Bla Bla Dolls & Ugly Dolls

Here are list of popular dolls.

 www.blablakids.com

www.uglydolls.com

Diaper Rash Cream

I've used several products including Destin, Aveeno and A+D ointment. Out of them, I liked Destin the best, which was what my doctor recommended at first.

          

 I purchased two packs for each but realized that I do not use it as much because my baby only have diaper rash twice from the beginning till now and he is around 13-month.

Destine cream is white and seems to work well while Aveeno is also white and a little more dense, but diaper rash didn't improve after use. The ingredients for A+D ointment are 53.4% petrolatum (skim protectant - same ingredient used for Vaseline) and 15.5% Lanolin (also skin protectant).   It can be used to protect and sooth minor cuts and burns like Vaseline.

What To Bring to the Hospital When you are Expecting

Finally, the baby who has been preparing to debut is about to come out.  Your due date is coming closer, and you might be worried what you really need to pack to the hospital.


Here are list of items that I really needed.  Some I forgot and some I brought, but with the help of God, the baby was fine and I came back home well and healthy.

 

Important Documents

If you have your birth plan, you can bring one to show them to the doctor.  You would need your identifications and any health insurance cards.

 

Camera or Video Recorder

Make sure to charge the camera or video recorder.  They will take pictures or videos of your newborn baby.  Throw in the charger just in case they run out of battery. You don't want to miss this item and keep low-quality pictures and videos on your phone for your precious little one's first day.

 

Phone and Call List

You will want to call everyone that you know, but your baby might catch your attention and forget everything you had on your mind.  Making a call list to inform your close family, relatives and friends about this great news! Don't forget the phone and make sure they are charged as well.

 

Memory Maker and Pen

You can throw in a memory maker or a journal and a favorite pen so you can write anything that you want to tell your baby later when he/she grows up or you want to read it over when time passes and you forget this precious moment.  You can have the nurse stamp your baby's footprints on the memory book or journal for your keepsake.

 

Toiletries

I packed some toiletries and was glad to find out that they weren't provided from the hospital.  You can pack body wash, shampoo, conditioner, face wash, toner, moisturizer, BB cream, tooth brush, toothpaste, floss, chopstick and also sanitary pads for after the birth.  Also, a small towel would be helpful because I didn't notice them in the hospital.  They just carried paper towels.  If you need to tie your hair, bring a scrunches or hair clips as well.

 

Books, Music & Movies

During the delivery or after the deliver, if you would like to listen to music, you can bring songs that you would like to listen either through iPad or DVD player or through your phone also.  Calm and soothing music can help you feel better.   And after the delivery, you can bring books to read.  If you like to read books about nursing or guidebook for moms-to-be, you can throw them in the bag as well. 

 

Comfort Items

The hospital had paper slippers that you can just throw out, so you can bring slippers or heavy socks to wear.  Also, you can bring a comfort shoes to wear when you are returning from the hospital.  Probably, your feet is swollen from the delivery, so make sure they are not too tight. 

 

Some Snack and Restaurant Menus

If you are not able to take the food from the hospital.  This comes in handy.  Also, the hospital only gives food for you, not your husband.  He might go hungry after a long delivery.  You might not want to eat, but pack some snacks for your husband also.

 

Cash & Change

It might come in handy if you want to buy a snack from a vending machine.  Some restaurants might not accept credit card or if you order food, they might not accept credit card.  You never know, so you can just bring some cash and change.

 

Going-Home Outfit

You can bring a clean, loose-fitting outfit that would fit your still-round belly and make your trip home as comfortable as possible.  Bring going-home outfit for your baby also.  You can take picture together for memories on the going-home outfit not the clothes from the hospital.

 

Extra Luggage

You can pack all the goodies from the hospital - diapers, blankets, and creams and etc.  Make sure they are not heavy luggage to add more weight to already heavy bag.

 

Car Seat installed in your car

This, your husband can bring from home, but he might not know how to install them in the car.  You can practice.  The nurses do not let you leave the hospital without a car seat even if your home is walking distance from your home, so make sure to have the car seat.

 

Warm blanket when cold

The hospital usually provide the receiving blanket, but if it is cold outside, make sure to bring a warm blanket for the baby to use when you are bringing the baby home.

Winter Down Jacket for Kids

The winter is coming closer, and probably many mothers are wondering what they need to prepare the winter for their children.


If you do not live in a place like San Jose where weather is fair for all seasons, you need to prepare for the cold.  For New York, the winter can get pretty bad.

For down jacket, you cannot miss the North Face that is very popular.  They are so warm and light that you are tempted to wear them every day just because they are so comfortable.  They run from $89 to $129, a high price tag.


Another popular one is Patagonia Baby Down Sweater.  The down-side is that this does not come with the hat to prevent wind to penetrate through the next even when you are wearing a hat.


Just noticed, Zappos carry hooded Patagonia Down Jacket. They are $149 in Zappos.com


One more selection that is also very trendy among celebrities is Hanna Andersson's Warmest Reversible Down Jacket.  The price is $108 which is on the higher end, but for a cold weather, it might be worth it.

책 리뷰 - 마더 코칭: 첫 엄마가 되는 분들에게

마더 코칭: 첫 엄마가 되는 분들에게
F. 도슨 지음 | 강미경 옮김

책머리에 ---
부모란 '어린아이의 심리에 대해 연구한 과학적인 모든 정보를 이용해서 행복하고 지적인 인격을 만들어내기 위해 애정으로 보살피는 역할을 하는 존재'여야 한다.

시카고 대학의 벤자민 브르므 박사의 연구에 따르면, 인간은 4살 때 지능의 50%가 완성된다. 그러므로 영.유아기는 아이의 인생이 결정되는 중요한 시기인 것이다.

 -----------------------
아기의 개성에 대한 존중
아기의 개성을 사소하고 자질구레한 점까지도 뻗어나가게 할려면 어느 단계에서든 부모의 격려가 필요하다.  아기의 개성에 대한 존중이 필요하다. 독자적인 가능성을 지닌 아이가 그 개성을 충분히 발휘할 수 있도록 자유를 주는 것이 아이에게 줄 수 있는 최고의 선물이다.

아이의 성장단계
0세부터 5세까지 한 개인의 품성을 결정짓는 개성의 기초가 만들어진다.

