Cristel Romero – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com Here today, better tomorrow. Tue, 03 May 2016 06:30:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.3 https://wp-media.familytoday.com/2020/03/favicon.ico Cristel Romero – FamilyToday https://www.familytoday.com 32 32 These 3 kisses will make your wife forget every frustrating thing that you do https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/these-3-kisses-will-make-your-wife-forget-every-frustrating-thing-that-you-do/ Tue, 03 May 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/these-3-kisses-will-make-your-wife-forget-every-frustrating-thing-that-you-do/ You don't even know what you did; but she's mad. Here's how to change that.

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Did you know that some people believe kissing can be attributed to "kiss feeding"? It's true — some anthropologists think kissing evolved from the process of a mother feeding her babies by passing chewed food from her mouth to theirs. Others believe that kissing is simply innate; instinctual; a natural expression of love that is intuitive in us all.

Whatever the reason behind it, we can all agree that our relationships just wouldn't be the same without it. There is something special and magical that happens when two people kiss. In fact, a kiss is so magical it can have the power to change hearts.

And let's face it — it comes in handy sometimes. It doesn't matter how much she loves you; you will inevitably do something to annoy and frustrate your wife at some point. However, through the magical power of kissing, there is a way back from that dark abyss called the "dog house." These three kisses will make your wife forget her frustrations:

The forehead kiss

This kiss can be considered your unspoken vow of love and devotion. When executed correctly, it will leave your wife feeling appreciated and respected. This kiss doesn't demand anything more. It doesn't imply that you are looking for anything more than a simple show of affection. Sometimes a woman needs to simply feel appreciated and valued. Never underestimate the power of a forehead kiss.

The neck/behind-the-ear kiss

Unlike the forehead kiss, this kiss demands a response. It isn't even something that can be controlled. Her breath will be taken away as her body flutters with excitement. This is the kiss that lets her know she is desirable and needed. A woman can't deny that she wants to feel desired. This unexpected kiss will get you out of hot water and then some!

The soft-lip kiss

Move in slowly, softly cup her face in your hands and gently touch her lips to yours — nothing more. Just a soft, barely-there brush of the lips. This one has the power of the forehead and neck kiss combined. It will leave her feeling appreciated, loved, valued, safe, desirable and even curious. This kiss should not be followed up with any other action. A simple "I love you" is all that should come next, allowing her to soak in how much you love her.

In a perfect world, frustration wouldn't be an issue. Men don't want to be frustrating and women don't want to be frustrated with their men. But it's not a perfect world. Luckily, though, it is a world where men are armed with the simple power of a kiss.

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14 signs you’re definitely a mom now https://www.familytoday.com/family/14-signs-youre-definitely-a-mom-now/ Fri, 22 Apr 2016 12:27:29 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/14-signs-youre-definitely-a-mom-now/ Just in case your constant gushing about you new bundle of joy doesn't give you away, mommy-hood offers up some…

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You're a mom now! Becoming a mom for the first time is such an exciting experience and definitely one of the happiest stages in life. It is something you will never experience again. And, to be honest, you are not so sure you want to. Being a mom is not a glamorous job, especially when it's your first time. Mommy-hood offers up some of the most amazing life changes; along with a few you'd rather not admit to.

Here are 14 signs you're definitely a new mom:

1. Poop, pee, and vomit: no problem!

Well, as long as it belongs to your baby. Gone are the days of being grossed out. You don't have that luxury (not that your baby could ever be gross!).

2. You've logged the bowel movements of another human

You have an entire notebook and/or spreadsheet dedicated to the time, date and size of your baby's bowel movements.

3. You don't think twice about smelling a butt

Someone has to do it.

4. Snot is your best accessory

Your outfit isn't complete without a little snot on your sleeve. And, when it's an extra special occasion, a little spaghetti sauce can also be found.

5. You've forgotten how to speak "adult"

What? Doesn't everyone know baby talk? "Potty, din-din, and ouchy" spoken in a high-pitched voice is a universal language.

