Every Child is a Blessing

20 Interesting Questions to Ask Your Kids to Get to Know them Better

2019-02-24T07:44:00.001-08:00

Asking your kids thoughtful questions such as the ones below can help inspire new conversations! They can also increase your bond with your kids, help you better understand them, and give you something family-oriented to do during the day. I always try to ask my son something new when I pick him up from school. Oftentimes parents just ask the same old questions like "how were you in school today?" Or "what did you learn?" So mix things up with the questions below!

1. What five words do you think best describe you?

2. What are the five best things about being you?

3. What is something that makes your family special?

4. What do you love doing?

5. What makes you feel happy?

6. What makes you feel sad?

7. What makes you feel angry?

8. What do you want to be when you grow up?

9. What do you know enough about that you could teach others?

10. What is the best thing that has happened to you?

11. What did you learn from the best thing that has happened to you?

12. What is the worst thing that has happened to you?

13. What did you learn from the worst thing that has happened to you?

14. If you had three wishes what would they be?

15. If you could be invisible for a day what would you do?

16. Out of all the things you have learnt as a kid what do you think will be most useful to you as an adult?

17. If you could travel back in time what would you do?

18. What are you most grateful for?

19. What scares you?

20. What could you do when you are feeling scared to make yourself feel less afraid?

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New Parenthood, Body Positivity, and The Body Love Box

2019-01-25T09:31:00.001-08:00

*Note from the blogger, Chasity Boatman: So often I receive messages from new mothers in particular about how they hate their postpartum body. When will the extra fat go away? What can they wear? Where can they turn? And my answer is always the same: your body did something magical, beautiful, and miraculous. Embrace the body of motherhood and take steps to love yourself. You’re deserving of love just the way you are. You are worthy. But modern ideas of body image are toxic, and the concept is difficult for many. So I reached out to friend, photographer, and subscription box owner, Lindley Ashline, to interview her about her journey with body image, her thoughts on how new parents can embrace their new bodies, and information about her subscription box service that I thought would help my readers in their journey to body acceptance.*

Lindley Ashline remembers trying to find a size 18 prom dress in her little hometown formalwear store in the 90s vividly: nothing came in her size, everything that came remotely close was ugly, and she thought it was all her fault.

“I remember the older woman who ran the store talking about the need for me to lose weight as she tried to zip me into a size-eight sample by main force, and looking up at the ceiling so the tears wouldn't come in public,” Ashline said. “I want to give that young woman a huge hug, take her out for ice cream (pistachio), and tell her: Darling, your body is perfect the way it is. You are worthy of good things. You are worthy of a life you love. You are worthy of healthcare. Demand better.”

In a few years, she discovered the Fatshinonista community on Livejournal.com, which his now defunct. The community was full of posts from people with big bodies that weren’t hiding in all black. Instead, they wore colors, stripes, tight clothing, and bikinis. This opened up a new world for Ashline who said these women were, “beautiful, stylish, elegant, sexy, cute, well put together-all those things I thought I’d never be.”

“I started experimenting with my own outfits, adding a bright color here, a tighter fit there. I bought my very own freaking fatkini (which is any bikini you want to put on your fat body) and wore it in Hawaii,” Ashline recalled. “I took dozens and dozens of OOTD selfies, ran a couple of intermittent fatshion blogs, and got used to seeing myself in photos in the bargain. Now those conversations are taking place in a dozen Facebook groups and hundreds of individual Instagram accounts. If you'd like to start experimenting with your own style, I recommend the Mermaid Fatshion Facebook group as a good place to start.”

As an adult, Ashline become a professional portrait and boudoir photographer who specializes in working with people of all sizes, ethnicities and genders, not just the ones whose bodies are likely to be seen in magazines and advertisements. She also runs the Body Love Box, a fantastic resource for people who live in large bodies or anyone who wants to improve their body image.

“The first boxes went out in early January, and people sent me messages saying they cried as they opened it. Every week, someone sends me an email in all caps about how the artwork and resources in the box changed how they saw themselves and the world around them,” Ashline said. “If every person who gets a box finds at least a little body boost, or joy, or balance, then I am one fat happy camper. Having an entire product with a bunch of surprise items that feel safe for our bodies and our minds, that not only reflect us but celebrate us? It's absolute magic.”

The Body Love Box is now a monthly subscription box that gets mailed to your home and includes things like body-positive stickers and pins as well as deeper resources on body acceptance, health at every size and intuitive eating.

“Every product that goes into the Body Love Box either is about fat bodies and/or is made by a fat or marginalized creator, “ she commented. “When I say marginalized, I'm talking about communities that experience high overall rates of oppression, like the fat, POC, and LGBTQIAP+ communities. It's important to me to seek out those creators and fund their work because these are the people that tend to be the most challenged in getting their work created and into the world and making a living wage from that work."

Last summer, Ashline was noodling around with creating her own Patreon to help people who aren't local to support her photography work. She’d been giving out little bags of body-positive swag -- pencils, little art prints, stickers, keychains -- to her photography clients for years. Through her work with Representation Matters, she also knew a lot of fat-positive and body-acceptance artists.

“As I was planning Patreon rewards I thought, hmm, I could use those swag kits as one of my Patreon tier rewards,” Ashline remarked. “The more I thought about the artwork aspect, the more the Patreon itself sort of fell by the wayside. Then I discovered that no one else was doing a body-positive subscription box, and the idea just formed itself and took off. Four months after I had the initial idea, I opened up the website for pre-orders.”

According to Ashline, each month's box has a different set of products, so finding and negotiating with artists, ordering products, packing boxes, and occasionally making something for the boxes myself (from prints of her fine art photography to bath salts) keeps her on her toes.

“It's joyful work, though, and so needed,” Ashline replied. “If you think about it, most famous jewelry designers are thin. Famous writers? Mostly thin. Famous painters? Mostly thin. Famous photographers? Mostly thin. Famous fashion designers? Mostly thin. It's only fair for some of us to turn that around and give the advantage to the people who face the most prejudice in the wider world.”

When asked how a new parent could take steps to becoming more fat-positive and body-positive, Ashline said that there are so many ways one can gradually become more attuned to the worth of their own body and other’s bodies.

“It’s absolutely worth doing; passing healthy body image on to your child is a gift,” she said. “One way you can pursue this is to learn about two concepts: health at every size (or HAES) and intuitive eating. Health at every size means that people in any kind of body can pursue health, for whatever values of health make sense to them. Intuitive eating means trusting your body about what it wants to eat and when.”

While this concept may be new to many who were brought up to believe differently about bodies and weight, Ashline recommends reading the book Body Respect, which is the updated, more accessible version of the original Health at Every Size book by Linda Bacon.

“Another way you can become more body positive is to diversity your media diet,” Ashline remarked. “Are the TV shows, magazines and Instagram accounts you take in all devoted to only showing thin bodies? Seeing a range of sizes and differently-abled bodies consistently is one of the best ways to find the value in your own body. Here is a great list of body- and fat-positive links to get you started.”

