Madeleine McCann's Parents Forge On Without Her

Yesterday would have been Madeleine's first day of school. Today was the Princess's first full day of Kindergarten. I made a vow, sometime ago, to keep Madeleine's story promoted in the news and yet another day passes with her missing. Another day that her parents and siblings don't have her there with them. If you live in Europe, I'm sure you are keeping that extra eye out for little girls who just might be her. But if you live anywhere else, it doesn't hurt to help keep the publicity going or to keep that eye out for Madeleine or for other children who might need your help.

Celebrating Blog Day Today!

Hey, Everyone!

Here at Parent Traps, we're celebrating Blog Day! If you want to celebrate too here's what you do:

BlogDay Posting Instructions According to the Founders That Be at Blog Day Central:

1. Find 5 new Blogs that you find interesting
   


2. Notify the 5 bloggers that you are recommending them as part of BlogDay 2007
   


3. Write a short description of the Blogs and place a link to the recommended Blogs
   


4. Post the BlogDay Post (on August 31st) and
   


5. Add the BlogDay tag using this link: http://technorati.com/tag/BlogDay2007and a link to the BlogDay web site at Blog Day.
   
   


6. Celebrate!
   
   So, everyone, here are my new five blogs I'm viewing and celebrating today:
   
   1. By The Sea - A nice relaxing blog showing the day-to-day activities and interests of a dog-loving, medical transcriptionist living in Summerville, SC.
   
   2. Beautiful Mess - A blog written by a 26-year-old stay-at-home and work-from-home mom, who is also a military wife. She is located in "cyberspace" cause she doesn't list her home locale. She has written some pretty fun stuff.
   
   3. Baby Boomer Blog - As it's name says - here's one all about Baby Boomers, of which I am on the tail end of - 1963. As it says in their headline: News, reviews, gossip....and you can submit stories and features to them too!
   
   4. Kansas Milkmaid Blog I found this by random searching under Kansas blogs, because I do like Kansas - being that is where my ancestors come from. So I found this little gem - all about cows and milking! Check it out!
   
   and FINALLY....
   
   5. Cake and Pie - Unfortunately, it's not about desserts, but fortunately, it is interesting and all about a blogger who runs a small home studio and specializes in graphic design for print. She also help run and curate SQFT Gallery in the Arcade in downtown Nashville. Interesting designs to peruse.
   
   More info about Blog Day can be found at:
   
   Blog Day 2007
   
   and at
   
   Blog Day
   

Toys R Us Art Set Recall Information

Here's the latest recall information for Imaginarium Wooden Coloring Case made in China and sold by Toys R Us from October 2006 through August 2007 for about $20.

The printed ink on the outer packaging of the wood case contains lead, and some of the black watercolor paint contains excessive levels of lead, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said.

The recall involves the Imaginarium brand 213 Piece Wooden Coloring Case which includes crayons, pastels, colored pencils, fiber pens, paintbrush, pencil, water colors, palette, white paint, ruler and pencil sharpener in a light tan wooden carrying case. The case measures about 14 inches high by 19 inches wide.

For more information, contact Toys "R" Us at (800) TOYSRUS/869-7787 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Monday through Saturday, and between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday, or visit the company’s Web site at http://www.toysrus.com/.

I'm Glad I Kept Mine......

...the ovary, that is...the one and only. I only had one ovary to make choices about for my hysterectomy, due to my prior endometriosis surgery a lonnnnnng time ago. So, of course I noticed this new health report about keeping your ovaries during hysterectomy. I just had one in June and thankfully, the doctor and I discussed that I wanted to keep my remaining ex-baby maker until it poops out on its own. Gotta keep those natural hormones when you can, I say. What we didn't realize is that I may have prevented early dementia by doing so.

A new study says women who have their ovaries removed before menopause run a heightened risk of developing dementia or other mental problems later in life — unless they take estrogen until age 50.

I have plugged them before, but I'll do it again here...if you need a very good site for information about hysterectomy and all it's effects go to www.hystersisters.com. They'll hook you up with lots of unbiased information.

Just discuss all the options with your doctor and find a really, really, good one, like I did. I still feel like I've never had an operation today!

Robbie Ducky Watering Can Recall

I sure am getting a lot of traffic for the key words Rubber Ducky, so I decided to give y'all some news to read about the Children's Watering Can Recall that came out yesterday.

The brand name is Robbie Ducky, not Rubber Ducky. I bet that is confusing a lot of searchers for information. Above is a photo from the CPSC website.

