Guest post: Should You Give Your Teenager the Keys?

Should You Give Your Teenager the Keys?

When they’re babies you can hardly imagine that your kids will one day be independent adults. But before you know it, that sixteenth birthday arrives, and the adult responsibilities and freedoms of driving go along with it. Or do they? Unfortunately, adding a teenage driver to your auto insurance policy can mean a big rate hike for you. But there are some tactics you can use to keep the rate hike as low as possible.

Get the Discounts You Deserve

Insurance companies offer a number of discounts for their loyal customers. You may already be familiar with multiple-car discounts and safe-driver discounts, but here are a few others that your insurance company might have that could apply to your teenage driver:

• good student discounts—generally offered to students who maintain a B average or higher

• driver’s education—given with proof that your teen completed a driver’s training class

• insurance safety incentives—may be offered in conjunction with the addition of monitoring devices in your car to ensure your teen is driving responsibly

Choose Your Teen’s Car Carefully

You may be thinking of giving your teen a car for his or her birthday. Or maybe your teenager has plans to buy a car. Whether the car is brand new or an old clunker, some models just cost more to insure than others. Older cars are usually worth less than older ones, so they cost less to insure. Additionally, if you own the car outright, you aren’t required to buy full coverage on the vehicle. On the other hand, a car with safety features such as airbags and antilock brakes can merit discounts that some older cars may not qualify for. Some car models are magnets for thieves, and are more costly to insure. Other cars have a higher rate of accidents. Think twice before you select a car. Your agent can tell you how much it will cost to insure your drivers on each vehicle.

Changing Insurance Coverage

If you aren’t happy with the quotes you’ve received from your current agent, it might be time to look at other companies. Study your state’s requirements first, and determine how much insurance you want to have. That way, when you receive quotes from other companies, you can easily compare them because they will be for comparable levels of coverage. If you get a quote for high coverage from one company, and minimal coverage from another, it will be difficult to know which company will give you the most for your money.

Once you know what your state requires, you can make some adjustments. Some people increase their deductibles in order to lower their premiums. A good rule of thumb is to keep your deductible at a level that you can reasonably cover if you should need to.

But resist the temptation to cut too much. Especially with your child out there on the roads (or the sidewalks), you’ll want to make sure your coverage is adequate for your needs.

Making It Work for You

Having another licensed driver in your home does have its advantages. You’ll have more time because you won’t have to drive your teen around anymore. A teenager with a license is often glad to run errands and help in other ways just to have a legitimate reason to be behind the wheel. And driving helps your teenager learn responsibility. The insurance costs for new drivers may be high, but they can be made lower. And the benefits of your teen becoming a driver can be priceless.

Author Sandy Landsford is an accountant and blogs for carinsurance.org.uk, a site where you can get cheap car insurance. Get a quote today!

Guest Post: CookieCoo Dancing Star: Sing, Dance and Play for iPhone and iPad

CookieCoo Dancing Star: Sing, Dance and Play for iPhone and iPad

The CookieCoo Dancing Star is one of the smartest inventions of ThinkCube in this generation. As kids these days are become more exposed to technology, ThinkCube managed to take advantage of the digital world to introduce to its younger customers a game that will not only bring them massive entertainment but also a means to learn some of the basic  skills that every child must learn. This rhythm game is definitely more than meets the eye.

Kids are quite fond of coming up with some of the most bizarre creatures using their imagination and their love for singing and dancing are sure to cause you plenty of entertainment. But did you know that you can direct these skills of your kids in a more enjoyable way? You might have been thirsting for a few moments of reprieve from teaching your exuberant child so why not distract them with the CookieCoo Dancing Star? This game is definitely packed with some of the most unusual creatures not to mention catchy tunes that your kids can sing to when they start playing. For sure, they will get hooked the moment they start playing and you can have your moment's peace.

CookieCoo Dancing Star has an interface that is simple to understand. There are cues that direct kids on how to start the game so they can play. The different levels are designed to teach kids of all ages the benefits of having fun while studying. Little do your kids know that even as they play they are expanding their vocabulary while at the same time honing their coordination skills by developing their sense of sight, hearing and touching. This rhythm game has it all and the best part is that parents won't even spend a fortune for this game.

