Mamma Trauma

Baby Shower Fun

2009-01-30T18:45:00.000-08:00

I was recently at a baby shower. It was a wonderful time and had great activities. This had me thinking, what a great blog entry for the 1st blog entry of 2009!
I want to share tips for throwing a baby shower. I want ideas for food, games, party favors, etc.
Here are some of mine:
Food:

Anything that is easy and will feed many people
Have finger foods available
A variety of sandwiches and salads is a great main course- no fuss!!
Keep alcohol limited

Games:

Guess mommy's waist size-closest measurement is the winner
Baby Bingo- Play while the mom to be is opening her gifts, mark off the items as you go
Words of Advice- Give the parents to be advice on certain categories such as diaper rash, colic, nursing, and finding a babysitter

Gifts:

Be sure all guests know were the parents to be are registered.
Practical gifts are always welcomed, such as diapers, wipes, burp bibs
Get creative and make a diaper cake or onsie cake. Many how to videos can be found on utube

Favors:

Candy is very popular, maybe a bar with a personalized wrapper or a candy filled baby bottle
Picture frames are very inexpensive and useful
CANDLES! Everyone loves them! How about baby bottle shaped candles in baby powder scent?? (Check out http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com for candle info)

Please share your ideas in the comment section!

Thank you,

Marie Ilardi- Owner

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Enjoy the holidays!!

2008-12-14T16:36:00.000-08:00

The holidays can bring about a lot of stress and craziness from all the rushing around. But holiday time is also a time to enjoy family, friends, and to have fun! With that in mind, here is a list of activity ideas to do with the kids during holiday time:

Build a gingerbread house
Go Christmas caroling
Attend the town holiday or tree lighting
See the local mall Santa
Get everyone involved in decorating the inside and outside of the house
Make holiday cookies for the local senior center
Try a new winter activity such as ice skating, skiing, sledding
Have the kids help wrap presents (not their own of course)
Decorate wreaths, Christmas trees, etc.
Have the children make Christmas presents for loved ones
Have the children sign their own names in the holiday cards
Go Christmas shopping together
make your own ornaments

If you have more ideas to add to this list, please add to the comments section.

Thank you!

Marie Ilardi

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Teacher Gifts= Holidays are coming!!

2008-11-30T11:28:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it?? The holiday season is upon us! There are sooo many things to do! One of them is finding the perfect teacher gift!
If your anything like me, I want something unique. Your run of the mill ornament, gift card, or chocolates just wont do! I want something different, memorable, and fun!
This year I will be giving my own creation- my pie candles! Many people have ordered my pie candles as well for teacher gifts. If interested, look at the link below:
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com/piedessertcandles.htm
Please add your original ideas for teacher gifts in the comment section!
Thank you!
Marie Ilardi
Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Kids Birthday Parties

2008-11-16T20:11:00.000-08:00

Today I went to a birthday party with my daughters. It was for another child in my eldest daughter's class. It was a wonderful party!! It had me thinking of what makes a great kids party. Here are some tips:

Keep it short. Small kids have short attention spans. Long drawn out events will make them cranky.
Keep the fun going. Keeping the youngings entertained is key.
Keep the activities fun and interesting. This means change! Small children can bore easily, therefore keeping the activities brief and continuous creates a wonderful time!
Even a change of environment helps. This can mean going into a different room.
Keep them fed. Eating between activity changes helps them re-energize and gives you a chance to get ready for the next activity.
If your opening gifts, give out the goody bags then. It will keep the children interested and happy during this time of the party.
Don't make anyone do anything the don't want to do. Simply ask the child if they would like to play. If they say no just tell them that they can join in whenever they want.

If you have any more tips to share, please list them in the comments section.

Thank you!

