TheSitterLoop Baby Blog

2007-10-17T22:15:00.000-04:00

Limited time only

2007-10-17T20:57:00.000-04:00

THESITTERLOOP.COM

For a limited time only $14.99 for the year!!!!!!

You know you grew up in the 80's if:

2007-10-16T21:57:00.000-04:00

You Know You Grew Up In the 80's if:

1. You've ever ended a sentence with the word SIKE.

2. You can sing the rap to the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and can do the Carlton

3. You know that "WOAH" comes from Joey on Blossom

4. If you ever watched "Fraggle Rock"

5. It was actually worth getting up early on a Saturday to watch cartoons.

6. You wore a ponytail on the side of your head.

7. You got super-excited when it was Oregon Trail day in computer class at school.

8. You made your mom buy one of those clips that would hold your shirt in a knot on the side.

9. You played the game "MASH"(Mansion, Apartment, Shelter, House)

10. You wore stonewashed Jordache jean jackets and were proud of it.

11. You know the profound meaning of " WAX ON , WAX OFF"

12. You wanted to be a Goonie.

13. You ever wore fluorescent clothing. (some of us...head-to-toe)

14. You can remember what Michael Jackson looked like before his nose fell off and his cheeks shifted.

15. You have ever pondered why Smurfette was the only female smurf.

16. You took lunch boxes to school...and traded Garbage Pailkids in the schoolyard.

17. You remember the CRAZE, then the BANNING of slap bracelets.

18. You still get the urge to say "NOT" after every sentence.

19. You thought your childhood friends would never leave because you exchanged handmade friendship bracelets.

21. You ever owned a pair of Jelly-Shoes.

22. After you saw Pee-Wee's Big Adventure you kept saying "I know you are, but what am I?"

23. You remember "I've fallen and I can't get up"

24. You remember going to the skating rink before there were inline skates.

25. You have ever played with a Skip-It.

26. You remember boom boxes and walking around with one on your shoulder like you were all that.

27. You remember watching both Gremlins movies.

28. You thought Doogie Howser/Samantha Micelli was hot.

29. You remember Alf, the lil furry brown alien from Melmac.

30. You remember New Kids on the Block when they were cool...and don't even flinch when people refer to them as "NKOTB"

31. You knew all the characters names and their life stories on "Saved By The Bell," The ORIGINAL class.

32. You know all the words to Bon Jovi - SHOT THROUGH THE HEART.

33. You just sang those words to yourself.

34. You still sing "We are the World"

35. You tight rolled your jeans.

36. You owned a bannana clip.

37. You remember "Where's the Beef?"

38. You used to (and probably still do)
say "What you talkin' 'bout Willis?"

39. You're still singing shot through the heart in your head, aren't you!

National Adoption Day

2007-10-16T21:52:00.000-04:00

NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY 2007 – NOVEMBER 17

ABOUT NATIONAL ADOPTION DAY
National Adoption Day is a collective national effort to raise awareness of the 114,000 children in foster care waiting to find permanent, loving families. For the last eight years, National Adoption Day has made the dreams of thousands of children come true by working with courts, judges, attorneys, adoption professionals, child welfare agencies and advocates to finalize adoptions and find permanent, loving homes for children in foster care.

National Adoption Day is celebrated every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. For the first time in 2006, National Adoption Day was celebrated in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. In total, more than 250 events were held throughout the country to finalize the adoptions of more than 3,300 children in foster care, and to celebrate all families who adopt.

Monster Cupcake

2007-10-16T21:47:00.000-04:00

M is for Mini Monster Cupcake

RECIPE INGREDIENTS:
	1 mini cupcake
	Blue frosting
	2 candy eyes
	Red whip licorice
	1 Circus Peanut, halved

1. Unwrap the cupcake and turn it upside down. With a writing or star tip, frost the cupcake from the top down.

2. Add the eyes, the licorice antennae and peanut halves for sneakers.

Halloween safty tips for trick or treating

2007-10-16T21:44:00.000-04:00

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FOR TRICK OR TREATING

Trick or Treating should be one of the great adventures of Halloween for kids! They can get dressed in scary costumes and go door to door, begging "Tricks or Treats!" from neighbors or at the local mall. Lots of towns have a Harvest Festival so kids can Trick-or-Treat safely. But going door to door is the stuff of childhood memories! It should be a fun time, without trouble and pain, so following some easy tips can keep your child safe every Halloween.

	Children should go out during daylight hours only unless accompanied by a responsible adult.
	Plan a safe route so parents know where their older kids will be at all times. Set a time for their return home. Make sure that your child is old enough and responsible enough to go out by themselves.
	Let your children know not to cut through back alleys and fields. Make sure they know to stay in populated places and don't go off the beaten track. Stay in well lighted areas.
	Stop only at familiar houses in your own neighborhood unless they are accompanied by an adult.
	Small children should never be allowed to go out alone on Halloween. Make sure an older sibling or adult is with them.
	Instruct your children not to eat any treats until they bring them home to be examined by you.
	Instruct your child to never go into the home of a stranger or get into their car.
	Make sure your child carries a flashlight, glow stick or has reflective tape on their costume to make them more visible to cars.
	Let them know that they should stay together as a group if going out to Trick or Treat without an adult.

Are homework Expectations realistic for our children?

2007-08-29T13:12:00.000-04:00

Are Homework Expectations Realistic for Our Children?
by Sally Sacks, www.sallysacks.com

I become increasingly concerned when I see the expectations being forced upon kids nowadays. It seems that so many kids are cutting themselves, a newer form of stress reduction, and engaging in other escapist, avoidant behaviors to dodge the pressure cooker they live in every day called school. Teachers are pressured by state requirements; they, in turn, pressure the kids, and the parents become pressured by the teacher and the school�s expectations.

Sometimes the expectations are over the top, and your job as a parent is to realize when that is happening and when the expectations are reasonable.

So many kids tell me that if they miss a day or two of school, they are so far behind, that they say, �Why bother,� and subsequently get a poor grade. Kids get sick, and they should feel that they can take the time they need to get well.

Many parents are worried, even at the fourth grade level when homework isn�t done and grades are not A�s and B�s. If the child isn�t motivated to come home after school and begin two hours of homework, they are worried they have a slacker, a lazy kid. I work eight plus hours a day and I don�t usually come home looking for more work to do.

Let�s put things into perspective. Children need to know that they have to do homework to make it through school, and most kids, unless they have serious academic limitations or other learning issues, will attempt to do it. If they downright refuse to do any homework, even a reasonable amount, then you have another problem that needs addressing. Maybe they really don�t understand the work, and aren�t telling you. Maybe they need a different school. Maybe there are emotional issues to be examined. Let them pick a time that�s best for them, and you help them structure that time. If they get restless, and need a break, let them take a break. As long as they return to it, that isn�t a problem.

It is important for parents to admit that most young kids don�t love homework and think of creative ideas to help them through it. Here is what not to do in helping your child with homework:

Don’t ask them to do homework as soon as they get off the bus.
Don’t assume that they aren’t overwhelmed by the amount, and are just lazy.
Understand that most kids don’t love homework
Don’t compare them to others and push them with your own anxiety
Many successful people in life didn’t love homework
Keep in mind your child’s age and motivation to get homework done
Don’t overlook the strengths of a kid who doesn’t think certain things are necessary to learn.
That may be true. That kid may have many independent strengths!
Don’t forget to help them when you can. They need support. Some of the work is very difficult
Don’t forget what being young was like for you.

What To Do To Help Kids With Homework:

Do help them find a time that works for them to do it.
If they are having trouble with it, troubleshoot as to why. Ask questions.
Do help them find solutions, and acknowledge their negative feelings or difficulty.
Spend time with them when you can, showing enthusiasm toward their subject.
Expect rebellion and procrastination. It will happen.
Keep calm about their consequences if they can’t get it done. They will eventually learn how to handle this.
If you push too hard, you will get your children to lie about doing it.
Show calm when they are filled with anxiety.
Hire a tutor if they need more support.
Love them and believe in them, even when they are not doing what you feel they should be to get ahead.

Sally Sacks, M.Ed is a licensed psychotherapist, with 20 years of experience, counseling individuals, children, families and couples. Sally is the author of How to Raise the Next President, a groundbreaking parents' guide to teaching and instilling in their kids the qualities they'll need to be happy, successful and productive, no matter which path they choose in life. Sally offers personal and group coaching and can be reached through her website at www.sallysacks.com.

Cool Mom Picks Back to School Guide

2007-08-28T10:30:00.000-04:00

Check out The Cool Mom Picks Back to School Guide

2007 Back to School Shopping Guide

While most of our readers have children a good decade or more away from the SATs, this might be more of an "Off to School Guide" than a "Back to School Guide." Even so, by popular request, we've poked around the net to dig up some fabulous goodies for the beginning of daycare, preschool, the first day of kindergarten or those early grades. And some awesome discounts to boot.

The picks here are entirely, as always, totally advertorial free. Just the stuff we love from sites we trust.

(Although as far as our sponsors, we looooove them too and can personally vouch for all of them.)

Remember, when you shop a Cool Mom Picks pick, you're not only getting a fantastic product that you can love for all of eternity (or at least the season), you're most often supporting an independent business or emerging company, many run by hardworking moms. Happy clicking!

Doll Pouch/Sling Give Away from Crunchy Domestic Goddesss

2007-08-28T10:01:00.000-04:00

Doll pouch/sling giveaway

Enter to win at Musings of a Crunchy Domestic Goddess

http://crunchydomesticgoddess.com/2007/08/26/doll-pouchsling-giveaway/#comment-5495

It’s time for another giveaway!

Want to win this cute doll sling for your child? My mom made it for Ava, but it’s a little too snug (and she’s making her a new one), so I’d like to give this one away to another future attachment parenting (AP) daddy or mommy. :) It’s reversible - pink on one side, blue on the other (see below). I think it would fit most 2 and 3 year olds, but Ava is a pretty big girl (38 inches tall, 36 lbs.), so that’s why it’s snug on her. Ava loves the pouch and was so delighted to do some baby wearing of her own with a sling that’s her size! Thanks, mom!

If you’d like to win it, (1) sign Mr. Linky, (2) leave me a comment telling me why you’d like to win, and (3) link back to this post on your blog - you can use the button from my sidebar if you’d like, but it’s not required. (If you don’t have a blog, you can still enter, just be sure and tell a friend about the giveaway.) You must do all three steps to be eligible. The deadline to enter is 10 p.m. Mountain Time Friday, Aug. 31. The winner will be chosen at random and announced on Sept. 1. Thanks!

TheSitterLoop.com has a new look !!

2007-07-12T20:42:00.000-04:00

TheSitterLoop.com has a new look . Check us out today.
http://www.thesitterloop.com Linking Parents and Sitters in a Snap !

HowManyOfMe.com

2007-05-09T21:37:00.000-04:00

http://howmanyofme.com/

There are 301,805,272 people in the United States of America. If everyone in the U.S. lined up single file, the line would stretch around the Earth almost 7 times. That's a lot of people.

The U.S. Census Bureau statistics tell us that there are at least 88,799 different last names and 5,163 different first names in common use in the United States. Some names are more common than others.

There are 49,839 people named John Smith in the United States. There are 1,055 people named James Bond, 114 people named Harry Potter , 506 people named George Bush, and 31 people named Emily Dickinson. However, Johnny Cash (39 people) songs aside there are, statistically speaking, very few boys named Sue.

What about you? How many people share your name? Enter it and find out how many of you there are.

What I Owe My Mother

2007-05-09T18:23:00.000-04:00

WHAT I OWE TO MY MOTHER

01. My mother taught me TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
"If you're going to kill each other, do it outside. I just finished
cleaning."

02. My mother taught me RELIGION.
"You better pray that will come out of the carpet."

03. My mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL.
"If you don't straighten up, I'm going to knock you into the middle of
next week!"

04. My mother taught me LOGIC.
"Because I said so, that's why."

05. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC .
"If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you're not going to
the store with me."

06. My mother taught me FORESIGHT ..
"Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you're in an accident."

07. My mother taught me IRONY.
"Keep crying, and I'll give you something to cry about."

08. My mother taught me about the science of OSMOSIS.
"Shut your mouth and eat your supper."

09. My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM.
"Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!"

10. My mother taught me about STAMINA.
"You'll sit there until all that spinach is gone."

11. My mother taught me about WEATHER.
"This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it."

12. My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY .
"If I told you once, I've told you a million times. Don't exaggerate!"

13. My mother taught me the CIRCLE OF LIFE.
"I brought you into this world, and I can take you out."

14. My mother taught me about BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION.
"Stop acting like your father!"

15. My mother taught me about ENVY.
"There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don't
have wonderful parents like you do."

16. My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.
"Just wait until we get home."

17. My mother taught me about RECEIVING.
"You are going to get it when you get home!"

18. My mother taught me MEDICAL SCIENCE.
"If you don't stop crossing your eyes, they are going to get stuck that
way."

19. My mother taught me ESP.
"Put your sweater on; don't you think I know when you are cold?"

20. My mother taught me HUMOR.
"When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don't come running to me."

21. My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
"If you don't eat your vegetables, you'll never grow up."

22. My mother taught me GENETICS.
"You're just like your father."

23. My mother taught me about my ROOTS .
"Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?"

24. My mother taught me WISDOM.
"When you get to be my age, you'll understand."

25. And my favorite: My mother taught me about JUSTICE.
"One day you'll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you.

THESITTERLOOP.COM

2007-04-19T13:00:00.000-04:00

THESITTERLOOP.COM
http://www.thesitterloop.com

A web based sitter directory.
Helping families find sitters and sitters find jobs

The Baby Name Bible

2007-04-19T12:57:00.000-04:00

Book Description
How can you tell if a name is too popular or not mainstream enough, wonderfully creative or just plain weird? How can you find the name that is perfect for you and your baby?

More than 50,000 names, with their meanings and derivations

Expert opinions on every name

Unique symbols that highlight unisex names, starred recommendations, and names that are on their way up or down

The latest celebrity-baby names

Ethnic and international names

Fresh alternatives for popular names

More than 200 fascinating lists, from "Cool Biblical Names" to "Names Headed for Harvard" to "Names Kids Love Having"

...and more. Informative and inspiring, entertaining and enlightening, The Baby Name Bible is the only book that offers such far-reaching advice on the full range of classic, multicultural, and creative choices—helping you figure out what's hot, what's cool, and what's right for your baby.

Out of the Ballpark

2007-04-12T21:51:00.000-04:00

Out of the Ballpark
By Alex Rodriguez and Frank Morrison
Baseball superstar A-Rod draws from his own childhood experiences in the story of a boy determined not to let his mistakes hold him back. A determined Little Alex works hard on his hitting and fielding before school each day, and hits the books when it’s time for challenging math problems. Also available in Spanish. Ages 4-8.

Different Like Coco

2007-04-12T21:49:00.000-04:00

Different Like Coco
By Elizabeth Matthews
This charming story follows the extraordinary life of Coco Chanel, who went from an orphanage in Paris to legendary designer. Coco’s special talent for sewing and her unique creativity come through in this chic picture book chronicling the lively and inspiring lady. Ages 4-8.

Lead in Sidewalk Chalk

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

Be careful when buying your children sidewalk chalk. Some brans contain lead, click on the title above to learn more.

Admiral Road

2007-03-16T17:48:00.000-04:00

Baby Zebra Blanket

Nothing is ever black and white - except when it comes to our new zebra blanket! This graphically striking blanket is modern and fun. A portion of the proceeds from this blanket will be donated to the African Wildlife Foundation.

