Parents of special needs kids know that finding creative ways for their children get around is challenging. Most parents usually find that they are limited to regular or motorized wheelchairs.

Researchers at the University of Delaware are providing safe mobility to children with special needs who are unable to fully explore the world on their own through the development of kid-sized robots that infants can drive using joysticks.

The work is important because much of infant development, both of the brain and behavior, emerges from the thousands of experiences each day that arise as babies independently move and explore their world.

The robot, UD1, is designed with smart technology to address safety issues so infants can be a part of the real world environment, and in this way uses technology to meet human need.

Congratulations to Drea de Matteo and boyfriend on the safe arrival of their first baby.

Alabama Gypsy Rose arrived on Wednesday night, a rep for the actress tells Eonlin's Marc Malkin.

Alabama is the first child for the couple, who have been dating for six years.

We wish them the best and look forward to seeing the first pictures of the happy family.

SOURCE
PHOTOCREDIT: Rick Maiman / AP VIA PEOPLE

Labels: Drea De Matteo

For the first time since delivering her sextuplets, Brianna Morrison has spoken about the sadness of losing 5 babies and their delight in having Sylas home.

Ryan and Brianna Morrison welcomed 6 babies on June 10th at just 22 weeks gestation. At birth, the sextuplets ranged in size from 11 ounces and 1 pound, 3 ounces.

Sadly one by the babies started to pass away until there was only one left - Sylas.

He is home now and the family conducted their homecoming interview with Minnesota television station WCCO.

Brianna talked about each baby and their personality saying that Lucia was the first born, her name meant light. She had the most sparkly eyes that would just capture you when you looked at her.

Bennett was a mamma's boy.

Tryg was their all American boy. The nurse gave him a red, white and blue stocking cap. He passed away on Flag Day. Captain America they called him.

Lincoln was playfully renamed 'linky wink', she always thought he would be a poet, contemplate the things of God, and really know the heart of God.

Cadence was known as the sparkly baby. Every time the had an ultrasound, Cadence was just dancing, all the time. Her name means melody. And her middle name means beautiful. So beautiful melody. She was the smallest baby.

Brianna then tuns her attention to Sylas. He is cooing loudly and she calls him her man of many words. They hold him a lot and wonder if they're spoiling him, but decide it's okay because he's been through a lot.

She says that this is not the way they wanted it to be, but that this is what god wanted and they trust him because he is good. She also believes that they were given Sylas because they needed him. Without him she doesn't know how she would be able to get out of bed in the morning.

Sylas Morrison Is Finally Home
All of the Byler Sextuplets Are Home
One of The Baker Quintuplets Passes Away

PHOTOCREDIT:MORRISONFAMILY SOURCE

Labels: Brianna and Ryan Morrison, Sextuplets, Sylas Morrison

We introduced you to the Bloom Fresco highchair last April. It's ability to adapt to your child's developmental changes has made it a parent favourite.

The company has recently released a sleeker more modern version that features black or ivory microfiber seat. The new colour combination is perfect for parents who prefer to have their baby gear fit in with their chic interior.

This new seat still has the same great features as the original Fresco Highchair such as:

• super sized adjustable feeding tray and second play tray - removable and dishwasher-safe pneumatic-assist, easy-lift height adjustment allowing infinite positions
• 5-point safety harness with height adjustable shoulder straps
• multiple position footrest
• enclosed castor wheels in base for easy 'lift and glide'

A Chinese man is suing for divorce after discovering that he is the father of only one of his twins.

Liu Yuan of Nanjing city says he noticed the difference between the babies the day they were born, reports Longhu Network.

"The baby that came out first was much bigger than the second, who was very weak and sickly," he said.

The dad says he started to be suspicious when the second baby turned out to have a different blood type, paired with the fact that it doesn't look like him.

Liu had his own and the two babies' DNA tested - and discovered that he was the biological father of only the bigger twin.

"My wife admitted that she'd had sex with her former boyfriend after we got married," he said.

Doctors explain that it's quite rare, but possible, since a man's sperm can survive for 72 hours in a woman's body.

for every 400 sets of fraternal twins, one set is made up of twins who will have different fathers.

SOURCE
IMAGE CREDIT:THE ROSEMARY COMPANY

Labels: Twins, Unusual Baby Stories

The parents of one of Britain’s youngest heart transplant survivors spoke yesterday of their gratitude to a German family who donated their dead baby’s heart.

Andrew McAskie, now 11 months old, had a heart attack at birth and was close to death when a family whose one-year-old baby had died made their offer. The heart was flown from Germany to the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle upon Tyne and, five weeks after he was born, Andrew underwent a transplant.

The Freeman Hospital performed Britain’s first successful baby heart transplant more than 20 years ago on Kaylee Davidson, who was 5 months old. She is now a healthy young woman. Since then nine babies younger than Andrew have had heart transplants in Britain, including one in 1989 who was 5 days old. Of those still alive, Andrew is the second-youngest.

SOURCE

Labels: Amazing Baby Stories

The best part about getting ready for Christmas is the countdown!! Here are some handcrafted advent calendars that could start a new tradition in your house.

1. Luxury advent calendar from Lilliputians - measuring a spacious 85cm x 70cm. The 25 numbered pockets are spread around the calendar and each one holds a different fabric tree decoration with plenty of room for an additional chocolate should you wish to put a little treat in too (not supplied). The double thick felt fabric will last year after year and can be hung up by the three thick loops at the top. Due to the generous size you could even remove the days decoration and replace it with a small toy or gift for an even bigger treat. £39.99

2. LL Bean Personalized Log Cabin Calendar - This unique calendar is great for your outdoorsy child that can't miss a weekend up at the cottage. It is personalizable up to 10 letters and helps bring some enchantment to you Christmas countdown. $99

3. Wooden Advent Christmas tree - This wooden tree has 24 numbered doors. Behind each door there is room for small surprises (not included) such as sweets, toys, or other small gifts for your child to open each day as he or she counts down to Christmas. $76.99.

4. Wooden Snowman Advent Calendar - This wooden Advent Christmas scene has 24 numbered doors. With brightly painted snowman on the front, this calendar has enough room for a treat, toy, or other small gifts ro be found as Christmas grows near. $76.99.

Labels: Advent Calendars, Christmas

Ok! Magazine is reporting that Miss Suri Cruise will be the youngest client that Christian Louboutin has ever custom made shoes for.

The fashion house will, for $2,500, create a mold of your foot to hand-craft footwear to your exact specifications and for an additional charge of $500 to $5,000, will also create a pair of shoes for you from that mold.

Katie has apparently had a mold made for her feet and now so has Suri.

Could you imagine spend upwards of $5,000 on a pair of shoes for a child that will only wear them for 2-4 months? Me neither...

Labels: Christian Louboutin, Katie Holmes, Suri Cruise

Mom to be Christina Aguilera shows off her flawless bump in Marie Claire.

The "Sexy Mama" shoot, featured in the January 2008 issue of Marie Claire, reveals that the baby was an unexpected surprise for the singer and husband Jordan Bratman.

The couple was planning on starting their family after her tour, but discovered she was pregnant when she still had a month left on tour. In order to take extra care of the baby she wore a heart monitor on stage during her performances.

I was paranoid," she reportedly admitted.

"There are so many things that could go wrong—somebody could slip, somebody could fall, I could fall. There was no way in hell I was going to jeopardize my baby for my show.

"I didn't want to make the audience uncomfortable, like, 'Pregnant lady onstage! Is she going to be OK?' But I had to announce it to my band and my dancers, because I wanted to make sure they had my back."

Aguilera also reportedly spoke on the fact that her pregnancy was announced to the world by the less-than-discreet Paris Hilton.

"Because I hadn't said anything, people thought I was trying to keep it this big, bad secret, and that's not the case at all. I just wasn't commenting. I'm not being like, 'Hey, everybody, I'm pregnant!' I'm not that girl."

SOURCE

Labels: Christina Aguilera, Pregnant Celebrities

It seems to be a growing movement to label breast feeding videos or photos as inappropriate.

Many high profile websites such as MySpace and Facebook have already started to ban nursing images, according to The League of Maternal Justice.

The League was upset when YouTube banned their clip, The Great Breast Fest Montage, which was viewed at least 68,000 times before disappearing.

"...I am surprised that YouTube continues to allow explicit videos of women stripping, physically hurting themselves, and starving themselves, all of which are easy to find using simple search terms," League co-founder Kristen Chase said in a statement on group's website.

The league asked why YouTube didn't just flag the video as explicit. YouTube stated is doesn't comment on specific videos, but offered an explanation.

"It is our community that polices the site and flags content they find inappropriate. Once it is flagged, YouTube promptly reviews the content and removes it from the system if it is in violation of our Community Guidelines," YouTube said in a statement sent to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.

In an attempt to deal with any copyright issues the League of Maternal Justice is reworking the video and plans to resubmit its new version to YouTube.

I didn't find the video offensive, but you can see for yourself here:

We have been over this subject no less than a thousand times. Some people just don't get breastfeeding. They can't get past the fact that a breast isn't a sexual thing when a baby is hungry. These people should just keep that fact to themselves and work their own issues out privately.

SOURCE

Labels: Breast Feeding

If you answered yes than you feel the same as 54% of new Canadian mothers who rated their labour and birth experience as "very positive".

The survey - the first-ever national snapshot of maternity experiences in Canada, was conducted by StatsCan on behalf of the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Birth happiness by the numbers:

• 54 per cent of new Canadian mothers rate their labour and birth experience as "very positive"
• 26 per cent said the experience was somewhat positive
• 20 per cent ranked it as neutral or negative
• 57 per cent described the year prior to giving birth as somewhat stressful or very stressful
• 71 per cent rate their experience with their midwife as very positive
• 65 per cent were very satisfied with the compassion shown by their caregivers
• 62 per cent were happy with the information they provided

SOURCE

Labels: Labour and Delivery

If you think that you see more multiples out at the mall or grocery store now, you are right.

This weekend in Wisconsin obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Kenneth Merkitch, delivered 4 sets of twins during his 24 hour on-call shift.

"I don't think I ever delivered two sets of twins on a call day," Merkitch said. "The odds of this happening are astronomical.

"It was hard to believe that everything was coming in twos, but after a while youre up all night, you might as well keep delivering babies," he said. "Its something I dont think Ill see again."

Merkitch delivered another baby during his shift. He couldnt recall ever delivering nine babies on a similar shift.

Another set of twins also was born at the medical center on Thanksgiving Day.

Earlier this year a Long Island hospital delivered 7 sets of triplets in one month.

Twin births have increased 30% in the last 10 years. The cool part is that they all decided to come at the same time. I wonder how many went full term??

Related Articles:

UK Mom Gives Birth To Mega Twins
Twins Born On The Same Conceived 3 Weeks Apart
UK School Has 20 Sets of Twins

SOURCE

Labels: Multiple Births, Twins, Unusual Baby Stories

UPDATE: US Magazine is reporting that the baby, who weighed 7 pounds and 9 ounces, was born at 9:55 p.m. Monday in Atlanta.

As rumoured, the couple has named him Usher Raymond V.

The new daddy was quoted saying:

"We are so happy and proud of our beautiful son. What a blessing!"

The little boy, possibly planned to be named Usher Raymond V, arrived yesterday.

One 'source' says Usher was with his wife and new child Tuesday at an Atlanta hospital, and the family is expected to head home on Wednesday.

No further details are available.

We will update when the baby's name has been confirmed.

SOURCE

Labels: Celebrity Birth Announcement, Tameka Foster, Usher

New mom Nancy Grace welcomed twins Lucy and David into the world 3 weeks ago, 2 months early.

After many ups and downs, the twins have finally be released from the hospital, allowing the family to be together for Thanksgiving.

Nancy posted this message about the homecoming on her CNN page:

Am finally home with both twins and am so blessed. Your prayers and kind thoughts are so powerful, thank you.

I wish you could see the twins right now. Even in separate bassinets, they turn their heads the same way, make the same motions, the same sounds, the same expressions. They are so bonded after being together for all those months. it makes me happy to know they will always have each other, I pray!

Being in the hospital for those two weeks was really something, but leaving the twins behind when I was discharged was the worst. Then, after John David came home, I could hardly stand leaving little Lucy there alone each day.

I am the happiest person in the world now that we are all together again. They still quiet down when I sing to them, the same old songs. Today, I held them, alternating one then the other, for five straight hours! We spent the afternoon, them eating and sleeping, I just watched their faces.

They look so much alike, Lucy just a minature version of her big brother! He is older by exactly one minute. I hope to introduce them to you when I come back to the airwaves if they are up to it. They are so tiny and fragile. I think you will love them too!

What a Christmas this will be!!

I still can't believe something so wonderful happened to me! Dreams really can come true! Ngrace"

Labels: Nancy Grace, Twins

I loved this commercial last year and I still love it this year. Diaper companies make the best commercials...Enjoy!!

Labels: Christmas, Pampers, You Tube

Back in August I introduced to you to Boon's new feeding line. The funky baby gear company jumps in with both feet into the feeding market with a full line of exciting products.

Having a child that needs therapy to be able to eat properly, has made me more aware of exciting tools that could help make feeding time easier.

Boon's new line is filled with innovative products that were designed to make mealtime a breeze.

The Squirt baby food dispensing spoon allows for convenient feeding, one bite at a time. The easy-to-fill bulb holds up to 3 ounces of baby food and attaches firmly to the spoon end. Simply squeeze the bulb to dispense just the right amount of food. In addition, it comes with a protective cover to seal food in and keep the spoon clean between feedings. $7.99

Fluid no-spill toddler cup has an ergonomic, two-handed grip that is perfect for small hands. The angled spout requires less head tipping, making it more comfortable to use. $5.99

Brooke Shields is seen out in NYC with youngest daughter Grier.

Brooke is in town to film "Lipstick Jungle", a new show based on a book by "Sex and the City" author Candace Bushnell.

