Write & Picture This..

An old hag's philosophy

2009-11-17T11:11:00.000-08:00

TWENTY NINE LINES

TO MAKE YOU SMILE

1.. My husband and I divorced over religious differences.

He thought he was God and I didn't!

2... I don't suffer from insanity; I enjoy every minute of it.

3.. Some people are alive only because it's illegal to kill them.

4.. I used to have a handle on life, but it broke.

5.. Don't take life too seriously; No one gets out alive.

6.. You're just jealous because the voices only talk to me

7.. Beauty is in the eye of the beer holder.

8. Earth is the insane asylum for the universe.

9.. I'm not a complete idiot -- Some parts are just missing.

10... Out of my mind. Back in five minutes.

11.. NyQuil, the stuffy, sneezy, why-the-heck-is-the-room-spinning medicine.

12.. God must love stupid people; He made so many.

13.. The gene pool could use a little chlorine.

14.. Consciousness: That annoying time between naps.

15.. Ever stop to think, and forget to start again?

16.. Being 'over the hill' is much better than being under it!

17.. Wrinkled Was Not One of the Things I Wanted to Be When I Grew up.

18 .. Procrastinate Now!

19.. I Have a Degree in Liberal Arts; Do You Want Fries With That?

20.. A hangover is the wrath of grapes.

21.. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a cash advance.

22.. Stupidity is not a handicap. Park elsewhere!

23..They call it PMS because Mad Cow Disease was already taken.

24. He who dies with the most toys is nonetheless DEAD.

25.. A picture is worth a thousand words, but it uses up three
thousand times the memory..

26.. Ham and eggs...A day's work for a chicken, a lifetime commitment for a pig.

27.. The trouble with life is there's no background music.

. 28.. I smile because I don't know what the heck is going on.

Appreciate every single thing you have, especially your friends!

Life is TOO SHORT and friends are TOO FEW!!!

A woman's flaw

2009-11-02T08:16:00.000-08:00

The One Flaw In Women
By the time the Lord made woman,
He was into his sixth day of working overtime.
An angel appeared and said,
'Why are you spending so much time on this one?'
And the Lord answered, 'Have you seen my spec sheet on her?
She has to be completely washable, but not plastic,
Have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable
And able to run on diet coke and leftovers,
Have a lap that can hold four children at one time,
Have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken heart
-and she will do everything
With only two hands.'

The angel was astounded at the requirements.
'Only two hands!? No way!
And that's just on the standard model?
That's too much work for one day.
Wait until tomorrow to finish.'

'But I won't, ' the Lord protested.
'I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my own heart.
She already heals herself when she is sick
AND can work 18 hour days.'

The angel moved closer and touched the woman.
'But you have made her so soft, Lord.'
'She is soft,' the Lord agreed,
'but I have also made her tough.
You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish.'

'Will she be able to think?', asked the angel.
The Lord replied,
'Not only will she be able to think,
She will be able to reason and negotiate.'

The angel then noticed something,
And reaching out, touched the woman's cheek.
'Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model.
I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one.'

'That's not a leak,'
The Lord corrected, 'that's a tear!'
'What's the tear for?' the angel asked.

The Lord said, 'The tear is her way of expressing her joy,
Her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love,
Her loneliness, her grief and her pride.'
The angel was impressed.
'You are a genius, Lord.
You thought of everything!
Woman is truly amazing.'

And she is!
Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
But they hold happiness,
Love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
And laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take 'no' for an answer
When they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
And cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about
A birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
Yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss
Can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you
To show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideals.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE TINY FLAW IN WOMEN,

IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

Teaching your child how to be self-sufficient

2009-08-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

HOLDING ON..ON MY OWN....

Why is teaching your child how to be self-sufficient important you might ask? It is the difference between raising a co-dependent child vs. an independent one. Do not mistake self-sufficiency with self-centeredness though, they are two very different things altogether.

Some children may like to live attached to the umbilical cord and some moms or parents may not mind :) However, if you want to raise your child to be successful in relationships, careers, and or education, it would be wise to give your child the tools and ability to be resilient against tough times, rough times and the unknown.

How will your son or daughter handle his/her relationship with you, friends, significant other?How will your child handle finances or career, consequences of their actions? Will they call on you to come to their rescue every time they need to pay their phone bill, the rent, their car payment? Will they live co-dependent to an unhealthy relationship because they do not know their self-worth or because they don't know when to say "enough is enough", or because they believe they can't survive on their own.

Don't get me wrong, teaching him how to ask for help when he is learning something new or doing something good is one thing, teaching him that you will bail him out of the consequences of his actions when he has disobeyed you or done something wrong is another :) Learning how to ask for help when he doesn't know how to do something will teach him humility. It is how he will learn to go to God in time of need.

