And A Little Child Shall Lead Them...Isaiah 11:6

Bringing Baby Home Essentials

Monday, July 19, 2010

Healthy Cognitive Development of Prenatal & Nursing Babies

Prenatal Omega-3 provides the research recommended dose of DHA and EPA for prenatal cognitive health. Since a mothers body does not create these nutrients on its own, they are obtained through diet or supplementation. Omega-3s also provide nutritional components for a babys developing brain and eyes.


Prenatal Omega-3 provides fatty acids from fish oil to help support the healthy cognitive development of prenatal or nursing babies.


*For More Information Visit: www.livetotalwellness.com/familyroyalty

Thursday, July 15, 2010

The Benefits Of Prenatal Omega-3 Vitamins



Prenatal Omega-3—90 softgels


What Makes It Different?

There are a number of prenatal omega-3 supplements one the market, but many of them are very costly or just a repackaging of existing heart-health supplements. The two Omega-3s most important to brain and eye development are DHA and EPA. Recent studies have found that the ideal ingredient balance appears to be twice as much DHA as EPA. Prenatal Omega-3 delivers these critical nutrients in the proper ingredient balance.*



Why Is That Important?

Primary brain development begins in the womb and continues through the first year of life. However, the average pregnant woman consumes only 14% of the recommended levels of DHA and EPA to support her developing child’s brain and eyes. And many prenatal vitamins do not include omega-3s. The DHA and EPA found in Prenatal Omega-3 support proper brain and eye development.*

It Works Because…

Prenatal Omega-3 is the first and only natural prenatal supplement that includes the recommended source of omega-3s (70% pure cold water fish oils) in the right balance (2:1 DHA:EPA) and at the right amount (1,400 mg) to support baby’s brain and eye development.* As an added convenience, Prenatal Omega-3 also has a natural lemon flavor to help mask the aftertaste some pregnant women experience. It is scientifically tested to be free of mercury, PCBs, and other contaminants. And it’s only available from Melaleuca.

What does it take to get the proper level of Omega-3s?

To get the DHA and EPA (1,000 mg DHA) from fish you would have to consume one of the following types and amounts of fish daily:†

*23 ounces of cod

*15 ounces of haddock

*20 ounces of catfish

*11 ounces of shrimp

*42.5 ounces of lobster

*3 ounces of sardines

*4.5 ounces of salmon

*2 ounces of oysters

*17.5 ounces of trout

*12.5 ounces of clams

*17.5 ounces of scallops

†USDA data nutrient data lab

For More Information Visit: www.livetotalwellness.com/familyroyalty

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Pregnancy Video- Healthy Pregnancy Diet

Your Healthy Diet During Pregnancy


It's important to eat smart and make healthy food choices to support your baby's growth during pregnancy. Try to eat foods from each of the five food groups every day. They provide important nutrients that you and your baby need...

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Pregnancy And Massage Therapy

When you are pregnant, your body is under tremendous pressure. Everything hurts, everything aches. But how can you get relief from this tension and stress. Massage after all is out of the question, isn't it? Well maybe not. Many massage therapists today specialize in Prenatal Massages.

Mothers Work, Inc.

You may wonder how a prenatal massage differs from traditional massage. Well, your therapists will use a variety of different massage techniques. The techniques they use will concentrate on a woman's, neck, back and pelvic regions. These are of course the areas most often affected by a pregnancy. If you are modest, don't worry, your therapist will be able to customize the massage for you while respecting your personal limits. Another big difference in a prenatal massage is your position. Since you cannot and should not lay on your stomach, you will most often be laid on your side with pillows for support. While there are special tables designed to allow room for a pregnant belly, most therapists will prefer to have you rest on your side.

The benefits of massage during pregnancy are numerous. When you are under stress, your body produces stress hormones. Stress hormones that you produce will be felt by not only you, but also your baby. By reducing your stress, through massage, you can increase the safety of your baby. It can also ease your muscular aches and pains as it releives tension.

Finding a therapist who specializes in prenatal massage might take you a little effort. Do not assume that any massage therapists can accommodate you. Some might not have the experience and some might not feel comfortable accepting you as a patient at all. Ask your potential masseuse or masseur if they have experience dealing with pregnant clients. If they do not, they will probably at least be able to point you in the right direction.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Pregnancy Video- Alcohol and Pregnancy

Drinking Alcohol During Pregnancy


Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause a wide range of physical and mental birth defects. The term “fetal alcohol spectrum disorders” (FASDs) is used to describe the many problems associated with exposure to alcohol before birth. Each year in the United States, up to 40,000 babies are born with FASDs...

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Enjoying Your Second Trimester

Mothers Work, Inc.

Congratulations! You’re in the second trimester of your pregnancy. By weeks 13 through 27, your morning sickness has faded away gradually and you should be feeling better than your first trimester.

You’ll feel energetic and full of vitality. You can do a lot more than when you were in the first three months.

However, this does not mean that you can do anything you want. You still need to be cautious about what you do and avoid doing too many activities. Stay focused on your diet intake and your health and exercise.

The following guide will assist you in preparing for your second trimester:

1. Control your appetite. Compared to the previous trimester, it’s improving now. Try not to overeat and watch out for getting overweight. Get balanced nutritious food instead of fast food.

2. Handle leg cramps by straightening and lifting up your legs for several minutes. If you get cramp, move your toes upward and hold for a few seconds.

3. Carry out ‘low impact’ exercise. Getting pregnant does not mean you do not need to exercise. Swimming and walking are good exercises for pregnant women. Ask your hubby or friends to join you.

4. Perform Kegels to strengthen pelvic floor muscles. Simply squeeze the muscles for a few seconds and let them relax just like when you stop and start urine flow. Do it several times a day as trained muscles can make labor easier.

Besides you’ll be enjoying this second trimester, another incredible thing is coming up. In the 22nd week of your pregnancy, the tiny little life inside your womb is about to start making little moves. Wow! You won’t believe it’s true ‘til you feel it by yourself. That is the miracle of life.

Enjoy the second trimester of your pregnancy and may God bless you!

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Overcome The Symptoms In The First Trimester Of Your Pregnancy



Surprised with the outcome, you abruptly told your husband about this news soon after having a home pregnancy test early one morning. Afterward, both of you were so contented that you hugged each other for minutes while tears were dropping on your cheek. You have so many emotions running through you, but none can compare to the joy you feel of carrying a precious little life inside of you.

Now you should prepare yourself for the next huge things. The upcoming nine months will be more thrilling than before. You'll experience unexpected, remarkable changes in every area of your life; physical, emotional and spiritual. In general, pregnancy is divided into three trimesters. Each one has its own nature.

Take a look at the general symptoms you may have in the first trimester of your pregnancy - a crucial time when you should be careful with your fetus.

The following tips will hopefully help you go through this wonderful journey. 

1. Morning Sickness - Nausea and vomiting are two common symptoms of early pregnancy. Hot drinks, crackers, and fresh fruits and ginger are great choices for relieving them.

2. Frequent Urination - The growing of your uterus causes some pressure on your bladder. You'll be making more frequent visits to the bathroom.

