The Diaper Baker

Sharing a Birthday With a Relative

The Diaper Baker — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:03:00 GMT

There are 365 days in a year. The odds are definitely against having a baby born on the same day as yourself (the parent), a sibling or other family member / relative. Yet, I find myself surrounded by people who share the same birthday as another member of their family. I have friends who share birthdays with one of their children. I even know siblings who share the same birthday and I'm not referring to twins. ; )

On a personal level, my grand daugther was due to be born on March 13th of 2006. Her actual birth was on March 8th. Had she been born on March 13th, she would have shared the same birthday as her cousin and her aunt. How odd is it that one family could have three family members sharing the same birthday? One would believe that with 365 days, the odds of landing on that one particular same day wouldn't be likely...yet look at the scenerio I just said. It amazes me!



I thought it would have been pretty cool had they all shared the same birthday. My daughter, on the other hand, was not too pleased about it. She felt that having to share a birthday with another family member, especially as a child, took a little away from them. She believes that the celebration should be all about you on your birthday and that a child shouldn't have to share a cake or have a joint party because they will somehow be slighted. Needless to say, she was overcome with relief when my grand daughter was born on the 8th instead!

Now, granted, millions of people share the same birthday across the world. However, those millions of people don't belong in the same immediate family. I wondered why my daughter very much did not want her child to share the same birthday as another family member....what made her think it would be so "slighting" in the first place? Perhaps it's because she was born on New Years Eve herself and has always disliked that she shared her birthday with a holiday. To me, a New Years Eve birthday is awesome! I mean, come on, there is ALWAYS somewhere to go or something to do. My daughter, however, has always felt that it took away from her celebration, if you will. I guess that plays a role in why she didn't want her daughter to have to share a birthday with anyone close to her.

All of this pondering made me question how many people feel the same as she does. If you had the choice, would you want your child to share the same birthday as you or another family member? If you didn't have a choice in the matter, would you be upset in some way? Would you prefer having the birthdays a few days apart rather than on the same day?

I'd love to hear from you!

Turn Anything Into a Bib with Bib Clips

The Diaper Baker — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:25:00 GMT

Kipiis (“Kip-eez”) Bib Clips let you make anything a bib— napkin, cloth diaper, kitchen towel. Just clip the two rounded fasteners onto whatever’s handy, adjust the back—and voilà! Your child is covered. Bib Clips by Kipiis are designed with your flexible lifestyle in mind. They make a smart addition to your diaper bag, glove box, kitchen drawer, or pocket.

That's right - No more dirty bibs in your bag! Toss these bib clips in your diaper bag and never tote another sticky bib! These versatile, patent-pending and portible clips turn almost anything into an instant bib. At a restaurant? No problem! Kipiis Bib Clips can turn restaurant napkins into an instant bib! At a friends house with out bib? Paper towels or kitchen towels can now become bibs with these clips! Even cloth diapers work!

The adjustable back allows these clips to be worn by people of all ages. They can be shortened to accmodate a small child (recommended for ages 6 months and up) or lengthened for an average size adult! They are also top-rack dishwasher safe.

Orange/Coral Magenta/Lime Lime/Blue Tangerine/Blue

All Kipiis Bib Clips are individually packaged for gift-giving. They are perfect for older children as well. For those days when your toddler wants to help out in the kitchen or when they wish to disply their creative side through artwork, these bib clips help preserve their clothing from stains!

Number of Births Per Year - Birth Data

The Diaper Baker — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:21:00 GMT

** NOTE ** The information in this article derived from CDC data. It takes years to compile and analyze so although the information is not from our current year, it is the most currently released information.

Preliminary Data for 2007

"Data in this report are based on 98.7 percent of births for 2007. The records are weighted to independent control counts of all births received in state vital statistics offices in 2007. Comparisons are made with 2006 data."

The Results

The preliminary estimate of births in 2007 rose 1 percent to 4,317,119, the highest number of births ever registered for the United States.

The general fertility rate increased by 1 percent in 2007, to 69.5 births per 1,000 women aged 15–44 years, the highest level since 1990. Increases occurred within all race and Hispanic origin groups and for nearly all age groups.