She plays Wendy Healy, a powerful movie executive who, much like herself, is balancing her busy job with family life.

PHOTOCREDIT:Hector Vallenilla, PacificCoastNews.com VIA EONLINE.COM

Labels: Brooke Shields, Celebrity Babies, Grier Henchy

Salma Hayek gives the world a first glimpse of her daughter Valentina Paloma Pinault, born Sept. 20.

The baby's dad is Francois-Henri Pinault, the billionaire boss of the Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent fashion empire and PPR luxury brand.

The couple plans to get married early next year. Valentina is the first child for the actress and her boyfriend.

She was quoted saying that: "Motherhood is not for everyone. It is for me."

PHOTOCREDIT:Randall Slavin/IDPR/AP

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Salma Hayek, Valentina Paloma Pinault

Uber Cutie Dannielynn Birkhead heads to trendy Robertson Boulevard in LA to do some post Thanksgiving shopping yesterday.

The little princess shopped in Lisa Kline Kids and Kitson with a mob of photographers in tow.

She is pictured here admiring a pink dress shown to her by her daddy, Larry Birkhead.

PHOTOCREDIT: Andy Johnstone/Matt Symons/PacificCoastNews.com VIA USMAGAZINE.COM

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Dannielynn Birkhead, Larry Birkhead

First-time mother, Sara Herman thought it was normal when her baby bump was enormous after just five months.

Little did she know that she was going to give birth to a little giant.

When Jack arrived at 37 weeks he weighed an astonishing 14lb 8oz.

Health problems kept him in the hospital for 4 months after his birth.

Tests showed that Jack had grown so big because of a condition called hyperinsulism which causes the body to produce too much insulin, leading to weight gain.

His heart muscle had thickened since it had to work extra hard because of his size.

At the age of 14 weeks he had 95 per cent of his pancreas removed to treat his condition. The operation was a success and doctors allowed him to go home with medication.

SOURCE

Labels: Unusual Baby Stories

The recalled toy beads, Aqua Dots, were pulled from shelves nearly three weeks ago for being coated in a chemical that can turn into the "date-rape" drug when swallowed.

So why did they appear in circulars for Toys "R" Us and Target this weekend? Toys "R" Us says Aqua Dots are not actually for sale, just that the circulars were printed weeks in advance.

I guess the biggest issue here is carelessness. It looks bad that a toy chain as big a Target or Toys "R" Us can't take the time to make sure that their flyer's are current and free of recalled products.

Nine children in the United States and three in Australia have gotten sick from the tainted kids toy.

Labels: Aqua Dots, Recalls

I am sad to write that one of the quintuplets born to Tim and Lori Baker last month has passed away.

Lori Baker tells 13news, Kailee Jo, the first of the five babies to be born last month, died on Friday.

Kailee Jo was just one month old.

On October 27, Lori Baker gave birth to the five babies at Cabell Huntington hospital. At birth, the three girls and two boys all weighed over two pounds.

Kailee is survived by her mother Lori and father Tim, siblings, Chloe Paige, Hunter Logan, Aiden James and Emma Lynn, as well as, big sister Whitney.

The babies were born at 30 weeks gestation, which is above average for quintuplets.

We hope that the rest of the babies are doing well. More information to come as it becomes available.

Related Articles:

All of the Byler Sextuplets Are Home
Sylas Morrison Finally Home
Lucia Soldani Joins her Brother At Home For Thanksgiving
West Virginia's First Set Of Quintuplets Arrive

SOURCE

Labels: Baker Quintuplets, Multiple Births, Tim and Lori Baker

Heidi Klum and husband, Seal shop in Beverly Hills this afternoon with kids, Leni, 3 (not pictured), Henry, 2 (with Seal) and Johan, 1.

PHOTOCREDIT: Stefan/INFphoto.com

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Heidi Klum, Henry Samuel, Johan Samuel, SEAL

As you can tell from the toys I have posted lately, I am looking for stuff that won't bore my son after just 10 minutes.

The bells and whistles are sometimes only good for a little while because they are predicable. They do the same thing everytime you press the same button.

I like that this train has many different pieces that can be put together to create a new toy everytime.

There are wooden posts to help teach stacking skills and about 25 shapes that can be configured about a million different ways.

$38 at Babystyle.com

Related Articles:

Great Developmental Toy: Groovy Blocks
Improve Your Child’s Cognitive Skills With These Stacking Toys
The Benefits Of Good Old Fashioned Wooden Blocks
6 Great Pull Toys

Labels: Stacking Toys

A UK woman who became pregnant after a one-night stand yesterday won the right to keep the existence of her baby a secret from its father.

In a landmark decision, three Appeal Court judges agreed that the 20-year-old single mother has "the ultimate veto" over whom should be told about the child, who is being put up for adoption.

The mother, who's identity is being kept private, hid her pregnancy from her family, colleagues and the father.

The baby girl, known only as E, was delivered in June and was left in hospital shortly afterwards.

The mother she asked for the child to be put up for adoption, but the county court ordered that her parents and the father should be told to give them the opportunity to apply to adopt.

Friday, the judges decided the father had no rights over the child, who is now in foster care, because "he was only a one-night stand".

And they banned the local authority and guardian from taking any steps to identify him or telling him about his daughter.

The mom is said to be 19 and didn't learn about the pregnancy until a late stage.

She was unable to bring herself to tell her parents she was pregnant and drove herself to hospital in the middle of the night to have the baby.

The judges heard that the pregnancy resulted from a "one-night stand" with a colleague while both were "on the rebound having broken up with long-term partners".

"He is now back with his fiancee, continuing with that relationship and he has no idea she has given birth to his or any other child."

This dad deserves to know that he has a baby. It is sad that no one even gave him the option to step up and take custody of her.

It is not the judges job to protect this girl from her mistakes. She is supposed to be a neutral body that is appointed to do what is best for the baby. Being in foster care until she is found an adoptive set of parents is not what is best for the baby. The ideal situation is always to be with a family member.

Former Home Secretary David Blunkett, a champion of fathers' rights after his paternity case over his son by Kimberly Quinn, said: "We as a society should not be expected to be the father and mother of the child when at least one of them has been excluded from accepting responsibility."

"Perhaps the judiciary should take a collection to pay for the arrangements for care and subsequent adoption, because obviously someone pays in such circumstances."

SOURCE

Labels: Adoption

Kam Davies began delivering her new baby in Basalt, near Aspen, on Thanksgiving Day, but ended up having him eight hours later in Denver.

The new mom was sent to Denver because doctors in Aspen said she was delivering too early for them to handle it.

Doctors at Aspen Valley Hospital prefer to deliver babies after 36 weeks, but Kam was only at 34.

In the end, it took two ambulance rides on mountain highways and an emergency plane flight to get her to Denver.

The couples first child, Ryder was born weighing 4 pounds, 10 ounces and 17 inches. He is currently in the NICU and may have to spend a couple of weeks there for safety sake.

The new dad, Michael, said it was stressful at times, blissful at others, and in the end just perfect.

The thoughtful staff at the Hospital also made sure he got a turkey for Thanksgiving.

SOURCE

Labels: Labour and Delivery, Unusual Baby Stories

If your pregnant and you think it's okay to still smoke, than please read this.

According to Imperial College-based Prof. Philip Steer, the Editor-in-Chief of the 'British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology' chemicals in cigarettes change a pregnant woman's body chemistry and distort the results of screening for disability in the fetus.

This puts women at high risk of miscarriage as they then have to undergo a further screening test for abnormality.

"The findings were further proof of damaging effects of smoking during pregnancy.

"Babies of mothers who smoke during pregnancy are small for gestational age and tend also to deliver earlier.

This research indicates smoking may also cause over-estimation of the risk of Down's (Syndrome), thus exposing the mother to a higher risk of an unnecessary amniocentesis."

Related Articles:

Study: Clear Link To Smoking and Crib Death
Nursing Moms That Smoke Harm Babies Sleep

SOURCE

Labels: Pregnancy Health, Smoking and Pregnancy

Nancy Grace will take her daughter Lucy Elizabeth home from the hospital on Saturday to join her twin brother John David who was, her rep Patty Caruso tells People Magazine.

The CNN Headline News anchor "is thrilled" at her daughter Lucy's progress. "She is over four pounds and doing extremely well. Nancy is so happy to have both her children home with her," says Caruso.

This must of come as a surprise to her because she was just quoted the other day saying that she didn't think Lucy would be home for a few weeks.

Labels: Nancy Grace, Twins

It's one thing for a baby to decide they're going to arrive when you are stuck in traffic and can't get to the hospital. Can you imagine how mad you would be to get all the way to the hospital, just to find out that the maternity unit is CLOSED??

A UK dad was forced to deliver his baby in a parking lot after he and his girlfriend found the maternity hospital's 24-hour reception deserted and the doors shut.

The couple arrived at the hospital at 10:30pm to find no one there.

Philip Allison knew that they were in trouble when his girlfriend Vicky Kitching told him she could feel the babies head.

They were driven to the hospital in a friend's Renault Laguna - and Mr Allison had to return to the car where he helped deliver his daughter.

He said: "The cord was wrapped round the baby's neck, so I unwrapped it. I'd seen my last one born and I saw them clear the airways, so I cleared the airways too.

"I just felt scared. Once I could hear her crying and I knew she was awake, it was different."

They were eventually able to get into the hospital and the baby is doing well, but after all is said and done Vickie described the experience on November 16 as awful. Can you blame her?

The hospital has since apologized, saying they are concerned that, "for a few minutes, it would appear the security guard was not at his desk".

SOURCE

Labels: Labour and Delivery, Unusual Baby Stories

Charities across the US have been overwhelmed with the task of screening donations for recalled toys.

The volunteers must spend hours cross-checking every donated toy against the list, taking them away from service programs and fund-raising drives.

“It’s a tip on this, a wheel on that, a little sign on such and such, the bumper on that,” said Roger Miller of the Salvation Army branch in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. “T hey go nuts trying to get it all done as it is.”

The Salvation Army in Charlotte, N.C., had planned to give away at least 10,000 stockings filled with toys, but it says it faces a severe shortage.

“Our auxiliary this summer ordered items to put in those stockings, and more than half of them were recalled,” said Shelley Spillios of the Charlotte affiliate. “We are scrambling to find what we can put in the stockings to take the place of the recalled items.”

In Boise, Idaho, 15 Marines were detailed to sift through 27,787 toys collected by the Corps’ Toys for Tots campaign.

“We are taking every precaution we can at this point to make sure that every toy is touched and that we grab every recalled toy that is donated to make sure it doesn’t get into the hands of one of the children we’re trying to help this Christmas,” Marine Maj. Ron Storer said.

I think the bigger issues is that parents don't know what to do with all of these toys that are being recalled. When a recall is issued, most of the manufacturers offer a refund, or free replacement.

Try contact the company to find out what they want you to do with the toy, don't give it to charity.

SOURCE

Labels: Recalls

These groovy blocks are great for teaching many developmental skills. They can be stacked like conventional blocks or interlocked using the grooves on the side. The sides can out placed together, like a puzzle, to make a pattern, explain a mathematic equation or show opposites.

They can be used to sorting, teaching colors, numbers and opposites.

Stacking a toy on top of another is a great way to teach them hand-eye coordination and cognitive skills such as color and size concept. You can start to introduce blocks and stacking toys as early as 6-7 months old.

Available at Sparkability for $34

Related Articles:

Improve Your Child's Cognitive Skills With These Stacking Toys
The Benefits Of Good Old Fashioned Wooden Blocks
6 Great Pull Toys

Labels: Development, Stacking Toys

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC), in cooperation with The Boppy Company is recalling 38,000 covers because the zipper pull on the slipcovers can break, posing a choking hazard to young children. In addition, paint on the zippers contains excess levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard.

This recall involves velvet and boa slipcovers intended for use with the Boppy® Bare Naked nursing and support pillow.

Slipcovers recalled due to a choking hazard were sold in three color combinations and have the following UPC and date codes found on the California Flammability Law tag. Slipcovers sold in clear vinyl packages are labeled Boppy® Luxe.

Labels: choking hazard, Lead Exposure Hazard, Recalls

Today, Brian and Gracie Soldani had many things to be thankful for.

The couple welcomed sextuplets: Bruno, Santino, Joely, Lucia, Bailey and Briana on September 12 of this year.

Three of the babies were born alive and sadly, three were not.

The two boys came home the week of Halloween leaving their sister in the hospital to grow and learn how to manage without oxygen.

Lucia made a her surprise arrival home on Wednesday in time for turkey day, after she passed all of her tests.

Gracie wrote on her blog that as she was cooking in her newly finished kitchen, listening to her two boys cry, when she received a call from her husband - delivering the good news.

She continued writing:

When Brian and Lucia came in we put all three kids together for some family time and a huge silence came over the room. It was what is going to be the first of many sad feelings of what was supposed to be that isn't. I felt the loss of my others girls as did Brian. No words, but our emotion spoke louder than words. We have to remember that we do have three here, and three guardian angels looking out for Bruno, Santino and Lucia always.

The fun has just begun. Let's hope that friends and family are able to help them make an easy adjustment.

Related Articles:

SOURCE

Labels: Gracie and Brian Soldani, Sextuplets

Teach your kids how to carve their own dinner with this "Chop Chop Chicken".

This delectable roast chicken can be cut into 5 parts using the wooden knife included in the set. The set also provides a roasting pan which can double as a serving platter.

Velcro veggies are very popular for kids, so I guess this chicken completes the meal!

Available at gummylump for $14.36

Labels: Just for kids

Graco Children's Products Inc. today announced a voluntary recall on the stand alone SnugRide® infant car seats. On some of the 304,675 manufactured August 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007, the backing of the seat pad may pull away from the seams in an area reachable to the child occupant, exposing the pad filling and posing a potential choking hazard.

