Great Family Camping Trips Make Excellent Traditions

by Valerie Giles

A wonderful way to invest in your families' treasure trove of memories is by spending time in the great outdoors. Camping trips can be an excellent tradition that your family will look forward to and in time, look back upon with fond memories.

Whether you plan to camp at the same place every year or seek out new places doesn't matter as camping is always filled with new adventures. Your family might have a favorite place you go to every year mixed with a new spot you select together for another weekend or extended holiday during the year. There are so many national parks to explore; your options really are quite limitless.

Camping doesn't have to be an overly expensive expenditure. Again this all depends on how you'll be camping. Camping in a tent carries a completely different dynamic than camping in a fully equipped camper. Camping in a tent is also relatively inexpensive. Perhaps the camper is something you'll decide to invest in after a few years of tent camping, then again there are some who prefer to only go tent camping. There's something to be said about the rustic quality of sleeping in a tent, you can hike to far off remote spots where you couldn't get to with a camper in tow.

Regardless of how you'll be camping you'll want to have the proper camping gear and accessories. First off you want to have the best tent and sleeping bags you can possibly afford. As your tent will be your home away from home for your trip and your sleeping bag will keep you warm and covered for those long nights under the stars (there are tents available that have mesh roofs for star gazing, of coarse if it starts to rain, you can just cover it up with your tent fly), you'll want to be sure that both these items keep you appropriately covered so to speak.

Next you'll want to have proper camp accessories; a trustworthy camp stove, a lantern, flashlights, a first aid kit, tarp, cooking and eating utensils, a little axe (for chopping firewood, also doubles as a hammer for hammering in tent pegs), some rope (for clothes lines and securing tarp), and cooler. Along with your sleeping bag you'll want to remember comfy pillows (unless your backpacking then you might want a convenient inflatable pillow) and very importantly a good sleep pad. An uncomfortable sleep experience on hard ground may steer you off tent camping alvemtogether, so come prepared, a good sleeping pad is worth its weight in gold. A good idea to help you remember all these items is the camping check list.

It's a good idea to store your camp gear in some plastic containers. This way it's all in one place (with your camp list included), so when it's time to pack up and go camping you can go through the containers making any necessary additions needed. It's very important to check that all your equipment is properly maintained and cared for; there is nothing worse than getting to your destination and finding that your camp stove is not working. You'll also want to be sure that your camp fuel supply is replenished and you have extra batteries (for flashlights, lanterns or radios).

One of the best things about the whole camping experience is the food. Now depending on where you're camping and what time of year it is, if you're lucky you'll be able to do some of your cooking around the campfire. During dry seasons there may be fire restrictions due to forest fire concerns, if that's the case you'll do all your cooking atop your camping stove. Every meal always seems to taste a bit better when you're camping, it might have something to do with all the fresh air, or maybe all the fun activity builds up you're appetite, either way you'll want to bring along some family favorites. For dinner maybe some grilling of the families select choices, accompanied by some corn on the cob and potatoes wrapped in tin foil cooked on the coals with a nice salad and later for dessert smores (marshmallow and a slice of chocolate sandwiched between two graham wafers), add to that some hot chocolate before bed and that's a night of food to dream about.

The activities (or lack of activities) will also make your camping trip one to remember. Hiking, kayaking, cycling and sailing might be on your agenda. Most parks offer excellent groomed hiking trails. Research in advance the area you will be visiting to know what activities will be available, you may be able to rent a kayak and take a lesson at the same time. Many areas also offer great bike trails that the family can cycle on together. A late night walk is among favorite suggestions; you can check out the stars and just listen to the silence.

Bring along a book you've wanted to read or some magazines. Games are another excellent pastime, a deck of cards or a board game might be some fun. Of course you can always bring along some baseball gloves and a ball for a game of catch. Soccer balls, badminton rackets and a net or volleyball and net all make for a fun day at the park.

If your family has little one's you'll be presented with a whole new challenge. Depending on the ages of your babies or toddlers you'll want to pack some extra conveniences. There are excellent baby back carriers available allowing you to hike all sorts of terrain with baby in tow while keeping your back feeling comfortable, as well there are a numerous variety of baby strollers to select from which are great for using on trails. For toddlers you may want to bring a playpen to keep baby safe. You can never bring too many toys; the more your child has to keep them entertained you can rest assure they will be more content.

Be prepared for weather changes by bringing along extra clothing. Most likely you will be camping in the warmer spring, summer and fall months. It's wise to remember however that the evenings can often get quite cool. Bring along heavy sweaters or extra jackets for added warmth, it can never hurt to bring along a couple of extra blankets for comfort beside the fire (or for use at a day picnic). Rainwear is another excellent addition to your camping wardrobe. With good quality rain jackets, hats, rain pants and boots you can take advantage of the rainy weather and actually go out for a hike rather than staying inside the tent or worse yet ending your camp trip all together.

Camping certainly has its challenges. Knowing what to bring and having the proper equipment and accessories is the first hurtle. Once you arrive at your destination and set up you want to keep everyone as comfortable and happy as possible, whether it's keeping the kids occupied without the use of video games or cooking a surefire dinner. Rest assured that after your first couple of trips when you find out what everyone enjoys doing and you realize all you like to include on your trip, you will certainly add camping to your families list of favorite excursions and traditions. The wonderful thing about camping is its always different, perhaps the site is different or the campground you selected is unique to the last you stayed at, whatever the difference is it always seems to be an adventure that the whole family can enjoy.

So, He's Going to be a Big Brother!

by Elizabeth Brautigan

One of the most exciting (and frightening) things a little boy can hear is "You are going to be a Big Brother." It's exciting because he likes the idea of having a tiny little person that's "his" little brother or little sister that he can protect and play with. In his mind he's thinking "Hmmm, like my X-men doll, only it cries." And it's frightening because invariably he will begin thinking about what will happen to him. Will mommy and daddy still love him as much? Will they still pay attention to him? What role in the household will he play?

One of the most important things parents can do to ease the feelings of the child during the pregnancy is to keep them involved. No matter what the age, the brother can be asked for input on how the nursery should be decorated (Do you think your baby brother would like Donald Duck or Mickey Mouse?), on clothes and various other baby related purchases. When the big brother is part of the process, his fear of being ignored will begin to ease. Of course, once the younger child reaches the age of ten or twelve, the opinions of the older sibling are no longer as welcome or appreciated. But that's a different article altogether.

The second thing that parents can do is to help define the role that the older sibling will take. This role will vary somewhat depending on the age of the older sibling. Even if the "big brother" is just a couple of years older, there are many things that he can be told the parent will need "help" with. For instance, giving baby a bath can mean a lot of things. Obviously, a two year old can't give the baby a bath solo, but can certainly stand right by mom and assist by handing her all the items she'll need. Or during bottle time, he can become the official "temperature" tester to make sure that the formula isn't too hot or too cold. One of the most wonderful "involvement" techniques that have been used is that of the "official story teller" which has double rewards. Obviously, the baby will benefit from being read to, but the older brother will also improve his reading skills as well as feel pride in his "official" role.

A wonderful item that we think will help the older sibling feel "needed" is the "Big Brother's on Duty" Tool Belt. Picture a canvas tool belt with the words "Big Brother's On Duty" embroidered in blue across the front, and tucked into the belt are all the items a big brother would need to help give baby a bath - baby wash, baby shampoo, washcloth, powder, a baby bath toy and even a couple of treats for the big brother himself. A great time to present this is at the baby shower. While he's watching mom open up all the great gifts for baby, if mom comes across a gift especially for the Big Brother, he'll fell extra special. A Big Sister's on Duty belt is also available.

Traveling with Babies

by Linda Jenkinson

If you start traveling with your little one slowly and plan wisely, both you and baby will enjoy first-class comfort. If you begin with baby steps, you'll find that you and your little one will soon be able to walk, ride, or fly in the fast lane.

Day Trips

Introduce baby to travel starting with a few day-trips to a local relative or friend. Basic equipment will be a packed diaper bag, a stroller or pram (if you'll spend some time outdoors), and a car seat. Most modern car seats easily detach and convert into a baby carrier.

