Author: Katie Baker

Family

Quotes About Tough Love Parenting

Parenting doesn’t always turn out to be what you want it to be. At the time when you are expecting a baby, you picture a sweet little mini version of yourself running around the house and playing with toys. As they get older, you picture a great relationship with them. It isn’t always like that. Most times, it may even turn out to be the opposite. A lot of parents have difficulties raising their kids and bonding with them. Sometimes, it feels as though your child doesn’t love you. You’re not alone. It is a stage and several other parents have experienced it too.

Here are some quotes that relate to tough love parenting:

1. “If you have never been hated by your child you have never been a parent.” ~Bette Davis

This is quite true. You may have probably asked your child to do some chores or do assignments instead of watching TV, that child may momentarily not like you. That’s because you stopped him or her from having some fun. That’s all part of parenting as it is normal.

2. “Some people need to learn to be a parent and not a friend. Quit being scared of making your kids mad. They’ll get over it.”

3. “Loving a child doesn’t mean giving in to all his whims; to love him is to bring out the best in him, to teach him to love what is difficult.” ~Nadia Boulanger

4. “Just because I love you unconditionally does not mean I’m going to co-sign your behavior unconditionally. You are going to learn the difference one way or the other.”

5. “The bond between a mother and a son is a special one. It remains unchanged by time or distance.”

6. “I am a responsible parent and have always provided for my children. That fact cannot be disputed. I have made mistakes in my life, but failing to care for my children is not one of them.” ~Jamal Lewis

7. “When a child hits a child, we call it aggression. When a child hits an adult, we call it hostility. When an adult hits an adult, we call it assault. When an adult hits a child, we call it discipline.”—Haim G. Ginott

8. “Don’t worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you.”—Robert Fulghum

9. “If we don’t shape our kids, they will be shaped by outside forces that don’t care what shape our kids are in.”—Dr. Louise Hart

10. “Play helps build a warm relationship between family members and create a bank of positive feelings and experiences that can be drawn upon in times of conflict. Through play, you can help your children solve problems, test out ideas, and explore their imaginations.”—Carolyn Webster-Stratton

Parenting is fun and very rewarding. However, don’t forget that there will be difficult times. You may start wondering if you are a good parent or not. Children may exhibit behaviors that can be hard to deal with. With the parenting quotes above, you will be able to discover the right perspective of dealing with your child.

Family

Top Parenting Message Board and Helpful Parenting Websites

Parents, most especially new parents find it hard to do the parenting job sometimes. Parenting involves a lot of things. It involves taking care of your child or children, making sure that they are comfortable and lack nothing, sending them to a good school, helping them to do their assignments, playing with them, and so on. It may be frustrating at times, leaving you exasperated and without knowing what to do. However, it is something you must do and cannot run away from. This is why there are several parenting message boards and websites to help you out.

If you are at a loss for what to do, the internet is there to help you. Parenting message boards are a kind of platform where you meet other parents, experienced and inexperienced. Both share their experiences while experienced parents give tips to new parents. It is wholesome and worth it. Why? Because there is a lot to learn!

You can also participate in forums or look up parenting message boards on the internet. Here are some good ones for you:

1. ParentingForums.org:

Parenting Forums is a platform where you can discuss all parenting issues. Of course, other parents visit it too so experiences can be shared.

2. Baby Center Forum:

Here, you can find moms who will give parenting tips to help you as a parent. You’d get tons of advice as well as see experiences from other parents. Of course, growing a home isn’t easy but you will get a great deal of help as your kids grow up.

3. Mumsnet

If you need a platform to discuss everything related to parenting and raising kids, Mumsnet is the ideal place. You will get a lot of support from other parents like you, as well as little tips and advice.

4. Parentchum

If you are seeking encouragement and support as a parent, here’s the right place to go.