This corrective action may affect SnugRide infant car seats with the following model numbers: 8609FOF2, 8609FOF3, 8616FOF2, 8616FOF3, 8643DDH2, 8643DDH3, 8643CDR2, 8643DH03, 8643SUP2, 8643SUP3, 8643JOS2, 8643JOS3, 8643MDW3, 8643PWC3, 8643SFJ3, 8645FMT2, 8645FMT3, 8645GLM3, 8645GLN3, 8645HEM2, 8645HEM3, 8645MYC2, 8646SML3, 8645MYC3, 8645MRG3, 8645PKR2, 8645SNY2, 8646SND2, 8645THR2, 8645THR3, 8646FIE2, 8646FIE3, 8646GRT3 and 8646RRY3.

The model number and date of manufacture can be found on the label on the back of the car seats. These seats were sold in the United States at mass merchandisers, specialty retailers and department stores from August 2006 through November 11, 2007. This does not include any SnugRide models made before August 2006, as these products have a different design. This does NOT affect SnugRide models sold as a travel system.

To receive a replacement kit, which includes a replacement seat pad; consumers should call 1-800-345-4109 Monday–Friday between 8 am & 5 pm ET or visit www.gracobaby.com 24 hours a day to determine whether their car seat may be affected. Parents should NOT return the Infant seat to the retailer.

Labels: choking hazard, Graco SnugRide Car Seat, Recalls

New mom Isla Fisher and daddy Sacha Baron Cohen show off their new addition at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Baby Olive is very stylish in her Converse high tops shoes.

Sacha carries a Jimeale Emily Diaper Bag and a Graco Snugride Infant carrier, which was recalled yesterday...

Isla looks so good, she could be mistaken for the nanny!

PHOTOCREDIT: FLYNETONLINE.COM via USMAGAZINE

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Graco SnugRide Car Seat, Isla Fisher, Olive Baron Cohen, Sacha Baron Cohen

Since Julia Roberts spoke about G diapers in the recent issue of Vanity Fair, I have received quite a few e-mails from parents asking for more information.

This eco-friendly diaper is half cloth, half disposable. It consists of 3 parts. The outer part which is cloth (the g), the snap in liner(washable) and the flushable liner.

They go on opposite of conventional diaper (velcro in the back), so if your folding the tabs in the front - you have done it wrong.

The flushable can be disposed of 3 ways:

1. Down the toilet- Tear both sides of the liner and wait for the center core to fall out. You then give the core a swish with the swish stick and then flush. As the waste goes down the toilet, let go of the rest of the liner.
2. Compost - Simply deposit the liner into your compost container. It will breakdown between 50-150 days.
3. Throw it in the garbage - Flushable refills are plastic-free, organic material. So they really will break down in the landfill unlike their disposable neighbors, which are chock full of plastic and take up to 500 years to break down in the landfill.

The materials in ‘little g’ pants, liners and flushables are designed with comfort and dryness in mind. Flushables are made of a water resistant, breathable outer material that keep bottoms dry and wetness away. It is made of all natural fiber and is 100% biodegradable. The interior uses elemental chlorine-free tree farmed fluff pulp and Super Absorbing Poly-acrylate to absorb wetness. These super absorbing lock away cells hold up to 100 times their weight in liquid.

Snap-in liners are made of breathable polyurethane coated nylon, not pvc like many diaper covers. They are easy to change and rinse out. The liners are also breathable which helps prevent diaper rash.

The ‘little g’ pants are made of a soft, breathable outer cotton/elastene fabric giving them a slight stretch.

Labels: Environmentally Friendly, G Diapers, Green Parents

UPDATE: John was released from hospital yesterday, Nancy's spokeswoman confirmed this morning. "They're just thrilled to have at least one of the babies home for Thanksgiving," Caruso said. Lucy still remains in the Atlanta Hospital the twins were born in. No word on her release date was given.

While Nancy Grace rests at home after being hospitalized last week, her twins still remain in hospital, something that may not change for several weeks.

"It's just killing me leaving them there," Nancy told People Magazine.

The Headline News anchor is spending "pretty much all my time" at the hospital so she can be with son John David and daughter Lucy Elizabeth, who were born Nov. 4. The twins, who have "golden blonde hair and greenish blue eyes," are sleeping in the same bassinet.

John David, who "just passed the five-pound mark," says Grace, will likely come home before his sister, Lucy Elizabeth, who now tips the scales at 3 lbs, 6 oz. Grace hopes to return home to New York by early December but says, "It all depends on when Lucy can travel."

Related Articles:

Nancy Grace Released From Hospital

Labels: John David Linch, Lucy Elizabeth Linch, Nancy Grace

Just in time for Thanksgiving, the final Byler sextuplet goes home.

Charlie Craig Byler, was released from All Children's Hospital yesterday.

"He may have to be on a small amount of oxygen," said father Ben Byler.

To be released, babies must weigh at least 4 pounds and be able to eat and breathe on their own. Charlie now weighs about 6 pounds and is feeding a lot better now, Ben said.

Charlie will join the other sextuplets MacKenzie, Brady Christopher, Eli Benjamin, Jackson Robert, Ryan Patrick and 4-year-old sister Zoe.

Allkids.org reported today that:

While each of the babies had their individual challenges with breathing and feeding, Charlie faced the additional difficulty created by a vascular ring, an unusual formation of the aorta or surrounding vessels that encircles the trachea and esophagus. This can lead to breathing and digestive difficulties, and sometimes requires surgery. Thankfully, Charlie has done well enough avoid any need for surgery thus far, but will warrant close follow-up in the weeks and months to come.

Related Articles:

Sylas Morrison Finally Home
2 of The Soldani Babies Go Home
Generous Donations Pour In For Homeless Mom Of Triplets
4 Of The Minnesota Quintuplets Feeding On Their Own

SOURCE

Labels: Byler Bunch, Karoline and Ben Byler, Sextuplets

A couple in Derbyshire found out they were expecting quadruplets - four days before her boyfriend was due to get snipped.

Daniel Morley, 32, had booked in for a vasectomy as he and Dawn Tilt, 31, already had three children, reports the Daily Mirror.

They discovered she was pregnant four days before the op but had no idea they would be having quads until her 12 week scan.

The childhood sweethearts were not on any fertility drugs, meaning they have defied 729,000-1 odds to have quads.

The babies, all healthy, are due to be delivered by caesarean section in March, nine weeks before their due date.

This couple doesn't know it yet - but these babies really are a blessing. We wish them good luck!

SOURCE

Labels: Multiple Births, quadruplets

Expectant mom Poppy Montgomery shows off her nursery in this weeks edition of OK magazine.

The Without a Trace star chose a bee-themed nursery for her son,who is due in December, and is now counting down the days for his birth.

"I'm so excited and ready," Poppy, who's expecting her first child with boyfriend Adam Kaufman, tells OK!. "I feel him moving and kicking and I want to see who he is."

The 35-year-old passed time designing a lemon-and-lime colored nursery with the help of Wendy Bellissimo and gave OK! a sneak peak of the "cheerful, peaceful and unique" room.

There is a Charm Plush Paddie Panda Rocker , a Wendy Bellissimo Honey Bee Moses Basket, and a Blabla Buzz doll in this cute nursery. Most of the products can be found at the Wendy Bellissimo website.

Labels: Baby Nursery Ideas, Poppy Montgomery

Congratulations Joey McIntyre and wife Barrett on the safe arrival of a healthy baby boy!

The ex-boy bander and his real estate agent-wife Barrett welcomed a 7 lb. 12 oz. son on Tuesday in Los Angeles. It's the first child for both. No other details were released.

"The family is happy and healthy," according to McIntyre's rep, who says the new parents are still deciding on a name. "Everyone's doing well and they're excited he made it here in time for Thanksgiving."

Barrett must have done well during the delivery because Joey was quoted saying that she was a Rock Star.

SOURCE SOURCE
PHOTOCREDIT:Roger Karnbad / Celebrity Photo VIA PEOPLE

Labels: Barrett McIntyre, Celebrity Birth Announcement, Joey McIntyre

The doctors who were looking after the Quaid twins in the hospital have a statement apologizing for their error.

In the statement hospital officials say that the accidental overdose, which occurred on Sunday, was a "preventable error".

Thomas Boone and Zoe Grace, were accidentally given a massive dose of Heparin, an anti-coagulant. Babies typically get 10 units. It is believed that they were each mistakenly given 10,000 units.

While the statement did not mention the Quaid twins specifically, it did say:

"I want to extend my deepest apologies to the families who were affected by this situation, and we will continue to work with them on any concerns or questions they may have," said Dr. Michael L. Langberg, chief medical officer at Cedars.

He added: "This was a preventable error, involving a failure to follow our standard policies and procedures, and there is no excuse for that to occur at Cedars-Sinai. Although it appears at this point that there was no harm to any patient, we take this situation very seriously."

According to Langberg, three unidentified patients had their IVs flushed with an overly high concentration of heparin, used to keep IV catheters from clotting.

"As a result of a preventable error, the patients' IV catheters were flushed with heparin from vials containing a concentration of 10,000 units per milliliter instead of from vials containing a concentration of 10 units per milliliter," said Langberg. "The error was identified by Cedars-Sinai staff, who immediately performed blood tests on the patients to measure blood clotting function."

Dennis Quaid’s Newborn Twins Accidentaly Overdosed By Hospital Staff

SOURCE

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Dennis Quaid, Kimberly Quaid, NICU

Gavin Rossdale teaches son Kingston how to play catch at the park in Beverly Hills on Sunday.

PHOTOCREDIT: Ramirez-Rios/JFXONLINE.com via USMAGAZINE.COM

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Gavin Rossdale, Kingston Rossdale

Tmz.com is reporting that Dennis Quaid's newborn twins are fighting for their lives after being inadvertently overdosed at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

Sources report that the twins, Thomas Boone and Zoe Grace, were accidentally given a massive dose of Heparin, an anti-coagulant. Babies typically get 10 units. It is believed that they were each mistakenly given 10,000 units. The drug is used to flush out IV lines and prevent blood clots.

Two doses were given - one dose was given on Sunday morning, another on Sunday evening.

Late Sunday night, both babies started to "bleed out." They are now at Cedars in the neo-natal intensive care unit (NICU) where they are said to be stable.

The twins were born to Dennis and wife Kimberly Buffington November 8 via surrogate.

It is possible that as many as thirteen infants at Cedar Sinai were mistakenly given the overdose of Heparin, but the effects are more critical because of the age and weight of the twins.

Dennis Quaid's rep issued the following statement to TMZ: Dennis and Kimberly appreciate everyone's thoughts and prayers and hope they can maintain their privacy during this difficult time.

PHOTOCREDIT:LIMELIGHTPICTURES VIA TMZ.COM

Labels: Dennis Quaid, Kimberly Quaid, NICU, Twins

A great new law has been put into effect in Naples, Italy that prohibits smoking near pregnant women and children in public parks.

"We're not going to use a ruler to measure the distance between smokers and women or children," Deputy Mayor Gennaro Nasti told AFP.

"But it will be forbidden to smoke during open-air shows or under covered structures."

Violators will have to pay fines of between 27.50 and 500 euros (40 and 730 dollars), Nasti said, adding that police would enforce the law.

Smoking in public buildings has been illegal throughout Italy since January 2005.

Heath Ledger takes daughter Matilda out in NYC incognito.

The adorable toddler dons some funky Gymboree sunglasses for her outing.

Heath looks like a natural doing his daddy thing.

He recently said that he is "Mr.mom", which I believe.

You can tell by how comfortable Matilda looks, that he is a pro!

Heath Ledger, Michelle Williams Have Identical Bedrooms For Daughter
Matilda’s Daddy Date

PHOTOCREDIT:Jsbmedia via USMAGAZINE

Labels: Heath Ledger, Matilda Williams Ledger

I was introduced to Adiri 3 years ago when my girlfriend bought a set for her newborn.

The unique design was created to help babies go between breast and bottle with little confusion.

Adiri bottles more closely replicate the tactile bonding experience of breastfeeding than any other bottle.

The Natural Nurser Ultimate Bottle is made from 100% polycarbonate-free materials that warm to a child’s cheek, like a breast, when filled with warm milk. A patented nipple design helps alleviate nipple confusion for breastfeeding babies.

This bottle encourages the same type of open-mouthed latching that is required for breastfeeding, making bottle and breastfeeding more easily interchangeable.

A cover protects it from getting dirty and keeps the nipple from leaking during transport. The nurser comes in three stages for three different flow rates. Each stage holds 8 oz. of fluid and is dishwasher safe.

Due to popularity, Adiri is currently experiencing high levels of interest and are increasing productivity to keep up with demand.

Available in 2 colours - 1 bottle is $12.50, 3/35.50 Visit Adiri.com for more information.

Labels: Adiri, Biosphenol A Free Bottles

These hand knitted pants were created to go over top of a cloth diaper and act as a cover.

I think that they would be perfect just as a pair of pants to keep your child warm this winter.

They are made of 100% merino wool.

Because artist Amy Kett hand knits every pair, expect a two to three week turn-around time as there is currently a waiting list.

Available at Mudhardrygoods.com

Labels: Cool Stuff

Jackie Kennedy will always be remembered for her elegance and simple beauty. It didn't matter what she was doing or where she was - she always looked glamorous.

The Daily Mail has some 'lost' photos of President Kennedy and the First lady that were taken during a photo shoot for Harper's Bazaar in 1961.

Of the hundreds of pictures taken at the session, only 17 were published in that year's February edition.

The rest were donated to Washington's Smithsonian Museum, where they were locked away for more than 40 years.

Only now have they been published in a new book - bringing back poignant memories of an age when politics seemed to have such a magic innocence that the Kennedy circle was christened Camelot after the legendary court of King Arthur in medieval Britain.

The one I like the best is of the new mom and her 2 month old son John.

John was born just 17 days after his father was elected to the presidency and this photo shoot took place just a few weeks after that.

Labels: Jackie Kennedy, John F Kennedy Jr

Julia Roberts Appeared on Oprah today and showed the audience the first photo of her five-month old son Henry.

