I'm believing in the goodness of people...

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It seems that in today's world of interconnected media communications, all we hear about are horrors and tragedies.  I have to admit that there are many times I simply turn off the news because I don't want to hear any more negative about my city, my state, my country....my world.  I remember when I was a little girl, movies about WWII were always on the television on the weekends and my dad and brother were glued to them.  I was always horrified that any human being could do to another human being, the things portrayed in those movies--subsequently I'd get up and leave the room.  Little did I know that what was shown in those old movies was nothing compared to the reality of the real war itself.

At any rate, just when I think the world is going to implode in violence, I hear of some kind act.  It does my heart good to hear, read and see these acts of kindness because it reminds me and anyone who witnesses these acts, that not all mankind is doomed to live in depravity.  There are truly amazing people in this world that make it worth trying a little harder to make a difference in some small way.

The point of all this....to say "thank you", to those who you who go beyond the call of duty to help others........."thank you", to those of you who leave the comfort of your homes to travel half way around the world to help with disaster relief and humanitarian efforts.........."thank you", to those of you who extend a helping hand to a total stranger just because that's who you are........."thank you", to those of you who never seem to have a negative word or complaint about anything (you really impact my conscience!)......."thank you", to those of you who pray for your fellow human beings.........you each bring a special light into an otherwise dark world.

Negative Campaigns....Maybe it's Just Me...

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 Why is it that politics bring out the very worst in those involved?  The campaigning has hardly begun but the innuendos and mud slinging is in full force.  Not to  mention, if you go to a political rally, there are those in the audience who will hardly let the candidate speak as they yell out their "feelings" about that person for all to hear.

What happened to the times when a candidate stood up and told the people what they believed in and wanted to do?  What happened to the times when candidates had the guts to stand for something because they believed in it?  What happened to people who worked their whole life to count for something that mattered?  And....what happened to people who gave the courtesy of listening, even if they didn't agree, to someone speaking? 

It used to be that you wrote to the candidate after hearing them speak, or  you might write to your local newspaper and get it published.  In today's world of internet access, we're all about "being heard" right here, right now....seemingly,  we don't even care if we're really right about the subject as long as our "two minutes of fame" get us noticed. It's really a sad commentary about where our society is headed........screaming, name calling, taking facts and twisting them into outrageous lies for political smearing on television, radio and the written word.........do "we" have to win no matter what the cost?

Maybe it's just me, but I'm already dreading this political season.  I don't want to hear the lies.......I don't want to hear false promises........I don't want to hear what's wrong with the rest of the world.........I simply want to hear how a particular person is qualified to be elected to be  a member of our  government, and how they are going to work for the GOOD of our country and not lining their own pockets.

But then..........maybe it's just me..........

Maybe it's just me.........

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All this hooplah over Paula Deen is so ridiculous.  I am so sick of listening to the "experts" all of sudden jump on the band wagon to tar and feather Paula for cooking the way she does.  Up until it was revealed that she was diabetic, everyone loved her cooking.  Of course anyone with at least 5 brain cells had to realize if you ate the kind of food Paula is famous for, you'd be hard pressed to live a "long" life....at least most of us couldn't handle that much fat, sugar and salt for too many years.

I guess when I'd see her cooking one of her specialties, I figured...okay, looks good, sounds good, but not for me.  I don't need some expert telling me not to eat it.......and I guess that's what has me so mad right now......there's that element out there that assume the rest of us are too ignorant to have any common sense, so they're going to make sure we're "okay".

I hate to break it to them, but America didn't become the greatest nation in the world because it was occupied by a bunch of idiots.........granted there is a certain segment of society that likes being told what to do, when to do it, and how to do it......but I'd bet my last dollar the majority don't want it or need it.

Leave Paula alone.....and as my children used to tell each other......"you're not the boss of me!"

But then again..........maybe it's just me........

Choosing a Flower Girl Dress or Little Boys Suit

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One of the complaints every internet merchant hears, is that people aren't sure about the size and quality of the product they're looking at on any website.  When you're in a store, you have the luxury of touching and handling that item, and if it's clothing you can usually try it on first.  We all know, that shopping on the internet can be a daunting experience if you're not familiar with the product or merchant.