6. Your breasts are different sizes

You can expect more milk from the larger boob, and you can even stuff your bra, but there is no hiding it.

7. You've leaked breast milk all over your shirt

There is nothing quite like the embarrassment of walking around with wet spots, perfectly placed on each boob.

8. You don't carry a purse

Fashionable handbags are just a fond memory. Diaper bags are all the rage in mommy-hood. In fact, half the time you don't even remember to put your wallet in it. You're too preoccupied trying to fit your entire house in the bag.

9. You sway back and forth

Even when you're not trying to soothe a crying baby, you find yourself swaying from side to side and bouncing while standing in line at the grocery store.

10. You speak in third person

"Mommy loves you!" and "Mommy is hurrying!"

11. You relate so much more to the movie "What About Bob?"

Everything can and should be considered dangerous until proven otherwise.

12. You've timed your spouse's route from work to home

There should be no excuse. Come quitting time, mommy needs a break.

13. You can't remember the last time you showered

It's on your to-do list. You really, really want to. You just haven't found the time. The saying is, "Sleep when they sleep," and not, "Shower when they sleep," after all.

14. You feel like your baby's pediatrician is part of the family

You have him or her under your favorites in your phone. You speak to them more than you speak to your own mother.

Being a mom is the best thing that has ever happened. Perhaps you wouldn't mind getting rid of some of the tell-tale signs though. Believe it or not, one day you will smile remembering the days of walking around with vomit in your hair.

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13 lies wives tell their husbands https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/13-lies-wives-tell-their-husbands/ Fri, 08 Apr 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/13-lies-wives-tell-their-husbands/ It's pretty simple, really. You should never lie to your spouse. But here are 13 lies wives tell their husbands.

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You've probably been warned of the evils of lying your entire life. Well, did you know there are two types of lies? Type one, Satan's offspring, is a deliberate untruth with the intent to deceive. Type two? It's defined as a tiny "harmless" untruth that aims to maintain harmony in your marriage. OK, don't check with Webster on these definitions. But do you find yourself falling victim to that second type? If so, some of these probably sound pretty familiar.

Here are 13 lies wives tell their husbands:

No, there are no onions in this meal

... just kidding, there are. The recipe calls for it. You've been eating onions for the past 10 years and you didn't even know it!

It was on sale

... somewhere; just not at the store I happened to go to.

Yes, you still look the same

... as you did yesterday.

Yes, I turned off my hair straightener

... I think.

That scratch was already on the bumper

... I put it there yesterday and you're asking about it today.

I have a headache

... and the only thing that will make it better is a Diet Coke and Netflix.

No, I don't mind if you go with your friends

... if you don't mind sleeping on the couch.

No, this isn't a new shirt

... it's at least six months old by now. I mean, once it was made it had to be shipped to the store, put on display, and THEN I bought it.

It's your turn; I changed the last dirty diaper

... as far as you know. You've been too distracted by your basketball game to notice who did.

I'll be ready in 15 minutes

... multiplied by three.

It doesn't matter

... to you. It matters A LOT to me.

You don't have to buy me anything

... unless you want to break my heart a little.

This tastes great

... it tastes like dog food, but it is so dang cute that you tried.

Be especially careful not to confuse type one lies with type two. But also remember — lying is never really the answer.

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9 ways you’re a better mother than a wife https://www.familytoday.com/relationships/9-ways-youre-a-better-mother-than-a-wife/ Fri, 18 Mar 2016 12:30:51 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/9-ways-youre-a-better-mother-than-a-wife/ We've all heard it before: your kids will eventually leave, but your spouse will be with your forever. So, why…

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I will be the first to say that I absolutely cringe when I see a wife who treats her husband like a small, helpless child. However, there are plenty of things we do as mothers for our children that could definitely benefit the husband and wife relationship (with some tweaking of course!).