Be sure to pack your diaper bag with a diaper for each two hours you intend to be away from home. Pack 2 nipples for each bottle you pack, two to three receiving blankets, and an extra change of clothing for baby and an extra shirt for you. Cut down on diaper bag weight and keep things easy to find by using Ziploc bags to pack extras like nipples, wipes, and pacifiers. Pack one large, empty Ziploc for soiled items.

Overnights

For baby's first overnight trip, you'll need to extend your day-trip plan with a couple of extra receiving blankets and extra sets of clothing for baby. Even if your overnight trip is to Grandma's house, remember that nighttime sounds and perceptions may be different from those during daytime hours. A good pram with wheel locks can double as a bassinet, helping baby feel right at home and enabling everyone to sleep more comfortably through the night.

If overnight travel is a frequent part of your regular routine, consider investing in a Graco Pack 'n Play Classic Care Center. This excellent piece of baby travel equipment is a bassinet, changing table, and playpen in one portable unit that folds into a handy tote bag. There are 22 models of the Classic Care Center. With prices starting at under $50.00, you're sure to find one that's right for your little one and your budget.

Extended Hotel Stays

Many hotels stock products and equipment especially for travelers with babies, but they may not stock the brands you and baby prefer. When you make your reservation, ask for specific information on product brands and the equipment you'll need to make baby's stay comfortable. If you opt to use a hotel crib or bassinet, be sure to pack a couple of baby's own blankets, a familiar mobile, and/or other "security items".

Although your inclination may be to pack up your complete nursery, in some cases, an extended stay may allow you to pack even less than you would for an overnight trip. For instance, it would be impractical to pack a week's worth of bottles and nipples. Pack only enough for a day and leave time in your itinerary for clean-ups. When packing baby clothes, include two or three one-piece outfits that can be quickly hand washed when soiled.

You'll also want to be sure to bring along a stroller. Most contemporary strollers are lightweight and easily collapse for transport or storage. Some models are equipped with multi-position reclining seats so baby can sight-see or nap as he or she chooses. In addition, many have features like tray attachments, sun canopies, attached toy bars, and "parent" trays for your little extras.

If part of your vacation will put you in a crowd, consider a baby backpack or sling. The Baby Bjorn Carrier holds baby safely to your chest, increasing baby's sense of security as he maintains eye contact with your familiar face.

From day trips to cruise ships, how you travel with babies depends chiefly on your destination and length of stay. However developing a basic plan and adding to it as the situation warrants will quickly make seasoned travel companions out of you and your little one.

Baby Shower Gift Ideas

by Criss White

Selecting a present for a new mom or dad can be a challenging task. Baby showers are a great way to help support a new mother with her new baby. New mothers can sign up at a gift registry to avoid duplicate gifts and to indicate her gift preferences. Here are some good gift ideas for baby showers:

1) Diapers - Diapers are a popular gift for baby showers. Every new mother will need plenty of diapers for her new baby and this is a very safe gift to get if you do not have any other ideas or don't know what other people are getting.

2) Personalized Blanket - A personalized blanket is a nice gift for a new baby. Having the name on the blanket gives it a personal touch and makes it a great keepsake even after the baby outgrows it.

3) Stuffed Animals - A new baby needs plenty of toys to stay entertained. Stuffed animals are always a favorite among newborns. A teddy bear is the most traditional gift, but other stuffed animals are also acceptable gifts.

4) Baby Gift Baskets - Baby gift baskets can contain a wide variety of baby supplies in them, including baby wipes, diapers, clothes, and just about anything else that can fit. Gift baskets can also be tailored to the new mother as a token of appreciation. Such gifts can include gourmet foods, candles, and other decorative keepsakes.

5) Baby Clothes - A new baby can never have too many clothes. Clothes can come in a variety of styles and may include hats, booties, and other accessories.

6) Baby Accessories - New babies require many accessories. Baby bibs are popular as well as blankies. Other ideas include baby bottles, pacifiers, and high chairs.

7) Shirts for Mom and Dad - T-shirts can be a nice gift for new moms and dads. Some common sayings on these shirts are "New Mommy" or "New Daddy". Some shirts also say "Mom to Be" or "Dad to Be" - a way to let everyone know that a new child is on the way.

8) Keepsakes - Various keepsakes will also make nice presents at a baby shower. Baby picture frames can hold pictures of the new baby or family for years to come. Other keepsakes include figurines and decorative candles.

Beauty Tips

by Tania Jain

Beauty is an essence. Looking beautiful means having one of the most comforts of life. Looking beautiful means get noticed. And who don't' want to be noticed. The word 'beauty' has a number of synonyms, cute, smart, gorgeous, handsome, and good looking sexy, stylish and after all beautiful.

When we use word beauty or beautiful, it clearly indicates our inclination towards something or object which we like the most. Nature is most beautiful object we have in which we exist in general. The word beautiful is a feminine word. When we listen the word beauty or beautiful, we assume a pretty, cool, charming and good-looking face. Boys or men don't need to be beautiful rather they need to be handsome.

No matter either you are a cool pretty girl / woman or a handsome boy / man; you must need to be smart, intelligent, and diligent. Your smartness, intelligence and diligence all reflect in your personality. And your personality depends on the fact that how you carry yourself and how you associate with the objects or persons around you. Your personality is the integration of your body, mind and soul. Rather you are a big-hearted person having a high degree of IQ. And the amalgamation of beauty with your mind and soul make you a being of get noticed. And who don't want that.

A well groomed child get noticed in his or her prep class, a handsome is get noticed in playgrounds, a sexy lace is get noticed some time on the streets and some time on the discos. A smart and bold person is get noticed in the society. A smart / beautiful manager is get noticed in board meetings.

It means beauty has its place everywhere, it makes its' place, it exists. It exists in every being. Some time it didn't look even though it is there. This is because the person is not taking care of his / her body i.e. skin, nails, eyes, hair, etc.

Taking care of your body means taking care of your self and for that you don't need to put extra effort, you don't need to put extra hour of your work schedule. Only you need to put is the minimum required attention. You need to regulate your life style, you need to discover the ways of living, and you need to monitor yourself with proper care.

How do you do that?

Here are few tips that make you a noticeable personality in the crowd and your body healthy, sexy and overall beautiful. 1. Drink 8 to 12 glasses of water everyday, having more water means feeling less hungry, consuming less food and hence being fit in shape and always looks energetic. 2. You can drink water in a regular interval of half an hour or so, while in office or traveling long, keep you water bottle with you. 3. Take balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and good fats. 4. Cut on calories; don't take food that gives high calories and fewer nutrients. 5. Nutrients are necessary to keep you away from sickness and thus helps in being beautiful 6. Take some beet root, cut into small pieces and grind. Squeeze it and massage your face for 5 minutes with beetroot juice. Wash / shower after 10 minutes with mild soap or gram flour. You will feel relaxed and your face will glow. 7. Mix honey in water, and drink it daily in the morning. This will keep your skin shiney and smooth. 8. Massage your body with milk. Moisturizer in the milk will keep your skin smooth and healthy. 9. Keep room temperature moderate, using humidifiers. This will keep you skin away from dryness. 10. If you take shower too long or a bit long, the dead skin of your body automatically gets removed. Don't rub your body with towel. Be gentle on your skin. 11. If you go out in the sun, your skins will loss its fairness. Take cucumber juice and tomato juice and apply it to your skin, shower after 10 minutes. This will make your skin fair. 12. Take rose petals, and grind them. Mix with cream on the top of milk. Shower after 10 minutes.

So take a little care of your body and stay healthy, handsome, beautiful, smart, and bold. Get noticed!!!

Budget Baby Layettes

by Kirsten Hawkins

Getting what you need for your newborn without going broke

It's been said time and again that babies cost a pretty penny. Although little Brad or Jennifer won't hop out of the birth canal and start demanding servants and expensive electronic gadgets, they do represent some additional expenses that can be wallet-draining when considered all at once. Fortunately the expenses do not have to be incurred all at once - even an unplanned pregnancy allots nine months to plan and gradually deal with the expenses associated with procreation. There are several steps that expectant parents can take to help cut down on some of the major expenses that are expected.