So how do you know if what you're looking at is really what you want?  I can't speak for everyone, but at  AdorableBabyClothing.com, the clothing is among the finest you'll find anywhere.  It's not the cheapest, and definitely not the most expensive, but the major quality you'll discover, is the quality of the fabrics and workmanship of each and every item.  The lines that are featured, are made by seasoned companies, like Lito and LeTop.  Both of these American companies are family owned, and have been doing what they do best for a cumulative total of nearly 80 years.  That's a lot of time to figure out what works best for children's clothing.

Details you'll find in our clothing (so you can compare)

--The Boy's Suits are made just like a man's suit.  The pockets are real, the jacket is fully lined, and the tailoring is impeccable.  They come as complete sets, so when you order one, you get everything you need.  You can even order shoes!  The fabrics are blends, and designed to be worn and yet retain their shape.  They won't end up a mass of wrinkles by the end of the event, so you can rest assured he'll look great the whole time.

--The Flower Girl Dresses, are amazing.  They each have details you just don't find of most dresses, from the sewn in crinoline slip, to embroidery, and some you can even customize the colors to suit your own style.  At AdorableBabyClothing.com, you'll even find flower girl baskets, gloves, little ruffled socks, and gorgeous hair accessories.  The only problem you'll have, is once she's dressed, she probably won't want to take it off.  These dresses are designed for elegance and yet made to move with her.

--The Christening and Communion Dresses and Suits are all keepsakes.  The fabrics are exquisite, and on many you'll even find little seed pearls, and clear sequins sewn into the details of the outfit.  Each one is classically styled and has timeless appeal so it will become the family heirloom. 

--The Casual Wear is every bit as well made as our formal wear.  From double stitched seams, to classic styling, and amazing fabrics that hold up to the toughest little one out there, you'll love owning these clothes.  You'll be able to pass these down as you have more children, or your friends will love being able to take them off your hands once they're too small for your child.

Additional features found at AdorableBabyClothing.com.  

     --Free Shipping on minimum orders of $40.00 within the USA.

     --Size charts to help you decide on the best size for your purchase.

     --You can write or call if you're still not sure and I'll be more 

        than happy to help you figure out what will work best for you.

     --If you order something and discover it was the wrong size, 

       or not quiet the color you wanted, you can exchange or return it 

       for a refund (please see our return policy).

We invest 100% of our time and energy to 

delivering first-class service and products to our clients.

As a result, our valued clients, suppliers, and 

friends refer their family, and work associates to us 

for the best in children's clothing and gifts.

We're interested in building strong life long 

relationships one person at a time.
Thank you for visiting Adorable Baby Clothing.com.

It's your wedding.....have it your way!

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You know, years ago, when you went to a wedding you could pretty much bet you'd know exactly what to expect and see.  White dress, a moderate sized wedding party all dressed alike, and the reception not much different.  Over the years though, brides have grown tired of doing what everyone else has already done, and one by one, they've been incorporating their personal style, heritage, and preferences into their weddings.  It's not at all uncommon any more to see bridesmaids dressed either in the same dress in different colors, or different dresses in the same color, or different dresses in different colors. 

And, because we've become such an "international" society, it's more and more common to have a bride and groom of different heritages, or ethnic backgrounds, and finding ways to  incorporate those unique qualities into their wedding.  Fortunately, the attire for children has followed suit.  At AdorableBabyClothing.com, you'll find dresses and suits that can actually be customized to either match or compliment the colors of the wedding party.  The dresses have crinoline slips sewn into the body, so they retain their fullness when worn, and the embellishments you'll find on many of them are nothing short of amazing.

The boy's suits and tuxedos are made just like a grown man's suit, but scaled for the "little guy".  You'll find the jackets are fully lined, and not only the workmanship, but actual tailoring of the suits is impeccable.  You, and your little guy, will be so proud to wear one of our USA made suits.  A quality that I think is as critically important as the look, is the fabric content.  All are blends--and the purpose behind that is that little boys tend not to stand still or sit perfectly straight......you know.....they like to  move.  You'll find the fabrics are designed to move with them, and retain their shape without becoming a giant heap of wrinkles. 

There are some tips below for measuring if you're going to be looking for an outfit for your little one, and if you have further questions, don't hesitate to let me know at customercare@adorablebabyclothing.com. And in case you didn't know!!!! Most orders now qualify for FREE shipping!

For the most part, if you're buying a quality, such as what we carry, you can usually buy the same size they wear in everyday clothing.  The exceptions to this would be if it's going to be a month or so before it's worn, or if they're about to outgrow the size they've been wearing, you may want to consider buying the next size larger.  Below are some tips for determining the correct size they'll need (this was written originally for measuring for a boy's suit, but it does apply to girls also):

A -- Chest - measure all the way around the chest just under the arm pits.

