Mom In The Know

again

2010-03-10T09:25:00.002-07:00

Here I am again, trying to figure all this out. First off how do I change all of this over? My blog that is? Any advice is appreciated. Yes, I want to move that I have existing!
Anyway, I'm feeling so much better and getting the health issues under control, finding out it's type 1 not type 2. Taking it day by day.
So this is turning into a bit of everything, but it's all me.
My health as we figure it out. My daily issues and triumphs with my daughters. Normal day to day stuff as a mom, life in general. Reality TV recaps, whatever crosses my mind at the time.
I'll still be testing products, as I get them in. I'm not going to make it all about that anymore. Lesson learned I will not be asking for testers anymore. I will only be taking stuff on that my family we be testing.
I want this to be more about us, me and real life. It's been a heck of a year and getting all the little things in order has been crazy.
Having two daughters that are 8 & 10 I can use all the mom advice possible!

long time no post

2010-02-17T07:31:00.002-07:00

It's been a bit, huh?
I'm catching up so I apoligize.
I'm on a reformatted computer all data lost.

I feel that's who I am all data lost. After months and months of feeling awful, sleeping all the time or battling insomnia I finally have a diagnosis.

I'm diabetic.

The irony isn't lost on me. I eat well, I don't like candy, cakes, processed food, ice cream but genes catch up. Luckily I started exercising recently. A friend said to me, "Look at the people who run daily and are in great shape, then drop dead of a heart attack."

This is me, raw and unedited straight from the heart. I owe you guys a lot of posts and reviews. We'll be catching up and changing a lot around here. I hope you'll stick with us.

Take care of those toofers!

2009-08-31T18:58:00.001-06:00

“Back to School Brush-Up”

Now that children have headed back-to-school to begin new lessons in math, science and geography to name a few, renowned Dentist Dr. Daniel C. Smith of Focus Dentistry thought it would be the perfect time to give parents a quick lesson as well - on how to properly teach children to brush their teeth!

"It is absolutely amazing how many parents and children have no idea how to brush their teeth," says Dr. Smith "I am always surprised by this huge number--as many as 75 percent--because improper brushing can result in as much damage to your teeth and gums as not brushing at all."

In order to ensure your kids are properly brushing their teeth and preventing unnecessary cavities and gum disease, Dr. Smith urges you teach your kids the following:

• The most important time to brush is before going to sleep because the body does not produce enough saliva to fight against sugars in the mouth says Dr. Smith. All bodily functions slow down while sleeping, therefore, bacteria grows rapidly, causing cavities and infection

• There are many types of toothbrushes on the market today, including electric, ultrasonic, ionic and the "normal/standard" toothbrushes, but Dr. Smith thinks that mechanical options show better results than standard ones. Regardless, Dr. Smith believes that a toothbrush should be soft bristled, regardless of size or shape

• Dr. Smith recommends anti-plaque, high fluoride toothpaste containing little or no abrasives. Abrasives wear out the enamel in teeth, which may look sparkly white but may be unhealthy. As far as gel or paste toothpaste, that is your child’s personal preference

• According to Dr. Smith, flossing should be done daily. Unfortunately, most people floss three or four times weekly. Flossing at night is very important to reach food particles that have remained in the mouth after eating all day

• Finally, even if your children are following a proper routine, still be sure to schedule your child regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and oral exams. A check-up every six months is recommended by Dr. Smith in order prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.

A worry for a lot of parents.

2009-08-27T07:53:00.000-06:00

With sexting a growing concern amongst parents and teachers alike, Houston is the first city to step up and implement a no “sexting” rule as students get ready to return to school. As more teens and celebrities alike are being discovered with nude/semi-nude photos, many will likely follow suit in putting together precautions to stop the issue before it gets even bigger. In a study conducted recently by the National Campaign on sex and tech, it was found that 22 percent of US teenage girls and 18 percent of teenage boys have sent messages or posted images or video online showing them nude or semi-nude.
Predicto Mobile (www.predicto.com), the leading online and text message based survey company, has put together some tips to use until a no “sexting” rule may be implemented in your town:

 Check the school’s cell phone policies. Speak with their teachers about what they are doing to limit text use and find ways you can work together to combat the issue if it becomes a serious problem
 Talk to your kids about the dangers of sexting. Find out who they are chatting with and look at the cell phone bill to see what time of day they are texting the most
 Encourage good academic behavior. Find out when their exams are, offer help with studying, etc.
 Make them work for it. If texting during school gets out of control and you see a spike in your bill, ask your child to get a part time job to cover their text message cell phone plan
 Don’t text them when they are in class. Occasionally you may need to get in touch with your child during school hours, find out when your child has breaks in between classes or what time they take lunch and use that time to send texts
 Petition your cell phone provider to limit cell phone text message service during school hours

“It is great that Houston is finally taking steps to address this growing concern,” says Eyal Yechazkell, CEO of Predicto Mobile. “This is hopefully a chain reaction across America as it’s become one of many issues amongst texting during school. The tips we’ve provided should give parents a better gauge on what they can do to make the texting feature as safe as possible outside the home.”

Play Safe

2009-08-24T08:30:00.001-06:00

Summer is starting to wind down, and for many parents with school-aged children, the change of seasons isn’t just stressful because of back-to-school shopping, but rather because of impending fall sports try-outs. Fall sports, including football, cheerleading, soccer, field hockey and volleyball are among the most common activities for American youth, but these sports may not always be all fun and games. With the growing cost of college tuition, many children are vigourously engaging in these activities at a young age and recent findings show that incorrect technique, equipment and/or coaching style can lead to serious injuries such as shoulder tears, herniated disks and even paralysis.