3. Tender Breasts - The increasing hormone lets your breasts become more sensitive, fuller and heavier than usual. You may need to replace your bra during this time and get a size that is more comfort fitting.

4. Uncommon Exhaustion - Don't push yourself by working too hard. Try to get some rests whenever you feel fatigue. Your body knows its limit, listen to it and get plenty of rest.

5. Increased Craving - Acquire nutritious and balanced food intake. Make sure you and your baby are well nourished.

6. Mood Swings - The change of hormones in your body causes your moods to switch as well. Prayer, soft music, relaxation and mild exercises can help your moods. Moreover, just think that it's a preliminary change and challenge you'll have before and after your baby arrives.

Some of you may not recognize that you're pregnant until it reaches five to six weeks from your last period. But soon when you find it out, it's best to think which health care provider you'll go to for a routine check-up.

Ask your pregnancy condition to your OB-GYN. Some of the congenital abnormalities may be observed at the end of the third month of pregnancy by a USG examination. Consult with him when unexpected things occur.

Read also lots of information about pregnancy. Knowing what happens in your uterus - and your pregnancy in general - will make you feel safe and comfy.

Most of all enjoy your bigger size. It's an amazing experience you'll always remember and cherish.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Pregnancy Video- Smoking During Pregnancy

Smoking During Pregnancy


Smoking is a major public health problem. All smokers face an increased risk of lung cancer, other lung diseases, and cardiovascular and other disorders. Smoking during pregnancy can harm the health of both a woman and her unborn baby.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Morning Sickness: Causes and Cures


Morning sickness is often the first sign of pregnancy, as it can start as early as 2 weeks after conception. Despite the name, the sufferer can feel ill at any time of the day, although as an empty stomach is thought to be one of the triggers then mornings are a common time for it to appear.




Not every pregnant woman will experience morning sickness, although most do to some degree, and it can vary from a feeling of mild nausea or queasiness ranging up to feeling truly dreadful and unable to keep any food or liquids down. The severity of the effects seems to be greatest in women with a history of migraine or travel sickness.

It's not known exactly what causes it, but most doctors agree that the changes in hormone levels that pregnancy triggers are the most major factor. One of the effects of these hormones is to change the way your digestive system works, which can lead to higher levels of acid.

Another possible cause is that many women experience a heightened sense of taste and smell while pregnant, which can make nausea feel worse when unpleasant or strong odors are around.

Finally, tiredness and stress play a part, and most pregnant women are tired and stressed a lot of the time!

Morning sickness can occur over the full range of your pregnancy, but most women find that it more or less disappears around the 14th week of pregnancy, as hormone levels in the body stabilize.

There are dozens and dozens of traditional 'cures' for the feelings of nausea, with every mother having an opinion on the subject! The fact is that every woman's body is different and so no single thing will work for everyone. However, there are some simple things to try which can help most feel better.

As previously mentioned, an empty stomach can be a cause, so snack little and often to keep hunger at bay, and keep a couple of crackers by your bed for if you wake up during the night.

Sucking on an ice cubes can help, as can fizzy drinks. Fresh ginger is known to calm the stomach, so making a tea from crushed root ginger or even chewing on a piece can be worth a try.

Remedies for travel sickness can also help, so it might be worth trying the magnetic wristbands you can buy, but you should never take any medication while pregnant without consulting your doctor.

Morning sickness is a natural part of pregnancy and will not harm your baby in any way, but in severe cases you may be unable to keep any food or fluids down and if this continues you could become dehydrated, which is very dangerous for your baby. If your urine starts to become very dark in colour this is a sign that your fluid levels are too low, and you should speak to your midwife or doctor.

Finally, when you're in a bout of morning sickness, don't worry too much about what you're eating - getting enough energy is more important than a balanced diet at that moment, so if chocolate makes you feel better then go for it! You can always stock up on healthier foods when the sickness has abated a little.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Should You Breastfeed?



The decision of how to feed your baby is a very personal one. The benefits of breast-feeding are numerous and significant, but many women still choose not to for reasons all their own. Before you decide how to feed your child, take a few moments to study up on breastfeeding, then armed with information, making your choice should be easier.




Breastfeeding has two stages, colustrum and regular milk. Colustrum is the very first milk produced. It occurs during the first two to three days, and is a thick, whitish liquid. Colustrum is exactly what a new baby needs. It is low in fat and high in carbohydrates, protein, and antibodies. It is also extremely easy for the newborn’s system to digest. One of the first things that the colustrum does is produce a laxative effect. It helps the baby to pass the meconium, which are thick and tarry. It also helps to clear excess bilirubin and prevent jaundice. So, if a baby is born with jaundice, the best thing is to nurse. Colustrum also carries an extremely high number of both antibodies and leukocytes (protective white cells), and helps the baby’s immature immune system fight off diseases, viruses, and bacteria. In effect, colustrum super-charges the baby’s system and helps prepare him for life outside the womb.

By the third or fourth day after birth, the second stage of breastfeeding occurs. This is when the regular milk comes in. This milk is much thinner, but contains all the nutrition a baby needs to grow and thrive. Just as colustrum did, the regular breast milk carries much-needed antibodies to help the baby’s system. Antibodies are molecules made by your immune system that help to fight off illness. Breast milk contains all of the antibodies that the mother’s body has created. As new germs are introduced into the baby’s environment, the mother’s body begins preparing antibodies to ward off those germs. These new antibodies are then passed through the breast milk to help the baby fight off the new threat. Now, this doesn’t mean that breastfed babies never get sick, but research has shown that they do typically recover more quickly than a formula-fed baby.

There are additional benefits to breastfeeding other than just the antibodies. It has been shown that breastfeeding offers protection against ear infections, respiratory illnesses, allergies, intestinal disorders, colds, viruses, staph, strep, e-coli infections, diabetes, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, childhood cancers, meningitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, salmonella, and SIDS.

Breastfeeding also offers benefits to the mother. Long-term breastfeeding, for a cumulative total of two years or more, has been shown to reduce a mother’s chances of developing breast and ovarian cancer. Breastfeeding also helps the mother to lose weight more quickly after having a baby. Because many women do not get their periods back until they stop nursing, breastfeeding also helps to naturally space out children. But, it is important to note that one should never rely solely on breastfeeding for birth control.

These are just a few of the amazing things that breast milk can do for a baby. You would think that with all this research, the decision to breast-feed would be a “no-brainer”. Unfortunately, one of the biggest deciding factors of whether a woman decides to breastfeed is the reaction of family members.

The decision to breast-feed is yours. Take at least as much time to learn about breastfeeding as you did when you picked out your baby’s crib; more if you can spare it. Arm yourself with knowledge and then make a decision. Only you can decide if breastfeeding is right for you and your family.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Birthing A Healthy Baby


We have all heard the saying…. “You are what you eat.” The same is true that our babies are what we eat while we are pregnant. If you nurse your babies, then they continue to be what you eat as long as you are nursing them.


There is much more information about good nutrition available today, and I want to encourage anyone who wants to have healthy children to start early in learning about and implementing a healthy way of eating. Educating yourself regarding good nutrition is a major part of good parenting. However, a good rule of thumb is, if they didn’t eat it 200 years ago, don’t eat it now! This means no fast food, no packaged food - including sodas, cakes and candies - no preservatives, no fruits and vegetables grown with pesticides or artificial fertilizers, or animals grown with hormones and fed food grown with pesticides. It also means no smoking or drinking. It means no caffeine.