Here are 9 ways you're a better mother than a wife and ways to incorporate them into your marriage:

You give your kids endless kisses

Every time your kids leave the house, you drop them off at school, you send them off to bed, or at random times during the day, you kiss your kids. You wouldn't feel right sending them off without one. So, why don't you and your husband exchange the same symbol of love?

Is your husband not the kissing type? Perhaps it just seems that way. Make a point to give your husband a kiss hello and goodbye at every opportunity. Catch him off guard with a soft kiss during the day. After all, kissing is the universal sign of love. Don't leave your hubby out.

You butter your kids' toast

Again, I don't mean treat your husband like he is helpless. You butter your kid's toast probably because he can't. Well, regardless of why you do it, you do it because you love helping your child. Do small acts for your spouse too, like buttering his toast or roll, to show him you care about him. It seems silly, but I have personally seen a big change since doing this. He knows I am thinking of him. And, because I've made a more conscience effort to do so, I do think of him more.

You nurse your kids back to health

Isn't it funny how your kid can throw up on you and you still want to snuggle with them after? Well, I for one might vomit if my husband threw up on me, but that doesn't mean I shouldn't snuggle him after. It doesn't matter if you are one or 100; if you are sick, you need some lovin'! Bring your husband soup in bed. Put a straw in his Gatorade. The good thing about this is that your husband will more than likely return the favor after you catch whatever he had!

You can't stop talking about your kids

I am guilty, guilty, and guilty of this. It seems like I normally only talk to my husband about something funny the kids did that day or something stressful that went on with the kids. I seldom talk about anything else. This is partly because most my days are spent with the kids, but that doesn't mean that's all going on. Make it a point to talk with your husband about other things that are important to you and important to him. Take time to ask him about his day. Daydream with him. Get back to the "getting to know you" stage. It actually is pretty fun.

You make time for each kid one on one

Having more than one kid can make you feel like you don't have enough time and attention to go around. In comes the mommy and me dates. Well, what about one on one time with your husband? Squeeze in a lunch date while the kids are at piano. Drop by his office after you drop kids off to school. The laundry can wait. Trust me, it's not going anywhere. Not only will the time alone be beneficial to you and your husband, but it will show your kids that you guys still care about one another. Set the example for them. They will appreciate it later in life.

You overly praise your kids

Your kid brings you a finger painting smeared with paint and what looks like boogers, and you are over the moon proud of your little man for his creativity. Your husband puts the dishes in the dishwasher wrong and everything breaks loose. Stop holding your husband to your standards. Simply be happy he did the darn dishes. Make sure he knows you value him and you appreciate him.

You stand up for your kids no matter what

You would never bad-mouth your kids to your friends, so don't bad mouth your husband. Although it is important to have someone to talk to, you should not air out your husband's dirty laundry to the girls at yoga.

You make them cupcakes just because

Your son or daughter seems a little down. You decide to make them their favorite cookies to cheer them up. Nine out of ten times this works. It will work for your husband too. Leave him his favorite treat in the car with a note taped to the steering wheel. Make him his favorite dinner after you hear he had a bad day at work. It might not solve the problem, but it can make him feel good knowing you are aware of how he feels.

You feel bad for snapping at them

You don't yell at kids. That's a common known fact. So, why is it okay to snap at your spouse and expect them to correct the wrong? If you want your kid to feel safe and secure, you calmly talk to them. Do the same for your husband. He is just as much human as your kids. His emotions work the same way. Sometimes, a fight happens and harsh words are spoken. That is normal. Just make sure to apologize later and correct the wrong just as you would if it were your child.

Our kids are only ours for a short time. We will love them forever, but if you do your job right, they will leave and create a life for themselves. Your husband is with you for eternity. Make sure you nurture the relationship and make eternity pleasant.

