tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73445528822308750892024-03-13T16:08:02.535-07:00When Your Baby ArrivesWelcoming a newborn baby into the family is always a joyful occasion especially for first-time parents.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-33985679613782674712009-04-01T19:59:00.000-07:002009-04-01T20:00:17.357-07:00How To Choose a Baby FormulaBreast milk is the most natural food for your baby, but if you can't breastfeed, or have chosen not to, then learning how to choose a baby formula is relatively simple.<br /><br />You might try asking the pediatrician you have chosen to care for your baby, before the actual birth. See if they have a preference of brands or composition, since baby formula should be rich in protein, fats, sugars and sodium.<br /><br />Most baby formula manufacturers try as hard as possible to mimic the mineral and other composition of natural breast milk. While that's not completely possible, forumulas have come a long way in the last few years, in meeting the nutritional needs of newborn and growing babies. <br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Once you choose a baby formula that is going to meet their food and calorie requirements, you'll need to decide what type of formula will work best for your lifestyle and your budget. Most formulas will come in powder, concentrate, or ready-to-serve.<br /><br />Powder is the least expensive, but there is the extra work of having to mix it up prior to use. Concentrate is less cumbersome to mix, but does require that you add water. Ready to serve is there whenever you need it, but it is also the most expensive option.<br /><br />If you would like to balance economy and convenience, try using the powdered form and mixing a small pitcher of it, to fill a small number of bottles. The stirring motions will help to disperse bubbles that may gather as you whip up one for a hasty feeding.<br /><br />Just to make sure you're covered for emergencies, or when something happens that you don't have any powdered mixed, keep a couple of cans of either concentrate or ready to use on hand. That way, you can satisfy the baby as quickly as possible while eliminating some of the stress of trying to keep up with their appetite! Be sure to use these extra cans before their expiry dates. <br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-57138404614566918612009-03-26T15:00:00.000-07:002009-04-01T19:47:38.457-07:00Choosing the Best Baby Room and Baby Shower DecorationsThe best opportunity to provide gifts to a baby is during the baby shower function. This function is held to permit others to see the baby and give their gifts to him or her.<br /><br />On most occasions this ceremony is held a few months prior to the birth of the baby, but there are also occasions when it is performed after the baby is born. This provides an opportunity to the visitor, especially those who are coming from distant places an opportunity to see the baby as well. Otherwise they would have to come two times, once to meet the mother and attend the baby shower function and then again revisit to meet the baby after their birth. Babies tend to love decorations that are brightly colored and you should keep this in mind when purchasing.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Have you ever though about giving decorations that are practical and help the parents along with the baby as well. How about some growth charts which the parents can use to keep track of their baby's growth? This chart is available in most stores that stock baby accessories. There are special lighting fixtures available that are just perfect for newborns. The room where the baby resides needs to be illuminated throughout the night so as to observe them during the course of the night.<br /><br />These lights should be bright enough to illuminate the room and at the same time they should not be harsh enough to disturb the baby's sleep. There are some electronic equipment that notify the parents when the baby has wet his bed. This is a practical gift and will be appreciated by the parents. You can be rest assured that the baby will appreciate it too, and you can make that out by the gurgling sounds they make. Don't be silly and expect them to say `thanks'. They want to convey their thanks to you but cannot speak with you in your language.<br /><br />There are countless other gifts that you can give to the baby and these depend on your selection and choice. The list is endless. The basic thing is that you should provide them with a gift that is useful both to them and also helps their parents. How about a small nameplate made out of wooden carvings that contains the baby's name? Just remember that the correct gift can change the mood of the baby's room. Gift something that will be cherished by one and all and ensures that each and every time someone sees that gift, they appreciate it. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-82273526574567680432009-03-21T11:52:00.000-07:002009-04-01T19:47:21.023-07:00Picking Out a Baby High ChairOne of the most important things you will purchase for that new baby in the house is a baby high chair. This used to be a simple matter of going to the store and buying the one style they had there. Remember the wooden ones with just a lap belt and those hard to manage sliding trays? Anybody over about 40 years old will recall those.<br /><br />But time has marched on and child safety has been a focus for many years. This has resulted in a lot of improvements over the years. That has left many parents with the question of which high chair to buy. So here are some things to look for in your new baby high chair.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Most baby items are inspected prior to being sold to the public. Look for a label from an organization called the "Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association". This lets you know that the chair has been certified by the experts.