The list includes: Raising HAES – Body Kindness for families with Kristy Fassio, Raising Intuitive Eaters, How to Make Kids Comfortable in Their Own Bodies (caveat: this piece has some mom-blaming that I'm not happy about, but it has good points in between),My daughter has suddenly gained weight. What am I doing wrong?, For every 12 incidents of type 2 diabetes in kids, there are 2,900 childhood eating disorders., And just like that, this 6-year-old knows that calling me fat is mean., An Alternative to a Proposed Guideline Suggesting Weight Loss for Kids, Body image concerns and associated behaviours are closely related when it comes to mothers and daughters., Protect Your Children, Watch Your Mouth: How Parents Can (and Must) Foster Positive Body Image, 9 Common Mistakes Parents Make About Their Kid’s Weight, Body Positive Tips for Parents, The Confidence Gap for Girls: 5 Tips for Parents of Tween and Teen Girls, and Self-Care Tips for Parents of Young Kids.

Above all, think about this: How do I want my child to feel about their body?” Ashline questioned. “Since we know from science that shaming doesn't do anything but make kids feel ashamed, what positive messages can I consistently give them? How can I release my own pain and shame around my body and break the cycle? I can't shield them entirely from the world's messaging about bodies, but what messages can I deliberately send about my own body, their body, and other people's bodies that tell them that all bodies have worth and value just as they are?”

For those learning to embrace their new bodies, it also means coming to terms with the reality that those with larger bodies face a different reality. This can include difficulties in finding clothes, issues with transportation seating, and problems with restaurant seating.

“Being forced to buy most of my clothing online means that I pay more in taxes and WAY more in return shipping than folks who can shop in person,” Ashline admitted. “One year I spent several hundred dollars in taxes alone trying to find a pair of boots to fit my very wide calves. When I leave the house, the reminders that my body isn't acceptable are everywhere, from subtle to blatant. People act as if I'm either invisible or I'm taking up half a room, either refusing to make room for me on the sidewalk or giving me the widest of berths.”

For more information on The Body Love Box, go to http://www.thebodylovebox.com, and use the code POSITIVEPARENT for 15% off your first order! You can also send a box or subscription as a gift to anyone in your life who could use a body boost.

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Buc-ee Beaver Birthday

2019-01-08T19:07:00.000-08:00

When one of my Facebook friend's put together a Buc-ee Beaver birthday party, I knew that I had to feature it on my blog. Buc-ee's isn't just a gas station in Texas. It's a road trip destination. From the cleanest bathrooms in America, to a wide array of snacks and prepared foods, and hundreds of gas pumps, Buc-ee's has it all. What better way to honor the store that epitomizes the Lone Star State than to make it a birthday party theme?
According to Jenny, "when asking Ellie what kind of birthday she wanted and offering a few suggestions, she told me what she wanted. Ellie wanted a Buc-ee Beaver birthday. So that's what we made happen." Jenny had Ellie's smock custom made, so it's not available for purchase at Buc-ee's.

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10 Unforgettable Kid Birthday Traditions

2018-12-27T09:54:00.000-08:00

Are you stressed out about your child’s upcoming birthday party? Especially in the age of the Internet where it seems that every mother is planning the perfect Pinterest party? Well there are some traditions that your children will love with many of them costing very little, but meaning a lot! As parents, I think sometimes we get caught up in our own expectations and wants. But kids really are simple! They just want their friends, cake, and to feel loved!

1.    Balloon Doorway Avalanche

Start your child’s birthday off with some excitement! Cover the door from edge to edge with clear plastic and put balloons between the closed door and the plastic. When you child opens the door, all the balloons will fall into their bedroom and give the a big surprise!

2.    Crepe Paper Doorway

If a balloon avalanche might be too much of a shock to your child or they would need to get out of their room in the middle of the night to use the restroom, you might want to go a different route. Instead, hang crepe paper streamers in long strings next to one another from the top of the door ledge. When they get up in the morning, they can walk right through the doorway streamers. This is a tradition my family has been doing for years!

3.    Balloons in the Bedroom

Every year my husband and I sneak into our little one’s room and cover the floor with the balloons. They love it! Want something even more unique? Spread the joy in unexpected places like filling the bathtub, their closet or your car with balloons.

4.    Put a Gift Under The Pillow

Place a small gift, special treat or little note under their pillow for them to see and enjoy first thing in the morning. A simple note that says “I Love You” will mean a lot to your child! It will be something they probably keep for a long time!

5.    Let your child pick the menu

Let them choose what breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be on their big day! Add candles to fun foods like pancakes and muffins to make breakfast extra special!

6.    Leave a lunch note

If your child will attend school on their birthday, pack a special snack in their lunchbox along with a handwritten note. You can also add a little confetti, a small balloon, sweet treat or something that screams Birthday to their lunchbox.

7.    Write them a letter every year

Since my children’s first birthday, I’ve written them each a letter each year. I hope it’s something that they cherish when they’re older. I include what their interests were, big milestones, and some of my favorite moments from the year.

8.     Read them their birth story

Many of us have written down our child’s birth story in a baby book, blog, or on paper. Many children are curious about the day they came into the world and who all was there. Bring out their baby book and tell them about the day they changed your life forever!

9.     Put pictures in the shape of their age

We make a picture collage in the shape of their age on our wall by the table. That way when they’re enjoying their special breakfast they can enjoy some wall décor.

10. Do a birthday interview

This is something that I will cherish forever as a parent: birthday interviews! Ask them some of the following questions: 1. What do you and mommy do together? 2. What makes you happy? 3. What is something scary? 4. What do you want to be when you grow up? 5. What do you and Daddy do together? 6. What do you think about before you go to sleep? 7. What was your favorite part of your birthday?

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Review: PookieWear

2018-11-06T19:31:00.000-08:00

Chloe Parker is the owner and designer of Pookie Wear. According to her Etsy shop "About" section, she began her business after making her son booties that were easy to put on and cute. She then had a girl, so she began making more items, and before she knew it she had a business on her hands! She said she was the happiest person in the world because she gets to raise her kids, and help provide for her family. According to Chloe, she is blessed to receive support from family, friends, and her customers.

Pookie Wear item categories include rompers, accessories, and rush orders. Pookie Wear has more than 2,600 sales, and more than 2,600 admirers.

Chloe was kind enough to send me this beautiful witch costume! We literally received positive comments every place that we took her trick-or-treating. The romper was easy to put on her, and I paired it with a long sleeve top and long pants because it was chilly outside. She was enamored with the skirt due to its sheen and shine! The quality of the outfit was top-notch. We took Catherine to multiple events over three days, and her outfit never once tore or tattered. That's impressive for a mischievous 16-month-old baby who runs and gets into everything. Chloe is a visionary; I highly recommend checking out her beautiful creations on Etsy. Not only are her designs beautiful and well-put together, but she goes above and beyond for her customers.

