personalized baby blanket

Baby personalized blanket a prefect gift.

2008-07-31T02:26:00.000-07:00

Giving a Personalized baby blanket to a new born baby is one of the best beneficial and prefect gift. Most of this gift are giving to a very close friends or relatives. Baby blanket can last longer then any other gift and besides you can notice the baby using it whenever you visits the baby when in bed or sleeping. Baby personalized blanket comes in many colors and design. Most people would prefer the colors of baby blanket for the baby. For instance for a baby girl a pink with flowers and baby boys a blue with super hero picture.

You will never feel disappointed when giving a baby personalized blanket to a new born baby. Even today after five years that I give a baby blanket to my sister daughter, I see she been using it even the blanket is torn as the baby will cry when ever her parents took away the blanker for washing. What a prefect gift.

Personalized baby blanket a gift for a new born child

2008-05-13T22:52:00.000-07:00

Most parents and grandparents would like to give their baby or grandchildren a favorite gift for their coming baby be it be the first child or the second or third one. Some are personalized baby shirts, pillow or blanket. A personalized baby blanket is the best gift for the baby as blanket can be used very long and the baby would not like to part with it even it is torn or wear off.

Todays personalized baby blanket comes in many color and design and materials. When I got my first grandson I present him with a baby personalized baby blanket. It is made of Nordic fleece with matching satin trims and of blue in color. As fleece baby blanket is safe and easy to handle or care. It is washable whether by hands or in a washing machine and be dry outside or by dryer. Her mother buy him a embroidered baby personalized baby blanket. Its looks very beautiful of many colors and embroidered with flowers and birds.

A gift of personalized baby blanket a best gift for a newborn baby.

2008-03-17T03:39:00.000-07:00

The best gifts to buy for a new born baby is a personalized baby blanket. As years to come you will still see the little grown up baby still treasure your gift that you gave them. Most baby will stay with it because of the smell of the blanket. Even today my sister son still using the blanket even some parts of the blankets is torn. She try to get him a new one but whenever she change it , he will cry until the blanket is back to him.

Today's baby personalized blankets comes in many colors and beautiful designs. Most of the baby blanket are of flowers, animals and of cartoon pictures. You can purchase in complex and sopping malls. It comes in single or sets with others baby products. The materials used are of high quality which can keeps the warm from cold time. A gift of personalized baby blanket a best gift for a newborn baby.

Personalized baby blanket a best gift for new born baby

2007-11-28T21:43:00.000-08:00

When my first baby was born I brought her a personalized baby blanket which I ask my elder sister to sew for me with her name and pictures of snow white and beautiful birds around her. When she is born she is quite fair and had a rosy cheek so I decided pink is the best colour for her. After a year I decided to change her a new one but luckly I did not throw away the olds ones. Whenever I change the new blanket she cry so I had to returned back her old personalized blanket.

Nowadays baby personalized blanket can be brought in most shopping outlet, complex and baby shops. Personalized baby blanket comes in beautiful colours and design. Personalized baby blanket in many big shop outlet are design to your liking. Just choose a colour plain blanket and ask them to had things you want on the blanket. You can put the name and picture of the baby, or picture of animals, cartoon or favourite heroes. If you're looking to give the perfect gift for any new baby, a personalized baby blanket is the best gift.

Every baby had their personalized baby blanket

2007-09-24T01:16:00.000-07:00

Every baby had their personalized items of their own and to get rids of this items is not a simple things to do even we know it very smelly as the baby will keep on crying it his personalized items were gone. My sister daughter which I brought for her when she is born a baby personalized blanket and she is still using until today at the age of two.

Whenever we take her personalized blanket for washing we had to replace a similar one for her. In order to change personalized blanket for her we brought another same blanket. We keep changing the blanket until she is used to both blanket. For the beginning it is quite hard as she is used to one blanket but slowly she will be ok to both.

Personalized baby blankets from uncle gil

2007-07-24T02:33:00.000-07:00

A very close friends of mine is expected to be a father next two months. His wife is expecting a baby girl and most of the baby personalized items has been brought by them and their in-laws. It is quite hard to choose the perfect gift baby gift for his first baby.

Going around shopping for baby personalized gift, to some famous baby shops and through internet online I come across a personalized baby blankets at one shop in a shopping complex which can design and beautiful sew with the baby name on it or any style you want to be or you can even come out with your own design or your own wording. Since they are expecting a baby girl so I got the baby a pink colour blanket with the baby name sewed in it, with nice wording and from uncle gil.

personalized baby blakets for my grandchildren

2007-06-26T01:01:00.000-07:00

Most pregnant mother were go shopping for their baby personalized items before the baby is out in this world. Most mothers and even fathers will go for shopping complex, baby stores and even through internet online to get baby personalized gifts. There are many big company from online selling many personalized baby gift and most of the time the price you get are more cheaper then the store out at the complex besides you had varity and colours to choose at.

Throught internet online I brought personalized baby blakets, towels and also baby music gift for my coming grandchildren. The design was very beautiful and the personalized baby blankets and towels is of pink in colours and with floral sewing.

personalized baby blanket gift to a new born baby

2007-05-17T03:11:00.000-07:00

A gift to a new born baby is not very difficults nowadays as you can walk in a shopping complex or supermarket and request for a personalized baby blanket. Todays personalized baby blanket comes in a beautiful package box with all the babys items wrapped in a beautiful arranged box. The items comes in difference size with difference price tags on it.

Now parents are very pampared their new born kids. Before the child could come out the personalized baby blanket are all ready for the kids.

Personalized baby blanket a gift to a new born baby

2007-04-16T01:42:00.000-07:00

Personalized baby blanket can be presents as a nice gift to a mother for their new born baby. Personalized baby blankets comes in many different kinds colours and sizes. They can be in solid colors, prints, landscapes or even have animals on them. Some personalized baby blanket comes in sets which include pillows and bolster and also baby mattressare sometime in the sets.

Others items that can be given as a present are baby shower gift such as baby toys, where the mother can hang on the baby beds with musicwhen you pull the strings, baby cloths with napkins,sock and hand glove or you can even presents with sets of baby powders, sampoo and baby bath towels.

Every baby has its personalized baby blanket

2007-03-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

In todays market you can find many patterns, style, colous and designs of baby blanket. Its comes in beautiful pictures of colour Disney cartoon to choose for your baby. Animals such as mickey mouse, winnie the pooh, donalds duck and many safari animals. Besides that its keeps the baby warms during the raindy seasons and always games to the baby.

I brought a baby blanket for my sister first kid as a presents with picture of snow white and the seven dwaft. Today after one years old nobody can takeaways her personalized baby blankets as she will cry and will not goes to sleeps if she could't smell her personalized baby blanket. Whenever we do washing we will see that the sun is very hot so that her blanket can be ready when goes to sleep.

Some Great Baby Gift Ideas For Anyone's Baby

2007-02-12T00:43:00.000-08:00

The birth of a new baby is an amazing time in any mom or dad's life. Let them know how much you care by choosing a unique gift. The best place to find jaw dropping baby presents is by heading online. A plethora of online stores will all compete for your business. The array of items and prices is tremendous.

Do you remember having a favorite blanket as a child? There is nothing better than a soft, warm blanket for a newborn. If you can find a pattern or style that makes it truly stand out, even better. We've all seen blankets with bunnies and ducks, but how about a personalized baby blanket with the infant’s family tree? This is a memento that no one else would have thought of!

Another unique idea is box or basket filled with items that all new moms would need. It is normal to get baskets full of toys, blankets, and clothing. Few ever think of supplying a new mom with Destin, Q-Tips, cotton swabs, shampoo, diapers, heating pads, and other items that new parents will spend a lot of money purchasing.

How about starting a bank account for the new infant? Consider starting an account for a minimum deposit (usually $25 is required) and then chipping in a mere 50 cents weekly. It may sound like a little bit, but after eighteen years that meager amount will become more than $500 with interest.

There are many online sites that can help narrow your search. These sites can help you find suitable gifts within your price range, baby's sex, item descriptions, and more. Many of these websites also allow you to enter more than one search field, such as $15 to $25 for a boy. By eliminating the time you spend searching, you will have more time to find the perfect gift.

Another item that parents may not think about is a life insurance policy for their newborn. If you have the money to pay, you can purchase a small life insurance policy for dollars a month. Pay for this policy until the child reaches the age of eighteen, and then the child can renew the policy if desired. This is another unique and thoughtful gift. You can search online for a quality, inexpensive policy.

If the baby's parents are into environmental causes, consider searching for all natural baby products. There are a number of websites that dedicate their stores to selling natural, environmentally friendly items.

What matters most is a gift that comes straight from the heart. Instead of following the norm and buying more onesies or baby toys, why not do something a little more outrageous? It is certain that the baby's mom and dad will never forget your generosity.

Tips for More Restful Baby Sleep

2007-02-04T21:55:00.000-08:00

After they are born, babies need to sleep often. However, they do not slumber for long stretches at a time. Parents have to respond as quickly as possible to their baby's sleep and eating needs because very young infants need to eat and sleep on demand. You will find it easier to achieve this by keeping the baby near you. An infant usually follows a pattern similar to eat, poop, sleep, quiet alert time, and repeat. It is important that you observe your baby when he or she is at one of these stages. You can chart the steps and look for patterns if you want to see the baby sleep patterns of your newborn more accurately.

You can encourage the baby to sleep alone, but it is important that you always remain nearby. If a baby is swaddled in a personalized baby blanket or held close to a parent's body, then it will sleep better. A baby feels comfortable with the warmth and feeling of being held by his or her parents. Every baby sleeps easier when he or she feels comfortable and familiar with the environment.

Your baby may refuse to sleep alone at first but, there’s no need to worry. Your baby will develop the habit of sleeping alone with practice. Remember that every baby has different baby sleep habits. It would be a good idea to swaddle your newborn and lay him down on his back or side for sleep at least a couple of times a day. As the days go on, you can increase the number of times the baby sleeps alone gradually.

personalized baby blanket a top items for new parent

2007-02-01T00:15:00.000-08:00

Every first parents are very important what to buy for their first baby. They will start to shop for the baby items in baby gift shop, supermarket and even through internet on line when they are few months pregnant.

The most popular items is the personalized baby blanket comes in many design, colours and shape. It is soft and kept the baby at all times warm. You can also choose your own design, name of the baby if you already knows the name and the sex of the baby. Pillow, bolster and the beds is also a top consider for new mother.

Present for your baby

2007-01-15T21:39:00.000-08:00

Instead of throwing up your hands or settling for the less-than-perfect gift, think outside of the box. A personalized photo gift is guaranteed to be the one-of-a-kind present that your loved one will cherish forever. Imagine transforming your family portrait into a throw blanket for your grandparents, or using that photo of you and your best friend at the beach house to create an unforgettable keepsake box. When your sister is having her first baby, she will treasure a custom photo gift baby blanket that is woven with a picture of the baby's parents.

Whether the gift keepsakes photo is of a memorable scene or memorable people, it can be turned into anything from a personalized baby blanket to a coffee mug, from a pillow to a mouse pad.

The ubiquitous nature of digital photography makes transforming a picture into a custom photo gift a breeze. You can simply order the gift, upload a photo, and congratulate yourself on coming up with a gift that will become an unforgettable memory for someone special.

2007-01-09T01:16:00.000-08:00

Who isn’t a fan of kid products that grow with them and can be used in various ways accordingly? Take this handcrafted personalized baby blanket and poncho for example. The first thing that’s admirable about it, I must admit, is the fact that it’s of polyester fleece made from recycled plastic bottles--smart and helpful, in this case, to the planet. Secondly, one keeps the ribbons tied along the middle cottom trim for use as a soft and cuddly baby blanket. Thirdly, as the baby morphs into a toddler, the ribbons are untied and voila! it’s a poncho. Much appreciated versatility for long-term use in a product that can then be passed on to arriving siblings. Just my thing!

2006-12-10T23:33:00.000-08:00

A trio of McLoughlin Middle School students quietly folded personalized baby blankets and placed them in a plastic bag.

They were careful with the tiny throws -- each not much bigger than a lunch tray -- even as they briefly pulled them out to show off the gentle colors, the soft backs.

Each square represented weeks of planning, cutting and sewing by students at the Pasco school. And the lessons they learned as a result extended beyond the classroom. The blankets were made for the Mid-Columbia and Central Washington March of Dimes to be used by premature babies.

2006-11-27T00:18:00.000-08:00

Andy Warhol overlooked a detail when he said that in the future everyone will be famous for 15 minutes. If you're really famous your stuff will be sold at auction after you die. Andy's a case in point. His cookie jar collection incited a bidding frenzy in 1988, going for nearly a quarter of a million dollars.

It's hard to imagine two more different men. McQueen was an internal combustion engine masquerading as movie actor, his star power directly proportional to his proximity to a revving engine -- most famously, a motorcycle in "The Great Escape " and a Mustang in "Bullitt ."

Capote, in contrast, was physically tiny and personally flamboyant. That flamboyance, even more than his literary skill, made him a talk-show mainstay back in the '60s. The Capote items come, in fact, from the collection of Joanne Carson , Johnny Carson's second wife, who was a close friend of Capote's. (It was at her Los Angeles home that he was found dead, in 1984.)

The McQueen auction is heavy on motorcycles, hunting knives, and firearms. There's even a white-and-aqua 1958 GMC pickup truck. But it also has McQueen's Master Charge card, a pair of sunglasses he wore in "The Thomas Crown Affair, " and his personalized Wurlitzer jukebox, which features recordings by Bill Haley , Bing Crosby , and Glenn Miller .

Although literary items figure in the Capote auction, the more intriguing items are personal. They include the author's Personalized baby blanket, his passport (inset, bottom photo) , and a pair of ice skates. (Capote always skated on thin ice -- who knew he did it literally, too?) Best of all, there's the tuxedo he wore to the Black and White Ball , the legendary bash Capote hosted at New York's Plaza Hotel in 1966.

Expect a bidding war to break out between Philip Seymour Hoffman and Toby Jones.

Little Giraffe

2006-11-16T22:43:00.000-08:00

Little Giraffe has also drawn significant attention from national television shows and magazines. The company's adult and baby collections have received praise in People magazine, Pregnancy, The Robb Report Luxury Collection, Life & Style, Better Homes & Gardens Find It! Guide, and US Weekly. Television shows including Access Hollywood, The View, and Extra have also featured Little Giraffe products in recent months. Access Hollywood went inside Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's nursery for their new daughter Shiloh, and featured Little Giraffe's bestselling chenille and personalized baby blanket. Popular network TV shows such as Desperate Housewives and The OC have also featured products from the Little Giraffe and Giraffe at Home collections this past year.

Little Giraffe has rapidly become a hit in Hollywood. Celebrity moms including Angelina Jolie, Britney Spears, Liv Tyler, Denise Richards, Jennifer Garner, Marcia Gay Harden, and Katie Holmes are fans of Little Giraffe's plush baby blankets and bedding. Holmes custom ordered twelve pink blankets from Fred Segal in Los Angeles before her daughter Suri was born, and Jolie was featured on the cover of People magazine cradling her daughter Zahara in Little Giraffe's white chenille blanket. Cameron Diaz, Jessica Alba, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen Pompeo, Debra Messing, Teri Hatcher, Felicity Huffman, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Katherine Heigl, Sandra Oh and Annette Bening are fans of the luxurious satin and chenille robes from the Giraffe at Home collection and Eva Longoria loves the Luxe Collection's plush faux-fur throws.

Gift for baby

2006-11-01T22:37:00.000-08:00

In today's world, it seems that almost any topic is open for debate. While I was gathering facts for this article, I was quite surprised to find some of the issues I thought were settled are actually still being openly discussed.

Instead of throwing up your hands or settling for the less-than-perfect gift, think outside of the box. A personalized photo gift is guaranteed to be the one-of-a-kind present that your loved one will cherish forever. Imagine transforming your family portrait into a throw blanket for your grandparents, or using that photo of you and your best friend at the beach house to create an unforgettable keepsake box. When your sister is having her first baby, she will treasure a custom photo gift baby blanket that is woven with a picture of the baby's parents.

Whether the gift keepsakes photo is of a memorable scene or memorable people, it can be turned into anything from a personalized baby blanket to a coffee mug, from a pillow to a mouse pad.

How can you put a limit on learning more? The next section may contain that one little bit of wisdom that changes everything.

The ubiquitous nature of digital photography makes transforming a picture into a custom photo gift a breeze. You can simply order the gift, upload a photo, and congratulate yourself on coming up with a gift that will become an unforgettable memory for someone special.

With digital imaging technology, a personalized photo gift of a blanket or throw means that weave of the fabric itself will contain the image. Typically, black and white photos have better reproductive quality than color photos, but the company that makes your personalized photo gift can convert any color digital image to black and white.

The thoughtfulness demonstrated by giving a personalized photo gift is sure to touch your recipient. So, whether the occasion is a birthday, an anniversary, Christmas, or no occasion at all, keep it simple, but keep it personal.

Don't limit yourself by refusing to learn the details about personalized baby blanket. The more you know, the easier it will be to focus on what's important.

2006-10-29T23:50:00.000-08:00

If you have even a passing interest in the topic of personalized baby blanket, then you should take a look at the following information. This enlightening article presents some of the latest news on the subject of personalized baby blanket.

What s more is that these Sheety Blankets, as they re affectingly called, can also be highly personalized. Personalization Plus, exlusively by Fill In The Blankie, offers customers up to 200 characters embroidered along the satin edges of 100% woven cotton blankets. Most other high-end retailers allow no more than 20 characters. But, more than that, these one-of-a-kind blankies are fast and easy to create. It s more than just a monogram or birthdate; this allows customers to weave their warmest wishes into a high-quality blankie.

These 400 count blankets are my newest favorite product. Some thought I was crazy here when I introduced the idea and some probably still do, says owner, Todd Lilly. But, they ve become the hands-down favorite in my house, and trust me, we have a lot of blankets for the kids to chose from.

If you base what you do on inaccurate information, you might be unpleasantly surprised by the consequences. Make sure you get the whole personalized baby blanket story from informed sources.

Lilly continues, We re so pumped about being able to offer something that s just not available anywhere else -- at a very reasonable price and in a very short amount of time. Lilly started the company two years ago and is a unique business owner with what can only be described as a wacky personality. He says there are two things you have to have to quit a perfectly-good career to sell baby blankets: a bit of an unbalanced personality and a sincere belief in your product.

So now you know a little bit about personalized baby blanket. Even if you don't know everything, you've done something worthwhile: you've expanded your knowledge.

my auntie baby

2006-10-09T21:10:00.000-07:00

Last month, my auntie give a very cute baby. Once she born, her's baby received a lots of gift. The gift contain, Personalized baby blanket, baby shirts, baby shoes, and other gift that related to baby usage.

2006-10-03T23:24:00.000-07:00

This interesting article addresses some of the key issues regarding personalized baby blanket. A careful reading of this material could make a big difference in how you think about personalized baby blanket.

Remember, your baby, at least to begin with, is going to be spending a lot of time in bed, so it's important to choose baby bedding that will be comfortable and practical. If it looks nice too, then that's even better. But your baby's comfort needs to come first.

Generally, your next choice is whether to buy each item individually, or just buy a bedding set. Buying a baby bedding set is often a good option, as it generally works out to be cheaper than buying each piece individually. Also, you don't have to worry about whether or not everything will look co-ordinated, because it automatically is. Usually a baby bedding set will include a baby blanket, cot sheet and a quilt. You don't need a pillowcase, as it's not recommended that baby use a pillow.

Now you can start to look at individual designs. If you know your baby's gender, then you may want to select something appropriate. It's a bit stereotyped, but generally girls have pink and boys have blue. If you're keen to be surprised on the day your baby is born, then you may want to go for something more neutral, like yellow, white or green.

If your personalized baby blanket facts are out-of-date, how will that affect your actions and decisions? Make certain you don't let important personalized baby blanket information slip by you.

Rather than having plain sheets, you might prefer to find baby bedding with a theme. Again, if you know the gender of your baby, you could look for fairies, butterflies or princesses for girls, and fire engines, trucks or trains for boys. For a non-gender specific theme, check out cartoon characters like Winnie the Pooh (my personal favorite!), teddy bears or zoo animals.

If you prefer not to go with a theme, you can always find some baby bedding with patterns on it. This type of bedding can be good because if the colours are a mix of yellows, greens and whites, you can hand them down to your next baby if you have more than one child. Patterned bedding can also be of interest to your baby, helping to relieve boredom.

And if you're really stuck for ideas, it's possible to hire an expert who can design the whole nursery for you, and choose appropriate baby bedding as part of the service.

Is there really any information about personalized baby blanket that is nonessential? We all see things from different angles, so something relatively insignificant to one may be crucial to another.

Items in Baby gift baskets

2006-10-02T01:55:00.000-07:00

Would you like to find out what those-in-the-know have to say about personalized baby blanket? The information in the article below comes straight from well-informed experts with special knowledge about personalized baby blanket.

Baby gift baskets are very personal and a way to show new parents how much you care. They can be given when a baby is born, or for a shower gift, baptism, christening, or for baby’s first birthday. If the basket is a gift given before the baby is born, a combination of generic baby gifts like diapers, rattles, pacifiers, wash clothes, etc. make a perfect, useful basket. If the sex of the baby is known, then pink or blue with a mix of colors makes for a beautiful and practical gift that can include a baby blanket, sweater, pajamas, etc.

