lilboyblu

Great News Lilboyblu Has a New Blog Site!

2010-08-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

Lilboyblu now has a new and improve Blog site where we can offer you so much more.

If you’re following here at In the Blu News, please check out the new Blog site and start following us there.

Greater Articles

Better Recipes

Parent Tips

Giveaways

Reviews

Advertising Opportunities

And More…..

http://lilboyblunews.com/

Vendors Wanted!

2010-08-12T18:39:00.000-07:00

Day Springs Holiday Boutique November 18-20, 2010

Looking for a place to showcase your product?

Sale early for Christmas?

Get your Businesses name out there?

Well, here is the event for you!!!!!

This is the 26th year for this event and it is sure to be a successful one. The fees are reasonable at $50 (6’ by 4’) & $75 for outside (10 x 10) with 15% of proceeds donated to the school. There is an approval committee, for the Boutique so for more information please contact Liz Perez at play2learn@cox.net

Participate- Support-Shop Day Springs Holiday Boutique Nov. 18-20, 2010

2010-08-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

Arizona Link for Semi-Annual Sale

http://www.citydeals.com/location/search/index/?category=az+clearance&q=&zip_miles=&customer_location=&customer_location=usa&zip_miles=50&per_page=25&ref=az-lilboyblu-affiliate

Cracker Jax Family Fun & Sports Park in Scottsdale – Spend $15 for $50 in Park Fun!

2010-08-09T22:29:00.000-07:00

Cracker Jaxs a family fun park with bumper boats, go-karts, miniature golf, driving range, arcade, batting cages, volleyball courts, restaurants and more! The home of Water Wars where you can launch water balloons with a single goal to get everyone wet.

City Deals is offering Lilboyblu readers an incredible discount. Instead of paying City Deals already great price of $25 for a $50 gift card, you can now enter CRACKERJAX at check out and pay $15 for a $50 gift card. Wow $15 for a $50 gift card, buy now because this deal ends Sunday!

This deal is too good to pass up and the gift cards are good until December 2010! There is no limit to how may you can purchase, but you can only use 4 gift cards per visit.

Cracker Jax is located in North Scottsdale at16001 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254 just a quick hop on the freeway and your there ready for a fun filled day of fun!

Go to City Deals for this great deal http://www.citydeals.com/?ref=az-lilboyblu-affiliate

Take a look at Crackerjax Video listed Below; you just can’t miss this Deal!

CrackerJax Family Fun & Sports Park Commercial

2010-08-09T22:27:00.000-07:00

2010-08-09T22:03:00.000-07:00

Down on the farm or on a play date at the zoo, this cute little bodysuit will have everyone talking. This bodysuit comes in a cute milk carton package; the bodysuit is 100% organic cotton with an adorable cow print.

Guaranteed you’ll have a moo moo time with this fun outfit!

Price: $17.95

http://www.lilboyblu.com/item_608/Moome-Cow-Spot.htm

Thermos Foogo Phases 123 Giveaways!

2010-08-06T07:55:00.000-07:00

Thermo products have been around for over 100 years! Most of us have had Thermo containers, coolers or other products that have kept our food fresher longer, our drinks cooler, and now they have developed Foogo Phases 123 sippy cups that work with the stages of our children.

Lilboyblu will giveaway 4 Thermos Foogo Phases interchangeable sippy cups phases – 1 (6m)

Foogo Phases interchangeable sippy cups are innovative and bring the very best to moms and kiddos. These sippy cups have interchangeable parts that fit all other Phases’ cups making this drinkware adaptable to your child’s changing needs.

Product features:

Soft spouts comfortable on your child’s gums

Leak proof valve

Ergonomic handles are removable

Interchangeable lid system

Dishwasher safe

How to Enter:

All entries must post a link to this giveaway on their Twitter, Facebook or both. Then leave me a comment with a link to your facebook or twitter status, this will be one entry

Example: I just entered to win a Thermos Foogo Sippy Cup thru http://www.lilboyblu.com

Sign up for Lilboyblu’s newsletter. Then leave a comment saying you signed up for our newsletter, this will be one entry.

Follow lilboyblu on Facebook, Myspace, Twitter or Blog and receive an entry for each one you follow. Then leave a comment saying where you are following lilboyblu to receive entries.

Potential number of entries you can receive are 7 total. Drawing will go from Aug 1st – Aug 23rd!

Good Luck!

FREE Mrs. Fields Gift Certificate!

2010-08-05T07:14:00.000-07:00

CityDeals will be offering FREE Mrs. Fields Gift Certificates tomorrow, Thursday Aug. 5. Shopping online at Mrs. Fields is easy and you can definitely save some money through the CityDeals certificates. There is plenty to buy and plenty to share at Mrs. Fields including the classic cookies, Thank You packages, birthday gifts, gift baskets, huge decorated cookie cakes (fun for the kids!), back to school/college packages, brownies and too many other sweet treats that are making us hungry!

Details of giveaway

FREE Mrs. Fields Gift Certificate when you spend at least $25 on CityDeals

Spend $25 and get a $25 Mrs. Fields Gift Certificate!

Spend $50 and get a $50 Mrs. Fields Gift Certificate

Limited time offer. While supplies last. Mrs. Fields gift certificates are only valid on purchases at http://www.mrsfields.com/.

http://www.citydeals.com/?ref=az-lilboyblu-affiliate

Kindergarten Tips

2010-07-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

Starting kindergarten can be a stressful time for parents and child. Here are a few tips to make going off to school a wonderful experience.

Meet the Teacher: Many schools have open house or meet the teacher night. This is so important for you and your child to attend. This gives you both an opportunity to see the room, hear about the curriculum, meet the teacher and find your cubby.

Make this a positive experience and point out how wonderful the room is. Walk around and check out the board, class pet and mingle with other students visiting. If your child sees you accept the teacher and like the environment they will feel at ease.

Routine: Children benefit from routine and structure. This makes them feel safe, secure and in control of their lives. It also provides for a less stressful morning, when children know what is expected of them.

Provide regular times for Homework, bed time, wake up schedule. Create a routine chart with your child and post it where they can see it. Establishing a routine will help them stay on task and eliminate stress of not knowing what is next.

Eat Well: The brain and body need good nutrients to perform, without it the brain becomes foggy and they body goes weak. Always provide a well balanced breakfast, afternoon snack, dinner and evening snack. These meals should be packed with protein, fruits, vegetables, and low in saturated fats and sugars.

Sleep: Kindergartners require 10-12 hours of sleep with all that learning and playing they need every bit of it. Start by slowing them down an hour before bedtime. Have them get ready for bed, read a book, play a quite game or just cuddle, minimizing the stimulation of TV and Video Games.

Homework/Respect: Homework in Kindergarten can be repetitive and may seam silly to parents. However, coloring, shapes, ABC’s and matching are all skills your kindergartener needs to build a foundation. Encourage good study habits now; it will only benefit the both of you later.

Engage in your son’s excitement and ask lots of questions. Show him how important his education is, be a kid again with him.

Respect the teacher’s rules, policies and help out when you can. If you disagree go directly to the teacher and leave your child out of it. Children are very impressionable and if you talk badly about his teacher he will not respect her authority.

Mom and dad make sure to cherish this moment. Take pictures, give hugs, support and let go. Your kindergarten will feel independent and proud on this day; give him an opportunity to share his wonderful self with others.

Netsmartz Workshop

2010-07-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been trying to find ways to enhance my website and Blog. One of the things I was looking for was a place where parents and children alike could find information, games and other resources on the World Wide Web that was safe and reliable.

Netsmartz.org is a leader in safety education for children, parents, and educators. This site was created by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC); the goal was to create a movement toward a safer Internet experience. Created in 2001 it has grown into a comprehensive internet program offering safety materials for kids, teens, parents and educators.

Netsmartz.org has a lot to offer and will educate, engage, and empower those using the resource. Here is a quick look at some of the things you will find on the website.

Parent/Guardian- Information for parents on ways to protect their children on the internet Education, resources and information about current internet issues

Educators- Resources for teachers and administrators providing helpful materials for students and class rooms.

Law Enforcement- Resources that can be used to educate and support their communities.

Teens- Real-Life Stories about issues affecting teens on the Internet such as cyber bullying, online enticement, and giving out too much personal information.

Kids Games- Fun, Fun, Fun Games that teach children about internet safety.

I am so excited about Netsmartz Games and Netsmartz.org! You will find a Banner link on our Blog and a quick link on our website. I just know your kids are going to love the games, characters and endless fun! Please, I encourage you to take a look and educate yourself on Internet safety today!

http://www.netsmartzkids.org/games/

City Deal Winners!

2010-07-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our City Deal Winners!

Thank you to everyone who entered our City Deal Giveaway!

Our two lucky winners are:

Jennifer Barr $75 certificate to City Deal

Tina Reynolds $75 certificate to City Deals

I encourage everyone to stop by City Deals and check out what they have to offer. City Deals sells local and national gift cards at up to 50% off. Reduced priced certificates allow you to visit restaurants, entertainment events, spas, hotels, Movie Theater, clothing stores and more all at great savings.

Take a look and save on your next outing : http://www.citydeals.com/?ref=lilboyblu%2Cllc.

Play Water Freeze Tag | Activities | Education.com

2010-07-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

Play Water Freeze Tag Activities Education.com

9 Green Tips on "How To" Cut Your High Energy Bill

2010-07-06T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: db
In this article we will cover some easy and simple things you can do to save energy and help reduce your monthly energy bill. Think Green!

Green Investments:
A good place to start is with your light bulbs. If you're still using incandescent bulbs, you should switch to compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs or regular fluorescent bulbs. Many cities in the United States have an exchange program, where your city will replace your incandescent bulbs with CFL bulbs -at no cost.

Green Power Save gadget:
This handy gadget will help to monitor the supply of power to your home and regulate the usage. It will use the minimum needed to supply all your power needs.

Green Usage:
The first thing you need to do is become aware of the extra energy your using. When you go to another room, be sure to turn of the lights. Even if you are gone for only a few minutes, this will help to get yourself trained to continually turn off unneeded appliances.

Your Green Perception:
What do you perceive as an electronic appliance? Would you turn off a TV or a
radio, but not the reading lamp? These small and simple tasks will help in a huge
way to reduce your energy usage.

Green Appliance Usage:
If we start thinking green when it comes to using our major home appliances, we can eliminate the myth that the more gadgets we have, the higher our power bills will be. Some of the typical high energy usage appliances include:

Washer and Dryer- Try do laundry only when you have full loads, and if possible, try switching to a gas dryer.

Water Heater- Set the water heater to be on the minimum amount of time, and if possible, switch to a tankless water heater.

You might think that purchasing these new appliances defeats the purpose of saving money on your energy bill. However, you will find, most of the time, that you will get an energy credit on your taxes for making this purchase, and saving energy in the long term.

Heater & Air Conditioner- By setting these appliances to only the minimum amount required to be comfortable, you can greatly reduce the energy they use.

Computer- By turning off your computer monitor when you take a break can make a huge difference. It only takes a second to turn it back on... think of it as a light bulb.

You must stick to this energy saving lifestyle to reduce your energy bills and help save the world. We need to stop thinking about ourselves, and think of the next generations to come!

Make power at home with solar and wind energy to eliminate your power bill.
Get our complete guide at Earth4Energy
About the Author
Do your part to provide a environmentally safe future for the next generation! Peace

(ArticlesBase SC #751657)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - 9 Green Tips on 'how To' Cut Your High Energy Bill

Text Message Tee’s

2010-07-05T03:30:00.000-07:00

This funky emoticon says it all- "Rock On" little one! Tee shirt comes to you in our signature cell phone inspired packaging ready for gifting.

Silky soft 100% SKAL-certified organic cotton t-shirt made with low impact dyes and hand-printed with all natural inks (in chocolate or cream) derived from soy beans and orange oils, which are 100% biodegradable and non-toxic.

Price: $25.00

Size: 2t, 4t, 6t

Color: Black/Cream

How to Effectively Reduce Belly Fat

2010-07-02T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Rebecca Welch
Jelly Belly. Love Handles. Dunlap Disease. Whatever you want to call it, the excess fat around your midsection that wiggles and jiggles in all the wrong places just isn't pretty. Not only is belly fat unattractive, it can be downright dangerous to your health. Extra fat carried around your abdomen can increase your risk of heart disease. With so many pills, potions and programs flooding the weight loss industry today, many people are left feeling just plain confused about how to effectively reduce belly fat.

The first thing you must know about how to effectively reduce belly fat is that there is no magic bullet when it comes to weight loss. Reducing body fat levels requires a three pronged approach that doesn't come from popping diet pills or gulping down foul tasting drinks. Belly fat also won't come off by trying to spot reduce only doing sit-ups or crunches. It's just not possible to spot reduce, so don't waste your time.

So, the question remains, how do you effectively reduce belly fat? Here is a safe, practical three pronged approach to get rid of belly fat.

1. Healthy Meals. Notice the word diet isn't part of the equation. That's because the word diet conjures up visions of carrots and celery and not much else. The word diet gives us nightmares of deprivation and hunger, and that's not the image we're looking for with permanent weight loss. Just because the word diet isn't used does not mean you're free to gorge on junk food at will. Healthy meals consist of lean protein, lots of vegetables, whole grains and some fruit. Your should consistantly choose foods that are as close as possible to their natural state.

2. Cardiovascular Exercise. Regular cardiovascular exercise will reduce body fat levels. Where should you start? Wallking is great cardio! Put your shoes on and get moving for at least 30 minutes per day. It doesn't matter how fast or how far you walk in the beginning, the most important point is that you're moving your body aerobically on a regular basis. If you don't enjoy walking then ride a bike, rollerskate, jog, run. Participate in whatever aerobic activity you enjoy.

3. Lift Weights. Yes, you did read that correctly! If you're wondering what lifting weights has to do with effectively reducing belly fat, then read on. Regular weight lifting has several beneficial effects for those folks trying to reduce their body fat levels. Muscles burn extra calories. The more muscle you carry on your frame, the more calories you burn in a 24 hour period which translates into extra fat burning power. Muscles take up about one third less space than fat. Muscles give you the power to carry on your daily activities more effectively and with energy to spare.

Learning how to effectively reduce belly fat isn't a difficult task. The three principle keys to getting rid of your gut rely on diet, cardiovascular exercise and weight lifting on a regular basis. Remember, you didn't sprout belly fat overnight and you can't get rid of belly fat in a day, but you can reduce belly fat if you're willing to put forth a bit of
effort.
About the Author
Get your risk free trial of the best plan to effectively reduce belly fat. reshape your body regardless of age, gender, or metabolic type. See more tips about how to get fit and how to stay fit.