Helpful Parenting Websites

There are a lot of parenting websites on the internet today. They have tons of tips and information to share with parents that are finding it difficult. While searching for one, it is important to find one that will deliver. A lot of them use clickbait titles and headlines. In the end, you don’t get what you are looking for. By reviews, here are some of the best parenting websites available:

1. Parent Toolkit

2. BabyCenter

3. Cafemom

4. Raising Children

5. Fatherly

6. Well Family

7. More4Kidas

8. Zero To Three

9. Parenting Teens

Whether you are a single parent or you are raising kids with your spouse, these websites are bound to help you. You can also talk to other parents in your neighborhood. Share experiences with them and get useful tips also. Parenting is a whole new journey. At times, you may find it fun while it could be stressful at other times. Have fun with your child and let them know they have such an amazing parent.

Good luck!

Health

Healthiest Cereals with Whole Grains for Kids

The ingredients you need to be in the cereals for your kids needs to include a lot of Protein and Fiber.

Why do my kids Need Protein and Fiber?

They need these two because it is wonderful for the health of the digestive system of your kids. It also reduces the speed at which blood sugar increases. This also helps them remain full until they get their next meal. But there are lots of other different sources like milk too 

The kids used in testing these cereals were extremely happy. Who doesn’t want to be a kid that’s there to taste cereals?

List of Healthiest Cereals with Whole Grains for Kids 

Three Cinnamon Cereal Wishes 

This company has the focus of creating different twists on simple nice cereals. This is a new addition to the scene for cereals. These cereals have a higher amount of protein. It has a pack with 8g for a single serving. It has fiber too. It has a lot amount of sugar, unlike the other normal cereals. 

This cereal is loved by fans and it is the dream of a lot of different sufferers of allergies. It doesn’t have gluten, no soy, no dairy, no GMO, and no nuts. It has benefits to your health because of its reaction to blood sugar. 

A lot of people enjoy this cereal because it is crunchy. Some parents have stated that this is too strong for their kids but it would be a wonderful cereal for toddlers. Especially those that have issues chewing. 

Nature’s Organic Path Heritage Flakes 

This is a very nice flaky delicious cereal. It has an epic nutritional profile. It has just five grams of sugar per serving. Then five grams of protein and seven grams of fiber. It has whole grains including quinoa, oats, millet, barley, spelled too. All these ingredients are organic and some parents have stated that their kids enjoy this cereal. So this is one of the winners we’ve for today.

This is necessary for kids and parents that are health conscious too. Some parents have stated that their local grocery store doesn’t have this brand. You can purchase this from the internet. All you need to do is search for the name online especially as search engines and you would be able to purchase this. 

Organic Cascadia Coconut Cashew Granola 

This is known to be filled with Whole Grains and a lot of sugar and but there’s a Coconut Cashew type which doesn’t have this amount of sugar. It has no added sugar. It only has 8 grams of sugar like those from dates. This makes this cereal extremely healthy and nutritious. Your kids can consume this cereal especially when they are in a hurry to get to school or when they need to do things fast. It is also a great cereal to consume when you need to be active as soon as possible. This is an apt cereal when you think about it.

Family

Pregnancy versus Period Symptoms, how to Tell the Difference.

Different symptoms show uniquely to people that are pregnant and these are different from people that are expecting their menses. These symptoms include the following;

