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I've Moved!

2007-08-22T06:48:00.000-05:00

Not my house, not my business...MY BLOG!

Here's where you can find me now:
The Simple Life of the SuperMom

Hope to see you there!

Nursery Theme Ideas for Baby Boys

2007-08-07T06:33:00.000-05:00

The ultrasound showed that a bouncing baby boy is on the way. Now you need to prepare a room in which he can grow and have adventures. You may want to stimulate his very active imagination along with his very active play. However, sometimes it’s wise to create a cozier, less stimulating room, so your baby boy is easier to put to sleep at night. You can adapt any of the themes below to be perfect for your baby boy.

Cars

Cars are a tried and true theme for a boy’s room. You can find pages of wallpaper borders with cars in every color scheme. There are car shaped beds and other accessories that will fit into the theme as they grow older. An area rug with streets printed on it is a perfect addition. It is sure to become a favorite as your son gets older.

Trains

Little boys seem to love trains. Decorating the room with toy trains is a perfect fit. Some people have even built a suspended track around the room for a decorative and fun accent. Thomas the Tank is a very popular and natural way to add to your train themed room.

Boats

Boats are another good theme for a boy’s room. You can find inspiration for your room by examining the simple designs of signal flags to life preservers. Pirates would also be a great addition to a boat themed room as pirates are very popular with little boys.

Sports

A sports-themed room is very easy to set up for a baby’s nursery. Combine items from football, baseball, basketball, soccer and hockey – which are all easy to find. From preprinted wallpaper and borders to stencils and even actual balls and other equipment, decorating the room is a snap. If mom or dad has some trophies from their glory days, these would make wonderful accents. Of course, you can always find banners and posters from your favorite teams to add even more visual appeal to your baby’s room.

Characters

Popular shows such as Bob the Builder, Blue’s Clues, Diego and Sesame Street offer bedding sets and accessories that will make decorating very easy for the baby’s room.

Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

2007-08-05T06:49:00.000-05:00

You are probably fully aware of what kinds of food you SHOULD eat during your pregnancy. But did you also know that what you DON'T eat at this time can be just as important?

Fish

While it’s true that fish is an excellent source for iron, protein, and omega 3 fatty acids, there are some fish that may be dangerous to eat while pregnant because of their high content of mercury. These fish may contain a high amount of mercury:

Swordfish
Shark
King mackerel
Tilefish

The FDA says it is safe to eat 12 ounces a week of the following:

Shrimp
Canned tuna
Salmon
Pollock
Catfish
Albacore tuna and tuna steaks should be limited to 6 oz a
week.

Avoid eating raw fish to avoid getting bacteria or viruses.

Meat and Poultry

Make sure all your meat and poultry is fully cooked in order to prevent ingesting bacteria like E coli. Cook the meat until the juices are clear, but also use a meat thermometer to make sure. Meat should be cooked to 160 degrees.

Dairy Foods

Eating unpasteurized dairy products is definitely not on your pregnancy diet. Before eating, check the labels on the following list of soft cheeses to make sure they are not made with unpasteurized milk.

Brie
Feta
Camembert
Roquefort
Mexican cheeses

Caffeine

Drinking too much caffeine daily can affect your baby’s heart rate and breathing, as well as the baby’s weight at birth and the measurement of the head. Your doctor may want to put a limit on your daily caffeine intake.

It has also been suggested that drinking too much herbal tea while pregnant my cause contractions and therefore cause an increase in the risk of miscarriages or premature labor.

Alcohol and Drugs

Because of the risk of fetal alcohol syndrome, miscarriage, and stillbirth, there is no tolerance for drinking alcohol while you are pregnant. And, of course, avoid illegal drugs. Even over-the-counter medications should be run by your doctor before you take them.

Remember, it is important to know what kinds of foods to avoid while being pregnant. It is just as important as knowing what kinds are good for you.

Baby Bjorn Active Carrier

2007-08-03T06:24:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Baby Bjorn Active Carrier
Submitted by: Dana Irwin; St. Louis, MO
Rating: 8
Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: A front pack carrier for infants through 23 lbs. It straps onto your body so you are hands free. Your baby can face outward or towards you. Has support straps in the back to help distribute the weight.

Review: You mean I can actually do the laundry and take care of a fussy infant all at the same time? Great for hands free productivity! And most babies love it. They get to be close to their caregiver while all snuggly and secure. No assembly required. It is so easy to work. No confusion here. Straps are made so you can put baby down even while they are sleeping and not disturb them. Great design. It is a simple look, not gaudy in design.

This is also good to use when you don't want to take a stroller (ie. on a hike, a craft fair, etc.) The back support strap is great for extra back support. Friends of mind have the original and claim the active carrier is much better because of the support strap. Your back is still a little achy after using it for awhile but I don't know that you can expect anything less...you are lugging some extra weight around. It is an expensive but very good buy if you will get your use out of it.

Scrapbooking: Pregnant Belly Pics

2007-08-01T06:42:00.000-05:00

Becoming a mother is the most blessed event in a woman’s life. Feeling the movement of another life inside of your body cannot be expressed in words. Every day brings a new challenge and a new discovery about your baby that will bring joy to your heart.

Let your pregnancy be a time of being proud of your expanding belly. Many men have said that their wives/significant others were never more beautiful than when they were carrying a child. So show off that big ball of baby!

Picture Ideas:

Keep a photo record of each month of pregnancy by taking a belly shot. It seemed to me as if my belly grew overnight. But, pictures will tell the true story.
Take a camera to the doctor’s office with you at your monthly visits. Each time he rubs the gel on your belly to hear the heartbeat, take a picture. When you go for your ultrasound have the technician label the baby’s anatomy on the printout so that you can keep it to show friends and family.
Let daddy put his hands and ears to your belly to feel and hear his child. Ask someone take a picture to remember this bonding moment. If this is not your first baby, have your other children stand next to you or get a picture of them snuggling on your belly.

Scrapbooking Ideas:

Don’t throw away the reminder cards for your doctor’s visits. Keep them to go along with the belly pictures you took each month. Incorporate the ultrasound picture into your scrapbook, too. Scrapbook paper with storks carrying babies would make a neat background for your belly photos.
Frame your pictures with colored cardboard to make them stand out. You may need to design more than one page for all of the monthly belly photos. When your child grows older and looks back over these photographs, he will see how much he was loved – even before birth.

Baby Shower Favor Ideas

2007-07-30T12:43:00.000-05:00

Remember going to birthday parties as a little kid? You always came home with a goodie bag. Sometimes it would contain candy or bubbles or a pinwheel. It was so fun to go to a party for someone else's birthday and come up with a little present for yourself.

Bring a present – get a present. We still get to do that as grown-ups … only now we call them "favors."

It's a nice gesture to have something that your guests can take home with them after the festivities are finished. If your shower will be like most, you'll probably play some silly games. No game would be complete without prizes or favors.

It's a good idea to have a little something for everyone to take home. Here are a few ideas:

How about a little tin candle with a custom label that reads "Your friendship lights my day. Thanks for being part of my special day"?
Most everyone likes chocolate. Little boxes of chocolate that read, "You're so sweet. Thanks for coming to my baby shower." Or a little package of nuts wrapped in tulle, "You're nuts. But that's why we're friends – thank you for coming to my shower."
Lotion is always a good little favor for women. Be careful not to get something too fragrant – as some people are bothered by strong scents.
A small gift booklet with the inscription on the inside cover: "I appreciate your wisdom and support of my new baby." Or "Thanks for all times I've cried on your shoulder, I appreciate you." Or if you don't feel very sentimental how about simply: "Thanks for coming to my baby shower. June 1, 200x"

The truth is that it doesn't really matter what you offer as a favor. It's a small token of your appreciation for the time your friends devoted to celebrate your baby.

Using Creative Art for the Nursery

2007-07-27T06:01:00.000-05:00

When decorating a new arrival’s nursery, you don’t have to stick to the usual teddy bears and pastels. There are so many more options available today. Research has shown that bright colors, especially black, red and white, are better for eye development in the early months. Big bold shapes are also good, as they help with focusing.

Here are a few creative art project ideas you can easily make for the baby’s nursery.

Fabric Letters
Get some red, black and white fabric and cut out shapes, numbers and letters – or the child’s name -- and arrange them on the walls. Try to use fabric that doesn’t fray (ask the clerk at the fabric store for assistance in the choice). By soaking the pieces in liquid fabric starch (a spray starch works well), the pieces will stick to the wall after it dries, without damaging the surface. This is great to use in an apartment where you may not be able to use nails.

Handprints and Footprints
Decorate the room with the baby’s handprints and footprints. Make a stencil of the print, or if the baby cooperates, actually put the paint on baby’s hands and feet and press on the walls. Each month, you could make a new set of prints to add to the design, to watch your child’s growth. Write your baby’s age on each footprint, so you can see the change.

Family Photo Tree
Paint a simple tree on one wall. Collect nice pictures of the family: parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins. Hang them on the tree. There are a lot of attractive and inexpensive picture frames that would work nicely. If you don’t want to purchase frames, you could even use different color photo mats, and use those to attach the pictures to the wall.

Wall Quilt Collage
Collect baby wallpaper samples to create a “wall quilt” collage. Lay the wallpaper pieces out, and try to use as much of a variety as possible to create a nice pattern. Options: If you’re in an apartment, the samples can be attached to poster board and then hung on the wall. Or, instead of using wallpaper samples, gather the cards from your baby shower and use those instead. “Frame” the art with ribbon to make it look like quilt binding.

With a little time and creativity, it doesn’t have to cost a small fortune to have a unique nursery.

Baby Shower Theme Ideas

2007-07-25T08:03:00.000-05:00

If you have a particular baby shower theme, it makes it very easy to decorate and to plan menu items. Well, sometimes it helps with the menu items.

Of course the reason for the shower is the baby, but you can also decide to have a particular theme. Below are just a few examples.

Fall Harvest Theme
You could decorate in orange, brown and gold colors. Serve pumpkin pie, cider, spiced chai tea and apples. Make some soups and warm dips; and burn cinnamon candles. Having a fall theme is just another added dimension to the shower. It in no way distracts from the main focus of celebrating baby.

Pool Party Theme
If it's summertime, this can be the perfect themed. Suggest everyone bring their bathing suit and a towel. Host the shower outside. Serve lemonade and popsicles.

Spring Theme
A spring theme could include lots of flowers. Favors could be a little package of bulbs. Stress the new birth that comes with spring and tie it in with the new birth of the baby.

"Pamper-Me" Theme
Let everyone take their shoes off and dip their feet in the foot massager. Then rub peppermint lotion on your feet. This would be a fun get together – all the while making mom and baby the focus. It will be enjoyable and memorable for the shower guests too.

Cookie Exchange
Have all the guests bring 2 dozen cookies and swap them out. Chances are your guest of honor will have fun too. Of course a baby shower is all about mom, but sometimes there are only so many baby festivities to do in one afternoon.

Luau Theme
You can make this theme can be complete with grass skirts, leis and coconuts.

Make your shower FUN. It doesn't have to be about tea and crumpets while sitting quietly in a chair. If your guest of honor was fun before she was pregnant, she'll still be fun. (Give her one last hoorah before baby settles her down.)

How Do You Decorate the Nursery if You Don't Know the Baby's Gender?

2007-07-19T06:47:00.000-05:00

So you have decided NOT to find out the sex of your baby. That's cool - I decided not to find out with my first 2 and then opted to know with the last one. Although it is a great decision, it can be a challenge when it comes to decorating the nursery. Thankfully we have a lot more choices available to us today than our parents and grandparents had when they were having babies. They worked with the two basic baby colors; blue and pink. We have the entire rainbow and our imagination is the only limit.

Before you put anything into your nursery, it’s a great idea to tackle the walls. You’re going to want something gentle and soothing that will work with all kinds of ideas you come up with later. Without being girlish or boyish, you could go for a simple blue sky scene using a few shades of light blue. Add in some fluffy clouds and you have a great backdrop for anything. Carry this same theme over into curtains with some fabric paints. Just about any fabric color you choose for the windows will look complimentary.

Most nurseries have four basic elements of furniture. The baby’s crib and changing table usually match. Then you have a dresser and a rocking chair for Mom. You may also have a cradle, but that’s more likely to be in your own bedroom. Since you won’t know the gender of the baby until you bring him home, and you certainly won’t feel like shopping for furniture then – you will probably want to go with natural wood tones. If you pick up some unfinished pieces, you can add color and design elements later when you have more time.

The next step in decorating your baby’s nursery might be all about the functions of the nursery. If you’ll be spending time in the nursery late at night, a little side nightstand with a lamp next to the rocker will be nice. Find a plain white lamp and lamp shade and you’ll be able to modify it later to match the theme you choose.