Baby Showers

A baby shower is a time honored tradition in which expectant mothers get a bunch of free stuff from their friends and family members. Don't be afraid or ashamed to take advantage of this situation. A decent shower can often cover most of the immediate baby layette needs. Usually someone will offer to hold a shower for the expectant mom, but she shouldn't be afraid to drop hints to close friends and family or even come right out and ask for a shower.

Buy Diapers in Advance

When is the best time to start buying diapers and other such essentials? The moment after conception would be ideal, but since most women don't know that they're expecting until weeks or even months later, you may have to settle for "as soon as you find out." Start adding diapers to your regular shopping list and try to pick up one or two packages each week. Varying between size one and two is a good idea, with perhaps a pack or two of the newborn size. If you have a bigger baby you don't want to be stuck with lots of newborn size diapers that you'll never use. If the baby is "normal" size it is easy to buy newborn sizes while you need them and rest easy in the knowledge that you're already stocked up on the next sizes up. A lower cost alternative to this is to use a cloth diaper service if you can find one still in operation in your area.

Get Help & Buy Used Whenever Possible

For large baby needs like cribs, playpens, and strollers, try and get the help of family members with these purchases. Proud grandparents to be are usually more than happy to help with items like these. A lot of money can be saved by purchasing these items second-hand as well. If a used crib, stroller, or playpen is in good condition, there is no reason not to buy it over a new one. The only item you probably don't want to buy used is a car seat. These items must meet safety requirements and there is no way to be sure that a used one measures up to current standards.

A little planning and thinking ahead is all it takes to save serious money on most of your initial and ongoing baby needs. They real key to setting up your baby layette on a budget is to start as soon as possible.

Bathing Your Baby

by Donna Lee

Bathing your baby

Make bath time enjoyable for your baby by being safe, prepared, and nurturing. Babies love the feel of water (lots of splashing!) and the feel of skin-to-skin touch. Speak to your baby in soft, happy tones to make him feel relaxed and comfortable.

Safety Reminders

In the first few days, newborns should be sponge-bathed. Sit your baby on a soft towel and wipe your baby with warm washcloths. Never leave your baby unattended. Test the water temperature on the back of your wrist. Water should be warm, not hot. Always keep one hand on your baby. To avoid falls or slips, keep bathing supplies within arms reach. Consult your child's doctor on how to care for the child's umbilical cord and/or circumcision.

Bathing Supplies

Organize these supplies before beginning your baby's bath.

Soft non-abrasive washcloths; Baby formulated soap and/or shampoo(tearless); Baby bath tub; Small cup to pour water; Two large soft towels (one for drying and one to place the baby on); Baby creams, lotions, or oils. New change of clothes and diapers.

Bathing Tips

The ideal way to bathe a baby is to start from the top and work down. Gently wash baby's face with warm washcloth. Eyes should be wiped from nose to cheek, using a different corner for each wipe. Apply a tearless baby formulated shampoo to your baby's head. To rinse, hold the baby like a football and tip his head. Carefully pour small cups of water over the top of the head avoiding water to stream over the face. Wash your baby's body next, leaving the genital area last. Remember to clean within skin folds, between feet, and behind ears. Lay out a large towel next to the tub. Wrap baby in another soft large towel and transfer him from the tub to the towel. Gently pat your baby dry. Remember to dry all folds in his skin. Diaper and change baby into fresh new clothes.

An African Bush Doctor's Prescription For Better Health

by Christopher Ricardo Scipio

Bush Medicine is traditional herbal medicine- the oldest system of healing in the world. Bush medicine started in Africa about 30,000 years ago. In the African-Caribbean culture plants are referred to as "Bush" such as "fever bush" or "toothache bush and are revered for their healing and spiritual properties". Every culture in world practiced and still practices bush medicine to treat the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual problems of the people. Today 70% of the world's population still uses traditional herbal medicine (bush medicine) as it's primary source of health care.

For the past 75 years medical doctors and drug companies have tried to discredit traditional herbal medicine while at the same time sending ethnobotanists all around the world to acquire the knowledge of local plants from bush doctors in order to make new pharmaceutical drugs. Often once a drug company has appropriated local plant knowledge- usually without compensating the locals in any way, they patent the plants and pressure the governments into banning the local population from having access to the plants they have depended on for millennia. Fortunately there is now a worldwide effort underway to protect local plant knowledge from unethical exploitation. People are returning to their traditional herbalists because of the failure of pharmaceutical drugs to treat chronic health problems safely and effectively.

I am from a long-line of African bush doctors. My family has practiced traditional herbal medicine for many generations. My grandmother was a prominent bush doctor in Trinidad, the country of my birth. The African-Caribbean culture is a largely intact culture where we have retained much of the knowledge of our bush doctors. Here are some simple tips for improving your health from me, Christopher Scipio- your friendly neighbourhood bush doctor.

1. Eat less. Unless you are very physically active you are probably eating a third more calories than you need. Excessive caloric intake is one of the biggest factors in reducing life expectancy.

2. Don't eat alone. People eat too quickly, chew their food less, and tend to consume less nutritional meals when they are eating alone. Having company provides many health benefits and is much better for your mental and emotional well-being.

2A. Pay attention to your eating environment. Loud noises, lack of a comfortable sitting position, too many distractions and a less than peaceful environment can all contribute to digestive problems and may cascade into other health issues. Eating in a relaxed quiet environment with good company is a great habit to get into.

3. Along the theme of eating less- use smaller plates and cutlery and consider using chop sticks or your fingers to eat with. The oversized cutlery just promotes the wolfing down of food. I love using chopsticks for lots of different kinds of meals and there is much sensual pleasure with eating with your fingers the way we Africans do.

4. Reduce your carbs, especially bread and pasta. Obesity and many of the health problems that go with it like diabetes were virtually unknown until we started consuming such large quantities of bread, pasta and baked goods. I recommend not eating bread or pasta more than 3-4 times per week and substituting beans and dishes like hummous as a replacement.

5. Get and use a juicer. The juice you buy in a store is dead. Many juice enzymes die within an hour of extraction. Most juices have been pasteurized to further deplete their nutritional value. Making your own juice is a joy. I like starting the day with a blend of carrot, apple, Hawaiian ginger and beet juice, but there are so many juices to discover. I recommend the book on healing juices by Heinermann.

6, Cook your own food. It is more than worth the time. I know you are busy but you can work cooking into any schedule. Consider getting a slow cooker. Consider cooking large batches on your days off and keeping them ready in the freezer. Cooking your own food is the only way of knowing what actually is put into your food, plus it sends the right message to your body that you care.

6A. Don't assume restaurant food is healthy. Many restaurants are fond of using iceberg lettuce which is very cheap and is usually grown in high-tech hydroponic factories but has virtually no nutritional value and don't even ask about the chemicals used to keep lettuce looking "fresh". Most restaurants don't use organic ingredients and many restaurants use microwaves to heat their meals. Just take a tour of the kitchen of your favourite restaurants and you may be horrified.

7. Bless your food and remember where it comes from. This modern life is a very disconnected from reality kind of life. Often there is little though given to where food comes from, how it was harvested and processed and by whom? Do you know where you food came from? If not you better bless it and bless it well before you take it and all the vibes that go along with it into your sensitive body.

8. Balance yourself daily with yoga, tai-chi or Qi- gong. 20 minutes a day in your own home of one of these practices and I'll personally guarantee your health will improve no matter how healthy you were before-hand. You can go to classes as well but what I recommend is that you empower yourself by learning how to do simple routines at home so you are not dependant on a class.

9 Get and give a massage at least once per month. Weekly is even better. Give and receive this vital practice as often as possible. Even a mediocre massage is better than none at all so recruit your partner or a friend if you cannot access a professional and don't be reluctant to lay your hands on others as well.

10. Love More. Love is the ultimate healing. Love your partner, love children, love your neighbours, love your community, love the environment, love your God, love your life, love yourself.

11. Don't forget to laugh. Laughter is great medicine. Give yourself permission to be silly, don't be so serious and you'll have a longer and happy life.

12. Just say no to drugs. Ronald and Nancy Regan were worried about recreational drugs and I agree that recreational drugs are harmful to your health but the drugs that I see devastating the community's health the most are coffee, alcohol and cigarettes- in that order. Don't believe the self-serving propaganda from the Starbucks lobby about the possible benefits of drinking coffee. There are no net benefits to drinking coffee and it is particularly devastating to women's health as is heavy alcohol consumption and cigarettes.

