Come Visit Me

I ran away today.

But I was nice enough to leave this note.

If you want to know what I've been up to, come and visit me:
http://lasurrocenter.wordpress.com/2013/04/30/guest-post-by-jill-hancock-reeder-im-not-the-mom-im-just-the-stork/

Should You Let Your Kids Use Temporary Tattoos? Guest Post

Should You Let Your Kids Use Temporary Tattoos?

The tattoo has become a common form of body art for many people. When you think of a tattoo, you may think of a permanent design that is very difficult to erase and you need to find a Tattoo Shop. There are of course other types available. Henna tattoos are a particularly ancient type of tattoo that have been popular for many years. Originating in India, they are harmless and can look quite elegant. Temporary tattoos are also a trend that has been prevalent for decades. Many children enjoy wearing them. They are usually quite easy to put on. All you need to do is put the tattoo down on your skin and then rub a wet cloth over it. The design will then stick on the skin. Of course, some people may find this to be a little too out-there. Even though they wash off, some parents could be concerned for a variety of different reasons.

School
Depending on the kind of school your child goes to, it may not be wise to let them wear temporary tattoos. The school may specifically state that jewellery and other forms of body decoration are prohibited. This is especially true for schools that require their students to wear a uniform. When it comes to your school, you will need to ensure that your kids are not breaking the rules.

Church
Parents could be concerned due to the religious significance of a particular design. Of course, this will depend on whether or not your family is religious in the first place. Some people may feel that their churches will not accept them, and will therefore not appreciate their children doing something that can be perceived as rebellious or against the church's particular ethos.

Making Your Own Decision
The only real danger that the temporary tattoo presents is if your child is allergic to the ink that sticks onto the skin. In a lot of cases, you will already be aware of what he or she is allergic to. This means that there will usually be no health risks involved when it comes to using temporary tattoos. The decision to wear one is of course up to you as a parent, but it is also a good idea to give children a choice of their own. Even if you may not like it, temporary tattoos are not necessarily a bad thing. Your kids may wear them for a while, but then afterwards decide that they do not want a tattoo after all. This could help them to make their mind about permanent designs.
Parenting can be a difficult task, but it is important to give your children a little leeway now and then. Allowing them to make their own decisions with regards to temporary tattoos and Macchine Per Tatuaggi is not going to cause them any harm. It will help them to make their own decisions and can be a lot of fun, especially when it comes to dressing up.

Guest Blogger/Post Kate from A Girl For All Time

Top 10 Tips Every Parent Should Follow

As parents, it is only natural that we all want to do a fantastic job of raising our children.  It takes great courage to be a parent, given the level of commitment and responsibility that is required of us.

We looked at ten top tips that won’t do the job for you, but will give you the confidence and the conviction to be the best parent you can be.

1. Relax

There isn’t a ‘right’ way to be a parent, so stop fretting about whether or not you are doing the ‘right’ thing. What works for some parents and children might not for others. Be confident that whatever works for you is the best thing to do.

2. Appreciate Play

You go to work every day, and probably take great pride in it. The time your children spend playing with their favourite dolls, for example, is their equivalent. Take the time to appreciate what they do, and spend time with them as they do it to aid social and emotional development.

3. Communicate

Speak, listen, and engage in non-verbal communication as much as possible. Smiles, hugs, waves, and games of ‘peek-a-boo’ are all great ways to ‘speak without speaking.’

4. Build Good Habits

Children are eager when they are young, so take the time at an early stage to build good habits, whether this is in the food they eat, the way they brush their teeth, or reading for 30 minutes before bed.

5. Encourage Questions

Children are curious by nature, and as a parent you can encourage this by answering all of their questions and helping them to build their understanding of the world around them.

6. Learn About Children

Understand how youngsters develop, why they do certain things, or what they need in order to flourish. Above all, recognise that your child is unique, and you know them better than anyone, or any book, ever will.

7. Promote Individuality

It is easy for parents to try and lead their children a particular route, especially when it comes to hobbies and interests. Support your child’s individuality, and encourage them to explore avenues even if they aren’t the ones you would ordinarily promote yourself.

8. Make Time for Family Activities

Modern life is busier than ever, and as such families can often resemble ships passing in the night, with parents coming and going to work and children at school or spending time with friends. Ensure there is a fixed period of each day or week where you commit to spending time together.

9. Follow Home Rules

It can be difficult to establish good behaviour patterns and rules if you have children of varying ages, however teenagers will have to be supportive of any initiatives you have in place in order to manage younger ones, for example an earlier bedtime.

