pink and blue avenue

Meal Plans For Kids

2010-05-02T15:43:00.000-07:00

Being a first time mom, I'm not very creative when it comes to meal time for my family. Growing up, my mom would always try to get me in the kitchen to teach me cooking basics but having no interest has led me to the dilemma I am in today. Now that I have a fiance, son, and another son on the way, it's time to get creative and make some healthy meals that will keep my son interested and my fiance begging for more! I've been doing some research on meal plans since I need a little kick start. I found Meal Planning Mommies a good place to start. Quite a few of their recipes are homemade with healthy ingredients. I'm really excited to start making meal plans every week for my family. If anyone has any other websites that you think are healthy and easy to use please shoot me an email!

Earth's Best Savings!

2010-02-11T09:51:00.000-08:00

Print your Earth's Best coupons here! Also visit Earth's Best for a chance to win a $25,000 savings bond! You may also clip 2 coupons from your February 2010 issue of Parent's magazine.

Herbal Birth Control

2010-02-11T09:33:00.000-08:00

Herbal birth control is most effective with knowledge of your fertility cycles, selective abstinence, and barriers to sperm. These herbs may not be 100% effective, but may help prevent implantation of a fertilized egg, may cause temporary or permanent sterility, and bring on a late menstrual flow. Some of these herbs have potentially dangerous side effects so please respect their power.

Stoneseed root~Once used by Shoshone women to cause permanent sterility. Steep it for several hours in cold, rather than boiling water, and drink a cup daily.

Jack in the Pulpit Root~This was used by Hopi women and prevented conception for one week. Stir one teaspoon of the dried, powdered root into a half cup of cold water. If sterility was desired, two teaspoonsful were stirred into a cup of hot water.

Thistles~Many types of thistles seem to be useful in inhibiting fertilization. This herb was used by the Quinault Indians to induce temporary sterility by preparing an infusion by boiling the entire plant in water and drinking the strong liquid.

Increasing Your Fertility The Natural And Healthy Way

2010-02-08T08:09:00.000-08:00

Did you know that the causes of infertility is either 50% weak sperm, 35% blocked tubes, or 15% unknown? Have you tried using herbs to increase your fertility? Herbs used to encourage a pregnancy are characterized by their ability to nourish and tonify the uterus, nourish the entire body, relax the nervous system, establish and balance normal functioning of the hormonal system, and balance sexual desire. Here are a list of some helpful herbs that may help you!

Red Clover Flowers~This herb has a high vitamin content and is especially useful for the uterus.

Nettle Leaves~This herb is a uterine tonic and generally nourishes with a special ability to strengthen the kidneys and adrenals.

Red Raspberry Leaves~This herb provides leaves which contain an effective uterine tonic and a large amount of calcium. It is most effective when combined with Red Clover.

Don Quai Root~This herb is known for normalizing your menstrual periods which will give you a more accurate time frame of when you are ovulating every month.

False Unicorn Root~This strong and beneficial herb is known for having an influence on the ovaries, kidney's, and bladder. This herb is also a powerful uterine tonic.

Ovulation is controlled by light. Leave a light on in your bedroom for three nights midway through your menstrual cycle, while all other nights leaving the room dark. You will ovulate when the light is on. Have intercourse during the 3 light nights if you want to conceive. This method is called lunaception. Lunaception combines well with herbs which promote fertility.

My personal experience~I've had an irregular menstrual cycle my whole life which created horrible mood swings. I went to my local herb store to see if I could find an herb that would regulate my cycles. I was recommended Femtrol which contains Vitamin C, Dong Quai Root Extract, Hesperidin, Black Cohosh Root Extract, Chaste Tree Berry Extract, False Unicorn Root Extract, Licorice Root, Rhizome Extract, and Fennel Seed Extract. After taking Femtrol, having a regular cycle for 2 months, and feeling better I fell pregnant with my son in 2008! If you have irregular cycles and are having a hard time conceiving, maybe you should give this a try!

