A lot of families have had very pleasant times using the family bed sleeping arrangement, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against it, because there have been (thankfully rare) occurances of babies getting smothered.
Just close your eyes and focus on your breath for five minutes. Imagine a cool flow of blue water enter the top of your head and travel all the way to your toes on the inhale, then exhale the water as it cleanses your impurities. Helps relax you and helps break the cycle since you are focusing on something else (your breath and the imagery.
Play with your pets, or your children.
Add some Yoga to your exercise routine.
Enjoy some intimate time with your significant other.
Learn some basic accupressure points by searching the internet. Massage those points to help unblock any stuck flow of energy.
Thanks for all the comments everyone!! I'll definitely let my baby try the swing since so many people like it. It seems that everyone's list is pretty different. I agree with the sentiment that perhaps it's better to buy things as the need arises.
Two cars, well we have 3 cars(03Buick LeSabre,08 Buick Enclave,09GMC Sierra) AND a moterhome(with an alarm like the cars) And with those loud horned vehicals plus a moterhome it would wake the dead.(but I also have a house alarm) but I think I will try that panic button stuff tonight.
1. Too many tiny baby clothes - People do tend to say that they had too many, but it depends on what type of child you have. My daughter had reflux and we actually went through every single thing she owned in one day such that she ended up naked with her diaper. Even if my husband ran out to buy more, I wouldn't put the clothes on her right away without washing first because of formaldehyde residue from the manufacturing process.
2. Baby shoes - My 10 month old wears shoes. She goes to daycare and the Robeez have been a lifesaver in keeping her socks on in the winter and when she is crawling and pulling herself up to stand she has something on her feet. (Our daycare's rule is once they stand, they need some type of closed toed shoe to protect their feet when they go outside).
3. "Educational" DVDs for babies - I agree. Just play with your baby.
4. Changing table - When we had the baby, we were in a temporary furnished rental while we were moving in between states. We did not have the luxury of having this. Let me tell you... we had to live without sheets on several occasions because of squirting baby poo... It's not fun to clean it up from the floor at 3am, either. We had no choice but to change her on the bed. I would spring for this or at least a super-large waterproof pad.
5. Wipe warmer - I agree, but it depends on your baby. If you keep your house at 60F during the winter, it might be something that can save you from them screaming when you change them.
6. Nursery decoration - They're cute, but not necessary
7. Swing - My baby wouldn't sleep anywhere but the swing until she was 6 months old. It was a lifesaver. You can buy nice used ones on craigslist. I loved mine, but it depends on your baby. I would wait and see if your baby has any issues. If not, I wouldn't get it.
8. WhyCry Baby Crying Analyzer - Never heard of it.
9. Diaper Genie - I like it because we have to keep our outside trash can in our garage (HOA rules). If I threw them outside, our garage would smell awful. At least the diaper genie minimizes smells. I also own the Diaper Champ and once my baby started solids, it was not worth it anymore.
I just read your comment and had to go visit http://www.dealtherapy.com/. it is better than you say it is. It will save me tons of money and i will always use it now over retailmenot. i agree that this site is great, and i say that everybody should use it. Thanks
I use the brand new site: http://www.dealtherapy.com/. they have much newer coupons. They give you better percentages off than retailmenot. I strong recommend this site, and it will fix and bodies endless pit that they call a wallet. Make sure to check it out before making any online purchases.
Philip my friend I wish I could agree with you in the short term. The problem is the recent CPI numbers have been held up by energy prices and healthcare. If you remove those factors we're in the middle of some serious deflation. http://www.businessinsider.com/henry-blodget-whos-bankrupting-you-these-...
I don't think we are headed into a big inflationary period at all. Until this current economic condition works itself out, and that will be years, the Fed is going to keep a lid on interest rates. And when the time comes to raise we are looking at small increases as to no derail the recovery, especially the housing markets rebound which will partly be affected by mortgage rates.
Skyrocketing broad based inflation and low, low interest rates just don't occur simultaneously.
Will prices in some areas continue higher? Sure. But I don't think we are anywhere close to entering a significant inflationary environment.
I find that it's extremely cheap for produce and spices.