13. Eat like an adult not a child. You a big boy/girl now so eat like one. Don't be a slave to cravings and food addictions. Eat for nutritional value and not strictly for taste or as an emotional panacea. On my hot list of non-nutritional foods are chocolate, ice cream, sodas, white bread, white rice, and white pasta.

14. Eat soft foods. Eat wet foods. Softer foods are much easier for your body to digest and are much more likely to have a high water content. Wet foods are also easier to digest and help provide the water you need. Your body is mostly water, the earth is mostly water, so try to limit dry, hard, dead foods like crackers, bread, and cereals and embrace soft wet foods like soups, purees (I love hummous and baba ganoush), fruit, steamed vegetables, smoothies, organic plain yoghurt, etc.

The human body is a wondrous miracle of engineering and grace. Treat your body well and it will reward you with many years of health and happiness. Neglect or abuse your body at your own peril.

Christopher Scipio Homeopath/Herbalist African Bush Doctor

Baby Gifts - A Guide for Men

by Robin Darch

Buying gifts for babies can be a difficult chore for men, especially for single men. After all, how can a man who has no children know what the best Baby Gifts are? With this article I hope to help men take some of the mystery out of shopping for Baby Gifts. Baby shower gifts can be simple or elegant, traditional or creative and personal. Select with creativity and care. The possibilities are endless. Check the registry. A lot of moms are doing the same thing for baby showers they have always done for wedding showers and that is to create a registry, a list of items she knows she will need. By picking something that is on the list you avoid having to make a choice at all. For a man, that's always the best choice!. Use your experience as a parent (or ask someone you know who has kids): If you are a parent, think back to what you couldn't have done without. If you aren't a parent, then talk to one of your friends who is. They can help you choose the right Baby Gift. Ask the new parents to give you a list of things they might need. If you are good friends with them, they won't mind you asking and might even appreciate the fact that you want to buy them a Baby Gift they can really use. Look around and imagine what they might need, like car seats, front carriers, etc. Go in with a group to purchase baby furniture or strollers. This is perfect for men who don't have a clue! Ask some of your friends what they are getting as a Baby Gift and ask them if they want to split the cost of a more expensive Baby Gift. Monogram an Item. A Picture Frame, A Bib, Baby Silverware, anything like that, can be a great baby Gift that is both useful and cherished.

Baby Gift Baskets. Shop around for little things you know the parents and the newborn will need. Baby Powder, Baby Lotion, Baby Shampoo, Diapers, and other small items in a Nice Baby Gift Basket is always a safe choice.

Personalized baby Song CD. Now this is a unique gift! Go to http://www.giftsfortots.ca/personalcds.asp and you can order a CD made with songs that actually use the baby's name in the songs! Buy child-sized jewelry: Bracelets, Necklaces, ID bracelets, Tie Bars, and Cufflinks, make a great Baby Gift made for babies make great Baby Gifts. Choose clothes in size 3 months or larger. Anticipating that the baby will soon grow out of the clothes usually bought at a baby shower can please the parents immensely . Include gift receipts if possible so they can be exchanged if you suspect you have awful taste or if they just need them in a different size. Start the baby's library with a book. Choose one of the classics for children, Winnie the Pooh and other books are a great Baby Gift. Put a nameplate in the front cover for a personal touch. Give the baby a savings bond. Start their college fund with a savings bond and the gift is truly for the baby. The parents will appreciate the gift and it will encourage them to add to it as years go by. Get them started early!

Baby Tips for New Parents

by Ian Tham

The first few years of baby's life demand constant attention and care. First of all, you need all the help you can get. This is where the grandparents can play a role.

Ideally, you could either stay in your parents' home or your in -laws' home . The alternative would be to ask your parents or in laws to stay with you. If that is not feasible, see if you can stay in near proximity to your parents. You could also get a nanny or baby sitter. If both husband and wife are working the nanny will be under minimum supervision which isn't an advisable thing to do. In the beginning you may seek your parents' help to monitor and guide the nanny. You could also try to take some leave during the first few months of the nanny's employment. Alternatively you could put your child in a baby care center. There's no need to worry about abuse or baby neglect. There are baby care centers at hospitals that offer round the clock 24 hrs baby care. However I suggest you need to spend a couple of hours each day to establish bond with your baby.

When you are first time parents , the stress and pressure can be unbearable. This is understandable. That is why support from your parents is vital. It's also good to keep in contact friends with young children and have common interests. Both parties can share their experience of taking care of baby and also exchange tips and ideas . Handling a newborn baby requires special care. The body is still soft and fragile. Remember, you must always support the head and the neck of the baby when you are handling or carrying the baby.. Other tricky operations include bathing the baby. Prepare a baby bathtub half filled with water. Remember to hold always the head of the baby above the water surface. Otherwise the baby might accidentally drink the soap water and get indigestion. Water getting into the lungs might also cause bronchitis or in the worst case scenario baby might drown due to lack of oxygen after being submerged underwater for a period of time. With one hand holding its head take a sponge towel soaked in soap water and gently wipe the baby's body . Remember to pay extra attention to its face and buttocks as milk rash and sores are more likely to occur in these areas.

You need to understand behavior of baby. What does he want when he cries? Is he wet and dirty, hungry or tired? From past experience you will roughly be able to guess what his needs are. Trying to get baby to sleep is a mentally challenging and exhausting affair. I find placing the baby in a baby bouncer works perfectly fine in getting baby to sleep. The gentle rocking motion of the bouncer plus the comfortable and cooling cotton netting lets the baby sleep in no time. You may also try to sing a few songs to calm down the baby.

Always put baby in a baby cot .The barrier protects him and prevents him from falling onto the ground . Put the blanket away from his head in case of suffocation. Avoid using a pillow for the same reason. Make sure the mattress is firm and hard. Ideally speaking , get baby to sleep on its back rather than on its tummy. This is to prevent him from suffocating as it may find it difficult to breathe with its nostrils against the bed sheets. Do not sleep with baby on your bed as you may crush him or he may fall off the bed. You can consider putting the mattress on the floor but someone might accidentally step on baby .

Baby must be kept warm and dry.

The health of baby is very important. Make sure he eats and sleeps well. Babies are susceptible to illness. If they fall sick then you will have a difficult and stressful time as baby would require more attention and you will have to spend extra effort to take care of it. For example , giving medicine and sponging him if it has a fever. Don't bring the baby to air-conditioned malls where crowds thronged in them. Baby can catch a flu bug or other contagious diseases. If someone close to the family is sick, send the person away or bring baby to another place.

Baby Stroller Reviews

by Martin Smith

One way of deciding if a particular stroller is right for you and your baby is to test it out. Another way is to look at reviews of the baby stroller to see how it stands with those who have already used the same model you are looking at. The reviews of four different stroller types will address the pros and cons of each particular stroller.

The Graco Duo-glider - Metropolitan Standard Stroller is a multiple stroller and definitely has more pros than cons however, the decision is strictly yours to make. The seat of this stroller lies flat, it has a great price and great accessories, and it folds small for its size. The extras are nice, there is a five-point harness, and it strolls nicely. There is a huge storage basket under the seat, it is easy to open and easy to get in the car.

The cons of the Graco Duo-Glider is that the basket cannot be reached when the seat is lying flat. The seat sides need more support. The cup holder on the front seat must be removed to shut the trunk of the car.

The Per Prego Duette MT - Black Sable Twin Seat Standard Stroller is durable, has full suspension, and reclining seats. This is an easy to push stroller and it has a smooth ride. The seats can face each other and they both recline. It is narrow for shopping. It¡¯s design is high quality with lots of leg room and a five-point harness. There is a roomy seat area.

The complaints about the Per Prego Duette MT are that it is large and heavy. It is expensive. it is hard to fold. It takes up a lot of room. There is no storage basket and this stroller does not collapse all the way.

The Evenflo Cititour Silver Star Twin Seat Standard Stroller has a comfortable rear seat. This stroller can handle up to forty pounds in each seat. It has soft and padded material. There is a toddler drink and snack tray. This stroller steers rather easily and there is easy access to the basket.