Studies show that what a child learns in the first 7 years of life, will be the foundation to his personality for the rest of his life. The first 4 years where your child's brain elasticity is at its peek to learn, it is when you have the greatest window of opportunity to teach your child about all that may seem simple things but are the most important. Such as, obedience, trust, respect, independence, generosity, self-sufficiency, even humility among other things (language, etc..).

Lets start with the first and most important lesson your child will learn in the first year of his life; TRUST.

Believe it or not, teaching your child to TRUST you is the foundation for all other things like obedience and respect. Your baby needs to learn that his needs will be met by you, that he can trust you to feed him when his hungry, to change his diaper when his wet, to soothe him when he is in pain. By anticipating your baby's needs, you can avoid training him to cry and throw tantrums every time he needs or wants something.

This does not mean your child will never cry, that's unavoidable. However, you can teach him that he does not need to DEMAND things from you because he has learned to trust that you will come to take care of him when he needs you.

The key to this is teaching him a very simple cognitive skill... OBJECT PERMANENCE. Meaning, he will learn that when he can no longer see you, or any object for that matter, it doesn't mean that it's not there or it doesn't exist. When you have successfully taught him this, he will understand that you WILL COME BACK when you leave the room, and therefore, trust you to fulfill his needs. You can start teaching him this, the day he's home from the hospital.. never to early to start.

How do you teach him this??? Well with PEEK-A-BOO of course!! Silly question! Take a blanky and put it over your head and ask him "WHERE IS MOMMY?" Then provide him with a very witty answer.."..HERE I AM!!!". Then switch and put the blanket on him... and ask him "WHERE IS ___________", and then of course, you show him by pulling the blanket off his head. That's of course if he hasn't beat you to it!..

It would be preferable to use a blanky because making your whole head disappear is not the same as just covering your face with your hands when he can still see you :) Not to mention it will teach him not to panic if and when he accidentally pulls his blanky over his face... I would find Jordan giggling and laughing with his blanky over his face because he trusted I would pull it off him any minute with a funny "PEEK-A-BOO" face!

What does OBJECT PERMANENCE have to do with SELF-SUFFICIENCY?? It is the first step to teaching him to SELF-SOOTHE :) Self-soothing is a parent's best friend at midnight. If you want your baby to learn how to self-soothe, one of the keys to teaching him this is through OBJECT PERMANENCE...consistently!

I know this is somewhat a lot to digest for now, so I will leave you with these thoughts and will continue my postings on this subject when I'm not falling asleep!

Good night.. and may you sleep all night!

Amber Alert

2008-11-10T10:14:00.000-08:00

Missing Girl from North Dakota! You never know where this post could end up and I'm not going to stop passing this one around if it means a little girl can be found!!!

Please spread this picture far and wide.... You just never know.

Michelle Marie Smith, Birthdate: 9/10/02 . Answers to Peanut.

BEFORE YOU SKIP THIS, LOOK AT THE CHILD. DO IT AGAIN. NOW SEND IT TO ALL IN YOUR ADDRESS BOOK. IT TAKES 10 SECONDS. PEOPLE ARE MISSING HER AND SHE WANTS TO BE HOME. DO SOMETHING GOOD.

Sue & Barry Wilcox

(406) 961-4064

IF YOUR CHILD WAS MISSING WOULDN'T YOU PRAY THAT EVERYONE PASSED THIS EMAIL ON! DO THE RIGHT THING AND LOOK AND FORWARD!

PLEASE COPY AND PASTE TO YOUR EMAIL CONTACTS

THANK YOU

Parent- Job Description

2008-08-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

Job Description - PARENT

This is hysterical.

If it had been presented this way, I don't believe any of us would have done it!

POSITION TITLE:

Mom, Mommy, Mama, Ma,

Old Girl
Dad, Daddy, Dada, Old Man, Old Boy

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Long term, team players needed, for challenging, permanent work in an
often chaotic environment.

Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends
and frequent 24 hour shifts on call.

Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities!

Travel expenses not reimbursed.

Extensive courier duties also required.

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT:

The rest of your life.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $20.

Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.

Also, must possess the physical stamina of a pack mule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.

Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers.

Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production of multiple homework projects.

Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks.

Must be willing to be indispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next.

Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.

Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.

Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product.

Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial work throughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION:

None.

Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE:

None required unfortunately.

On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION:

Get this!

You pay them!

Offering frequent raises and bonuses.

A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent.

When you die, you give them whatever is left.

The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.

BENEFITS:

While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth, unconditional love, and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.

Mommy and Daddy, are you meeting my emotional needs?

2008-08-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hi mom:

I had a dream last night..
dreamed that I was all grown up!
I saw myself but couldn't recognize who I was
Didn't look like me..
Didn't act like me..
Didn't feel like me..
I couldn't understand who I saw????

So I wanted to share my dream
and tell you what I need
So when I grow up
I can be who God made me to be
ME...

