BabyShowersByMail

Preparing for Labor is Easier Than Most Women Think

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 22:20:00 +0000

For any expecting mother, the thought of labor and delivery is daunting, albeit natural and exciting. Planning for the unknown during labor and delivery is often the best way to avoid any excessive stress. Still, there are a few things mom-to-be can do in preparation for the big day that will help add some certainty into the unknown of the day and possibly help relieve some anxiety.

Register for Classes

Besides any research done on your own or advice from other mothers, registering for one or more childbirth classes is a great place to start when you're trying to gain more information about what to expect in the delivery room. A childbirth class at your hospital will be helpful in teaching you about standard procedures in the delivery room, allow you a tour of the facility and answer any other medical questions you may have. There are also many classes available for expectant mothers who would like more of a natural birth; yoga and meditation classes specifically intended for pregnant women are where you should look for natural guidance.

Pack your Bag

A hospital bag is something you should pack well in advance; in fact, packing at 37 weeks is not a bad idea considering that is the official date a baby is considered to be ‘full term.’ While the vast majority of women do not go into labor anywhere near 37 weeks, it’s possible that your baby could be born anytime between 37 and 42 weeks. Therefore it’s a good idea to have an overnight bag packed and in the car, ready to go when at a moment’s notice.

Recognize the Signs of Labor

While not all women show signs of impending labor until their contractions start, it is never a bad idea to familiarize yourself with the signs, just in case. Back labor, back aches, the urge to clean everything in sight and a feeling of being able to breathe again when your baby drops lower into your abdomen are all signs of labor. In addition, flu symptoms are also common signs that labor will start within 24 hours.

Delivery Day

When the big day has finally arrived, remember all that you have learn thus far and go into the delivery room calm and confident. The transition into motherhood is not an easy one, but one that ends in the best prize, your beautiful newborn.

"This article was written by Katie Moore. Katie is an active writer within the blogging community who discusses maternity, motherhood, prenatal health, childbirth and other topics within this niche. If you have any questions or would like to connect with Katie please contact by visiting her blog, Moore From Katie or her twitter @moorekm26."

Baby sign language

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:40:00 +0000

Baby sign language is more than just a trend—it can offer a variety of benefits to parents and babies alike. Try teaching your child a few basic signs to improve communication.

Learning the Signs

Every child is different, but most babies can begin learning sign language at about 7 to 8 months old. Teaching your baby to sign requires patience, repetition and plenty of praise. Start with basic signs, and make the process as fun as possible by incorporating sign language into favorite activities, such as singing or dancing. This is important so the child learns the meaning and how to produce the spoken word, as well as the sign.

Top Six Signs to Teach Your Baby

Since repetition is key, begin with simple signs that can be used in everyday situations. Start with these basic words:

Eat. Touch the tip of your thumb to your fingers on the same hand and tap your hand on your mouth.
More. Form both hands into O shapes and bring them together and separate them repeatedly.
All done. Put both hands up in front of you with palms facing out. Repeatedly rotate your palms inward, then outward.
Diaper. Place your hands at waist level and tap your index and middle finger to your thumbs on each hand as if you are playing castanets.
Hot. Form your hand into a claw shape over your mouth. Move the hand away from your mouth, rotating it so the sign ends with your palm facing outward.
Thank you. Flatten your hand and touch your fingertips to your chin. Bring your fingers forward as if you are blowing a kiss.

These are just a few useful signs to teach your child. As your baby masters them, continue expanding his or her vocabulary with new signs.

Reviewed by Michelle Wagner-Escobar, M.A., C.C.C.-A., audiologist, Ear, Nose and Throat Center, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent

Spring Baby Shower Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 19:22:00 +0000

A spring-themed baby shower is easy to plan. Vibrant and pastel colors can be used along with fresh flowers. Below are a few times to help you along the way.

Location

1. For a spring-themed baby shower, many choose a garden setting. Whether someone in the

family has a perfect garden location or perhaps a local park works best, this location will serve as a background to an exciting day.

2. A reception hall or church basement can also serve as the location if the above doesn’t fit the tastes of the expectant mothers.

3. A restaurant can also serve as a location, you could host a nice brunch or lunch.

Decorations

1. Stay with the pastel color theme, lots of pink, yellow, creams and whites. You can incorporate fresh/silk flowers into every aspect of the decorating.

2. Baskets of flowers would be a great addition as well to the expectant mother’s table.

3. Butterflies, silk flowers and paper lanterns all serve as additional decorations that work well for garden party/spring-theme baby showers.

