tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9249861563870770362024-02-20T03:28:56.055-06:00Orange LilliesOrange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-42746012121682800572019-07-09T17:20:00.000-05:002019-07-09T17:20:23.326-05:00No, It's not misspelled. I did it that way on purpose.My great-grandmother's name was Lillie Belle. My grandmother's favorite color was orange.<br />
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Orange <i>Lillies</i> were the flowers I chose to have for my wedding decor. We also had purple hydrangeas because they were my husband's grandfather's favorite flower.Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-13584587740547029112012-01-08T21:18:00.000-06:002012-01-08T21:18:08.836-06:00Children's Book Review<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1062516.No_David_" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="No, David!" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1180658654m/1062516.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1062516.No_David_">No, David!</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21346.David_Shannon">David Shannon</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/258541944">1 of 5 stars</a><br />
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Near the copyright information, the author's own words:<br />
<blockquote><span style="font-size: x-small;">A few years ago, my mother sent me a book I made when I was a little boy. It was called <em>No, David</em>, and it was illustrated with drawings of David doing all sorts of things he wasn't supposed to do. The text consisted entirely of the words "no" and "David." (They were the only words I knew how to spell.) I thought it would be fun to do a remake celebrating those familiar variations of the universal "no" that we all hear while growing up. Of course, "yes" is a wonderful word...but "yes" doesn't keep crayon off the living room wall.</span></blockquote><br />
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In 1998, this book received the distinction of Caldecott Honor, but as an AP parent I find its content horrible. After learning this book had been inspired by recollections from his own childhood, I sincerely feel sorry for the young David Shannon. As a child, he seems to have been repeatedly chastised and punished instead of being redirected and modeled "good" behavior.<br />
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It's not very often that I am inclined to give a <i>negative</i> children's book review. In most cases, if a child is reading, then it's a good thing! --right? But, <i>No, David!</i> sends the wrong message to kids and to the parents and caregivers who may be reading the story with them. Even my husband was appalled when my cousin's child brought this book to him for the two to read together.<br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/4146437-laura">View all my reviews</a>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-57162016184768330662011-09-09T19:32:00.000-05:002011-09-09T19:32:26.682-05:00Children's Book Review<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6924269-hands-are-not-for-hitting-las-manos-no-son-para-pegar-best-behavior" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Hands Are Not for Hitting / Las manos no son para pegar (Best Behavior) (Spanish Edition)" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1266957105m/6924269.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6924269-hands-are-not-for-hitting-las-manos-no-son-para-pegar-best-behavior">Hands Are Not for Hitting / Las manos no son para pegar (Best Behavior)</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/463817.Martine_Agassi">Martine Agassi</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/206884002">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
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This is a bilingual book featuring both English and Spanish text that both embraces diversity and teaches children not to hit others. The book features activities that are appropriate to do with our hands and reminds little ones that hands are not for hitting with each turn of the page. The book also includes a special message to caregivers that reminds them that spanking a child is not the solution to inappropriate behavior because it can both hurt and confuse a child who is trying to learn which behaviors are socially acceptable.<br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/4146437-laura">View all my reviews</a>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-1860536737128474612011-04-25T00:26:00.001-05:002011-04-27T08:13:05.171-05:00Life Doesn't Happen in a Vacuum<div style="background-color: #fce5cd;"><span style="background-color: #fce5cd;"></span><span style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;">I was asked by a fellow co-worker earlier this month what I would do if I found out that I had been doing everything wrong. (Ahhh.... Those pesky co-workers of mine!) </span><span style="color: #351c75;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;">If you recall, I posted a blog not too terribly long ago about the importance of spending time with like-minded people. I believe it is very important for people to feel comfortable with their decisions and for those decisions to be reinforced and supported, rather than a person feeling the need to justify and defend every choice he or she makes in life. But, it is also important to spend some time outside of one's comfort zone and for one's ideas and ways of doing things to be challenged.</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;">I am constantly evaluating and re-evaluating what's going on around me. Right now my world tends to revolve around my daughter and her needs --whether it's introducing her to a new food or shielding her from harmful things. I read articles and search the web about various parenting topics, continue to attend La Leche League meetings (even though I think I may have this breastfeeding thing down pat), and have started attending <a href="http://apiofmetrojackson.blogspot.com/">Attachment Parenting</a> meetings, as well. I also bounce ideas off of some of those mainstream parents that work with me. </div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;">Diversity is more than a collection of differing opinions, lifestyles, and histories. Diversity creates the opportunity for an individual's belief system to be tested and provides the groundwork for self-actualization, which requires higher thinking and problem-solving skills. Bombardment with diversity may cause a person to reject old ideas and/or adopt new ones. This isn't bad, so to speak, but it may not always be comfortable.</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #e06666; text-align: center;"><i><b>I never learned from a man who agreed with me.<br />