You can also buy a lot of spices in bulk at asian supermarkets or warehouses which are probably the same price as buying a small container in the supermarket!
We have done this for the last 5 years...until we moved to our current location that has zero ethnic markets. I do have to agree that you have to watch your store...they are not all created equal. If you are a celiac and can't have wheat, this is THE PLACE to shop for some pastas..and a much lower price than "gluten-free" stuff at the chain grocery.
Philip--You aren't just barking at the moon here. All of the money being funnelled into the banks will hit the streets sooner or later, and when it does, price directions will change, probably pretty quickly too.
Prices of some things are falling because we're learning to do with out them--mostly luxuries. But for things we need or can't do without, like healthcare/health insurance, education, utilities and car repairs, inflation is here now. That's probably the tip of the iceberg, and a sign of things to come.
While things are relatively quiet, now is a good time to cut living expenses, increase savings, and find new ways to earn extra income. If inflation doesn't hit, you'll be richer for having done all of the above.
I strongly endorse Xin Lu's comments on items 1 & 9.
Clothes--go the hand me down route where ever possible, failing that hit garage sales and thrift stores. Infants/toddlers/small children grow out of clothes in a matter of weeks, and big bucks spent here are one of the worst uses of financial resources possible.
Diaper Genie--had it for our first, used it maybe once or twice, then found that a doubled up plastic bag does just as well. You'll be too busy with too much to wrestle with any gadget that doesn't produce obvious and overwhelming benefits. One of the first things that goes out the window with the arrival of an infant is order, and since diaper disposal is ubiquitous, you'll need to be prepared for a quick disposal anywhere, anytime.
We skipped the toddler bed, and we used a mattress on the floor (with the bed "fence/barrier" thingies). Once our sons got older, we replaced the boxframe so that the bed was of normal height.
Do you think it's safe to try method number two on a brand new car? I just bought it about three months ago and I'm scared it will ruin the paint. It's a small dent about 1" x 1" from this stupid lady hitting my door with hers...I'm not sure if it will even work because it's not a large dent...if I get it done professionally instead can they usually get small dents out completely??
On a related note, and certainly more common, are Spanish-speaking markets. Very similar in the variety of goods, plus much less expensive on bulk items.
Not all products are less expensive than in Anglo counterpart stores so you need to be careful. Not a bad idea to have a friend in the ethnic culture to help guide you along either.
Definately worth exploring if you're really serious about lowering the grocery bill though.
I'm Chinese so I shop at Asian markets a lot. The big ones like Ranch 99 or Lions Market in Northern California are usually just as clean as the non-Asian markets. What I like are the interesting ice cream flavors like taro, green tea, and lychee.
In general I think some of the more common packaged American foods are more expensive. For example, Oreos or jarred peanut butter are more expensive at Asian markets because less people buy them. Also, if you want a specific kind of food for cheap then you should go to the type of market that corresponds to it. For example, there is an awesome Korean supermarket in Oakland that sells Korean bbq meat very cheaply here: http://www.yelp.com/biz/koreana-plaza-oakland Also in downtown San Mateo there is a Japanese market called Suruki market that sells cheap and fresh sushi after 6:30 and people line up every single day for that . http://www.yelp.com/biz/suruki-supermarket-san-mateo
There are definitely great deals, but the downside is that these markets are not common in many parts of the country that do not have a concentrated Asian population. One funny complaint I have heard from my friend, who is also Chinese, is that Asian markets' parking lots can be death traps because Asian women are stereotypically the worst drivers. Her aunt was actually run over by some bad driver in an Asian market parking lot. Personally I have experienced an SUV almost backing into me in an Asian market parking lot so there may be some truth in that.
Hi Paul -- thanks for the great article. I live in Denver also, and would love to know which market you had this wonderful experience in. I've tried a few Asian markets around, but they didn't seem anything like the one you were in. Care to share?
A lot of families have had very pleasant times using the family bed sleeping arrangement, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against it, because there have been (thankfully rare) occurances of babies getting smothered.
Just close your eyes and focus on your breath for five minutes. Imagine a cool flow of blue water enter the top of your head and travel all the way to your toes on the inhale, then exhale the water as it cleanses your impurities. Helps relax you and helps break the cycle since you are focusing on something else (your breath and the imagery.