You can also use your imagination and use other holders instead of baskets for the gifts. For instance, you can fill a baby bathtub with washcloths, diapers, towels and soaps and shampoos. Or if family and friends are going in on a cradle, you can fill that with stuffed animals, blankets, sheets, baby clothes, and other special baby gifts.

It's really a good idea to probe a little deeper into the subject of personalized baby blanket. What you learn may give you the confidence you need to venture into new areas.

While your at it, you might want to also put together a small basket for the new mom or mom-to-be. This could contain some of her favorite CDs, a couple of picture frames (to put new babies picture in), bubble bath, skin creams – again, you can use your imagination. It’s just another way to say that you care about mommy too!

That's how things stand right now. Keep in mind that any subject can change over time, so be sure you keep up with the latest news.

Personalized baby gifts

2006-09-27T22:49:00.000-07:00

You should be able to find several indispensable facts about personalized baby blanket in the following paragraphs. If there's at least one fact you didn't know before, imagine the difference it might make.

Personalized baby gifts are unique keepsakes to commemorate your baby’s birth. Everyone wants to give the perfect baby gift during times of christening, birthdays, holidays, or just for the sake of showing the baby and the family that you care. If it is personalized, it becomes all that more special. These priceless keepsakes will be remembered and cherished forever, and parents are definitely delighted to receive them.

There are many personalized baby gifts on the market today. One popular item is the personalized baby blanket. This soft, snuggly cover comes in an assortment of subtle shades, personalized with baby’s name, birth information and other details. The blanket serves many purposes, and definitely keeps a baby snug and warm.

The more authentic information about personalized baby blanket you know, the more likely people are to consider you a personalized baby blanket expert. Read on for even more personalized baby blanket facts that you can share.

Feed and change baby before boarding: Keep your baby clean and happy before boarding, and transfer that good feeling as you enter the plane. Try to coincide your baby's mealtime as close to your flight as possible, and always keep snacks ready for the flight to calm any fits (graham crackers for a solid eater, an extra bottle for an infant). If you breastfeed, consult with the airline before your flight to determine if there are any privacy options, like the possibility of an extra seat in the back of the plane to use. If your flight is full, keep a baby blanket on hand should the need to nurse arise.

Sometimes, a trip will not always go as planned, and your baby may need changing during flight. Anyone who has had the arduous task of changing a baby on board a plane will tell you it is not easy! Consult with the airline before you leave with regards to your options. You may find, too, you are flying with some very understand passengers who may be willing to help.

That's how things stand right now. Keep in mind that any subject can change over time, so be sure you keep up with the latest news.

tip for helping your baby sleep well

2006-09-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

If you're seriously interested in knowing about personalized baby blanket, you need to think beyond the basics. This informative article takes a closer look at things you need to know about personalized baby blanket.

Babies will often cry when they are first put to bed. Try to ignore light crying that lasts under fifteen minutes. It may seem like a long time, but if you immediately go to them when they start crying, they will learn that the crying brings them attention - especially if you pick them up and rock them, trying to get them to sleep. That's not to say that you should ignore a screaming baby. If you must go in and check on them, keep your interaction minimal. Pat them lightly, check their diaper (changing them in bed if necessary) and do not turn on any lights. Then quickly leave once you have established that everything is all right.

One more tip for helping your baby sleep well, especially newborns, is to swaddle them. Swaddling is wrapping your baby tightly in a blanket, which is how most babies sleep in the hospital. It prevents them from rolling around too much and keeps those sudden sleeping "jerks" from jarring them awake. It also seems to comfort them, possibly reminding them of the confines of the womb.

The best time to learn about personalized baby blanket is before you're in the thick of things. Wise readers will keep reading to earn some valuable personalized baby blanket experience while it's still free.

Think back for a moment to your childhood. What was your favorite thing to play? What did you pretend for hours on end? When parents are asked this question, almost without exception we discover that our favorite play scenarios were those we created out of our imaginations. We were mommies feeding babies, superheroes with a towel-turned-cape, explorers of our backyards. Grandparents often say they played with what little play materials they had. A simple cloth was a baby blanket, a parachute flyer, and a costume all in one.

Today's children have toys far more detailed and sophisticated. However, a growing number of psychologists and child development specialists are advocating for a return to the "natural" play of yesteryear. Why? Because it requires imagination!

There's no doubt that the topic of personalized baby blanket can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about personalized baby blanket, you may find what you're looking for in the next article.

2006-09-22T00:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what exactly is up with personalized baby blanket? This informative report can give you an insight into everything you've ever wanted to know about personalized baby blanket.

Most new parents experience some sleep deprivation. A baby swing can help lull babies to sleep more easily. New mom and dad can then get some much needed sleep too. A baby play center can keep baby entertained and occupied in a safe environment while mommy can relax or get some house work done. Baby can be entertained with a bouncer or a mobile. A music CD for babies will help keep baby entertained too.

If expectant mom plans to breastfeed, try getting her a big soft blanket that she can use to put over her shoulder while nursing. Books and magazines will help keep mom entertained while breastfeeding. A one-year subscription of parenting magazine is a fine gift idea too.

Knowledge can give you a real advantage. To make sure you're fully informed about personalized baby blanket, keep reading.

Consider photo albums for gifts. New parents take lots of pictures of their baby. If new mom is someone who loves to do scrapbook, consider giving a scrapbook album. A good quality 4" x 6" photo album makes good baby gift too.

As your knowledge about personalized baby blanket continues to grow, you will begin to see how personalized baby blanket fits into the overall scheme of things. Knowing how something relates to the rest of the world is important too.

Personalizing a baby’s gift is an excellent idea

2006-09-21T00:53:00.000-07:00

This interesting article addresses some of the key issues regarding personalized baby blanket. A careful reading of this material could make a big difference in how you think about personalized baby blanket.

Personalizing a baby’s gift is an excellent idea, making the gift distinct and special and grows into a cherished token through the years. When giving or making a gift sooner, before the baby’s due, you are faced with the problem of not being certain about the name and the birth date. One option to consider is by giving a gift certificate for an etching or engraving design along with your gift. This way, when the wonderful day arrives, the parents can take your gift and have it personalized.

A gift at this time would be anything that would cheer her up, make her feel pampered, and give her physical comfort. Pregnancy might be a time of physical discomfort for her, and even small, inexpensive gifts like Morning Sickness belly soothers will be very appreciated.

Choices for personalized gifts are baby cups, picture frame, jewelry or a cutlery set. There are wide selections of items that can be personalized; all you have to do is look.

So far, we've uncovered some interesting facts about personalized baby blanket. You may decide that the following information is even more interesting.

A blanket for baby embroidered with the baby’s name alongside the name’s meaning would make an excellent gift for both mom and baby.

Personalized items like blankets with prints taken from the photographs of the mother and baby are available at PrintsCharming.com. These can be embroidered with the name or initials of the mother or baby.

Apart from these, gifts like jewelry, books, CDs, and anything that satisfies her food cravings are also good gifts. Chocolate gift baskets, candle gift baskets with scented lavender candles, Mother’s basket with honey, cookies, candles and perfumes, are retailed on Basket-Basket.com. They help put the woman in a relaxed frame of mind, and make her feel cheerful.

The day will come when you can use something you read about here to have a beneficial impact. Then you'll be glad you took the time to learn more about personalized baby blanket.

Birthday present for baby

2006-09-19T02:23:00.000-07:00

When you're learning about something new, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of relevant information available. This informative article should help you focus on the central points.

The idea is to make a picture that includes something that they are especially interested in. This could be a hobby or any other interest they have.

This is a quick and easy technique. You simply choose your theme (their hobby or interest), paint a silhouette of it onto a colored background and frame it.

You could paint a colored background onto a canvas panel or use already colored paper. I noticed my local art store had colored card that had a range of colors merging into each other, this would be ideal for this technique.

The theme of your silhouette is really the creative part. The easiest thing would be to use their hobby as the theme.

Look through some copyright free clip art until you find an image that you could use for the outline of the silhouette.

If you find yourself confused by what you've read to this point, don't despair. Everything should be crystal clear by the time you finish.

If they like fishing it could be a fisherman/fish/fishing fly. For a golfer it could be a set of clubs/golf hole with flag. For someone who likes to cook it could be related to cooking. If they are keen church-goers a silhouette of their church may be appreciated.

Snow is white and a blanket of snow shows the camera exposure meter a blanket of white. Consequently, the camera will average all the white it sees and attempt to produce an image that is “average” or “mid grey”. This means that snow turns out not white, but some dirty, murky colour.

But how do you ensure that snow on your image is the virgin white that your eyes see? It’s easy.

Because your camera sees a vision of white, it will underexpose the image leading to murky highlights and detail. You need to tell the camera to change the exposure – just dial in some overexposure. This is usually in the form of extra “stops” of exposure on your camera but you will need to refer to your camera manual to see exactly how this is done. An overexposure setting in 1 or 1.5 stops should get your snow scene bright once more!

There's no doubt that the topic of personalized baby blanket can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about personalized baby blanket, you may find what you're looking for in the next article.

Personalized luxury gifts

2006-09-18T00:27:00.000-07:00

Current info about personalized baby blanket is not always the easiest thing to locate. Fortunately, this report includes the latest personalized baby blanket info available.

If you want to buy luxury gifts for special times in your friends or family members, there are some great wedding gifts and baby gifts that you can get. Brag books are always good, especially for a new mom, dad, or even a grandmother. Glassware is always a sure bet for weddings, as newly married couples typically will not buy glassware for themselves. Travel accessories are a good gift for a new couple that plans to travel together a lot, or for someone that is retiring and is planning to travel in their free time away from an every day job.

Personalized luxury gifts are a great idea for just about anyone, for any occasion. Most of us like personalized items because it lets us know that the person that bought the gift for us was really thinking about us. Luxury gifts are special because they let the recipient know that the gift giver cares enough not to get just anything for their special day, but a gift that really does mean something. Luxury type gifts are also a lot of fun to give because even if it is a small gift, you know that you are going to thrill your friend or family member when they unwrap the gift and see how much thought you've put into them and their special day.

For gift basket liner ideas: shredded newspaper, shredded comics, organic cotton tea towels, organic cotton dish towels, organic cotton wash cloths, hand towels, or bath towels, colored recyclable napkins, organic cotton cloth napkins, fabric pieces, or an organic cotton receiving blanket.

It's really a good idea to probe a little deeper into the subject of personalized baby blanket. What you learn may give you the confidence you need to venture into new areas.

For gift basket filler, if needed, you can use: crumpled or shredded newspaper comics, or use your imagination to come up with a better idea.

And for gift basket wrap and tie you can use: recyclable paper, butcher paper, newspaper, newspaper comics, or reusable brown paper bags. Also check with the Salvation Army or Goodwill Industries stores for inexpensive recyclable wrapping paper. Tie with jute or raffia twine for a simple rustic look or leave the gift basket unwrapped.

The day will come when you can use something you read about here to have a beneficial impact. Then you'll be glad you took the time to learn more about personalized baby blanket.

Babies blanket as a gift.

2006-09-14T20:54:00.000-07:00

Would you like to find out what those-in-the-know have to say about personalized baby blanket? The information in the article below comes straight from well-informed experts with special knowledge about personalized baby blanket.

The other day I got a call from my niece whose ecstatic voice over the wire made me eager for some hearty bit of news. “Uncle”, she said, “At last I have conceived after all these seven years of marriage and you must come to my baby shower”. It was a great relief for all of us since she had visited most of the doctors in town and none of them could assure her of bearing a child.

However, as I was very close to her right from her childhood days and she considered me to be her ‘most nearest relation’, I literally organized a search for some exclusive baby gifts for the baby shower. I was sure that both my niece and her husband must have bought all the gifts that were available locally, so my gifts must have some novelty and freshness about them.

But the local department stores and the shopping malls turned out to be most disappointing as they were full of age-old gift items that neither appealed to me nor my wife, who refused to have anything to do with them. On further enquiries at a different shopping arcade it was revealed that down another floor one section dealt with newborn baby gift items and we rushed there.

Knowledge can give you a real advantage. To make sure you're fully informed about personalized baby blanket, keep reading.

The sales person was a young girl and she was enthusiastic about some personalized products that came with the baby’s name embroidered on it. There were various kind of bibs brightly embroidered with the baby’s name; soft woolen baby blankets that not only had the names but date of birth, weight and dimensions at birth, etc. In short, we liked the innovative idea but were disenchanted since the shower was arranged prior to the child- birth and, therefore, no names could be provided instantly.

Personalized baby gifts do not have to be for the birth alone. You can also give personalized baby gift for baptisms or christenings. Generally, the gifts for such occasions are a little more specialized, but a personalized Bible or christening blanket can be a great way to remember the special ceremony. You could also give a personalized cross, dress, or anything that is related to the ceremony for which you are giving the personalized baby gift.

Personalized baby gifts are something you will really enjoy shopping for and buying. You may even find that you enjoy it as much as the parents enjoy receiving the gift. Perhaps the best thing about giving a personalized baby gift is that it will be long remembered by the parents as well as the child as he or she ages. In many cases, in fact, you may find that a personalized baby gift will become a sort of heirloom that is passed on from generation to generation. In other words, choose a personalized baby gift to make that lasting and thoughtful impression.

Sometimes it's tough to sort out all the details related to this subject, but I'm positive you'll have no trouble making sense of the information presented above.

Make it Special with a Personalized Photo Gift

2006-09-13T20:54:00.000-07:00

There's no better feeling than watching your loved one's face light up with surprise and joy when she opens the gift you have given her. The reactions of the special people in your life - your parents, your siblings, your spouse, your kids, and your friends - are what makes gift giving such a pleasure.

Although we have more choices than ever when it comes to selecting a gift, there are times when we wrack our brains trying to come up with a unique idea. There are those people who are hard to buy for because they really don't "need" anything, and there are those who are hard to buy for because nothing you can find is special enough to convey the feelings you have for them. You can traipse through malls or spend hours clicking your computer mouse, yet everything you find seems to be a variation of the same old thing.

Instead of throwing up your hands or settling for the less-than-perfect gift, think outside of the box. A personalized photo gift is guaranteed to be the one-of-a-kind present that your loved one will cherish forever. Imagine transforming your family portrait into a throw blanket for your grandparents, or using that photo of you and your best friend at the beach house to create an unforgettable keepsake box. When your sister is having her first baby, she will treasure a custom photo gift baby blanket that is woven with a picture of the baby's parents.

Whether the gift keepsakes photo is of a memorable scene or memorable people, it can be turned into anything from a personalized baby blanket to a coffee mug, from a pillow to a mouse pad.

Other good choices for baby gifts are essential items like diapers, baby wipes, baby lotion or soap, a baby tub, crib sheets etc. A new mom can never have enough of these items, and they are great when given as a big gift basket, for example by using the baby tub or baby carrier as the 'basket' and filling it with essentials. Organic or all natural baby items are also a wonderful and unique way to go in baby gift ideas. Many moms choose to use cloth diapers and will treasure the thought not to mention the gift.

The most loved baby gifts are those that are given by a thoughtful friend or family member. It's not hard to find that very special baby gift. Just be creative and take your time choosing your gift. Make sure to find baby gift stores or websites where not everyone is shopping, and you're sure to find something different and unique to give. Stop and think about what the mom will need right after the baby arrives and also what they both may need in the future. Make this a special time for everyone to remember.

personalized baby blanket: Tips You Need to Know When Choosing a Baby Blanket

2006-09-10T23:52:00.000-07:00

It is the goal of every parent to keep his or her baby safe and comfortable. One of the most valuable tools that any parent, especially a new parent has is the baby blanket. This tool can be used to keep the baby warm, keep him dry from the rain and is a trusted play mat in an unfamiliar location. With all of these important jobs, it is essential that the correct blanket is chosen for your little one.

Here are some tips for helping you choose the right blanket at the right price for your child.

1. As a newborn, a blanket is needed to keep warm and swaddled, to help them feel safe in the big new world. Choose something lightweight as babies this young tend to be held a lot and overheat quickly.

2. Try to choose soft cotton or fleece fabrics that are easy on babies' skin. Also, be sure to wash the new blanket in baby detergent before letting it come in contact with the babies' sensitive skin.

3. All new parents soon find out how many times a diaper must be changed and how many times a diaper should have been changed, resulting in clothes that have been wet through. Wet clothes on a baby often mean wet blankets too. For this reason (if for no other), you will need almost as many soft, comfy baby blankets as you can get your hands on. Don't worry, they will be used.

4. Buy baby blankets that are made from fire resistant, non-toxic materials. These are added features to keep your baby safe and in a friendly environment.

5. After all of these criteria have been met, have fun. Choose blankets that you like, whether they are pink, purple or black; have puppies, kittens or tractors. Baby blankets come in such a variety, there is sure to be many to fit your tastes.

Blankets can be very dangerous for babies. Therefore, as you are in the process of using the baby blankets that you have so lovingly chosen for your baby, there is one very important safety note to remember. Don't ever give your baby more than one blanket at a time and be sure that the blanket they are using is wide and long enough to be securely tucked under the crib mattress.

Keep that safety tip in mind and your baby blankets handy, they will be needed many times before your child is through with them.

Summary:

The comfort of a new born is the top priority of every parent. Baby blankets are one thing which keeps the baby comfortable and snug. But a lot of thought should go into buying a personalized baby blanket. Choosing the right blanket is not difficult if you know which brands meet safety standards and are also perfect for your baby.

About the Author
Brooke Hayles
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personalized baby blanket: Cure your post-holiday doldrums

2006-09-08T01:48:00.000-07:00

Posted by the Asbury Park Press on 09/7/06
BY PATTI MARTIN
STAFF WRITER

Thank goodness the weekend has finally arrived. Even with a shortened work week, the days just seemed to drag on and on.

But now the weekend is here and it's time to kick back, relax and have a little fun.

Enjoy.

Read this

Ever wonder how the rich really live?

You get an insider's sassy view in Linda Francis Lee's lastest fictional work, "The Devil in the Junior League" (St. Martin's Press, $22.95).

The Junior League of Willow Creek, Texas, is tres exclusive. Undesirables need not apply. Fredericka Mercedes Hildebrand Ware (Frede to her friends) is a member beyond reproach . . . until her husband betrays her, steals her money and runs off to places unknown. It's something Frede (pronounced Freddy) would prefer to keep under wraps — and who could blame her? Who wants to become fodder for the gossip mill?

And it gets worse. There's only one person in town who stands a chance at helping her get revenge: a tasteless, gold chain-wearing lawyer who has bought his way into Frede's tony neighborhood. His fee? Frede has to get his tacky, four-inch-stiletto-and-pink-spandex-wearing wife, Nikki, into the Junior League.

Watch this

After a summer of reruns, "Family Guy" is back with a new episode at 9 p.m. Sunday on Channels 5 and 29.

In the third season opener of the animated comedy, Lois saves Stewie's beloved teddy bear, Rupert. The act gets Stewie thinking that maybe he shouldn't kill his dear old mom and clings to her like a personalized baby blanket.

There's a little problem, though: Stewie's change in demeanor doesn't go over well with Lois and she gets sick of all of his loving attention.

Try this

We have a national bird, a national song and a national debt — why not have a national instrument?

And what better way to keep the red and blue states happy — and humming — than with a kazoo.

Don't know how to play one? No worries.

"The Complete How To Kazoo" by Barbara Stewart (Workman, $10.95) tells you everything you need to know (and then some) about the most user-friendly instrument ever invented. After all, if you can hum, sing or talk, you can kazoo. Now that's democracy in action!

Check this out

Are you ready for some football?

If you can't be a weekend warrior, you can always pretend to be one with Head Bangers Big Kick Football from Funrise ($19.99).

To play, spin the wheel to determine your shooting distance and set your player up for the shot. Once you've aimed for the goal, simply slam on your player's head to shoot. Take turns with your buddies and see who can claim title to longest field goal.

personalized baby blanket: Morgan County's Award Winning News Site

2006-09-06T19:47:00.000-07:00

By Karen Atwell
Wednesday September 6, 2006

Congratulations to new grandparents Rhonda and Dan Goble. Grandson James Daniel Holtsclaw was born on Aug. 30, weighing 8 pounds 4 ounces and measuring 21 inches long. James Daniel is the son of Rhonda's daughter, Ashlee Williams Holtsclaw.

I hear that several area folks did well in competition at the Indiana State Fair. Jeanne Shupe won a first and second place for her "frizzled" chickens. Brenda Kennedy won second place for her molasses cookies. Mary Lou Hawkins received an honorable mention for her personalized baby blanket and a third place for her counted cross-stitch picture.

There has been a change in the Mt Pleasant Church homecoming celebration. It had been previously announced that the Good twins would be performing. We have since learned that one of the twins has suffered a heart attack, but is doing well after surgery. The homecoming committee will soon announce who the replacement entertainment will be.

Social Notes

Happy anniversary wishes to: Tom and Brenda Kennedy on Sept. 11, Jim and Sonia Sharp on Sept. 11 and Chris and Carole Snyder on Sept. 12.

Birthday balloons go to: Darrin Ratts on Sept. 7, Candy Banks and Mikkinzie Stokes on Sept. 11 and Dan Goble on Sept. 14.

Those on the illness list include: Jill Shields, Dick Lambert, James Holtsclaw, Kerry Dyer and Cena Bain.

Please remember the family of Gretchen Lopossa as they mourn her passing.

Mt Pleasant Church at Hall

Sunday morning services began with the prelude, "Jehovah Jireh," played by Jill Shields and Joe Clymer. Bethany Johnson lit the altar candles with assistance from Josh Davis. Beverly Hurt led the singing of hymns.