The problem with the Robbie Ducky Kids Watering Can is lead paint and it's made in China. They were sold at JoAnn's Fabric and Craft Stores between February 2007 and August 2007 for around $10. They can be returned to the store for a refund.

Hope this helpful post helps y'all get those dangerous toys back into the stores and out of your children's hands!

Back to School Safety - Cell Phones?

Tim just bought 8-year-old Butterfly her own cell phone. At first, I was skeptical of the need for this. It is an inexpensive prepaid phone. But she is having more after school activities and extracurricular events. I think he is worried about unforeseen and hopefully rare events like school emergencies and even invasions.

And who can help worrying about stuff like this when you hear on CNN that horrifying cell phone call from the elementary school girl stuck on the school bus that fell into the Mississippi River in the Minnesota bridge collapse. At least she has a way to contact her parents. I guess we all think about this stuff.

I don't think it worries Butterfly in this same way...she's just happy to be the first kid she knows with a cell phone. And please, God, don't let THIS scenario, ever be the outcome of getting a phone for any of us!

Backpack Safety

Now that everyone is headed back to school, be sure your children are not carrying loads that are too heavy for them. Check their backpacks daily and ask them how they are feeling (not to mention it helps to clean out all the old food and weird items kids stash away in there).

Backpack safety is very important so that kids won't hurt their backs, which can contribute to long-term health and pain problems. Here are some tips from American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons to help your children manage their heavy loads a lot better:

1. Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles.


2. Tighten the straps so that the pack is close to the body. The straps should hold the pack two inches above the waist.


3. Pack light. The backpack should never weigh more than 20 percent of the student's total body weight.


4. Organize the backpack to use all of its compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the center of the back.


5. Stop often at school lockers and remove items you don't need, if possible. Do not carry all of the books needed for the day.


6. Bend using both knees, when you bend down. Do not bend over at the waist when wearing or lifting a heavy backpack.


7. Learn back-strengthening exercises to build up the muscles used to carry a backpack.

Diaper-Free Babies - New Approach to Toilet Training

I was both skeptical and jealous reading about the new (some say old) trend of diaperless toilet training.

I remember with Butterfly, using that Diaper Genie to twist the little "sausages" of endless infant diapers into that thing to control the smell (it works well). But I cringe and just how many diapers we contributed to the Tampa landfill between 1999 and 2003, between her and little Princess. More than I'll ever be able to count! I always wondered what the babies of Africa and other places did, when they don't access to diapers and now I see that this is common in other parts of the world.


What do you want to bet that Pampers will come out with a counter-attack marketing strategy soon!

Oh no, Attack of the Killer Pageant Girls

I was alerted to this little tidbit by my friend over at Imagine That blog.
Normally, I would never propagate such dumb blond moments as this, but this is a really dumb blond -and I'm blond, so I don't perpetuate this stereotype. But people - look at this for yourselves and judge.....I agree - Oh.My.God! I thought pageants were supposed to showcase education - this is just sad!

Talk Like a Pirate Day - Getting Ready!

Ahoy - it's time to be gettin ready for the Annual Talk Like a Pirate Day on 9/19. Get ready to blog in pirate-ease! Here's a primer to help you prepare and learn the lingo! Become a pirate and then go get yer rum ready! We plan on having quite the pirate blogging celebration here at Parent Traps!

Enjoy!

Would You Be a Cool Parent?

Find out for yourself and take the cool quiz. Below is my result - and yes, it is so!

You Will Be a Cool Parent

You seem to naturally know a lot about parenting, and you know what kids need. You can tell when it's time to let kids off the hook, and when it's time to lay down the law. While your parenting is modern and hip, it's not over the top. You know that there's nothing cool about a parent who acts like a teenager... or a drill sergeant!

Would You Be a Cool Parent?

Thanks to Cool Moms Rule for the link.

Help to Prevent Child Abuse

I just happened to go over to YouTube this morning, to see some family videos.I happened upon a very sad and touching one called The Kelsey Shelton Briggs Story.

I saw beautiful smiling faces of a gorgeous blonde toddler. I thought it was someone's happy baby video - then I read the notes that Kelsey was brutally murdered by her stepfather after months of child abuse. I read the story and I feel compelled to help get this story more recognition. Please visit Kelsey's website to see what you can do to help.

And the biggest message to take away from all this - if you even suspect child abuse, tell someone, report it, DO SOMETHING. It will make a difference in the life of a child.

Children Are Our Future!