The actress, 40, who is married to cameraman Danny Moder, said her twins, Hazel and Phinnaeus (who turn 3 on November 28), were born at 1:21 and 1:22. Two-and-a-half years later, Henry was born at 1:23 this past June.

She spoke about Henry's birth:

"It just completed us. We're complete. We're a good five-some."

"I have to say, little Henry's the sweetest child known to mankind," she said. "I think I can say that objectively."

"It's a real team effort. Everything that goes on has to sort of pass everybody's approval. Danny and the kids, everybody has to want to go and be part of it or else it doesn't work. Moms know [what it's like] when you leave the house, and your kids are crying and saying, 'Don't go.' So I usually don't go."

SOURCE

Labels: Henry Daniel Moder

Labels: Amanda Peet, Celebrity Babies, Frances Pen Benioff

Sometimes when a baby is born, they arrive under special circumstances.

These babies may not meet their milestones at the same time as their peers or follow the same schedule as other kids their age.

Books that track developmental firsts like sitting up, crawling or even walking may not be appropriate for the these babies because some may never walk or say their first words.

Rhonda DeBough-Insook created a book for parents of special need children that allows parents to tell their child's story their own way.

She writes:

My baby was born with many complicated developmental and medical needs. As I began the journey with my baby surrounded by wonder and worry, I found that baby books that are designed for the typical baby had many pages and sections that didn't apply to my baby. I also found that big parts of my baby's story could not be told in the spaces provided.

A Very Special Baby Book has been designed for you to tell your baby's own unique story. It is a guided journal that allows you to record your baby's early life in words and in pictures. The book is bound such that pages can be rearranged, or removed at your discretion to best fit your own situation.

Each book includes:

• 50 color soft water color illustrations
• beautiful acid-free archival quality watercolor paper
• hand-bound with a ribbon -allowing you to move the pages to tell your baby's unique story in chronological order

Some of the headings include:

• Our pregnancy story
• My birth story
• My diagnosis story
• My first days home from the hospital
• My growth chart

Available at averyspecialbook.com for $25

All books are designed and printed in the U.S.A.

Labels: Special Needs Children

A fund fine-tuned to protect donors and best benefit a homeless mother and her newborn triplets stood Thursday at almost $13,600.

The Roberts Triplets Assistance & Education Trust will allow donors to earmark cash gifts for everything from rent and utilities to college educations for triplets Noah, Grace and Jonathan Roberts.

The babies, named Noah, Grace and Jonathan, were born Oct. 12 to Monica Roberts, of Barry County, after a short-lived relationship with a man whom Roberts says has not stepped forward.

"I got evicted out of my place," Monica said. "I lost my job and there was just a lot going on."

The new mother has been living in a shelter along with her older son and mother. All six are in one room.

News of her homeless status has received national attention, with donations pouring in for as far as Los Angeles.

Gerber offered diapers and formula, two anonymous donors have offered six months rent and utilities.

"I'm just shocked, overwhelmed. I'm just happy about it all. You know, God has done all the work and I thank God for it all. So He has worked through so many people," Roberts said.

If you would like to help, checks can be made out to the Roberts Triplets Assistance Education Trust and mailed to Green Gables Haven at P.O. Box 388, Hastings, Michigan.

SOURCE SOURCE

Labels: Monica Roberts, Multiple Births, Triplets

When I read this headline, I wondered, "What is this world coming to?"

We have covered this subject extensively so it came as a SHOCK to read the headlines this week stating that pregnant moms could not only drink, while they are pregnant, they could binge drink (5 drinks in one sitting)!!!

There is some pleasure in knowing that this study, that was done at Oxford University, has caused a furore in medical circles.

"When pregnant women report isolated episodes of binge drinking in the absence of a consistently high daily alcohol intake ... the evidence of risk seems minimal," the researchers wrote in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, published Wednesday.

The article goes on to say that:

The findings could provide comfort to expectant mothers who have been on a drinking binge before realising they are pregnant.

Health groups are furious, claiming the research sends a dangerous message to women already confused about conflicting advice on alcohol and pregnancy.

The research comes just weeks after Australia's National Health and Medical Research Council released new guidelines warning pregnant women there was no safe drinking level.

Previously women were told they could drink up to seven standard drinks a week without risking their baby's health.

"I don't buy this nonsense that the evidence does not exist so drink up. The evidence does not exist so the safest thing to do is refrain," said Sonia Berton, chief executive of Arbias, Australia's only service for people with alcohol-related brain damage.

“The alcohol will reach your unborn baby within one minute and she/he will have exactly the same blood alcohol content as you do (and) the alcohol also stays in your baby longer than it does in you." National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Related Disorders

"A fetus does not have a mature enough liver until week nine weeks - so how on earth is consuming alcohol safe?"

The effects of sustained heavy drinking during pregnancy include miscarriage, stillbirth, low birth weight and birth defects such as fetal alcohol syndrome.

"These are not small effects. Having a child that can't learn at school, that doesn't make friends easily, that doesn't understand cause and effect, is not a small problem, especially as it's with them for the rest of their life." Sue Miers from the National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Related Disorders

Related Articles:

Pregnant Women Told Not To Drink At All
Child And Adolescent Psychiatrists Raise Awareness Of Fetal Alcohol Effects
Baby Born Drunk: Blood Alcohol Six Times Legal Limit to Drive

Labels: Alcohol and Pregnancy, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Expectant mom Julianna Marguiles has married the father of her baby, lawyer Keith Lieberthal.

The bride, 41, whose baby is due in mid-January, wore a white Narciso Rodriguez gown, while the groom wore a black Armani suit at their Nov. 10 wedding in Lenox, Mass.

"It was all traditional. It was very touching. She was radiant. It was beautiful," her father, Paul Margulies, told People. "We're thrilled for her, and the young man she married is a wonderful person. We're proud to have him as a part of our family."

SOURCE
PHOTOCREDIT:globalweddingphotographers VIA YAHOO

Labels: Julianna Margulies, Pregnant Celebrities

Martha Stewart has lost her mother, Martha Kostyra, after she suffered a stroke last week.

The Domestic Queen always credited her mother with teaching her everything she knows about housekeeping and cooking.

She was former teacher, who raised six children in Nutley, N.J., frequently appeared on Stewart's television show and in her magazine, Martha Stewart Living.

Kostyra's death came eight days after Stewart announced to her television audience her mother had suffered a stroke and was hospitalized.

Fans posting comments on Stewart's blog remembered Kostyra -- a tiny woman nicknamed "Big Martha" -- as strong and loving

In this photo released by Martha Stewart Living Television, talk show host Martha Stewart, right, walks with her mother, Martha Kostyra, on the set of 'Martha' in New York, Sept. 16, 2005 file photo, her mother's 91st birthday.

PHOTOCREDIT:AP Photo/Martha Stewart Living Television, Anders Krusberg, File

SOURCE

Labels: Celebrity Moms, Martha Kostyra, Martha Stewart

Katie Price and Peter Andre's daughter Princess Tiaamii was rushed to hospital on Wednesday night because she was having difficulty breathing.

The five-month-old baby was taken to London's Great Ormond Street Hospital where doctors diagnosed the little princess with bronchitis and have now managed to stabilise her condition.

Someone close to the family told The Sun "They were beside themselves with worry. Thankfully Tiaamii's on the mend and may be allowed home at the weekend."

We hope she gets better. Nothing is worse that having a sick baby...

SOURCE

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Katie Price, Princess Tiaamii

I found this adorable 'bear jacket' at Speesees.

Their mission is to be fun, fair and organic in the products they make, the way they conduct business, and the baby steps they take towards creating a more sustainable future for the animal, plant and human 'speesees' on our children's planet.

This jacket is 100% organic sherpa cotton with plush trim & lining. It is an earth color, has a drawstring hood and nickel-free snaps. Available in 3 sizes 0-1, 1-2, 2-3 yrs

Reasonably priced (for organics) at $46. Booties available as well for $12

Labels: Environmentally Friendly, Fair Trade, Green Parents, Organics

Most people know the Obus Forme company for their back support systems for office chairs and pillows.

That's why I am sure that new moms wouldn't even think to look at their site for diaper bags, but they should.

Their diaper bag/diaper backpack might just be the most perfect bag for that over organized mom or obsessive compulsive dad (my husband).

It features:

• MP3 player/cell phone pocket on the front strap for easy one-hand operation
• Padded mat for comfortable and safe diaper changes
• Large compartments for diapers, clothes, toys, blankets, and other items that a “on-the-go” parent will need
• Smaller Velcro compartments for quick access and organization
• 2 Discreet insulated bottle holders
• Wide Waist Strap for comfort
• Padded Handle
• Rope Zipper Pull

Parents of more than one child prefer to carry a backpack when taking the kids out. It allows them to be hands free to carry both kids if needed.

Please visit obusforme.com for more details and online retailers.

Labels: Diaper Bags

New mom Keri Russell spoke to the ladies of The View about new son River and his exciting labour.

On weight loss:

"I would love to say that I worked out everyday, but it is truly genetics. It's like your kinda thin. I mean you have what you have..."

On Labour:

"Your first baby they always say that it's going to take forever. Little did I know that once my water broke, I thought that only happened in the movies. Once my water broke it was GAME ON! Those contractions - it was like a whole other world. I was like get in that car and get me to the hospital. So were in Brooklyn, we hired a gypsy cab, it takes forever to get there. Friday afternoon - rush hour traffic. An hour and a half going about a block a minute. I in the backseat of the cab, I can see the poor driver going Oh My God as I am screaming."

In the end Keri was in labour for a total of 38 hours, but she does not seem to mind because her little boy is worth it.

She also revealed that she is still breast feeding 5 months in, which is nice to hear as well.

Labels: Keri Russell, River Russell Deary

New parents Thalia and Tommy Mottola introduce their new baby to the world in this months edition of Hola!

SOURCE:THALIA.COM via HOLA!

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Sabrina Sakaë, Tommy Mottola

A special hearing has been set up tomorrow to give parents in Prince George County, MD the choice: Get their children vaccinated on the spot or risk up to 10 days in jail and fines.

More than 2,000 students in this suburban county have yet to get the shots they need to attend class.

It is one of the strongest efforts made by a U.S. school system to ensure its youngsters receive their shots.

At the courthouse, the health department will have a makeshift clinic to administer vaccines. Parents will be given the chance to offer the judge an excuse for why they didn’t get their kids vaccinated. Under Maryland law, parents can obtain exemptions for religious or medical reasons.

Those who fail to show up — and those who fail to offer a valid excuse and still refuse the shots — could be prosecuted under truancy laws and face possible jail time and fines of $50 per day. Prosecutors do not expect to actually charge anyone on Saturday.

“The message is get your kids vaccinated or get an exemption,” said Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Glenn Ivey. “You can’t just sit on the fence.”

The prospect of stiff penalties appears to have worked already. Last week, when the court notices were sent to parents, 2,300 students had not been properly immunized. As of Friday afternoon, only about 1,100 remained on the list.

Maryland, like all states, requires children to be immunized against several childhood illnesses, including polio, mumps and measles. In recent years, it has required that students up to high-school age be vaccinated against hepatitis B and chicken pox.

After that, thousands of students — most of them high schoolers — were found to lack the required immunizations. Parents were sent letters and visited at home, and the school system even offered free vaccinations.

SOURCE

Labels: Vaccinations

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Jetmax International Ltd., of Irving, Texas is voluntarily recalling about 36,000 boys and girls storage racks with canvas totes.

The storage rack can tip over, posing an entrapment and suffocation hazard to young children.

CPSC has received one report of a death involving an 8-month-old boy who was asphyxiated after he pulled on the storage rack and it fell over on him. The top rail landed on the infants neck. No other incidents have been reported.

The storage rack is wooden with three levels and nine removable canvas totes. There are wooden handles on each side of the rack. The boys storage rack has natural color wood with red, yellow, green, and navy canvas totes. The girls storage rack has white colored wood with pink, yellow, lime, and purple canvas totes.

Wal-Mart sold the storage rack under the brand Home Trend Kids 9 Canvas Bin Boys and Girls Organizers.

The storage racks were manufactured in China.

They were sold at Wal-Mart stores nationwide from August 2004 through July 2005 and Ollies stores nationwide from July 2006 through June 2007 for about $40. Consumers should immediately stop children from using the recalled storage racks and contact Jetmax International to receive a free repair kit that adds stability to the base.

For additional information, contact Jetmax at (800) 689-2168 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT, visit the firms Web site at www.jlwoodenmfg.com, or email info@jlwoodenmfg.com

Labels: Recalls

New mom Nancy Grace has been released from the hospital after a health scare on Sunday.

The CNN anchor was readmitted to hospital after she started experiencing discomfort and was having trouble breathing on her way to church.

Her doctors found two blood clots in her lungs, which occurred as a result of the pregnancy.

On Wednesday, her husband said that the medication was working but, she will likely stay on it for a couple of months to make sure everything is okay and to prevent any other clots.

The babies are still in the NICU after being born 8 weeks early.

The couple is hoping to bring them home by Thanksgiving.

Nancy blogged on Thursday that:

"Lucy and John David are still in the preemie unit. Please continue your prayers. I know they are being heard because the doctors say the twins are doing well. John david is up to 5 and a half pounds and Lucy is approaching 4 pounds! They are both taking bottles and I pray and believe, they are close to having tubes removed.

Today, they slept side by side, swaddled in one blanket, with matching hats on. I decided that is how their first official photo will be made. The preemie unit has a lady that goes around with a cart taking baby photos and of course I'm signing up!

I can't wait to introduce them to you on air when I am finally back at work, God willing. They are the joy of my life. I never knew such a love.

Please continue to pray and think of them. I feel so positive and hopeful when I read your emails and cards, hopeful for the day we will all come home as a family. Ngrace"

Labels: Nancy Grace

This is a question that has been debated among mothers for years: How long should you breastfeed for?