(ArticlesBase SC #65679)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - How To Effectively Reduce Belly Fat

Spa Style Facials-Do at Home Naturally

2010-07-01T04:30:00.000-07:00

By: Kim Snyder
Facials are one of the most common types of skincare. Its important to give yourself a facial because your face is always exposed to the environment and everyone sees your face.
A spa facial is more than just cleansing your skin, it softens your skin and with the massage that you receive, it helps with tension as well. A spa facial gives you relief from the tension you feel in your forehead, around your eyes and mouth which can have a relaxing effect on your whole body.
Spa facials generally include no less than five steps:
Cleansing
Exfoliating
Mask
Massage
Moisturizing.
To give yourself a spa style facial at home you need to get together all the ingredients you want to be using. Pick a cleanser that is most suited for your skin type.
You can create your own exfoliants from certain fruits and other products you may have in your kitchen.
Papaya is a natural exfoliant when its mashed together with a tsp. of honey. It may also irritate your skin so please test first.
To create a tightening mask you will need a clay or clay like product. For a soothing and nourishing mask try dry milk powder, mixed with lemon, honey and oatmeal enough of each to create a paste.
Mashed bananas and avocadoes have a natural oil making them great for moisturizing masks. For dry skin mash enough ripe avocado to make 2 tsp. and blend it with 1 tsp honey. Spread over all your face avoiding your eye area and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water.
For exfoliating, moisturizing mask and may prevent acne scarring, try wheat germ! For dry skin you will need:
1 tsp wheat germ
2 tsp honey
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp almond oil enough to create a paste. Gently massage into your face and neck avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 10 minutes then go onto your next step in your spa style facial at home. Extra tip about wheat germ, to help reduce possible scarring caused by severe acne try massaging a few drops of wheat germ oil into your skin after cleansing. Do it every night.
You will want to experiment first to make sure you are not sensitive to any of the ingredients you have in mind to use. Like wraps and scrubs, a facial should be done no more than once a week.
Great skin always has a healthy looking glow that reflects the time and effort you devote to it. Anyone who wants to maintain a healthy looking glow to their skin can benefit by giving yourself a spa style facial at home. And it saves you money as well!
About the Author
Copyright 2008 Kim Snyder Overall Beauty Offering organic/naturally handcrafted skincare, bath & body products and gift sets. Check out our pure Overall Beauty Minerals makeup line and other products we offer with your well-being in mind. Take a break today, Visit OverallBeauty.com!

(ArticlesBase SC #604833)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Spa Style Facials ~ Do at Home Naturally

Boys just want to be Cool and in style!

2010-06-30T03:30:00.000-07:00

Expensive baby clothing and baby boutiques are all over the internet and local shopping malls. However, walk in or log on to any of them and what will you see Pink, fluffy and Oh-so pretty girly things. Now don’t get me wrong I can shop for hours in these stores for my daughter. The stuffs so cute and who can resist your little one running around with a tutu and a sparkly wand.

But the boy movement is heading there way. Boys today are looking for fashion and moms are seeking modern with a rock-n-roll edge for there boys. It’s no longer a girl’s world; cool boy fashions are popping up all over. Lilboyblu has just what you’re looking for a place where they can shop for hip styles, cool looks all at affordable prices, Lilboyblu is just the place. This spring lil boys will look adorable in these hip Onesies. We carry text message baby, cutie text messages on 100% cotton in a verity of bright colors. For the cool nursing baby try “I’m a Boobman” line or for the laid back baby tie dye is always cool. Check out our whole line of clothing, shoes and socks for the trendy lil one.

Another popular trend is the rock-n-roll beanies with a distress look. These beanies will scream cool when your lil one shows up at daycare. The Beanies designs are what every boy loves; motorcycles, eagles, skulls, cars and more. Each beanie is made with comfort in mind and the 2-4t fit mom and dads head as well.

What about when they loss their teeth your going to need a place to keep them. Why place them in plastic baggies and take the risk of mixing them up with the older kid’s teeth. We have the perfect tooth fairy kit that holds all baby teeth in one place. Your son will love the door hanger and pouch making his tooth fairy dreams come true.

At Lilboyblu you will not only find quality boy clothing you can also find unique baby shower gifts for that mom to be. We carry gift sets, baby blankets, keepsake items and diaper cakes. You will be pleased with the verity and quality of items we carry. This is just what the boys!

Sandi Lopez

Lilboyblu offers carefully-selected little boy clothes and products. Our customers are treated like family and we enjoy providing excellent customer care. Stop on by and check out what we have to offer where it’s cool to be a boy! http://www.lilboyblu.com/

Mom-to-be Dated Pendant

2010-06-29T03:30:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful baby shower gift for the mom-to-be. A pendant with baby’s due date made of polished zinc on an 18”sterling sliver chain. Pendant comes separate or in a tin box, for stylish gift wrapping.

Price: $48.00-$51.00

Southwestern Eggs

2010-06-28T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
1lb. grated cheddar cheese
1 dozen eggs
1(16oz) carton sour cream
1lb grated jack cheese
1(7oz) can chilies, diced

Directions:
Preheat oven to 325. Mix cheese, sour cream, chilies all together. Beat eggs, add to cheese mixture. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake 60 minutes.

Tip: When preparing a casserole, make an additional batch to freeze. It makes a great emergency meal when unexpected guests arrive. Just take the casserole from the freezer and bake it in the oven.

Snuggin Go has arrived at Lilboyblu.com

2010-06-25T03:30:00.000-07:00

Wow Snuggin go is now for sale at Lilboyblu .com
http://www.lilboyblu.com/category_165/Baby-Gear.htm

CITY DEAL GIVEAWAY

2010-06-23T22:32:00.000-07:00

Lilboyblu.com is so excited to offer an AMAZING GIVEAWAY! City Deals has offered Lilboyblu.com $150 in city deals credits/certificates as a giveaway to our readers. The giveaway will go until June 30th, 2010! At the end of the giveaway I will choose two winners, each winning $75 in City Deal credits/certificates.

Get to Know City Deals; they sell local and national certificates and gift cards at up to 50% off. Reduced priced certificates allow you to visit various restaurants, entertainment events, spas, hotels, clothing stores, movie theaters, and more. City Deals has a wide array of deals available every day with out the hassle of group buying!

Since learning about this site, one of the things I like best is the ease and convenience of shopping online. While they offer great deals of the moment that are usually time-sensitive, I can go on at anytime and find a killer deal to local and national brands that I love! Plus, they give me an excuse to try new places without investing a ton of money! I can also find great gifts for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and during the holiday’s for my friends and family without actually spending a ton of money, but it looks like I’m being very generous!

How to Enter:

City Deals requires 2 mandatory entries:

All entries must register with City Deals by creating a Free account (requires no purchase to register). Please leave me a comment saying you have registered with City Deals. This will be your first entry!

All entrants must post a link to this giveaway on Facebook or Twitter (or Both). Then leave me a comment with a link to your Facebook or Twitter status, this will be your second entry!

Example: I just entered to win $75 @citydealsoffers thru http://www.lilboyblu.com/

****Earn an extra entry by signing up for my newsletter. Please leave me a comment saying you signed up for the newsletter and get the extra entry!

Good Luck!

School Memories

2010-06-23T03:30:00.000-07:00

If you are like many parents you have a drawer, box or several locations storing your child’s school memories. When you go to throw something away, your child makes you feel guilty by telling you “That was my favorite project or I was saving that one” So, you put it back and continue to collect years of school work. But what’s a Mom to do?

Well, after a few years of guilt and running out of storage. I started to look at creative ways to store my children’s school memories. It was important to me to handle this situation with care. I realized that each piece of paper held a challenge, a need for concentration and sometimes caused struggle. Yet, each grade or make indicated they made it, and accomplished the skill required to move forward. I decided I could not hold onto every little piece of paper but I wanted to hold and honor as much of it as I could.

Here are a few suggestions on how to keep your child’s school years organized without it over taking your home.

Report Cards, Progress Reports & Awards:

Store report cards in a decorative accordion file folder with a tie string. Label each section with grade and school year (Kindergarden-2009-2010). Place report cards, progress reports and awards for that year in order. An accordion file folder has twelve months enough slots to cover kindergarten to graduation!

Homework/ Miscellaneous:

I have a large entertainment center that has two drawers opposite of each other. I have one labeled for each child. Throughout the year they place their homework and other important papers in their drawers. At the end of the year, usually four weeks into summer I have them take out their drawers and we spend several hours going through each paper reminiscing about what went on during that school year. We have a lot of fun talking about each piece of paper and it is enjoyable to watch them relive the challenges, good times and sometimes silly times that happen while they were at school. I ask them to save 5-10 pieces of school work from each subject that they feel depicts the year. Sometimes we have a few extras, but the majority of the papers they are ready to throw away. I then take those papers and place them in a binder by subject, grade and year. I decorate the dividers with sayings or clippings of newspaper events. I use 3-inch binders and I have been able to get all of elementary (K-6th) into one binder. I then place them on our book shelve so anyone can take it down and take a walk through memory lane.

Great Ideas for Sharing Now:

Consider having a wall of fame in your laundry room. I have a large corkboard that covers half of one of my walls. It is decorated and its header reads “Nikko & Briar’s Hall of Fame” I place awards, certificates, art and other things that make them feel proud on this board. We exit and enter through our laundry room so everyone sees the board several times a day. When my kids where younger they would bring visitors to our laundry room to see the Hall of Fame Board, they where very proud of it’s the nice thing about the location of the board was that it did not have to be pretty and organized all the time.

Art:

Display Art- Have your child date and sign their art. Place each piece on the corkboard for one month. Then remove the art and place it in your child’s drawer for storage. Rotate Art on the Hall of Fame board each month. If you really like the piece, frame it and make it a permanent piece of Art on your walls.

Calendar/Personalize Cards:

With today’s technology you can scan in your child’s art work and create holiday calendars or personalize cards. If you’re computer doesn’t have the ability to handle this project you can use services like kodakgallery.com, vista print, or staples. What a great way to share your child’s art with family and friends. Image how proud your kids will be when they send calendars to grandma, knowing every page has a copy of their art work on it.

Take a Picture:

Take a picture of each piece of art work and then place it in a scrap book. This will take up less space and the picture will last longer then the project it’s self. Give each piece a title, description, date and year. This will condense the art work and once filled you can consider having the scrap book made into a book. Making a great coffee table book!

Deal of the Day

2010-06-22T03:30:00.000-07:00

Rock N Mom Diaper bags for the mom who wants fun, edgy and totally functional. Here's a bag that displays the hottest in trends with an urban flair. Black Leather diaper bag. Outside cell phone holder and large zippered compartment for lipstick, change and other small things that always get lost. Features: Wipeable changing pad and four interior pockets plus one interior private zippered pocket, baby wipe holder and a private zippered pocket for personal belongings.

This diaper bag is cool and stylish for Moms who like functionality yet enjoy maintaining their style. Rock N Mom has several different styles to choose from all with different features. Choose from: Rock N Moms Bebe Mi Amour Black Back Pack, Divine Breckin's Black Leather Diaper Bag, Chic Jett's Bebe Mi Amour Black Tote Diaper Bag

Price $120.95

24hr Sale: $99.95

World Skate Day!

2010-06-21T03:30:00.000-07:00

Boys Rule & Girls Drool !

2010-06-18T03:30:00.000-07:00

Hip Beanies for Boys!

Your Lil boy will not only stand out but will be a trend setter in this 100% cotton distressed beanie by Pink Axle. This black hat with white cross image gives a serious rock-n-roll edge and is lightly distressed for fashion and style. Beanies are the latest fashion trend for boys big or small and will rock any boy’s style!

Lilboyblu offers a variety of styles from cars, motorcycles, eagles and many more.

http://www.lilboyblu.com/category_138/Beanies.htm

Price: $ 10.95 (0-6m) $14.95 (6-12m) $19.95 (2t-4t)

Paper Bag Whale

2010-06-17T03:30:00.000-07:00

Supplies:

paint - blue or grey (tempra)
paper lunch bag
newspaper
blue construction paper
Rubber band
scotch tape
glue
wiggle eyes
black marker

Instructions:
Stuff half of the bags with newspaper leaving enough at end to make a tail. Take Rubber band and tie off paper bag. The stuffed part of the bag is the whale body and the rest of the paper bag is the tail. Paint your paper bag with the tempra pain and let dry. Take construction paper and cut out flippers. Take another piece of construction paper and cut out a square, then cut slits into the square leaving all pieces attached. Curl strips with a pencil and then roll up to create the spout then tape spout and flippers to your whale. Glue wiggle eyes to face and add detail: like a mouth or nose.

Shop lilboyblu.com for stylish and trendy products for boys, we offer boy’s clothing for baby to toddlers age, baby shower gifts, mom and dad clothes and much more. For a unique selection of everything fun and stylish for boys shop http://www.lilboyblu.com/

Helping Boys with Responsibilities

2010-06-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

Boys are different than girls and as mother’s we play a key role in developing boys into men. I used to think it was my husband’s role to teach my son everything he needed to know. Why not? He’s a boy; he should have all the answers, Right? Wrong, my husband’s role is extremely important for my son’s development and yes, he will answer questions my son would rather ask him than his mom but our role as mothers is just as important.

So, we want to raise well rounded boys, let’s get started….

Encourage your son to follow directions and finish what he has started. Boys have a tendency to develop these skills slower than girls. Encouraging responsibility at an early age teaches them to be accountable for their actions. As mothers we sometimes baby our boys in hopes of teaching them to be sensitive, stop. Sensitivity has nothing to do with responsibility. As boys grow they become harder to handle and it is important to teach them control over their actions.

Ways to encourage responsibility:

• Start early; toddlers can help put their toys away, get something for mom or help in the kitchen.

• Give age appropriate chores and don’t expect perfection.

• If your son does something wrong remain calm and look at it as a lesson not something to fix right away to prevent embarrassment. Try using this method, stop, and think, before you react.

Example: Your son hits a child on the play ground.

Stop: Stop the action (have him apologize)

Think: Ask your son why he hit the child and encourage him to express his feelings while

engaging him in being responsible for his actions.. Help him discover a better

way to handle the situations, provide examples (walk away, talk to an adult)

Before you React: Provide your son with an action plan on how to handle the situation in the future. Review the plan each time your son may be faced with that situation (playgrounds, playgroups, school).

These steps help encourage your son to think on his own and provide him with the beginning tools needed to take responsibility for his own actions. I have used this with my own son and now in his teens he is responsible and uses the stop, think before you react when faced with teen issues. It is second nature to him and he really doesn’t realize he is processing on this level.

Shop lilboyblu.com for stylish and trendy products for boys, we offer boy’s clothing for baby to toddlers age, baby shower gifts, mom and dad clothes and much more. For a unique selection of everything fun and stylish for boys shop www.lilboyblu.com

Sock Octopus Creatures

2010-06-15T04:52:00.000-07:00

Supplies:

Tube Sock
Polly Fill
Rubber Band
Google eyes
Marker
Scissors

Instructions:

Take a long tube sock and fill the toe with Polly fill. Create a ball and tie off with a rubber band approximately a 2inch circle for the head. You will now have a ball at the toe of the sock and the rest will be hanging down. Take your scissors and cut eight strips with the remaining sock material. This will be the legs. The rest is up to you, draw eyes, use Google eyes, and create a face for your Octopus- Have Fun!!!