Jessica Lunsford's Killer Sentenced to Die

Thank goodness, John Couey has been given the death penalty. This case has meaning for us. At the time of nine year old Jessica Lunsford's kidnapping and murder, we lived less than 20 miles away from her home. My daughter was in first grade and we canvassed the neighborhoods, passing out fliers, in the hope that she would be found alive and okay. But that didn't happen.

I listened to the sentencing today and heard all the terrible things this "thing" did to that poor little girl. My daughter will be nine on her next birthday - I am crying for Jessica today.

Gearing Up for Talk Like a Pirate Day Here

Hey kids, just a few short weeks to the annual Talk Like A Pirate Day on September 19th...you know, one day out of the year where you get to act like and talk like a pirate just for the heck of it.



It was started a few short years ago by two guys who just liked saying "ARRRRGH" and other pirate whatnot's. Then they got writer Dave Barry involved and apparently the whole thing just took off in 2002. I for one (or should this read "Aye, fer one") will be blogging in pirate-speak the entire day. I don't know if I will convert any linked articles to pirate-ese, but let's just see what happens! I encourage my fellow bloggers to hoist the main, and jibe the ho and (insert other messed up sailing terms here) and savvy - do yer own parrrrrty thang.



Why am I doing this you might ask, mother of two, devoted educationalist of all - BECAUSE, in the words of Elizabeth Swann, "I'm a Pirate....the King of the Pirates". Avast! (And...sorry Colleen - I told you the wrong date!)

Hearings to Begin Soon About Toy Recalls

A hearing is slated on Sept 19th before a U. S. congressional committee about how to protect children from lead-tainted toys and other defective products.

The congressional panel said it sent requests for information to 19 companies including Mattel, Target, Tween Brands, Dollar General Merchandising, Oriental Trading Co., Boyds Collection Ltd., United Imports Inc., Spandrel Sales and Marketing and Cardinal Distributing.

This seems like a good move given all the recent findings we've been talking about here. I am no longer going to order my party goods/favors from Oriental Trading. I may have to make party favors, but something's gotta change here.

I gotta think a lot of Mattel's troubles here started when they closed their last USA plant in 2001. That was the beginning of the end - and it was only a few years ago. They don't make them like they used to, do they.

So This is Why My Husband is So Cranky

Well, a lot of things make Tim cranky these days - being underemployed, trying to get his online businesses working, having the lawnmower break....just a few. But I read today that working on the Internet and watching late night TV will make you have a lower quality of sleep, even though you might sleep the same amount as someone else who doesn't do that (note: please ignore the previous run on sentence - just trying to get it all in there).

That really seems to make sense, but it is another hurdle when you're trying to do too much to fit into a 24 hour day (see my post about how you spend your time for more on this). I think Tim stays up until 2am sometimes, then goes to work at his day job at 7am and gets back on the computer to start the cycle all over again after dinner. And he watches late night TV to "relax". Well, this says that ain't working.....but if anyone has any ideas on improving our overall efficiency - we'd appreciate it.

Oh, No...Not Sponge Bob Too! Recalls Continue

Well, I guess I am a little late breaking this news, but yesterday the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced four recalls due to excessive levels of lead paint in the childrens' products below:

SpongeBob Squarepants Address Books and Journals by Martin Designs, Ohio (made in China)
Hazard: The paint on the metal spiral bindings of the address books and journals can contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint ban. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects. Take away from children immediately.
Description: The recall involves address books and journals with SpongeBob SquarePants™ character on the front cover and a black metal spiral binding. The UPC numbers (80773007505 for the address book and 80773002260, 80773075501 and 80773007551 for the journal) are printed on the back covers.
Sold at: Retail stores nationwide from June 2006 through July 2007 for about $2.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Martin Designs Inc. toll-free at (866) 898-0261 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.martindesigns-ltd.com/


Thomas and Friends, Curious George and Other Spinning Tops and Tin Pails Recalled By Schylling Associates (Made in China) Due To Violation of Lead Paint Standard
Hazard: Surface paints on the wooden handles of the tops and pails contain excessive levels of lead, which violates the federal lead paint standard. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects. Take away from children immediately.
Description: The recalled tops and pails are primarily metal and have wooden handles. The tops are painted with Thomas and Friends, Curious George, or a circus scene. The pails are painted with Thomas and Friends, Curious George, or in a solid red or yellow color. Tops with plastic handles are not included in this recall.
Sold at: Specialty toy stores and gift shops nationwide from July 2001 through July 2002. The tops were sold for about $13. The pails were sold for about $6.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Schylling at (800) 767-8697 between 9 am and 5 pm ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.schylling.com/

Children’s Charm Bracelets Sold by Buy-Rite Recalled Due to Risk of Lead Exposure

Description: The recalled charm bracelets have silver-colored charms, including angels, crosses, and hearts, and clear and pink beads that hang from a silver-colored chain.
Sold at: Dollar stores and other small retail stores nationwide from March 2004 through August 2007 for about $1.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Buy-Rite at (888) 777-7952 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.buyriteinc.com/images/Safety_Recall.jpg

Children’s Metal Jewelry Recalled by TOBY N.Y.C. Due to Risk of Lead Exposure
TOBY & ME Jewelry Sets - Take away from children immediately.