Pookie Wear is a 5-star shop with more than 650 reviews! Some reviews state:

"Great service. I told her exactly what i wanted from the colors and when I needed them by. I received it right on time and it's how I pictured it would be. I'm so in love with my purchase and I will continue to order some more. She was friendly and understandable after me being so picky. Thank you so much. My baby doll looked beautiful for her first birthday photoshoot and for her party."

"Perfect dress! It looks just like the picture. I can't wait to put it on my daughter for her picture. The seller communicated very fast and professional. Thank you."

"This outfit fit my baby perfectly and looked super cute on! Like a little fairy princess. The seller responded quickly and even sent me more pictures to satisfy my questions about the color in person. I would definitely order from her again!"

To check out Pookie Wear, go to https://www.etsy.com/shop/PookieWear.

5 Tips for Celebrating Halloween with Food Allergies

2018-10-24T06:54:00.001-07:00

Benjamin was hospitalized at one-and-a-half after consuming a few cashews and going into anaphylactic shock. So to provide a safe and fun trick-or-treating experience for other children with allergies, my business has hosted a Teal Pumpkin Trick-or-Treat for the last three years. We provide allergen-free candies and toys so children with allergies have a fun and safe environment to enjoy the holiday.

Before Benjamin was diagnosed with tree nut allergies, I thought that peanuts were included under that umbrella. However, peanuts are legumes. Tree nuts include walnut, almond, hazelnut, cashew, pistachio, and Brazil nuts. Tree nuts are one of the eight major allergens that must be listed on packaged foods sold in the U.S., as required by federal law. It's important that we read food labels, and ask questions about ingredients before eating food that we haven't prepared. Tree nuts can be found in surprising places like cereals, crackers, cookies, candy, chocolates, energy bars, flavored coffee, frozen desserts, marinade, barbecue sauces, and some cold cuts, like mortadella.

Once Benjamin was diagnosed with tree nut allergies, Halloween became a more complicated holiday for our family. I had to check every individual candy that he received, and trust that a young child would not just eat a potentially allergen-filled candy on his own. I had to communicate his allergies with anyone who wanted to take him to a church trunk-or-treat or school celebration. Eventually, I put on my town's first and only allergen-free Halloween event, but not every family has that option. So below are my 5 Tips for Celebrating Halloween with Food Allergies:

1. Set Expectations
Before you leave the house to enjoy any Halloween festivities, make sure to set expectations. Let your child know that you need to check every candy that they are given. Let them know that if they can, verbalize their allergies to those handing out candy.

2. Bring Safe Candy
I pack a small bag of "safe" candy for Benjamin so he can munch on some while enjoying Halloween trick-or-treating. I also have backup candy in case too much of the candy that he's given he's allergic to.

3. Treat Neighbors
A great way to help your neighbors is to pass out some "safe" candy before you take your child trick-or-treating. That way your child can participate in the festivities, and your neighbors don't have to go through any extra trouble.

4. Bring an EpiPen
Make sure to bring your EpiPen with you in case your child eats something they weren't supposed to! The last thing you want to do is have a hospital emergency on Halloween night.

5. Spot Teal Pumpkins
The Teal Pumpkin Campaign encourages awareness of food allergies by providing non-food treats for trick or treaters. You'll spot homes with teal colored pumpkins on the porch.

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3 Easy Science Experiments For Kids

2018-09-19T19:52:00.002-07:00

Every weekend I dedicate a day to doing a science project with Benjamin. Since he was two, he's shown a strong interest in science. His current obsessions are entomology, paleontology, geology, and astronomy. He's torn between wanting to be a civic or aerospace engineer, but has declared that he's determined to be the "greatest engineer in the world!" Below are 3 Easy Science Experiments for Kids!

Secret Message Experiment:

Supplies:

* Half a lemon

* Water

* Spoon

* Bowl

* Cotton bud

* White paper

* Lamp or other light bulb

Instructions:

1. Squeeze some lemon juice into the bowl and add a few drops of water.

2. Mix the water and lemon juice with the spoon.

3. Dip the cotton bud into the mixture and write a message onto the white paper.

4. Wait for the juice to dry so it becomes completely invisible.

5. When you are ready to read your secret message or show it to someone else, heat the paper by holding it close to a light bulb.

Tornado in a Bottle Experiment:

Supplies:

* Water

* A clear plastic bottle with a cap (that won't leak)

* Glitter

* Dish washing liquid

Instructions:

1. Fill the plastic bottle with water until it reaches around three quarters full.

2. Add a few drops of dish washing liquid.

3. Sprinkle in a few pinches of glitter (this will make your tornado easier to see).

4. Put the cap on tightly.

5. Turn the bottle upside down and hold it by the neck. Quickly spin the bottle in a circular motion for a few seconds, stop and look inside to see if you can see a mini tornado forming in the water. You might need to try it a few times before you get it working properly.

Slime Recipe:

Supplies:

-2 (4-ounce) bottles washable school glue, such as Elmer's (see note for variations)

-1 to 2 drops liquid food coloring (optional)

-1/4 cup glitter (optional)

-1 teaspoon baking soda

-2 to 3 tablespoons saline solution (i.e., contact lens solution), divided

Instructions:

1. Color the glue (optional): Pour the glue into a medium bowl. Stir in the food coloring and glitter, if desired. This mixture doesn't need to be homogeneous, as you'll mix it even more after adding the baking soda.

2. Add the baking soda: Add the baking soda to the glue mixture and stir until smooth.

3. Add the contact lens solution: Pour in 2 tablespoons of the contact lens solution and stir slowly. The mixture should begin to harden, becoming stringy.

4. Mix until a ball forms: Continue mixing slowly until a ball of slime forms.

5. Knead by hand: Pick up the slime and work between your two hands, until smooth. If the slime is particularly slimy, work in another 1/2 tablespoon of contact lens solution as needed.

Some Slime Tips:

* Purchase travel-sized contact solution if you're just making one batch of slime.

* You can purchase most of your items at your local Dollar General or Dollar Store.

* Fold small figures into the slime and have your kids find them for fun! You could also add pom poms for added textures.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom First Day of School Celebration!

2018-09-03T21:20:00.000-07:00

My son is going to Kindergarten! I have so many feelings about him hitting this huge milestone-worry, pride, and excitement. To get Benjamin excited about his first day of school, I decided to put together a "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" mini celebration! I called it, "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Welcome to the First Day of School" party. My husband and son enjoy the rhyming and the colorful illustrations of "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom," so I chose that book as the inspiration for the celebration.

For decor for the celebration, I went to Hobby Lobby and picked out a palm tree as the centerpiece. They've had their summer items on clearance, so it was inexpensive. Then, I went to the Dollar Tree and picked up cut out letters, a table cloth, and poster board. I put it together in 30 minutes and all the decor only cost me $10. Additionally, I hung up a gold streamer background that I had leftover from a birthday party.

