Guide to Everythingtag:www.alphamom.com,2009:/guide-to-everything//212009-01-05T14:22:34ZMovable Type 3.33How to Get Back in the Saddle Again After Having a Babytag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.19332009-01-05T14:01:05Z2009-01-05T14:22:34ZAre you excited or hesitant? We have 5 tips for enjoying sex soon after baby. If you're an expert, help out a mama and tell us yours.Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Kristen Chase, author of Motherhood Uncensored and Mominatrix, a sex column for parents.
1. Take it Slow
Postpartum sex should not be approached like doing a cannonball into a cold pool. While you might be extremely horny, especially if you were one of the many pregnant women who would rather eat four gallons of ice cream than have sex, make sure that you’ve gotten the “okay” from your doctor. Childbirth is very much like running a marathon, and your body does need time to recover. So enjoy foreplay or run a few bases before sliding into home plate.
2. Return to Romance
While you might not have enough time to set up the candles and toss rose petals all over the bed, romance can be helpful in making your return to sex a bit more enjoyable. So definitely attempt to set the mood – whether it’s taking a warm bubble bath together, or changing into something other than postpartum underpants and a nursing bra. And some light music will help you get in the groove all while masking the sounds of either your smacking bodies or the baby’s screams.
3. Lube it Up
Chances are your postpartum private parts resemble the Sahara Desert these days, so before you decide to get it on, make sure to invest in some water-based lube. If you’re not a regular lube user, you might want to reacquaint yourself with it and get the high school giggles out of the way before engaging in passionate love-making. And stock up on towels. Or just use a few burp cloths. Same difference.
4. Take Control
Keep in mind that you very recently had a little human exit nether region so you can bet they’re going to be a bit sensitive. So put yourself in charge and choose positions that allow you to have control, thus making the experience enjoyable and successful. Once you’re feeling more comfortable, you can stretch your muscles (ahem) and enjoy a bit more flexibility.
5. Give Yourself Time
When it comes to getting back in the sack again after having a baby, there are absolutely no time specifications or rules of engagement. It comes down to you and your body being ready. So regardless of whether your gyno has taken you off the “disabled list,” it’s up to you to take the plunge. That means it could be three weeks or three months.
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How To Get Your Kids To Eat Healthiertag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.15532009-01-02T14:56:18Z2009-01-02T17:16:39ZWe have 5 easy-to-remember ideas for you.Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Torrie of I Pretty Much Hate Everything
1. Exercise your control- while you still have it.
If you only feed your baby healthy food, they won't know that junk exist- well, at least until they start school and see what the other kids are eating. A good rule of thumb for food- if it is packaged for children, you should probably keep it away from your kids. Ironic.
2. Sneak it in.
Whenever you make a grain- rice, cous cous, quinoa, etc. cook it in vegetable broth instead of water. Make homemade tomato sauce with onion, garlic, spinach and carrots in it- then puree it- they'll never know the difference. Whenever using ricotta cheese substitute half of it with crumbled firm tofu. Experiment. You'd be surprised what you can hide in their food.
3. Lead by example.
My husband and I try to only eat healthy things in front of our daughter. It's very hard to convince your kids to eat their broccoli when you are stuffing your face with pizza, chips, and soda. If I really feel like indulging, I do it when I'm not around my kid.
4. Be prepared.
Make sure that you always have your kitchen stocked with healthy foods. When you go out- whether it's to run errands, or to visit friends- make sure that you bring healthy snacks with you. Otherwise, you might end up feeding your hungry child whatever you can get your hands on.
5. Be persistent, but don't pressure.
If your child refuses to eat a certain food, don't force it, but don't give up. I will put small pieces of food that my daughter has rejected before on her high chair tray. Sometimes I'll offer her the same food 5-10 times before she will eat it, but I keep offering it to her. Kids will go through phases with food. They might love something, then not eat it for six months, then love it again. That's why you have to keep offering them healthy choices- even if they reject them at first.
Torrie of www.iprettymuchhateeverything.com is certified in nutrition, used to be a pastry chef, and was a nanny for several years. She is currently a photographer (www.torrielmphotography.com) and a stay at home mom. Her daughter Willa, is 15 months old.]]>
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How to save $100 per month painlesslytag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.19702008-12-31T16:08:13Z2009-01-02T15:24:17ZIs your New Year's Resolution to save money? Don't miss these five easy-to-follow ideas. Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Lylah M. Alphonse of Write. Edit. Repeat.1. Learn to love leftovers for lunch.