Description: The three recalled jewelry sets include: a princess pink and clear crystal bead necklace and bracelet set with a painted metallic crown pendant; a pink and white pearl necklace and bracelet set with a painted metallic poodle pendant; and a pink pearl necklace, earrings and ring set. All sets are sold in a pink gift box with “TOBY & ME” printed on the front and “TOBY & ME” hangtags attached to the packaging.
Sold at: T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and A.J.Wright from August 2006 through May 2007 for about $8.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact TOBY N.Y.C. toll-free at (866) 235-0588 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or email the firm at info@tobynyc.com

You Can Do Teacher Background Checks

Hey, go to Tim's post over at the Florida Sun Dog to find out how to do Florida Teacher Background Checks and for other valuable information.

UF Gators are Number 4? Who Knew...

What do mean University of Florida is only number 4?

When I went there it was number one party school....unfortunately! I say that because it certainly did detract from my scholarly career there - I went from A/B's in my first two years to BC and yes a D in my final year. That was the only D I ever got in my whole life! I was an honor roll student in high school, but lived a very demure life. Beer in massive doses can change that.

So, now that Butterfly has said she will be attending UF when she gets older - maybe I will steer her to a less prominent school in that regard - maybe a Mormon or Quaker school.

My mother actually got a scholarship to a small Quaker college, called Friends University, in Wichita, KS. She came home crying the first week, when she found out you couldn't wear makeup, fun clothes, and I assume, smoke. This was in the 50's y'all. I guess she was ready for UF back then!

So You Don't Like Veggies - It's Your Genes!?

Well now science is possibly giving children (and Tim) another reason why they might not like to eat vegetables or try new foods. Research is showing that humans - some humans-might not be programmed to try new foods!
Well, I'm not buying it - The Princess (please note usage of new blog name for her here ;)) just told me (keep in mind she is 5) that people CAN change. She stated this proudly as she announced that she WILL now eat a cherry popsicle. Cherry was never touched until this week. I know - it's not a veggie, but it's progress.

My Rubber Ducky Bites the Dust Because of Toy Recall

So India may not have ANY toys left if they follow toy recall standards. Umm - it's not just India in this quandary. I went through the kids' room this weekend and I bagged up every plastic toy that didn't have a brand on it. Every single toy in their room was made in China, with the exception of my old Breyer horses, but the new ones are made in China now. With the knowledge of possible defects brought to light due to the recall, we needed to give the room a good once-over.

If I were to get rid of all the Made in China toys, they would have nothing left except books (and the aforementioned Breyers). But maybe that is the thing to do (and I only partly jest). I am still not sure what to do about the stuffed toys - as they are also ALL made in China. But at least they don't have potential lead paint issues.

At least the major toy makers will issue recalls if necessary. Those unnamed, unbranded toys, well, we may never know if they have lead or other issues - so out they all go, including every rubber ducky from the dollar store. This may shut that operation down.

Maybe this is Why They Recalled this Toy

Here is a real, actual photo of my child's poodle/baby from the Mattel Doggie Daycare with Lula. The fact you can do this with the dangerous magnets (see photo) is not really good......we're sending it in to Mattel soon!

Parents Sue Mattel Over Lead Testing

Well, it seems a natural following of events that parents are now suing Mattel over the Toy Recall. There is a pending class action suit with the premise that Mattel pick up the cost of testing children for lead poisoning.

If you have any doubts, do take your child to your pediatrician for a simple test for lead exposure.

Send A Postcard to 5 Year Old Mac Hughes in Canada!

Hey, I came across this post when doing some browsing, and it sounds like a great idea - take a few moments and send a postcard to little five year old Mac in Canada. He's homeschooled and learning about geography. So his parents are asking if anyone/everyone will send him a postcard about your area. Include the date and time you mailed it and Mac and his parents will let you know how long it takes to get to them in the great white north. This would also be a great way to get your kids involved and teach them a geography lesson too!