제1기: 0세부터 걸음마 할 때까지 - 거의 자고 먹고 싸고 씻고 - 살아 있다는 것은 어떤 것인가에 대해 기본적인 감정을 만들어나간다. 인생에 대한 기본적인 신뢰감과 행복감, 또는 반대로 불신감과 비애감을 품기 시작한다. 이 단계에서는 아기에게 기본적으로 필요한 것이 채워지면, 아기가 잠재적으로 지니고 있는 것을 최대한 발달시킬 수 있다.

아기는 스킨십으로 사랑을 확인한다. 지능은 만 5세까지 어느정도의 감각적.지적 자극을 받느냐에 따라 거의 정해진다.  감각, 시각, 청각, 후각등을 자극하는장난감이 지능을 계발시켜준다. 아기가 자유롭게 만질 수 있는 것 입 안에 넣고 핥거나 빨거나 할 수 있는 것, 흩어질 수 있는 것을 주도록 한다. 

또한 부모님이 이야기를 거는 것도 좋다. 당신의 목소리에서 감각적이고 지적인 자극을 받는다. 노래를 들려 주는 것도 좋고 말을 걸거나 재미있는 소리를 내주거나 하면서 같이 놀아주는 것은 아기의 지능 발육을 촉진 시키는 감각적인 자극을 제공한다.

어린 아이의 자아 개념
영.유아기에 인격의 기초를 만드는 가장 중요한 요소는 아이가 자기 자신에 대해서 마음에 그리고 있는 '자기상' 또는 '자아개념'이다. 그것은 마음의 지도 같은 것으로, 아이의 행동은 그 가이드에 따라 좌우된다. 어떤 아이는 부정적, 어떤 아이는 긍정적 자아 개념으로 모든 것을 보는 아이가 있다. 

가장 중요한 것은 인생에 대한 기본 개념으로, 아기는 자기 나름대로의 관찰법으로 인생 철학, 결국 살아 있다는 것은 어떤 것인가에 대해 기본적인 감정을 만들어나간다. 인생에 대한 기본적인 신뢰감과 행복감, 또는 반대로 불신감과 비애감을 품기 시작하는 것이다.

정신적 환경이 만들어 주는 아기의 능력
갓 난아기가 신뢰감과 행복감을 발전시키느냐 못 시키느냐 하는 것은 당신이 아이에게 주는 환경에 따라 정해진다. 1세까지 사이에 낙관적인 안경을 발전시키면 아이는 낙관적인 어른이 되고, 만일 비관적인 안경을 발전시키면 매사에 비관적으로 보는 인간이 되어버리는 것이다. 아기에게 기본적으로 필요한 것이 채워지면, 아기가 잠재적으로 지니고 있는 것을 최대한 발달시킬 수 있다.


아빠와 아이의 관계
아빠가 해줄 수 있는 가장 좋은 것은 아기를 안아주는 것이다. 아빠와 아이의 관계를 친밀하게 만드는 기초는 아기 시절에 쌓아진다. 이 시기를 놓치면 그런 시기는 다시 오지 않는다. 지금은 일이 바쁘지만 아이가 좀 더 크면 시간을 낼 수 있는 것이라고 생각하는 아빠는 자기 자신을 속이고 있는 것이다. 귀여운 아기는 어느새 학교에 가게 되고 어느 날 갑자기 10대가 되어버린다. 그때는 이미 늦은 것이다.

주위의 세계를 탐색하는 아기
억압하지 말고 왕성한 호기심을 키워주자. 집 안을 자유롭게 탐험시키자

Baby Sign Language

Here are eight commonly used baby sign language words.
More, Again, Finished, I want, I don't want, Help, I like, I don't like

http://videos.parents.com/video/Baby-Sign-Language-Starter-Sign/?sssdmh=dm17.618535&esrc=nwpcb091712

There are more sign languages that can be used in the meal time.
Hungry, Thirsty, Please, More, Finished, I like, I don't like
http://videos.parents.com/video/Baby-Sign-Language-Mealtime/?sssdmh=dm17.618535&esrc=nwpcb091712

Zo-li Bot Straw Sippy Cup Review

Mothers seem to try all kind of sippy and straw cups.  Out of all the sippy cups, ThinkBaby Sippy Cups were the best.  But now that my baby went from sippy to straw, I was looking for a good straw cup.  Then, I heard about Zo-li Straw Cup from my friend.  When I bought the cup, it was a perfect size for the baby.  They are not too big for 23 pound 1-year old toddler.  He can hold easily and suck on the straw.  It is fairly easy to suck. 

One great thing about Zo-li that is different from other straw cups is that it hasa weighted straw that "follows" the drink, so baby can drink even the last drop.  I found this really helpful because I've seen my baby try to drink but not able to even though there was quiet some milk left.  It is also BPA and phthalate free.  The dimension is 4 1/4"L x 3"W x 5 1/2"H.

Though it is around $12 ($11.60 current discounted price), I am happy with the purchase because it is better than buying 2-3 different products and still not satisfied.  I guess it would eventually cost more to buy a few that doesn't work.

Kiddoes Cool Expandable Snack Container - Also Zoli Snack Stack & Dr. Brown's Snack Cups

I have been searching for a snack container.  I have purchased Zoli On-The-Go Travel Formula & Snack Dispenser for my toddler.  Its size is 2.8 x 2.8 x 7.9 inches.  It is tall but 2.8 x 2.8 inches is a bit small.  I haven't realized it was formula & snack dispenser, not just snack dispenser.  Another thing is that it leaks if there is liquid. 

I just realized they also carry Zoli Smul Snack Stack.  The product dimension is 8.8 x 4 x 8.8 inches.  I think I made a mistake buying the Zoli On-The-Go Travel Formula & Snack Dispenser because I don't use formula.   It is a great snack stack though. 

Another good snack stack that I've seen many people use is Dr. Brown's Designed to nourish snack-a-pillar dipping cups.  It comes with four cups.  I read reviews that the cups are round, so if you stack them up, you will not be able to fill the whole cup with goodies like fruits and baby snacks.