Oatmeal Cookies

2010-06-14T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1 Cup of all purpose flour
½ Tsp. baking soda
½ Tsp. baking powder
¼ Cup shortening
¼ Cup butter
½ Cup Sugar
1/3 Cup of packed brown sugar
1 egg
2Tbs. milk
½ Tsp. vanilla
¼ Tsp. salt
1Cup quick-cooking rolled oats
¼ Cup Chopped Walnuts-Optional

Instructions:

Stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a mixing bowl beat together shortening and butter for 30 seconds; add sugar and beat till fluffy. Add egg, milk, and vanilla; beat well. Add dry ingredients to beaten ingredients and combine. Stir in oats and walnuts. Chill dough for 2 hours; form 1-inch balls and dip in sugar if desired. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes on 375. Makes 36 cookies

Recipe provided by Better Homes and Garden New Cook Book Meredith publication

Jelly Fish Craft

2010-06-11T03:30:00.000-07:00

Jelly Fish Craft

Supplies:

1-2 Large Coffee Filters Fishing string or Ribbon

Plastic Cup Food Coloring

Tissue Paper all colors Clear type

Smock/Old tee shirt (cover clothing) Wax paper

Cookie sheet

Instructions:

1. Line your cookie sheet with wax paper and place coffee filters in center of cookie sheet. Use your imagination and place small drops of food coloring on to coffee filters. Children love to watch the drops spread, continue placing different color drops until you are happy with the colors.

2. Thread fishing string through the base of a plastic cup so it hangs upside down. Then thread the string thought the base of the coffee filters so it hangs upside down over the cup.

3. Now you are ready to cut long strips of tissue paper and tape at the base of the cup and onto the filter. Add ribbon and make sure you can not see the cup; this makes the Jellyfish’s tentacles.

Fun Things to do with Your Kids on a Budget!

2010-06-10T03:30:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and kids everywhere will be looking for things to do. Here is a list of Ideas.

1. Water, Water, Water
Turn on the sprinklers, pull out the plastic pool and slip & slide. Head to the dollar store and pick up some water guns, balloons and squishy balls. Then send the kids out for a day of fun. Just make sure to have plenty of towels, water and sunscreen

2. Back Yard Camping
Get out the tent, stove and lawn chairs. Set up your backyard as if you where out in the woods camping. Cook Smores, tell camp fire stories, and enjoy each others company. This is an affordable way to spend time together and you will be amazed at how much fun you’re going to have.

3. Lemonade Stand
Remember how much fun you had as a kid selling Lemonade? It was a blast! Your kids will spend all day getting signs ready, hanging them up and preparing for the great event. Then they will spend hours playing in the front yard, talking and giggling. If they make a sale great! A lemonade stand helps kids use math skills, people skills and gives them a taste of entrepreneur skills

4. Treasure Hunt
Give your kids a list of items to find. They can find all the items in the house or you could send them out to find the items in the park or request items from a neighbor. I made a list of items like; 1-cotton ball, 1-paper clip, 1- rubber band, 1-penny, lent from dryer, etc. I then sent my son and his friends out in teams to get these items. The team to return 1st won. (Remember this is best with older kids and make sure to give strict guidelines for safety reasons)

5. Play Local
Check your local event guide for things happing in your area. Museums, Movie theaters, Michaels and others usually have discounts, free events during the summers for Kids to enjoy!

6. Games
Get out the board Games and play! When was the last time you played; Connect Four, Chutes and Ladders, Pick Up Sticks. Playing games brings the family together and encourages lots of mind activity.

7. Movie Day
Same as the games pull out all of those old movies and have a marathon. Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Lord of the Rings! Have the kids invite friends over, dress in theme and make it a movie day

8. Slumber Party
Nothing like having your best friend over to hang out with, order pizza and they will do the rest.

If you have ideas to add to our list we would love to see it! Leave your summer fun comments for the rest of us to enjoy.

Bikini Vajazzling

2010-06-09T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Kim Kinis
Get ready to be bedazzled by vagazzling. It's the hottest and newest micro bikini sensation to hit the scene. Women all over the country are running to get vagazzled. It's new, sexy and quite the eye catcher. What's vagazzling you say? It's the newest way to enhance your intimate bikini area by applying safe crystals to your skin. It's quick and no two vagazzlings are the same. Jump on the bandwagon of this newest sensation that will surely take the beaches by storm this Summer. So you can look dazzling, here's our handy tip guide on how to get vagazzled.

Brazilian Bikini Wax
Vagazzling starts out with a standard bikini wax. You may be familiar with that process already. All of your intimate bikini hair must be removed.

Vajacial
After your Brazilian Bikini Wax, you will next go through the process of getting a vajacial. A vajacial is the pampering of your intimate bikini area after the wax and it's performed in four steps.

Vajacial - Step 1
Your intimate bikini are is cleansed throughly with an antibacterial cleansing and exfoliation solution.

Vajacial - Step 2
The experienced waxer removes your ingrown hairs while looking for bumps and skin irritations to calm and cease.

Vajacial - Step 3
Applications of an anti-freckle, anti-acne mask and lightening cream are applied to prevent future irritation and remove any discolorations.

Vagazzling
After your Brazilian Bikini Wax and Vajacial while you are pretty much sterile and ready to be Vagazzed which takes just a few steps.

Vagazzling - Step 1
The application person will bring out a sheet of small Swarovski crystals that have been heated slightly. The bottom of each crystal has a tough adhesive that's invisible to the naked eye. You'll see large and small crystals to aid in your design.

Vagazzling - Step 2
The application person takes each crystal and applies it to your intimate bikini area. The larger ones are applied by hand while the smaller crystals are applied by a tweezer.

Vagazzling - Step 3
After all of the crystals have been applied, the application person uses their hand to press on the crystals for more adhesiveness to the skin. Once secured, they last on an average of about 5days. You are not to engage in any vigorous activity so they won't come loose. You can shower and bath with them on, just don't rub hard on them to break them off from your skin.

Now that you've been vagazzled, you can go out and show it off to all of your friends. It's perfect for the Summer and something so new and exciting, you'll want to take pictures to put up on your social web sites. So go and get vagazzled.
About the Author
For more articles and to find out everything you've ever wanted to know about bikinis, please visit Bikini Links.

(ArticlesBase SC #1973503)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Bikini Vajazzling

Potty Training

2010-06-08T03:30:00.000-07:00

Is your child showing signs of readiness for potty training? Here are a few things you will need to make this milestone enjoyable for you and your toddler.

1. Potty seat- There are several different types of potty seats on the market. Some parents like the one piece model where your child has their own potty and they remove the plastic catcher to discard the waste. Others prefer the potty seat that attaches to the toilet seat providing a secure feeling while using the “big potty”. When choosing your potty seat consider the following: Cost, cleanliness, easy care and storage.

2. Step Stool- This is important for little ones who will need to access the toilet by themselves. Also, while children are training they like to rest there feet on the stool and it gives them a sense of security. When purchasing a stool make sure it is sturdy and has a no skid bottom.

3. Training pants- They come in disposable and cloth depending on which one you prefer. Make sure your toddler can pull them up and down easily so they can go to the potty on their own. Training pants leave your child feeling wet and this discomfort encourages your child to use the potty, just be sure to have them change them if they have an accident so not to get a rash.

4. Mattress protection- At first when potty training your child may do well during the day but during sleep it may be hard to wake up to go to the potty. Mattress pads help protect the mattress from becoming soiled. Make sure it is waterproof and fleece topped this helps with the plastic sound.

5. Training targets- Are great for little boys; they come in all kinds of styles from circle targets to fish which encourages them to hit the bull’s-eye!

6. Books and Videos- There are several different books for both parents and children to encourage a positive potty training experience. Here are a few videos and books I recommend:

• Its Potty Time a duck family series on DVD- Great for kids with catchy songs, worked for us!

• Everyone Poops, written by Taro Gomi – This book is well done and shows how all kinds of animals poop and why.

• The potty Book for Boys, written by Alyssa Satin Capucilli- This book has great illustrations and really encourages little boys to graduate from diapers and start using the potty.

7. Incentives- Consider giving incentives which will encourage and provide positive reinforcement. Get a plastic storage bin and fill it with party favor items; toy cars, sunglasses, tattoo’s, bouncy balls and other items your child likes. Each time your child has success allow them to pick from the incentive box. As your child improves encourage longer times between incentives and when your incentives run out Graduation!

Remember your child and you will know when the right time to potty train is. Have patience and provide encouragement, success will happen. Good Luck!

Cinnamon Rolls

2010-06-07T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

For Dough

1-Can of Pillsbury Reduced Fat Crescent Rolls

16-Sprays of I Can’t Believe It’s not Butter Spray

Filling

¼ Cup dark brown sugar

¼ Cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener

1/2 Tb light whipped butter

1 ½ Tsp. cinnamon

1/8 Tsp. salt

Icing

¼ Cup Cool Whip Free, thawed

3Tb.fat-free cream cheese

1Tb. Splenda

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375, remove dough from can and knead into a ball. Roll out on a flour surface about 8x12, then spray with butter. Mix filling ingredients together; then spread onto dough. Roll dough up into a log, and then cut circles. Place circles onto a cookie sheet and bake covered with foil for 8 minutes. Then cook an additional 5 minutes with foil off. Take out of oven, let cool slightly. While still warm, combine icing ingredients and drizzle over cinnamon rolls. Makes about 8

KidZui

2010-06-04T06:16:00.000-07:00

When it comes to the internet and children it can be a scary place. KidZui is a free browser that offers loads of games so entertaining children will want to play for hours.

Once you download KidZui to your computer your child will create an Avatar called Zui, you’re able to pick hair color, skin tone, clothes, name and more. Your child will have to pick a username and password. Once done an email is sent to parents for approval. Parent can then create their own account and help monitor their child’s activity.

My children love KidZui and you can find a KidZui link on Lilboyblu.com home page. Lilboyblu.com will appear on KidZui Welcome page soon, look for it!

Lilboyblu.com is excited to help parent find quality, safe, educational internet products and services. I know you and your child will love the games and safety of KidZui with games like Batman, Sports games, Educational games and more!

After visiting KidZui return to this Blog and leave a comment! Let other parent Know what you think about KidZui!

IRON BABY

2010-06-03T18:23:00.000-07:00

Disney’s Mickey Mouse Coloring Book Gift Set

2010-06-03T03:30:00.000-07:00

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E! What a better way to celebrate a special day than with this unique authentic Karanessian Mickey Mouse Coloring Book gift set! Included are an enorMOUSE 16" Plush Mickey Mouse, a Gigantic Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Book to Color packed with over 112 pages and hours of coloring fun and 12 Melissa & Doug triangular crayons! This adorably MICKEY MOUSE gift set is sure to delight any toddler or Big Sister/Big Brother! This gift set is beautifully packaged in a clear cellophane bag and topped with a huge red bow.

http://www.lilboyblu.com/item_434/Disney-Mickey-Mouse-Coloring-Book-Gift-Set.htm

This Item Features:
Disney 16" enorMOUSE Mickey Mouse Plush Doll
Disney Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Gigantic Book to Color (112 pages)
Melissa & Doug 12 Triangular Crayons

Price:
$39.95

Safety Helmets: Important Facts

2010-06-01T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Joe Goertz

Why do you think one needs a helmet while riding a bicycle or skating or horse riding or even playing?Well,some say that helmets are unnecessary as they cannot save a persons life or prevent accidents.True,safety helmets cannot prevent or stop accidents but they can in some measure safe a person?s life when met with an accident.

According to the statistics calculated recently in U.S, about one fourth of the people brought in emergency rooms have head injuries and one out of every eight of them are reported to have brain injuries. This may not have happened had they been wearing a safety helmet. So at least brain injury would have been prevented which would eventually cause death.

A single head injury can also make a person handicapped for life. Even while at work especially where there are a lot of construction work, a safety helmet is a must. It should be the responsibility of the employer to provide these helmets to his employees as many to prevent any such head injuries.

Choosing the right helmet:

There are different kinds of safety helmet available as different sports require different helmets. But the key here is to wear the right fitting. A loose helmet cannot protect the head as much as fitted ones. A helmet should always fit the persons head. It should touch the head all the way around and should be stable enough that even in jerks it should not move.

When it comes to buying for kids many a times we tend to feel that we should get a bigger one as they would grow anyways but that is wrong. The brand is also important. One should never compromise on price when it comes to safety. Comfort is another thing that you should keep in mind as if it is not comfortable then you are very unlikely to wear it also.

All parents, coaches, trainers and organizers should be made aware of this safety precaution. A lot of injuries also occur during horse riding and the statistics of accidents is very alarming. Even though other factors may also be involved from falling off a horse like slipping and back riding but the height from which the person falls is what jeopardizes the injury. If he falls from a height of 2 feet he is likely to have brain damage but if he falls from a greater height as the horse tends to elevate him up to 8 feet from the ground then his skull would be shattered. So, one should never ride a horse without wearing a safety helmet.

Bicycle helmets are made from foam polystyrene, and this polystyrene though is rigid it can be molded into virtually any shape. This can be easily damaged by crushing as it has a quite a high number of tiny air pockets. This process of crushing absorbs energy thus making it ideal for the construction of bicycle helmets. This helmets tend to get a bit warm during hot days but nowadays there are more expensive ones that are available and these helmets have more air vents to keep you cool but this can reduce the amount of energy absorbed as the amount of polystyrene is reduced.

Whether wearing a helmet is necessary or not depends on the individual. But you should never underestimate the use of it because there are benefits of using a safety helmet. It is always better to take precautions then suffer the consequences. You should take responsibity of young ones in your family and educate them about safety helmets after all it is always better to have knowledge about things then be careless about it. Always wear helmets and be safe.
About the Author
Helmets Resources and Information around it

(ArticlesBase SC #12737)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Safety Helmets: Important Facts

Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/safety-helmets-important-facts-12737.html#ixzz0n0trgwar
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution

Chocolate Chip Cheese Cake

2010-05-31T03:18:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1 ½ finely crushed Oreo’s

3(8oz) pkg. of cream cheese, softened

1(14oz) sweetened condensed milk

1 Cup mini chocolate Chips

¼ Cup margarine, melted

3 eggs

2tsp. vanilla

1tsp. flour

Directions:
Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Combine Oreo crumbs and margarine; pat firmly on bottom of a 9inch spring form pan. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add milk; beat until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Pour into prepared pan. In small bowl, toss ½ cups of chocolate chips with flour to coat. Sprinkle chips evenly over top. Bake 1 hour or until cake springs back when lightly touched. Cool to room temperature. Chill then remove from pan.
Dance fundraiser cook book 2005-2006 edition

An Alternative Way of Gardening: The Organic Garden

2010-05-28T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Hank Gordon
A lot of people seem to think that an organic garden is just for hippies and vegetarians. They think it is a difficult and hard way to grow vegetables and flowers while in fact they could not have been further from the truth. Having an organic garden is not difficult at all and it certainly is not just for hippies and vegetarians. When you know that most organic fertilizers are made from animal products you will understand that vegetarians need to be very careful with organic gardening.

Owning a organic garden is not hard at all the only thing where you should be aware of is that you do not use synthesized products. You can use normal seeds and plants they do not need to be organic at all. The only seeds you can not use are genetically modified seeds.