I need an accepting mommy and daddy
who will model healthy female and male characteristics

I need to be loved unconditionally
so I can reach out to you with love and have my love accepted

I need to be acknowledged
Received, heard and included, and considered important

I need affirmation, words of encouragement and praise
for my accomplishments and personal characteristics

I need support
Strength and assistance to achieve

I need to trust my mommy and daddy
To rely on you to meet my emotional and physical needs as I mature

I need knowledge and Instruction
at the level of my inquiries

I need safe and nurturing touch
Without fear of pain or invasion

I need direction
Gentle training for my decision making and learning self control

I need active participation and caring
from my significant others

I need time devoted specifically to me
so I know I'm important and matter in your life

I need a sense of security
A peaceful home to enjoy the pure joy of the magic of my childhood

I need a comfortable routine
so my life is predictable and ..

I need the consistency of knowing
that consequences to my actions are based on principle
not emotions..

Finally, I need WINGS!
Freedom at the APPROPRIATE AGE
and maturity level to make my own choices in life...

Ten Month Old Baby Driver Stops Traffic!

2008-06-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

Ten month old baby driver shocks the world when he stopped traffic while teaching his mother how to drive!

SAFETY TIP #1: Keep your eyes on the road! Leave the make up at home. You are my mommy and you will always look beautiful to me :)

SAFETY TIP#2: Keep both hands at the 3' and 9 O'clock position. Don't worry about the mess I'm making in the back..your car will never be clean again!

SAFETY TIP #3: Always be aware of your surrounding traffic, you'll never know when a crazy Paramedic ambulance comes flying through the intersection!

SAFETY TIP#4: Always keep your hand on the wheel..Yes, even if you're turning your head to check on the little old Asian lady that just swerved into your lane! You would think she'd have better peripheral vision..LOL!!! :)

"Hey!..what's wrong with that guy..can't you see I'm driving here!..geese!

SAFETY TIP #5: Wear your seat belt..oops! Maybe I should write to Ford and ask them why they haven't invented a seat belt that doesn't cut my circulation off at the neck!

(No..this isn't a Britney Spears brain fart!..These were taken at a Parking lot) :)

Should Children witness Child Birth?

2008-06-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

Some of you may not know this, I was a Paramedic and worked in EMS for over 10 years before my back injury. While on medical leave is when I had my son, Jordan. I miss my work, so when ever I get the opportunity to live my Paramedic experiences vicariously through these, I love to share them!

Due to a power outage, only one paramedic responded to the call. The house was very dark so the paramedic asked Kathleen, a 3-yr old girl to hold a flashlight high over her mommy so he could see while he helped deliver the baby. Very diligently, Kathleen did as she was asked. Heidi pushed and pushed and after a little while, Connor was born. The paramedic lifted him by his little feet and spanked him on his bottom. Connor began to cry. The paramedic then thanked Kathleen for her help and asked the wide-eyed 3-yr old what she thought about what she had just witnessed. Kathleen quickly responded, 'He shouldn't have crawled in there in the first place ........spank his butt again!'

If you don't laugh at this one, there's no hope for you.

Raising a child with Character and Integrity

2008-06-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

Begin in infancy: Parents are in a great degree responsible for the mold given to the character of their children. It is our solemn duty to train our children to right habits and behavior. The parents work must begin in infancy, so they may receive the right impress of character or else the world may put its stamp on their mind and heart.

The importance of the first three years: The first three years is the time in which to bend the tiny twig. Moms should understand the importance attaching this period. It is here where their foundation is laid.

Proper words of commendation: Whenever you can speak a word of commendation for your child's conduct, you should do so. You should encourage them by words of approval (not flattery) and looks of love. These will be a sunshine to the heart of a child and will lead to the cultivation of self-respect and pride of character rather than self-centeredness and selfishness.

A day of reckoning for parents: Happy are the parents who are a true reflection of the divine, so that the promises of God awaken in your child gratitude and reverence. The parents whose tenderness and justice and long-suffering interpret to to your child the love, justice and long-suffering of God, and who by teaching your child to love, trust and obey you, you are teaching your child to love, trust and obey their Father in heaven. When parents and children meet at the final reckoning, what a scene it will be :)

Losing baby phat! Mommy-robics for the busy mom

2008-05-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Thank you all for joining in my discussion "Daddy wants his sexy mama back". I got so many useful tips, and links that I thought I'd put it all together for all the busy moms out there on their quest to lose the baby phat!

Let me start by saying that my hubby doesn't care how much I weigh!! This is my quest to get healthy and have the energy to enjoy my son and my hubby! Like RTBjr73 said " The number one reason is to get healthy and to set a good example for our kids"

For starters; I got inspired by my blogger friend Gretchen-she's a mom on a mission! I was so impressed with her perseverance and focus. She's made such an amazing progress!! Kinda jealous to tell you the truth! :) I thought I should join her quest!