Another really good snack container that will work until the baby is 2-3 years old is expandable snack container by Kiddos. Their design is so pretty, and they do not leak.  It collapses and expands, so it is easy to pack and store.  It is also car-cup friendly, so you can fit the snack container in the car. The price is $5.99 for 12 oz and $6.99 for 20 oz.  It seems pretty reasonable compared to other snack containers.

http://www.shopaladdin-pmi.com/product/27218

Books to Read for Moms-to-be and Moms

What to Expect When You're Expecting

By Arlene Eisenberg, Heidi E. Murkoff, and Sandee E. Hathaway, B.S.N.

Announcing a brand new, cover-to-cover revision of America's pregnancy bible. What to Expect When You're Expecting is a perennial New York Times bestseller and one of USA Today's 25 most influential books of the past 25 years. It's read by more than 90% of pregnant women who read a pregnancy book--the most iconic, must-have book for parents-to-be, with over 14.5 million copies in print.
Now comes the Fourth Edition, a new book for a new generation of expectant moms--featuring a new look, a fresh perspective, and a friendlier-than-ever voice. It's filled with the most up-to-date information reflecting not only what's new in pregnancy, but what's relevant to pregnant women. Heidi Murkoff has rewritten every section of the book, answering dozens of new questions and including loads of new asked-for material, such as a detailed week-by-week fetal development section in each of the monthly chapters, an expanded chapter on pre-conception, and a brand new one on carrying multiples. More comprehensive, reassuring, and empathetic than ever, the Fourth Edition incorporates the most recent developments in obstetrics and addresses the most current lifestyle trends (from tattooing and belly piercing to Botox and aromatherapy). There's more than ever on pregnancy matters practical (including an expanded section on workplace concerns), physical (with more symptoms, more solutions), emotional (more advice on riding the mood roller coaster), nutritional (from low-carb to vegan, from junk food–dependent to caffeine-addicted), and sexual (what's hot and what's not in pregnant lovemaking), as well as much more support for that very important partner in parenting, the dad-to-be.
Overflowing with tips, helpful hints, and humor (a pregnant woman's best friend), this new edition is more accessible and easier to use than ever before. It's everything parents-to-be have come to expect from What to Expect... only better.

What to Expect the First Year

By Arlene Eisenberg, Heidi E. Murkoff, and Sandee E. Hathaway, B.S.N.
 

America’s bestselling guide to caring for a baby, with over 10 million copies in print, What to Expect the First Year is the bible for taking care of a newborn though the milestone of his or her first birthday. The Second Edition incorporates the most recent developments in pediatric medicine. Every question and answer has been revisited, and in response to letters from readers, dozens of new Q&As have been added. The book is more reader-friendly than ever, with updated cultural references, and the new material brings more in-depth coverage to issues such as newborn screening, home births and the resulting at-home newborn care, vitamins and vaccines, milk allergies, causes of colic, sleep problems, SIDS, returning to work, dealing with siblings, weaning, sippy cups, the expanded role of the father, and much more. An updated cover and all-new black-and-white line illustrations complement the fresher book with a fresher look.

What to Expect the Toddler Years

By Arlene Eisenberg, Heidi E. Murkoff, and Sandee E. Hathaway, B.S.N.

The comprehensive and reassuring guide that explains everything parents need to know about the second and third years of their child's life.

Excerpt: The Thirteenth Month

The Into-Everything Syndrome
Encourage safe and discourage unsafe exploration
Limit the risk.
Make limits clear and consistent.
Increase the opportunities.
Provide supervision and training.
Supply substitutes.

Banging on Everything
Stop dangerous drumming promptly.
Redirect his banging impulses.
Help him find the rhythmic beat elsewhere.
No banging in public, please.

Clinging/Dependence
Reassure about your return.
Make time for togetherness.

Secrets of the Baby Whisperer for Toddlers Review

Baby Whispering: The Foundation of Good Parenting

- Every child is an individual with her unique personality, as well as likes and dislikes of her own.

- Every child deserves respect - and must learn to respect others as well. 

- Take the time to observe, listen, and talk with children, not at them. 

- Every child needs a structured routine, which gives his life predictability and safety.

Summary of Things you will learn from the book: The Road to Harmony

- Cheer your toddler on toward independence - without rushing him. Pushing children is not respectful, and it sets them up for failure and sets you up for disappointment. 

- Learn how to tune in to your child's verbal and nonverbal language. (need patience and restraint but know when to step in)

- Help your toddler manage his emotions - particularly his frustrations. In infancy, your child's emotions were based on physical elements, such as hunger, fatigue, hot or cold, and feelings overtook her. As a toddler, though, her emotional repertoire will expand to include fear, joy, pride, shame, guilt, embarrassment - more complex emotions caused by her growing awareness of herself an dof social situations.

- Develop a strong meaningful bond between Dad and your toddler. We need to look at ways for fathers to be truly involved, connecting emotionally, not just as a play pal. 

- Facilitate your child's becoming a social being. He will need to develop empathy, consideration of others, and the ability to negotiate and handle conflict. 

- Manage your emotions. You must learn how to be patient, how and when to praise, how to see that "giving in" isn't loving, how to put your love into action, and what to do when you're angry or frustrated. 

Everyday H.E.L.P - A Checklist
Hold yourself back
Encourage exploration
Limit
Praise

H: Am I holding back or have I been in my child's face, interfering, being too intrusive, rescuing before he needs my help? Remember that the H-holding back-is for the purpose of observation, which is not the same as being detached, rejecting, or ignoring your toddler.

E: Have I encouraged my child to explore or do I hover? There are many opportunities in a day for exploration, any number of which can be thwarted by a parent. Do you, for instance, talk for her when she's playing quietly another child? Do you do her puzzles instead of seeing if she can manage them on her own? Do you stack blocks for her without first letting her try? Are you constantly directing, monitoring, and instructing?

L: Do I limit or allow things to go too far? Too much of anything is not usually good for toddlers. Do you give too many choices or allow too much stimulation? Do you wait too long before reining in tantrums, aggressiveness, or other high emotions? Do you curtail activities that aren't good in big doses, like eating candy or watching television? And do you allow your child to participate in situations that aren't age-appropriate, which could lead to danger, distress, or feelings of failure?

P: Do I praise appropriately or do I overpraise? Do I use praise appropriately-to reinforce specific acts of cooperation, kindness, or behavior or a job well-done? I've seen parents who say, "Good job" to their toddler when the child just sits there and breathes. Not only are those parents using praise improperly, eventually their words of praise, deserved or otherwise, will mean nothing to their children.