If any of these work for you, please email me your story. I would love to hear about it!

Easy Aromatherapy Recipes

2010-02-03T13:10:00.000-08:00

Responding to my blog post in October 2009 regarding Natural Remedies for your Little Ones, Kyley at Easy Aromatherapy Recipes recently sent me another helpful aromatherapy recipe to cheer kids up and help relieve chest congestion. Put a few drops of peppermint and lemon essential oil or lavender into the humidifier to help them sleep.
For more good essential oil diffuser recipes for keeping life healthy and happy please visit Kyley's website at Easy Aromatherapy Recipes. Enjoy!

Thanks Kyley!

Natural and Organic for Baby and You!

2010-02-03T09:52:00.000-08:00

I recently received an email from owner and mom, Alia Alston who discovered Sweet Olive after her daughter was diagnosed with eczema and other skin issues. After trying products that her Dr. recommended, she decided to do some research of her own seeking a natural alternative. She has created her own natural diaper rash cream, which she calls Biscuit Butter. This cream also is an amazing soothing relief for eczema and other skin ailments. Lucky Ducky are her bath sachets that are amazing soap replacements for children or adults. Alia is in the process of developing an Ow-wee Cream that is packaged in an over sized chap-stick holder. Through research, she has found that children LOVE applying it on themselves. Cheeks, lips, dry spots, eczema spots, scrapes, and anywhere else there is an ow-wee. She personally uses it under her eyes as an eye cream at night. It has rose hip oil in it which works wonders for wrinkles! Plus, not only are her products amazing she is lucky enough to be able to donate a percentage of her profits to under privileged children charities. Remember, all of her products are organic, natural, hand made and 100% biodegradable.

Thank you again for your email Alia! Looking forward to sampling your products!

Baby & Child Model Search

2010-02-03T09:39:00.000-08:00

Think your little one has what it takes to be a model? Visit Parenting Magazine for your chance to win modeling representation for your child!

Natural Cures For Morning Sickness

2009-11-18T22:01:00.000-08:00

Eat or drink ginger~Raw ginger, ginger tea, ginger ale, or even ginger lozenges will help cure morning sickness.

Keep snacks by your bed~Many times morning sickness is caused by having an empty tummy. As soon as you wake up or before you fall asleep, snack on something to alleviate the nausea.

Eat something salty~Eating something salty before a meal may help settle your tummy and may give you the ability to eat more when you didn't have an appetite to begin with.

Peppermint~Peppermint aromatherapy, peppermint lifesavers, or drinking a cup of peppermint tea can help settle your stomach. One idea is to put a drop or two of peppermint essential oils on a handkerchief and carry it in your purse or pocket. That way, you will have it readily on hand when you start feeling nauseous.

Sea bands~Sea bands are acupressure bands that you wear on your wrists. They put a bit of pressure on the pericardium 6 acupressure point, which according to Chinese medicine will relieve morning sickness and even nausea in general.

Increase your Vitamin B6~There is evidence that taking extra vitamin B6 helps to cure morning sickness. You should check with your doctor though before taking extra B6 along with your prenatal vitamin, because you can have numbness and nerve damage if you take too much and it may not be totally safe for the baby in too large of doses. Your doctor can tell you how much to safely take to help cure your morning sickness.

Eat several small meals throughout the day~Eating many small meals throughout the day will ensure that your stomach does not become empty which leads to morning sickness.

Homemade Diaper Rash Cream

2009-11-06T20:38:00.000-08:00

Combine 2 tablespoons olive oil with 1/2 oz. grated beeswax. You can also use shortening or almond oil in place of the olive oil if you choose. Using a double boiler, melt the oil and wax together until it has the consistency of petroleum jelly, stirring frequently. Puncture a vitamin E capsule, and squeeze the contents into the mixture. Transfer the mixture to a small jar, and cool to room temperature. Stir it until it has a creamy consistency.