Complaints about this stroller include the fact that the parent tray falls down. The front wheels squeak and wobble after about two weeks of usage The front canopy is too small for a toddler. It is difficult to open and close. The fabric has a tendency to catch in the joints of the frame.

Let¡¯s take a look at the Graco Quattro Tour 7411 LV - Travel System Stroller is said to be sturdy. It is easy to clean and use. It has great features. This is a very safe stroller. It is a complete traveling system which includes a stay in the car base. The car safety seat detaches from the base and is attached to the stroller frame. The car safety seat also can be an infant carrier. It is an excellent snug- ride infant seat with a useful base. It has a large storage basket. It requires only one hand to fold it.

The complaints about this particular stroller are that the company needs to produce more girl colors. This stroller is very bulky and heavy. It is a pricey model. It is oversized and again very heavy.

The only positive statement about the Combi Tetra TS Crimson Standard Stroller is that it has cool colors. The wheels don¡¯t turn properly and the basket is inaccessible when the seat is recline. There are three reclining positions only two of which work. It unfolds but doesn¡¯t lock which poses a serious risk to you and your baby and the frame is made of cheap plastic.

Baby Gift Baskets

by Olivia Andrews

Babies are such bright and beautiful spirits who bless us with their presence and when they come into our world we are changed by their loving and beautiful spirit. So if it is that great time when you have some good news in your family or friends and you are in a state of confusion as what shall be the perfect gift for to be given to the parents or to show how much you care, baby gift basket would be a good idea indeed.

A gift basket shall always be appreciated whether it is going to be a baby boy or baby girl. You can either purchase a professional baby gift basket or you can also create one of your own. Mostly gift baskets in the market are very expensive that could cost you over $100 and therefore if you want to avoid spending much and also add a personal touch or care to your gift, you can surely go for a handmade or customized baby gift basket.

How to create a baby gift basket?

1. For creating a baby gift basket, you should determine the size of the basket and if you feel that you won't be in a position to fill a large basket, you should preferably use a small basket. You need to buy one such basket, raffia or tissue paper for filling, baby blankets, straw or shredded grass that you will easily find in any craft stores.

2. Next consideration is whether the baby is a boy or girl and whether it has already taken birth so that you can arrive at a decision as what things will be required by the baby. Another thing is whether the baby is the first child or not because if it is not the first arrival at the home then the mother of the child will be having most of the necessary things already at home.

3. An imaginative idea would be the use of a small laundry basket that could sit upon a dresser or a baby bath tub or anything such as baby diaper bag instead of using a actual gift basket. If it is the first child in the home you can easily include most of the basic things such as baby toys, rattles, baby shampoos, lotions, wiping diapers, burp clothes, bibs, diaper rash ointments and various baby clothes.

4. If it is the case of second or third birth, you can create a smaller basket including items for the other children that will not let them feel left aside. You can fill with items such as coloring puzzles, toys or snacks. You can also gift a labor basket to a mother who is expecting with items that are needed at the hospital or relaxation tape or CD, slippers, magazines, candy, hair clip, bubble bath, disposable camera, calling card or gift certificates.

Baby clothes

by Lena Hilltorp

Congratulations if you are a new parent! Aren't you eager to dress your newborn in those adorable cute outfits but you must know that your baby will quickly outgrow them. So buying baby clothes can be quite a challenge and it will largely depend upon your baby's growth and your budget. While you set out to shop for those cute outfits keep a few basic buying tips in mind.

1. Always buy a larger size. You will be wasting money if you buy clothes that fit your baby perfectly. Babies grow very fast in the first few years and buying a larger size will ensure a longer life for the clothes. 2. Take weather into consideration. For example if your baby is due in winter you'll have to store your baby's wardrobe with winter clothes. Baby clothes are labeled according to the age groups and when you are tempted to buy an outfit make a weather prediction first -What will be the weather like when my baby is of that age? In this way you will invest in clothes that will fit your newborn and also be seasonally appropriate.

3. Functionality of clothes is most important. The clothes should be easy to put on. One-piece jumpsuits, clothes with front buckles or snaps or zippers will be more comfortable for the baby. You must be able to change the baby's clothes and diapers easily and for this purpose snap crotches and stretchy necklines will be of great help. Try and avoid buying clothes with buttons, beads or clasps. Do not buy scratchy materials and even if you buy clothes with frills and lace or embroidery make sure that they are easy to pull off and comfortable for the baby.

4. Store up for emergencies. Babies spill food all the time and if they become sick they may throw up on their outfit itself. You will have to change the baby into a clean set of clothes a number of times in a day. Especially when you are traveling with the baby and you neither have time nor the necessary arrangement for washing, you will need a lot of extra clothing for the baby.

5. Do not refuse Hand me downs. Your relatives or friends might offer you their children's clothes. These may be new clothes that a child may never have worn for babies outgrow their clothes very fast, or these may be second hand clothes. You can add to your baby's wardrobe in this manner.

6. Covering the feet is equally important. Those tiny feet need care and one-piece outfits with footies attached are ideal. Socks would be another alternative but most infants pull them off and if your baby is already walking or is able to stand up then you could go for those adorable little shoes with squeakers.

7. Wash the clothes first. Wash the clothes before you dress your baby. Clothes that you buy might have had a long shelf life, you never know! New clothes may cause skin irruptions and irritation. Washing will not only clean them but also make the clothes softer. A baby's skin is extremely sensitive and you have to take extra care to keep his clothes dirt free. Before you go shopping for your bundle of joy keep these tips in mind. Baby clothes can be quite expensive so you need to know beforehand exactly what kind of clothes you are looking for, taking into consideration weather factors, the infant's growth and your finances. You will never run out of options and shopping for your baby can be real fun!

BABY FOOTPRINTS

Everyone loves sweet baby feet, and baby footprints are a classic symbol of a newborn. The first year of a child's life is a time of remarkable growth and development.

Now you can preserve a piece of your baby's first year forever with easy-to-use kit, which captures a perfect impression of your child's tiny foot.

Anyone can make cute cards with a cherished reminder of baby's adorable feet and hands.

Parents and grandparents will think this is the best baby shower gift.

For thank you notes or baby announcements after baby has arrived, use his/her real footprint or handprint.

New baby

by Dakota Caudilla

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! You're having a new baby! Now, on to the serious stuff. You're going to get yourself prepared for your new baby, mentally, physically and you will need to adjust your house and car for the new baby too!

Mentally preparing for the new baby Remember this, women adjust to having a new baby faster than men; so, don't expect husbands to start being all fatherly after the pregnancy is announced. They're not like that. Women adjust better to the new baby, mentally, because they experience physical, emotional and psychological changes. These changes help them adjust to the new baby quicker. However, men start feeling the new baby when they see the bump or feel the flicker of baby movement over mommy's belly.

Physically preparing for the new baby There's nothing much a new father can do to prepare to the new baby. What needs to be done by a father needs to be done BEFORE the new baby is conceived. However, the new father can try quitting smoking, quitting drinking and other vices once the new baby is conceived. Needless to say, the new mother needs to do the same too.

Planning for the new baby: the house and car With the new baby, depending on whether you're planning to co-sleep with the baby or whether you're planning to plonk the baby in a separate room affects the changes to your home. Either way, we recommend having a separate room for your new baby, even if the new baby is going to be sleeping with the new parents for the first couple of months. A baby crib, some toys, a place to put all the baby's clothes, shelves to convenient grab lotions, creams, diaper wipes, diapers, etc. off near the changing table is a MUST.

You'll also need to think about getting a baby chair too; baby chair for the house (at the right height for the dining table) and also a baby chair for the car (for traveling). Some baby chairs can be adjusted to fit the adult dining chair AND fit into the car at the same time. They are a little bit more expensive than the conventional baby chairs, but the multi-function is extremely convenient PLUS it's downright comfortable for your new baby.

Other essential stuff for your new baby Frankly speaking, the essentials depend wholly on your own preference, budget and lifestyle. You can live without some of these things if you think you'd rather not waste the money.