If you want healthy children, you need to put pure, clean organic food into your body before you get pregnant and continue throughout your pregnancy. Of course, then you want to continue to feed yourself and your family clean food once your children are born.

If you are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant, you have a wonderful opportunity to lay a strong foundation of health for your child. Why not start now feeding yourself well and learning all you can about creating healthy children? You are going to be a parent the whole rest of your life. You can do so much to make your parenting experience a joyful one by taking responsibility for your own physical and emotional health before getting pregnant. If you have not been disciplined enough to eat well before getting pregnant, perhaps the idea of eating well for your child will be enough to motivate you.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

The Joys Of Being A Work At Home Mom




You bring your bundle of joy home from the hospital and all you can think about is just loving on your baby and anticipating the bonding process between you and your newborn.  A few weeks go by and you are really beginning to enjoy the bond between you and your child, only to experience a drastic separation.  The 6 weeks are over, and for some women the time is less than that. 

It's time for you to return to work and your newborn to go to childcare.  This can be one of the most difficult parts of being a new mom.  You know you have to bring income into the home and you can't stop working, but you also know that your baby needs you with them.  This dilemma on the working mother can bring on stress, guilt and so many other emotions that women find it very hard to cope.

When my children were babies, up until they started elementary school, I was a work at home mom.  I had owned and operated an in home daycare center, and it was such a blessing to be able to not only care for my children, but help other mothers out as well.  Well the only thing about that is, those mothers still were not home with their children.  I wanted to find a way where mothers could bring in a nice income without going outside the home to work, and yet spend quality time with their families.

I was introduced to a company a few years ago that offered all that and more.  My joy in life is helping others to reach their goals and dreams.  That gives me joy and purpose to know that the knowledge that I have gained through someone helping me, I can pass on to others to help them.  I have tried so many different work at home opportunities only to find out that they were scams or just plan dead end roads.  If you are ready to change the course of your life forever for the good join me as a work at home mom and lets begin bringing back what the home is missing.....our mothers. 

To talk to me and get more information on how you can be a stay at home mother, click the link below:



God Bless You...

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 33-36

Pregnancy Video Month 9


Your almost there! During week 33 of your pregnancy your baby is steadily gaining weight. For the remainder of your pregnancy your baby will continue to put on weight. The amniotic fluid surrounding your baby will reach its highest level at 33 weeks pregnant, then decline somewhat as your baby continues to grow larger...





Friday, June 11, 2010

Changing Your Lifestyle During Pregnancy

Giving birth will no doubt be one of the most magical moments of your life and to ensure that your child is strong and happy, it is important you do all you can to have a healthy pregnancy. To help you and your baby on your way, this article has compiled a number of tips that are guaranteed to make those nine pregnancy months the best they can be!


The first thing you must do when you find you are pregnant is to visit an obstetrician/gynecologist (OBGYN). They will give you an ultrasound to see how far along you are and whether your pregnancy appears to be normal. This stage is crucial and it is important not to wait too long in seeing your doctor.

After this, you must begin to change your lifestyle. Remember, you are no longer eating and exercising for yourself but for two! Firstly, if you are a smoker or a drinker, you must quit. Cigarette smoke can lead to low birth weight in babies as well as miscarriages and tubal pregnancies so try to avoid second hand smoke as it is not conducive to a healthy pregnancy. The same can be said for alcohol and other toxic chemicals and substances such as paint fumes. These items are both damaging to the mother and to the pregnancy.

Another part of changing your lifestyle is your diet during pregnancy. Make sure to drink plenty of water – about 6 to 8 glasses a day. It is not healthy to be overweight or underweight during a pregnancy but do remember that you shouldn’t diet during pregnancy. Pregnancy is not a time to be worrying about your weight! Don’t skip meals as you and your baby need as much nutrition and calories as possible, although not the fattening kind so make sure you get a balanced. Junk food is great to satisfy those crazy pregnancy cravings but try not to go overboard!

If you are worried about weight gain during pregnancy, a great alternative to dieting is light exercise. You may not have loved it before your pregnancy, but learn to love it now as it will definitely pay off in the long run by keeping your baby healthy and your body fit. Light exercises will not harm your pregnancy so try swimming, yoga and walking.

An additional healthy pregnancy tip that those with busy schedules tend to forget is the importance of sleep. Make sure to get plenty of rest so that you and your baby can recuperate and to ensure that your immune system is as strong as possible. It is advised that you rest on your side to reduce swelling and generate the best circulation to your baby.

In summary, avoid damaging substances such as nicotine and alcohol, don’t diet during pregnancy, drink plenty of water, practice as much exercise as safely possible, and get plenty of sleep! Following these pregnancy tips will make certain that you have a healthy pregnancy and have a happy and fit child.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Pregnant

For countless women, becoming pregnant is relatively easy. For others, it can be far more complicated. Many women feel helpless if they do not conceive quickly, and they begin to think there may be a serious fertility problem. There are many things women can do to increase their fertility levels and therefore, improve their chances of having a baby.


Keep a Positive Attitude

Research has shown that physical health is not the only issue, where conception is concerned. Having a positive mental attitude can make an enormous difference. Negative thoughts will often hinder your chances of conceiving. As stress levels rise, fertility levels can fall. Try not to worry too much about getting pregnant quickly. Take time out of your busy schedule to unwind. Everyone has different methods of relaxing, so think about what you can do to achieve this.

For some, it can be as simple as taking a warm, candlelit bath. Others may need more help. Aromatherapy massages and reflexology are wonderfully calming and can make a huge difference to your state of mind. Aromatherapy may also be used to regulate menstrual cycles. Certified aroma therapists can be found on the internet or in your local business directory.

Just spending some quality time with your partner can help. Try to do activities together in your spare time and make sure that you both enjoy them. This alone can heighten the emotional aspects of your relationship and remove some of the stress that so easily builds up when you are trying for a baby.

Ovulation

Your chances of becoming pregnant greatly depend on your menstrual cycle and its regularity. Ovulation usually occurs between the twelfth and eighteenth day of your cycle. During this time, you are at your most fertile and your chances of falling pregnant are maximized.

It is thought that ovulation is most likely to happen on day fourteen (this is based on a regular, twenty-eight day cycle.) A way of predicting your most likely day of ovulation is to subtract fourteen from the total length of your own menstrual cycle. For example, if your cycle is twenty-eight days, subtract fourteen to arrive at your optimum date of fertility, (in this is case, it would be day fourteen.) Nevertheless, women’s menstrual cycles do vary greatly; consequently, your day of ovulation may either be before or after day fourteen.

Ovulation predictor tests can also be bought from a pharmacy or drugstore. Having sexual intercourse when you are ovulating will obviously increase your chances of getting pregnant. Although, couples should try to have sex at least three times per week if they are trying for a baby. The human body is a miraculous thing and ovulation does not always occur when it should take place. Regular sex not only strengthens a relationship, it is a way of making sure that no opportunities are missed.