<br /><br />Baby high chairs should have a wide leg base for stability. The wider the legs are apart, the more stable the chair will be. Also look at what the legs are made of. Solid plastic, metal or wood are best as they will not fold or bend easily. Hollow materials are not as sturdy.<br /><br />The chair you decide on should have a three point or five point restraint system for the baby. A simple lap belt is not the way to go. May be easy for you, but your child could possibly slip under the belt, out of the chair and get caught by the belt. This could cause a strangulation hazard. The 3 or 5 point restraints will not allow that to happen and are standard across the industry in quality baby high chairs.<br /><br />Many parents wonder when their child is going to be ready for a high chair. The general answer is roughly around the age of six months, when they are ready for solid food, but a good chair can be used before that if you want a place for your child at the table. Look for a chair with a reclining back because it will let your younger infant sleep comfortably. It keeps your baby in a position that stops his head from falling forward.<br /><br />Seat cushions are available in all models of high chairs. Some kids may like a hard seat; others may prefer a soft one. Depends on the child, so the best way to pick the right one is to take the baby with you to the store and put him/her in the chair, then judge their reaction. This is almost foolproof. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-49873017872252834072009-03-05T01:30:00.000-08:002009-04-01T19:46:58.042-07:00Baby Shower Invitations For CouplesBaby showers used to be thought of as parties for Mommies, ladies and girlfriends. These days that seems to be changing. More and more the husbands, fathers and guy friends are getting in on the act. Every loves a baby and why shouldn't everyone be allowed to celebrate at the baby shower. It's easy to include both parents with clever baby shower invitations and party ideas.<br /><br /><strong>Baby shower for Mom and Dad</strong><br />Traditionally, the baby shower has just been for Mom, but why not get Dad involved, too. Send baby shower invitations not only to couples, but to Dad's friends and get them in on the act. Why not encourage them to bring a gift that Dad will like too? It's not just Mom having a baby, they will both be adding to the family, the baby shower should celebrate both Mom and Dad. <br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><strong>Beyond baby games</strong><br />Not all of the guys are interested in opening baby gifts, so plan something with a wider appeal. While Mommy is opening gifts, plan a poker tournament for example. Anyone - boy or girl - who is interested can enjoy a game of cards and when it's over you can donate the proceeds to the new Mom and Dad fund. Or invite Moms and Dads to give their best parenting advice. Lots of Dads have great advice, just ask. Another fun idea is a baby pool in the style of a football pool. Sell squares based on birth date and baby weight. The winner could get a big windfall, or donate the money to the new kid in town. Or skip the games all-together and just invite everyone to mingle and catch up. This might be the last time you see the expectant parents for a bit as they settle in with a new baby.<br /><br /><strong>Themed baby shower</strong><br />Let's face it, Dads and even some Moms might not be that interested in the traditional baby shower themes and. Consider tailoring your baby shower invitations and party to something everyone will enjoy. Why not have a baby shower barbeque? Or try a Hawaiian-theme with interesting accents and menu. If you're expecting a boy, plan a sports theme. It might seem cliché, but most guys love sports and this will get them involved and engaged. If you're expecting twins why not go all out with a ‘twins' theme baby shower invitations asking your guests to come dressed as their favorite ‘pairs.' Baby can be the focus, but your can still has fun with the theme.<br /><br /><strong>World's Best Dad</strong><br />Times are changing and most Dads are almost as involved and Mom when it comes to baby. Why not host a ‘World's Best Dad' shower. Send baby shower invitations with Dad as the focus. Invitations can be sent to couples and include Dad's friends - anyone who would have a fun gift and great advice for the new Dad. While it's important to recognize both parents, just this once, Dad might need a little extra attention.<br /><br />Make room ladies, its time we include the guys in this tradition. Adding dad, grandpa, uncles and other Dad friends can be fun for all involved. Think of ideas that will get everyone involved and you'll have a unique and memorable baby shower.<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-5035446106148128032009-03-05T01:28:00.000-08:002009-04-01T19:45:25.637-07:00Thinking Of Buying A Baby Stroller?When buying a baby stroller.....<br />The very first thing you should consider when buying a baby stroller, is safety. The safety of your baby is the most important, NOT the price, the model, the looks, the brand. When it becomes time to buy a baby stroller, you must keep in mind that your baby must be transported in safety. The safety features of the stroller are paramount and non negotiable. And how do you make sure that they are good enough? Well, check for them in the description of the stroller, the specifications, and the reports you can find. If possible, take the stroller for a "test drive" - preferably without the baby.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Safe baby strollers are sturdy baby strollers. If the stroller seems to be top-heavy, remove it from your list of options. If it handles well, meaning that it does not tip over when you change direction, consider it. Check its manoeuvrability in tight spaces. Check the stability when it moves, and check for a proper braking device when you leave it standing on its own.