Marie Ilardi

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.-Owner

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

How To Find A Pediatrician

2008-11-09T18:52:00.000-08:00

Your child's health must take a priority. Finding a reliable physician you are comfortable with is very important. Some people use pediatricians, others use family doctors. Whom ever you use, they must be qualified and someone you feel comfortable with.
How can you find this perfect doctor?? There are many ways to research this. Here are a few ideas:

Ask other parents for who they use
See what doctors are affiliated with the closest hospital to you
See if your own doctor can refer you to someone
See if your own pediatrician that you went to when you were a child is still in business. You may be surprised!
Don't forget to check with your insurance. The doctor must be listed if you want the appointments covered. Looking through their directory is also another great way to review your choices of doctors.

Good luck!

Marie Ilardi

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Healthy Kid Approved Snacks!

2008-11-02T18:29:00.000-08:00

Its very important to have our kids stay on a healthy diet. This means healthy snacks as well. Here are some suggestions that your kids may love:

gold fish
fruit smoothies
peanut butter w/apples or celery
yogurt with fresh fruit and granola
pretzels- hard & soft
raw veggies w/ low fat dressing for dipping
frozen fruit
deviled eggs
popcorn- you can add your own flavorings
frozen yogurt
white corn tortilla chips with low fat cheese & beans
fruit salad
graham crackers, animal crackers
freeze dried fruit

Please add more snacks in the comments section.

Enjoy!

Marie Ilardi

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Car Seat Information

2008-10-27T20:37:00.000-07:00

We should all know the importance of car seats and their regulations. These regulations vary state by state, so please check what your state regulations are. The following link is a great place to look up this info:
Car Seat Laws by State

The majority of the states regulate that infants under 20 pounds/1 year must be in a rear facing car seat. Do not rush to turn the seat around. The longer you can keep the infant rear facing the better. Toddlers up to 40 pounds/4 years must be in a car seat, forward facing once they are too tall to face backwards. Children under 80 pounds/8 years old must be in a booster seat.
Many police and fire departments will inspect and/or assist you in installing your car seat. Proper installation is also key in car seat safety. If not installed properly the seat may not be able to preform properly and risk injury to your child.
NEVER place a child in the front seat or in front of air bags. This may cause serious injury or death.
Any more safety tips with car seats may be added to the comments section.

Stay safe!
Marie Ilardi
Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Fun Halloween Activities

2008-10-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

Halloween is on its way! How will you enjoy the day? Try some of these if you may!

Go to a pumpkin farm for hayrides & corn mazes
Tell Halloween or ghost stories together
Watch Halloween movies together, like Nightmare Before Christmas, Its The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown, Hocus Pocus, etc.
Go on a hike and observe the trees and their colors
Have a Halloween dance party- Halloween themed music only!
Paint or Carve Pumpkins
Make treats like candy apples
Create original costumes
Get the trick or treating candy or treats ready

If you have more activity ideas, please list them in the comments section!

Thank you!

Marie Ilardi

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

If You Are Expecting

2008-10-13T21:22:00.000-07:00

If you are pregnant and you want come guidance I recommend the book What To Expect When Expecting. It is a very comprehensive tool that takes you through every phase of pregnancy, answers sooo many questions you may have, and also gives many tips for things such as help with morning sickness.
I lived with this book with my 2 pregnancies and I'm sure I will when I decide to have another baby. I'm sure it will help you too!

Happy reading,
Marie Ilardi
Artistic Candles by Marie- Owner
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

How To Find A Babysitter

2008-10-05T22:11:00.000-07:00

Do you need to get away? Time out with your love or with some friends? Well then you need a babysitter. But how do you get one? Who is the right one for your kids? Below is a list of tips to help you find the one that's perfect for your family:

Choose someone you trust. Family members and close friends are always good choices.
Choose someone in your budget. You might find a large spectrum of price ranges out there.
Choose someone with experience. You don't want someone who has no idea what to do in certain situations.
Choose someone you feel your kids will be comfortable with.
Choose someone willing to give you references.
Choose someone recommended to you.
Choose someone that the parents recommend in your child's school.
Choose someone that is recommend through your church.
Choose someone YOU like!

If you have other tips please include them in the comments section below.