Look for two or three large shelves, two or three feet wide, at least eight inches deep and hang these up strategically around the room. Choose a natural wood tone to match the furniture or stick with white until later. These shelves will be a blessing to you for things like a small stereo, some books to read your baby, or a few favorite décor items. These basic elements are so versatile and can flow with any ideas you come up with later when the baby is settled in. Whether you end up adding butterflies or frogs to the room later, the blue sky and neutral additions will fit perfectly.

This is a room with a really nice canvas of sky and all of the basics in place. You can wait for baby to reveal his or her gender to really dig into a decorating theme, or just choose to go with something that isn’t girl or boy specific to get everything done in advance. Whichever you choose, don’t be afraid to be daring – remember, the nursery gets redecorated in just a few short years and you get to have the fun all over again.

Game Ideas for Your Baby Shower

2007-07-18T08:36:00.000-05:00

Wouldn't be nice if all your friends and family were to RSVP to your baby shower right away because they simply could not wait to play THE GAMES? We all know that's not going to happen.

Baby shower games - it's a rite of passage. What's a shower without silly games? Ok, admit it, while some may grumble and groan (generally silently while they outwardly smile and play nice) there is guaranteed to be much laughter and memories with baby shower games. Below are some suggestions:

Baby Food Tasting
Sit mom in a chair, blindfold her and be prepared for some funny faces. The hostess will spoon mom different kinds of food and she'll have to guess what flavor it is. Or better yet, blindfold all the guests and have THEM try to guess the flavor. Have them remove their blindfolds (or if on the honor system, open their eyes) so that they can write down their guess – then begin with the next flavor.

Along the same lines is to put a dollop of baby food inside a disposable diaper. Eww, yes it is somewhat gross, that's what makes it so fun. Everyone must sniff and try to determine what kind of baby food is in the diaper.

Toilet Paper Around Mommy's Tummy
Pass a roll of toilet paper around to all the guests. Tell each one to take as many squares as they think will be necessary to fit around mom's tummy. This also works with string but the toilet paper is funnier because if someone guesses too little, the paper squares break apart. Nothing like making mom feel HUGE.

Unscramble the Words
Write baby related words on pieces of paper – rattle, diaper, teething, colic, bath, ointment, bouncy seat, Pack n' Play, etc. and then scramble up the letters. Give everyone a few minutes to decipher as many as they can.

Test Your Memory
Have a box or a tray with baby related items – wipes, diaper pin, diaper ointment, ear bulb, teething tablets, booties, washcloth, hair bow, etc. The smaller the items the better. Put the box or tray in front of everyone for two minutes then remove it. Have guests write down as many items as they can remember. Of course mom gets to keep the box of goodies when the game is finished.

***Don't Forget***
You should have some little prizes for the winner(s) of each game. Candles, bath and body items, dish towels, or lip balm work nicely. Think of anything small that most women would like.

Don't dread the games – have fun with them. Make sure to take lots of photos during the festivities.

What to Expect During an Emergency C-Section

2007-07-16T08:27:00.000-05:00

Reasons for having an emergency C-section

There are times when a woman needs help during labor and delivery, and inducing labor is not an option. The only other solution is to do a Caesarean delivery, or C-section.

These times include the following:

If your baby stops moving down the birth canal and your cervix is no longer dilating.
If your doctor feels that your baby’s heartbeat can’t safely handle any more labor.
If your umbilical cord comes through the cervix, with concern that the baby’s oxygen supply will be cut off.
If your placenta is starting to tear away from your uterine wall, making it imperative that your baby be delivered immediately.
If you have genital herpes and your water breaks.

If there is time, your doctor will explain to you why a C-section is necessary and you will be asked to sign a consent form. Your partner will be allowed to be with you in most cases. The anesthesiologist will tell you about your different choices for pain control.

The most common type of pain control is the epidural or spinal block. The lower part of the body is numbed, but you will remain conscious to view the birth of your baby.

The process of the C-section

The doctor will cover your belly with antiseptic and cut through the layers of tissue from just above the pubic bone to the uterus. Once the doctor reaches the uterus, a horizontal cut is made and the doctor then reaches in and delivers your baby. After the baby has been examined and your placenta is removed, you will be given the baby to hold while you are being stitched up, layer by layer. After the surgery is done, then you are taken in to a recovery room where you will continue to be monitored for a few hours.

Once the anesthesia has worn off you may get either pain shots every 3-4 hours or an IV that will allow you to give yourself a safe dosage of pain reliever whenever you feel the need. With a C-section, you may expect to stay in the hospital for about 3-4 days, depending on the situation.
The first few days after your C-section

You will probably feel somewhat groggy and nauseous after your C-section. Your incision will probably feel numb and sore. The incision itself will look puffy and darker than the rest of your skin color. When you sneeze, cough, or laugh, the area around the abdomen will be sore for a few days. You may experience a gas buildup at first, but once you are able to get up and walk a little, your system will start working again. Your stitches will be removed in 3-4 days before you are sent home.

What happens when you leave the hospital?

Remember that you have had major surgery and you will not be able to do a lot of things for a while. So plan on accepting help from others.

Keep taking your medication as prescribed, drink plenty of liquids and walk, slowly at first. Your vaginal bleeding will take up to six weeks to go away.

What kind of emotions will you feel?

If you were planning on having a vaginal delivery and ended up with a C-section birth, you may feel disappointed and cheated. You may feel like an incomplete person because you did not get your magical birth moment. All these feelings are normal. Visit with your doctor about any feelings you have so you don’t have to feel like you have to suffer these feelings on your own. Also, try talking to others that have experienced the same thing, and get some perspective on what others have felt after their C-section.

You will still be likely to feel the same kinds of emotions that most mothers go through, whether they had a vaginal birth or a Caesarean birth.

The point is that you are not alone with your different feelings and emotions. So please share them with someone, if you need to. You will have enough stress with your hormones adjusting and settling in to a new life with baby around. The less stress you have, the more you will be able to relax and enjoy the precious moments with your little miracle.

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy

2007-07-13T06:50:00.000-05:00

As an expectant mother, your top priority should be healthy eating. Many women use their pregnancy as an excuse to “eat for two.” This is the worst possible thing you could do to yourself and your baby.

Here are a few healthy eating during pregnancy tips:

Healthy Eating Tips for Expecting Moms - The American Dietetic Association says that a pregnant woman needs only 300 calories a day more than she did before she became pregnant. This means, on average, you should consume about 2,500 to 2,700 calories per day.

The best foods for healthy eating are of course fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins and dairy products. You should try to include something from each of these food groups in every meal.

Caffeine should be avoided at all costs, as it may have an effect on your unborn child. Junk food like chips and chocolate that will affect your weight gain should be eaten in moderation as well. Some pregnant women keep fresh fruit, like red seedless grapes, on hand. They claim these fruits that are naturally sweet help to curb their sweet-tooth cravings for things like chocolate.

Why Healthy Eating is Important for You - Your body is adjusting to carrying this new life inside you. While you will need extra nutrients, you don’t need to eat double. The best thing you can do is incorporate a pre-natal vitamin regimine into your daily life. Taking vitamins will help precisely feed your body the extra nutrients you need.

All too often, pregnant women pack on pounds unnecessarily. They eat in excess, thinking that after they have their baby, all the weight will magically disappear, too. It doesn’t work that way. If you wouldn’t ordinarily eat fast food five times per week, then don’t assume that kind of lifestyle just because you’re pregnant. Adopt well-rounded and balanced meals instead and treat yourself once a week to that craving you’ve had.

This way you’ll be able to keep your weight gain to a healthy level and also provide your baby with all the nutrients he or she needs for the best start in life.

Want more tips on eating healthy during your pregnancy? The Pregnancy Without Pounds ebook is a great resource to help you gain only the weight you should...the healthy way.

V-Tech Soft Explorer Mat

2007-07-12T14:52:00.000-05:00

Product Name: V-tech Soft Explorer Mat
Submitted by: Michelle Morgan; Leawood, KS
Rating: 9
Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: This product is an interactive play mat.

Review: The mat is very brightly colored with animal characters. On the mat are a bee, glow worm, frog, bunny and owl. When they are pushed they say their animals name and sound.

On the front is a raise platform with a ladybug, birds (with birdhouse) and butterfly. When spun the ladybug sings a numbers song to go along with numbers that are on her. The birds in the birdhouse wobble back and forth and sing when touched. The butterfly moves up and down and sings.

The control center can either be on song or baby mode. On song mode it talks to baby and sings even when baby is not moving. When on baby mode it reacts to baby's movements.

I bought this for my daughter who hated tummy time. She loved it. It really encouraged her to move around. She especially loved the ladybug who can be spun around. The songs are very cute.

It is very durable and easy to clean. I have washed it a few times and the bright colors have not faded at all.

Criticism: The only bad thing I can say is the mat is a little thin. I have hardwood floors so I put a blanket under it for extra padding.

Baby Furniture for the Frugal Mom and Dad

2007-07-11T06:59:00.000-05:00

When new parents think of purchasing items for the nursery, the thought of buying baby furniture typically causes a new parent to panic. With all of the current expenses, visions of deeper credit card debt can make any new mom or dad break into a sweat.

However, there are ways to cut corners, and make furnishing the baby's room less expensive. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking frugally before rushing out to purchase furniture for your baby’s room.

The crib
New parents may think they need both a bassinet and a crib. The frugal shopper will choose to skip the bassinet, which is typically viewed as a luxury. The crib is a necessity, but the bassinet is only used for a few months, and is then stored in the garage.

When shopping for a crib, keep your eyes open for a bargain on a convertible style crib, which can transform from a crib, to a toddler bed, and then a full size bed. If you can invest in a convertible crib, it would alleviate the cost of a bed in the future.

The Dresser
Baby’s dresser is an item that can often times be picked up at a yard sale. Thrifty shoppers know that purchasing a full-sized dresser is more economical than buying a small dresser. Remember that you will eventually have to turn the baby room into a child's bedroom, and a smart investment now can grow with your child through the years. Don’t be afraid to buy an older dresser. An older dresser can be as good as new with just a coat of paint and some cute new hardware picked up at the local home improvement store.

Changing Table
The changing table is a luxury for the frugal shopper. Check places like the Salvation Army and Goodwill as well as yard sales. These tables are often discarded when the baby outgrows them. Another option for a frugal changing table is to convert a full-size dresser into a changing table. This is easily done by purchasing a thick changing pad (I got one that was curved like a half pipe to keep the baby from rolling) from a baby or discount store. No need to cover this with the expensive fitted covers - one of the many baby blankets that you'll be receiving as a gift will also do the job! There are also inexpensive organizers that can hang down the side of the dresser. The changing table is an item some moms choose to do without, and, instead, set a blanket on the floor to change their babies on.

I am sure in a perfect world, we would all appreciate the luxury of going out and buying everything we need at a baby boutique. However, the reality is that baby does not need the most expensive furniture. Your baby needs only one thing, and that is you.

How Much Weight Should You Gain?

2007-07-10T06:37:00.000-05:00

Whether you want to admit it or not, you will gain weight during pregnancy. It is necessary for your baby’s growth and development. But just how much weight you gain is going to be a factor in how easy it will be to take the pounds off after the baby is born.

How much weight you need to gain will be up to you and your doctor. There are some general guidelines to follow.

If you are somewhat underweight, your total recommended weight gain should be about 28-40 pounds.
If you fall into the normal weight category, your recommended weight gain should be about 25-35 pounds.
If you are somewhat overweight your weight gain may fall into the 15-25 pound range.
If you are obese, your range of weight gain may be about 15 pounds.
If you are pregnant with more than one child, your weight gain will be more.

For those that suffer from morning sickness, it is a good thing to know that not much weight needs to be gained during the first trimester. If you are starting out at healthy weight, your calorie intake should increase by 150- 200 calories. That doesn’t necessarily mean potato chip and candy bar calories. It means healthy calories from fruit, veggies, and dairy products such as low fat yogurt.

If you started out your pregnancy underweight, your daily calorie intake may need to be increased by 300-500 calories. You will need the extra weight to prevent your baby from being born earlier than the due date.

Being overweight before your pregnancy can bring on some health issues such as high blood pressure or gestational diabetes. But going on a diet now is not an option. You will need to gain a little extra weight or your body may start to break down its own storage of fat and create substances called ketones, which can be very harmful to the baby.

For example, if your baby should weigh around 7-8 pounds, below is where the rest of the weight comes from.

* Baby = 7-8 pounds
* Increased breast size = 1-3 pounds
* Increase is uterus = 2 pounds
* Placenta = 1-2 pounds
* Fluid surrounding baby = 2 pounds
* Increase in blood supply = 3-4 pounds
* Fluid build up = 2-3 pounds
* Storage of fat = 6-8 pounds

Making a total of 24-32 pounds weight gain

The main point here is that weight gain is inevitable. And it is important that you keep an open communication with your doctor. He or she will be the guide to help you monitor your weight.