To apply, spread a generous amount of the cream onto the rash-affected area. Never apply cream to wet or dirty skin, the oils in the cream form a barrier that traps moisture against the skin. Always keep a baby's skin clean, dry and well-moisturized. Store the homemade cream at room temperature.

Quick Snack Fix!

2009-11-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

Don't have time for breakfast? Try a breakfast bar, granola bar, or whole wheat peanut butter crackers. The fiber will keep you full until lunch.

Have a sweet tooth? Try trail mix. The high protein nuts and fiber rich fruit will be satisfying and even a brand with chocolate chips is healthier than a candy bar.

Something salty? Whole wheat pretzels or baked gold fish crackers. Both have minimal saturated fat and cholesterol.

Need something to hold you over until dinner? Peanuts. The protein will give you lasting energy and they provide monounsaturated fats, which are good for your heart!

Homemade Baby Wipes

2009-10-31T16:25:00.000-07:00

Baby Wipes Recipe #1:
•2 TBSP Baby Wash (choose a natural wash!)
•2 TBSP Olive Oil
•2 Cups water
Mix well in a spray bottle or your wipes box. Spritz on wipe before using if in spray bottle. Swish solution around over wipes if using a wipes box.

Baby Wipes Recipe #2:
•2 TBSP Baby Wash
•2 TBSP Olive Oil or 1 TBSP Calendula Oil
•2 Drops Tea Tree Oil
•2 Cups Water
Mix well in a spray bottle or your wipes box. Spritz on wipe before using if in spray bottle. Swish solution around over wipes if using a wipes box. Tea Tree Oil has lovely disinfectant properties along with its wonderful, clean smell.

Aloe Vera Recipe:
•1/4 Cup Aloe Vera Gel
•2 Drops Tea Tree Oil
•2 Cups Hot Water
Stir or shake until this recipe is well mixed. Don't use until the mixture cools. Spritz on wipe before using if in spray bottle. Swish solution around over wipes if using a wipes box.

Vitamin E and Essential Oils Recipe:
•2 Drops Tea Tree Oil
•2 Drops Lavender Oil (Please be sure to use only pure essential oils - don't use synthetic oils.)
•2 Drops Chamomile Oil
•2 Cups Water
•1 Vitamin E Cap
Cut open vitamin E caplet and squeeze into the water, and add essential oil drops. Mix well in a spray bottle or your wipes box. Spritz on wipe before using if in spray bottle. Swish solution around over wipes if using a wipes box.

Calling all Blogger Moms!

2009-10-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

Looking for ALL blogger moms to send me your blog so I can list you in my blog directory! Mom's supporting mom's in our blogger world by sharing tips, ideas, advice, and friendships. So email me at pinkandblueavenue@gmail.com to be listed. Looking forward to seeing your blogs!

Send A Smile

2009-10-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

Before the busy holiday season begins, take time to think about those that are less fortunate. Operation Christmas Child delivers shoe boxes packed with small toys to hundreds of thousands of children suffering from natural disasters, war, diseases, or poverty around the world. Wrap a shoe box (lid separately), fill it with gifts, include a $7 donation for shipping, and drop it off at a center near you. Collection week is November 16Th-23rd. For more information visit Samaritan's Purse.

More Natural Remedies for Your Little Ones...

2009-10-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

The AAP says that kids under age 6 shouldn't be given cold medications, so try these natural remedies to help your child feel better:

Bath or Shower~ The steam from the bath or shower will help loosen a stuffy nose. Use caution while taking a shower with your child.

Humidifiers~ Not only does the humidifier ease cold symptoms, they will also help keep your child healthy! Research has found that flu viruses survive best when the air is low in humidity.

Honey~ A study at Penn State College found that honey is more effective than cough medicine for treating kids with a cough. Never give honey to babies under age 1.

Saline~ Nasal sprays or drops made from a salt-water solution help thin mucus so it drains. Doctors advise nasal washing with a special squirt bottle.

Tender Tissues~ Stock up on tissues that are infused with lotion. They will help minimize the sore skin that comes with frequent blowing.