Benjamin had such a wonderful time munching on cookies, and reading one of his favorite books. He appreciated the creativity that I put into placing the letters under the tree. To take the celebration one step further, I surprised him with extra supplies so we could create something together for the back of his door. Several of my teacher Facebook friends have posted their decorated doors, and I thought it would be fun to do one in our home!

I cut up a table cloth from the Dollar Store to make the trunk of the tree. Then I cut palm leaf shapes out of poster board from the Dollar Store for the leaves. Benjamin taped the letters that were falling from the tree. He used the book as reference so try to make it as true to the book as possible.

After we created his "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" door decor, we did a craft based on the book! We used paint that we have from his art cabinet. He stuck his hands in green paint and placed his hands on the top of the cut piece of poster board (from Dollar Store). Then I wiped off his hands with baby wipes. Next, he placed his fingers in brown paint to finger paint the trunk and the coconuts. Lastly, he took markers to write the alphabet letters on the poster board.

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Restaurant Kits for Kids

2018-08-12T11:36:00.000-07:00

I think it's important to take children out in public spaces as much as possible whether it's the grocery store, museums, or restaurants. We take our children out to restaurants often. I believe that restaurants can be used as tools to teach children good manners, self-discipline, and respect for others.
However, if you're nervous about bringing your child out to a restaurant with you, a homemade "restaurant kit" can help ease your anxieties! Restaurant kids depend on the age of your child, but I'll have a few suggestions for three different age groups. Try to switch items up often to keep your children interested in them. The Dollar Store is a great place to find small, inexpensive items.

What to put the Restaurant Kit Items in?
A makeup bag, diaper bag, or purse.

Restaurant Kit Items for Baby:
Baby spoons, food pouches, bibs, wet wipes, small books, and small toys.

Restaurant Kit Items for Toddlers:
Crayons, small coloring book, stickers, plastic eggs filled with small items, peanut butter crackers, fruit snacks, small plastic animals, food utensils, notepad, and bib.

Restaurant Kit for Young Children:
Pipe cleaners, Legos, magnetic blocks, card games, mini puzzles, and flash cards.

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Month by Month Guide to Introducing Baby Foods

2018-07-25T22:14:00.002-07:00

THERE'S NO ONE RIGHT WAY TO DO THIS. Okay, now that I've screamed that at the beginning of this post, I'll continue. As you begin your food journey with your baby keep in mind that each baby is different. No one plan works for every baby or every family. Every baby is interested in different foods and ready to start solids at different times. If you have serious questions, don't hesitate to consult your child's pediatrician.
Introducing foods with both of my babies was extremely different. Benjamin was solely breastfed until he was 15 months, and then reluctantly began accepting solids. He wasn't excited about trying new tastes and textures, and stuck with the same foods for several years: shredded chicken breasts, broccoli, spaghetti, apples, and bananas. He's five now, and he's still not a very adventurous eater.
Meanwhile, we tried to start solids with our daughter at six months. She too showed very little interest; she just wanted boobs. We tried every few days until she hit a year, and then she loved solids! She began begging at the table for anything that we had. Her favorite foods are hummus, red beans and rice, and shredded chicken. She's willing to try everything at least once.
So now I'm sharing what's been recommended by our pediatrician. Please note that foods are grouped by age relative to ease of digestibility, taste, texture, and possible allergy risks for baby's stage.

4-6 Months
Before 4-6 months, breast milk or formula is providing your little one with all of the nutrients that they need. You may read conflicting information on this. The American Academy of Pediatrics section on breastfeeding recommends that babies be exclusively breastfed for the first six months. However, this is not ideal or possible for every family. The AAP's nutrition section and guidelines for pediatricians recommends starting solids at 4 to 6 months.
So what are the signs that your baby is ready? You baby needs to be able to keep their head in a steady, upright position. They need to be able to sit upright in an infant feeding seat to swallow well. They need to be able to move food to the back of their mouth and swallow it instead of using their tongue to push food out of their mouth. Lastly, they need to have doubled their birth weight.
What allergy precautions should you take? You should talk to your child's pediatrician if there is a family history of allergies, especially if your baby has a sibling with a peanut allergy, they have eczema, or their blood test was positive for an allergy to a specific food. Our son went into anaphylactic shock when he was almost two from tree nuts. Needless to say, we still haven't introduced our daughter to tree nuts.
Fruits: Apple, Avocado, Banana, and Pear.
Vegetables: Green Beans, Sweet Potato, and Butternut Squash.
Grains: Barley, Oatmeal, and Rice.

6-8 Months
At this age, you can increase the number of solid food meals from once a day to twice a day. As you increase the number of solid foods, watch for signs of constipation. Some signs of constipation are less frequent bowel movements, and if their stools have become hard or dry. Your doctor may recommend high-fiber fruits like pears, prunes, and peaches.
Fruits: Apricot, Mango, Nectarine, Peach, Plums, Prunes, and Pumpkin.
Vegetables: Carrots, Parsnips, Peas, and Zucchini Squash.
Meat: Chicken, Tofu, and Turkey.

8-10 Months:
As you continue to expand your babies' diet, keep in mind some of these feeding tips. You can offer sweets or savories in any order. Babies are born with a preference for sweets, so if doesn't matter if you feed them savory or sweet foods first, they'll naturally prefer the sweets. Don't leave any food off the menu simply because you don't like it. Have your baby try everything!
Fruits: Blueberry, Melon, Cherries, Citrus, Coconut, Cranberries, Fig, Grapes, Kiwi, Papaya, and Persimmons.
Vegetables: Asparagus, Broccoli, Beets, Cauliflower, Cucumber, Eggplant, Leeks, Onions, Peppers, and Turnips.
Meat: Beef, Eggs, and Pork.
Dairy: Cheese, Cottage Cheese, Cream Cheese, and Yogurt.

10-12 Months:
What an exciting time period for you and your baby! They are almost one, can you believe it? That means that they're almost ready for the biggest transition of all: breast milk or formula to cow's milk.
Fruits: Citrus, and Strawberries.
Vegetables: Beans, Corn, Spinach, and Tomatoes.
Meat: Fish
Dairy: Cow's Milk

Have you followed my blog's Facebook page yet? It's: https://www.facebook.com/EveryChildIsABlessingTheJourneyThroughMyPregnancy.
Instagram: http://instagram.com/chasityboatman
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If you appreciate my writing and have enjoyed your time on my page, please consider supporting my work by donating at https://www.youcaring.com/chasityboatman-760715. To support the blog financially, receive EXCLUSIVE content, and participate in monthly online chats by becoming a patreon at https://www.patreon.com/everychildisablessing! Your donations support my continued work with women who have suffered from miscarriages, infertility, stillbirths, and maternal mental health issues. Thank you.