4. A candy bar of the soon to be mothers favorite candy's would be perfect. Guest could take a bag home as their gift.

5. The organic Diaper cake would make the perfect center piece.

Baby Shower Games and Activities

1. A favorite baby shower game is baby shower bingo.

2. Attach baby pictures of the soon to be mom and dad when they were younger. (3 mths, 6 mths, 18 mths, 2 years, ect) to real or silk flowers and have guest guess their age. The one with the most right wins.

To stay with the spring-themed shower, prizes can include potted flowers, spring hand soaps or a floral candle.

Remember to have fun and enjoy the day with the soon to be mom!

Casting new moms/1st time pregnant

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:14:00 +0000

Calling all NEW MOM'S in Florida area.... they are casting a new show looking for the following:

1. ages 25 - 35

2. Affluent
3. Great personalities
4. First pregnancy...
5. first child 0-3 months
6. someone trying to get pregnant
7. friends group of 4 women all experiencing the same things
8. Diversity

Please email me at maghan@babyshowersbymail.com for more details.

Diaper Bag Packing 101

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:48:00 +0000

When packing your diaper bag, don’t forget to cover the following areas:

* The clean-up station - A changing pad, extra diapers, rash ointment, a scented disposable diaper bag and wipes will leave you prepared to clean up any mess.

* The first-aid kit- A collection of bandages, hand sanitizer, sunscreen and antibiotic ointment can help keep your baby safe.

* The fun zone - Not everything that interests you as an adult will amuse your baby. Stash your little one’s favorite blanket, stuffed animals, a rattle or any other toy to help quiet a fussy infant while you enjoy your own favorite activity.

* The “mini purse.” - Carrying your baby in addition to a diaper bag and a purse can become a cumbersome juggling act. To cut down extra things to carry.... find a small pocket purse and add your cellphone, a checkbook, hair care items, keys, makeup, a pen and a small notepad can all fit conveniently into the pocket of your diaper bag.

* The wardrobe change - a change of clothes kept safe in a sealable plastic bag will complete any major blow out. Don’t forget an extra pair of socks, and grab a hat on a sunny day.

* The snack pack - Because a last-minute errand may keep you and your infant away from the house longer than expected, a full bottle for non-breastfeeding babies and a burp cloth can transform any location into a meal station.

Grandparents.com

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 18:50:00 +0000

Save money and have fun doing it with this FREE offer for you and your loved ones! We have partnered with Grandparents.com to bring you a special offer. For a limited time, you can get one year of FREE membership in the Grandparents.com Benefits Club!

Pregnant This Summer? Beat the Heat!

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 18:41:00 +0000

Hot, humid and heavy with child. Pregnancy can make the summer seem hotter. But following a few simple guidelines can keep you cool.

Carol Sorgen, WebMD Feature, wrote a great article about being pregnant in the summer. Check it out at MedicineNet.com

12 Tips for Traveling While Pregnant

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 18:16:00 +0000

12 Tips for Traveling While Pregnant

Keeping Baby Safe...

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:47:00 +0000

Babies are tiny and precious, and they barely get around unless they’re in your arms. So how can someone so little get hurt?

It is surprising, but infants do suffer from injuries—commonly head injuries and crib- or stroller-related accidents. Here are some tips to keep in mind so your little one stays safe.

Don’t use your baby’s car seat somewhere other than the car. Never put the car seat in a shopping cart or set it with the child in it on a counter top, sofa or bed.
Check your infant’s crib for sharp edges and protruding screws. If the crib is near a window, ensure that any cords from a blind or shade are away from the child. As your baby grows, be sure the mattress is at the lowest setting to help prevent falls.
Use your stroller properly by making sure your baby is strapped and/or buckled in properly at all times.
Make sure you don’t set your infant in a bouncy seat on any surface other than the floor.

For equipment such as strollers, car seats and cribs, be sure to read all instructions and warnings, and routinely check for any safety recalls on those items.