Try to stay healthy this season! Sanitize, Sanitize, Sanitize!

The Power of a Banana

2009-10-26T12:49:00.000-07:00

Never underestimate the power of a banana! Here are a list of banana facts that may surprise you!

Bananas contain 3 different sugars~ sucrose, glucose, and fructose combined with fiber. Research has proven that only 2 bananas can give you a substantial amount of energy to give you a 90 minute work out. That's not all! Bananas help with the following:

Depression~ After a survey taken by MIND, many felt better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS~ Forget those over the counter pills, bananas contain enough B6 to regulate the blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood!

Anemia~ Bananas are high in iron and can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood which helps in some cases with Anemia.

Blood Pressure~The banana is high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. The US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power~Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation~High in fiber, including bananas in your diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers~One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn~Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning sickness~Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites~Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves~Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Ulcers~The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Warts~Kill off a wart by taking a piece of banana skin and placing it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape.

Strokes~According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Stress~Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

One last thing, never put bananas in the refrigerator!

Crayola Creations

2009-10-24T13:27:00.000-07:00

You can now upload your digital photos on the Crayola website and print them out for your kids to color! Try it for free anytime, but you need a code which is in specially marked boxes of crayons ($5 for a box of 48) to print your pictures. Psst, all Parents readers, you can print free for 24 hours using the code in your October issue page 27.

Free Pure & Natural Huggies Sample

2009-10-22T22:05:00.000-07:00

Receive 3 free samples of Pure & Natural Huggies Diapers. Newborn and Size 1 only. Get your free samples here!

Make Your Own Baby Food!

2009-10-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

Here are some delicious baby food recipes that I found to be tasteful and healthy for our little ones. The vegetables end up being a lot cheaper than the pricey pre-made puree's that aren't as fresh.

Apple and Cabbage Baby Food:
1 Golden delicious apple peeled and grated
1 Cup of finely shredded red cabbage
1/4 Cup of water
2 tablespoons of golden raisins

Place all ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Puree in food processor or blender until smooth.

Asparagus and Broccoli Baby Food:
1 cup cut asparagus pieces
1 cup small broccoli florets
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil

Cook asparagus and broccoli in boiling water until tender; drain. Place garlic and oil together in a bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Puree all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth.

Curry Pea Baby Food:
1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas, cooked and drained
1/3 cup plain yogurt
1/4 teaspoon curry powder

Puree all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth.

Beans, Collards, and Rice Baby Food:
1 cup frozen collard greens, cooked
1 cup frozen or fresh green beans, cooked
3/4 cup cooked brown rice
1/4 cup water

Puree all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth.

Spicy Sweet Potato Baby Food:
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 teaspoon pumpkin-pie spice
1/8 teaspoon cumin

Cook sweet potato in boiling water until tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and place in food processor or blender. Microwave butter and spices together for 45 seconds. Add to sweet-potato mixture and puree until smooth.

Green Pea Delight Baby Food:
1 cup frozen peas
3/4 cup water

Combine peas with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, and cook for 6 minutes. Let cool 10 minutes, then puree until smooth.

Apples and Peaches Baby Food:
1 Golden Delicious apple
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons water
1 cup frozen peaches (defrosted)
2 teaspoons water

Peel, core, and dice the apple, combine with 1/2 cup water in a saucepan, then bring to a boil over high heat; cook for 5 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes, then puree mixture until smooth. While apple is cooling, combine peaches and remaining 2 tablespoons water in a blender. Puree until smooth. Stir apples and peaches together and serve.

Sweet Potato Surprise Baby Food:
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
1 cup water

Combine sweet potato with water in a saucepan, then bring to a boil over high heat; cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until tender. Let cool for 10 minutes, then puree in a blender until smooth.

Peach and Pear Baby Food:
1 small pear, cored, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup frozen peaches slices defrosted

Place pear and peach slices in a blender, puree together until smooth. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, if necessary.