Elder Bob Dyer gave the communion message. He talked about Labor Day and that work is in obedience to the Lord. Elder Norman Ratts gave the prayer. Deacons were: J.J. Rhea, Eddie Baker, Ben Cooper, and Christopher Roberts.

Pastor Stan Hicks message was titled "Do You Want to Gain? Then Give Yourself Away". The scripture was John 13:1-5, 15-17. He said that Jesus acts as a servant and passes that servanthood on to us.

personalized baby blanket: A gift that takes the cake

2006-09-04T21:14:00.000-07:00

BY SUZANNE PEREZ TOBIAS
The Wichita Eagle

This low-cost homemade gift gets raves at baby showers -- and proves really useful later

Mylene Serpan of Wichita says she gives the same gift at every baby shower -- an elaborately decorated "cake" made from cloth diapers.

"Most people don't think new moms will use cloth diapers, but they still make the best burp rags," Serpan said.

"I've been giving these cakes for years and have always had positive feedback from all the new moms."

Serpan makes the cake by tightly winding a dozen cloth diapers around a lightweight, rolled-up personalized baby blanket, covering the whole thing with a layer of tulle, and then attaching lace, ribbon and decorations to make it look like a real cake.

Sometimes she personalizes it with the baby's name or items that go with the new mom's nursery theme.

Another popular shower gift is a two- or three-tiered cake made from a package of disposable diapers and other baby products. (You may remember a frou-frou, over-the-top version the girls of HBO's "Sex and the City" carried to their friend Miranda's baby shower in uptown Manhattan.)

For photos and step-by-step instructions for making a disposable-diaper cake -- it requires about 60 diapers, a bottle of baby lotion and other items -- go to www.plan-the-perfect-baby-shower.com and click on "Diaper Cakes."

Serpan said her cakes never fail to prompt oohs and ahhs from shower guests. She did upset a hostess once, though, who looked shocked and offended when Serpan walked in with the cake.

"I had to explain that it wasn't real -- it was the gift," she said. "She apologized, and we had a good laugh."

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reach Suzanne Perez Tobias at 316-268-6567 or stobias@wichitaeagle.com.

personalized baby blanket: Hard road to discover breast is best

2006-08-14T22:26:00.000-07:00

15 August 2006

The reality of breast-feeding is not as rosy as the idea. For some women, it's not possible. But advisers maintain it's the healthiest option for a good start in life. Kim Ruscoe reports.

Mother and child nestle together in a window-facing rocking chair, cocooned by the soft glow of the moon, the silence broken only by the gentle mewling of a baby at the breast.

This romantic portrayal of maternal bliss is put to us often but achieved by few.

Plunket figures show that just six weeks after giving birth, half of new mothers have given up trying to breastfeed their babies or are supplementing by bottle feeding.

The number of women still exclusively breastfeeding their babies by the time they are six months old drops to 13 per cent.

It is a far cry from the World Health Organisation recommendation to breastfeed infants till they are two or older.

For first-time mother Sarah Glenny, the agony of having a baby suckle on already dried, cracked nipples was almost too much to bear.

"Initially, breastfeeding is worse than actually giving birth," she says from her home in Raumati, on Wellington's northern coast. "I'd break out in a sweat just at the thought of it."

On one occasion, before her milk had come in properly, her son Zachary was latched on for eight hours.

"It was all on in the first six weeks. I got to the stage where I was going to express and feed it to him in a bottle," she said. But in the end, she decided expressing would be a hassle and stuck with breastfeeding.

By the time Zachary was six weeks old, Sarah's nipples had healed and mother and baby had settled into a comfortable routine at home. She even started to enjoy feeding in the middle of the night.

"It felt like you were the only two people in the world," she says.

Shy by nature, Sarah was at first uneasy about breastfeeding in front of others, particularly her single friends.

The couple's best man didn't know where to look during a visit to their house soon after the baby was born.

He later told her husband Damian "there's something wrong about sitting there watching your best mate's wife get her breast out".

"But you get over the embarrassment pretty quickly," Sarah says.

Feeding in public can be easily made discreet by draping a shawl or baby blanket over your shoulder, she says.

Sarah says she has breastfed in a shopping mall only a few times, but frequently does so in cafes.

Zachary, now one, is still being breastfed three or four times a day, though more for comfort than nourishment, she says. She will carry on breastfeeding him till he doesn't want it any more.

Despite her success with breastfeeding, there were times when Sarah's confidence wavered. Sometimes she worried Zachary wasn't getting enough, other times she simply thought he'd been on the breast long enough.

The time it takes to breastfeed is also an issue. While sitting feeding Zachary she'll be looking around thinking she should be vacuuming the floor or folding washing. But Damian encouraged her to keep going, reassuring her that she "can do it".

"He would sit with me and keep me company (while she fed)," Sarah says.

"Your partner's support is crucial to continuing breastfeeding."

In the bigger scheme of things, it really doesn't matter if the house is not always spotless and tidy.

Plunket's national clinical adviser and lactation expert, Allison Jamieson, agrees that breastfeeding can be difficult, especially for those with cracked nipples or breast infections. It is also hard for breastfeeding mothers to know how much milk their babies are getting.

Breastfeeding is by demand, she says, with the baby letting the mother know when it is time to be fed.

The demands can change from day to day and may mean the baby is sometimes feeding for up to 40 minutes with just an hour's sleep in between feeds.

Bottle-fed babies, on the other hand, tend to feed every four hours.

But Allison likens it to adults going to the pantry or fridge for food whenever they are hungry.

"Why should babies have to wait?"

Eating three healthy meals a day plus snacks, keeping to the 5-plus a day rule and getting plenty of rest goes a long way to ensuring a continuing supply of milk, she says.

But the amount of time that has to be dedicated to breastfeeding can make it difficult for new mothers with older children to get enough rest. She suggests making baby's sleep time a quiet time, perhaps with mum reading a book to the older child while sitting down together on the couch or lying on the bed.

Breast milk is not only the best food for babies, says Allison, it impacts on a person's health for the rest of their life.

It can even protect girls from getting certain types of ovarian cancers years down the track.

A year-long survey by American doctors Thomas Ball and Annette Wright in 1999 compared the health of 1000 babies who had never been breastfed with that of 1000 babies exclusively breastfed for three or more months.

They found the never-breastfed group went 2033 more times to the doctor, spent 212 more days in hospital and were prescribed 609 more prescriptions for drugs. A recent consensus report shows 54.4 per cent of women in paid employment stop breastfeeding, compared with 34 per cent of women who are at home.

Allison says some working mothers do manage to carry on breastfeeding. Some have their babies brought into the office for them to feed if they are being cared for at nearby childcare centres, others prefer to express and take the milk home.

"But there just aren't the facilities at work to breastfeed or express in private," she says.

It is not acceptable to expect women to breastfeed or express in the restrooms.

"We wouldn't eat our lunch in the bathroom, so why would you express or feed your baby in there."

Breastfeeding is gradually increasing in popularity and employers are going to have to face up to the issue at some stage, she says.

"Women have to be able to negotiate," she says.

This year, the Health Ministry set up a National Breastfeeding Advisory Committee which aims to identify barriers to breastfeeding and ultimately boost the number of women breastfeeding.

"Breastfeeding supplies food in a hygienic, cost-effective, balanced and convenient way," chief public health adviser Ashley Bloomfield says.

New Zealand College of Midwives spokeswoman Norma Campbell says that breastfeeding must become the accepted lifestyle choice of new mothers, rather than just agreeing to "give it a shot".

"We are a quick and instant society. We want things immediately and time seems to be in short supply for many important things in life," she says.

"Breastfeeding takes time. The rewards, though, are numerous."

One of the main roles of midwives is to provide breastfeeding support, which starts off by encouraging skin-to-skin contact within 30 minutes after birth.

"That first contact forms an imprint, a mental and physiological reference for the newborn," Norma says. "That first feed, that little mouth looking for milk, can be the start of a wonderful experience."

personalized baby blanket: Baby drowns in Nova Scotia

2006-08-09T01:30:00.000-07:00

By CP

SYDNEY MINES, N.S. -- A grief-stricken father tugged on the ends of a personalized baby blanket slung over his shoulders yesterday as family and friends gathered at his home to mourn the drowning of 21-month-old Emma Bennett.

"It's her blanket. She's my angel," said Charlie Bennett. "She was the happiest child we ever came across."

Police responded to a 911 call in Sydney Mines around 8:30 p.m. Sunday.

The toddler was found in a small blow-up pool set up in the family's backyard.

"She loved to sing and play," said her father. "She loved to play on the swing. I think her spirit is really flying today on that swing."

Police are warning the public to be diligent in and around pools at all times.

"It can happen so quickly," said Const. Hank Lamond of the Cape Breton Regional Police.

The Bennett family was enjoying the warm weather Sunday evening in a backyard loaded with all the ingredients for a young family's idea of summer fun. They have a large screened-in gazebo, a pile of children's toys, basketball nets and the small pool.

The parents were inside only a few moments when they realized young Emma was no longer in tow. A swift search ended when they found her small body in the pool.

"The only thing that will get us through this is our faith in Jesus Christ," Bennett said.

Emma was the youngest of six children and daughter of Charlie and Michelle Bennett. Police said the death is not suspicious and no charges will be laid.

personalized baby blanket: Crochet and Knitters Group in Eddyville just the right fit

2006-08-07T23:39:00.000-07:00

By LORI FAYBIK, Courier correspondent

EDDYVILLE — Some ladies come to work on that extra special Christmas present for a loved one, while others may be working on a personalized baby blanket for a charity.

Whether you want to learn a new skill or just need a little help finishing up a complex knitted sweater, the Crochet and Knitters Group in Eddyville and Oskaloosa may be just the place for you.

Mostly it is just a chance to get away from it all and visit with other ladies while working at a productive hobby.

“It is just a good gathering of women” Bellina Buban says. “It is like in the old days when they used to have quilting bees, only we like yarn.”

Buban, who has a real passion for her hobby, started the Crochet and Knitters Group in Oskaloosa over a year ago. The group has grown and recently expanded to a second group in Eddyville.

“It is really big on the east and west coasts,” Buban says. “Groups are a popular trend for women who like to knit and crochet. These groups are just popping up all over. It is fun.”

Dot Maudlin of Eddyville suggested the second group because she couldn’t make it to the Oskaloosa one on Thursdays.

“I taught myself to knit, and I want to learn to do it better," she says.

At a recent meeting of the group in Eddyville, Maudlin was working on blankets for Precious Angels of Centerville, providing for premature or stillborn infants.

Buban adds that prayer shawls are a big thing right now. The ladies pray and think pleasant thoughts about a widow, cancer patient or someone else in need as they knit shawls for them.

“We teach you the basics and offer help in finding supplies,” Buban says. “Everyone makes a wash cloth to start and then jumps into socks. It is a wonderful sense of accomplishment.

“We have grandmothers who come in who want to learn to knit a baby blanket for a grandbaby,” she says.

The group is open to all ages. In the olden days, even children knew how to knit, because everyone had to mend their own socks, Buban says. They used to use red for mending. That is why you see the old fashioned gray socks with a red heel.

The group — which can be as large as 35 at times — is good about encouraging each other with their hobby.

At a recent meeting, one woman was a tad frustrated with something she had made and said it would just have to be doll clothes for her grandchildren.

personalized baby blanket: Personalized Baby Gift Ideas To Celebrate The Gift Of A Bouncy Baby

2006-08-06T22:34:00.000-07:00

by Rika Susan

A personalized baby gift is a memorable welcome-to-our-world gesture, that will be treasured by mom, dad, and baby alike. You don't want your gift to be just another baby shower trinket. If chosen with care and consideration, a personalized baby gift is likely to become an heirloom, with stacks of sentimental value.

Personalized Baby Gift Ideas For The Nursery: If you want to indulge the parents-to-be, and you have a budget without bounds, help with the baby furniture is always welcome. Personalizing these items can be arranged. However, 'special' doesn't have to equal 'expensive'. There are a host of personalized baby gifts for the nursery, that are affordable, yet meaningful and practical

A personalized baby gift idea that will be used for many years, and remembered with fondness beyond childhood, is a wooden rocking chair. If it is expertly crafted of solid wood, and given a special place in the nursery, it will be a little corner of comfort and dreaming right through the toddler years.

Another very useful personalized baby gift, is a wooden toy chest. If this piece of baby furniture is combined with a seat with a comfy cushion, so much the better. Just make sure that the chest has been made according to sensible safety regulations, with hinges which aren't prone to mishaps. You don't want the chest to be memorable for a totally unexpected reason! Toy carts can also be personalized, and will come in very handy later on.

Smaller personalized baby gift ideas for the nursery include a natural growth chart. This gift will feature high on the sentimental value list in time, with special memories connected to each growth phase. Every baby loves being introduced to his or her own image. Personalized mirrors will become a source of entertainment, and distraction.

Wooden shelving for all the baby paraphernalia are useful. Beautifully decorated wall plaques, collage picture frames for all the 'firsts' in a baby's life, and wooden wall clocks all become treasured personalized baby gifts.

Personalized Baby Gift Idea To Cuddle Up To: One of the sweetest personalized baby gift ideas, is the My Baby Forever doll. The softest, cuddly fleece doll, custom made according to newborn-baby size and shape, will delight and comfort. The birth information is embroidered on the clothing. A cute knotted cap completes the outfit. This machine-washable little darling, will be much loved and hugged.

Later on, toddlers love to dress the doll in their own baby clothing. Grandpa's Doll Bed is an add-on must-have, perfectly sized for the 'newborn' doll. The Doll Bed is unfinished, to be painted and personalized by the toddler, with a little help from mom or dad. Swaddled in a matching interlock blanket, or a fleece blanket, your My Baby Forever doll arrives looking very much like the newborn. A muslin Peek-a-boo Gift Bag can be added for the perfect delivery, so to speak.

Personalized Baby Gift Idea With Old-Fashioned Charm: What little girl or boy doesn't dream about their very own rocking horse? Painted in cheerful colors, this personalized baby gift will be adored in a year or two. Choose a generous size, to allow for use over a number of years. Many of these rocking horses are masterly crafted of solid wood, with exquisite detail. Some even include a 'mane', bridle and leather ears.

Personalized Baby Gift Idea For Dressing-Up: Clothing and related items are always welcome gifts, and if these are personalized, are valued that much more. From hand painted bibs to backpacks, shirts to sets of hangers, washcloths to baby wipes, abound in all shapes, textures, and colors. A selection of these, creatively collected in a baby gift basket, will be a hugely appreciated personalized baby gift idea.

Be considerate, and include personalized sibling shirts for a big brother or sister. These youngsters often feel very left out, with all the hullabaloo about the baby.

These are just a tiny, tempting taste of all the unique personalized baby gift ideas out there...

Also read 'Personalized Baby Blanket - Monogrammed Gift Swaddles Newborn In Softness' at http://www.Cribs-For-Babies.com/personalized-baby-blanket.php

Read more at www.Cribs-for-Babies.com Rika Susan of www.Article-Alert.com researches, writes, and publishes full-time on the Web. Copyright: 2006 Rika Susan. Please reprint with links intact.

personalized baby blanket: New Planet Dog for Pups Collection Extends Popular Lifestyle Brand to Puppies

2006-08-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

Portland, Maine (August 2006) – The puppy market is growing faster than a freshly whelped Newfie and Planet Dog has responded by creating Planet Dog for Pups, a new line of toys designed for puppies of all sizes up to 10 months of age. By using materials, shapes and sizes developed specifically to encourage natural puppy behavior, Planet Dog has created an assortment of toys appropriate for this life stage of canine development.

The new collection consists of Orbee-TuffÒ Toys for Pups that feature a special soothing formula of Planet Dog's award-winning Orbee-Tuff material that was developed to perform best for softer puppy teeth and developing jaw muscles. The line also includes Squeaky personalized baby blanket Buddies and Squeaky Alphabet Blocks, fleece toys that mimic the timeless, ultra-soft baby blanket material that babies love so much. Rounding out the line is a gift pack. The Bundle of Joy is a pre-packaged assortment of all the toys listed above in puppy pink or blue.

Orbee-Tuff(TM) Toys for Pups

The new Orbee-Tuff Toys for Pups collection is made up of Orbee-Tuff Pup Orbos with Treat SpotsÔ and Orbee-Tuff Bones. All Orbee-Tuff for Pup toys are offered in Big Pup and Lil’ Pup sizes and in puppy pink and blue.

Like all of Planet Dog's toys made from the Orbee-Tuff material, the new puppy versions are buoyant, bouncy, minty and recyclable. And since puppies gnaw to soothe teething pain versus ripping and shredding like adult dogs, these toys are made with a special formula that can be chilled or frozen for extra soothing relief.

"We set out to develop a line of toys to introduce pups to Orbee-Tuff early in life but because pups have different chewing needs than adult dogs, we needed to make some minor tweaks to the formula," says Catherine Frost, Planet Dog's Director of Marketing and Product Development.

"Orbee-Tuff for Pups is every bit as durable, tear and puncture resistant as the original Orbee-Tuff material, we just made the toy’s chewing surface a little softer and more pliable – just right for the soft teeth and developing jaws of pups," adds Frost.

Baby Blanket Squeaky Toys

The new Baby Blanket Squeaky Toys consist of well-constructed fleece Buddies and Alphabet Blocks. All of these toys are downy soft and perfect for a comforting nuzzle. The nappy fabric will easily take on the scent of the pup’s parent giving them additional comfort. For more rambunctious puppy play, they feature reinforced seams and higher pitched, double-bellow squeakers.

The squeaky Alphabet Blocks are sold in a reusable, zippered 3-pack and feature “doggified” ABCs: A is for Arf. B is for Beg. C is for Cuddle. One size fits all jaws. The cream colored squeaky Baby Blanket Buddies are offered in a classic Baby Blanket material in two sizes for Big and Lil' Pups.

Bundle of Joy Toys

Planet Dog for Pups products are also sold in Big and Lil' Bundle of Joy gift packs offering all the toys a new pup needs for teething and snuggling packaged in a convenient drawstring satchel for storage. The Big Pup Bundle of Joy contains a Big Pup Orbo with Treat Spot, Big Pup Bone, Big Pup Baby Blanket Buddy and a set of Squeaky Alphabet Blocks. The Lil' Pup Bundle of Joy contains a Lil' Pup Orbo with Treat Spot, Lil' Pup Bone, Lil' Pup Baby Blanket Buddy and a set of Squeaky Alphabet Blocks. Both are available in puppy blue or pink.

Added value is always part of the Planet Dog experience. Beyond offering new products of superior quality and style for puppies, Planet Dog is committed to educating puppy (and dog) parents about the special needs of their new family members and the benefits of the lifestyle shared with such pets.

In addition to the new puppy line, Planet Dog has created "The ABC's of Parenting Your New Pup," a fun, informative and educational brochure for new parents to be used as an added value for retailers (and consumers).

The brochure, which covers basic things that puppy parents should know in order to offer the best care, also includes Sweet and Savory Pup Stuff Recipes for the Orbee-Tuff Pup Orbo Treat Spot as well as an emergency contact card that can be filled out and carried at all times in case of a puppy emergency.

Planet Dog for Pups Easy Order Kit

Adding the new puppy line is easy for retailers thanks to the Planet Dog for Pups Easy Order Kit which contains a case of each new toy in assorted colors and sizes. The kit also comes with a free Planet Dog for Pups Shelf-Talker, Planet Dog Retailer Decal and complimentary versions of "The ABC's of Parenting Your New Pup” intended to be used as “take-ones” for customers who purchase Planet Dog for Pups products. Planet Dog's Introductory Order Promotion gives retailers who purchase the Easy Order Kit 15% off the kit price on their initial order.

"Our new puppy collection is not just cute, it is also extraordinary and socially responsible," says Alex Fisher, Planet Dog's Founder and Chief Creative Officer. "People will buy these products because of how they look, but they will purchase them again because they work and support our social mission," adds Fisher.

Planet Dog Foundation

A portion of each purchase from Planet Dog goes directly to the Planet Dog Foundation (PDF) to promote and celebrate programs in which dogs serve and support their best friends. For more information about how Planet Dog products are supporting canine service programs, please visit www.planetdogfoundation.org.

"Giving back has always been as important to Planet Dog as creating high-quality products that are 100% guaranteed," says Fisher. "We are proud that our unique philanthropic outreach is paving the way in the pet industry like Ben & Jerry's and others have done in other industries," adds Fisher.

Planet Dog products are available for retailers to order online at www.planetdogretailer.com or by calling Planet Dog directly at 800-381-1516.

personalized baby blanket: Sister standoff: Sly fox vs. stubborn mule

2006-07-31T00:21:00.000-07:00

Christopher Smith

Here's an old philosophical problem: What happens when an irresistible force meets an immovable object?

With two girls about 18 months apart, we'll spend the next two decades finding out.

The Girl, even at 4, is a talker — a manipulative, flattering, tricksy bulldog of a talker. The Mommy predicts she'll become attorney general of the United States if she isn't convicted of a major felony first.

The Baby, only 2, is stubborn — a wall of will, unshakable by the pleading and ordering of peer or parent once she sets her mind on what she wants to do.

Conflict comes on the hour.

In the kitchen, we have a wooden platform/stepladder that the kids can climb on or into. Naturally, their favorite spot is inside, and there's room for only one. The ladies decided to play in it one day and raced to the kitchen. The Baby got there first, climbed into the box and began wrapping up her stuffed Puppy for "naptime."

"Sweetie!" The Girl whined when she came in the room. "That was for mine naptime place."