The same people who think that having an organic garden makes you a hippie also often think that your organic garden needs to be animal friendly. Well most gardeners also those who have an organic garden are not always the greatest friends of the local wildlife. And be honest would you be, when your carefully grown crops are being eaten by some rabbits?

There are all kind of gardeners and those that have a organic garden will never use chemicals or pesticides but some are known to shoot a rabbit occasionally, to scare it away or to eat it. A more natural meal is hard to find.

Is an organic garden the same as a natural garden?

A natural garden does not exist, every garden is in fact artificial when you are the one that decides what to grow and at what place in contrary to nature where nothing is planned. a organic garden is not a natural garden if we have land where we let nature do its thing we usually do not call it a garden we call it wasteland. In our gardens we like to decide what are considered weeds and what we consider to be plants or flowers and a organic garden is no different. If our organic garden is suffering from drought you would be crazy not to water those carefully planted flowers and vegetables. As you can see an organic garden also takes some unnatural growing methods.

Vegetarians who own a organic garden should be aware that many of the
fertilizers and other organic garden products contain animal products like fish oil, leather and bone. They need to read all the ingredients on these products.

Although it is not necessary to call your garden an organic garden a very good and "natural" way to control bugs and pest is to mix specific plants together, if you do some research you learn that by placing for example onions and carrots together you will reduce pests and insects. Sometimes you can even use certain weeds to repel bugs and pests. You can also use insects like ladybugs to reduce louse, the ladybugs eat the louse and your organicly grown roses will be more beautiful then ever.
About the Author
Hank Gordon has a passion for gardening and wants the world to know how relaxing and rewarding it can be. On his website he talks about front yard landscaping and landscape ideas

(ArticlesBase SC #582941)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - An Alternative Way of Gardening: The Organic Garden

Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/an-alternative-way-of-gardening-the-organic-garden-582941.html#ixzz0n0eqW5av
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution

Little Helpers

2010-05-26T03:30:00.000-07:00

Deal of The Day!

2010-05-25T03:26:00.000-07:00

Daddy Tool Bag

The sporty diaper bag for Dad has a masculine design,

made with the dad in mind. The 45-minute DVD is

entertaining, yet full of sound advice, in a format reminiscent

of Dad’s favorite "How To" home improvement shows. It’s

packed with information on caring for a new baby including

diapering, bathing, car seat safety, nasal aspiration,

fingernail clipping, bottles and burping, and more!

Also includes changing mat with hook and loop closure,

an emergency number card to keep pertinent numbers at

hand in case Dad has a question, and a packing list card

that suggests “tools” to pack in the Daddy’s Tool Bag,

keeping Dad well-organized and well-prepared

Originally $35.95

Today only: $25.55 + Shipping

Great savings good for 24 hrs ONLY!

Winner of our UV Skinz Contest

2010-05-21T06:12:00.000-07:00

Congratulations!

Laura Shireman Winner of our UV Skinz Shirt! Thank you for joining Our Lilboyblu newsletter and we hope you enjoy your prize!

Herb Gardening With your Children

2010-05-21T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Mary Hanna
Herb gardening with children is a delightful way to engage children in gardening as a hobby. Both your teenagers and young children will enjoy herb gardening. Teach them about the history of herbs and their many uses. Not only will they get a feeling of satisfaction about growing the herbs but they will feel a sense of contribution to the family when the herbs are used in cooking. They will be amazed at what they have accomplished through a mere seed.

For centuries herb gardening has been popular. In addition most of the very popular herbs are disease resistant and can overcome very arid climates. There are two advantages to an herb garden hobby. One, they can be planted indoors at any time and if you want to plant outside they only take a few weeks to sprout giving your children a sense of wonderment quickly. So if the kids are bored during the cold months being cooped in side an indoor herb garden is perfect. Choose fragrant smelling herbs or herbs that will spice up your food. Imagine how much fun they will have when they sprinkle fresh basil from their garden on their pizza.

To begin an herb garden with your children you will need to get some easy to find basic items. Start small with six pots that have holes in the bottom. Have the kids paint the pots for an additional activity. Next you will need either seeds or already started plants from your nursery center or from the internet.

Only a few basic easy to find items are necessary to begin an herb gardening project with your children. The most popular herb plants for children are Lavender, Sage, Mint, Coriander, Basil, Parsley and Oregano. You will need some good potting soil also available at the nursery center. Have on hand some plastic wrap, Popsicle sticks, a marking pen and poster paints if the kids are going to paint the pots.

Once you have gathered your supplies it is time to plant. Fill the pot with soil and have the kids scatter a few seeds over the top (check to make sure the seeds don't overlap). Have them gently place soil over the seeds and light tamp down. Plant more then a few seeds since some seeds won't sprout.

Water the soil but don't drown it. Herbs do no like to have "wet feet". However do not allow them to dry out. With your marking pen, label the Popsicle stick with the name of the herb and insert into the pot.

To conserve on moisture cover the pot with plastic wrap. Make sure you uncover them for fresh air every other day so mildew cannot form.

Now it is time to find a sunny spot to place your herb garden. Herbs need 4 to 6 hours of sunlight a day. In two to six weeks, depending on the herbs you have chosen, your seeds will begin to germinate. Off with the plastic wrap now that they are ready to grow.

The kids will love watching them grow and smelling their fragrances. It's time to enjoy your herb garden with your children.

Once the kids have been successful in this project you may wish to branch out and start growing some other herbs. This project of herb gardening with your children will truly inspire your kids with a love and appreciation of gardens and herbs.

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.
About the Author

(ArticlesBase SC #116471)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Herb Gardening With your Children

Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/herb-gardening-with-your-children-116471.html#ixzz0n0hatLfO
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution

National Lucky Penny Day

2010-05-20T03:30:00.000-07:00

“Find a Penny pick it up, all day long you’ll have good Luck”

Lucky Penny Day is May 23rd a day to celebrate the good luck of a penny. So on May 23rd take time to look at the ground everywhere you go and find your lucky penny.

“Remember a penny saved is a penny earned” and in today’s economy it can add up. I have a jar on my kitchen counter and when I find change on the street I place it in my pocket and then drop it in my jar. When the jar fills up I treat myself to a coffee or a candy bar thanks to other lack of love for the penny.

I hope you find your lucky penny and who knows, use it to scratch a lotto ticket and makes some real bucks :O)

Deal of The Day!

2010-05-18T03:23:00.000-07:00

Tooth Fairy Kits
In this kit you will find everything a parent and child need to celebrate those precious "toothless" years.

This Tooth Fairy Kit comes complete with:

• Hand Crafted Baby Tooth Keepsake Box: to save and organize baby teeth,

• Baby Tooth Pouch: to keep baby teeth and coins safe under the pillow,

• Tooth Fairy Door Hanger: to remind the tooth fairy to stop by!

• Tooth Fairy Stationery: for an unforgettable letter to or from the tooth fairy.

• Baby Tooth Chart: to keep track of your child's developing smile and write special notes and dates.

Makes a unique and unforgettable gift!

Comes in Pink for Sister!

Original Price $24.95

Today only: $19.00 + Shipping

Great savings good for 24 hrs ONLY!

Banana Shake

2010-05-17T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
3 Cups unsweetened grapefruit juice
1 Cup crushed ice
2 Cups lemon sherbet
3 eggs

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender, whip until smooth. Add one or more supplements for additional health benefits: flaxseed, protein powder, and wheat germ. Check with doctor before adding supplements.

No Cost,Fun Summer Activities for the Whole Family

2010-05-14T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Aurelia Williams
Summer is coming up right around the corner. Families everywhere are planning out some fun vacations to celebrate the beautiful weather. Amusement parks and renting cabins are popular ways to spend your summer, but not everyone can afford them. Here are some no-cost ways to spend your summer with the whole family throughout the season:

Start a book club-Pick a spot in the backyard, and lay down a blanket large enough to fit the whole family. Have some cookies, lemonade and whatever snacks you choose to have. Use a book from the library and take turns reading it out loud. You can even discuss some things that occur in the book. Consider making it a weekly event and invite your neighbors and friends to participate as well.

Treasure Hunt- Some kids are into anything to do with pirates. You could plan a treasure hunt with their help. Scour your backyard, local beach or park and find things you could put into a treasure chest. The kids could also make some of their own items to place in the chest too. Spend some time searching for pirate information on the internet and use what you find to make up your very own treasure map. Then bury the chest or hide it in the house and let the kids try out the map they created.

Gardening- Make up a small garden or use a small portion of your existing garden. Let each of your children have a row or small area to use to grow whatever they choose to. Each child is responsible for taking care of their own crops. Help them research the item they chose to grow so they can see how to best care for it. When their crop is ready to harvest, they can reap from the hard work they put into growing it.

Help your child's interests to grow- Find out what interests your child and help them research it. If your child is into sports, you can research their favorite team or print images off the net and start a scrapbook of their team. If your child is into crafts, you can research craft projects on the net and find some that are no-cost and interest the child. Teenagers may be more interested in playing a game of basketball, baseball or visiting a zoo.

Movie night- Some libraries have movies you can rent. Pick a night each week and watch a movie the whole family could enjoy. The children can take turns picking out what they want to watch for that week. Have your bowl of popcorn or whatever snack you choose, and sit back with your family in your own "home theater".

There are plenty of ways to spend some fun time during the summer that doesn't cost you money. Use your creativity, imagination, and get ideas from your children on what they would like to do. Plan some of those activities as a family and enjoy your summer.
About the Author
For more help, visit Finding More Family Time for tips for a happy family life.

(ArticlesBase SC #441072)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - No Cost, Fun Summer Activities for the Whole Family

Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/no-cost-fun-summer-activities-for-the-whole-family-441072.html#ixzz0n0j0judy
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution

Homemade Play Dough Fun

2010-05-13T03:45:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

2 Cups of baking soda

1 ¼ Cup of water

1 Cup starch

Food Coloring

Directions:

Cook and stir until consistency of mashed potatoes. Cool and place in plastic bags. To color: add a few drops of food coloring and knead into dough until you get desired color.

Note: Dough is not eatable and children should be watched while in use.

Mother Minder Bracelets Giveaway!

2010-05-12T03:35:00.000-07:00

Mother Minder Bracelets

Reminder bracelets help you to remember when you: last fed the baby; put baby down for a nap and when baby woke; or, gave medication. Just position the slider on the number or dot that represents the activity. Each dot counts as a quarter hour. Switch bracelet after each breast feeding to other wrist and you’ll remember which breast to offer your baby first.

Winner receives:
One: The Mother Minder Metal Bracelet

One: The Mother Minder Rubber Bracelet

To Enter:

Sign up for Lilboyblu.com newsletter!

Follow Lilboyblu on Facebook!

Re tweet, and let me know!

Contest runs May 12-26th, Good Luck!

Home Made Cracker Jacks

2010-05-10T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

2 Cups of Brown Sugar
½ Cup White Karo Syrup
1 tsp. Vanilla
Peanuts
2 Sticks Butter
1 tsp. Baking Soda
5 qt. Popped Popcorn

Directions:
In a saucepan, boil sugar, butter, Karo syrup for 5 minutes stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla. Pour over popcorn and peanuts. Place in a large baking pan and bake in oven at 200 degrees for 1 hour stirring every 15 minutes. Enjoy after cooled.

Happy Mothers Day!

2010-05-07T03:30:00.000-07:00

To My Mother

For all the times you gently picked me up,

When I fell down,

For all the times you tied my shoes

And tucked me into bed,

Or needed something

But put me first instead.

For everything we shared,

The dreams, the laughter,

And the tears,

I love you with a "Special Love"

That deepens every year.

Author Unknown

To my mother who has been my rock, my friend and my guidance all through my life. Thank You for all you do!

Happy Mothers Day to all the Mothers who make a difference each and every day, you are appreciated!

International No Diet Day!

2010-05-06T03:38:00.000-07:00

Did you know today is International No Diet Day! A day to celebrate our bodies and accept our body shapes. The day is also dedicated to bringing awareness to the dangers of restricted dieting and its symbol is the blue ribbon.

International No Diet Day was started by Mary Evans Young a woman from Britain in 1992. She led a campaign to fight against the diet industry hoping to help women realize the dangers of extreme dieting. Her awareness has helped bring light to anorexia and other eating disorders caused by the need to be thin.

Although, started in Britain the INDD has spread to other countries around the globe including the USA. Today, think about your eating habits and consider avoiding fad diets, quick fixes and start a healthy lifestyle change instead.

Tips for a healthy lifestyle:

Drink lots of water

Eat a well balanced diet

Avoid sugars, fats and other high calorie foods

Eat several small meals and portion control

Exercise 30 minutes a day

Moderation is the key

Enjoy your day! Put down your calorie counters! Free yourself from Crazy harmful Fad dieting today!

Picture of The Day!

2010-05-05T03:30:00.000-07:00

Check out our last Lilcutie of the month winner. His mom sent in these pictures of him wearing his special gift “Tie tee” for being our lucky winner!

Enter your lilcutie for a chance to win discounts, special gift and his picture on our site. Thanks, Levi you look fabulous in your Tie Tee!

Selected Beanie on Sale-24hrs Only!

2010-05-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

Your Lil boy will not only stand out but will be a trend setter in this 100% cotton distressed beanie The cool images gives a serious rock-n-roll edge and is lightly distressed for fashion and style. Beanies are the latest fashion trend for boys big or small and will rock any boy’s style!

Retail Price:

Small $10.95

Med & Large $14.95

Today only: All sizes $9.95 + Shipping

Great savings good for 24 hrs ONLY!

Parenting Solutions:5 Easy Ways To Instill Good Child Behavior Through Positive Reinforcement

2010-04-29T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: jcitnmkt

When it comes to parenting styles, we often find two types of parents – the encourager and the intimidator. An encouraging parent focuses on using positive reinforcements to get their kids to work towards a certain target. An intimidating parent, on the other hand, uses punishments as part of his parenting style to get their kids to conform to a particular action.

Encouragement should not be mixed up with pampering though. Pampering means regularly doing something the child can do for themselves such as fixing breakfast, preparing lunch, or even waking them up. Pampering makes a child lazy and teaches them to take certain things for granted. Don't make your child overly dependent on you or other people to get things done for him.

With intimidation, a child generally grows up with fear of failure and develops an obsession of reaching the top, even at the expense of others. Others may become fearful of taking chances, unless they are extremely certain that success is achievable. Too much encouragement and your child will become dependent on it may develop the need to keep receiving them. One single criticism and children will become angry and subsequently, start on self-doubt.

Parenting young children is tricky with many fine lines. A good parenting tip is that praising is not always considered encouragement. A child should only be praised if he or she accomplishes something significant. Too much and it fosters too much competiveness and inculcates the fear to fail.

Take note of the parenting law that praising your child should only be done if he truly deserves it. Encouragement does not rely on praises alone. Your kid can tell when your praises mean nothing. Encouragement should place importance on the child's strengths and assets. Too much praising and your child risks being too accustomed to sweet sugary words. Parents may also get too used to giving out praises when it means nothing.

About the Author

ParentingEzine.com is an all-in-one parenting site featuring parenting guides, parenting solutions and parenting discipline tips from childcare experts. We aim to deliver top ranking parenting related information from parenting websites in one compact, easy to read and follow monthly newsletter.