Bumbo Baby Sitter

2007-07-08T14:21:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Bumbo Baby Sitter
Submitted by: Melanie Triplett; St. Paul, MN
Rating: 4
Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: The Bumbo Baby Sitter is a unique type of baby chair or booster seat. It's made of foam-like material and comes in a variety of colors. The chair is round and in the middle of the baby’s legs is a divider somewhat like a saddle horn. The seat portion of the chair is somewhat lower than the leg holes so that the baby "sinks" down into the sitter for support and to stabilize the chair. It's recommended as a sitting aid for babies between 3 and 14 months or up to 22 pounds.

Criticism: We purchased the Bumbo Baby Sitter when our son was 4 months old and he had outgrown it by the time he was 5 and a half months old. By that time he had already figured out how to arch his back in such a way that he could tumble up and out of the sitter!

He never did like it much, which was why he tried to fall out of it. For the first few weeks, it was nice to have as an extra place to set him down safely.

It sits nicely on any flat surface, it's lightweight and easy to carry around, and it's really easy to wipe clean of any drool, snacks or spit-up.

It doesn't have any straps, however, so it should only be placed on the floor or on a chair with constant supervision.

But for our son, it wasn't comfortable or safe, so I can't recommend to any parent to spend $40 for such a short-lived product.

Activities to Avoid While Pregnant

2007-06-27T20:43:00.000-05:00

Day to day life is challenging enough but when you add pregnancy to that mix, your body may undergo a major workout without visiting a gym. And you end up with a back ache, morning sickness (sometimes lasting all day), and exhaustion.

Before you end up exhausted and sore, here are some activities that should be avoided during your pregnancy.

Eliminate as much fatigue as much as possible
Don’t let fatigue overwhelm you. Instead, find out what part of the day is the best for you and do your job or activities that require the most energy or the most concentration. When you start to feel fatigue coming on, get up and walk around a little to reactivate your muscles and blood flow. Walking can also work for destressing yourself when you do take the time to relax.

Cut back on your commitments
Most of us have extra activities and commitments outside of our work place or home. This would normally be a good thing. But during your pregnancy this may be a good time to cut back and take that time to get some rest. Right now is when you need to make your commitment to yourself and your baby.

Don’t try to be wonder woman
Remember she was only a fictional character. If you are blessed with friends, relatives, or other co-workers that really care and want to help, don’t turn their offers of help away. Instead, consider yourself truly blessed and allow them to help you. You may think that you are burdening them, but it is probably quite the opposite. Most people do not volunteer unless they really want to help. It makes them feel good to do things for others. So if you have storm windows to put on, a lawn to be mowed or snow to be removed, a house that needs cleaning, or errands to run, for goodness sake, allow others to help. That’s what keeps us all in touch with one another.

Don't let your job get you down
If you have a job that requires any of the following working conditions, you may need a little understanding from your boss, or a note from your doctor to get you through your pregnancy while still holding down employment.

If you have to do any constant heavy lifting
If you have to do any standing for long periods of time
If you have to deal with or be around any heavy duty machines that cause vibrations
If you are enduring lots of stress from commuting long distances to and from work
If you are afraid of being exposed to harmful chemicals
If you endure lots of heat while working
If your job requires a good sense of balance
If you have a job that requires different shift changes, you will not get proper rest.

All of these things in this report will cause fatigue, or add to your already aching body. You can’t fully escape certain conditions during pregnancy, but you can learn what types of activities need to be avoided to help maintain your health.

What to Expect After a Vaginal Delivery

2007-06-26T05:51:00.000-05:00

Your recovery from vaginal birth will depend a lot on what kind of pregnancy you experienced.

For example, was your pregnancy and delivery a fairly normal one, or were you blessed with one or more of these nagging problems: back pain; hemorrhoids; constipation; or varicose veins? At least 50% of all new mothers have some sort of health problem to recover from after childbirth.

Recovering from lack of sleep

One big concern is sleep, or lack thereof. A major cause of depression is fatigue.

Some suggestions for overcoming fatigue are the following:
* Find someone who will be available to help with the work around the house -- such as helping with the other children, cooking the meals, or watching the baby so you can rest. Tell your friends and family that helping you would make an excellent baby gift.
* Take your naps when the baby does for a few weeks.
* Get away for some adult time when you can, even if it is for a short period.

Getting your body back to normal

Remember it will take the first 6 weeks for your body to heal itself from the strain of giving birth. It will take your genital organs anywhere from six to eight weeks to start to function at their normal size.

The pregnancy hormone called relaxin will stay in your body for about 5 months. This hormone is what causes your ligaments and muscles to increase in both size and elasticity. Because of this, it is important to realize that your joints are fragile and any high impact activity should be put off for a while.

When you have completely stopped bleeding, you can try things like walking and swimming. Other exercises such as tennis or biking or low impact aerobics should wait until 4-5 months after birth.

Losing weight

Normally, if you were thin before you became pregnant and only gained about 25-30 pounds, you may have your shape back in about 3 months. Moms who have given birth before may take up to 3-6 months to lose the extra weight. Women who are overweight my take from 6-9 months to recover their shape.

Health problems such hemorrhoids, varicose veins, bleeding gums, and skin pigmentation, may last for months after your baby is born.

Post-partum depression or ‘baby blues’

It is very common for woman to go through a depression after the birth of their baby. If you feel you are having this problem, please let your doctor know. He is there for your support both before and after your baby is born. Here are some of the symptoms you may feel when going through post-partum depression.

* You have a hard time keeping your concentration.
* You find yourself crying more frequently.
* You are worried about harming your baby.
* You find yourself feeling an overwhelming sense of your world crashing in.
* You find yourself having trouble with sleep.
* You feel helpless or have been contemplating suicide.
* You can’t seem to recover from your sadness.

Remember, that there are lots of women who have gone or are going through this same thing. Talk to your doctor. He or she will know what to do.

Just remember, don’t get discouraged. It will take time for you and your body to get back to normal. In the meantime, take the time to rest, and hold, and welcome your newest little angel to the family.

What to Expect During Your Third Trimester

2007-06-16T08:52:00.000-05:00

The further into your pregnancy you go, the more your doctor will need to monitor your blood pressure and weight. It will also remain very important to monitor the baby’s heartbeat and movements. You will also have weekly checkups during your last month of pregnancy.

1. Being tested for group B strep
One of the things you will be tested for in your third trimester is a bacterium called group B streptococcus, or GBS. It is harmless in adults, but can cause the baby to become critically ill. If GBS shows up on the swab from your vagina or rectum, you will be administered an intravenous antibiotic during your labor to help protect the baby.

2. Resumption of vaginal exams
During the pelvic exams in your third trimester, you doctor will check to see of your baby is positioned head first or butt first, also known as breech. Your doctor may want to try to apply pressure to your abdomen to try to turn the baby. If the baby will not turn to the head-first position, you may need to have a Caesarean delivery, or C-section.

As you become closer to delivery, your cervix will begin to soften and dilate.

3. Physical changes to your body in your third trimester

Backaches and sore hips are common as your baby gains weight. Try sitting on chairs with a good back support, using a heating pad, or find someone who can give you a massage.
Swelling of the feet and ankles is normal. Retaining fluids and blood vessels becoming dilated will leave your face and eyelids puffy in the morning.
Shortness of breath is also normal as your uterus becomes bigger under your diaphragm.
Heartburn may occur.
Spider veins, varicose veins and hemorrhoids may occur. Try elevating your legs and drinking lots of liquids.
You may notice more stretch marks that become itchy.
Your breasts are still growing.
You may feel an increased pressure on your bladder.
A continuation of the Braxton Hicks contractions.
A total weight gain of about 25-35 pounds.

During your last trimester, as your baby grows, so will your level of discomfort. The best thing to do is keep in mind that you are almost there. Try doing positive things that will help pass the time. Pamper yourself as much as possible.

Bleeding During Your First Trimester

2007-06-15T09:06:00.000-05:00

Vaginal bleeding during the first trimester can be a little scary, and yet, it is normal in most instances. Statistics state that one out of three women will experience bleeding at some time during their pregnancy, and this is most likely during the first trimester. As stated earlier, some of this is normal and some of the bleeding is a sign that something is not quite right. The first bit of advice to tell you is that if you do experience any kind of bleeding, no matter how insignificant you think it might be, you need to let your doctor or healthcare provider know.

If you are aware of what causes bleeding while you are pregnant, you will be more able to recognize any symptoms that are unusual or abnormal.

What causes the bleeding?

When the egg that is fertilized attaches itself to your uterus lining, you may notice a little bit of bleeding. This kind of bleeding is called implantation bleeding. The bleeding will be lighter colored than menstrual bleeding. For some women who do not realize they are pregnant, they will mistake this light bleeding as a period. For the most part this bleeding will be painless. Your doctor will probably ask that you avoid any heavy lifting or sex for a while. You may also be required to take some bed rest to allow the fertilized egg to attach itself better, if you have a history of high risk pregnancy or infertility.
When pregnant, your cervix will experience an extra supply and flow of blood to it. After intercourse or a pelvic exam, you may have some bleeding, which is going to be normal.
Miscarriages also can happen during the first trimester and cause bleeding. Don’t let this fact put you in a panic though, because at least half of the first trimester bleedings are not the result of a miscarriage.
A tubal pregnancy happens when the embryo attaches itself outside of the uterus. When this happens, there can be very serious internal bleeding. The tubal pregnancy needs to be removed from the mother to save her life. Other symptoms of a tubal pregnancy are abdominal pain that is worse on one side of your body than the other, a feeling of being lightheaded, and feeling the need to have a bowel movement.

These are just a few of the causes of bleeding. Your doctor or healthcare provider will be able to give more information if it is needed.

When should you call your doctor?

If you experience a slight amount of bleeding, remember to tell your doctor on your next visit.
If your bleeding lasts more than one day, call your doctor.
If you experience bleeding that ranges from moderate to heavy, and/or you have bleeding with pain, cramps, fever, and chills and/or have tissue that is passing from your vagina, then call your doctor immediately.

Be prepared to answer questions from your doctor, and take a pelvic exam. You may also have some lab tests done and/or an ultrasound to check on the status and growth of your baby or pregnancy. The treatment you will receive will depend on the cause of your symptoms.

Remember, that not all first trimester bleeding is serious, but it is important to know the facts so you will be more aware and better prepared for a healthier pregnancy.

Fisher Price Papasan Cradle Swing

2007-06-14T13:40:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Fisher-Price Papasan Cradle Swing

Submitted by: Lashonda Morehead; Houston, TX

Rating: 10

Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: A Fisher Price cradle swing offers two different swinging motions to entertain and sooth baby. The Papasan swing features the Nature's Touch fabric.

It is one of the few infant swings which can either cradle the child in a side to side motion, or rock the child with a traditional back and forth motion. The nest-like seat of the Fisher Price cradle swing comfortably cradles baby in soft, multi-textured materials.

Review: A unique feature on the baby swing is the overhead mobile which soothes by incorporating three playful characters. The characters are a bird, butterfly and dragonfly. Each animal on the infant swing features distinct in between leaves and a mirrored globe which allows baby to see all around.

Fisher Price swings generally feature a removable toy with fun toy, bead bars and tray space to provide the child with activities. The cradle swing features six different speeds along with eight soothing songs and soothing nature sounds. It puts baby right to sleep.

This is one of the great baby swings because it features an infant head support insert and features a two position seat recline and folding for storage.

I love this product. It gives me time for myself. I normally just put my baby in and do house cleaning. It's like an on hand nanny.

Placing the baby in any one of the fantastic infant swings is a great move, but choosing a Fisher Price Swing is a sound decision.

Morning Sickness? Here are Some Tips to Help

2007-06-12T08:52:00.000-05:00

No one really knows for sure what the actual cause of morning sickness is. Most experts say it may be due to the physical changes your body is going through. Also, the rapid increase in the hormone called ’human chronic gonadotropin‘, or hCG, along with an increase in estrogen seems to coincidentally show up at the same time the nausea starts.

Studies have shown that about 75% of pregnant women suffer through morning sickness -- that can actually last all day. For most women it starts at about 4-6 weeks into the pregnancy and goes until about 14 weeks. Some women experience it for even longer periods of time.

These body changes can trigger an increase in your sense of smell or sensitivity to certain odors which can set off movement in your now very sensitive stomach.

Remedies to try:
Nausea due to smells

When a meal is being cooked, open the windows or the exhaust fans on the stove.
If you do most of your cooking in the microwave, there will be less smell.
Carry with you a handkerchief or cloth with some kind of oil scent on it that will not make you nauseous. (Peppermint scent is often calming.)
Eat cold foods which don’t have as strong smell during preparation.

Nausea due to eating and drinking

Avoid foods that are spicy or greasy.
Eat the foods your body craves when it craves them.
Eat smaller portions of food more often during the day.
Eat something salty just before a meal. It may be easier to keep your food down.
Try not to drink liquids with your meal.
Decaffeinated teas like peppermint and ginger will calm your stomach.
Drinking small amounts of liquids through the day will keep you from being dehydrated.
Cold food will cause a less nauseous feeling.