Reviewed by Andrea Morgan, R.N., BSN, CPN

Planning a Baby Shower Time Line

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 18:32:00 +0000

1-2 months before event

Confirm date and location
Get guest list and address together
Plan menu
Choose caterer if needed
Decide on theme/color and any activites
Party favors
Mail invitations 4 weeks prior to event

2-3 weeks before event

Confirm the menu
Confirm guest count
Order any special desserts/cakes.
Purchase tableware (tableware includes tablecloths, utensils, plates, cups, napkins, etc.)
Purchase decorations
Prizes for games
Order flowers, if necessary

1 week before event

Determine an accurate guest count. (Make follow-up calls, if necessary)
Prepare table assignments
Double check your checklist and make sure everything is done
Order your gift at Babyshowersbymail

1 day before event

Purchase food and drinks if needed.
Call vendors to confirm order
Have cash on hand for tips
Make sure camera and/or video camera is charged
Pick up flowers and cake

Day of event

Decorate
Prepare a gift table
Set up tables and/or any seating arrangements
Relax and HAVE FUN!!!

BabyShowersbyMail wants to help out families in 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 18:48:00 +0000

BabyShowersbyMail wants to help out families in 2011 – if you know of a family that could use a little extra help this year, please send an email to maghan@babyshowersbymail.com and tell me their story. We will pick 12 families (one each month) that could use an extra gift and we will send them one case of diapers to help out the littlest family member. So if you know of someone who is struggling, trying to make ends meet or has had a financial rough year, tell me their story.

If your family is chosen, we'll contact you via e-mail to get their address for delivery.

Bundling up Baby

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 17:45:00 +0000

As you head out the door this winter, it’s important you keep your baby warm and safe.

Whether your infant is outside or in, knowing the proper way to keep your little one warm and dry is vital to his or her health.

Don’t forget a hat. Your baby’s head is a huge percentage of his or her body, so be sure to invest in a warm hat if you are headed outdoors.
Do layer up. Dressing your child in warm layers will keep him or her warm while outside. Consider dressing your infant in thermal underwear, long sleeved shirts, and gloves or mittens.
Don’t use loose blankets or pillows in the crib. Leaving your baby untended with a loose blanket, pillow or other bedding could lead to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). If you are worried about your infant being cold, dress him or her in a one-piece sleeper.

Safe Toys for a Happy Holiday

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 18:16:00 +0000

Christmas is just 10 days away, and your children are probably becoming more and more excited and curious about what gifts they’ll receive this year.

Making sure holiday toys are safe doesn’t mean you’ll need to start the purchasing process all over—it just requires a little double-checking.

Check the label. Be sure to select products labeled “nontoxic,” and check crayon boxes for the code “ASTM D4236,” which indicates they were approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
Choose age-appropriate items.
Don’t forget the helmet. If your child asked for a skateboard, scooter, bicycle or rollerblades, make sure to purchase proper safety equipment, as well.
Listen to the toys. Most toys that make noise can be activated in the packaging. Be sure the noise level doesn’t seem too loud, as it could potentially damage the delicate structures in your child’s ears.

Happy Holidays!

Year's Supply of Books

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 20:35:00 +0000

The perfect gift that keeps on giving all year long, Year's Supply of Books. We've done all the work and picked 36 of our favorite books for baby and put them in a fabulous gift that gives month after month. We'll ship out a package of books each month for the term of your gift. What a fabulous gift!

Treat your Family to the Fruit & Veggie of the Month - pears and spinach

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 20:28:00 +0000

Introducing a new vegetable or fruit at dinner or taking a classic dish and trying something new are great ways to transform a meal.

Pear Nog
This holiday season, break from the ordinary and try this new twist on a traditional festive beverage.

Ingredients
1 pear, peeled, cored and cut into chunks
1/2 cup skim milk
1/4 cup egg substitute
1 tsp brown sugar
2 ice cubes, cracked
Large pinch of cinnamon

Directions
Place all above ingredients in blender and blend on high for about 15 seconds. Drink with holiday cheer!

Spinach Pesto Pasta

Popeye knew what was up when he ate his spinach. Spinach has incredible nutritional value, is low in calories and an excellent source of vitamins A and C. When eaten with vitamin-C enriched foods, such as orange juice, tomatoes or citrus fruits, the mixture enhances the body’s ability to absorb iron and calcium also found in spinach. Try this tasty and healthy recipe.

Ingredients

8 ounces of fettuccine

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 garlic clove, minced

3 cups fresh spinach

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup low-fat, low sodium chicken broth

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 15 oz can of cannelloni (white beans), rinsed and drained

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 teaspoon black pepper

ve article in no way

Directions

Cook pasta as directed on package. Drain and place in large mixing bowl. In a blender, add olive oil, garlic, spinach, basil, parmesan cheese and chicken broth. Mix well. Pour sauce over pasta. Mix until pasta is well coated. Add beans and red bell peppers. Lightly toss and serve.