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5 tips to make your next move a breeze https://www.familytoday.com/family/5-tips-to-make-your-next-move-a-breeze/ Fri, 11 Mar 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/5-tips-to-make-your-next-move-a-breeze/ If you dread moving because it means you have to pack, don't worry! Here are 5 tips to make your…

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I really dislike moving. I really, really do. Yet, I seem to keep doing it. In fact, I am in the middle of moving right now. This is our 6th move in the course of the 10 years we've been married. And, since I am working on being a positive, I am choosing to focus on what these moves have taught me. I have mastered the "art" of moving.

Here are 5 tips that will make your move easier.

Declutter

The very minute you decide to move, start clearing out the old, unused and unwanted. Get rid of all those things you were hanging on to "just in case." Trust me: when you get settled in your new home, you will find more things to save. It will amaze you when you realize just how much you have taking up space that is unnecessary. You might consider donating what you don't need to your local Goodwill Industries or Salvation Army.

Start packing immediately

Do not wait until your move gets closer. Once your home sales or you find out your exact moving date, get started. There are plenty of items that are not a daily need that can be boxed away. My favorite room to tackle first is the kids' toy room. They don't need so many options to make a mess with. Leave out a few of their favorites and box the rest. Find other rooms/closets you can do the same with.

Find used boxes

Never go out and buy boxes. It can be very costly, and with the short amount of time you use them, no amount of money is worth them. Call or go into a local store and ask for used boxes. These boxes are usually set to go to recycling, and the stores are more than willing to let you take them. Do, however, make sure to buy a good brand of boxing tape to help keep the boxes secure.

Utilize plastic cling wrap

I absolutely hate doing laundry simply because it means I have to put the laundry away. I hate it. But, do you know what is worse? Having to put away all the clothes in your house at once. That is pure torture. So, grab your favorite brand of plastic cling wrap, and head to the closet. Crunch all your clothes together still on the rack and wrap the plastic around them to tightly secure the clothes in place. Make sure to wrap the plastic around the hanger bottom as well so you don't have hangers falling out (that would defeat your purpose). Once you are done, head to the moving van or your car. At your new home, simply put the hangers on the rack of the desired closet and unwrap. So simple and time saving!

Don't empty drawers

As mentioned, putting away clothes is a waste of time and flat-out no fun. Instead of unpacking dresser drawers, simply pull the drawers out, and set them aside. Take the dresser out to the moving truck, and then simply put the drawers back in. Make sure to secure the drawers in place with a small amount of tape or with other items pressed up against the dresser. Then, once you arrive at your new destination, repeat the process.

These are simple tricks and advice, but they will make a world of difference when it comes to making the move. It's all about saving time and energy so you can enjoy your new surroundings and focus on the fun stuff. Who wants to be putting away endless amounts of clothes when they can be decorating their new house?

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7 simple steps to sell your home faster https://www.familytoday.com/family/7-simple-steps-to-sell-your-home-faster/ Fri, 04 Mar 2016 11:25:24 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/7-simple-steps-to-sell-your-home-faster/ Nothing is more stressful than selling your home. But you don't have to just sit back and hope someone realizes…

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You've decided it's the right time to move. You love your home, but maybe you've outgrown it. Perhaps you got a new job. Whatever the reason, you have to sell it. You know its potential and how wonderful it is, but the trick is getting others to see that. And, if you are like me, you immediately think of all the negative aspects of your home. You focus on the small repairs you just never got around to. Or you worry it doesn't compare to other houses in the neighborhood. Well, don't stress. There is the right buyer out there. You might just have to help them realize they've found just what they are looking for.

Here are seven ways to help buyers fall in love with your home:

These first four should be done as soon as you list your home.

Get to those honey-dos

They aren't that big of a deal, so you've put them off. But it's time to get them done. Most buyers come into a home expecting to hate it. Don't give them a reason to find fault. Paint the trim around the garage side door. Pull the weeds out of the window wells. It won't take much time, and it will be worth it.

De-clutter

I don't just mean finally getting around to removing that huge stack of mail on the counter. Definitely do that, but you should also minimize the amount of decorations and items hanging around your home. Remove a few pieces off the mantel. Clear off the crowded bookshelf in the office. Take down those precious finger-paintings from the fridge. Minimizing is key!