B -- Sleeve Length - measure from the top of the shoulder-blade where the bone that sticks out from the shoulder all the way down to just past the wrist.

C -- Jacket Length - measure by placing one end of the measuring tape on the nape of the neck and taking the tape down to the base of the buttocks. This would be the correct length for a standard jacket. For a three-quarter length jacket or tail suit jacket you will have to measure down to just above the back of the knee.

D -- Waist - It is important to measure his actual waist -- not his hips. One of the best ways to achieve this is to have your son wear a pair of slacks that fit well. With them in the correct position on his waist, take the measurement just above the waist line of the slacks, and as close to the skin as possible. Most boys suits that are made for boys up to the age of 7 or 8, have elastic waistbands, allowing 2 or 3 inches of movement either way.

E --  Inside Leg - This measurement is taken from just below the crotch to approximately an inch past the ankle bone. Most boys suits will have slacks with an inch or two of extra length to allow them to be turned up to the exact length.

F --  Outside Leg - Starting at the waist measure down to an inch below his ankle bone. 

Wedding Hairstyles for Mature Women

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When you're young, it seems the sky is the limit when it comes to styling your hair.  What you begin to realize as you "mature" is that what you and everyone else loved in your twenties doesn't always translate in your 50's and 60's.  That being said, the trend has loosened quiet a bit in regard to the length of a woman's hair as she matures.  In  the past, it was almost mandatory that a woman crop her hair short, but today you'll find every length imaginable on women of all ages.

I think it has more to do with what you "DO" with your hair, and how you carry yourself.  I've seen women my age that made themselves look older because they cropped their hair off to just a couple inches and quit wearing makeup.  There's also some truth to the notion that gray hair can age a person's face.  And, from what I've learned, the warmer shades tend to accentuate a woman's face more appropriately as she ages (our skin fades).  So if you're going to let your color go gray, you'll want to be aware of the shade of your makeup to compliment it.

I've seen women my age with really long hair, that looked like refugees from the hippie movement (there's nothing worse than trying to look younger than you are).....and then I've seen total opposites of the same type of hairstyles because the women were aware of they're whole look, and accentuated the positives.  I guess what I'm trying to say, is it's nice that we have choices and with the new products available, so much more is achievable than it was a few short years ago. 

The "more mature" woman is more likely to remarry in these times too.  If she was married before, she's more likely to choose something less bridal looking, and that leaves a world of possibilities for her hair depending on the length, texture, and her desire to do something for the event.  I scanned the Internet looking specifically for bridal hair styles for the more mature woman, and have to be honest, didn't find anything to specifically addressed that.  What I did find, were photos of older women with various lengths of hair.  I'd love to  know what you think. 

No I'm not getting married.

Necessity....the Mother of Invention.....

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We all know by now, that there are many times when we simply can't find what we need.  It's so frustrating, and yet because of that frustration so many incredible devices and services have been invented.  However, if you're not an inventor, or know one, then you either resign yourself that you may never find that "thing" or settle for something that's maybe, sort-a, kind-a, like what you really wanted.

Well, I happened upon two incredible ladies (both moms) who have experienced that very thing.  They began by helping each other find what the other wanted, and then had that "light bulb" moment......"if we can help each other, then what if there were more of 'us' and we were all helping one another?" .  As a result Fiona McDonald, and 

Claire Jeffreys were inspired to create what promises to be a gold mine of information for moms all over the world.  It's a new up and coming website called StorkUp.com, and is what Fiona and Claire define as "social shopping for moms".  On their website you'll be able to connect with other women all over the world that share  your interests and preferences.  That's great, but if you're like me, once you have that information, where the heck do you put it and keep it organized?  Not to worry! Fiona and Claire realized the potential and have arranged for each member to not only connect with like minded women, but be able to organize and store that information.

You really ought to register and give it a try.  The site is scheduled to be up and running soon, but only for those who register now.  You'll become a Founding Member with special perks!   It will open later to the  public.  I know if I'd had these resources when my girls were little it would have been invaluable.  Now go give it a look at StorkUp.com !!!

A Grandmother's Observation.....

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Today we celebrated my grandson's first birthday.  He's actually one tomorrow, but since it's a weekday, and he doesn't know what day it is, my daughter opted to celebrate today.  His father's side of the family is pretty big......so big it makes our side look pretty insignificant (there's 4 of us and about a gazillion of them).  