In fact, according to a recent study completed by the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research injuries from fall sports, especially cheerleading, are the highest they have been in years and the results of sports injuries are among the most devastating.

Furthermore, even if you child isn’t participating in a fall sport this year, there is also a safety worry in the classroom! In order to combat the rising number of cases of childhood obesity, many schools are now enforcing a more vigorous physical education program, in turn leading to greater opportunities for injury. Recent findings from the Nationwide Children’s Hospital of Columbus, OH, show that gym class injuries increased 150% over the past ten years. The study also notes a national estimate of nearly 37,000 annual injuries on average, with fewer than 30,000 in 1997 and climbing to more than 60,000 injuries a year by 2007.

Sports physical therapists and orthopedic surgeons are taking note and spending more time discussing with parents, coaches and young athletes how to better prepare themselves in order to prevent severe injury. Below, renowned orthopedic surgeon, Dr Eric A. Crone of the Gramercy Surgery Center and NY Ortho, Sports Medicine & Trauma Center, both in New York City, offers his advice on how help children, athletes and pupils steer clear of the doctor’s office this fall.

Sample Talking Points:
• Physical Examination: Before participating in any sports activities or rigorous physical education program, children should under-go a yearly physical examination provided by their family physician. The family doctor may be able to detect any possible bone, joint or muscle problems early on, so not to lead to a greater chance for injury later

• Physical Condition: Often I see young athletes come to see me with injuries that occurred because there muscles or stamina simply was not up to speed with the activity they were performing. Especially when entering the fall sports season, young athletes are often un-prepared for vigorous work-outs after not properly training their bodies
over the summer. Coaches and teachers should offer their students daily work-out routines prior to tryouts so that they can come to their first day of practice prepared

• Proper Equipment: No matter what the activity, athletes must be provided with the correct equipment needed for their sports. Many of my patients come to me with injuries that resulted from improper gear (helmets, padding, sneakers) and or damaged equipment

• Stretching: Often coaches and teachers do not enforce or provide adequate stretching time before and after physical activity, which can in turn be detrimental to young athletes. Un-stretched muscles have a greater chance to be pulled as lactic acid builds up during physical activity as after physical activity is completed. Athletes must stretch prior to and after every practice, class or game in order to ensure that the correct warm-up and cool-down of the muscles occurs

• Technique: In my practice, improper technique is the leading cause of devastating sport’s related injuries. If children learn from an early age the wrong way to tackle, jump, kick or swing the pattern is embedded in muscle memory and hard to correct, which in the long run can cause serious injury

• Nutrition: Now that school has begun again, parents cannot always monitor a child’s food intake at all times, but proper nutrition is still a vital component when preventing sport’s injuries

• Rest: With the fall being a relatively short season, allowing a limited amount of time for pre-season training, young athletes will push themselves to meet the practice demands of their coaches and trainers. I always remind coaches and parents to offer their young athletes enough time for rest and recuperation, which give their muscles time to heal and ultimately make them stronger

• Treatment: Remember although your child may simply be sore from over-exertion, a small ache or pain could result in a larger problem down the road. If your child has on-going pain that does not go suppress over time, make sure to consult a sports medicine trainer or sports orthopedic surgeon for proper diagnosis

Family first

2009-08-12T09:40:00.001-06:00

A quick vacation before the kids return to school and retooling the site.
I hope it's back to normal soon!
The Mom in the Know

Shoes!

2009-08-06T10:25:00.002-06:00

You see clogs pretty much everywhere these days, right? The everyday gardening clog is an out and about shoe now. They’re easy to slip on and go so why not right? Well Jollys has made it that easy with a simple style that offers so many choices.

Jollys offers a gardening clog that is good for just that, gardening. You can also wear them around town, as they are light, flexible, waterproof and that comfortable. I did have a tester wear these who let me know not only were they comfortable to wear but she was complimented on the pleasant appearance, and asked about them more than once. The fact you can just slip them on I think was a huge selling point for a lot of the moms that ogled them. They come in a variety of colors and styles, and recently added picture clogs.

Jollys offers more than women’s gardening clogs. You can shop for men’s, kids and knee cushions on their easily navigated site. They offer free shipping, score right there that’s a bonus for me in this day and age. You want another bonus on their product? Jollys offers satisfaction guaranteed! From the site-
Return unworn within 30 days for a full refund or to make an exchange. We'll send the replacements out at no extra charge. (Just enclose a note detailing what you want.)

I have to say I approve and would wear them myself, but I do have to pass some things off to my testers, as is my business.
Do you want a pair of Jollys? Well you have a chance now. All you have to do is leave a comment, tweet me, or email me with Jollys on the subject and you will be entered to win! Jollys has been wonderful enough to donate a pair to The Mom in the Know to raffle off to the readers. You’ll have your pick.

This is coming up in The Mom in the Know anniversary special giveaway ... watch for it! It should take place the week of August 23, please watch for the announcement, it may be sooner. I hope that is the latest!!!

Guest blogger today Melissa from rock and drool

2009-08-05T07:16:00.003-06:00

Classy Closet Blog exchange, thank you, Jen!
Guest blogger Melissa from Rock and Drool ... thank you Melissa! Today I'm on her blog, Rock and Drool.

A Shower, Some Memories and A Guest Post

I'm not the sentimental mushy type of Mommy Blogger. Well, only on someones birthday, or an anniversary, or if I'm trying to get someone to forgive me. Otherwise, anything goes. In fact, I recently changed my title from Mommy Blogger to Life Blogger. It makes more sense. I think we're much more compatible.

