How do you “unwind”?
Whether you work fulltime out of the house or battle the buckeroos at home day to day, being a Mom can be one tiring job! Rewarding as it may be, it can still leave you drained at the end of most days. What is the best way to relax after a long day? SharpMoms share your thoughts with us!
Super Cook = Super Mom!
Like most Moms, I find myself trying to plan a weekly menu of meals for my family. In reality, one or two meals actually get cooked and I find myself staring at a pantry of canned vegetables, fruits, tuna and an empty fridge, wondering what I can conjure up for dinner out of tomatoes, celery and some ketchup. Whether you choose to admit it or not, this has probably happened to you too (and perhaps even more than once!). Fear no more! SharpMoms has found a website that is going to bail you out of your dinner dilemma. Super Cook has a recipe search that is based on the ingredients you have in YOUR very own kitchen. All you do is insert your ingredients into the search box and VOILA!, recipes appear at your fingertips.
Jon Plus 8, Minus Kate?
Happy summer SharpMoms! What a great start to the summer I have been having. I tuned in last night to Jon and Kate Plus 8, along with several other SharpMomsI am sure. I am not sure how I feel about their separation. I am sad for both Jon and Kate, but mostly their eight children. This season has been quite disappointing already with all the buzz of a divorce, affairs, etc. For some reason with all that “bad news” looming over the family, I didn’t find the episodes as funny, the kids as cute or Jon and Kate as likeable as in seasons past. I was equally disappointed to hear Jon say in last night’s episode that he was sad, but excited to start the next chapter in his life. In my book he seemed a little too emotionally ready for the split and very much detached from the family. Kate on the other hand let her guard down and showed a more vulnerable side (in contrast to her usual crass self!). What are other SharpMoms thinking? This family is all the buzz on morning shows, gossip magazine, and even Facebook. Leave a comment and let SharpMoms know your thoughts!
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Pampers Points Codes
SharpMoms just found out these 4 codes can be used in your account for up a total of 5 added points! SharpMoms just used all four and they were active and worked. And, good news, shipping and handling for rewards is now FREE through December 09!! Here they are:
Happyfathersday
weappreciateu09
HAPPYMOTHERSDAY
STARTEARNINGNOW
Mommy Deals
June 16, 2009 by admin
Filed under Deals & Steals
20% off photo books at Shutterfly and free shipping on orders of $40 or more, offer ends July 13 enter code SUMMERSAVINGS
10 cent prints at Walgreens.com until July 11 enter code JULY4 at checkout
20% off your highest ticket item at www.thecompanystore.com, offer good until July 5 enter code T9EK20 at checkout
Summer Dresses starting at $29.50 Ann Taylor LOFT
Are you pregnant?
Are you wondering if you could be expecting? There are many signs and symptoms of pregnancy. If you are hoping to be pregnant, unfortunately many signs can mimic PMS. It is very important that you know your body and it’s quirks. This can be key during the “two week wait” (the time between conception and your next expected period). Of course, we all know a home pregnancy test is the best way to find out. But, in the mean time, let your mind wonder with these symptoms and see if any of them match up to how you are feeling:
- Breast Tenderness: This is a tell-tale sign of pregnancy, however it can also be a PMS symptom for most women. Usually, most expectant mother’s don’t recognize this symptom until about 6-8 weeks into their pregnancy. So it may not be an early sign for everyone.
- Cramps: You may feel cramps that are very similar to your premenstrual cramping, however, this cramping is a a sign of implantation and uterine stretching.
- Spotting: This is not a symptom for all women, but some women will experience light spotting as if they were going to start a period. This is also a sign of implantation and can be as tiny as a needle point or larger. If you experience heavy bleeding is probably a sign that your period is going to start or a sign of something for serious if the bleeding occurs for longer than expected.
- Tiredness: Sure, every woman, working or not, experiences some fatigue during her cycle. But, if you can only think about the next time you get to take a nap while a work or can’t keep up with your daily activities, it could be a sign that there is a baby on board.
- Nausea: Most pregnant women do not feel morning sickness until 6 weeks of pregnancy or later. However, some women do get to feel the joys of this symptom early on.