The birth rate for U.S. teenagers 15–19 years rose again in 2007 by about 1 percent, to 42.5 births per 1,000. The birth rate for teenagers 15–17 and 18–19 years each increased by 1 percent in 2007, to 22.2 and 73.9 per 1,000, respectively. The rate for the youngest group, 10–14 years, was unchanged.

Birth rates also increased for women in their twenties, thirties, and early forties between 2006 and 2007.

The 2007 total fertility rate increased to 2,122.5 births per 1,000 women.

All measures of childbearing by unmarried women rose to historic levels in 2007, with the number of births, birth rate, and proportion of births to unmarried women increasing 3 to 5 percent.

The cesarean delivery rate rose 2 percent in 2007, to 31.8 percent, marking the 11th consecutive year of increase and another record high for the United States.

The rate of preterm births (infants delivered at less than 37 weeks of gestation) decreased 1 percent in 2007, to 12.7 percent, with the decline predominately among infants born late preterm (at 34–36 weeks).

The rate of low birthweight (less than 2,500 grams) also declined slightly in 2007, to 8.2 percent.

For additional information and detailed tables, visit http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr57/nvsr57_12.pdf

Prenatal Vitamins Alternative - Be Nice Inc.

The Diaper Baker — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 17:24:00 GMT

When you're pregnant, consuming prenatal vitamins in crucial. Unfortunately, some women experience severe morning sickness and/or have a difficult time swallowing large, bulky pills. What does a woman do when faced in these situations? You simply can't avoid taking prenantal vitamins as they are essential for your body and your developing baby.

Be Nice Inc. has a wonderful alternative. Available in two delicious flavors, the easy on-the-go doctor approved drink packets from Be Nice are fortified with folic acid, B-complex vitamins and minerals, and life's DHA. Best of all, there are no artificial sweeteners...everything is natural!

You can now easily get your essential prenatal vitamins and minerals by simply mixing the drink packet with 16 oz of water. Each packet is proportioned for maximal nutrient absorption and since you are able to consume 1 to 4 per day, you will remain hydrated throughout the day which is critical for avoiding preterm labor.

So go ahead and follow the Be Nice Inc. motto ... Be Nice to your baby, Be Nice to your body!

For additional information, visit http://www.beniceinc.com

Are You Pregnant? Find Out Even Sooner!

The Diaper Baker — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 17:31:00 GMT

When you are trying to conceive, the overwhelmingly stressful part is waiting to find out if you were successful. FIRST RESPONSE® Early Result Pregnancy Test with Enhanced Technology can now tell you if you are pregnant SIX days before your missed period. This beats out any other pregnancy test currently on the market, with five days prior being the soonest. This new test uses patent pending technology to detect the pregnancy hormone (hcG) at lower levels than ever before, thus informing you six days before your missed period. Since the first few weeks of pregnancy are the must crucial, knowing you are indeed pregnant even sooner allows you to get a jumpstart on prenatal care for yourself and your developing baby.

The First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test is now available at major drugstores, grocery stores, and other retailers nationwide. For additional information, visit www.firstresponse.com.

Pregnancy Nausea Morning Sickness Remedies

The Diaper Baker — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:07:00 GMT

As with anything, there are highs and lows to being pregnant. I could go on and on about all of the highs associated with pregnancy. The excitement of having a child, the anticipation of entering parenthood, the miracle of childbirth...must I continue? It is evident that many great things come along with pregnancy. Unfortunately, the lows often exist as well. The most common "downside" to pregnancy is morning sickness. Morning sickness, which can actually occur at any time of the day, can really dampen your excitement about being pregnant.

Morning sickness is the nauseated feeling you encounter during pregnancy. It's not always accompanied with vomiting, but it most definitely can. The feeling of nausea is often a result of increased hormones in your body. Most cases of morning sickness occur between the 4th and 6th week of pregnancy and last until the 14th to 16th week. For some women, it doesn't end there and lasts throughout the duration of their pregnancy.