Searchingwithin brought up a good point! Drink water! HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE! There's no better way to help the body process fat than by drinking water instead of sodas and high sugared juices!! ( I gained 25lbs in my first trimester due to drinking "natural sodas"!)..J-LO booty or not, that is just way too much weight to gain at once!
All you need is 10 MINUTES! C hristinebean is a firm believer of the "The ten minute solution" with Pilates. Busy mommy or not, you are worth TEN MINUTES!
Finally, Mayjah has the most creative post on exercising while multi-tasking! What a better way to exercise while you are on the computer, or washing dishes or even, yes..while watching "Desperate housewives" on TV!! She did mention that you may be suddenly attacked by your other half while doing some of these! I agree!

So, without further adew... here is my version of

MOMMY-ROBICS

CARDIO: Grab a set of your favorite tunes, load them up to your ipod or Mp3 player, put on some sexy workout gear, put your baby on his stroller/wagon/bike seat and head for a stroll around your neighborhood. While your walking and listening to some upbeat music you accomplish two things: It BOOSTS UP YOUR MOOD and it provokes you to WALK FASTER! Jog if you like the challenge of pushing the stroller on an uphill!! That will get your legs warmed up real fast! (Sexy workout gear is for psychological motivation ladies, not meant for flirting with your neighbor! ;)

LEG LIFTS/TUMMY TUCK (lower abdominal pooch)

A. Start flat on the floor, baby rests on top of your feet.

Good to start with feet touching the floor.

B. Raise your legs so that knees are bent at 90 degree angle. Use your stomach muscles to lift.

So far I can only do 2 sets/of 10 on all these..But you can shoot for more!!

J-LO HINEY TIGHTENER-UPPERS (say that ten times fast)

A. Start with lower back flat on

the floor. Use baby on your stomach as resistant weight. He has fun watching you sweat!

B. Use your butt muscles to lift your torso into a straight line with your legs. SQUEEZE

THEM BUTT CHEEKS!

MOMMY PUSH-UPS ( arm flab, booby boost )

A. Start with knees bent, place baby under you so you're forced to lift your weight :) Elbows bent. Stomach and back in a straight line.

B. Lift to straighten elbows, give your baby a smile! keep knees bent at 90 degree angle, HOLD!

BABY BENCH PRESS/Low tummy tuck

A. Start with feet and back flat on floor. Lift baby up "Super Boy!"

He'll like flying.

B. As you lower baby, lift legs off the floor as you extend them. Repeat (don't forget-BREATHE)

CORE STABILIZATION (Tummy tuck)

A. Start belly side down, up on elbows at 90 degree angle. Tips of toes facing down and ankle at 90 degree angle.

B. Lift your weight off the floor on the tips of your toes and elbows. Use Abdominal muscles to lift your core. KISS BABY!!

And there goes your ten minutes!! Not long but effective, specially when you're using an 19 lbs weight!! I can guarantee your baby will have a blast and you will be sore in the morning! You're other half may have to sit it out for a few nights :( But it's worth it at the end.

Stay tunned for follow up posts. Feel free to grab my widget on your way out to keep up with my next post on this quest. Don't forget to leave your link if you wanna join and play!!

I'm bringing Sexy back!

2008-05-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

Here's a mama on a mission. After watchin Gretchen and her amazing progress, I've decided to join her on the mission to LOSE THE BABY PHAT!

I was 130 Lbs...after baby Jordan I am now a sexy 160 Lbs.. That's right! I am not afraid to tell you my weight! I am sexy and I know it!! :) I just want to fit into my size 6 jeans again!!

Why should I go out and buy a whole new wardrobe to fit my J-Lo hiney in a size 13 pants!

Want to join me?? post a comment and leave your link.. We can do it together!!

C'mon on ladies.. Daddy wants his sexy mama back!!!

Thought of the day

2008-05-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

Reach up as far as you can today

and Heaven will reach down

the rest

of the way...

Like father like son..Photoblog

2008-05-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hat heads..

Like father like son...Two peas in a pod

WHY GOD MADE PETS

2008-05-23T16:35:00.001-07:00

TO TEST THE WATERS

TO PICK US UP WHEN WE'RE DOWN

TO SHOW US HOW TO RELAX

TO LOOK AFTER THE LITTLE ONES

TO PROTECT OUR CHILDREN

TO HELP AROUND THE HOUSE

..AND TO GIVE US A GOOD LAUGH WHEN WE NEED ONE!

Kids and Pets Photoblog

2008-05-23T16:14:00.001-07:00

Like kid...like pet..How funny!!

I just joined PayPerPost and made $20!!