Aside from the rhythm game where you can teach your kids to tap the instrument where the notes fall on, there is also a “Watch” mode where your kids can simply watch the characters of the game dance and sing to the children's songs included in the CookieCoo Dancing Star game. These catchy tunes are sure to be loved by your little ones and they will definitely be singing to it every now and then. There is simply no question that CookieCoo Dancing Star is a game that any parent should have in their arsenal. And at just less than $1.00, this game can go a long way.

iPhone: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cookiecoo-dancing-star/id489072048?mt=8

iPad: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cookiecoo-dancingstar-hd/id495611023?mt=8

Guest Post by Peter, Peter work with many Korean developers and publishers with consulting and promotion. 

Couponing Tips for Busy Dads

Couponing Tips for Busy Dads

Juggling work, kids, after-school events, and responsibilities at home can make for one hectic schedule. If you're a busy dad with a full plate, you may feel like you want to save some money by couponing, but simply don't have the time to squeeze one more thing in. The good news here is that you really can do it--and the money that you save by using coupons may well be worth the little bit of time you invest in collecting them. Here are some tips to make couponing easier and more efficient for all of those busy dads out there.

Get a Coupon Buddy

Collecting coupons does take some time--looking for them, printing them, and cutting them out may seem like too much if you're pressed for time. This is where a "coupon buddy" can come in really handy. If you're married, ask your spouse to help you. If you're single, ask a relative, friend, or neighbor to be your coupon buddy. You can take turns collecting coupons from the newspaper or online couponing sites--just make a list of what you're looking for so that you both know what to clip. If you both want the same coupon, you can usually print out additional ones by using the back button on your browser. It also doesn't hurt for you both to subscribe to the Sunday paper--it's usually full of money-saving coupons and sales ads. You can both benefit from some big savings and you'll be helping each other out by collecting coupons for each other. If you have trouble finding a coupon buddy, consider asking one of your children to help you out. Kids often love to help with tasks like these, and it's something that will allow you to spend some time together while doing something productive.

Stay Organized 

Organization is the key to successful couponing, so find a system that works for you--one that makes it easier for you to coupon, not harder. Binders work wonderfully for storing coupons, and you can use sports card protectors to store individual coupon stashes for easy viewing and quick removal. You can also use a small folder with pockets or a recipe box to organize and store you coupons. Decide which one method of organizing you like best and then take a few minutes each day to flip through and eliminate the coupons that have expired so that you have room for new ones. If you don't clean out your coupon binder or box on a regular basis, you'll end up spending too much time on it later because there will be too many to manage.

Pick a Focus

If you're new to couponing, the whole thing can seem entirely overwhelming at first. Couponing requires some patience in the beginning--and for some shoppers it's best to ease into it slowly. The easiest way to do this is to pick a focus. Take a look at your grocery list and pick out some of the higher-priced items. Cleaning supplies and toiletries usually tend to be some of the pricier items on most lists, so focus on finding coupons just for those items to start out. After you get the hang of couponing, you can gradually look for more coupons for other items in order to get some additional savings. 

Use Couponing Resources and Apps

There are countless coupon sites, tools, blogs, and apps that can help reduce the amount of time you need to devote to couponing. Several online resources can do searches for you, saving and bookmarking only the coupons that you'll use according to what you typically shop for. Check out coupon blogs to find out which sites will be the most useful to you--and pick up more couponing tips along the way. If you have a smartphone, download a couponing app. A good coupon app will allow you to make a grocery list and search for relevant coupons directly from your phone. 

Couponing is much easier than most dads might think. With these helpful tips, a minimal time investment, and a bit of patience, even the busiest of dads will find that couponing is well-worth the money it saves.

Guest post from Adam. Adam shares coupons for dads through FrugalDad.com.

THE LONE RANGER Coming Soon!

From producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Gore Verbinski comes Disney/Bruckheimer Films' THE LONE RANGER. Tonto (Johnny Depp), a spirit warrior on a personal quest, joins forces in a fight for justice with John Reid (Armie Hammer), a lawman who has become a masked avenger.

THE LONE RANGER will be released in May 2013.