Price

USD 44.00

NY Times Bestselling Children's Books

2007-03-15T21:21:00.000-04:00

NY Times Bestselling Children's Books 3/18/07

PICTURE BOOKS

1. FLOTSAM, by David Wiesner. (Clarion, $17.) The things that wash up on the beach: a story in pictures. (Ages 4 to 7)
18 weeks on list

2. DOG, by Matthew Van Fleet. Photography by Brian Stanton. (Paula Wiseman/Simon & Schuster, $14.99.) An interactive look at 20 breeds. (Ages 3 to 5)
4 weeks on list

3. A GOOD DAY, written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes. (Greenwillow/HarperCollins, $16.99.) A bad day turns around. (Ages 3 to 5)
1 week on list

4. PIRATES DON'T CHANGE DIAPERS, by Melinda Long. Illustrated by David Shannon. (Harcourt, $16.) To recover buried treasure, a crew of pirates first has to baby-sit. (Ages 4 to 8)
1 week on list

5. DUCK, DUCK, GOOSE, written and illustrated by Tad Hills. (Schwartz & Wade, $15.99.) Duck and goose are best friends, until another duck shows up. (Ages 3 to 7)
2 weeks on list

6. FANCY NANCY, by Jane O'Connor. Illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser. (HarperCollins, $15.99.) A girl takes her family out. (Ages 4 to 7)
60 weeks on list

7. GONE WILD, written and illustrated by David McLimans. (Walker, $16.95.) An A-to-Z of endangered animals. (Ages 4 to 8)
3 weeks on list

8. NOT A BOX, written and illustrated by Antoinette Portis. (HarperCollins, $12.99.) Imagination turns a young rabbit's cardboard box into anything but. (Ages 3 to 6)
5 weeks on list

9. LIBRARY LION, by Michelle Knudsen. Illustrated by Kevin Hawkes. (Candlewick, $15.99.) A lion obeys the library rules until there's good reason not to. (Ages 5 to 8)
16 weeks on list

10. DUCK AT THE DOOR, written and illustrated by Jackie Urbanovic. (HarperCollins, $16.99.) Max the duck didn't fly south, so now he needs winter shelter. (Ages 4 to 7)
1 weeks on list

CHAPTER BOOKS

1. NEW MOON, by Stephenie Meyer. (Megan Tingley/ Little, Brown, $17.99.) A human and a vampire continue their love affair; a sequel to ''Twilight.'' (Ages 12 and up)
30 weeks on list

2. THE HIGHER POWER OF LUCKY, by Susan Patron. Illustrated by Matt Phelan. (Richard Jackson/Atheneum, $16.95.) A 10-year-old plans to leave her small town. (Ages 9 to 11)
6 weeks on list

3. ELDEST, by Christopher Paolini. (Knopf, $21.) Eragon in the land of elves; Book 2 in the Inheritance trilogy. (Ages 12 and up)
80 weeks on list

4. THE INVENTION OF HUGO CABRET, written and illustrated by Brian Selznick. (Scholastic, $22.99.) A novel "in words and pictures"; an orphaned thief must decipher his father's last message. (Ages 9 to 12)
6 weeks on list

5. RULES, by Cynthia Lord. (Scholastic, $15.99.) The challenges and rewards of life with an autistic brother. (Ages 9 to 12)
6 weeks on list

6. THE BOOK THIEF, by Markus Zusak. (Knopf, $16.95.) In Nazi Germany, a girl shares books with a Jewish man. (Ages 14 and up) First Chapter
47 weeks on list

7. IMPULSE, by Ellen Hopkins. (McElderry, $16.99.) Three suicidal teenagers meet at a psychiatric hospital. (Ages 14 and up)
5 weeks on list

8. THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF EDWARD TULANE, by Kate DiCamillo. Illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline. (Candlewick, $18.99.) A china rabbit learns about loss. (Ages 8 to 12)
44 weeks on list

9. THE MYSTERIOUS BENEDICT SOCIETY, by Trenton Lee Stewart. Illustrated by Carson Ellis. (Little, Brown, $16.99.) Four gifted children on a secret mission. (Ages 9 to 12)
1 weeks on list

10. SWORDBIRD, by Nancy Yi Fan. (HarperCollins, $15.99.) According to legend, only one bird can restore peace between the blue jays and cardinals. (Ages 8 to 12)
4 weeks on list

PAPERBACK BOOKS

1. BRIDGE TO TERABITHIA, by Katherine Paterson. (HarperCollins, $6.99.) Unlikely friends rule an imaginary land. (Ages 9 to 12)
9 weeks on list

2. ITS NOT EASY BEING MEAN, by Lisi Harrison. (Little, Brown, $9.99.) Actually, it's easier than you might think. A "Clique" novel. (Ages 14 and up)
3 weeks on list

3. TWILIGHT, by Stephenie Meyer. (Megan Tingley/Little, Brown, $8.99.) The new girl falls in love with a vampire. (Ages 12 and up)
29 weeks on list

4. ERAGON, by Christopher Paolini. (Knopf, $9.95.) A boy and a dragon must navigate a world of dark powers. (Ages 12 and up)
97 weeks on list

5. MUGGLENET.COM'S WHAT WILL HAPPEN IN HARRY POTTER 7, by Ben Schoen et al. (Ulysses, $13.95.) Predictions from a leading fan Web site. (Ages 8 and up)
4 weeks on list

6. JUMP IN!, adapted by M. C. King. (Disney, $4.99.) An aspiring boxer discovers jump-rope; based on the TV movie
5 weeks on list

7. HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL: BATTLE OF THE BANDS, by N. B. Grace. (Disney, $4.99.) Will Troy ask Gabriella to join him for East High's Battle of the Bands? (Ages 9 to 12)
5 weeks on list

8. UGLIES, by Scott Westerfeld. (Simon Pulse, $7.99.) In a dystopian world, beauty is mandatory. (Ages 12 and up)
9 weeks on list

9. SEPTIMUS HEAP: MAGYK, by Angie Sage. (Tegen/HarperCollins, $7.99.) A boy stolen at birth, a girl left for dead and raised by her rescuers, and their quests to uncover their true identities. (Ages 9 and up)
8 weeks on list

10. BLOOD & CHOCOLATE, by Annette Curtis Klause. (Laurel Leaf, $6.50.) A werewolf falls in love with a human. (Ages 12 and up)
5 weeks on list

SERIES BOOKS

1. MAGIC TREE HOUSE, by Mary Pope Osborne. Illustrated by Sal Murdocca. (Stepping Stone/Random House, hardcover and paperback.) Children travel in time. (Ages 6 to 9)
127 weeks on list

2. THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PANTS, by Ann Brashares. (Delacorte, hardcover and paperback.) Four friends share magical pants. (Ages 12 and up)
92 weeks on list

3. JUNIE B., FIRST GRADER, by Barbara Park. Illustrated by Denise Brunkus. (Stepping Stone/Random House, hardcover and paperback.) Adventures in school. (Ages 4 to 8)
127 weeks on list

4. HARRY POTTER, by J. K. Rowling. (Levine/Scholastic, hardcover and paperback.) Trouble at Hogwarts. (Ages 10 and up)
127 weeks on list

5. INTERNET GIRLS, by Lauren Myracle. (Amulet, hardcover and paperback.) Social life, via instant messages. (Ages 14 and up)
1 week on list

6. SKIPPYJON JONES, written and illustrated by Judy Schachner. (Dutton/Puffin, hardcover and paperback.) A Siamese kitten unlooses his imagination. (Ages 3 to 6)
2 weeks on list

7. A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS, by Lemony Snicket. (HarperCollins, hardcover only.) The poor Baudelaires. (Ages 10 and up)
126 weeks on list.

8. THE KEYS TO THE KINGDOM, by Garth Nix. (Scholastic, hardcover and paperback.) A boy and his friend visit a parallel world to recover parts of ''the Will'' he inherited. (Ages 9 to 12)
4 weeks on list

9. D'LACEYS DRAGONS, by Chris D'Lacey. (Orchard/Scholastic, hardcover and paperback.) Clay figurines come to life. (Ages 9 to 12)
2 weeks on list

10. OLOGIES,by Dugald A. Steer. Various illustrators. (Candlewick, hardcover only.) Facts about dragons, wizards, etc. (Ages 9 to 12)
76 weeks on list

Tampontification

2007-03-06T22:09:00.000-05:00

Women’s shelters in the U.S. go through thousands of tampons and pads monthly, and, while agencies generally assist with everyday necessities such as toilet paper, diapers, and clothing, this most basic need is often overlooked. You and I may take our monthly trips down the feminine care aisle for granted, but, for women in shelters, a box of tampons is five dollars they can’t spare. Here’s some good news: you can help us contribute to rectifying this situation by making a virtual donation below!
For each virtual donation, Seventh Generation will send a pack of organic cotton tampons or chlorine-free pads to a shelter in your state.

Visit website and make a virtual donation
http://www.tampontification.com/donate.php

Brad and Angie Set to Make Jolie-Pitts a Party of Six

2007-03-06T19:25:00.000-05:00

The rumors have been around for some time, but now it's official -- the Jolie-Pitts are adopting a Vietnamese child. Vietnam's top adoption official confirmed that Angelina filed the papers to begin the adoption process. She applied as a single parent, though we assume this has something to do with the process (since she and Brad are not officially married) rather than anything about their relationship. There's no telling how long this process will take, but we can't wait to meet the new addition to their beautiful family. We bet Maddox is pulling for a boy. Congrats to the whole family!

And since we can't post them, you must go check out the Cutest. Pictures. Ever. Seriously. Hot Brad with baby Shiloh on his shoulders? In his arms? Previously unreached levels of cute.

Who has a toddler ?

2007-02-20T19:49:00.000-05:00

Which One of These "Love"-ly and "Hart"-y Ladies Has a Toddler?

Only one of these celebrities has a hearty little toddler running around.

By Deirdre Byrne

In the February 2007 issue of American Baby magazine, we asked you, in honor of Valentine's Day, which of these "love"-ly and "hart"-y ladies has a toddler: Courtney Love, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Melissa Joan Hart, and Calista Flockhart.

ANSWER! Melissa Joan Hart, and her husband, musician Mark Wilkerson, are the proud parents of the only toddler in the bunch. Mason Walter turned 1 year old on January 11, 2007. Hart is known for her roles as Clarissa, from Nickelodeon's Clarissa Explains It All, and Sabrina, from Sabrina, the Teenage Witch. Apart from her television career, she also starred in the teen movie Can't Hardly Wait, and is the vice president of Hartbreak Films, a production company she runs with her mother.

•

No Brothers & Sisters

Golden Globe winner Calista Flockhart, best known for her role as Ally McBeal on the show of the same name, adopted her 10-day-old son, whom she named Liam, on January 11, 2001. Her professional acting debut on the New York stage was ironically appearing alongside Melissa Joan Hart in Beside Herself. Apart from Ally McBeal, she has since been in a number of other plays and feature films, but can currently be seen in the prime time television series Brothers & Sisters. In her personal life, Flockhart is a strong supporter of breast cancer research, and serves as the national spokeswoman for the Los Angeles Commission on Assaults Against Women (LACAAW).

•

Smells Like Teen Spirit

Courtney Love, former lead singer of the rock band Hole, and her deceased husband, Kurt Cobain, former lead singer of Nirvana, welcomed daughter Frances Bean on August 18, 1992. Love, born Courtney Michelle Harrison, has had success as a musician and as an actress, appearing in such films as 200 Cigarettes, Man on the Moon, and The People vs. Larry Flynt. She currently lives in Hollywood with her teenage daughter.

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Party of One

Jennifer Love Hewitt, born February 21, 1979, does not have any children. Her acting (and singing) career began on the Disney Channel's variety show Kids Incorporated. She starred as Sarah Reeves on Party of Five from 1995, when she was just 16, to 1999, and currently stars in The Ghost Whisperer. Hewitt has also appeared in such films as the I Know What You Did Last Summer series, and Can't Hardly Wait (also alongside Melissa Joan Hart).

Children's wall art

2007-02-12T20:09:00.000-05:00

Introducing Mimi'lou, a unique line of simple but enchanting wall decals by French artist Miriam Derville.

Mimi'lou will bring your childrens rooms and nursery to life with a collection of colorful line drawings decals providing a no mess, no fuss fashion forward wall transformation. Once transferred, only the lines of the decals remains on the wall, giving the effect of simple, hand-drawn mural.

Mimi Lou decals can be applied to any smooth surface: walls, furniture, windows, and mirrors. Transferring them is remarkably simple. If necessary, they can be removed easily and without leaving a trace.

Patrick Dempsey's Twins

2007-02-10T20:20:00.000-05:00

Patrick Dempsey, who plays Dereck (Dr.McDreamy) Shepherd, on Grey’s Anatomy and his wife Jillian are the proud parents of baby twin boys. The twins were born on Thursday in Los Angeles.

The twins, named Darby Galen and Sullivan Patrick, were born in Los Angeles. They join 4-year-old sister Talula in the Dempsey household.

Asked how fatherhood has changed him, he told the magazine, “Now, making money is about providing for my children. And being a father makes you look at yourself. You look at your marriage and go, ‘How do I improve this? How do I keep growing and create a stable environment for my children?’ “

Congrats to Patrick and Jilian!

Cute Bib

2007-02-06T19:10:00.000-05:00

Pump up the Volume Bib

Your little DJ keeps the party going from AM to PM.
This bib will limit the cleanup after a very spirited jeroboam of milk.

Valentine Movies

2007-02-05T22:05:00.000-05:00

Does your Valentine's Day romance include cuddling up to a great romantic movie? If so, browse our movie list to find the perfect choice!

Top 20
Titanic
City Of Angels
Ghost
Bridges of Madison County
Sleepless In Seattle
Love Story
Last of the Mohicans
Romeo And Juliet
Pretty Woman
Gone With The Wind
Somewhere In Time
Sixteen Candles
A Walk In The Clouds
The Princess Bride
When Harry Met Sally
Endless Love
Armageddon
Legends of the Fall
The American President
Dirty Dancing

Romantic Comedy
20 Dates
A Chef in Love
A Fish Called Wanda
A Little Romance
About Last Night
Always
American Graffiti
An American in Paris
Annie Hall
Breakfast at Tiffany's
Broadcast News
Butterflies Are Free
Circle of Friends
City Slickers
Clueless
Father of the Bride
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Flirting
Forces Of Nature
Four Weddings and a Funeral
Ghostbusters
Grease
It Could Happen to You
Jerry Maguire
Junior
L.A. Story
Life 101
Lotto Land
Love Jones
Married to the Mob
Men Don't Leave
Mickey Blue Eyes
Moonstruck
Naked in New York
Never Been Kisses
Notting Hill
Playing By Heart
Roger Rabbit
Romancing the Stone
Runaway Bride
Say Anything
She's All That
Singles
Sleepless in Seattle
The Apartment
The Breakfast Club
The Graduate
The Out-Of-Towners
The Princes Bride
The Sure Thing
The Truth About Cats & Dogs
There's Something About Mary
Tommy Boys
Twice Upon A Yesterday
Valley Girl
Walt Disney Classics
Wedding Bell Blues
When Harry Met Sally

Drama
A Tale of Winter
About Last Night
Absent Without Leave
Avalon
Bed Of Roses
Bitter Sugar
Broken English
Congo
Dead Poet's Society
Different for Girls
Ghost
Great Expectations
Happy Together
Henry and June
Jungle Fever
Just the Way You Are
Legends of the Fall
Like Water for Chocolate
Lone Star
Love Story
Love Without Pity
Love! Valour! Compassion!

Drama (cont.)
Meet Joe Black
Message In A Bottle
Quiz Show
Rob Roy
Romeo and Juliet
Sea of Love
Shadowlands
Sliding Doors
Spellbound
Splendor in the Grass
Strapless
Surviving Picasso
Tender Mercies
The English Patient
The Man I Love
The Man Who Loved Women
The Milagro Beanfield War
The Sound of Music
Titanic
Washington Square
Wild at Heart
You've Got Mail

Adventure, Action
Another Stakeout
Apollo 13
Backdraft
Batman Forever
Bonnie and Clyde
Chinatown
Crimson Tide
Entrapment
FX
Goodfellas
Mask Of Zorro
Point Break
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Robin Hood
Sneakers
Star Wars
The Client
The Firm
The Fugitive
True Lies

Mystery, Thriller
Dead Again
Jaws
Psycho
Spellbound
The Hand that Rocks the Cradle
The Pelican Brief

Science Fiction
Cocoon
Star Trek (any)
Star Wars
Superman
Willow

Alternative
Harold and Maude
Jacob's Ladder
Rocky Horror Picture Show
Strictly Ballroom
The Player
Truly, Madly, Deeply

Artistic, Foreign
A Room with a View
Carrington
Enchanted April
Fellini Films
Hope and Glory
Howard's End
Life Is Beautiful
Much Ado about Nothing
My Life as a Dog

Magical
Beauty and the Beast
Celestial Clockwork
Groundhog Day
Heaven Can Wait
Like Water for Chocolate
Mannequin
Miracle Beach
Night Tide
Only You
Practical Magic
Princess Carabo
Simply Irresistible
Splash
The Ghost and Mrs. Muir
True Stories

Valentine's Day Books

2007-02-05T21:57:00.000-05:00

Top 10 Valentine's Day Books

1) "Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch"

The Valentine's Day picture book "Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch," by Eileen Spinelli, wonderfully illustrates the power of love and would make an excellent Valentine's Day gift for a four to eight year old. It is a charming book with a powerful message. The importance of love and kindness comes through loud and clear. Even very young children will understand how good it is to feel loved and how important it is to help others feel loved. (Simon & Schuster, 1992. ISBN: 0027860159)

2) "Valentine's Day"

"Valentine's Day" was written and illustrated by the mother and daughter team of Anne and Lizzy Rockwell. It takes place in Mrs. Madoff's elementary school class. The children in her class come from a variety of cultures and backgrounds. The story, told as much in pictures as in words, centers on the students' creating Valentines for their friend Michiko, who is thousands of miles away in Japan. This book is perfect for three to six year olds. (HarperCollins, 2001. ISBN: 0060277947)

3) “Queen of Hearts”

Here's another in Mary Engelbreit's beautifully illustrated series of Ann Estelle picture books. Ann Estelle loves to make things. She spends hours and hours creating an extravagantly decorated Valentine's Day box to hold the cards she'll receive from her classmates. She focuses so much on the box that she forgets to make Valentine's Day cards to give to her classmates. How creative thinking by Ann Estelle saves the day makes an entertaining story. (HarperCollins, 2005. ISBN: 0060081813)

4) "Too Many Valentines"

This Level 1, Ready-To-Read book is part of the Robin Hill School series. It was written by Margaret McNamara and illustrated by Mike Gordon. The story centers on class preparations for Valentine's Day and one little boy, Neil, who says, "I get too many Valentines. I do not want any more." How the class honors his feelings and still includes him in the celebration makes an entertaining story. (Simon & Schuster, Aladdin Paperbacks, 2003. ISBN: 0689855370)