<br /><br />It must also be comfortable for you to push. The handles must be at a comfortable height for your length, and preferably adjustable as well. If you are not comfortable while you take your baby out, the outing can become tedious for you.<br /><br />The harness for the baby is much safer if it is a five-point harness, because the three-pointed harness just leaves too much room for things to go wrong. And, at the risk of repeating myself, safety comes first. Check out the baby strollers at Baby Be Mobile if you are serious about safety at a good price. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-60781890998023694122009-01-14T21:23:00.000-08:002009-04-01T19:44:43.289-07:00Baby Boy Clip Art to liven up your Baby Shower CardsLoads of baby boy clip art images are available, once you click your computer's mouse and get connected to the Internet. First, you must know what clip art is all about. Clip art is about copying / cutting the pre-existing images. Yes, these images are already mostly in the books that have made their entry into the public domain for that purpose. <br /><br />You can have your feast of logos, mascots, identity and business cards, invitations, letterheads. In addition, there are no hassles of license terms. The electronic clip art available on the Internet is an extension of this clip-art concept. These images are digitized drawings on low resolution used for decorating Invitations and E-greetings.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Clipart, including Baby Boy Clip art, are meant for defining digitized drawings and not photography. There are many files in many shapes, sizes and formats. Some of the most widespread formats are PICT, Paint, GIF, TIFF, EPS and JPEG. If you are unsure which format to use, just use PICT. This format is compatible with most programs, and can also adjust to another format type easily. <br /><br />Standard clipart is usually not a very detailed drawing. Mostly they are images that have little detail or are outline drawings. The standard clipart is for use on the web for in documents.<br /><br />Baby boy clip art is the most wonderful way of splashing your work with images that you think can do the magic. It is also the cheapest and the most colorful way of doing so. Most of the clipart you will find will be free printable clip art.<br /><br />If you want to make your own baby shower clip art, software is available for just that purpose. Most software is easy to use, and can convert your pictures/snapshots into clipart quickly. <br /><br />There is a huge collection of free baby shower clip art images and free baby clipart images available on the internet. These will be very usful for your baby shower invitations, thank you notes or baby announcements. You are bound to find baby boy clipart to you liking on the internet for your baby shower needs. This gives you the choice of making your own invitations versus purchasing ready-made invitations or other baby shower cards.<br /><br />With baby shower clipart you don't need any special artistic skills for you to make your own beautiful baby shower cards. Not all websites provide baby clipart for free, but many do. If you want more detailed clipart you might opt to purchase clipart. But with so much free baby clip art available, you really don't need to purchase unless you really want a particular design. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-13775231774242583852009-01-14T21:22:00.001-08:002009-04-01T19:44:11.628-07:00Baby Shower Favor IdeasWith so many different aspects of a shower to plan, coming up with a baby shower favor idea is often the last consideration on a long list of planning.<br /><br />There are several unique, exciting and interesting baby shower favor ideas that will work well for almost any shower. Whether traditional or alternative in nature, the following are popular baby shower favor ideas:<br /><br />Bath and Body Items<br />Notepads<br />Pictures <span class="fullpost"><br />Gift Certificates<br />Coupons<br />Gift Baskets<br />Designer Candles<br />Baby Bottles with Candy<br /><br />No matter what baby shower favor idea you come up with, keep in mind that the majority of your guests are coming with one intention in mind, and that is to spoil and entertain the mom to be. Some important considerations when planning a shower include the food items, cake and games that will be played by visitors. <br /><br />The mom to be or any friends of the family is likely to take an active interest in your planning efforts. If you are uncertain what favors might be well received, go over the guest list with your mom-to-be and try to get a feel for the personality of the ladies attending. You might find for example that a large majority of the moms that will be attending have children of their own. If this is the case don't hesitate to include helpful childcare or baby items that any mom would be appreciative of.<br /><br />Some baby shower favor ideas are generated from the party theme itself. For example, if the motif of a shower is a color, such as green, you might consider acquiring some melon, lime or pear flavored hand soaps and lotions (that will of course, be green in color). You might even consider some "gag" gift items as party favors including stickers (which are sure to be well received from the children of guests).<br /><br />Planning a baby shower requires an investment in time and energy. There is no reason to spend the majority of your planning time attempting to find appropriate party favors. There is a vast selection of products available, and ideas are easily discovered when one takes a moment to consider the shower theme, guests and mom-to-be's expectations. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-69285306089927093672009-01-07T12:18:00.000-08:002009-04-01T19:43:37.464-07:00Interior Design For Baby RoomsBabies, babies, babies-yes the topic of this article is based on interior design for nurseries. The new arrival of a baby brings a time of thankfulness and joy into all parents’ lives. It also brings to mind an important question: where will the nursery be?!? Once the actual space has been decided upon, the next concern will be color scheme and furniture. Before you make all of your choices concerning the new arrival’s bedroom quarters, keep these important tips in mind.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />To begin with, the gender of a baby will may influence the color scheme used in the room and this will not be something that will be able to be determined right away so either neutral colors should be used or the painting of the walls and purchasing of the accessories should be prolonged. Keep in mind not to wait too long if it is your intention to paint the room. You will want to be sure to allow any noxious fumes time to disperse before bringing baby home and actually using the nursery. The safety of the child should be one of the main elements involved in the planning of interior design for nurseries. Keep this aspect in mind as you make every choice involved with your design.<br /><br />Fortunately for the early birds, the traditional ‘pink for girls and blue for boys’ theme is not the happening thing in interior design for nurseries these days. Sure, pink is still associated with girls and blue is still normally in tune with boys design but the strict adherence to these rules is no longer the norm. A complimentary mixture of these colors is the basis of most contemporary designs. There is no reason to limit the possibilities of colors used in interior design for nurseries based on old traditions. Exposure to color in the nursery is your baby’s first environmental experience and it has been confirmed by doctors and scientists alike that this exposure aids in your baby’s development.<br /><br />Stenciling is a method that has been and still is very popular in interior design for nurseries. Almost any of your neighborhood crafting stores should have a sizeable supply of stencil designs that you can easily use to create a ceiling-level or mid-level border around your baby’s nursery. If you are feeling a little more ambitious, there are many more intricate nursery themed designs that you can purchase in stores or even online that will require a little more time but produce astonishingly impressive designs. If this is still too little work for you, then go all out and create your own stencil patterns by sketching them first onto mat board and then cutting them out with an Exacto knife.<br /><br />Once your walls are complete, it is time to begin making decisions on the furniture for the room. If you have heirloom baby furniture, let me make a suggestion. Don’t use it. Keep this furniture for display purposes and purchase new furniture. I make this suggestion for two reasons. First of all, baby furniture that was made prior to the 1960’s did not have to adhere to any safety regulations. While your father’s philosophy of ‘they don’t make ‘em like this anymore’ might apply to cars, it does not seem like excellent advice concerning children’s furniture. Secondly, even if the furniture were safe, there is a good possibility that it will be damaged or broken during use. The best bet in any case would be to save these treasures to pass along to your child when they are older and to invest in a new set of furniture for use in your interior design for nurseries.<br /><br />After the major choices of furniture that cater to the new arrival’s needs have been made, it is important to remember to include a space for mom or dad to sit during those sleepless nights! Rather then purchasing another traditional yet impractical item for the nursery, try considering your alternatives to the long-backed, hard wooden rocker. A comfortable alternate choice might be a spacious, comfortable recliner. You will appreciate this advice at four o’clock one morning as you roll over and try to envision how you would feel sleeping in a rocker around then.<br /><br />Accessories can make interior design for nurseries come together in a wonderful, and useable way. Never focus on the visual aspect of an accessory for a nursery before you consider its usefulness. You will find out soon that practical items such as diaper holders, changing tables, and so forth are much more appreciated then aesthetic items such as ceramics or stuffed animals. The purchase of stuffed animals brings forth another important safety issue. Be sure not to purchase items with small parts or pieces on them which the baby can choke on.<br /><br />Once all of the necessary and useable accessories have been purchased for the baby’s room, then feel free to go out and invest in some purely decorative items which you can treasure at a future time. This is, after all, a time you will remember and cherish for the rest of your life.<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-49124970213678143612009-01-07T12:17:00.001-08:002009-04-01T19:43:05.277-07:00Baby Names for TwinsChoosing a baby name for your new born can be quite a stressful decision. With thousands upon thousands of names at your disposal, you may begin to feel a little over whelmed. Well, for twins, you can double the trouble! This article is aimed at helping soon to be moms and dads of twins to choose those perfect baby names.<br /><br />Using anagrams for naming twins <br />One way of choosing baby names for twins is to take one name that you like and rearrange the letters to make another name. A few examples of this are:<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Reva & Vera<br />Ira & Ria<br />Mary & Myra<br /><br />If you are a fan of traditional baby names, then your choices are slightly limited with this option. But, if you don't mind bending the rules a little, then you can play around with this idea forever.