Some women think that 2 months is long enough for the baby to get the initial benefits, while others believe that when the baby gets teeth it's time to stop.

Many moms I know use the 1st birthday as a reason to wean.

Earlier this year I posted a video about a mom who was still breastfeeding her 8 year old.

Apparently this is not unusual because a new study found that some Australian women are breastfeeding their children until they are seven years old.

They say that "Children enjoy the taste of the milk, the comfort it brings and the closeness to their mother".

In the first study of its kind in Australia, academic Karlene Gribble studied 107 women who breastfed their babies from age two to seven.

Some were feeding up to a dozen times a day and one of the women was feeding three children at a time.

"Most women don't set out to feed this long but they enjoy it, especially when their children get old enough to express how much they love it," Ms Gribble said.

She reports several thousand children at any one time are breastfed past two years.

Children this age let their mothers know when they want to feed by asking directly or by seeking access to the breast on their own, Ms Gribble reports.

"My daughter is very articulate. 'Mummy, I'd like a breastfeed please'," one mother of a three-year-old said.

Another mother of a three-year-old said her son would "climb on my lap, when sitting, lift up my shirt, pull down my bra and attach himself".

One mother who fed a five-year-old said he fed upon waking in the morning, if he was sick or hungry, and sometimes had a "quick suck" at bedtime.

For many children, breastfeeding was connected with sleep and comfort.

Only seven per cent of women intended to feed this long but others kept going primarily because of the enjoyment of their toddler.

Psychologists felt that there should be a cut off at the age of 3 and that breastfeeding a 5, 6 or 7 year old was "totally inappropriate".

I will have to agree. Watching the 'Extraordinary Breastfeeding' video was a little disturbing to me. I breastfed my son and loved it, but I think that a child that is in grade 2 should get his/her milk from a jug.

These moms need to know that there many ways that you can bond with your children. Having a one on one movie night, taking a class together or just setting aside time to read could work.

Related Articles:

Choosing A Breast Pump
Benefits Of Initiating Breastfeeding Within The First Hour After Birth
Study: Breast Feeding Doesn’t Cause Saggy Breasts
Breastmilk For Sale: Would You Buy?

SOURCE

Labels: Breast Feeding

Kelly Ripa picks up two of her kids Lola and Joaquin from school yesterday in NYC.

She looks absolutely frazzled with all of that stuff in her hands.

While her clothes look casual in this picture, she recently told Fitness Magazine that:

“I buy jeans that are tight in the rear end,” she explains. “I treat my cheeks like breasts in a push-up bra. I just reach down in there, lift them up and push them together.”

PHOTOCREDIT:RAMEY via OK!MAGAZINE.COM

Labels: Celebrity Kids, Joaquin Consuelos, Kelly Ripa, Lola Consuelos

By C.W. Nevius

Crouching Father, Hidden Toddler contains the treasured wisdom that will help new dads master the Buddha-like patience required to be on the receiving end of projectile pureed spinach, sleep-deprived moms, and toys with Some Assembly Required.

It is filled with an array of short essays that ponder subjects such as urban myths and proven parenting techniques.

When a wife is having a baby, the husband sometimes gets left out.

This book is a nice gift add on that will include dad in all of the excitement and maybe make him laugh at the same time.

Available at Amazon for $9.95

Labels: C.W. Nevius, Just for dads

Meet Percy. He is a stuffed penguin that is capable of carrying around 60 of your child's favorite photos in it's tummy.

The 1.8" screen in the middle of the penguin will display the photos, making him a mini photo theater.

Photos upload easily via USB cable. Compatible with all digital cameras and cell phones. Uses two "AAA" batteries (not included). Measures 3"L x 7"W x 13"H.

Available by pre-order at eToys.com for $39.99. The toy won't be shipping until November 30th,2007

Photokinz is available as a Frog, Bow, Dog, Penguin, Tiger or Monkey.

Labels: Just for kids, Photokinz

We first introduced you to these slippers in April after Claudia Schiffer's son was spotted wearing them in NYC.

They are traditional European slipper boots that are made of comfy boiled wool that have been delightfully transformed into a menagerie of whimsical designs for Christmas such as the Elf Boot(top), Snowman(second), Angel(bottom left) or Polar Bear(bottom right).

Oprah recently added them to her famed 'O list for 2007'.

Available at garnethill.com for $38

Labels: Garnet Hill slippers

Last month, soap actress Hunter Tylo lost her son tragically after he had a seizure and drowned in the family pool.

She spoke to Larry King on Monday night about the call she received from her oldest son and how she is getting through such a tremendous loss.

"I thought the worst thing in life was having a sick child, but, there's really nothing more painful than losing a child."

And on Oct. 18, Tylo got the phone call every parent fears. "My oldest son Chris called and said 'Mom are you sitting down?'" recalled the long-time soap star. "And there's this hot rush of blood that envelops your face and your chest and you begin to know that there's something terribly wrong."

Chris continued, "I found Mike in the pool. He's dead."

"If I didn't have my faith I wouldn't be able to handle it," said Tylo, a devout Christian. Addressing a viewer's concern that she might not return to The Bold and the Beautiful, she added, "I use my pain to work. I don't think Mike would want me to not be acting."

Hunter must be a very strong woman to be able to talk about her son so soon after his accident. We hope she continues to do well.

SOURCE

Labels: Hunter Tylo

A Russian mom has become the first woman to deliver quintuplets in the UK in over five years. Can you imagine? The US has had 4 sets of sextuplets and 4 sets of quints already this year, with 2 sets just arriving in the last 2 weeks.

The 29-year-old music teacher gave birth to the five girls in the early hours of Saturday at Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital, 14 weeks early.

They ranged in weight from 1lb 13oz to 2lb 2oz after being delivered by Caesarean section by a team of 18 doctors and nurses.

The last set were born in Belfast at the end of 2002 and have now just started school.

The mother's relatives contacted Oxford doctor Lawrence Impey, who specialises in caring for mother's with high risk pregnancies.

He said: "I'm very pleased to be able to help this delightful family and that they asked us to look after them.

"Mother is recovering well and the babies are doing well."

The hospital said the babies will be cared for in this country until they are strong and well enough to return to Russia with their parents.

All the medical costs have been met by a group of Russian philanthropists.

It's nice to hear that a third party is picking up the tab. The estimated cost of looking after a preemie in the NICU is $1000/day. So that would be $5,000/day for this family. It could add up fast...

Related Articles:

SOURCE

Labels: Multiple Births, Quintuplets

I recently came across a great site called giggly gear that sells baby boxers, diaper covers and vibrant photo totes.

The mom duo became fast friends after they shared the same dilemma: they couldn't find diaper covers to go under khaki or denim jumpers. Together, they created the colourful patterned diaper covers and the rest is history...

Their bright, bold fabrics will accent any casual outfit perfectly. All items are pre-washed to minimize shrinkage and tagless for no-fuss comfort. Parents can select a t-shirt with a diaper cover or boxer for a complete outfit. You can also add a little fun to existing outfits with individual diaper covers or boxers.

They are also packaged nicely to be a great grab and go gift.

My favorite product is the Photo Tote Bag. It is made with a durable canvas exterior, has a striped lining and leather detailing. The outside of the tote displays three of your favorite photos inside a pocket. The bottom is reinforced with metal feet protect the tote when you're on the go.

*Giggly gear is offering all Growing Your Baby Readers a 20% discount on all purchases up until December 31st, 2007 All you need to do is input the word 'growing' in the coupon code box at checkout and your discount will be applied.*

Labels: Diaper Covers, Giggly Gear, Photo Tote Bag

Expectant mom Christina Aguilera attends the Rock the Vote event at Kitson in LA last night.

She told press, “It’s important for me to come out and support such a cause that has encouraged so many young people to get out there and register to vote.”

“We all have different issues that are important to us; different things that contribute to our daily lives that we should all get out there and encourage to have an opinion on. There’s power in numbers so it’s important to get the word out as much as possible.”

PHOTOCREDIT:M.SULLIVAN/WIREIMAGE.COM
SOURCE

Labels: Christina Aguilera, Pregnant Celebrities

The Daily Mail has some of the first photos of Lakshmi, the little girl that underwent surgery last week to remove 4 extra limbs.

Lakshmi Tatma was born with four legs and four arms - but has had them removed in a gruelling operation.

She was today removed from intensive care following a procedure which removed her headless 'parasitic twin' a week ago, and was reunited with her parents.

Without the operation to remove her twin, who was fused at the pelvis, the toddler - hailed as the reincarnation of the Hindu goddess Vishnu - was unlikely to live beyond her early teens, medics said.

Doctors at the Sparsh Hospital in Bangalore, where Laskhmi underwent the 27-hour operation, admitted they were amazed at her quick recovery.

"She is alert, eating solid food and on nothing stronger than paracetemol," said Dr Sharan Patil, who led the operation.

"She has well and truly passed the danger stage and is on course to make a full recovery. There may be further operations down the line, to correct her club feet, but so far so good. She is making remarkable progress."

"Her wounds are both raw and extensive, so that is something we are paying great attention to at the moment. Her recovery from the operation overall has been excellent." said Dr Sharan Patil

Mozambican Baby Born With Two Heads
UPDATE: Toddler With Eight Limbs Surgery A Success

Labels: Lakshmi Tatma, Unusual Baby Stories

Maclaren has created a Lacoste version of their popular compact stroller and it is now available for purchase!

Marrying the stamina and flair of a tennis star with the hip looks of today? Sport divas, the Lacoste-Maclaren Collection, serves fresh style off the court and walks fashion into the daily life of parents.

Ryan Phillipe waits at baggage claim with his two kids Ava, 8 and Deacon, 4.

The trio were seen at LAX after spending some time in Philadelphia.

The cuddly dad recently spoke about how fatherhood has changed his life:

"Since I’ve had kids, I feel my work has become better, because my life is fuller and more complicated, and I’ve experienced so many highs and lows.”

Labels: Ava Phillippe, Deacon Phillippe, Ryan Phillippe

I think that everyone will agree that this has been the year of the unsafe toy.

As parents head to the stores to purchase gifts for their kids for Christmas, here are 10 more toys that you might want to take off of your list.

These unsafe toys have been listed by W.A.T.C.H. for various reasons ranging from lead hazard recalls to choking or internal injuries.

It has become apparent that licenced toys cannot be trusted. There have been a shocking number of licenced products recalled this year and 3 in this list.

1. Diego is on this list due to lead hazard recall.
2. The Spiderman 3 Goblin Sword because the plastic spring-action blade swiftly extends at the push of a button to a length of “over 3 feet long”.
3. The fun looking Dora lamp contains a scary warning message:

   "THIS IS AN ELECTRIC LAMP – NOT A TOY! TO AVOID RISK OF FIRE, BURNS, PERSONAL INJURY AND ELECTRIC SHOCK, IT SHOULD NOT BE PLAYED WITH OR PLACED WHERE SMALL CHILDREN CAN REACH IT,” where children are further instructed to “unplug the product when leaving the house, when retiring for the night, or if left unattended”.

4. The Sticky Stones are magnetic balls that could cause SEVERE internal issues if more than one is swallowed.
5. Jack Sparrow's 'Spinning Dagger' has the potential for serious eye and other impact injuries.
6. Lil Giddy Up Horse presents a serious choking hazard in the form of a small, wooden bead as well as long, fiber-like hair that is not adequately rooted and is easily removable.'
7. B Loonies Party Pack contains chemicals such as “poly vinyl acetate”, “ethyl acetate”, and “plastic fortifiers”. Flammable chemicals and related chemical fumes should not be part of a child’s toy, much less one intended to be used in or near a child’s mouth and eyes.
8. My Little Baby Born's pacifier is detachable, creating the possibility for your infant to choke.
9. The Rubber Band Shooter goes without saying...who comes up with this stuff?

Parents need to be more informed now. It seems that more research is needed before your pick out a toy for your child.

Please visit toysafety.org for full size pictures and a full description of each issue.

Labels: choking hazard, Lead Exposure Hazard, Recalls

It is being reported that new mom Nancy Grace has been hospitalized a week after giving birth to twins.

"This past Sunday, Nancy started experiencing discomfort and was having trouble breathing on her way to church," Headline News spokeswoman Janie Iamunno told People.com. "She was brought to the emergency room in Atlanta. Her doctors found two blood clots in her lungs, which occurred as a result of the pregnancy."

Grace is expected to stay in the hospital for the rest of the week.

"She thanks everyone for their continued prayers and support," Iamunno said.

Nancy, 48, developed pulmonary edema during her pregnancy and gave birth to Lucy Elizabeth and John David Nov. 4 -- two months ahead of her January due date.

Yesterday CNN updated their site with a message from Nancy with no mention of any health issues.

Related Articles:

Nancy Grace Talks About Her Twins

Labels: Nancy Grace

When I had my son I decided that I wasn't going to do sign language with him. I thought it was a weird, hardcore parent thing that was unnecessary.

It wasn't until his therapists urged us to show him a few signs to get by, that I started to realize it was quicker for him to sign what he wanted than try to find the words.

We started off slowly with just 2 signs (more and all done) and he perfected them almost immediately. He started to use them purposefully, which made it easy for us to know what he wanted.

I then expanded his repertoire to 'thank you' and 'open', which he uses continually throughout the day.

'Please' and 'help' have been a bit harder to teach because they have more hand movements than the others, but with some practice he will probably get them or a version of them that he can do and you can understand.

A good way to encourage them to continue with the sign language is to recognize that they are trying and also do what they are asking...within reason that is.

Our son used to sign 'all done' 10 seconds after we put him in his highchair. What I would do was say 'not yet' every time he would do it so he knew that I understood what he was trying to say.

Some parents believe that starting to sign with their baby will prevent them from learning how to speak.

If you say the word and do the sign, they will learn both and do the one that is easiest at the time.

Here is a great video that shows a mom going through a bunch of different signs with her 1 year old.

This baby is very smart and her mom is a certified baby signs teacher, so don't think that your child needs to know 30 or 40 signs.