When there are that many people in one room that are all related, and you're not of them, it can kind of make you feel a little on the "outside".  My way around that is to be the obnoxious camera person.  It serves several purposes....I document the event for the honored person, it's a great way to get into a conversation with someone, and it keeps me busy.

I have to admit.....I don't like sharing my grandchildren.  I know--silly......but it's hard to watch them run to someone else I hardly know and seem as excited to see them as they act when they see me.  A funny thing happened though today as I was watching and listening to everyone........the realization that these are some of the luckiest children in the world.  They have so many people who truly adore them, and would do anything for them.  And, then I had another epiphany.......it really takes the burden off me to be anything more than I am....their grandmother--otherwise known as "Mimi".

I had never thought about what it was like for my mother when I had children, and they had two grandmother's with families of their own.......I wish she was still alive to ask her if she ever felt they way I do sometimes.  Blending families with grandchildren is not unique, but definitely something that can be challenging.  I am just grateful that my daughters, and grandchildren have others in their lives that love them too.

Maybe it's just me......

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By now most of you have probably seen the YouTube videos of kids who didn't get what they wanted for Christmas.  Jimmy Kimmel ran a couple, that on the surface are funny, but as I watched them, I found disheartening.  

The children's reactions to the prank gifts was probably predictable in today's world, but a sad commentary on the way they're being raised.  Raised to expect the best always, and to refuse to accept anything less.  What happened to being grateful for what you are given and have?  

The fact of the matter is, we don't always get what we want.......but then again, maybe it's just me........I would be embarrassed if one of these videos had my child or grandchild as the "star".

http://www.momaroo.com/758103932/jimmy-kimmel-i-gave-my-kids-a-terrible-present-part-2/

Oh wait...another holiday is coming! Valentines Day!!

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There just seem to be certain times of the year where all we do is run from one holiday to the next.  Valentines Day is one of those in my opinion, that as sweet as it is, would be better celebrated in mid-March....I don't think there are any holidays in March.  However, it's not up to me to change the date, so February 14, will be here before we all know it.

I did love Valentines Day when I was growing up.  The elementary school years were the best because we always got to make a valentine box to put our valentines in, and then we actually made Valentine cards for  our moms and dads, and if there was enough glue and glitter left over, sometimes for  a grandmother or grandfather.  I love those days we got to spend making them.....glitter was everywhere, and even the boys got into the creative surge to create the most impressive card.

If you have little ones, I'd say from about age 3 and up, this can be a great way to spend an afternoon.  Things you'll need (Red items are must haves - the Green items are chosen according to what you have in mind):

• 8.5 x 11 construction paper or card stock in various colors and/or patterns
• Valentine and/or heart stickers
• Scissors
• Pinking shears (optional)
• Glue stick or white craft blue
• Glitter (pink, red, white but all the colors will work) 
• Stickers (optional)
• Crayons or Markers
• Puffy Paint
• Candy hearts (the miniature ones)
• RedHots candy
• Yarn
• Tissue Paper
• Ribbons
• Feathers
• Felt
• Ribbon
• Paper plates
• Red gumdrops
• Pipe cleaners
• Cupcake Liners

Depending on how big you want the card to be, you can use anything from a whole sheet of construction paper, to cutting in half, or even into fourths.  I'd say it depends on the age of the child, and how adept they are at fine motor skills involved with artwork.  '

For the younger ones, you can use the glue to draw a heart on the paper, and let them pour the glitter on it. Words like "be mine", "I love you", or maybe a nickname for the person are great ways to get started.  The older kids can use the pinking sheers to create decorative edges.  Once everyone is finished, put the cards on a cookie sheet and let them dry over night.  In the morning you can tap off the extra glitter.  If the paper has curled (which often happens) put them in-between two sheets of paper (wax paper is great for this), and put them under a heavy book.

The point of it is to have fun, and create a keepsake for someone.  When my grandmother died, I was surprised to find how many of the little cards I'd made her as a child, that she kept in a dresser drawer.  Clearly they were special, and as an adult it made me really happy.

Don't worry about the mess....a little "sparkle"
in any one's house is a good thing!

New Year Resolutions...

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If  you're like me, you've made lots of New Year resolutions, only to conveniently forget them by the end of the first week of January.  We all have the best of intentions, but life always seems to have a way of getting in our way.  If you're the "care giver" in your family, then most likely you're the least likely to make time for yourself, and take care of you.  