10. Make Time for Yourself

Yes, parenting is a 24/7 job, but there are those precious moments when you can make time for yourself. Whether it is listening to music, catching up on sleep, or enjoying a coffee in town, even the small things will help to refresh and re-energise you.

A Girl For All Time are unique doll makers in the UK and US that provide quality collectible dolls for enthusiasts and collectors.

-------

Kate

Guest Post by Author Steven Manchester (Goodnight, Brian)

Please welcome Steven Manchester, author of Goodnight, Brian on tour January 2013- March 2013.

Goodnight Brian diagnosis excerpt

Brian was eleven months old when Doctor Alexander summoned the Mauretti family into his office to deliver the final verdict. Mama insisted that she be there. No one objected.

It was a late winter afternoon, a howling wind knocking on blocks of ice that were once windows. Doctor Alexander sat behind his tidy desk, looking distressed. Joan nearly cried when she saw his demeanor and immediately leaned on Frank for support. Avoiding initial eye contact, the young doctor was clearly having trouble offering his prognosis. He cleared his throat and finally reported, “We’ve discovered that Brian has metabolic alkalosis.”

“He has what?” Frank asked.

“Metabolic alkalosis is a blood disorder that affects an infant’s ability to digest properly and gain weight. It’s caused by a lack of chloride, or sodium, in the diet.”

“So what does that mean for Brian?” Joan asked.

“Several of Brian’s tests have shown some abnormality in the frontal area of his brain.”

Joan, Frank and Mama’s silence begged for the man to embellish. The doctor took another long pause, making Joan feel like her heart was going to explode. She tried to slow down the hyperventilating. It was no use.

“Your son’s development has been severely damaged,” he finally told Joan and Frank directly. “And at this point, I believe it’s irreversible.”

“Irreversible? I don’t understand?” Joan screeched, frightened for her baby boy’s future. She felt so lightheaded that the room began to spin.

Doctor Alexander shook his head. “It means that Brian will never walk.”

“Never walk?” Frank repeated, his face instantly bleached to white.

“I’m sorry, but we don’t believe he will.” He scanned the reports in front of him and took another deep breath. “It’s also doubtful that Brian will ever talk or communicate effectively.”

Joan looked toward her mother again, her terrified eyes begging for help. Mama got to her feet and took a defensive posture.

Without acknowledging the old woman, the doctor went on, “Brian may never be able to do what normal children—or adults—are able to do.” He paused again. “We believe it may have been caused by the Neo Mulsoy formula. The low chloride concentration in his urine is substantial proof that the sodium deficiency within the soy formula has been the primary cause of Brian’s medical problems.”

While the doctor tried to explain further, Joan wailed, “Oh God, what did I do to my boy?”

“You didn’t do anything,” Doctor Alexander and Mama vowed in unison.

The doctor backed off, allowing the old lady to take over. She grabbed her daughter’s panicked face. “This wasn’t you,” Mama promised. “You did nothing wrong!” She shook her head. “And this is only one opinion. There are other doctors…more tests.”

While Joan wept sorrowfully, Frank rested his hand on his wife’s leg and stared helplessly at the doctor. “But Doctor Carvalho prescribed the formula to Brian,” he muttered in a wounded voice, as if it would make some difference.

“There’s no way he could have known at that time that it would have caused your son harm,” the man replied.

“You say he’ll never walk?” Joan cried.

“Sorry, but I really don’t believe he will,” the doctor answered, sadly.

“Or talk?” Joan gasped, trying to breathe.

The man slowly shook his head. “I have to believe that the damage to your son’s frontal lobe will prohibit any real speech.”

As Joan struggled to continue her panicked line of questioning, Mama shook her gray, curly head. “That’s crap!” she said, loud enough for everyone to hear.

The young doctor turned his attention to her. “I realize that this is…”

“You’re wrong!” Mama insisted, taking a step toward him.

“Excuse me?” he asked. “I know this isn’t easy to hear, but…” The man shot her a kind smile, but Mama wasn’t swayed. “I’m so sorry, but Brian is now mentally disabled,” he concluded.

“No. I don’t think you understand,” Mama replied, staring straight into his sapphire eyes. “Our boy is going to walk. He’s going to talk. He’s going to ride a bike, swim, and learn to do everything that any other kid can do. It might take a little more doing, but I guarantee it!”

Although it was the slightest movement, the doctor shook his head at her foolish hope. “Believe me, I wish that were true, but…”

“Wishing won’t have anything to do with it. No, this’ll take faith and determination, and the love and support of our entire family.”