So, I participated in this little Blog Swap from the Classy Closet. Quite forgetting that I have no sense of decency and all my filters are filthy and in need of changing. Really, I'm typing butt-naked, smoking a cigarette while my children are running amok through the subdivision, unsupervised and wreaking havoc. I'm just bad-ass like that.

BUT...

I need to be on my best behavior. I'm a guest in someone elses virtual kitchen and it doesn't look like she uses paper or plastic. But I do see some Coke Zero. I hope she doesn't mind if I just drink from the can directly.

While I was showering this evening. What? That's when I get some of my great post ideas...
I was thinking about my kids. And my husband. I was thinking about some little things. Little quirks, feelings. Things I don't ever want to forget.

So, I decided...what better than to make a good impression than by doing a sweet and sappy post, right? Get some kleenex, I'll wait.

I want to always remember. Forever. Our first kiss. I never. Ever. Had tingles like that before. And no, I wasn't drunk...or naked.

I want to remember the little -isms of my first born son. How he changed words like compleeceman for policeman. Fighterman...spiderman. 'mapewter...computer. I want to remember this. Because it was so him.

I want to always be able to remember how it felt to hold my children. All three of them. For the first time. Their scent. Their movements. My heart.

My daughter. My sweet little girl. She used to only know how to say "Where's my mum?" "I want my mum" A mummies girl. And we aren't even British.

My son. My baby. With his two different colored eyes. Jerst...instead of just. And how, right now, he loves me more than anyone. Except his oldest brother.

And I want to always remember how I knew. On our first date. That this was it. And you knew too.

Little things, yes. But I want to remember them. To document them. Because, as time goes by, those memories get lost in the wrinkles of my aging brain. And the only way to remember them...
Is to be stressed out about what to write on a guest post, take a shower, and write it down.

Here, your Coke Zero can. Sorry, I smushed it. I was nervous.
Thank you for giving up your space. To let me mess it up!!
XOXO

You can find me blogging over at my place Rock and Drool
Find me on twitter: RockDrool

Nu-Skin

2009-08-03T09:23:00.004-06:00

My husband is a pig.

This is not true. A pig takes better care of himself, rolling in the mud to maintain healthy skin and comfort. My husband plays in the mud but he has no interest in healthy skin or comfort. He’s just lazy. He works hard and spends whatever time he can find not, and as such the fight to get him on board with a focus towards personal appearance and hygiene can be a challenge.

I’m hopeful Nu Skin is helping me change this.

The folks at Nu Skin have spent over 20 years formulating quality skin care for every person on the planet. Using the best ingredients the earth has to offer, the company line of “all of the good, none of the bad” stands true to form in every product they put on the shelf. A full team of scientists work with an innovative Advisory Board in an effort to combine dermatology, ethnobotany, and nutrition to create a full line of cosmetic products that lead the industry.

While many of their products are pointed towards the feminine side of the worldly community, they recently sent us a full sampling of their products for the men, including the Dividends Shave Cream, Aftershave Balm, and Antiperspirant Deodorant. The refreshing smell had me excited to present him with the gifts, but the byproducts of their use were the true gift of benefit. For the first time in, well, forever, he’s shaving without being asked. He’s not complaining about the pain of the process, and he is taking a greater interest in his personal appearance… and he smells fantastic.

Getting him this far is a tremendous step for the entire family, not to mention our local community and world forced to endure his traditional stench, and we couldn’t be happier. The folks at Nu Skin have made it all possible and are constantly striving to do more. You can check out their full line of products online and ordering is a breeze.

Thanks so much Nu Skin… he may not say it, but he’s almost as thankful as the Mom in the Know.

Beach reading plus!

2009-07-30T06:49:00.002-06:00

When you keep secrets, you don’t make friends… or do you? In Jane Stanton Hitchcock’s fifth page turner, Mortal Friends, we venture into the social scene and political scandals of Washington D.C. Murder is on the plate, a serial killer is on the loose and police detective Gunner, touting more than a few secrets of his own, is looking to catch him before the bodies pile up.

Reven Lynch is in the” it” crowd but is no longer married to it. She’s a crime-loving gal who owns an antique shop, also working as a decorator on the side. Her best friend since boarding school, Violet Bolton, is an expert of all there is to know about serial killers. When the killer on the loose strikes on their running route, they have a lot to reconsider and a lot to contemplate in their own lives.

New face on the scene Cynthia Rinehart throws a few wrenches into the experience and love lives. Reven is dipping her toes into the dating scene, but is he the killer as Gunner suspects, or just a lothario?

As all this comes undone marriages fall apart, friendships are weathered, enemies surface, and scandals are reveled. Reven will discover that the life she has known is for naught.

In the true style of Jane Stanton Hitchcock, this one will keep you on the edge of your seat and riveted until the very last page.

Sending tails a waggin!

2009-07-27T06:32:00.003-06:00

We are a family. For us that includes the Mom in the Know, the dad that wishes he was in the know, two beautiful (and all too energetic) daughters, and two dogs. We have eight hands, 80 fingers, eight feet, 80 toes, eight paws, two tails, and 80 gazillion worries that go along with ‘em. All too often the dogs fall to the shadows in terms of products for care. Not that the dogs of the world are in need of a better home… we live in Denver, one of the most dog-friendly communities you’ll find on the planet, and as such we are blessed to have a world of options in helping us provide proper care and pampering for the four-legged members of the unit.
However, in finding Happy Tails Spa, we no longer search for the proper answers. Now, those answers come right to our doorstep.