After you have had intercourse, try not to get up or move around for at least twenty minutes, this will help to keep your partner’s sperm inside your body, again, increasing the likelihood of falling pregnant.

Nutrition and Diet

Having good nutrition and eating a sensible, healthy diet plays a hugely important role. Try to eat a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, lean protein and wholegrain, fiber-rich foods, such as brown bread, rice and pasta.

The vitamins and nutrients that are found in certain foods can also help you become pregnant. Here are some examples:

  • Leafy, green vegetables, such as cabbage, kale, broccoli, lettuce and spinach, are high in folic acid, a vitamin which is incredibly important for both mother and child. Folic acid supports the development of a fetus and can prevent debilitating defects, including spina bifida. It is also essential for the reproductive and general health of a woman. Folic acid can also be found in bread and cereals and taken as a vitamin supplement.
  • Lean meat or beans and pulses are very rich in protein and iron. These important nutrients help to keep iron levels high in the body. A blood count low in iron, can affect the general health of the ovaries, and may interfere with ovulation.
  • Healthy eggs and can be found in nuts and seeds, dairy products, yeast, wholegrain foods, lean meat and shellfish.
  • Dairy products are rich in calcium, which everyone needs to maintain healthy bones and teeth. If you are trying to get pregnant, make sure that you consume enough calcium, in order for your body to support a developing fetus.
If you have been trying to get pregnant for more than one year, or you are feeling very unhappy, it is best to make an appointment, to discuss any issues you may have with your doctor. If your doctor thinks there is a genuine complication, they will arrange for you to see a fertility specialist as soon as possible.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Choosing A Baby Name

Hey lets face it it’s your child and you have the right to name your little bundle of joy whatever your heart desires. Do not be influenced by in-laws or pestering family members. In this article I will give you a few tips on what you can do when deciding your newborns name.

First thing is first is to take your time. Don’t rush into deciding on a name. Rushing is the worst thing you can possibly do when narrowing down a baby name. Never settle on a name that you are not 100 percent happy with. A name will last and follow your child for a lifetime, so be careful in your selecting.

Believe it or not you do not need a baby name before birth. Some parents actually have waited almost 3 weeks after birth before deciding on that perfect child name. As they begin to bond with their newborn baby, the name just drops in their spirit and it just fits the little one. So, waiting to name your baby may be an option you want to consider.

Consider the actual meaning of your soon to be baby’s name? Some parents don’t really care or even research the meaning of the name. Consider giving your child a name that has a positive meaning. Words have meaning and names are no different. If you name your child some off the wall name that has a negative meaning, that is what you are ultimately calling them everyday. For instance, if you were to name your daughter Joy, consider that every time you call her by name you are calling her exactly what her name means; “Joy”. What a blessing.

My final suggestion is to recite your choices out loud. Yes it may sound a little crazy but it works! Say the first name and even include the middle name and last name and listen to the flow. Some people choose to use a grandmother or grandfather’s name for their baby’s middle name. That is fine also; just make sure it all flows together. Believe me one of your choices will click and stay with you. I hope these tips help you select the right baby name. One more thing, have fun with it!




Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 29-32

Pregnancy Video Month 8

Congratulations! You have now entered the third trimester of your pregnancy. This is a very important time for both you and your baby. During your third trimester you may be already statrted preparing your baby's nursery, and geeting ready for the royal arrival of your newborn baby...



Monday, June 7, 2010

Best Tips On Getting Pregnant

Pregnancy is a wonderful event that is complex, satisfying and exciting. The best tips on getting pregnant include understanding your reproductive cycle, understanding conception positions and paying attention to your overall health. Here are seven great tips on getting pregnant:


1. Know your most fertile time - generally, ovulation occurs about 14 days before your next period begins. So if your cycle is a 28-day one, that could make day #14 your most fertile (day #1 is the first day that your last period began). If yours is a 30-day cycle, day #16 could be the time to go for it.

2. Track your basal body temperature - you'll need an inexpensive basal thermometer to chart the slight elevations in your body temperature upon awakening each day that signal your fertile time.

3. Watch for cervical mucus - this can be one of the best tips on getting pregnant since ovulation causes a change in the appearance and consistency of cervical mucus. By checking yourself each day, you'll be able to see the 'egg-white-like' vaginal discharge that indicates ovulation and fertile time.

4. Have sex using the missionary position - the time-proven 'man-on-top' position works with gravity to encourage semen flow toward the uterus to maximize the chance of a sperm uniting with the egg and causing conception. One of the related best tips on getting pregnant is -- after ejaculation, the woman can remain on her back with her legs bent a few minutes to further maximize semen flow toward the uterus.

5. Eliminate smoking and alcohol - not only will doing so benefit your health, when you do become pregnant, you'll not expose the developing fetus to the harmful effects of smoking and alcohol.

6. Take the best vitamin/mineral/nutritional supplement you can find - taking one of the cheap one-a-day vitamins is probably a waste of time and money. Vitamins and minerals are just the beginning. Taking a high-quality, broad-spectrum nutritional supplement helps fill in the dietary gaps that everyone will have. The body needs and will use nutrients such as amino acids, antioxidants, bioflavanoids, neuronutrients, enzymes and other nutrients such as L-Carnosine, alpha lipoic acid, acetyl L-Carnitine and so on.

7. Adopt a healthy lifestyle - this is one of the most important tips on getting pregnant. Healthy living includes having a sensible diet with nutritional supplements, adequate quality sleep, managing stress, reasonable exercise and weight management.

Finally, just relax and enjoy your partner. Trying too hard is not one of the recommended best tips on getting pregnant.

Your desire to become pregnant and having that special child will have even more significance to you if it means you'll be taking better care of yourself and your partner. Not only does that mean a healthier you, it also means you'll increase the chances of having a healthier baby.

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Pregnancy Trends

Author Heidi Murkoff of "What to Expect When Your Expecting 4th Edition" talks with Better TV about the new pregnancy trends of moms-to-be.  Heidi offers valuable tips for working pregnant women, nutrition, maternity fashion and more.


Saturday, June 5, 2010

How To Care For Your Body During Pregnancy




Being pregnant means following a healthy lifestyle is more important than ever. It’s crucial to understand what steps you should take to keep you and your baby in good health. We must first start with having good prenatal care.



Prenatal Care

Prenatal care is one of the vital factors that ensure a smooth pregnancy. The first checkup should occur during the first 6 to 8 weeks of your pregnancy, when your menstrual cycle is approximately 2 to 4 weeks late. For women who are relatively healthy and have no complicating risk factors, you will probably see your health care provider every 4 weeks until the 28th week of pregnancy, and then every 2 weeks until 36 weeks of pregnancy. After that you will have an appointment every week until you give birth through inducing labor or otherwise.


Nutrition

Proper nutrition is one of the best ways to ensure a happy and healthy pregnancy. Because you’re eating for two, it’s doubly important to consume healthy foods and stay away from things that may harm your baby as it develops. When you’re pregnant, dieting and cutting calories is not a good thing - you will need to take in about 300 more calories a day to ensure you and your baby are properly nourished, especially as your pregnancy progresses. Caloric intake, however, can vary from woman to woman. For thin women, and women carrying twins, you may be required to consume more than 300 extra calories. Or, if you are currently overweight you might need less. No matter what, you’ll need to contact your healthcare provider to determine what’s best for you. Of course, pure calorie consumption is not the only goal - you need to make sure that what you are eating is nutritionally sound. Nutritious foods contain the essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to a baby’s growth and development.