Unable to do more, Doctor Alexander turned back to Joan and Frank. “I’m here for whatever you need.”

“For what?” Frank barked, his shock turning to rage. “It was a doctor who ruined my son’s life!” By this point, Joan was nearly rolled into the fetal position, her body paralyzed from the devastating news.

Doctor Alexander nodded compassionately and, handing Frank a piece of paper, concluded, “This is a different soy-based formula that you folks can start Brian on, as well as an additional chloride supplement. We’ll talk about solid foods and other alternatives during his next visit.” Patting Joan’s shoulder, he said, “I’m so sorry” and stepped out of the room.

Mama watched the back of him disappear down the long hall and nodded herself into the slightest smirk. In that one moment, she realized her life’s mission had just begun.

While Joan sobbed and convulsed, Frank held his head in his hands, trying to process it all. Mama grabbed her dejected daughter’s face again and forced Joan to look into her eyes. She spoke sternly. “Joan, you listen to me right now. That doctor’s wrong! Brian’s going to write his own story. He’s going to sing his own song and no one’s going to sing it for him. It’s his life and it’s between him and God…not some fool doctor who’s had so much schooling that he’s forgotten the power of faith.”

Joan shook her head. “But, Ma…” she sobbed. “You heard him. Brian’s brain has been damaged.” The final word made her wail out in pain.

“Your Nana said that she had such a difficult time bringing me into the world that she nearly died. And the horse doctor who assisted in the birth told her that I just wouldn’t be right.”

Frank looked up from his spell and began to quietly weep.

Mama nodded again. “Yep,” she said, with burning determination. “Brian’s going to be as right as rain. I guarantee it. Only God knows how…but that’s enough.”

Brief Synopsis: 
Fate was working against little Brian Mauretti. The food that was meant to nourish him was poisoning him instead, and the doctors said the damage was devastating and absolute. Fate had written off Brian. But fate didn’t count on a woman as determined as Brian’s grandmother, Angela DiMartino – who everyone knew as Mama. Loving her grandson with everything she had, Mama endeavored to battle fate. Fate had no idea what it was in for.

An emotional tale about the strength of family bonds, unconditional love, and the perseverance to do our best with the challenging gifts we receive, Goodnight, Brian is an uplifting tribute to what happens when giving up is not an option.

Author Bio:  Steven Manchester is the published author of the #1 best seller, Twelve Months, as well as A Christmas Wish (the holiday prequel to Goodnight, Brian). He is also the Pressed Pennies, The Unexpected Storm: The Gulf War Legacy and Jacob Evans, as well as several books under the pseudonym, Steven Herberts. His work has appeared on NBC's Today Show, CBS's The Early Show, CNN’s American Morning and BET’s Nightly News. Recently, three of his short stories were selected "101 Best" for Chicken Soup for the Soul series. 

steven.h.manchester@sunlife.com
http://www.StevenManchester.com  http://www.facebook.com/#!/AuthorStevenManchester

Paperback & Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Goodnight-Brian-ebook/dp/B00A6DBE10/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1353860480&sr=1-1-spell&keywords=goodbight+brian+manchester 
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/goodnight-brian-steven-manchester/1113610286?ean=9781611880618

Guest Post: Finding the Baby Jesus Tour Stop (wonderful short Christmas story)

Visit the blog tour here.

Welcome to the guest post and tour stop for Finding the Baby Jesus by Kimball Fisher. I asked for him to talk about writing tips and getting published.

First here is my review of the book and then following is his guest post....

Review:

A touching story for sure. Tears were streaming. A great way/story to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. I highly suggest reading it! Definitely worthwhile.

Guest Post by Kimball Fisher:

It's a bold new world for publishing. I've published both with big New York houses such as McGraw-Hill (4 of my non-fiction books) and gone Indie as well (with FINDING THE BABY JESUS). Both routes offer certain advantages and disadvantages. Traditional publishing, of course, offers wide distribution and book marketing benefits as well as needed (no matter how good of a writer you are) editorial assistance. But certain projects (such as my short little Christmas book) don't fit the big house mode, and some authors with an established fan base are foregoing the traditional route altogether to maintain more creative control over their projects.