Tips for Stylizing a Small Nursery

2018-06-30T17:19:00.001-07:00

Your little bundle of joy is almost here but you don't have a lot of room! Don't worry. I'm here to help. With a little creativity, you can make it work. At the time our son was born we had a one-bedroom, 500 square foot apartment. So we ended up creating a one-walled nursery. That way we were able to still have fun wall decor for him, a crib, a changing table, and some storage without renting a larger place!

1. Corner Nursery
If you don't have space for a baby room, make a nursery corner! You can use a fun wallpaper or wall decals to define the "nursery" area. All you need is a crib and some storage!

2. Closet Nursery
I know this sounds like something out of the Harry Potter series, but I promise that's not the case. Remove the doors from your closet, and you have a functional space! Place a mini crib, set of drawers, storage baskets, and a few items of decor and you're set!

3. One-Walled Nursery
Share your room with your baby and just have a dedicated one-walled nursery! This will give you the opportunity to still add wall decor, a crib, a changing table, and storage without using an entire room. This is the route we personally went!

4. Hanging Bassinet
By using a hanging bassinet, you free up the space underneath it! It's perfect for a storage trunk to place clothing, or other necessities underneath.

5. Use Mirrored Closets
This creates an illusion of a larger space by reflecting the natural light that passes through the glass panels!

6. Shared Kid's Space
Do you have several children? A lofted big-kid bed is a way to save on space! The older sibling can sleep on the top bunk, and the crib can go underneath it!

7. Choose Light Colors
Light colors help make a room feel larger as dark hues absorb light! If you paint the ceiling the same color as the walls it creates a vaulted effect.

8. Less Is More
Don't overfill a small space because it will only make it appear smaller! The fewer furnishing you have the better! For our second child, we only used a crib. We changed her on the floor and kept her clothing in our closet.

9. Convert A Dresser Into A Changing Table
Multi-purposing items is a great way to avoid clutter! Place a changing table on top of low dressers. That also provides extra storage underneath!

10. Place Shelving At Kid Height
This allows your little ones to grab toys and books by themselves! It also allows you to put more shelving up a wall, which ultimately saves space.

10 Unique First Birthday Ideas

2018-06-13T04:42:00.001-07:00

I can't believe that our precious baby girl is about to be one! She's sweet, feisty, joyful, and curious. She loves chasing after her cat, playing with her brother, mimicking others, kisses, and waving. After her birth, our family finally felt complete. I've been planning her first birthday party since before she was born. I love party planning! Below are Unique First Birthday Ideas!

1. Place a duct tape "1" over a canvas. Allow your baby to paint all over the canvas with their hands! Once the paint is dry, remove the tape and you have a piece of art to display.

2. Create a photo "1" to display on a wall!

3. Use a cookie cutter to create a "1" shape with Rice Krispies treats! Then dip them in icing!

4. Encourage guests to write a message to your little one in a book keepsake!

5. Have your little one be the center of the party in a personalized dress or onesie!

6. Have a "baby bar" with some yummy bits for babies!

7. Create a time by encouraging guests to write a message to your little one!

8. What a great way to display a year of firsts! Print off your photos and glue them to poster board. Then write down the firsts with Sharpie!

9. I'm a HUGE fan of birthday chalkboards. In fact, neither of my kids has a birthday party without them. You can create your own or order one off Etsy.

10. Make your smash cake area the center of attention by placing balloons on the wall behind their high chair!

Have you followed my blog's Facebook page yet? It's: https://www.facebook.com/EveryChildIsABlessingTheJourneyThroughMyPregnancy.

Instagram: http://instagram.com/chasityboatman
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If you appreciate my writing and have enjoyed your time on my page, please consider supporting my work by donating at https://www.youcaring.com/chasityboatman-760715. To support the blog financially, receive EXCLUSIVE content, and participate in monthly online chats by becoming a patreon at https://www.patreon.com/everychildisablessing! Your donations support my continued work with women who have suffered from miscarriages, infertility, stillbirths, and maternal mental health issues. Thank you.

Breastfeeding 101

2018-05-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

The first milk, called colostrum, is a thick, syrupy yellow-gold liquid that is nutrient dense and perfect for the first few days of life. Newborns are equipped with many reflexes that help them lactate the breast (breast crawling), latch on (rooting), and breastfeed (suckling). Newborns nurse frequently, usually at least 12 times per day; sessions may last just a few minutes, or sessions may occur one after another over the course of several hours (cluster feeding). Newborns thrive on skin-to-skin contact and resist separation; it is normal for a newborn to only be content when held closely on your chest or in your arms.

So how much breast milk does your baby need?
* In the first 1 to 2 days, your baby's stomach size is that of a cherry. You'll be looking for 1-2 wet diapers and the passing of greenish/black meconium.
* In the first 2-6 days, your baby's stomach size is that of a walnut. You'll be looking for 5-6 wet diapers and the passing of 3 dirty greenish diapers.
* In the first 6+ days, your baby's stomach size is that of an apricot. You'll be looking for 6 wet diapers and 3 dirty diapers.
* In the first 6+ weeks, your baby's stomach size is that of an egg. You'll be looking for at least 6 wet diapers and that dirty diapers may be less frequently.

Try To...
* Keep your baby close to you, preferably skin-to-skin, unswaddled. Try a wrap or a sling during the day, and keep the baby in the same room as you at night.
* Nurse on-demand when your baby seems hungry, even if you feel like you just finished nursing.
* Take care of yourself as well as you take care of your baby. Ask a partner to help you make sure you have time to eat, rest, or do other acts of loving self-care.
* Find and trust your inner mothering instinct, if something feels wrong, contact a local La Leche League Leader or IBCLC for support and help.

Try Not To...
* Try not to panic. Most challenges can be overcome with some loving support and guidance.
* Try not to introduce items, like pumps, bottles, and pacifiers, that would interfere with the normal course of nursing, unless directed to by a health professional.
* Try not to schedule feeding according to a clock. Healthy babies will usually eat at least every two hours, but variations are okay as long as your baby has enough wet and dirty diapers, and reasonable weight progression.

Have you followed my blog's Facebook page yet? It's: https://www.facebook.com/EveryChildIsABlessingTheJourneyThroughMyPregnancy.
Instagram: http://instagram.com/chasityboatman
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If you appreciate my writing and have enjoyed your time on my page, please consider supporting my work by donating at https://www.youcaring.com/chasityboatman-760715. To support the blog financially, receive EXCLUSIVE content, and participate in monthly online chats by becoming a patreon at https://www.patreon.com/everychildisablessing! Your donations support my continued work with women who have suffered from miscarriages, infertility, stillbirths, and maternal mental health issues. Thank you.