Other remedies for nausea

Getting too warm will bring on nausea.
Being too tired can bring on nausea. Try to take periodic naps.
Make sure you have something on your stomach when you take your prenatal vitamin.
Get as much sleep at night as possible.
When you get out of bed in the morning, do it slowly.
Have crackers or cereal (dry) on hand to eat if you need to in the morning.

If none of these remedies, or any others that you have tried, seem to work, talk to your doctor. There are anti-nausea medications and natural supplements that are available for you to try. But, it is important to talk to your doctor if your nausea doesn’t subside.

Good luck!

When Should You Call the Doctor?

2007-06-11T12:06:00.000-05:00

When we become pregnant, most of us close our eyes and imagine going through the different stages of our pregnancy and labor with the ‘normal’ things happening that are supposed to happen -- and then giving birth to this beautiful little child. None of us wants to even think about, much less deal with, what could possible happen to turn or ‘normal pregnancy’ into an unplanned adventure.

Ectopic Pregnancy
Starting your pregnancy off with the egg attaching itself outside the uterus or womb is called an ectopic pregnancy. Below are some signs or symptoms that may show up that will tell you that it is time to call the doctor immediately.

Vaginal bleeding you feel that is not normal
Pain in your shoulder
Pain in your abdomen
Feeling weak and dizzy

These symptoms don’t always mean you have an ectopic pregnancy, but you definitely need to be on the safe side.

Pregnancy Induced Hypertension
Pregnancy induced hypertension, or PIH, is high blood pressure bought on by pregnancy. It is a major disorder and needs to be monitored. PIH can be detected early on in your pregnancy. If you should have PIH and do not make or keep any prenatal appointments, the result may be bad for your health, as well as your baby’s. Your baby may be born prematurely, stillborn or with growth retardation. There are no for sure agreements as to what does cause PIH, but there are symptoms or signs that your body is telling you to call your doctor right away.

You have gained 4-5 pounds in one week
Your hands and face have become swollen
After 12 hours or a resting period, the swelling in your ankles has not gone down
There is protein in your urine
You experience severe headaches and/or blurry vision
You are starting to see spots in front of your eyes
You are having severe pain over your stomach or under your ribs

You may not experience all of these signs or symptoms, but if you experience any, it is important to call your doctor.

It is also important to note that there is a certain amount of swelling in the ankles and feet that is normal. But normally, the swelling will go down after 12 hours or after you have had some rest. If the swelling doesn’t go down and you feel your face and hands start to swell, you need to call your doctor.

There just aren’t enough times you can be told to call your doctor if you feel something is wrong. There my be times when you are not sure if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or signs, but you feel that you know something is not right. Follow that feeling and call. This is no time to think you may be imagining things.

What to Expect During Your 2nd Trimester

2007-06-08T06:15:00.000-05:00

The second trimester includes the fourth, fifth, and sixth months of your pregnancy. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Monthly visits to your doctor or health care provider

During these monthly visits talk to your doctor about any concerns or symptoms you have had or that you are wondering about. Even if you may think they are insignificant, your doctor will want to know. To your doctor, there is no such thing as a silly question.
Your doctor will measure the size of your abdomen by measuring from the top of your uterus to your pubic bone in centimeters. The number of centimeters will usually equal the number of weeks into your pregnancy you are. The baby’s heartbeat is also listened to by a device called a Doppler.
Your baby will start kicking or moving at about 20 weeks, so it is good to tell your doctor when you notice movement.
Your urine will still be tested for levels of sugar and protein. You will also be checked for signs of gestational diabetes, which is a form of diabetes that is temporary and can occur during pregnancy.
Pelvic exams are generally not required in the second trimester, unless there is a concern from your doctor or health care provider.

2. Other tests that may be offered

Blood tests to check for disorders such as spinal bifida or Downs syndrome
An ultrasound to check on your baby’s growth and development
If the results of your blood test or ultrasound are a concern to your doctor, he may want to do a test that is more invasive called amniocentesis.

3. Some physical changes to your body during your second trimester

Larger breasts as your milk producing glands inside your breasts grow bigger
A bigger belly as your uterus expands for the baby. You may gain about 4 pounds per month.
Braxton Hicks contractions strengthen your uterus. They are painless contractions that happen in your lower abdomen and groin area.
Skin color changes due to increased blood circulation -- darker colored skin around the nipples, on your face, and on the line that runs from your belly button to your pubic bone.
Increased blood circulation in your mucous membranes cause the lining of your nose and air way passage to swell, resulting in snoring, congestion, and nosebleeds. The extra blood circulation may also cause bleeding in your gums while brushing and flossing.
Expanding blood vessels will cause occasional dizziness and maybe lower blood pressure. Try not to stand for long periods of time and don’t stand up too fast after sitting or lying down.
Leg cramps caused by the pressure from your uterus to the veins that return the blood from your legs.
Heartburn and constipation is caused from a slower digestive process that allows nutrition to reach your baby.
Shortness of breath.
A normal vaginal discharge that is thin and white.
Increase chance of bladder and kidney infections due to slower flow of urine and an increase in size of your uterus. Call your doctor if you suspect either one of these two infections.

During your second trimester, you will experience an increase in uncomfortable situations, and that is why you need to have a basic understanding of what is normal and what is not. Also remember, your health care provider is there for both you and your baby.

Packing the Hospital Bag

2007-06-07T12:33:00.000-05:00

You’re headed into the home stretch of your pregnancy. It's been a long 9 months, but now you're ready. You've prepared all of these months for the birth and the homecoming of your baby, but don't forget your all-important trip to the hospital! Whether you're staying a night or a couple, be prepared and have your bag ready to go.

Here are some tips for packing your hospital bag:

For the Stay

Pack a nightgown or pajama set. Remember that you probably will not be back to the size you were before pregnancy, so bring a gown that is large and comfy. Don’t worry about being pretty, go for comfortable.
If you are planning on breastfeeding your baby, be sure to pack a gown that has a button- or snap-up front closure for easy access.

Basic Essentials

Don’t worry about packing everything that you’d pack for a weekend getaway. You’ll be tired from all the hard work of having your baby and most likely won’t feel like primping. Take the bare essentials: comb or brush, toothbrush and paste, barrette or ponytail holder for your hair, undergarments, etc.

For The Baby

Many new mothers pack a huge diaper bag to bring to the hospital. This simply isn’t necessary. Save space and pack the few essentials you’ll need for your new baby in your overnight bag. Some things you might need are: an outfit for the ride home (something comfortable for the baby), socks or booties, and a blanket. That’s it! Hospitals provide you with a pack of diapers, Vaseline and formula to last several days, so there’s no need to pack a diaper bag.

Don’t Forget These!

Here are a few extra items that some expectant mothers sometimes forget to pack in their overnight bag: socks, music, CD player, video tape, something to focus on (if you are going natural), and snacks for Dad. Also, don’t forget the phone book to call family members and friends and cell phone or change for the pay phone and vending machines. In addition, remember to bring your baby’s car seat with you, as the hospital most likely will not allow you to leave without one.

Now - when your water breaks, or those contractions are just a few minutes apart, you'll be ready to grab your bag and go!

Want more pregnancy information? The Pregnancy Bible is your complete guide to pregnancy and early parenthood.

Mentally Prepare for Labor

2007-06-04T09:30:00.000-05:00

Your body is doing a great job getting physically ready for labor. Now make sure you're doing your part to MENTALLY prepare for the labor too!

Tip #1: Find Your “Happy Place”
Where is the one place that you feel most at peace? Maybe it’s a specific setting, like at your favorite café or sitting on a blanket in the middle of the park. Whatever or wherever you feel most at place is going to be your “happy place” in your mind. Practice focusing on that place where you feel calm and at peace with yourself. Hold those feelings for several minutes before you open your eyes. When you begin to feel anxious, close your eyes, take a deep breath and go to your happy place.

Tip #2: Envision a Calm Labor
Don’t let your mind run wild with all the stories you’ve heard other women talk about. Each labor is unique and much of it depends on how well you personally cope with it. What is the best possible way you would like your labor to go? Capture that in your mind. Think on it. Envision a happy, calm labor.

Tip #3: Practice Positive Thinking
It’s very easy to get wrapped up in negative thoughts about your labor. You’re already anxious about the coming day. Don’t allow negative thoughts to creep up and make you more nervous. Practice positive thinking. One way to do this is to speak positive affirmations every time you start thinking negative. Here are a few affirmations for you to practice:

“I am strong and able to birth my child in a calm and positive environment.”
“I can remain calm, even in the midst of this emotional time.”
“I am the best mother for my child.”

Write your own positive affirmations and practice them daily.

Fisher Price Interactive Baby Grand Piano

2007-06-02T09:52:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Fisher Price Interactive Baby Grand Piano

Submitted by: Brannan Sirratt, Fayetteville, AR

Rating: 8

Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: Fisher-Price has done it again! This interactive "piano" is so much more than lights and sounds. Three settings (play time, music time and learning time) maximize the learning and exploring potential of each interactive feature.

The keyboard on the front has eight keys, each with its corresponding number and one of four colors. The keys can play a note, sing the scale and say each color or number, depending on the mode that is toggled. In addition, pressing a key will play portions of the song that the songbook is showing.

This colorful book makes page-turning sounds and has each note coded by color and number for older kids to learn the songs. On the back of the piano, there are several buttons and switches teaching everything from pitch to speed to just plain silliness. With a nearly endless possibility of noises to make, it will be some time before your child bores with this toy.

Review: My son received this at 3 months old with us all thinking, "It will be awhile before he enjoys it." Not so! Within the week he was fascinated with keeping the songs playing by banging on the flashing keyboard, and it wasn't long before he was turning the pages to play the song he wanted.

It has been nearly 3 more months, now, and he sits alone at his piano and serenades us all. It's not quite enough to let the piano play songs anymore; he wants to play it on the individual note setting. He's even working his large muscles by pulling himself to standing by it. A major plus is that if it turns over during this process, there are no edges that may hurt him. With so much more for him to discover, I can't see him getting bored soon.

Beside the incredible innovation put into this little package, it is super-durable. With all of the pounding, drooling, pulling and tipping, this toy has yet to show even the slightest hint of use.

All in all, this is a wonderful, durable developmental toy. (And this is coming from a nearly anti-battery-toy mama)

Criticism: I would watch the dancing face, however. If little fingers held on at just the right spot, I can see how they'd get pinched.

Rainforest Jumperoo

2007-05-29T12:25:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Rainforest Jumperoo by Fisher Price
Submitted by: Michelle Morgan, Leawood, KS
Rating: 10
Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: This product is a stand alone jumper.

Review: My daughter loves this toy. She received it as a gift from grandma when she was four months old. It only took me about 10 minutes to put together.

My daughter can touch on the lowest setting and bounce a little. She is fascinated by the activity toys and lights. I love that it can be set up in any where, easily breaks down for travel, and that there are controls for the lights and music. It is very sturdy.

This toy is great. I would recommend it for anyone with little ones. We will get a lot of use for now and as she grows. Instead of being set up in a doorway it can go anywhere in a room. It breaks down for easy travel. It is rainforest themed with lots of bright colors and rainforest animals. The tray has three different activity sections with great lights and music. The seat swivels all the way around to allow access to all the activities. Two leaves attach at the top on each side with a toy can and a frog hanging down. There is control panel for the music and lights.

Constipation and Hemorrhoids

2007-05-27T08:17:00.000-05:00

One of the most common complaints of pregnant women is the fact that they are constipated on a continual basis and that they've developed hemorrhoids. To be able to prevent constipation and hemorrhoids, you should know what causes them to develop in pregnant women.

Reasons for constipation

The hormone called progesterone which increases during pregnancy may cause your stomach activity to slow down. This in turn will cause the stools to sit in your large intestine and become harder and drier.
Taking prenatal vitamins that contain iron may increase constipation. Also there are certain antacids and calcium pills that may cause constipation, as well.
When your uterus becomes larger, it may press on your stomach or bowel and therefore not allow the stool to pass through your system as easily.

Try getting relief the natural way

Do your exercises on a regular basis and drink plenty of water. You should drink at least 8-8oz glasses of water each day. Juices are also great to keep your stomach moving, but you still need to drink your 8 glasses of water.
Eat foods that are rich in fiber -- fruits, vegetables and cereals that are high in fiber.
Fiber supplements are safe to use everyday, even when you are pregnant.
Prunes and prune juice are also very good in relieving constipation.

Other methods
Products that are considered to be stool softeners or mild laxatives are also safe to use every day. But do avoid taking products that have stimulants in them.

Some don’ts

Don’t use mineral oil to relieve your constipation. The mineral oil might prevent your body from being able to absorb all its nutrients.
Don't use caster oil. It may cause early contractions in the uterus.

Hemorrhoids
Avoiding constipation may be a start to avoiding hemorrhoids. After all, hemorrhoids are caused by straining to have a bowel movement. Besides the above listed suggestions for relieving constipation, here are a few more tips on preventing hemorrhoids from flaring up.