2008-05-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

As a stay-home mom, I have been looking for and weeding through hundreds of ways to make money from home. I have weeded through so many Internet scams and "get rich quick schemes", but non have delivered.

I started blogging as a way to network and find out ways to connect with other parents who needed to make money from home too.

I stumbled upon a blog that had a payperpost link and what I read was so simple and easy to do that I could barely believe I had actually found a fun, legitimate way to make some cash. The best part- you get to write about the things you want and get paid for it!! I can't imagine an easier way to earn money blogging.

The site is so easy to navigate through and there are different ways you can chose to make your cash through payperpost . So take it from someone who is tired of being scammed and has gotten really good at recognizing legitimate opportunities, this is the place to go if you want to make money with your blog!

Good luck, I hope you have great success!! I just made $20 just for writing this post! It's that easy!

WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO DO TO KEEP YOUR KIDS SAFE FROM PREDATORS?

2008-05-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

First of, let me start by saying that for those of you who participated in the poll, it was not meant to offend you or to demean your parenting skills. It is a means to bring some awareness to parents who may take their kids safety for granted because of the confidence we have in ourselves of being good parents.

We have to humble ourselves to the possibility that no matter how pro-active we are, how prepared we are in "case of an emergency", how much time we have spent getting to know our neighbors and the people surrounding our children's community, how much money we have spent in teaching our children how to defend themselves, and how much research you've done in the Internet or your neighborhood to make sure that there are no SEX OFFENDERS NEAR YOU; THERE IS ALWAYS THE POSSIBILITY OF SOMEONE LURKING IN THE SHADOWS WAITING FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO LURE YOUR CHILD TO DANGER, IN ANY WAY SHAPE OR FORM.

(ASSUMING YOU ARE A RESPONSIBLE AND PRO-ACTIVE PARENT): Let me share some scenarios with you.

SCENARIO 1: You have attended church and have known your minister all your life. In fact, your minister is a personal close friend of the family (if not part of your family). Your daughter (or son) is now blooming and growing and is now 10 to 13 years old. When your daughter is 33, you find out, your well trusted minister had molested and abused your daughter.

SCENARIO 2: You are a pro active parent and have made sure you know where your kids are at all times by checking up on them and calling the place where they're supposed to be. On their way home, a van drives by and takes your child by force. Despite their best efforts to put all those karate lessons to use, they are subdued and kidnapped. Despite the Police's best effort to find your child, your son or daughter was never found.

SCENARIO 3: You are having a picnic at the park with your family and closest, most trusted friends or neighbors. Everyone is having fun, and you are diligent about keeping an eye out on your child. Suddenly, someone scored a touchdown and everyone cheers, you turn your head for a split second and when you look back, your child has vanished! You find out 10 years later that your child had been abducted by a person that lived only a block away from your house. The Police never had "Just cause" to search his house.

If you were one of these parents, (THESE ARE TRUE EVENTS BY THE WAY). Wouldn't you wish there would have been a way you could've had an advantage over that kidnapper or predator where you AND the police could've had a way to track where you child was; and maybe just maybe, given your son or daughter a better chance of being found or recovered that you otherwise wouldn't have had if it had not been for that little safety device you placed on your child's watch or bracelet.

WOULDN'T YOU CONSIDER THAT POSSIBILITY?? PUTTING YOUR PRIDE ASIDE, WOULDN'T YOU RATHER BE SAFE THAN SORRY????

HERE ARE SOME KIDNAPPING FACTS

STOMACH VIRUS OR FOOD ALLERGY? DOCTOR'S TEXTBOOK KNOWLEDGE VS. MOTHER'S INSTINCTS

2008-05-19T17:57:00.000-07:00

Jordan has been vomiting for a week. Doctors pawned it off as a "Stomach virus". (Without any blood test may I add). Ever since Jordan broke out with his Allergies, all I've keep hearing from Doctors is "He's too young to have allergies" "Kids this age do not develop food allergies"..Hmmm.. Let me recap:

Fed Jordan milk based formula at 2 1/2 months

Response: Projectile vomiting/No diarrhea

Fed Jordan Milk based product at 4 months

Response: Projectile vomiting/No diarrhea

Virus or Allergic Response? at 7 months

Whole family: Projectile vomiting AND diarrhea

Fed Jordan Wheat Crackers (Both times he ate wheat crackers) at 9 months

Response: Projectile vomiting/No diarrhea

TOP 8 ALLERGY FOODS

WHEAT

MILK

EGGS

PEANUTS

TREE N

UTS

SOY

FISH

SHELLFISH

IS IT A COINCIDENCE THAT EVERY TIME I INTRODUCE A NEW FOOD THAT IS ON THIS LIST HE HAS AN IMMEDIATE VIOLENT REACTION?? Could it be possible that just maybe he is one of those babies who falls in that 1 percentile category of children who develop early allergies? My OBGYN didn't want to discuss the procedures in case Jordan had Meconium or the cord wrapped around his neck because in her years of experience delivering over 2000 babies, she never had that happen. Well, it happened to Jordan (All of the above). THERE IS ALWAYS A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING RIGHT?..