5) "Nate the Great and the Mushy Valentine"

This children's Valentine's Day book is from the Nate the Great detective series for beginning readers by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat. Nate the Great starts out with one case, finding out who gave his dog a Valentine, and then, his friend Annie asks him to help her find a missing Valentine. This entertaining story, with lots of illustrations by Marc Simont, is both a good read-aloud for 4-8 year olds and a good book for beginning readers, grades 2-3. (Yearling, 1995. ISBN: 0440410134)

6) "Roses Are Pink, Your Feet Really Stink"

This amusing picture book was written and illustrated by Diane de Groat. While I am not a big fan of books in which children are portrayed by a group of animals, I am willing to make an exception for a story like this one that deals with kindness and teasing. Teasing and hurt feelings are common among elementary school children. The author does a nice job of showing the consequences of both unkindness and kindness when exchanging Valentine's Day cards. (HarperCollins, 1996. ISBN: 0688136044)

7) “Olive, My Love”

Yes, it's the same lovable dog from "Olive, the Other Reindeer." This time, Olive is surprised when her friend Dexter the winged dog flies by singing of love and drops a giant heart by her door. Thinking it's a mistake, Olive goes to great lengths to return the heart to Dexter's home at the top of a cliff, only to find out, to her delight, that the heart is a Valentine's Day gift for her. The detailed computer art adds a cartoonlike flavor to the story. (Harcourt, 2004. ISBN: 0152047204)

8) "It's Valentine's Day"

Jack Prelutsky's humorous story poems cover a wide range of emotions, from the love of family, pets, and friends to the awkward love/hate relationships that develop between pre-adolescent boys and girls. Yossi Abolafia's amusing illustrations add to the fun. This is both a good read-aloud for middle and upper elementary school children and a good read-alone for beginning readers. (Greenwillow Books, 1983. ISBN: 0688023118)

9) "Guess How Much I Love You"

The gift edition of the popular picture book by Sam McBratney, with its captivating illustrations by Anita Jeram, is perfect for Valentine's Day. The small hardbound book has a red cloth cover with cover art of Little Nutbrown Hare inset. This story of the love between parent and child has become a classic since it was first published more than a decade ago. It would make a good Valentine's Day gift for both children and adults. (Candlewick Press, Gift edition, 2003. ISBN: 0763622400)

10) "Valentine Hearts Holiday Poetry"

Lee Bennett Hopkins edited this collection of Valentine's Day poetry and also wrote several of the poems in this beginning reader. The one dozen poems by a variety of poets range from humorous to sweet. The emphasis is on kids' emotions and experiences: feeling shy, feeling joy at receiving a Valentine, feeling blue at not receiving one, and feeling love - love for a pet, mother love, and more. The joyfully bright illustrations are by JoAnn Adinolfi. (HarperCollins, 2005. ISBN: 0060080574)

Valentine's Day History

2007-02-05T21:49:00.001-05:00

Every February we celebrate Valentines Day by giving flowers, candy and cards to those we love. We do this in honor of Saint Valentine. You may be wondering, "Who is St. Valentine"?

Legend has it that Valentine was a priest who served during third century Rome. There was an Emperor at that time by the name of Claudius II. Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those that were married. With this thought in mind he outlawed marriage for young men in hopes of building a stronger military base. Supposedly, Valentine, decided this decree just wasn't fair and chose to marry young couples secretly. When Emperor Claudius II found out about Valentine's actions he had him put to death.

Another legend has it that Valentine was an imprisoned man who fell in love with his jailor's daughter. Before he was put to death he sent the first 'valentine' himself when he wrote her a letter and signed it 'Your Valentine', words still used on cards today.

Perhaps we'll never know the true identity and story behind the man named St. Valentine, but this much is for sure...February has been the month to celebrate love for a long time, dating clear back to the Middle Ages. In fact, Valentines ranks second only to Christmas in number of greeting cards sent.

Another valentine gentleman you may be wondering about is Cupid (Latin cupido, "desire"). In Roman mythology Cupid is the son of Venus, goddess of love. His counterpart in Greek mythology is Eros, god of love. Cupid is often said to be a mischievous boy who goes around wounding both gods and humans with his arrows, causing them to fall in love.

Valentine's Day History

2007-02-05T21:49:00.000-05:00

Every February we celebrate Valentines Day by giving flowers, candy and cards to those we love. We do this in honor of Saint Valentine. You may be wondering, "Who is St. Valentine"?

Recipes for the Busy Mom

2007-01-26T22:12:00.000-05:00

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Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen with Mr. Food

Busy Moms, Here's the Next Best Thing to Having a Personal Chef

Do you find yourself scrambling to pull together a healthy meal at the end of a hectic day, let alone a meal that doesn't come in a take-out container? Are you looking for some deliciously simple recipes to add to your family's favorites? Look no further: Help has arrived come mealtime!

Mr. Food is famous for his quick-and-easy approach to cooking. Here, he has assembled a comprehensive collection of his field-tested family favorites for moms who have little time or energy to spare. You'll find:

Recipes for snacks that kids won't trade and side dishes that don't come from a can
Take-along breakfasts that are tasty and nutritious
Tips to get kids involved in meal planning and preparation
Fancy guest-worthy dinners that don't require elaborate ingredients

You'll also find heartwarming Chicken Soup stories from other moms that underscore the importance of sharing time with loved ones, enjoying good food and building family traditions. With resourceful kitchen hints for stretching your budget and using leftovers, you can bring your family to the table with meals that everyone will enjoy. This is one cookbook you won't want to be without.

Large Money Savvy Piggy Bank

2007-01-25T22:28:00.000-05:00

Large Money Savvy Piggy Bank

by:

Money Savvy

The Money Savvy 4-chambered piggybank makes learning about money fun! The award-winning Money Savvy Piggy Bank has four separate chambers, one for each of the "money choices" that children have when they earn or receive money .

Manufacturer's Age: 4 - 11 years Our Recommended Age: 4 - 11 years

Top 10 cutest celebrity kids

2007-01-24T21:40:00.000-05:00

Cutest Celebrity Kids

Sun, 03/19/2006 - 9:24pm by PopSugar •

There's a list for everything. This time it's all about the kids. Maddox Jolie-Pitt has been voted the cutest of them all. Could it be that Mohawk or maybe it's the the moon boots? Here's more of the list according to In Touch:

The "top tots" are:
1. Maddox Jolie-Pitt
2. Rowan Henchy (Brooke Shields)
3. Liv Helen Freundlich (Julianne Moore)
4. Ava Phillippe
5. Rudy Law (Jude Law)
6. Ella Bleu Travolta
7. Charlie Crowe
8. Rocco Ritchie
9. Willow Smith (Will Smith)
10. Apple Martin (Gwyneth Paltrow)

PlasmaCar

2007-01-24T21:31:00.000-05:00

( PlaSmart $$69.95$ ) Our testers from ages 4 to 12 could not get enough of this new ride-on that according to the manufacturer runs on “inertia, centrifugal force, and friction.” Sounds like a lot of serious scientific principles - but this is sheer fun rolled up in one zippy vehicle! There are no pedals, or batteries needed. Rotate the steering wheel and you’re off on any smooth surface. This was tested indoors in a room with the furniture moved out of the way for clear sailing. Your feet are your brakes and this will support riders up to 220 pounds on a smooth, even surface and 120 pounds on an uneven, rough surface. One mom suggested the manufacturer should add bumpers to the front and back to protect the walls. That said- it’s the new favorite toy in their neighborhood. 4 & up. (877) 289-0730. Age: Preschool, Early School Years, Late School Years. Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award 2006

Many parents doubt their discipline methods

2007-01-23T19:50:00.000-05:00

Many parents doubt their discipline methods

SATURDAY, Jan. 13 (HealthDay News) — About a third of parents believe that their methods of disciplining their children are not all that effective, says a study that also found that many parents use the same discipline techniques as their own parents.

The study, published in the January issue of the journal Clinical Pediatrics, included parents from 32 states in the United States and from Puerto Rico and Canada. When it came to discipline methods, 45 percent of the parents said they used time-outs, 41.5 percent said they used removal of privileges, 13 percent said they yelled at their children, and 8.5 percent often or always used spanking.

About 31 percent of the parents said they "never" or "sometimes" perceived that their discipline methods were effective, the study found. It also found that 38 percent of parents said they used the same methods of discipline as their own parents — an approach that was often considered ineffective.

"There was actually an inverse relationship between self-reports of yelling at children and perceived effectiveness of discipline," said study author Dr. Shari Barkin, chief of the division of general pediatrics at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

"But we strongly suspect that both yelling and spanking might be underreported, because we know when parents perceive their methods are not working, as a third reported, then emotion can quickly escalate," Barkin added in a prepared statement.

Parents with children ages 6 to 11 were about 25 percent less likely than parents with younger children to use time-outs and spanking. When children reached school age, parents were more likely to use yelling and removal of privileges as methods of discipline.

-- Robert Preidt, HealthDay News

Picnicking On The Road - Article

2007-01-22T21:04:00.000-05:00

Picnicking On The Road - Article

Recipes for Picinics

PICNICKING ON THE ROAD I remember waking up as a kid heading out on our annual road trip from Tennessee to Florida. While my dad packed the suitcases in the trunk, Mom prepared her giant food hamper, enough food to last us on our marathon drive (non-stop!) and breakfast when we got there. I think taking a hamper of food with you makes really good sense. Not only is it a big money saver, but you control the quality of what you're eating, and can cut down on the quantities of sugar, salt, food dyes and MSG, all of which make many kids hyper. You may want to carry a basket or simply a box for dry goods, and a small cooler for cold drinks and milk. A few points to keep in mind: * Cool it. To help foods stay cold, fill your cooler with ice and let it stand about an hour before packing. * Double-wrapping, first in paper, then in aluminum helps things like sandwiches stay cold. Use plastic containers for things you don't want to squash, and to keep it neat--olives, pickles, custard for the baby, etc. * Keep your sandwiches from getting soggy by putting the condiments in the middle of the sandwich, and put meat or cheese directly next to the bread, followed by the tomato, lettuce, then the mustard and mayo sandwiched in between. One of the joys of picnicking is that you can choose a great spot in which to enjoy your al fresco meal far away from the maddening crowds and the fast food emporium. We always look for state parks, lakes and resort areas, where there are often playgrounds for the kids to enjoy and let off some steam. In the city, search out a park with a kids' area, or try the zoo!

Bicycling with Your Children

2007-01-22T21:01:00.000-05:00

Bicycling with Your Children

Bicycling

BICYCLING WITH KIDS You get to know a place better on a bicycle than you do whizzing past it in a car and kids love riding bicycles. Why not take advantage of that affinity when making your vacation plans? Bicycling is something the whole family can participate in. Children that are too young to ride on their own can come along in a child seat or trailer. Older kids relish the independence of covering the countryside under their own power. And everybody gets plenty of fresh air and exercise. Can you see yourself gliding along winding back roads, stopping for chats with a local farmer, or for a picnic with a view? A bicycling trip may be the solution for your next vacation. You can plan to make a series of day trips from a central base, or an extended tour for the more ambitious families (with careful planning, you can carry camping gear along). And bicycles can be rented just about anywhere, so you might consider a day or two of bicycling at whatever vacation destination you've picked for your next trip. Tips for Bicycling with Kids ---------------------------- Take it easy! This is a vacation, not the Tour de France. Don't set a rigid itinerary for your trip: nothing is worse than stressing about getting to the next stop along the road when you're supposed to be enjoying the great outdoors. Get an early start, but park the bikes early, too, to give the kids time to play, and yourself some time to relax. Let the kids set the pace on the road-remember, they're working harder than you are, and if you're toting a little one in a child seat or trailer, you'll appreciate the leisurely approach they take. Plan on taking frequent short breaks, and don't be afraid to take time for distractions and mini-adventures along the way: they're the stuff memories are made of. Safety first! Make sure that you have good bicycles, helmets and child seats for the little ones. Ride with one parent in front and one in back. Always bicycle with the flow of traffic and be sure your kids know about hand signals and traffic laws (like obeying traffic lights and stop signs). Pack a small bag for each child to carry on the handlebars, with favorite toys and a notebook. You might give each child one of those disposable cameras to chronicle their favorite sights along the road. Pack snacks and plenty of liquids. Everybody should have their own water bottle attached to the bike, to cut down on drink breaks. Juice boxes are a nice treat. Think layers. The early morning chill may find you overheated after a bit of exertion under the midday sun. Make sure everybody is dressed comfortably, and bring along extra sweaters and jackets in case the weather changes. Enjoy the ride!

About Us

2007-01-19T20:50:00.001-05:00

About The Sitter Loop

Committed to changing the face of online childcare services, one child at a time.

The Sitter Loop is a web-based sitter directory, helping families find reliable sitters as well as helping sitters connect with parents to find jobs. The registration process serves to help both parents and sitters find exactly what they are looking for according to childcare needs, availability, and location.

The Sitter Loop was founded in Raynham, Massachusetts in 2003 by Jamie McCarthy and Corrie Larson.Two young moms, who know the value of a night out as well as a reliable sitter. Both have extensive background within early childhood education. Both have held childcare positions from nannies to daycare providers.

Jamie is the mother of three with a B.S in Cultural Anthropology. She also works as a nanny . Corrie and her husband have a 5 year old son and are in the process of adopting a daughter from China . She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education.

Hand Painted Baby Shoes

2007-01-19T20:16:00.000-05:00

My Sassy Shoes
http://www.mysassyshoes.com

Pretty in Pink

Think of how cute these shoes will look on your favorite little baby. A bolder design with a hot pink flower combined with polka dots & sage green & white accents. A touch of glitter & bold striped ribbon ties it all together.

Snow Bunker

2007-01-18T22:26:00.000-05:00

Snow Bunker Jr.

What a fun snow toy — we scaled our best-selling Snow Bunker down just for tots! Little ones love crawling through the tunnels, peeking out the window, and imagining their first North Pole adventures. Cold-resistant 30 gauge PVC with stability anchors you pack with snow. 70"L x 50"W x 57"H (with flag). Inflates in 10 minutes with our Electric Pump (sold separately). For ages 2 and up.

The Baby Bunch Starter Gift Set

2007-01-17T20:01:00.000-05:00

The Baby Bunch Starter Gift Set

$48.00

A beautiful and creative gift for a baby shower, hospital visit or new nursery. Bouquets arrive tissue and ribbon wrapped, consisting of high-quality cotton tee, two onesies, hat, bib, and two pairs of socks, all hand-wrapped into gorgeous spring flowers. Available in pink, blue or yellow.

Winfrey to Host Oscar Special

2007-01-17T19:51:00.000-05:00

Winfrey to Host Oscar Special

By Nellie Andreeva

Reuters

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 11) - Oprah Winfrey has teamed with ABC for a primetime Oscar special.

The daytime talk show queen will host and executive produce "The Oprah Winfrey Oscar Special," which will air Feb 22, the Thursday before the network's broadcast of the 79th annual Academy Awards.

The one-hour special will feature Academy Award winners Julia Roberts, Nicole Kidman and Jamie Foxx doing one-on-one interviews with an Oscar-winning actor of their choice.

Roberts will interview George Clooney at his Los Angeles home. Kidman will meet Russell Crowe at the Beverly Hills Hotel for their first-ever on-camera appearance together, and Foxx will sit down with Sidney Poitier on the stage where the veteran actor collected his Oscar for "Lilies of the Field" in 1963.

"The Oprah Winfrey Oscar Special" will not interfere with Barbara Walters' 25th annual Oscar Special, which ABC will air as usual the night of the Awards.

Go Diego Go!

2007-01-15T20:54:00.000-05:00

Go, Diego, Go! The Great Jaguar Rescue! - New DVD and Live Theatrical Tour!

On Monday, January 15, Nick Jr. will premiere a new episode of Go, Diego, Go! called "The Great Jaguar Rescue!" The new episode will air at 9:30 a.m. (ET/PT) and will encore at 11:30 a.m. (ET/PT) later that day.

In addition, on January 16, a new DVD featuring the new episode, Go, Diego, Go! The Great Jaguar Rescue! will be available. The DVD will contain three additional Go, Diego, Go! adventures as well as special features.

For the many children who love Diego, there is even more exciting news surrounding the new episode. On February 1, Nickelodeon and Live Nation will launch Go, Diego, Go Live! The Great Jaguar Rescue!, a brand-new family theatrical live tour that will travel to 50 markets nationwide. For more information on the tour and the cities they will visit, go to NickJr. com.

Flu in Children

2007-01-15T20:49:00.000-05:00

Flu in Children

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Flu, known medically as influenza (in-flew-EN-zuh) is an infection of the nose, throat, windpipe, and airways in the lung.

Causes

Influenza is caused by a virus. The germ is quickly spread from an infected person to others by coughing and sneezing.

Signs/Symptoms

Typical symptoms include chills, fever, headache, body aches, sore throat, cough, swollen glands, vomiting and diarrhea. The child also may have a runny nose; earache; and red, watery, sore eyes. The disease is worst during the first 1 to 2 days. Cough and tiredness may last another week or more.