~Robert Heinlein </b></i></div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;">So what did I tell that co-worker?</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd; color: #351c75;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd;"><span style="color: #351c75;">I simply told him that I would forgive myself for any short-comings and also remind myself that I had done the best I could do with the information I had at the time. I told him that although my parenting style and the choices I have made with respect to my daughter may not be mainstream, they hardly come from out of left field. There is a ton of research to support the decisions that I have made. I also told him that I welcome most anyone to bring his or her ideas to the table for me to consider. I'm not suggesting that I will change my ways, but I will listen to you and your suggestions. Life doesn't happen in a vacuum.</span></div><div style="background-color: #fce5cd;"><br />
</div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-42275566869000696312011-04-24T22:48:00.000-05:002011-04-24T22:48:12.893-05:00Children's Book Review<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/962718.Quiero_a_mi_papa_Porque" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Quiero a mi papa Porque (I Love My Daddy Because English / Spanish edition)" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1179846479m/962718.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/962718.Quiero_a_mi_papa_Porque">Quiero a mi papa Porque</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/222930.Laurel_Porter_Gaylord">Laurel Porter-Gaylord</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/161371288">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
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This is a great board book for children aged 2 and younger. I like it because it not only emphasizes the unique bond between fathers and their children using animal models, but also because it is a bilingual book that allows parents to include both Spanish and English grammar, vocabulary, and style in story time! ¡Que fantástico! <br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/4146437-laura">View all my reviews</a>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-68029551676211776782011-03-31T22:07:00.006-05:002011-03-31T23:31:25.645-05:00Children's Book Review<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/880487.Tails_Are_Not_for_Pulling" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Tails Are Not for Pulling" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1179153775m/880487.jpg" style="background-color: white;" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/880487.Tails_Are_Not_for_Pulling" style="background-color: white;">Tails Are Not for Pulling</a><span style="background-color: white;"> by </span><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/84064.Elizabeth_Verdick" style="background-color: white;">Elizabeth Verdick</a><br />
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</div><div style="background-color: white;">My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/158042008">5 of 5 stars</a></div><div style="background-color: white;"><br />
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</div><div style="background-color: white;">This is a great board book to teach young children about being gentle with companion animals. There is also excellent information in the back cover written especially for adults to help reinforce a child's being kind to animals.</div><div style="background-color: white;"><br />
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</div><div style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/4146437-laura">View all my reviews</a></div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-87574609248217401672011-03-27T20:59:00.004-05:002011-03-31T23:28:54.465-05:00Children's Book Review<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1581242.I_Love_My_Mommy_Because_" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="I Love My Mommy Because..." border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1185462624m/1581242.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1581242.I_Love_My_Mommy_Because_">I Love My Mommy Because...</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/222930.Laurel_Porter_Gaylord">Laurel Porter-Gaylord</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/157141062">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
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Great board book for children aged 2 and younger! Shows similarities between animal mother/baby relationships and human mother/baby relationships.<br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/list/4146437-laura">View all my reviews</a><br />