<br /><br />Using synonyms for naming twins <br />Another idea for choosing baby names for twins is synonyms! A synonym is a word (or a baby name in our case) that has a similar or exact meaning of another word. So, you might want your twins to both have names that mean 'flower'. An example of this would be:<br /><br />Eve & Zoe<br />Yasmin & Lala<br />Dahlia & Daisy<br />Camellia & Heather<br /><br />All of these names refer to a flower in general or a particular flower, although they are all quite unique from one another. For example, Heather is an English name, whereas Camellia is a Latin name. If you would like to experiment with this idea some more, visit www.namestobe.com Simply type in a meaning or part of a meaning and a list of names that corespond to that meaning will appear.<br /><br />Reversing names for twins<br />Choosing baby names for twins can sometimes be as easy as spelling a name you like, backwards! As you can imagine, this will only work for a small selection of names, but if you have the time to sit down with a pen, paper and some patients then you will eventually find some that you are fond of. An example of this would be:<br /><br />Aiden & Nadia<br /><br />Other tips for naming twins <br />Some other tips for naming twins are to use names beginning with the same letter, use names that rhyme, or even use names that have no connection between them what so ever. Sometimes parents get so wrapped up in trying to choose the perfect names for their twins that they forget the fact they have the option of choosing two names that have no connection at all. Regardless of what option you choose to name your twins, you should take the time to sit down and put some serious thought into your decision. Best of luck to you!<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-38928617158116198222009-01-07T12:15:00.002-08:002009-04-01T19:42:38.245-07:00Baby Nursery FurnitureYou are expecting your first baby and are wondering what type of nursery furniture you will need to make your life easier and your little one comfortable. You will find that there are an array of cribs in all types of designs, styles and colors to fit with any décor you choose for your nursery. <br /><br />The main nursery furniture items you will need include a crib, changing table, a chest or dresser, and a rocking chair. These are the basics. <br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Finding the right nursery furniture will be fun and exciting. You just need to know how to shop for furniture that will be right for you. When looking for a crib, you will want one that you will be able to place a sleeping baby in without needing to hassle with the sides of the crib. You will want a firm mattress and adjustable mattress heights for when your baby gets older and may try to crawl out of the crib. Look for durability. How easy does the crib shake? You want your crib to last at least until your new little one is ready for a toddler bed. As he gets older he will stand and shaking the crib and trying his best to learn to climb out of it. <br /><br />You may decide on a 3 n 1 crib for your nursery furniture choice. These are very unique cribs that can be converted from a crib into a toddler bed and then into a day bed or full size bed. These cribs are designed to last. Conversion is usually pretty simple and the hardware and all needed parts are included for each bed when you purchase the crib.<br /><br />The changing table is one furniture item you are sure to enjoy in the line of nursery furniture. It is great to place your infant on a comfortable table with all the necessary items close at hand. Most changing tables have shelves under where you can keep everything you need for changing your little one. I prefer stationary changing tables, not one with wheels unless you can lock them in place.<br /><br />You will be able to find matching dressers or chests in the nursery furniture line for holding all the new baby clothing that you received during your baby shower. The chest should have enough drawers for fitting all the babies clothing and accessories nicely. Check for easy glide and for durability. Baby clothing can usually snare very easily and if the drawers inside are rough you can snag the outfit causing them to look tattered.<br /><br />What nursery would be complete without a rocking chair? The rocking chair is a wonderful experience for both you and your baby. You will be able to sit and enjoy reading to, cuddling up and just holding your new baby will rock away the time. Choose one that is comfortable for you. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-66738953835650835752009-01-07T12:15:00.001-08:002009-04-01T19:41:32.175-07:00Baby Shower Centerpieces That Double as a Gift!Here you will learn how to make and where to purchase your baby shower centerpieces. As the centerpiece is the focal point of the baby shower, it is very important for you to design or purchase the right one. <br /><br />You need to place them above eye level at the table to keep from blocking the view of the and the guest of honor from seeing each other at the table. There are many different types of baby shower centerpieces to choose from. One very popular type of centerpiece which doubles as your baby shower gift is a baby diaper cake. <br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Once you have picked your theme you need to keep it featured around that theme. If making your own baby shower centerpiece, many of the supplies needed will be available locally. However, going online will add to the variety of baby shower centerpieces you have to choose from. <br /><br />Many baby shower centerpieces will be made with candles surrounding them. Such as floral centerpieces, using fresh or artificial flowers. Fresh flowers will be more economical if you choose flowers that are in season. When choosing artificial flowers, you can go with silk, chocolate flowers such as roses, plastic flowers, or light-up roses. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Use a wicker basket and fill it with baby items. You could put a cloth diaper, diaper pins, baby bottles, bibs, baby socks, pacifiers and other small baby items. Surround the basket with small candles or put a couple of helium balloons tied to the handle.<br /><br /><br />If using a beach theme, use a beach bucket and place a flower arrangement inside, with candles around the outside. Or put small tools for the beach inside the bucket.<br /><br /><br />Fill a small goldfish bowl with water and fill it with floating candles and flower buds. Or you might even add a goldfish to the water. <br /><br /><br />Use votive holders and candles that match your theme. They will provide a soft type of illumination to the event.<br /><br /><br />Go to a craft section or a craft store and purchase small pink and blue gemstones. You could place these in votive holders, or small glass vases of different sizes. Add shredded tissue to the mix and you will have another lovely baby shower centerpiece.<br /><br /><br />You could get different glass figurines of a stork, swan, castle, teddy bear, or whatever would fit with the theme. Put them in a box filled with colored shredded paper and put the figurine on top. Any of these would be a great addition to your baby shower.<br /><br /><br />Hang an umbrella from the ceiling filled with stuffed animals. Or you could put flowers inside and add balloons, dolls and/or ribbons.<br /><br /><br />Fill a bucket, bowl, or basket with candy, small stuffed animals, or flowers. <br /><br /><br />If the baby shower is in the fall or winter. Use small pumpkins, headstones, or leaves of different colors. Pumpkins could be made of tissue, or small figures of pumpkins. <br /><br /><br />Tropical Themes could use many different items to make your baby shower center piece. Pineapples, tiki lights, small palm trees, hula dancer center piece, or a flamingo. <br /><br /><br />Nautical themes could use small boats, ships, sailboats, anchors, or a treasure chest.<br /><br /><br />Spring themes could include items such as hearts, leprechauns, or bunnies.<br /><br /><br />Western themes could use straw, cowboy hats, cowboy boots, western badges and rope.<br /><br /><br /><br />These are just some ideas to choose from. Think about them, mix and match, or add your own ideas to make baby shower centerpieces that perfectly match your theme. You and your guests and guest of honor will have a fun day. They will be getting away from reality for a short time to rest and enjoy themselves. <br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-26678533893033628582009-01-07T12:14:00.001-08:002009-04-01T19:40:58.591-07:00Baby Clothes for Your Baby Shower GiftBaby clothes are one of the most popular types of gifts for new and expectant parents at a baby shower. Shopping for baby apparel and baby stuff is something a lot of people especially new parents enjoy. <br /><br />Baby boutique clothing is one of the most popular baby shower gifts you can buy. If you live in a larger town or city. There is bound to be many baby boutiques in your area. Baby boutique clothing is an especially nice gift when you purchase a fancy little outfit. The parents might not normally choose to buy this for their baby. <br /><span class="fullpost"><br />There are many different types of baby clothes that you can buy for a baby shower gift. There are also different shops and boutiques where you can find baby apparel. Try to find something unique as the new parents will probably have more sleepers than they will know what to do with. <br /><br />Baby boutiques offer designer infant clothing which may seem somewhat extravagant and unnecessary to some. But baby boutique clothing really does make a wonderful baby shower gift. Little dresses for baby girls and overalls for baby boys make especially adorable gifts. <br /><br />Online infant clothing gives you pretty good deals:<br />Baby clothing shopping can take you all over your local mall. But some of the best baby clothes can be found online. There are literally hundreds of online baby clothes shops. And you can find some excellent deals. <br /><br />If you are unable to attend a baby shower that you have been invited to you can always purchase something on the Internet. Then have it sent directly to the new parent’s door. This is especially convenient if you live out of town. Department stores also have great baby clothes sections. They offer a wide variety of styles, sizes, and brand names. <br /><br />The most popular type of infant clothing to give at a baby shower seems to be sleepers and pajamas. Why not get something a little different. You can find some adorable dresses, skirts, pants, and shirts for the little one. <br /><br />Baby slippers for little feet are also very popular. And why not add a tiny little hat to the whole ensemble. Baby clothes are one type of gift that you can pretty much guarantee the parents will get much use out of. <br /><br />Baby clothes can be fancy and expensive, or simple and frugal. New parents will always appreciate getting gifts for their little one that they can use. Keep in mind what the parents tastes are, because normally they often they dress their baby in a similar fashion. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-47587679334327637112009-01-07T12:13:00.000-08:002009-04-01T19:40:26.479-07:00Baby Clothes For All SeasonsFew things seem more important at a baby shower than duckies, monkeys and theme colors. Once you get the baby home though, the most important thing about baby clothes is how well they protect your baby.Depending on the time of year that your baby is born, and the type of climate you live in, there are a variety of concerns to take into consideration for your baby's very sensitive nature.<br />For summer babies, or babies in warm climates, overheating is not the only concern. A baby's skin is incredibly sensitive to light, especially with the increasingly less protective o-zone layer.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Sunscreen is not the only necessity for baby's sensitive skin. Keeping a towel or blanket over the baby's carriage or bassinet during summer play is a great way to keep the sun from harming your baby. Umbrellas and pop up tents are also great for beach days. Make sure there is plenty of ventilation but little to no sun--that way your baby won't get sunburned or have to squint at the bright sun rays.<br /><br />For daily summer wear, onesies that are made of a lightweight cotton are a great alternative to pants and shirts. In addition to being comfortable, they will easily fit in a small bag or purse that you can bring along in extra in case of a spill or accident. Another bonus of your baby being born in the summer is that it will keep shoe costs down, since a baby in a stroller in seventy five to eighty degree weather does not really need to wear shoes! Keeping a blanket in the stroller is important, especially if you're in air conditioned buildings a lot, since babies are a lot more sensitive to the change in air temperature.<br /><br />For winter wear, bundling babies in layers is a good way to combat the difference between heated buildings and the outside. Avoiding long stretches of being outside in colder temperatures is probably a good idea, but for short walks or trips between cars and buildings, warm bundling is vital. If you live in a climate that has a lot of snow, the danger of sun burn is even more prevalent than in the summer, since it attacks from all angles. Warm socks, mittens, and hats will do a good deal to keep most of the baby's body heat in. Buntings that button down the front are a great way to let the baby escape from the heat a little bit when you are inside without too much effort for you or discomfort for the baby.<br /><br />Layers work in almost every weather. As any New Englander will tell you, the ability to put on a layer or take it off is the key to combating shifting climates. This is particularly important for your baby, who is much more sensitive than you to slight changes in temperature or outside conditions. So keeping an extra sweater around, or putting an onesie underneath warmer clothing is a great way to prepare for anything that Mother Nature has in store. She likes to keep new mothers on their toes!<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-14950910483481936832009-01-07T12:12:00.002-08:002009-04-01T19:39:39.783-07:00Baby Shower Cake as the CenterpieceWhen you’re holding a baby shower one of the most important items that you’ll serve is the baby shower cake. Cakes should be the highlight of the food lineup and should be served with a selection of desserts, finger food and cookies. Cakes can come in all shapes and sizes, including baby cakes, diaper cakes and bootie baby cakes.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />When you’re planning what type of cakes to prepare for the baby shower you’ll find many babyshower cake cookbooks from which to make your selection. If you know the baby is a girl you can decorate the cake in a pink style. The same goes if the baby is a boy, in which case you’ll want to focus on blue or green colors. <br /><br />Baby shower cakes can be either one large cake, or you can make several smaller individual cakes which can be created for each guest that is invited. <br /><br />The main focus of cakes is of course the expectant mother. Baby cakes make a great centerpiece that will bring a smile to any expectant mother. Diaper cakes also continue to be popular and are easy to make and assemble. <br /><br />When you’re planning which cakes that you want to make you can be as creative as you like. There are cookbooks available that feature some great ideas for cakes that you can adapt to fit your baby shower theme. If the theme of the baby shower is the alphabet you can find cakes that highlight this theme. There is no limit to the types of cakes that you can choose from for the shower.<br /><br />Many times the cakes themselves create the theme for the shower. This is because the cakes can be the focus and centerpiece of the entire party. You can plan all the decorations, food and themes around the type of baby shower cake you decide to feature.<br /><br />When you’re looking for baby shower cake recipes you can find cookbooks in the recipe section in your local bookstore or library. You can also find a selection of recipes for baby shower cakes and diaper cakes on the internet. If you can’t find the exact cake that you have in mind for your baby shower you can make any adaptations that you need to modify the cake to your liking.<br /><br />Cakes should be as fun and creative as possible. There may be times when you want to hire someone to make the perfect cake. But keep in mind that half the fun of a baby shower is doing things yourself. Using your imagination, and a little help from cookbooks you can come up with the most amazing cakes imaginable.<br /><br />There are many different types of cakes that you can choose from or that you can use as a starting base for your own babyshower cake ideas. Baby Shower Diaper cakes can often be paired up with edible cakes. This way you have the fun of a cake made from diapers and the deliciousness of an edible cake that everyone can enjoy. <br /><br />Distinct Deliveries is an online merchant which offers not only Baby Shower Diaper Cakes, but much more. href=http://distinctdeliveries.com/baby.cfm?secid=6&affid=1246>Distinct Deliveries.com offers baby baskets, baby announcements, baby books, shower cakes, baby jewelry, engraved items, plush <br />items, baby shower items, gifts baskets, chocolate & candy, baby gifts, book packages, flowers & plants, bath & body, fruit packages, gourmet & snacks, seasonal, pet gifts, specialty gifts, monthly <br />clubs..