The advantage of the Indie method is that anyone with basic computer skills can go somewhere like SMASHWORDS and publish without the hassle of bobbing and weaving around the publishing gatekeepers. You upload your book and (if you did it right) voila! You're published! But that's the disadvantage of the Indie route as well. Anybody who thinks they have a good story can be published, now. There's a gazillion books out there. And in the Indie world, without the benefit of the vetting scrutiny of editors and literary agents, readers know that lots of these books are unreadable junk. Plus with a gazillion books, you have to do something to stand out from the crowd. 

Here's my advice: If you want to be successful in the Indie world, write the best possible book you can. Join a writers critique group and let your new friends dismember your little darling so that you can put it back together again as a new and improved creative product. Go to writing conferences and get critiques from published authors and professional editors and agents. Write the book over again. Then hire an editor. She'll help you polish your writing until it's nice and shiny. Hire an artist to help you get awesome covers. Turns out that people do judge a book that way.

Remember that unless you are some kind of amazing genius, you simply can't do everything by yourself and expect to sell Indie books to anyone other than your family, friends, and people who owe you something. Plus you have to develop a marketing strategy to get noticed. It's a lot more work for the author than going traditional. But it's pretty fun, too. I like getting to know more about the business side of books than I did before.

Anyway, happy holidays! And keep reading!

Guest Post- Religion VS Surrogacy

Welcome guest blogger, Michelle @ I'm Just the Stork. The original post can be found at: http://theirbabymywomb.blogspot.com/2012/05/religion-vs-surrogacy.html

*Sorry, having issues with the post getting cut off. If you click on the post title below, you can read it in full or click on the link above.

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Religion vs Surrogacy

The Vatican is against surrogate mothers. Good thing they didn't have that rule when Jesus was born. - Elayne Boosler

There are quite a few things I could write in this, my first surrogate blog. I feel strongly about them all, but quite possibly the strongest about this.  

The quote above refers to the Catholic Church, but sadly, it's not just the Catholic Church that feels this way.

In my opinion, every woman who is genuine in the want to be come a surrogate, has thought, prayed (depending on her beliefs) and researched all that is entailed with the process. 

In my own personal decision, it is something that I not only want to do, but I genuinely feel I NEED to. I'm supposed to do this. 

In the past days, maybe even weeks, I've had several conversations with people on this subject. I've had responses from one extreme to the other. I've found that these replies fall into three basic categories.

1.) Happy and Supportive. Thankfully, for my own sanity, 85% of the responses that I receive, fall into this category.  Usually they are at first surprised, but then are genuinely glad and supportive. 

• "Wow, I've always thought that would be so great to do. I'm so glad for you. I wish I thought I could do it!"

• "Really? That's pretty neat, and very nice."

• "Are you sure you could do that? I mean, I could never feel a baby move and grow inside me and be able to give it away."

• "What happens if something go wrong? Is it safe for you?"

• "I've learned not to question God. It was obviously his plan that these people not have children."

• "You know, they have a name for women that sell their bodies...."

2.) Hesitant. I really have no other idea of how to describe these ones. The 10% that reply are usually more concerned with how it will effect me.

3.) Negative. The remaining 5% fall into a category that really was the idea behind this post. I feel like I can safely say that at least three of that five percent are using medical or religious reasons. and the other two? Well honestly I'm not sure where their opinions stems from.

I really wish I was making those last two replies up. I'm not. Up to this point in my surrogacy journey, that has been the hardest part. The fact that those comments came from a person I respect and also a Church official, made it worse. 

There are people in your life that you EXPECT to be negative. It's just who they are, so it wouldn't have come as a surprise if it had of been one of them. Yet when you hear words like that come out of someone completely unexpected, it really throws you off course for a bit.

I'm not saying that I've let their opinions influence what I'm going to do, but it's still something that weighs heavy on your mind, creeping up when you least expect it, or even when your trying to AVOID thinking about it.

Although no one wants a negative response, in my own experience it has been easier to accept one of an admittedly personal opinion  rather than using, for example, Religion to back up your own views. If you don't like the idea of something, say that. If YOU feel it is morally wrong, say that. Do not say "the church, the group, the whatever-the-heck-else" feels like this, and therefore, I have done absolutely no research and follow blindly."

SURROGACY IS NOT FOR EVERYONE. Plain and simple. It's not for all to condone and accept, and it's not for all to discourage. It's research, it's praying, it's knowing and it's keeping informed. Not all childless couples will turn to surrogacy, the same that they will not all accept being barren or adopting children. Not all women will become carriers. Not all people will agree with it.

If you wish for me to respect your choice. Respect mine. If you wish for me to respect your opinion, respect mine. And finally, if you wish for me to even remotely consider/ponder your perspective, be dang sure that you have formed your own opinion and not mimicked someone else's. 

