Daddies and Slippery Socks: A Salute to Fathers

There's just something about a daddy.?If mom is sustained, lasting light, dad is a spark. It's certainly true in my family, where the men simply produce a different kind of energy. Dads and Grandpas are wonderfully familiar but exotic and new at the same time.?Some of my most vivid memories from childhood took place during weekend car rides, just me and my dad. They are engraved in my memory not because we did anything particularly exciting or adventurous - these were mostly just weekly errands, with the occasional stop at a donut shop. And it wasn't the conversation. We didn't talk a whole lot. There was just something different about being with him.?

It's that way in the family I've created, too. For Cassie and Calliope, Daddy is an exclamation point at the end of each day.?I'm sure Cassie doesn't know how to tell time, but at precisely 6:30 every weeknight, she's got her nose pressed against the glass, waiting for daddy's truck to rumble up the driveway.?Calliope, almost three months old, coos and grins at me all day, but when Dad ?comes home, her muscles start to work. She starts making little jabs with her arms and legs. Her mouth forms an o-shape. She's a picture of pure concentration. Her dad certainly harnesses - and elicits - a different kind of energy.?When my daughter and I were living with my parents awaiting Calliope's birth, Grandpa would announce his arrival each evening with two quick honks. Grandpa! Grandpa! Cassie would run to the door so fast that her socks would send her sliding across the linoleum.?The wide-eyed way Cassie looks at the men in her life just melts my heart. I can only imagine what it does to them. Like most toddlers, her whole face has a feeling, not just her mouth.?

I wonder how things would change - with our husbands, our fathers, our mothers, our children, our friends - if we all greeted one another like this. If we carried this intensity into all of our relationships. If we ran so fast we slid to greet the important people in our lives.?A recent Oprah episode had Toni Morrison asking, Do your eyes light up when your children come into the room? Because that's what they are looking for, she said.?I find myself reflecting on that wisdom frequently. Because isn't that what we're all looking for? Today, see if you can make sure someone finds it.?Happy Father's Day to all the daddies who do just that every day. We salute you.??

Susie Cortright is the founder of Momscape.com at http://www.momscape.com - an online magazine devoted to celebrating life with children. Read about fun things to do with your kids. Visit today and get a subscription to her newsletter for free: http://www.momscape.com/subscribe.htm

Save Money On Your Air Conditioning Costs With These Tips

Here are a few tips for saving a bit o' cash on your electric bill during the hotter months of the year.

Be Sure to use either window blinds or curtains (or better yet a combination of both) and keep them closed for the hottest parts of the day, this will really cut down the heat coming into your home from the hot sun.

Using ceiling fans in most rooms at the least makes it feel cooler, so you can get by with a couple less degrees lower temps on the thermostat, One important thing is don't toggle your temperature, find a comfort zone and leave it set, this will cost you less as the air conditioner won't have to work harder to get the house cooled off and its cheaper to maintain the same temperature.

Check to make sure your outside condensing unit coils are CLEAN. if they can't flow the air it will take longer to cool down and use more energy costing you more in electric.

Change your air filter often, this will also increase air flow helping your air conditioning unit to do it's job more effectively and cut your costs. During the high use try to check once every week or two the filters are very inexpensive and replacing will help save.

Lastly, on your blower/heater unit inside, their is a part called an a- coil so named because it is shaped like and a. this is just like the outer coils. if kept clean the air will flow better and your air conditioning will run at top efficient capacity

The last tip might be one thing that is best to leave to a professional, but all the the others are easily done yourself.

One more thing. If you can afford more insulation in your attic adding another 6-8 inches will make a world of difference also in keeping your house cooler through the summer months.