HOW TO RECOGNIZE ALLERGY OR INTOLERANCE TO FOOD

(will appear few min to few hours after offending food)

NAUSEA

VOMITING

DIARRHEA

ITCHING ( throat,mouth,eyes, skin, and/or ears

LIP SWELLING

RASH (Hives or flare-up of eczema)

THROAT TIGHTNESS

TROUBLE SWALLOWING OR BREATHING

TONGUE SWELLING THAT OBSTR

UCTS AIRWAY

CHEST PAIN

DIZZINESS

SUDDEN PALENESS OR BLUISH SKIN

UNCONSCIOUSNESS

FAINT PULSE

UN-AROUSABLE (can't be woken up)

TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS:

IF YOUR BABY STARTS VOMITING (NON-STOP)

Don't panic!
PROTECT YOUR BABY'S AIRWAY FROM ASPIRATION (sit him up or roll him on his left side during episode)
Allow his stomach to settle, do not try to feed him or force feed him right away
Contact your doctor to let him know your baby's condition
Try to replace fluids with Pedialite or formula or breast milk
If baby refuses to eat, feed 1-2 oz of Pedialite every 15-30 min for long term vomiting ( Or whatever baby will allow you to feed) to treat/prevent dehydration.
If your baby displays any of the above signs or symptoms call 911 or take him to Emergency room right away.

(REMEMBER: THIS ARE TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS, THESE ARE NOT MEANT TO REPLACE YOUR DOCTORS RECOMMENDATIONS)

Main thing to remember is: You're the mom (parent). You know your child best. Follow your instincts and if you feel there is something wrong: ERR ON THE SIDE OF SAFETY. Otherwise, treat with soft and tender care. There is nothing that makes a a child feel better than the loving arms of his/her mother (parent).

LIFE'S DEFINITION OF MOTHERHOOD

2008-05-09T07:48:00.000-07:00

This is for the mothers who have sat up
all night with sick toddlers in their arms,
wiping up barf laced with Oscar Mayer
wieners and cherry Kool-Aid saying,
'It's okay honey, Mommy's here.'
Who have sat in rocking chairs for hours on end

soothing crying babies who can't be comforted.

This is for all the mothers who show up at
work with spit-up in their hair and milk stains
on their blouses and diapers in their purse.
For all the mothers who run carpools and
make cookies and sew Halloween costumes.
And all the mothers who DON'T.

This is for the mothers who gave birth to
babies they'll never see. And the mothers
who took those babies and gave them homes.
This is for the mothers whose priceless art
collections are hanging on their refrigerator doors.
And for all the mothers who froze their buns

on metal bleachers at football, soccer or softball games

instead of watching from the warmth of their cars.

And that when their kids asked, 'Did you see me, Mom?'

they could say, 'Of course, I wouldn't
have missed it for the world,' and mean it.

This is for all the mothers who yell at their kids

in the grocery store and swat them in despair

when they stomp their feet and scream for ice cream before dinner.

And for all the mothers who count to ten instead,

but realize how child abuse happens.
This is for all the mothers who sat down with
their children and explained all about making
babies. And for all the (grand)mothers who
wanted to, but just couldn't find the words.

This is for all the mothers who go
hungry, so their children can eat.
For all the mothers who read 'Goodnight,
Moon' twice a night for a year. And then
read it again, 'Just one more time.'
This is for all the mothers who taught
their children to tie their shoelaces before
they started school. And for all the mothers
who opted for Velcro instead.

This is for all the mothers who teach their sons
to cook and their daughters to sink a jump shot.
This is for every mother whose head turns

automatically when a little voice calls 'Mom?'
in a crowd, even though they know their
own offspring are at home -- or even away
at college -- or have their own families.

This is for all the mothers who sent their kids
to school with stomach aches, assuring them
they'd be just FINE once they got there, only
to get calls from the school nurse an hour later
asking them to please pick them up. Right away.
This is for mothers whose children have gone
astray, who can't find the words to reach them.

For all the mothers who bite their lips until they
bleed when their 14 year olds dye their hair green.
For all the mothers of the victims of
recent school shootings, and the mothers
of those who did the shooting.
For the mothers of the survivors,

and the mothers who sat in front of their TVs in horror,

hugging their child who just came home from school, safely.

This is for all the mothers who taught their
children to be peaceful, and now pray
they come home safely from a war.
What makes a good mother anyway?

Is it patience? Compassion? Broad hips?

The ability to nurse a baby, cook dinner, and
sew a button on a shirt, all at the same time?
Or is it in her heart?