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<span style="background-color: #d9ead3;"></span>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-65487942227206991572011-02-14T00:00:00.005-06:002011-02-14T00:00:12.325-06:00Happy Valentine's Day!<div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;">I absolutely love Valentine's Day! That probably has more to do with my liking the heart motif and red being my favorite color than it does cupids and arrows, but Valentine's Day is a cause for celebration nonetheless! And, having a daughter means I get to share my excitement about exchanging little valentines with her and her classmates at school. So, what makes an appropriate Valentine's Day favor for the infant room at daycare? <a href="http://www.boogiewipes.com/">Boogie Wipes®</a>!</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;">There are lots of ages and stages in the infant room --my daughter's classmates range from 8 weeks to 10 months old. But, pretty much every kiddo under the age of three has their fair share of runny noses. It's like it goes with the territory or something. This Valentine's Day I decided to put together age appropriate, cute, and fun favor bags --all for less than $2 each. Here's how you can do it, too --for whatever holiday your daycare class is celebrating next!</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"><br />
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</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><i><b>Holiday Favor Bags for Infants</b></i></div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><i>Drawstring Favor Bags (available from <a href="http://www.hobbylobby.com/">Hobby Lobby®</a>)</i></div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000; text-align: center;"> <i>Decorative Packing Shred *or* Tissue Paper Squares ( 3" x 3" )</i></div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><i>Individually Wrapped <a href="http://www.boogiewipes.com/">Boogie Wipes®</a></i></div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000; text-align: center;"><i>Special Holiday Message, printed and cut from plain paper</i></div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"><br />
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</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;">Place a small amount of packing shred into the favor bag. Then, add two individually wrapped <a href="http://www.boogiewipes.com/">Boogie Wipes®</a>. For variety, I included one grape scented and one fresh scented wipe in each of my favor bags. Next, add your special holiday message such as, "<span style="color: black;">Roses are</span> RED! <span style="color: black;">Violets are</span> <span style="color: blue;">BLUE!</span> <span style="color: black;">Here are two</span> <span style="color: #38761d;">Boogie Wipes®</span> <span style="color: black;">just for YOU!</span>" Top it off with a little more packing shred. Pull the drawstring on the favor bag and tie it tight. Voila! Easy, but oh-so-cute! If you decide to use tissue paper, then use two or three 3" x 3" squares on bottom and one square on top. Use the tissue paper in the same way you would add tissue to a gift bag.</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"><br />
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</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: #990000;"> </div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-33894329239396404522011-02-11T22:54:00.000-06:002011-02-11T22:54:23.456-06:00Girls Night Out<div style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #b45f06;">I have two regularly scheduled activities each month with the girls. One is "BUNCO night" with several of my female co-workers and the other is my monthly <a href="http://www.llli.org/">La Leche League</a> meetings. BUNCO isn't at all intellectually stimulating, and sometimes I really don't want to see my co-workers any more than I have to --I'd rather just leave work at work. But at the very least, BUNCO is an opportunity to get out of the house and to have a little girl time; so it serves its purpose. My <a href="http://www.llli.org/">La Leche League</a> meetings, on the other hand, are something that I very much look forward to. I feel really good about going because there are always good conversations and I almost always learn something new or am able to provide a little insight to someone else. But the best part about LLL meetings is that I am not expected to leave my wonderful daughter at home. Furthermore, my style of parenting is reinforced and supported, rather than being seen as something peculiar, eccentric, elitist, or anything else other than normal.</div><div style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #b45f06;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #b45f06;">During the month of January, I did not participate in either of my regular activities. BUNCO was quashed because I was recovering from a head cold. I missed my LLL meeting because I got lost en route to its new location. I was, however, able to get in a little girl time with two other activities. One was a Tupperware party with co-workers and the other was a <a href="http://www.msfriendsofmidwives.org/">Mississippi Friends of Midwives</a> Push Party.</div><div style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #b45f06;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #b45f06;">It was at the Tupperware party with co-workers that I realized just how important it is to spend time with like-minded individuals. Don't get me wrong. On most days my co-workers are okay. Some days they are awesome. Other days, well... not so much. For the most part, the only thing my co-workers and I have in common is our line of work. At least half of them don't even share the same work ethic as me (but, that's another rant for another day). We don't think alike. And, we sure don't share the same ideas when it comes to parenting. I am an attached parent: I breastfeed, I cloth diaper, I wear my baby, and I bed-share. I don't let my daughter cry it out. And, when it comes to introducing solid foods, I follow my daughter's lead. So far, solid food has been just another toy to be explored with her mouth. Food-food? Well that's just synonymous with mommy's milk.