Care

There is no cure for the flu. Antibiotic medicine will not work. The best remedy is plenty of rest and liquids.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

DO NOT GIVE ASPIRIN if a child with influenza is under 18 years of age. This could lead to brain and liver damage (Reye's syndrome). Carefully check for aspirin on the label on any over-the-counter medicines.
Acetaminophen will help relieve fever and body aches.
Use a cool-mist humidifier to increase moisture in the child's room. This will make breathing easier.
The child should rest until his or her temperature is normal (98.6 degrees F or 37 degrees C). This usually takes 3 to 4 days.
Give plenty of liquids such as juice, water, broth, gelatin, or lemonade. Do not worry about giving solid food until the child is better.
Wash the child's hands often to prevent spread of germs. This is especially important after blowing the nose and before touching food. Be sure the child covers his or her mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Keep your child home from daycare or school until the fever is gone (usually 2 or 3 days).

Call Your Doctor If...

The fever lasts more than 36 hours.
The child has shortness of breath while resting, a deep cough with lots of mucus, or chest pain.
The child has nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Seek Care Immediately If...

Your child is not drinking enough fluids and has signs of water loss such as listlessness, dry mouth, little or no urination, wrinkled skin, no tears, dizziness, or, in babies, a sunken soft spot on the top of the head.
The child has trouble breathing or the skin or nails turn bluish.
The child develops severe neck pain or stiffness.
The child acts confused or too sleepy, has changes in behavior, or has seizures.
The child has a very high fever.

Britney Spears, Paris Hilton Top Mr. Blackwell's Worst-Dressed List

2007-01-15T20:42:00.000-05:00

Britney Spears, Paris Hilton Top Mr. Blackwell's Worst-Dressed List

TUESDAY JANUARY 09, 2007 01:40 PM EST

By Stephen M. Silverman

Hilton and Spears at Hyde on Nov. 24 Photo by: x17

Britney Spears and Paris Hilton tied for No. 1 on Mr. Blackwell's 47th annual "Worst Dressed Women List," the retired designer revealed Tuesday.

Calling them "two peas in an over-exposed pod" and "style-free and fashion deprived," Blackwell dubbed Spears and Hilton the "Screamgirls."

Blackwell didn't limit his nitpicking to young stars such as 20-year-old Lindsay Lohan (No. 3), who went, he claims "from adorable to deplorable" – also targeted, in No. 10 spot, was 57-year-old Meryl Streep, even though she played a fashionista in The Devil Wears Prada.

Escaping Blackwell's barbs are his "Fabulous Fashion Independents for 2006," including Kate Winslet, Angelina Jolie and Helen Mirren.

Best Dressed Teen Celebrities

2007-01-15T20:37:00.000-05:00

Best Dressed Teen Celebrities

Best Dressed Teen Celebs

Just like the life of any Teen, it's been an eventful year in the world of Young Hollywood! There's been breakups & makeups, goals accomplished, battles with self-esteem, fights & feuds, dreams realized, "what were they thinking?!" moments and memories made.

Through it all, these 5 Stars have risen to the top of our Fashion Radar through their talent, growing sense of sophistication and utterly enviable styles.

1. Rachel Bilson -
On her role as 'Summer Roberts' on The OC, she wears preppy beach girl styles, but in real life, Rachel prefers an ecletic mix of boho vintage baubles & cutting edge fashion trends. Never without a humongous leather handbag, this petite brunette favors Marc Jacobs frocks and can often be found at Luca Luca fashion shows.

2. Ashley Olsen -
As she blossoms into a very sophisticated lady right before our very eyes, the era of matching outfits with her sister, Mary-Kate is long gone. These days Ashley can be found head-to-toe chic in ankle length evening gowns. As a former intern to the brilliant Fashion Designer Zac Posen, it's obvious that this tiny fashionista is taking her cues from the best.

3. Mary-Kate Olsen -
With her days of scandal behind her, Mary-Kate is growing up & stepping out. Expressing her individuality with darker colors and loose layers, MK is a lot edgier than her older (by 2 minutes) sis. Her most famous accessories are her wide variety of Balenciaga motorcycle bags and oversize Starbucks coffee cups.

4. Hilary Duff -
Once a chubby-cheeked Disney Channel child star, now a cutting-edge trend-setter in her own right. Hilary Duff is not one to be forgotten. She has secured her place in our hearts & minds with her approachable smile and surprising Rock n' Roll edge. The Duffster loves Burberry hats, L.A.M.B. skirts and jackets, Chip & Pepper t-shirts and of course, her bad-boy arm candy, Joel Madden!

5. Ashlee Simpson -
Ditching her Gothic look for one more feminine has earned her a spot as spokesperson for Victorias Secret's girlish PINK line. Ashlee's style evolution has definitely been the biggest one in Hollywood all year. Plastic Surgery gossip aside, her matured sense of style rivals that of her older sister, Jessica. No longer appearing to have stepped right out of a Hot Topic catalogue, these days, Ashley prefers Juicy Couture jackets, Dolce Gabbana dresses, Louboutin ankle boots and Jacob & Co. diamonds.

Steve Irwin's Daughter Bindi Filming Own Show

2007-01-11T20:00:00.001-05:00

Steve Irwin's Daughter Bindi Filming Own Show

MONDAY OCTOBER 16, 2006 09:10 AM EDT

By Stephen M. Silverman and Jane Nicholls

Bindi Irwin Photo by: Picture Media / INF

Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin may be gone, but his love for animals will live on – through his and his wife Terri's 8-year-old daughter, Bindi.

Bindi Irwin is currently shooting Bindi, The Jungle Girl, a 26-part wildlife documentary for the Discovery Kids network that is set to debut in January 2007.

"I'm trying to get across the message that don't be afraid of animals, they're just put on this earth to help the environment and everything like that," Bindi tells ABC's Australian Story in her first formal interview since her father's death in September.

And Bindi will not be the only star of the show: Her late father will appear with her in scenes filmed before his death. "We'll never refer to the fact that Steve is no longer with us," says John Stainton, who was Steve's manager. "The way that it works is that Steve plays co-star to Bindi. It's just the little reactions that she gives to her Dad who's, you know, doing sort of silly stuff."

The opening sequence of Bindi, The Jungle Girl features animated shots of Bindi and Steve in a jungle, accompanied by a theme song with lyrics, "The Croc Hunter taught her/ and now his only daughter/ is Bindi the Jungle Girl."

"Bindi the Jungle Girl is really lucky because she lives in a tree-house and she gets lots of animals in and out," Bindi tells Australian Story of her character. "She hangs out with lots of wildlife. She just loves kissing a koala or hugging a snake."

And like her father, Bindi is fearless. "Some people think that I would be afraid of them, but I'm never ever afraid of an animal," she says. "I just get excited and some that are dangerous I just think, 'Oooh! What's going to happen?' and things like that."

Bindi is already proving to be comfortable in the public eye. She gave a moving tribute to her father at his Sept. 20 memorial service and presented an award at the Oct. 11 Nickelodeon Australian Kids' Choice Awards 2006.

"Bindi's an amazing little girl," says her grandfather, Bob Irwin. "She is a real professional. The thing about Bindi is, she seems to enjoy it."

But is it too early for her to be working, less than two months after her father's death? Says Steve's best friend, Wes Manion, "Filming for her is very much like other kids' soccer. ? Bindi has been basically going, 'Come on, I want to start filming again, I want to start getting out there, I want to start spreading Dad's message.' And I think that's part of her way of coping as well."

Responding to critics who might say Bindi is too young to be in the spotlight, Stainton says, "I think they don't understand that this little girl is very much enjoying what she's doing. She is in control."

Bindi Irwin To Tour the US for New Show

2007-01-11T19:53:00.000-05:00

Bindi Irwin To Tour the US for New Show

Monday, January 8th, 2007

The 8-year-old daughter of the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, is going to be beginning a tour of the U.S. in support of her new 26-part T.V. series, Bindi, the Jungle Girl. The tour includes appearances on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and The Late Show with David Letterman in support of the series, which will air on Discovery Kids later this year. What won’t be airing is the death of her father. Just before Christmas the tape showing Steve Irwin being stabbed in the chest by a stingray has been given to his wife, Terri Irwin, to ensure it will never be released to the public. However Bindi’s U.S. tour does coincide with the airing of Ocean’s Deadliest, the documentary that Steve was working on at the time of his death.

I’m sure that her show will be a huge success and bring children’s imaginations to places they never thought they could feel so close to. In the footsteps of her father, I’m sure she wouldn’t rather be anywhere else. She must have more knowledge of her furry friends that most learn in a life time. I mean how many kids get to grow up in a Zoo, some might call their home a Zoo but I’m talking about the real thing! I’m sure I speak for all when I say best of luck to the youngster, I have no doubt she will be loved by all ages in the next year.

Top 8 Hot Hollywood Moms to Be

2007-01-11T19:46:00.000-05:00

Celebrity Gossip

Hollywood is filled with hot moms waiting to give birth. They're all overjoyed to be expecting new arrivals from the stork. Read on to find out which celebrity moms can't wait to meet their new babies.

1) Julia Roberts and Danny Moder

Actress Julia Roberts is pregnant with her third child with husband Danny Moder. They are expecting the baby to arrive sometime next summer. Julia, 39, and Danny, 37, have been married for over six years (an eternity in Hollywood) and already have two-year-old twins named Hazel and Phinnaeus. I wonder what kind of wacky name they'll come up with for this little bundle of joy!

2) Amanda Peet and David Benioff

Actress Amanda Peet and her husband, screenwriter David Benioff, are expecting their first child together at the end of the year. The two tied the knot in the fall of 2005. Amanda, 34, starred alongside Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton in Something's Gotta Give. David, 36, wrote the screenplays for 25th Hour and Troy.

3) Marcia Cross and Tom Mahoney

Desperate Housewives star Marcia Cross, 44, is pregnant with twins. Marcia tied the knot with stockbroker Tom Mahoney, 48, back in June after dating for about a year. The actress confirmed the news to Ellen Degeneres on her show and the babies are due to arrive in April 2007.

4) Stella McCartney and Alasdhair Willis

Fashion designer Stella McCartney and her husband Alasdhair Willis are expecting their second child together in early 2007. The couple already has a 17-month old son, Miller. Stella's dad, Paul McCartney, is said to be absolutely thrilled. "It's great to have something to celebrate at last," said the proud Grandpa.

5) Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott

Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott are expecting their first child together. They met in the summer of 2005 on a movie set and sparks flew. Unfortunately, they were both married at the time and Dean even had two children. They didn't let that get in the way of their love and they tied the knot in Fiji in May 2006 in front of zero guests. The baby, due in spring 2007 will be Tori's first and Dean's third child.

6) Tiger Woods and Elin Nordegren

Golf superstar Tiger Woods and his beautiful wife Elin Nordegren announced that they are expecting their first child together. According to a posting on Tiger's website, the baby is due in the summer of 2007. Sadly, Tiger also said, "I wish my father could be around to share the experience." The news was posted on Tiger's 31st birthday and the couple is overjoyed!

7) Kristy Swanson and Lloyd Eisler

Kristy Swanson and Lloyd Eisler are expecting their first child together in February. Kristy, 36, and Lloyd, 43, met last year while filming Skating with Celebrities and began having an affair. Lloyd was still very married and his wife was carrying their second child. At least we know the baby will be a talented ice skater.

8) Nina Garcia and David Conrod

Project Runway judge Nina Garcia and her husband, David Conrod, are expecting their first child together in March of 2007. At one point, Nina, 41, and her co-host Heidi Klum were both pregnant during taping and now people are talking. "I am convinced there is something in the Project Runway water," Nina told People magazine.

Downward Doghouse New Shows Wang Studios

2007-01-10T20:09:00.000-05:00

Downward Doghouse New Shows Wang Studios

I always loved reading about Chinese culture and traditions since my childhood. I was 13 when I started attending my traditional Chinese language class. It is well known as Mandarin language. I also like watching animated Chinese cartoons on Nickelodeon. Actually the main purpose for watching these is my child. He loves watching Dora the Explorer (preschooler cartoon show).

I have read about this new Nicktoon due to be aired on Nick Jr. in 2007 titled Downward Doghouse. I am glad that Nickelodeon is airing a show that I feel would teach my child a thing or two about problem solving skills.

I have read that this show features a five year old, Chinese American girl named Kai lan, her relationships with her grandfather, her animal friends and the environment. She is emotionally gifted to understand how things work in the world, both physically and emotionally. Every episode follows the adventures of Kai lan and her friends that help them realize the sensitivity of the situation and come up with solutions to tackle the problems accordingly. I think this animation show will really be a good opportunity for my child to learn about Chinese culture, basics of Chinese language, and also encourage him to care his elders. I heard it is created by Karen Chau and will be produced in conjunction with Wang Films.

I am desperately waiting for March, 2007, the time when this show is to be aired. In fact, I would even purchase the videos if my child likes the show. It has 20 episodes of half an hour each that will definitely help my child to explore the world along with Kai lan.

Thousands of open arms greet new yellow Wiggle

2007-01-10T19:53:00.000-05:00

Thousands of open arms greet new yellow Wiggle

5 December, 2006

Sam Moran in action yesterday

Adelaide Advertiser | Tuesday 5/12/2006 | Page: 9

SOPHIE ELSWORTH

NEW yellow Wiggle Sam Moran was warmly welcomed by thousands of screaming Adelaide fans at the Entertainment Centre yesterday.

Moran, 28, has taken over from Greg Page, 34, who last week announced his departure from the children`s entertainment band after being diagnosed with the chronic illness, orthostatic intolerance. Moran made his debut as the yellow Wiggle at the band`s Perth concert last week and yesterday spoke of his new role.

"It`s been going well but you`re never quite sure how you`re going to be received," he said. "It`s bitter-sweet for me though, as Greg is a friend of mine and you never want to see a friend finish like that."

Before the band`s three Adelaide concerts began yesterday, Page appeared on two big screens located alongside the centre stage and explained his illness and sudden departure. Moran started with the entertainment outfit as host of the Dorothy The Dinosaur Show almost 10 years ago and filled in for Page at times when his illness made it too difficult for him to perform.

Greg Page Leaves The Wiggles

2007-01-10T19:50:00.000-05:00

GREG PAGE LEAVES THE WIGGLES

The Wiggles have sadly announced today that Greg Page, also known as the Yellow Wiggle, is unable to continue performing with The Wiggles due to a chronic condition and has reached the decision to leave the group.

Greg has been suffering symptoms for many months, affecting his ability to perform. The condition is related to blood pressure and while in no way life threatening it affects his balance, breathing and coordination at unpredictable times and with varying severity. Greg has discovered he is genetically predisposed to this condition and that he now needs to focus on managing his health.

Greg is a founding member of The Wiggles and has devoted 15 years to the group. The whole band, crew, and all Wiggles staff, have expressed their sadness and their wishes for Greg to overcome his health problems.

The Wiggles this year have continued their worldwide success, just completing a tour of the US, and have announced Greg’s replacement with his understudy Sam Moran to ensure the continued future of one of Australia’s most successful entertainment troupes.

“This emotional decision was one which was very difficult, as I have dedicated almost half my life to the Wiggles, and with a question mark over my health, I feel that this is the right decision. I will miss The Wiggles and the other guys very much, as well as seeing all the children in the audiences that we perform in front of. I wish the guys continued success, and welcome Sam Moran with open arms to the Yellow Skivvy – I know he is a great performer, and is well equipped to be the Yellow Wiggle,” Greg said.

Sam has been performing with The Wiggles for the past nine years and as understudy has performed over 150 shows as the Yellow Wiggle. Educated at the Conservatorium of Music, Sam has been a Wiggly dancer, Wiggly band member and will be a wonderful addition to the group.

Murray Cook (Red Wiggle) said, “I know I speak for all The Wiggles and our staff in expressing our sadness at Greg’s leaving. The four of us started from humble beginnings 15 years ago and we’ve been through many adventures together. We will miss Greg as a superb singer, performer and songwriter but mostly we’ll miss him on the road as a friend and ally. We wish him well in dealing with his illness and in future.”

“We welcome Sam in his place in the Wiggles. We know first hand that he is an extremely talented performer and is already well-loved by our Wiggly audience”.

The Wiggles will continue to tour the world, record and film new DVDs with Sam Moran as the new Yellow Wiggle.
For further information, please contact:
Dianna O’Neill Publicity
Mobile 0418 468 148
Email dianna@thewiggles.com.au

2007-01-09T07:54:00.000-05:00

BS/AP) It's a boy, again, for Will Ferrell, the actor's publicist confirmed to The ShowBuzz Tuesday.

The actor/comedian and his wife, Swedish actress and producer Viveca Paulin, named their new arrival Mattias. Ferrell's spokesperson says Mattias was born just after 2 a.m. on Dec. 30.

Ferrell, 39, and Paulin, 37, were married in 2000. Their first son, Magnus, will turn three in March.

The Show Buzz
http://www.showbuzz.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/01/02/people_milestones/main2322886.shtml?source=RSSattr=Entertainment_2322886

10 Ways to Deal with People Who Doubt Your Parenting Skills

2007-01-08T20:49:00.000-05:00

10 Ways to Deal with People Who Doubt Your Parenting Skills

Try our 10 tips to deflect any rude parenting comments or questions without losing your cool.