Put away personal items

Make sure your toothbrush, hair gel and feminine hygiene items are off the bathroom counters. Don't leave out your basket of undergarments in the closet. Anything you can see that is of personal use, store away for the time being.

Remove family photos

Nice to be home, I love it here. #picturewall #comfort #blue

A photo posted by @shawn_colvin on

I never took much heed to this advice until I went and started looking at homes to buy. I realized the homes without the personal family pictures where always the ones my husband and I talked about later. For whatever reason, it makes a difference. Maybe it's easier to visualize yourself living there when it doesn't feel already spoken for.

The next three steps are good to do right before a showing.

Leave all lights on

When you leave your home for a showing, leave every single light on. It brightens up the room immediately and allows the potential buyer to envision life in the home. Even if it is in the middle of the day, flip those lights on.

Make sure the scent is inviting

Thank you @jc.joanclayton for this beautiful gift! #candle #candlelight #smellssogood

A photo posted by Emilio Sakraya Moutaoukkil ? (@emilio_moutaoukkil_) on

You might not think your house has a smell, but ask your loved ones. It does! You've just grown used to it. It's not a horrible smell (hopefully!), but just a smell. Give viewers something new to smell. Turn on your scented wax warmer. Spray your favorite room air freshener. But don't overdo it. Make it subtle, but do it!

Vacuum

#vacuuming #and #posing #marriage #material???

A photo posted by Andraž Šporar (@andraz.sporar) on

Nothing looks nicer or feels better than freshly vacuumed, fluffy carpet. Carpet can be a deal-breaker for some, so make it look nice. Hopefully you've had the carpets cleaned beforehand so all you will need to do is run the vacuum over them.

It is stressful trying to sell your home. With any luck these simple steps will aid you along the way and get buyers to see just how great your house really is. Good luck!

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3 ways social media is stealing your baby’s childhood https://www.familytoday.com/family/3-ways-social-media-is-stealing-your-babys-childhood/ Fri, 26 Feb 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/3-ways-social-media-is-stealing-your-babys-childhood/ Social media is a great tool; but if you aren't careful, it comes at a price.

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I read an article a few months ago that claimed to explain what type of person you were by what you post on social media. I am a sucker for things like that, so I clicked it. And apparently, based on what I post, I am considered to be a very caring person — one who cares about doing what is right and has a strong moral compass. It has to be true — the Internet told me so.

I know you all are dying to hear what it is I post that makes me such an amazing person. Well, here it is. Wait for it "¦

MY KIDS!

I snap photos of my kids constantly. I try and catch every perfect little moment. There isn't a special occasion, funny or not-so-funny moment, or just about any other moment not caught on camera. I have thousands of memories (I literally have 5,000 pictures on my phone right now) stored away. And, as much as I would like to say I do this because it is the right thing to do, I am not sure if I do.

I've realized it is taking away from one of life's most precious times: my kids' childhood.

I'm not truly experiencing the moment

Sure, I was there and it actually did happen; but do I really remember it? My ability to take in the experience is lessened as I stare into the camera hoping for that perfect shot. I will be able to look back on each stage of my child's life, but will I truly have the memory of being in that moment with him? Before I know it my boys will be grown up and all I will have left will be the "memories" of taking pictures; and for what? Likes on Instagram? And what's worse is that my sons will have memory after memory of me hiding behind my phone or camera.

The stress of getting that perfect shot

Please tell me I am not the only person who has all but forced their child into a certain pose or demanded they recreate a moment. Anyone? OK, it's probably not as bad as it feels sometimes, but there have been times where I can say that I have honestly stressed my child out all for the sake of a picture. Instead of letting my son discover the huge pile of leaves, I directed him on what to do as if he was making his modeling debut on the cover of a magazine. Really, I should've been jumping in that pile of leaves right alongside him — not getting a picture just to show everyone what a "fun" day we had.