R&R - "ritual" and "routine"
R&R helps ourselves and our children make better sense of the world.
R&R provides security. 
R&R cuts down on the toddler struggles.
R&R helps toddlers deal with separation.
R&R supports all kinds of learning - physical feats, emotional control, and social behavior.
R&R helps you prepare your child for new experiences.
R&R allows everyone to slow down and to make the most mundane moments into times of connection.

Ritual for Baby Joseph
* Wake up - 20 minutes of play time in the bed
* Mealtime - encourage him to wash hands, sit at a table, use utensils, try new foods and eat with the family
* Morning Good-bye
* Bath Time - announce that it is bath time
* Read books - say, "Let's read a book!~" one Bible story and similar books every day
* Listen to Music 
* Cleanup 
* Bed Time

Family Milestones - Birthdays, anniversaries, and other special family days are all good reasons to celebrate.

아기가 태어나기 전에 읽어둘 책들

아기가 태어나기 전에는 너무 궁금한 것이 많고 아무 것도 모르는 것 같았다. 그런데 미국에 있어서 그런지 한국책을 구하기 힘들어서 한국 온라인 도서관에서 여러 책을 읽은 정말 온라인으로 아닌 책으로 사서 읽으면 좋을 책을 적어 놓았다. 

1. 임신 출산 육아 대백과

2. 베이비 위스퍼

3. 마더 코칭: 첫 엄마가 되는 분들에게

책소개 - 흔들리는 육아법으로 고통 받는 이 시대 엄마들에게 세계적인 아동교육 전문가 F. 도슨 박사가 확실한 해법을 내놓았다. 도슨 박사는 지난 20년간 아동심리를 연구하면서 축적한 과학적 사실과 두 아이의 부모로서 직접 체득한 경험을 토대로 ‘어떻게 해야 내 아이를 잘 키울 수 있을 것인가’라는 질문에 대답한다.

도슨 박사에 따르면 개인의 자아상은 태어나자마자 시작되고 6세까지 네 개의 성장 단계를 통과하게 되는데 그때마다 자기 나름대로의 관찰법으로 인생철학을 습득하게 된다. 그러므로 부모가 되는 사람들이 주의해야 하는 것은 아기의 인격과 개성은 부모가 정한 환경대로 형성된다는 것이다. 

이러한 전제하에 도슨 박사와 함께 성장 단계에 따라 아이의 심리는 어떤 것이며, 가장 이상적인 환경은 무엇인지, 잠재 능력을 최대한 발달시키려면 어떻게 해야 하는지에 대해서 살펴본다. 저자는 3개월마다 달라지는 젖먹이 단계의 발달과 심리가 어떻게 변화하는지, 이후 걸음마 시기, 제1 반항기에 접어든 아기 심리를 다루는 법, 3세~6세 아동의 심리 다루는 법을 다루고 있다.

4. 삐뽀삐뽀 119 소아과 
사실 아이가 열이 있거나 아픈 증상이 일어나기 전에는 이 책을 들고 읽기 힘들지만 아이의 질병과 육아에 관련된 정보들이 많고 아기를 키우면서 궁금한 내용들이 많아 아주 도움이 됩니다. 소아과 전문의의 글이기 때문에 믿을 수 있고 너무 자세히 나와 있어 갑자기 무슨 일이 일어날 때를 대비하여 한국 엄마들의 필서라는 책이기도 합니다. 

5. 삐뽀삐뽀 119 이유식

6. 신의진의 아이 심리백과

아이는 6세까지 70%의 자아가 완성된다고 합니다. 그 말은 곧 인생을 살아가는 기반의 70%가 바로 이 시기에 완성된다는 의미이기도 합니다. 

1. 0~6세 엄마들이 가장 궁금해하는 베스트 질문 30

2. 엄마가 꼭 알아야 1세 아이의 특징

3. 엄마가 꼭 알아야 2세 아이의 특징
    자의식 - 남의 물건도 "내 거야"라며 우겨요
    자의식 발달로 소유욕이 생기는 시기. 이때부터 엄마에게 의존하지 않고 뭐든 스스로 하려고 합니다. 물건을 탐색하는 능력이나 조작하는 능력이 발달하는 것도 바로 이 시기입니다. 또한 물건에 대한 소유욕도 생기게 됩니다. 남의 물건을 가지고 왔을 때는 꾸짓대 너무 심하게 꾸짓어도 습관이 도벽으로 발전할 수 있다. 단호한 어조로 따끕하게 이야기하세요. 

4. 엄마가 꼭 알아야 3-4세 아이의 특징

5. 엄마가 꼭 알아야 5-6세 아이의 특징

Recipe: Thai Shrimp with Bell Peppers and Mushroom

Step 1: You’ll want to cook the curry paste just a bit, just to release the oils and the flavors. The amount of curry paste you use is totally up to you (and you can always add more in later after tasting the curry).
Step 2: Now pour in the coconut milk and whisk to incorporate the curry. This helps the curry paste break down and become smooth.
Step 3: add in the vegetables to cook for a couple of minutes. At this point, taste the curry, and if you want it more spicy, then whisk in additional curry paste.
Step 4: Now for the shrimp. cook until shrimp is cooked through.
Step 5: Throw in the basil leaves, stir and you’re done.

http://steamykitchen.com/10910-10-minute-shrimp-and-mushroom-thai-curry.html

Recipe: Salmon with Brown Sugar and Mustard Glaze

On the side burner, melt the brown sugar, honey and butter in a small saute pan over medium-high heat. Remove from the heat and whisk in the mustard, soy sauce, olive oil and ginger. Let cool.

Preheat grill to medium heat. Brush salmon with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Place the salmon skin side down on the grill. Coat the flesh of the salmon fillets with the brown sugar mixture. Grill for 6 to 8 minutes to medium doneness, turning once after 5 to 6 minutes.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/salmon-with-brown-sugar-and-mustard-glaze-recipe/index.html

Tip:  Eat with Salad and Sliced Tomatoes, Put lemon juice on top and sliced lemon for decoration

Note: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids (wild salmon is an important souce of DHA and EPA - important for brain function and structure) and high vitamin A, D and E (babies tend to be low in vitamin D). It is also anti-aging and fatigue fighter.