Read here about Mac

Send postcard to:

Mac Hughes
c/o NeoFarm
Box 666
Leaf Rapids, Manitoba
Canada R0B1W0 (I think these are zeros in the postal code)

Make a little kid's day! And pass this along to all you know.

Hot Travel Spots, My Comments, What are Yours?

From the Chicago Tribune, with my commentary:

Top U. S. Hot Spots - top U. S. attractions according to traveler popularity and TripAdvisor editors:

1. Orlando (various)...[well duh!..since I live in Florida I've been here many, many times - love it in the fall/winter only, summer heat here sucks!]
2. Cirque de Soleil, Las Vegas [I'm ashamed to say I have never seen one of their performances, anywhere, but I'd like to - but I think Tim finds it too "gay"]
3. Hana Highway, Maui, Hawaii [I've never been to Hawaii - but it's on my short list]
4. Grand Canyon, Arizona [I went by myself for a little overnight/day trip when I was on a business trip to Mesa...thanks for covering the $$$ for me, former unnamed employer who will never know I did that...and I LOVE it highly recommend for anyone]
5. Central Park, New York City [Tim and I took the then baby DD1 and we really liked it! And we didn't get mugged!]
6. Alcatraz, San Francisco [I saw Alcatraz from across the Bay, but did not do the tour to go there.....LOVE San Francisco, been twice]
7. Top of the Rock Observation Deck, New York City [I made Tim stand in front of door to 30 Rock, hoping to see Saturday Night Live stars (nope). Didn't go up - guess we missed a big deal that day]
8. Monterrey Bay Aquarium [never been there - would like to see Monterrey]
9. Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas [never been to Vegas baby! I'm afraid my husband will gamble away the little credit we have remaining, as we have no savings to lose]
10. San Diego Zoo [spent a few days in San Diego - went on the old wooden rollercoaster there, but my lazy friends who slept the day away, refused to attend the famous zoo. I made them take me to the Tonight Show in Burbank to make up for it, later in our California excursion - it was a really good replacement]

There you have it - I have been to a lot of places - mostly before I got married and had kids. Even London, Milan, Rome, Tijuana, and a bunch of little Italian towns. I have to say I love northern California and the wine country a lot! Loved the Umbrian region of Italy - never had such fabulous food ever again. Loved staying in Bloomsbury, London - the British Museum, the pubs, the royals, would love to go again! A guard at Kensington Palace let us in after they closed to see the exhibits - while they were getting ready for a party for Prince Charles and Princess Diana - so I think the Brits are pretty cool.....oh, by the way, my bro-in-law is British, but he's not the reason I like England!

What places have you traveled to and why did you like them?

New Immunization Guidelines for Children

I just received my latest Baptist Health newsletter which surprised me with the news of updated vaccine schedules for children. This means I get to tick off my 8 year old DD1 with the news that she has to get an extra chicken pox (varicella) shot and in a year or two she'll be getting the new vaccine for papilloma virus prevention. DD2 will also be screaming in horror with her 2nd chicken pox shot as well. Despite the anticipated yearly screaming ordeal, we are really good at keeping our vaccinations up to date.

We also have to do flu shots in October, due to the asthma running in our family. DD2 took the last round pretty well. They created a cartoon called the flu bug, that she still talks about a year later - she likes that the shot killed it....what can I say - good marketing by the vaccine clinic.

Anyway, here's a summary of changes on the vaccination schedule....

1. Rotavirus immunization should now be given in three doses at ages two, four and six months. This oral vaccine protects children from one of the most serious causes of diarrhea and vomiting.



2. A new vaccine against human papillomavirus (HPV) has been added to the schedule. If possible, three doses should be given to girls ages 11 to 12. However, it can be started as young as age nine. A catch-up version is available for girls age 13 to women age 26.



3. Flu shots are now recommended for all children ages six months to five years. Influenza can cause high fever, congestion, cough, vomiting and muscle aches. "The vaccine is important not only to protect your child from the flu, but to help keep the transmission of the influenza virus to a minimum in our community," says pediatrician Sonja France, MD. "For older children and adults, there is also an inhaled flu vaccine available that offers even better protection."



4. Guidelines for the varicella, or chickenpox, vaccine have been updated. Children should now get the first dose at ages 12 to 15 months, with a second shot at age four to six years.

Mom Saves Daughter from Drowning in Plane Wreck

I was going to call it a day for my posting of news bites, but then I saw this - YOU GO MOM! If this doesn't show that Moms have true grit, I don't know what will. This mom, after being in a plane wreck and escaping it, grabbed a rescuer's goggles, swam down and saved her own child, after the rescuer couldn't do it!