Play with your pets, or your children.
Add some Yoga to your exercise routine.
Enjoy some intimate time with your significant other.
Learn some basic accupressure points by searching the internet. Massage those points to help unblock any stuck flow of energy.
Cheers ,we need to create more understanding between chinnese and no chinnese this can certany break the sterotype.
Awesome tips. Thanks!
Thanks for all the comments everyone!! I'll definitely let my baby try the swing since so many people like it. It seems that everyone's list is pretty different. I agree with the sentiment that perhaps it's better to buy things as the need arises.
Two cars, well we have 3 cars(03Buick LeSabre,08 Buick Enclave,09GMC Sierra) AND a moterhome(with an alarm like the cars) And with those loud horned vehicals plus a moterhome it would wake the dead.(but I also have a house alarm) but I think I will try that panic button stuff tonight.
Are the cops for real if they don't answer a home alarm!? Even if it is hooked up to contact them when it goes off!?
Congrats! My baby is 10 months old.
Here are my thoughts on your list:
1. Too many tiny baby clothes - People do tend to say that they had too many, but it depends on what type of child you have. My daughter had reflux and we actually went through every single thing she owned in one day such that she ended up naked with her diaper. Even if my husband ran out to buy more, I wouldn't put the clothes on her right away without washing first because of formaldehyde residue from the manufacturing process.
2. Baby shoes - My 10 month old wears shoes. She goes to daycare and the Robeez have been a lifesaver in keeping her socks on in the winter and when she is crawling and pulling herself up to stand she has something on her feet. (Our daycare's rule is once they stand, they need some type of closed toed shoe to protect their feet when they go outside).
3. "Educational" DVDs for babies - I agree. Just play with your baby.
4. Changing table - When we had the baby, we were in a temporary furnished rental while we were moving in between states. We did not have the luxury of having this. Let me tell you... we had to live without sheets on several occasions because of squirting baby poo... It's not fun to clean it up from the floor at 3am, either. We had no choice but to change her on the bed. I would spring for this or at least a super-large waterproof pad.
5. Wipe warmer - I agree, but it depends on your baby. If you keep your house at 60F during the winter, it might be something that can save you from them screaming when you change them.
6. Nursery decoration - They're cute, but not necessary
7. Swing - My baby wouldn't sleep anywhere but the swing until she was 6 months old. It was a lifesaver. You can buy nice used ones on craigslist. I loved mine, but it depends on your baby. I would wait and see if your baby has any issues. If not, I wouldn't get it.
8. WhyCry Baby Crying Analyzer - Never heard of it.
9. Diaper Genie - I like it because we have to keep our outside trash can in our garage (HOA rules). If I threw them outside, our garage would smell awful. At least the diaper genie minimizes smells. I also own the Diaper Champ and once my baby started solids, it was not worth it anymore.
I just read your comment and had to go visit http://www.dealtherapy.com/. it is better than you say it is. It will save me tons of money and i will always use it now over retailmenot. i agree that this site is great, and i say that everybody should use it. Thanks
I use the brand new site: http://www.dealtherapy.com/. they have much newer coupons. They give you better percentages off than retailmenot. I strong recommend this site, and it will fix and bodies endless pit that they call a wallet. Make sure to check it out before making any online purchases.
Philip my friend I wish I could agree with you in the short term. The problem is the recent CPI numbers have been held up by energy prices and healthcare. If you remove those factors we're in the middle of some serious deflation.
http://www.businessinsider.com/henry-blodget-whos-bankrupting-you-these-...
I don't think we are headed into a big inflationary period at all. Until this current economic condition works itself out, and that will be years, the Fed is going to keep a lid on interest rates. And when the time comes to raise we are looking at small increases as to no derail the recovery, especially the housing markets rebound which will partly be affected by mortgage rates.
Skyrocketing broad based inflation and low, low interest rates just don't occur simultaneously.
Will prices in some areas continue higher? Sure. But I don't think we are anywhere close to entering a significant inflationary environment.
I find that it's extremely cheap for produce and spices.