The average baby will learn 5 or 6 and they won't be the same ones that your friends are teaching their kids. Pick out a few to start (more and all done are easy to do and learn) and then go from there.

To see a few beginner signs, please visit Babies and Sign Language and click on the words that interest you.

This site is one of the very few sites that will actually show you the signs without having to purchase a kit or package.

Labels: Baby Sign Language, Infant Communication

Tom and Marcia spend some time at a Santa Monica park with their 8-month-old daughters, Eden and Savannah.

PHOTOCREDIT:Most Wanted/Flynet via USMAGAZINE.COM

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Eden Mahoney, Marcia Cross, Savannah Mahoney, Tom Mahoney

I received a "Kee-Ka Cupcake" package from a friend after recently having a baby. I had never heard of the product but I am thoroughly impressed with the quality and design.

Each gift is packaged in a ready-to-mail eco-friendly-package, making gift-sending a snap!

We received the adorable pink and brown hooded towel ($50.00) and face cloth which seems to get softer every time I wash it.

The vibrant colours have have held up exceptionally well and the size is perfect for washing and drying a little one.

I also received a "burp and bib" set and a "onesie outfit" set ($48.00), both individually packaged in their own organic packaging and both adorable.

The organic cotton is soft and washes well.

Kee-Ka not only provides tasteful & fun gifts, but also offers eco-friendly gift options for babies, toddlers and pets AND gives back to community groups who support sick children and other relief causes.

Check out their website: www.kee-ka.com

Labels: Kee Ka, Organics

Last week Nancy Grace delivered her twins two months early.

John David weighed 5 pounds, 1 ounce at birth, while Lucy Elizabeth weighed only 2 pounds, 15 ounces when she was born.

CNN, Nancy's employer, has been running message's from the host on the status of the babies and her experience so far.

November 6, 2007: Nancy says: "I just visited Lucy Elizabeth and John David last night in the neonatal unit. They were worth every ache, every pain, and every risk. Thank you for your prayers and positive thoughts speeding our ways."

November 7, 2007: Nancy says: "At this moment I am holding John David for the very first time and its true what they say....he was crying and when he heard his mother's voice he got completely still. I wonder what he will be when he grows up and what side he will part his hair on. P.S. I snuck his hat off and I think he is beautiful."
" ... now I am with Lucy Elizabeth. I was totally wrong....she is the most beautiful thing I have seen. I wonder if either of them can remember the last 8 months? She is holding my right index finger with her right hand. I wonder if she will paint her fingernails or be a pro-baseball player. I want to hug them so hard but I don't want to hurt them."

November 9, 2007: Dean Sicoli, Nancy's Executive Producer, spoke to Nancy last night: "Nancy says the twins are doing great! They are beautiful and she absolutely cannot wait to bring them home. She is so appreciative of all the well wishes from her viewers."

November 12, 2007: "Lucy Elizabeth and John David both lost weight at first, but now they are gaining. She is feisty and he is laid back -- we even have to wake John David up to make him eat. Every night during the pregnancy I would sing them to sleep with the same songs after the show; and now, when they are fussy, I hold them and sing the same songs and they immediately calm down... So maybe they do remember the last few months. Their favorite seems to be "Swing Low Sweet Chariot!" They both smile all the time. They wear the hats that you sent in to maintain their body temperature. I know in my heart they would not be doing this well without your love and prayers, please keep praying! I miss you guys, Ngrace"

Labels: David Linch, Nancy Grace

Even though Michelle Williams and Heath Ledger are no longer a couple, they are still committed to keeping continuity in their daughters life.

A source told the New York Post newspaper, the two are creating identical bedrooms for their daughter in their respective New York apartments.

They are having them designed exactly the same so when she wakes up in Heath's place she won't feel displaced.

Michelle still lives in the brownstone that the couple shared while together. Reports suggest that the Michelle may be selling that home because it is too big.

Does that mean that she will have to create the same bedroom in her new house as well?? Probably...

SOURCE

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Heath Ledger, Matilda Williams Ledger, Michelle Williams

The Soldani boys have made their way home from their brief, yet eventful stay in the NICU.

They were able to persevere through infections and isolation. All that is left for their sister to join them.

Lucia is still in the NICU due to some oxygen setbacks but the couple hopes to have her home soon.

Gracie blogs that:

They have us wrapped around their little fingers and we wouldn't have it any other way. We are trying very hard to keep them on the NICU schedule. So far so good. The 2.5/3 hr feedings are a lot of fun to say the least and Brian is a huge help. Our dogs are super excited and protective of the new additions to our pack.

Lucia, Santino and Bruno are the 3 remaining sextuplets born on September 12th, 2007.

At the time of birth, doctors said that they were not sure what happened to the other 3 sextuplets (named Bailey, Joley, and Brianna) in utero.

Tests done prior to delivery showed all of the babies were alive, but three were born still-born three days later.

Doctors said they had to perform an emergency C-Section because Gracie was going into kidney failure.

Thank you to quintland.com(a site dedicated to the Dionne quintuplets) for the heads up on the homecoming!

Related Articles:

Sylas Morrison is Finally Home
Fifth Byler Sextuplet Ready To Go Home
4 Of The Minnesota Quintuplets Feeding On Their Own

Labels: Gracie and Brian Soldani, Sextuplets

Hospital officials are reporting that a Mozambican woman has given birth to a baby boy with two heads.

Sibone Mocumbi, a spokesman for the main general hospital in the capital Maputo, confirmed that the boy had been born over the weekend but refused to give details.

However a neighbour of the family, who live in the Magoanine neighbourhood of Maputo, said that the second head was attached to the infant's abdomen.

"It is a male baby, with two heads, one of which is situated in the abdominal area," described Mario Ntembe, who said he had seen the newly born child.

Ntembe said that the second head had two eyes, two ears, a mouth and nose, but they were apparently not functioning.

When the egg is dividing in utero to produce multiples, it sometimes doesn't complete the process and only parts of the new baby are developed. In this case, an extra head and in Lakshimi's case 4 extra limbs.

There is no word yet on if doctor's plan to operate to remove the extra head.

SOURCE

Labels: Unusual Baby Stories

The BBC is reporting that:

The mother of rap star Kanye West has died at the age of 58 after cosmetic surgery developed complications.

Dr Donda West, who managed the star's businesses and educational foundation and was the subject of his song Hey Mama, died in Los Angeles on Saturday.

Her publicist Patricia Green said she passed away "as the result of complications from a cosmetic surgical procedure", but gave no more details.

West's spokesman said the family "asks for privacy during this time of grief".

The 30-year-old often spoke publicly of his close relationship with his mother. She raised him alone after her husband left when West was three.

Donda was a retired professor and former chairwoman of the Chicago State University English department. She was also CEO of West Brands LLC and co-founder of the Kanye West Foundation. The mother-son duo teamed up to develop a nonprofit agency that aimed to combat the dropout problem in high schools in 2005.

Labels: Donda West, Kanye West

The View co-host Elizabeth Hasselbeck gave birth to her second child on Friday in Arizona.

This morning on The View she revealed the baby's name and showed pictures.

The baby weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and arrived without complications.

It looks like Grace is already bonding with her new brother. We wish them well!!

SOURCE

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Elizabeth Hasselbeck, Grace Hasselbeck, Tim Hasselbeck

Because I am bored with my current stroller, I find myself searching online gear sites for a new option.

The Mama and Papas Ziko Herbie, which will be available soon, caught my eye because of it's sleek exterior and elegant appearance.

Like many of the strollers that are currently hitting the market, the Herbie's carrycot converts to a toddler seat. It is also suitable for overnight sleeping with the separate Mamas & Papas moses basket mattress and carrycot stand for added convenience on trips.

Key Features:

- Suitable from birth
- Travel system compatible with the Pro - Sleep car seat
- Carrycot and pushchair can face parent or face outwards - it's up to you!
- 4 quick release wheels, 2 air tyres (back) and 2 eva tyres (front)
- all round wheel suspension
- 3 point back rest recline in pushchair mode
- adjustable height handle
- shopping basket
- removable bumper bar

Includes: light weight aluminium chassis, carrycot, pushchair, footmuff / liner, bag, parasol, raincover and a pump for the tires All buggies and strollers are covered by our 2 year commitment.

This stroller is a bit of a splurge at $480£ (approx. $1000US), without the infant carseat. It does however, include many accessories that are not usually included and is designed to accommodate a growing baby, reducing the need to purchase add ons in the future.

Labels: Mamas and Papas, strollers, Ziko Herbie

Lately, my son has taken a keen interest in my computer and all the things that go with it. We often find him moving the mouse around or trying to type on the keyboard.

This has lead us to look into kids computer games/systems that attach to the computer so that he could have his own purpose for using it.

This is how we found Comfy.

The Comfy Easy PC System impressed me for many reasons.

First, because of the unusually quick installation. This system comes with only 3 pieces. The console, the usb cable and the install disk. There are no power cords, cartridges or joysticks.

Even the most PC challenged parent will find this system a breeze to get going. All you need to do is load up the install disk, plug the console into your computer and you are ready to go.

Each unit comes with a starter program, which is for beginners aged 1 - 3 yrs. Additional programs/themes are available for purchase as your child's developmental level increases.

We love the fact that each game also had 3 different levels of learning built into it as well.

The first level eases your child into the program and introduces them to the characters. As you go up in levels, each key does a bit more.

The characters on the screen are bright, vivid and nicely animated. The graphics remind me of Babytv - that is controllable by your child.

I have to say that when this unit is not in use we have to keep it hidden and out of sight. If given the chance, our son would play with this system all day. He never tires of hearing the moon yawn, the little boy answer the phone or the instruments play.

The Easy PC System has been designed with toddlers in mind, and fits their motor and cognitive skills. The System allows young children to enjoy and learn from various activities, without requiring reading skills or the ability to use a computer mouse. Children progress at their own pace according to their own level, interest and growth.

I would not hesitate to recommend this system to any parent for use with their toddler or preschooler.

Comfy was able to keep our little man in one place for a good length of time, which is unusual. He learned his shapes/colours music instruments. We have also started to introduced him to Christmas with the additional "Christmas in Comfyland" cd.

The control panel consists of 19 colourful buttons, a spin roller and a pause key. Each time a button is pushed the system reacts with an animated image on the screen.

• The Spin-Roller temporarily changes the tempo of events on the screen. The faster the child spins the roller, the quicker the tempo of the events. It is an amusing way to interact with various activities.
• Pressing a Musical key will introduce a chosen musical instrument and play a melody typical of that instrument. When your child continues to press the same music key, the melody will gradually change in tempo and the melody itself will change.
• The 6 color keys are used as various functions and in many different activities. Their functionality changes from software to software - sometimes they will be used as colors, sometimes as navigation and control tools.
• The weather keys teach children to recognize weather characteristics, seasons and the hours of the day, by pressing the sun, moon and cloud keys and seeing how the weather changes in Comfyland. These keys will sometimes have a crucial role, since the Comfy characters will ask your child to change the weather in order for the plot to continue.

Each additional software package comes with a new overlay for the keyboard, changing the look of the console and making it a new toy all over again.

The official website has an online demo for parents to 'virtually play' with the unit. It is the basic introductory program that was designed to get toddlers started with the program, but still gives you an idea of the sharp graphics and appealing characters.

The unit is sold at many retailers including Target.com for $59.99. It is available in 21 languages with more being translated on an ongoing basis.

Labels: Comfyland

I think that this is the first picture I have ever seen of Guy Ritchie and adopted son David Banda.

It is not unusual to see Guy chauffeuring son Rocco and daughter Lourdes to lessons, but David seems to be seen more with Madonna.

PHOTOCREDIT:SPLASHNEWSONLINE.COM via PEOPLE

Labels: David Banda, Guy Ritchie

I have been on the hunt for coupons lately now that Christmas is nearing. Nothing sucks more than buying a bunch of stuff online and seeing the coupon code box at checkout, knowing you don't have a code but one exists.

Mcnatural is a site that offers coupons that can get you free shipping or a discount off of a total order. Every little bit counts when you are buying gifts for lots of people at Christmas. Just think, if you save enough, you may be able to take that much needed vacation when winter hits.

Some discounts I found were:

Disney 25% off any order
Target 10% any order or free shipping on selected items

and for that long day...

Wine.com 10% off a case of wine (12 bottles)

Make sure you check back regularly, the coupon offers are always changing. If you don't see something appealing today that could change tomorrow.

The site's layout is very simple so that you will be able to find the coupons you need quickly.

Online Coupons

Labels: online coupons

Thank you to the reader who sent the message about Sylas' homecoming.

I have been looking for information on the last surviving sextuplet for a few weeks now to no avail.

The family shut their website a couple months ago, probably due to the fact that it was created to celebrate the 6 babies that they were to deliver only to have 5 pass away with just a few weeks of birth.

Sylas Morrison was born on June 11th along with his 3 brothers and 2 sisters at 22 weeks gestation. No exact weight was ever given for each baby just that they weighed " between 11 ounces and 1 pound, 3 ounces".

He spent a total of five months in the hospital and is going home on oxygen, which is common for babies born prematurely.

It is unbelievable that this little guy has done as well as he has. There are little or no statistics on babies born at 22 weeks, let alone a sextuplet born at that gestation.

Their rocky road is probably not over. Sylas will definitely need occupational , physio and speech therapy. He will most likely be followed by a team of specialists to help him meet his developmental goals, feed properly and move towards breathing without oxygen.

We wish the Morrisons well. I know that having their son home with lots of appointments is better than having to visit him in the hospital everyday.

Fifth Byler Sextuplet Ready To Go Home
4 Of The Minnesota Quintuplets Feeding On Their Own
Remaining Soldani Sextuplets Doing Well

Labels: Brianna and Ryan Morrison, Morrison 6, Multiple Births, Sextuplets, Sylas Morrison

Congratulations to Elizabeth and Tim Hasselbeck on the safe arrival of their second baby.