Mom's Rule!

Madeline McCann - Why We All Should Help

As readers know, I post updates here about 4 year old missing child, Madeline McCann. I try to help publicize her plight as a missing child. I am hoping to post good news one day.

As a parent of two small children, Madeline's kidnapping horrifies me. It is the worst possible thing I can imagine ever happening to our family. That being said, it has never happened to anyone I know. But the attacks on innocent children seem to be increasing. Or our abilities to know about them are increasing as well. Probably both. The Internet is a wonderful communications tool for helping other people. That is why I choose to do this.

I ask each one of you to put yourselves in the McCanns' shoes and think what would you want others to do if someone took your precious child. Then, I would like for you to write your own article helping to publicize finding her before it is too late. Help use the Internet for good, not for so many of the bad reasons out there today.

What Time is IT? - Time for High School Musical II!

Tick, tock...tick tock...only a few more hours til the marketing blitz ends...or does it really just begin then? I don't know about you but we already have back to school lunchboxes, notebooks and folders covered with..............High School Musical!!!
The Disney wunderkind of 2006 is reprising itself tonight at 8pm ET on Disney Channel with High School Musical II. Welllllll.......I'm not ashamed to admit it - I LOVE IT!

I think the original story was a great way for kids to discuss cliques and their problems - interwoven with a great music, a winning and cute cast and fun dancing! We are planning a little pizza party for our little pre-tweens and maybe a few friends to enjoy the premiere. My 5 year old is suddenly taken with Sharpay. No, not Sharpei. Ashley Tisdale's character. I hope this doesn't fortell more regarding our last post about her and her sizzle factor. Sharpay is quite a (censored for the kids) most of the time, so I am not sure I like dd2 liking her so much.

Anyway, I believe the High School Musical II Soundtrack will soon supplant our Hannah Montana CD in the SUV tomorrow. Poor Miley - her starpower will now flag! (update - it just did...and we are really enjoying it - it's very good!)

At least I'm enjoying my kids' music and stuff for now. I'm feeling like the mom of a friend of mine I had in junior high. Remember junior high? She chaperoned us at a Styx concert and was standing up and having a good time, when some stoner behind her said loudly, " hey look, that old lady can dance". She stopped having such a fun time. Well, that ain't going to happen to me - I'll tell the little (censored for the kids) to shut up, cause I'm gonna dance!

FDA Warns About Children's Usage of Cough Medicine

With school starting again, and the cold and flu season that always follows the mingling of children, I thought it might be important to highlight this recent news from the FDA regarding the usage of over the counter cold medications.

The FDA recently put out a warning about use of cough medicine in children . Receiving too great a dose can cause potentially serious side effects, particularly in those under the age of 2.

Parents should carefully follow directions for use that come with a medication, the FDA said. Other recommendations in the advisory included:

1. Do not use cough and cold products in children under 2 unless given specific directions to do so by a health care provider.
2. Do not give children medicine that is packaged and made for adults. Use only products marked for use in babies, infants or children, sometimes called "pediatric" use.
3. Cough and cold medicines come in different strengths. If unsure about the right product for a child, ask a health care provider.
4. If other medicines, whether over-the-counter or prescription, are being given to a child, the child's health care provider should review and approve their combined use.
5. Read all of the information in the "Drug Facts" box on the package label to know the active ingredients and the warnings.
6. For liquid products, parents should use the measuring device that is packaged with each medicine formulation and is marked to deliver the recommended dose. A kitchen teaspoon or tablespoon is not an appropriate measuring device.

I'll also add my own warning here to double check your prescription medications as well. Make sure you are getting the correct formula that was written on the prescription. I've had pharmacists make several mistakes on my kids' medications, some could have been deadly. Be sure you give the correct dosage on any medication and check with your pediatrician if you have any doubts or questions.

Is the Big One on the Way?

Is the big one on it's way? You know, the big hurricane that will wipe out at least a major swath of Florida? You'd think so, because the usual media-hyped-up-train wreck has jumped on the hurricane bandwagon for 2007, now that Hurricane Dean has been named. I like the name Dean - it was my Grandpa Burns' name. He was a nice guy.

It may be on the way for Florida, it might not. As we saw with previous hurricanes, like Charley, things change and they can change fast (didn't do that hard right at Tampa - but instead into Port Charlotte).