BabyGanics Mess Maker Contest

2009-10-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

Think you have the messiest little one out there? Go to BabyGanics to upload your picture to prove it! If you're chosen, you could win a BabyGanics Essentials Kit.

Plus, if you received October's issue of Parenting, the early years then you will get a coupon for $1 off any BabyGanics product of $4.99 or more from Toys-R-Us and Babies-R-Us.

Mom's Deserve Pampering too!

2009-10-20T21:58:00.000-07:00

Has the weather left your face dry and looking dull? Try this home made recipe that you can whip up straight from your cupboards!

Exfoliating Mask~
Make a paste of two tablespoons of brown sugar, one tablespoon of olive oil, and two teaspoons of matcha (powdered green tea, which you can find in your local grocery store's exotic foods aisle). Gently rub the paste all over your face for 30 seconds before rinsing. The matcha and olive oil soothe the skin, while the brown sugar buffs away the flakes.

Don't put this off because you have this and that to do. You have to take care of yourself before you can take care of others. Relax, live simply, and relieve that stress!

Useful Tips for Peaceful Nights

2009-10-17T22:41:00.000-07:00

There are 2 ways to get your baby sleeping thru the night. 1. The Cry-to-sleep solution or 2. The No-cry-to-sleep solution. My son was waking up frequently thru the night so I found 2 different books that I recommend everyone to read. "On Becoming Baby Wise" by Gary Ezzo and Roberty Bucknam is a book that I think would work well if your willing to let your child cry himself to sleep. The book I followed is called "The No-Cry Sleep Solution" by Elizabeth Pantley which is where you soothe your baby to sleep. Both books provide a great source of information. Here are helpful hints to help your baby sleep peacefully thru the night:

~Establish a firm night routine that happens at the same time every night (Typically an hour before your child goes to sleep). This will involve dinner, a bath (you don't have to use soap every night, as it could dry out your baby's skin), a massage with organic lotion, putting on comfy pajamas, a bedtime story, a prayer, lights out, rocking, nursing, soothing, sleep. This will help provide security and send a message to your child's brain that bedtime is approaching.

~Avoid stimulating activies before bed such as watching TV, playing with toys, or rough housing.

~Avoid stimulants such as caffiene, sugar, soda, candy, desserts, etc.

~Use a dim lamp or a night light for your child's room if they are afraid of the dark.

~Make use of gentle natural remedies to promote healthy sleep habits and night time harmony for your child.

Got Rash?

2009-10-16T22:40:00.000-07:00

Diaper rash that is....
Change your baby frequently but they still develop that painful looking diaper rash? Rashes are caused by diapers that fit too snug, irritation from diarrhea, or chemicals that are added to certain diapers and wipes. Luckily it's fall, rashes are minimal when the weather is cooler and more frequent when it's warmer out. Petroleum jelly or zinc oxide provide a layer of protection that helps clear the area because it shields your baby's skin from moisture. Be sure to dab it on the affected area rather than rub it in. Let your baby's bottom air dry after each changing, use a wet washcloth for those sensitive little bottoms rather than wipes, or try natural or cloth diapers.

Juice Tip!

2009-10-16T22:26:00.000-07:00

If your child doesn't finish their juice before it expires, pour the leftovers in an ice-cube tray. After frozen, pop them out and put them in a freezer bag to store. When your ready to serve, put one into a cup of water, serve as juice OR just give to your child as a healthy popsicle snack.

Screen Smart

2009-10-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

I have been curious to know if my 7 month old knew what we watch on the television whether it had bad language or adult content. Do I take him out of the room? Do I only watch adult programming when he's napping? So I did some research and came across an interesting article about children watching TV at such a young age. From the Center on Media and Child Health at Children's Hospital Boston, the more kids that are exposed to programs intended for adults, the more likely they are to become sexually active at an earlier age. For every hour of adult content that children between the ages 6 and 8 watched over a 2 day period, their chances of having sex at a young age increased by 33 percent. Be careful with what you expose them to, they are smarter than we think!