Postpartum Depression Symptoms

2018-04-09T21:09:00.000-07:00

I want to begin this by stating that women can experience postpartum depression both after the live birth of a child, as well as after a miscarriage or stillbirth of a child. My personal story begins with dealing with postpartum depression after the birth of my child. I didn't realize that I had postpartum depression until I was suicidal. So many people have asked me, "how did you let it get to that point?" "How did you not know?" It's difficult to analyze what's going on in your own head when you're experiencing a mental illness. So I depended on those around me to let me know that I had something wrong with me. The biggest problem was that I was so talented at masking my emotions that most people around me didn't have any idea what I was struggling with. But that's just my story and my journey. Postpartum depression is not the same for everyone. People's symptoms vary, and those symptoms vary in severity.

You may be reading this and wondering if you're experiencing postpartum depression? If you've had the below symptoms for two weeks or longer within the last 12 months of having a baby, you may have postpartum depression. You also may have postpartum depression if you've experienced the below symptoms for two weeks or longer within the last 12 months of having a miscarriage or still birth. However, you don't have to experience all of the following symptoms to be diagnosed. Seek a diagnosis from a medical professional. You can schedule an appointment with your OBGYN, general practitioner, or a mental health professional.

1. Eating Extremes
You may be unable to eat, or you're binge eating.
2. Feeling overwhelmed
You may feel that you're not fit to be a mother, or that you are falling apart from the pressure of motherhood.
3. Feeling angry
You may struggle with resentment and anger toward your baby and/or partner.
4. Feeling guilty
You may feel as though you've failed your baby. You may feel as though your baby deserves a "better" mother. You may feel as though you failed your baby. You may feel as though your baby would be better without you or with a different mother.
5. Bonding Issues
You may feel empty when you hold your baby. You may dread taking care of them and being around them. You may feel stuck with them. You don't feel excited and blissful when you spend time with them.
6. Feeling numb
You may just be going through the motions and surviving day to day.
7. Feeling disconnected
You don't feel close to anyone around you.
8. Feeling "crazy."
You know that you don't feel like yourself. You may be confused or scared.
9. Feeling afraid
You may feel afraid of your situation. What if you lost yourself? What if things don't get better? What if you weren't meant to be a mom? What if you hurt your baby? What if you hurt yourself?
10. Feeling shamed
You may feel shamed of your mental state. You may worry that if you express yourself that people will judge you, take away your baby, or not want to be around you.
11. Sleeping Irregularities
You may be constantly sleeping, or not being able to sleep at all.

If you feel that these symptoms fit you, please know that you're not alone. 15-20% of new mothers experience these symptoms! This doesn't make you a bad mother. You didn't ask to go through this. It will get better! There is a light at the end of the tunnel. This is treatable with professional help.

It's also important to note for mothers who have suffered a miscarriage or stillbirth that it can be confusing to sort out if you're facing postpartum depression or experiencing grief. Grief is normal and is an understandable reaction to your loss. There is no way to treat grief. There are ways to receive support and education to help navigate the grief process. Grief can exacerbate pre-existing conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Women should make their medical provider aware of any previous mental health history after suffering a loss. Again, if you're suffering from postpartum depression, you'll have five or more of the following symptoms for at least two weeks: feeling sad, empty, or hopeless, being irritable or frustrated, losing interest in most regular activities, feeling unusually tired, sleeping too much or too little, feeling anxious, feeling worthless or guilt, having difficult focusing, thoughts of death or suicide.

Have you followed my blog's Facebook page yet? It's: https://www.facebook.com/EveryChildIsABlessingTheJourneyThroughMyPregnancy.

Instagram: http://instagram.com/chasityboatman

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If you appreciate my writing and have enjoyed your time on my page, please consider supporting my work by donating at https://www.youcaring.com/chasityboatman-760715. To support the blog financially, receive EXCLUSIVE content, and participate in monthly online chats by becoming a patreon at https://www.patreon.com/everychildisablessing! Your donations support my continued work with women who have suffered from miscarriages, infertility, stillbirths, and maternal mental health issues. Thank you.

What to Expect from Your First Period After Miscarriage

2018-03-16T22:01:00.002-07:00

You've just finished experiencing one of the most heartbreaking events that a woman can face: miscarriage. You're probably still trying to heal emotionally and psychologically from your miscarriage, which is completely normal. Everyone's healing journey is different, and there's no "right" way to do it. There's no set timeline. Take your time. Mourn your loss. Be open and honest with those around you. Find a solid support group.

Before your next cycle, you may experience spotting. This is normal. You may also experience yellow or brown vaginal discharge, which is just cervical mucus. This too is normal. Some women experience changes in body temperature or cramps, which is due to hormone regulation. These symptoms will eventually stop typically around four to seven weeks.
After four to six weeks from experiencing your miscarriage, your mensural cycle may return. This is typically true if your hCG levels have returned to zero, and if you miscarried during your first trimester. If your miscarriage occurred during your second trimester, it may take two to three months for your period to return.
If you experience irregular periods after miscarriage, it may be due to your body attempting to get rid of tissue residue in the uterus. This is more common if you experienced a miscarriage in the second trimester. According to Dr. Dolan, other reasons for irregular periods after a miscarriage include not ovulating and being obese or underweight.
Experiencing cycle irregularities after a miscarriage can be triggering. You may feel defeated, angry, sad, and defeated. You may blame yourself or feel like something is wrong with your body. Try to be easy with yourself and give yourself time.

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5 Half-Birthday Party Ideas

2018-02-22T09:55:00.002-08:00

We celebrated our daughter's half-birthday. I know that the idea sounds ridiculous, but it was special for our family because her half-birthday falls on my husband's birthday. He thought that it would be a really special way to celebrate both of them, and I'm just a sucker for parties. My husband's birthday is two days after Christmas, so he never had children attend his birthday parties. He always wished that his parents would have celebrated his birthday during the summer on his half-birthday instead. There are other reasons to celebrate a half-birthday as well: bad weather that time of year, when family can come into town, and finances that time of year. No matter the reason, celebrating a half-birthday can be a blast!

-Half Birthday Cake Topper
For 6 months, I put a sparkly number 6 that I purchased at Hobby Lobby on the cake!

(Photo via Chasity Boatman, blogger of www.everychildisablessing.blogspot.com)

-Half Cake
After speaking to bakers, I found it easier to just purchase an entire rosette birthday cake from the grocery store. and cut it in half myself.

(Photo via Chasity Boatman, blogger of www.everychildisablessing.blogspot.com)

-Half a dozen donuts
Purchase half a dozen donuts for the family to enjoy the day of!

-Half Colored Balloons
-I found it easiest to use paint on balloons, but a marker would work as well!

-Half Place Settings
This adorable idea is from Camille Styles and I wish that I would have thought of it by the time we had our party. Just use colored tape to make the 1/2 on a paper plate!

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20 Phrases to Never Say to a Woman who Miscarried.

2018-02-02T18:32:00.002-08:00

Whether you were pregnant for a few weeks or a few months, it was a baby that was wanted, loved, and cherished. It was a precious loss, and no child is replaceable. On top of dealing with this loss, no mother should have to deal with unkind phrases. So I've created a list of 20 Phrases to Never Say to a Woman who Miscarried.