Thank you,

Marie Ilardi

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Tips for Teething

2008-09-22T17:20:00.000-07:00

Teething can be a stressful time for child & parents. Best thing to do is be understanding. Remember that they are in pain, which is a Major reason why they may act out.
Here are some tips to help reduce the pain of teething:

Take infant Tylenol as directed by the doctor.
Place a damp rag in the freezer for 10 minutes & let baby chew on it.
Purchase a safe feeder (a strainer contraption to let the baby chew on fruits, etc.) and place very cold or frozen fruit in it.
Oragel or Hylands teething tablets
Cold teething rings

Please submit your tips for teething!

Marie Ilardi

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

When Trauma Happens

2008-09-15T07:06:00.000-07:00

How should you handle a traumatic occurrence when it comes to your little ones? I believe the answer lies with in the individual child. If they ask questions answer them. Answer them only to answer the direct question. Do not go on explaining anything because most likely this is not what the child wanted to know to begin with. If they want more info they will let you know. Children are very aware of their surroundings & the reactions of people. It wont be long until the know something is up!
I'm taking this post from my own life right now. Last week my parents house went on fire. Now they are living in a hotel. My 23 month old doesn't really ask too many questions so she has been pretty easy to work with. My 4 year old however wants to know everything! Why are we visiting grandma & grandpa in a hotel? Why is my aunt here? Why is her dog here? Not much I can get away with by not answering her!
So I took it one step at a time & told her that people will be working on their house to make it beautiful, that's why grandma & grandpa are at the hotel. Only until I felt she could really understand WHY they were there did I disclose it to her. We used it as an important lesson of what can happen if your not careful. She was not afraid & understood I believe because I did not force this info on her, I waited until she was ready & SHE wanted to know.
I welcome more advice & comments about handling such delicate situations!

Thanks,
Marie Ilardi
Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Let Them Cook!

2008-09-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

A great activity to do with the kids is teaching them how to cook. They love to get involved and eat their accomplishments in the end.
Here are some kid friendly cooking projects to try:

Pizza
Cheese Nachos
Cookies- Oatmeal Raisin & Chocolate Chip are favorites here
Fruit Salad
Scrambled Eggs
Brownies
Rice Krispie Treats
Cookie Bars
Veggie & Dip Platter
Baked Apples
Ice Pops
Home made Chex Mix
Chocolate covered fruit, pretzels, etc.

Add on to our list in the comment section!!

Have Fun!

Marie Ilardi

Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.- Owner

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Almost Time for School!

2008-08-31T21:40:00.000-07:00

For most school starts this week. For some, school started already. For a very few you still have a week or so. I am one of the lucky few. My daughter does not start Pre-K until the 8Th. This will be my first child going to her first day of school, so yea, we are both NERVOUS!!!
I would like this post to be for stories of all your first days of schools- whether it be when you were a child, your child's very first day, your child's first day on the 8Th grade, etc. Also, any other nervous moms out there that may want to ask questions or just want some support. Plus, some tips from you pro mommies (daddies are always welcomed) out there that have been there & done that.
Start Commenting!!!

Truly Yours,
Marie Ilardi
Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc- Owner
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Scheduling Time

2008-08-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

Do you wish there was more that 24 hours in a day? I know I do!!
I finally come to terms with the fact that there is not enough time in the day to all I need to do. I will not always be able to get EVERYTHING done! But its not supposed to be a competition. Why do we need to get EVERYTHING done anyway?
Sure, there are things of importance that must get done, but EVERYTHING???
Well, there may be some help to at least accomplishing your want to be Super Mom or Dad. Start to schedule your tasks. Even lunch. This way you know whats in store for the day, where you are headed & an honest expectation of what you will be getting done. This may also help put things in perspective about whats important & what needs to get done NOW.
I recommend using Google calendar feature to plan out your day. You can go by every 1/2 hour to every hour & assign a time slot for each activity you need to do.
I started scheduling my days out & I feel more organized, more full or purpose & less confused as to where my day may be going.
If you have felt the same as above try scheduling your day out & see how it works for you!!

