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On AC since: 07.16.06
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Hi, I am a 41 year old stay at home, homeschooling mom to my 5 year and 2 year old daughters. I am a lifetime avid reader and writer, and I love having the outlet, audience, and pocket money that AC provides!
Education/Experience:
some college
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When a child can't tell you what they can't see, or don't know any different, how can you tell if they have vision problems? This article explains why it's necessary to find out early, and ways you can see if your child is seeing correctly.
Buying frames and lenses for your child is almost as difficult as getting them to keep their new glasses on. This article contains information to help you do both!
To knit or to crochet? That is the question pondered and discussed in this article comparing and contrasting the two forms of needlework.
There are areas of the world that hold a higher risk of contracting the infections liver disease, Hepatitis A, that is transmitted oral-fecally by person to person contact, or through contaminated food and water. See if you need a vaccination before your next trip.
Feeling down? Lethargic? Depressed? It might be SAD. There are all-natural ways to combat this depression and this article discusses several.
A recent survey indicated that only approximately 1 in 5 obese patients were indicated as such on their charts. Why the silence on weight?
Using mercury toxicity from amalgam fillings as their platform, several hundred holistic dentists are available to remove these fillings and replace them with cleaner porcelain.
Hypnotherapy, waterbirth, and now belly dancing? See why this new fad in labor preparation has women shaking and shimmying.
What does an occupational therapist do and how will it help my child? This article takes a quick look at the ways OT can help your child with sensory processing disorder.
The middle-aged spread is more than just an expression to justify mid-life weight gain. Learn how to take it off and keep it off.
Some parents have found that borrowing the Japanese version of brown bag lunches has turned their picky kids into epicurean adventurers.
Read a novice MP3 user's opinion of this low-cost MP3 player.
Neurological disorders like ADHD and autism have exploded in the last 25 years and so have the number of recommended vaccinations for children. A recent study compared vaccinated to unvaccinated children with surprising answers.
"Happy as a pig in mud" might be more than an expression. Scientists have increased serotonin levels in mice by giving them a bacteria commonly found in soil.
Body brushing for developmental disorders is practically unknown so far. But more and more people are experiencing positive results with brushing therapies discussed in this article.
Looking for ways to improve communication in your family? Want to build shared memories? This article gives ideas on ways your family can build character by giving back.
Popcorn has always been a huge part of an American's diet, since before the first settlers here. But how safe is microwave popcorn? This article takes a look at fat, sodium and chemicals involved in America's favorite snack.
There's nothing much more American than a hot dog, all nice and black from the grill. This article takes a look at the good and bad of the grilled weiner.
Less cellulite? Youthful glowing skin? Health benefits, too? Sign me up! Read why the ancient practise of dry body brushing is a wonderful way to take care of our bodies today.
Do you know that manufacturers recommend washing your pillows every six months? Read for instructions on how to wash different types of bedding.
You should buy a new mattress at least every 6-10 years, the experts say. But you can squeeze a few more years of comfort out of your mattress by a lower-priced mattress topper.
Some medical experts believe that there is no cure for colic. The team of experts at Brown University/Brown Medical Center believe differently. Read how they can help.
What to do with all those digital pictures once you've taken them? This article offers advice and choices from the very simple to the creative.
Gardasil, designed to protect young women from cervical cancer caused by HPV, has been controversial from the beginning. But more serious risks are coming to light.
Lybrel is designed to give women freedom from menstrual periods. But is it effective, and at what cost?
Don't spare your children from all competitive activities. Teach them how to lose instead. Learn how to avoid sore loser syndrome.
Most of us know to lock up pesticides and household cleaners but what about things like cosmetics and personal care items? Read how these poisons affect children.
"Steaming will do for frozen vegetables what the iPod did for music," according to a top exec at a frozen food company. According to this consumer, Birdseye has hit the mark.
Emotional abuse can cause some pretty deep scarring, and very few people on the outside even know it's happening. Read about the signs and what you can do about it.
Heard about bromance? Seems some people didn't like the new friendless male and have re-named the close heterosexual friendship that men of other centuries enjoyed.
Due to some government agencies' policies regarding computers and pictures, even innocent photos snapped by loving parents can look suspicious. Read how some people have gotten caught up in the firestorm.
Researchers are discovering that many people feel better gluten free. Read to see how it might affect you and if you should try this magic weight loss plan.
Dairy allergy, diary intolerance, lactose intolerance, dairy hypersensitivity: how to make sense of these labels? This article uses personal experience to explain.
Did you ever think to include your small children in your yoga practice? Reasons for including them and tips and suggestions to get you started are in this article.