Interesting facts I thought I would pass along!

For all you creative moms!

2009-09-26T15:04:00.000-07:00

Win an easy $500 by crafting a creative Halloween costume for your little one! Show off your creativity by competing in this costume making contest against other creative moms. For more information, visit Parenting Magazine online. You could win a $500 gift card to Michael's arts and crafts!

Natural Remedies for Children

2009-08-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

Sore Throat
Lemon juice dries up congestion while honey soothes the throat. Mix one tablespoon of each, microwave until warm and have your child swallow the mixture one teaspoon at a time. Note: Honey is not safe for infants under 1.

Colic
Steep chamomile tea for 4-5 minutes, let it cool to room temperature, and then put 1-2 ounces in a bottle. Do not give your baby more than 4 ounces a day so there is room in their belly for breast milk/formula. This will relax their intestinal muscles and calm them down.

Nosebleeds
Cayenne pepper helps clot the blood and has been medicinally used in cultures around the world. Keep your child's head upright and pinch their nostrils together for several minutes. Sprinkle a pinch of ground Cayenne pepper on a cotton swab and dab inside the nose where the nose is bleeding.

Bug Bites
Baking soda relieves and soothes bug bites better than products with harsh chemicals. The baking soda helps counteract the acidic swelling. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with just enough water to make a thick paste, smear the paste on the bites, and let dry.

Warts
Place a small piece of duct tape over your child's wart. The gray fabric tape seems to irritate the wart and inhibits growth. Change the tape whenever it gets icky and the wart should disappear within a month.

Anxiety
Breathing long, deep breaths relieves anxiety and stress so try having your child blow thru a bubble wand. See the joy on your child's face while blowing bubbles and at the same time relieve anxiety by taking deep breaths and blowing slow.

Headaches
Wrapping ice in a washcloth and placing it on your child's head is just not practical since they wiggle around. Try wrapping the ice in a towel and tie it securely using a bandanna instead.

Tummy or neck pain
Make a heat wrap by filling one of your socks with uncooked rice and placing in the microwave for one minute or until warm, place it wherever your child has pain. Reheat when it cools.

Swimmers Ear
For mild cases you can evaporate the water trapped in your ear by standing a foot away from your child and aiming the blow dryer toward your child's ear on the warm setting. For extreme cases, the Dr. will have to prescribe antibiotics.

Congestion
For a child over 6 months, fill a bulb syringe with preservative free saline solution, raise your child's head and gently squeeze solution into one nostril at a time. A recent study showed that using a seawater solution helped kids get over colds quicker.

Car Sickness
For children 2 and older add a teaspoon of fresh ginger to four ounces of boiling water and let it steep for 4-5 minutes, add a bit of honey for taste. After it has cooled have your child drink it 30 minutes before the car ride.

Mild Swelling
Cool cucumber slices help soothe hot, swollen skin. Place a slice anywhere your child has swelling and keep replacing after each slice gets warm.

Bee Sting
If your child gets stung by a bee, you will want to gently remove the stinger before venom spreads. To avoid squeezing the stinger simply grab a credit card and scrape across the area until the stinger comes out.

Indigestion
For children 4 or older, have your child chew a stick of gum if they are complaining they are too full. The extra saliva they produce will neutralize the problematic excess stomach acid.

Remember, what goes on your baby, goes in your baby. Stay healthy, stay clean, and keep it green!

This information was researched and found on www.parents.com. All content is for informational purposes only. Always seek directional advice from your pediatrician in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your or your child's health.

"Netflix", for Childrens Books

2009-08-25T16:48:00.000-07:00

My family enjoys using Netflix for many different genre's of movies. I recently found out that excitebooks.com is similar to Netflix only they send age-appropriate books to your mailbox each month for your children. The best part about it? Keep whatever you want, and use the prepaid envelopes to mail your recycled books to a library in need. $5 for one, $10 for two, and $15 for three. Check out excitebooks.com today!