</div><div style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #b45f06;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #b45f06;">My daughter came along with me to the Tupperware party. I didn't bother to wear her into the house because I knew my co-workers would likely want to play with her and to hold her while we were there. My daughter is a little social butterfly, and does not seem to be the least bit insecure around others, so that was okay. Besides, when she is ready to nurse, she is more than happy to come back to Momma. Nursing in public is one thing. Nursing in the privacy of <i>someone else's</i> home? Well that's another story. I felt the need to excuse myself to the guest bedroom, where I sat and nursed and felt somewhat guilty for concealing my daughter's eating habits from my co-workers. Truth be told, she nurses better when there are fewer distractions in the room. But, that was besides the point. Why is it so easy for me to nurse in public, yet I found it more difficult in the presence of acquaintances from work? Then, when we were getting ready to leave, I asked for a co-worker's assistance with getting my daughter's hat on her head. She didn't mind helping me, but she made somewhat of a snide remark about it: "You mean you haven't figured out how to do things with one hand, yet?" For a moment, I felt a little inadequate at being a mother. Then it hit me: No, I haven't had to learn to do things with one hand because I usually have both hands free. My daughter is usually wrapped snug around my body in her <a href="http://www.mobywrap.com/">Moby® Wrap</a>!</div><div style="background-color: #d9d2e9; color: #b45f06;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d9d2e9;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">My sense of self is fine. But, it's nice for my way of doing things to be reinforced and supported rather than my feeling the need to justify and defend my parenting decisions. So during the month of January, I was thankful to have attended the</span> <span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://www.msfriendsofmidwives.org/">Mississippi Friends of Midwives</a> Push Party 2011. Of course, my daughter was with me, and I was surrounded by other baby-wearing families and nursing mothers. When my daughter was ready to nurse, we nursed without my missing a beat in the conversation going on. At one point --because she is so easily distracted-- my daughter unlatched and looked up at me as if to question why we weren't excusing ourselves to another more quiet location. I looked down at her and told her, "It's okay. You can nurse. They are all okay with it. I promise." She looked back at me and seemed to have nodded her head in agreement and went back to nursing. It is so refreshing to hang out with like-minded individuals!</span></div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-14408253441463165042011-01-01T22:59:00.002-06:002011-01-15T21:42:25.942-06:00Happy New Year!<div style="background-color: #ffe599; color: #274e13;">It's been over four months since I have posted anything. So, what?!? :) I can explain! Labor Day 2010 was my last day on maternity leave and my baby girl is now in daycare. In short, I have less time to sit in front of a keyboard and type things that others may or may not have an interest. And when I would have otherwise had the time, I have chosen to spend quality time with her and my husband instead.</div><div style="background-color: #ffe599; color: #274e13;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #ffe599;"><span style="color: #274e13;">But, today is the beginning of a New Year and there is no better time to make a few resolutions. Let's start with this blog. What good is it to have a blog if it is not going to be updated on a regular basis? </span> <b style="color: #b45f06;">I hope to post in my blog <i>at least</i> once every month during 2011.</b></div><div style="background-color: #ffe599;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #ffe599;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Every few years or so, I dive into my ancestry. I get curious and want to know more about my roots. Just recently, this has happened to me again. I vow to not get over-zealous all at once and let my curiosity burn hard and fizzle out this time. For the first time, I not only have roots, but I also have branches! This is exciting for me and I feel as though I need to do this for my daughter. Therefore,</span> <b style="color: #b45f06;">I hope to spend time in a genealogy library approximately once a month throughout 2011.</b> <span style="color: #274e13;">I am going to try to get a couple of other family members on-board and make it a family outing. </span></div><div style="background-color: #ffe599; color: #274e13;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #ffe599;"><span style="color: #274e13;">So far, I have been exclusively breastfeeding my daughter. She is now just over six months old. I am proud of myself for being able to stick to it even after returning to work. I was committed to providing my daughter the best possible nutrition and nurturing, and my commitment has paid off. She is healthy and happy and growing so fast. She is strong and intelligent and beautiful, too! Introducing solid food is on the horizon, and I am still committed to providing my daughter the best. <b style="color: #b45f06;">I plan to not ever buy jarred baby food for my daughter.</b> I hope I am able to make all of her food for her. I understand it is the most economical and healthy way to feed a baby solid food. </span> <span style="color: #274e13;">I hope to use mostly organic fruits and vegetables in my daughter's food</span><span style="color: #b45f06;"></span><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="color: #274e13;">,</span> which may cost a little more, but given that breast milk will continue to be her primary source of nutrition throughout the first year, I think I can splurge a little when it comes to her solids. </span></div><div style="background-color: #ffe599; color: #274e13;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #ffe599; color: #274e13;">Perhaps this post hasn't been interesting. But, hopefully it will be functional. I have heard that putting one's goals down in writing is one step closer to meeting those goals. Let's hope so! And, I hope each of you have a very pleasant and blessed 2011! </div><div style="background-color: #ffe599;"><br />