Happy Tails Spa specializes in problem-solving products for the modern dog. As any dog owner can attest, the needs and demands of maintaining a healthy pooch are significantly different than those of a human. It takes a focused approach to design and production to create products that will provide quality, reliable care and maintenance for our beloved canines. Happy Tails Spa understands these needs and offers an astounding menu of products to address those specific needs for your family.

We have an English Bulldog in our home. Trixie is special in so many ways, but as anyone owning an English Bulldog can attest, the care and resulting needs associated with raising such a dog fall on the extreme end of the dog-care spectrum. There are “special” traits and bodily functions (to put it nicely) associated with English Bulldogs that require special care and efforts in hygiene and maintenance. Other breeds of dog also present special circumstances, and we have found Happy Tails Spa provides any and everything we could need to keep up with the game.

We are particular enamored with two products sent to us by HTS, including the Dog Smog Remedy and the Eyepads. Our dog battles, well, “environmental odor issues”… that’s putting it nicely. Dog Smog Remedy provides an alternative option that allows the user to address these concerns at both ends of the dog! As their website suggests, “The all natural formula contains peppermint and fennel to slay the fire breathing beast but it’s more than just a breath freshener, Dog Smog Remedy gets to the guts of the problem with digestive enzymes papain and bromelain. All of these ingredients help calm the bubbling brute below and provide a long-term solution to an embarrassing problem.”

The Eyepads is especially helpful for those of us seeking to keep the faces of our dogs clean. No breed of dog “leaks” bodily fluids from their eyes like the English Bulldog and the fight to keep her facial folds free of infection and debris is a daily battle. The HTS Eyepack includes all-natural wet-wipe pads as well as a nutrient-rich, high-metabolite immunogen powder clinically proven to boost the immunity to bacteria and infection while providing a safe, sanitary cleansing agent to keep our pooch free of dangerous infection and dirt. These products are natural, they contain no pharmaceutical antibiotics, and they taste delicious (because we all know our dogs come with busy tongues). They clean without pain or harm and they provide an outstanding source of protection against illness and health issues associated with nearly every breed of dog on the planet.

We couldn’t be happier with the products presented by the Happy Tails Spa. Their website is fabulous, their customer service is top shelf, and the entire experience has been nothing short of a joy. We suggest you invite the Happy Tails Spa into your home today.

Coraline ... on DVD 7/21

2009-07-20T07:27:00.005-06:00

In the world of animation we are overloaded with choices these days, but this one was a treat for each and every member of the family. Coraline (PG) is a story about an 11-year-old girl moving into a new house. What can a bored girl do? Like most children, she explores and discovers a new world that leads to all a whole new world of fun.

Coraline Jones is her name and in her new abode she discovers a door to another word. She finds an alternate universe very similar to her own where every member of her family is present but offers a seemingly perfect version of her real life… at least it seems perfect, at first. When Coraline wants to stay in her world, what will her “other” mother do? Coraline discovers the journey back to her real life is not as easy as opening the door and throwing away the key.

As the PG rating states, this feature is a bit more advanced. It does have some thematic elements, scary images, language and suggestive humor. There are overtones of dread and despair that may disturb younger children, but for those working towards double-digit age it can be a perfect mix of growing emotions and deepening plot lines. Depending on what type of humor your child enjoys, I would tread lightly. It’s a well-animated piece with a suggestively drawn skit in a bar setting that has well-endowed dancers that may take some explaining if your child fails to comprehend the nature of the environment. Those parents employing strict viewing guidelines may find this particular scene a bit troublesome, but the adult themes incorporated are rather subversive, and to be fair, that one scene is the worst of it in my opinion. The rest of the story is rich in detail and character, presenting an advanced storyline many children will adore (a child as a hero… that’s always a winner).

If they are less than 10- to 12-years of age you might be wise to view the movie in private before sharing with your lil’ ones, but for those with a love for the fantasy-laden world of animation, Coraline is a true delight to be enjoyed time and again.

How funky is your snack?

2009-07-16T07:00:00.001-06:00

Freeze-dried snacks are a delicious and natural treat, a great alternative to grab and go. We try to be responsible in snacking in my house. You have to be in this climate, and my kids love fruit. However, it’s hard to keep it fresh all day. Funky Monkey has helped me remedy this issue, and that’s a relief for me.

In contrast to the leathery, sticky dried fruits you see in the stores, these are crispy and have that bite where you know they are indeed freeze dried . There is no sugar coating making them sticky, they are vegan and free of fructose and other additives, and they provide the nutritional value of actual fruit without the hassle, mess, or nuisance.

My youngest liked the crunch, comparing it to a chip with the taste and healthy gains of fruit. It’s like fooling yourself, yet so tasty and beneficial. At school her friends were intrigued and asked about the sweet smell and the colorful packing. What a clever idea Funky Monkey!

The website is very colorful and interactive and your kids will love it, though a warning that it may distract from your original reason for visiting. There is a lot going on. I personally like the “Looney Lab” where you can create your own flavor. If you don’t like “busy” sites and a lot of action, you have been warned.

With a variety of flavors, Funky Monkey is sure to delight your family in some way. Bananamon, Carnaval mix (yes it is spelled like that.), Jivea Lime, & Purple Funk. Look at your local grocer and see what your kids think, if it’s crunch they are craving you have a winner here.