Instead of blindly accepting that greenhouse gases are warming the planet, take a look at some facts which suggest this warming is merely a trend.
Is using cloth toilet wipes better for you than flushable toilet paper? And does it help the environment at all? This article ponders the "mama cloth" movement.
It's hard for a parent to know when a child is a late bloomer, or has a special needs issue. This article sheds some light on a little known disorder, apraxia.
Back pain is generally considered unprovable, making it a likely target of workman's compensation claims. One doctor attributes the pain to repressed rage.
We all "know" that organic is better, don't we? Or is it? This article refutes the popular "organic culture."
Most businesses have disaster plans in case of emergencies. Your home and family needs to have one, too. Here's how to get started.
Difficult menopause might be an indicator of other risk factors for heart disease like high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.
A sturdy indoor trampoline that is safe and doesn't take up much room makes this an excellent choice for a household with active children.
Lightweight, cordless, quiet and with detachable hand vac: this Oreck product is what every mom needs, according to this mom.
This Brother sewing machine, Model LS 2125i, is the perfect sewing machine for a beginner or someone sewing simple projects.
Low price, easy installation, and one button use are some of the reasons this family loves the Microsoft LifeCam VX-3000.
This lightweight flip phone from Samsung comes with the ability to play music, make and play videos, take and store pictures, make voice activated calls, and more.
Simplify and destress your life by following these simple tips.
Childhood mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder were not even recognized until the 1980s. This article offers an overview of symptoms and treatments.
Six easy life changing tips that studies have shown will help you live longer and better.
If you are an introvert, this article will help explain why some people see you as shy and uncaring. If you are an extrovert, read this before you write off your introvert as cold and unfeeling.
YOu can't always wait to relax until you have the babysitter lined up, and the kids aren't sick. So learn how to take mini breaks to relax and recharge.
Once you've had a home grown tomato, you'll never go back willingly to bland, crunchy or mealy store bought tomatoes. Learn how to grow your own in a minimum of space.
Learning more about characteristics of birth order placement can help you understand yourself, your spouse, and your children better.
Childproofing for a toddler looks a little different than babyproofing for your baby. This article provides some tips on what to look for and what your toddler will be looking for.
Mentions of perimenopause are popping up all over the place as more women move into this part of the life cycle. How do these changes affect women who are prone to depression?
A mother of two explains why following the usual advice for finding a pediatrician isn't always the best way; and provides alternate questions for the potential doctor.
Long car rides with two children under five can be challenging, but practice has provided this mom with some answers to make her, and hopefully your trips easier.
Some of the highest achievers have experienced depression, stress and malaise at the pinnacle of their success. Read about this phenomenon referred to as supernova burnout, and how to avoid it.
Having your carpet commercially cleaned frequently isn't fun. But neither is having stained, dirty carpet. This article gives author-tested tips on cleaning common stains.
Proper hand washing requires little training, no special equipment, and is the only way to prevent or limit many hand to hand contracted illnesses. Read how to properly wash your hands, and pass it on to your children.
Baking gluten free bread can be frustrating, time-consuming, and expensive. This article is designed to shorten the learning curve on making delicious, edible, gluten free bread.
It can be a shock to a parent to hear their pediatrician blithely referring to their baby's heart murmur as "benign." This article is a down to earth explanation fo the term.
General guidelines recommend that your child have a dentist visit by the age of three, or even younger. This article uses personal experience to highlight dental health and finding a pediatric dentist.
Is Gardasil even worth the millions of dollars it will make Merck and Co? And is the result worth exposing young girls to a new vaccine?
A recent study from the University of Virginia concludes that negative traits such as lying, bullying, aggression and others are genetic. How does this effect our view of children and discipline?
This article contains ten facts about mammograms from tips to consider beforehand to survival and detection rates.
Harsh winter weather with biting wind, cold temperatures and dry indoor air can wreak havoc with your skin. Read how to protect and heal your skin during the winter.
A newborn gazes intently into your eyes; a preschooler brings you a fresh-picked dandelion; a toddler throws a big screaming fit. Read why tantrums can be a sign of love, and some ways to minimize the worst of them.
Taking virtual vacations or learning virtual skills isn't so far-fetched with new findings by a Harvard Medical School neuroscientist.
CFS is an illness that sucks the energy from your body and mind. Read a personal account from the spouse's point of view.
Remember that goal of spending more time with your family? Here are some fun, off-beat, and inexpensive ways to enjoy your family more this year.
Cheap, small, easy to use, gorgeous prints.....these are just some of the reasons this consumer likes the Kodak Easy Share C533 Digital Camera.