</div><span style="background-color: #ffd966;"></span>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-66975281738943295762010-08-28T23:57:00.002-05:002010-08-29T00:20:49.798-05:00Cats and Babies<div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;">Did you know that having a family pet helps to reduce the incidence of childhood pet allergies, builds a child's self-esteem, teaches empathy and compassion, not to mention provides undeniable companionship for your child? With research supporting such positive attributes to having companion animals, it is surprising to me the number of people who refuse to allow their children to be around pets. But, there is a lot of misinformation out there... </div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;">When I was pregnant with my daughter, you wouldn't believe the number of people who told me I would have to consider the possibility of getting rid of my cats, or at least making them outdoor pets. My response? "That's NOT going to happen." I would always acknowledge that bringing a human baby into this world meant that my priorities would, in fact, change. But, that didn't mean my furry babies would ever be left out in the cold --or in the heat, as the case may be in Central Mississippi. I am a responsible pet owner and that means my pets will always have a forever home.</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;">I've been an animal welfare advocate for quite a long time, so I've taken the time to educate myself about the myths and realities of pet ownership with respect to pregnancy and parenting. I've decided to focus this blog entry primarily on households with one or more cats.</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;">One of the greatest myths out there is that a pregnant woman risks her health and the health of her unborn child by having a cat for a pet --the culprit being <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i>. To say this is a myth is not to say that toxoplasmosis does not occur or that members of the cat family are not the primary hosts of <i>T. gondii.</i> But, the fact of the matter is that it is relatively easy to eliminate the chances of infection just by using a little common sense. Cats become infected by ingesting rodents or birds who are infected with the parasite, so just by keeping your cat indoors you can dramatically decrease the risk of infection in your home. And, since toxoplasmosis cysts are shed in the feces of infected animals, it is important to either wear gloves and/or thoroughly wash your hands after cleaning litter boxes, which should be done twice daily to prevent any cysts from becoming infectious. If you have someone to help you --such as a spouse-- then it is best to let him take over litter box duties while you are pregnant.</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;">Another perpetual myth is that cats will suck the breath out of a newborn baby as he or she sleeps. The reality is that some cats and dogs like to cuddle, so it is best to keep the baby's sleep area off limits to pets until the child is older to avoid the risk of suffocation. <u>The same is true for stuffed animals</u>.</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;">Nearly one out of every five people are allergic to animals, so it is not surprising that another common myth is that having a child who is diagnosed with a pet allergy means the family pet should take a hike. This is such a heartbreaking suggestion and it is almost always unnecessary. Before taking such drastic measures, try a few of these more humane suggestions:</div><ul style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;"><li>Make your child's room and/or play area a pet-free zone by keeping the doors to these areas closed.</li>
<li>Minimize the amount of carpet (which can trap allergens) in your home by installing other flooring alternatives such as hardwood and ceramic tiles.</li>
<li>Use a HEPA filter-equipped vacuum and dust frequently.</li>
<li>Steam clean any carpeted areas or fabric-covered furniture periodically. </li>
<li>Use a HEPA filter-equipped air purifier in your home.<span></span></li>
<li>Teach your child to wash his or her hands after handling the pet.</li>
<li>Bathe and groom your pet regularly to eliminate excess allergens that can become trapped in the fur. </li>
<li>Note that medications and immunotherapy alternatives exist, as well.</li>
</ul><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;">Using one or more of the above suggestions virtually eliminates the possibility of having to rid your home of the family pet, which makes for a much happier family.</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #d0e0e3; color: #0c343d;">For more information, please visit the <a href="http://www.aspca.org/">ASPCA</a> website and other pet-friendly resources.</div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-30605240623275731452010-08-21T19:17:00.004-05:002010-08-21T19:24:11.976-05:00Take as Directed<div style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #660000;">If you are like me, then you hate taking medicine or having to give medicine to your child. But, sometimes this is unavoidable and we are fortunate to live in an age when such medications exist and various illnesses and discomforts can easily be treated. However, with this scientific advancement comes new responsibilities. I have worked for approximately 16 years in a pharmacy setting and cannot count the number of times people have called the pharmacy because of medication safety issues. Most of these issues could have been avoided with just a little bit of forethought. Because it is our responsibility as parents and caregivers to insure the safety of our children, I have composed the following list of recommendations for families to follow when taking/giving medications, whether over-the-counter or prescribed.</div><div style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #660000;"><br />
</div><ul style="background-color: #9fc5e8; color: #660000;"><li>Medications are not for sharing. NEVER give a medication to someone other than the person for whom it was prescribed; NEVER take a medication that was prescribed for someone else.</li>