About Funky Monkey Snacks:
Funky Monkey Snacks are all-natural, real fruit made using a proprietary freeze-drying
process that creates Fruit That Crunches!® while retaining fruit’s natural goodness.
Funky Monkey Snacks are 100% fruit with no added sugar, colors, flavors or
preservatives. Each 1 oz. bag contains three servings of fruit, providing a delicious and
nutritious snack choice that helps support healthy living. For more information, visit
www.FunkyMonkeySnacks.com.
Bananamon, Jivealime, Purple Funk, and Fruit That Crunches are registered trademarks, and Funky Monkey and
Carnaval Mix are trademarks, of Freeze Dried Partners LLC. All other trademarks and/or registered trademarks
contained herein are the property of their respective owners

Doggie Bling- No more Drool puddles!

2009-07-13T07:00:00.001-06:00

Drool is a big problem in the house, not with my kids (at times with their father) but with my darling bulldog, Trixie. She comes by it honestly and can’t help it. It’s the nature of the beast as they say. I have to clean up the floor a lot where she had been sleeping and wipe her mouth up. I’ve looked all over the internet but usually we just wipe, at times scrub where she had laid her pretty little head. We call it Trixie goop. I want to call it a thing of the past.

Then I ran across a great product that I am convinced they were thinking of bulldogs and bulldog owners, Slobber Blotters. I realized there was a call, reaching far above and beyond bulldogs. 100% soft absorbent terry cloth fabric is just a wipe away from a happy dog. They can rest their little jowls on it, or after a long stop at the water bowl, just help them out.

The Slobber Blotter has a snap closure, it was nicer then a Velcro one, or a tie. Now, mime two maniacs managed to get it loose after a long play session, but I swear they hide opposable thumbs somewhere. That shouldn’t happen I’m sure, only if it’s snapped on something and that may very well have been the case. It is intended to snap lose it needed. I have canine conspiracy theories that constantly run through my head.

Bandabling Pet Bandanas are the parent company to Slobber Blotter and I have to say measure before you order to confirm. We were okay, but it’s always best to be safe. They are machine washable and I do that frequently, I also dry mine and have run into no problems.
I can’t say for sure if the dog unsnapped the snap playing or it came of when Trixie got caught on something, either way I’ll assume it was for the best, she was probably getting herself in trouble. That feature is splendid, no gagging doggies!

Look up Slobber Blotters at Badabling pets they are having a 20% sale right now!

Winners finally announced- Boogie wipes and Popcorn +

2009-07-10T16:25:00.002-06:00

When I said enter as many times as you like, I wasn't kidding! I had a lot more local entries then normal, LOVIN IT! the kids in the Know picked, not me! I didn't pcik my favorite blogs, people or anything like that ... random!

CONGRATULATIONS TO:
BOOGIE WIPES WINNER:

Laurie of Guessing all the way. She rocks, and so does her site. Follow her, and follow her on twitter. Talk about a down to earth mama. I just happen to like her, as well as they picked her.

POPCORN PRIZE PACK FROM KERNEL SEASON'S:

Chris in CO (no blog info.) but happy that you are reading or following. Chris, if you have a blog, let me know and I'd love to share with my readers. :(

Lisa in NJ, A twitter feed, but doesn't want to be listed. Has privacy settings, I understand Lisa, NEXT TIME!!

And ... no joke ...

Laurie of Guessing all the way. She rocks, and so does her site. Follow her, and follow her on twitter.

That is what multiple entries gets you!

I'm having a big blow out at the end of the month, a 2nd anniversary celebration!
Watch for it. TONS of giveaways and I usually allow MULTIPLE entries in MANY ways ... watch for it.

Sleeping can be a serious thing

2009-07-10T07:00:00.001-06:00

According to Dr. Dan Smith, “approximately 100 to 200 million Americans suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Sleep Apnea can cause long-term health risks such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, and impotency.” Below is Dr. Smith’s list of the 4 symptoms of Sleep Apnea that should not be ignored:

1. “Snoring that is loud enough to wake your child up” is the first indicator of OSA, according to Dr. Smith. This is not the occasional snort or two but that incessant, honking-level snoring
2. “If your child ceases breathing intermittently while sleeping.” When OSA occurs, the tongue can be sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and airflow stops or is greatly diminished
3. “Suddenly waking up because he or she can not breathe and has shortness of breath or gasping.” This is directly linked to symptom #2, says Dr. Smith. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough due to the blockage, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp
4. “If your child is excessively drowsy during the day.” This does not mean hitting the proverbial wall at 3 pm that a quick snack can fix or throwing a temper tantrum due to exhaustion. This means actually accidentally falling asleep during the day (not during nap time)
Dr. Smith states that “while snoring is typically a problem that is associated with men, it is a condition that does not discriminate.” Dr. Smith says men, women and children can suffer from OSA. It is one of the most misdiagnosed medical problems – especially in children. Loud and regular nightly snoring is often abnormal in otherwise healthy children. If a child suffers from OSA, he or she may be getting too little oxygen and too much carbon dioxide. This condition can lead to poor heart and lung development, behavioral problems, and even death if unchecked.

Thankfully, health centers have opened to help diagnose and treat sleep apnea. Dr. Dan Smith recently opened the Focus Center for Sleep Apnea and Snoring. This Center provides care from a team of Medical and Dental Specialists, to create a more complete solution to OSA by combing the highest technology available in the field as well as continued advanced education.