Find out how you can get your COMPLETELY FREE access to the internet's leading magazine for parenting info and claim your FREE copy of the "75 toughest parenting questions revealed and answered" eBook.

(ArticlesBase SC #2063910)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Parenting Solutions: 5 Easy Ways To Instill Good Child Behavior Through Positive Reinforcement

A Positive Word

2010-04-28T03:30:00.000-07:00

We have all heard about positive thinking and how it works. Thinking positive affects your brain which affects your heart which encourages change. Today pick up a small grease board or cork board and hang it on or near your bathroom mirror or your most frequent area. If you spend more time in the kitchen place it there. If you’re at your desk most of the day hang it there. The idea is to see the board throughout your day or first thing in the morning and right before bed.

Now each night write a positive message to yourself and read it often. When you wake up read it out load and remember it as you go about your day. Examples of positive words are.

· I am Beautiful
· I am Smart
· I am Talented
· I will ace my presentation today
· My smile will light up the room today
· I Rock Baby
· Today I will kick butt
· Hot & Sexy you Know it :O)

The Idea is to feel good about yourself and your day. Confidence radiates from people who feel good about themselves. These messages should mean something to you and encourage you to be your best.

Tell us your positive message to yourself, what motivates you?

Raging Waters & Other Great Deals!

2010-04-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

Some time today City Deals will have half off passes for Raging Waters in Salt Lake!

Check out your city on City Deal and find great savings!!!

Click button on your Right and start saving today!

Combo Pack Rectangle Slide and Bracelet in Deep Sea Blue

2010-04-27T03:30:00.000-07:00

Dr. Bloom's Chewable Jewels are the original teething jewelry conceptualized and manufactured by Dr. Helen Bloom Smith, a dentist. These unique lines of teething jewelry are for fashionista moms and teething tots in mind!

Dentist Created and Endorsed
* BPA, PVC, Phthalate Free
* Latex and Lead Free
* Dishwasher Safe

Safety Warning: Jewelry product NOT a toy, adult supervision may be required.

http://www.lilboyblu.com/item_416/Combo-Pack-Rectangle-Slide-Bracelet-Deep-Sea-Blue.htm

Price: $19.95

Cream Cheese Crock Pot Chicken

2010-04-26T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
3-4 boneless/skinless chicken breasts
1 can cream of celery soup
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 pkg. cream cheese

Directions:
Place thawed chicken breasts in crock pot. Mix cream soups together and pour over chicken. Place on low for 8-10 hours or high for 6-8 hours. Once cooking time is complete, stir the mixture and you should have a creamy chicken gravy. Serve over steamed rice.

Simple Bird Feeder

2010-04-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

Last week I spruced up the entry way of my home. Well in front of my home I have a large window where my desk looks out into the front yard. In front of the window are three bushes, a palm tree and a bench. Each year I paint my bench to help protect it from the extreme heat we experience here in Arizona. This Year I painted my bench a teal.

The bench looked great and goes well with my Tuscan/ Spanish flair. I moved to Arizona from New Mexico and I have always been surrounded by Spanish culture. These influences inspired my Tuscan/Spanish motif and I love all the rich colors and textures you find in the style. However the bench needed something else, so I made a simple bird feeder.

I went to my Home Improvement Center and bought a plant stand (14”), a plastic plant tray (14”), a colorful pot plate (15”), fern and bird seed. I first dug a hole next to my bench and planted my fern. I then assembled my bird feeder by placing the plant stand over the fern next to my bench; I then placed the plastic tray snug into the holder, then placed the colorful pot plate on top and filled with bird seed.

All the colors work well together and it looks great from the street and my desk. The cats enjoy hours of entertainment with all of the different birds who stop by to eat and the sweet tweets tell me spring his here.

Shopping for Strollers: Rating and Review

2010-04-22T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Robert Meyer

by Robert Meyer

Have you ever made a purchase and the later experienced cognitive dissonance or buyer’s remorse? That is, you regret making the purchase for a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons for cognitive dissonance is that you discover you could have purchased a better quality product for the same money or you could have purchased the same product for less money elsewhere.

The best way to avoid being disappointed with your decision is to first due some research. Many consumers, including myself, rely heavily on Consumer Reports for their testing and rating of products. Then the consumer can choose a product with greater confidence that it is a quality product.

This however, only satisfies half of the equation. The consumer now knows the relative quality of the product they want to purchase but they do not yet know where they can find the best price. This half of the equation requires additional research on the part of the consumer.

The internet is an invaluable tool when it comes to comparison shopping. You can compare the price of the product you desire without ever leaving the comfort of your home. You can then decide to purchase it online (for convenience) or drive to the retailer that offers the best price.

This article will hopefully help you in making a decision on which stroller to purchase for your new baby or babies. I use Consumer Reports’ ratings for the relative quality rating of the strollers and add my own price comparison research to assist in your decision.

Guide to the Ratings

Overall score is based primarily on performance, maneuverability (all-terrain strollers), ease of use, and safety. Performance is panelists' impression of ease of pushing and maneuvering on varied terrain while walking (all-terrain strollers) or running (jogging strollers). Ease of use is primarily based on ease of safety harness use, folding and unfolding, adjusting backrest, lifting, carrying, and engaging wheel brakes. Safety for each stroller was assessed by testing for compliance with ASTM F 833-05a voluntary standard and a stability test designed by Consumers Union. Strollers that did not meet the standard or had relatively lower stability on an adjustable inclined plane were downgraded. Price is approximate retail for stroller. Maneuverability was assessed by trained staffers on how well the strollers maneuvered S-turns through cones, narrow sections, grass, dirt trails, uphill, downhill, and steps while walking. Durability was assessed by rolling the strollers 19 miles over 150,000 bumps with a 40 pound bag in the seat, then each stroller was folded and unfolded 10 times to check for mechanical failure or unusual wear.

Traditional Strollers

The traditional strollers listed below are rated in four categories: day-to-day use, folding, reclining and maneuverability.

Graco Quattro Tour. The Graco Quattro Tour was top-rated and a Consumer Reports “Best Buy” with an overall score of 84. It was rated excellent in folding, reclining, and maneuverability, and very good in day-to-day use. It includes the following features: one-touch brakes, car seat compatible, safe for newborns, trays for parents and child, extra storage basket, stands when folded and weighs 27lbs. The suggested retail price is $130.

Stokke Xplory. The Stokke Xplory ranked a close second with a score of 82. It was also rated excellent in two the four categories: reclining and maneuverability. It rated very good in folding and day-to-day use. Its features include: 5-point harness, safe for newborns, one-touch brakes, extra storage space and an adjustable handle. However, it is not car seat compatible, does not have trays and does not stand when folded and weight 27lbs. The suggested retail price is $770.

Bugaboo Frog. The Bugaboo Frog received a score of 77. It also rated excellent in two of four categories: folding and maneuverability. It rated very good in reclining and day-to-day use. Its features include: 5-point harness, safe for newborns, one-touch brakes, car seat compatible, and extra storage space. It does not have trays and will not stand when folded. It weighs 23lbs. The suggested retail price is $730.

Safety 1st Avilla Alumlite. The Safety 1st Avilla Alumlite received a score of 73. It rated excellent in folding and in maneuverability and very good in day-today use. It rated only good in reclining. Its features include: car seat compatibility, adjustable handle, extra trays and stands when folded. It weighs 18lbs. The suggested retail price is $70.

Jogging Strollers

Jogging strollers are designed for the serious runner and the non-swivel front wheel can make indoor maneuverability difficult. Below is the review of seven jogging strollers. The review includes three categories: performance, ease of use, and safety.

Dreamer Design Rebound. The Dreamer Design Rebound was top-rated by Consumer Reports but received only a very good rating and a score of 79. It rated excellent in performance and very good in easy of use and safety. It does fold and weight 30lbs. The suggested retail price is $220.

Jeep Overland Limited. The Jeep Overland Limited received an overall very good rating and a score of 76. It rated excellent rating in maneuverability and a very good rating in ease of use and in safety. It weighs 30lbs and retails for $170.

Kelty Speedster 16 Deluxe. The Kelty received an overall very good rating and a score of 76. It rated excellent rating in maneuverability and in safety and a very good rating in ease of use. It weighs 24lbs and retails for $335.

Baby Trend Expedition. The Baby Trend Expedition received an overall very good rating and a score of 75. It rated excellent rating in maneuverability and a very good rating in ease of use and in safety. It weighs 25lbs and retails for $100.

Schwinn Free Runner LT. This Schwinn received an overall good rating and a score of 70. It rated excellent rating in maneuverability only, in ease of use it received a very good rating but was rated only good in safety. It weighs 22lbs and retails for $190.

Baby Jogger Performance. The Baby Jogger received an overall good rating and a score of 66. It rated excellent rating in maneuverability. In ease of use and in safety it was rated good. It weighs 25lbs and retails for $330.

InStep Run Around. The InStep Run Around received an overall rating of good and a score of 53. It rated excellent rating in maneuverability, a good rating in safety, a poor fair in safety. It weighs 23lbs and retails for $90.

InStep Run Around LTD. The InStep Run Around LTD received an overall rating of fair-to-good and a score of 53. It rated excellent rating in maneuverability, a good rating in safety, a poor fair in safety. It weighs 25lbs and retails for $90.

The results of my price comparison research reveals that shopping for strollers at http://www.bestbabythingsonline.com will result in substantial savings on all models.

About the Author

The author has a website

Best Baby Things Online

where these and other baby products can be purchased at substantial savings.

(ArticlesBase SC #206474)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Shopping for Strollers: Ratings and Review

UV Skinz Giveaway

2010-04-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

Protect your baby from the harmful rays of the summer! Skinz products block over 98% of the sun’s rays and carry a UPF rating of 50+, UV Skinz keep you safe, cool and comfortable all day long.

Enter to win this Tie-Dye Skinz size 12mo.

1-entry: Sign up for LBB newsletter

1-entry: Follow Lilboyblu on Facebook

1-entry: Sign up on Blog

1-entry: Twitter about the contest, then direct message me for entry

That’s four ways to enter!

Contest runs April 21st –May 12th

Entrees will be chosen by Random.org

Good Luck!

Entertain your Inner child

2010-04-21T03:30:00.000-07:00

Today or sometime this week, entertain your Inner child. Here are a few Inner child moments, find your list and have fun!

· Stop the Ice cream truck and enjoy a “Rocket Pop” or “Ice Cream Sandwich”
· Jump in a puddle a couple of times
· Go to the Zoo
· See a movie
· Challenge your kids to a sack race
· Roll down a grassy hill
· Color
· Watch cartoons

The idea is to return to simpler times, laugh without worry and enjoy the moment.

Share your Inner child moments with us and feel free to email a photo for posting. Let’s encourage happiness!

I am Boob Man

2010-04-20T03:30:00.000-07:00

This Onesies is hilarious, cute and comfortable! Black with beanie all 100% organic. This Onesies set is funny and fun to wear, check out other off the wall Onesies like fart factory, rock star, rebel and more! Matching shoes available

http://www.lilboyblu.com/item_349/Boob-Man-2-piece-baby-Gift-Set.htm

Price: $24.99

Baked Chicken Breast with Mushrooms

2010-04-19T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
8 chicken Breasts
Butter
2 onions
Mushrooms
Salt

Combine and set aside on wax paper.
¾ cup of Ritz cracker crumbs
1/3 cup of cheese (50/50 Parmesan/Romano)
½ tsp. Paprika
½ tsp. salt
1/2tsp. pepper

Direction:
Prepare 8 chicken breasts, halved, boned and skinned. Melt 1 cube of butter, 2 onions sliced, and 1/3lb. of mushrooms, minced. Place sliced onion on the bottom of a baking dish and mix with 2tbsp. of melted butter until onions are well coated. Sautee mushrooms with 2tbsp. of butter, add 1/8tsp. of salt and cool. Place a spoonful of mushrooms into pocket of chicken breast, roll in melted butter, then in cracker mixture. Place chicken on onions and each chicken should not touch each other. Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 20-30 minutes or until done.

Home Improvements in the Air!

2010-04-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

Well you can tell its spring, the lines are long at Home Improvement Centers with people buying flowers, potting soil and everything else to brighten up their homes. I stopped in to buy some plants and potting soil so I could spruce up my entry way.

Exhibit A (Entry Way)

My entry way was boring and covered with leaves. It needed a little color, a little piazza! I had just stopped at a Garage Sale prior to stopping at my local Home Improvement center and found several different size pots, a yellow flower candle holder, door mat and three hanging clay bull heads. They were perfect to add to my Tuscan/Spanish home feel.

Exhibit B (My Fines)

Here is a picture of my treasures. The best part is they cost me under $15 and they are in great shape. I like Garage selling because I feel I get a great deal and I am helping recycle Items that other wise would end up in a land fill. Not everything needs to be brand new or pricey to look good.

Exhibit C (The final Results)

Much more inviting and I love how it makes my entry area pop! These Items work great and go well with my other plants; I think the cat likes it to.

April 20th is not just another Day!

2010-04-15T03:30:00.001-07:00

April is an exciting month. Spring is in the air, the Easter bunny makes a visit and we celebrate earth day by planting trees in hopes of improving our well being.

But did you know April is also the month when some teens celebrate 420, a day observed for smoking marijuana. Where did 420 originate from? There have been numerous speculations as to how it got its name from police codes to Grateful Dead posters. I don’t think anyone really knows where it originated from but if you have been around a bit you probably already know what it means.

However, our kids today are using it and scheduling the day April 20th at 4:20 (am/pm) to get high. As a parent I thought it was important to share this information with you, in the event you hear this you will know exactly what it means and what could be going on.

How do I know about this day? I have teenagers and I am proud to say they have chosen to stay away from drugs and alcohol this far. They share with me what goes on in their day and update me on the pop culture. I think some of that is so I don’t embarrass them, because I am good at doing that on occasions.

So what as parents are we to do? Educate your self and ask questions. My kids know I will check computer, phones, friends and the school when I feel a concern. They also believe I will drug test them, because once entering High School I purchased a kit and it sits in our medicine cabinet. I have never had to use it but they know I have no problems asking them to do it.

Learn the slang:I thought it would be better to provide you a link to some common slang words from about.com, drug slang dictionary.

http://parentingteens.about.com/cs/marijuana/l/bldicmarijuana.htm

Ask Who, What, Where & When: Especially on this day, but everyday know where your kids are. It’s your job to be nosy, in their business and all over them if that is what it takes to keep them safe and drug free. My kids tell their friends they are wrapped in bubble wrap because they have to call me and check in, I also have all their friends’ cell numbers (and yes I will call them). I drop by and check on them and I know what movies they are seeing. Are they perfect, NO! Do they pull the wool over me, Of Course! But I make it difficult for them to do it.

Recognize Paraphernalia: Educate yourself on what pipes look like. Household items also can be used such as coke cans, toilet paper rolls, apples etc. Look for drug references in their rooms; posters, pacifiers, flashing necklaces/toys and other items. Education is the tool and knowledge is the key.