Author Byron Pittser, over 18 years experience as a retail florist owner and operator and top quality floral designer. 3rd generation family owned florist http://tipsonroses.blogspot.com http://chosenflowers.com

Dog Training 3 Tips to Stop Your Dog from Jumping on People

A sure sign of a well-behaved dog is when you enter someone's home and their pet does not jump on you in greeting. Not only is jumping on guests annoying, it can be dangerous. Large dogs can knock people down and are capable of seriously injuring small children or the elderly. Not to mention all the mud he gets on your clothes on rainy days!

Jumping on people is also a sure signal that your dog thinks he's the leader of the pack. Watch dogs together and you'll see them exhibiting the same behavior. Allowing your dog to jump on people undermines all your training.

These dogs have learned if they jump on people they get attention and often petted. Your job is to help them unlearn that with positive reinforcement. Here are some tips to help you do just that:

1. Ignore your dog when you arrive and leave the house. Ditch the long goodbye and the long-lost dog owner greeting. Don't greet your pet for five minutes once you get home. This will help break the habit.

2. Do you want to dance? If a week or so of not greeting your dog doesn't break the behavior, try this on your medium or large dog. When he jumps on you, firmly grip his paws while he's still on his hind legs. Hold them without squeezing until he starts to squirm, then firmly command, Off! Some trainers recommend stepping on your pet's back paws at the same time, but this could cause injury to your pet's delicate feet. Holding his front paws, sometimes for several minutes, will do the trick and won't be painful.

3. Use the leash. If guests are coming over, keep your dog on a leash. When he jumps on the visitors, pop the leash to engage his training collar, command, Off! and lead him to the other side of the room. Praise him after you lead him away.
Marilyn Burnham

Author: 'Dog Owners Boot Camp'
The How To Guide, Dog Training Secrets Professional Dog Trainers Don't Want You To Know!
For More Information On Dog Training

Marilyn Burnham was the owner operator of 4 successful dog grooming stores in British Columbia, Canada for more than a decade. To spend more time with her children Marilyn made the decision to sell her business in the mid 90's. Get a copy of her book: ?Dog Owners Boot Camp? The How To Guide, Dog Training Secrets Professional Dog Trainers Don?t Want You To Know!

Planning the Ultimate Kid Birthday Party

Child Party Planning Guideline #1)

Pick the Theme

Your child is going to look forward to their birthday months before it arrives. Starting from their last birthday and after every friend's birthday they attend through the year, they will continuously ask the same question, ?Is it my birthday tomorrow?? Let them know how important their birthday is and make sure they are apart of the planning process. Start by choosing their birthday theme with them.

Every child is different, including siblings. You?ll want to choose a theme that is unique to what your child is currently involved in. No matter what theme you choose if they had a part in the decision they will be more excited. If you get no response or participation, try and ask them what they are interested in. Guide them in choosing a theme, without coming out and choosing it for them. Look at the type of TV shows they are watching or books they are reading. If you still can?t uncover the Ultimate Theme, try answering the questions below.

What type of activities do they like?

- Do they like hands-on activities?
- Do they like to put things together?
- Do they like to play with action figures?
- Do they collect things?
- Do they like clean or dirty activities (glue, glitter, paint or cutting)?

What type of games do they play?

- Do they like to play sports?
- Do they like to play tag?
- Do they like individual or group games?
- Do they like interaction games?

What type of themed characters do they like?

- Do they have a favorite cartoon character?
- Do they like to act like a certain character?
- Do they like to dress up in a certain costume?
- Do they like to wear paint, hats or any type of props?
- Do they like to use their imagination and pretend to be pirates or cowboy and Indians?

After you have answered these questions, you should have a good idea on what your child would like and what kind of games and activities will excite your child. If they are really into sports, try a soccer or basketball theme. What about themed parties like Finding Nemo or Spongebob? If they are into dressing up and using their imagination, try a Pirates or Army theme. Narrow the theme down to a few that fit the answers to these questions and let them decide. Once they?ve decided on a theme, it?s time to move to the next step and establish a budget.