Time spent on social media

My alarm goes off in the morning and, after hitting the snooze button more times than I should admit, I roll over and grab my phone and almost immediately check my social media. It is so much a habit I don't even have to think about it. I literally start my day with it, and I end it with it too. Just today I was talking to a friend, on Instagram, and I faintly heard my son saying "Mommy, mommy, mommy" over and over before I snapped out of it. By that time he was fed up and walking away. I had to call him back over just so I could see the cutest picture he drew for me. I almost missed that moment because of an app on my phone. It makes me wonder how many moments I have missed and don't even realize it.

Social media is a blessing in so many ways. I absolutely love being able to "journal" my family life. It is a great way to easily document life. It is fun to talk to other moms and friends to feel connected to the outside world. It definitely has its place in the world. However, as they always say, "everything in moderation." I don't want to waste another minute of my kids' life behind the camera, trying to get the best picture of them so I can waste the day waiting for likes.

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6 ways breastfeeding benefits your baby https://www.familytoday.com/family/6-ways-breastfeeding-benefits-your-baby/ Tue, 23 Feb 2016 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/6-ways-breastfeeding-benefits-your-baby/ Sometimes the decision isn't yours, but if it is, don't give up when it comes to breastfeeding. Breastfeeding and mother's…

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When I was pregnant with my first baby I had everything planned out and imagined. Motherhood was going to be amazing, beautiful, fun, and basically a breeze. How could it not be? Motherhood was going to be perfect. And, one of the most perfect parts was going to be breastfeeding my new bundle of joy. Of course I would. That was the easiest decision. My body was made for it. It was just a natural part of motherhood.

Well, just as most things go, breastfeeding wasn't even close to how I imagined it. It definitely didn't come natural to me. It was HARD! It hurt, the baby wasn't latching right, I was bleeding, and so on and so on.

I never knew if the baby was getting anything at all. It was the most stressful part of becoming a new mom. Each day that passed brought on a new worry or stress when it came to breastfeeding. I was throwing in the towel. I couldn't do it. I would just spend the money on formula. After all, there wasn't a price on my sanity. So, after two months of "agony," I made up my mind that I was going to go buy formula.

Then, fatefully, I came across an article about the benefits of breastfeeding. There were plenty of benefits for the mom (financial, emotional, physical), but it was the benefits that breastfeeding provided for my baby that made me reconsider. The entire time I was focused on myself when I really should have been focused on my baby.

Breastfeeding offers so much to newborns and infants. Here are 6 examples:

1. Healthier baby

Mother's breast milk is made up of over a thousand different components; each offering its own benefit. These separate components play a role in protecting and warding off different pathogens (viral, bacterial and even parasites). It is believed that when these different components act together, your child has the ultimate protection. Breastfeeding strengthens a child's immune system.

2. Lower risk of SIDS

It is thought that breastfed babies are at lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Breastfeeding greatly affects an infant's ability to swallow and breath. The act of latching and feeding improves the overall coordination of the baby and is far better for their tiny airways.

Not only is it safer for airways, breast milk also reduces acid reflux lowering the risk of aspiration. On top of the physical benefits against SIDS, breastfeeding has strong emotional effects. Breastfeeding is known to calm a baby encouraging safer sleep.

3. Lower risk of allergies

In part, this benefit coincides with breastfeeding fostering the immune system. Because breastfed babies have a heightened immune system, they are less likely to develop allergies. Additionally, it is believed that the baby's exposure to allergens is reduced due to breast milk.

4. Increased cognitive function

I was NOT breastfed, and I would like to think that I am pretty stable, confident, and doing all right in the realm of cognitive function. In no way do I feel formula fed babies are to be considered of lesser intelligence than breastfed babies. However, studies have shown that those that were breastfed tend to score higher in regards to cognitive testing. It is believed to be the result of the breast milk as well as the maternal bond formed through breastfeeding.