The Baby ignored her.

Whining didn't work. So she tried barking: "Get out, Sweetie! I'm using that place!"

"No," The Baby said.

The Girl walked around a bit, formulating a strategy, maybe letting some time pass before lowering the bait.

"Hey Sweetie, I have an idea!" The Girl said brightly.

"What?"

"Get out."

"No," The Baby said.

I could have told her that wouldn't work, but apparently The Girl wasn't done.

"Here's mine idea," The Girl said. "You come out of there for we can sit on the steps and be sisters."

"No, I the sister," The Baby objected. "You the mommy." And there's the nibble.

"OK!" The Girl shouted like a cheerleader on a chocolate high. "I be the mommy and you be the sister for we can sit on the steps together!"

"OK!" The Baby climbed out, hook in mouth.

They sat on the steps together, chattering and hugging. It was kind of sad really: The Baby having such a good time — happy, laughing — in the midst of a terrible manipulation.

This went on for about three minutes before The Girl had another "idea."

"Let's play tent, and I'll make a tent with your Bunkie for you to sleep on it on the top."

"OK!"

The Girl took The Baby's blanket and wrapped it carefully around the rails at the top of the box, then draped it over her head. The Baby curled up with her puppy and pretended to snore.

The Girl stepped back and checked her handiwork. In a matter of five minutes, she'd tempted and teased her little sister from a hardened "No" into doing exactly what she wanted. The Girl crawled into the lower part of the box and curled up, wrapping her arms around her knees and looking out at me and The Mommy. She peeked out and up at her little sister with a look that said, as clearly and loudly as if spoken by a midway carny: "Sucker."

The Girl better enjoy it while it lasts. It won't take long before The Baby figures out her sister's best ideas are in her worst interest.

Christopher Smith is news editor of The Leaf-Chronicle and can be reached at (931) 245-0288 or at chrissmith@theleafchronicle.com. His book, "Tales from the Front Seat," is available at Borders in the mall, at Hodgepodge, 125 Franklin St., or on his Web site at www.daddyonboard.com.

Originally published July 30, 2006

personalized baby blanket: NFL Training Camps Get Started

2006-07-25T01:24:00.000-07:00

Friday, July 21, 2006

By Jim Wyatt
Over 25% of the league's teams will have someone new starting at the quarterback this season. The New Starters: Chargers (Philip Rivers), Dolphins (Daunte Culpepper), Jets (Patrick Ramsey or maybe Chad Pennington), Lions (Jon Kitna or Josh McCown), Raiders (Aaron Brooks), Ravens (Steve McNair), Saints (Drew Brees) and Titans (Billy Volek).
When you head out to the various practice facilities remember the essentials: You'll need sunscreen, lot of water, a cushion to make your seating comfy and a Sharpie in order to have your favorite player sign the football you brought.
Fans wait with baited breath for
To see if Reggie Bush can shine in the NFL as he did in college.
To see what the fan reaction will be for Randy Moss as he returns home to Minnesota in the preseason's first Monday night game.
To see if a number of big name players can return after recovering from injuries - especially Big Ben, Drew Brees, Chad Pennington, Carson Palmer, Daunte Culpepper, Takeo Spikes, DeShaun Foster and Roman Oben. The Seattle Seahawks had 14 players that were unable to participate in the final mini-camp due to injuries or recovering from off-season surgeries.
Embarrassing Revelations From Past Training Camps:
Arizona Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin was asked who he thought was the laziest player on their team: "Fitz (Larry Fitzgerald) has to be the laziest. You don't ever see Fitz. He's always late to meetings, sleeping in meetings. Late to workouts. He brought a golf cart with him last year. It broke down every day. He ended up shipping it home after the first week."
Atlanta Falcons RB Warrick Dunn was asked about the most disgusting thing he'd ever seen in training camp. "T.J. Duckett threw up so much last year on the first day that he lost something like 15 lbs. His mouth was like a faucet. Worst hygiene? Nobody can top Warren Sapp, at least that's how it was when I played with him. He wanted to go out there and be as funky as possible so nobody would want to touch him."
Baltimore Ravens OLB Bart Scott: Worst roommate experience? Terrell Suggs. He is young and doesn't go to sleep. He stays up all night, either playing PlayStation, talking on the phone or watching old movies. Laziest player? Terrell Suggs. Let me repeat that. Terrell Suggs. He only gives what he has to give. There are no coverages, just blitzes."
Buffalo Bills LB Mario Haggan: "Worst hygiene? Angelo Crowell's feet. About two weeks into camp, you catch Angelo with a lot of foot spray because the skin on his feet starts peeling. One year we had to put up a sign marked 'Hazardous' around his locker."
Cincinnati Bengals DT John Thornton: "Strangest thing a player has brought to camp? Bryan Robinson brought this hyperbaric chamber. To watch him and his wife carry it from their van to our room…it looked like a big coffin. All the guys wanted to get in after about a week."
Cleveland Browns CB Daylon McCutcheon: "Worst hygiene? Brodney Pool has the nickname Dirty Pool. They say he doesn't take a lot of showers."
Houston Texans CB Dunta Robinson: "Most disgusting thing I've seen? I've seen a guy wear the same underwear every day."
Indianapolis Colts WR Aaron Moorehead: "Strangest thing brought to camp? It's (Dwight) Feeney getting steaks made for him every single day for every meal."
Jacksonville Jaguars MLB Mike Peterson: "Strangest thing brought to camp? One guy (who was married) brought his girlfriend to camp, let her stay in his room and even let her watch practice on the field."
Kansas City Chiefs RE Jared Allen: "Strangest thing brought to camp? I bring my blanket. I still have my personalized baby blanket from when I was little. You've got to be comfortable when you go to camp."
Miami Dolphins WLB Channing Crowder: "Most disgusting thing I've seen? Some guys pee down their leg out there practicing. Hell, I do it."
Minnesota Vikings CB Antoine Winfield: "Most memorable rookie hazing? We got a little carried away with shaving someone's head one day, and we got his eyebrows. You don't see many people walking around with no eyebrows."
New England Patriots Punter Josh Miller: "Most disgusting thing I've seen? I had a guy's tooth fall out when he asked me for an autograph. Just fell right out on the paper. He picked it up and said: 'Happens all the time.' I'm thinking, 'Not to me it doesn't'"
New Orleans Saints CB Fred Thomas: "Worst roommate experience? Waking up every morning and all you hear when you wake up out of your sleep are sounds from a porno. Loud, so everybody could hear it. Down the hall, some of the guys would say, 'Turn it down!'"
New York Giants G Rich Seubert: "Most disgusting thing I've seen? Worms under my pillow. Somebody thought that was a good prank."
New York Jets LG Pete Kendall: "Worst hygiene? I'll go days wearing the same shirt and shorts, four or five days in a row."
Oakland Raiders OLB Sam Williams: "Worst roommate experience? One time I woke up at 3 or 4 in the morning because I felt someone standing over me. I jumped up and was ready to fight when I discovered it was my roommate sleepwalking. He was getting ready to jump in my bed because he thought he was at home and his girlfriend was in bed. That was bizarre."
San Diego Chargers LT Roman Oben: "Strangest thing brought to camp? I brought a cat one year. I got it from my girlfriend; she was going to be out of town the first week of camp. They'd come and clean the rooms in the dorm, and I had to put up a sign that said, 'Do not let the cat out.'"
Seattle Seahawks RB Shaun Alexander: "Strangest thing brought to camp? Some guys bring stuff their girlfriends give them, like a stuffed animal and they try to hide them. I can't tell you names. It's a safety thing…my safety."
Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Chris Simms: "Laziest player? Joey Galloway. But it's different for a guy like that. He's a cheetah, and you can't run a cheetah like you would a long-distance horse every day, so they give him his time off."
Tennessee Titans TE Erron Kinney: "Most disgusting thing? We had a trainer one time that had a friendly bet with another trainer that he could drink a bottle of Gatorade (concentrate) and hold it down. It all came out. All of it. The only good thing about it is it smelled like Gatorade instead of puke."
Washington Redskins TE Chris Cooley: "Most disgusting thing I've seen? After every practice, we have a bug trough that's filled with cold water and ice. That gets pretty disgusting after five or six offensive lineman have been sitting in it."

What you can expected at this year's British Open at Hoylake
First of all don't go looking for a lake, there isn't any. Scores are certain to be mighty low. How low? Try record lows. The last time the Open Championship was held at the Royal Liverpool in 1967, there were 12 players that finished under par. That was the year Argentine Roberto De Vicenzo beat Jack Nicklaus by two shots. Locals are predicting the players will have to break par just to make the cut as this old time course meets up with the players of today hitting with all the advancements in equipment. Although Hoylake would appear formidable by the numbers - 7,258 yards (course length), it has quite a few doglegs which can be cut and the fairways are so hard balls in the fairway will get a lot more roll. In other words, if you are a straight hitter, you should be hitting most greens in two.
Humor in Sports
Reid Spencer: "On the Beatles' home golf course (Royal Liverpool), the gallery will oooh and aaah on great shots and Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da on the lipped-out putts."

personalized baby blanket: Baby Blanket Business Is Getting Much More Personal

2006-07-23T20:37:00.000-07:00

One company has made it their personal mission to make buying thoughtful baby gifts fun and easy.

Dallas, TX, July 20, 2006 --(PR.COM)-- Sonya Bebeblankee, a unique and spunky baby blanket company, is raising the bar when it comes to personalization. The new “Personalization Plus” campaign aims to ultimately increase the uniqueness of an already unique baby gift: a Miss Sonya.

Personalization Plus offers customers up to 200 characters embroidered along the satin edges of 100% woven cotton blankets. Most other high-end retailers allow no more than 20 characters. But, more than that, the site allows users to customize their one-of-a-kind blankie fast and easy to become the ultimate gift-giver. It’s more than just a monogram or birthdate; this allows customers to weave their warmest wishes into a high-quality blankie.

“It’s all smiles here at Sonya Bebeblankee. We can each say that we truly love what we do here,” says owner, Todd Lilly. “I originally thought we were starting a baby blanket business. A year later we realized we were way more than that. And now, I’m more convinced than ever that we’re truly in the smile business. The personalization around the blankets is just the byproduct of what we do best – help our customers create lasting impressions.”

Lilly continues, “We’re so pumped about being able to offer something that’s just not available anywhere else -- at a very reasonable price and in a very short amount of time.” Lilly started the company two years ago and is a unique business owner with what can only be described as a wacky personality. He says there are two things you have to have to quit a perfectly-good career to sell baby blankets: a bit of an unbalanced personality and a sincere belief in your product.

And, that’s what the most loyal of Sonya’s customers have said: that a Miss Sonya is so unique, so fun to make, and so easy to order, that the mere 5 days they wait in anticipation for the blankie is completely worth it. But now, with Personalization Plus, there’s more to write, more styles to choose from, and more smiles to go around.

personalized baby blanket: Dear Abby : If you need it, keep blanky

2006-07-18T01:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Abby
By Jeanne Phillips Universal Press Syndicate
Tucson, Arizona | Published: 07.18.2006

advertisement● DEAR ABBY: I am a 24-year-old woman who has been married for four months to an amazing man. We are looking forward to growing old together. However, I have a slight problem:
I have a personalized baby blanket I have slept with since before I could walk. When I turned 16, I told myself I'd get rid of it. Sixteen turned to 18, 18 turned into getting rid of it when I graduated from college, which turned into getting rid of it when I married.

But I now have no intention of getting rid of it. I guess I've held onto it because it's familiar. (We moved far from home after our wedding.) My husband says he doesn't mind, and I'm sure he's not lying, but it's a little embarrassing. I can't fall asleep without it. I even watch TV with it in my lap or read with it behind my head.

Do you think it's ridiculous for me to have a baby blanket at 24 with a new, wonderful husband, or should I just keep it and not worry? — K.T., in Kentucky
DEAR K.T.: Your "problem" may be unusual, but it's not unheard of. Your "blanky" is familiar and soothing, and since your husband doesn't mind, I see no reason why you should be concerned about keeping it. Enjoy!

● DEAR ABBY: I have finally been reunited with my 30-year- old son, who was in the Marines as a sergeant in Iraq. He decided he wanted to get in touch with his dad after 15 years. I welcomed him with open arms.
He is married, and I have just met his wife. She's a great person. I told them both that I love them, always have and always will, and it wasn't my choice that we were separated. I don't ever want us to be separated again.

He told me, "Dad, I love you, too," but he's not too keen about hugging me. It was OK the first couple of visits. I just want him to know I really love him. Do you think my son is too old to be hugged? — Demonstrative dad in Pennsylvania
DEAR DEMONSTRATIVE DAD: No, I do not. Hugging is a common expression of affection in many families. However, you must remember that you have been separated from your son for half his life. And for hugging to be OK, it needs to be mutual. So before you do it again, talk to your son about it and be sure the gesture is welcomed. And if it makes him uncomfortable, respect his feelings.

● Write Dear Abby at www. DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

personalized baby blanket: Obit writers find that death becomes us

2006-07-11T01:45:00.000-07:00

Jul. 10, 2006. 01:47 PM
CATHY DUNPHY
LAS VEGAS, N.M.

Jim Sheeler is a slight, unassuming young man in pressed blue jeans who looks 23, which is 15 years younger than he really is. He is at the front of the cramped conference room because he is our star, a winner this year of a Pulitzer Prize.

It is for "The Final Salute," his story in the Rocky Mountain News about what happens after "the knock at the door" — when the square-jawed, clear-eyed Marine, straight of back and splendid in full military regalia, tells the trembling, dark-haired woman now slumped against it, one hand over her stomach to protect her unborn child, that her man is not coming home from Iraq. At least not upright.

"I'm looking for scenes of life," Sheeler tells us, eyes earnest behind his glasses. "Tidbits of lives. The dog-eared pages in a book."

So after a time, that woman — Katherine — let Sheeler hold the baby blanket she had knit, soft and green, the one her husband Jim had slept in his last night at home because he wanted his baby to know how he smelled. And that's what Sheeler wrote about.

Some of us are crying because his prose is so damn good, because Sheeler himself is so damn good — and sensitive and decent — and because he is one of us, an obit writer, who made good.

This is the Eighth Great Obituary Writers' Conference, and this is also Las Vegas, New Mexico, not Nevada, on a recent hot Saturday afternoon. We — the death writers and this baking, shrivelled, silent town — seem made for one another. Other writers have noted this, reported it, dipped it in irony, sprinkled it with a little scorn, and maybe the scribe from USA Today or one of the two film crews currently covering us, crowding us, might make something of it as well.

If they do, they're not getting it. Or us.

The slouching, skinny Scot with the shiny complexion in the huge, black cowboy hat is obit editor of The Daily Telegraph of London, the acknowledged world leader in the genre. He loves telling about the time his paper inadvertently and prematurely killed off Mrs. Tex Ritter. The paper was told by the nursing home that she had moved on, and she had — to another floor.

"She was very good about it, really," Andrew McKie said, as deadpan as many of the unsigned obits published in his paper.

The attractive, dimpled woman who brought her mother along is the author of The Dead Beat: Lost Souls Lucky Stiffs and the Perverse Pleasure of Obits, a cockeyed, lilting and lovely book that's eliciting raves (two in The New York Times alone) and selling madly (30,000 copies so far).

"I love the obits conference. My ambition, in 30 or 40 or 50 years, is to go as a ghost," Marilyn Johnson has said. A former editor at Esquire, she once wrote celebrity obits for People and Life magazines. She thinks obit pages are better than sports pages because obit fans don't foam at the mouth as much as sports fans.

And there are obit fans here: Alexis Chubrich is young and hip and hyperventilating.

"I have found what I want to do," she says. "I love this. I want to get home to Tempe (Arizona) right now and get on to the computer."

The tall, blond Brit who sounds just a little bit like Bertie Wooster is a Mensa member and respected stringer for The Times of London, a talented writer who penned obits for all the victims of last summer's London bus bombings.

Tim Bullamore is also about to sign on for a program leading to a PhD degree to do with obituaries at the university in Bath.

Conference regular Alana Baranick of The Plain Dealer in Cleveland, Ohio, won a special citation from the American Society of Newspaper Editors last year for "A Life Story," her obituaries on so-called ordinary people or, as she put it, "people I wish I had known."

And conference first-timer Betty Abah is a Nigerian journalist who wants to use obituaries "as a tool for accountability" in her country. When she says this, there is an intake of breath.

We are accustomed to our own world of obituaries, the ones heralding those with a zest for life, who put up a brave fight against a disease, lived for their families, never met a stranger, left the world a better place, and we are even getting used to the obit-writing blogs and website pages such as stiffs.com, the Blog of Death, Find a Grave, Last Writes.

We know, too, that readers love our obituaries. They phone us; they write us; they tell us they buy the paper because of us.

The first anthology of obituaries published by The Daily Telegraph several years ago shot to the top of the bestseller list. Its latest (and 17th) is Chin Up Girls!, a collection of women's obituaries.

Hoping to capitalize on all this is a slick magazine called Obit, coming next year. Editor Krishna Andavolu is under 30, enthusiastic and nonplussed when Joan Harvey from The Oregonian circulates a list of actual quotes from obits submitted by family and funeral homes: "Cause of death: retired to Rockway"; "He was an adamant fisherman"; "Hobbies: Music, Collecting hate, Football."

Then there's Steve Miller, the obit writer from The New York Sun, who escaped from his office at the World Trade Center on 9/11 and decided to quit his job working in IT for a Japanese bank to do what he has always wanted: this.

Two years ago, he and Amelia Rosner, a New York ad copywriter who runs an online list called alt.obits and keeps tabs on its dead pool, came tearing into the conference during its last session hollering, "Stop the presses." ("I had always wanted to say that," Miller later fessed up.)

Ronald Reagan had just died, and the conference room emptied in a shot as, journalistic pulses racing, everyone tried to phone the office. Later, several of them wrote about being at an obit writers' conference when news came of the dead ex-president. Even later, Adam Bernstein of The Washington Post was spotted strolling back from the town drugstore, dipping into a commemorative bag of jellybeans he'd just bought in Reagan's memory.

This year, there were no dead presidents, but something else was brewing. Always lively, this time the conference was positively giddy. There was talk among the 50 in attendance of meeting in Toronto next year — no more small-town dust bowls.

There was more talk of professional-action committees, establishing awards, and of a new study from the Northwestern University Readership Institute showing that obits grow newspaper readership.

It was clear that obit writers were feeling that their time had come.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carolyn Gilbert is our doyenne. She started the conference, as well as the International Association of Obituarists, in 1999. Its website (http://www.obitpage.com) followed a couple of years later when she began collecting membership fees.

She tells the story in her long Texan drawl at the beginning of every conference, how she was having drinks and talking about obits with some friends back in '98 in a North Dallas bar, how "the idea was hatched in a cool, dark place."

Betcha can't organize a conference for that, one friend taunted. Betcha I cay-an, she countered.

Gilbert is a former teacher, policy adviser, workshop leader and trainer who reads the obit sections in seven daily newspapers and believes they are the highest form of newspaper writing, requiring a newspaper's top talent. She is very popular here.

personalized baby blanket: New Baby Guide

2006-07-07T00:38:00.000-07:00

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! You're having a new baby! Now, on to the serious stuff. You're going to get yourself prepared for your new baby, mentally, physically and you will need to adjust your h...

by Dakota Caudilla

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS! You're having a new baby! Now, on to the serious stuff. You're going to get yourself prepared for your new baby, mentally, physically and you will need to adjust your house and car for the new baby too!

Mentally preparing for the new baby

Remember this, women adjust to having a new baby faster than men; so, don't expect husbands to start being all fatherly after the pregnancy is announced. They're not like that. Women adjust better to the new baby, mentally, because they experience physical, emotional and psychological changes. These changes help them adjust to the new baby quicker. However, men start feeling the new baby when they see the bump or feel the flicker of baby movement over mommy's belly.

Physically preparing for the new baby

There's nothing much a new father can do to prepare to the new baby. What needs to be done by a father needs to be done BEFORE the new baby is conceived. However, the new father can try quitting smoking, quitting drinking and other vices once the new baby is conceived. Needless to say, the new mother needs to do the same too.

Planning for the new baby: the house and car

With the new baby, depending on whether you're planning to co-sleep with the baby or whether you're planning to plonk the baby in a separate room affects the changes to your home. Either way, we recommend having a separate room for your new baby, even if the new baby is going to be sleeping with the new parents for the first couple of months. A baby crib, some toys, a place to put all the baby's clothes, shelves to convenient grab lotions, creams, diaper wipes, diapers, etc. off near the changing table is a MUST.

You'll also need to think about getting a baby chair too; baby chair for the house (at the right height for the dining table) and also a baby chair for the car (for traveling). Some baby chairs can be adjusted to fit the adult dining chair AND fit into the car at the same time. They are a little bit more expensive than the conventional baby chairs, but the multi-function is extremely convenient PLUS it's downright comfortable for your new baby.

Other essential stuff for your new baby

Frankly speaking, the essentials depend wholly on your own preference, budget and lifestyle. You can live without some of these things if you think you'd rather not waste the money.

If you've had previous babies before, you probably don't need too many new baby clothes. New babies outgrow their clothes terribly fast and it'd be a waste of money to splurge on new clothes. You can get hand-me-downs from nieces and nephews too, if you want. What you should probably get are blankets, sweaters, coats, and clothes for going out. At home, your new baby's not going to mind old clothes. In fact, it's a fact that your new baby is probably going to like wearing the old clothes better than the new clothes. Don't forget the feeding utensils like baby bowls, breast pump (if you're planning to pump breast milk for your new baby at work), baby bottles, cloth nappies, diapers, baby wipes, lotions, shampoo, bath gels, towels, baby blankets, baby bedding, bibs, stroller, etc.