It is good to eat twice a week, and salmon goes well with carrots, tomatoes and lettuce because these vegetables has beta-carotene.  Cooking tomatoes enhances the nutritional value and allow you to absorb more lycopene (http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf0115589?prevSearch=rui+hai+liu&searchHistoryKey=).  Cooked carrots, spinach, mushrooms, asparagus, cabbage, peppers and many other vegetables also supply more antioxidants, such as carotenoids and ferulic acid, to the body than they do when raw, Liu says. At least, that is, if they're boiled or steamed. (http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=raw-veggies-are-healthier)

If you cook salmon too much, the meat doesn't taste as good and you will lose much nutrient.  Ginger or lemon juice get rid of the fishy smell.  You can also put ginseng tea bag to get rid of the fishy smell.   

Must Have Items for Summer - Infant Baby

1. Swimsuits


2. Outdoor blanket by JJ Cole


3. Sunglasses by i play


4. Sunscreen
Here is sunscreen that I really like. ^^


5. Sun hat by i play

Product Reviews: Baby Sunscreens

Check out EWG's Skin Deep page for Baby Sunscreen and other baby products. 

http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/browse/baby_sunscreen/

It is very difficult to see and know the ingredients in the back of the bottle, so they rated skin products and scored them if they are low, moderate or high hazard to you. 

They were scored 0-10 with 0-2 as low hazard.

Some of them are that were familiar to me that scored 1 are 

ThinkBaby Sunscreen Benefiting Livestrong, SPF 50+ (3 oz. costs $15.99)

Seventh Generation Baby Sunscreen, SPF 30 (3 oz. costs $13.99)

Badger Baby Sunscreen, Chamomile & Calendula, SPF 30+ (2.9 oz. costs $16)

California Baby No Fragrance Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30+ 

California Baby Everyday/Year-round Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30+

Coppertone Water Babies Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50 (8 oz. costs $9.99)

ThinkBaby, Seventh Generation, California Baby, and Badger products are a bit pricy, but it is a good investment for baby's safety and skin care.  ^^  Coppertone Water Babies Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50 also scored 1.

Then, these sunscreen scored 2 

Mustela Sun Cream for Sensitive Areas, Bebe/Enfant, SPF 50

Mustela High Protection Sun Lotion, Bebe/Enfant, SPF 50

California Baby Face & Body Sunscreen Lotion, No Fragrance, SPF 30+ 

Episencial Broad Spectrum Sunscreen, SPF 35

Episencial Sunny Sunscreen, SPF 35 (Here is one that I really like~)

California Baby Super Sensitive No Fragrance Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

California Baby Everyday/Year-Round Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

Burt's Bees Baby Bee Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30

BabyGanics Cover Up Baby Sunscreen Moisturizing Lotion, SPF 50 (This link below is pack of 4.  It costs much lower than other sunscreens that scored 2)

BabyGanics Cover Up Baby Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30+

Aveeno Baby Natural Protection MineralBlock Face Stick, SPF 50+

Then, these scored 3 (3-6 Moderate Hazard)

Some of Banana Boat, Baby Blanket, Avalon Organics, Neutrogena products

Also BabyGanics Cover Up Face & Body Sunscreen Spray, SPF 50+ and Avalon Organics Baby Natural Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 18 and Aveeno Baby Natural Protection MineralBlock Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30 are also listed here. 

Then, these scored 4 

California Baby Everyday/Year-round Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 18 

This is the only product that California Baby that is listed above 2. 

Then, Coppertone Water Babies Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 50 scored 4.

Above 5 is Rite Aid, Walgreens, Panama, Banana Boat, Baby Blanket, CVS, Neutrogena, and Coppertone products. 

And there is Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion, SPF 55 and Huggies Little Swimmers Clear Continuous Spray Sunscreen Baby, Blue Melon Splash, SPF 50 is also 5.

I prefer to avoid products that scored 3 or more which includes many products that we commonly spot in drug stores actually. 

Product Review: Fisher Price Healthy Care Baby Booster Seat Chair

When my baby started solid, I couldn't really use the Bumbo chair because he wouldn't fit into one. He was a chubby baby! So we decided to get Fisher Price Rainforest Healthy Care High Chair. It was decent, but living in downtown Manhattan, adding one more furniture, not to mention all the toys, was not really a good option. So we thought it would be better to give my son more space to move around, so we actually returned it and got Fisher Price Healthy Care Baby Booster Seat Chair. Actually, it was great because though the seat does not recline, my son doesn't need to recline to eat. He loves being with us when eating because he feels included instead of being left in his high chair. When you are traveling, you can also fold it and bring them with you. Buying a high chair can be included in the new baby budget like a crib, changing table and baby toys, but the booster chair was only $25. Great buy and best of all, my son doesn't try to get out like the other high chair.

6 Baby Items I Couldn't Live Without

6 Baby Items I Couldn't Live Without

1. Comfortable Feeding Chair
After coming out from the hospital, I never thought I would spend so much time feeding.  Comfortable feeding chair, rocking chair or glider is a must.   The last month I was due, my back started to hurt due to unbalanced baby weight, so the glider that I had really saved my back pain.



2. Bobby or other feeding pillow
Just slip in bobby pillow and you can relax on your chair and be glad that baby came out with great love and grace of God.  ^^


3. Nursing bras, nursing tang-top or clothes that are easy to feed

This is a must when you are out or when relatives or friends come to visit.  I cannot think of any other way to feed without a nursing bra.

4. Moby Wrap & Ergo


We had Baby Bjorn, but I couldn't carry my baby after 6 months because he was already 19 pounds.  He wouldn't fit because he was a chubby little boy.  I used Ergo that my friend has, and it works great.  I also read many good reviews about Moby Wrap.  It is what many people recommend as a must-item.  I think I will give a try next time.  ^^

5. aden + anais Swaddle Blankets - Swaddle blankets
I have a nice blanket, but I see so many mothers with aden + anais swaddle muslin blankets.  The material is so light, and it keeps the baby warm and also cool in the summer. But it is around $50 which is on the high end side actually.


6. Changing Pad
Though changing table might not be worth the investment, you can purchase changing pad.  It would save wetting so many blankets and even the bed.




