• Immunizations aren't complete until the baby is about 2 months old. It is important you make sure everyone that comes in contact with your baby, or your baby's binkies, bottle, and toys washes or

sanitizes their hands frequently. When my daughter was just 7 weeks old, we went to the store. There was a darling older woman who was admiring my beautiful girl. It was a little awkward, at first, but I pulled out my travel-sized hand sanitizer. I told her I was more than happy to let her see the baby, but asked her nicely if she wouldn't mind using some of the hand sanitizer. After all, it was cold and flu season. As awkward as I felt, I knew my baby's health was more important than a few brief prickly moments. To my delight, the woman agreed, took some hand sanitizer, then proceeded to commend me for being such a caring mother. She completely understood my concern, having been a mother herself. As much as you don't want to be the "mean lady with the hand sanitizer," everyone will understand, and no one will be offended by your requesting she wash or sanitize her hands.

Wash your baby's belongings frequently

Blankets, binkies, bottles, toys, and clothes all carry germs. After you go to the store, or anywhere else, it is a good idea to throw the blanket into the wash, and give binkies and bottles a good cleaning. Anything that can carry germs needs to be washed often.

Keep your baby's hands clean

One of the first things a baby discovers in this big world is her cute little hands. Then, the first thing she'll do is stick them in her mouth. This is the fastest way to spread germs. People will want to see his cute fingers, and hold those darling little hands. Make sure you are washing his hands, too. A simple baby wipe will do the trick.

keep your baby home

Try to keep your baby home as much as possible in the first few weeks of his precious life. There are germs everywhere. With immunizations not being complete for another 8 weeks, the best thing you can do is keep your baby warm, clean and safe in your own home. When you do go out, make sure you have hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and anything else you can think of that minimizes your baby's exposure to germs. I always took an extra blanket or two when I went out. One to put over the car seat so the wind and germs couldn't get to her and I would leave one in the car, just in case another one fell on the floor of the store. The last thing I wanted was for my little nugget to be cuddling up to 180 different germs that were now residing on her blanket due to a surprise drop on the supermarket floor.

get immunized

yourself

One of the most important things you can do is get immunized

yourself. Ask those who are around the baby often, like grandparents, aunts and uncles, and cousins to make sure they are current on their immunizations, especially the TDaP shot.

Overall, just be smart about things. Keep things clean and sterilized, and love your baby as much as you can, for they do grow all together way too quickly.

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Make your list and check it twice

Who doesn't love a good, hearty do-to list? It could be a cleaning list, grocery list, or a list of errands. Lists guide us through our day. Make your lists, put them up where you can see them. Then, keep a pen nearby to cross off tasks when completed.

Don't go to bed with dishes in the sink

There are very few things more discouraging than waking up to a sink filled with dishes. Make it a priority to have all the dishes loaded into the dishwasher. If the dishwasher is fully loaded, start it before going to bed. When you wake up to an empty sink, you will find a little more motivation for your other tasks and errands for the day.

Plan your meals in weekly increments

Instead of trying to figure out a daily schedule for meals each night, dedicate one day a week to making a menu. I love making a weekly menu because then I know exactly what items I need to buy for the week. Also, check store ads for food items that are on special and coordinate your meal schedule with these sale items. Gather coupons that will help save additional money. I enjoy allowing my family to choose the menu. In this way, the family will be more likely to eat it since they played a part in selecting it for a scheduled meal.

Don't try to be the "perfect"¯ housewife

This will only cause anxiety and stress. Remember that you are only human. Everyone is allowed to have those days where life is just a little "off"¯. While you may expect a flawless performance from yourself, nobody else expects pure perfection. Don't be so hard on yourself. Allow yourself a few mistakes here and there and a take-out pizza from time to time. You deserve a good break now and then. When you feel rejuvenated, you will be ready to take on the day, again.