Good Luck!
Marie Ilardi
Owner- Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Dealing with Tantrums

2008-08-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

I hear this question a lot- How do you deal with temper tantrums?
The first thing I feel is important is to realize where the tantrum is coming from. Most of the time a temper tantrum, especially in toddlers, stems from communication problems. These kids so not know how to communicate their feelings yet. This, very understandably, gets them very upset. So your frustrated little one does not understand why you said no, and can not get the words out to tell you her upsetment. So she blows up.
Now, what should you do? Best thing usually is to walk away. Let her scream it out. She will get over it, move on & be fine. There is no reasoning or talking through with her yet. She does not posses the ability to do this nor tell you how she really feels. Doing this might make her even more frustrated. Another thing to try, especially if you are in public, such as a store is to deter her attention to something else. Once she isn't focused on what was upsetting her she may just move on.
What should you not do? Don't give in. Giving in will show the child that screaming will help her get her way. This makes her think its OK to act in such a way because ultimately she will get what she wanted anyway. Don't leave her alone. Walk away yes, but keep her in your site. There are many children (mine included) that will start to flail around, kick, slam their head against the floor, etc. You want to make sure they are safe. If you see her starting to get physical its a good time to just pick her up so she doesn't hurt herself or someone else. Hold her until the tantrum is over.
So, the main point is stand your ground. Yes, no one wants to hear the screaming, but giving in will only promote more screaming. Knowing tears will get you no where will help control these outbursts & you will see results in time. & remember to stay safe.

Marie Ilardi- Owner
Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

A Place for Moms (Dads Too)

2008-08-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for friends with kids? Want to communicate with friends on your free time? I suggest you try Mom Cafe. Its a wonderful site to make friends, ask questions, help others, & have fun!
Check it out!
CafeMom: Advice, Support, and Fun for Moms and Moms-To-Be

Enjoy!
Marie Ilardi
Owner- Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Thyroid Problems After Baby

2008-08-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

I need to hear from those of you that have thyroid problems, whether or not it was after having a baby.
After my second baby I started to notice some changes. My baby weight did not come off like it did with the first one, my energy levels were way down, my insomnia did not go away, etc. What the heck was wrong with me??
A few months later I went to the Dr. He decided to take a blood test. The results showed I had low levels being produced by my thyroid. So now the battle of leveling off with medication ensues & month after month I go to the doctor to see how I'm doing now.
Its a real pain, but I know I have to stay on top of it to be able to see any results at all. But, in the meantime how do I loose the weight? How do I keep going when I feel like I just want to stay in bed?
Well, my advice for you at this point of my battle is to take 1 day at a time. I try to organize my tasks (IE- to do lists), buy only healthy food so there isn't much temptation, keep up with my meds, & try to stay on a sleep schedule (but that never seems to happen). I also decided to read the Thyroid Diet again. Its super informative & very helpful.
I would love to hear from those of you who are in the same boat as me. What do you do to stay on track? What are your tips? We would love to hear them!!

Looking forward to your replies,

Marie Ilardi
Owner- Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Still Summer- What to Do With The Kids?

2008-08-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

School is still out of session & I'm sure you feel you have ran out of ideas on how to keep the kids busy. Here are some fun ideas you can do:

Take them to the library- You will be surprised as to how much your library has to offer. Many free programs for all age groups to join. Anything from story time, arts & crafts, to movie showings. Its worth checking it out!
Go to McDonald's (those w/ play lands) AFTER lunch- Want the kids to run out their energy but not in the heat? Go to your closest McDonald's play land for a snack. There are many healthy choices offered now a days such a fruit & yogurt and the kids get to play on the slides. A nice way to spend an afternoon.
Look into your local parks- Get an upcoming events flyer from your local parks department. You will get information on many great programs, many at little to no cost. I know last time I just looked I found free swimming lessons for 4-7 year olds!!!
Go to the beach- AFTER 5. You will most likely get on for free & you will still have a few hours for the kids to play. Picnic dinner anyone?
Check out your local children's museum- They are great places that are fun & educational with moderate cost.
Go to the movies- Many theatres offer free movies on a weekday morning for families. Get to see those summer blockbusters minus the crowds and chaos!
Don't forget the playground- always a fun place. Bring lunch too!!