Nature-Friendly Diapers

2009-08-25T15:30:00.001-07:00

Disposable diapers are so easy and convenient to use, however they do damage to our environment. Cloth is inconvenient because you have to do the dirty work by scrubbing them and washing them daily. So why not try gDiapers? gDiapers are an Eco-friendly and easy to use diaper that satisfies everyone! The outer pant is machine washable while the plastic-free, super absorbant insert is flushable! Get your starter kit of two pants and ten inserts for only $27 at gDiapers today.

Click and enter to win!

2009-08-06T11:57:00.000-07:00

Click here and enter to win one of 2 $50,000 college scholarships for you, your child, or anyone you choose! The deadline is 9/7/09 so enter now!

The Importance of Iodine

2009-08-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

Does your prenatal vitamin contain Iodine? Hope so! If you're pregnant or nursing make sure your prenatal vitamin contains at least 150 mcg of iodine. Research shows that fetuses and babies need iodine to produce thyroid hormone. Deficiency in iodine could cause mental retardation. The RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) for pregnant women is 220mcg and nursing moms is 290mcg. Only 51% of prenatal vitamins contain iodine so check those labels mommies!

Parenting Privileges

2009-07-30T23:18:00.001-07:00

Parenting Privileges is an easy rewards program that earns you 20% in cash back rewards at over 100 of your favorite online retailers. You have to be a Parenting subscriber in order to take advantage of this free offer, however if you're not a member, you will get a 90 day free trial. Sign up here for a yearly subscription for only $1 an issue.

Cheap Movies!

2009-07-29T10:45:00.001-07:00

Hurry! You still have until August 5th to take your children to see movies for only $1 at select AMC theatres. They are last year's films but you can't go wrong with Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa!

Save Money, Go Green!

2009-07-27T15:01:00.000-07:00

Think before you buy
Find gently used secondhand products online at Craigslist or Freesharing before spending full price for anything.
Check out garage sales or thrift stores for clothing and everyday items. You may even consider trading items or clothes with a girlfriend. It may be old to them but it's new to you. Remember, one persons trash is another ones treasure!

Eat smart
Organic meat and eggs can costs a lot in stores. The best way to go is to purchase organic, humane meat and eggs locally. Most cities have a local farmers market that contain locally fresh fruits, veggies, and meats. Take advantage of that whenever possible that way you know what you're getting and you're keeping money in the local economy. Make local habit.

Skip bottled water
Buy a water purifier for your faucet rather than purchasing water in a bottle. Not only is the plastic bad for the environment, most plastic bottles contain BPA and it contains large amounts of container waste. Purchase a reusable water bottle and refill that daily if you need water for the car trip.

Make your own cleaning supplies
You can make very effective, non toxic cleaning supplies right at home. All you need are ingredients like lemon, vinegar, soda, and soap. Not only are you cutting costs, you are keeping the air in your home clean for you and your family.

Save gas, use the limbs that god gave you
I know this is hard to do if you live far away from work or have kids that you need to haul around with you but any chance you get, ride a bike (pull your child behind you), walk (put your baby in a sling, baby bjorn, or make them walk with you), jog (put your child in a jogger stroller), or commute to your destinations. Gas is horrible for the environment and very costly. Try to plan out your day and run all of you're errands at one time rather than taking 4 different trips.

Clip coupons
Yes, we all know that clipping coupons is time consuming but aren't you willing to sacrifice a little time and effort to save money for you and your family? Get your local newspaper ads, make a list, and clip those coupons! If you do this on a weekly basis and keep a folder of coupons, you end up saving so much money, not to mention free items from combining manufactured coupons, doubler coupons, and the coupons from the grocery store. Need help getting started? Frugal Chic Living is the way to start saving!