If you've had previous babies before, you probably don't need too many new baby clothes. New babies outgrow their clothes terribly fast and it'd be a waste of money to splurge on new clothes. You can get hand-me-downs from nieces and nephews too, if you want. What you should probably get are blankets, sweaters, coats, and clothes for going out. At home, your new baby's not going to mind old clothes. In fact, it's a fact that your new baby is probably going to like wearing the old clothes better than the new clothes. Don't forget the feeding utensils like baby bowls, breast pump (if you're planning to pump breast milk for your new baby at work), baby bottles, cloth nappies, diapers, baby wipes, lotions, shampoo, bath gels, towels, baby blankets, baby bedding, bibs, stroller, etc.

And don't worry, you'll do fine. The best thing to do is to get unbiased referrals from friends and family.

Guide to Easy, Affordable Baby Shower Decorations

by Jessika Ryder

Great baby shower decorations are more about using your imagination than your pocketbook! You can create a wonderful party mood with simple, high-impact arrangements. This article details some of the best ideas for baby shower decorations.

Use balloons artfully

Balloons make it feel like a party! Always have balloons at your events. Here's a money-saver tip -- your local 99¢ store will usually have balloons at a much lower price than most party stores.

A basic use of balloons is to create color spots around the room or area where you're holding the baby shower. Tie a bunch of helium balloons to an anchor. Use baby items like booties, soft toys or baby bottles filled with water as anchors. Always use an odd number of balloons in a bunch.

If you have multiple tables, get a few baby items like shampoo, lotions, bottles, diaper packs, wipes, refill packs, baby formula packs, soft toys, etc and place them in the center of each table. Tie a bunch of balloons to them. Each table now has a color spot.

If you have large gifts like strollers or cribs, tie balloons to them to create a special look. Choose balloon colors according to the sex of the baby. If that's not known, use both pink and blue balloons.

Use balloons to decorate mommy's chair. Tie balloons in bunches to her "throne" and treat her like royalty! Also add streamers, satin bows and ribbons to her chair to give it a special look.

If you're using a specific table for gifts, make sure it has several balloon bunches floating over it. That helps to create a focal point for the gifts.

How to use tubs and umbrellas for baby showers decorations

Use baby tubs as a punch bowl. Get one of those tubs that look like a whale. Fill it with clear punch and put in a small rubber ducky. The tub makes a wonderful present for mom-to-be after the shower.

Here's another way to use the tub -- fill it with individually wrapped presents. That can include diapers, shampoos, lotions, washcloths, etc. For an added effect, put some balloons into the tub too -- they will look like floating bubbles! And fix a rubber ducky atop one of the balloons using ribbons.

You know what's a perfect fit for any baby shower? Umbrellas. After all, it's a shower, right? Here's how you can use them.

Collect several different umbrellas from your home. Open them up, fix streamers in various colors (not just pink and blue, though those are fine too) to the umbrellas. Next, fix the umbrellas so that they hang upside down from the ceiling, and the colored streamers flutter above your heads. This makes a great sight!

You can also fill up umbrellas with balloons or even yarn in pastel colors. Hang them upside down at strategic points.

More baby shower decorations that enchant

Here's a centerpiece idea that's perfect for these celebrations -- baby shower cakes. Not sure what those are? Baby shower cakes (also called diaper cakes) are essentially diapers arranged in multiple tiers to look like a cake, with many small baby products tucked into them. They're very eye-catching gifts, just right for baby showers. Place one on a table as a centerpiece.

Here's how to make your tables more appealing. Place small boxes of different heights on them. Drape baby items like receiving blankets over them. Your tables will end up with a more interesting look and feel thanks to varying levels.

Spice up your tables by sprinkling confetti on them that says "It's a boy" or "It's a girl." If the baby's sex is not known, use both.

Instead of piling gifts onto tables, try using a large item like a stroller or a baby crib to display gifts. This is just right for a baby shower!

Another tried and tested idea is to string a clothesline across the room. Use wooden clothespins to hang cute baby items from the line. Use diapers, baby clothing, booties, socks, bibs, hats, toys and other such items. These products make excellent gifts to mom-to-be after the shower.

Alternatively, hang disposable diapers on the clothesline and using permanent marker, spell out the baby's name. If the name is not known yet, just write 'BABY SHOWER'. Clotheslines with names and baby items on them are quite common at showers, yet they invariably become a conversation piece -- they look quite cute!

If you're having a baby shower around Christmas, try this one. Buy an artificial Christmas tree and decorate it with little baby items. Like diapers, clothes, booties, socks, small bottles of lotions and so on. Use twinkle lights as well. This is a wonderful centerpiece for the room.

You can even do miniature trees on each table, similarly decorated. It creates a lovely effect.

There are no limits to the number of ways you can create dazzling baby shower decorations. Combine the above ideas, add your own twist and create an unforgettable shower!

Chinese Pregnancy

by Wong Yee Lee

Chinese Pregnancy

Traditionally in China, when once people got married, they would immediately get ready for having a baby. That is why symbolic things such as dolls or lotus seeds would be put on the beds of the newly weds on their wedding day so as to bring in the meaning of having a baby as soon as possible.

When once a married woman becomes pregnant, things for the baby will start to be prepared. Prams, cot, baby clothes, etc will be readily prepared to welcome the arrival of the new born.

From now on, the health of the mother is of utmost importance. Therefore, the mother should reduce her workload, eat healthily, and employ prenatal education. Prenatal education has come into being for over 2000 years in China. It was believed that a good pregnant mother should eat only meat which was cut only in square cubes, sit only on properly built chairs, walk unswingingly, talk softly, etc. By doing so, the foetus would be able to learn the most valued virtues. Although in present days the above mentioned practice is no longer common, pregnant women in China still behave very carefully so as not to do anything which affects the foetus. Still now most people believe that the structure of the house or flat should not be changed while a woman in the house is pregnant since it will cause the foetus no good but harm.

The first month after giving birth The first month after giving birth is very important for a mother. She needs the most rest and the best nutrition. Otherwise, her body will not be able to recover and can easily get ill. In this month, she can't go outdoors, can't be exposed to wind, can't wash with cold water, can't drink cold water, can't read books etc. However, if a mother really has to wash herself, she should do so by using water boiled with dried ginger skin. In some places in China, a mother must not wash her hair because otherwise she will get a chronic headache.

Compared to the west, western women can leave home after a week of giving birth and can go to work after two weeks. It is unimaginable in China.

In China, after giving birth, a woman should eat plenty of fish soup and pig knuckle soup. The pig knuckle soup is boiled for a long time with ingredients such as a lot ginger, eggs, pig knuckles in plenty of sweet black vinegar. It is believed that this soup can compensate for the loss of calcium and other nutrients needed by the body. It is a tradition to give out and share such soup to friends and relatives but one can only do so twelve days after the baby is born. Chicken is also ideal for meals after giving birth. In order to help a mother to recover from giving birth, it is recommended that she should eat rice cooked with ginger daily since it can enhance all bodily circulation. Apart from the above, it is also a tradition that after the baby has been born for one lunar month, eggs dyed red should be given to friends and relatives. However, anything salty should be avoided since it will hinder the production of breast milk of a mother.

It is only after the baby has weaned then the mother can start considering controlling her body weight.

Some practices may seem quite unimaginable. However, they are still practiced in most places in China. Even in Hong Kong, women would follow the above traditions as long as family expectations are involved.

Baby Shower Gift Baskets: Tips And Ideas

by Jennifer Adair

Personalizing a baby's gift is an excellent idea, making the gift distinct and special and grows into a cherished token through the years. When giving or making a gift sooner, before the baby's due, you are faced with a problem, that is, you are not yet certain of the name and the birth date. An option to consider is by giving a gift certificate for an etching or engraving design along with your gift. This way, when the wonderful day arrives, the parents can take your gift and have it personalized.

Choices for personalized gifts are baby cups, picture frame, jewelry or a cutlery set. There are wide selections of items that can be personalized; all you have to do is look.

A blanket for baby embroidered with the baby's name alongside the name's meaning would make an excellent gift for both mom and baby.

Your labor of love gift basket

Gift baskets are very popular today and indeed a wonderful idea which can either be purchased made-to-order or ready-made. Or, you can do it yourself by putting together all baby items that you like for the baby. Here's how you can make one:

1. Know first the size of the basket that you will use. A very large basket may be difficult to fill, so a medium sized is recommended. Usually, craft stores sell baskets of different sizes, shapes and colors. Shredded tissue paper and raffia make great fillers to be layered at the basket's bottom, alongside with baby towels and blankets.

