If you live in an apartment, finding space for your new baby can take some creativity. Luckily, there are manufacturers with you in mind.
The crib that seems to come up repeatedly in discussions on saving space is the Alma crib from Giggle. Its small size, ability to fold, and color selection make this crib well-loved. Other companies make more traditional mini cribs. Davinci makes one in espresso that can be converted into a twin size bed. For an upscale model with more features, try the Chelsea mini crib. Dream on Me makes one that not only folds for storage, but can easily be converted into a play-pen. Orbelle sells a convertible mini-crib that comes with drawers attached. Stokke might take the cake, though, with this portable, adjustable crib that can be used for children up to 10-years-old.
For storing clothing, think tall and lean. Azur Savana makes some adorable, tall chests of drawers for a high price. BassettBaby also makes some tall chests of drawers, Room Magic produces some adorable armoires for kids, while this Berg Oslo Chiffarobe can help with space issues. This Bam bamboo wardrobe is an elegant option, while this armoire, fit for a princess, is another space-saver.
There are simpler storage solutions to consider as well, like high shelving units or a toy hammock. Use the space under the crib to store sheets and other necessities in clear plastic containers. Some cribs come with storage built-in like this beautiful, modern crib from Maclaren. Suspend storage devices on doors using door-hangers with shelves, hooks, pockets or combinations of these.
When changing diapers, a simple rolled up mat on the floor will do, but there are plenty of nicer options out there that can include storage too. A cloth, folding changing table is elegant and can be easily transported from room to room. This wall-mounted changing table that looks like an apple is adorable. If you want an inexpensive wall-mounted changing table, Ikea sells this one. Stokke sells this changing table that provides lots of storage underneath and can be transformed into a regular table or a desk in two different sizes. Maclaren makes a changing table that also serves as a chest of drawers.
A highchair that folds for storage and can function as a swing seems unbelievable but here it is. If you just want a highchair that folds easily for storage, then look no further than Graco’s Contempo. Some parents are big fans of this portable swing to save space as well.
However you work out your space issues, keep looking for solutions because sometimes the smallest change in your household design can open up lots of new possibilities. Have you discovered any great solutions to space issues?
Source
Reportedly, Tom Cruise is working on a reality TV series that will showcase his family to dispel all the strange rumors about them, including that Katie is "brainwashed." He has been filming footage of Katie and Suri that will be released to show the world that their family is "normal," even though they are renowned Scientologists.
It's reported that he got the idea after filming little snippets on the set of "Knight and Day" with Cameron Diaz and he initially just wanted to release little clips online to his fanbase, but has received multiple offers to do a full series.
Of course, no deal has been made yet and whatever footage is released will be under the strict observation of Cruise to make sure his family is displayed in the best possible light.
Would you watch reality TV featuring Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes and Suri?
Reality TV Star Tom Cruise [Contact Music]
In a recent episode of Kourtney & Khloe Take Miami, the extreme measures that Kourtney took in order to lose the baby weight are revealed.
Khloe noticed that Kourtney wasn't eating a lot and received a call that Kourtney had collapsed while running on the beach in the morning. She says to Khloe after being picked up by an ambulance: "I didn't eat anything this morning."
Kourtney admitted to worrying too much about losing weight after the incident, but she still managed to lose 33 lbs in 3 months, which is an unhealthy amount to lose in such a short amount of time. Losing 1-2 lbs a week is what most experts will recommend for people who are trying to lose weight.
Skipping meals is not only an effective way of slowing metabolism, but severely restricting calories while breastfeeding has long-term health effects on the mother and baby. Besides losing your milk supply, skipping meals increases your chances of becoming anemic and fatigued, the last thing you need when caring for a newborn.
It’s depressing to think that she was later featured on a Life & Style cover with the headline: “How I lost 33 lbs.” I don’t know which is worse: photoshopping post-baby weight-loss or promoting unhealthy weight loss methods?
Daily Mail
Risks of Losing Too Much Weight Too Quickly [Livestrong]
Nutrition, Exercise and Weight Loss While Breasfeeding [Breasfeeding Basics]
Dresses:
Tops:
Pants and Shorts:
Skirts
Bathing Suits:
Happy Shopping!
A small rise in body temperature is unlikely to cause harm during your pregnancy, but a large change in body temperature can lead to preterm labor. During pregnancy, your body temperature is already a bit higher than normal due to an increased metabolism. Becoming dehydrated, getting sunburned and not cooling down when you get too hot can all lead to heat exhaustion and possibly even heat stroke.
Keep in mind throughout your pregnancy that you already need extra fluids and when the weather gets hot, it's especially important to stay hydrated. Drink 8-10 glasses of water a day and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Avoid consuming lots of salt, caffeine, and alcohol, which will only serve to dehydrate the body. Eating large meals can speed up your metabolism and increase your body temperature, so keep meals small and frequent.
Take steps to keep your body cool during the day. Dress in lightweight clothing and avoid dark colors that attract more sunlight. Apply sunscreen if you are going to be out in the sun and re-apply every hour that you stay in the sun. Avoid going out when temperatures are the highest – usually between 12-3pm. If an air-conditioned environment isn’t available, reserve strenuous activity and exercise for early morning or evening. Swimming is an excellent way to stay cool and fit during your pregnancy.
If you don’t have air-conditioning, keep the house cool with fans and close blinds and curtains to keep the sun out. Open all the windows during the cool parts of the day and close them when the air heats up. Be aware of any electronics that heat up a room and avoid using them if possible. Eat cool foods, cook on a grill or eat out. Keeping a large salad with nuts, fruits and vegetables in the fridge is a perfect ready-made meal on a hot day.