Over Thirty Mommy's thoughts:
I am a fan of most anything that Johnny Depp does.  I might even go so far as to say he has replace my teenage crush on Christian Slater, maybe not totally but shh don't tell my husband I have two crushes! I remember the Lone Ranges days from my youth and am looking forward to seeing this movie.  It might be a stretch to make Johnny Depp into Tonto the Spirit Warrior but who other than Captain Jack Sparrow could pull of wearing a Black Crow on his head and still look HOT (Hmm, I am sensing a bit of a bird theme going on here!).  I'll check it out just because he is in the movie!

Primrose Schools© Family Dance-off competition: $81,000 in Prizes

The Primrose Schools, the leader in educational child care, is once again holding a Family Dance-off contest. A Family Dance-off is a great way to spend time together as a family having fun and exercising, The Family Dance-off supports Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, a non-profit organization that raises funds for more than 170 children’s hospitals, which collectively treat 17 million children annually for every illness and injury imaginable.

Here's how you and your family can enter the Primrose Schools^© Family Dance-off competition:

1. Record a 30-second video of your family's best dance moves. Don't be afraid to let loose and be silly!
2. Visit www.familydanceoff.com and upload your best take between February 25th and March 23rd.
3. Share your video with your friends via email, Facebook, Twitter, etc.
4. View and vote daily (you can place one vote per day per device) for your favorite family dance video!

No contest is complete without amazing prizes. Primrose Schools^© is providing prizes that are great for your family and your community too, with $81,000 in donations to Children's Miracle Network Hospitals^©:

• 16 families will receive a $1,000 donation to their Children's Miracle Network Hospital^© and advance to the finalist round from March 26-30 to compete for the grand, second and third prizes.
• Grand Prize: $5,000 and Primrose Schools^© will make a $30,000 donation to their Children's Miracle Network Hospital^©
• 2nd Prize: $3,000 and Primrose Schools^© will make a $20,000 donation to their Children's Miracle Network Hospital^©
• 3rd Prize: $1,500 and Primrose Schools^© will make a $15,000 donation to their Children's Miracle Network Hospital^©

Childhood obesity is a critical issue for young children in America. Dance is a fun, easy way to incorporate physical activity into your family's routine while enjoying quality time together. The Family Dance-off supports Children's Miracle Network Hospitals^©, a non-profit organization that raises funds for more than 170 children's hospitals, which collectively treat 17 million children annually for every illness and injury imaginable.

This post was written as part of a public service campaign for MomSelect. It has not been monetarily compensated however I have received an entry into a drawing for a gift card in exchange for my participation.

Summer Camping: A Three Year Old's View

Summer Camping: A Three Year Old's View

For a year or so now my husband has been talking about getting a camper for our truck so that we can take our daughter camping.  Both he and I grew up camping, I real camping in a tent and he light weight camping in a camper or trailer.

I have to admit, we borrowed his parents 5th wheel a couple time while we lived in Wyoming and I can't blame him for being a light weight camper.  With the ever present threat of bears, mountain lions and the comforts of not trekking in the dark (with a flashlight that you know will run out of juice any second) to find your way to a bathroom (or bush!).  Being warm and dry on nights when it rained did not suck!  Having a bed to sleep on was not all bad and having a shower was pretty nice when stuck in close quarters for long periods of time.

He had his mind set that this was the year, our daughter is three and we believe ready to experience camping.   I asked her a few times if she would like to go camping and fishing this summer with Mommy and Daddy.  Her response 90% of the time was "can I roast marshmallows" to which I replied sure and she then agreed that camping would be fun

I told him to pick what he wanted and let me know.  He felt I needed to view the options in person and get a feel for the different sizes so off we went to the Portland RV show this past weekend.  Before leaving I asked Bean if she wanted to go look at campers, her response was "yes, can I roast marshmallows".  What is it with this girl and marshmallows?  Of course I responded, not yet but maybe if we go camping this summer.

I thought we were going to look but we ended up purchasing the cute pop-up camper above from Apache Camping Center. 

As soon as we got to the show, Bean was asking if it was camping time so that she could roast marshmallows (seriously, again with the marshmallows!).  Then for some reason she started thinking that Camping was a movie or show and every sound on the PA she started talking about how we had to get going because Camping was starting and she didn't want to miss it.