1.    Intense implantation pains.

2.    Metal-like taste in the mouth.

3.    Weird, Vivid Dreams.

4.    Intuition.

5.    Itching

6.    Frequent stooling 

7.    Increased and decreased in appetite 

8.    Forgetfulness 

9.    Extreme fatigue 

10.    Menstruation stops.

11.    Nausea.

12.    Typical PMS Symptoms.

13.    Tender Breasts.

14.    Abdominal discomfort.

15.    More Attention to smell.

16.    Food Aversions.

17.    Feeling dizzy.

18.    Bloat.

19.    Heightened emotions.

20.    Cigarette Aversion.

21.    Excessive stomach gas.

22.    Hair loss

23.    Headaches

24.    Mood disorders 

25.    Constipation

26.    Peeing often

27.    Hard to concentrate 

28.    Change in sex drive 

29.    Bleeding gums 

30.    Interested in a particular type of food 

31.    Acne

32.    Stunted hair growth 

33.    Vaginal  infections 

34.    Darker areas of the nipples 

35.    Increased intake of water

36.    Higher body temperature 

37.    Trouble  with Sleep

38.    Shiny hair 

39.    Colour Sensitivity

40.    Lower blood sugar 

41.    Letting out air from the mouth

42.    Shortness of breath

43.    Irritations 

44.    Heartburn

45.    Toothache

46.    Blackout

47.    Veiny breast 

48.    Tingling sensation in the breast 

49.    Coffee Aversion

50.    Leg cramps 

51.    Increased Allergies 

52.    Discolouration of the skin

53.    Flu-like symptoms 

54.    Urine smells like ammonia 

55.    Bitter taste in the mouth

56.    Sweating more 

57.    Backache 

58.    Stuffy  nose

59.    Haemorrhoids

60.    Vaginal Discharge

61.    Brittle Nails 

62.    Drooling

63.    Butterflies in your stomach

64.    UTI

65.    Heavy feeling in your stomach

66.    Dry Mouth 

67.    Nose Bleeds.

Similarities between Period vs. pregnancy symptoms and signs. 

The symptoms and sign that one could see usually with these problems include the following

1.    Constipation.

2.    Increased urination.

3.    Breast pain and tenderness.

4.    Cramping.

5.    Change in appetite.

6.    Fatigue. 

7.    Headache 

8.    Backache 

9. Mood changes ( irritability, crying, anxiety, etc.) 

Knowing the Differences between Period vs Pregnancy signs and symptoms.

Spotting or Bleeding 

Spotting or bleeding which might not be enough for a pad to get completely soaked in blood. This bleeding happens when a lady who is either pregnant or managing from her period is going through implantation. This is completely different from the usual thick heavy menstruation flow. 

Fatigue 

This is like what a lot of women that are pregnant go through and manage through the pregnancy period of nine months. But this happens with women that are yet to start their period. 

Aversions and Food Cravings 

Different women typically have an appetite that is higher than usual. These Aversions and craving for more food are usually more extreme and specific for women before and during menstruation. 

Vomiting and Nausea 

Vomiting and Nausea are usually more common in pregnancies that are early and these are not gotten from the menstrual period.  So if you are pregnant or you think that’s what is causing this, you need to beware and get ready to be called mother.

Blog, Family, Health

How To Succeed At Dieting During The Holidays

The amount of food that’s always available during the holiday makes dieting during this period a Herculean task. This is because the members of your family are most likely going to be present to add pressure and have you consume more food than you would have wanted.

In some cases, the person involved may lack self-discipline hence they crave/need to take in every available substance that’s at their disposal. That’s often because the favorite meals and snacks are always in abundance. In this article, we shall discuss the several steps that you can take at dieting during the holidays.

How Can I Diet Successfully During the Holiday

1.  Give Yourself Prompt Reminders

One of the ways that you can do it for yourself is to always give slight reminders to yourself when you feel like you’re slipping. To do this, you have to let yourself understand why you started the dieting procedures. Also, know that you shouldn’t consume everything that you see. Even if you do, ensure to take them in smaller quantities remember you need to lose some weight and keep fit.

2. Do Not Stay Hungry For Long

Allowing yourself to stay hungry for long means that you should get ready to go against the dieting plan that you’ve set for yourself. So what do you do? Eat your ideal food at home before showing up at ceremonies. The foods that you lay focus on should be able to help you control your appetite. These include consuming more high fiber meals, healthy fats, and lean protein. Also, stay away from sugary foods, and drink lots of water. Instead of sugar, try natural sweeteners like Better Stevia Organic Powder by NOW Foods.

3. Bring Your Appetizer

Appetizers are “easy-to-carry” options that one can rely on before big meals. You should opt for an appetizer or dessert that’s able to provide your body system with lots of needed nutrients. Tagging a desert along helps you to have control of the rate at which you consume other meals. You can ensure this by getting yourself ready beforehand. Assemble all the things you may need during this time, for example snacks, nuts, and protein bars – they are all forms of healthy appetizers.