If your child suffers from the above 4 symptoms, it is in his or her best interest to be given medical attention. At the Focus Center for Sleep Apnea and Snoring, the diagnosis process is easy and follows these steps:

1. Patients (or the parents of the patient) are given a questionnaire that will indicate if they are suffering from “daytime sleepiness” and gauges the amount of noise they make while sleeping (snoring)
2. After the questionnaire is returned, they are evaluated and it is decided if the child needs further testing
3. A thorough exam by a sleep physician is done utilizing technology that allows doctors to “see” the airway without utilizing x-rays
4. Further testing can include the use of an ambulatory sleep computer (sleep study for the home) that will tell doctors the extent of OSA your child has. The Watch Pat is an electronic computer that is taken home for your child wear overnight in his or her usual sleep environment. It is extremely comfortable to wear and does not affect their usual pattern of sleep. It tells the doctors how much true sleep your child get, how much and how loud he or she snores, and what position he or she snores the most in. It evaluates your child’s sleep stages (including REM sleep) and the oxygen content of his or her blood at different times of their sleep. Finally, it analyzes their personal data and generates a report
5. Further studies might indicate the need for an overnight sleep study (PSG). Treatment will consist of the best methods that can include a dental device, CPAP, or surgical procedure

Online Entertainment Kids Can Enjoy At Their Own Pace

2009-07-09T09:14:00.001-06:00

(A very cool site that I looked and a played with a bit, enjoy!)
Kideos.com Launches; Features Online Entertainment Kids Can Enjoy At Their Own Pace

Easy to Navigate Site Gives Kids Access to all of their Favorite Videos and Parents Peace of Mind

LOS ANGELES, CA — July 9, 2009 — Earlier Media today announced the launch of Kideos (www.kideos.com), an entertainment destination for kids to safely watch videos online. Kideos features popular children’s videos, from Elmo to Thomas, with a kid-friendly interface within a safe environment. Kideos is the newest web property from Earlier Media, a company dedicated to providing trustworthy destinations for children of all ages to learn, watch videos and play games online.

Central to Kideos’ value proposition is the site’s Video Advisory Council, a group of parents and educators who screen content before it appears on the site. Once videos are reviewed by the Council, they are categorized and sorted into age-based groups factoring in developmental criteria and recommendations from leading experts nationwide. This process gives parents confidence that the content on Kideos is appropriate, safe and entertaining for children.

Additionally, the site offers parents their own personalization tools to limit videos shown to their children by selecting the appropriate age-based category. Once chosen, children will only be able to view videos specifically targeted towards their exact age group.
“Children are using the Internet for entertainment at a very young age,” said Josh Solt, COO of Earlier Media. “We built Kideos to provide children an easy way to watch their favorite videos while giving their parents peace of mind that their kids are viewing safe, age-appropriate programs.”
Kideos is easy for children to use on their own, with a simple user interface that even young children can easily navigate once they have gotten started. Within a short period of time, kids are able to select videos to play without any help from adults, giving them a sense of confidence and a way to interact with computers just like grown-ups.

New content is added to the site daily after it is reviewed by the Council so kids have a fresh experience with each visit. Content includes children’s television shows, movies, educational videos, music videos, cute animals, and more. For more information, please visit www.kideos.com.
About Kideos
Kideos is the premier destination for kids to safely watch videos online. Each video on Kideos has been screened by the site’s Video Advisory Council, a group of parents and educators, who select appropriate content for the site. The site was developed with the goal of allowing parents to feel comfortable permitting their child to spend time on Kideos, while also making sure children have a thoroughly entertaining experience. For more information, please visit www.kideos.com.

When someone calls ...

2009-07-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

July is National Cell Phone Courtesy Month, and mobile entertainment company mSpot.com is putting on its white gloves.

But instead of offering up etiquette tips ("Put your phone on silent during meetings"), mSpot's offering 10 "courtesy" ringtones - songs available for download that might make Emily Post cringe, but show you've at least got manners on the mind.

…feel free to use with credit to mSpot.com.

1. “Manners Matter,” Sandi Patty

2. “I’m Old-Fashioned,” John Coltrane

3. “Behave Yourself,” Booker T

4. “Keep it Down,” Yesterday’s Kids

5. “Shhh,” Miles Davis

6. “Sophisticated Lady,” Duke Ellington

7. “I Better Be Good,” Alice Cooper

8. “Enjoy the Silence,” Depeche Mode

9. “A Proper Girl,” Jackie DeShannon

10. “Politesse,” Lustfinger

But if manners have never been your thing, show people how you feel about Cell Phone Courtesy Month by downloading “Raised by Wolves” by The Bloody Hollies.

toofers!

2009-07-08T07:26:00.000-06:00

According to Oral-B, as many as 70% of women are affected by gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease, during their pregnancies. Gingivitis is caused by an accumulation of plaque in the mouth on the teeth and below the gum line; this can also be triggered by fluctuating hormones. Additionally, pregnant women are at greater risk for tooth decay when sugary food cravings kick in. Refining your oral hygiene during pregnancy is one of the most important steps you can take to help yourself and your baby.

Dr. Margaret Mitchell, DDS, of Mitchell Dental Spa, a dental and spa facility located in Chicago’s Water Tower Place, provides the following tips for maintaining proper oral hygiene during pregnancy:

• Inform Your Dentist: X-Rays can harm the baby, and medications you may be on can affect the treatment your dentist administers.
• Clean Where the Toothbrush Doesn’t: Make sure to floss every day; toothbrushes can leave as much as 40% of your tooth surfaces untouched.
• Utilize Proper Brushing Technique: Brush twice a day for at least two minutes, using fluoride toothpaste to prevent cavities.
• Increase Time Spent on Oral Care: This means brushing after every meal if possible or at least rinsing your mouth out with water if a toothbrush is not available.
• Floss: Make flossing or the use of a Waterpik a regular part of your oral hygiene regimen.
• Eat Well: A well-balanced diet will not only give your unborn baby nutrients, it will help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
• Visit Your Dentist: Consider more frequent visits to the dentist during pregnancy, so the risk of pregnancy gingivitis can be decreased through early detection and treatment. At the very least, regular 6 month check-ups during pregnancy are important.