Just remember to provide your child with the most memorable experience they have ever had. By letting them get involved, you are giving them the best gift your child could ever want. If you follow these 10 essential party tips, you will ensure your child is given the most unique, one-of-a-kind Ultimate Birthday Party!

This is an excellent tip to get you started in the planning process. But I believe there are 10 critical tips to plan the Ultimate Party. These tips are designed to help you pick a theme, what is a reasonable budget, how many children and so on...So if you liked this one, don't forget to check out the rest of the Ultimate Party Planning Tips at Ultimate-Kid-Birthday-Parties.

Good Luck on planning the Ultimate Birthday Party!!!

Geoff Schurman is a proud parent of two toddler boys. He enjoys throwing Ultimate Parties for his kids and wants to give you the resources to help plan an Ultimate Party. He is the webmaster and owner of http://www.ultimate-kid-birthday-parties.com which is an excellent resource to learn about every party detail for a themed birthday party. There are many themes already available for viewing and new ones released every week. To track his experience and new web content, he makes daily entries into his blog at http://www.ultimate-kid-birthday-parties.blogspot.com. Both websites are a great start on fulfilling your child's dream in having an Ultimate Kid Birthday Party this year!!!

StressFree Kids Party Planning

Another birthday's on the horizon, and you're stressing over every little detail. Throwing a party can be nerve-wracking and kids parties come with added pressures. The prospect of keeping a group of young children occupied and entertained can be a daunting one. In addition, you may feel that celebrating a milestone in your child's life means the day must be a perfect one.

Take a step back and realize your child's party doesn't have to turn you into a stress knot! You can beat the pre-party anxiety with a little creativity and common sense. Turn your party fears into party cheers with these simple stress busters...

Forget the Fantasy

Sometimes we parents get caught up in the fairytale fantasy we are trying to create for our child... or for ourselves! Realize that your child's party doesn't have to be perfect from start to finish.

It WILL be fun and memorable, even if some of the memories aren't quite what you expected! Remind yourself that you're celebrating the birth of your child (or other special event) and choose to make it a happy day.

Prioritize & Plan Ahead

Think about what elements of the party are the most important to you. Is a fancy party cake a priority? Fun and unusual games? A cute costume for the party child? Impressive decorations? Make a list and prioritize it.

Then work through each element and decide how you will make it a reality. You may decide some things just aren't worth the time or trouble, while others jump to the top of your list. Focus on two or three key party elements and make them special.

Limit Guests

This is a tough one for many parents. The pressure to invite every child in your child's class at school, as well as relatives and friends is great. Don't give in to it! The rule of thumb is to invite as many party guests as your child's age. That means a 5 year old can invite 5 friends.

If you have an obligation to reciprocate to certain friends or family members, plan an alternate get-together after the birthday party to avoid any hurt feelings.

Beat the Time Crunch

Start planning your party well in advance of the actual event. Six weeks is a good time to start brainstorming ideas for a party theme, where the party will be held, and which guests to invite. Make a simple timeline of party tasks and when each should be accomplished. Avoiding last-minute arrangements will cut down on party planning headaches.

Limit Spending

Remember this is a child's party, not the Queen's ball. Make a party budget and stick to it. Shop early for discounts on party favors, craft items, and small game prizes. Collect costume materials throughout the year at resale stores and yard sales. The effort to be thrifty will make you extra proud of the great party you put on without breaking the bank.

Stop and Smell the Birthday Cake!

Don't let the party planning process become an all-consuming task. Stop and take time for yourself. Spend time with friends, enjoy your favorite hobby, read a good book - whatever makes you happy. Try to enjoy the process as much as the party day itself.

Keep Your Perspective and Keep Smiling

Above all, keep your perspective and your sense of humor. This is one party in a long line of parties you'll be hosting, so relax, keep it light and laugh a lot. Chances are, if you keep smiling, you and your guests will have a much better time!