4. Opt For Fruits And Vegetables

The importance of fruits and vegetables during dieting cannot be underestimated. Ensure you get enough of them, as they help to improve the level of nutrients in your body system. They have low calories, high fiber, and essential nutrients. This means there won’t be any room to add unhealthy body fats. Fruit salads, carrots, vegetable salads, and more are the means through which you can get this nutrition.

5. Ask For Encouragement

Your family should be a source of support during this time. Let them understand your goals and ask that they serve as a reminder at all times, as well as their maximum support.

Do not allow the holiday stress to sweep you off your feet. Have your body goals in mind and ensure to stay on track.

Cheers!

Blog, Family

Top 10 Christmas Carols For The Whole Family

The Christmas season is a period of merriment. Lots of people will come together from different works of life to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Many families use this period to bond and create beautiful memories with one another.

One of the biggest parts of every Christmas season are the carols and they tend to focus on different themes and titles. During this period, families want to have a collection of Christmas carols to choose from. So have a quick look at the top 10 Christmas carols for the whole family.

1. We Three Kings Of Orient Are

The birth of Jesus Christ paved the way for the three wise men to bring forth gold, frankincense, and myrrh as gifts. “We Three Kings” is a Carol that perfectly tells the tale of that night.

2. O Come All Ye Faithful

Although some say it doesn’t come off as very memorable, If you’re looking for a Carol that strikes the exact Christmas tone, then you should probably opt for “O Come All Ye Faithful” is that one.

3. 12 Days of Christmas

“12 Days of Christmas” is an all-time favorite Christmas carol. Almost everyone knows this and can vibe to this carol, because of its catchy lines and beats.

4. Hark The Herald Angels Sing

This carol comes along when you pay huge reverence to the season as it comes with a calm beat that has a way of warming up your heart.

5. O Holy Night

Composed and written in France, “O Holy Night” is a Christmas carol that is being used to celebrate the local church organ’s renovation. It also served as a sort of inspiration during Christmas.

6. Joy to the World

Are you looking for a positive carol for inspiration? “Joy to the World” is one of the most popular and melodious carols of the Christmas season. Everyone loves to sing along, as it comes with infectious vibes.

7. Silent Night

“Silent Night” is a calm, sedative song. It’s suitable for a family that prefers less noise during Christmas.

8. Jingle Bells

Almost everyone who’s ever celebrated Christmas recognized “Jingle Bells” any day and anytime. It’s upbeat tone makes it more fun and exciting to sing.

9. Deck the Halls

The iconic “Deck the Halls” made it to this list because it highlights the themes of Christmas holidays – buying gifts, putting up decorations, singing to carols, and being all dressed up.

10. We Wish You a Merry Christmas

“We Wish You a Merry Christmas” serves as a subtle reminder of the whole activity that will take place during the holidays. This is great for every family time.

In some week’s time, Christmas would be here again, and when it comes, we’d start hearing the joyful sounds of jingles and clicking of spoons against plates that are known to accompany the season. This list is comprehensive, and we hope it gives you the guidance you sort.

Blog, Family

Best Disney-Themed Christmas Gift Ideas For Little Girls

In a few weeks, we’d probably be with our families commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. The Christmas season is a period where parents tend to make decisions that would positively benefit their children regardless of their gender.

If you’re a parent who has a little girl, then it’s time to start brainstorming as she’d start making demands soon. Do you know what’s more? You’re going to try and give her whatever she wants. Have you thought of Disney-themed Christmas gift ideas for little girls yet? Girls love Disney characters because of how beautiful and perfect they seem at most times. Well, if this is your case, then you should hang on, because shortly, we are going to discuss some of the Christmas gift ideas for little girls that you should probably consider.

1. Disney princess squad goals sweatshirt

You just have to bear the iconic Disney princess such as Jasmine, Snow White, Cinderella, Belle, Aurora, Ariel, etc, in mind then find a way to fix your little girl in the picture. She’s going to crave to be in the squad; the least you can do is to make it happen. The Disney princess squad goals sweatshirt is a perfect Christmas gift for your daughter.