The following was taken from a article by Stanford:

"The ethical debate on surrogacy has often looked to religious roots and cultural backgrounds in search of an answer.  One of the first ancient references to infertility occurs in Genesis, when Jacob’s wife, like many of her Biblical peers, was unable to bear a child.  After praying to God and begging her husband, she sends Jacob “unto” her maid and then adopts the resulting child as her own.  Sara did likewise, sending Abraham to her maid Hagar, saying, “I shall obtain children by her.” (Full article may be found HERE) 

Denomination vs Surrogacy

In the LDS (Mormon) Handbook, it says: 

21.4.16

Surrogate Motherhood The Church strongly discourages surrogate motherhood.

The Catholic Church:

"...articulated most fully in the Church's 1987 statement by the Vatican Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith entitled "Instruction on Respect for Human Life in Its Origin and on the Dignity of Procreation" (the Latin title is Donum Vitae, and it can be found at ("http://www.scribd.com/doc/35998853/Vatican-Document-Donum-Vitae-A-Summary").

In that letter, the Church spoke of homologous forms of assisted reproduction in which sperm and egg come from the married couple; and heterologous forms of assisted reproduction in which some third party is brought into the process of conception, gestation, and birth. Most homologous forms of assisted reproduction divorce procreation from sexual union of the man and woman; and all heterologous forms (such as surrogacy) do. As a result, neither is acceptable from within official Catholic teaching." (Entire article found here )

The Jewish Beliefs:

In Jewish law, a childless couple falls within the category of personal suffering and there exists a clear obligation to assist them in every permissible way, as long as no one is harmed in the process.

The Eastern Orthodox Church 

supports medical and surgical treatment of infertility, and 

The Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Episcopal, United Church of Christ, Christian Science, Jehovah’s Witness, and Mennonite religions all have liberal attitudes toward infertility treatments.  

Islamic law encourages attempts to cure infertility, but only to the extent that IVF technologies involve the husband and wife.   

Hindu perspective 

Hindus have never seriously debated assisted reproduction because of their belief in karma, which preordains the kind of life an individual would lead after birth. There is no conflict between Hinduism and assisted reproduction, which is generally accepted as a form of treatment and not an infringement on religious beliefs. 

(articles and reference notes to the previous 5 can be found by clicking here 

Guest post- Difference

Thank you to Sarah @ All Things New for providing today's guest post.

This post can also be found at http://www.anewbeginningtolifeandlove.blogspot.com/2012/05/difference.html

Difference

Last night my ex came over to visit with Ms. M; I think due to his schedule change this next cycle and not having her as much he has just been bummed out.  He was over for an extended amount of time and before he had come over I explained numerous times that daddy was coming to play but she was staying at my house still.  She seemed to grasp what I was saying but when it came down to it she was sad and wanted to go home with my ex.  I told her that he had work tomorrow and that she needed to stay with mommy.  My ex didn't once pipe in until he was walking out the door that he had to work.  She was just upset and got really upset with him because she didn't really get why she couldn't go home with him.

I thought that after he had left that it would be a nightmare trying to get her wrestled to bed; it really wasn't that bad though.  My brother, S and Ms. M share a room right now and it helped.  To be honest, it was a breeze!  Normally when these kind of things happen she whines that she wants to sleep in my bed and I usually cave and let her because it breaks my heart that she is so upset.  She still tried the let me sleep with mama line but when I told her that she needed to sleep in her bed she was okay.  She and my brother made faces at each other and the transition of my ex leaving went so much more smooth then it has in the past.  It was a blessing having my brother living with me!  There weren't tears with my ex leaving like there would have been in the past.  It kind of gave me a glimpse of what it would be like to have a male figure in the house again.

My brother has been a huge help with Ms. M in little ways and this was definitely a huge help.  I know I can trust my brother with Ms. M and not worried that she is going to be neglected or treated badly.  He'll play with her and let her play with his guitar even though he is probably having a heart attack that it will fall over and break.  He will roar with her and play toys with her.  These are things that didn't happen with her dad til after I filed for divorce.  I am grateful for my brother and his willingness to spend time with his niece and be there for us!

The Name Challenge- guest post

The Name Challenge

(Guest Post)
We all know that choosing the name of our baby is a big decision, and one that shouldn’t be done at the drop of a hat.  Some of us instantly know the name we are going to choose for our baby, whilst others take months to decide on the name, maybe not even choosing until after the baby is born!  Choosing the name for your child is a challenge for any of us, so what exactly can we do to get to a decision?  There are so many things to think about!