Signs in your Teen: Kids on drugs show signs; giggling, isolation, red eyes, snacking and anything else that are different for your kids-Question???

Communication: I think the number one way to prevent drug use in teens is communication. Discuss Drugs openly; the dangers, peer pressure, alternative choices, expectations. Encourage them to openly express there feeling about drugs. Tell them your expectations, share your knowledge and support them through these times.

Teens who know their parents are educated and open about sensitive issues like drugs are less likely to get involved with drugs. Don’t be afraid to tell them you will not tolerate drug use and you will take action in the event they try.

Let’s keep our kid’s safe and drug free.

Unplug and Plug in to life

2010-04-14T03:30:00.000-07:00

Don’t get me wrong “I love” yes “Love” my computer and all its wonders. Blogs, Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, You-tube and other social Medias are a wonderful way to stay connected. TV programs and Apps are so amazing it’s hard to walk away. Biggest Loser, Lost, Dancing with the Stars, Flash Forward and more it’s so hard to resist, I had to have two DVR’s just to insure I could record them all (you never know when you may have to do dinner, really!).

We are so connected, we have become disconnected.

Try walking away from some of these items and allow yourself to unplug. Take a walk with a friend, go window shopping, play a board game with your kids, read a book or just sit and relax. All, yes, all of those things will still be there and the earth will continue to spin.
Memories take longer then 140 characters, Love stories are much more steamier when you’re in them, and kids are sure to provide enough drama to keep any mom entertained.

Tell us what you do to unplug even if it is just for a little while?

Chocolate Éclairs (The easy way)

2010-04-12T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
1 box instant vanilla pudding
1 box graham crackers
1 tub of Cool whip, thawed

Fudge Topping:
1 cup sugar
½ cup cocoa
1 stick butter
¼ cup of milk
1tsp.salt
1tsp. vanilla

Directions:
Make pudding according to directions, and stir in cool whip. In a 9x13” greased dish layer by putting graham crackers on bottom, ½ pudding mixture and repeat. Finish desert by placing graham crackers on top. Put into refrigerator to chill.
Combine sugar, cocoa, milk, and salt in a saucepan on medium heat. Boil 1 minute. Add butter and vanilla. Stir continuously until boiling, and then set aside to cool. When fudge is cooled, pour on top of graham crackers

My Blog is Carbon Neutral

2010-04-09T03:30:00.000-07:00

Did you know that a blog with 15,000 visits a month produces an equivalent of 8 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions? Who would have thought Blogging would be environmentally damaging. To off set these emissions a team In Germany have created an eco-friendly invitation to blogger called “Make it Green”

Since Blogging has become so popular it is up to us to lessen our carbon footprint. The people behind this eco-campaign are a German company called Kaufda. They are planting trees in cooperation with The Arbor Day Foundation. The trees will be planted in the Plumas National Forrest in Northern California to help neutralize the carbon footprint. Plumas has had its share of fires in the last 10 years has lost 88,000 acres of trees. So when you join and support carbon neutral Blogs they promise to plant one tree. One Blog = One Tree!

Let’s do our part and spread the word. Join and improve our carbon foot print! Way to go Kaufda.de thanks for caring for the world around us. I will proudly display my carbon neutral button and look for other ways to minimize my footprint on this planet.

Raising money for your school - Fundraising | GreatSchools

2010-04-08T03:30:00.000-07:00

Raising money for your school - Fundraising GreatSchools

Posted using ShareThis

Take time to take care of yourself!

2010-04-07T03:30:00.000-07:00

Start today by taking inventory on what you do everyday to your body or don’t do. Then agree to make one change a week. For example if you go to bed every night without removing your makeup and washing your face then make that your weeks goal. “I will remove my makeup and wash my face before bed every night for one week” or “I will exfoliate once a week to get rid of dry skin” Every week add a new change and before you know it you are becoming a healthier you!

Here is a great exfoliate with a southwestern flair

Lavender Pinon Body Scrub

½ cup raw sugar
¼ cup walnut oil
1tab. Pinon Nuts, chopped fine
1 tsp. of dried untreated Lavender or lavender oil

Stir together all ingredients until well mixed. Place in a sealed jar and use as a body scrub in shower. Damp a washcloth and a small amount of scrub using circular motions over body to remove dead skins, rinse.

Note Pinon seeds (pine nuts) are found in New Mexico and can be purchased online or in some specialty grocery stores. Hatch Chili Express has New Mexico products http://www.hatch-chile.com/default.asp

Comment on this recipe or share your home spa tricks, what makes you feel beautiful? Let us know?

Baby Einstein Jurassic Adventure Baby Keepsake

2010-04-06T03:30:00.000-07:00

Animals from big to small, this dinosaur keepsake box has them all. The Jurassic Adventure Baby Keepsake Box delivers a sight, sound and touch experience to children that will excite and stimulate their minds. This gift features a great assortment of Baby Einstein products including an adorable plush press or "tickle" dragon, Animal Homes Book, What's Bigger than Me book, Play date Fun Music CD, Click Clack Frog, and Caterpillar Cooling Teether. Also included in this gift are popular must-have children's book "Dinosaur Roar" and a unique Dinosaur themed painted keepsake box with unique lid.

http://www.lilboyblu.com/item_491/Baby-Einstein-Jurassic-Adventure-Baby-Keepsake.htm

This Item Features:
Baby Einstein Tummy Ticklers- Green Dragon
Baby Einstein Animal Homes Book
Baby Einstein what’s Bigger than me? Book
Baby Einstein Play date Fun Music CD
Baby Einstein Click Clack - Frog
Baby Einstein Caterpillar Cooling Teether
Dinosaur Road Hardcover Children's Book
Toy Chest/ Keepsake Box - Measures 13.5" x 9.5" x 4.5" not including the unique handle.
Price:
$99.95

Red Chili in Pork

2010-04-05T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
5-6 dried red chili pods (“Hatch” hot or mild)
5-6 medium size boneless pork chops
1(8oz) can of tomato sauce
1(8oz) of water

Pork Seasoning:
Pepper
Garlic
Onion salt

Directions:
Take the 5 to 6 red chili pods and break off the tops of the chili (removing the stem) place chili with seeds into blender. Open the can of tomato sauce, pour into blender. Use tomato can to fill with water and pour into blender. Blend chili mixture on high until liquefied. Cut pork chops into cubes, season meat and place in a lightly greased frying pan. Cook pork cubes on medium until done. When pork is done pour red chili over pork, simmer for 3-5 minutes or until chili starts to adhere to pork.

This recipe is a New Mexico favorite and should be accompanied by pinto beans, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream and tortillas for a true experience.

Camping With Kids

2010-04-02T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Paul Banas

There's nothing 6 year olds or older kids love more than being in the outdoors. Camping is an outdoor recreational activity involving spending one or more nights in a tent, a primitive structure, a travel trailer or recreational vehicle at a campsite with the purpose of getting away from civilization and enjoying nature. National parks and other publicly owned natural areas are popular venues for camping. Camping is often restricted by law to designated sites in order to prevent campers from damaging the environment.

You can use camping to teach the kids independence and self-sufficiency. Survivalist campers set off with little more than their boots on the roughest of trails—the idea being to really gut it out. However, you might prefer to set up a tent within a few hundred feet of a campsite. This can serve as base camp from where you can set out on nature hikes, which include fishing and swimming.

Camping usually is a breeze with kids this age. They can help set up the tent and unload the car and can be trusted to remain nearby without continual supervision. One thing though—every child must have their own flashlight! Everyone loves making cool shadows on the tent walls and all hell breaks loose if sharing is required. Kids enjoy looking at the different kinds of insects that they can find. They might even catch frogs and minnows near the lakes and streams. You could let them examine these creatures and return them unharmed to the wild. Also, carry bug jars, nets, and buckets.

Hiking with six to eight year olds is generally a comedy of errors. Buy some of those disposable cameras or provide your kids with cheap cameras at the start of a hike. The novelty of being able to carry their own cameras will get you through your travels that day. Get the photos developed at a one-hour place if possible while you are still traveling - and then make a huge deal about their incredible pictures. Alternatively, you could provide them with some of the latest digital cameras that give an instant printout—however, you better be a "richdad" if you decide to make this choice. The next time you hike, the kids will be eager as long as you provide them with enough batteries and enough film or digital storage media!

Pick a theme for the trips. It helps you organize activities around a central concept. Much easier! Some favorites are "Western" including a chuck wagon meal, corn bread muffins and tea. You could come up with 20 ways to use a bandana around camp and practice tying knots with one-foot sections of rope. At night, you could have a small campfire with twigs and sing old western cowboy songs, try some cowboy poetry and learn a little about the stars.

The "Survivor" theme is another hit, focusing on back-to-the-basics camping essentials. Children this age can grate cheese, stir a cooking pot, fetch water, hand wash and hang laundry, clean up around camp and even pitch the tents with a little help. They love to hike (1 to 2 miles) with frequent breaks. Be sure to take along a trail mix snack the kids can make themselves. You could even make it a bit of a competition. Kids love competitions.

"Explorer" themes like Lewis and Clark are great for this age group, too. They naturally love to explore. Take along magnifying glasses, containers, nets and plastic cups to catch and examine insects. Set a firm, no touching policy for reptiles, insects and plants until they've been identified—this saves a lot of worry. Use handbooks to make identification.

Always involve the kids in the basics of the camp. If the adults do all the preparing, cooking, and cleaning, the kids don't learn. The look on children’s faces is priceless when they’ve made their first wood campfire or pitched their first tent. The best advices is plan with the kids, but always leave plenty of room for running, swimming, biking or just kicking around a ball. Kids love to comb beaches, draw in the dirt and gather rocks. Always have paper and crayons handy, cards are good, too - but don't worry about entertaining the kids 24x7. Camping is all about learning to entertain you without TV and games. Throw in a book or favorite magazine for yourself, and use your imagination to fill in the rest.

If the kids behave well, reinforce their behavior with a prize. The prizes can be simple little things usually picked up at the local five and dime store...i.e. bubbles, a comic book, a toy car, a box of crackerjacks...etc. You could also shop for your prizes online. Wrap the prizes to make it even more exciting. Gift wrapping material is available in an assortment of colors. With the short attention spans kids have, the new prize will tide them over 'til the next stop.

Take the illuminated "glow" sticks (the kind in the foil cover that you break and shake) to use at bedtime for night lights. Tie one to the ceiling of the tent when the children retire and untie and lower it when you retire. Bring one for each night of camping. The soft glow becomes softer as the night wears on and is gentle on adult eyes! You may prefer the green ones versus the red one—the red are brighter it seems.

The camp journal. Take plain white paper - about 5 sheets per kid. Get you kids to fold the pile in half and hold it together with a paper clip. Get them to color the front cover and title it My Camp Journal. Kids are very proud of their journal. If there are some kids who can't read or write yet, tell them to do pictures instead of writing in them. They will have a nice memory of their first trip.

Bring cards. You can play many games with a simple deck of cards. They can even be a deck that is missing cards. Young kids don't know/care. Go fish, and war, and let the kids explore their wild side under controlled conditions.

Pack lots of socks for each child—at least two pairs or more per day. If there is a drop of water, or mud puddle of any kind to be found, they will find it! Don't expect the socks to come clean even with the best of detergents.

If you have an FRS (family radio service walkie talkies), one of the neat things you and your kids could do, is a game of high tech hide-and-seek of sorts... they can hide out, and you have to find them (providing they can see you when they hide, for safety's sake)... and vice versa... lots of fun, and you can use the walkie talkies all the time, in stores when you go shopping and she is with her stepmother, or other times. A walkie talkie is a wonderful little gadget for kids!

Just use your imagination and remember what it was like to be a kid... ideas of things, little things you can do to make anything more fun will fill your mind almost instantly! One last thing, when talking with a kid about anything serious, get down to their level! Squat down or get them up on something high so they can see eye to eye with you and not feel intimidated... hug your kid, and be thankful everyday for the blessing they truly are... they can be a challenge, but they are there for you too... remember that.

About the Author

Paul B.

For more information about parenting dads, please visit: http://www.greatdad.com

(ArticlesBase SC #145310)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Camping With Kids

3 Simple Secrets To Having A Boy

2010-04-01T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: James Winter

There are a few simple secret which you can work out naturally to increase the probability of adding a baby boy to your family. The following secret can increase the chance to have a boy.

Firstly, we need to know the difference between the X and Y sperms. The Y sperms which carry Y gene, are responsible for conceiving a boy. While X sperms which carry the X gene, are responsible for conceiving a girl. The Y sperm move very quickly, are quite small and don't live as long as the X sperm do. They are proficient swimmers, but they must reach the egg quickly and fertilize the egg first or they will die off.

- The Right Diet
The foods you eat can effect the gender of your baby. If you want to have a boy, a diet rich in foods containing sodium and potassium is essential. Some recommanded food is Sweet corn, red meat, banana and peaches.

- The Right Time
You need to calculate intercourse as carefully as you possibly to ovulation. The Y sperm only have restricted time to make it to the egg and you need to provide them sufficient of chance to get there before the X sperm do. If you can calculate intercourse to the exact day that you ovulate, you are greatly increasing your likelihood of having a boy.

- The Right Position
Sexual positions which allow for deep penetration can additionally increase the chance to have a boy. By allowing the man to orgasm as closely as possible to the cervix, the Y sperm will have less distance to go in their path to the egg. Since they need a headstart, you are again giving them that extra edge to make it to the egg first.

The most common positions for deep penetration include woman dominant, so called doggy style, or penetration from behind as well as reverse cowgirl. Besides that, it is beneficial if the woman orgasms before the man if you are trying to have a boy. This changes the PH of the fluids near the cervix, making them welcoming the Y sperm.

Remember, these 3 Simple Secret to Have a Boy are not foolproof, but no matter what gender your child ends up being, the important thing is that they are healthy and happy.

About the Author

To discover Natural ways of Choosing Your Baby's Gender before conception, please visit http://www.babygendersecret.info now!

(ArticlesBase SC #1934285)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - 3 Simple Secret To Have A Boy

Things To Do...

2010-03-31T03:30:00.000-07:00

Inverness, FL
Citrus County Fair

Thrills, Squeals, and Farris Wheels! Great fun at the county fair shows, games, rides, food, events and much more.

Where: 3600 South Florida Ave.
Inverness Florida 34450
(352)726-2993

When: March 29-April 3rd, 2010
Cost: Not listed call for details
Website: http://www.citruscountyfair.com/fair.html

Yuma, AZ
Yuma County Fair

The 58th Annual Yuma County Fair offers everything for a great time! Rides, events, vendors, food, games, Petting Zoo, Pony Rides and more. This years theme “Good Old Fashion Fun”!

Where:2520 East 32nd Street
Yuma, AZ 85365
When: March 30th - April 4th, 2010
Cost: Tuesday - Dollar Day - $1.00, Wednesday - Sunday - $5.00 Adults - $3.00 Children 6 -12 , Children Age 5 and under FREE

Website: http://www.yumafair.com/index.html

Check event websites for details and possible changes in event time and dates.