Try to be the most effective housewife for your family. Do what is best for you, and your family's needs. Find what works for you and stick to it. If your family responds to chore lists, be sure to delegate your tasks so the entire family can participate in keeping the household running efficiently. Overall, be aware of what needs to be done and prioritize your activities and tasks. While your duties may be not require a long commute or a business suit, your job as a house "wife" or "husband" is to run the home. This is one of the most challenging jobs of all.

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Drink plenty of water

You will need plenty of water while exercising, so you don't over heat yourself, or your baby. It is important to keep your body temperature from getting too high so you and your baby don't get sick. Make sure you have a water bottle with you through your entire workout.

Wear supportive and comfortable shoes

Heaven knows your feet are already aching enough with the extra weigh you are gaining, so make sure your shoes fit properly and are comfortable and supportive to prevent further foot pain, and injury.

Wear a supportive bra, or two

Your belly isn't the only thing growing during pregnancy, so make sure you are wearing a very supportive sports bra. You can even put on two if you feel more supported that way (you wouldn't be the first to do it).

Listen to your body

Your body is a good indicator as to whether or not you need to take it easy, or stop all together. If you aren't feeling well, that is your body's way of saying to take it easy.

Take breaks

Working out is a great thing (and you don't have to limit yourself to just walking on the elliptical), but make sure that after each type of exercise that you take a break and give yourself time to prepare for the next round.

Avoid stomach exercises

The muscles in your stomach have separated to allow your tummy to grow and make room for your beautiful bundle of joy. Due to this, it is strongly recommended that you avoid doing stomach exercises like sit ups and crunches. You can focus on toning your arms and legs, but don't focus on keeping your stomach from growing. This could result in permanent injury to you, and possibly the baby.

Breathe

You are not the only person in this workout, so make sure you are breathing enough. Proper breathing ensures that you and your baby are getting the oxygen that you need.

Don't weigh yourself

You aren't going to lose any weight during pregnancy. You shouldn't be! Don't weigh yourself after working out. As long as you are working out and eating healthy, there is nothing to worry about. Your body will gain the weight it needs to sustain the pregnancy and keep your baby healthy.

Check your pulse

It is not good for the baby if your heart rate gets too high, so make sure you are checking your pulse and doing exercises that help you get fit, but that don't raise your heart rate too high.

Stretch

Stretch, stretch, and stretch again. The more you stretch the better. This will keep you from locking up and getting sore after working out. With all that extra fluid in your body, you will need all the stretching you can get. You may even try stretching when you wake up and when you go to sleep.

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Come right out and say it

I remember the day I found out I was pregnant like it was yesterday. It was about seven in the morning on New Year's day. I woke up and couldn't go back to sleep, so I decided, why not. I went and I checked and sure enough there were two beautiful pink lines. I didn't even know what to do, after such a long wait, I was finally going to be a mommy. I screamed, and ran in and jumped on the bed. I all but shoved the test up my husband's nose as he tried very hard to figure out what in the world was going on. I still remember the joy on his face waking up New Year's morning being told he was going to be a daddy.

Make a special meal

A fun way to tell your husband you are pregnant is to make him a "baby meal."¯ You can cook baby carrots, and other baby sized foods. What a fun way to spill the "beans"¯ over dinner.

Give him a daddy gift

A darling idea is to buy a gender neutral onesie that says, "I love daddy." When he opens the gift there will be no mistaking what you are telling him.

Make it a game

Create a crossword or a scavenger hunt for him. Make the crossword full of words that have to do with babies (like nursery, bottle, blanket, diapers, etc.) The scavenger hunt can lead him to the room where you have agreed you would set up the nursery, or to a daddy gift.

Get the house baby-ready

Baby proof the house while he is a work (it will have to be done eventually anyway), when he gets home he will be sure to ask why everything is baby proofed, and this is the perfect time to tell him the exciting news.

However you chose to tell your husband you are pregnant, be sure to write it down and even take pictures so you can keep it in your baby's first book. These are exciting times that you never want to forget, and someday you can share them with your little bundle of joy.

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1.