The baby, who weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and arrived without complications, was born Friday in Arizona.

"We're thrilled he arrived safely," Tim said in a statement. "Both mom and son are happy and healthy."

Elisabeth is expected to reveal the baby's name when she calls in to The View Monday.

The couple tried their best to make Grace's new room in Arizona feel as normal as possible by:

Having her exact sheets and comforter here when we arrived, so that the room here felt like home. I shipped many of her favorites here, stuffed animals, books, toys, her bath towel, cups and plates, sidewalk chalk. I stocked the kitchen with her “go-to” snacks. We got her a new toothbrush- which she loves! We decorated her room today with supplies from the art store… bought a wooden “G” and had her color, sticker, and glitter glue it, added a ribbon and then hung it on her doorknob.

Elizabeth goes on to talk about the preparation that she was doing for the new baby's arrival:

I let Grace try on a sling with her baby-doll in it and walk around the house. We played MEMORY, and pretended she was the mommy. Her eyes were wide when she realized that she could have the baby on her, and do everything normally. I desperately want her to know that when I am holding the baby I am still “hers” too. I would recommend that to any moms expecting their second!

SOURCE

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Elizabeth Hasselbeck, Tim Hasselbeck

Ryan Patrick Byler was listed in critical condition the day after his birth and now he is set to join four of his siblings at home today, leaving just one sextuplet in the hospital.

Ben Byler, 30, and his wife, Karoline, 29, made history on Sept. 1 when they became parents to Brady Christopher, Eli Benjamin, Ryan Patrick, Jackson Robert, Charlie Craig and MacKenzie Margaret. The babies, Florida's first surviving sextuplets, were delivered by caesarean section at Bayfront Medical Center.

Babies must weigh at least 4 pounds, and be able to feed and breathe on their own to be released. Ryan, who weighed about 3 pounds at birth, now weighs about 7 pounds, Byler said.

Ryan was doing well, Byler said. His release will leave only his brother, Charlie Craig, still at All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg.

Charlie's status was downgraded from fair to serious condition after he needed help with his breathing a few weeks ago. This week his condition was upgraded to fair.

Related Articles:

4 Of The Minnesota Quintuplets Feeding On Their Own
UPDATE:Minnesta Quintuplets Doing Well
Minnesota Mom Gives Birth To Quintuplets
Remaining Soldani Sextuplets Doing Well

SOURCE

Labels: Byler Bunch, Karoline and Ben Byler, Multiple Births, Sextuplets

I have been hearing about cosmetics companies putting lead in their lipsticks for years, but honestly didn't believe it.

I thought that the endless e-mails I received about the subject were 'urban legends'until I came across this site today that re-opens the subject for me.

SafeCosmetics.org posted a press release that states lipstick manufactured in the United States and used daily by millions of American women contains surprisingly high levels of lead, according to new product tests released today by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. The lead tests were conducted by an independent laboratory over the month of September on red lipsticks bought in Boston, Hartford, Conn., San Francisco and Minneapolis. Top findings include:

More than half of 33 brand-name lipsticks tested (61 percent) contained detectable levels of lead, with levels ranging from 0.03 to 0.65 parts per million (ppm). None of these lipsticks listed lead as an ingredient.

One-third of the tested lipsticks exceeded the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s 0.1 ppm limit for lead in candy – a standard established to protect children from directly ingesting lead. Lipstick products, like candy, are directly ingested into the body. Nevertheless, the FDA has not set a limit for lead in lipstick, which fits with the disturbing absence of FDA regulatory oversight and enforcement capacity for the $50 billion personal care products industry.

The good news is that the tests show it is possible to make lipstick without lead: 39 percent of lipsticks tested had no detectable levels of lead, and cost doesn’t seem to be a factor. Some less expensive brands such as Revlon ($7.49) had no detectable levels of lead, while the more expensive Dior Addict brand ($24.50) had higher levels than some other brands.

Among the top brands testing positive for lead were:

-L’Oreal Colour Riche “True Red” – 0.65 ppm
-L’Oreal Colour Riche “Classic Wine” – 0.58 ppm
-Cover Girl Incredifull Lipcolor “Maximum Red” – 0.56 ppm
-Dior Addict “Positive Red” – 0.21 ppm

Lead is a proven neurotoxin that can cause learning, language and behavioral problems such as lowered IQ, reduced school performance and increased aggression. Pregnant women and young children are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure. Lead easily crosses the placenta and enters the fetal brain where it can interfere with normal development. Lead has also been linked to infertility and miscarriage.

“Lead builds up in the body over time and lead-containing lipstick applied several times a day, every day, can add up to significant exposure levels. The latest studies show there is no safe level of lead exposure,” said Mark Mitchell, M.D., MPH, president, Connecticut Coalition for Environmental Justice.

Labels: Lead Exposure Hazard

Check out how cute these knitted sweets are. They are perfect for that imaginary tea party or play kitchen.

Handcrafted by artisans in Bangladesh.

Yellow Label Kids, the manufacturer, works with the Fair Trade Federation to ensure that the artisans crafting their products receive real living wages.

Donuts are $34.99, cupcakes $31.99 at yellowlabeltoys.com

Labels: Hand knitted Toys, Yellow Label Toys

The Mrozek quintuplets continue to improve in the NICU at Children’s Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, Minneapolis, according to Rory Mrozek, the babies’ father.

Breah, Lainey, Nathan, Matthew and Jackson were born on Oct. 18 to Rory and Jessie Mrozek. At birth the babies weighed between 1 pound, 15 ounces and 2 pounds, 10 ounces. Doctors gave them a 95% chance of survival at birth because they were in utero for almost 28 weeks.

Two weeks ago 4 of the babies were taken off their ventillators, with the smallest baby Lainey needing just a bit of help.

The children are now eating 10-25 ccs (about one-third to eight-tenths of an ounce) every three hours, the couple said. That’s increased from about 1 cc every eight hours shortly after birth. Doctors are using a combination of Jessie Mrozek’s breast milk and nutritional and calorie supplements, they said.

Once they are able to take all feeds by mouth, doctors will start to plan their discharge.

I am really impressed at how well these 5 are doing. I hope this couple has their room set up. It sounds like it won't be long until the babies are home.

Related Articles:

UPDATE:Minnesta Quintuplets Doing Well
Minnesota Mom Gives Birth To Quintuplets
Remaining Soldani Sextuplets Doing Well

SOURCE

Labels: Jessie and Rory Mrozek, Quintuplets

Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin's daughter Apple, 3, was seen out in New York City’s West Village on her way to Ballet class.

Gwyneth has been on a road trip with chef Mario Batali and New York Times food columnist Mark Bittman filming: Spain… On the Road Again.

Grandma, Blythe Danner, who has been helping out with the kids while mommy is away, takes Apple to her dance class.

PHOTOCREDIT: Gardiner Anderson/Bauer-Griffin via JUST JARED

Labels: Apple Martin, Blythe Danner, Celebrity Kids, Gwyneth Paltrow

Sisters, Christina Waddell and Theresa Black,delivered their babies just 55 minutes from each other yesterday afternoon.

Waddell's son was six days early and Black's daughter was 11 days late.

At 7 lbs. 3 oz. Jake Waddell came into the world at 2:28 p.m. Tuesday, November 6. His cousin, Caelyn Elizabeth, weighed 8 lbs. and was born at 3:23 p.m.

Grandparents Steven and Linda Rosbert couldn't be happier.

"It feels great. I'm retired, so I'm going to be babysitting when they go back to work. So hands full, but I love it," said Linda.

SOURCE

Labels: Labour and Delivery, Unusual Baby Stories

New Zealand Green MP, Sue Bradford's Private Member's Bill is proposing that mothers who are serving time behind bars may soon be able to have their babies with them for up to two years

It will allow mothers to have their young children with them in jail for up to two years, rather than the current six months.

Sue Bradford says while the change will only affect a very small number of people, it will be hugely beneficial.

Babies need lots of stimulation to grow and develop. I am not sure they can get everything they need behind bars in a small designated area..

SOURCE

Labels: Unusual Baby Stories

Without a Trace star Poppy Montgomery and husband Adam Kaufman celebrated the upcoming birth of her first baby in style.

Huggies sponsored their baby shower, providing them with a diaper castle and tent filled with diapers.

Friends and family, including her WAT co-stars, feasted on sweets like cupcakes, milkshakes and chocolate crackles, which satisfied some of Poppy’s cravings.

“If I had my way I’d eat M&M’s, ice cream and caramel for every meal but my doctor won’t allow it!” the 32-year-old tells OK!

SOURCE:OKMAGAZINE
PHOTOCREDIT:CAROLINE GREYSHOCK via OK MAGAZINE

Labels: Adam Kaufman, Poppy Montgomery, Pregnant Celebrities

I honestly don't know where to start. There are SO many lead recalls today, I will group them in one post like I did last week.

Five Dolls in particular:

Contact Marvel Toys for a full refund at (800) 352-2064 between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.regcen.com/curiousgeorge

The recall involves yellow children’s sunglasses. No other colors of sunglasses are included in this recall. The word "CHINA" is printed on the left side of the frame. The UPC #400007860896 and words "Fashion Sunglasses" and "Time to Play Every Day" are printed on the product’s red hangtag.

Contact Dollar General at (800) 678-9258 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, for information on a full refund or visit the firm's Web site at www.dollargeneral.com

3. Northern Tool & Equipment “Big Red” Wagons - About 7,200 Big Red Wagons are being recalled because the wagon has a red painted, steel deck with removable wooden sides. The wheels have ball bearings and air-filled tires.

Parents are asked to take the recalled wagon away from children and return it to any Northern Tool store for a free replacement.

For additional information, contact Northern Tool & Equipment Co. at (800) 222-5381 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.northerntool.com

4. International Sourcing Ltd. Toy Dragster and Funny Car - About 7,500 Dragster and Funny Car toys are being recalled because Surface paint on the wheels and engine of the toys contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

The recall includes plastic models of a dragster and funny car. The dragster is approximately 22 inches long, black in color with various sponsor decals on the toys. The funny car is approximately 14 inches long and is also black in color. Both models have the ISL logo imprinted on the underside. The cars were sold at National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) events through Schumacher Racing, and Matco Tools through door to door sales by its representatives from March 2007 through September 2007.

Parents are being asked to take the toy away from children, and return it to International Sourcing Ltd. for a full refund or replacement product.

For additional information, contact International Sourcing Ltd at (877) 404-1584 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at www.islpromotions.com

5. Schylling Associates Duck Family Collectible - About 3,500 Duck Family Collectibles because Surface paints on the ducks contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard.

The recalled Duck Family consists of a large wind-up duck, which pulls three little ducks. They are made of tin and are primarily yellow in color. The ducks were sold at specialty toy stores and gift shops nationwide from January 2007 through August 2007 for about $8.

Parents are being asked to contact Schylling at (800) 767-8697 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday for a full refund or replacement, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.schylling.com

6. Winnie-the-Pooh Spinning Top - About 3,600 (66,000 spinning tops were recalled on August 22, 2007) because surface paint on the wooden handle of the top contains excessive levels of lead, violating the federal lead paint standard.

The recalled spinning top is primarily metal and has wooden handles. The top is printed with Winnie-the-Pooh characters. Tops with plastic handles are not included in this recall. The toys were sold at specialty toy stores and gift shops nationwide from April 2003 through November 2003 for about $12.

Contact Schylling at (800) 767-8697 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday for a full refund or replacement, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.schylling.com

7. Dizzy Ducks Music Box - About 1,300 Dizzy Ducks Music Boxes because surface paints on the wooden base of the music box contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard.

The Dizzy Ducks Music Box is a wind-up music box with ducks that spin as music plays. They were wold at specialty toy stores and gift shops nationwide from March 2007 through October 2007 for about $12.

Contact Schylling at (800) 767-8697 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday for a full refund or replacement, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.schylling.com

8. “Robot 2000” collectible tin robot - About 1,300 “Robot 2000” collectible tin robots because surface paints on the robot contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard.

The “Robot 2000” is a battery-operated, tin robot standing 12” tall. It has a red light on the head and chest panels that open.It was sold at specialty toy stores and gift shops nationwide from October 2006 through September 2007 for about $25.

Parents are being asked to contact Schylling at (800) 767-8697 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.schylling.com

Related Articles:

More Lead Recalls (10/31/2007)
CPSC Warns That Home Lead Test Kits Are Unreliable

Labels: CPSC, Lead Exposure Hazard, Recalls, Schylling

Last night during the final performance on their tour, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony announced they were expecting a baby.

Marc looked on as Jennifer made the announcement and then kissed her tummy at the end.

She eluded to the fact that they will be stepping out of the spotlight for the duration of the pregnancy and possibly going somewhere else?

Watch for yourselves. It's a bit shaky because it was taken by a fan attending the concert.

Labels: Jennifer Lopez, Marc Anthony, Pregnant Celebrities

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC), in cooperation with Bassett Baby today announced a voluntary recall of about 8,900 Wendy Bellissimo Collection Convertible Cribs.

The bolts connecting the top corners of the crib can come loose, creating a gap and posing a serious entrapment and strangulation hazard.

Bassettbaby has 85 reports of bolts loosening, including one report of a 13 month-old child’s hand becoming entrapped between the railings.

This recall involves Wendy Bellissimo Collection convertible cribs, model numbers 5945-0521 and 5545-0521, sold in honey and cherry finishes. The full size cribs have a sleigh design and one of the following purchase order numbers at the bottom rail of the headboard: 272903, 272904, 273904, 276728, 276729, 291081, 323975, 324472, 320318, 323976, 332883 365620, 368466 in honey, and 338535, 338537 and 332884 in cherry. All other Wendy Bellissimo Collection cribs are not involved in this recall. These cribs were sold exclusively at Babies R Us stores nationwide from July 2005 through October 2007 for about $500.

Parents are being asked to contact Bassettbaby for a free repair kit.