And don't worry, you'll do fine. The best thing to do is to get unbiased referrals from friends and family.

About The Author

Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.beautiful-baby.net on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

Copyright Dakota Caudilla - http://www.beautiful-baby.net

personalized baby blanket: Graves Eyed for Evidence Against Saddam

2006-07-03T01:17:00.000-07:00

By KIM GAMEL Associated Press Writer
© 2006 The Associated Press

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Forensics experts unearthing the skeletons of Saddam Hussein's alleged victims have found an unexpected wealth of identification cards in mass graves, investigators said Monday.

As the ousted leader's first trial winds down, the investigators say the discovery of the ID cards has been a pivotal development in a new case against Saddam _ the 1980s military campaign that killed an estimated 100,000 Kurds.

The IDs showed that the bodies are those of Kurds and gave the investigators other crucial information such as the alleged victims' hometowns, where follow-up interviews could be conducted with survivors, they said.

"When we first started, we didn't think we'd find any IDs," said Michael "Sonny" Trimble, a 53-year-old forensic archaeologist from Missouri who is the director of the Iraqi Mass Graves Team.

"The focus changed. It was dramatic," he said during a tour for reporters that offered the first glimpse of the forensic analysis facility on the outskirts of Baghdad.

"We went from let's do the clothes and forensic analysis to let's do the clothes, the bones can wait," Trimble said.

Trimble and his team work at a laboratory in nine large tents, piecing together the stories of the people buried in mass graves around the country to provide evidence for future trials.

The defense is preparing to sum up its case next month in the trial against Saddam and seven co-defendants in the deaths of 148 people during a crackdown on a Shiite village.

Iraq's High Tribunal also is preparing for a second trial charging Saddam with genocide in a 1980s military campaign against the Kurds. An estimated 100,000 people were killed in the campaign, known as "Anfal."

Saddam has remained defiant, and chief defense lawyer Khalil al-Dulaimi indicated his client believes he can bargain his way out of trials that could result in the death penalty.

Al-Dulaimi told The Associated Press on Sunday that the former leader is the key to stability in Iraq and that Saddam believes the United States will have to seek his help to quell the insurgency.

"He's their last resort. They're going to knock at his door eventually," al-Dulaimi said. Saddam is "the only person who can stop the resistance against the U.S. troops."

There is no indication American officials have considered seeking Saddam' help. While Sunni Arabs are the backbone of the insurgency, the Shiite Muslim majority and Kurds repressed by Saddam's regime would be enraged if he were allowed to re-enter public life.

Michael Flowers of the U.S. Regime Crimes Liaison Office said there are 180-222 grave sites around Iraq and that estimates of the number of people killed under Saddam range from 100,000 to 300,000. "It's impossible to get to them all," he said.

Flowers and Trimble said forensics experts have to limit the number of remains recovered because of security concerns and the need to concentrate on gathering evidence that can be used in court.

"It's more a matter of can we link this location to a specific event," Flowers said. "A lot of these sites have been disturbed."

However, the investigators stressed the sites are marked for future humanitarian recovery.

"Anyone can look at a map later on and go and recover them for the families," Trimble said. "That's not my mission."

When asked how many people were buried in mass graves, he said, "You won't know that real answer until 25 years from now when human rights groups go out."

David Hines, who compiles reports on the mass graves, noted that there is a site in southern Iraq where 114 people _ mostly women and children _ were found shot to death. Their remains, he said, make them posthumous witnesses.

"We take great pains not to lose sight that these are all people, these all have a story," Hines said. "What we have is 114 cases of murder."

The site, dubbed Muthanna 2, is at the center of the Anfal case, in which Kurds were told they were being relocated to the south but then were gathered into ravines and raked with gunfire.

Several of the women were pregnant and others collapsed while holding children. The skeletal hand of one woman was found in a personalized baby blanket that also contained the remains of a baby.

Ariana Fernandes, a 31-year-old forensic anthropologist from Costa Rica who runs the tent where clothing and other items are processed, said many victims wore multiple layers of clothes and carried household goods.

The team, which includes archaeologists, pathologists, bone experts and photographers, has excavated six major graves in Iraq in nearly two years.

Trimble said about 12 percent of the individuals found so far had IDs, despite witness claims that Saddam's forces had demanded the documents. He said some women hid them in secret pockets or sewed them inside several layers of clothing.

"So from a criminal case standpoint i think we have a lot of very good data that the Iraq criminal justice system will use later on to present in court," he said.

The chief investigative judge in Saddam Hussein's trial, Raid Juhi, said the IDs were key to allowing investigators to go to the area where they were issued and collect witness accounts. "It gave us more evidence," he said.

The latest dig is under way in the desert sands of southwestern Iraq, where at least two graves have been found containing victims from the suppression of a 1991 Shiite uprising after the Gulf War.

personalized baby blanket: Abandoned as a baby, now she's a graduate

2006-06-30T01:15:00.000-07:00

Steve Rubenstein, Chronicle Staff Writer

Saturday, June 10, 2006

The baby girl abandoned in a paper bag by the side of a Redwood City road graduated from high school on Friday and got a very special present from the California Highway Patrol officer who found her.

Ashley Wyrick, 18, joined her classmates as they walked across the 50-yard line to accept their diplomas during commencement exercises on the football field at Sequoia High School.

There were tears in a lot of eyes, including those of her stepfather, John Herrmann.

"She was meant to be here," he said. "She has a purpose. You would never guess in 100 years from looking at her or talking with her that they found her where she was."

CHP Officer Steve Gibbons had pulled off Interstate 280 to stretch his legs on a winter night in 1987 when he heard the cry coming from the bag. He took young Ashley to Sequoia Hospital, where the nurses called her Miraculous Mary.

After her adoptive father died, she was legally adopted by her older adoptive sister and grew up and graduated in a white gown in the same town where she had once been left in a brown sack.

A few hours after the ceremony at the school, Officer Gibbons dropped by a graduation party at the family home to give Ashley a small parcel. Inside was the Highway Patrol jacket that he had used to wrap Ashley on the night he found her.

"He'd been saving it, wanting to give it to her for a long time," said Ashley's mother, Serene Herrmann. "It was like her personalized baby blanket. We all started crying."

Then Ashley, her family and friends -- including Sheryl Greenspan, the emergency room nurse who tended her on the night she was found -- embraced one another.

Ashley was among 285 members of the Sequoia High School graduating class. In the fall, she will attend the University of Arizona on a scholarship.

"I'm here to do something with my life," she said. "I'm not here to sit around and cry and waste my time thinking about what happened to me."

E-mail Steve Rubenstein at srubenstein@sfchronicle.com.

personalized baby blanket: If a superhero lands in the forest, does anyone hear it?

2006-06-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

Movie Guy column by Barry Caine

(James Gayles)

EXPLAIN this: Superman's uniform is impregnable to bullets, fire, bombs, radiation (except kryptonite), knives, forks, you name it.
Yet Martha Kent, Superman's mom, stitched it together from pieces of his personalized baby blanket with an ordinary needle.

And since we're mulling, how did she cut the blanket?

Also, given the amount of material that went into the outfit, including the cape, that must have been a pretty big baby blanket.

If those questions are answered in "Superman Returns," which opens at 10 p.m. Tuesday, I'll consider upping the rating a half-star for shushing my mind.

Another thing. Superman has super breath. If he OD'd on garlic chicken, would he have super bad breath?

Just wondering.

Superman's pending resurrection is inspiring super conjecture. For instance, Newsweek's "With Beliefnet.com" column has dubbed the Man of Steel a Methodist.

The oh-please rationale: Clark Kent was raised in the Midwest.

More sensible: Clark's pop describes him as a Christ figure. Author Stephen Skelton's "The Gospel According to the World's Greatest Superhero" — some people have too much time on their hands — also subscribes to that theory.

Let's not fight about it. But while we're on the subject, the article uses data gleaned from Adherents.com to imbue other superheroes with their likely religious orientations.

For instance, The Thing from "The Fantastic Four" is Jewish, a fact addressed in the saga.

Spider-Man, "who sometimes addresses God in spontaneous prayer," is Protestant.

Because of the crosses on his parents' gravestones, Batman is either a lapsed Roman Catholic or a disaffected Episcopalian.

They decided Elektra is Greek Orthodox. And Daredevil is Catholic, although god knows why.

Out and about ... The best part of summer is nighttime. Everything cools off — except the inside of my house; if you need fruit ripened rapidly, leave it in my kitchen.

Given the temperature change, there's no need to futz with first-run bad movies just to take advantage of the air-conditioning.

Summer is awash with outdoor screenings. The Oakland Outdoor Cinema's are free. The East Bay series starts its third season July 15 with 1976's "Network," a multi-Oscar winner on the American Film Institute's 100 Greatest American Movies list.

The rest of the lineup consists of "The Joy Luck Club" on Aug. 19, "The Bourne Identity" on Sept. 16 and "Shrek" on Oct. 21.

All shows begin at dusk on Ninth Street between Broadway and Washington. Seating is limited so you're encouraged to bring your own chairs and blankets; it's Oakland, it gets cold.

Popcorn and other treats will be sold. Call (510) 238-4734 or visit http://www.filmoakland.com.

Fikre Tolossa's "Multicolored Flowers," about the influence of African-American fashion, music and culture on white, Latino and Asian-American youths, screens at 4:30 p.m. today at the Merrit hotel, 2332 Harrison St., Oakland.

Admission is $10.

Paris Paul, Aynsley Fleishner and Waldemar Maszewski star in the picture, which also traces the roots of rap music, hairdos and dances to Ethiopia and other parts of Africa. E-mail Ftolossa@aol.com.

"A Miracle in Cracow" centers around a relationship between a Polish art historian who is restoring a tombstone in a Jewish cemetery and a young Hungarian bookseller hunting for an ancient book rumored to have magical powers.

In Hebrew, Hungarian and Polish with English subtitles, and in English, the film will be screened Wednesday in the Screening Room at Yerba BuenaCenter for the Arts, 701 Mission St., San Francisco. Tickets are $7 general, $6 students and seniors. Call (415) 978-2787 or visit http://www.sfjff.org.

Out Tuesday on DVD ... "Aging Out," "Annapolis," "Art of the Devil 2," "Blood Bath," "Blue Collar Comedy Tour — One for the Road," "The Boy and the Pirate"/"Crystalstone," "Broken Rainbow," "Cache," "Candy Stripers," "Chuck Berry — Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll" and "The Complete Sherlock Holmes Collection Starring Basil Rathbone."

And: "Curse of the Crying Woman," "Damon Wayans: Still Standing," "Death Trance," "The Devil's Sword," "Doing Time: Life in the Big House," "Evil," "Failure to Launch," "Find Me Guilty," "The Fire Next Time," "The Flesh and Blood Show," "Full Frame Documentary Shorts, Vol. 4," "Ghost Game" and "The Graveyard."

Also: "Gwendoline: Unrated Director's Cut," "Imagine Me & You," "JFK: Reckless Youth," "John Landis' Deer Woman," "Legacy," "Leroy & Stitch," "Lucky McKee's Sick Girl," "Madea's Family Reunion," "Madea Goes to Jail," "Masters of Horror: 'Landis/McKee' 2-Pack" and "Olympia — The Leni Riefenstahl Archival Collection."

Plus: "Omar & Pete," "Piaf: Her Story... Her Songs," "The Police Tapes," "Red Riding Hood" (with Joey Fatone), "Sister Rose's Passion," "Stalingrad," "Ultraviolet," "We Jam Econo — The Story of the

Minutemen," "Why Did I Get Married?," "Why We Fight," "Witch's Mirror," "The Wobblies," "Yakuza Graveyard" and "Yellowbeard."

E-mail The Movie Guy at bcaine@angnewspapers.com or call (925) 416-4806. For more movie news, visit http://www.insidebayarea.com/movies. Check out Caine's blog "Sex and the Single Movie Critic" at http://www.ibabuzz.com/movies.

personalized baby blanket:Baby Blanket Business Is Getting Much More Personal

2006-06-22T22:53:00.000-07:00

Sonya Bebeblankee
6/9/2006 5:38:22 PM

One company has made it their personal mission to make buying thoughtful baby gifts fun and easy.

Dallas, TX June 9, 2006 – Sonya Bebeblankee, a unique and spunky baby blanket company, is raising the bar when it comes to personalization. The new “Personalization Plus” campaign aims to ultimately increase the uniqueness of an already unique baby gift: a Miss Sonya.

Personalization Plus offers customers up to 200 characters embroidered along the satin edges of 100% woven cotton blankets. Most other high-end retailers allow no more than 20 characters. But, more than that, the site allows users to customize their one-of-a-kind blankie fast and easy to become the ultimate gift-giver. It’s more than just a monogram or birthdate; this allows customers to weave their warmest wishes into a high-quality blankie.

“It’s all smiles here at Sonya Bebeblankee. We can each say that we truly love what we do here,” says owner, Todd Lilly. “I originally thought we were starting a baby blanket business. A year later we realized we were way more than that. And now, I’m more convinced than ever that we’re truly in the smile business. The personalization around the blankets is just the byproduct of what we do best – help our customers create lasting impressions.”

Lilly continues, “We’re so pumped about being able to offer something that’s just not available anywhere else -- at a very reasonable price and in a very short amount of time.” Lilly started the company two years ago and is a unique business owner with what can only be described as a wacky personality. He says there are two things you have to have to quit a perfectly-good career to sell baby blankets: a bit of an unbalanced personality and a sincere belief in your product.

And, that’s what the most loyal of Sonya’s customers have said: that a Miss Sonya is so unique, so fun to make, and so easy to order, that the mere 5 days they wait in anticipation for the blankie is completely worth it. But now, with Personalization Plus, there’s more to write, more styles to choose from, and more smiles to go around.

Related Links

Visit The Site
www.SonyaBebeblankee.com

Contact Information:
Erin Hughes
Brand Manager
Sonya Bebeblankee
214-942-4000 x. 704
erin@sonyabebeblankee.com

personalized baby blanket: Preparing For The Birth Of A Baby - Essential Baby Clothes

2006-06-20T00:14:00.000-07:00

If you are expecting a baby in the next few months, the chances are you will have started planning for some of her important things, if not doing them and buying them already. Her crib may be chosen; her nursery may be painted and decorated; you may have some beautiful bedding to match the baby decor ...

by Roy Thomsitt

If you are expecting a baby in the next few months, the chances are you will have started planning for some of her important things, if not doing them and buying them already. Her crib may be chosen; her nursery may be painted and decorated; you may have some beautiful bedding to match the baby decor of her room; and you may have bought a few gorgeous newborn outfits with which to adorn your newborn.

However, there may be a whole host of things you have not really thought of seriously, especially if you are a first time parent. It is so tempting to focus on the pretty things, and forget, or not learn of, the practical ones. So, when it comes to baby clothes, leave all the cute outfits to the baby shower guests, and concentrate for a while on the things you will really need. After all, you do not want your baby to be caught with her diapers down!

Having a baby is a combination of joy and stress for most people, and I suppose that is true of most major events in our lives. There is nothing to compare to the pleasure and happiness that a mother feels when she holds her new baby for those first few days after the birth; or the father showing off pictures of the baby to his friends and family.

Unfortunately, there is also nothing quite like the stress in worrying that everything is going to be all right on the night, or day, as the case may be. To reduce the chance of those stresses taking over, and to ensure that the family is properly prepared for their joyous new addition, it is as well to get organised with the practical things for the baby layette. Let the person who is to organise the baby shower sort out all that side of things, while you ensure all the most practical items are in place by month 7 of the pregnancy.

New parents quite often fall into the trap of being unprepared when it comes to suitable clothing for their baby. So, here are some of the essentials you will need to complete your preparation for the baby's arrival:

1. Cotton bodysuits, absorbent baby blankets, bibs, and baby booties are items that a new parent can never have enough of. Babies, God Bless them, are messy little things sometimes. For all the cuteness and adorability that they possess, they do dribble, slobber, vomit and overfill their diapers with some of their profuse outputs, and they are like that for about the first year or so of their lives. As such, their clothes do get messy quickly and often; so be prepared, and be practical. A mum may find herself changing her baby's clothing almost as often as she changes her diaper – sometimes more.

2. The best plan is to stock up on the practical things such as "onesies" suits, baby tees, and mess-cleaning cotton blankets so that you always have plenty on hand. Buy these practical items in abundance, but not so many that you'll quickly be stuck with a pile of baby items that no longer fit the baby. It is a good idea to have at least five clean outfits at any time; that is clean items, and not awaiting the next wash. If you are going out on a long outing, you will need to pack extra, so always make sure that you have plenty of clean backups. Do not underestimate your little baby's ability to take your laundry load to record levels, unlike anything you have seen before if you are a first time parent.

The cute and adorable baby outfits, and the stores are stuffed full of those, are fine for taking baby to church, for visiting grandparents, or for taking family photos. However, be prepared for the baby to make a mess over that precious little outfit. While planning and preparing for the arrival of your new offspring, forego some of the cute outfits so that you can stock up on more of the practical essentials. The guests at the baby shower can provide the cute things, while you ensure that you are truly prepared for the reality of having a bouncing new baby in the house.

About The Author:
This preparing for baby article was written by Roy Thomsitt, owner author of the baby website, http://www.bouncing-new-baby.com. Ably assisted by his baby daughter, he is also responsible for the Baby Blog, http://feeds.feedburner.com/bouncing-new-baby/RVnf

Copyright Roy Thomsitt - http://feeds.feedburner.com

personalized baby blanket: Preserving Family History - Why Is It Important?

2006-06-20T00:07:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had to clean out someone's house after their death? It can be quite a chore, and very overwhelming. In one way it's a fascinating inside peek into someone's personal life. Or, it might feel more like a treasure hunt. The only problem is, will you recognize the ...

by Janet E. Nugent

Have you ever had to clean out someone's house after their
death? It can be quite a chore, and very overwhelming. In one
way it's a fascinating inside peek into someone's personal life.
Or, it might feel more like a treasure hunt. The only problem
is, will you recognize the treasure when you find it? I'm not
talking about the money stuffed under the mattress, but all the
little things that, if put together properly, would tell a story
about that person's life. And, if the deceased was a family
member, that in turn would add to your knowledge of your family
history.

After my father's death, my mother decided to move into an
apartment, which meant cleaning out the house. We found a
number of items that we kids had never seen before. My
Great-grandmother's china and my grandmother's china. My mother
was able to tell us which were which. We also found a cute
little coverlet, hand-embroidered, that turned out to be our
grandfather's baby blanket, made by his mother. Our grandfather
died before my mother's 2nd birthday, but evidently the coverlet
was passed on to her, along with the history of it. If she
hadn't been around to tell us, we would probably never know who
it belonged to, or who made it.

One day I gave some of my nieces a pile of stuff to sort
through. When I returned, they reported that there were only a
few things to keep. I sorted through their "discard" pile, and
came across a framed photo of our cousins. Since we seldom saw
those cousins, my nieces didn't realize who they were, and
figured it was a generic photo that the manufacturer placed in
the frame. A piece of history almost lost. And the recipe book
with the name "Esther Black" in it meant nothing to them. That
wasn't surprising, since she died before I was born, and they
hadn't grown up hearing stories about her. Another treasure
almost lost.

The point is that unless the older generation tells the younger
family members who their ancestors were, and what items belonged
to them, your history, and the history of your family, could be
lost forever. Why is that so important? Everyone is somewhat
curious about where they came from. Did the stork really bring
me? How did I get into Mommy's tummy? How did I get out?
(That one usually isn't answered until high school health
class!) As they get older they may wonder what country their
ancestors came from. Are they Italian-American on both sides of
the family, or only one? Where is the other side from? Their
curiosity may wane over time, until the day their own child
comes home from school with an assignment to do their family
history, and bring in something that has been passed down in the
family. Now what to do?! If only they had listened more to
Aunt Mary's boring stories about her youth, and all the family
she could talk about. If only they had asked their grandmother
why she kept that black covered bowl close to where she always
sat in the living room. Wouldn't it have been nice to know that
her fiancée bought it for her in Japan, when he was briefly
stationed there at the end of World War II?

Many people think that history is boring; trying to remember all
those dates and famous (or infamous) people. But I've always
believed that those dates and battles and historical events are
only the hook to hang the real story on. So what does it matter
now which battle was the turning point of the Revolutionary War?
Would it be more interesting if you found out that one of your
ancestors fought on the winning side of that battle? Would you
then be more interested in that battle, and learning more about
the life of those solders? And, more importantly, why your
ancestor was on that side of the conflict: what drove him,
inspired him to take up arms?

History is the story of mankind, and all the individuals who
have lived and died. Their stories go towards the making of the
larger picture. Do you remember where you were and what you
were doing on September 11, 2001? Do you remember what you
felt? Now imagine how your parents or grandparents felt when
they heard about the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor by the
Japanese. Do you think they were as stunned as you were, or as
angry, sad, or confused? Times and situation change, but people
are still people, with the same feelings.

Now is the time to start recording your family history, starting
with you and your ancestors. Make sure that your descendants
remember your family's part in the overall story of history.
Names and dates are fine, but try to bring them more alive by
finding and preserving their possessions.