<li>If you are prescribed an ANTIBIOTIC (ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure whether your medication is an antibiotic, or not), finish the entire course of therapy to avoid reinfection. This is usually all of the medication that is dispensed, but sometimes the directions will tell you to toss out any remainder after so many days. Do this! DO NOT HOARD ANTIBIOTICS!</li>
<li>If you are prescribed an analgesic (pain reliever) or are using one of the many over-the-counter pain relievers, then take/give the lowest dose necessary to achieve the desired pain relief. The directions from the doctor (or on the package of an OTC product) will usually give a range of dosages and/or time intervals the medication should be taken (e.g., Take 1 to 2 dosage units every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain). If you are having to take/give the maximum dose (in this example, 2 dosage units every 4 hours) and are still in pain, then contact your physician. DO NOT take/give more than the prescribed amount.</li>
<li>All medications can have SIDE EFFECTS, which are different from ALLERGIC REACTIONS. Common side effects are drowsiness or hyperactivity, nausea and/or vomiting, diarrhea, and funny tastes in the mouth. Signs of an allergic reaction to an oral medication generally include a rash or hives --with or without itching and/or swelling-- and in more severe cases, a difficulty in breathing. Some allergic reactions are medical emergencies. Called <i>anaphylaxis</i>, it is identified by a rapid onset of allergic symptoms and can lead to shock, or dangerously low blood pressure. Without medical assistance, shock can cause unconsciousness, cardiac arrest, and even death. ALWAYS discuss any previous side effects and allergic reactions to medications with your doctor <u>and</u> pharmacist before taking/giving any new medications.</li>
<li>Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications and supplements you are taking/giving before starting a new medication. Using the same pharmacy for all of your prescription needs can help you to avoid harmful DRUG INTERACTIONS because your complete prescription history is available at the pharmacist's fingertips. I recommend using a pharmacy that is open 24 hours so that it is always available to you when you need it most.</li>
<li>Do not take expired medication. EXPIRATION DATES are on the package for a reason. While it is true that some medications only decrease in their effectiveness over time, some medications actually breakdown into harmful substances. This harm ranges from minor stomach upset to kidney damage. Keep in mind that the expiration date on a medication refers to the date a medication is expected to still be good, provided it is kept at proper storage conditions.</li>
<li>PROPER STORAGE is crucial, as mentioned above. Some medications require refrigeration; some require that they be kept at a controlled room temperature. Ask your pharmacist if any of your medications have special storage instructions.</li>
<li>NEVER give a child a medication that was designed for an adult, even in smaller amounts, except under the advice and supervision of a physician. Infants and children are not simply miniature adults. Their digestive systems and the ability to metabolize substances are immature and their growth is obviously incomplete. Some medications are only safe for adults to take because their bodies are capable of eliminating any toxic byproducts of metabolism or because their growth is complete and therefore will not be adversely affected.</li>
<li>Infant formulations are MORE CONCENTRATED than children formulations of similar medications. For example, infants' acetaminophen (also known as Tylenol®) drops contain 100 mg/mL acetaminophen, but children's acetaminophen liquid, contains only 32 mg/mL acetaminophen.</li>
<li>When administering medication to an infant or child, allow only one adult caregiver to be responsible for giving each dose of a given medication for the duration of therapy. This helps to avoid the possibility of a child receiving a double dose. This obviously isn't a steadfast rule, but it is good advice because accidents like these happen more often than one would think.</li>
<li>Use only a device designed specifically for measuring and administering medication when giving liquid medications. If a product comes with an enclosed dropper, then use only the enclosed dropper when giving the medication. The volume contained in household spoons varies widely, but medication directions are very specific. Use an appropriate measuring device to avoid improper dosing.</li>
<li>If you think you may have taken/given too much of a medication, or if you suspect your child has ingested something he or she wasn't supposed to, then contact the <a href="http://www.aapcc.org/">Poison Control Center</a> without delay. The nationwide hotline for poison emergencies is 1-800-222-1222.</li>
<li>If you have questions about whether a medication is safe to take while pregnant or nursing, then contact the <a href="http://www.infantrisk.org/">InfantRisk Center</a> at (806) 352-2519. Personnel are available to answer calls Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm Central Time.</li>
<li><span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">If you have questions or concerns about a medication, then please ASK QUESTIONS </span><i>before</i> <span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;">taking/giving the medication. </span></li>