Do not stand for any extended time
Try putting your feet up throughout the day
Take warm sitz baths
Use ice to take any swelling down
Try not to do any moderate or heavy lifting

If you are still having problems with either hemorrhoids or constipation tell your doctor. He or she will be your guide to help you overcoming this problem.

What to Expect During Your First Trimester

2007-05-25T12:33:00.000-05:00

The first three months of your pregnancy is called the first trimester. It is here that you need to start your pregnancy off right by establishing a healthy prenatal care routine. You can start this routine by visiting your health care provider.

What to expect on your first visit to your health care provider
Your health care provider will need answers to several questions, so be prepared. The questions that he or she will ask is important information that will help to provide and establish a medical history he or she may need to draw upon at a later date.

You will be asked about your menstrual cycle, what you use for contraceptives, if you have had any previous pregnancies, and if you have any allergies or other medical conditions. Your health care provider will also ask if you are taking any prescription or over the counter medications. If you are not asked, you should still tell your doctor about any family genetic disorders or family history of any congenital abnormalities.

You will be asked when you last period was so the healthcare provider can establish the due date. He or she will do this by adding 40 weeks to the date of when you had your last period.

You will be given a physical exam. The doctor will need to know how healthy you are as well as how healthy the baby is. You will be weighed, have your blood pressure taken, and have your height recorded during this exam.

The doctor will also give you a pelvic exam and a pap test. From this exam, the doctor will determine if there are any infections or other abnormalities, such as cancer. The stage of your pregnancy can be determined by the change in your cervix and the size of your uterus.

You will also be given a blood test, not only to determine your blood type, but also the Rh factor which is a specific kind of protein that is on the surface of your red blood cells. The blood tests will also show if you have had any exposure to diseases like syphilis, measles, mumps, rubella, or hepatitis B.

Your urine will be tested for specific amounts of sugar and protein. Too much sugar or protein in your urine indicates diabetes or kidney problems.

Your health care provider will talk to you about vitamins, exercise and other lifestyle changes that may need to happen, such as not smoking.

Additional visits to schedule
During your first trimester, doctor visits will be scheduled for every four to six weeks. At these visits, you will be weighed and your blood pressure taken. It is here at these visits that you will need to talk about any questions or concerns that you have. Your doctor is a great support system for you, so it is important to be honest and open about anything you need to discuss.

Also during your first trimester is when you will have an ultrasound. This will give you your first look at your new baby. This is also where your doctor will be able to check how the baby is growing and developing.

Physical changes in your body

Tender breasts
Nausea, mostly in the morning, but may last all day
Tiredness - expect a LOT more than usual
Emotional changes
Some dizziness - If your dizziness occurs with pain in the abdomen or vaginal bleeding you will need to call you doctor right away.
More frequent urination, or leaking due to coughing, sneezing or laughing.

The most important thing is to make an appointment to visit with your doctor or health care provider as soon as you know, or if you suspect you may be pregnant. Taking care of yourself and your baby will provide you with a much happier and healthier pregnancy.

Getting Enough Sleep During Pregnancy

2007-05-22T12:26:00.000-05:00

Every pregnant woman complains of this—not getting enough sleep. Most moms have no clue why they can’t sleep, let alone what to do about it. While you may eventually become so tired that you’ll fall asleep, this isn’t a good way to live.

Why Can’t I Sleep? The biggest reason why you aren’t able to sleep well is because your body is undergoing major changes. Other factors that could disrupt your sleep patterns are lack of exercise, too much exercise, and bad eating habits. Another thing that could affect your sleep is the position in which you sleep on your bed.

What Can I Do to Help Myself? If you are sedentary, try getting more exercise. Walking is super easy to do. Find a walking partner and walk at least 3 days a week, 30 minutes at a time. Not only is exercise good for your muscles, but it will help prevent excess weight gain and improve your energy levels. It will also prepare you for a healthier labor.

Pay attention to the position you assume when you go to bed at night. Do you sleep on your back? You should always sleep on either side, preferably your left side. If this doesn’t help, try tucking a pillow under your tummy, leg or side.

Calm your mind and body before going to bed. Try a bedtime routine of a warm bath, adding a little lavender oil will make it smell wonderful and aid relaxation. Once you finish your relaxing bath have your spouse give you a back or foot massage if possible and then have a nice cup of warm herbal tea. Chamomile or sleepy time are great sleep inducing and calming teas.

Another thing you could do is try to read a good relaxing book. I often find this is the easiest way to fall asleep as your mind doesn’t have time to wander.

I Still Can’t Sleep! Unfortunately, many pregnant women lose lots of sleep, especially during their last trimester. If you are able, take cat naps during the day. When you feel sleepy, take a nap; don’t fight it. Do your best to sleep as often as possible even if you’re having trouble sleeping through the whole night.

Want to learn more? The Pregnancy Bible book is a great resource for expecting moms!

Fisher Price Infant to Toddler Rocker

2007-05-21T14:15:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Fisher Price Infant to Toddler Rocker

Submitted by: Kate Towers; Cambridgeshire

Rating: 9

Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: This seat features a stand so you can have it as a normal seat that sits still or a rocker. Other features include a toy bar that goes across the front of the chair and it vibrates which keeps my little boy amused for hours.

Review: I purchased this online a month ago and I think its great and it has probably been our best purchase so far. My son has loved being in this and has spent more time asleep in this than in his cradle.

I love the fact that we will be able to still use it when he’s older too, so I think its great value for money. I also prefer to use this chair for when I am feeding him as he seems to feed better in this than with his high chair, I think he prefers being lower down. I would definitely recommend this rocker to friends. Great for when he sleeps, for rocking, feeding....everything.

Parenting - Learn to Listen to Your Instincts

2007-05-17T06:26:00.000-05:00

New mothers often feel inadequate as a parent. They question their instincts because it’s strange and new to have these feelings. An important thing to remember is that your instincts are real. Every woman has intuition. As a mother, your intuitive instincts will grow even more. Here are a few points to help you as you learn to listen to your instincts.

Trust Yourself
What is your inner voice telling you? Be still and quiet and you will hear it. Let’s suppose your baby is crying and running fever but has no other symptoms. Your instincts tell you that she has an ear infection, even though you haven’t noticed her pulling at her ears. Do you trust yourself enough to take your baby to the doctor, or wait?

Don’t Second-Guess Yourself
You know your strengths and weaknesses. Are you naturally jumpy, or nervous? Do you overreact to minor situations? Do you rely on other people’s instincts or advice instead of following after what your own intuition tells you? Never second-guess yourself. If you think your baby needs medical attention, even though a “veteran” parent says that you’re overreacting, what would you do?

Know that You are Capable
One of the greatest fears of a new mother is that you will fail your child. Be assured that you know what is best for your child. You are able to provide for his needs. You are the best person for the job!

Tips for Coping with Contractions

2007-05-12T06:55:00.000-05:00

Whether you will give birth naturally or use pain medications, you may experience the pain of contractions at some point throughout your labor. Here are some tips to help you cope with contractions.

Tip #1: Breathe
A common reaction to pain is to take a deep breath in and hold it. You should not do this while you’re in labor. Try to remember to breathe. Take a deep breath in, the slowly release it. (Don’t forget to take Lamaze classes, as this will help you learn breathing techniques to use during labor!)

Tip #2: Relax
As difficult as it sounds, you have to relax. Think about your favorite vacation spot. Concentrate on a time when you feel most relaxed. Take yourself to that place or time in your mind to help you relax. The more you tense your body the stronger your pain may feel.

Tip #3: Don’t Watch the Clock
Your husband needs something to do, so assign him clock duty. Let him time your contractions. Let him keep up with how many minutes apart they are. You stay focused on remaining calm and breathing and let him worry about the clock!

Tip#4: Rest
The last thing you should do while you’re having contractions is do last minute preparations in the baby’s room or clean your house. Try to resist the nesting instinct at this point and start mentally and physically preparing yourself for the labor ahead. You will need every ounce of energy you can muster when the time comes to push.

Tip#5: Distract Yourself
Keep something small at hand to distract yourself. You will feel anxious and nervous, so have something to keep your mind distracted. If you like to craft, work on a small needlepoint project. If you enjoy reading, catch up on that novel you’ve been waiting to read. Having friends or family around during early labor may help take your mind off the mild contractions.

Tip #6: Be Patient
When you begin to feel contractions, you will most likely start to feel excited. However, many labors, especially first-timers, tend to last for several hours. If your labor is slow, just be patient. Before you know it, you will have your beautiful baby girl or boy in your arms.

Mom and Baby Can Exercise Together

2007-05-10T08:36:00.000-05:00

If you’re a new mom, you probably know that getting exercise can be tough. Taking care of a baby takes up a lot of your energy. It’s often difficult to find someone to watch the baby while you go to the gym or you may not want to leave baby with someone yet. To stay healthy and take off those extra pounds, try incorporating your baby into your workout routine. This way, baby can be entertained and you can work up a sweat. Plus, once you’re used to it, exercise can give you a great energy boost to get through your long, stressful day.

Here are some great exercises to try today:

Walking - There are some great multi-terrain strollers which you can use for walks with your baby. You can also buy a sling and go for walks with baby. This will make your baby easier to tote around with you. Plus a walk can be a great way to stimulate your baby with new sights, sounds and smells.
Running and biking - Instead of buying expensive workout equipment, why not check out the specialized strollers the next time you’re at a sport supply store? They make devices specifically for running and biking safely with your child. And like walking, this also exposes your baby to new stimuli.
Move, shake, and dance with your baby - Next time your baby is crying, instead of jiggling and rocking them, try putting them in a sling and dancing with them. If this doesn’t work to quiet them, you can still do it when they’re happy.
Take a class - Take a look on the internet or at a local gym. You can probably find a class in your area designed to give you and your baby a workout at the same time. If you’re serious about getting in shape with your baby, find a personal training who’s also a mom. She’ll be able to give you exercises you can not only do with your baby, but one that is also specifically tailored to you.

Working out with your baby can not only get you back into shape, it can also give your baby the stimulation they need to lead and active, healthy life. Just remember to be safe and always make sure your baby is secure.

Mastitis - Breastfeeding Woes

2007-05-09T07:05:00.000-05:00

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast usually caused by infection. Occurring during the first six months of breast-feeding, this is a common ailment affecting new mothers. Let’s discuss how to overcome mastitis.

When the breast becomes too full of milk, because a feeding has been delayed or your breast has not been emptied, this will result in a clogged duct. This can cause the infection known as mastitis. Another cause of infection to the breast can be due to cracked nipples. You may feel a sharp pain in your nipple while your baby is nursing, which may mean there is a thin crack in your nipple. This can happen if you do not dry your nipples thoroughly after each feeding. Your doctor will prescribe cream to apply to your nipple and the crack should take a few days to heal. You can, meanwhile, continue to breastfeed your baby using the other breast.

Mastitis may be exhibited by pain, redness, swelling and fever. A baby cannot get milk from a swollen nipple, so you need to remove excess milk before you breastfeed. Using a breast pump is ideal. As stated earlier, mastitis is common and is treatable with antibiotics. You can continue to breastfeed, however, it is important that if you are diagnosed with mastitis to follow these simple rules: rest; drink plenty of liquids and before you breastfeed, either soak your breasts in warm water or place a warm towel over the affected breast.

Continuing to breastfeed from the affected breast will not only help to clear up the mastitis, but is entirely safe for your baby. You can also switch to the other breast if the affected one is too painful for your child to breastfeed. Note that mastitis should be treated immediately to avoid any further complication.

Jeep Wrangler All Weather Umbrella Stroller

2007-05-07T20:49:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Jeep Wrangler All Weather Umbrella Stroller

Submitted by: Sarah Grant, Rosamond, CA

Rating: 9

Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: Very affordable single child stroller. It folds up really smooth and easy, has convenient rear wheel locks, a head rest for baby (under 35 lbs), along with a fold out sun shade/umbrella.

Review: I hate lugging huge things around, and I completely fell in love with this very affordable single child stroller. The all terrain wheels really work great too, I've taken mine over dirt, gravel, and grass and it keeps going without getting stuck. The fabric wipes clean easily, and mall, the park, the zoo, anywhere you take baby. I've even run into the grocery store with it to grab some milk, it's that quick to set up.

There are two little "saddle-bags" on the side to carry snacks and stuff. The lap belt works smoothly, I can snap or unsnap it with one hand.

I can't say enough how convenient it is to have such a compact little stroller in the back of the car that I can whip out any moment for strolling in the mall, the park, the zoo, anywhere you take baby. I've even run into the grocery store with it to grab some milk, it's that quick to set up.

Criticism: I wish it had a strap to hold it folded together after I've stored it under the seat in the car.

Back Aches During Pregnancy? Get Some Relief

2007-05-04T14:09:00.000-05:00

Not only does pregnancy make us feel fat, it also increases the risk of back pain. With the extra weight that we carry, our sense of balance is off more often than not. If you are an expectant mother and your back is bothering you, here are some ways to find relief.