Is it the ache she feels when she
watches her son or daughter disappear
down the street, walking to school alone
for the very first time?

The jolt that takes her from sleep to
dread, from bed to crib at 2 A.M. to put
her hand on the back of a sleeping baby?
The panic, years later, that comes again
at 2 A.M. when she just wants to hear
their key in the door and know they
are safe again in her home?
Or the need to flee from wherever she is
and hug her child when she hears news
of a fire, a car accident, a child dying?

The emotions of motherhood are
universal and so our thoughts are for
young mothers stumbling through diaper
changes and sleep deprivation...
And for mature mothers learning to let go.
For working mothers and stay-at-home mothers.
Single mothers and married mothers.
Mothers with money, mothers without.

This is for you all. For all of us...
Hang in there. In the end we can
only do the best we can. Tell them
every day that we love them. And pray
and never stop being a mother...
Please pass along to all the mothers in your life.
'Home is what catches you when
you fall - and we all fall.'
Please pass this to a
wonderful mother you know.

Newborn's conversation with God

2008-05-07T11:44:00.000-07:00

A baby asked God:

They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?

God said,

'Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you.'
The child further inquired, 'But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy.'

God said,

'Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you. And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy.'
Again the child asked, 'And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?'

God said,

'Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak.'
'And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?'

God said,

'Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray.
'Who will protect me?'

God said, 'Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life.'
'But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore.'
God said,

'Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you.'

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked,

'God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel's name.'

God said,

'You will simply call her, 'Mom.'

WHY GOD MADE MOMS

2008-05-06T09:42:00.000-07:00

Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions:

Why did God make mothers?

1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?

1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my Mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of?

1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?

1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's moms like me.

What kind of little girl was your mom?

1. My Mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess she would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?

1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?

Why did your mom marry your dad?

1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my Mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him .
3. My grandma says that Mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?

1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2. Mom. You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess Mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms & dads?

1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller & stronger, but moms have all the real power cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friend' s.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.

What does your mom do in her spare time?

1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What would it take to make your mom perfect?

1. On the inside, she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Dye it. You know, her hair. I'd dye it, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?

1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it and not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

Define Parenting

2008-05-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

Can you define parenting?

Think I'm brave for putting up a picture of myself looking my worst?? Truth is, THIS WAS MY MOST BEAUTIFUL MOMENT.

No Time For Makeup

2008-05-05T17:17:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder where the makeup went?

The beautiful dresses and skirts

the quality time we spent?

The late midnight phone calls

and secret rendez-vous?

the daily get-a-ways

and whispered "I love you's"

Don't ever doubt our love is still strong

No one will ever brake up our bond

My love is committed to you and our son

I just have to balance my juggle of time

and learn to keep up with our new little man

No time for makeup

No time to sleep

My memory's fading

I start to feel weak

I try and I try

to juggle my time

but somehow

I lose track of time

By nightfall I gather my last bit of strength

to tell you I love you and missed you all day

My intentions are good and are true

to devote my last moment to you

Then you hold me and I fall deep

into a restful night's sleep

leaving you wondering

of all, if at all

you're still number one..

I wished you'd have heard me

as I fell asleep

I whispered "I love you"

My love...is still deep...

FEEDING NIGHTMARE

2008-04-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

My son seems to be more interested in flirting, exploring and playing games than in eating! He only feeds 1-2 minutes at a time or just 2-3 oz at a time. Lately, refusing the bottle has become one of his favorite games with the "no-no-shaking of his head" he gets his point across!HELP!! He has been gaining weight but not as much as he should be.

The only time he seems interested in eating is in the middle of the night when he is more succumbed by sleep than by his curiosity to make sure everything is still in place in his room.
I have no problem putting him to sleep.. but I can't seem to convince him that he can and should sleep trough the night!!

Baby Allergies-Need tips on caring for baby's eczema breakouts?

2008-04-23T10:13:00.000-07:00

When Jordan was 6 wks old, he broke out into this measles-like rash all over his face. I was in TEARS!! He had red bumps that would turn in to patches that eventually linked together. The worst was when we went to my in-laws and his bumps suddenly started oozing a sticky yellow fluid.

I did research on it and here's what I learned:

If there is history of Allergies or Asthma in the family (mostly from father's side) children will most likely inherit their allergies.
Will usually out grow "MOST" of their allergies by 6mos to 1 year.
THEIR SKIN IS NOT ABLE TO RETAIN MOISTURE-hence, the dry patchy skin that evolves into eczema.
Will most likely breakout in areas where baby sweats the most (joints, back of the knee, elbows crease, neck and wrists)
If left untreated, can develop into scars ( ..as it did for artist "SEAL" )

These are some of the common Allergens:

Perfumes
Scented lotions
Scented toiletries
Detergents
Dyes
Pet dander (Cats, dogs)
Dust Mites
Certain fabrics ( Polyester, Wool..)
Pollen
Saliva
Sweat