- Bloating: Your increased hormones can cause a little extra pooch in your tummy. This can also happen with your period, but once your period begins, your notice your bloating decreases. Not the case with a bun in the oven!
- Frequent Urination: Getting up during the night to tinkle? This is your body’s way of kicking your kidneys into gear and is a sign that you might be pregnant.
- Headaches: These occur early on due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow. As you progress in your progress this symptom should disappear.
- Constipation: This potty problem can rear it’s ugly head even before you test positive. Your digestive track is slowing down, so you will have a decrease in your bowel movements. Try fiber supplements and a high fiber diet.
- Mood Swings: While a visit from Aunt Flo can trigger this symptom too, don’t be surprised if it is also a sign you are pregnant. Increased hormones, fatigue, bloating, cramping…You will have good reason to wake up on the wrong side of the bed some days!
Of course, these are not the only signs you could be expecting nor will all women have these symptoms. Signs and symptoms will vary. SharpMoms suggests testing with a home pregnancy test on or after Day 40 of your cycle if your period is not present by then. Still no period or positive test after Day 40? Check with your OBGYN for a blood pregnancy test and other testing to see why your period may be a no-show.
Finding the Right Babysitter
Choosing a sitter that is responsible can be a very hard decision as a parent. Finding a sitter in general can be even more difficult. What is the best way to find a reliable babysitter? SharpMoms thinks word of mouth is probably a good place to start. Check with your friends who have children, friends who have children of age to babysit, your church group, your child’s preschool teacher, etc.
You can also check the phone book for local babysitting and nanny agencies. Who remembers the episode of Jon and Kate Plus 8 where Kate interviews several nannies through a local company? You can always meet up with a few and give them a “test drive” by letting them come over and play with the kids while you are home.
Know a college gal? Ask her to give the names of some reliable friends. Better yet, go check out the bulletin board at the dorm. Ask a sorority alumna to give you the names of some girls she would recommend for hire. Most girls in college that are willing to sit love kids and are looking for a few extra buck to pay off that Coach Bag they have been eying.
Once your find your sitter, how do you know they are doing a good job? Here are some red flags when looking for signs of a bad babysitter or nanny:
~Your child looks unkept or dirty.
~Your child avoids the sitter when he/she shows up (crying, clingy, etc.)
~Your nanny or sitter shows up late.
~The stories just don’t make sense. If she is lying or stealing most likely some storytelling will come into play. Don’t be fooled!
~Too many mishaps have occurred. If your child has had one to many “close calls” perhaps you should look into finding a new nanny or sitter.
Father’s Day Gift Ideas
Father’s Day Gift Ideas
Father’s Day is fast approaching. Whether it’s his first Father’s Day or twentieth, here are some unique ideas the Dad in your life will be sure to love!
* Something from the kids: Take your kids on a scavenger hunt for the perfect rock from your garden or local park. Wash it well to remove all the dirt. Then let your child decorate it! Use acrylic paint to create a work of art Dad will be sure to love!
* JCR-650 Digital Photo Frame FM Stereo Tri-Alarm Clock Radio with Digital Audio Player: What better way for a Dad on the go to be reminded of his loved ones? This alarm clock is great for travel or home use. The best part? He can upload his favorite pictures to view any place he may be!
* DIY Handprint Frame: Find a frame with a large mat and have all the family members finger paint a handprint and sign it for Dad.
* NFL Licensed Grill Covers: If he is an avid football fan, he will love having his favorite team logo protecting his precious grill. SharpMoms suggests the grill covers available at www.gifts.com.
* Portable Hammock: Is your Dad the outdoorsy type? He will love this hammock-on-the-go that’s perfect for his next fishing or camping trip. Not sure where to find one? SharpMoms likes the Discover Channel Store.
* Jolly Gorillapod Tripod: This is the newest, lightweight, compact, portable tripod on the market. It will securely fasten to any surface, giving your camera a sturdy base. Check them out at www.altrec.com.
Share your favorite Father’s Day gift ideas with us!
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