</ul>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-19504826598753270822010-08-14T23:51:00.008-05:002010-08-15T16:03:37.265-05:00Cloth Diaper Review<div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;">During my pregnancy, I told several people that I would be surprised if my baby came out weighing more than seven pounds. So, from the get-go I decided to start my cloth diaper stash with a good number of <a href="http://www.kissaluvs.com/">Kissaluvs</a> Cotton Fleece Fitted Diapers v2.0 in size 0/newborn, and a handful of <a href="http://www.bumgenius.com/">bumGenius!</a> 3.0 Deluxe All-In-One Diapers in the extra-small size.</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;">One of the selling features of the Kissaluvs included a snap-down front setting to help protect a newborn's umbilical cord stump, not to mention their design was small enough for even a five pound baby. Kissaluvs were the smallest modern cloth diaper I could find. It's important to note that these Kissaluvs require the use of a waterproof cover.</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;">On the other hand, the bumGenius! AIOs do not require a waterproof cover. As such, they are a really good choice for someone who is new to cloth diapering because they are most similar in use to disposables. They feature hook-and-loop closures (commonly known as Velcro®) and a super-absorbent microfiber terry internal soaker with a suedecloth lining. They are designed to fit a baby as small as six pounds.</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;">My daughter weighed six pounds and nine ounces when she was born, so I was able to try out both types of diapers right away. I quickly learned to appreciate the convenience of an AIO diaper, as opposed to one that required a diaper cover. And, the bG! diapers quickly became my preferred overnight diaper, too --not because they were more absorbent; I think the absorbency is probably about equal. It was because the suedecloth lining of the diapers seemed to keep the moisture away from my baby's delicate bottom --something really important for a restful night's sleep. I didn't, however, like the hook-and-loop closures of the bG! diaper because the sound made when being unfastened tends to startle a newborn baby. The Kissaluvs diapers features snaps that aren't so noisy.</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;">My daughter weighed seven pounds and eight ounces at her fortnight visit with the pediatrician. That was over a month ago. We haven't had a weight-check since then, but her next appointment is within the next week. I'd be willing to bet she is well over eight pounds by now because she has outgrown her newborn-sized clothing. Momma's Milk does a body good! Now that my baby girl is getting bigger and ready to graduate from the newborn-sized diapers, it is time to put to good use what I have learned about modern cloth diapers, my preferences, and what my daughter needs in a diaper. </div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;">What do I need to keep in mind when making my next cloth diaper purchase?</div><ul style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;"><li>I prefer to not have to use a separate cloth diaper cover.</li>
<li>I prefer snaps over hook-and-loop closures.</li>
<li>I prefer a moisture-wicking inner layer next to my daughter's bottom.</li>
<li> My daughter tends to be a heavy wetter.</li>
<li>My daughter will soon be starting daycare. </li>
<li>Cloth diapers are an <i>investment</i>, and not a purchase to be taken lightly.</li>
<li>My daycare provider is willing to give cloth diapers a <i>trial run</i>. </li>
</ul><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;">My husband and I long ago decided that our next step would be to a one-size diaper because that makes the most financial sense in our family. OS diapers typically boast being able to fit a child from newborn to potty learning, or approximately 8 to 35 pounds. Because my daughter is a heavy wetter, I became interested in pocket diapers. Pocket diapers boast having a tailored absorbency through the use of various types of removable inserts. Other than having a removable insert, pocket diapers are very similar in design to AIOs. Pre-stuffed pocket diapers and all-in-one diapers are generally more satisfactory to those who are reluctant to try modern cloth diapers, such as daycare providers.</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f4cccc; color: magenta;">So far, I have test driven the bumGenius! 4.0 OS Pocket Diaper (with snap closures) and the <a href="http://www.fuzzibunz.com/">FuzziBunz®</a> OS Pocket Diaper. The bG! 4.0 OS Pocket Diaper with Snaps, unfortunately, does not live up to its claim of being suitable for a newborn. It does not size down enough to properly fit my daughter, resulting in inevitable leakage. It is also extremely bulky. It is available in eight different colors, and these colors are all pastel. Given how much I have been pleased with the bG! 3.0 Deluxe AIO, I don't doubt that the bG! 4.0 OS Pocket Diaper is a good diaper. It just doesn't fit my daughter, yet, so it is not what I would expect from a one-size diaper. The FuzziBunz® OS Pocket Diaper, however, easily sizes down to fit my daughter. Although it is not as trim as a fitted diaper, the extra little bit of "poufyness" is kinda cute and hardly what I would consider to be bulky. It is currently available in fourteen different colors to suit almost any wardrobe or even coordinate with your favorite athletic team. The only color I feel is missing from the collection is a true green. I still would like to try the <a href="http://www.katydidcloth.com/">Katydid</a> OS Pocket Diaper before making my final decision, but for now the FuzziBunz® are definitely in the lead.</div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-75191237784182346212010-08-07T21:37:00.007-05:002010-08-07T22:49:30.964-05:00National Immunization Awareness Month<div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">August is National Immunization Awareness Month.</div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">In my circle of moms, however, there are several who oppose the routine vaccination schedule given to children. But, given my experience in the medical and scientific fields, I support the use of vaccines and hold true that vaccines save lives.