Gift Cards

I know, I know. This sounds completely lame, but the fact of the matter is, if your significant other is anything like mine, they probably have something very specific in mind. Not just a razor, a type of razor, its brand, model and accessories all picked out. It may take the surprise out of things, but you're guaranteed to not get it wrong.

2.

Cologne

This may be one of many cliches on this list, but this isn't just a gift for him, it's a gift for you too. You can pick out your favorite smell, and not have to worry about him wearing something that smells bad from then on out!

3.

A gift that keeps on giving

This could be a 1-2 year long car magazine subscription, or it could be a nice new digital camera or other high quality electronic. It should be something that he would use frequently and should last him more than a month.

4.

Food

My mom has a tradition of giving my husband a brand new HUGE box of super-buttery microwave popcorn every year for Christmas. It sounds silly, and honestly it really is, but it's something that he looks forward to every year.

5.

Add to a collection

Most guys have some kind of collection that they're proud of. In my husband's case, it's guitars or watches. Other guys collect high-dollar baseball cards. Take some time, do some research on what it is he collects and go from there. If you get this one right, you'll show him that you know him very well and that you care about his passions.

6.

A new suit

Most guys put new clothes on their gift list, but getting a new suit for him is another one of those gifts that is for him and for you. It's always exciting to see your man in a crisp new suit, but he will also feel more confident at events that require a more formal dress.

7.

Movies

If most of the movies you own fall under the classification of 'Chick-Flicks', getting something that has helicopters, explosions, AK47s and a decent car chase will surely bring a smile to his face.

8.

Video Game

This is nearly a guaranteed surprise. I don't think it's wrong to be selfish in this regard; find a game that you might enjoy too (if you enjoy them at all), and try to get one that isn't one of those games that sucks the time and life away.

9.

Accessories for his hobbies

Providing accessories that support his hobbies is the perfect gift. Improved sports equipment for his favorite sport, polish for his car or instrument, upgraded computer equipment, gym membership, etc. Anything that will help him improve on his current interest will go over VERY well.

10.

Manly Things

When was the last time you heard a man say, "No honey, this grill is big enough and new enough." I'm pretty sure the answer is never. Getting anything that appeals to his maculinity is awesome. Try a new grill, work-out equipment, a BIGGER TV, tools (whether he knows how to use them or not), etc. You know your significant other, using some creativity to appeal to his masculinity shouldn't be that hard.

The post Trust the gift guru: Top 10 gifts your guy will love appeared first on FamilyToday.

"You look radiant! Positively glowing,"¯ these are common words pregnant women hear during the nine months of their pregnancy. Although most of us feel like a giant white whale near the end of our pregnancy, it is a beautiful time. I remember my husband telling me, one very hot day as I was swollen and uncomfortable that I had never looked more beautiful to him than I did at that moment. Pregnancy is a beautiful time. It is a precious gift, and an amazing experience as you feel life growing inside of your body. This is why so many women want to document their pregnancies with maternity photos. While it is true that you are radiant and glowing, it is still helpful to know exactly how to flatter that beautiful new body of yours and to get pictures that you will be proud to keep.

I have chosen five of my favorite recent maternity photos. These were selected by two of my favorite photographers. The first were taken by Mallory Christensen, from Mallory Hurst Photography. The models are Sidnee and Stephen Murray. This beautiful girl is carrying twins, although you would never be able to tell.

A few of the most flattering poses are demonstrated in this photographer's work.

It is always a great idea to include your spouse in the pictures, his belly may not be growing, but his babies are. A side shot of the belly is a great way to flatter your figure and still show off your beautiful belly. Include your spouse in the photo to show the real excitement and love you have for the pregnancy, the baby, and each other

Another way to show off your beautiful belly is to feature just the belly in the picture. I love this next collage by Mallory Hurst Photography that features the mother, then centers on the beautiful belly, itself. The framing of the belly with the necklace, great colors, and a knit shirt that will show off the roundness of the belly is a perfect combination. Be sure to wear clothes that will flatter your pregnancy, not just look like you have put on some weight. This outfit worn by Sidnee is a perfect combination for a flattering picture.