Diaper Sale!!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 21:00:00 +0000

Month diaper delivery service is on SALE for a limited time!!!! Visit us at Babyshowersbymail

Maybe you are becoming a Grandparent for the first time, or an Aunt and Uncle welcoming a beautiful new baby into the family, or just looking for a fabulous way to help out your best friend. You've looked at all the cute clothes, and colorful toys, and soft blankets but you really want to send a gift that is practical but will also show how much you care. BabyShowersByMail makes life easier one diaper at a time.

Monthly diaper delivery service is on SALE for limited time!!! What a great holiday gift!!! Check them out at BabyShowersByMail

Shutterfly Holiday Cards!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 18:23:00 +0000

20% off all holiday cards at Shutterfly Look at these cute holiday cards - get ahead start on your holiday cards! Go to Shutterfly to look at all the cute Christmas card designs. There are lots to choose from and right now they are 20% off!!!!

Sweet Potato Pancakes...

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 17:34:00 +0000

Are you looking for a great fall recipe for kids? Sweet potatoes are excellent sources of vitamins A and C and have a sweet flavor compared to yellow potatoes.

Sweet Potatoe Pancakes

6 cups peeled and finely shredded sweet potatoes

2 cups finely shredded zucchini

1 cup finely shredded onions

1/4 cup lemon juice

1 teaspoon salt-free herb seasoning

1 1/2 cups egg substitute

1 2/3 cup unbleached flour

1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

2 teaspoons canola oil

Directions

In a large bowl, mix sweet potatoes, zucchini, onions, lemon juice, herb blend, egg substitute, flour and parsley. Warm 2 teaspoons of the oil in a large, non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Drop a large spoon of the batter into the pan and spread to form a pancake. Cook for about two minutes per side until golden and crispy. Don't forget to let the kids help:)

New Trumpette Sock are in..

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 17:15:00 +0000

Trumpett Baby Bruisers - Six pair of high-top boot socks with crossbones on the top in a gift box. What a great stocking stuffer.

Trumpette Little Coco's Socks - two tones chevron patterns socks.

Trumpette Lucy Socks - be the first to own these adorable new style from Trumpette. Six pair of big bow jewel tones colored socks in a gift box!

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 20:03:00 +0000

Congratulations to Tiffany (pipsqueak_boutique)- she is the winner of 3 months diaper delivery paid in Full!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Sun, 03 Oct 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Congratulations to Shala Clark she won the Pro Baby Sterilizer!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 23:20:00 +0000

Congratulations to Jessica she is the winner of the Sport Baby Leopard print carrier!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Sat, 18 Sep 2010 01:00:00 +0000

Congratulations to Heather Harper she is the winner of the Handmade Baby Quilt! Check in Monday for the next weekly giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 16:52:00 +0000

Congratulations to Colleen Smith Newman she is the winner of the year's subscription to the Wild Animal Baby!

Becoming a big brother or sister...

noreply@blogger.com (Maghan) — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:05:00 +0000

Becoming a big brother or sister is a big change in a toddler’s little life. Helping your toddler become excited and accepting of the position can ease the transition for everyone.

The arrival of another child can bring new joy for you and your toddler, but it can also add a whole new set of challenges. Your toddler may feel anger or jealousy when the new baby arrives.
Here are a few steps you can take to help your toddler with the arrival of the new little baby!

*Create an assistant. Before your toddler gets a chance to become jealous of the new baby brother or sister, put him or her to work. Your toddler will feel important and needed when fetching diapers or bottles, helping feed the baby and holding a book for you to read. Not only will this give you a break, but it also allows your toddler to feel more connected and involved with the new baby and will improve the relationship between your children.

*Keep it the same. Avoid changing the routine of daily life at home when your newest little one comes along. By canceling family night or other regular outings, your toddler may learn to dislike the baby, since he or she seems to be ruining all the fun.

*Let your toddler be “big.” You can help improve your toddler’s frame of mind by encouraging him or her to grasp the new role as big brother or sister. Your toddler can take pride in the fact that he or she is potty-trained, can feed him or herself and can do other things that set him or her apart from the new baby.

*Prepare your toddler. Explain to your child before the baby is born what changes to expect—good and bad. Encourage your toddler to ask questions about the baby and make sure that he or she understands how life will change in the coming months. If possible, let your toddler tour the hospital where you will be giving birth and assure him or her that everything will be fine.