More than half of all pregnant women experience morning sickness. Actually, it is estimated that approximately 50 to 90 percent of moms-to-be will endure pregnancy morning sickness. With numbers like that, you are definitely not alone in this journey you are traveling. During this time of discomfort, may you find comfort in knowing that many health care providers believe morning sickness is a good sign because it means the placenta is developing well. Studies also suggest that less miscarriages occur in pregnancies in which morning sickness occurs.

Below is a list of helpful tips on ways to alleviate your symptoms and get you back to feeling that pregnancy excitement.

Avoid the traditional 3 meals per day and eat smaller meals more often. Eating four to six small meals per day will ensure that your stomach is never empty. An empty stomach and low blood sugar, resulting from long stretches between meals, can trigger nausea. Overeating at meals can also cause nausea.

Avoid drinking fluids with your meals. Instead, drink fluids a half hour prior to or after the meal.

Drink small amounts of fluids frequently throughout the day to avoid dehydration. This is especially important if you are losing them through vomiting. If they are easier to get down than solids when your stomach is upset, use them to get your nutrients.

Eat crackers or dry toast 20 minutes before getting up in the morning, while slightly propped up in bed. Bland foods such as crackers or pretzels may help at any time of day when you feel nauseated.

Avoid the sight, smell, and taste of foods that increase nausea.

Cooking in the microwave usually produces less odors and thus less of a chance of getting queasy from smells.

Open windows or turn on exhaust fans when cooking and after meals. If you have someone who wouldn't mind cooking for you every now and again when nausea is at its peek, take advantage of the offer.

Eat before nausea strikes. Food will be easier to get down and may prevent an attack.

Cold food may have less nausea inducing smells associated with them.

Eat a diet (or snacks) high in protein and complex carbohydrates, both of which fight nausea. Low fat meats and seafood, nuts, eggs and beans are high protein.

Avoid warm places as heat can increase the feeling of nausea.

Do not skip meals, if you can help it.

Don't lie die or nap after eating.

Avoid spicy or greasy foods. Eating and smelling them often increase your nausea and may cause heartburn.

Get extra sleep and relaxation. Both emotional and physical fatigue can exacerbate morning sickness. Take naps during the day (but not right after eating) and be sure to get enough sleep at night.

Greet the morning in slow motion – rushing tends to aggravate nausea. Get out of bed slowly.

Ginger in capsules form 250 mg. three times daily can be beneficial. Ginger has long been associated with alleviating nausea.

Drink clear beverages such as ginger ale or sprite.

Avoid milk products when experiencing nausea.

Fruit juices and popsicles are helpful in combating the nauseated feeling. Non caffeinated herbal teas like peppermint and ginger can help as well.

If vomiting, drink Gatorade or Powerade or any other sport drink that is known for replacing electrolytes.

Eating something salty before a meal can help you "make it through" a meal. Salty potato chips work wonders to settle stomachs.

Consider changing your toothpaste. Often the type of toothpaste you were once comfortable with and preferred is playing a role in the queasiness you've been experiencing.

Try taking your prenatal vitamins later in the day or even just before bedtime. Remember, it is important to take your prenatal vitamins as they compensate for nutrients you may be missing from lack of eating or from vomiting.

Vitamin B6 - 50 mg. daily. Vitamin B6 has been shown to help with pregnancy induced nausea.

Smelling lemons and/or ginger often does the trick. If you're not at home and able to access lemons or ginger quickly, try carrying around a handkerchief with a few drops of lemon oil in it. Breathing in lemons and/or ginger is known to take the place of the smell that is becoming bothersome and upsetting your stomach.

Minimize stress. Morning sickness is more common among women who are under a great deal of stress, either at work or home.

Even though morning sickness associated with pregnancy is common, if you are experiencing excessive vomiting you should consult your doctor immediately and address your concerns with them.

Forver Friends Fine Stationery and Favors

The Diaper Baker — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 16:32:00 GMT

There are many printing companies out there who specialize in invitations and announcements, but in our search for discovering the best of the best we came across Forever Friends. In addition to incredible quality, you will have the pleasure of dealing one-on-one with Beth Fruchtman, a woman who continuously inspires me.