Things that we tried but have not used much

1. Pacifier
I tried so many pacifiers, but my son wouldn't take it.  The last one that I tried that my son liked as a toy was Philips Avent Soothie Pacifier that they give in the hospital.  Unfortunately, the hospital never gave me one, so I purchased one, and my son seems to like it but never as a pacifier.

2. Swing, Exersaucer
Though it is very nice to have, my son would stay less than 5 minutes. 

3. Electric Breast Pump because my son wouldn't take bottles

4. Swaddle Me Blankets
I heard that you need a swaddle me blanket to make the baby feel secure as in the womb, but this was another thing that my son didn't get affected much.

5. White Noise Music
This also was something that my son didn't seem to help.  Now that he is 9 months, we turn on lullaby when he goes to sleep.

Product Review - Maclaren Stroller vs City Mini (맥클라렌, 시티미니 유모차 - 사용후기)

휴대용 유모차를 사기 위해서 정말 심사 숙고 했었다.
아기가 태어날때 부터 썼던 디럭스형 유모차를 잘못 사서 몇달 동안 고생했기 때문에
휴대용 유모차 만큼은 야무지게 고를려고 고민했었는데..
결과부터 말하자면 크게 만족스럽지 않다.
나는 맥클라렌 퀘스트를 샀다!!!!!!!!

맥클라렌은 종류가 다양하다. 신생아때부터 쓸수 있다는 XLR부터 , 퀘스트, 트라이엄프, 볼보 신생아때부터 쓸수 있다는 XLR는 정말 비추천이다. 아마존이나 쇼핑몰 사진에서는 그렇게 커보이지 않았는데 막상 매장에 나가보니 너무 크고 이상했다. 기존 디럭스 유모차들 보다 결코 작지 않은 크기인데, 굳이 맥클라렌을 선택할 필요가 있을까 싶었다.

퀘스트는 크기는 적당했다. 우리 딸은 아직 돌이 안되었기 때문에 4단계로 리클라인이 되는 유모차가 필요했고, 너무 작고 가벼워 보이는 볼보는 다소 위험해 보였기 때문에 퀘스트로 결정했다.

맥클라렌의 장점은 작고 가볍고 접기 쉽다는 것 아닐까?
작은 크기에 비해, 안정적이고, 편안해 보인다. (내가 직접 앉아보진 않았지만
딸이 그렇게 느끼는 것 같다. )
실제로 작고 가볍고 접기 쉽긴 하지만,  좀 무거운 가방을 걸어놓으면 뒤로 넘어간다.
지하철이나 공공장소 같은데서 아기를 먼저 꺼내려다 이런 일이 발생하면 정말 난감하다.

또한 작고 가볍고 접기 쉽다는 것 이외에도 맥클라렌의 장점은 브랜드 네임 밸류가 아닐까 싶다. 디자인이나 브랜드 이름이 부티난다.

그런데 맥클라렌을 사고 나니까, 시티 미니가 눈에 들어왔다.
아니 이렇게 많은 사람들이 사용하고 있는데, 나는 왜 몰랐을까.
원래 남의 떡이 더 커보이므로, 시티 미니의 장점만 적어보려고 한다.

1. 핸들링을 한손으로 할 수 있다. 양손으로 잡아야 하는 유모차를 쓰고 있는 나는 비가 와도 눈이 와도 우산을 쓸수가 없다. ( 어찌 아이의 안전을 비를 피하려고 양보할수 있겠는가..)

2. 캐노피가 크다. 요즘 같은 여름날은 어디서 차양을 구해다가 덮어주고 싶을 정도이다.
  동그란 캐노피가 그 어떤 자외선도 막아줄것 같은 신뢰감이 든다.

3. 가볍다. 실제 들어보지 않았지만 보기만 해도 가볍다. 맥클라렌보다 바퀴가 크지만 몸체 자체의 크기는 비슷하다.

그외에도 많을 것같다. 아마존에 보니 상품평도 완전 좋다.
글을 쓰면서 더 후회가 된다.
하지만 이젠 바꿀수 없으니, 둘째가 생기면 그때는 꼭 시티 미니를 사야겠다.

한가지 덪붙이자면, 디자인이나 컬러 배색은 맥클라렌이 훨씬 마음에 든다.
그것으로 위안을 삼아서 우리 딸이 유모차가 필요 없어질 나이까지, 열심히 써야겠다.

Product Review - Sippy Cups and Straw Cups (Thermos, LifeFactory, ThinkBaby)

When my son was about 6 month old, I started to look for a sippy cup because my son started solid at that time without having fed bottle before.  I thought it was easy as buying one and probably two max.  However, it wasn't the case.  Without knowing much, I purchased Nuk Learner Latex Spout BPA Free Cup.  My son wouldn't take it at all, and I was thinking why.  When I tried to drink, it hurts my mouth because it is so hard to suck.   Maybe I should have tried Silicone Spout for easier drinking..

Next, I tried Playtex The First Sipster Spill-Proof Cup, 7 Ounce.  Actually, my son realized how to drink from the sippy cup with the Playtex.  However, when I carry this around, the water will smell like a plastic.  Though it is BPA free, it was like refilling a water bottle.  The substance in the cup would gradually get to the water, changing the water taste.

Then, we purchased a Piyo Piyo Training Cup with Straw and mOmma Straw Cup.  I thought maybe my son would take a straw.  But then, with all the straw cup, my son likes to play with them, not drink out of them.  Also, mOmma's straw a little short, so you need to fill the cup more than half to drink out of.

Without much success and with much research, I ended up with three choices of sippy cups.
1. Thermos Foogo Leak-Proof SS 7 Ounce Sippy Cup
2. LifeFactory Eco-Friendly 9-ox Glass Bottle
3. ThinkBaby BPA Free No Spill Sippy Cup, 9 Ounce


Because of plastic leaking into the water, I was considering what the sippy cup is made out of.  Thermos Foogo is made of stainless steel and lead free, but as you have already used stainless steel bottles like Klean Kanteen, it is hard to clean and your cup will smell sour after a while.
LifeFactory seem very good, but it was too costly to try because I didn't know if my son would like it.

Then, I saw a great review of ThinkBaby.  It is free of bisphenol-A (BPA), nitrosamines, phthalates, lead, PVC, melamine, triton, and biologically harmful chemicals.