Family connections

First of all, perhaps you need to take into consideration your family.  Many of us have parents or grandparents that have had a ‘family name’ passed down to them.  Some of us might even have family who expect us to continue this trend and pass the name down through the generations.  So if you have had crazy Uncle Bob come up to you and say ‘don’t forget that Bob is a family name, I’m expecting great things from the next one’ don’t feel pressured to use it!  For others you might be seriously considering a family name to pass on to your child.  This can be really special, and as long as you are happy with the name, I know I wouldn’t want to call my baby boy Cuthbert, then go for it!  Something that your child can relate to with another family member can grow a really strong bond.

Celebs and Names

Secondly, and this is a major talking point nowadays, the trend of celebrity baby names to infiltrate the general public.  You might have come across a baby name that has been chosen by a celebrity recently, and really love it.  There is no shame in that!  For example, there has definitely been an increase in baby girl names being chosen due to celebrities, Harper is definitely going to be more popular this year!  With celebrities choosing stranger names, year on year, then finding a unique name can also be a challenge.  There is no doubt that you can pick a unique name if you want to follow that trend, and with the millions of baby names that you can choose from you will be able to pick a name that hasn’t been chosen by someone else.  In fact, you could potentially start your own trend!

The challenge of naming your baby is not one you have to take on alone.  There will be plenty of people who want to have their say, but remember, the final decision is with you.  You get to choose the name, and with all the trends that are around at the moment, you can be sure that you have a huge selection to choose from.  Remember though, that your child is stuck with this name for the rest of their life.  So perhaps choosing a name such as . (and yes this has been chosen before) is not a great start to their life!  Make sure you have fun choosing the name, and enjoy the challenge!


*Just to clarify, she's saying that someone actually named their child ( . ), the period symbol. Not sure how you'd pronounce that.

Pregnancy Battle Scars Guest Post

Combating Pregnancy "Battle Scars:" 3 ways to Prevent Stretch Marks

Becoming a surrogate mother is a magical thing. You get the opportunity to grant someone with a gift that they've longer for their whole lives—a child. But bearing children can take a heavy toll on your body and you can end up getting a gift of your own—deep red cracked lines around your belly. We're talking about stretch marks. According to statistics, more than 75 % of all pregnant women get stretch marks. While some cases are not preventable due to genetics, there are some common ways to help prevent or at least reduce the appearance of some stretch marks. To learn how, continue reading below.

1. Keep Weight on Track. While you're going to gain weight during your pregnancy (it's natural) you want to make sure that you don't gain too much—not only will your skin's elasticity be challenged (which causes the stretch marks) but gaining excess pregnancy weight can be detrimental to the unborn baby. If a surrogate eats poorly and does not exercise, she risks developing gestational diabetes. This disease causes the baby to have an abnormally large head which may cause complications during pregnancy and may cause complications in the child's life as he or she grows older. For example, the child may be more susceptible to becoming obese and acquire high blood pressure. So work to maintain a good diet (this includes drinking tons of water) and exercise plan while you're carrying the child. Both your body and the unborn child will be forever grateful.

2. Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate. The act of exfoliation won't help get rid of stretch marks if you already have them, but it can help prevent them from deeply setting into your skin. This is because exfoliation removes the dead, dry skin cells from your body and makes way for fresh skin to grow. Therefore the stretch marks don't get as much as an opportunity to penetrate into your epidermis. While there are tons of exfoliation creams and body scrubs available on the market, it's recommended that your look for one made with natural products such as salt, oatmeal or sugar like our homemade body scrub recipe: (The areas you typically get stretch marks are really sensitive and you don’t want to risk inflammation). 

Ingredients:

·         ¼ white sugar

·         ½ of unscented body lotion

Directions: pour lotion in a large bowl. Using a spoon, slowly stir in sugar until the mixture turns into a thick paste. If the mixture is too runny, add more sugar. Slather mixture onto areas where you do not want to get stretch marks and rub in. Rinse clean for fresh skin.

*extra note: loofa sponges and pumice stones are excellent at exfoliating too

3. Moisturize & Keep Skin Supple. For years beauty experts have vowed that cocoa butter is the key to maintain a stretch mark free body—rubbing it on your stomach two to three times a day throughout pregnancy is suppose to create wonders. While it hasn't been proven that cocoa butter specifically contains a magical ingredient that reduces/prevents the appearance of stretch marks, what is certain however, is that typically those who have moisturized skin will experience less damage than those with extremely dry skin. This is because moisturized skin creates elasticity which helps when your stomach starts expanding. So no matter whether it's cocoa butter, coconut oil, or your regular mill body lotion, keep your stomach moisturized and supple.