Congratulations....you're pregnant! Your first reaction is to probably scream from the rooftops and tell everyone your wonderful and exciting news. Instead, why not jump aboard one of the latest most popular trends...send "We're Expecting" announcements. This is a delightful way of sharing your miraculous news with your loved ones. Remember...time is ticking!!

So, now that the "We're Expecting" announcement has been made, the next shout out to your family and friends would naturally be when it's time for the baby shower. Forever Friends offers a large array of baby shower invitations. From traditional to personalized, Beth can see to it that your inviations are all that you've dreamed of and more! Our personal favorite is the "Rippled Diamond" shower invitation. The lovely rippling diamond pattern flows from your invitation wording into a picture of the mom-to-be.

One of the most extraordinary things I love about Forever Friends is the fact that they care about our environmentally-conscious mom-to-be's as well. Beth offers one of the most adorable baby announcements that I've ever seen. "Go Green Baby" is designed especially for our eco-friendly mom's who want to teach their children about the beauty of our planet from day one. This tree holds a photo of your little one. The paper that this announcement is printed on is Green Seal Certified, made with 100% post-consumer fibers and created without the use of chlorine compounds. The margaraite colored envelopes are made with 30% post-consumer fibers. Show your little one the importance of recycling right away!

The Diaper Baker encourages you to stop by and visit Forever Friends for your stationery needs. We are confident that you'll enjoy your experience so much that you'll return for more!

Potty Training Regression and How To End It

The Diaper Baker — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 14:56:00 GMT

The length of time it takes for a child to be completely potty-trained varies. One thing that can be very frustrating and even a bit disheartening is when after all of the time spent with your child on toilet training, they begin showing signs of regression. As a parent, you must first come to the realization this is very common. According to experts, there are many reasons in which this occurs. If there has been a "stressful" occurance in the child's life such as a new sibling, a new school, a divorce, or any other change in their lives, regression can definitely begin. There is also natural regression that occurs any time a child masters a skill or task.

The frustration kicks in for many parents when they see their child showing signs of consistency at home but not out in public, or vice versa. This can result for being preoccupied and simply ignoring the body's message. So, how does a parent help their child overcome these obsticles? Some important tips to remember:

Stay consistent! Consistency is the key!!
Praise your child when they remain dry. Positive enforcement carries a lot of weight with young ones.
Empower them. Let them know that you believe in them and show them that you know they can accompish this.
Give regular reminders. Children tend to get caught up in whatever it is that they are doing and simply forget. A child tends to hold it in as long as possible with fear that they will miss out on something if they leave to go the bathroom. Instead of asking if they need to go, consider telling them. Be direct and announce that it's time to go. If you ask you are leaving yourself open for your child to say no, just to have them wet themselves moments later. This is especially essential if you know that it's been a while since their last bathroom visit.
If you child does wet themselves, don't yell or scream at them. Positive enforcement is much better than any negative attention.
Encourage your child to help with the cleaning process. Have them remove their wet clothes and put on a clean pair.
Do not discipline your child. If you do, they could completely shy away from wanting to learn with fear that they will be in trouble for accidents. Believe it or not, your child does not like to upset you and wants you to remain proud of them. If you show signs of being upset or disappointed because you KNOW they can do it rather than showing signs of anger, that will make a child want to try harder.
Once again, stay consistent! This can not be stressed enough. It is by far the most important factor.

No matter how long of a process, do not give up. The worst thing you can do is tell yourself that this is just useless and revert back to diapers. Potty training should not be a battle. It should be less difficult on the parent than the child. If you're finding that it's more difficult on you than your child then it's time to start fresh by utulizing all of the tips above. Be direct and assertive. Just because you are being direct does not mean that you are being harsh. Directives can be said in loving ways. A good example is "Sweetie, you are doing such a great job with your puzzle. It's time to take a potty break and then you can show me how how to finish this puzzle."

Although the act of toilet training is that of the child, the process is a parent/child team effort. By instilling consistency and changing your approach on accidents, together you and your child will achieve this milestone!