For additional information, contact Bassettbaby at (888) 897-4689 between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. ET daily, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.bassettbaby.com

Labels: Entrapment Hazard, Recalls, Strangling Hazard, Wendy Bellissimo Collection Convertible Cribs

If you are feeling a little frisky since the weather has cooled down than you are not alone.

The latest data from Statistics Canada shows October through December may be prime time for procreation. Although live births were fairly evenly distributed in 2005, the most recent year for which numbers are available, a subtle increase took place during the three-month period between July and September.

Given that most pregnancies last 40 weeks, the implication is that "spring fever" might not come when it's pouring rain but with the falling snow.

July, August and September each accounted for 8.8 per cent of the year's newborns; by comparison, babes born November through February comprised between 7.3 and 7.9 per cent. Spring was the least likely time for making babies, with roughly 5,200 fewer infants born in February - suggesting a May conception - than in any given prime time month: 24,896 versus 30,174 in July, 30,083 in August, and 30,112 in September.

I wonder if the fact that there is less to do in the winter has something to do with these stats?

Labels: Baby Boom

With Christmas on the way, I know that parents will be looking for the deals to save money.

I found a site that has a ton of coupon codes to most major online retailers. Some of the codes are applicable on certain items , while others will take 20% off your total bill.

Some examples:

The Scholastic Store 15% off total order
Free Shipping at Gap.com
10% Off + Free Shipping on orders over $35 at ebags.com
Target.com - everything from free shipping to $5 off $50

This site works almost like a weekly circular. The codes are constantly being updated , with new ones popping up everyday.

How it works:

1. Visit the Coupon Chief site and find your favourite store.
2. Copy the code that fits the shopping you plan to do. (free shipping, a straight percentage discount or a special item price may all have individual codes)
3. Shop
4. Enter appropriate code in 'coupon code' slot at checkout.
5. Website will automatically discount your order accordingly

You can get lost on this site looking for deals. Have an idea of what you are looking for going in and target that category to find the best deal...

Good luck and Happy Saving!

online shopping coupons

Labels: Coupon Chief

*This recall is connected to the earlier recall that I posted. This is the North American version of Bindeez Beads*

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Spin Master Toys, today announced a voluntary recall of about 4.2 Million packages of Aqua Dots.

The coating on the beads that causes the beads to stick to each other when water is added contains a chemical that can turn toxic when many are ingested. Children who swallow the beads can become comatose, develop respiratory depression, or have seizures.

CPSC has received two reports over the past several days of children swallowing Aqua Dots. A 20-month-old child swallowed several dozen beads. He became dizzy and vomited several times before slipping into a comatose state for a period of time, was hospitalized, and has since fully recovered. A second child also vomited and slipped into a comatose state and was hospitalized for five days.

The recalled toy is a craft kit which allows children to create various multi-dimensional designs using small colored beads. The beads fuse together when sprayed with water. The recall applies to all models of Aqua Dots. The product is available in various different kits with accessories such as a drying fan, applicator pen, design templates for the beads, and spray bottle. The product is labeled for ages 4+.

The Aqua Dots were sold at mass merchandisers nationwide from April 2007 through November 2007 for between $17 and $30.

Parents are being asked to immediately take the recalled toy away from children and contact Spin Master to return for free replacement beads or a toy of equal value.

For additional information, contact Spin Master at (800) 622-8339 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.aquadotsrecall.com

Labels: Aqua Dots, Bindeez Beads, Recalls

Australia's Toy of the Year 'Bindeez Beads' has announced an immediate voluntary recall after it was found to contain a chemical that converts into a dangerous drug when eaten.

Three children have been taken to hospital in the past two weeks after eating the beads, which have been found to contain a chemical that breaks down into the potentially fatal drug fantasy, also known as GHB or GBH.

Distributor Moose Enterprise said today that parents and carers of children should immediately remove the product.

"The company has advised that if the product has been swallowed, parents should seek immediate medical attention, even if the child is not showing any adverse symptoms," the company said.

Named as Australia's 2007 Toy of the Year, the Bindeez range of craft toys has been pulled from shelves nationwide after Victoria today joined the other states in imposing a formal ban on its sale.

The company said the safety of children is its first priority.

"In order to best protect the safety of children who have, or may, come into contact with the toy, the company has voluntarily recalled the product and is fully co-operating with health and consumer affairs organisations," the company said.

It said the toys were made by internationally approved manufacturers in China and were subject to world-standard independent testing.

"Moose Enterprise has not experienced any safety concerns with its products since the company was purchased by its current management team six years ago," the company said.

Labels: Bindeez Beads, Recalls

I am happy to report that the toddler I wrote about yesterday with the 8 limbs has had a successful surgery.

The almost 24 hour operation required a team of more than 30 physicians to remove Lakshmi's extra limbs, salvaged her organs, and rebuilt her pelvis area, Dr. Sharan Patil said from a hospital in the southern Indian city of Bangalore.

The strong little girl was born joined to a "parasitic twin" that stopped developing in her mother's womb. The surviving fetus absorbed limbs, kidneys and other body parts of the undeveloped fetus.

"Beyond our expectations, the reconstruction worked wonderfully well," said Patil, the lead orthopedic surgeon during the operation.

The complications for Lakshmi's surgery were myriad: She was born with four kidneys, entangled nerves, two stomach cavities and two chest cavities. She has not been able stand up or walk.

The surgery also included separating the fused spines, Patil said. "Every step was successful. There was no setback whatsoever."

Physicians had anticipated an especially difficult challenge would be rebuilding Lakshmi's pelvis, but that went smoothly also.

"We were able to bring the pelvic bones together successfully, which takes away the need for another procedure," Patil said.

The good news is that the hospital's foundation paid for the operation because the family could not afford the bills.

SOURCE

Labels: Unusual Baby Stories

I have written extensively about BPA (Biosphenol - A) chemicals leaching into bottles and the effects that it could have on our children's health.

Many companies have stepped up and are now creating bottles that will not put our kids health at risk.

Green to Grow is the latest to release a bottle that is free of phthalates and free of bisphenol A – a suspected hormone-disrupting chemical.

The bottles are:

• Bottles are tested in the U.S. to ensure they meet the highest standards for quality and safety

• Free of lead and PVC
• Includes a Beginner (slow flow, 0-3 months) nitrosamine-free silicone nipple
• 100% recycled packaging
• Dishwasher safe (top rack)

Reasonably priced at $10 for 10oz and $8 for 5oz.

Related Articles:

California Bans The Sale Of Toys Made With Phthalates
Choosing a bottle: Some Biosphenol A Free Choices
Baby 411 Authors Take Aim At Plastic Bottles

SOURCE: GREENTOGROW via APARTMENTTHERAPY

Labels: Baby's health, Biosphenol A Free Bottles

Even though Jennifer Lopez has yet to confirm that she is expecting, her bump seems to say everything.

Enjoying a few days off as her hectic US tour draws to a close, Lopez clapped and cheered as husband Marc Anthony took part in a charity baseball game in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

"She was really enjoying herself," said one on-looker.

"Every time the wind blew her dress, everyone could clearly see her bump but she didn't seem to care.

PHOTOCREDIT:SPLASHNEWSONLINE via YAHOO

Labels: Jennifer Lopez, Pregnant Celebrities

The findings on this subject go back and forth. Last October The Medical Research Council and University of Edinburgh conducted a study and found that:

Breastfed babies are smarter because their mothers are clever in the first place, not because of any advantage of breastfeeding itself.

It found that breast fed babies who shared the genetic variant outscored bottle-fed peers in intelligence tests, researchers said. The variant to the FADS2 gene, involved in processing fatty acids, is found in about 90 percent of people, they added.

"For 100 years, the intelligence quotient has been at the heart of scientific and public debates about nature versus nurture," Terrie Moffitt of Kings College London and colleagues wrote in their report, published on Monday in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

"Evidence that nature and nurture work together drives a nail in the coffin of the nature-versus-nurture debate."

Although scientists have been looking at potential links between breast-feeding and intelligence for decades, the direct relationship has not always been clear.

The researchers studied the FADS2 gene involved in processing omega 3 fatty acids found in foods such as salmon, nuts and avocados and turning them into nutrients for the brain.

In both countries, breast-fed children had a higher IQ by about 6 to 7 points, but only if they had a variant that made the gene more efficiently process fatty acids.

Related Articles:

Choosing A Breast Pump
Benefits Of Initiating Breastfeeding Within The First Hour After Birth
Study: Breast Feeding Doesn’t Cause Saggy Breasts
Breastmilk For Sale: Would You Buy?

Labels: Breast Feeding

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with Fisher Price, today announced a voluntary recall of about 155,000 Laugh n Learn Kitchens.

There have been 48 reports of small parts separating from the toys, including two reports of children gagging on pieces, one report of a child who started choking on a piece and one report of a child who choked on a piece.

The recall involves a play kitchen learning toy with a pretend refrigerator, range and sink. The product�s item number L5067 is stamped in several locations on the toy and printed on the product�s packaging above the UPC.

The kitchens were sold in stores nationwide from May 2007 through October 2007 for about $70.

Parents are being asked to take the recalled toys away from children and contact Fisher-Price for a free repair kit.

For additional information, contact Fisher-Price toll-free at (888) 812-7187 between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Saturday, or visit the firm�s Web site at www.service.mattel.com

Labels: choking hazard, Fisher Price, Recalls

Jennifer Garner takes daughter Violet out in NYC.

Jennifer’s former Alias costar Victor Garber told US that Ben and Jen’s little darling — who turns 2 next month — is now singing the Disney classic "When You Wish Upon Star."

And that’s not all!

"Violet is the most verbal child. She’s not even 2, and her vocabulary is daunting," he said "She can talk about animals, giraffes, and she mentions where she’s been."

"Honestly, that child is so inquisitive and so full of life — it’s all Jennifer and Ben!" Garber said. "I have to say, he’s an amazing dad and together, she’s a very fortunate little girl to be in that family!"

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Jennifer Garner, Violet Affleck

In July I reported on a baby that was born with 4 legs. It is a rare condition that is said to happen when a set of twins fails to separate inutero.

I wonder if this condition occurs more than we know because a toddler in the UK is currently waiting to have half of the extra limbs she was born with; removed. Lakshmi Tatma is set to undergo a 40-hour operation to remove two of her useless arms and legs.

The tot was born joined to a 'parasitic twin' (a second baby that it is incompletely formed or wholly dependent on the body functions of the complete fetus.)

The headless 'twin' is joined to Lakshmi at the pelvis and has its own spinal column and kidney.

Without the operation the little girl would never be able to walk or crawl and would be unlikely to live past her early teens, doctors said.

The extraordinary eight-limbed baby was born in a poverty-stricken region of Bihar, India - on the day devoted to the celebration of the four-armed Hindu deity Vishnu.

Lakshmi's mom believes her daughter was "a miracle, a reincarnation" of Vishnu, a mystical figure that is thought to be the master of and beyond the past, present and future, the creator and destroyer of all existences, one who supports, sustains and governs the Universe and originates and develops all elements within.

How cute is this onesie???

It is a replica of the ultra popular iphone/ipod touch. Instead of having call or music features this t has burp, drink and nap options.

Available at ipopmybaby.com for $17.95. Offered in 2 sizes 6-12 months and 12-18 months.

Labels: just for baby

New parents Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen spent some time with daughter Olive, at Malibu Bluffs Park last week.

The baby arrived on October 17th in Los Angeles.

At the time of her birth a 'source' was quoted as saying

PHOTOCREDIT: David Schumacher via People and AUSSIEBUBBLOG

Labels: Sacha Baron Cohen

First they say that TV is bad, now they saw it isn't so bad if you watch these shows...

A new study of early TV-watching and future attention problems reveals that "Arthur" and "Barney" are OK for toddler TV-watching, but not "Rugrats" and certainly not ".

The research involved children younger than 3, so TV is mostly a no-no anyway, according to the experts. But if TV is allowed, it should be of the educational variety, the researchers said.

Every hour per day that kids under 3 watched violent child-oriented entertainment their risk doubled for attention problems five years later, the study found. Even nonviolent kids' shows like "Rugrats" and "The Flintstones" carried a still substantial risk for attention problems, though slightly lower.

On the other hand, educational shows, including "Arthur," "Barney" and "Sesame Street" had no association with future attention problems.

Labels: children's health

News Anchor Nancy Grace, 48, welcomed her first and second baby yesterday morning.

Lucy Elizabeth and John David made their entrance into the world 2 months early after Nancy developed a pulmonary edema during her pregnancy and "her physician determined it would be best for Nancy, and for the twins, to deliver them early.

"Lucy Elizabeth, John David and their proud parents are now resting comfortably," they said, adding John David weighed 5 pounds, 1 ounce at birth, while Lucy Elizabeth weighed 2 pounds, 15 ounces when she was born.

No other details were provided regarding Nancy's condition nor that of her twins.

SOURCE

Labels: David Linch, Nancy Grace, Twins

Actress Katie Holmes ran the New York City Marathon today and clocked in a time of 5 hours 29 minutes and 58 seconds.

Dressed in a pink tank top, black pants and a baseball cap honouring the New York Fire Dept, Katie ran all 26.2 miles with a great prize at the end...Suri!

Katie's parents, Tom's mom and Tom were all at the finish line to greet the runner, who seemed anything but exhausted, despite the strenuous day she had just endured.

Can you believe that she trained 3 months for this? Where does this girl find the time?

PHOTOCREDIT:AP Photo/Kathy Willens VIA

Labels: Celebrity Babies, Katie Holmes, Suri Cruise, Tom Cruise

Christina Aguilera has finally confirmed that she is expecting her first child with husband Jordan Bratman.

The pop star told Glamour Magazine (via BBC) that

"she wanted to be a working mother, so she could 'balance' the needs of her child with her career".

"I want to get it right," the 26-year-old added.

Her husband, music executive Jordan Bratman, was ecstatic about the prospect of becoming a father, she said.