If you have other ideas to add to the list please do so in our comment section! All suggestions are welcome!!!

Until Next Time,

Marie Ilardi- Owner

Artistic Candle by Marie, Inc.

http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Those who live with in-laws or parents

2008-07-29T11:02:00.000-07:00

I live with my mother-in-law. She is 76 and my husband feels more comfortable with her being with us so he can monitor her health, etc. She is a pretty independent person though. She is also the kind of person who acts as if everything is hers, including our kids & house.
It does drive me nuts, but she is very helpful, so I try to let most things slide. But when is enough enough? It has even come down to my 4 year old calling us both mom & she is convinced she has 2 moms & tells me that her grandma is her other mom. I cant deny that it kind of hurts.
I have tried to speak to her about backing down a bit or letting us have more space, but she is the type that gets insulted easily. So talking to her usually doesn't work. She just goes about doing what she wants, feeding the kids what she wants, go through their toys, my things, etc.
My husband doesn't have much issue with this. I guess he is just so used to it because that's his mom & that's all he knows. He thinks its odd if someone doesn't "help out". I agree, but there is a difference between helping out and taking over!
I would really love to find a place that she could have her own area. Maybe a 2 family or mother-daughter. But, dh doesn't want to move, he is fine with the way things are. Besides the fact that I'm home & he is out working, so he isn't around her as much as I am.
Just a hard situation.
I would love to hear from those of you out there in my position with in-laws or your own parents. I want to hear your vents, your ideas, & what you did to solve your issues.

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Marie Ilardi
Owner- Artistic Candles by Marie, Inc.
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

FREE Potty Training DVD

2008-07-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I know my almost 20 month old is getting interested in the potty. She sees her big sister, Heather, use it all the time.
I did not receive it yet, but since its FREE I thought there would be no harm in recommending it to my readers (where ever you are, lol).
Huggies Pull Ups is offering FREE potty training DVDs for the kiddos to watch. Hey, you never know if it may help!
PULL-UPS® Potty Training Pants - Big Kid® Central Potty Training Success DVD

Let me know how it worked for you or if your little guys liked it! I will be writing up my own little critique of it, so be on the lookout!!

Till next time!
Marie
http://www.artisticcandlesbymarie.com

Yo Mammas

2008-07-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hi, thanks for checking in. This bog is for all moms out there. I encourage you to share your stories, vent, tell you successes, woes of being away at work or staying at home. So please join us.

I want you all to remember your not just a mom. I'm a mom, wife, daughter, daughter-in-law, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, niece, cousin, friend, etc. I think the following lyrics explain it perfectly:

I hate the world today

You're so good to me

I know but I can't change

Tried to tell you

But you look at me like maybe

I'm an angel underneath

Innocent and sweet

Yesterday I cried

Must have been relieved to see

The softer side

I can understand how you'd be so confused

I don't envy you

I'm a little bit of everything

All rolled into one
Chorus:I'm a bitch, I'm a lover

I'm a child, I'm a mother

I'm a sinner, I'm a saint

I do not feel ashamed

I'm your hell, I'm your dream

I'm nothing in between

You know you wouldn't want it any other way
So take me as I am

This may mean

You'll have to be a stronger man

Rest assured that

When I start to make you nervous

And I'm going to extremes

Tomorrow I will change

And today won't mean a thing
Chorus
Just when you think, you got me figured out

The season's already changing

I think it's cool, you do what you do

And don't try to save me
Chorus
I'm a bitch, I'm a tease

I'm a goddess on my knees

When you hurt, when you suffer

I'm your angel undercover

I've been numb, I'm revived

Can't say I'm not alive

You know I wouldn't want it any other way

Till Next time,

Marie Ilardi