Preparing For Your Baby At Home

The Diaper Baker — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 15:03:00 GMT

Many first time expectant parents have a common misconception. They concentrate on all of things that need to be done prior to the baby's arrival such as decorating the nursery, pre-washing baby clothes, and selecting the perfect car seat. Most even do plan accordingly for the hospital stay, all of which is a necessity. But how often do they concentrate on things that could / should be done prior to the big event that help the mother for her first days at home with the baby? Unfortunately, these things often get overlooked. Here are a few suggestions and recommendations of things that you could be done prior to the grand debut to help mom have an even more enjoyable postpartum experience:

Stock Up on Dinners
Immediately following birth, babies tend to eat every 2-3 hours. While your day consists of continuously feeding the baby, how likely is it that you'll have time to put dinner on the dining room table without much effort? Although it does require a bit more time and preparation, stocking up on dinners will become a lifesaver in the long run. During the last few weeks before delivering, cook two meals instead of one. Double your portions so that you can place one in the freezer for after the baby arrives. As new parents you are almost guaranteed to have a supply of baby food stocked up on, so why not take advantage of the opportunity to do so for yourselves?

Home Improvements
All of the time and energy required for home improvements is likely to be consumed once the baby is home. Instead of just painting the baby's nursery, why not paint the rest of the house before the big day? Hey, the paint and brush are out anyways, right? Of course, be sure to check with your doctor for safety concerns.

The most common reason for postpartum depression is being stuck in the house staring at the same four walls. Well, at least this way you can stare at the beauty of what you've done rather than staring and thinking of all you should have done and no longer have time for.

Shop From Your Home
How many of us can say that our fridge is stocked the day we come home with the baby? After three days of staying in the hospital, chances are our refridgerator needs some replenishing. Take advantage of delivery services offered by grocery stores. It's much easier to take a few minutes while the baby naps to place an online order and have it delivered directly to your front door than it is for you to pack up baby and the entire diaper bag and spend an hour in the store, based around feedings of course.

Don't Forget The Little Luxuries
After a few restless nights with little to no sleep, you'll definitely want some time for relaxation. That bubble bath you're in dire need of will be much more fulfilling with some actual bubbles and bath salts on hand. Let's not forget about the scented candles either! Of course, these delicacies are probably the last things from your mind when preparing for the baby. This is all the more reason why you should stock up and have them on hand. A bubble bath with scented candles can do wonders!!

By taking the time to make these simple preparations, mom can focus on recuperating and spending quality time bonding with her little bundle of joy!

Inspirational Pregnancy Quotes

The Diaper Baker — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:29:00 GMT

The journey of pregnancy is undoubtingly a miraculous one. We have compiled a list of inspirational pregnancy quotes. Although you may not be able to relate to all just yet, we hope that after giving birth you will be able to look back and smile upon these. Congratulations on, by far, the most incredible experience ever!

QUOTES

A baby is something you carry inside you for nine months, in your arms for three years and in your heart till the day you die.
-- Mary Mason

Before you were born I carried you under my heart. From the moment you arrived in this world until the moment I leave it, I will always carry you in my heart.
-- Mandy Harrison

A grand adventure is about to begin.
-- Winnie the Pooh

A mother's joy begins when new life is stirring inside... when a tiny heartbeat is heard for the very first time, and a playful kick reminds her that she is never alone.
-- Author Unknown

Everything grows rounder and wider and weirder, and I sit here in the middle of it all and wonder who in the world you will turn out to be.
-- Carrie Fisher

I begin to love this creature,
and to anticipate her birth
as a fresh twist to a knot,
which I do not wish to untie.
-- Mary Wollstonecraft

I gained 80 pounds for my pregnancy so this is like my coming out party.
-- Cindy Margolis

What's that on the telly?
It's an angel sent from God...
Growing in my belly...
Like a sweet pea in a pod!
-- Melissa Hatcher

Think of stretch marks as pregnancy service stripes.
-- Joyce Armor

Life is always a rich and steady time when you are waiting for something to happen or to hatch.
-- E.B. White, Charlotte's Web

Life is magic, the way nature works seems to be quite magical.
-- Jonas Salk

The most important thing she'd learned over the years was that there was no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.
-- Jill Churchill