Be Careful! - As a pregnant woman, your center of gravity will shift as the pregnancy progresses. When standing from the seated position rise slowly. Any quick movements could make you lose your balance and fall. Prop your feet up on a low stool when you sit down.
Exercise - Exercise will help relieve back pain. Ask your doctor which exercises are allowed during each trimester of the pregnancy. Walking is the safest way to keep your back healthy. Maintain proper posture when walking to avoid further back aches.
Do the Pelvic Tilt - These help to stretch the back out. Kneel on the floor on the hands and knees. Arch your back and tighten your abdominal muscles. Hold for a count of five. Slowly bring your back to the starting position. Be consistent with the exercises to relieve pain.
Lie Down - But not completely flat to find relief from back pain. Place a pillow under the knees and another under your head. Or you can also lie flat on the floor with your feet propped up on a chair covered with a pillow. If you are not comfortable on your back due to the added weight of the baby, lie on your side. Use a body pillow to support your growing belly and a regular pillow between your knees. Curl forward in the fetal position to stretch the muscles of the back and the vertebrae.
Make an Appointment at a Spa - Some spas offer massage therapy for pregnant women. The treatments are relaxing and go a long way to relieve lower back pains. Check with your doctor to be sure that a massage is safe for you.
Use a Heating Pad or a Hot Water Bottle - Warmth on a sore muscle can help to relieve the pain. Afterwards, have another person rub the warmed area to massage the muscle. This could go a long way to relieving the pain if done when it first starts.
Tylenol or Aspirin? - If you need to, Tylenol or aspirin can be taken during pregnancy for pain relief. Ask your doctor how much to take and how often it can be taken. Avoid ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and any other pain relievers while you are pregnant.

Back pain is a hard thing to ignore. During pregnancy, it is just one more thing that you don’t want to have to deal with. Taking simple measures to relieve the pain when it first starts will keep it from getting any worse.

Having Twins? Here are Some Breastfeeding Tips

2007-05-02T06:27:00.000-05:00

Having multiple births can be a blessing but, at the same time, can pose several problems. One of which is breastfeeding. Before you hit the panic button, here are some helpful breastfeeding tips for moms of multiples.

Most experts, including other moms of multiples, suggest buying a really good nursing pump. It not only stimulates milk production, but allows you to collect as much milk as you need to feed the babies. There are electric double pumps which allow you to express milk from both breasts at the same time. Although this can be costly to purchase, you may want to think about renting this kind of pump from a medical supply company.

In addition, seek and accept whatever assistance is offered by either family members or friends. This is a time when everyone needs to come together and address the concerns on a day to day basis. If you’ve had twins, try breastfeeding both at the same time. It is really whatever you feel comfortable with. There are no rules defining the right or wrong way to handle this situation.

While nursing one baby, use the pump on the other breast in order to increase milk production. Above all, when breastfeeding your baby, choose a quiet area in your home where you are most comfortable. Ensure there are no disturbances. Make certain you get plenty of rest in between feedings; reduce your stress level by engaging in a proper diet, and be sure to drink plenty of fluids.

According to experts, newborns breastfeed from eight to fourteen times a day within a 24 hour period. In addition, they suggest simulating a newborn’s feed routine in order to produce more milk. While each pumping session may take 10-20 minutes, the length of time will vary with each woman. Continue to pump as long as you have a good flow.

As long as you are surrounded by those willing to assist you with your multiples, there is nothing to worry about except you and the babies. Trying to do everything yourself will only complicate the process. Take it slow and easy, and everything will be fine.

Tai Chi for Expecting Mothers

2007-04-26T09:58:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, exercise requires a different and unique approach. Tai Chi for Expecting Mothers is one such DVD. Highly rated by consumers, this DVD provides a way in which pregnant moms can become less stressed, have more energy, and allows for a buffer against some of the side affects associated with pregnancy.

The DVD contains a complete whole body work-out combining Tai Chi, self massage and deep breathing meditation techniques to strengthen and relax the body while calming the mind to reduce feelings of stress. It is one of the highest quality independently produced pregnancy fitness DVDs released to date.

Here are some of the rave reviews this DVD has received: “I've never tried Tai Chi before, but I do adore yoga. I'm looking for some variety in my pregnancy workouts and figured I'd go ahead and take the plunge and buy this DVD. My goodness! Was I surprised! About 1/4 of the way through it, I noticed my heart rate was actually up and I was developing a light sweat! Could this be possible? It is! I used to run and do lots of aerobics and I knew what a "light sweat" was like after doing yoga, but this "light sweat" was different. I could actually feel as though toxins were leaving my body.”

Another pregnant mom wrote: “I have only good things to say about this great DVD. So many women take pregnancy as a green light to eat 5 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches a day and just decide to "work it all off later". I am here to tell you that the "later" takes years. I decided to give this DVD a try. Not only did I have increased energy, but I felt great! The instruction is clear and the exercises are easy to follow. I always felt great after the work out. The meditation in the DVD was very helpful.”

What a wonderful way to assist expectant moms by producing a DVD that not only calms and relaxes, but yields positive and long last results.

Where can you buy it? Amazon.com

Exercising AFTER You Have the Baby

2007-04-24T09:57:00.000-05:00

During pregnancy, it’s good to gain a certain amount of weight. This is used to support your growing child and to provide the extra calories if and when you start breastfeeding. New mothers naturally lose weight after the birth; however, if you don’t lose the weight because of gaining too much weight, or other reasons, it can be hard to take the rest off.

Here are some tips to help you get on track with your exercise plan:

Get Baby Involved! - Don’t wait till your child is asleep to try to get a decent workout. Strap on a baby sling or get baby in a good walking/jogging stroller so you can take the baby with you for a walk.
Don’t Begin Too Soon - Whether you’re had a vaginal delivery or a C-section, your body has gone through quite a bit. If you start a workout routine too soon, it can be damaging to your health. It’s usually recommended to wait 6 weeks before you start trying to workout; however, if you had a vaginal delivery, you can use those first 6 weeks to strengthen your vaginal muscles and start stretching exercises. Just be sure to check with your doctor before you start any exercise program.
Don’t Work Too Hard - It’s pretty likely that you haven’t been able to do a normal workout for at least a few months, maybe more. Just like starting any exercise program, you should not start full force right away. Trying to do too much is likely to do more harm than help. Before you start working out, ask your doctor for recommended exercises and how often you should do them. Remember, if you hurt yourself, you’re not going to be able to take as good care of your baby.
Make Room for Exercise in Your Schedule - While having a regular routine is helpful, it’s almost impossible to get a baby to conform to your schedule. This means you have to change your schedule to fit your baby’s. You’ll probably have to squeeze in workouts where you can. Choose exercises that you can do in different places at different times. Get an exercise tape or something else you can do at home. You should also remember that two 15 minute workouts or three 10 minute workouts can be just as helpful as a half hour work out. If you can set a rigid work out schedule, that’s great. If you can’t, set a looser schedule and be sure to stick with it.

Getting back in shape after a baby can be difficult, but with time, patience, and planning, you too can get back to your healthy self.

Pregnancy and Giving Birth is a Cherished Memory

2007-04-22T21:39:00.000-05:00

In the beginning of your pregnancy, you’re consumed with excitement and you feel beautiful. It seems like the upcoming months will last forever as you plan, shop, decorate and bond deeper with your partner. You can’t imagine forgetting one moment of this exciting time. But just to make sure, you dutifully record every precious moment in your pregnancy journal along with the receipts and special mementos you’ve collected.

You’re pregnant and your emotions change all day long; excited, anxious, happy, sad, feeling beautiful, feeling fat. These feelings not only change all day, but they become stronger and different over the months as your baby grows inside you. Those emotions of feeling beautiful at the beginning of your pregnancy will change to emotions of feeling fat once you’re into your sixth or seventh month.

Finally the labor begins and you’re whisked off to the hospital or birthing center room and your pregnancy journal is forgotten. You’re now concentrating on the labor and wishing it would be over. What a way to cap off a wonderful pregnancy, writhing in agony or thankfully medicated as the contractions take over your body. At this moment you can’t think of much you’d want to remember, except maybe those special moments with your partner.

Suddenly you are giving birth, your new baby has arrived and your wonderful new life is starting. You and your partner exchange emotional thoughts that will be remembered forever. These are moments burned in your memory to be shared in later years when your family is grown.

While you wrap up the labor and delivery those first few days, friends and relatives call and some stop by to view your baby in the nursery. You form a special relationship with your doctor and the nurses and other new mothers. As you drive your new baby home and safely nestle him in his new room, there are more special memories. From now on, everything you do is a special memory.

These are the times you want to record as a family keepsake. Your pregnancy journal may not leave much room to record the events that come after the delivery. You’ll want to have a new scrapbook ready or a new journal just for the labor and delivery. You might overlook giving birth as an event needing a special keepsake. Of course, you’ll remember the major special moments, but as the years go by, you will forget the minor events. You may have a video of the birth and of course, you’ll have many photos of the labor and delivery, but these don’t record your special thoughts and emotions that only you experienced.

When your new baby is grown and ready to commit to a family of his own, you’ll be asked a lot of questions about his birth. Imagine how wonderful it would be to have your keepsake to provide all the details you otherwise would have forgotten. This is a keepsake that will warm the heart of your now grown child as he/she realizes how special it is that you put so much time and effort into this keepsake.

Make plans early in your pregnancy to record these cherished memories of giving birth.

Life's Little Journals "Journey to Motherhood" can get you started on your way to recording these cherished memories.

3 Tips to Help You Get Through a Long Labor

2007-04-20T12:43:00.000-05:00

If you are getting closer to the end of your pregnancy, you may be growing a bit anxious about the labor and delivery portion of this journey. This is quite normal and most pregnant women experience this same anxiety at some point. You should be prepared, in the event that your labor extends the length of an average labor.

Use these 3 helpful tips for coping with a long labor:

1. Relax - The number one rule is to relax. You must be able to remain calm and collected during your labor. Although it is difficult, becoming anxious or irritated will only make things worst. You are doing a lot of hard work throughout this process, so you need to be able to stay calm and relaxed.

Download some soothing music to your iPod.
Have a back massager on hand for your spouse or birth partner to rub your back when you start to get achy.

Whatever you need to help you relax, bring it with you to the hospital.

Surround Yourself with Love - The excitement of a baby tends to cause mothers to invite several people to be present for the birth. This may not a good idea. Naturally, you want to share this momentous occasion with many family and friends. But the labor room may not be a good time for a family reunion. Pick and choose your birth partners carefully. Be sure to surround yourself with people who can help keep you calm and focused during your labor.

Remember your Goal – Keep your goal in mind even through the pain. You are experiencing something wonderful, but it doesn’t come without lots of hard work. Your labor can become difficult and lengthy, so be ready for it. When you get tired, or feel like you just can’t take another minute, remind yourself that soon you’ll have a lovely little baby in your arms and it will all be forgotten.

Fisher Price Kick and Play Bouncer

2007-04-18T15:35:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Fisher Price Kick and Play Bouncer

Submitted by: Genesis Davies, San Juan, Saq

Rating: 7

Where to buy: Amazon

Description: This bouncer comes with a padded cloth seat and a toy bar that lights up and plays music when the baby bats at the hanging decorations or kicks.

Review: This is really great for keeping little ones busy while you are trying to get a bit of housework done! My son is a year and a half old and he still plays with the toy bar. A kick plate at the front senses the random kicking of even a very small baby and sets off the music and lights. The music can be set to activate only when the baby kicks, or to play all the time, with lights flashing, which is good when your baby hasn’t yet figured out that his actions make the toy work.

There is also a vibration feature with two settings, very useful for putting a small child to sleep or calming a colicky infant when you are just too tired to bounce him anymore. Combined with the bouncing action of the chair, it is really soothing and the hum of the motor helps quiet infants, as well.

Criticism: The cloth seat is completely washable and very easy to use. The only problem with it is that you have no way to use the chair while the cover is being washed. My only problem with this chair is that the front metal strut broke while my son was bouncing in the chair. This was after about 6 months of use, although in all fairness, my husband used his foot to bounce the chair on that same strut, obviously weakening it!

Labor - Options for Controlling the Pain

2007-04-17T08:58:00.000-05:00

As you prepare for the birth of your baby, your doctor will discuss options available to you for pain management during labor. No two labors are the same and so the amount of pain you experience will depend on several factors such as your level of pain tolerance or the type of labor you’re having. For example “back labor” (this is when your baby’s spine is rubbing up against yours) can be more painful.

This quick reference guide will give you some pain control options. You should talk about your alternatives with your physician or midwife to determine which method you’d like to go with.

Option #1: Epidural

An epidural is administered by an anesthesiologist. This type of pain control is most common among women today. An epidural is dispensed in the lower back. It allows for continual pain management throughout your labor. This is my personal favorite option :) I opted for the epidural with all three of my deliveries and ALL of the births were easy for me and pain free!