I like to see what the meteorologists see and I think I have my own abilities to make some minor analysis of situations involving hurricanes. I go to Hurricane City all the time during hurricane season to see what the other weather-philes think, view the model links, and have a real-time ability to assess the changing weather scenarios that could affect us.

For some reason, my own family never seems to think much of getting really prepped for hurricane season. My dad is a retired engineer with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and he was in charge of flood control for south Florida for a long time - even he doesn't get excited about it all - says we live on a bluff and that we don't need to go anywhere (we live very close to the St. Johns River). But he counts on us women to be sure we have enough food and water to live on.

I just hope everyone is always prepared and keeps an eye on what's going on. Don't be vulnerable to the Boy Who Cried Wolf syndrome.

You Can Help Build a Children's Museum Today

I guess I am just finishing a trifecta - but here's a third post about my sister and her life. You already read that she's selling her house. Then you read about her perfume business and magazine. Now, she's started a founders' committee in St. Augustine, FL to start up a children's museum for St. Johns County. The website link will be up and running shortly.

Their Vision is:

The Children’s Museum of St. Johns, or CMSJ, will be a fun, safe place to play, an exciting place to learn, and a comfortable gathering place for families to interact. Children can touch, create, imagine, and learn through hands-on, interactive play. There will be no signs that say “DO NOT TOUCH!” Fun and entertaining exhibits will encourage play and, at the same time, stimulate the mind.

They're at the stage of needing contributions and philanthropic support to move forward to secure a site and continue with their plans. I know my sister and she makes things happen. Here is what they need:

Private Sources
• Individuals (Members of CMSJ)
• Corporations (Exhibit Sponsors)
• Foundations
Public Sources
• City and County
• State
• Regional and National
Numerous naming opportunities will be available throughout the museum to encourage and recognize philanthropic
support. For example:
• $2.5 million - Naming rights to Museum
• $250K - $1 million - Naming rights to specific rooms within Museum
• $100K - Naming rights for Permanent Exhibits
• $25K - $50K - Sponsorship of Traveling Exhibits
• $1K - $10K - Permanent recognition on donor wall in Museum

Please contact Wendy White Philcox at ppi@aug.com for more information or to help in any way. ***This is not a paid endorsement, this is family!

Parents Fight Back Against Toy Recall

Parents are really ticked off about the Mattel recall. Well, who wouldn't have guessed it! The Tampa Tribune is reporting about angry parents who don't want to accept the Mattel vouchers that are being promised to people who return the defective toys.

Some Walmarts are offering refunds for the defective toys, so if you don't want a voucher, you might try that. If you are unhappy with the idea of getting a voucher, instead of money back, voice your concern by giving Mattel a call at 1-800-916-4748 or emailing on their website http://www.service.mattel.com/.

A lot of people are worried about lead poisoning from the lead paint in the toys. If you even suspect something may have happened to your child because of playing with or eating or chewing on the toys, see your pediatrician right away. They can do a simple lead test.

New Mattel Toy Recall Information

Mattel has two new toy recalls today:

Visit Mattel to get information about returning your recalled toys for a voucher, or to find out specific model and serial numbers for all the toys.

Call: Lead Paint Recall (Fisher-Price) Hotline: 1-800-916-4498 Pixar Cars Sarge Recall Hotline: 1-800-916-4497 Magnet Hazard Recall Hotline: 1-888-597-6597

Lead Paint Hazard - Pixar Cars Movie - Die Cast Car - Sarge - from the Pixar Movie Assortment. The recalled Sarge Cars were sold both individually and in assortment packs nationwide between May 2007 and August 2007. Car is about 3 inches long and army green color with white star on hood. Only cars marked with "China" on bottom may be affected. Product code is on bottom. If the last three characters are 7EA, the product is affected and should be returned. Other codes are not affected. Remove from children immediately and return to the manufactured for a replacement voucher.

Magnet Hazard - Some Polly Pocket sets, Batman Magna, Doggie Daycare sets, One Piece and Barbie & Tanner Play sets are affected. If you own any products fitting this description, immediately stop using them and search your home and other child play areas for loose or liberated magnets. Take them away from children immediately.

It appears that Mattel is recalling all the older (pre-January 2007) sets in these lines to make sure no loose magnets affect children. Similar sets were already recalled in 2006. Newly recalled sets can be sent in for replacement toy vouchers. For the Barbie and Tanner set, only the scoop is affected - so only that part will be replaced for you, not the whole set.

For any other questions, or to return toys for a voucher, please refer to the above number and website.

Check out all recall information at the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

More Mattel Toy Recall News Coming Updated

Mattel is getting ready to announce more toy recalls, according to AP news. No word yet on specific models/lines being recalled, so heads up to watch the news here and through other sources.