A small break ...

2009-07-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

Here for the holiday, but my daughter turn's 8 this week so we have a few in queue and a one that our friends at Barnes and Noble happily share with me, so I can in turn share with you. Enjoy!

OR use this code to embed in a pop up window:
Tagged! on June 29

thanks again B&N!

2009-07-06T06:20:00.001-06:00

Working on drawing winners, you will get an email this week! Until then here ya go!

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Jeepers ... PEEPERS!

2009-07-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

We hear all about the economy today and the drastic measures we have to take. While the need to buckle down is as strong as ever, I love to treat myself with lil’ luxuries: lip gloss, jeans and sunglasses.

I readily admit a love for Oakley Sunglasses and I have reviewed them in the past. I also have reviewed QT Sunglasses designer-inspired models, and I’m happy to report I am doing them again right now!

Shannon Denton of QT Sunglasses is the great mind behind this fantastic site. It’s hard to find quality products that are reasonably priced with the allure of product identity. Just to clarify, these don’t give the impression of quality… they are quality! When you live life as a parent and have a family to support, it’s not that easy to dress like you want. The labels demand a bit more then everyone can afford. Now you can protect your retinas, you can stop lines at an early age, you can look good doing it, and you can save money, thanks to Shannon.

These sunglasses are as durable as the actual designer and are just as attractive, too. My daughter has a pair that she wore to school… at recess, in physical education, playing outside, at field day and at the carnival on the last day of school. They have held up great and look no worse for the wear! She loves to play at the park and wears them to keep her vision clear, and needless to say, it’s pretty cute - though can I admit when she is walking with her apple juice from the chain coffee store we see on every corner, in her designer inspired sunglasses, and flipping her long blonde hair I am a bit petrified for my future?

Back to the point of this review, I tend to get off the topic as we all know!
I love the sunglasses for all ages, and not just for the ladies. QT can hook up the men in your life as well. Stop on by and grab a few pairs, there is a discount at the end of this review for The Mom in the Know readers. I hope you enjoy this thrifty find as much as I did.

25% OFF Voucher Code: MomInTheKnow

No more boogs!

2009-06-29T07:00:00.003-06:00

Let’s face it parents. We get to pick at our kids faces, and we get to do it a lot. If you are one of the lucky that have children with allergies then you know all about ‘em… boogies. They are everywhere when you have kids and you can’t help it, and for the most part, neither can they. It’s just a part of our lives. When cold and flu season hits so do runny noses and we have no choice but to deal with it. Tissues get harsh after a bit and irritate the nose. Your skin gets dry and irritated on top of being… it’s a no-win situation.

Now there is something non-evasive to help.

Mindee & Julie, the co-founders of Boogie Wipes, shared the frustrations of many moms and wanted to find a solution. They are saline-infused moist wipe that sooth chapped, sore noses while dissolving mucus. I’ve used them myself and I can attest to the wonders of the product myself. I like the fresh scent, but recently they developed a menthol scent aimed at adults. There is also a grape scent that kids love, wipes our kids clamored for when sneezing in this house!

They are so gentle they can be used on babies, infants, and dads. Moms, kids, whoever might need a bit of help with the nose. The wipe itself it so gentle I hardly noticed it and when I did use it I was quite satisfied with the mild touch. I have sensitive skin and so do my kids which are one reason I found Boogie Wipes to be such a relief. As parents we know when your child is uncomfortable it’s no fun for anyone around. In my not-so-humble opinion, the Boogie Wipes have made our lives so much easier.

They come in a handy little plastic pouch with a pop-up opening to pull out one at a time, clean and easy and without hassle. However, the Boogie Wipes Travel Packs are ingenious, perfect for lunch boxes, school, back packs, purses, desks, cars, trucks, SUVs… you get my drift! My youngest loved that. I didn’t have to throw one or two in a baggie and have her carry that. She had her own, and every kid loves that.

I think I covered all the bases on the fascination I have with Boogie Wipes and would suggest you check out their site to see where you can build a fascination of your own.

GIVEAWAY!
In cooperation with The Mom in the Know, Boogie Wipes would like to offer one of my readers 3 packs of 30-count wipes (fresh, grape & menthol). To win go to their site and find where Boogie Wipes offices are located and email to me. The email link is located on the right side of the page or momintheknow@gmail.com with BOOGIE WIPES in the subject, please. You may ALSO leave a comment on this post! Enter as many times as you would like.

Pop it ... it's hot! (and tasty!)

2009-06-25T07:00:00.016-06:00

(look for the giveaway at the end of this review)
How many families out there still gather around and have “family” night? I know we do at least once a week. My kids still like the event (and excuse to stay up late) and I bask in it before they realize that I’m not that cool. I’m sure you remember how uncool it was to hang out with your parents, right? Well, I cuddle up with the girls on the couch and watch movie while they still want me to… even if right now it’s “Star Wars” they pick to watch.

Our favorite snack when we settle in is popcorn, and while we all partake, we each like our own toppings. The girls love popcorn, it’s a great, healthy snack and they each get their own bowl. I get them each their own seasoning or they can have it plain (we like butter, we don’t douse our kernels in it).