Copyright 2004 Kids Party Paradise All Rights Reserved

Patricia B. Jensen is a mother of three and kids party enthusiast. She is the webmaster and owner of Kids-Party-Paradise.com - a complete resource for kids party ideas including invitations, cakes, decorations, games, costumes, favors, and food.

For all the latest party news, read her Kids Party Blog.

Shed Some Light on Energy Savings

1.New technologies such as cold cathode, fluorescent hibays, and compact fluorescents consume less than 50% of the electricity, while producing equal or more footcandles than their predecessors.

2.Because these retrofits are so productive in the reduction of KW consumption many electric utilities will incent business owners to convert. These rebates frequently cover up to 50% of the entire project cost, including labor! Combine the energy savings of reduced consumption with the generous rebates and most projects are cash flow neutral or even positive from day one. Can you say ROI?

3.Need more? Check out the Energy Act of 2005 signed recently by G.W. Effective January 1st, 2006 there are very attractive tax incentives in place for energy saving retrofits. Lighting, as always, qualifies. Have your tax consultant check it out at www.energy.gov.

4.Lighting energy audits are free! Lighting specialist companies will work with the local utility to recommend the most energy efficient system with the fastest R.O.I. for your facility. Typically it will be a turn key proposal where the utility trade ally handles all of the paperwork and project management.

5.Last but not least, let?s talk about social conscience. Keeping the world ?powered up? is depleting our natural resources while, at the same time, polluting our air and water. This is a serious matter that requires that each of us do what we can to address. If it happens that you save money at the same time?it?s OK.

Everyone knows we are not likely to see energy costs retreat anytime soon - maybe never. We can, however, take a proactive approach to conservation for our immediate benefit and for the future of our world.

Jim Coykendall is President of Budget Lighting, Inc. BLI Lighting Specialists owns the business product and information site BudgetLighting.com http://www.budgetlighting.com New energy saving products are added on a regular basis.

Babies Cost A Fortune!

There is an old saying and one that has a lot of truth in it, 'babies cost a fortune.'

Most new parents are surprised at how cash-draining a new baby can be. How can such a small individual eat into so much of the family budget?

Fortunately the expenses do not have to be incurred all at once. Planned or unplanned you have nine months (give or take) to prepare for the event and make some plan to deal with the undoubted expense that a new baby brings. There are several steps that expectant parents can take to help cut down on some of the major expenses that are expected.

Baby showers are great blessings for an expectant mother, especially a first time mother. It's a time when friends and family members literally shower the newborn with presents. I've known many a mother who was embarrassed to take advantage of the situation and ask for what she really needed. Don't be! A decent shower can often cover most of the immediate baby layette needs.

The normal practice is for a close friend or relation to host the shower and in reality they want you to drop hints, or even ask directly for what you need, it makes their job much easier.

How far in advance? Well the simple answer is as far in advance as possible.

Start adding diapers to your regular shopping list and try to pick up one or two packages each week. At this point you've got to think size. Start with a pack or two of the newborn size and then sizes one and two. If you have a bigger baby you don't want to be stuck with lots of newborn size diapers that you'll never use. If the baby is normal size it is easy to buy newborn sizes while you need them and rest easy in the knowledge that you're already stocked up on the next sizes up.

You'll find that grandparents are usually delighted to help out with some of the major expenses like cots and nursery furniture. Maybe you have some relations or in-laws who no longer need baby equipment. If asked they'll probably be more than willing to pass good unused equipment on.

If a used crib, stroller, or playpen is in good condition, there is no reason not to buy it over a new one. A lot of money can be saved here.

There is one item I would not buy second hand and that's the car seat. Safety must always come first and unless you buy new there is no way to be sure that it measures up to current safety standards.

Plan and think ahead and you'll find that you can save serious money perhaps enough to open a college account, and it's never to early to think of that either.

Kevin Hart lives in Armagh City, Ireland. He is an author and researcher. More articles on babies and toddlers can be found on his website at http://www.babies-worldwide.com