So I gave a try, and my son loved it.  It is first sprout or sippy cup that both my son and I liked.  I like how the handle moves.  In other sippy cups, you have to make sure that you have to align the sprout correctly or else, your child will be chewing on the sprout, not being able to drink properly.

Thumbs up for ThinkBaby BPA Free No Spill Sippy Cup!  You can also convert it to a straw cup if your child doesn't take sprout. It comes with a cap, so you can put the cap on when you are carrying the bottle in your bag.

6개월 아기 놀이법

1. 천으로 그네를 만들어서 아기의 몸을 많이 움직여주세요.
2. 다리로 미끄럼틀을 만들어서 쭈욱~
3. 아기를 앉게 하여서 시야를 넓혀요.
4. 종이 자동차: 큰 종이 박스는 아이에게는 좋은 놀이터, 상자를 흔들어 주면서 아이가 버틸 수 있는 훈련 하기
5. Touch & Feel 책 읽어주기
6. 비닐팩에 공기를 불어서 넣어 주어 아기가 가지고 놀게 하기
7. 깜짝 인형놀이: 아기가 사물의 영속성을 이해하기 시작하면 물건을 숨겼다가 찾는 것에 흥미를 보이기 시작합니다. 예를 들어 상자안에 아이가 좋아하는 장난감이나 인형을 숨겼다가 꺼내서 나타나게 하는 것만으로도 아기의 시선을 사로잡을 수 있습니다. 집에 있는 간단한 재료를 이용해 엄마표 까꿍 인형놀이를 만들어 보세요.

종이컵에 연필이나 나무젓가락 등을 종이컵 바닥에 구멍을 뚫어 끼운뒤에 작은 인형이나 엄마가 그려서 만든 아기가 좋아하는 동물이나 캐릭터를 붙입니다. 사진이나 그림을 오려서 붙여도 좋습니다.

나무젓가락을 위 아래로 밀어 올렸다가 밑으로 잡아당겨 내렸다 하면서 인형을 숨겼다가 꺼내며 보여줍니다. 이 안에 무엇이 들어있을까? 토끼가 까꿍 하네. 등의 말을 걸면서 아이와 놀아보세요. 여러개를 만들어 여러 동물들을 보여주는 것도 좋습니다.

8. 아기들은 다양한 색깔을 보는 것을 좋아합니다. 거실이나 욕조에서 재밌게 가지고 놀 수 있는 쉽게 만드는 무지개 물병을 만들어 보아요.

500ml의 생수병 여러개에 각각 물을 1/3 정도씩 담고 여러색의 물감과 주방세제를 몇방울씩 넣고 흔들어 줍니다.

보글보글 여러가지 예쁜 색의 거품 물병이 만들어 집니다. 여러 색의 거품 물병을 굴려도 보고 세워도 보면서 아기에게 색깔에 대한 이야기도 해주세요. 각 색깔마다 물의 양을 조금씩 달리하는 것도 좋은 방법 입니다.

9. http://www.brilliantbaby.com/ 에서 사과, 오렌지 경험하기(apple and orange experiment)"라고 부르는 놀이

10. 기억력과 사고력이 발달하는 시기이므로 물건을 찾을 수가 있습니다. 아기와 함께 보물 찾기 놀이를 해보세요. 이제까지 아기는 물건이 눈 앞에서 없어지면 영원히 사라져 버리 는 것으로 알았지만 이제부터는 눈 앞에는 보이지 않아도 어디엔가 있을 것이라는 생각을 할 수 있습니다. 그러나 아직은 이러한 사실을 곧 잊어버리게 됩니다. 아기가 좋아하는 물건은 아기 손이 닿는 곳 보다 조금 떨어진 곳에서 놓아두고 아기가 손 을 뻗어 잡을 수 있게 해주세요. 오른쪽과 왼쪽 손을 번갈아 가며 반복해 주세요. 아기들은 어른의 흉내내기를 좋아합니다.

11. 언어도 흉내내기의 하나이므로 엄마는 아기에 게 쉬운 말을 천천히 자주 되풀이 해 주세요. 아기들은 우리 가정에서 사용하는 여러 가지 생활용품에도 장난감 이상으로 큰 흥미를 느 끼고 있습니다. 커다란 프라스틱 바구니를 장만해서 집안의 물건들 중 아기가 가지고 놀 기에 적당한 것들을 골라서 넣어주세요. 프라스틱 반찬통은 물론 프라스틱 컵, 화장품 빈 통, 잡지 등 안전한 것이라면 무엇이든 아기에게는 좋은 장난감이 되어 줄 것입니다.

12. 아기에게 숫자카드나 한글 카드를 하나 하나 보여주면서 읽어주세요. 아기방의 아기 눈에 잘 띄는 곳에 이 것을 커다랗게 그려서 붙여주는 것도 아기의 두뇌계발을 위해 좋은 환경이 될 것입니다.

13. 엄마가 물건이나 몸의 일부를 손가락으로 가리키면서 이름을 알려주세요. 눈, 코, 입 등 우리 몸의 이름을 알려주고 엄마, 아빠 등 가족, 그리고 쉬운 생활용품도 알려주세요.

14. 아기 손에 물건을 쥐어주고 아기가 물건을 떨어뜨리게 합니다. 그리고 떨어진 물건을 줍고 다시 떨어뜨려 주세요. 아기는 처음 물건을 떨어뜨렸을 때는 바닥에 떨어진 물건을 보지 못하고 빈 손만 계속 보게 되지만 차츰, 물건이 떨어져서 바닥에 있는 것을 알게 그것을 직접 집어 들어 다시 떨어뜨리게 될 것입니다. 딸랑이나 방울, 삑삑이 등 소리 나는 장난감을 가지고 아기와 함께 놀아보세요. 아기가 바 라보고 있는 동안은 멈추고 눈을 떼면 다시 소리를 내주세요.

15. 모자와 스카프, 썬그라스 등을 이용해서 여러 가지 얼굴을 만들어 보여 주는 변장놀이를 합니다. 이는 아기의 기억력과 관찰력을 기르는데 좋습니다.

16. 아기를 눕히고 아기의 양손을 잡아 상체를 일으키는 체조를 하세요. 처음에는 어깨까지 만들어 올려주는 체조로 시작하여 차츰 상체까지 들어올려 앉을 수 있도록 해줍니다. 다리에 힘이 있는 아기들은 양다리에 힘을 주어 바로 일어나기도 합니다.

