tube fell out. The right is still intact. Of course that is the healthy ear. You can see what happened to the other.

2010-02-08T13:46:00.001-05:00

I got woke up last night to a crying baby. This really isn't out of the norm but her type of cry was. You see I have been blessed with a baby that in her almost 9 months of life has not yet gotten sick. That was till yesterday. Her big brother has a nasty cold and she got it. She just couldn't breath. I felt so bad for her but there was just nothing I could do. I had already done the act of sucking out her nose with that nasty nose sucker thing and put her on an incline but it just wasn't making a difference. I vowed today I would try the the remedy that a good friend of mine just sent me a couple of weeks ago. The break down is below. Thanks Noelle! I am off to the store today to by the oils. I can't wait to see how it works.

Noelle Writes:
A very effective and gentle natural cough remedy for babies is an herbal rub. Start with 3 to 4 tablespoons of olive oil and add 2 drops of essential oils to the olive oil. Good oils to use are eucalyptus, sage, rosemary and peppermint oil. A mixture of eucalyptus and rosemary works really well at night, since the eucalyptus will calm your baby's cough and allow him to breath easier, while the rosemary helps calm him down and drift off to sleep.

Mix the olive oil and essential oils well, then apply the mixture to your baby's chest and back. If the baby is small, swaddle her in a soft blanket, otherwise keep his back and chest as covered as possible with a thicker, tight fitting shirt to build up body heat which will allow the essential oils to vaporize. As baby breathes in the fumes, breathing will get easier.

(Original Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Natural-Cough-Remedies-For-Babies&id=232004 )

Noelle Also Writes:
Natural Cough Suppressant: I have found giving a child warm pear juice (8oz) mixed with cinnamon (1 tsp) during the day works really well.

As another Cough Suppressant I also found Elderberry Syrup (sugar free) specific for Respitory Support at the health food store.

I just wish I would have had these tips with my first baby! By the time he was 7 months old we had to get his first set of tubes. Can you imagine how much medication we had given him.

Update 2-9-10
I used the vapor rub on Sophia last night and it worked wonders! I used it again tonight and she is already in bed sound asleep. Thanks again Noelle!!!