Option #2: Intravenous medications

Intravenous (IV) medications can be administered during early phases of labor. This type of pain relief lasts only briefly, to give you some relief. IV medications can make you and your baby sleepy, so they are only used during early labor for pain relief.

Option #3: Mental relaxation

Women who are opting for natural births should utilize mental relaxation techniques. This type of pain control relies heavily on the mother keeping herself calm and relaxed during labor. You must be mentally strong and able to control your mind and thoughts. You should spend as much of your pregnancy as possible practicing relaxation techniques.

Option #4: Water Birth

Many pregnant women in labor like this method of pain management. In fact, hospitals around the world are incorporating water birthing centers into their labor and delivery floors. Using a tub or shower, you are able to better handle your labor contractions. Water seems to ease the tension and help women relax during their labor.

**Please note, if your waters break avoid water until you consult your midwife or physician.**

Option #5: Gas and Air (Entonox)

The gas, a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide, is administered through a mask or mouthpiece, allowing women to control the amount they take in. When you feel a contraction you take in a deep breath of gas and it will alleviate your symptoms. Some women don’t like the gas because it makes them feel a bit drowsy or “drunk” while others find it really helps.

Like labor, all pain control options are not created equal. What works for some may not work for others. The best thing you can do is prepare yourself with as much information possible so that you can know all your choices before the big day arrives.

5 Essentials for Your Baby's Nursery

2007-04-16T06:44:00.000-05:00

As you are preparing for your child to be born, you are no doubt thinking about setting up the nursery. You get to have the fun of registering at baby stores and thinking up color schemes...but what do you really NEED? Here are 5 essentials to get you started:

Cradle and Crib - A cradle (or bassinet) and crib are probably the most important pieces of furniture you will buy. Many people choose to have baby stay in their room - at least for a little while. This is where the bassinet or cradle come in handy. When they're ready to move into their own room, a nice, sturdy crib is in order.
Mobile - No doubt you have either received or acquired a mobile for the crib. With the variety of colors, themes and mobiles available today, you shouldn’t have a problem picking one out for your baby. The songs help to soothe the baby and the motion helps keep them occupied as they get older.
Baby Monitor - This is a MUST HAVE - especially once you get baby on their own in their very own room! Monitors come in many varieties, from the very simple to the extravagant video monitor. Whatever type you choose, you will have peace of mind knowing that you can monitor baby's crying and sleeping habits while being able to do your own thing somewhere else in the house.
Changing Table - A changing table doesn't have to be formal...it can even be a soft, cushy changing pad on top of a dresser. Whatever you do, make sure that it is safe and secure for your little one.
Rocking Chair - No nursery is complete without a rocking chair (or glider). Make sure to find a comfortable one for you, since you will be spending most of your time feeding and rocking your baby to sleep.

Now you are ready to roll with your new nursery. Last thought - if you don't have the funds, these can be great group baby shower gifts...and don't be afraid to accept hand-me-downs either. Just make sure that all pieces of furniture and anything that the baby can get near are secure and meet current safety standards.

Now get out there and start registering :)

What About Yoga?

2007-04-12T07:24:00.000-05:00

If you are pregnant and concerned about maintaining good health during your pregnancy, there are several options available for you. Yoga is a popular form of exercise among pregnant women.
Here are some great reasons why:
Can reduce nausea – Many pregnant women experience weeks, if not months of morning sickness. Yoga helps reduce your nausea and can drastically reduce the terrible stretch of morning sickness.
Relieves stress – Yoga is most commonly known as a way to help a person stay centered and relieve stress. This is especially important during pregnancy when both mom and baby should remain stress free at all times.
Relieves fluid retention – Pregnancy causes many women’s hands, feet and face to swell. Practicing yoga during your pregnancy can help to relieve some of that fluid build-up that you experience.
Relieves tension –Some pregnant women experience a great amount of stress. This stress leads to great amounts of tension in your body, particularly in your muscles such as your back and neck. Yoga can help relieve this stress-induced tension and keep you calm.
Stimulates your power of focus – Not only can yoga be a great stress and tension reliever, but it can also help you to get your mind focused. When you are calm, you are better able to focus on the actual birth process. Yoga can enable a faster and much less taxing labor.
Facilitates flexibility – Flexibility plays a large role in the birth process. Yoga enables you to remain flexible during pregnancy, which will help your muscles to be prepared for the birthing process when you go into labor and can help your body recover from the birth.

Ready to give it a try? This Simple Yoga for Pregnancy DVD from Amazon.com can help get you started!

Concerned about buying online? Here are some tips to keep you safe!

Luvs Ultra Leakguards Diapers

2007-04-11T14:04:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Luvs Ultra Leakguards Stretch Diapers
Submitted by: Jeannie Kerns; Colorado Springs, CO
Rating: 10
Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: Luvs Ultra Leak guard diapers are the kind of diapers you have been waiting for. They are made with a plastic coating instead of the cloth coating that leaves little cotton ball like particles all on the outside, they have tape instead of Velcro like most diapers these days, and the characters that are across the diapers change every few weeks. You can't go wrong with Luvs Ultra Leakguards.

Review: Well I tell you, I think that I have been able to try almost every diaper out there in the past 20 years. I have gone through the most expensive (like all us new Mommies tend to do) to the least expensive (that is when we realize there all the same) diapers.

Well after using Drypers for the longest time, I decided that I would try a new one. Actually a name brand one that was cheaper by a couple of bucks. To my surprise and that is exactly what it was, I loved them.

I bought Luvs Ultra Leak guard thinking I was going to be disappointed like the rest. But I honestly was shocked. They were like the old diapers. And I am talking like 20 years ago when my first daughter was born.

They have the plastic outside, which I love because the cloth outside is terrible, I was sick of seeing pieces of the diaper balled up when my son walked away. That is what they do, they collect and make lint balls all over the diaper and they are terrible.

The pattern: Well let me tell you I honestly do not like Barney, but yes, my son does. And when he saw Barney on his diaper he was in a rush to put them on. Thank goodness too, because any other time he wants them off.

The tape: Well this is a big thing for me. I am so sick of the Velcro, I can't even begin to start. I don't know who thought that it was better to do this, but whoever it was needs to be spoken to. All that does is give the child an easier way to take the diaper off. That is exactly what he would do. "Mommy my hiney is showing", well if the Velcro wasn't so easy we wouldn't have had that problem now would we have. Sheesh. But with Luvs, I can be at ease that his diaper will stay on until it is ready to be changed. The tape comes off easy and applies easy as well. No red marks to where the tape cuts into the skin because it is hanging off, no problems at all.

As for quality: Excellent. I have used these for about 4 weeks now, and not once has there been a wet bed. With the others, I was washing sheets and blankets on a daily basis. It is nice not to be the queen of the washing machine for a chance.

Anyways, if you’re planning on buying diapers, buy Luvs. They will not let you down, and you save money as well.

Bringing the New Baby into an Already Full Household

2007-04-10T13:13:00.000-05:00

Bringing a new baby into the world is a wonderful experience. It can also be trying and difficult if you have other children at home. As you prepare for the birth of your new baby, here are some things you should keep in mind about introducing the new baby.

Equal Treatment
It is hard not to constantly dote on the new baby once you’re home. Be cautious about spending so much time with the new baby that you inadvertently ignore your other children. Try to set aside special time with each child. Talk about their day at school, or extracurricular activities they are involved in. Spend your special time focusing only on that particular child.

Reminisce
Now would be the perfect time to get out the picture albums and baby books from your older children. Set aside a special day just to go through the books. Talk about how you felt when each child was born. Share funny stories with them. Recollecting fond memories will bring your family closer and will show your other children that they are just as special as the newborn.

Get Them Involved
Let your children be involved in the caretaking of your new baby. Give each child a special responsibility. One child might be in charge of gathering the diaper-changing necessities, while another is in charge of warming the bottle. Your older children can take turns feeding the baby. Let your children be involved; however, don’t force them to participate if they don’t want to at first. Sometimes it takes a few days for children to “warm up” to the idea of a new baby being in the house.

Be Patient
Some children don’t take too well to a new sibling but be patient and know that you are doing the right things and that your older child will soon come around. Eventually your children may even be such good friends that you won’t even remember this time.

Exercise During Pregnancy...Is it Safe?

2007-04-09T17:22:00.000-05:00

Pregnant women are often concerned about gaining excess weight. A common question many pregnant women ask their doctors is if exercise is safe during pregnancy. Be informed that the viewpoint of your obstetrician may vary from other doctors. However, it has been determined by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists that some exercise is safe for pregnant women.

That being said, here are some tips to keep in mind if you choose to exercise:

Don’t Exercise Sporadically
Most doctors will agree that regular moderate exercise a few times each week is much better than sporadic exercise. It is inadvisable to exercise only when you feel like it. If you aren’t able to keep a regular exercise routine (2-3 days per week), then you shouldn't try to hit the gym.

Pay Attention to Your Body
When you are pregnant, you do not have the same flexibility as you may have otherwise. Thus, exercise with caution. If you are having muscle aches or other pain, you should slow down or stop the exercise. Pushing yourself too hard could result in more pain or problems.

Don’t Lie on Your Back
If you are past your first trimester, you should not lie on your back during exercise. This decreases the amount of oxygen that your baby receives. You should avoid any exercise that has to be done in this manner.

Stay Hydrated
While exercising, remember to drink plenty of water. Take advantage of indoor gyms and exercise facilities, if at all possible, to stay out of the heat.

Teething Remedies

2007-04-08T19:40:00.000-05:00

Teething normally occurs in babies between the ages of six and nine months, but can begin as early as 3 months and last through 12-15 months (although it is easier for them to find relief themselves when they're that old).

Some common symptoms of teething include cranky moods, swollen gums, drooling, fever, diarrhea and excessive biting on objects.

You should expect your baby to be fussy, as her gums are in an extremely tender state during the teething process. She might even refuse to eat or take her bottle if she is uncomfortable or in pain.

Here are some common baby teething remedies that will help ease your baby’s discomfort:
* Rub his gums with your finger. Remember to wash your hands before doing so.
* Soak one end of a clean bath cloth in water. Place the wet cloth in a refrigerator. Once chilled, let your baby bite or suck on the cold cloth.
* Chill a teething ring or teething toy in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. Let your baby chew on the cold toy.
* Offer your baby a frozen banana (with adult supervision). Be sure to freeze the banana thoroughly before giving it to your baby. Cut the banana in half to make it easier for your baby to hold.
* Use an OTC (over the counter) teething gel. These gels are specially formulated to be safe for your baby. Read and follow the instructions on the package carefully before applying the gel to your baby’s gums.
* Administer Tylenol or Motrin, for pain and fever as recommended by your pediatrician. If your baby has trouble sleeping at night, consider giving them a dose of pain medication just before bedtime. If you’re unsure of what pain medications to give your baby, make sure to check with your pediatrician first.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help

2007-04-05T20:33:00.000-05:00

New mothers often feel overwhelmed by all the new responsibilities thrust upon them. Between bottles and diaper changes, you can easily lose yourself amongst it all. What’s worse is that moms often feel like they have to do it all on their own.

If you’re tired of being SuperMom, let's look at a few reasons why you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help:

Reason #1
You deserve a break. Moms are busy people. We take on a lot of tasks and often don’t get much credit or recognition for them. Moms work 24 hours a day, rarely getting breaks. Allow yourself to take a break every now and again.

Reason #2
You can’t do it all by yourself. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it’s just the opposite, a sign of strength. Someone once said that no man (or mama) is an island. Oh how true this is! There is no way you could do everything by yourself, and if you did you would be exhausted so ask for help and feel good doing it.

Reason #3
They want to help you. If there is no other reason for you to ask for help, remember this one: your family and friends want to help you. That’s right—they want to. I’ve heard family members of so many new mothers say that they would love to help, but the mom never asks for help. Sometimes people don’t want to feel like they’re intruding so be proactive in asking for help. When friends and family ask if there is anything they can do to help say yes. If people ask you what you would like as a gift, mention housecleaning vouchers (or ask a close friend or relative to spread the word for you).

Reason #4
Being a “good” mom means taking care of yourself. Last, but certainly not least, asking for help does not mean that you are a bad mother. Lots of moms refuse help because they think others will view them as terrible parents for doing so. This couldn’t be further from the truth. A good mother knows when she needs help and isn’t afraid to ask for it. She knows when she needs a break. A good mother also knows that she needs to take care of herself first in order to keep the family going.

Pregnancy Stress Relief Tips

2007-04-04T06:15:00.000-05:00

Every pregnant woman deals with a certain amount of stress. However, stress should be avoided at all costs during your pregnancy. After all, you are growing this wonderful miracle inside of you!

Try these simple and quick pregnancy stress relief tips:

Stress Relief Tip #1: 15-minute foot soak. If you’re tired and stressed from a long day, a nice, hot, 15-minute foot soak will ease the day’s tension like a charm. Your feet have many pressure points, so remember to get off your feet when you’re stressed. Add a little lavender or chamomile oil for a relaxing aromatherapy foot soak.