</div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Vaccines work by introducing an innocuous amount of an attenuated antigen into the tissue of an individual. This stimulates the person's own immune system to make antibodies against a given pathogen. Then, if a person is exposed to the pathogen (and sometimes even related pathogens) in the future, the body's cells will essentially "remember" what to do to be able to successfully fight off the infection. This remembrance is what we call immunity. Basically, a vaccine helps to eliminate the element of surprise in the arsenal of disease. If your body knows what to expect, then it is better prepared to fight back. </div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Below are conclusions in a couple of the areas of concern among mothers. I have included the relevant links to articles from the <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> (CDC) for your reference. </div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">*Studies have concluded that vaccines <i>are not</i> a risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).<br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/Concerns/sids_faq.html">http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/Concerns/sids_faq.html</a></div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">*Research <i>does not</i> indicate a link between thimerosal, a preservative used in some vaccines, and autism. Since 2001 however, with the exception of some influenza (flu) vaccines, the use of thimerosal has been discontinued as a preservative in the routinely recommended childhood vaccines. It is important to note that autism rates have risen during this same time period, which is the opposite of what would be expected if thimerosal had caused autism.<br />
<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/Concerns/Thimerosal/thimerosal_faqs.html">http://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/Concerns/Thimerosal/thimerosal_faqs.html</a></div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
<br />
Below are the current immunization schedules as set forth by the <a href="http://www.aap.org/">American Academy of Pediatrics</a> (AAP), and likely required by your State Department of Health for school and daycare:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://aapredbook.aappublications.org/resources/IZSchedule0-6yrs.pdf">2010 Childhood Immunization Schedule</a> (Age 0-6 years)</div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://aapredbook.aappublications.org/resources/IZSchedule7-18yrs.pdf">2010 Adolescent Immunization Schedule</a> (Age 7-18 years)<br />
<a href="http://aapredbook.aappublications.org/resources/IZScheduleCatchup.pdf">2010 Catch-Up Immunization Schedule</a><br />
<a href="http://www.aap.org/"><br />
</a></div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-50211076550858600652010-07-31T23:39:00.005-05:002010-07-31T23:44:24.410-05:00Breast Milk Storage<div style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #073763;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I'm all about color, and saving money, and reducing waste... So, here's an idea to help us working and pumping mothers.</span></div><div style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #073763;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #073763;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Instead of purchasing and using disposable breast milk storage bags (which can get to be quite expensive, not to mention wasteful), why not use the reusable plastic breast milk storage bottles? While it is true the volume each bottle will contain is usually less than the total volume of a breast milk storage bag, storing in smaller amounts is generally recommended to reduce waste. Of course, all expressed breast milk should be dated before storing, but writing a date on these bottles would essentially negate their being used again and again. That's where color-coding comes in!</span></div><div style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #073763;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #073763;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">My system uses a different color rubber band (or ponytail holder) wrapped around each bottle to represent the day of the week the milk was expressed. This tells me when my breast milk must be used or frozen by. Sound familiar??? That is because this is essentially the same sort of code used by bread retailers and their twist ties!</span></div><div style="background-color: #ead1dc; color: #073763;"><br />
For more information on proper breast milk storage, please visit <a href="http://www.llli.org/FAQ/milkstorage.html">http://www.llli.org/FAQ/milkstorage.html</a></div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-924986156387077036.post-39578727507806117042010-07-24T17:01:00.002-05:002010-08-17T15:21:02.683-05:00Baby Booty Cleanser<div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">After doing a little bit of online research about various natural ingredients used in home remedies for a plethora of skin conditions, I have devised a recipe for a natural baby booty cleanser. With the assistance of reusable cloth baby wipes (I like <a href="http://www.fuzzibunz.com/">FuzziBunz®</a> Double-Sided Wonder Wipes), this compound is intended to be used in the place of disposable baby wipes!</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">60 mL Aloe Vera Juice</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">30 mL Jojoba Oil*</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">30 mL <a href="http://www.drbronner.com/">Dr. Bronner's</a> Baby Mild Liquid Soap</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"> 5 mL Apple Cider Vinegar</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2-4 drops Lavender Essential Oil</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">1-2 drops Tea Tree Oil</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Distilled Water, QS to 8 ounces (approximately 115 mL)</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Mix by gentle inversion. Store in an airtight, light-resistant container. </div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; color: #073763; font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">*Either pure jojoba oil, or jojoba oil infused with calendula can be used</div>Orange Lillieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02830086207056556997noreply@blogger.com0