By Suelain Moy

Along with the curiosity of strangers, a new child can bring an unwelcome focus on your parenting skills. You don't have to note all the exits in the room to make a quick getaway. Here's how to break away from naysaying Nellies, doubting Debbies, and hassling Harrys.

1. Compliment the person. "Wow, you've really given this a lot of thought," and then change the subject.

2. Give them something to do. "Could you help me find the baby's blanket?"

3. Minimize the fuss and then dismiss. "It doesn't seem to be a problem now, but if I need any help, I'll ask you."

4. Admit you don't know the answer and say, "I'll have to look into that." Then ask them to write the information down.

5. Answer a bold question with a direct one of your own: "Why do you want to know?"

6. Be honest. If a topic makes you blush or feels too private, say so. "Oh, my goodness, that's too weird! I can't discuss that with you here!"

7. Enlist the help of friends or your partner and brush up on your nonverbal cues for rescue. A blanket over your head means, "Come get me now!"

8. Smile warmly and then offer them a piece of candy or gum, an appetizer or drink.

9. Excuse yourself to greet another person or arrival. Make it a long hello.

10. If all else fails, pick up your baby for a diaper change/nap/or feeding and retreat to a quiet room: "Sshhhh, she's almost asleep," always works.

LUNCHOLOGY

2007-01-08T20:38:00.000-05:00

TheSitterLoop.com Now On Squidoo

2007-01-05T10:50:00.000-05:00

Check out thesitterloop.com Squidoo Lens

Click The Link Above

The Fresh Air Fund

2007-01-01T21:32:00.000-05:00

A New Years Resolution that Counts

For 130 years, The Fresh Air Fund has been taking New York's needy children to places far away from double-locked doors and dangerous city streets -- where the sky is full of stars, and a fresh perspective shows them life's possibilities.

These children depend on the generosity of people like you.

Your tax-deductible donation will help send needy children on free country vacations to the homes of caring volunteer families along the Eastern Seaboard or to one of our five camps in upstate New York.

Change a needy child's life today -- Please donate now

About The Fresh Air Fund
Since 1877, we’ve given more than 1.7 million needy children the chance to swim in a cool mountain lake . . . to roast marshmallows over a crackling campfire . . . to see the star-studded sky . . . affecting their lives forever. Learn more about The Fund.

Since 1877, The Fresh Air Fund, a not-for-profit agency, has provided free summer vacations in the country to more than 1.7 million New York City children from disadvantaged communities. Each year, thousands of children visit volunteer host families in 13 states and Canada through the Friendly Town Program or attend Fresh Air Fund camps.

Thanks to host families who open up their homes for a few weeks each summer, children growing up in New York City’s toughest neighborhoods have experienced the joys of Fresh Air vacations.

The Fresh Air Fund relies on the generosity of volunteers to run many of our programs. In addition to the host families in the suburbs and small towns, volunteers in New York City help by lending assistance in the office, at camp and in the community. Volunteers share their time and efforts individually or often participate in “team projects.”

Visit our website for more information.

20 HEALTHY NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS FOR KIDS

2007-01-01T21:25:00.000-05:00

20 HEALTHY NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS FOR KIDS
(Also see: Tips for a Healthier New Year)

Preschoolers

I will clean up my toys.

I will brush my teeth twice a day, and wash my hands after going to the bathroom and before eating.

I won't tease dogs - even friendly ones. I will avoid being bitten by keeping my fingers and face away from their mouths.

Kids, 5- to 12-years-old

I will drink milk and water, and limit soda and fruit drinks.

I will apply sunscreen before I go outdoors. I will try to stay in the shade whenever possible and wear a hat and sunglasses, especially when I'm playing sports.

I will try to find a sport (like basketball or soccer) or an activity (like playing tag, jumping rope, dancing or riding my bike) that I like and do it at least three times a week!

I will always wear a helmet when bicycling.

I will wear my seat belt every time I get in a car. I'll sit in the back seat and use a booster seat until I am tall enough to use a lap/shoulder seat belt.

I'll be nice to other kids. I'll be friendly to kids who need friends - like someone who is shy, or is new to my school.

I'll never give out personal information such as my name, home address, school name or telephone number on the Internet. Also, I'll never send a picture of myself to someone I chat with on the computer without my parent's permission.

Kids, 13-years-old and up

I will eat at least one fruit and one vegetable every day, and I will limit the amount of soda I drink.

I will take care of my body through physical activity and nutrition.

I will choose non-violent television shows and video games, and I will spend only one to two hours each day - at the most - on these activities.

I will help out in my community - through volunteering, working with community groups or by joining a group that helps people in need.

I will wipe negative "self talk" (i.e. "I can't do it" or "I'm so dumb") out of my vocabulary.

When I feel angry or stressed out, I will take a break and find constructive ways to deal with the stress, such as exercising, reading, writing in a journal or discussing my problem with a parent or friend.

When faced with a difficult decision, I will talk with an adult about my choices.

I will be careful about whom I choose to date, and always treat the other person with respect and without coercion or violence.

I will resist peer pressure to try drugs and alcohol.

When I notice my friends are struggling or engaging in risky behaviors, I will talk with a trusted adult and attempt to find a way that I can help them.

American Academy of Pediatrics, 1/07

How TV Affects Your Child

2007-01-01T21:08:00.000-05:00

Most children plug into the world of television long before they enter school: 70% of child-care centers use TV during a typical day. In a year, the average child spends 900 hours in school and nearly 1,023 hours in front of a TV.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), kids in the United States watch about 4 hours of TV a day - even though the AAP guidelines say children older than 2 should watch no more than 1 to 2 hours a day of quality programming.

And, according to the guidelines, children under age 2 should have no "screen time" (TV, DVDs or videotapes, computers, or video games) at all. During the first 2 years, a critical time for brain development, TV can get in the way of exploring, learning, and spending time interacting and playing with parents and others, which helps young children develop the skills they need to grow cognitively, physically, socially, and emotionally.

Of course, television, in moderation, can be a good thing: Preschoolers can get help learning the alphabet on public television, grade schoolers can learn about wildlife on nature shows, and parents can keep up with current events on the evening news. No doubt about it - TV can be an excellent educator and entertainer.

But despite its advantages, too much television can be detrimental:

Research has shown that children who consistently spend more than 4 hours per day watching TV are more likely to be overweight.
Kids who view violent events, such as a kidnapping or murder, are also more likely to believe that the world is scary and that something bad will happen to them.
Research also indicates that TV consistently reinforces gender-role and racial stereotypes.

Children's advocates are divided when it comes to solutions. Although many urge for more hours per week of educational programming, others assert that no TV is the best solution. And some say it's better for parents to control the use of TV and to teach children that it's for occasional entertainment, not for constant escapism.

That's why it's so important for you to monitor the content of TV programming and set viewing limits to ensure that your child doesn't spend time watching TV that should be spent on other activities, such as playing with friends, exercising, and reading.

Violence

To give you perspective on just how much violence kids see on TV, consider this: The average American child will witness 200,000 violent acts on television by age 18. TV violence sometimes begs for imitation because violence is often demonstrated and promoted as a fun and effective way to get what you want.

And as the AAP points out, many violent acts are perpetrated by the "good guys," whom children have been taught to emulate. Even though children are taught by their parents that it's not right to hit, television says it's OK to bite, hit, or kick if you're the good guy. And even the "bad guys" on TV aren't always held responsible or punished for their actions.

The images children absorb can also leave them traumatized and vulnerable. According to research, children ages 2 to 7 are particularly frightened by scary-looking things like grotesque monsters. Simply telling children that those images aren't real won't console them, because they can't yet distinguish between fantasy and reality.

Kids ages 8 to 12 are frightened by the threat of violence, natural disasters, and the victimization of children, whether those images appear on fictional shows, the news, or reality-based shows. Reasoning with children this age will help them, so it's important to provide reassuring and honest information to help ease your child's fears. However, you may want to avoid letting your child view programs that he or she may find frightening.

Risky Behaviors

TV is chock full of programs and commercials that often depict risky behaviors such as sex and substance abuse as cool, fun, and exciting. And often, there's no discussion about the consequences of drinking alcohol, doing drugs, smoking cigarettes, and having premarital sex.

For example, studies have shown that teens who watch lots of sexual content on TV are more likely to initiate intercourse or participate in other sexual activities earlier than peers who don't watch sexually explicit shows.

Alcohol ads on TV have actually increased over the last few years and more underage children are being exposed to them than ever. A recent study conducted by the Center on Alcohol Marketing and Youth (CAMY) at Georgetown University found that the top 15 teen-oriented programs in 2003 had alcohol ads.

And although they've banned cigarette ads on television, kids and teens can still see plenty of people smoking on programs and movies airing on TV. This kind of "product placement" makes behaviors like smoking and drinking alcohol seem acceptable. In fact, kids who watch 5 or more hours of TV per day are far more likely to begin smoking cigarettes than those who watch less than the recommended 2 hours a day.

Obesity

Health experts have long linked excessive TV-watching to obesity - a significant health problem today. While watching TV, children are inactive and tend to snack. They're also bombarded with advertising messages that encourage them to eat unhealthy foods such as potato chips and empty-calorie soft drinks that often become preferred snack foods.

Too much educational TV has the same indirect effect on children's health. Even if children are watching 4 hours of quality educational television, that still means they're not exercising, reading, socializing, or spending time outside.

But studies have shown that decreasing the amount of TV children watched led to less weight gain and lower body mass index (BMI - a measurement derived from someone's weight and height).

Commercials

According to the AAP, children in the United States see 40,000 commercials each year. From the junk food and toy advertisements during Saturday morning cartoons to the appealing promos on the backs of cereal boxes, marketing messages inundate kids of all ages. And to them, everything looks ideal - like something they simply have to have. It all sounds so appealing - often, so much better than it really is.

Under the age of 8 years, most children don't understand that commercials are for selling a product. Children 6 years and under are unable to distinguish program content from commercials, especially if their favorite character is promoting the product. Even older children may need to be reminded of the purpose of advertising.

Of course, it's nearly impossible to eliminate all exposure to marketing messages. You can certainly turn off the TV or at least limit kids' watching time, but they'll still see and hear advertisements for the latest gizmos and must-haves at every turn.

But what you can do is teach your child to be a savvy consumer by talking about what he or she thinks about the products being advertised as you're watching TV together. Ask thought-provoking questions like, "What do you like about that?," "Do you think it's really as good as it looks in that ad?," and "Do you think that's a healthy choice?"

Explain, when your child asks for products he or she sees advertised, that commercials and other ads are designed to make people want things they don't necessarily need. And these ads are often meant to make us think that these products will make us happier somehow. Talking to kids about what things are like in reality can help put things into perspective.

To limit your child's exposure to TV commercials, the AAP recommends that you:

Have your kids watch public television stations (some programs are sponsored - or "brought to you" - by various companies, although the products they sell are rarely shown).
Tape programs - without the commercials.
Buy or rent children's videos or DVDs.

Understanding TV Ratings and the V-Chip

Two ways you can help monitor what your child watches are:

TV Parental Guidelines. Modeled after the movie rating system, this is an age-group rating system developed for TV programs. These ratings are listed in television guides, TV listings in your local newspaper, and on the screen in your cable program guide. They also appear in the upper left-hand corner of the screen during the first 15 seconds of TV programs. But not all channels offer the rating system. For those that do, the ratings are:

TV-Y: suitable for all children
TV-Y7: directed toward kids 7 years and older (children who are able to distinguish between make-believe and reality); may contain "mild fantasy violence or comedic violence" that may scare younger kids
TV-Y7-FV: fantasy violence may be more intense in these programs than others in the TV-Y7 rating
TVG: suitable for a general audience; not directed specifically toward children, but contains little to no violence, sexual dialogue or content, or strong language
TV-PG: parental guidance suggested; may contain an inappropriate theme for younger children and contains one or more of the following: moderate violence (V), some sexual situations (S), occasional strong language (L), and some suggestive dialogue (D)
TV-14: parents strongly cautioned - suitable for only children over the age of 14; contains one or more of the following: intense violence (V), intense sexual situations (S), strong language (L), and intensely suggestive dialogue
TV-MA: designed for adults and may be unsuitable for kids under 17; contains one or more of the following: graphic violence (V), strong sexual activity (S), and/and crude language (L)

V-chip (V is for "violence"). This technology was designed to enable you to block television programs and movies you don't want your child to see. All new TV sets that have screens of 13" or more now have internal V-chips, but set-top boxes are available for TVs made before 2000. So how exactly does the V-chip work? It allows you to program your TV to display only the appropriately-rated shows - blocking out any other, more mature shows.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires that V-chips in new TVs recognize the TV Parental Guidelines and the age-group rating system and block those programs that don't adhere to these standards.

For many, the rating system and V-chip may be valuable tools. But there is some concern that the system may be worse than no system at all. For example, research shows that preteen and teen boys are more likely to want to see a program if it's rated MA (mature audience) than if it's PG (parental guidance suggested). And parents may rely too heavily on these tools and stop monitoring what their children are watching.

Also, broadcast news, sports, and commercials aren't rated, although they often present depictions of violence and sexuality. The rating system also doesn't satisfy some family advocates who complain that they fail to give enough information about a program's content to allow parents to make informed decisions about whether a show is appropriate for their child.

So even if you've used the V-chip to program your TV or a show features the age-group ratings, it's still important to preview shows to determine whether they're appropriate for your child and turn off the TV if the content becomes inappropriate for your child.

Teaching Your Child Good TV Habits

Here are some practical ways you can make TV-viewing more productive in your home:

Limit the number of TV-watching hours:
- Stock the room in which you have your TV with plenty of other non-screen entertainment (books, kids' magazines, toys, puzzles, board games, etc.) to encourage your child to do something other than watch the tube.
- Keep TVs out of your child's bedroom.
- Turn the TV off during meals.
- Don't allow your child to watch TV while doing homework.
- Treat TV as a privilege that your child needs to earn - not a right to which he or she is entitled. Tell your child that TV-viewing is allowed only after chores and homework are completed.
Try a weekday ban. Schoolwork, sports activities, and job responsibilities make it tough to find extra family time during the week. Record weekday shows or save TV time for weekends, and you'll have more family togetherness time to spend on meals, games, physical activity, and reading during the week.
Set a good example by limiting your own television viewing.
Check the TV listings and program reviews ahead of time for programs your family can watch together (i.e., developmentally appropriate and nonviolent programs that reinforce your family's values). Choose shows, says the AAP, that foster interest and learning in hobbies and education (reading, science, etc.).
Preview programs before your child watches them.
Come up with a family TV schedule that you all agree upon each week. Then, post the schedule in a visible area (i.e., on the refrigerator) somewhere around the house so that everyone knows which programs are OK to watch and when. And make sure to turn off the TV when the "scheduled" program is over, instead of channel surfing until something gets your or your child's interest.
Watch TV with your child. If you can't sit through the whole program, at least watch the first few minutes to assess the tone and appropriateness, then check in throughout the show.
Talk to your child about what he or she sees on TV and share your own beliefs and values. If something you don't approve of appears on the screen, you can turn off the TV, then use the opportunity to ask your child thought-provoking questions such as, "Do you think it was OK when those men got in that fight? What else could they have done? What would you have done?" Or, "What do you think about how those teenagers were acting at that party? Do you think what they were doing was wrong?" If certain people or characters are mistreated or discriminated against, talk about why it's important to treat everyone equal, despite their differences. You can use TV to explain confusing situations and express your feelings about difficult topics (sex, love, drugs, alcohol, smoking, work, behavior, family life). Teach your child to question and learn from what he or she views on TV.
Talk to other parents, your child's doctor, and your child's teachers about their TV-watching policies and kid-friendly programs they'd recommend.
Offer fun alternatives to television. If your child wants to watch TV, but you want him or her to turn off the tube, suggest that you and your child play a board game, start a game of hide and seek, play outside, read, work on crafts or hobbies, or listen and dance to music. The possibilities for fun without the tube are endless - so turn off the TV and enjoy the quality time you'll have to spend with your child.

Updated and reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
Date reviewed: February 2005
Originally reviewed by: Steve Dowshen, MD

Children's Television Shows Have a New Healthy Message for Kids

2007-01-01T21:03:00.000-05:00

Children's Television Shows Have a New Healthy Message for Kids

Sesame Street and Other Kids' Shows Emphasize Diet and Exercise

As a mom, I was thrilled to hear the news that Sesame Street was going to kick off the multi-year campaign, "Healthy Habits for Life" this season. With concerns about childhood obesity on the rise, Sesame Street has answered the call to educate our children about health concerns. What do these health-conscious new shows entail? According to Sesame Street's website, the new season includes, "storylines that guide preschoolers and their caregivers through lessons related to healthy eating, the importance of active play and other key activities such as hygiene and rest." Elmo, Oscar, Big Bird, all our favorite Sesame Street friends will be involved. Even Cookie Monster will teach kids with a new song, "A Cookie is a Sometimes Treat."

The Disney Channel is also helping inspire children to go on a health kick. "The Wiggles" counsels kids to eat healthy food and promotes health with songs such as, "Fruit Salad, Yummy Yummy." "Jo-Jo's Circus" encourages kids to get off the couch to dance and move. Also, kids will see cartoon shorts about choosing healthy snacks, such as an apple, over candy and other less healthy choices.