The reports say the recall will include a die-cast car that may contain lead paint, as well as toys with magnets that can be harmful to children if swallowed. Recall announcement expected at 10 a.m. Eastern time.

Andrew and the Chipmunks Video

This is my nephew Andrew playing with the cutest chipmunks while on vacation in Creede, Colorado this week - check it out!!!!

Forever Young Perfume - Try It You'll Love It

My sister has two businesses, this is the first one she started in St. Augustine, FL over 10 years ago. It is called St. Augustine's Forever Young Fragrance Collection by Southern TouchFragrances.

She created the formula, packaging and art design herself and it was marketed on QVC when she first came out with it. It now sells in upscale and boutique shops in and around St. Augustine and through direct mail order.

This product and its success is another testimony to the success you can have from work at home businesses. I'm sure she'd be willing to discuss her success with this if y'all are interested. Please leave me a comment! And give this a try - they make great gifts - even people who are allergic to perfume can often use this. **This is NOT a paid post - this is family!

Ready-Set-Bumbo III Preview

Wow, Bumbo Fans, Check out the cool new bumbo video preview - we can't wait til the whole thing comes out! We love our Bumbo Videos here at Parent Traps!

Disaster Planning Time is NOW!

Living in Florida, we are ALWAYS faced with planning for disasters. TODAY there is a large tropical depression brewing in the Atlantic Ocean that might have our name on it. Whether it is hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, terrorism, or a just a big storm, it is crucial to keep our home financial, computer, and business data safe. There are great resources online to help preserve this crucial data.

AxcessPoints is a secure online disaster planning tool full of resources that help individuals and families better organize critical personal, medical and financial information and minimize the impact of a natural disaster. They provide an individualized one-of-a-kind Emergency Toolkit, an interactive calculator that helps families create a comprehensive emergency preparedness kit. The Toolkit calculates the right level of supplies and other necessary items by factoring in age, gender, disabilities and animals, including pets or other animals.

The information is highly secure, and users can choose to share sections from their plan with other family members or trusted advisers. I really like that you have 30 days to try it for free - they don't make you give them a credit card - it is really a free trial. Hurricane season seems like a great time to start with this - so I have signed up to try it - consider doing it for yourself. We have a lot more hurricane season to go!

Hysterectomy Update - Post Op Week 9

I've been getting a lot of page views of my earlier posts regarding my hysterectomy so I thought I would give an update since it has been almost nine weeks since my surgery. I cannot say how happy I've been with the results of surgery so far.

I had what is officially called laproscopic supracervical hysterectomy or LSH as those on the Hyster Sisters boards would call it. I had it due to a laundry list of ailments including: anemia, adenomyosis, excessive bleeding, and endometriosis.

I only now have 4 tiny, tiny scars where they went in and worked on me. I can't even see some of them. My only recurring symptom is what is affectionately called "swelly belly" by fellow hyster-sisters. What that means is that when I wake up in the morning, my pants fit....actually much better than before the surgery. Near the evening they get really, really tight. NOOOO I didn't eat too much - the tissues inside are still swelling as the day goes on - they are not healed up all the way. I swell more when I do more. They tell me that this usually goes away in six months to a year. I hate the word usually.

I actually forget now that I have had surgery, except for the belly thing of course. I don't have any pain, except for the same old back pain I always have that isn't related. And I'm nice and dry -'nuff said.

Toy Recall Causes Suicide in China

A follow up to the Fisher Price toy recall is out this morning. It seems that the guy in China who was responsible hung himself. Gee, I wouldn't want to be a corporate worker in China. Zhang Shuhong, a Hong Kong businessman in his 50s and boss of the Lida Toy Company in the southern province of Guangdong, was found dead in his factory workshop. First, the food recall guy gets executed, now this. I guess this guy didn' t want to take a chance that he'd be next.

I think we have another reason to love America, we don't execute people for their corporate blunders. ;) At least not yet....look at Enron.

How Evil Are You?

I was cruising my buddy Fechr and found this cool quiz over at a blog called Crazy Working Mom . How could I not like that title? Any way check it out its the

How Evil Are You Quiz

Please report your results!! ;) BTW, mine is

How evil are you?

Cool Dog Tricks Video

This such a cool dog tricks video - you know, I got our dog, Buddy, to shake hands with me for the first time this month, after trying to teach him for TEN years. I think he is just a weirdo like Howie Mandel, who doesn't like anyone touching his hands (paws).