If you buy lunch at work or eat out while running errands, and you spend $7 per lunch, bringing your own lunch four days a week (treat yourself on the fifth, if you want) saves you $28 a week, or about $112 a month. Yes, you spend more on groceries, but not $112 more. And most people spend more than $7 on lunch at a restaurant. You don't have to reheat the leftovers as they are, either -- london broil makes excellent lunchtime fajitas, for example.
2. Make your own coffee.
I love a good cup of coffee (or three). Making it at home, from high-quality beans, still costs less than a daily Venti Mocha Whatever at an ubiquitous, big-name coffee house, and it can easily save you $5 to $30 per week. (If you can't live without your latte, try British chef Jamie Oliver's trick: Put some milk in a container with a tight-fitting lid, shake it hard, and mmmmm, foam. Note: The tight-fitting lid is key. Trust me.)
3. Ditch the juice boxes.
I have a lot of kids (five of them). You may not have that many, but you're probably still spending a fortune on juice boxes. I started sending them to school and camp with reusable bottles filled with homemade lemonade and saved at least $40 a month. And they didn't feel deprived at all.
4. Double the recipe and stash the excess in the freezer.
There are plenty of dinners — chili, stews, curries, lasagna, pork chops, stir fries, meatloaf, hearty soups — that take practically no extra effort to double up. Later in the week, save the $20 (or more!) you were going to spend on a pizza and pull that extra meal out of the freezer instead. Your wallet and your waistline will thank you.
5. Stop buying all of those cleaning products.
Spending more money on a gorgeously scented cleaner won't make you feel less guilty about being too busy to use it as often as you should. You'd be surprised at what you can do with white vinegar, baking soda, and other non-toxic, cheap-as-all-get-out, easy-to-find items out there.]]>
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Five Steps to a Flawless Diaper Bagtag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.19662008-12-29T15:38:09Z2008-12-30T17:26:24ZGetting organized for the new year? Don't forget to organize your lifeline, er, we mean diaper bag. Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Beth of bessie.viola
Leaving the house for first outings with your little one can be a daunting prospect. Just days or weeks ago, you carted baby with you everywhere you went without any extra needs (save for frequent rest areas and a good sense of humor to deal with the stares and comments of every stranger you’d meet).
Now that Junior has arrived, you’ll want to put a bit of extra thought into what you’re carrying with you when you hit the road. No worries – we’ve got you (and your new addition) covered.
1. Cover your butt.
Isn’t that what this is all about? It’s a pretty sure bet that baby will need freshening up at some point. Your arsenal should include the necessities and then some: a changing pad, wipes, powder, your preferred diaper rash ointment, and of course diapers. Bring what you think you’ll need, and then double it. I keep my bag stocked with approximately 10 diapers, and I always have an extra box of wipes in my car – my daughter is famous for explosive poops (sorry for the overshare, Maddie). Which brings us to the next item on your list....
2. Keep it clean.
Your baby has probably already impressed you with prolific output, so you know the story here. At least one extra outfit, two preferred. It doesn’t have to be the most perfect ensemble ever – just a couple of extra onesies and pants (dependent on the weather) should do the trick here. If you’re in a state or season where the climate is known to vary, toss in a jacket or sweater as well – can’t hurt and in a situation where you run through a few outfits, it can help.
3. Feed me!
Hey, when they’re hungry, they’re hungry – and they’ll be sure to let you and the rest of the free world know. Nursing moms have a bit of an easier time with this item of the list – they’re ready to go at a moment’s notice, save for the occasional use of a nursing cover and the possible post-dinner tube of lanolin. If you’re formula feeding or using expressed breastmilk, however, you have a bit more work to do. Moms who formula feed will need bottles, the necessary amount of formula in a secure container, and bottled water for mixing (if you’ll be away from a good source or don’t feel confident in it). Moms using expressed breastmilk will need bottles and their milk on ice (Medela makes a great cooler for this). Whatever your method of feeding, don’t forget that you’ll need supplies for cleanup duty: I like to carry (2) burping cloths and a bib (especially if my girl is in a particularly cute outfit that I’d rather she not drool all over).
4. Entertainment: You.
I know that you are your baby’s best source of amusement. I know this, but I also know that sometimes? You may need a break. That’s where your entertainment committee comes in: rattles, age-appropriate books, a favorite doll or comforting lovey. All are great to have; simply consider your environment and the level of noise that will be acceptable and pack accordingly. If you use them, don’t forget an extra pacifier – and this handy little trick will keep it close at hand anywhere you go.