Copyright Janet E. Nugent - http://www.preserveyourfamilyhistory.com

personalized baby blanket: Day care staffer facing charges

2006-06-13T00:26:00.000-07:00

Baby allegedly force-fed, shaken
By Steven Elbow
A day care worker faces a felony charge for allegedly shaking and trying to force-feed a 6-month-old boy.

Anna C. Fuller, 19, who was working at Playhaven, 4111 East Towne Blvd., at the time of the incident, was charged Thursday with second-degree reckless endangerment, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

According to a criminal complaint, on Feb. 6 another employee was having problems feeding the baby, so she asked Fuller to try. Upon failing to get the baby to eat, Fuller allegedly put the boy in a crib and rocked it violently to get him to stop crying, at one point hitting the baby on the back of the head with an open hand.

The co-worker told police Fuller picked the baby up by the shirt, tried again to feed the baby, then said, "I'll make you eat it" before she allegedly removed the bottle lid and nipple and tried to force the bottle opening into his mouth. She then allegedly held the baby at arm's length and shook him three times, causing the baby's head to flail violently.

The co-worker told police Fuller then "propped or threw" the baby into a swing and covered his entire body and head with a personalized baby blanket, tucked the blanket, then walked away saying, "You're such a little jerk."

Fuller then went to another part of the room and began to break pencils. The co-worker told police that, in the past, Fuller had said she would break pencils instead of breaking the baby's neck.

The mother of the baby arrived a short time later and was upset to find the baby sleeping with the blanket over his head. The mother later placed the blanket over her own head and found that she had difficulty drawing a breath.

Dr. Barbara Knox, a child abuse specialist at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, reviewed the case and was amazed the baby was not injured. She said Fuller's alleged actions could have caused a variety of injuries, from serious mouth injuries and brain or rib injuries to death from suffocation.

The co-worker told police that while she was "scared for the child's safety," she didn't say anything to stop Fuller or inform the mother of the incidents.

"I feel ashamed I didn't say anything," she reportedly said.

Cocaine conviction: A Madison man was sentenced to seven years in federal prison Thursday for selling cocaine.

Jose Israel Flores-Tinoco, 27, pleaded guilty in April to the charge of conspiracy to distribute cocaine. He and his co-defendant, Rene Lopez, were arrested last September after trying to sell over 200 grams of the drug to an undercover officers.

U.S. District Judge John Shabaz, who handed Flores-Tinoco a maximum sentence because he has a history of cocaine distribution, is scheduled to sentence Lopez on June 30.

Sprinkler stops fire: An automatic sprinkler system was credited with stopping a kitchen fire from spreading on the city's east side Thursday.

Fire Department spokeswoman Lori Wirth said the fire broke out at a second-floor apartment at 5201 Brookside in the Barrington Place Apartments at about 12:35 p.m. The occupants of the apartment thought their stove was turned off, but it was accidentally turned to a "high" setting.

The occupants tried to extinguish the flames, but were unsuccessful. But a sprinkler above the stove had extinguished the flame before firefighters arrived.

Damage costs were estimated between $5,000 and $10,000.

E-mail: selbow@madison.com
Published: June 9, 2006

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personalized baby blanket: Secrets to Working and Pumping

2006-06-06T06:39:00.000-07:00

When I had my first son I hadn't planned to go back to work. I suddenly had to return to the workforce when he was three months old. I was completely unprepared and my son went from an exclusively ...

by Patty Hone

When I had my first son I hadn't planned to go back to work. I suddenly had to return to the workforce when he was three months old. I was completely unprepared and my son went from an exclusively breastfeeding baby to a mostly formula baby within a short period of time. I learned a lot from my experience with him and was much more prepared when I had my daughter. I was able to exclusively breastfeed her and work full time. Because of what I went through, the emotions of trying to pump enough milk for the next day, I wanted to gather up all my tips and write them down for others to use. I hope that you find these tips helpful.

1. Plan ahead if possible. Get a freezer stash going before you go back to work.

2. Do not just pump at work. Pump at home on your days off and before and after work.

3. Pump while nursing. Pump on one side while nursing on the other.

4. Find a good place to pump, where you are comfortable and can relax.

5. Make sure everyone at work knows how important breastfeeding is and not to interrupt you.

6. Drink plenty of fluids through out the day. Drink a large glass of water about an hour before you are going to pump.

7. Use a good quality double breast pump like the Ameda Purely Yours.

8. If your supply is dwindling rent a hospital grade pump.

9. Find other moms to talk to that are breastfeeding and pumping.

10. Do not get discouraged if you don't pump a large volume at once. Most moms pump around three oz per pumping.

11. Pump frequently. Pumping frequently is more important than how long you pump.

12. Try to pump at least every three hours.

13. Pumping is NOT as efficient as nursing. Do not gauge your milk supply by how much you pump. Your baby will get more milk from nursing than you will make from pumping.

14. Before you nurse, relax and do a quick breast massage. This will help you get a better let down.

15. Any time you give your baby a bottle make sure you pump in place of that.

16. Nurse frequently at night or try reverse cycling. Reverse cycling is when baby nurses more at night than during the day.

17. Co-sleep with baby if you are comfortable so he can nurse more at night. Nursing at night will help your supply.

18. Try drinking Mothers Milk tea.

19. Eat a bowl of oatmeal in the morning. Oatmeal is really good for boosting milk supply.

20. Avoid giving bottle to baby before he is three weeks.

21. Use a slow flow nipple for your bottles.

22. Find a day care provider that is a breastfeeding supporter. An uneducated day care provider can sabotage your success.

23. Take Fenugreek or Blessed Thistle

24. If you need to supplement when you are home use a Supplemental Nursing System.

25. Do not assume because baby is fussing it is your supply. Many times baby will fuss for other reasons.

26. When preparing bottles for day care, store them in three oz portions. Your baby will likely only need three oz at a time. If he needs more up it to four.

27. Send small 2 oz bottles of breast milk for day care provider to give to baby if you will be picking him up soon. This way baby will be ready to nurse when you get him home.

28. Nurse on your lunch break if you can.

29. Take picture of baby with you to work. Look at your baby when you are pumping. It will help with your let down.

30. Have a nurse in. On the weekend spend the entire weekend in bed with your baby and nurse as frequently as you can.

31. During pumping session, take a break when your milk stops flowing. Massage your breast and use nipple stimulation to get a second let down. You will usually get another oz or so if you can get a second let down.

32. Cut down on caffeine. Caffeine will hinder your supply

33. Don't do extreme dieting. Eat a healthy diet.

34. Contact a La Leche League Leader or lactation consultant for advice.

35. Avoid using bottles and pacifiers when you are home.

36. Try switch nursing when you are home. Nurse on one side then switch to the other when baby seems to be getting fussy. Switch sides two or three times while nursing.

37. Remind yourself of all the benefits your baby is getting and that it's worth it!

38. Keep your pump pre-assembled so that you can keep your pumping breaks shorter.

39. If your using a pump with horns put them in a Ziploc bag and store them in the freezer between pumpings. This way you can just wash them when you get home.

40. If you can, do paperwork while pumping. This way you can have more pumping breaks and you will relax more if you are not focused on pumping.

41. Don't watch the pump. Staring at the pump watching for milk will make your session more stressful.

42. Adjust the suction controls, experiment with the speed and suction until you find what works best for you.

43. Keep spare parts readily available for your pump so you don't have any emergencies.

44. If you own a hands free pump like whisperwear try pumping on the drive to work.

45. Massage your breasts while you pump.

46. Pump in the morning. Your supply is best in the morning.

47. Bring a baby blanket or item of clothing that smells like baby. Use your senses to visualize your baby.

48. Close your eyes and picture baby nursing.

49. Keep a back up pump at work or in your car in case you forget. The Avent Isis is affordable and a great pump to have for a backup.

50. Pat yourself on the back for giving your baby the best!

About The Author

Patty Hone is a wife and mommy to three kids. She is also the owner of Mommiesmall.com. For quality breast pumps, slings, and other attachment parenting products please visit her site at http://www.mommiesmall.com

patty@mommiesmall.com

personalized baby blanket: Unique Baby Shower Gift Ideas

2006-06-06T06:36:00.000-07:00

Selecting what to bring for a baby shower party can be a tricky task. Any guest would like to give a gift that can be useful to the baby or the parents. Nobody would like to have his or her gift stashed in a closet or to given away to charity without being used first by the recipient. Therefo ...

by Gord Shin

Selecting what to bring for a baby shower party can be a tricky task. Any guest would like to give a gift that can be useful to the baby or the parents. Nobody would like to have his or her gift stashed in a closet or to given away to charity without being used first by the recipient.

Therefore, one has to make sure that he or she has chosen the baby shower gift properly so it will not be wasted. As much as possible, never select a baby shower gift that the parents may already have. Sometimes, the baby shower invitation says what the parents would like to receive.

If it is not on the invitation, you can also call the mom to ask what she would like to receive or what else she would need.

At times when the parents seem to have prepared well for the baby, you can select unique baby shower gifts that would serve as decorative items and remembrance.

Here are some exclusive baby shower gift suggestions.

* Personalized Ornaments

These ornaments are made from ceramic tiles that can be displayed on cabinet or shelves. These can be personalized to contain the baby's name or picture. You may also give a poem to the engraving company so it will be included in the ornament.

* Birth Announcement Plates

These are decorative plates that come in pastel colors and different designs. These can also be personalized with the baby's name. Some companies also offer printing the baby's picture on the plates.

The plates may be used to contain food. However, many chooses to have these plates displayed somewhere in the house.

* Personalized Baby Blankets

These blankets come in pastel colors with different designs. These can be personalized to include the baby's name. Before deciding to give one, make sure that the parents hadn't bought or will not be receiving several blankets during the baby shower party.

* Personalized Name Frame

If the baby's name was already chosen, you can choose a personalized name frame. This will contain the baby's name with it's meaning, usually the biblical or historic association of the name. It may also have a poem dedicating the gift to the baby or wishing the baby and the parents well.

* Piggy Bank

The parents can start the baby's savings with a personalized piggy bank. The parents may drop coins each day after the baby is born. When the child is older, he or she can continue saving money with this decorative piggy bank.

* Music CD

Music has been proven to enhance the creativity and eliminate stress. For babies, music can help them have quality sleep and boost their creativity and intelligence. This is a perfect gift for the baby and the parents.

Regardless of the gift that you have chosen, always include a card to express your thoughts and your joys in sharing the celebration with the baby' parents.

* Baby Naming Book

If the parents still hadn't decided what name to give to the baby or if they are not yet sure of the baby's gender, the baby-naming book is a great gift for the baby shower. The book contains name selections from the bible and historical figures. The meanings of the names are also given as well as the variations and origins in different countries and cultures.

* Pillows

Pillows can also be personalized with the baby's name. These come in several colors and designs.

Gord Shin is web designer who loves to build high quality content based website on specific niche topics. Please visit Aromatherapy Healing Information or Free Asthma Information or Baby Shower Planning for more information on these topics.

Copyright Gord Shin - http://www.babyshowerplanning.net

personalized baby blanket: Baby Shower Basics

2006-05-31T21:15:00.000-07:00

Baby showers have been very popular and are one tradition that almost all mothers-to-be from almost all countries practice. Since baby shower is not only gift giving but also a social event. It is for this reason that some etiquette should be observed. These etiquettes may vary depending on your country but the following is the most common ones ...

by Gord Shin

Baby showers have been very popular and are one tradition that almost all mothers-to-be from almost all countries practice. Since baby shower is not only gift giving

but also a social event. It is for this reason that some etiquette should be observed. These etiquettes may vary depending on your country but the following is the most

common ones.

1. The best time to hold a baby shower is sometime before the birth. Usually, baby showers are held a month or two before the birth of the baby. Recently, some

people practice holding the baby shower a month or two after the birth. Holding the party before the birth of the bay will give time for the mother to buy the items that

were not given as gifts during the baby shower.

2. Baby showers are not only for first-born babies but also for subsequent babies. Every pregnancy is a reason to celebrate, so there is nothing wrong to throw a

baby shower to subsequent babies.

3. Traditionally, a close friend of the new mom hosts the baby party. Relatives and co-workers can also host the event.

4. For the host, it is okay to have games to break the ice but it is not that required. Conversations, food and drinks are the thing that should be considered. It would

also be a nice idea to have a book where the guests can write on their notes and messages to the new mom.

5. It is just proper to give gifts that are related to babies. Neutral colors can be picked for gifts so that it will relate to either a boy or girl. It is best to choose gifts that

can be useful and something that a baby may need everyday like diapers, feeding bottles, bibs and baby blankets.

6. Usually, twenty people or more are invited but this will also depend on the number of people that can be accommodated in the venue. Sometimes, they hold a small

number before the birth and larger group after the baby is born.

7. A baby shower is usually held during weekend since that is the most convenient day for the visitors and would normally last two to three hours. The time may be

extended especially if everything is doing well.

8. The person hosting should shoulder the expenses on food and other things.

9. Ideally, the baby shower is held at the home of the person hosting the party. The new mom would be informed since a pregnant woman is not fit for surprises.

10. It is not necessary to have a special invitation printed. The host can buy stationeries or greeting cards with baby themes in bookstores. It will also be a good idea

to have the invitations sent at least three weeks before the party. This will give enough time for guests to RSVP. Do not forget to include the directions.

11. It is only proper to welcome guests when they come and thank them when they leave. The host should always be present during the party and should be the one

attending at the guests.

12. A theme for the party is not that necessary but this adds life to a party. Wearing costumes and decorating the venue gives a happy and celebrating atmosphere.

For More Info on Baby Shower Tips, Visit Baby Shower Planning

Gord Shin is web designer who loves to build high quality content based website on specific niche topics. Please visit Halitosis Cure Information or Free Asthma Information or Baby Shower Planning for more information on these topics.

Copyright Gord Shin - http://www.babyshowerplanning.net

personalized baby blanket: Baby Gift Baskets For Showers And Newborn Gifts

2006-05-31T21:12:00.000-07:00

If you are wondering what to buy for a baby gift or baby shower gift, then you may be faced with something of a dilemma. You will know that the parents probably need practical things, as does the forthcoming or newborn baby. The parents will probably also like items that are attractive, while a new baby will not care one little bit what their clothes ...

by Roy Thomsitt

If you are wondering what to buy for a baby gift or baby shower gift, then you may be faced with something of a dilemma. You will know that the parents probably need practical things, as does the forthcoming or newborn baby. The parents will probably also like items that are attractive, while a new baby will not care one little bit what their clothes, bedding or any other baby items look like. An attractively presented baby gift basket helps the gift buyer to reach a compromise, and solve their dilemma.

It is certainly fine, if not desirable, to focus on practical baby gifts, whether they are to be presented at a baby shower or directly at some other time; before or after the new baby is born. That then leaves the desire of the parents, and the person giving, to receive or offer a gift that is attractive. With a gift basket, you can combine the practical gifts with some pretty and attractive necessities, thus making an ideal gift offering to celebrate the birth.

Many of the things parents will really need for a new baby are quite mundane, to say the least. Diapers, baby powder, baby soap and other seemingly trivial items are really necessities, and will be welcome gifts for a new baby. However, individually they do not make gifts that most of us would like to give. Despite that, mixing the baby powder, diapers and wet wipes with some toys, and then presenting them nicely, can bring about a transformation. That is where baby gift baskets really come into their own.

For example, you could have a diaper bag as a "basket" and include a few baby toys, such as plastic ducks, baby rattle, and cuddly bear, together with more practical items like a wash cloth set, baby manicure set, picture frame, flannel baby blanket, gel teether, comb & brush set, and baby wash.

Another type of example would be an educational mix in a coloured wicker basket. You could use blue, pink or neutral colours for the basket, then for the gifts choose items like board books, soft toys with classical sounds, colouring crayons and a colouring book. Such gifts will be appreciated more later, of course, but they are good to have in hand when the baby is born as babies soon take an interest in pictures.

There are many permutations of gifts once you have made that decision to give a baby gift basket either at a shower, or after the baby has been born. There is also one plus for you: it can be great fun making up a basket gift yourself, or even choosing one online. For a baby shower, a cookie gift basket could offered as an additional basket, to provide part of shower feast.

About The Author:
This baby gift basket http://www.bouncing-new-baby.com/Baby_Shower_Gift_Basket.htm article was written by Roy Thomsitt, owner author of the Bouncing New Baby web site http://www.bouncing-new-baby.com

Copyright Roy Thomsitt - http://www.bouncing-new-baby.com

personalized baby blanket: A Special Kind Of Love

2006-05-31T21:03:00.001-07:00

My grandmother taught me to crochet the moment my clumsy, chubby fingers could hold a crochet hook. By the time that I was six, she handed me her sewing needles to thread for her because her eyes could no longer see the needle's eye ...

by Kirsten Hawkins

My grandmother taught me to crochet the moment my clumsy, chubby fingers could hold a crochet hook. By the time that I was six, she handed me her sewing needles to thread for her because her eyes could no longer see the needle's eye. When I was eight, my mother spent all of her precious off-work night-time hours making me a spring wardrobe that I can still describe in minute detail, right down to the rick-rack that trimmed the red kerchief that matched the tulip sprigged sleeveless dress. I can recall precisely the colors and patterns of the nightgowns my grandmother sewed for me. My brothers will tell you that they've never worn anything so warm and comfortable as Nana's knitted socks. I even remember the weight of the stocking cap my mother knit to match the checkerboard cardigan - that matched the blue one she knit for my brother.

There is a magic in handmade clothing that transcends the colors, the styles, even the quality of the handiwork. It's as if every stitch and every knot was imbued with the love of the hands that crafted them. And so it was only right that when I was carrying my first child, I picked up crochet hook and thread and started making the clothing she'd wear home from the hospital.

I didn't stop there, though. Making clothing for babies is more than a way to save money or create unique clothing styles. It's a way to surround them with love, to weave your wishes into the fabric as you shape and create each piece.

Over the years, I have sewn, knit and crocheted sweaters, sunsuits, dresses, short sets, blankets, quilts, hats and pants for all five of my children. Beginning with their homecoming outfit, each of them had special clothes that I'd designed and created just for them. I would say that it is perhaps a conceit, a fond wish of my own that my feelings about dressing my babies with my own hands would have transferred themselves to my children - except:

A month ago, I dropped by my daughter's apartment. The baby girl I dressed in a strawberry printed romper - each stich carefully placed by hand, each with a whispered wish and a blessing for her good fortune - is 22 now, a college graduate with a home of her own. Tossed over a table in the corner is a blanket I crocheted for her when she was three from odds and ends of yarn. On her walls are pictures of herself wearing a sweater I made for her - the same sweater, at 3, at 5, at 7. The same sweater now clothes the teddy bear sitting on her dresser.

Except:
My 19 year old son, fully grown and living on his own, still owns the knit baby blanket that wrapped him on his trip home from the hospital. He creates and makes his own clothes - imaginative and unusual - and in the patches on his jeans and his jackets, I find bits and pieces of shirts and shorts and sweaters I made for him over the years.

My 15 year old has tucked away the first party dress I made for her - when she was six months old. She never said a word to me about - I found it in her 'treasure memory box'. And the two youngest boys? At 10 and 12, they each have their favorite blanket - ones that I knit for them when they were born.

There is magic in your hands when you create clothing for your baby, the magic of a mother's love that is never, ever completely forgotten.

About The Author:
Kirsten Hawkins is a baby and parenting expert specializing new mothers and single parent issues. Visit http://www.babyhelp411.com/ for more information on how to raising healthy, happy children.

Copyright Kirsten Hawkins - http://www.babyhelp411.com

personalized baby blanket: 7 Tips for Decorating Your Child and ;s Room

2006-05-31T21:03:00.000-07:00

By Liz Hekimian-Williams

If you're not sure where to start or how best to tackle updating your child's bedroom, you're not alone. In a lot of families, the baby nursery takes a lot of planning and deco...

by Jennifer Shelby

7 Tips for Decorating Your Child's Room
By Liz Hekimian-Williams

If you're not sure where to start or how best to tackle updating your child's bedroom, you're not alone. In a lot of families, the baby nursery takes a lot of planning and decorating time but there's often less thought and energy put into decorating the same child's room as they grow older.

It's common for baby toys and furniture like diaper disposals, rattles, pull toys and cribs to get removed, but other things often seem to stay around for quite a bit longer than the growing child might wish. For instance a wall paper border with prints more suitable for your baby or younger child's room, may not be as enjoyed by your now older child (or teen?!).

Here are a few tips to help you get started with decorating your child's room. The best part about this is that your child can help you do it this time around, unlike when they were yet to be born or an infant. So this can be a fun project you can do together!

1. Select a new color to paint the walls, a color that your child likes.
If you have a strong objection to it, though, negotiate with perhaps a lighter version of that color, or limiting their color choice to only one wall. (Or, encourage them to put up some nice posters and wall hangings to lessen their color's impact!)

2. Mood lighting! Kids of all ages enjoy mood lighting of one sort or another. Together, select either a night light, a small novelty lamp
with a low wattage bulb, or an interesting colored or black light
bulb lamp. Other lighting effects kids enjoy include disco lights, statues or flowers with light effects, and glow in the dark items.

3. Bedspreads. Get rid of baby blankets and exchange for favorite cartoon throws or bed covers. When they're teenagers, they might enjoy more sports or frilly, or even more adult taste bed
coverings.

4. Personalize something for their bureaus or their walls, with their
names and/or photographs. Photos can be made into a collage. Engraved names in stones or personalized acrostic poem name prints are fun kid's room additions. Acrostic poem name prints
make great keepsakes and can be updated every few years. They use the letters of your child's name to start off self-esteem enhancing phrases that tell about your child's unique traits, interests and characteristics at that stage of their life.