Although a healthy diet is fundamental to caring for your body during pregnancy, it’s actually quite simple to integrate healthy living into your daily life. Maintain a well-balanced diet by following basic dietary guidelines. Lean meats, fruit, vegetables, whole grain breads and low-fat dairy products are all essential to maintaining good health.

Real, healthy food will provide your body with much-needed nutrients. At the same time, during pregnancy certain essential nutrients are required in higher-than-normal amounts. For example, calcium, iron, and folic acid are especially essential in the diet of a pregnant woman. Although your doctor may prescribe vitamin supplements, your diet still needs to contain nutritious food to provide your body with most of its nourishment.

On a normal basis, women need 1,000 mg of calcium per day, but during pregnancy, calcium consumption should rise in order to keep up with calcium loss in your bones. You can get calcium from a wide range of food products, including low-fat dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt; orange juice, soy milk, and cereals that are fortified with calcium. Dark green veggies such as spinach, kale, and broccoli; as well as tofu, dried beans, and almonds are excellent sources of calcium.

A pregnant woman requires 27 to 30 mg of iron per day because iron is used by the body to make hemoglobin, which is what helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. A lack of iron leads to a dearth of red blood cells, meaning the body’s tissues and organs don’t receive enough oxygen. With a baby on board, women need to pay extra attention to their iron intake.

Iron is found in both plant and animal matter, but the body absorbs it more easily from meat sources. The following are some foods that contain a good amount of iron: red meat, dark poultry, salmon, eggs, tofu, enriched grains, dried beans and peas, dried fruit, leafy green vegetables, blackstrap molasses, and iron-fortified breakfast cereals.

Many people have already heard about how important folic acid is for a pregnant woman. For pregnant woman, or those planning on becoming pregnant, it is recommended that you take 0.4 milligrams of folic acid every day. Many women choose to supplement their diet with vitamins in addition to any folic acid intake they receive from food.

It has been found that consuming folic acid 1 month before and during the first 3 months of pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects by 70%, which is why it’s considered so critical. The neural tube is formed during the first 28 days of pregnancy, which is usually before a woman even realizes she’s pregnant, and it eventually develops into the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Lack of sufficient nutrition, particularly a lack of folic acid, may result in a neural tube defect such as spina bifida.

To remain healthy while pregnant, it’s also key to drink plenty of fluids. During pregnancy your blood volume increases, so drinking plenty of water is the best way to avoid dehydration and constipation.

Exercise

Exercise is a great way to feel great throughout an entire pregnancy. There’s no reason to stop physical activity once you become pregnant; in fact, dietary guidelines suggest that you take 30 minutes or more each day to work out at a moderate pace.

During pregnancy, regular exercise prevents excessive weight gain, reduces problems such as back pain, swelling, and constipation, improves sleep, increases energy, promotes a positive attitude, prepares your body for labor and lessens recovery time after labor.


Proper Sleep

Getting the proper rest is another factor in maintaining health and comfort during pregnancy. Pregnancy can take its toll, and after a long day you will feel more tired than usual. As the baby grows bigger, it will be more difficult to sleep, but try to sleep as best you can - it will do wonders for how you feel!

Following a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, exercising, and drinking plenty of fluids are all important to your overall well-being during pregnancy. If you strive to eat nutritious food and maintain a positive attitude during the course of your pregnancy, the good moments will definitely outshine the difficult ones.

Friday, June 4, 2010

Finding Hope In Unplanned Pregnancies



Pregnancy is often a pleasant surprise. Of course, there are times that pregnancy can come as a shock. Although most unplanned pregnancies are still pleasant surprises, it doesn't make the situation much easier. There are steps you can take to make an unplanned pregnancy a pleasant and loving experience.

First, speak with a friend or family member you can trust. You'll need someone who will be supportive and not condescending. It's already an emotional time for you. The last thing you need is the added stress of defending your pregnancy.

Second, once you're past the initial stages of finding out about your pregnancy, prepare yourself for the varying responses of other people. You may get receptions that are congratulatory, and you may get some who are very judgmental. Be prepared for both. Also remember that what's done is done. It's not constructive to look back in regret, anger, or despair. It is better to look forward and be grateful for your life and the life that you are now carrying.

Third, don't feel as if you're alone. Unplanned pregnancies happen to many people. There are many different support groups both online and offline available to help you through this confusing time in your life. Seek their counsel. Don't be afraid to voice your own fears and concerns. You may find the sessions very therapeutic.

Fourth, prepare to inform the baby's father. Obviously it won't be easy, and you'll get a varying range of responses from excitement to denial. Hopefully, the father will be supportive and can help you through the pregnancy.

Fifth, be aware that your body is in a different state. Because you're now pregnant, your body is flooded with hormones and is transforming every day. Take this into account when talking with people and prioritizing your life.

One of the most important things to remember is that you may not have planned your pregnancy, but God is a life giver and He never makes mistakes. Children are a gift from God. Accept your gift, cherish your gift and most of all, LOVE your gift. Whenever you need encouragement remember these words and receive them into your heart.

Jeremiah 1:5: “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.

Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.”

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Ovulation

                                  
Childbirth is a momentous occasion, whether a first born or the seventh. The health and upbringing of a newborn is dependent on mother’s preparedness on how she handles this delicate issue. We can read or watch videos of childbirth but it is the experience that carries weight.

The first step is to understand female anatomy and how it works during different phases of childbirth. Ovulation is one such phase of the menstrual cycle, when an egg or ovum is released from ovaries. If this ovum meets with male sperm in its journey down the fallopian tube conception takes place. It does sound simple, but ovulation depends on the interplay of glands and hormones. This may be one reason why some women cannot conceive. The gland that affects ovulation is the hypothalamus, using its hormones for communication with the pituitary gland, referred to as the master gland of the endocrine system. In turn, the pituitary gland produces luteinizing hormone (LH) and FSH. High levels of LH cause ovulation within two days. The cycle continues with mature follicles releasing ovum into the peritoneal cavity and then into the fallopian tube, and from there to the uterus. If the ovum does not encounter a sperm within 24 hours it dies.

Ovulation occurs two weeks before the onset of the menstrual period once every month till menopause, or break in between for child birth and pregnancy. Certain changes occur in the cervical mucus, which gets slippery and slick, accompanied by general or localized pain. Sometimes there is delay or deviation from 24 to 35 days in the menstrual cycle, or slight fever in women who follow natural family planning methods. This persuades them to mistake ovulation for premenstrual symptoms, if accompanied by pain and changes in body. Instead of playing guessing games, ovulation should be confirmed with kits available in market or through blood tests or pregnancy ultrasound. Once sure, it is advisable to take precautions to avoid miscarriage or bleeding. Motherhood is something nature intended us to enjoy, and we should welcome it in all its cycles.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Exercise During Pregnancy




Exercise During Pregnancy: Can You Continue With Your Normal Routine?