Do note that while the tips mentioned above are designed to prevent stretch marks, if you do develop them over time they should fade and reduce their bright color. So don't let their initial appearance consume you.

Author Bio:

This is a guest post by Nadia Jones who blogs at onlinecollege about education, college, student, teacher, money saving, movie related topics. You can reach her at nadia.jones5 @ gmail.com.

Guest Post- Baby Sign Language

Baby Sign Language across the ages

Just because it is called “baby” sign language doesn’t mean our little ones have to outgrown it when they are giving up the binky and blankie. Many parents have used a handful of basic BSL signs when their children are between six months to about two years of age, in order to get their point across while allowing babies to also express their opinions. However, it can be taught years longer and the vocabulary stretched even further!

An easy way to extend the length of time that baby signs is by allowing the generations to teach one another. Your ‘baby’ is soon a child and teenager, but he or she can still practice their sign language by helping mommy and daddy teach the newest addition to the family. Incorporate games when possible and then teaching becomes bonding activity and one that is far more fun than work. You can include visual queues such as baby signing flashcards or you can simply use the sign contextually

Incorporating BSL into homeschool curriculum is an excellent educational approach because then the language development and vocabulary benefits are extending right into the other academics. If you are not homeschooling your children there are still plenty of teaching opportunities, such as while reviewing homework or signing during evening storytime.

Baby sign language isn’t just for the classroom and home. BSL it is best taught in context so getting out into the world while teaching and practicing signs is important. It can be as simple as a trip to the grocery store’s produce section to review your vegetable and fruit signs. Or consider planning a trip to the zoo after you’ve taught the animal signs so your child can practice and apply the signs in that environment.

There are plenty of ways to keep the signs growing in number and complexity beyond those essential few, and plenty of opportunities to use signs long after the pre-verbal baby stage is through.

Visit www.babysignlanguage.com to learn more about sign language for babies

Shop online and save money (guest post)

Save Money Shopping Online

One of the biggest pitfalls of successful budgeting involves splurge spending during shopping outings. We've all done it. Going to a store to pick up a few necessary items can lead to buying the latest trends in fashion or the much desired household items you've been eyeing. While this can be a lot of fun, it can also do major damage to our bank accounts and spending plans. If kicking the splurge spending habit just isn't a reasonable option, shopping online can really cut back on the costs of some of those highly desired items. These three tips will help you make the best of your online shopping experience.

Make a List

While this may sound silly for shopping online, having a list of the things you plan to get online can really help you shop more quickly and without distraction. Write down the things that you would like to find online and stick to getting only those items. At the bottom of the list write down what your budget is so that you won't overspend if you find something that is particularly grabbing. Keeping a shopping list helps you stay organized and keep track of the deals on various websites.

Shop Around

One of the biggest benefits of online shopping is the ability to shop around without having to leave your chair, couch, or bed. Go to several different websites and hunt for the best deal. There are numerous shopping websites out there. Some, however, have much better prices and offers than others. If you find an item that you like, bookmark the site and then search that specific product on other sites. Try to find the best deal. However, be wary of cheap initial prices on sites that hike up the shipping costs. They can be very sneaky. Don't spend too much time looking, but do look around a bit for a deal.

Utilizes Special Promotions

Perhaps the biggest perks of online shopping are the special promotions and deals that are offered. Even some of the most expensive and lavish stores offer web exclusive sales to individuals on their emailing list. If there are a few stores that you shop at regularly, sign up on their emailing list and receive promotional deals and coupons regularly. Of course, this can be an easy area to slip up in. Don't make the mistake of using every coupon that you are offered just because it is a deal. Use only the coupons and sales that are useful for you. Don't waste your money on something you don't need just because it is cheaper than it should be. Using online promotions is a great way to save some money and still pamper yourself just a little.

Online shopping is often looked down upon by the traditional budgeter. Find ways to make online shopping work for you. Save time and save money.

By-line:
Alvina Lopez is a freelance writer and blog junkie, who blogs about accredited online degrees.  She welcomes your comments at her email Id: alvina.lopez @gmail.com. 

Monday is a beautiful day for a guest post- ask a surrogate

I am so happy and proud to present a special guest poster today.  Tasha is a surrogate. I have asked her some questions so that you can get to know her. I tried to ask questions that most people want to know about surrogates. When you are done reading the interview, you can visit Tasha at: http://www.deliveringmiracles.blogspot.com/.