On Nickelodeon, health-conscious parents can direct their kids to several shows which promote physical activity and healthy eating. "Dora the Explorer" encourages kids to get up and move during the show. Another show with a great role model is "Lazy Town." The super hero of the new kids show, Sportacus, is an athlete who can be defeated if he eats sugar. While the villain, Robbie Rotten, is known for being lazy. "Lazy Town" can also be seen on the children's network NOGGIN.

Programs such as these, which emphasize healthy eating and exercise, can be a great tool to spark conversations with kids about leading a healthy lifestyle. Even better, parents can use kids' favorite characters to encourage their children to eat healthy foods. I seem to remember my mom always bringing up something about Popeye and spinach.

Modern Tots

2006-12-23T21:52:00.000-05:00

Like A Bike - Jumper

As early as 2 years old children can learn to walk then run, then balance. Later moving on to a “real” bike kids adapt without difficulty and training wheels become unecessary. Completely made from Aluminum. Limited steering angle is a unique safety feature. Extremely light (8lbs). Two different size seat poles included. The larger pole extends to a maximum height of 18.5".

Belly Dance Maternity

2006-12-23T21:43:00.000-05:00

hip maternity clothes for stylish moms-to-be

we believe you should not have to sacrifice your style while expecting. we carry the top maternity designers, including chip and pepper, chiarakruza, nom, noppies, olian, japanese weekend, michael stars, habitual maternity, and serfontaine maternity jeans. celebrate your pregnancy with our extensive collection of maternity clothes and diaper bags.

Cool Diaper Bag

2006-12-21T13:40:00.000-05:00

Peek into a Diaper Bag
(WAJ-057)

Size: 14.5" x 10.5" x 5.75"	Price: $100

What's in your tote? The secret's out with this Diaper Bag! Two side pouches can hold cell phones or snacks and the back pocket is great for storing hard to get items. The inside features a bottle sleeve and zippered pocket. When it's time for a change, there's a mat with zip and mesh pockets. (shoulder strap is adjustable)

Don't leave babies in car seats for too long

2006-12-20T22:04:00.000-05:00

Don't leave babies in car seats for too long, experts warn

FRIDAY, Dec. 8 (HealthDay News) — Babies should not be left alone to sleep in car safety
seats, especially if they were born prematurely, New Zealand pediatricians report.

Their warning, published in this week's issue of the British Medical Journal,
is based on a study of nine infants, aged 3 days to 6 months, who were
referred to the Auckland Cot Monitoring Service by parents alarmed by
what they described as infants who were "blue," "scrunched up" or "not breathing."

"All but one case occurred when the infants had been left in the car seats indoors,
allowing them to fall asleep unrestrained in an upright position," said a report by
the group, led by Dr. Alistair J. Gunn, an associate professor of physiology
and pediatrics at the University of Auckland.

All the infants survived, but the parents were given advice on better positioning
to prevent future problems, and warnings about not leaving the babies in
the car seats for excessive periods of time.

It's a "fairly important paper," said Dr. Christopher Greeley, medical director
of the newborn nursery at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital in Nashville, because
it demonstrates the potential dangers of car seats, which are regarded as essential
for protecting children if accidents occur.

"The take-home message is that parents should not leave babies unattended
in car seats," Greeley said. "If you leave a very young baby in a car seat, the
structure of the head, bigger in the back, can cause the airway, the trachea, to
be narrowed." Vanderbilt follows the recommendation of the American Academy
of Pediatrics — that all babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy get a car seat
test before they leave the hospital, he said.

"They get the test for the potentially longest duration of the ride home, so that
they don't have this kind of positional occlusion," Greeley said. "The test is done
for premature babies or full-term babies who have issues with their airways. If they
are born really small, have poor nutrition or have poor neck control, we do the test."

When the children do get home, leaving them in car seats for a prolonged period is not
a good idea, Greeley said. "The more they are left in, the more predisposed they are
to have partial blockage of the airways," he noted. "Sleeping in a car seat is not necessarily
a cause of death, but there is a higher likelihood that a baby somewhere will have
difficulty with breathing."

"Car seats should only be used for transportation purposes," said Linda White, i
njury prevention coordinator at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
"Bringing one into the house and leaving a child in it, that is not what they are intended for."

Parents sometimes bring a car seat into the house and leave a baby in it "because
they don't want to disturb them," White said. "But you don't want them [the babies]
to be at that extended angle for a long period of time. We encourage families even
when they are traveling to stop often and take the baby out of the car seat. The
extended period of time is the key."

Marjorie Marciano, director of the safety education office at the New York City
Department of Transportation, offers this advice: "We do know that using a car
seat that is installed correctly can reduce the risk of injury significantly, for example
by 70 percent for children under 1 year old," she said. "Installed correctly means that
it should be at an angle of 45 degrees. When working with parents, we always say
that it is important that the seat be at the right angle to keep the airway open."

-- Ed Edelson, HealthDay News

The Retro Baby

2006-12-20T21:59:00.000-05:00

Dr Seuss Cat in the Hat baby gift set

• The perfect gift set for newborns to one year olds
• Includes a waterproof Starter Bib and a coordinating washcloth for babies.
• TheRetroBaby's bright and colorful Dr. Seuss Gift Book is a joy to give or receive!
• 100% cotton. Machine wash.

Tutti Bella

2006-12-20T21:54:00.000-05:00

From baby clothes to diaper bags, Tutti Bella offers the hottest designer infant clothing and children's
fashions, as was unique gifts for babies. Here you will find designer baby clothes,
designer diaper bags, and unique baby bedding for babies and children.
We carry a great selection of stateside and European
designer braellnds for children such as 2BFree, Cakewalk,
True Religion, Kingsley, No Added Sugar, Appaman, Antik Denim,
Zutano, Oink!Baby, Charlie Rocket, Mimi and Maggie, Luna Luna, and more!
Whether you're looking for special baby shower gift ideas, unique baby gifts
to welcome the baby home, or you're shopping for your own kids, you're sure
to find something special in our baby boutique!

Chilly Swing Set

2006-12-20T21:46:00.000-05:00

haba toys

The coolest seat for chilling out!

Every kid needs a fun place to hang out and this cool swing set gives them just that, indoors or out.

Hang it from a ceiling or from a tree to instantly create a cozy place to cuddle up. Whether swinging in it or curling up for a nap, the cushiony seat and sturdy net construction are secure, stable and totally comfortable!

Made of waterproof, weatherproof Cordura

Age/weight range: For kids 3 years and up, up to 440 pounds!

haba toys

Memory Blanket

2006-12-20T21:32:00.000-05:00

Willow Creek Baby

Your child's baby clothes have so many memories.
There is the pink layette she wore home from the
hospital, the white eyelet dress she wore for her first
Easter, and the bunny pajamas that she insisted on
wearing every night. Don't pack these memories away in
the attic, instead, have them made into a Memory Blanket
that you and your child can cherish forever.

It only takes 16 pieces of children's clothing for a 32"
blanket, 25 pieces for a 40" blanket and 36 pieces for a
48" blanket. So, collect your child's favorite items and
mail them to Willow Creek Baby along with the Memory
Blanket Order Form and in 4-6 weeks you will have a
blanket filled with childhood memories.

BABY MEMORY BLANKETS
(made with newborn/toddler clothing)
32" x 32" Memory Blanket - $75.00
40" x 40" Memory Blanket - $110.00
48" x 48" Memory Blanket - $160.00
64" x 72" Memory Blanket - $320.00

Adult memory blankets are now available!
Contact us for more information.

Santa's Secret Village

2006-12-20T21:27:00.000-05:00

Enjoy the joy and magic of Christmas in Santa’s Secret Village! We invite you to experience a traditional look at Christmas through the many free activities here at northpole.com. Write to Santa, read stories, enjoy Karaoke, send e-cards, find recipes, play games and puzzles, print stories to color—even put you or your child in a personalized story! Our stories and activities combine traditional feelings of Christmas goodwill with state-of-the-art computer technology—all richly illustrated with original artwork.

Northpole.com is a commercial banner-free, child-safe Web site designed to provide a family-oriented Christmas site for children and families to share together. Parents, grandparents, and teachers around the world have told us about the quality time they spend sharing the site with children. We hope you, too, enjoy the site as much as we enjoyed creating it for you.

NORAD Tracks Santa

2006-12-20T21:16:00.000-05:00

For more than 50 years, NORAD and its predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) have tracked Santa. The tradition began after a Colorado Springs-based Sears Roebuck & Co. store advertisement for children to call Santa on a special "hotline" included an inadvertently misprinted telephone number. Instead of Santa, the phone number put kids through to the CONAD Commander-in-Chief's operations "hotline." The Director of Operations, Colonel Harry Shoup, received the first "Santa" call on Christmas Eve 1955. Realizing what had happened, Colonel Shoup had his staff check radar data to see if there was any indication of Santa making his way south from the North Pole. Indeed there were signs of Santa and children who called were given an update on Santa's position. Thus, the tradition was born. In 1958, the governments of Canada and the United States created a bi-national air defense command for the North American continent called the North American Air Defense Command, known as NORAD. Canada and the U.S. believed they could better defend North America together as a team instead of separately.

NORAD carried out its first Santa tracking in 1958 after inheriting the tradition from CONAD. Since that time, Canadian and American men and women who work at NORAD have responded to phone calls from children personally. Additionally, media from all over the world call NORAD on Christmas Eve for updates on Santa's location. Last year this Website was visited by millions of people who wanted to know Santa's whereabouts. This year, the information is provided in six languages.
NORAD relies on many volunteers to help make Santa tracking possible. Hundreds of volunteers spend part of their Christmas Eve at the Santa Tracking Operations Center answering phones and emails to provide Santa updates to thousands of inquiring children worldwide.

A Home for the Holidays Adoption Special

2006-12-20T21:11:00.000-05:00

A Home for the Holidays Adoption Special

Adoption Special to air December 22 on CBS!

Distribution Source : ArriveNet

Date : Tuesday, December 12, 2006

New London, CT -- (ArriveNet - Dec 12, 2006) -- THE 8TH ANNUAL A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS WITH ROD STEWART, an exciting new entertainment special, will air at 8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 22 on CBS Television. The special includes moving performances by Grammy Award winner Rod Stewart and special guests Five for Fighting, John Legend, Katharine McPhee and Mary Mary. Comedian Cedric the Entertainer, Miley Cyrus, Angie Harmon, Melina Kanakaredes, Rene Russo and Jeri Ryan present inspirational stories about adoption.

The musical performances frame several pre-taped story segments which are presented by celebrities who either have their own adoption experiences or are involved with children's issues. The stories highlight many exceptional American children and families involved in this rewarding process.

There are more than a half million children currently in foster care in the United States and approximately 114,000 of those children are free for adoption. “A Home for the Holidays” gives voice to these children by creating intimate portraits of children who have been adopted into permanent, loving homes.

The special is presented by the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption in association with the Children's Action Network. Wendy's restaurant founder Dave Thomas, who was adopted, established the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption in 1992. It is dedicated to increasing the awareness of the children in the United States and Canadian foster care system who have been freed for adoption. Wendy's Restaurants is a program sponsor.

The Children's Action Network (CAN) was founded in 1990 by leaders in the entertainment industry to harness the power of the entertainment media on behalf of children. The special is part of CAN's National Adoption Campaign to raise awareness about the joys of adopting and to find homes for children who are waiting.

CARA is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3), licensed, child-placing agency committed to finding families for children in need of adoptive placement. CARA helps with the adoption of children from the foster care system, domestically, and internationally. CARA provides home studies and educational training for all types of adoption, counsels pregnant women considering placing children for adoption, and supports post-adoptive families. For more information on adoption, contact CARA at 860-444-0553 or visit www.adoptacarakid.org.

Skip * Hop

2006-12-06T19:42:00.000-05:00

The Gifted Grasshopper

2006-12-06T19:34:00.000-05:00

The Gifted Grasshopper is your source for children's books online. Our gift bags are bursting with books that are hand selected by two teachers based on your child’s different educational and developmental needs. We, as teachers, loved discovering and sharing great new pieces of children's literature with our students. Now, as moms, we are thrilled to be able to search for books that are perfect for our own children. We know you will think these books are perfect for the special child in your life as well. All of the books featured in our gift bags are carefully chosen by The Gifted Grasshopper for your child's reading enjoyment. Our bags feature children's books, children's storybooks, illustrated books, children's board books, picture books and more. All hand-selected bags bursting with children's books can be purchased for different age groups including: Baby Books, Toddler Books, Preschool Books, Kindergarten & First Grade Books and Second & Third Grade Books. The Gifted Grasshopper will also work with you to design a custom bag bursting with books according to a special theme or occasion.

Your hand selected book collection will come in our Gifted Grasshopper Signature Tote Bag. These tote bags are high quality canvas with long handles for easy carrying. Bursting with books or filled with baby and childhood essentials, the Gifted Grasshopper signature tote is something you will use again and again. Our Miniature Totes are great as Party favors stuffed with books and trimmings or grab an extra one for the special child in your life to carry whatever he or she desires!

Eggnog Cookies

2006-12-05T23:39:00.000-05:00

recipe home

Eggnog cookies

Submitted by: jdj25

A festive and tasty holiday treat -- moist, sweet, and
gently spiced. All the more special because it can only
be made during the holidays, when eggnog is in the stores.

Cookies:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 1/4 cups white sugar
3/4 cup eggnog
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 egg yolks

Icing:
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
3 tablespoons eggnog
Optional: 1 to 2 teaspoons of spiced rum or rum extract

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).

2. Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon and nutmeg.

3. Cream sugar and butter until light. Add eggnog, vanilla,

and egg yolks; beat at medium speed with mixer until smooth.

Add flour mixture and beat at low speed until just combined.

Do not overmix.

4. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet 1 inch apart.

(If consistency is hard to work with, cool dough first in refrigerator.) Bake 16 to 24 minutes or until edges start turning light brown.

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.

Hazardous toys to avoid this holiday season

2006-12-05T23:36:00.000-05:00

Report: Hazardous toys to avoid this holiday season

FRIDAY, Nov. 29 (BabyCenter News) — Hazardous toys are still sold in stores across the country, says a toy safety report released last week by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (U.S. PIRG).

The group's 21st annual "Trouble in Toyland" report provides examples of toys currently on store shelves that pose potential safety hazards and offers safety guidelines for purchasing toys for small children.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), almost 73,000 children under the age of 5 were treated in emergency rooms for toy-related injuries in 2005, the most recent year for which numbers are available. Twenty of those children died.

"Even one toy-related death is too many, because these deaths are preventable," said U.S. PIRG Research Director Alison Cassady in a prepared statement.

The "Trouble in Toyland" report warns consumers about four categories of toy dangers: choking hazards, powerful magnets, lead, and strangulation hazards.

Choking hazards

In its research, U.S. PIRG found toys for sale with small parts for children under 3 and under 6 without the required choke hazard warning. This is despite the CPSC's 1979 ban of the sale of toys for children under 3 if they contain small parts, and 1994's Child Safety Protection Act, which required an explicit choke hazard warning on toys with small parts for children between 3 and 6.

Children continue to choke on toys that meet the letter of the law. In September, Playskool recalled the Team Talkin' Tool Bench after two children suffocated when the toy's oversized plastic nails became lodged in their throats. U.S. PIRG found several toys on store shelves that have parts shaped like corks or these toy nails that could pose similar suffocation hazards.

Magnetic toys

Toymakers have started using powerful magnets in building toys and magnetic jewelry. If a child swallows more than one magnet, the magnets can attract each other inside the body and cause a bowel obstruction or life-threatening tear in the intestines.

A little boy died last Thanksgiving and many others have had life-saving surgery after swallowing magnets from MEGA Brands' Magnetix toys. MEGA Brands has modified the design of Magnetix and placed a label on the toy's packaging warning parents about the dangers of magnets.

U.S. PIRG has called on CPSC to require a warning label on all magnetic toys that tells parents to seek immediate medical attention if a child swallows magnets.

Lead in jewelry

Children exposed to lead can suffer delayed mental and physical development or even death. In February, a 4-year-old died of lead poisoning after he swallowed a bracelet charm that contained 99 percent lead. U.S. PIRG researchers went to just a few stores and easily found four items of children's jewelry that contain high levels of lead, ranging from 1.8 percent lead to 34 percent lead by weight.

"We've known for decades that lead poses serious health risks to children, so it's unacceptable that consumers can still find lead-laden children's jewelry on store shelves," said Cassady.

Strangulation hazards

Cords and elastics attached to toys can hurt children by wrapping around their neck or other body part and causing strangulation or cutting off blood flow.

One toy in particular that's caused problems in recent years is the water yo-yo: a liquid-filled ball at the end of a stretchy cord. Last month, a 5-year-old Bellevue, Washington boy almost suffocated when the toy's cord wrapped tightly around his neck several times. CPSC has recorded about 400 injuries to the eyes, face and neck since the water yo-yo ball came on the market three years ago.

"CPSC should not wait until a child dies to protect children from the dangers posed by playing with this toy," said Cassady. Her group is asking the CPSC to ban the water yo-yo immediately.

Cassady reminded parents that the toy list in the U.S. PIRG report is only a sampling of the potential hazards on store shelves.

"Shoppers should examine all toys carefully for hidden dangers before they make a purchase this holiday season," she said.