1. "It wasn't a real baby."

2. "At least you weren't excited."

3. "Be thankful you already have kids."

4. "You're so young you can always try again."

5. "You've had enough kids."

6. "Get over it."

7. "This was God's plan."

8. "Your body just can't handle pregnancy."

9. "Things happen for a reason."

10. "At least you didn't have time to get attached."

11. "You don't know what it's like to lose a child."

12. "Are you over it yet?"

13. "It was only a fetus."

14. "You can always adopt."

15. "At least you don't have to go through the pain of labor."

16. "Kids are expensive you just saved yourself so much money!"

17, "At least you know you can get pregnant."

18. "It's just a cluster of cells."

19. "Maybe it's a good thing you lost the pregnancy."

20. "It didn't have a heartbeat so it doesn't count."

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15 Items for Cancer Care Packages for Loved Ones

2018-01-23T23:05:00.002-08:00

My cousin was a Stage 2 Cancer Survivor. In honor of him, and other cancer survivors, I'm having my restaurant participate in Relay for Life this Spring. It's something that I'm really looking forward to being part of. Participating in this event inspired me to create a post about Cancer Care Packages for Loved Ones. Enjoy.

1. Soft, warm blankets
2. Prepaid cleaning service so they come back to a clean home.
3. Magazines
4. Bath bombs for relaxation
5. Lotion to rehydrate skin
6. Snacks: lemon drops, crystallized ginger, peppermints, jello, and crackers.
7. Soft beanie hats
8. iTunes gift cards
9. Books
10. Chapstick
11. Sleep mask
12. Tissues
13. Gas gift card
14. Crossword puzzles
15. Head scraf

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15 Ideas of Items You Can Include in Your Miscarriage Remembrance Box

2018-01-15T20:18:00.000-08:00

Whether you were pregnant for a few weeks or a few months, the baby you lost deserves to be celebrated. It was a baby that was wanted, loved, and cherished. Many women find it comforting to put together a Miscarriage Remembrance Box, which holds special items from their pregnancy. Putting together a Miscarriage Remembrance Box can be something that you put together yourself or with your partner. I've listed 15 Ideas of Items You Can Include in Your Miscarriage Remembrance Box to help you get ideas.

1. Ultrasound Photos
2. Pregnancy Tests
3. Hospital Bracelets
4. Baby Ashes
5. Baby Clothes
6. Stuffed Animals
7. Remembrance Candle
8. Pregnancy Photos
9. Sympathy Cards from Others
10. Copy of Foot and Hand Prints
11. Poems and Bible Quotes
12. Baby Blankets
13. Baby Ornament
14. Angel Figurine
15. Forget-Me-Not Seed Packets

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NICU Care Package Ideas

2018-01-08T23:02:00.003-08:00

Recently, two local families had NICU babies. I wanted to do something extra special for them, so I created each of them a special NICU Care Package. Being a NICU parent is a journey that only other NICU parents understand, but I wanted to show these families my support the best I could. So I chose items that would encourage parent-child bonding (like books to read and a journal to write their progress in), as well as items that promote special memory making )like milestone cards and a Christmas ornament). The two families loved the packages!

Below are the items I included:
1. Gift Certificates for Food
2. Gift Certificates for Gas
3. Thermal and Instant Coffee
4. First Christmas Ornament
5. Baby Milestone Cards
6. Books to Read to Baby
7. Photo Frame
8. Burp Cloth
9. Lotion
10. Baby Journal
11. Baby Rattles
12. Preemie outfits

Have you followed my blog's Facebook page yet? It's: https://www.facebook.com/EveryChildIsABlessingTheJourneyThroughMyPregnancy.

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2017-12-27T20:56:00.001-08:00

Since Catherine's half-birthday and my husband's 28th birthday were only one day apart, I did an adorable photoshoot of them together. This is something that I've been planning on doing since she was born. My husband was so excited for these photos, and I hope my daughter cherishes them in the future as well.

To prepare for the photos I purchased two cakes, one of which I cut in half for her half-birthday. I had them wear green and pink to match the balloons (green is my husband's favorite color as well). I grabbed cake toppers from Hobby Lobby to match her tulle skirt. Then I put a backdrop from Hobby Lobby on the floor in case any cake got on the floor so it would be easy cleanup. Within 15 minutes, we were finished! I love the way they turned out!

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Erika’s Creative Costumes for her son, Hendrick, and her NICU Journey

2017-12-14T20:11:00.001-08:00

Home Alone, A Christmas Story, and Elf are just three of the many movies that Erika Ashley Garcia-Santos has drawn inspiration from for her son's intricate and creative costumes. Fuzzy, red balls used as gingerbread buttons, an assortment of brightly colored felts used as candies, and fur used as a collar are some of the details that Erika has added to Hendrick's costumes.

"Most of his outfits and props are made from felt that I hot glue together," Erika commented. "It's easy to make something that I can lay on top of him or place around him, so we don't stress him out or bother him too much. I sew the linens or backdrops and for some of his more detailed costumes, I altered and sewed from pre-existing shirts."
Erika started making the costumes and props during her many pumping sessions. She spends 20-30 minutes during each pump, so she thought to utilize that time instead of just endlessly scrolling social media.

"I started making his costumes and linens for his bed as a way to distract myself from my postpartum depression and to cope with the situation," Erika said. "Crafting makes me happy, so I thought that trying to be festive and bring some positivity would not only help me and my wife, but also others. I also wanted more positive and happy memories for him to look back on when he's older."
Erika said that Hendrick is their pride and joy, and he's brought them so much happiness. She hopes that he can do the same for others.
"I wanted to share his photos so that other parents in similar situations can have hope." Erika stated. "He's such a strong little boy, and fights every day to grow and thrive. He's defying the odds already having been born at 23 weeks and 2 days gestation with a 20-30% survival rate. I want other parents to see that there is hope and that their little ones can thrive too. Also, to give others the idea that they can create their own happy memories during their stays in the NICU."

On September 27, 2017, Erika started to feel heavy pressure and cramping, but since she had never been in labor she didn't know what she was feeling were contractions. The next day, the cramping kept coming stronger and more frequently, so she went to triage to be evaluated. When she was evaluated, the doctor said that her son, Hendrick, was head down and his water bag was bulging through her cervix.
"A Neonatal Doctor came in to speak with us because they said he was going to come that night at 22 weeks and 6 days gestation," Erika said. "Literally three hours from 23 weeks; the very earliest chance of viability with only 20-30% survival rate."

Erika was informed by her doctor that if Hendrick was born that night that the hospital policy was not to intervene. The nurses would hand Erika and her wife, Justine, their baby and let Hendrick pass.
"If we held out until midnight and he was technically 23 weeks they would quickly evaluate him after birth to see if they could save him," she recalled. "If he were to come out with gelatinous skin, too sick, or if they couldn't intubate him they would give him to us and let him pass. They gave me a shot of steroids for Hendrick's lung development, and they also put in an IV and started magnesium for his brain development and to slow the contractions."
She was also given Indocin to stop contractions, and then laid flat on her back with her head tilted down and pelvis tilted up for gravity to keep him in. She was on strict bedrest for three, almost four, days and she was able to keep him to 23 weeks and 2 days gestation.