What are manners and how do we teach them to our children? Is etiquette old fashioned, or does it still have value in our modern lives? Read this article for one mother's reasons for using manners, and tips on teaching them.
Business etiquette coaches are popping up all over the place. How necessary is it to follow a bunch of rules when dealing with people? Read this article to find the essence of etiquette.
Is clutter a sign of a lazy mind, or a creative one? Is an empty desk a sign of an empty mind? Experts find the benefit in mess.
Positional MRIs made it possible to take sitting Magnetic Resonance Imaging for the first time and came up with some surprising results. But look at all the facts before you slouch!
Is your child's room or play area overwhelming to you? Imagine how it seems to your child! This article contains practical tips for organizing toys, artwork, clothing and more so your child can take care of his own things.
Learn how your refrigerator works and how the different zones were designed for different foods. Read tips on how to keep your food safer and your fridge cleaner.
We read and hear a lot about sibling rivalry and how to handle that in our home. But what about sibling benefits? Take heart, and read on. Experts have determined that having a sibling has several advantages.
One of the first stories in the Bible is about a case of sibling rivalry, so it's not just your kids squabbling! Read about reasons kids fight, and how you, the parent, can help.
Yoga has been practiced for centuries by masters called yogi in order to attain enlightenment. Read how this ancient practice can benefit you in physical and emotional ways.
Fitness tops the list of New Year's Resolutions. Water aerobics is a great way to begin, and stay with, an exercise program! Read about the added benefits of exercising in water.
Emotional intelligence is one of the key components to leading a successful, fulfilling, and happy life. We all want our children to lead happy and successful lives, so how do we increase their emotional intelligence in order for them to do so?
IQ, EQ, what's the difference and why should we care? Read about how emotional intelligence affects your life, and how to increase it.
A new study found a significant link between physical activity in the form of housework and a reduction in the risk of getting breast cancer.
Long hailed as sexy underwear with more than a hint of bad girl, the thong as underwear is getting some negative reviews from doctors who cite thong wearing as a health risk.
Cord blood banking sounds like a no-brainer. You want your child to have the best, right? Read on for reasons to re-think banking cord blood.
Toddlers are too young to grasp spiritual teaching, but there are practical ways to incorporate your faith into the life of your young child.
Researchers have discovered a way to turn your brain waves, as recorded by an EEG, into musical sounds. Read how this new experimental therapy is expected to treat depression, migraines, insomnia, and anxiety.
Practical suggestions, recipe and food guides are outlined for parents who want to feed their kids healthier foods, but aren't sure where to start.
Read one accidental consumer's opinion of these prized, hand-woven baskets made in Dresden, Ohio.
Genetics plays a large part in this devastating disease, but there are some things we can do now to lower our risk of Alzheimer's Disease. Read how what we eat can feed our brain.
If you need to celebrate Thanksgiving Day or Christmas holidays at a restaurant, this article lists three that are sure to be a hit.
Sometimes, your body needs more stomach acid, not less in order to function properly. Read how you can improve your digestion process.
Don't want to cook? Don't like to cook? Can't cook? No time to cook? Let these Knoxville businesses help you create a Thanksgiving Day meal to be proud of!
Did you know that ginger or cinnamon added to your hot tea will keep you warm longer? Or that adding cayenne pepper to your food helps you stay warm? This article lists several herbs to keep you warm from the inside out.
Most people complain about being too hot or cold at work, but did you know that could affect how well you work? Studies show that being warmer improves accuracy and efficiency.
If you are not vegetarian yourself, but you are going to have guests who are this Thanksgiving, then read this article! Includes simple recipes for dishes both meat eaters and non will enjoy.
Try recipes, swing at a pinata, or feed the birds as part of your Glaedelig Jul (Danish for Merry Christmas).
Fish for Christmas? The Urn of Fate? A Yule log? Recipes and a few facts about Christmas traditions in other countries invite you to try a few new traditions for yourself.
Losing a close family member is devastating, and the holidays will never be the same again. This article uses personal experience to give you the advice bereaved persons wish they could.
Is high fructose corn syrup, a common sweetener used in most foods since the 1970's, making us fat? Some people think so. This article takes a look at the real facts about HFCS.
Principles? Politics? The issues? Read what motivates this mom to vote.
No one wants their children to have head lice. But is using pesticides the answer? Read this article for several tried and true all natural remedies to this common chlidhood ailment.
Are head lice turning into some kind of "super lice" due to repeated use of pesticides as treatment? Some researchers think so.