5. Who me? Yes. You.
With the no makeup on. Take care of yourself a bit, won’t you? Make sure you pack a little something for yourself in the bag. A bottle of water, a few granola bars, extra breast/sanitary pads, hand sanitizer, a nice lotion, even an extra shirt if you have a baby prone to regurgitation.
And… you’re done! Not so bad, is it? You’re ready to hit the streets with your brand-new babe in tow. Go out and enjoy your fabulously-prepared self!
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Further Your Education for Freetag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.17902008-12-24T15:14:24Z2008-12-24T21:07:49ZHave you already started thinking about your New Years' Resolutions? Even if furthering your education is not on your list, these resource reminders are great.Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By the folks at Livemocha
Between the economic downturn and the ever-rising cost of tuition, most people have less extra cash to spend these days on education and personal development. But whether you are interested in increasing your expertise in a particular subject for your career or just have a life-long desire for knowledge, there are many options for furthering your education without breaking the bank. Here are five free things you can do right away.
1. Make use of your local museums.
Most museums offer at least one day a month where admission is free. Check the website of your local museum to find out which day(s) they offer no or even low-cost admission. A museum is a great place to learn about history, art, fashion, technology, and more. Many museums also offer free lecture tours, lecture series, or supplementary educational materials.
2. Learn a new language on the Internet.
Livemocha, an online language learning community with over 1 million members worldwide, provides instructional content and the opportunity to practice language with native speakers through chat and video. The site includes lessons in 12 popular foreign languages, including Spanish, French, German, Russian, Mandarin, Japanese, Arabic, Icelandic, Hindi, Italian, Portuguese and Korean. Best of all, it’s free to join!
3. Get a library card.
Most libraries offer free or low-cost, one time membership. After you get a membership, you can check out as many books as you want for free. If you’re interested in a particular subject areas, most libraries have computer catalogs that allow you to search titles for specific to your interest area. The library can also be a great place to get involved with a book club or study group on a particular topic of interest.
4. Enroll in free community college courses.
A number of community colleges offer non-credit courses at no cost. Chances are there may be courses available in your subject area. Check with your local community college to see what they offer.
5. Find free online resources for computer training.
Various vendors offer free online tutorials for their software. Whether you’re interested in photo restoration or programming, you can probably find a free course online. You can check out current offerings from HP here.
(This is not a paid sponsorship; this is an editorial contribution) ]]>
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How to lower your heating billtag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.19552008-12-22T14:21:05Z2008-12-24T15:41:40ZBrrrr. Cold fronts hit many parts of the US simultaneously this past weekend. We've got 5 tips on how to save money on that heating bill immediately.Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Lylah M. Alphonse of Write. Edit. Repeat.
Where I live, in New England, home-heating costs are past "high" and approaching "WTF" levels, even though fuel prices have come down since the summer. I've made it my mission to whittle that heating bill down as much as possible. You, too, can lower your heating bill by following these five easy steps, none of which are "cover the windows in plastic," "buy adult-size footie pajamas," or "re-upholster the couch in fleece."
1. Check the electrical outlets.
It goes without saying that you've caulked the gaps along your window sills and pressed weather stripping against the edges of your doors, right? Now, check your electrical outlets -- after all, they're basically holes in your walls with wires poking through and plenty of space for cold air to seep in from outside. (Don't seal them with caulk, though; pick up a package of fire-retardant foam outlet sealers at the hardware store and slip them behind the face plates).
2. Pull the furniture away from the walls.
There's no reason why the chest of drawers or the couch should hoard the heat coming from your baseboards.
3. Don't fire up the fireplace.
That cozy fire is making the house nice and toasty, right? Wrong. An open fireplace actually ends up sucking warm air out of the room and up the chimney. Use only in case of extreme roasted-marshmallow cravings
4. Do turn on the fans.
It seems counter-intuitive — aren't fans are for cooling off, not heating up? Well… sort of. Heat rises, so you can use your ceiling fans to help push that warm air back down to the parts of the room that really need it.
5. Get cozy in bed.
I'm talking about heavy blankets, down comforters, flannel sheets, and hot water bottles at your feet. But yeah, that's a good idea, too!]]>
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How To Get Your Picky Eater to Eat Healthfullytag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.15472008-12-19T12:12:14Z2008-12-19T14:44:28ZAhh, the problem of the picky eater. An all too common issue.Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Arianne of To Think Is To Create1. Start Small
Picky eaters don't change overnight, so keep your expectations low and your patience high. Start by switching that white bread to wheat, that fried food to baked or that candy bar to organic. Then eat the candy bar yourself to get you through the ordeal. You deserve it.