You can also buy a lot of spices in bulk at asian supermarkets or warehouses which are probably the same price as buying a small container in the supermarket!
Just remember that the leaves of the rhubarb are poisonous to humans as well.
Unless it's Shostakovich... :)
We have done this for the last 5 years...until we moved to our current location that has zero ethnic markets. I do have to agree that you have to watch your store...they are not all created equal. If you are a celiac and can't have wheat, this is THE PLACE to shop for some pastas..and a much lower price than "gluten-free" stuff at the chain grocery.
Is the one I go to.
http://www.hmart.com/
2751 South Parker Rd
Aurora, CO 80014
(303) 745-4592
Unless your buying Asian specific brands/food, American food in the supermarket is totally overpriced compared to a giant supermarket.
Philip--You aren't just barking at the moon here. All of the money being funnelled into the banks will hit the streets sooner or later, and when it does, price directions will change, probably pretty quickly too.
Prices of some things are falling because we're learning to do with out them--mostly luxuries. But for things we need or can't do without, like healthcare/health insurance, education, utilities and car repairs, inflation is here now. That's probably the tip of the iceberg, and a sign of things to come.
While things are relatively quiet, now is a good time to cut living expenses, increase savings, and find new ways to earn extra income. If inflation doesn't hit, you'll be richer for having done all of the above.
I strongly endorse Xin Lu's comments on items 1 & 9.
Clothes--go the hand me down route where ever possible, failing that hit garage sales and thrift stores. Infants/toddlers/small children grow out of clothes in a matter of weeks, and big bucks spent here are one of the worst uses of financial resources possible.
Diaper Genie--had it for our first, used it maybe once or twice, then found that a doubled up plastic bag does just as well. You'll be too busy with too much to wrestle with any gadget that doesn't produce obvious and overwhelming benefits. One of the first things that goes out the window with the arrival of an infant is order, and since diaper disposal is ubiquitous, you'll need to be prepared for a quick disposal anywhere, anytime.
We skipped the toddler bed, and we used a mattress on the floor (with the bed "fence/barrier" thingies). Once our sons got older, we replaced the boxframe so that the bed was of normal height.
Do you think it's safe to try method number two on a brand new car? I just bought it about three months ago and I'm scared it will ruin the paint. It's a small dent about 1" x 1" from this stupid lady hitting my door with hers...I'm not sure if it will even work because it's not a large dent...if I get it done professionally instead can they usually get small dents out completely??
On a related note, and certainly more common, are Spanish-speaking markets. Very similar in the variety of goods, plus much less expensive on bulk items.
Not all products are less expensive than in Anglo counterpart stores so you need to be careful. Not a bad idea to have a friend in the ethnic culture to help guide you along either.
Definately worth exploring if you're really serious about lowering the grocery bill though.
I'm Chinese so I shop at Asian markets a lot. The big ones like Ranch 99 or Lions Market in Northern California are usually just as clean as the non-Asian markets. What I like are the interesting ice cream flavors like taro, green tea, and lychee.
In general I think some of the more common packaged American foods are more expensive. For example, Oreos or jarred peanut butter are more expensive at Asian markets because less people buy them. Also, if you want a specific kind of food for cheap then you should go to the type of market that corresponds to it. For example, there is an awesome Korean supermarket in Oakland that sells Korean bbq meat very cheaply here: http://www.yelp.com/biz/koreana-plaza-oakland Also in downtown San Mateo there is a Japanese market called Suruki market that sells cheap and fresh sushi after 6:30 and people line up every single day for that . http://www.yelp.com/biz/suruki-supermarket-san-mateo
There are definitely great deals, but the downside is that these markets are not common in many parts of the country that do not have a concentrated Asian population. One funny complaint I have heard from my friend, who is also Chinese, is that Asian markets' parking lots can be death traps because Asian women are stereotypically the worst drivers. Her aunt was actually run over by some bad driver in an Asian market parking lot. Personally I have experienced an SUV almost backing into me in an Asian market parking lot so there may be some truth in that.
Hi Paul -- thanks for the great article. I live in Denver also, and would love to know which market you had this wonderful experience in. I've tried a few Asian markets around, but they didn't seem anything like the one you were in. Care to share?