Before you were conceived I wanted you
Before you were born I loved you
Before you were here an hour I would die for you
This is the miracle of Mother's Love.
-- Maureen Hawkins

Life is a flame that is always burning itself out, but it catches fire again every time a child is born.
-- George Bernand Shaw

Being a mother means that your heart is no longer yours; it wanders wherever your children do.
-- Author Unknown

To be pregnant is to be vitally alive, thoroughly woman, and undoubtedly inhabited.
--Anne Buchanan & Debra Klingsporn

AND OUR ALL TIME FAVORITE:

Making a decision to have a child--it's momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.
-- Elizabeth Stone

Can You Share a Baby Name With a Friend or Relative?

The Diaper Baker — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:37:00 GMT

Many parents elect to have the ultrasound technician give them the answer to the one question that has been on their minds since they found out they were expecting....What are we having? Although not in every case, It is common practice to find out the gender of the baby the expectant mother is carrying. Many parents care to know in advance so they can get a head start on decorating their nusery, registering for their baby shower and just for their own piece of mind. Some feel it is imperative to know so that they have time to select the perfect baby name.

Some women have had a specific name in mind since they were kids themselves. Now, what happens when you are pregnant and have this name selected and one of your friends or relatives gives their baby the same name. Is it okay to still name your baby that same chosen name? According to Parenting Magazine, this is a common "Mom Debate" with the results being almost split with 46% saying Yes, it is alright and 54% saying No, it's not.

Now, what makes a mom sway towards agreeing or disagreeing with this? What is the reasoning behind their decision? Those that feel it is completely acceptable to name their child the same as a friend or relative's baby may believe that they shouldn't have to select a new name just because someone in their lives previously selected it. It is just a name, after all...and chances are this friend or relative isn't the only person in their lives that they will come across with that same given name.

Those that feel it is not acceptable to name their baby the same name as a friend or relative may fear that they wouldn't seem original and needed to copy someone else because they couldn't come up with a name of their own. They may also feel that it could cause confusion and complication within the family. Granted, many people name their sons after the father, thus making them a junior, but that is within your own immediate family and thought to be different than a cousin, aunt or friend.

We would like to hear from you in this ongoing debate. What do you believe?

Preserving Baby Outfits

The Diaper Baker — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:44:00 GMT

We all know that babies outgrow their clothing so fast when they are young. There are some outfits that may have special meaning to you...ones that you would like to preserve. These could derive from the "take home" outfit that your baby wore on the day you brought them home from the hospital, a christening or religious outfit, a hand-made outfit, or some other outfit that has sentimental meaning to you.

So, now that you're baby has outgrown these outfits, what is a great way to preserve them? Sure, you could neatly fold them up and place them in a box on top of your closet. You could use one of those air-tight storage bags as well. The outfits are likely to stay clean and in good condition these ways but, unfortunately, they would be out of sight and everyone knows the old saying "Out of sight, Out of mind." You are likely to forget about them until those spring cleaning days.

What would you say about a way to not only preserve them, but to also show them off? Campus Quilt can do just that. They can take your old baby outfits or cherished fabric and make a keepsake washable quilt out of them! The process is simple -- You send them your old baby outfits (cleaned is better since it preserves the color more and prevents from bleeding) and they send you back a stunning quilt! Campus Quilt will even accept clothes with stains or holes as they understand that some articles of clothing have a story behind them. The expectation, though, is that the quality of your quilt is based upon the quality of the article you are sending. What really blew me away was that Campus Quilt can even sew on pacifiers, shoes, bathing suits, bonnets and more! How incredible is that?!?!

After the quilt has been completed, you can opt to have the scraps mailed back to you for the cost of postage and handling or you can have Campus Quilt dispose of them for you. Arriving via UPS, your cherished memories are now preserved AND still available to display. What a wonderful keepsake this would be!!

What Gift to Give When the Gender is Unknown

The Diaper Baker — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:51:00 GMT

Believe it or not, some expectant parents still enjoy the element of surprise and do not wish to know the gender of their unborn child until they make their grand debut. As exciting as this is, it can cause a bit of an issue when it comes to purchasing a baby shower gift. The Diaper Baker offers a large array of neutral diaper cakes just for this very occassion! We guarantee that your gift will be a one-of-a-kind as we vow never to make two identical. This ensures that your gift is 100% unique 100% of the time!