With kids in the family, and more and more, elderly parents blended into the mix....oh, and let's not forget working outside the home, you're reading this and thinking, she has no idea what it's like in the real world.  Well, I was a single parent for most of my children's lives, and I worked full time.  I even went to graduate school  on top of working full time and raising my girls......I was a very tired woman at the end of every day!

I think it's important for every care giver to prioritize time for themselves.  If you're not healthy and functioning at your best, you can't expect to give the best to your family.   Sometimes it's as simple as getting that manicure/pedicure and just spending an hour with no one asking you where something is.  If you can't afford that, then put on some comfortable shoes and clothes and go for a walk.  The city that I live in has beautiful parks everywhere, in all sizes and configurations.  There are several within 5-minutes of where I live, and I can easily go to one and get out of my house, breathing in the fresh air, and not sitting here in front of my computer.  Staying or getting fit, is just as important as doing the laundry!

Another great way to regenerate, is get together with friends.  Just going out once a month for a dinner or lunch and reconnecting with friends can do a world of good for you.  There's only so much any one adult can hear of "Mom....she took my_________you can fill in the blank".  Being able to sit for a couple of hours and have adult conversation is amazing for your psyche!  And, if you can't afford to go out, have that friend over...put the kids to bed, and have your adult night at home. 

Now I know you're busy, but one of the best ways to connect with your children, is getting involved with them at school.  It can be as simple as sending cookies or cupcakes for some special occasion they're having.  I taught school for many years, and I can tell you, the children who had moms send in special treats were always so proud of that.  They loved sharing with their classmates, and it made them feel special.  Volunteer for a field trip every once in a while--kids LOVE that--they like to show off their parents any chance they get.  The beauty of doing this, is you build a very special bond with your child, which hopefully will reduce some of the frictions at home, and it encourages them to do better in school because they really do want to please you.  It's always a lot better to have mom or dad coming in with treats instead of for a parent teacher conference!

If your parents are relying on you to help them in their elder years, this can be exhausting.  You have all those demands in your  own life, and then you have parents you love dearly relying on you.  This is a time where you need to set expectations that are reasonable, and sometimes it's going to mean enlisting the help of others to get everything done.  If you're lucky and have siblings that live in the same area, you can all get together and come up with a schedule of duties, so everything doesn't fall to one individual.  There may be a need to hire part time help too.  In the midst of all of it, you want to connect with your parents and treasure the time you have with them.  It's never too late to create new memories to be carried through the younger generations!

Designate one night a week that is family night.  There's nothing that binds families together more than spending special times together.  It could be spent watching a special movie, making a favorite dinner, or playing a favorite game.  The goal is to reinforce the bond of family through fun activities.  A deviation on that if you have more than one child, is spend one on one time with each child.  They need to know their not just part of a group, that they have special qualities as an individual.

The point of all this is.....you need time for you in whatever way you can find it.  Don't wait for it to happen--schedule it into you weekly list of things to do.  If you don't make the time, it will never find you!  Wishing you all a very happy, healthy new year in 2012!

My apologies....

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I want to apologize for the post about Grandparents, right before this one.  I've written it, deleted it, and rewritten it 4 times, and every time I save to publish the post, it shows up in all caps.

Does anyone know why and how to fix this?  I've never had this problem before!!

Grandparents....Can they give too much?

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I became a grandmother just three short years ago, and I have to tell you....I love love love it. I've been involved in their lives since they were all born, so normally I don't feel a need to show up with little treats or surprises all the time.....but, there are lots of times I see something I think they would like and I just want to buy it. In the beginning I didn't think too much about it, but as they've gotten older, I think about it more and more.

I wonder, if they'll come to expect it, and will they be less excited to see me if I don't have a present for them? And then I think back when I was a little girl, and the things that made me the most excited and happy were the things I longed for. When I was little one of the best parts of the year was the Sears catalog that came out before Christmas. Oh wow....it would come to our house, and can I tell you how many pages I dog-eared and how many things I dreamed of getting....or course I didn't get a lot of what I thought I wanted, but the things I did get meant a lot at the time.



With that in mind, the consideration becomes, if I over-indulge my grandchildren, just because it makes me feel happy, am I really doing them any favors? Isn't longing for something actually a good thing? Longing can propel us to work harder to achieve....longing can enable us to appreciate the things we do have....longing can teach us patience......and so much more.

I'm curious though....what are your opinions about grandparents spoiling your children? Or if you're a grandparent how do you feel about this issue?