2. Seasoning Does Matter
Don't be afraid to start seasoning foods that have been refused before, and offer again. Add seasoned salt, pepper, garlic, etc to everything under the sun, and call things easy names like "black salt" and "red salt". Tell them bland food is for wimps.
3. When I Dip, You Dip, We Dip
Then let them dip away to their heart's content. Want to dip carrots in ketchup? Be my guest, just make it the healthy ketchup (corn-syrup free). Get them so excited about the dip that they forget that they don't like carrots/celery/asparagus, and instead ask for more mustard to dip their cucumber in.
4. All For One and One For All
If you're trying to get the kids eating better, they can't see you scarfing those thin mints every other day. Make it a family affair, clear out all the junk from the kitchen, and don't buy more. With limited options, picky eaters will start to spread their wings. Show the kids you're serious about eating well by setting the example (and keep your monthly chocolate need to yourself, and in your closet).
5. Health Makes You Cool
Play up how important it is to be healthy by teaching them that junk food will hurt their body in the long run. Tell them how taking care of their bodies will make them smarter, faster, funnier and happier. Throw in a hero or someone fit and healthy to look up to (like an Olympian, perhaps?), and you have the motivation you need. Then cross your fingers that THIS time, they're listening.
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How to Sing Your Child to Sleeptag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.16072008-12-17T15:02:14Z2008-12-18T15:42:05ZIt's the Holidays and whole new repertoire of music is now everywhere. Use it to your advantage and create lasting memories. Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Lindsay Ferrier of Suburban Turmoil1. Stick with the standards.
Yes, that aria from La Boheme was gorgeous, but chances are your kid won’t fall asleep to your screeched rendition of it. Choose classic lullabies with low, soothing tones.
2. Don’t worry about the words.
Your child will fall asleep fastest to repetitive sounds. That’s where a good “hmm mmm mmm” really comes in handy.
3. Create a deeply comforting memory.
Choose one song above all the others to be your own special lullaby. Your child will always feel comforted by that song, even as an adult. My mother sang “All the Pretty Little Horses” to me and I sing it now to my own children.
4. Feel the vibration.
Let your child rest his or her head on your chest as you sing. He will be in dreamland before you know it. This is especially beneficial for young babies, who will associate that sound with hearing your voice in the womb.
5. Exercise patience.
Singing your child to sleep may require as many as twenty repetitions of the same song. Get comfy- You may end up singing your own self to sleep, too.]]>
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How to Make Your Rental Feel Like a Hometag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.19322008-12-15T14:40:45Z2008-12-15T17:16:52ZIn this time of economic crisis a lot of people are forced to rent when they would rather own. We've got some tips for making your rental feel more like a home.
Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Torrie of I Pretty Much Hate Everything
In this time of economic crisis a lot of people are forced to rent when they would rather own. Here are some tips for making your rental feel more like a home:
1. Don't be afraid to improve it.
A lot of people have the attitude that they don't want to spend a dime on their rental because it's money they will never get back. However, making a few small improvements can make your rental feel more like “yours.” At our current place, we have spent a few dollars replacing the hardware on our kitchen cabinets (took years off of them), planted a garden, put outdoor carpeting on a cement patio in our backyard, so our toddler could play on it without hurting herself (it only cost us $80 at a home improvement store), and replaced a couple of fluorescent light fixtures. Some landlords are also willing to chip in, if not pay for minor home improvements. See what you can negotiate.
2. Work with what you have.
I currently have a bathroom with a blue bathtub and a blue toilet, so I have big fluffy white towels, white bathmats, and a white waffle weave shower curtain hung with stainless steel rings. The white gives a comfortable, clean, spa-like look, and draws attention away from the blue monstrosities.
3. It's all in the details.
Curtains and rugs can go a long way in making a place seem more homey. So can artwork, framed family pictures, plants, and candles.
4. Add some color.
White walls can give a place a cold, institutional feeling. Most landlords will be OK with you painting as long as you return the walls to white when you leave. If not, you can tack fabric to the walls or ceilings.
5. Come to terms with it.
You may be unhappy that you're stuck renting instead of living in your dream house, but if you refuse to accept it, the entire time you live there will be wasted. Your rental is part of your life. Don't be afraid to build memories there.