Stress Relief Tip #2: 30-minute massage. Make an appointment for a 30-minute massage at your local spa. You may not feel like it at first but push yourself to do it, a professional massage is not only relaxing but can physically work a lot of tension out of your body and relieve pregnancy aches and pains, particularly in the back area. This is a really nice gift you can give yourself. After the baby is born, you probably won’t have time for many luxuries like this, so take advantage of it right now!

Stress Relief Tip #3: 30-minute manicure/pedicure - Another once-a-month stress reliever that is nice is a manicure and/or pedicure. Treat yourself to something nice. You deserve it. A manicure and pedicure might seem like an extravagance to some, but it will make you feel so much better. Pregnancy is hard on the body and some of us don’t feel at our best, so nice hands and feet will make you feel sexy and pretty.

Stress Relief Tip #4: 30-minute afternoon nap - You may be experiencing extreme fatigue during your pregnancy. If so, don’t fight sleep. Get in a cat-nap during late morning or early afternoon. Whenever you feel fatigue setting in, stop and rest. The best relief for stress sometimes is just a good sleep.

Overall body Stress Relief Tip: Make sure you get enough sleep at night. A good way to avoid going to bed too late is to get into the habit of making yourself a nice relaxing cup of decaffeinated tea and get in bed to read a good book. If you don’t like the thought of going to bed too early, think of it as just relaxing and catching up on some reading. Before you know it, you’ll be drifting off to sleep and ensuring you get some much needed rest.

Especially for Baby Bottle Warmer

2007-04-03T10:31:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Especially for Baby Bottle Warmer

Submitted by: Erica Johns; Lancaster, KY

Rating: 10

Where to buy: Amazon.com

Description: The Especially for Baby Bottle Warmer includes a thermal cooler and ice pack for keeping bottles cold, measured water vials, and the warming unit.

Review: When I was an exhausted mother of a premature baby that needed to be fed frequently through the night, this product was a life saver for me! Instead of having to get up frequently to get bottles from the fridge and warm them up, I never had to leave the comfort of my bed thanks to this gadget!

You just put your bottles into the cooler with the contoured ice pack, and when your baby needs to eat you can just reach over to your bedside table to take one out. You simply pour the water from one measured vial into the heating unit and then add the bottle. Press one button and wait just a minute or two until the bottle is nice and warm. By the time you change baby's diaper the bottle is ready.

Though this product didn't get great reviews at Babies R Us, I truly found it helpful and if I was in the same situation I would definitely buy another one. It sure beats sleepless nights!

Have you used this product? Please comment and let us know what you think!

Color Guide for the Nursery

2007-04-02T21:31:00.000-05:00

What color to decorate your new baby's nursery? Choosing the right nursery color isn’t just about what looks good or putting up your favorite color. The color you choose for your baby’s nursery can have a big impact on the calmness and overall look and feel of the nursery.

Here’s a simple color guide to help you set the right mood for your baby’s nursery:

Warm Colors - Red, Yellow, Orange
Red - Red is a powerful color which promotes energy… probably not the best nursery color! It’s just too bright and over stimulating. If you really like your reds, opt for a more terracotta version and try to keep it to one accent wall only.
Orange - Is less dramatic than red and still just as warm. I like orange for older kid’s rooms but think it’s still a little too stimulating. If you have a dark or north facing room you can try a putting a not too bright shade of orange along one wall. This will make the room a little warmer but still calm.
Yellow - Yellow is actually quite popular in nurseries but not very good in terms of calmness. A bright yellow can actually cause anxiety and over stimulation in babies and children. If you want to create a calm environment, my suggestion is stay away from any shade of yellow in the nursery. If you really must have yellow then try to stick to one wall only.

Cool Colors - Blue, Green, Violet
Blue - Blue is the perfect choice for bedrooms. It’s soothing and can create a relaxing feeling which will help lull baby to sleep. If you have a little girl, blue can actually be quite feminine. Stick with a pastel shade of blue and accessorize with pale pink, green or yellow and lots of white for a feminine feel.
Green - Green is the color of nature and is certainly calming and relaxing. This is also a great choice for nurseries. It suits both boys and girls rooms and can be incorporated into a variety of themes. If you choose a classic shade of green you can easily live with it for several years.
Violet/Lilac - One of the favorite little girl colors. Violet is a very soothing color which is perfect for bedrooms. For babies stick with a pastel shade of lilac and accessorize with light greens or pinks.

Baby-Proofing Your Home

2007-03-29T12:19:00.000-05:00

Ask any parent what the most important part of bringing a new baby into your home is, and often the answer is “Safety.” If you are a new parent, or will be a parent, here are some safety tips for baby proofing your home.

Use socket covers - This is probably one of the best tips ever. These handy little plastic covers plug right into your wall sockets. You never have to worry about little fingers sticking something into an outlet again.
Lock cabinet doors - Most hardware stores sell door locks. These come in all shapes and sizes. The most popular locks are plastic ones that slip on and off (with ease to adults) and keep kids out of lower cabinets.
***Extra Tip*** Babies and toddlers will always be interested in cabinets and will find a way to get into them. Suggestion: make a couple of cabinets "baby-friendly." We locked all of the cabinets except two - the Tupperware cabinets. She loved to just open those up and make a complete mess of the Tupperware - so you have to clean up...just think of how much fun she had!
Use a baby gate – This one is another favorite among many parents. A baby gate is a simple and easy way to keep your baby in one area of your home. It is usually a simple design, made of wood that attaches and locks itself to a door facing.
Put cleaning products away – This is another huge rule that is sometimes overlooked by parents. If you keep your cleaning supplies in the kitchen under the sink and don’t utilize locks on your cabinet doors, you take a huge risk of chemical exposure to your baby. The best advice is to place all cleaning products out of reach of your children. If this isn’t possible, the second best advice is to use locks on your cabinet doors.
Inspect tables – If you have coffee or end tables in your home, inspect these to make sure they are safe. As your baby grows, these become attractive instruments in your baby’s efforts to pull up and stand. Make sure the legs are stable and tightly secured to the table’s base.
Cover the fireplace hearth - This can easily be overlooked when baby-proofing, but is really an essential zone in your house for a safety check. If you don't want to purchase the premade bumpers or gates, use pillows. We had pillows lined up across the hearth for the better part of a year. When that little one is not-so-stable on their feet, a pillow is a nice, soft place to fall into!
Put lamps out of reach – If you have table lamps, be sure that they are out of reach. Sometimes baby’s are attracted to lamps because of the light. If your baby reaches for the lamp, this poses both a fire hazard and risk of injury to your baby.

It's not always a quick or simple thing to do, but baby-proofing your home can keep your baby safe and give you the comfort zone that you need to provide a calm, relaxing atmosphere for your little one.

5 Tips for Dealing with Morning Sickness

2007-03-28T07:04:00.000-05:00

Many women experience morning sickness during their first trimester of pregnancy. With it comes nausea, vomiting or heartburn. Morning sickness can actually occur at any time of the day, not just in the morning.

If you are experiencing morning sickness, the most important thing you can do is simply take care of yourself. Don’t try to push yourself or overdo it. Try these other tips for coping with your morning sickness.

Tip #1: Drink plenty of water. Saturate your body with lots of water. If you are feeling particularly nauseous, try something carbonated, like Sprite or ginger ale, but do try to avoid highly caffeinated drinks.

Tip #2: Steer clear of strong odors. If there is a food or smell in particular that causes you to feel sick, be sure to stay away from it if possible. Many pregnant women feel sick at the smell of certain foods cooking, or certain perfumes.

Tip #3: Don’t eat spicy foods. If you experience frequent heartburn, stay away from anything spicy. If you are craving spicy foods but they give you heartburn, eat smaller portions. Finish your meal with a small piece of bread and milk. (Tums works great for heartburn...and safe to take with the baby!)

Tip #4: Keep crackers by your bed. If you suffer from extreme nausea you may find that saltines help control it. Eat a few saltines before you go to bed at night. Try eating a few in the morning before you attempt to get out of bed.

Tip #5: Try ginger and peppermint. Ginger helps alleviate nausea so you can try ginger ale, ginger cookies or ginger tea to help calm your nausea. Peppermint may also help, try it in tea form or suck on a mint.

In some cases you may find what works for some may not work for you. If you still feel nauseous or are having severe morning sickness where you can’t keep any food down then it’s important to talk to your doctor since he or she may be able to help further.

Avent Isis Manual Breast Pump

2007-03-27T10:31:00.000-05:00

Product Name: Isis Breast Pump

Submitted by: Lindsay; Averill Park, NY

Rating: 8 (out of 10)

Where to buy: Amazon

Description: This manual pump is comfortable and easy to use. A silicone diaphragm creates a vacuum for reliable suction. The pump is compatible with all Avent bottle systems, making it easy to express milk directly into a bottle.

Review: If you want a quiet pump, this is the pump for you. It’s not noisy or expensive and is reasonably comfortable. Easy to assemble and clean and very quick.

Have you used this product? Please comment...let us know what you think!

Try to Stay Stress-Free During this Important Time

2007-03-26T11:13:00.000-05:00

Pregnancy tends to kick your hormones into high gear. So who needs extra stress in addition to this? Stress affects every single part of your body, from your mind to your muscles. Staying stress free while you’re expecting needs to be number one priority for you at all times.

Here are some ways to stay stress free while you are expecting your little bundle of joy.

Stay away from people who stress you – You probably think this sounds easier said than done, especially if some of those people are family members. However, it is possible. Create distance by not answering your phone or door, particularly on days when you aren’t feeling up to dealing with company.
Smile – Smile at yourself in the mirror. Smile at annoying people. Smile even when you feel like screaming.
Ask for help – Don’t try to do everything on your own. If you’re having a bad day and need help with housework, call a friend and ask for her help. Many people are willing to help, all you have to do is ask!
Think on good things – Try not to dwell on all the negative things that grab at your attention. Focus on the positive comments people make and the beautiful things in life. Mulling over everything that bothers you will only lead to more stress and anxiety—something you don’t need.
Get moving – Don’t sit at home all the time. Isolation will lead to stress because you will think about all the negative things you’ve heard or seen. Go for a walk in the park. Call a girlfriend and make a date for a gab session. Make an appointment for a pamper-me-day at the spa. Whatever you do, don’t sit at home and cry alone. Getting fresh air will do you a world of good!

If you are a first-timer being pregnant, you and the father of your baby probably have a lot of questions. A great resource is the Pregnancy Bible. The information is organized very well and the index makes it really easy to locate very specific topics you may have questions about.

Take care of you!

Should You Really Eat For Two?

2007-03-23T05:42:00.000-05:00

A common misconception among pregnant women is that when you’re pregnant you are eating for two, so you can eat more. This really isn't the case. Many women find they relax and tend to overeat during pregnancy - your figure is going to be shot for a year anyway, right? Wrong! Think about after the birth of the baby. Those pounds can be mighty tough to lose, especially when dealing with a steady diet of 11pm, 2am and 5am feedings = no sleep!

You can avoid gaining too much weight during your pregnancy if you eat smart. Here are some tips for how much you should eat during your pregnancy:

300 Calories
If you are at a normal weight for your age and height when you become pregnant, you should only add about 300 calories per day to your intake. Be wise in the choices you make about where these 300 additional calories will come from. Try to avoid empty calories like cookies and cakes, they have no real nutritional value and are high in calories.

Fruits and Veggies
Remember to stock up on lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Grapes, apples and bananas are wonderful substitutes for chocolate. Fresh raw veggies, like baby carrots, celery and cucumbers can replace junk food. Keep your refrigerator stocked with these healthy snacks and eat at least five servings per day.

Fiber
You can never get too much fiber in your diet when you are pregnant. Fiber helps prevent constipation, which many pregnant women deal with during pregnancy. Foods like bran, raisins and whole grains can help.

Protein
Most doctors suggest that about ten percent of your caloric intake should consist of protein-rich foods. Protein is important during pregnancy and has a double effect as some foods that are high in protein are good sources of iron as well.

Remember, weight is tough to take off anytime...especially when you have a newborn in the house. Think smart and eat smart NOW, for the two of you LATER!

Welcome!

2007-03-21T17:19:00.000-05:00

Glad you could join us at Be My Little Baby! This is the first blog post of many more to come.

There's so much for us to talk about. We'll hit on topics such as: babies of course; pregnancy - the real stuff, not the glamorous portrayal you see on TV; baby showers; decorating baby nurseries; labor and delivery; breastfeeding vs. bottle feeding; sleeplessness; and anything else that strikes your fancy!

Your first question of me...am I an expert? I've been pregnant three times, went through labor and delivery three times and have three beautiful children to show for it...I would consider myself an expert.

I'm looking forward to getting to know you better and sharing experiences with you (this is a two-way street you know).