출처: http://hsk0504.blogspot.com/2010/06/%EC%83%9D%ED%9B%84-36%EA%B0%9C%EC%9B%94-%EB%86%80%EC%9D%B4%EB%93%A4.html

17. 미역국 놀이
http://blog.daum.net/tt00tt001000/71

18. baby center 에 여러가지 놀이 연령별 있어요 ^^

Product Review - mOmma sippy cup (mOmma Baby/Toddler Developmental Drink Set)

I have never used a bottle for my daughter. I was a stay-at-home mom, so I didn't see the need to extract breast milk, and my daughter have not used a bottle nor a cup.

But then, she started eating solids, so I searched for sippy cup here and there and bought a Playtex sippy cup. It was my mistake. My daughter had to try so hard to drink because the water only came when my daughter lifts her neck high. She tried so hard and water didn't seem to come out.

So, we received mOmma sippy cup. We received mOmma dish and utensil set from my friend, so we thought my daughter would like the zippy cup as well.

The mOmma Baby/Toddler Developmental Drink Set had zippy cup, straw cup and a nipple for the bottle, so it was very efficient. I really like the design how it is so round. It is very light, and the handle is so big, so my daughter doesn't drop them easily. The price is similar to other cups.

One downside is that when using the straw, the straw is short, so if the liquid is not half full, the liquid doesn't come out.   If the water or milk is barely touching the straw, you have to tilt it to drink them.

Product Review - mOmma sippy cup (모마 시피컵 사용후기)

우리 딸을 키우면서 젖병을 써본적이 한번도 없었다.
분유를 먹일만한 기회도 없었고, 하루종일 내가 돌봤기 때문에 유축의 필요도 느끼지 못해서 6개월이 다 될때까지 젖병이나 컵을 써본적이 없었다.

그러다가 이유식을 시작하면서 컵이 필요해져서 이것 저것 알아보고 산게  playtex..
괜히 샀다...물을 마시기 위해서 목을 한껏 뒤로 젖히는 우리 딸이 너무 가여웠다. 열심히 빠는데 도무지 제대로 나오는것 같지 않고, 어쩌다가 격하게 흔들면 , 옷을 흠뻑 적시기 일수였다.

그래서 다시 산 mOmma 컵. 실은 친구에게 식기를 먼저 선물 받았는데,
우리 딸아이가 너무 좋아했다.
 3일동안 수저와 포크를 들고 지낼 정도로 맘에 들어해서 왠지  컵도 좋아할 것 같아서 샀다.

우선 경제적인 면에서 컵 하나에 Spill, Straw, Nipple 이 다 들어 있어서 효율적이다.

디자인도 맘에 든다. 동글한 모양이 귀엽다.

가볍고, 손잡이가 커서 아기가 잘 떨어뜨리지 않는다.

가격면에서 보면 다른 컵들과 비슷하다.

한가지 흠이라면, 빨대를 사용할때, 빨대 길이가 짧아서 안에 내용물이 반이상이 넘지 않으면 먹기가 불편하다는 점. ( 기울여야 한다)

Best Toys for 9-12 months - What Worked for Us

According to the Baby Center, here are the list of toys that are encouraged for the baby from 9-12 months.  I included my reviews below.

Push toys: Push toys give your toddler a chance to exercise his new walking skills. Choose a push toy, like a wagon, that is heavily weighted so your baby can lean into it, and take a lap or two around the living room. (Most babies this age are still too young for pull toys, which are better for slightly advanced walkers who can look behind them as they move forward.) Newfound mobility is a heady experience. But even after the novelty of walking wears off, your baby will enjoy pushing and pulling toys for months to come.

Shape sorters - Fisher-Price Brilliant Basics Baby's First Blocks or Infantino Jumbo Shape Sorter is a good one. Though my baby only plays with the blocks, not putting the blocks into the opening, he is fascinated by how two blocks make sound when clashed together. 





There is also this cute Shape sorter for $15 from Yoyo.com.  We don't have this, but it would be very cute and good for a gift as well. 



Balls: He's encountered them before, but balls get even more thrilling when you assume a standing position and can actually bounce them off the floor.

Out of all the balls we have tried, I think Edushape 4" Sensory Balls are good for the babies to hold. We have 6" or 7" sensory ball (not Edushape brand), but it costs only $3 from nearby drugstore (made in China). It is $13.29 on Amazon for set of 4.  We have Crocodile Creek's 5" ball, but it seems the rubber might come off easily.  My son doesn't like that ball as much as the sensory balls.  It is a good size, but my son seem to like simple sensory ball more (we have safari animal kind).

Toy telephone: Babies love to imitate their parents. Even if he can't say much yet, a baby will try to communicate by holding the receiver and pushing buttons. The more realistic the phone, the better.

Books: At this age, children are particularly intrigued by books with flaps that open, textures that can be rubbed, and bunnies that need patting.

Blocks: Blocks give him the chance to practice the art of stacking. He can probably stack three or four at this point, so the subsequent crash is gratifying.

Actually, we received wooden blocks, and it seems very dangerous when these blocks are around my baby when my baby loses balance and falls to the ground from the sitting position.  My friend has
B. One Two Squeeze Blocks, and my son seems to love it when he is at my friend's house.


Pail and shovel: These tools come in handy when your baby's all-time favorite activity is filling and dumping, filling and dumping. Take these along to the sandbox, or out to the park and your baby will stay contented and busy for some time.

From my experience, my baby loves Bruin Stacking Cups by Toys R Us. Somehow, he loves playing with them and especially in the bath time, he gets excited seeing the water leaking through the hole in the cups. It costs $4.99.




Also, my son loves LeapFrog My Pal Scout. We use the bedtime music to make him sleep. We received from my sister, and my son was intrigued when he heard his name. It costs $24.99 from Toys R Us or Barnes and Noble.

 My son is now 8 months and he seem to like toys that doesn't make sound. For example, he likes Melissa and Dong puzzle. We have Melissa & Doug Farm Wooden Chunky Puzzle, but Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Safari Chunky Puzzle could work as well.

Also, I think my son would loves Legos and shape sorter and cups and dishes. ^_^