1- Why did you choose to become a surrogate?


I chose to become a surrogate because it's something I've always wanted to do; I had this desire even before I had my own children. After going through 4 pregnancies and deliveries of my own with relative ease, I decided that it was time to share that blessing with another family. My family is complete now and I am overjoyed at the thought of helping another cople complete their own family.


2- How long have you been a surrogate?

I began my journey in March 2010 when I applied with a wonderful agency. I was matched rather quickly and here I am, 17 weeks pregnant with twins for a terrific couple!

3- Did you go through an agency?

Yes, after talking with a few couples independently, I decided that an agency would be best considering I am a first-time surrogate.


4- Where are you in your journey? (looking, matched, pregnant, etc.)

As of today, I am 17 weeks with healthy twins.

5- How did you choose your intended parents? What did you like the most about them?

I really don't feel like I chose them, rather that they chose me. It's hard to be drawn to people on paper, but after I spoke with them and saw photos of their life, I had a real heart tug for them.

6- Do you live close to your IP's?

My IP's and I live quite far apart; a 2.5hr plane ride away. They are in NY while I am in TN.

7- Do you expect to keep in contact after the birth? If so, through what means and how often?


I hope to keep in contact them with; IM and I discussed this in the beginning and we both decided to see how we feel after we go through this together. I would like to keep in touch of course, but I know the demands of life and babies can keep a family very busy. And honestly, if they choose not to keep in contact with me (and I can't imagine they would do that actually), then I would respect that decision and know that they need to do what they think is best for their family.


8- Do you have any concerns? For now or after the baby is born?

I don't really have any concerns at this time. Maybye I won't ever have any at all. I've always known this is what I wanted to do someday, and up to this point, it has all gone almost perfectly.

9- What do you want to tell others about surrogacy?

I guess I'd like to ask others to truly research surrogacy before they form any opinions about the surrogates or about the couples seeking surrogacy. Surrogacy is not driven by financial motivation or a selfish a desire carry children -- it is very simply driven by selfless love.

10- Will you do it again?

I am saving that decision for the time being. I'd like to see how I feel after my current journey is complete.


Thank you Tasha! I wish you the best in your journey. I'm sure your IP's are happy to have found such a wonderful woman.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
surrogacy, surrogate interview, guest blogger, surrogate

Attention Please: Guest Post By One Cluttered Brain

This is my 1st guest poster. Take it away OCB-



It is FRIDAY! YAY! And do you know what that means? I better start writing for Mormon Surrogate. *cough,cough* She asked me to guest post like 2 weeks ago is it now? *sigh* I hope this post makes up for my procrastination and crazy busy LIFE I've been leading lately! :)




I'm sitting here eating a ice-cream sandwich pop-tart and browsing Facebook and Twitter when I learned a very important fact. I need to start WRITING. I kinda had a deadline to guest post on this FABULOUS blog that you are reading right now. And when am I getting it done? Just now, as we speak. I have a few tips for you on blogging and twittering, and what NOT to do, what to do...and so forth.



Are you following me thus far?



Good. We can begin. *AHEM*



* Blogging. Blog only when you feel like it. Because if blogging becomes a chore that you are not gonna want to do it very often. (So what does that say about me and my blogging habits? I just posted 24 blog posts in 24 hours for #Blogapalooza event Aug 17th and Aug 18th.) I got part of my blog turn into a book. Cool? I think it is.





* Twitter. Mention your blog posts when you update. Mention the cool peeps that you follow. Strike up conversation with the ultra COOL peeps on Twitter. Tweet out your cool giveaways that you are hosting on your blog. Log on at least once or twice a day on Twitter to see what is going on. NEVER, EVER just update Twitter with what you just ate all the time. That gets old real fast.



That sums up about what I do know. LOL.

But wait, Cluttered Brain you might say, That's it. This is all you are gonna post on this fabulous blog?



You WANT more?

I just can't please everybody now can I?

Perhaps I should share a video I just made?

I mean, videos are THE BEST WAY in my opinion, to get people's attention. And I happen to think I make some awesome videos.

So here is goes. :)

Enjoy!





Once you get really good with blogging you might want to try vlogging! It is wonderful and FUN and allows you to make so many wonderful connections!

This is all i have for you. :)

If you want to read MORE about me, head on over One Cluttered Brain. (http://oneclutteredbrain.blogspot.com)