Some research is showing that eating certain foods to boost our immune system is effective in helping our bodies to fight off the cold and flu virus. Read on to see how you can be healthier this winter.
So far, there is no cure for the common cold virus, only symptom relief. Try these natural remedies from ingredients you probably already have before running to the drugstore next time your cold is making you miserable.
Local, handmade art; a whole city of lighted displays; trolley rides; Santa; and that's not all that awaits you when you spend Christms in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Decoarated boats on the river; a singing Santa; a festive waterfall....what's next on the holiday agenda in Chattanooga Tennessee?
A Live Nativity Pageant, a Fantasy of Trees, even a train ride with Santa? Check out what else Knoxville, Tennessee has to offer for the Christmas season.
DHEA, a popular anti-aging supplement, and testosterone patches were both thought to reverse the aging process. Not so, according to a recent study.
Three easy crafts that are fun for you and your kids to make together. Don't leave Thanksgiving Day out of your holiday plans.
"Why?" is a question often asked when an early miscarriage occurs. Most of the time, that is a question that cannot be accurately answered. It is assumed that about 30% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage.
Give you and your family a chance to try some traditional Thanksgiving Day foods in a new way with these recipes.
What happened to Thanksgiving? It seems like retailers rush from Halloween to Christmas. This consumer wants to bring Thanksgiving Day back to America in a way anyone can celebrate.
Halloween is the perfect time to make otherwise ordinary foods seem frightening and macabre. This happens to make them more interesting, and taste better too.
This mother and her preschool daughter are working together to limit TV time. Read on to see how it's working.
This family's one year old enjoys the Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Musical Chair, but it isn't the most favored toy overall.
A one year old learns lots of skills before she turns two. Learn how to help your child during this year of development.
The Play & Learn Funfair by Vtech is a brightly colored, sturdy, engaging toy with several levels of play and five different learning functions. Read for more reasons why this family likes this toy.
For some people, autumn is allergy season. A review of three medications for allergies by a fellow allergy sufferer.
Cold and flu season is on its way. Here is one mom's suggestions of what you need to get through this winter.
Recent studies show that drinking coffee has lots of health benefits like reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease.
Sugar, the refined byproduct of sugar cane or sugar beets, is getting lots of negative attention these days. But is it an addiction, as some people claim?
Knoxville,Tennessee turns orange in the fall to honor their football team, the Volunteers of the University of Tennessee.
Sugar has calories and is a health risk; artificial sweeteners have been linked with side effects such as headaches, mood swings, seizures and risk of cancer. Stevia is a leaf extract that just might be the safe and healthy alternative.
New discoveries lead scientists to believe that global warming spawned conditions that led to mass extinction more than once in the earth's history.
Babywearing has lots of benefits for both baby and mom. There are lots of babywearing devices out there. This article focuses on the wrap and even includes instructions for one way to wear baby.
Floam is a popular substance aimed at preschoolers. It is micro beads of styrofoam in a sticky, slimy base. Read why this mother and consumer thought it didn't live up to the hype.
Tired of trying to get your kids to eat vegetables? Do they refuse to eat eggs? Try these gross food ideas to liven up the dinner table, or your Halloween party.
Want to live longer and feel better? Follow these 10 common sense eating tips to change the way you live.
Worried about losing weight after the baby? Breastfeeding uses up to 500 extra calories a day, and many women find they lose weight by breastfeeding alone.
It seems backpacks are carrying a heavier and heavier load for school aged children. When should you be concerned about your child's backpack safety?
Mosquito bites are an unpleasant part of being outdoors during cooler weather or the cooler parts of the day. But are some popular repellents safe for children? Are they effective? This article provides preventive tips and information on repellents.
Reading skills are an important indicator of academic success. Read some tips and strategies for ensuring that your child enjoys books.
Eating an apple before each meal per day leads to weight loss, prevention of some cancers, and reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Summers get long and hot and humid in Knoxville, Tennesee's climate, but great ice creams abound. Here's a tour of some of the places to find ice cream.
Parents who want to hire a private tutor for their child, and schools who are required to provide tutors for certain students, are turning to India for help.
We all know we need to exercise. But jogging is hard on the joints and muscles. Getting to the gym 3 or more times a week is difficult. Rebounding (bouncing on a mini trampoline) is a good way to work in some exercise while having fun.
The so-called power fruits are richer in a particular antioxidant that research shows can reduce certain types of cancer and age related illnesses. But eating a variety of fruits in season is necessary to provide all the nutrients we need.
Exercise bands, resistance bands, or exercise tubing was originally used by physical therapist to assist their clients in recovering from an injury or surgery. Now everyday people can enjoy this easy, cheap way to exercise.