Save power
Want a lower electric bill? Unplug electronics even if you aren't using them. Replace old light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs. Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible, and during the summer, hang the clothes outside to dry, join Gift of Green's Clothesline Challenge today! Do your laundry at night, it's proven that you save on your bill by washing clothes in the evening. On hot summer days, make sure you close all of your windows and keep those blinds or curtains shut to keep the heat out so you use your air conditioner as least as possible. Never have your oven placed right next to your fridge! The heat from the oven causes the fridge to turn on and work harder at keeping your items cold. Trust me, I learned the hard way when I was renting a home and our electric bill wasn't very pleasant.

Lets make a difference by taking the time to live by these ways to go green! I know I would rather live a clean, organic life by taking the extra time to make sure my environment will be a clean one for the children of our future. Plus, wouldn't you rather spend your hard earned money on vacations, your children, and their future rather than gas, electricity, and unnecessary items?

Homemade baby powder (Talc-Free)

2009-07-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love my homemade baby powder that my mother-in-law made for me. You can't go wrong with natural powder for that soft baby skin. Not to mention how much cheaper this is for a natural product. Here is the recipe that she gave me:

Natural Baby Powder:
1/2 cup corn starch
1/2 cup arrowroot powder
1 tbsp dried ground chamomille
1 tbsp dried ground lavender
1/4 cup finely ground oats

Blend well and put in a shaker style bottle. It makes me feel so much better knowing that only natural products are being used on my baby's soft skin.

High in the Sky Foundation

2009-07-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

The father of my son, Matthew has been working very hard to become a helicopter pilot to live his dream while making money to support our family so I can stay at home with our child. He is currently a student pilot at Leading Edge Aviation with about 60 hours completed toward his license. In the beginning of this process he was told by a family member that he would have the funds and a cosigner to complete his career in flying. Circumstances have changed, as you know how bad the economy is right now, only part of his career in flying is completed with still many more hours to go. All we need is around 14,000 people to donate just $5 or even 35,000 people to donate just $2 to help my family's dream come true. Any extra money that is donated after we have reached our goal will be donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. You may donate by clicking on the button to the right of my blog OR you may contact Leading Edge Aviation and contribute under Matthew Busik's name. Thank you for making a difference for my family.

Natural Mosquito Repellent

2009-07-26T12:34:00.000-07:00

Want to go camping but get discouraged from all of the mosquitoes? Make your own natural mosquito repellent without using those harsh chemicals on your skin. Going the natural way is cheaper and healthier for you and your baby.

There are a few different formulations you can make for your natural repellent. You are basically diluting essential oils that mosquitoes find distasteful. You will need to mix the oils with alcohol or other oils since oil doesn't mix with water. Make sure you use an oil and alcohol that is safe for your skin. Do not overdue the oils, as it may irritate your skin. If you are pregnant or nursing, do not use any type of repellent until you talk to your physician.

Natural repellent ingredients:
If you are making a large amount of repellent make sure you use 5-10% of essential oils so mix 1 part essential oils and 10-20 parts carrier oil or alcohol. For a smaller batch use 10-25 drops of essential oils and 2 tablespoons of carrier oil or alcohol.

Essential oils that work well against mosquitoes:
Cinnamon oil
Lemon eucalyptus oil
Citronella oil
Castor oil

Safe carrier oils and alcohol:
Olive oil
Sunflower oil
Any other cooking oil
Witch hazel
Vodka

Repellent recipe:
Mix the essential oils with the carrier oil or alcohol. Rub the natural repellent onto skin or clothing, making sure you do not spray it in sensitive areas. Re-apply every hour to hour and a half. Store the natural product in a dark bottle away from heat or sunlight.

Happy Camping!

Want to increase or decrease your breast milk supply?

2009-07-25T12:30:00.000-07:00

I really found this website helpful for tips on increasing my milk supply naturally. Click here for natural remedies to help maintain a healthy milk supply. I also would like to recommend using powdered goats milk as a supplement if you still feel that your baby isn't thriving. You cannot substitute goats milk for breast milk since it doesn't have iron in it but you can supplement with it.

Too much milk? Are you ready to wean your baby off of your breasts? Click here to decrease your milk supply.