AVOID:

Extreme Changes in temperature (Heat)
Humidity
His skin to come in contact with any fabric that is not 100% Cotton ( Polyester, Wool)
Bathing with scented soaps, body washes, scented hand washes (What's on you will make your baby break out-try avoid using all these yourself)
Tight fitting clothing (tight socks, pants, oncies )

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Bathe your baby in luke warm water no more than 10 min once or twice a week
Try using Aveeno Baby UNSCENTED wash AND Lotion (or baby products designed for sensitive skin)
Try using KERI Oil in your baby's bath water and tap dry
Recommend using A+D as a daily moisturizer and AFTER bath (must try to keep baby's skin moist or eczema will set in due to dry skin)
Dress your baby with LOOSE 100% COTTON clothing
Try to maintain his environment COOL & DRY
Try to use only UNSCENTED baby wipes and A+D after every diaper change (take the opportunity to massage ointment all over his legs, arms and face)
Wash your baby's clothes AND that of you and your ENTIRE FAMILY with DREFT detergent (mild detergent for babies)
May want to have a designated 100% cotton"blankie" to use as a barrier between baby and other fabrics (or visitors wearing perfume)

Sound like a lot of work? It is... But, there is good news! Once you establish a routine of the above recommendations, you will see the rewarding difference in your baby's skin. My son Jordan's skin doesn't break out nearly as much as it used to. It usually only happens when family visits or when we are in an uncontrolled environment.

I hope this helps.. I understand your frustration and it took a lot of research and determination to be able to relief my baby's skin from the itchiness and breakouts. LET ME KNOW HOW IT WORKS OUT FOR YOU! Rest assured, it will get better..

Picture worth a thousand words?

2008-04-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

What if I told you he ALWAYS falls asleep like this! He makes me smile... This is one of my favorites. Wait till you see his "Faux-hawk"

NEED HELP IN PUTTING YOUR LITTLE ONE TO SLEEP??

2008-04-11T16:54:00.000-07:00

If you're like me; a first time mom, you'll appreciate some helpful tips on how to get more than four hours of sleep at night. I was walking around like a zombie for months because my son would wake up every two hours to feed. He is now 8 months and wakes up only once a night..(and that will be changing soon as well..)

If you've read all the books, they'll tell you you're supposed to sleep when you're baby sleeps..yeah right!!! Can't do that if you have laundry to wash, meals to cook, house to clean, bills to pay, showers to take, business to build, husband to pamper, dishes to wash, you get the picture. During the day it is almost impossible to take a nap while your baby naps because you have all those pressing matters in your mind you must take care of. So, without further adew...

SLEEPING TIPS:

CREATE A BEDTIME ROUTINE: Try putting her to sleep at the same time every night. Keep the atmosphere the same (low lighting, quiet, bedtime bath etc..). If she gets the same cues "it's sleepy-time, bedtime, nap time" or just the same 'ol nursery rhyme every night she'll start to learn it is time for bed.
ROCK YOUR BABY: Whether you have a rocking chair or not, it is soothing for her to feel close to you, the motion will remind her of the belly and while she feels comforted, she'll be more likely to settle down and wind down.
MAKE YOUR LAST FEEDING LAST THE NIGHT: Try giving your baby one last feeding before midnight. If you're breastfeeding you may want to top her off with some formula. Mom's breast milk is more easily digested and therefore doesn't satiate them as long, hence, the every two hour wake up calls. But if you're one of the lucky few whose milk carries that special sedative, you wouldn't be reading this post..right?? Your goal is to make them feel full and satisfied.
MAKE SURE SHE'S COMFORTABLE: Is it too hot? Too cold? Too dark? Too bright? Does she need to be burped before putting her down? Hopefully, part of your bedtime routine includes clean diaper and Jami's :) Is there too much noise? not enough noise (some babies prefer the white noise in the background..try a fan).
TEACH HER TO FALL ASLEEP ON HER OWN: Last but not least, try putting her down when she is ready to fall asleep but..while she's still awake. Huh?? In other words, she's too tired to do anything else, but she is starting to fade.. That will teach her to fall asleep on her own and not on the bottle or on the breast. If she wakes up and realizes she's no longer sucking on something..She'll be more than happy to let out that ear piercing squeal that startles you to your feet from a dead sleep of night.

Well, hope this helps. Let me know if it works. GOOD LUCK AND GOOD SLEEP!

What is this picture worth??

2008-02-13T18:11:00.001-08:00

This is my son Jordan, he is 2 1/2 months in this picture. This photograph was nominated as a finalist in an International Open Amateur Contest and was also chosen for publication by the International Library of Photography. He has a 1000 different smiles and quirks and I hope to capture them all on camera! Hopefully, by getting his pictures published, I can build him a nice College fund.