Get the word out about your next Event, Festival, Fundraiser or Trade Show! It’s free Advertising and you can’t bet that!!!! Email your event information to sandi@lilboyblu.com

Tooth Fairy KIts

2010-03-30T03:30:00.000-07:00

In this kit you will find everything a parent and child need to celebrate those precious "toothless" years.

This Tooth Fairy Kit comes complete with:
Hand Crafted Baby Tooth Keepsake Box: to save and organize baby teeth,
Baby Tooth Pouch: to keep baby teeth and coins safe under the pillow,
Tooth Fairy Door Hanger: to remind the tooth fairy to stop by!
Tooth Fairy Stationery: for an unforgettable letter to or from the tooth fairy.
Baby Tooth Chart: to keep track of your child's developing smile and write special notes and dates.
Makes a unique and unforgettable gift!
Comes in Pink for Sister!Buy this one-of-a-kind keepsake for your child or a child you love.

Price: $24.95

Colors: Blue-Boy
Pink-Girl

http://www.lilboyblu.com/item_459/Tooth-Fairy-Kit.htm

Bake Ranch Style Chicken

2010-03-29T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
4 boneless chicken breast, pounded thin
1 cup parmesan cheese
1 cup bread crumbs
1 cup ranch dressing

Directions:
Mix together the bread crumbs and parmesan cheese and place on a paper plate. Pour the ranch dressing on another paper plate. Roll the chicken in the dressing coating both sides. Then, roll the chicken in the dry mixture. Place on a greased pan and bake at 350 for 45-60 minutes. The chicken will be nicely browned and tender on the inside. Serve with mash potatoes and gravy or on rice.

Tip: Use plastic bag for ranch dressing and place chicken in. Toss around in bag coating chicken. Clean up is easy; just toss the bag.

Simple Green Parenting Tips

2010-03-26T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Bounce Energy

I’ve noticed that the topic in everyone’s conversations these days (aside from employment and the economy), is going green. It’s all over – TV, newspapers, magazines – you name it and it probably has something about going green. Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s great. I do think it is important to care for the environment, but everything I hear to do to help seems to be on a larger scale. So it got me thinking, what could I do as a parent to help the environment? Well, I discovered some simple green parenting tips to follow, which can help save the environment.

Tip#1 – Rethink the baby wipes
I was on one of my most favorite sites, babycenter.com, and they had an article on steps to take to go green and something caught my eye. They reported that most baby wipes take several hundred years to break down. To be honest, I never really gave much thought to wipes or the footprint they leave on the environment. I read that on average people use about 5,000 wipes per baby, which means there are a lot of wipes in landfills. So as an alternative, I found that there are companies that have created 100% biodegradable wipes. One company I’ve seen in particular is Nature Babycare (www.naty.com), and they offer a variety of biodegradable products including biodegradable wipes.

Tip #2 – Switch to cloth diapers
According to an article from the Mother Nature Network, kids use an average of eight diapers a day until they are potty-trained. So if you take an average age of 2 ½ years to potty train a child then you are looking at approximately 7,300 used diapers and that is just for one child! Just think of all the diapers out there that are in landfills for years (along with the wipes). An alternative to using disposable diapers are today’s version of cloth diapers. I know what you are probably thinking, “cloth diapers, never”, but the thing that makes it different from our parents’ time is the inserts that fit inside the cloth diapers. A company called gDiapers has created a 100% biodegradable insert that is actually safe to flush down the toilet.

Tip #3 – Purchase wood toys instead of plastic
In the book, Green Parenting, it says that plastic and battery operated toys can contain hazardous materials such as phthalates or plastic softeners. This can be dangerous for many reasons, one primarily because it seems that most babies learn by putting things in their mouths, I can personally attest to this, my child is at this stage and puts everything in her mouth. So the answer to this is to purchase wood toys finished with nontoxic paint instead of the plastic ones. They may not be as shiny or as loud (which actually may be a good thing for parents), but they don’t contain the dangerous toxins which is key. The company Wooden Toys carries over 500 wood items that are each crafted with non-toxic paint and 100% child safe design.

Tip #4 – Toy and clothing swaps
As most parents have probably seen, it is amazing the number of toys, activity centers, and clothes. that are recommended for babies to grow and learn. Personally, my daughter’s clothes and equipment seem to outnumber our belongings by at least two to one, and she is only four months old! Not only are these things generally bulky and take up space, but it can also get expensive keeping up with her development. To try to combat this, I‘ve started to see parents exchanging toys and clothing. This can help save a lot of money plus it can save on storage space.

Tip #5 – Make your own baby food or buy organic
In an article on green parenting called “10 Tips for Green Parenting” they say that “[i]n addition to being better for the environment, natural healthy food from the start reduces the later risk of heart disease, allergies, behavioral problems, and many other ailments”. Whether this is completely true or not, it is something to think about. One way to do this is by making your own baby food. This has been a “hot” topic for many of my friends with babies, and I’ve read that it is pretty easy to make yourself. But if you like the idea but would prefer some assistance to make the job easier, then Williams Sonoma has a product called the Beaba Babycook. It is a steamer, blender, warmer and defroster in one small appliance that makes it easy to prepare fresh, healthy meals for a baby (I haven’t tried it out personally but it looks easy). But if making baby food isn’t your thing you can always purchase organic baby food at your local grocery store, which is also healthy and nutritious.

About the Author

Bounce Energy is a Texas Electric Company based in Houston. Bounce Energy's goal is provide more than low Texas Electric Rates to our customers. With innovative and flexible plans, excellent customer service, and superior customer rewards, Bounce Energy offers a unique approach to Texas electricity.

(ArticlesBase SC #1751001)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Simple Green Parenting Tips

2010-03-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

Check out Our Chewable Jewels

http://www.lilboyblu.com/category_150/Jewlery.htm

Baby Teething Toys Help Your Baby Teeth Comfortably

2010-03-25T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Michelle Patelle

Babies start to teeth at around seven months, but some babies start to teeth at around three months and others start much later, at one year old. They will start to grab at everything and bite on them, and they will also start to drool more than they usually do. Whenever the father or mother of the baby started teething when they were babies is probably the time that the baby will start to teeth.

In order to make teething more comfortable for your baby, you can buy them teething toys. This way, they will not grab at unsanitary and possibly dangerous things. Their teething will probably end at around two or three years of age, and by then they should have about twenty baby teeth.

These types of toys are available in three types. First, there are the soft toys which are meant for the first stages of your baby’s teething, before the teeth start to come out. These are usually in the form of cloth and stuffed animals. To make things more exciting for your baby, there are also squeaky teething toys.

When your baby’s gums start to become irritated, there are soothing cool toys. These are hollow and filled with sanitized water. They are put in the fridge to cool so that when your baby needs to chew on it, the coolness makes your baby’s gums more comfortable. Your baby will also be fascinated by the temperature and have fun with the toy.

The last kind of teething toys are solid baby toys for when you can see the teeth coming out already. These kinds of toys are made from soft rubber and plastics which are painted on with nontoxic paint, examples of which include teething rings.

When you choose your baby’s teething toys, you can bring your baby along to help you choose. Bright colors and shapes interest babies, so choose the ones that your baby likes the most. This way, they will have fun playing with their toy and they will not resort to picking up random and possibly harmful objects.

Baby teething toys can also serve other functions. There are rattles which have ring handles and stuffed toys with teething rings attached. Baby teething blankets are helpful as well, since they have rubber edges so that your baby can chew on them when being put to sleep. Some teething toys have built-in vibrators to massage your baby’s gums and make them feel better.

Remember to check for small parts on the teething toys. If they could get dislodged, don’t buy them. Also, clean your baby’s teething toy when it is not being used so that they do not get too dirty. When your baby has friends over, make sure that they do not get their teething toys mixed up, since your baby’s toys are meant to be your baby’s only.

About the Author

Michelle Patelle, stay-at-home mother and writer, hopes that nursing mothers will investigate their choices at sites such as http://babylovesyourmilk.com which has information about breast pump reviews and breast shield fit.

(ArticlesBase SC #1647208)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Baby Teething Toys Help Your Baby Teeth Comfortably

National Milk Mustache Mobile Tour is Coming to Phoenix!

2010-03-24T12:48:00.000-07:00

The got milk? National Mustache Mobile Tour is making a stop in Phoenix on March 27-March 29th to help promote milk as a way to build a strong family. Mobile Tour will be at the Phoenix Zoo on March 27th from 11am-2pm and 3pm-5pm, the Phoenix Children's Museum on March 28th from 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm and the Phoenix Municipal Stadium on march 29th!

The best part is it's FREE.........

Sample Milk

Take a family Milk Mustache Photo

Speak to Dieticians

NFL activities and other Family Activities

and so much more

This is a must do, it's free, educational and lots of fun!I hope to see you there!!!

For more information on the importance of serving milk at the dinner table and the National
Milk Mustache "got milk?" Campaign visit http://www.whymilk.com/, fan us on Facebook at Facebook.com/MilkMustache or follow us on Twitter@milkmustache.

Things To Do...

2010-03-24T03:30:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles CA
Free one-week Junior Golf After school workshop for kids and teens

The County of Los Angeles is offering free one-week Junior Golf After school Workshops for kids age 17 and under at various golf courses throughout Los Angeles County. All instruction and equipment is provided during the lessons. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expose your kids to a sport that teaches skill while encouraging sportsmanship and sports etiquette. The sessions are offered daily for one week from 3:45 p.m.-5 p.m. and will cover chipping, putting and golfing range. On Friday, parents and friends will be invited to attend an 18-hole putting tournament with awards (and every kid gets an award).

Find the golf course near you and hurry to sign up as spaces are limited!

Chester Washington G.C., Los AngelesMarch 22-26 and March 29-April 2

Knollwood G.C., Granada HillsApril 19-23 and April 26-30

Victoria G.C., CarsonApril 19-23 and April 26-30

El Cariso G.C., SylmarMay 10-14 and May 17-21

Lakewood G.C., LakewoodMay 17-21 and May 24-28

Marshall Canyon G.C., La VerneJune 7-11 and June 14-18

Alondra G.C., LawndaleJune 7-11 and June 14-18

Click HERE for the L.A. County Junior Golf Website and information on how to enroll!

Bolder, CO
Eldorado Mountain Yoga Camp

This year, the Eldorado Mountain Yoga Camp is offering a day camp during the 2010 BVSD spring break! The camp hours will be 9:00 am-3:00 pm
Ages 5-12

Sample Daily Schedule:
8:30-9 AM Check in and crafts in homeroom
9:00 AM Circle
9:15 –9:45 AM Yoga
9:45 AM Snack
10:00 –11:00 AM Small Group Activity
11:00 PM Lunch
11:30 PM Ice Skating Field Trip
2:30 PM Crafts
3:00 Check out

Where: 2875 County Road 67
Boulder, CO 80303
303-249-1671 or 303-494-3051

When: March 22-26, 2010
Cost: See Details on Cost
http://www.eldoradoyoga.net/events/2010-bvsd-spring-break-camp-march-22-26-march-29-30/

Website: http://www.eldoradoyoga.net/family-programs-at-eldo/summer-kids-day-camps/

Check event websites for details and possible changes in event time and dates.

Get the word out about your next Event, Festival, Fundraiser or Trade Show! It’s free Advertising and you can’t bet that!!!! Email your event information to sandi@lilboyblu.com

The Daddy’s Tool Bag is the ultimate gift for a new dad.

2010-03-23T03:30:00.000-07:00

The sporty diaper bag for Dad has a masculine design, made with the dad in mind. The 45-minute DVD is entertaining, yet full of sound advice, in a format reminiscent of Dad’s favorite "How To" home improvement shows. It’s packed with information on caring for a new baby including diapering, bathing, car seat safety, nasal aspiration, fingernail clipping, bottles and burping, and more!

Also includes changing mat with hook and loop closure,an emergency number card to keep pertinent numbers at hand in case Dad has a question, and a packing list card that suggests “tools” to pack in the Daddy’s Tool Bag,keeping Dad well-organized and well-prepared.

Price: $39.95

http://www.lilboyblu.com/item_450/Daddy-Tool-Bag.htm

Crock-pot Kalua Pig

2010-03-22T03:30:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
4-6lbs. pork butt
1-2tsp.liquid smoke
3-4tbsp. Hawaiian salt

Directions:
Sprinkle salt over pork and rub salt into the pork. Place the pork in the crock-pot on high up to 6hours or until pork starts to fall apart. Serve when pork is tender and falls apart with fork.

Tip: Add other Hawaiian dishes and make it a theme night.

Getting Your Kids to Eat Better

2010-03-19T03:30:00.000-07:00

By: Genesis Davies

Healthy snacks are almost always refused by today’s savvy kids. I can’t tell you how many times, as a parent, I’ve wished my kids had never seen a cookie or tasted a soda, but there are ways to get kids to eat better.

Even if you aren’t a big fan of the “sneaky food” idea where you make cakes with carrots and zucchini, you can still get your kids to eat. Here are a few tips:

Make it for dip. Kids love dip. They might not be too impressed with veggies and dip (though you can try!) so you might want to try making the dip the healthy part. Mix yogurt or sour cream with pureed cooked carrots and a little liquid cheese for an orange dip, or blend one part cream cheese with two parts sour cream and then blend it with spinach and a little roasted garlic.

Add it to pizza. Pizza isn’t as unhealthy as most people think. In fact, you can make it something even healthier by adding a ton of veggies to it. A great way to do this is to have vegetables on hand, already sliced and ready to go. Then get your kids to help you make the pizza . . . it works best to create individual size pizzas. Ask them to choose three or four veggies to put on their pizza, or show them how to make faces with olive eyes, red pepper mouth, etc. This will get at least a few veggies on their pizza!

Make a three bite rule. In our house, you can’t say you don’t like something until you’ve tried it. Most kids will reject that first bite just out of principal, so why not make it a three bite rule? They don’t have to be big bites, just a little taste will do. If your child still doesn’t like the food, ask them to describe WHY they dislike it before allowing them to discontinue. For some, this won’t be worth it and they will just eat their food after all.

Respect their tastes. One woman I know let her children choose three foods they didn’t want to eat. They did this each week and she could see at a glance which foods, such as onions, had been on the list nearly permanently and allowed the children to skip those foods. It made for fewer mealtime battles and let her kids have some control over what they ate.

Repeat favorites. There’s no rule saying you have to give your kids a gazillion different greens. If your kids like a couple of fruits and vegetables, let them eat those over and over. Eventually they will expand their horizons and their taste buds.

The big thing is not to get into fights over healthy food. Kids go through stages and if you fight, you will not only turn mealtime into a war zone and possibly turn them off good food for a very long time, it’s not enjoyable for you, either. So, keep it low key, offer them variety and don’t stress out if your little children refuse to touch a leaf of green . . . just offer them something they will eat.

About the Author

For some fun, kid-friendly recipes, check out Gourmet Mama. We offer a variety of quick meals, plus food your kids will actually eat!

(ArticlesBase SC #1127601)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Get Your Kids to Eat Better

Things To Do...