Just because you’re pregnant, it doesn’t mean that you can’t get out there and get some active exercise. After you get the “all clear” from your doctor, be sure to fit in daily exercises during your pregnancy. In order to clear you for exercise, your doctor may give you some guidelines to follow to ensure a healthy pregnancy, but to get you started, here are some recommended exercise guidelines to begin with.


Sports & Recreation Activities And Exercises To Avoid Include:

-Contact sports and most competitive sports

-Any activity that can result in falling, such as downhill skiing or mountain biking

-Lying on your back or stomach during exercise, after the beginning of the fourth month

-Lifting heavy objects or heavy weight lifting

-Intense cardiovascular exercise:  your heartbeat should remain under 140 beats per minute during your    workout.

-Scuba diving or any activity that involves pressurized air


Appropriate Exercise For Pregnant Women Include The Following:

-Prenatal Meditation

-Walking

-Swimming

Exercise is important during pregnancy. It can alleviate aches and pains, depression, and fatigue. Exercise also gives you the endurance and flexibility to get through your pregnancy and through labor. So what are you waiting for? Get out there, get active, and stay healthy. Exercising during your pregnancy is a great thing to do for you and your baby.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 25-28

Pregnancy Video Month 7


By week 25 of your pregnancy your uterus has grown tremendously. Your growing uterus may place some pressure in your back and pelvis. Some women experience sharp or shooting pains down their lower back and legs resulting from this pressure. These pains can sometimes become more aggravating as your uterus continues to grow...

Monday, May 31, 2010

Common Pregnancy Symptoms




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Pregnancy is defined as the period from conception to birth when a woman carries a developing fetus in her uterus.


Some of the most common signs and symptoms of pregnancy include the following:

1. Missing your menstrual cycle is the most common sign and indication of pregnancy. However a variety of other reasons such as stress, illness, and weight fluctuations and other reasons can cause a late or missed period. Missing periods normally can also be a symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition in which periods can occur months apart.

2. Change in the size and feel of your breast is another sign of pregnancy. The breasts begin to enlarge to get ready for breast feeding and some women experience their breasts becoming sensitive and they may also experience a sharp and twinkling sensation.

3. Nausea and vomiting are normal symptoms of most pregnant women. This is what is known as morning sickness. Morning sickness is a feeling of sickness experienced as early as 2 weeks of pregnancy. The degree of nausea and vomiting differs from woman to woman. This symptom may disappear after the period of 3 to 4 months.

4. Frequent urination and a drastic change in your taste and smell are also signs that can result in craving certain foods and also start hating other types of food. Sometimes your favorite food you enjoyed so much before you became pregnant can not be tolerated by smell or taste now.

One of the ways to confirm your pregnancy is by conducting a home pregnancy test. The home pregnancy test will detect the level of HCG in the urine and if the result is positive you will need to make an appointment with your doctor to confirm the pregnancy and to start your prenatal care.

A blood test can also be done that may give a positive or negative result. Blood test is normally conducted when there are apprehensions of miscarriage or unusual pregnancy. After a period 0f 4 to 6 weeks the obstetrician can confirm the pregnancy by a physical examination. The thickening of the vaginal tissues and softening uterus confirms the pregnancy.

This article is to be used for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is not intended to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice regarding pregnancy. Prior to beginning any treatment regimen or taking any medication, the patient must consult a licensed medical doctor for advice and/or to determine the best course of action for his/her individual situation.

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Announcing Your Pregnancy

William Arthur Baby Full Banner 468 x 60


Sharing The Exciting News


When a woman finds out that she is pregnant it becomes difficult to think of anything else. This results in the woman being anxious to announce the exciting news of her pregnancy with other people, especially her partner. There has been a lot of controversy on the best time to make an announcement about pregnancy. While choosing how and when to make an announcement of pregnancy, it is necessary to take into consideration the advantages and disadvantages of your timing while choosing creative ways to reveal the secret.

Sharing News Early

If one shares the news early the main advantage is that there can be a lot of support from family and friends. This is the time when your mother and close friends and family can offer you helpful tips and advice as you go through your pregnancy. The main disadvantage of breaking the news early is that there may be overwhelming advice, both positive and negative. Some pregnant women choose not to share the news until after their first trimester because of fear of a miscarriage. For some women this may be their second or third pregnancy after a previous miscarriage and they would feel more comfortable with waiting for a few weeks or even months until they feel they can carry their baby. A lot of explanation needs to be done in case of miscarriage and the news of a miscarriage may reach friends and other family members before the mother is even ready to talk about it.

Announcement Decisions

It is the decision of the mother to whom else to announce the big news apart from spouse, parents and siblings. One should be careful of whom one tells. Telling you partner should be among the first on your list to announce your pregnancy to. When your spouse is able to share in the joy of your pregnancy, the news brings a sense of belonging and a bond with both you and your unborn child. After telling your spouse, maybe the next group of people you want to share the good news with is both your parents and your spouses parents. Your parents can also assist in future planning, offer advice and rejoice like no other person. Parents love to be called grandparents at some stage in their live.

Choosing the way you share the news of your pregnancy matters a lot. It is fun to share the good news in a more creative and memorable way. Arranging for a romantic dinner is a good way to surprise your spouse and make the news memorable. Even in case of the delicacies baby food can be served or serve baby green peas, baby carrots and very small portions on their plate. Now that will get the attention of any man. Another good way to announce your pregnancy to your spouse is to have a movie night with a line up of baby movies like three men and a baby, Nine Months and Junior. There are so many creative ways to announce your pregnancy to your spouse. Be creative and have fun.

Telling Family and Friends

The good news can be sent in a card with a name chosen and a sonogram. This depends on how close the friends are. The most popular way to announce your pregnancy is by sending out birth announcements. You can use birth announcements to both announce the coming of your baby and you can use birth announcements to tell announce the arrival of your baby. These will most likely include a picture of your baby, date of birth, weight and length of your royal arrival.

However and whenever you decide to announce the good news of your baby’s coming, be led by what you feel in your spirit as to who you tell, how you tell them and when you decide to let your family and friends know. This is one the most exciting and joyous times of your life. Have fun sharing your good news with others.

Friday, May 28, 2010

Experiencing Abdominal Cramps During Pregnancy



Experiencing Abdominal Cramps During Pregnancy

It is not uncommon to have abdominal cramps during early pregnancy. Many women become frightened and fear that they may be having a miscarriage, but this is normally not the reason for abdominal cramps during early pregnancy. The embryo is embedding itself in the lining of the uterus. This is what makes you feel cramps similar to those felt when you’re having your period. The cramps may last for several days and you may suffer the way you did when having a period on a normal basis. Please do not be afraid of those cramps as they are a normal part of the pregnancy.

Abdominal cramps during early pregnancy are a normal happening that all women experience. A more serious problem is when you are suffering from lower abdominal pain. If you are experiencing this kind of pain, then it is best that you consult your physician. It is not uncommon for many women to suffer the lower cramps which are referred to as sporadic abdominal discomfort. These sporadic abdominal cramps are similar to the pain felt during a normal period. It is a sign that your uterus is preparing to carry your baby through the next nine months. If you are suffering these pains with other abnormal symptoms then you will need to immediately contact your physician.