<br /><br />Some themes you might want to use include:<br /><br /><br />Sports theme for boys<br /><br />Princess cakes in pink for girls<br /><br />Jungle animals for boys<br /><br />Fairy theme for girls<br /><br />No matter what type of cake you take into consideration your final choice should somehow reflect the theme of the baby shower. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-74717574295925100622009-01-07T12:12:00.001-08:002009-04-01T19:38:20.087-07:00Baby Names - TechniquesHow do you even begin the process of naming your baby? Where do you start? Do you crack open a book with tens of thousands of names? Just pick a name out of the air? This article will provide you with some popular techniques for naming your child and hopefully save you a ton of stress.<br /><br />First, there is the classic tradition of naming your child after a relative. If you're planning on going down this route, you probably already have a specific name in mind. If you're going with a junior, be sure to consider giving the child a unique middle name that they can attach their identity too. Remember to be careful not to offend any relatives when you choose your name.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />You may also look for names which have a special meaning to you and your spouse. The meaning of a name was very important in ancient times and continuing this tradition may be something you're interested in. Names with religious roots or names that represent an important quality are very popular. Name meanings can be found in numerous books and throughout the internet. Be sure to check with multiple sources, as not all resources are accurate. <br /><br />Some parents want their child to have a name with a certain ethnic origin. Perhaps your grandparents had to give up their ethnic sounding names when they came to America and you'd like to honor their heritage. Ethnic names are usually listed in baby name books and many website also have this information available. Websites often let you search for a specific ethnicity which can be very convenient. Be wary of the potential inaccuracies of some of these sites, however.<br /><br />Finally, and easily the most popular method, is to pick a name that has a good sound to it. Ultimately, this is a very important factor to consider even if you're choosing a name based on its meaning or historical origin. Your child will have to live with their name and if it sounds funny, you can bet they're going to hear about it as they grow up. They may even go by another name if they don't like the way their given name sounds. <br /><br />No matter which method you choose, always remember that it's your child's name and you should put them first. In the end, your child's personality will vastly outshine any name you pick for them. <br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7344552882230875089.post-41813463552782552532009-01-07T12:10:00.000-08:002009-04-01T19:36:14.847-07:00When Your Baby ArrivesWelcoming a newborn baby into the family is always a joyful occasion especially for first-time parents. The nine months of waiting has finally come to an end. How heart-warming it is to hear that first cry. Your baby has arrived! <br /><br />When it’s time to bring your newborn baby home, the excitement continues from the hospital to your home. Relatives and friends come over to adore your newborn. What an exciting time! <br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Soon the initial excitement subsides and reality strikes! It’s time to think about providing the best baby care you can for your newborn. There are so many things that need to be done. And, especially if you’re a first-time parent, there are so many things you wish you knew on how to provide the best baby care possible for your infant. <br /><br />You and your family will have a lot of adjusting to do especially during the first few days after your baby have come home. All of a sudden, there is a new member in the family. Daily routines will be affected. Life will not be the same again. <br /><br />If you have other children at home, you may have to deal with sibling jealousy as your newborn seems to have robbed them of all the attention they used to get. The best way to handle that is to get your children involved with baby care. Depending on their ages and abilities, you may want to get them to help out with diaper changing, feeding, holding the baby, and other appropriate activities. Once they realized that their contributions are valued, their feelings of jealousy will disappear. <br /><br />As a new mother, you may have to deal with ‘baby blues’. Your body is undergoing major physical changes after the birth of your baby. This may cause you to feel sad and depressed. These feelings are perfectly normal and should go away after several weeks. However, if you find that these feelings are getting more and more intense and are affecting your ability to care for yourself and your family, you should consult your doctor. You may be suffering from a condition of postpartum depression. <br /><br />Parenting has its ups and downs, challenges and rewards. It’s a long road ahead raising a new baby up to its adulthood. It’ll be wise to learn as much as possible on how to raise healthy and happy kids. The more knowledge and skills you have, the better parent you’ll become. It is an investment in their lives and yours.<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0