2. If you do have a large basket, you can easily fill it up by choosing bigger items as well, such as crib comforters, stuffed bunny or teddy, pillows or crib bumpers.

3. Take into consideration the baby's gender, what really the baby needs. For a first baby, there will be many things that he will need. Having to look at a baby registry if the mom to be has one, can help a lot, since you will know what the baby really needs. If there is none, you could always ask the mom what else she needs for the baby.

4. Consider having a theme. You can load the basket with everything pink for a baby girl or everything blue for a baby boy, or everything having a "pooh" or a dinosaur design. A bedtime theme basket filled with story books, music CD, blankets, pillows, pajama, musical crib mobile and a teddy bear can be a wonderful idea. Be creative and let your imagination soar.

5. Another way of being creative is instead of using a basket, a baby tub, a diaper bag, a small laundry basket or a trunk can also be used.

6. For a tub, you can fill it with baby bathing accessories, such as soaps, towels, bubble bath, powder, baby shampoo, lotion and bath rubber toys.

7. For the trunk, you can fill it with baby's keepsake book, monogrammed items, receiving blankets, heirloom items, a picture frame and an inspirational book all about mom and baby. You can also place a little inspirational note containing all your wishes for the baby. This will add a more personal touch to your gift.

8. For the laundry basket, you can fill it with cute slippers, diapers, baby comb and brush, booties, and baby clothes.

Baby Clothes Online

by sairohinikumar

Shopping online! Internet indeed is basking in the limelight considering the fact that it gives parents more options when it comes to finding and purchasing clothes and other items for their babies than ever before.

How about Hassles? How about long check-out lines? How about Traffics? And, how about not finding the right clothes for your baby even after those time-consuming, manual searches? This is why online shopping is emerging fast as a channel to bring the products right in front of you, with thousands to choose from. Indeed, the Internet has become an exciting tool that puts vast information just a click away.

Moreover, with the surging competitions amongst the online retailers, good deals, convenience, and choice abound on the Internet. But before you use what the sites has to offer, be "cyber" smart to make the most of your online experience.

Choices and offers at your disposal Discounts: Interestingly, some of the best discount stores that sell baby clothes are some of the best online retailers. Each online retailer offers direct sales from their web site, and they have pretty almost everything you could need in terms of baby clothing, and offer it all at prices that won't burn a hole through your pocket. Designer Baby Clothes: Designers are going online at last! From Chic Baby clothing to punk and trendy wears, online shopping offers you much beyond your travel experiences to the outlets. Just Browse! With literally hundreds of websites offering baby clothes at all price ranges and designed to meet all specifications, just keep browsing -compare pricings, and just pick your choice. Follow these principles while baby clothes online

· Keep a tab on the kind of material and the quality the online retailer is offering. · Consider unisex clothes even if you are buying a baby cloth before the baby's actual birth. This is the beat part of a baby's cloth. · Make the most of online offers. Online offers are much below the other offers made by physical retailers because online retailers need not maintain an outlet to showcase their merchandise. Since they are not spending in maintaining a physical outlet, they can offer you products much cheaper. · Consider the pros and cons of the baby cloth features. You might not end up disappointed upon delivery of the product.

Follow these basic rules while shopping online for your baby clothes This guideline is not only for shopping your baby's clothes, but for you to consider while shopping for any merchandize online: Use a secure server and browser with industry security standards before you enter credit card information online; research the target site and verify the companies for authentication through contact information such as business name, address and telephone numbers; avoid using debit cards and consider calling up to take in your orders instead; and print out information on your order when you place it and keep the copies.

More Games for a Baby Shower

by Mary Arnold

This is a companion article including several more games for baby showers which I've found to be entertaining for guests in my extensive experience hosting baby showers. As I mentioned in my previous article, having games for your guests to play at the baby shower helps break the ice among those who aren't acquainted and is a great way to make your shower exciting and fun.

1} Piggy Bank Game. Fill a small piggy bank with quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies, keeping a tally of how many coins it takes to fill up the piggy bank. At the baby shower, pass the piggy around to all your guests and ask them to write down how many coins they believe are in the piggy bank. The closest person to the actual amount of coins wins a small prize. You can present the piggy bank to the mother-to-be after the game is finished.

2) What's in the Bag? For this game, you'll need ten brown paper lunch bags, ten small baby items (for example: diaper, comb, travel size powder, bib, four ounce bottle, nasal aspirator, etc.). Write the numbers one through ten on the bags and place a baby item inside each one, stapling or taping the bags shut. Give your guests pens and pads of paper and then pass around the bag labeled number one. Tell them they must feel what's in the bag and then write down what they believe the item to be. Continue passing around the bags until each guest has had the chance to examine them and guess what they think is in the bags. The one with the most items guessed correcly wins a prize.

3) Baby Food Game. To further test your guests' deductive abilities, purchase ten different types of baby food and remove the labels, replacing the labels with a number one through ten. Make sure you record what each numbered baby food jar contains. Buy at least a few jars of food that are similar in color, like peas and spinach. Give each guest paper, pen, paper plate, and a spoon. Pass around the number one jar and tell the guest to put a spoonful on their plates. They must try to guess what type of baby food is in each jar, using their sight, smell, and taste. Don't make them taste it if they don't want to, as I've known many people to resist doing so. The person who guesses the most correctly wins.

4) Memory Game. To play this game, you'll need to assemble a number of small baby items, however many you wish to purchase. Some suggestions are: travel baby powder, travel baby bath, travel baby shampoo, travel baby lotion, diaper, small package of baby wipes, thermometer, nasal aspirator, baby spoon and fork, diaper shirt, nail clippers, hooded towel and washcloth, bib, lap pad, diaper pin, etc. Place all these items in a baby bathtub (or on a tray, if you prefer). Keep the bathtub or tray covered until it's time to play, then asks your guests to gather around it. Give them one minute to look at the items and attempt to memorize them. After one minute, cover it back up and have your guests write down all the items they can remember. The one with the most correct wins a small prize. If you like, you can then give the mother-to-be the bathtub full of goodies.

Prizes. I've been to some showers in which the prize that is won from the games is something baby-related which is then given to the mother-to-be. I like the idea of doing that, but I also think the game winners should receive a prize gift also. So I usually do both; the game winner receives a gift for herself and one to give to the expectant mother. These are always something small, like a bottle and nipple brush, nail clipper set, plastic bottle, baby powder - things that the mother will need but aren't usually given as shower presents.

Whether you decide to give two prize gifts, or just one for the expectant mother or one for the game winner, these games will provide much merriment and entertainment for your shower guests.

How Disney Is Baby Friendly

by Gregg Hall

Disneyland is a place for everyone, and at Disneyland, they have thought of everything - including the babies. The Disneyland Baby Center is located on Main Street, behind the Plaza Inn. This is not a babysitting service. Instead, it is a place where you can attend to your babies needs.

There are several characters present in this area, and their purpose there is not only to amuse your baby, but also to help you attend to your baby's needs. This area has rockers, where you can rock and breast feed your baby. No men are allowed in this room, but they are allowed in other rooms within the Baby Center. You can warm a bottle or a jar of food, and clean bottles as necessary. Baby changing tables are available, and the entire center is very clean and comfortable. There are even smaller toilets for children who are being potty trained.

You can also purchase emergency baby supplies at the Baby Center. Diapers cost about a dollar each, and several different types of formula and baby food are kept in supply, although the selections are limited. This is Disneyland's way of making sure that the needs of every guest - no matter how small they may be - are attended to.

As a parent, you already know that you don't want to have to carry your child around in your arms all day. You couldn't possibly make it through the day! You also can't expect your child to walk all day long. The obvious choice is to have a way to transport your child - without wearing you or the child completely out.

Strollers are not only welcome at Disneyland, they are highly recommended. In fact, Disneyland rents strollers for a reasonable fee. Strollers can be rented for less than $10 for the day, and you can get a huge discount on a second stroller if it is needed. The strollers are clean and well-maintained, but they do all look alike. Tie something on the stroller, such as a brightly colored ribbon, to help identify it from all of the other strollers in the park.