5. Create a comfort zone area in the room, for cuddling up cozy and reading. Think about using big pillows, plush or inflatable chairs, anything your child might enjoy to sit on and relaxing in. You'll also want to conveniently have some books placed within their arm's
reach. You might also want to place some music equipment by that area for them to enjoy. And if there's room, try to add an additional seating space for you to enjoy with them, reading or
listening to music with your child, or simply chatting together. If you have a teenager, they'll likely want to have another seating space for you or their friends to use.

6. Together with your child, agree upon a wall paper border that you can use to decorate their room with. This idea can be in addition to or used instead of painting their room. Adding or changing a wall paper border can be a very simple and quick way to change the look
and feel of your child's room.

7. And... here's an interesting idea my daughter suggested when I asked her for suggestions about decorating a child's room ... ( I simply had to share this intriguing idea with you!) She said, "tell them to get an extra thick room door so you don't hear your kids fighting!"

Can you tell that she shares her room with her sister and something about the noise level in their room at times?!

Hmmm... maybe she's got a good idea there after all!

© 2003 by Elizabeth Hekimian-Williams, Giftsprings

About the Author

Liz Hekimian-Williams is owner of Giftsprings.com, an online gifts and home decor shop where you can find many home decorating novelties including night lights, low watt novelty lamps and personalized acrostic name poem prints. http://www.Giftsprings.com

personalized baby blanket: 4 Tips for Taking Great Baby Pictures - Even If You're Not a Professional

2006-05-31T20:57:00.000-07:00

When my daughter Layla was born I had a hard time putting the camera down. And apparently I wasn't the only one. The cashier at the photo developing shop told me that new parents comprised a fairly sizable chunk of their business ...

by Alexis Dawes

When my daughter Layla was born I had a hard time putting the camera down. And apparently I wasn't the only one. The cashier at the photo developing shop told me that new parents comprised a fairly sizable chunk of their business.

We can't help it! Babies are such beautiful creatures that you want to capture every new movement and every fleeting smile that comes along. (Even if that smile is attached to a smelly gas bubble!)

However the problem many parents have is that their lack of good photography skills can translate into pictures that are too dark, too bright, blurry, out of focus, uncentered, and so on. Perhaps this describes you.

If so, don't sweat it. These problems are easily fixable. An album full of mishaps can quickly be transformed by following these 4 tips...

1) When taking pictures of babies lying on their backs, stand directly over them and shoot straight down.

I used to take a solid color baby blanket and place it on the floor in a bright, sun filled room. When I was ready to take a picture I would put Layla on the blanket, and adjust it around her, making sure not to put her directly in the sunlight. Then I'd get on my knees right over her, aim straight down and snap away.

This technique will allow you to center the camera properly and you'll get some great close-up shots. The natural sunlight will often give you just enough light so your picture isn't too dark or too bright.

2) Capture a range of emotions.

Smiling babies are cute. But so are crying babies and pouting babies and messy babies and sleeping babies.

Be sure to take pictures of your little one in all phases of his or her emotion filled life. You'll be amazed at how truly beautiful they are in non-traditional picture taking situations.

3) Make bath time picture time.

While there are some babies who don't like water, most love it. They often become very expressive in the bath tub - laughing, cooing and splashing. So bath time often becomes a great opportunity to capture a few precious shots of your little one.

I've personally used the bathtub to document how Layla has changed over her 2+ years. Every couple of months I take a few close-up pictures of her in the bathtub. Then I take the best one and place it in a special section in the photo album.

It's truly amazing to see how her face changes so dramatically with each new picture.

4) If you use a disposable camera, choose a good one.

I purchased 3 dirt cheap disposable cameras before I had Layla. When we brought her home these were the ones we used for the first week of photo taking.

Boy was I disappointed! The pictures developed horribly. And as a new mommy with hormones still raging, you know how sad this made me. Those cuddly little moments can never be relived again.

I learned a good lesson though. You get what you pay for.

Now my disposable camera of choice is the Kodak Max HQ. It's one of the more pricey disposable cameras. However the quality is fantastic in comparison to other disposables I've used.

You can usually buy them inexpensively on eBay. Popular retailers like Target and Wal-Mart also run sales on them quite frequently.

About The Author

Alexis Dawes is a real mom (not a professional photographer) who runs the Photograph-Your-Baby.com web site. Check out her free 20+ page tutorial that teaches parents how to take better pictures of their little one (http://www.Photograph-Your-Baby.com).

Copyright Alexis Dawes - http://www.Photograph-Your-Baby.com

personalized baby blanket: Baby Blanket - Cat

2006-05-30T01:14:00.000-07:00

Baby Blanket baby shower gift idea. As children grow from infancy to toddler most grow attached to one of two things: either a blanket or a stuffed animal. Now children can have the best of both worlds! Created with love and imagination Animal Blankets are blankets that combine a huggable plush animal with the function of a warm blanket. The animal's head is at one corner of the 27 inch square blanket while its feet and/or tail are at the other. The edges are a wide satin trim. These irresistible animal friends are sure to become loving companions for babies infants and toddlers as they navigate the early years of growing up providing years of comfort and countless smiles. A beautiful baby blanket and soooo soft~ babies and toddlers just love these and so do we! 70%acrylic/30% polyester. Machine washable on warm tumble dry low. COMES WRAPPED IN CLEAR CELLO WITH A BOW! MAKES A PERFECT BABY SHOWER GIFT OR BIRTHDAY GIFT! NO NEXT DAY AIR ORDERS ON THIS ITEM. INTERNATIONAL ORDERS ONLY- A SHIPPING SURCHARGE OF $15 WILL BE ADDED TO YOUR INVOICE FOR THIS ITEM DUE TO SIZE. MAXIMUM OF 1 BLANKET PER INTERNATIONAL ORDER.

Copyright © 2004 In Fashion Kids® Inc. Baby Clothes, Infant Clothes and childrens swimwear store. All rights reserved.

personalized baby blanket: Baby Gift~Ducky Blanket

2006-05-30T01:10:00.000-07:00

The perfect baby shower gift or baby gift idea! This irrestible baby blanket is too cute and sooo soft!!! Here's the latest on this fun new trend....As children grow from infancy to toddler most grow attached to one of two things: either a blanket or a stuffed animal. Now children can have the best of both worlds! Created with love and imagination Animal Blankets are blankets that combine a huggable plush animal with the function of a warm blanket. The animal's head is at one corner of the 27 inch square blanket while its feet and/or tail are at the other. The edges are a wide satin trim. These irresistible animal friends are sure to become loving companions for babies infants and toddlers as they navigate the early years of growing up providing years of comfort and countless smiles. A beautiful blanket and soooo soft~ babies and toddlers just love these and so do we! Baby Gift By In Fashion Kids. 70%acrylic/30% polyester. Machine washable on warm tumble dry low. COMES WRAPPED IN CLEAR CELLO WITH A BOW! MAKES A PERFECT BABY SHOWER GIFT OR BIRTHDAY GIFT! NO NEXT DAY AIR ORDERS ON THIS ITEM DUE TO SIZE. INTERNATIONAL ORDERS ONLY- A SHIPPING SURCHARGE OF $15 WILL BE ADDED TO YOUR INVOICE FOR THIS ITEM DUE TO SIZE. MAXIMUM 1 BLANKET PER INTERNATIONAL ORDER.

Copyright © 2004 In Fashion Kids® Inc. Baby Clothes, Infant Clothes and childrens swimwear store. All rights reserved.

personalized baby blanket: Guide Review - Lightweight Rain/Element Blanket for Baby

2006-05-30T01:05:00.000-07:00

The Rain/Element Blanket looks just like any other baby blanket. It's attractive in a simple way, just a square of solid-colored soft cloth with a ribbed knit edge. However, that simple fabric square is also waterproof, flame retardant, stain resistant and hypoallergenic, so the Rain/Element Blanket is ready to take whatever messes nature and babies throw at it. The fabric is very lightweight and breathable, making it comfortable for use even in summer rain showers or for shade from the hot sun. In winter, the Rain/Element Blanket can be used as an outer layer to keep baby's snow gear dry. The waterproof fabric also makes this an excellent choice for ground cover at the park or beach, so that baby has a clean, dry place to sit and play. At 36 inches square, the Rain/Element Blanket is big enough to keep a larger toddler dry or to swaddle an infant. Since the fabric is thin, the blanket folds easily and won't take up a lot of room in the diaper bag. Parents may find that it's easier to toss this blanket over baby's head to dash through a rainy parking lot than it is to wrangle both baby and umbrella or to wrestle baby into a rain jacket. The Rain/Element Blanket is a bit more expensive than some other baby blankets, which may deter some parents. However, a blanket that takes up very little precious diaper bag space and works well in a variety of situations is worth a few extra dollars.

©2006 About, Inc., A part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.

personalized baby blanket: Baby Blankets - Chenille Baby Blanket for comfort

2006-05-30T01:03:00.000-07:00

Soft and cuddly baby blankets are serious about the little ones they warm. Throughout your baby's infancy, toddler- and childhood, blankets will play an important role in his comfort, security and even development.

It all starts with the flannel nannies - receiving blankets. These are baby's utility blankets and many moms will tell you they never have enough of them.

Find, Compare and Buy Baby Blankets
Receiving blankets are useful for swaddling, changing and burping baby, so lay in a good supply before baby comes home from the hospital! Receiving blankets are made in combed cotton, brushed flannel and thermal knit. Baby Morgan thermal knit receiving blankets are no longer manufactured, but many baby furnishings stores and internet websites have stock and are continuing to distribute the popular blankets.

Plush cotton or acrylic chenille baby blankets are favorite choice for that special baby gift. A popular brand of poly micro fiber chenille is produced by Little Giraffe; offering a collection of super soft chenille baby blankets. Go the extra step and transform your gift into a personalized baby blanket , embroidered with baby's name and birthday.

While warm and soft are prerequisites for a very young infant's blanket, as your baby grows, he may benefit from other aspects of his blankets. Capture baby's attention with Taggies® blankets , made with colorful, textured satin tags bordering the blanket. Baby will enjoy looking at and feeling the different tags, and will be developing his sensory skills at the same time.

Important considerations when purchasing a baby blanket are:

For what use is the blanket intended? Match size and durability to its anticipated use.
What fabric will be appropriate? Acrylics and other synthetics are hypoallergenic, washable and durable, ideal for spreading on the grass or on questionable carpet!
Is the blanket safe- no decorative ribbons or figures attached? Are the borders chewable? Are blanket corners soft and rounded? Nothing should be safer than your baby's blanket!
Whether chenille, fleece or flannel, your little bundle will grow up loving his blankies long after bidding bye-bye to babyhood.

Copyright 2005-2006 S&T US LLC

personalized baby blanket: My Blankee

2006-05-24T03:01:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a practical and versatile gift to offer an expectant parent, look no further than baby blankets. An elegant and traditional gift that can be enjoyed for years, baby blankets are something that every new mommy can appreciate. Here at My Blankee, we specialize in baby blankets and are proud to offer a beautiful collection to suit every price point and every style.

When it comes to baby blankets, the market is literally saturated with choices. That is why we have worked very hard to create products that are both unique in design and exceptional in quality. Our coverlets are known for their soft and luxurious texture. We pride ourselves in being able to offer our clients the very best in baby-friendly blankets and accessories.

Our Dot Velour blanket is a perfect example of some of our terrific Blankee products. A lightweight coverlet featuring satin borders and raised dot pattern detail, the Dot Velour blanket is perfect for both warm summer evenings and crisp autumn afternoons. This product is available in more than fifteen different colors (including pink, blue and lavender) and can be purchased in six different sizes.

The great thing about our blankets is that in addition to being beautiful and expertly made, they are hypoallergenic. This makes them ideal for babies with even the most sensitive of skin. For more information about the baby blankets offered on our website or if you have specific questions about any of our products, please don't hesitate to contact us.

personalized baby blanket: Embroidered Baby Blankets and Baby Gifts

2006-05-24T02:59:00.000-07:00

Would you like to give the favorite gift at your next baby shower? The unique gift that gets passed around the room for everyone to gush over. Then check out our embroidered baby blankets, personalized with the newborn's name on wonderful fabrics like cotton, velour and satin. Each newborn baby is special and unique to this world and a personalized baby gift is a wonderful keepsake for new parents and babies. With a wide variety of embroidered blankets to choose from, you're sure to find one to fit your needs.

Babies respond to baby blankets. They love to cuddle, snuggle and chew on them even! Each of our blankets has been specially selected for our babies with soft fabrics to ensure a wonderful bonding experience like our cotton baby blanket, velour blanket personalized for baby, security blankies, Christening or Baptism keepsakes, satin trim baby blanket - personalized or monogrammed, lovey, swaddling blanket, and monogrammed fleece baby blanket.

Need a baby gift idea besides our custom embroidered blankets? We have great selection of embroidered baby gifts that are personalized just for you.

Personalized Sibling Shirts make great new Baby gifts

With the arrival of a new baby blessing, be sure to ease the change by making the older sibling feel loved and included. A personalized sibling tshirt is a wonderful way to help the oldest become excited about the new baby. We offer an adorable personalized Big Brother or Big Sister tshirt for the sibling and a little brother or little sister onesie for the newborn that is a favorite personalized sibling shirt set from the sibling to the newborn baby. Another favorite is our Big Brother to Bee and Big Sister to Bee tshirts. What a unique way to announce to family and friends that another blessed baby is on the way!

Personalized Grandma Shirts customized for You!

Sometimes referred to as family shirts, these adorable embroidered shirts are a favorite gift to receive for family members. Anyone that has kids just loves our personalized Grandma sweatshirts with kid faces. Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma, Nana, Dad, and even Grandpa will proudly show off their kids and grandkids by wearing their embroidered shirt custom made by PixieandthePrince.com

personalized baby blanket: Baby Blanket Safety

2006-05-22T00:18:00.000-07:00

Baby Blanket Safety

It is important to cover your infant using a baby blanket rather than a blanket for adults. Because an infant can get tangled or smothered in an oversized blanket, adult blankets are far too large for safety. Remember that, even though that baby blanket may appear too thin to you, it probably seems extremely thick to your infant. Your idea of comfort and softness is proportional to your size. You are likely to prefer things that are larger than is good for your baby.

Of course, even baby blankets can be dangerous. Make sure that you tuck the end and sides of your baby blanket firmly underneath the mattress and that the blanket does not cover your baby above his or her chest. You should be able to see your baby's head and chest as your baby sleeps.

Some mothers prefer to swaddle their newborns since they are used to being held tightly and warmly.

Types of Baby Blankets

You can make your baby blankets part of the d飯r of your nursery. If you have chosen a theme, you will most likely be able to find a blanket that will match the pattern. Baby blankets are also often handmade or can be embroidered with your baby's name.

Machine washable baby blankets will make your life easier. If you have an absolutely beautiful but non-machine washable baby blanket, consider using it just for show.

Attachment to a Baby Blanket

You may end up with a child who is attached to his or her baby blankets. This should not overly concern you. Experts feel that being attached to a baby blanket is a healthy way for young children to deal with the stress of handling "new" situations. Usually, children will start this type of attachment when they are between fifteen months to two years old. Many start loosing interest in their blankets by the time that they are around three.

Most children naturally give up their baby blankets, particularly when they reach school age. Peer pressure may make them limit their use of blankets at home. If you are concerned about your child's dependence on his or her blanket, you can start to wean the child by allowing him or her to have the blanket only at bedtime.

© 2006 Aboutbabies.net All Rights Reserved

personalized baby blanket: Fleece Baby Blankets, Monogrammed Chenille Custom Personalized Baby Blankets, Handmade Baby Blankets!

2006-05-22T00:16:00.000-07:00

Personalized Baby Blankets - Babies are way "tooo" cute, and you want to send a most perfect personalized baby blanket that will be the perfect match. Adorable Baby Gifts is here to help.
Our custom baby blankets are designed and created by us. All our personalized handmade baby blankets are created as if they were for our own family. Our hand made baby blankets are lovingly designed and built, attractively packaged - each custom baby blanket in it's own special way, and sent to your own family, friends, or business associates and the new baby they've just had. At Adorable Baby Gifts we make it easy to send monogrammed baby blankets.

Always creative, we've put together fleece baby blankets, satin baby blankets, and chenille baby blankets! These really neat personalized baby blankets are for those of us who want to give a very special baby gift that will in time become a constant companion to the new baby. We've designed our personalized baby blankets to be large enough to work, and cute enough to be loved! You can be sure the new mom will appreciate these soft, cuddly and colorful handmade baby blankets. And that new baby will depend on it!

Check back soon! We are always coming up with new ideas for personalized baby blankets! As styles, trends and colors change in the world of personalized monogrammed baby blankets - we will be right at the front leading the way with new custom hand made baby blanket styles to choose from!

personalized baby blanket: Welcome to the World of

2006-05-22T00:10:00.000-07:00

But what are Buddy Blankies? They are a wonderful part of any child's life, from baby to toddler. Handmade baby security blankets or lovey blankets made of soft cuddly satin and cozy flannel, with our specially-designed/child-tested Buddy Ears for teething and snuggling. That's what makes our Buddy Blankie a unique baby blanket, sure to be your child's best friend for years to come.

Most children find comfort in a baby blanket or security blanket and we hope you'll find ours up to the task. We pride ourselves on our unique baby blanket design, as well as choosing wonderful patterns to stimulate a child's senses. Our Buddy Blankie's size is approximately 18" square, making this baby blanket not too large to carry around, but the right size to snuggle up with. Being handmade, no two of our baby blankets are exactly alike. Each Buddy Blankie is made to be loved by a special child - your child.

Available in an assortment of bright patterned flannel, our baby blankets come in two sizes. The Buddy Blankie is our full size baby security blanket, for every day snuggling, and the Baby Buddy is our Travel Size baby blanket for the family on the go. Machine washable and dryer safe, our baby blankets are lovingly handmade with the softest satin and cotton flannel, a perfect combination for comfort and play.

Our Buddy Gift Sets are made up of the full size Buddy Blankie and the matching travel sized Baby Buddy ~ a perfect unique gift for baby showers or to welcome home the new mom and baby. We also carry Buddy Bundles, gift sets of our baby blankets in four sizes. They are a wonderful way to celebrate a new birth or buying for twins or triplets! Also a great way to make sure you have spares for wash day.

The Buddy Ears, as we called them, are kitty-cornered on the Buddy Blankie. One set is made similar to bunny ears ~ long comfy pieces of satin/flannel, great for rubbing against little cheeks for comfort as they drift off to sleep. The other set of flannel ears are knotted for little mouths to chew on (perfect during teething!) and little hands to tug at
Child too old for the knotted ears?
You can now Customize your Buddy Ears.
The Travel Ear is kitty-cornered on our Baby Buddy, and available to be added onto our Buddy Blankies.

Personalization is available for most of our baby blankets ~ and that includes our blanket Gifts Sets, Bundles, Cozy'B Blankets and within our Baby Diaper Cakes! There's nothing more special than a baby security blanket, but personalized baby blankets are even more unique. Personalized baby blankets becomes a treasure, a keepsake of their childhood.
Personalized baby blankets are not only special and unique, the embroidery also becomes another texture added to the baby blanket. It also helps children recognize the letters within their name as they grow. A personalized baby blanket is something to not only grow with, but a personalized baby blanket marks it as theirs only. Be sure to check each product's page for details on how to add that extra touch to our blankies!

For something different, we have a wonderful keepsake baby blanket, our Cozy'B Baby Blankets. These are much larger baby blankets than our Buddy's, and without any Buddy Ears. Our Cozy'B is a double layer of snuggly flannel with an eyelet border. Enhance it into a truly special keepsake by choosing the option to make the Cozy'B a personalized baby blanket.

All of our baby blankets come gift-wrapped in a beautiful decorative cello bag or cello wrap, tied with ribbon and a gift tag to add a personal message to ~ Free of Charge!
Whether a gift for your child or for someone else's, our baby blankets come ready to be given.

Our Buddy Blankies offer your child a wonderful baby security blanket to love and grow with, or a keepsake baby blanket to treasure. From birth to toddler, Buddy Blankies are going to be your child's favorite companion

All contents ©2002-2006 Buddy Blankies. All rights reserved. Buddy Blankies Products are trademarks of the Buddy Blankies Company All images and content are sole property of Buddy Blankies ©

personalized baby blanket: Make it Special with a Personalized Photo Gift

2006-05-19T21:03:00.000-07:00

There's no better feeling than watching your loved one's face light up with surprise and joy when she opens the gift you have given her. The reactions of the special people in your life - your parents, your siblings, your spouse, your kids, and your friends - are what makes gift giving such a pleasure.

Although we have more choices than ever when it comes to selecting a gift, there are times when we wrack our brains trying to come up with a unique idea. There are those people who are hard to buy for because they really don't "need" anything, and there are those who are hard to buy for because nothing you can find is special enough to convey the feelings you have for them. You can traipse through malls or spend hours clicking your computer mouse, yet everything you find seems to be a variation of the same old thing.

Instead of throwing up your hands or settling for the less-than-perfect gift, think outside of the box. A personalized photo gift is guaranteed to be the one-of-a-kind present that your loved one will cherish forever. Imagine transforming your family portrait into a throw blanket for your grandparents, or using that photo of you and your best friend at the beach house to create an unforgettable keepsake box. When your sister is having her first baby, she will treasure a custom photo gift baby blanket that is woven with a picture of the baby's parents.