2010-03-17T03:30:00.000-07:00

Chattanooga, TN

Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium is the highest rated aquarium in the USA and one of America’s top ten tourist attractions for overall guest satisfaction! Enjoy a remarkable journey with 10,000 animals. See 3D IMAX movies in the only Chattanooga movie theater with a six-story screen. Ride the River Gorge Explorer, the most thrilling Chattanooga river boat. The TN Aquarium is ranked #1 for Chattanooga attractions and things to do in Chattanooga TN.

Where: One Broad Street
Chattanooga, TN 37402

Cost: Packages available at http://www.tnaqua.org/PlanYourVisit/TicketInformation.aspx

Website: http://www.tnaqua.org/Home.aspx

San Francisco, CA
Frog Fest

Tree Frog Treks will be having our first annual animal care and scholarship fundraiser on St. Patrick's Day. Families, children, and vendors are encouraged to attend to meet our animals, get a snake massage, and enjoy some green eggs and ham, root beer floats, wine, Irish coffee, and fresh buttered popcorn. We will also be having a silent auction featuring gifts from some of our favorite local companies including Freewheel, de Young Museum, SAVE THE FROGS!, Foreign Cinema, and the San Francisco Zoo. (Click here to see a full list of items.)

Where: 2112 Hayes Street
San Francisco, CA 94117
(415)876-Frog
When: March 17, 2010 5p-9pm
Cost: See site for details
Website: http://www.treefrogtreks.com/programs/events.htm

Phoenix, AZ
Eleven O’ Clock Daily Tour

Kids will learn about plant life, such as: How long plants live, where to see a cranial and the difference in cactus like the saguaro and a Cardon Grande.

Where: Boyce Thompson Arboretum
37615 US Highway 60
Superior, AZ 85273
(520)689-2811
When: March 5th-March 31, 2010 at 11am daily
Cost: Adults $7.50, Children 5-12 $3, Children under 5 free
Website: http://ag.arizona.edu/bta/

Mom-to-be Dated Pendant

2010-03-16T03:30:00.000-07:00

Price: $48.00-$51.00

http://www.lilboyblu.com/category_150/Jewlery.htm

Cinnamon Rolls

2010-03-15T17:14:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
Rolls:
1tbsp. active yeast
2 eggs
¾ cup sugar
2tsp. salt
1 ½ cup water, warm
¾ cup shortening
7+ cups flour
Filling:
1 cup sugar
4tbsp.cinnamon
½ cup margarine
Glaze:
3 cups powder sugar
1/3 to ½ cup warm milk

Directions:
Beat eggs, sugar, salt and shortening. Add water, milk, and ½ of flour. Mix well. Add yeast and mix until dissolved. Add remaining flour and more if needed until dough is soft but manageable. Knead 3 minutes. Let rise 30-45 minutes. Roll in two rectangles ½ inches thick. Spread with margarine and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. Roll up starting from long end, then cut into 1 inch pieces and place ½ inches apart on greased cookie sheet. Let rise 30-45 minutes. Bake at 375 for 15 minutes. Mix glaze ingredients to spreading consistency. Drizzle on cinnamon rolls when cooled.

Going Green Tips: 5 More Easy Things to Do At Home

2010-03-12T03:30:00.000-08:00

By: Ellen Bell

Eco friendly living, sometimes also referred to as going green, is a growing trend in the United States and around the world. People are becoming more conscious of the negative impact that our daily actions and choices can have on the environment around us. If you want to participate in the movement to go green, but aren't quite sure where to get started, then this article is for you! Read on to learn about five easy things you can start doing at home today to make a real difference in the world around you.

1. Compost. Composting is a great way to send less waste to the landfill. Furthermore, compost is the best possible fertilizer you can add to your plants. Compost bins are readily available for purchase through internet and catalog stores. Stop throwing away those yard clippings and food scraps, and put them to good use in a compost bin instead.

2. Plant a vegetable garden. Produce purchased at many grocery stores has traveled hundreds, if not thousands of miles to get to your dinner table. Growing your own produce at home is not only eco friendly, but it will save you a lot of money, too. For every $1 invested in planting a vegetable garden, you'll reap an average of $4-5 in fresh produce. Your vegetable garden is also a great way to use the compost you'll be making with your new compost bin!

3. Install a programmable thermostat. These thermostats will automatically adjust the temperature up or down when you're asleep or away from home. They are inexpensive, can be easily found at most hardware stores, and can save you as much as 10% on your heating and cooling costs.

4. Turn off the lights. This is such an easy way to save energy, and yet so easy to forget to do. A lot of energy is wasted every year when we leave lights on in rooms after we've left. Making a conscious effort to always turn out the lights will not only save energy, it will save you money, too.

5. Install low flush toilets and low flow shower heads. A huge amount of water that is used in U.S. households goes down the drain in the bathroom. Low flow shower heads will cost you less than $10 each, and will save thousands of gallons of water every year. Furthermore, low flush toilets can save as much as 3 to 5 gallons per flush! Multiply that by the number of people in your household, assuming each person flushes several times per day, and the water savings will really begin to add up. For an even more ecological option, next time you need to replace a toilet, consider installing a composting toilet instead. These toilets cost more up front, but many of them use no water at all, so the savings in the long run can be huge.

Going green is something that every American household can take part in, even if we just choose a few simple things to participate in. Remember, eco friendly living habits are learned young, so get your kids involved now; they'll be learning things that will stay with them for a lifetime. With just a few easy steps and changes every day, we can all save some water or electricity, and start impacting the environment in a positive way!

About the Author

For more information on waterless toilets and how they can save you money, visit The Composting Toilet Store at http://www.composting-toilet-store.com/Compost_Toilets_s/34.htm

(ArticlesBase SC #1034621)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Going Green Tips: 5 More Easy Things to Do At Home

Cooking Can Bring Fathers and Kids Together

2010-03-11T03:30:00.000-08:00

By: Sarah Beldo

Maybe cooking talent and parenting skills do not necessarily always go hand-in-hand.

But in these days of the Food Network and numerous reality shows based around creating the perfect dish, cooking together at home is becoming a popular way for families to bond.

And whether you are single parenting or sharing the joy with a partner, chances are your kids will love to spend some time with you in the kitchen, cooking up a fun treat.

Wondering where to start? When bringing children into the kitchen for the first time, presenting a brief safety demo is a smart use of your parenting skills.

Simply remind them about the importance of washing their hands, being careful with knives, steering clear of hot burners and turning everything off when they are finished.

What to cook? Pizza is one option that can please the entire family. Make your own dough from a recipe or purchase a premade crust, then layer tomato sauce, veggies, pepperoni and mozzarella.

Kids may also want to experiment with some unusual toppings they find in the fridge. If so, you may want to make a bunch of mini-pizzas in case some experiments wind up less successful than others.

A fun activity for weekends that can also make you popular with your wife is to team up with the kids to cook breakfast in bed for mom. Think omelets (kids love to crack and whisk eggs) or pancakes.

Cookies can be a good starter activity for kids who are too young to do much beyond stir batter. Let kids get creative with the dough and make funny or unusual shapes.

Bonding in the kitchen can be a great way to apply your parenting skills so that everyone learns and has fun - plus, you get to sit down with the little ones to enjoy the results.

About the Author

Sarah Beldo is a parenting advice and parenting skills specialist for greatdad.com.

(ArticlesBase SC #786493)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Cooking Can Bring Fathers And Kids Together

Things To Do....

2010-03-10T03:30:00.000-08:00

Co-ops Shop & Support Local Farmers

Gilbert, AZ
The Green Bee Co-op has several locations in the east valley. Orders are placed on their website and then you go to a designated pick up to get your produce box. They offer produce packages and bread. Buy local and support local farmers. You can also donate a bee box to local charities

Where: See website for pick up locations
Cost: $18.50 - $7.50 Bee Box produce $4.50-$7.00 Breads

Website: http://www.greenbeeproduce.com/

Boise, Idaho
Check out this co-op founded in 1973 and now located in 26,000 sq feet location offering produce, beer-wine, meats, supplements and more. Find everything organic and support local business.

Where: 888 West Front Street
Boise, Idaho 83702
(208)472-4500
mailto:info@boisecoop.com?subject=Coop%20Directory%20Service%20Listing

Cost: Membership availability and prices based on products purchased.
Website: http://www.boisecoop.com/

Belfast, Maine
The Belfast Co-op grew out of a pre-order food-buying club known as the Friends Co-op in Liberty/Montville. The founders of the co-op were back-to-the land types, who wanted to make good foods available to the community at a fair price. After 3 years as a buying club, we realized that there was more than enough community interest to open an every day natural foods store.
Where: 123 High Street
Belfast, ME 04915

(207) 338-2532

Cost: See website under member/owner for cost details

Website: http://www.belfast.coop/

Check event websites for details and possible changes in event time and dates.

Get the word out about your next Event, Festival, Fundraiser or Trade Show! It’s free Advertising and you can’t bet that!!!! Email your event information to sandi@lilboyblu.com

Text Message Tee's

2010-03-09T03:30:00.000-08:00

This funky emoticon says it all- "Rock On" little one! Tee shirt comes to you in our signature cell phone inspired packaging ready for gifting.

http://www.lilboyblu.com/category_127/Shirts.htm

Southwestern Eggs

2010-03-08T03:30:00.000-08:00

City Girl and Her Nature Adventures!

2010-03-05T03:30:00.000-08:00

Okay it has only been a couple of weeks since I started this compost adventure. Boy, it’s going to take some getting used to. First you have to have a small container next to your sink to collect your recycling materials. They have all of these cute mini canisters and decorative jars you can use to disguise the recycled material. It’s a good idea to have one; at first I thought I would just place it on a plate and then take it out to the compost bin. But it was nasty, I did not like looking at egg shells, coffee grounds, tea bags and what ever else I thought was going to be great for the science project in the back yard. So get a container and make it cute, because what’s in it is not.

The next thing I noticed was we wasted a lot of food, especially food that is good for the compost like spinach, carrots, bell peppers, grapes and sprouts. It’s funny I recall requests for these items and promises I will eat them in my lunch next week but here they are stinking up the fridge. However, I don’t see any pudding packs, go-gurt’s, cinnamon rolls or beer left :O)

So, as you can see I have lots of stuff to go into the compost and I’ll drop that stuff in, then give it a turn and put the lid back on to wait another day. Hopefully as the weeks go by I’ll become more conscious of the items we are discarding.

Boys just want to be Cool and in Style

2010-03-04T03:30:00.000-08:00

Expensive baby clothing and baby boutiques are all over the internet and local shopping malls. However, walk in or log on to any of them and what will you see Pink, fluffy and Oh-so pretty girly things. Now don’t get me wrong I can shop for hours in these stores for my daughter. The stuff is so cute and who can resist your little one running around with a tutu and a sparkly wand.

But the boy movement is heading our way. Boys today are looking for fashion and moms are seeking modern with a rock-n-roll edge for their boys. It’s no longer a girl’s world; cool boy fashions are popping up all over. Lilboyblu has just what you’re looking for a place where they can shop for hip styles, cool looks all at affordable prices, Lilboyblu is just the place. This spring lil boys will look adorable in these hip Onesies. We carry text message baby, cutie text messages on 100% cotton in a variety of bright colors. For the cool nursing baby try “I’m a Boobman” line or for the laid back baby tie dye is always cool. Check out our whole line of clothing, shoes and socks for the trendy lil one.

Another popular trend is the rock-n-roll beanies with a distressed look. These beanies will scream cool when your lil one shows up at daycare. The Beanies designs are what every boy loves; motorcycles, eagles, skulls, cars and more. Each beanie is made with comfort in mind and the 2-4t fit mom and dads head as well.

What about when they lose their teeth you’re going to need a place to keep them. Why place them in plastic baggies and take the risk of mixing them up with the older kid’s teeth. We have the perfect tooth fairy kit that holds all baby teeth in one place. Your son will love the door hanger and pouch making his tooth fairy dreams come true.

At Lilboyblu you will not only find quality boy clothing you can also find unique baby shower gifts for that mom to be. We carry gift sets, baby blankets, keepsake items and diaper cakes. You will be pleased with the variety and quality of items we carry. This is just for the boys!

Sandi LopezLilboyblu offers carefully-selected little boy clothes and products. Our customers are treated like family and we enjoy providing excellent customer care. Stop on by and check out what we have to offer where it’s cool to be a boy! www.lilboyblu.com

Things To Do....

2010-03-03T03:30:00.000-08:00

Arizona, Apache Junction
22nd Annual Renaissance Festival

Medieval Times are alive and well at the Renaissance Festival located in Apache Junction. Enjoy food, music, comedy, shows, shopping and much much more. A fun event for the whole family.

Where: Take State Highway 60 East, east of Apache Junction, just east of
Gold Canyon Golf Resort.

When: February 6-March 28th 2010

Cost: $20 for Adults, $10 for children 5-12, 5 and under free
Discount Tickets Fry’s $18 Adults, $8 children 5-12 Parking Free

Website: http://emol.org/azrenfest/

Atlanta, GA
UniverSoul Circus

UniverSoul Circus offers an interactive experience like none other. At UniverSoul Circus, the audience is always part of the show. Fans are forewarned because under the Big Top of hip hop, you never know when you might wind up in the center ring—doing your thing! Chinese aerialist, stunt basketball, contortionists and so much more you will be amazed!

Where: The Green Lot at Turner Field

521 Capitol Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30312

When: February 27-March 7, 2010

Cost: See Ticket Master for Ticket Cost

Website: http://www.universoulcircus.com/

Los Angeles, CA
REDCAT International Children’s Film Festival

Now in its fifth year, the REDCAT festival presents award-winning animation, live action, and rare classic films to engage film lovers of all ages. Two weekend programs include visionary animation, rip-roaring live action. The series is created by Elizabeth Shepherd.

Where: Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 S Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA

When: Mon, Sat, Sun 02/27/10-03/07/10

Cost: $5/Film

Website: http://gocitykids.parentsconnect.com/events/los-angeles-ca-usa/REDCAT-International-Children-s-Film-Festival-Walt-Disney-Concert-Hall/634280

Check event websites for details and possible changes in event time and dates.

Get the word out about your next Event, Festival, Fundraiser or Trade Show! It’s free Advertising and you can’t bet that!!!! Email your event information to sandi@lilboyblu.com

Lilboyblu Has Winners!

2010-03-02T03:30:00.000-08:00

Lilboyblu First Giveaway Winner!

Chris Thanks for entering and Following In the blu news...

Basket Includes:

Rockstar 6-12m Onesies

Rockstar Beanie

Pirate Ship Wooden Model

Kit 4 Foam Fliers-Paint & Design

Bubble Gum Roll Message Maker

Dunkin Yo-Yo

Raz-Berry Teether & Raz-Berry Pacifier

Welch's Fruit Snacks

Lilcutie Contest Winner

And the winner is..... Drum roll please! Levi, 2 1/2 years old!! Check out our Gallery to see Levi, visit: http://www.lilboyblu.com/gallery.htm .

Go ahead and brag Mom , Levi is so adorable!

Levi won not only his picture on our site for the month of March but also our Lilcutie certificate, a discount and a gift complements of Lilboyblu!

So, don't forget to send in a photo of your Lil Cutie (boy) 4years old or younger for a chance for your son to be our next lilcutie of the Month!

See website for more details.