Never leave your child unattended in the stroller, and never leave any material items of any value in the stroller either. Even if you bring your own stroller, you should have some easy way to identify it - there will be other strollers that look just like it at Disneyland.

Massage For Infants And Children

by Kevin Pederson

Massage benefits individuals of all age groups and different conditions. Touch is as important to any infants and kids like eating and sleeping. Massaging involves loving, gentle stroking or kneading by a parent or caregiver on various parts of a child's body like the face, head, arms, shoulders, neck, hands, back, legs and feet.

Use of oils on the body of your precious little ones to soothe, relax and heal affirms a strong, close bond conveying a comforting sense of trust and security.

Early infant massage enhances the development of the nervous system and stimulates all other systems of the body. It improves circulation, respiration, aids digestion and eases elimination of wastes from the body. It also makes your little one less prone to gas and colic ailments. Massage of baby in its growing years prepares the body for sitting, standing and walking.

Massage is a wonderful stress buster for children who are prone to all kind of stress. Like a child starting a school in a new area, health, fights amongst parents, exams or peer pressure, etc produce emotional, physical and mental stress. Massage reduces stress hormones and heals the body.

Each child responds differently to massage. Some may squirm, cry, or some might just appear more relaxed and calm and also fall asleep.

There is no fixed time to massage your baby. Find a time suitable for you and your baby. Some enjoy in the morning after their feed, some in the afternoon before or after their naps. Massage before bedtime can put a cranky baby to sleep peacefully. Follow the massage with a warm bath.

While giving a massage, sit straight either on the floor or on the bed or stand before the table. The room is warm enough as your little one can shiver when undressed. The place where you massage you baby should be quiet and away from distractions of all kinds.

Lay your child on soft surface like thick set of towels so it may not hurt it self when it wriggles or squirms. Keep aside towel, pair of wash cloths, clean diaper and baby clothes for use after the massage.

Oils are good for lubrication, helping your hand glide smoothly over your baby's soft and rather delicate skin. Small babies have a habit of putting their hand or fingers in their mouth all the time, so it's ideal to use oil that is of good quality. Use cold pressed (oils extracted by means of pressure) or unscented oils. Alternatively you can use baby oils produced by many companies which specialize in baby products. Grape seed oil has nice texture, apricot and almond oils are smooth, light and easily absorbable into the body. To massage your babies, use coconut oil in summers and mustard oil in winter.

How to Choose a Diaper Bag

by Jackie G. Maxwell

Even though it's a popular shower gift, you may want to choose a specific type of diaper bag, either because you've learned through experience what works and what doesn't, or your friends and relatives have given you tips on what to look for or avoid.

It's pretty elementary to figure that you're going to need room. Lots and lots of room. For little things, babies at times seem to need an endless supply of items that you may not have space to carry.

When looking for a diaper bag, space is going to be your first consideration, but that doesn't mean you have to totally give up the stylish or "designer" look. Remember though, that the character-theme or licensed diaper bags often cost more simply for the name. But if you are really taken with a delightful character diaper bag, and just have to have it, put it aside for occasions when its capacity is appropriate. These are often smaller bags, but will still hold some spare diapers, an extra soother, bottle, and baby wipes for short trips like doctor visits, or errands.

For an afternoon at someone else's house, or an extended day of errands, and even an overnight trip, you're looking at a really large bag. And few items designated as diaper bags, seem to measure up to mothers' needs and expectations. There simply aren't enough pockets to keep things totally organized for longer trips where more items are needed.

Some parents solve that dilemma by purchasing duffle bags, or a top of the line backpack. The duffle bags will have some outside pockets, and occasionally, zippered inside pockets as well, along with plenty of interior room for changes of clothes and other supplies.

Backpacks with outside and inside pockets can be very handy for both organization, and convenience. They can be worn over the shoulders, freeing up your hands, or some come with an alternative strap for carrying on one shoulder.

The key is to choose a diaper bag that suits your needs, as you see them. And if necessary, choose two! That way, you have convenience, space, and no worry about whether your one bag is going to do fore very occasion.

Are Baby Blankets Dangerous?

by Michael Barrows

Baby blankets - beautiful, soft, cuddly, warm and comforting. Yes all of these - but also possibly deadly. This may sound alarming, but its true. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), studies have shown that up to one-third of the babies who die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) each year might actually have suffocated after being placed on soft bedding. Other information indicates that babies are at increased risk for SIDS if their heads get covered by soft bedding while they sleep; babies have been found dead with their heads covered by the bedding, even while they were sleeping on their backs.

I'm sorry if this sounds really frightening. But don't worry! - new parents are constantly fed a diet of very alarming statistics on child-rearing, that can make them begin to get really paranoid, but in fact its usually not as bad as it sounds - actually much of it is common sense. In this case, baby blankets and baby bedding are really perfectly safe if you just follow a few sensible recommendations, as laid down in 1999 by the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).

1. For babies less than one year old, make sure they sleep on their backs in a crib with a firm, tight-fitting mattress. Get rid of all soft bedding such as quilts, pillows, and assorted stuffed toys and soft products. It always looks lovely to have a crib full of soft toys and cushions, but it is potentially deadly.

2. Use baby clothes designed for sleeping in instead of a blanket.

3. If you do use a blanket, select a thin one. Place your baby so the feet can reach the foot of the crib and then tuck in the blanket or sheet around the crib mattress only as far up as your baby's chest. Ensure the head remains uncovered while sleeping.

Major retailers and the CPSC have been working together for several years to promote these safe practices, so all you have to do is follow the guidelines and you - and your baby - should be fine. As babies get older it's perfectly fine to start using heavier baby blankets and lots of other lovely baby bedding, so don't be afraid!

But what is the best type of baby bedding? Well it's the one that guarantees maximum baby bedding safety, warmth and coziness to your baby. The best fabric to use is 100 percent cotton, or some other type of natural fibre, but any fabric which is a soft material and - most essential - non-toxic. There are many types of bedding top choose from nowadays that are soft, smooth, and pleasant smelling with attractive and eye pleasing colors.

Remember, baby blankets come in many types, including quilts, duvets, and comforters. They also have different thicknesses construction and fill material. There are lots of choices available, but whatever choice you make, the first choice is safety.

Baby Shower Gifts

As a host, you need to consider the people that will be on the invitation list. Sometimes, finances are tight and buying gifts are tough. You have a couple of options. First, you could set the tone on the invitations advising that while gifts are appreciated, they are not mandatory. This way, people know they can attend the shower but not feel embarrassed if they come without a gift.

Another option is to purchase a few extra, inexpensive but nice gifts from the funds collected. As the host, if you know someone is one a tight budget, you could tactfully let them know that you had extra gifts purchased so if they need one, they are certainly more than welcome simply to take one to give the couple. This way, that individual could choose a gift to give without feeling bad.

SIBLING GIFTS

For siblings, a new baby in the home can be a stressful and insecure time. After all, they are used to getting all the attention and now, everyone who comes to the door is offering something to the new baby, completely looking past them. To ensure siblings are included, we would highly recommend the following:

Always speak to the sibling before making over the baby...

The sibling will know what is going on while the baby has no idea. Therefore, when you enter the home or place of the baby shower, take just a moment to greet the child. Instead of saying, "Do you like your new sister/brother" put the focus on them. Something as simple as, "How are you, you look so cute! I bet you are the best big sister/brother in the world." You would be amazed at how such a small gesture can make such a big impact. Not only is the child getting the recognition needed but also, the parents appreciate this since they too understand the insecurities occurring with the sibling.

Bring a small, inexpensive gift for the sibling...

Although the purpose of the shower is to celebrate the life of the newborn baby, a small $2 gift is important. You can take a plain brown lunch bag, draw pictures or paste cartoons or stickers on it, and inside, add a granola bar, a coloring book and crayons, book, toy car, etc. All these items are inexpensive and can make the baby shower more enjoyable for the sibling.

Cathy lives in Gold Coast Australia, has two children aged 3 and 5 and has been hosting baby showers for friends and family for many years. Cathy is the Author of Baby Shower Moments A to Z Baby Shower Guide and also the owner of www.babyshowermoments.com where you will find information relating to Baby Showers. Visit us here Baby Shower Ideas or Baby Shower Invitations.