The next few photographs are from another one of my favorite photographers. Callie Mae Photography does a fantastic job. In fact, these pictures are of the beautiful Callie Mae herself.

These are maternity photos, so make sure your poses are always directed toward that gorgeous blessing. I love these photographs because they are simple, yet they show all the joy this mother is feeling toward that precious life growing inside of her. She turns to the side, and frames her belly with her hands. I love the look and the smile she gives her belly as though she already knows that sweet baby.

Don't be afraid to show your beauty off. These pictures are for you, and of you. It is also a time to document your life, not just your baby. Don't be afraid to show off just how great you look, too.

Get your hair and makeup done. Have a friend do it, or pamper yourself and go to a salon. After all of these months of carrying that beautiful child, you deserve some pampering at the salon. Pick out a few different outfits for the photo shoot, try them on before you go.

Overall, the best way to make your photos turn out great is to feel great. The better you feel, the better the pictures will look. Remember to have fun. After all, this pregnancy will only happen once.

The post Maternity photoshoot posing tips appeared first on FamilyToday.

Clean

Cleaning the house or the apartment is a perfect way to make your woman happy. It's a job she does every day, and not only will cleaning help her out, it will show her you recognized how hard she works and keeps the house clean.

Don't leave a trail

When you get home from work for the day, don't leave a trail through the house. Put your keys and everything away, undress in the bedroom and put your clothes in the hamper (hang them up if they aren't very dirty). Making your girl do extra laundry is a frustration beyond compare. Hang up your coat.

Cook

Give your girl a night off from cooking and make her a delicious dinner.

Bring her flowers

Believe it or not, buying flowers for your girl is about more than just the flowers. It's about telling her you were simply thinking about her and wanted to do something special for her.

Write her love notes

Every girl dreams about coming home and finding a note on the table, or waking up to a note from hubby. It's things like that that show her how much you love her and think about her.

Turn off the game when she starts talking

It is very frustrating to women when they want to talk to you, and you won't even look at her because you are playing a video game or watching a football game. When you do that, you are basically telling her that the game is more important than she is. Turn off the game, or pause it at least, and give her some real quality attention.

Always tell her she looks beautiful

Chances are, your wife knows how you feel about her, but it is always reassuring to her to let her know that you still think she is beautiful. When she gets ready for the day, she is getting ready for you, so recognize that, and tell her how beautiful she looks.

Plan surprise dates

Make plans and reservations for a date she doesn't know anything about and surprise her with the romantic details as you go. Make sure she is dressed appropriately so she doesn't feel embarrassed at any time.

Laugh with her, not at her

It is easy to laugh at your girl when she misunderstands something, or is being "cute,"¯ but no one likes to be laughed at. Make sure she knows your are laughing with her, and not at her. Never make her feel belittled.

Bring her "that"¯ surprise

Girls aren't subtle, so there is probably no question in your mind that she has been eyeing that gorgeous pair of shoes, or that darling handbag, or stunning set of earrings. Surprise her now and then with the things on her wish list. This is another way to show her you love her, and that you are very aware of who she is and what she wants.

The post It’s the little things: How to make your wife happy appeared first on FamilyToday.

Peppermint is a natural soother

I was sick for 28 weeks, and peppermint was my go-to for relieving the nausea. You can suck on peppermint mints, smell peppermint, or use peppermint oils.

Eat foods that aren't going to aggravate your stomach

Popcorn without butter, Ritz Crackers and a slice of bread may be all you can keep down, but it's better than nothing.

Eat when you first wake up

One of the reasons it is called morning sickness is because it generally hits the hardest in the morning. If you can keep a box of crackers by your bedside, eat a few before you get out of bed. This will help ease the nausea that is actually caused by being hungry. Sounds strange I know, but if you have something in your stomach before you get up and move around, you are more likely to have a better day.

Eat what you crave

Cravings are usually a good indicator of what your body wants and needs. For the most part, if your body wants it, it will have an easier time keeping it down.

Get fresh air

Something as simple as an offensive odor can upset your tummy during pregnancy, so go for a walk or open a window. The more fresh air you get, the better you will feel.