-- Jenny Des Jarlais, BabyCenter News

Habitait for Humanity

2006-12-05T23:28:00.000-05:00

Put Your Faith Into Action. Online Donation Makes It Easy!

Shelter from rain, wind and sun is a basic human need. With your help, more deserving families can have decent places to call home. Give families in need shelter, self-respect and the hope of a better life. Our ministry puts faith into action through empowerment and hard work. And it’s easy for you to help! Just click the links below to learn how you can help. Then put your faith into action by clicking to donate online.

THESITTERLOOP.COM

2006-12-03T19:02:00.000-05:00

Linking Parents and Sitters in a Snap!

The Sitter Loop makes it easy for parents and sitters to connect with one another. Parents can find a sitter for that random night out or for a permanent position. Sitters can find the perfect childcare position with a perfect family. To locate a sitter near you or to find a job, register today!

Eliminate the hassle of going through expensive agencies. Our service makes it easy and affordable to find the best sitter for your child.

Baby Santa Music CD

2006-11-30T19:47:00.000-05:00

babyeinstein.com

Baby Santa Music CD

$6.99

Birth and up
Celebrating the holiday spirit with music of the world
Holiday Music Festival:

Jingle Bells, Traditional
Deck the Halls, Traditional
Toy Symphony, Leopold Mozart
The Dreidel Song, Traditional
Joy to the World, Traditional
Joy to the World, Reggae Style
12 Days of Christmas, Caribbean Style
German Dance No. 3, "Sleigh Ride,: W.A. Mozart
Jingle Bells, Traditional
Jingle Bells, Samba Style
Hanukkah Medley, Traditional
Bring a Torch, Jeanette Isabella, France
Snowbird on the Ashbank, Appalachia
The Wexford Carol, Celtic
Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming, Germany
Oshogastu (The New Year), Japan
We wish you a Merry Christmas, Traditional
We with you a Merry Christmas, African Pop Style
Hanukkah, O Hanukkah, Traditional
Hallelujah Chorus, Handel
Silent Night, Traditional

Holiday Concert for Little Ears

Orchestra Tune Up
Brandenburg Concerto No. 4, Bach Nutcracker Suite, Tchaikovsky
Trepak (Russian Dance)
Tea (Chinese Dance)
Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy
Coffee (Arabian Dance)
Dance of the Reed Pipes
Waltz of the Flowers
Symphony No. 9, Beethoven

Toddler meal time pack

2006-11-29T19:17:00.000-05:00

Our Toddler Meal Time Pack has everything you need for feeding your little one while away from home:

3 Take & Toss Bowls with Lids
2 Take & Toss Infant Section Bowls
12 Take & Toss Toddler Flatware -- 6 forks & 6 spoons
4 Take & Toss Spill Proof Cups or Straw Sippers
16 Pampers Pocket Bibsters
Wet Ones Antibacterial Travel Pack (15 count)

Fun Party box

2006-11-29T19:12:00.000-05:00

Ocean Steward Party in a Box

The Ocean Steward Party in a Box is a fantastic way to inspire kids to learn about the oceans and have fun while doing it. Each Party in a Box includes an ocean wildlife Stickerfish Dive Log Pack, an orca magnet, an adjustable wristband, and a sea life self-inking stamp. Each Party in a Box also contains an action list for helping our oceans, information about ocean stewardship, and optional party activities. As a bonus, each Box also includes a Blue Ocean Institute sticker, bookmarks, and Seafood MiniGuide about eco-friendly sea food choices. Buy a set of 12 Boxes and save.

A percentage of profit from the sale of each Ocean Steward Party in a Box goes to the Blue Ocean Institute, a nonprofit organization working to develop conservation solutions and a closer human relationship with the sea through science, art, and literature.

Animal Art

2006-11-27T22:54:00.000-05:00

this collection is full of animal friends. They are friendly, playful and inviting! take them home and make a zoo, safari or farm on your wall.
be inspired by their simplicity and happy
nature.

here are some ideas of how to make an animal collection of your own:

choose a family of different animals all
in one color

choose one animal and order one in
each color

combine your favorite animal with a
piece from another avalisa collection

Personalized M&Ms Candy

2006-11-26T20:31:00.000-05:00

MyM&Ms.com

Personalized M&Ms Candy
Create and customize the classic M&Ms candy to celebrate any occaision. Choose from 17 colors of M&Ms and then you get to decide what you like those M&Ms to say. Prices start around $46 with great gift wrapping and gift boxes available.

Learn more at MyM&Ms.com

Rudolph

2006-11-26T20:21:00.000-05:00

Singing Humble Bumble
Your favorite characters from the stop-action classic holiday television special "Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer" are back in plush form, and you can take them home to brighten your holidays. Choose from Rudolph himself, the Abominable Snowman, or Clarice. All three sing carols from the TV special and do their own little dances. Rudolph's nose even lights up.

Learn more at Urban Outfitters

Top 10 gifts for your Babysitter

2006-11-26T20:11:00.000-05:00

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/82224/top_ten
_gifts_for_your_teenage_babysitter.html

Top Ten Gifts for Your Teenage Babysitter
Don't Forget Your Babysitter During the Holidays
By Jamie Wilson
November 10, 2006

Almost a part of your family, your child’s babysitter is often ignored or forgotten about during the holidays. But this young person, important in the shaping of your child, will be thrilled if you remember them, even in a small way. Here are a few things that will make great gifts for that special teenager.

1. You can start with gift cards to Claire’s, Starbucks, or a trendy local hangout. Teenage girls today are all about the accessories or the being seen. Starbucks is a popular place for kids to go today, but if you don’t like the idea of all that coffee for a young person, consider a mall gift card; many malls today support the Simon gift card system or have their own. It might be tempting to just go ahead and buy them that accessory, but if you do, be sure to make sure it’s returnable. Teens are notoriously picky – remember?

2.Cash – always good. Let’s face it, your babysitter may love your kids, but she works for you in order to earn money. If she has a college fund, a check written to that is great. Or you can get her a prepaid Visa card, or just tuck some money inside a great card that tells her how important she is to you.

3.If you prefer more personal gifts, check her ears first for piercing and then give her really funky earrings, the bigger the better. Big dangly earrings, fashionable in the 80s, have been making a huge comeback. The ones that hang down to the shoulders are the ones that seem to be most popular right now. Watch for the clothes she prefers to wear, and try to match them, or find earrings that match her eyes.

4.Moon chairs – big round chairs on a foldable metal frame – or clear plastic inflatable furniture are really popular right now. You might also be able to find a great deal on beanbag furniture, which is gaining new popularity in the form of couches, divans, and even beds today. If you can’t find these at a local sporting goods store, look online.

5.Classy accessories are a wonderful gift for your teen babysitter. Consider a designer wallet or a leather CD case, for instance. Designer things – any designer will do – are perfect for teen girls to show off to their friends. (If you have one of these you want to regift, a teen will be thrilled to get it, and will never know the difference either.)

6.Homemade gift baskets are reasonably priced and great for teens. Buy a medium-sized basket and fill it with candy, snacks, cheese, crackers, summer sausage, or whatever you think your babysitter would like. You can even stick in gift cards for fast food, if you want to really thrill him or her. (Do not do this to a babysitter who’s on a perpetual diet!)

7.Gift certificates to music stores or to online music sites like iTunes or Napster will be a winner. (And no, she doesn’t have to own an iPod to use iTunes, just have a computer with a CD burner or an MP3 player.)

8.For that matter, MP3 players have come down enormously in price. You can buy a small one (one that holds around a hundred songs) for less than thirty dollars today. If you’re pretty musically savvy, a preloaded MP3 player can really send your babysitter over the moon.

9.Is your babysitter headed to college soon? Consider a messenger bag or a great backpack that has spots for everything – MP3/iPod, pens, cell phone, and handheld computer or laptop. If you don’t think that will work, call his or her mother and ask what they still need for college; she’ll have some great ideas.

10.And for teens of most stripes, items that yell “Cool!” at Think Geek, Sharper Image, or other similar technotrendy stores will work. Think flowers that dance to music, Clocky (an alarm clock that runs away so you can’t hit the snooze), or just about anything that uses neon or other lights for decoration, illumination, and/or information, and you’ll have a gift that won’t go wrong.

As a bonus, be certain to include pictures of the kids she babysits – never as the only gift, mind! Your child’s babysitter, if she’s any good, loves your kids and will love having this memento to show off and treasure in the future.Remember that teenagers are notoriously choosy, and always save the receipt just in case your babysitter wants to return or exchange the gift later. And don't be offended if she does!

Super fort

2006-11-24T22:03:00.000-05:00

http://www.babyzone.com/amazingtoyawards/
winners.asp?awid=2305691&agrg=6

Middle 10+ Years

Super Fort
Name of Toy: Super Fort
Manufacturer's Name: Cranium
Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

The folks at Cranium never cease to amaze us, as they crank out innovative and original products year after year. We tested Super Fort with kids ranging in age from four to nine, and everyone loved it. The younger kids enjoyed crawling in and out of the structures and experimenting with different parts. The older kids appreciated that they could build and assemble various structures on their own. The Styrofoam bars are lightweight, held together by large, strong magnets. The recommended age is four and up, but we don’t think a preschooler could build on her own. Still, this is a great product for your budding architects.

How to trim bangs

2006-11-24T21:56:00.000-05:00

Ask.com

How To Trim Bangs
From Julyne Derrick,

Bangs can be very sexy. Whether you want blunt-cut bangs or romantic fringe, it's helpful to know how to trim your own bangs.

Plenty of salons will offer to cut your bangs for free if you're a regular customer, but here's how to do it yourself. All you need are sharp scissors that are pointed and no longer than 5 inches (Tip: it's best to buy them a beauty supply store).
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 10 minutes
Here's How:

1. Always start with dry hair. You never want to cut your bangs while wet because they'll shrink when dry and look too short. If you usually blow-dry your bangs, apply styling gel then dry. If you usually wash & wear, then let them air dry.
2. Using a comb, precisely section off the hair you don't want to cut. You can put the other hair in a ponytail or pin it up with bobby pins. But only your bangs should be left loose.
3. Divide your bangs in half using a styling comb. (Styling combs have baby-fine teeth). Take one half and comb bangs down with the comb teeth facing out. Rest the comb on your browbone. Don't cut your bangs any shorter than where the comb hits your face.
4. Skip to step 5 if you have shaggy, face-framing bangs Start 'point-cutting' or snipping the hair at a 45-degree angle. Work slowly, doing a bit at a time. Never cuts bangs straight across since it's impossible to keep a perfectly straight line.
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5. Important note If you have shaggy, face-framing bangs, skip the scissors & instead use a brand-new, disposable single-blade razor (double & triple blades will split hair). Celeb stylist Chris McMillan swears in the April 2006 issue of Allure magazine that razors work much better than scissors. To razor cut, pull bangs taut with your middle & index fingers. Slide fingers all the way down to end of hair & then razor cut the hair just above your fingers.
6. Repeat 'point-cutting' on the other half.
7. If your bangs are too dense, you can add layers. Simply take a portion of the bangs between 2 fingers & pulling the hair vertically above your head. Slide your hand up towards the ends, letting some hair fall. Lower your fingers an inch down the hair section and point-cut or razor cut (a half-inch at most) above your fingers.
8. If you have long, face-framing layers, check to make sure the length is even by pulling a piece of hair from either side of toward the center of your face -- they should be equidistant from the bridge of your nose, according to McMillan.

Tips:

1. You'll want to invest in a pair of sharp, high-quality scissors designed to cut hair. You can get these at beauty supply stores. Utility scissors that have been used to cut paper or cloth are too dull for cutting hair.
2. If you have long, shaggy, face-framing bangs, use a razor instead of scissors to trim bangs. Scissors can slip & cut hair unevenly, while a razor is more exact.

What You Need:

* high-quality scissors
* styling comb
* styling gel
* mirror
* disposable, single-blade razor

A safe way to fly with kids

2006-11-22T23:01:00.000-05:00

http://www.kidsflysafe.com/

The new, easy, safe way to fly with kids

If you fly with kids, you know that the safety
experts all urge parents to bring an “FAA-
certified child restraint” for small children.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA),
the American Academy of Pediatrics, the
National Transportation Safety Board, and
the airlines know that the standard seat
belt isn’t enough to provide young travelers
the same level of safety as adults have.
For years, this meant parents needed to
haul an awkward, heavy car seat – never
intended to be portable – through crowded
airports, security portals, and narrow airplane aisles.

Now, there’s a better way.

CARES is the new, easy way to travel safely with
young children on airplanes. CARES (for “Child Aviation
Restraint”) is an innovative belt-and-buckle device that
attaches directly to the airplane seat belt. It is the first
alternative aviation child safety device to be certified by the FAA
for all phases of flight – taxiing, take off, turbulence and landing.
CARES is for children over 1 year old, weighing between 22 and 44 pounds,
and sitting in their own seat. CARES weighs 1 pound and installs in 1 minute!

Check your bulky car seat through as luggage and take CARES on board.

Cute baby tee's

2006-11-22T21:58:00.000-05:00

Unique clothing that fits your child’s personality to a tee!

Whether you're looking for popular baby shower gift ideas or hip children's clothes for your own cool kids, you're sure to find something unique at Ellabee Baby.

We take the clothing necessities of childhood, such as onesies and tees for boys and girls, and turn them into a smile. Our designs capture the unique innocence of childhood and showcase the larger-than-life personalities of our children.

From baby onesies to kids tees, Ellabee Baby offers the hottest designer infant clothing and children's fashions, as well as unique gifts for babies. Here you will find celebrity baby one-pieces and unique shirts for kids and children. We carry a great selection of expressive shirts for boys, girls, twins, babies, toddlers, big kigs and more!

We may make you smile, but we don't sacrifice practicality in the process. We stand behind all of our products and strive to provide excellent customer service. If you have questions or feedback we'd love to hear from you!

BIG YELLOW BOX

2006-11-22T16:41:00.000-05:00

Press Release

Jamie McCarthy Brings Big Yellow Box to the Boston Area

New in-home selling program from the maker of Crayola Products that provides exclusive crafting projects that create family connections

As a consultant Jamie does in home presentations of a unique and simple to make line of Big Yellow Box Crafting projects for both kids and adults.

go to the website for more info http://www.bigyellowbox.net/jamie29

2006-11-22T16:13:00.001-05:00

Save $10 off your purchase of $30 or more at ToysRUs.com when you pay using Google Checkout
Expires 12.15.06

Typical motherly advice

2006-11-21T22:03:00.000-05:00

http://www.dayformothers.com/some-typical-motherly-advice.html

Some Typical Motherly Advice
Mothers Advice

There are a few things, which are common to all the mothers around the world. Apart from showering love and affection, mothers make it a point to keep an eye on every activity of their children- this of course arises as a result of her being too caring about her child, so that he/she is always unhurt. Here are some of the most common advices by mothers to their children:

* Make sure to change your underwear always; you never know when you'll have an accident.
* Don't make that face or it'll solidify in that position.
* Be careful or else you'll put your eye out.
* What if everyone jumped into a well? Would you do it, too?
* You have enough filth behind those ears to grow potatoes!
* C'mon close that door! Were you born in a barn?
* If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all.
* Don't put that thing in your mouth; you don't know where it's been!

Nursery cady

2006-11-21T21:49:00.000-05:00

babystyle.com

babystyle.com

Make room for baby!

These Fresh Stripes storage boxes come in a variety of convenient sizes, designed to keep all of your nursery essentials handy, organized and out of sight!

With a removable Velcro divider and a storage-saving fold-up style, this caddy's reinforced base and handles makes it sturdy and portable enough to keep all your baby's products neatly stored away.

How big is it? This handy storage box measures 9.5 inches by 11.5 inches by 5.75 inches.

Fleece baby safty cribe sheets

2006-11-21T21:42:00.000-05:00

fleecebaby.com

Fleece Baby Safety Crib Sheets

Single fitted Fleece Safety Crib Sheets are available in 7 solid pastel colors that will complement any nursery décor.

Now packaged in a stylish, handled, zipper bag trimmed with ivory satin and printed with stars, it is a perfect gift for any new parent. Gift cards are available upon request.

Our crib sheets are a new and innovative approach to infant bedding. We have combined the softness of baby’s favorite blanket with the safety of a fitted deep pocket. The unique (patent pending) design adds 6 inch deep pockets and elastic all the way around the bottom of the fitted sheet to secure it firmly under the mattress. This ensures that as baby turns and tugs on the sheet through the night, the sheet will stay put.

Dimensions Approx: 28 x 52 x 6

100% Polyester Polar Fleece, Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low, Do Not Bleach

Holiday hits

2006-11-21T21:34:00.000-05:00

urbanbaby.com

Holiday Hits

The full-blown holiday season has officially begun. (Yes, that was Jingle Bells you just heard in the grocery store.) Time to think about what to give, what to get and what to do with the kids during all those vacation days ahead. Here's a list of some of your best options.

Movies
Deck the Halls
Matthew Broderick and Danny DeVito go head to head as a well-mannered suburban dad and the manic neighbor determined to create the biggest holiday light display in the world. Kristin Davis and Alia Shawkat round out the family fun. Rated PG.