Remedy for Colic

The Diaper Baker — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:38:00 GMT

Colic is generally describred as excessive crying from an infant for no apparent reason. Beginning as early as two weeks of age, colic can last for the first few months, generally ending by 4 months of age. The peak of colic is reported at six weeks of age. Although colic is considered normal in infants, it can make for an uncomfortable few months for both baby and parents.

Happi Tummi is a herbal colic relief waistband that provides almost instant relief for infants with colic and tummy aches. Happi Tummi is an all-natural wrap which is filled with an aromatic blend of herbs containing lavender, chamomile, lemon grass, peppermint, spearmint, wheat and flax seed. It is specially formulated to relieve babys colic and gas pains within moments. Heat in a microwave for 15-20 seconds, then place around your baby's tummy. (Always test on the inside of your arm first to prevent burns.) Happi Tummi is the only Pediatrician recommended colic remedy. The washable waistband is adjustable with velcro straps, easy to clean, soft for baby's comfort, and available in three colors; pink, blue, and green.

Diaper Cake Giveaway Winner

The Diaper Baker — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:32:00 GMT

The Diaper Baker would like to congratulate Teri Brosseit for being named our winner of our diaper cake giveaway contest. Teri's entry was randomly selected via Random.Org after the original winner did not respond and claim the prize within the alloted three day period as stated in the rules.

The Diaper Baker would like to extend a great big Thank You to all who entered into our giveaway. We will be hosting another giveaway soon and hope that each of you will return for another chance to win!

Selecting a Vaporizer for Baby: Vapor-Eze

The Diaper Baker — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:11:00 GMT

When it comes to registering for a baby shower, many expectant mothers elect to register for a vaporizer. There is such a vast selection out there so how does one know which is best?

Vapor-Eze is a waterless vaporizer that uses pre-moistened pads infused with natural, aromatic oils. The pads last 6 -10 hours depending on your settings. Vapor-Eze uses aromatherapy pads, in menthol-eucalyptus for relief from upper respiratory and cold symptoms. Lavender is the most popular fragrance used for relaxation, soothes anxiety and helps promote sleep. Alertness sharpens concentration, enhances creativity and freshens and deodorizes the room.

Unlike steam and mist vaporizers that can increase the growth of mold and encourage dust mite growth, Vapor-Eze uses a waterless, no-mess pad. Essential oils are 100% natural and have no additives or preservatives. Adding oils to the cotton pads is a simple process. Slowly drip the oil onto the center of the pad, adding as much oil as desired. Thanks to the carefully formulated refill pads, the Vapor-Eze Vaporizer/Aromatherapy unit can be used day or night. Simply plug it in, select one of the three settings and breathe a sigh of relief.

Maternity Pregnancy Support Belt for Round Ligament Pain

The Diaper Baker — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:37:00 GMT

Although pregnancy is beautiful, there are quite a few discomforts and pains associated with the course. Expectant mothers tend to have backaches, hip aches, and round ligament pain. Round ligaments are what supports the uterus and during pregnancy as it expands, the round ligaments have an excessive amount of strain put on them. Something as simple as a cough or a sneeze can trigger round ligament pain. This pain is generalized as sharp radiating pain around the hips, abdomin, groin and legs. The pain can be on one side or both and can intensify with movement or activity.

Some women only experience this for a brief period of time while others deal with the discomfort of round ligament pain until delivery. This sort of pain generally takes place during the third trimester as the ligaments are being stretched due to the growing baby.

A way to ease the discomfort of round ligament pain is by purchasing and wearing a pregnancy belt, also known as a maternity belt. The support of the belt will help alleviate the spontaneous sharp or dull lingering pains. The belts are made of latex-free elastic and thus able to be adjusted throughout the course of pregnancy. They are also ventilated to allow maximum air flow. Pregnancy belts come in many different styles. Some are designed to be worn under the belly with a thin band, some with a wider band, and some are designed with a top strap above the belly. Be sure to try them all and see which is to your liking.