This is where Kernel Season comes in. Kernel Seasons offer the full menu of popcorn products and specialize in flavored popcorn spices, so full of flavor you would hardly know it’s there. It checks in at 24 calories per cup, the flavors are natural and offer no fat while low in calories. With so many choices of toppings, fourteen in all – including anything from sweet to spicy such as White Cheddar, Butter, Nacho Cheddar, Parmesan and Garlic, Ranch, Sour Cream and Onion, Salt, Caramel, Kettle Corn, Jalapeno, Chocolate Marshmallow, Apple Cinnamon, Barbecue, & Cajun – it’s hard to miss your stomach’s desire. If you have a family of many or just a variety of palates, then you have options galore.

Summer is here and school is out, we aren’t in a regular routine of physical activity and tend to run amuck in terms of schedule – but popcorn can provide a quick, health snack to help you get through and Kernel Seasons insure you enjoy the experience! Have I mentioned fat-free? I try to keep a variety of snacks available to my family and the healthier the better. Popcorn stays fresh enough in an airtight container that you can store it for a few days, and it’s a great snack anytime. Kernel Seasons make it that much better.

You can also use it for crafts if you don’t want the leftovers to go to waste (what leftovers?!)
Here are some ideas straight from Kernel Seasons:
• Popcorn holiday sheep - draw a sheep's head and feet on construction paper. Let children fill in the body with popped popcorn. (Adapt to any white animal shape.)
• Feed birds by stringing popcorn and cut up apples. Hang on a fence post for a backyard feast. Birds will use leftover string when building nests.
• Form holiday shapes (pumpkins, snowmen, etc.) from a mixture of warm popcorn and melted marshmallows. Work quickly with small batches to create desired form. Embellish with candy and other food decorations.

Need a few more things to do?
Popcorn in Games and Trivia: According to the U.S. Popcorn Board, the United States produces nearly 500,000 tons of popcorn every year making it a quintessential American favorite with uses that extend beyond the kitchen. Play these fun games during after school play dates, family night, or other special occasions.
• Play the popcorn game: Encourage kids to jump around and pretend they are popcorn kernels popping. Learn why corn pops and share this with kids while they are playing.
• Bobbing for Popcorn Balls: Tie popcorn balls to strings suspended from up high. Have kids stand next to balls and try to eat them without using their hands.
• Sing I'm A Little Kernel to the melody of I'm a Little Teapot using the following lyrics:
I'm a little kernel in a pot,
Turn on the heat and
Watch me hop.
When I get all warmed up,
Then I'll pop,
Umm, I taste good when I'm hot!

• Popcorn Trivia: Prepare simple popcorn trivia questions and answers such as...

Q: How high can popcorn pop? A: As high as three feet.
Q: Who ate popcorn like breakfast cereal with milk? A: American Pilgrims.
Q: How much popcorn will one cup of kernels make? A: One cup of kernels can make a whopping 40 cups of popped popcorn

Popcorn and its many uses, eating or for play, can be a beneficial part of your summer. If you want to spice it up, Kernel Seasons is one of the tastier options out there. Not all popcorn products are created equal. Look for Kernel Seasons at your local grocer or order online, and if shop via the web, look for their special internet offers!

What is the name of the founder or Kernel Season's AND where was Kernel Season's founded?
Winners, yes WINNERS! THREE (3) of you get prize packs including:
1 White Cheddar
1 Nacho Cheese
1 Kettle Corn
1 Butter Seasoning
1 Parmesan & Garlic
1 Ranch
3 Microwave Popcorn Packets
1 Popcorn Spritzer
1 Pouch Of Kernels
1 Recipe Book
Comment or email me your answer at momintheknow@gmail.com or click the email link on this page. I had originally said email only, you may comment, too. SPAMMERS be nice. I opened comments back up again let's give it ONE more try.

(I don't ship out of the US, because I don't know the regulations ... if you are OUT of the US and want to enter go ahead and I can at least send you a thanks, you can give your prize away to a friend in the USA if you win and then maybe they get the customs regulations and can send it and someone can explain all of it to me by then ...)

Pup-Cake

2009-06-22T07:00:00.001-06:00

You may have noticed that I am expanding out to the pet market a bit more (and couldn’t be happier). As a parent and pet owner I don’t want anything to fall by the wayside. If you are like me, your pets are a part of your family and are loved as much as any other creature in the house. I realized there was a call for more on the four-legged little ones, albeit my sloppy, drooling, snoring, stinky, loveable canines. More importantly, the market for pet supplies and products has recognized those needs and is steering to fill the void.

I must admit those innovations have allowed me to spoil the dogs. They are pampered and my lab (Dairy) is, well… okay, he’s fat. No ifs, ands or buts about it. He’s huge, weighing in at 115lbs. We also have our pampered princess Trixie and she is a bit chubby (not fat). The vet hasn’t told her to lose that freshman 15 in the next six months. We have been inundated with snacks and it doesn’t help, but this one was an exception. It was so hard to say no, trust me on it.

Puppy Cake was the brainchild of Kelly Chaney and I need to thank her personally. I know it may be silly to some, but what do you give to the eyes staring up at you when the humans are celebrating with that delectable, lip-smacking cake? Now I have the perfect resolution: Puppy Cake.

In two flavors, Buddy’s Best Banana Cake and Fifi’s Favorite Carob, your dogs will be delighted and feel as if they are part of the festivities. With a yogurt topping they won’t be running around wild, at least from sugar. Carob is a safe treat for the furry ones and my pups can’t get enough. The bananas? Yum! Just wait for the little four-legged ones to have frosting on their snouts.
These were so simple to throw together the kids helped me, and they baked right up in a before you could say, "Trixie, what is it girl?"
Kelly wouldn’t steer you in the wrong direction. Try Puppy Cake today!

PS- Don't forget the sprinkles!