Torrie, who blogs at I Pretty Much Hate Everything, is 32 and has lived in rentals all her life. She thinks it should be against the law to have anything but a white toilet.
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How to Get Your Husband to Help with the New Babytag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.15402008-12-10T13:08:15Z2008-12-11T15:22:32ZThe hilarious Brian of Looky, Daddy tell it to us straight.Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Brian of Looky, Daddy!1. Encourage him.
Studies have shown that the biggest contributer to having a helpful husband is spousal encouragement. Well, duh.
2. Remember he is not you.
Your husband will do things differently than you. This is not a bad thing.
3. Force the issue.
Leave the house. Repeatedly. Give him time to establish his own routines and feel comfortable with them.
4. Trust him.
Yes, you might have clocked in over 7,000 hours of babysitting by the time you were thirteen years old, and, yes, this might be the first baby your husband has ever held, but he will not break it. If you hover over him, you are likely to get the baby handed back to you.
5. Don't accept the typical excuses.
If your husband works and asks for some "relaxation time" when he gets home, strap the Baby Bjorn to his chest and ask him what could be more relaxing than a walk around the block.]]>
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How To Maintain Sanity As The Custodial Parent When Your Kids Return From The Other Parent's Housetag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.16052008-12-08T14:38:12Z2008-12-08T15:36:05ZA been there, done that mom shares her hard-earned words of wisdom.Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Mir Kamin of Would Coulda Shoulda1. Remind yourself that you're happy to have them home -- and then tell them.
It's easy to get caught up in petty annoyances and forget to say, "Hey, you know what? I'm glad you're back!" It will help keep you focused on the good stuff, and it will help your kids remember that the back-and-forth is hard for you, too. Don't skimp on the hugs and kisses, either, even if they're being wild animals.
2. Learn to say "That's nice" -- and mean it.
When the endless litany of "But Daddy lets us!" begins, you'll be ready to resist the temptation to argue about it. Because it is nice (for them) that they got away with murder while they were gone. Being angry about it is pointless. The more times you say, "That's nice," the easier it becomes to believe it -- and the less often the kids will try to bait you.
3. Give your kids one day of asylum.
Don't suspend all the rules, of course, but the temptation is to tighten the reins back up immediately, which always results in everyone feeling chafed. They're cranky and hopped up on sugar and happy to be home but feeling conflicted and struggling with reentry; for one day, practice extra patience.
4. Give yourself two days of asylum.
You'll spend their first day back tending to your kids, and the laundry and mood swings they've brought home. On the second day, make sure you can do something that nourishes your spirit so that you're replenished from the emotional day beforehand. If you can manage something truly decadent, spectacular! But even if all you can squeeze in is a fancy coffee that morning or a quick chat with a good friend that afternoon, make sure you do it.
5. Put some spontaneity into your stability.
It took me a long time to figure out that even though I'm not the "fun parent," I can still give my kids schedule and order and occasionally do something unexpected. Once the kids are settled back into their routines and following the house rules, surprise them with a trip for ice cream or letting them stay up to watch a movie. It's a lot easier to skip being bitter about "never getting to be the fun one" by, you know, remembering to have some fun occasionally!]]>
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How to Shop with a Child If You Really Musttag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.16042008-12-05T14:08:51Z2008-12-06T19:58:03ZBefore you embark on your holiday shopping excursions, remember these tips.Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Dana Loesch of Mamalogues
1. Define Your ETA
Use military precision in mapping the perfect time to hit the supermarket or mall when you and your child(ren) aren’t cranky or hungry.
2. State Your Expectations
Clearly state the behavior you expect from your child(ren) and the consequences of misbehavior BEFORE you arrive at the store. Prompt them again when you pull into the parking lot. Remind yourself that fear is healthy. Fear is our friend!
3. Distractions and Bribes.
Pack ample amounts of NMMS (Non-Messy Mobile Snacks) like Teddy Grahams, M&Ms, Cheez-Its, etc. for use whenever horns start sprouting from the crown of your child’s head. Handheld games are ingenious distractions and in cases of emergency, allow them to use your phone to call grandma while you shop. Grandma’s lovable jabbering will buy you at least 10 minutes.
4. Involve.
Turn shopping into a game and your children into tiny little personal shoppers. Turn the trip into a treasure hunt. Stump them by asking them to find the most expensive item of clothing on the rack. Dazzle them with trivia like: “Did you know that the silk in this shirt came out of a moth’s head? Gross, huh?”