"The night he was born they had stopped both the magnesium and Indocin that was keeping my contractions at bay and my cervix dilated to 10cm and he had his arm in the birth canal," Erika said. "They rushed me into an emergency caesarean and within 15 minutes of them checking him, he was born at 11:56 p.m. on October 1st."
According to Erika, Hendrick's status can go from great one moment to high alert. She said it's very overwhelming to see him struggling when he should still be inside growing.

"My wife has gone back to work to save the rest of her baby bonding for when he is actually home, and I am lucky to take an extended leave from work, but it gives me such anxiety to think I might have to return before he's even home," Erika replied. "My wife and I compromised by combining her grandfather's (whom has passed) name Henry with my father's name Rick and came up with Hendrick. It means Ruler of his House and he certainly is living up to his name!"

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17 Musts Haves When Building A Home

2017-12-13T09:44:00.002-08:00

Building a home can be as stressful as it is exciting! After searching the Internet for major tips and ideas, I've compiled a list of 17 Must Have When Building A Home. Also, with home much goes into building a home, it may be tempting to put off some projects because you can "do them later." Don't fall for it! Later doesn't happen because you're busy filling the house with furniture and decor.

1. Put in a walk in pantry to help keep your kitchen more organized.

2. Separate vanities and closets in the bathroom (his/hers).

3. Outside garage lights.

4. Porch ceiling fans.

5. Plugs where you want your appliances.

6. Outside plugs for Christmas lights.

7. Wash area in the laundry room (very handy for young kids).

8. Make the windows extra tall. The lower to the floor the windows are the more natural light you will have in the home.

9. Built in speakers.

10. Christmas tree closet.

11. Lots of electrical plugs! You can never have too many!

12. A Nest thermostat to keep electrical bills down.

13. Hot water tank for the kitchen sink or over the stove for automatic boiling water.

14. A pullout drawer for pots and pans. This prevents digging through a drawer to find them!

15. Foam for insulation (it's the most efficient).

16. Get a generator installed, especially if you live in an area that has a lot of storms that create power outages.

17. Vertical storage in the kitchen for pans and sheets.

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Review: The Nursie

2017-12-05T23:59:00.002-08:00

Tiffany Meinhart, Creator of The Nursie, is a mother of three. Breastfeeding her third son, Jordan, didn't come as easily as she had hoped. A prior back injury affecter her ability to nurse comfortably, so she decided to sew her own supportive pillow. After others began asking where they could purchase her pillow, she ran a market test to validate the demand on a local Facebook page for mothers in New Braunfels, Texas. Orders poured in and she soon opened up her own Etsy shop. One day, a friend shared a blurp about her pillow on a popular breastfeeding group. 7,000 shares later, Tiffany realized that she had something the baby industry needed.

The Nursie has been featured on ABC affiliate, KSAT, the popular trade magazine, Earnshaw's, the popular blog, Lactivist in Louboutins, and the leading maternity blog, Pregnant Chicken.

I run errands daily with my daughter for my restaurant. That means that I have to nurse my daughter a lot in the vehicle. Thankfully The Nursie is small enough to easily be stowed in my vehicle, so I have easy assess to it daily. My daughter is five-months-old and 18 pounds so she's much too large for a Boppy. The Nursie has been a great breastfeeding tool for her larger size and tendency to move more while breastfeeding. The fabric is extremely soft, which is great for both me and my daughter. The Nursie also provides adequate support while not putting strain on my back or my shoulders. Due to it's small size and support, The Nursie is the perfect breastfeeding tool on trips. When I'm not using it to breastfeed, I can use it as a travel pillow!
Below are a few of the many stunning patterns that The Nursie comes in:

To purchase The Nursie, go to https://thenursie.com/collections/all. It retails for $34.

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Review: LindaMayra

2017-11-25T21:39:00.000-08:00

Linda and Mayra are sisters and stay at home moms who look forward to a birthday, baby shower, or any decorating occasion. They sell a variety of "Trinkets and Things," each item being a little different reflection of each other's personalities. Mayra usually does the digital invitations and customer service, while Linda usually does the artwork and jewelry.

LindaMayra shop categories include: hair clips, magnets, party supplies, jewelry and charms, coasters, printable art, props, masks, and hats, printable games, Halloween, iron on and transfers JPGs, Christmas, and Valentine's Day. Their shop has a 5-star rating with more than 260 positive reviews. Some review comments include: "Beautiful banner! Easy to print and cut out. I used white card stock and ribbon and it looks awesome!" "Absolutely gorgeous and brilliant idea for a game!" "Linda and Mayra went above and beyond with my bridal shower projects. God knows I drove them crazy with my funny and last minute ideas, but they both game through. Thank you. You guys rock and everything came out better than expected."

They were kind enough to email me their Pokemon birthday party package digital download valued at $29.99. All items were made for easy home printing and came in a 8.5x11 format. This package included birthday party invitations, thank you cards, birthday hats, personalized bingo games, food labels, personalized small tags, bottle water labels, birthday banner, birthday sign, birthday pennant banner, pin the flame on the Charmander, pin the tail on Pikachu, DIY Scratchers, photo booth props, Pokemon masks, and centerpieces.

Because this was a goodbye party instead of a birthday party, I was unable to use some of the fantastic products that Mayra had created. However, the products that I did print out were truly one of a kind. Pokemon party supplies can be purchased at major retailers now, but I didn't find anything that compared to the quality and uniqueness that was offered on LindaMayra. Most items that I found in store only had starter Pokemon on them, and they were starter Pokemon from the latest series. That may be great for younger children who are just starting off on the series, but for older individuals who grew up on Pokemon it isn't the right fit. Thankfully LindaMayra offered a mixture of older and newer Pokemon characters. Additionally, I couldn't find Pokemon-themed games anywhere in store. In this party package there are several game options, and all three that we had at the party were a hit. I also appreciated the nod to Team Rocket with the pokeball and Team Rocket colors on one of the signs. Lastly, the cardstock that the decorations were printed on offered stability, thickness, and a high-quality look than the plastic that in store decorations were made of.

The biggest hit at the party were the masks. I set up a photo booth by attaching wrapping paper to the front of the store's Pepsi machine. Most people wanted to be Ash during their photo booth time. The kids most enjoyed pinning the tails on the Pokemon. The adults were competitive over the Pokemon bingo game. I received a ton of compliments from those who attended the party over the decorations. Not only did the decorations look wonderful, but they were easy to print and put together which made them ideal for me as a busy parent and business owner.

Some additional photos from the party below:

To visit their Etsy shop, go to https://www.etsy.com/shop/LindaMayra.

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