How to Choose Baby Clothes

Posted by Guest Author on Apr 28, 2013 in Bringing Up Boys

If you are expecting a new arrival to your family, you will probably be very busy purchasing all the things you will need once the baby is born. Choosing baby clothes can be tricky, especially if you are a first-time Mum. Here we have put together a few tips to help you on your search.

At first, your baby will mainly be wearing vests and stretch suits, which are practical because they are highly comfortable and easy to put on and take off. These garments are a good buy, as they are lightweight and easy to look after. Plus, they are easy to pack into a travel or changing bag.

When Safe Isn’t Safe Enough

Posted by Guest Author on Apr 24, 2013 in Homesteading

As a single mother, I value my daughter’s safety and well-being above anything else in the world. I would go on a hunger strike if it meant my daughter had enough food to eat. That said, I do all I can to try and make sure that my daughter and I are in a safe and loving environment at home. However, we recently came home from a long day of work and school to find something I never imagined would happen.

With our front door wide open and two of our door locks broken, we walked into our home to find everything in ruin. Trash thrown all over the floors, much of our jewelry missing, and representing a shell of the home we know and love, we quickly realized we had been the victims of a home invasion.

These Books Have Inspired Me {Homesteading Here We Come}

Posted by Alaina Frederick on Apr 22, 2013 in Homesteading

I would not call myself a homesteader. Not at the least. But I would call myself one that likes to save money where they can – I believe the word would be frugal. I breastfeed, so limited need for bottles and expensive formula. I use cloth diapers and bargain shop for disposable diapers when we need to use those. I have made my own laundry detergent. I love to hang clothes on the line.

So here and there I find the savings when I can. Being the mom of four boys – three of which are already eating us out of house and home – I’m quickly realizing that I need to find savings on our food. I have worked on reading two amazing books and finding that I can so totally do this!

The first is Backyard Farming on an Acre (More or Less) (Living Free Guides) by Angela England, Untrained Housewife. I’ve interviewed her about Backyard Farming and have read through her book but I’m taking a second look. I’m completely disappointed that where we are we can’t have chickens or we would be having fresh eggs right now. But I have been looking at our yard in a new way of not a lawn but a way to feed our family.

Are Your Kids Exposed?

Posted by Alaina Frederick on Apr 21, 2013 in Bringing Up Boys, Homesteading

Are they… when was the last time you exposed your kids to new flavors, textures, and colors? Yes, I’m taking food. Being married to a fantastic man who is a self-proclaimed “meat and potatoes” guy, I’m seeing how important it is to expose kids to new foods while they are young. It’s not that odd that my boys are more open to trying new dishes then my husband.

I wanted to get an expert opinion on the importance of food and nutrition. So I turned to Dr. Heather Manley the author of Human Body Detectives, a children’s educational adventure series that teaches kids about their bodies and why they need to take care of themselves.

Oh Husband: Statistically I’m A Better Driver Than You

Posted by Alaina Frederick on Apr 17, 2013 in Lifestyle

Take that hubby! Just because I hydroplane off the road years ago when heading to Niagara Falls does not make me a worse driver than you. Remember you did back into a parked trailer in my mother’s minivan that one time, remember.

Okay, okay. I’m not here to bash the husband (I’d never do that), but at least now I do have some evidence that statistically I am a better driver then you and my car insurance is cheaper than yours. I still love you dear!

Oooh! {this moment}

Posted by Alaina Frederick on Apr 12, 2013 in Alaina's Journal

‘m joining Amanda Blake Soule for {this moment} – a Friday ritual. A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

A Hidden Gem in New York

Posted by Alaina Frederick on Apr 8, 2013 in Outdoor Adventures

hen I hear the words “New York” two things come to mind. The first is, of course, images of New York City. The second is Chautauqua Lake tied by visions of Lucille Ball [Can you tell I grew up near her birthplace?]. It’s not often that sprawling fields, beautiful lakes, and small town diners come to mind.

Low windows allowed the baby a perfect view

Last week I got to see that side of New York for the first time. We stayed in a simple three bedroom home right on Lake Oneida. A complete chance at that too. I had fully planned on getting a hotel room for $59.95 a night but guess what – when you have 4 children you top off the fire code and have to get two hotel rooms. Just a little new fact that I learned! I just happened across a listing on Craigslist for a 3 bedroom waterfront cottage. I am so glad that I responded to that ad, even though I was nervous about renting our first vacation home. ever.