Take a B6 vitamin

B vitamins are also a good way to help calm your nausea. Take a B6 vitamin each day. This will help you to feel better, plus it is good for you.

Get as much rest as you can

If you are overly tired, you are going to feel really crumby. Rest as often as you can. Elevate your feet and have a Popsicle. Or, if the flavor is too much, some simple ice chips will do.

If you feel like you have done everything you can, and you are just too sick to get around during the day, then call your doctor. Your doctor is there to help you, and medications such as Zofran can help you feel better and give you back at a lot of the energy you need for your daily activities.

The post How to live with morning sickness appeared first on FamilyToday.

Remember that he or she is still a baby

This party is more for the parents than the child and it's important to remember that. Your baby is going to love you no matter what kind of birthday party you have, so don't stress too much about it, and just make it special and have fun.

Come up with a theme

Parties are always easier to plan when they have a theme. The theme could be as simple as Pink or Blue, but if you know what your theme is you will have more direction when planning decorations and goodies.

Make a guest list

Keep it simple. Remember that babies can get over stimulated very easily. Remembering once again that this is their first birthday, not the annual block party, try to keep it to people who are special to the baby, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and of course friendsĀ who are a big part of their lives. The mailman might have told you that your child is adorable, but unfortunately, that doesn't mean he should be invited to the party.

Make baby friendly food

For my daughter's first birthday, we had a little tea party for her with her aunts and uncles and grandparents. We served foods that she could eat like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruits, and apple juice. It wouldn't be much of a party for baby if he or she couldn't enjoy the party food along with the guests.

The cake

It is a common practice to give babies their own cake to munch and destroy on their own. However, remember, he or she is just a year old, they do not need a huge cake. It would be a shame to induce a sugar coma on your little one. Cupcakes are a fantastic way to go. They are the perfect size for those little hands, and a little tummy. The cake and treats don't need to be expensive. In fact homemade goodies are the best goodies. If you make it homemade you can even give it a healthy twist. My daughter had strawberry cupcakes, with real strawberry slices in them. She loved it, and I loved knowing that even though she was ingesting more sugar than I would like her to, she was also eating fresh fruit.

More than anything, just shower them with love and memories. Don't forget to take lots of pictures, and video tape as much of her party as you can. Those will be the only memories your baby will have of their very first birthday.

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Babies want to be held, need to be held, demand to be held. Here are some important things to keep in mind when buying the thing that will hold your baby when you can't.

1. Safety ratings

When you're shopping for a baby carrier make sure that whatever you're buying doesn't have any outstanding recalls. You'll want to make sure that you're getting something safe for your baby. Check reviews in Consumer Reports or on Amazon.com.

2. Comfort for you

Try on the carrier before buying it. Make sure that it fits your new shape, and that it will fit you six months from now when your body has changed again. The best way to guarantee this is to find one with plenty of adjustable straps. Also consider if anyone else will be wearing the carrier. Buy the carrier that fits best the person who will be wearing it the most.

3. Comfort for baby

Make sure that you try to see how your baby fits too. Your baby will grow at what seems like an unbelievable rate, again, make sure that your carrier will fit your baby now and in 12 months.

4. Orientation

If you can, get to know your baby a little before buying the carrier. A new baby will need to face in for safety and support. As baby gets olderĀ she will want to see everything that is going on, and will want to face out. Some babies will want to be as close to mom as possible and prefer to face in when they are tired or sick regardless of age. Many carriers are universal and should allow baby to face either way at the appropriate age.

5. Don't be afraid to ask questions

There is more to learn about baby carriers than most people would ever want to know. When you go shopping for the carrier, be sure to ask any and all questions you might have. You can also ask friends for recommendations. It's always helpful to see a product in action.

New babies need to be close to you, but you have a million other things to do. The right carrier will help you spend time with your baby while you do the dishes or answer email. Keep in mind that as your baby grows,Ā his need to be held will change. What you need from your carrier will change too.

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