2. Disney princess jewelry boxes

It’s about time to make a princess feel like a lady! You sure do not want to give out the impression that she’s just a little girl. This is more reason why the jewelry box is recommended for her! This particular gift item isn’t age selective. Also, it comes with a mirror that helps her to view her stuff from a closer angle.

3. Disney character socks

When thinking of the best type of Disney-themed Christmas gift items for your daughter, you should observe her closely and find out what Disney characters she loves most. After that, you can opt for customized socks that have her favorite character printed on it; she’s going to thank you for a very long time. This also a better way of having her mood lit up for the rest of the holiday!

4. Disney picture frame

Pictures hold memories and special events down for us. Getting a Disney-themed picture frame is not just a good idea, but it’s one that’s going to leave indelible footprints of your gesture in her mind. Purchase a picture frame and insert her most beautiful picture; she will love it!

5. Disney costumes

From “Frozen’s” Elsa to Belle from “Beauty and the Beast,” little girls love to dress up as their favorite Disney princesses! Order the costumes online, or pick it up during Halloween season at your local costume shop.

Daughters are considered treasures most times. If you have a little girl, then this guide is strictly meant to guide you to ensure her happiness. Christmas is fast underway and you don’t have any other option but make a child happy today!

Health

The Latest News on Coronavirus and Higher Education

Coronavirus is a big blow to the world because it affects every part of humanity. How it diverged from China at the speed of light to every aspect of the world was record-breaking compared to other pandemics that have hit the world before it. It affected the economy of countries, considerably reduced social interactions, and slowed down educational systems. The pandemic disrupts higher education learning across the country, with most institutions canceling in-person classes and moving to online tutorials.

Apart from canceling classes within campuses, the coronavirus has also disrupted the admission process of colleges and universities and also altered the academic calendar of higher institutions. This may lead to the loss of an academic year as the pandemic ravages the world.

Challenges and Solutions

Online-Only Instruction

A school is a place where many students gather to receive formal instruction. The Coronavirus is highly transmissible, and a school is a place not just for learning but also for social contact. If in-person classes are held, it will increase the speed at which the virus would be spread within the school, which could be fatal. To avoid transmission among students, legislators have become preemptive of the situation by introducing online-only instructions. This will curb transmission and also protect the lives of students.

Even though solutions for continuous learning during the Coronavirus pandemic have been proffered, many students could not get access to the online classes, which means many students will be left out. Aside from that, another complication and drawback to online learning are the issues that could arise with network connections.

In-Person Instruction with Strict Guidelines

Because of the coronavirus, colleges and universities have been shut down. Plans to reopen have been considered, but for in-person instruction to occur within colleges and universities, health guidelines must be put in place to curb transmission.

Following the guidelines set by health institutions and WHO, many colleges and universities are preparing for in-person lectures with sufficient social distancing within the classes and campuses and with other health guidelines like wearing face masks and washing hands under running water for at least 20 seconds. Despite these guidelines, there are fears that these guidelines will not be followed effectively, which will further increase the transmission of the virus.

Financial Challenge

Many institutions have economic challenges, especially schools that are run by government allocation. Fumigation and decontamination is a prerequisite for the reopening of colleges and universities. With the teaching staff association of universities agitating and breathing threats to go on strike if the government doesn’t meet their demands, the government is saddled with a more difficult responsibility of providing the funds required to carry out all the necessary Coronavirus observations.

The fact that there’s no known cure for the Coronavirus yet is a challenge that must not be taken for granted. If schools must resume, then they’d best be done online because the chances that the rules and regulations will be followed is very low.

Health

Most Popular Vegetarian Recipe for Vegetarians at Thanksgiving

As a vegetarian who’s always attending gatherings and thanksgivings alike, you would notice that the meal plans are made with or always revolving around the turkey. As a vegetarian, this can be a hard nut to crack. Questions such as, “What am I to eat now?” and the likes start hover in your mind.

Generally, vegetarians have meals which are suitable for consumption, but, the thing is, not everyone knows what they are or how they can be prepared. Hence, we see the neglect at Thanksgivings. I guess all that is about to change now because in this article, we shall take you through the most popular vegetarian recipes for vegetarians at Thanksgiving.

1. Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are always roasted to a crispy point. Looking at it from the outside, you’d get worried and probably think that they are burnt. The point is that no, they aren’t. On the inside, Brussels sprouts tend to come off as delicious, and that isn’t bad news entirely. If you want to get the best out of this meal, you have to opt for dipping them inside a date molasses. These dates often possess a thick consistency and a very sweet taste.

2. Fancy Cranberry Sauce

Everyone wants a sauce that will be in slices and is fun to get out of a can. This sauce is going to possess a fruit-like flavor. The Fancy Cranberry Sauce is to be spiced with cardamom and bay leaves. You can dip this sauce in gelatin. This is one of the most enjoyable meals in every gathering, especially if it’s a family thanksgiving

3. Mashed Potatoes

A lot of vegetarians that I have met in the past would agree on how they love to eat mashed potatoes so much. When crispy crunchies are added, a vegetarian would be able to enjoy this meal to the maximum!  Also, roasting the mashed potatoes will help the flavor to settle.

4. Glazed Leeks

One thing about glazed leaks is that when made with Pine Nut Salsa, they tend to turn into something that you never imagined. When cooking, you have to pay close attention and only bring it down when it’s tender. You should ensure that the leeks are served when warm. However, you can cook it ahead of time and have it kept at room temperature.

5. Coconut Creamed Greens

You may get skeptical when it comes to creamed greens, but as soon as it has to do with creamed greens made with coconut, you can never go wrong. For a tasty coconut creamed green, ensure that you pair it with a hot chile, coconut milk, and spices. This helps to give the meal a pleasurable bittersweet taste that you would love as a vegetarian.

This list comprises some of the most popular vegetarian recipes for vegetarians at Thanksgiving. We hope you found this helpful.

Cheers!

Health

Advice for College Students Studying Abroad During the Coronavirus Crisis

The advent of Covid-19 brought about lots of changes to our individual lives. In the middle of the frights and scares that the pandemic brought, colleges became a place that’s hardly recognizable. This is owing to the fact that so many campuses are currently closed which has made it necessary to move the teachings/lessons online. As such, international students have to go through the hurdles of fitting into the required time zone alongside poor connections that accompanied the network.

Pending when colleges will finally make a decision to reopen, many colleges are currently implementing all measures to ensure that the international students gain maximum support. If you’re an international student, here are some tips that will help you to successfully scale through this period.

1. Maintain a Steady Communication

Ever since the pandemic, there’s been maximum panic in the mind of everyone; this is enough for international students to lose focus. If you are an international student, you may be feeling distressed. At this point, you should consider speaking to your college counselors about how you feel and have them relieve you of the mental stress.

2. Keep your Spendings in Check

Most times if not all the time, students who study abroad always have to spend more on college tuition fees. That is why they always need to depend on scholarships, loans, and other funding. There are other times when they have to apply for jobs and work as a part-timer.

Bearing this in mind, an international student is supposed to minimize the way he/she spends money on certain things. Try not to get entangled with friends that won’t help you implement this step.

3. Travel with Caution

As some states are beginning to allow international travel, students overseas are slowly planning their travel. If you are one of such students, this is the exact time to apply caution before, while, and after traveling. Re-read the Covid-19 rules, and ensure that you implement them. Also supplements such as Pure Encapsulations Buffered Ascorbic Acid is a perfect option for the protection of the immune system.

4. Be Focused

While colleges have quickly switched to virtual learning, this can be confusing at first, especially as an international student. When this happens with your college, you have to learn to hang in and stay focused at all times as too much worry can cause you to go below the required grades.

5. Stay Safe

The most important part of the whole COVID 19 crisis is that individuals should try to stay safe. Aside from adherence and carrying out the pandemic safety rules, you need to seek good housing that will accommodate you safely. For this, you have to consult with your college authorities or rent a private apartment.

Studying Abroad as an international student can be quite expensive, but with a little research on your part, you can find many helpful tips.

If you are a student in an international context, your health should become a priority at all times. This article shows how you can effectively do it, and you also can find a dietary supplement that will help strengthen your immune system here.