Happy Feet
Mumble the Emperor Penguin needs a heart song to attract a soul mate, but he's a terrible singer – though he sure can tap dance! This animated musical comedy features the voices of Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Brittany Murphy, Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman. Rated PG.

Charlotte's Web
This updated live-action version stars Dakota Fanning as Fern and Julia Roberts as the voice of Charlotte the spider. The animals come to life with the voices of John Cleese, Oprah Winfrey, Robert Redford and Kathy Bates. Rated G.

TV
Molly: An American Girl on the Home Front
If you've got a little girl at home who loves American Girl dolls, this is one for the TiVo. Popular character Molly McIntire is a nine-year-old girl growing up on the home front in 1944. In this new TV movie, she deals with the changes brought on by World War II. Sun., 11/26, 8/7, Disney Channel.

Toot & Puddle
Follow these adventurous best friends in "I'll Be Home for Christmas," as Toot heads to the Emerald Isle while Puddle prepares for the holidays. Based on the Toot & Puddle books by Holly Hobbie. Wed., 12/13, 5pm (ET), Noggin.

Books
Merry Un-Christmas by Mike Reiss; illustrated by David Catrow
A cautionary tale for anyone who's ever wished Christmas was every day. In Christmas City it comes 364 days a year! Noelle and her friends' lives consist of nothing but opening gifts and eating big meals. In fact, the only thing they have to look forward to is Un-Christmas, the one day a year when the decorations come down, mail gets delivered and they get to go to school. Ages 3-7.
CDs
Woody Guthrie's Happy Joyous Hanukkah by The Klezmatics
When America's premiere Yiddish band interprets Woody Guthrie's newly discovered Jewish-themed lyrics (inspired by his Coney Island home), the result is a Hanukkah collection full of toe-tapping energy and great music.

The Berenstain Bears Save Christmas
Everyone in Bear Country is going Christmas crazy, fighting over toys and honking in traffic. When Rip-Off Ralph arrives with his Holiday Sweepstakes scheme, Santa Bear decides he'll have to cancel Christmas. It's up to the family to save the day with a little simplicity.

New Orleans Playground (Putumayo Kids) and New Orleans Christmas (Putumayo World Music)
Support the rebuilding of New Orleans and bring the Big Easy home for the holidays. New Orleans Playground offers kid-friendly tunes by Kermit Ruffins, Dr. John, Fats Domino, Charmaine Neville, the Meters and others. New Orleans Christmas features holiday carols with the Heritage Hall Jazz Band, Ellis Marsalis and Topsy Chapman. A portion of proceeds go to the New Orleans Children's Museum's music exhibit and Habitat for Humanity's Musician's Village project.

Celebrity Babies

2006-11-20T22:44:00.000-05:00

sheknows.com
http://www.sheknows.com/entertainment/index.php?cat=18

Gillian Anderson gives birth to baby boy

gillian_anderson_baby.jpgX-files beauty Gillian Anderson and boyfriend Mark Girffiths welcomed into the world a 6 pound 8 ounce baby boy on November 1st in London’s Portland Hospital. The couple delayed announcing the birth of their son, whom the couple have named Oscar, as he was born 3 weeks premature and spent the first weeks of his life in intensive care. A spokesperson for the actress reports that “Both mother and baby are doing fine now.” This is the first child for the couple, and the second child for Anderson, who has a 12-year-old daughter from a previous relationship.
Entertainment category: Miscellany, Celebrity news, Celebrity baby news
Added November 19, 2006 by Alfretta Lee | No comments

My Name is Expecting: Jamie Pressley is pregnant

jamie_pressley_pregnant.jpgDeejay Eric Cubiche was all set to marry his sweetheart, actress Jamie Pressly, but now he has done one better. The engaged couple have announced they are expecting a little one in the near future. Pressly made the announcement on this evening’s Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

The My Name is Earl star is having a boy and the pair, who have been together for a year and a half, have said they will name the child, Dezi James. Words were swirling around Hollywood that last month’s engagement was in fact something that arose from news like this and the announcement is not surprising. Whatever! Pressly and her DeeJay are enjoying a double bliss.
Entertainment category: Television, Celebrity baby news
Added November 16, 2006 by Joel D Amos | No comments

SpiderDad Tobey Maguire

toby_maguire_father.jpgTobey Maguire and fiancée Jennifer Meyer popped out their first baby Thursday evening! The baby girl’s name has not been released. The proud parents plan to marry soon after a three year courtship.
Entertainment category: Celebrity baby news
Added November 11, 2006 by Caroline Gutierrez | No comments

Wolfgang Puck cooks up a special delivery - a baby

wolfgang_puck_baby.jpgWolfgang Puck has cooked for queens and kings of Hollywood, but it his latest creation with fiance Gelila Assefa that has his mouth watering. They are expecting a bouncing baby boy next month.

The celebrity chef and his handbag designer partner have another boy, Oliver, who arrived in the summer of 2005. The couple’s wedding plans have been kept pretty quiet. After Assefa gives birth, Puck and the designer may then begin their nuptial details.

Puck has defined the American success story. Coming to the U.S. with nothing, he has built a food empire from his ability to create magic as a culinary artist. His Hollywood and then international eateries have made him one of the star’s favorite chefs. It is his yearly masterful dishes that has endeared him to legends with his creations for Oscar’s Governor’s Ball. One thing is for sure, those kids will eat very well. The chef also has two sons from a previous marriage.
Entertainment category: Miscellany, Celebrity news, Celebrity baby news
Added November 10, 2006 by Joel D Amos | No comments

Actress Kellie Martin gives birth to baby girl

kellie_martin_baby1.jpgActress Kellie Martin, best known for her roles as the slightly annoying teen Becca Thatcher from family drama Life Goes On and ill-fated doctor Lucy Knight from ER has given birth to a healthy baby girl.

Martin and husband Keith Christian welcomed eight pound Margaret Heather Christian into the world on Sunday. This is the first child for the couple, who have been married for seven years.

A spokesperson for the actress tells People magazine, “Kellie and Maggie are both doing very well.”
Entertainment category: Miscellany, Celebrity news, Celebrity baby news
Added November 7, 2006 by Alfretta Lee | No comments

Is Angelina Jolie preggers again?

angelina_jolie_pregnant.jpgThese two don’t waste any time… The rumors are flying that Angelina Jolie is already pregnant again! The actress is currently in India with baby daddy Brad Pitt filming the Daniel Pearl biopic A Mighty Heart, and is said to be not-so-successfully hiding morning sickness and a baby bump.

A source on set said, “She was wearing a baggy outfit and a big scarf. When she got out of the car, she walked straight to the building, and she was messing around with the scarf, trying to cover herself with it. I heard she’s not able to hold down food very well either.”

Angie also reportedly fainted three times on set last month. Another Jolie-Pitt for the soccer team Brad recently said he wanted? Time will tell!
Entertainment category: Rumors, Celebrity baby news
Added November 2, 2006 by Caroline Gutierrez | 1 comment

Jason Bateman and wife Amanda Anka welcome first child

Actors Jason Bateman and wife Amanda Anka have welcomed their first child into the world on Saturday. The proud parents bucked the tradition of giving their celebrity offspring a weird moniker and went with the beautiful name Francesca Nora Bateman.

The couple started out as friends before they began dating in 1998. They married in Malibu in 2001.

And in case you are wondering, yes, Amanda Anka is the daughter of singer songwriter Paul Anka.
Entertainment category: Celebrity news, Celebrity baby news
Added October 28, 2006 by Alfretta Lee | No comments

Madonna true blue adoption – Oprah got the scoop!

madonna_david.jpgAlways the center of controversy, Madonna has finally spoken out about the furor from human rights groups over her adoption of a Malawi orphan. Her new souvenir kid, David, came home with her and hubby Guy Ritchie to join the other two kids in London last week. Madonna spoke with Oprah via videoconference and talked about the whole ordeal.

Human rights groups are attempting to block the adoption, saying Madonna used her money and celebrity status to get around Malawi law. Madonna says F-O, Sparky. “There are no adoption laws in Malawi,” she said. “And I was warned by my social worker that because there were no known laws in Malawi, they were more or less going to have to make them up as we went along. And she did say to me, ‘Pick Ethiopia. Go to Kenya. Don’t go to Malawi because you’re just going to get a hard time.’”

There’s also the matter of the boy’s father, who claims he didn’t know … click to continue reading Madonna true blue adoption – Oprah got the scoop!!
Entertainment category: Celebrity news, Legal ups & downs, Celebrity baby news
Added October 25, 2006 by Caroline Gutierrez | No comments

Sutton Pierce by any other name

britney_kevin.jpgIs it possible that our royal trashy couple, Britney Spears and Kevin Federline, have managed to put one over on the media?

According to TMZ.com, who have obtained what is said to be a copy of the Spears/Federline birth certificate, the name Sutton Pierce does not appear on the document at all. Instead the name Jayden James Federline is listed as the baby’s moniker, along with papa Kevin Federline’s signature. This new revelation has fueled rumors that the latest Spears/Federline offspring may not even be a boy, which seemed to be confirmed when Britney’s bodyguard was spotted in Malibu buying pink baby clothes (not that a boy can’t wear pink) and by cryptic quotes from K-fed himself.

During a radio interview for a Seattle station, a deejay asked Federline, “Isn’t that strange when you hear that, when you have a child and people tell you the sex is a different one?” Rap Master K responded with, “Yeah, it’s crazy. Well, it’s even crazier when people are telling me my child’s name.”

Regardless of the baby’s real name or gender one thing is almost certain; when he or she grows up, he/she will need therapy.
Entertainment category: Miscellany, Rumors, Celebrity baby news
Added October 24, 2006 by Alfretta Lee | No comments

Scary Spice preggers by Eddie Murphy?

melanie_brown_pregnant.jpgRumors are swirling that Melanie Brown - formerly known as Scary Spice of Spice Girls fame - is pregnant with boyfriend Eddie Murphy’s baby. According to TMZ, Brown let the news of her delicate condition slip while on a lingerie shopping spree at Le Bra Lingerie boutique in Hollywood. Brown revealed that she was four months pregnant and exhausted. She also believes she may be expecting twins since they are common in Murphy’s family. Rumors are circling that the twosome will wed next month.

This will be the second child for Brown and the eighth for Murphy, who has five kids with ex-wife Nicole. That pair split in April of this year.

The Allowance Game

2006-11-20T22:32:00.000-05:00

http://www.educationallearninggames.com

ALLOWANCE GAME
Allowance provides a great way to teach young people about earning and saving money,
as well as wisely making special purchases. Game cards indicate a task like mowing lawns
and cleaning the garage. Choices are made, as in real life, whether to spend money
on ice cream, or put it into savings.

- Players develop an interest in earning and saving money and making purchases.
- Game Cards offer tasks such as mowing the lawn or cleaning the garage.
- Choices must be made, as in real life, whether to spend money or put it into savings.
- The game is open-ended and may conclude when one player has no more money, when one player had $20 or more, or when one player has moved
his or her marker completely around the board.

Gingerbread playdough

2006-11-19T21:56:00.000-05:00

http://kidscrafts.suite101.com/article.cfm/GingerbreadPlaydough

Gingerbread Playdough
Smells like a gingerbread cookie.
© Belinda Mooney
gingerbread - Photo Credit: www.clipart.com
Have fun creating with this yummy holiday scented playdough.

Bring the smells of the season into your home with this playdough recipe. Kids can spend hours creating ornaments, animals, or whatever their imagination can come up with.

Gingerbread Play-Dough

What you will need:

1 Cup flour

1/2 Cup salt

2 teaspoons cream of tartar

1 cup water

1 teaspoon vegetable oil

Spices--Cinnamon, Allspice, Ginger, Nutmeg

What you do:

1. Mix the dry ingredients together.Add small amounts of the spices to the paydough until it smells just how you want it to smell.

2. Mix water and oil together in a separate bowl.

3. In a small pot add the oil mix to the dry mix slowly stirring to mix well.

4. Cook the mixture for two to three minutes, stirring frequently.

5. Keep stirring until the dough starts to pull away from the side of the pan

5. Take the dough out of the pan, let cool a couple of seconds so you can handle it, and knead the dough until it becomes soft and smooth.

6. Store in an airtight container.

Cute skateboards

2006-11-19T21:39:00.000-05:00

http://www.littlemissmatched.com/store/Toys_and_Books___
Skateboards1P_SK8_BL_YW?Args=&size=

skateboard , blue and yellow Pack# 1P-SK8-BL-YW
Do you heelflip, kickflip or backside 180? Or maybe you just like to skate yourself down the block? Well then how about putting some style in your ride with my snazzy skateboards?! They�re standard shortboards -8"X30"- in four zany color combinations. And they come fully assembled and ready to be ridden with black grip tape and kooky red wheels.
http://www.littlemissmatched.com/missmatched/Images/products/P-blue_yellowSK8-300.jpg

Snack sack

2006-11-18T22:29:00.000-05:00

UncommonGoods.com
ivillage.com

http://a820.g.akamai.net/f/820/822/1d/i.ivillage.com/PP/products/
lockers/PP_neoprene_366.jpg

Snack sack

Nothing's better than a good, old-fashioned Wonder Woman or Harry Potter tin lunchbox, but at a certain point, your young coed will grow out of those jolly but juvenile playground relics and would rather brown-bag it than walk around with Batman. Lunch-sack solution: This zippered neoprene noontime tote is not only a grown-up alternative to X-Men or Hello Kitty, but it also keeps food hot or cold and is a perfectly pliable lunch bag for lockers. Neoprene Totes, $25 at UncommonGoods.com.

Are you a child of the 80's

2006-11-18T22:18:00.000-05:00

http://www.mistupid.com/index.htm

http://www.mistupid.com/people/page011.htm

Are You a Child of the 80's?

Take a look at this list. If you can identify with more than half of them, you are a child of the 80's.

*

You know what "Sike" means.
*

You know the profound meaning of "Wax on, Wax off".
*

You know that another name for a keyboard is a "Synthesizer".
*

You were only cool if you hung out at the Roller Rink and actually knew how to skate.
*

You can sing the McDonald's Big Mack Filet-o-fish, quarter pounder, French Fry song while jump roping.
*

You wore 3-8 different colored socks in layers and thought that the more you could wear the cooler you were.
*

You know who Mr. T is.
*

You actually believed for a minute that K.I.T. (The night rider) actually was real.
*

You know who Fat Albert is.
*

You wore fluorescent, neon clothing.
*

You could break dance, or wish you could.
*

You wanted to be The Incredible Hulk for Halloween.
*

You believed that "By the power of Greyskull, you HAD the power!"
*

Partying "like it's 1999" seemed SO far away.
*

You thought that Transformers were more than meets the eye.
*

You wanted to be on Star Search.
*

You can remember Michael Jackson when he was black.
*

You wore a banana clip at some point during your youth.
*

You remember the garbage pail kids, and owned some.
*

You knew what Willis was "talkin' 'bout."
*

You HAD to have your MTV.
*

You always wondered why Tootie always wore those skates.
*

You actually thought "Dirty Dancing" was a REALLY good movie.
*

You watched Purple Rain over and over again.
*

Your all time favorite movie was Footloose and you actually thought that Kevin Bacon was HOT in it!!!
*

You remember the episode of Good Times when Flo broke down after James' funeral.
*

You remember when ATARI was a state of the art video game system.
*

You own any cassettes.
*

You were led to believe that in the year 2000 we'd all be living on the moon.
*

You remember and/or owned any of the Care Bear Glass collection from Pizza Hut or any other stupid collection they came out with.
*

Poltergeist freaked you out.
*

You carried your lunch to school in a Gremlins or an ET lunch box.
*

You have pondered why Smurfette was the ONLY female smurf.
*

You know what leg warmers are and probably had a pair.
*

You wore biker shorts underneath a short skirt and felt stylish.
*

You had a Swatch Watch with the Swatch Guard.
*

You thought UTFOs "Roxanne, Roxanne" song was the bomb!
*

You remember when Saturday Night Live was funny.
*

You had Wonder Woman or Superman underoos.
*

You know what a "Push Up" ice cream is.
*

You had to come in the house when the street lights came on.

Kids view on relationships

2006-11-18T22:12:00.000-05:00

http://www.theromantic.com/humor/kidsviews.htm

Kids Views on Relationships

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY?

You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming. - Alan, age 10

No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with. - Kirsten, age 10

WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?

Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then. - Camille, age 10

No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married. - Freddie, age 6

HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?

You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids. - Derrick, age 8

WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?

Both don't want any more kids. - Lori, age 8

WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?

Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough. - Lynnette, age 8

On the first date, they just tell each other lies, and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date. - Martin, age 10

HAT WOULD YOU DO ON A FIRST DATE THAT WAS TURNING SOUR?

I'd run home and play dead. The next day I would call all the newspapers and make sure they wrote about me in all the dead columns. - Craig, age 9

WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?

When they're rich. - Pam, age 7

The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn't want to mess with that. - Curt, age 7

The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, then you should marry them and have kids with them. It's the right thing to do. - Howard, age 8

IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?

It's better for girls to be single but not for boys. Boys need someone to clean up after them. - Anita, age 9

HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'T GET MARRIED?

There sure would be a lot of kids to explain, wouldn't there? - Kelvin, age 8

HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?

Tell your wife that she looks pretty even if she looks like a truck. - Ricky, age 10