Women, who suffer from chills, fever, spotting along with abdominal cramps during early pregnancy, may be suffering from other more harmful conditions. When a fertilized egg attaches outside of a woman’s uterus then this condition is referred to as an ectopic pregnancy. The egg usually will attach itself to the fallopian tube. Normally this condition is caught in the first few weeks and treated right away. If for some reason it does not get noticed and treated it could be very dangerous as the fallopian tube may result in rupture. The signs and symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include spotting, abdominal pain and tenderness. These signs are accompanied with lower back pain, shoulder pain, dizziness or faintness. If you suspect an ectopic pregnancy please contact your physician right away.

Abdominal cramps during early pregnancy unfortunately can occasionally mean that you are about to have a miscarriage. Typically, the symptoms for a miscarriage are bleeding that might be light or heavy, menstrual cramps that gradually increase in intensity. Some women suffer from back pain. If any of these symptoms arise, again please contact your physician immediately. Remain calm because it does not necessarily mean that you are in the process of having a miscarriage as other things maybe going on that are lesser by nature. Some women suffer from lower back pain due to kidney stones, gallbladder disease or even pancreatitis. When you suffer from one of these diseases it is debilitating and in some cases warrants surgery. An abdominal cramp during early pregnancy usually happens to just about all women who are pregnant therefore please do not panic. It is always for the best to contact your physicians.

There is good news, however, women who have abdominal cramps during early pregnancy find it occurs from uterus stretching, from gas or even constipation. It is true that you might be suffering from round ligament pain which may result in short stabbing and sharp aches in one or both sides of the abdomen. This pain can be relieved very quickly simply by changing your position or simply just relaxing. When you do feel abdominal cramps during your early pregnancy the best thing for you to do is sit down, put your feet up, and relax.

Normal abdominal pain may be caused by the simplest of things. Some of them may include:


* Gas pains and bloating caused by hormones that slow your digestion process down.

* The pressure of your growing uterus.

* Constipation *note contact a doctor before taking any type of laxative.

* Heartburn caused by something that you ate that did not agree with you or the baby.


A lot of women do have abdominal cramps during early pregnancy which is normal as the embryo is embedding itself in the lining of the uterus. Cramping in the last weeks of the pregnancy is a sign that labor is almost ready to start. At the start of your labor you will have very strong cramps that are severe in nature and about five to ten minutes apart. This is time to contact your physician and go immediately to the hospital for the delivery. The early part of your pregnancy these cramps can be mild to severe so it is up to you to check with your physician and make sure that it is just the natural part of your pregnancy and not anything to worry about.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 21-24

Pregnancy Video Month 6


Around your 21st  week of  pregnancy, your belly is still small enough to allow you to move around pretty freely. You should enjoy this time of pregnancy, because as you approach your third trimester you will find your belly expanding to unbelievable proportions.




Saturday, May 22, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 17-20

Pregnancy Video Month 5

By week 17 of your pregnancy, most babies can hear outside of the womb. Now is a good time to start reading to your baby. Reading scriptures of the bible to your baby have also been known to give both you and baby peace.  Also, putting on nice soothing music during the day can help...


Friday, May 21, 2010

Royal Baby Shower Treats













Angel Lush Cupcakes

Treat the guest at your baby shower to these cupcake cuties.  This is truly a royal treat.  Enjoy... and don't forget to save some for me!



What You Need!

1 pkg. (16 oz.) angel food cake mix

1 pkg. (3.4 oz.) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding

2 cans (8 oz. each) DOLE Crushed Pineapple in Juice, undrained

1 cup thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping

2 cups assorted fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries and sliced strawberries)

Make It!

HEAT oven to 375ºF.

PREPARE cake batter as directed on package; pour into 30 paper-lined muffin cups, filling each cup 2/3 full. Bake 12 to 15 min. or until tops are golden brown and cracks feel dry. (Note: If baking in batches, refrigerate remaining batter in bowl until ready to pour into lined muffin cups and bake.) Cool cupcakes in pans 10 min.; remove to wire racks. Cool completely.

MIX dry pudding mix and pineapple in medium bowl. Gently stir in COOL WHIP; spread onto cupcakes.

TOP with berries.

STORE  in refrigerator.

Note:

*If you can't bake all the cupcakes at once, store remaining batter in refrigerator between batches and bake up as quickly as possible so cupcakes are light and fluffy.

*Substitute 15 fresh strawberries, halved, for the 2 cups assorted fresh berries.

Recipe by: Kraft

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 13-16

Pregnancy Video Month 4


By week 13 of your pregnancy, your uterus is expanding even further. This will sometimes cause some discomfort or mild cramping. Some women experience what is referred to as round ligament pain around this time...





Thursday, May 13, 2010

Baby Royalty Books-The Toddler Cafe Cookbook





Cooking with your children can be not only a learning experience, it can also be fun and interactive.
The benefits of cooking with your child includes:

Cooking  provides quality bonding time with your child

Cooking builds a positive self image in your child

Cooking encourages self-discipline in your child at a young age

Cooking rewards your child for their hard work and diligence

Cooking promotes excellent eye-hand coordination in your child

Cooking cultivates a love of learning

Cooking promotes cooperation with others

Cooking encourages your child's imagination

These children's cookbooks encourage parents to cook, eat and clean up with their children.  Who knows you could be developing a gourmet chef.

The Toddler Cafe 11 Good Books for Young Cooks - iVillage

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 9-12

Pregnancy Video Month 3

By week 9 of your pregnant your baby is working diligently to grow organs and limbs. Your baby now has all it's primary physical features in place including her arms, legs, torso and head...

Monday, May 10, 2010

Royalty Recipes- Banana Split Pancakes




Banana Split Pancakes


Sunday breakfast is a fun meal for kids to help prepare. The mood is bright and everyone is relaxed and ready to pitch in. These sweet, fragrant pancakes are a festive choice, piled high with fresh strawberries and sliced bananas and smothered in gooey, chocolaty Nutella or Buttery Brown Sugar Syrup. The kids can help mash the banana and measure out the simple ingredients for the batter before an adult cooks the pancakes on the hot griddle.

Enjoy!

Banana Split Pancakes - iVillage

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Maternity Bridal

Maternity Bridal


Congratulations! Being pregnant before you say "I Do" is not uncommon these days. Even with your baby bump, our wedding day can be just as fabulous as ever. Isabella Oliver is the perfect store to select your maternity bridal gown. Show off your beautiful pregnancy curves in a stunning Isabella Oliver wedding dress in oyster  We hope you have a day to remember in any of these stunning maternity gowns. Each bridal gown is designed so you will look and feel fabulous for your special day.
 
Bridal

Friday, May 7, 2010

Isabella Oliver Maternity Dresses

I just wanted to share a special offer with you that just came across my desk. Isabelle Oliver, the leading name in maternity clothing for celebrities and stars is having a sale today that I didn't think you wanted to miss.

Isabella Oliver dresses are the easiest one-piece solution for work, meeting for lunch, special events, weddings and weekend breaks. You can enjoy 20% off our Flutter Sleeve Wrap maternity dress and the Bella Maxi Dress until midnight tonight when you order online at www.IsabellaOliver.com.