Whether the gift keepsakes photo is of a memorable scene or memorable people, it can be turned into anything from a personalized baby blanket to a coffee mug, from a pillow to a mouse pad.

The ubiquitous nature of digital photography makes transforming a picture into a custom photo gift a breeze. You can simply order the gift, upload a photo, and congratulate yourself on coming up with a gift that will become an unforgettable memory for someone special.

With digital imaging technology, a personalized photo gift of a blanket or throw means that weave of the fabric itself will contain the image. Typically, black and white photos have better reproductive quality than color photos, but the company that makes your personalized photo gift can convert any color digital image to black and white.

The thoughtfulness demonstrated by giving a personalized photo gift is sure to touch your recipient. So, whether the occasion is a birthday, an anniversary, Christmas, or no occasion at all, keep it simple, but keep it personal.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Visit this Gifts and Collectibles Website and Majon's Gifts and Collectibles directory.

personalized baby blanket: Choosing the Perfect Baby Gift

2006-05-19T20:59:00.000-07:00

Looking for the perfect baby gift? Tired of seeing the 'same old thing' at every department store? Are you certain that everyone will be giving the exact gift as you? Here are some great ideas for choosing the perfect baby gift that will be remembered for years to come.

Many people give baby blankets as a baby shower or newborn gift, but by giving a quality, personalized baby blanket you will make yours stand out and become a family heirloom. You can also find 'lovie blankets' with adorable stuffies attached to the blanket for baby to cuddle.

If you can't decide on just one gift and you'd like to give a variety of gifts, then a baby gift basket is a great idea. They come filled with useful and decorative baby gifts in just about any theme imaginable. You can even personalize some baby gift baskets to match the baby's gender or the nursery theme the mom-to-be has picked out. There's tons of ideas for how to arrange or fill your baby gift basket. Some baby shower guests even create wonderful personal or gourmet gift baskets just for the mom or both parents to be. What a great way to show you're thinking of them and to help settle any unsteady nerves.

Other good choices for baby gifts are essential items like diapers, baby wipes, baby lotion or soap, a baby tub, crib sheets etc. A new mom can never have enough of these items, and they are great when given as a big gift basket, for example by using the baby tub or baby carrier as the 'basket' and filling it with essentials. Organic or all natural baby items are also a wonderful and unique way to go in baby gift ideas. Many moms choose to use cloth diapers and will treasure the thought not to mention the gift.

The most loved baby gifts are those that are given by a thoughtful friend or family member. It's not hard to find that very special baby gift. Just be creative and take your time choosing your gift. Make sure to find baby gift stores or websites where not everyone is shopping, and you're sure to find something different and unique to give. Stop and think about what the mom will need right after the baby arrives and also what they both may need in the future. Make this a special time for everyone to remember.

About the Author: Sherry Frewerd publishes 'Toddler-Birthday-Party-Ideas' and other kid and food related websites. Stop by http://toddler-birthday-party-ideas.com and plan a fun, stress-free birthday party for your child! Plan fun toddler activities for your birthday party at 'Family Play and Learn' http://familyplayandlearn.com

personalized baby blanket: Personalized Baby Gifts

2006-05-19T20:56:00.000-07:00

Personalized baby gifts are unique keepsakes to commemorate your baby's birth. Everyone wants to give the perfect baby gift during times of christening, birthdays, holidays, or just for the sake of showing the baby and the family that you care. If it is personalized, it becomes all that more special. These priceless keepsakes will be remembered and cherished forever, and parents are definitely delighted to receive them.

There are many personalized baby gifts on the market today. One popular item is the personalized baby blanket. This soft, snuggly cover comes in an assortment of subtle shades, personalized with baby's name, birth information and other details. The blanket serves many purposes, and definitely keeps a baby snug and warm.

Another gift worth mentioning is a unique plate with the baby's name and birth date engraved on it. The plate has a clock and the hands can be made to set to the baby's birth time. Personalized book bags with characters made to resemble baby's hair and eyes also make for a unique gift.

Other personalized gifts include tiles, name boards, porcelain booties, silver cups and plates and linens.

The arrival of a new-born baby is definitely a reason to celebrate. You can give gifts to the baby that show just how much you care. A gift also becomes an expression of sharing one's joy. In today's market, there are a wide variety of interesting and fun baby gifts to choose from. Personalized gifts are thoughtful and will definitely find their way into the family heirloom, treasured for years to come.

Baby Gifts provides detailed information on Baby Gifts, Baby Gift Baskets, Baby Shower Gifts, Personalized Baby Gifts and more. Baby Gifts is affliated with Baby Boy Gift Baskets.

TEN Technology naviPlay

2006-05-15T23:35:00.000-07:00

If you enjoy listening to music and own an iPod®, this is the perfect product for you! It enables you to wirelessly stream music from your iPod® to your Bluetooth® Stereo Headphones. Now you can listen to your favorite music stored on your iPod®, and never miss a call.
Works with the Motorola Bluetooth® Stereo Headphones HT820 and the Motorola Bluetooth® Home Stereo Adapter DC800.
For iPod® enthusiasts, the Music Duo allows you to enjoy your iPod® wirelessly and still be able to take calls because Motorola Bluetooth® Stereo Headphones connect wirelessly to your iPod® with the naviPlay Bluetooth® Adapter and at the same time connect wirelessly to your compatible Bluetooth® phone.

For the ultimate music experience at home, add the Bluetooth® Home Stereo Adapter DC800. You will be able to stream music from your iPod® through your home stereo speakers and broadcast your favorite iTunes®.

©1999-2006 Motorola, Inc. All rights reserved.

Hooking Up Home Theatre

2006-05-13T04:21:00.000-07:00

What is Home Theatre?
Since the mid- to late-1990s, home theatre systems have rapidly grown in popularity, as consumers have looked for ways to enjoy movies at home the same way they do in traditional movie theatres. With the advent of the DVD player, having true at-home theatre-quality sound production has now become a reality. This technical article will help explain what home theatre is and how it can be set up.

So what exactly is home theatre? A home theatre system enables you to reproduce the sound and video quality of a commercial movie theatre in your own living room. Prices for home theatre systems can be as low as a few hundred dollars or up into the tens of thousands of dollars. Fortunately, creating a home theatre of your own requires only a few components. A basic home theatre system consists of a television, a DVD player or stereo VCR, an A/V receiver that supports surround sound, and five speakers.

What do you need for a Home Theatre system?
What devices/components are needed for a home theatre system? The most basic components for a home theatre system would consist of a video display (TV, rear projector, front projector, etc…), a surround sound A/V receiver (analog), and a stereo Hi-Fi VCR (typical red, white and yellow connections). When creating more elaborate home theatre systems, components such as DVD players, Super Audio CD players (SACD), Super VHS players (SVHS), or digital surround sound receivers are some of the more common components to see. When it comes to how many speakers? What kind of speakers? There are many different options. The most basic setup would have five speakers: 2 front speakers (left and right), a center channel, and 2 rear speakers (left and right). Higher end speaker setups would consist of up to 9 speakers: 2 front speakers (left and right), a center channel, 2 mid-rear speakers (left and right), 2 rear speakers (left and right), a center rear channel, and a subwoofer.

How do I hook up a Home Theatre system?
Hooking up a Home Theater system is a lot easier than it sounds. The fundamental rule when connecting the components together is that all the cables are connected, OUT to IN. The sound or the video signal will transfer OUT of a device, a DVD player, CD player, VCR etc., and IN to another, surround sound receiver or a video display.

© Copyright CableWholesale.com / National Technology

Casino chips

2006-05-10T01:41:00.000-07:00

If you've ever been to a casino, you'll notice that the chips feel heavy to the hand. If you grew up like I did, playing with plastic chips was the standard before the poker craze, the weight catches you. But that's because in a casino, chips are made of clay and are meant to be handled.

Now, most people associate casinos with one thing, slots. My mother wouldn't play a table game if it walked over to her. She likes the slots, not video poker, slots. She could play slots for hours.

My father, the other hand, loves craps. I guess he perfected it in the Marines like millions of other people.

Me, otoh, I like blackjack and roulette. Baccarat tables are usually crowded with Asian gamblers betting a lot of fucking money in the world's easiest game, James Bond notwithstanding. Craps can be fun, but more on that later.

Ok, my birthday was last Sunday, I didn't mention it in the press of business, which ought to tell you something about how crazy things are. But the Friday before, my mother and I went to AC for the day. The ad sales had been good, so it wasn't a big deal. As a rule, we don't use site money for things like gambling or personal items like a TV. While some people could give a shit either way, I don't think it's right to take your hard earned money and piss it away at a casino. Kinda like Andy Sullivan still taking donations while making a deal with Time. How Atrios and Kos can live on ad money alone is beyond me. But then Republicans are ethically challenged.

Anyway, about a month beforehand, I'd gone to Mohegan Sun with my father. You now get the theme. The Gillard family likes games, video games, board games, and games of chance. I learned to play poker and blackjack at 8 and gin at 9.

Now, my father, who's had hip problems for 20 years, and walks with a cane, can play craps for hours on end. Hours.

The odd thing about casinos is that they're big enough to get lost in.

Mohegan Sun has two casinos , one called Earth and the other Sky. I think the main difference is that one is dark, the other light. Well, we split up and it took me literally two hours to find him.

Now, I like my casinos a bit dark. It's bad enough tripping up over the wheelchairs and walkers and Jazzymobiles of the elderly day trippers, but bright lights doesn't help matters. Now the thing about craps is that you get a mixed crowd, some young people, well, not that young, and then, while looking for my father, I saw two men with WWII Veteran caps on. Also when I did find my father, I saw him behind a sea of $25 chips. My mouth hung open. I was like "what the fuck"?

I had played a couple of hands of blackjack and just wasn't feeling it. You really have to be ready to sit down and play for at least $100 of chips, and seriously as well. You can't half-ass it and win any money. I don't mean card counting, just willing to pay attention and play the cards right.

Then I moved on to Roulette.

In a modern casino, there are a lot of card games, Carribean Stud Poker, Sic Bo, Pai Gow Poker, Three Card Poker, I call them sucker games. The rules and the odds tilt towards the house and the rules are arcane. You see people play them, but you don't see a lot of winning. And few happy faces.

So when I sat at the Roulette table, I bought some chips and bet the inside. Now, there are two kinds of roulette players, inside players and idiots. But more on that later.

When I tired of roulette, and caught up to my father, he was winning, Big. So after we ate, and the line was long and fast and free at the buffet, because we took the bus up, we went back to craps. And he kept winning. So when he got tired, we went to the simuilcast.

There is something degenerate about betting on dogs on a TV screen. I can't say what, but when you think casino, you don't think dog track. But I bet, and my father, a table man, was well, kinda bored, but I was enjoying it, placing my show bets, breaking almost even.

So, now with my birthday coming up, my mother wants to go to AC. Her back had been bothering her, and she won't go on Sundays, so she didn't go when I suggested she take the day down there.

We get on the bus and the prick bus driver starts moving as she's standing on the steps, and laughs. I shot him a dirty look and she sat down.

Anyway, we get down to AC, and go to the Showboat. I lose money at the Showboat. But we really went there for the buffet, but the line was ridiuclous. So we went to Resorts, which is down the Boardwalk. When I was a kid, AC seemed so much larger.

But we got something to eat and then split up, my mom to her slots, me to the roulettle wheel. Now, the house has good odds on roulette, but if you hit, you get $35 for every dollar bet on a number, and less if you play more than one number. You can bet up to six on the inside.

Anyway, I get some chips and start playing. Now, when I gamble, the hardest thing I'll drink is a coke. If I want to get drunk, I'll go to a bar. The casinos give you booze to increase your odds of doing something stupid with your money.

So I'm betting and this older guy gets $100 in chips and a marker. A marker is credit from the house, against a limit. In the old days, you'd get your legs broken if you didn't pay a marker in Vegas. Now, they just sue.

He must have gotten $1000 in markers as I played. But he was having fun. His wife, however, was intimidated by the table. Which I find odd. All you do is bet numbers , but I saw two different women, at two different casinos refuse to play while their husbands did.

Now, there is a stupid way to play roulette, which is by betting the outside, black/red. 1-18, 2-1 and so on. Now most roulette tables have a minimum bet, which is $10, which mean your bets must combine to be $10 on every spin.

How stupid is stupid?

I saw a man play $500 0n red three times in 20 minutes. He lost $1500 just that fast. Getting rolled by a hooker takes more time. Up would come the black chips, he would lose, get more money. If I had $500, I'd be fucking playing, not placing a 48-48-2 bet with it (O and OO don't count).

While I was breaking even, he was losing, as so was the marker guy. I was going to play something else, but you never leave when you win, because breaking even is a post-casino assessment.

Jen, otoh, did not grow up in gaming family, so casinos overwhelm her a bit, from what she says. But the fact is that I like casinos, they're actually fun, and you can play games and not lose your shirt. Walking away is as much fun as walking to the table. I mean, you can bet horses for $2 all day or play Keno or nickle slots or poker, even penny slots, yes, penny slots.

And if you spend you day writing and watching the news, a little action, even the manufactured action of a casino, is a change in pace. Even as you avoid the church groups of seniors on their way to the slots.

posted by Steve @ 9:17:00 AM

Cook Asian Food

2006-05-05T05:23:00.000-07:00

Asians constitute more than half the world's population, and the continent they inhabit is the largest on earth. Some 5,000 miles long and 6,000 miles wide, Asia stretches from Pakistan in the east all the way west to China, Vietnam, and the Japanese islands. This is a place of amazing diversity, and to speak of Asian cooking might, on the face of it, seem nonsensical. But the benefits of learning about the connections and variations in different Asian cuisines are definitely worthwhile.
The Basics

Even in an area as extensive as Asia, what strikes one are the similarities. Through much of the continent, rice is the unifying staple, and cooks turn again and again to the same repertoire of flavorings: coconut milk, tamarind, chiles, garlic, and a dizzying catalog of spices. There are other convergences: soy sauce is used in many countries, as is bean curd, ghee (clarified butter), and khir (a variety of condensed milk).

Something else these cuisines have in common is the skill with which cooks treat the materials. It's the preparatory phase--cleaning, washing, chopping, and dicing--that consumes the most time. The actual cooking is relatively straightforward and fast. This way, food comes to the table with its nutrients intact.

That said, though, what distinguishes these cuisines from each other is not so much the elements they have in common, but rather the ways in which these elements have been adapted. Asian cooking is rich and wide-ranging and quite delicious--and it's good for you.

A Little History

Food and medicine

Asians see food as providing more than just sustenance and gustatory pleasure. To an extent unknown in the West, they view it as enhancing health and prolonging longevity. "Your food is your medicine" is a saying heard often in this part of the world. When illness strikes, it isn't to the medicine cabinet the Asian turns; it's to the pantry. The following is a short list of foods and their putative benefits.

Edible acorns: The tannin helps rid the body of oxides.

Ajowan: A pungent seed that relieves colic.

Amaranth: A leaf vegetable for reducing sweating.

Asafoetida: A resinous gum used to treat nervous conditions.

Cloves: Used to alleviate toothaches.

Coriander seed: Eases migraines.

Guava leaves: Prescribed for sore throats.

Okra: Eaten as a cure for heartburn.

Papaya: A treatment for diabetes.

Turmeric: Increases circulation.

Essential Ingredients

Compiling a list of ingredients used in such a wide assortment of cuisines is a thankless task, because something is always going to get left out. Therefore, it is a good idea to go over some basic constants from different countries.

Bok choy: A leaf vegetable also known as Chinese white cabbage, bok choy is delicate and for that reason requires little cooking. Its leaves are distinguished by thick white ribs.

Cassava: The edible root of a plant found in the tropics and an important source of starch, cassava is usually served as a vegetable.

Coconut milk: Squeezed from the flesh of mature coconuts, this liquid is used to enhance the flavor of sauces and curries.

Kaffir limes: Highly aromatic, the kaffir lime is one of the mainstays of the Thai kitchen. An essential ingredient in soups and curries, it boasts a thick, wrinkled skin and is also known as the porcupine orange.

Krupuk: A cracker made of prawns and tapioca flour much loved by Indonesians. Fried in hot oil, the crackers inflate, often to be served with fried noodles.

Lemon grass: A tall, lemon-scented grass and one of the most popular herbs in Southeast Asia, lemon grass is used in such things as soups and curry pastes.

Nuoc nam: A sauce of great pungency hailing from Vietnam, nuoc nam is made by packing fish in salt until they ferment, a process which takes a couple of months.

Palm hearts: The soft core of certain palm trees. Tasting a little like artichokes, palm hearts are eaten raw or used to garnish salads.

Setting the Menu

Each country in Asia has a wide range of great dishes, and you should attempt to try as many as possible. But there are signature dishes for each that can represent an excellent starting point for your culinary adventure.

Indonesia: Nasi goreng--rice garnished with chicken, lobster, peppers, and tomatoes.

Malaysia: Satay--nuggets of meat threaded onto bamboo skewers and grilled.

Vietnam: Pho--a rice-noodle soup served with fresh bean sprouts and lots of mint.

Thailand: Red curry with prawns.

Singapore: Laksa--a spicy soup containing shrimp, noodles and coconut milk.

South Korea: Bulgogi--spicy barbecued beef.

China: The almighty noodle. Made of everything from ground rice to potato starch, the noodle is ubiquitous, not just in China, but in much of Asia as well. Whether it's stir-fried, eaten with a sauce, or added to soup to give it ballast, the noodle reigns supreme.

Kitchen Tools

The following list of tools needed for Asian cooking isn't long, but it does include the vital gear needed:

A wok

A slotted frying spoon for stirring and moving ingredients within the wok

Steaming baskets, or some kind of vegetable steamer

A mortar and pestle in which to grind spices (if you like manual labor)

An electric coffee grinder (if you don't like manual labor)

Wire drainers (if you plan to deep fry with any regularity)

An ice shaver (indispensable if you're making the delicious Indonesian dessert ice kacang)

by Amazon.com Contributor, Eric Lawlor

Dead Sea Scrolls

2006-05-03T07:30:00.000-07:00

The world-famous Dead Sea Scrolls, one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century, are drawing record crowds to the Gulf Coast Exploreum in Mobile, Alabama. The traveling exhibition, on display through April 24, showcases fragments of 12 different scrolls, including segments from the Old Testament books of Genesis-Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Psalms, Isaiah, and Jeremiah. "The Dead Sea Scrolls" also features pottery, coins, sandals, and other artifacts on loan from the Israel Antiquities Authority. The objects were found close to the settlement of Qumran on the shores of the Dead Sea, near the caves where the scrolls were unearthed. Two giant-screen IMAX films, Mysteries of Egypt and Mystery of the Maya, complement the show, which includes an audiovisual presentation on the scrolls. Contact: Gulf Coast Exploreum, (877) DSS-SHOW; www.scrollsmobile.com.

COPYRIGHT 2005 World Publishing, Co. (Illinois)
COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group

2 ways to make money online

2006-04-28T22:14:00.000-07:00

Re: 2 ways to make money online

There are 2 types of approaches you can choose
when it comes to creating an info-product.

It's either you be creative or innovative.

Creative means, you observe the market
and come up with a good solution. Basically,
using your brain to think of how your info-
product can solve the existing problem of
what the market is having.

Like, if you see there are a lot of people having
a problem to write a salesletter, you come up
with a salesletter generator software. Or, if
you see that a lot of people are trying to
organized their joint venture’s details, you
can create a joint venture profile software.
Basically, you'll be the first person to hit the
market. Make sense?

But if you want to minimize your risk of
failure and make money fast, I'll prefer to be
an innovator.

Observe the existing products created to
fulfill the demand of a market.

See how good the sales volume is.

Then, I'll be an innovator to provide better
Solution or tap on the existing opportunity.

Not sure what this means?

Let me explain ...

If you happen to see in the market, there are a lot of
salesletter generator software right now because
there are a lot of innovative marketers.

Another example of an innovator marketer --
A relatively new company call PayDotCom that
provides similar service like Clickbank.com.

It was launched successfully following the creative
company called Clickbank.com.

Clickbank.com was the first (That I know of)
website that provides credit card processing
service with built-in affiliate tracking program
for internet marketers to use.

Now, there are more innovative marketers that
have created affiliate tracking tool that can
be integrated with other credit card processors
like Paypal.com, 2checkout, authorize.net, etc.

Innovative marketing doesn't limit to copying
what is successful and trying to be better, bigger
or cheaper.

That's a very narrow observation on how to
be profitable and it'll normally fails.

Just by adding these 2 extra ingredients in it,
you'll change the whole profit model:

1. Finding an angle

Finding an angle means how you can position
yourself unique from the originator. Example,
Clickbank.com was a success. But other
affiliate tracking tools that did not have a
built-in credit card processor were very
successful as well by integrating with third party
credit card company. Paydotcom is also another
good example of this. They solve the core problem.

2. Complimenting to the pioneer

Create an info-product that can ride on
the existing successful market. Let's take
Clickbank.com as an example for discussion
purpose. There are many new tools created
to enhance the convenience of using Clickbank.

Examples are:

Software to manage your Clickbank.com affiliates;

Software to extract your Clickbank sales report
into a Microsoft Excel file;

Software to create Clickbank.com search engine
Tool that is integrated with Clickbank ID;

Video tutorials how to setup Clickbank.com
account;

and many more.

Observe what's happening on the internet. Then,
decide whether becoming a creative or innovative
marketer will give you more profit and yet can
reduce your workload. Then, TAKE ACTION.

--
motivation