The only way you will know if your baby is in distress from heat is reduced fetal movement. Stay tuned-in and contact your doctor if the baby moves significantly less for a period of 24 hours.
Dry skin, chapped lips, fatigue, thirst, and constipation are just the first signs of dehydration. If you experience these, go somewhere cool, sit down and drink some water.
If you experience dizziness or feel lightheaded, lie down on your left side and drink some cool water. Heat cramps are usually the first sign of temperature stress on the body. Headache, nausea, fatigue, and mental confusion are signs of heat exhaustion that should be addressed immediately by cooling the body down. Drinking chilled water, lying down in a cool environment or taking a cool shower are all effective ways to bring the body temperature down.
Read more about Hot Summer Safety at Pregnancy Weekly.
Do you have any other tips for staying cool?
Extreme Heat: Effects on Children and Pregnant Women [Environmental Protection Agency] Coping with the Heat in Pregnancy [Suite 101]
Alicia Keys dazzled the crowds at the BET awards in a variety of maternity outfits, but the outfit she wore to accept the Lifetime award was that of a goddess. We found comparable items that come together to create an ethereal, summer outfit.
Katie Maternity Maxi Dress from Babies N Bellies - $59.99
Me Too Linda gold metallic flats - $71.20
Gold Tarnish Fringe Necklace - $28
Thick Braidie Headband - $10
Stay cool and stylish this summer!
Summer should be a time of joy, so hearing reports of 19 children dying in hot cars already this year is a terrible reminder of one of the most preventable disasters. While it's easy to say, "I would never let that happen," the ways that children get left in cars are simple mistakes that any parent could make. About half of the children who die from hyperthermia are "forgotten" by their caregivers. Another 30% occur when children are unattended, playing in the car. A change in routine, such as an important call received during a trip, can cause a parent to forget that the child has not been dropped off and is still in the car. For the rest of the summer, make sure your kids are safe from the heat by practicing these tips:
In addition:
It only takes 10 minutes in a closed, hot car for the temperature inside to rise 19 degrees. A person suffers heatstroke when the body temperature exceeds 104 degrees. Please stay conscious of an easily preventable tragedy this summer.
Fatal Distraction: Forgetting a Child in the Backseat of a Car Is a Horrifying Mistake. Is It a Crime? [Washington Post] Children Dying in Hot Cars [NYTimes] Fact Sheet – Hyperthermia Deaths of Children in Vehicles [SF Dept. Of Geosciences]
Dressing when you're pregnant can be difficult, but dressing for the postpartum period is infinitely more so. It's this point where women tend to feel hypercritical of their appearance which can be overwhelming with the increased hormones associated with the postpartum period.
It’s important to accept the body you’re working with; a truth to dressing fashionably at any life stage. In the so-called “fourth” trimester, you probably look about three months pregnant, your breasts are enlarged, and various parts of your body are retaining extra weight. The slow return to your pre-pregnancy shape is natural and even if you are trying to hide some issues with clothes remember to give your body the respect and love it deserves.
For women who had small breasts before pregnancy, larger breasts are usually a pleasant addition. Low-cut shirts, tank tops and other revealing cuts accentuate the beautiful bosom you’re sporting. For the woman who already had large breasts, engorged breasts can be a total hassle. Fight the urge to wear high-collared shirts as they will only make “the girls” look bigger, and be sure to invest in several good bras. Shirts with built-in support can also be helpful.
Veteran moms know the emotional fallout when someone asks how far along you are after you've given birth. If you haven’t yet, you might want to invest in a belly bandit or another belly-binder. Baggy clothes will not help you look or feel better. Unfortunately, pregnancy styles like empire waists, wrap tops, tunics and drop waists are still your go-to styles. A couple of good nursing tops can help you feel like you’re at least moving away from maternity clothes.
Fabrics are more important than shape. Choose fabrics that contain Lycra, as they will bounce back and won’t cling to your body. However, be careful not to buy fabrics that take a lot of effort to get clean. You’ll also want to buy cheap, because much of your postpartum clothing will be ruined by your little one. Patterned fabrics make stains less visible. Always keep a change of clothes with you and an extra change of clothes at work. Wearing a large button-down over your nice clothes when feeding your little one can help protect against accidents.
On Top: To create a slimmer look, use long, loose cardigans and stretchy knit tops that add length to your body. Get out the long necklaces and scarves. Cinched or belted shirt dresses at the waist or the hips are an excellent way to look chic and keep problem areas out of the spotlight. Flutter and cap sleeves bring attention to the top.
Down Below: Leggings keep you looking trim and are comfortable. Colorful (but comfortable) shoes draw attention to your feet and will make you feel great. A-line skirts or skirts that flare away are comfortable, chic, and forgiving. Do yourself an immense favor and buy one pair of jeans that fit your postpartum body. It may seem like a waste of money if you intend to lose the weight, but the way you will feel is priceless. Buy pants that fit the widest part of your body and then drop straight down from there. Avoid cargo pants or pants that have pockets sticking out.
Be careful not to obsess over small issues. For some, a tailor can be a life-saver by bringing normal clothes into your new size. Do what you need to make yourself feel good, even if it just means putting on a little lipstick, because regardless of your body shape, confidence is the only accessory that you need to look fabulous.
Expensive beauty products and trips to the spa can be impossible sometimes. Plus, many of the products used in spas aren't safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That's why we're providing you with some spa treatments that are totally non-toxic and made from items that you can get at the grocery store. Devote (at least) one hour to yourself and get to pampering with these yummy treatments. **Warning: test concoctions on the inner forearm for any possible reactions before using.
Hair
Face
Eyes
Bath soak
Body Scrub
Body Butter
Make it a priority to have a spa day once a month. A relaxed mom is a happy mom!
Beauty 101 [Jezebel]