Learn from preschool and kindergarten teachers some things your four year old should learn and how to help them develop their skills this year.
Knoxville, Tennessee is host to many good and some great restaurants. Three little-known smaller eating places with unique charm are highlighted in this article.
Like a nice slab of barbecued ribs? Can't resist the smoky smell of tender pulled pork? This article lists the top five barbecue joints in Knoxville, Tennessee, proving that Tennessee is indeed the "Barbecue Belt."
More information about prenatal care has left lots of women feeling worried and guilty about being less than perfect. Sometimes, too much knowledge is a dangerous thing. Relax, and enjoy your pregnancy!
Is the buzz on micro-fiber cleaning cloths worth listening to? This consumer thinks so, and tells you why the cloths are great for cleaning and more.
Some research suggests that trying to quit smoking more than once can work. Most people who quit smoking have tried more than one method of quitting.
New studies indicate that the BMI is a poor indicator of heart disease risk. But that doesn't mean that extra fat is okay. Read what the numbers mean, and who is at a higher risk.
The Icearium in Knoxville, Tennessee offers instructional skating packages to all ages and skill levels. The winter sports of broomball and curling are also available at the Icearium.
Even a generation ago, women suffered the effects of pelvic prolapse in embarrassed silence. Today women are more informed and demand more from their lives after children. But birthing classes and books don't talk about prolapse.
President Bush brought these so-called Snowflake babies to the attention of the public when he vetoed the stem -cell research bill. This article explores some of the ins and outs of adopting a frozen embryo.
For the right person, MLM is a great way to make money. For the rest of us, it can be a good way to get our products cheaper. Or it can turn into an annoyance for our friends and neighbors.
The Mother Goose Program is funded by Knox County and is for infants up to 30 months old. The classes are split up by appropriate ages and there are two locations.
Approximately 33% of Americans are obese. Obesity, especially in women, is linked to increased health risks, including diabetes and heart problems.
This annual Labor Day event is celebrating its 19th year by increasing fireworks by 50%, and expanding activities to a three day event including live music, food vendors and more.
A John Hopkins study released last month seemed to indicate that using psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, may have lasting positive benefits for some people.
Cesarean section delivery rates have rose sharply in the past twelve years. One reason may be the increase in obesity in women.
It can take a lot of time and money to find palatable gluten free foods, but eating gluten free doesn't mean you have to sacrifice good food! I've listed several of our favorite brands and foods to get you started.
Portrait Innovations goes for a warm, homey look with hand-held digital cameras. Picture People's photos are taken with film and feature a bright, clean look. Each studio has something unique to offer.
This controversial therapy has mushroomed into over 40 countries. But is it valid, legitimate or safe? Experts urge caution, but believers call it a miracle.
It is possible to maintain your sexual relationship while raising small children. This article has a few tried and tested tips to help.
This article provides a brief overview about the process of buying life insurance with a personal perspective.
Approximately 32,000 pints of blood are used each day in the United States. There is no substitute for healthy donations of human blood.
Healing through prayer is one of the basic principles of most religions, including Christianity. Recent studies seem to dispute this, leaving most people as before to take healing on faith.
Experts agree that most children simply outgrow the bedwetting phase. Here are some tips to help in the meantime if your child is a bedwetter.
A list of free events and places to visit that are safe and fun for the whole family while visiting Knoxville, Tennessee's Historic Downtown.
There are many reasons to continue nursing past one year. Not only are the health benefits well documented, but there are emotion pay-offs as well. And it makes life easier on mom and toddler.
Jumpstart Advanced Preschool computer games provide hours of learning, fun, songs, and art for the preschool age child.
Studies show that women who used a doula had shorter labors, fewer cesareans, and lower use of epidurals. This article has some things to consider when hiring a doula, along with personal experience.
No one knows what causes gestational diabetes but it can be prevented or controlled by diet and exercise in most cases.
Roseola is a highly contagious viral illness usually contracted by young children 6 months to 3 years. A mother shares her understanding and experience of this common childhood virus.
A mom's review of convertible car seats led her to the Cosco Scerea-Touriva 5-Point Covertible Car Seat. Here's why.
Once called "an unscientific cult", chiropractic has gained acceptance and popularity in the last 40 years.
One mother discovers the benefits of taking an antidepressant, like enjoying her children more and getting more done.
Fewer wrinkles? Less dryer time? Fluffier towels? Not for this consumer!
Learn how to distinguish GERD from normal reflux and how to talk to your pediatrician about treatment options.
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