Stopping Your Milk Supply and Reducing Engorgement

The Diaper Baker — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:06:00 GMT

Whether you are a mom who has decided on bottle feeding or a mom who has elected to no longer breastfeed and/or pump, two questions remain....How do you get my milk supply to stop coming in? How do I stop the pain of engorgement?

There are a variey of ways to dry out your incoming milk. Some women do a combination of methods. Some of the most popular ways are:

Cabbage Leaves - Placing cabbage leaves in your bra or directly on you. Chilled cabbage leaves have been stated to work better than warm.

Ice Packs - Chilled gelpacks help reduce swelling. It works well when you have more than one gelpack so you can alternate when the one you are using becomes warm. A bag of frozen peas works just as well! This method has proven a significant reduction in engorgement pain.

Ace Bandage Wrap - Wrap yourself tightly in an ace bandage. This helps prevent the extra room where the milk would normally try and fill up again at. This method works well, but generally goes hand in hand with the ice packs. Many women find comfort in placing ice packs on themselves and then wrapping in an ace bandage.

Hot Compressions - This can be done by taking a hot shower or by placing your breasts inside of a bowl of hot water. Hot water will cause the milk to run which will definitely help with becoming engorged. Lack of stimulation will relieve the pain and discomfort and not produce additional milk.

Pumping - If you were previously breastfeeding you should not quit cold turkey. You should pump one less feeding each day and slowly allow your milk supply to stop. The less you use your supply, the more your body will recognize that you are no longer in need of production. If you become engorged, you can pump out a bit of the milk for additional comfort.

Sudafed - Since Sudafed acts as a decongestant, some women claim that they have felt the relief of engorgment by taking as stated on the box. Please consult your doctor before attempting.

Unique Security Blankets for Babies

The Diaper Baker — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:44:00 GMT

Babies and young children yearn for security in one way or another. It can starts as early as the day they are born with some babies taking strongly to the pacifier as a means of comfort and security. There is absolutely nothing wrong with having an object contribute to the comfort and security level of a child. Some children have a favorite teddy bear or doll whereas with others a specific blanket does the trick.

My two year old grand daugther has always had her "blankies" that she carries around for security. These blankets put her at ease whenever she's upset and they relax and comfort her whenever she's tired. We soon began to notice that it wasn't JUST the blanket that she had this ever so close bond with...it was also the TAGS!

Children often enjoy the feeling of material against their little faces. Infact, my youngest daughter used to carry around a floral print yellow pillow case with her and she would gather the material and run it against her lips. The concept of children liking the way a particular fabric feels was not new to me. What was new to me was how my two year old grand daugther used that tag as a sense of comfort. She would suck on the tags in the same way as a baby would suck on a pacifier or a child on their thumb.

I came across a site that specializes in products for children such as my grand daugther. Taggies offers blankets trimmed in tags! Each tag is of a different color and texture. Not only do these authentic Taggies blankets serve as unique security blankets, they also allow the child to interract with the various color patterns and textures which is quite stimulating. It doesn't end there though...Taggies also offer toys that are composed the same way. Of course I purchased one of these innovative blankets for my grand daughter!!

Taggies now even offers a Natural Collection. This is perfect for the environmentally-conscious moms who are raising their children to love our planet.

Breathable Bumpers for Cribs

The Diaper Baker — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 12:46:00 GMT

So many times we check on our baby while asleep and we find the baby with their head under the bumper or their faces in the bumper of their crib. There are also those times that the baby gets their arms and legs through the slats of the side rails.

Most bumpers are dangerous and can be a risk for SIDS and tangle/strangle. Breathable bumpers fit super secure and the baby can breathe through the mesh-like fabric with A.C.T. Air Channel Technology. Hands and feet are not able to slip through the slats of the crib for possible injury. They may not be as padded as the old fashion bumpers but they are still very soft and completely breathable. Most are collapsible to prevent your little one from climbing.

Most breathable bumpers are made to fit standard slatted, solid back and solid ends cribs. They are machine washable, fast drying and come in a series of colors to match the décor.