5. Leave.
If all else fails and the tantrums cannot be held at bay by bribery or threats, ditch the mission and return to headquarters. When your kids ask why they’ve run out of snacks, guilt remind them that you had to cut your trip short. ]]>
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How to Pack a Diaper Bag for a Dudetag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.15372008-12-03T12:57:54Z2008-12-29T15:54:31ZA dad tells what to and and NOT to do. Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Brian of Looky, Daddy!1. Don't.
Not a diaper bag at least. Make it a backpack instead, preferably one with NorthFace printed on it, nevermind that the closest thing to a mountain he'll be climbing is the kiddie slide.
2. Pack extra clothes.
Bury that ugly outfit your husband's mom bought the baby way down deep in the bag. Right next to the shirt she bought for him.
3. Include the basics, skip the extras.
Diapers, wipes, changing pad. The changing tables in most men's restrooms are exactly as you imagine them to be. Get in, get out. He can powder the kid's butt when he gets home.
4. If it's little, pack a bunch of it.
You can never have too many band-aids, pacifiers, teething remedies, squeaky monkeys, or bottles of hand sanitizers (see men's restroom reference above).
5. Like I even need to say it.
Duct tape.]]>
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How To Find a Babysitter (when grandparents aren't an option)tag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.15452008-12-01T14:30:41Z2008-12-02T17:54:30ZAhh, 'tis the season for painting the town red. But you need a babysitter first. Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Britt of Miss Britt
When my family and I moved to a new town in a new state, the very first thing I learned was the location of the nearest grocery store. The very next was how to find an after hours babysitter in a town where I knew no one.
1. Ask Your Teachers and Day Care Providers.
These people know people with kids. They know people who work with kids. And most importantly, they know people who don't get paid squat for their dayjobs. In other words, they're the best resource in town for reliable and affordable sitters.
2. Find the babysitting classes.
Your local YMCA (and some Red Cross chapters) usually offers babysitting classes. Contact them and ask for a list of past *graduates*. You'll probably end up with a highly annoying overachiever type, but at least you know they'll show up on time.
3. Go to church.
In between sermons and hymns, scope out the families with multiple kids, focusing on the ones with preteen older siblings. To get the most bang for your Sunday buck, I recommend attending a Catholic mass at least once a month!
4. Post a Craigslist Ad
And, try not to word it "looking for available teen, nights and weekends". There is a childcare section on Craigslist that can be a great starting point. Of course, you'll want to carefully screen and check references (as you would with any new sitter).
5. Pay Someone Else to Look For You.
Sites like Care.com and Sittercity allow you to search for available sitters, nannies and mother's helpers in your area. They also assist with background and reference checks. Sure, you have to pay someone to find someone you'll pay to watch your kids - but it's still better than being stuck at home for free.]]>
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How To Make Homemade "Lunchables"tag:www.alphamom.com,2008:/guide-to-everything//21.15492008-11-28T08:28:58Z2008-11-28T23:29:49ZPerfect to-do for all your Thanksgiving leftovers. Catherinehttp://alphamom.com
By Elizabeth of Table4Five1. Give in.
For once, give in to your child's begging and pleading and purchase a Lunchable at the grocery store. Try to at least buy it on sale if possible. Get the ones that include a drink pouch and just don't read the nutritional information. It will make you sad.
2. Keep shopping.
While you're at the store, purchase lean deli ham or turkey (thick slices work best), low fat cheese "singles" or slices, round buttery crackers, drink pouches, baby carrots or apple slices, and Glad Press n Seal Wrap. Pick yourself up some wine while you are at it.
3. Serve the "Lunchable" to your child.
She will promptly eat all of the crackers, all of the cheese, and one piece of the circular mystery meat. She will then claim to be starving an hour later and insist that a double handful of cookies is the only thing that will satisfy her hunger.
4. Get creative-time.
Wash out the empty container with hot soapy water and let it dry. Cut the meat and cheese into small rounds using a cookie cutter or a sharp knife, or just slice into squares if that's easier and doesn't make your head hurt. Fill the compartments with the meat, cheese, crackers, a juice pouch, and cram in some baby carrots or apple slices. See? It's already healthier than the store version.
5. The reveal.
Tear off a piece of Glad Press n Seal and fit it over the top of the container to keep everything in place. Sip your wine and congratulate yourself on making a lower fat, healthier "Lunchable". Try to forget that you have to do it all over again the next day.]]>
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