Click on the link below and purchase your dress today
Isabella Oliver Maternity Flutter Sleeve Wrap Dress

Eating for Pregnancy

Nutrition is a very important part of pregnancy before, during and after the delivery of your baby.  It's not enough to just take your prenatal pills everyday.  It is also important to eat right and exercise daily. Eating for Pregnancy is an essential nutrition guide and cookbook for mothers-to-be written by Catherine Jones and Rose Ann Hudson. 

It includes 150 nutrient packed recipes designed to encourage healthy eating during your pregnancy. Eating for Pregnancy is the Baby Royalty book of the month.  You can purchase your book today in either paperback or the kindle edition and start enjoying delicious and healthy meals today.

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 5-8

Pregnancy Video Month 2


During week 5 of your pregnancy, your baby is still very tiny but his/her vital organs are growing at a very rapid pace. Your baby's heart, central nervous system and even bones and muscles will start forming quickly from this point on...

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Pregnancy Video Weeks 1-4

Pregnancy Video Month 1


Congratulations on your decision to have a baby! During the first weeks of your pregnancy you will probably be like most mothers to be and want to start measuring your pregnancy week by week. Most women begin calculating their pregnancy weeks as soon as they make the decision to conceive. During the first two weeks of pregnancy most women will experience few if any signs and symptoms of pregnancy...

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Create Lasting Memories

Every canvas has a story and your story should be told and seen.  Take your favorite pictures and transform them into art work. Revisit your vacation to Colorado Springs, New York or Disney.  Say "I Do" again as you turn your photos into a stunning wedding canvas. Create lasting memories with children's art work, baby pictures, fishing trips, your child's first day at school and so much more.

I can recall so many photos of my children that were just priceless and I wanted everyone to share in the joy  and laughter of these memories. Canvas art is also great for decorating ideas.  It  makes a great gift for grandparents, first-time parents, anniversaries, birthdays, weddings, and all those special occassions in your life.



Thursday, April 22, 2010

Pregnancy Tips For Eating Healthy

Pregnancy Tips For Eating Healthy



Meet the needs of your body and help avoid common discomforts of pregnancy by following these tips:

• Eat breakfast every day. If you feel sick to your stomach in the morning, choose dry whole-wheat toast or whole-grain crackers when you first wake up-even before you get out of bed. Eat the rest of your breakfast fruit later in the morning.

• Eat high-fiber foods. Eating whole-grain cereals, vegetables, fruits, beans, whole-wheat breads, and brown rice, along with drinking plenty of water and getting daily physical activity, can help you prevent the constipation that many women have during pregnancy.

• Keep healthy foods on hand. A fruit bowl filled with apples, bananas, peaches, oranges, and grapes makes it easy to grab a healthy snack. Fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables make healthy and quick additions to meals, as do canned beans.

• If you have heartburn during your pregnancy, eat small meals more often, eat slowly, avoid spicy and fatty foods (such as hot peppers or fried chicken), drink beverages between meals instead of with meals, and do not lie down right after eating.

Picaboo

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Pregnancy & Weight Gain

FREE stuff for any Mother or Father-to-be!




How Much Weight Should You Gain During Your Pregnancy?


Eating the right number of calories lets you and your baby gain the proper amount of weight. During the first 3 months of your pregnancy, you do not need to change the number of calories you are eating.


Normal-weight women need an extra 300 calories each day during the last 6 months of pregnancy. This totals about 1,900 to 2,500 calories a day. If you were underweight, overweight, or obese before you became pregnant, or if you are pregnant with more than one baby, you may need a different number of calories. Talk to your health care provider about how much weight you should gain and how many calories you need.

Listed below is a weight gain guide based on  pre-pregnancy weight  for women expecting only one baby.

If you are: Underweight You should gain: about 27 to 40 pounds

If you are: Normal weight You should gain: about 25 to 35 pounds

If you are: Overweight You should gain: about 15 to 25 pounds

If you are: Obese You should gain: about 15 pounds or less

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Baby Diaper Cakes - Lil Baby Cakes


Baby Diaper Cakes
By: "Lil Baby Cakes"

A diaper cake makes a unique baby gift, or centerpiece, for baby showers and even Baby Gifts For Coworkers! Each diaper cake is hand assembled and made with only premium diapers. Our Lil' Baby Cakes have a simple and elegant design, and they include what a mother wants the most....a lot of diapers! Check out our selection of beautiful baby cakes, and order one today!

Lil' Baby Cakes are wrapped in beautiful white tulle and dressed with ribbon. It is then placed in a sturdy cardboard box to ensure its safe arrival to the destination of your choice. You even have the option to send your gift with a personalized note.




Diaper Cakes - Consider giving a diaper cake as a wonderful baby gift. Order one for your next baby shower and get everyone talking!

Friday, April 16, 2010

Choosing The Right Stroller For Your Baby

Choosing The Right Stroller for Your Baby
By: lilmnstr

Choose the right stroller for your baby. When picking out the right stroller for your baby there are many aspects to consider. Number of babies, weight and height accommodation, safety, additional features, price and the list goes on. These are some tips to help you pick the right stroller for you and your baby.

Step 1:

If you're looking for a stroller that needs to accommodate a newborn or infant make sure the stroller is designed for one. This means that it needs to recline all the way back so that the baby is in a lying position not an upright seated position. Many strollers come with adjustable settings so that as the child grows you can place them in an upright seated position. A stroller should state the age range appropriate for its use.

Step 2:

Make sure the stroller you are selecting for your baby not only fits the age of your baby but the weight too. Each stroller has a baby weight limit. A stroller should state the weight limit on the box or tag.

Step 3:

Strollers should have a harness of some sort. Make sure the harness is secure and will keep your baby in the stroller safely. Stability is also a factor of safety. If you plan to put a bag on the handle and the stroller starts to tip over maybe you want to look at one with more storage space. Always check into possible recalls on any stroller you are looking to buy.

Step 4:

If you have or will have another baby in the near future you may want to look at strollers that accommodate multiples. There are some strollers designed for multiple babies of the same age and then there are also some that will accommodate a baby and a toddler or child.

Step 5:

Strollers come with a wide variety of features. One feature is the fold down option. Test this option to make sure you are comfortable with how it folds and just how much space the folded stroller will take up. Test the weight of the stroller and make sure you will not be struggling to get it into the trunk or upstairs on your own.

Step 6:

Some strollers come with a car seat. If you decide to get one of these travel system strollers make sure that the car seat is designed for your child and has all the required safety features. You should test the ease of attaching the car seat to the stroller and how secure the car seat is to the stroller.

Step 7:

Depending on your lifestyle you can opt for a basic stroller that has four wheels and only the front two or you can go for a jogging stroller. Every other level of maneuverability in between is an option too. Test the stroller in the store. Take it up and down aisles and on tight turns. If you struggle with it try another one.

Step 8:

Other features like color, storage space, canopy, adjustable handles, cup holders and such are dependent on your personal wants and needs. Once you find a stroller that meets your needs and wants to the above list then start looking for the ones that have the additional features too.


Free Shipping on Jogging Strollers