5. Emotional bonding

There is no denying that breastfeeding is intimate. Through the intimacy of breastfeeding babies are able to gain emotional nourishment through the closeness breastfeeding offers. Just as skin to skin contact calms and soothes your baby, so does the connection felt through breastfeeding.

6. Emotional stability

Breastfeeding is believed to stimulate feelings your baby felt in the womb, allowing the baby to feel just as safe and secure. Just as breastfeeding supports an emotional bond, that bond supports a health sense of self through the connection made with his or her mother.

Now, as mentioned, in no way does one's ability to breastfeed determine who they are as a parent. Babies are fed formula all the time and have grown and developed into amazing, stable and fully capable adults. However, if you have the choice, breastfeeding should strongly be considered. There is no denying the benefits to mother and especially baby.

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How to save money without couponing https://www.familytoday.com/self-care/how-to-save-money-without-couponing/ Wed, 07 Oct 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/how-to-save-money-without-couponing/ Just because you don't have the time or patience to become an "extreme couponer" doesn't mean you can't save when…

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One day, as I aimlessly wandered around the dollar store with my kids, the way I looked at the world changed for me. Alright, not really; but I sure had an epiphany when it came to spending money. I am spending way too much on things I could be buying at the dollar store. I might not have the time, patience, or know-how to start couponing, but I am smart enough to start shopping at the dollar store. So, if you are like me and you like a good deal, here are a few items you should start picking up at your local dollar store.

Party supplies

This is No. 1, because party supplies are expensive to buy, and then thrown away, often after just one use. The dollar store's quality is exactly the same as if you bought them from a major retailer. Here are some that are great to grab from the dollar store:

  • Tissue paper

  • Banners

  • Wrapping paper or gift bags

  • Party favors

  • Candy

  • Balloons

  • Table covers

  • Napkins

  • Cups

A few party supplies to avoid from the dollar store:

  • Paper plates

  • Plastic silverware

These items tend to be flimsy and break easily. If you are wanting sturdy plates, for example, the dollar store isn't the place for them.

Craft supplies

My kids love being creative. I go through crafts like crazy. Here are some I can grab for a buck:

  • Stickers

  • Glue

  • Glitter

  • Paper

  • Crayons

  • Markers

  • Foam

  • Cotton balls

  • Popsicle sticks

  • Poster board and cardboard presentation boards

  • Coloring books

  • Paper bags

There are plenty of craft options. Just walk down the aisle and you will be amazed at what you can find.

Personal items

This is a tricky category. Some items just need to be bought elsewhere; but here are a few items you can save on by buying from the dollar store:

  • Kids' toothpaste and brushes

  • Kids' shampoo

  • Shampoo (If you aren't picky; they do have some name brands available.)

  • Bubble bath

  • Floss

  • Bobby pins or hair ties

  • Combs

  • Lip balm

Household items

  • Plastic sandwich bags

  • Cling wrap

  • Wax paper

  • Tin foil

  • Garbage sacks

  • Buckets

  • Baskets

  • Hot pads

  • Utensils (spatulas, spoons, etc.)

  • Glassware

  • Paper towels

  • Tissues

Household items to avoid:

  • Kitchen towels or cloths

The ones available aren't very absorbent.

Office supplies

  • Pens

  • Sticky notes

  • Notepads

  • Staples

  • Paper clips

  • Highlighters

  • Wite-out

  • Tape

Random finds

  • Greeting cards

  • Thank you notes

  • Picture frames

  • Nails

  • Small tools

  • Batteries

  • Floral pieces

  • Seasonal decorations

  • Candy

  • Toys

  • Car-cleaning supplies

The dollar store is a great alternative to busy, crowded and expensive stores. It might take some time to train your brain to think "dollar store first," but once you do, the savings are worth it!

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20 staples your kitchen needs to have – always https://www.familytoday.com/living/20-staples-your-kitchen-needs-to-have-always/ Tue, 06 Oct 2015 06:30:00 +0000 http://www.famifi.com/oc/20-staples-your-kitchen-needs-to-have-always/ Let's face it: Sometimes you have no clue what to make for dinner. Don't be stuck without options. Here are…

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One of the most daunting tasks, in my opinion, is deciding what to cook for dinner. Why does my family want to eat every single night?

Some weeks I have my life together and dinner is already planned. Other weeks, I am scrambling to come up with something - those are the weeks I dread. However, I have found that if I keep a few items in stock, dinner time is a bit less stressful.

Here are 20 kitchen staples you should never run out of:

1. Vegetable or olive oil

Most cakes, breads and other baked goods contain oil. It is frustrating to get ready to bake something and only be short the oil. Oil is also used to cook other foods in as well.

2. Salt and pepper

It's surprising how many meals are flavored with salt and pepper. You wouldn't want to be left with bland food.

3. Milk

You can't even make boxed macaroni and cheese without milk. And cold cereal for dinner wouldn't be possible. Milk is a must.

4. Eggs

Eggs are amazing. You can scramble them, fry them or boil them. They are also pretty darn important when it comes to making baked goodies.

5. Sugar

Glorious sugar. Everything is better with it.

6. Flour

Flour is just really important to have on hand - it's one of those things you never know when you will need.

7. Butter

Butter is essential. Grilled cheese needs butter. Toast needs butter. When looking for a quick meal, it often requires butter.

8. Bread

There is nothing like a quick, yummy sandwich to feed your starving family.

9. Potatoes

They are filling and very versatile. Homemade fries, mashed potatoes, fried potatoes, hash browns or a baked potato are all tasty options.

10. Cheese

Again, GRILLED CHEESE! Add a side of canned chili or tomato soup and you have yourself a pretty yummy, simple meal! Cheese is a simple addition to most foods. Kids also enjoy cheese sticks cut from the block as a snack.

11. Ground beef

When you have ground beef on hand, it is a lot easier to make a meal that feels a little more legit. Last week, I didn't have the time to cook so I quickly shaped up some hamburgers and threw them on the grill, and had them with a side of chips. It was easy for me, and my family felt full and satisfied.

12. Yeast

This one might seem odd. However, it is very important. Homemade bread, rolls and pizza crust require it. I keep it on hand for those times when I want to get in touch with my domestic side. It is good to have just in case.

13. Oatmeal

This is a quick and easy breakfast and can be added to ground beef for a hearty meatloaf, or used to make a quick treat for your family. It also comes in handy for No-Bake Cookies, which are a favorite for my family. I might have fed them a boring grilled cheese for dinner, but they get yummy cookies for dessert!

14. Coco

Did I mention No-Bake Cookies? Coco is a must.

15. Pancake mix

Is there anything easier than pancakes from a mix? Is there anything yummier than breakfast for dinner?

16. Ketchup

There is no point in using those handy potatoes for homemade fries if you don't have ketchup to dip them in.

17. Mayonnaise or Miracle Whip

Making a quick sandwich for dinner wouldn't be the same without Mayo! Not to mention the power Mayo has over a chicken breast. Lather some chicken with salt, pepper and a layer of mayo, then bake. The chicken turns into a juicy dish just like that.

18. Jarred spaghetti sauce

Tons of meals can be centered around spaghetti sauce. Lasagna, spaghetti, manicotti or ziti are all quick weeknight meals.

19. Frozen chicken

You can actually buy bags of frozen chicken. Keep it in your freezer for when you need a quick meal. When you have Mayo and frozen chicken on hand, chicken salad sandwiches are just 25 minutes away!

20. Noodles

You might have jarred spaghetti sauce and you might have ground beef. But do you have noodles? Keep a couple varieties of noodles handy just in case.

There you have it - 20 items every kitchen should have at any given time. Well, maybe chocolate should have been added - meal prep can be exhausting; having a little something special to treat yourself to after a job well done wouldn't hurt!

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