After we got home she was even more confused since we did not bring a camper home with us.  Here is the conversations that followed that evening:
Conversation #1
Bean: Is it camping time?
Me: No, not until summer
Bean: Is it summer?
Me: Not, it is spring
Bean: Can I have marshmallows?
Me: When we go camping
Bean: Next week?
Me: No, this summer
Bean: Hmmmm (runs off to play)

Conversation #2 (about 2 hours later)
Bean: Where is my fishing pole?
Me: At Grandma and Grandpa M's
Bean: Well then how am I going to fish? (in a snarky tone of voice, where did she get that?  I have no idea!)
Me: We will get you a new one for here
Bean: Then I want a Hello Kitty pole! (very matter of factly!)
Me: OK, I will see if we can find one

I have been avoiding the topic of camping since the weekend because I can not find any more ways to tell her she can not roast marshmallows for another 3 months.  I am sure there will be more conversations about marshmallows, fishing and many more topics after we bring home our new camper next weekend and every day after that when she sees it in the back yard.

Man it is going to be a long 3 months! I might crack and let her roast the darn marshmallows in the back yard just so she will stop asking!

**Disclaimer: This post is a personal story about my family, it was not sponsored in anyway.**

COMING SOON: MARVEL'S THE AVENGERS

COMING SOON: MARVEL'S THE AVENGERS

I am really looing forward to this movie.  My husband and I rarely get out to see movies but I am going to make sure we make it to this one.  It has something for everyone!

1. Superheros - Check
2. Super hunky male characters - Check and double check!
3. Very attractive female character in tightly clad outfits - Check
4. Action packed  - Checkety check
5. Uber hot male actors showing their muscles - ok, similar to #2 but there are many of them so it warranted a second CHECK!!!

Connect with Marvel's The Avengers now and be ready for the May 4th opening!

“Like” MARVEL’S THE AVENGERS on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MarvelsTheAvengers

Follow MARVEL’S THE AVENGERS on Twitter: twitter.com/avengers

MARVEL’S THE AVENGERS hits theaters everywhere on May 4^th!

How Moms Become Managers

How Moms Become Managers

As a mom, you already have a challenging job. You’re no stranger to juggling the demands of a family, a job -- and dare we even suggest it -- a personal life.

While it can be hard to imagine fitting anything else into your already hectic schedule, keeping yourself competitive in the workplace is a must. Online education is perfectly suited to the busy life you lead. You might be surprised at how flexible online degree programs can be. Some traditional colleges and universities offer certain classes online, while other schools are exclusively online. Programs include everything from business management and nursing to human resources management and accounting. Degrees ranging from bachelor's to Ph.D. can be earned online.

Enjoy a Flexible Schedule

While almost everyone enjoys the flexibility of online learning, some people need a routine to help them complete assignments. It’s generally best to schedule a regular time to devote to your online studies. This makes it easier to take care of everything else you need to do during the day without stressing yourself out too much. You're still going to have deadlines for your class work, but - unlike traditional school - you can usually turn your work in early without penalty. Some programs let you work ahead. This way you can schedule weekend fun and other activities without worrying about getting your classwork done. Tests and quizzes usually have  to be completed within a specific amount of time -- perhaps a few hours -- but you can still take your tests at a convenient time for you, say when the kids are at school.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Given the adaptability of online programs, there isn't any reason why you can't keep your current job as you obtain an online degree. Earning a degree can help you get ahead at work by making you eligible for a promotion or advancement within the company. You can also use your online degree to pursue a new career. Some prospective employers are wiling to hire you while you get your education, with the stimulation that you complete the program and earn a degree. Online courses can also serve as refresher courses to keep you current in your field or to give you an advantage at work. Make it known to your employer or company's HR department that you are taking online classes. In today's economic climate, anything that can make you a more valuable asset at work helps.

Paying for Your Online Education

According to the U.S. Department of Education, tuition for an online school is generally lower than what you would pay for a traditional school. Your total expenses depend on how many classes you are taking. You also save on costs normally associated with commuting and typical classroom supplies such as books. Most online programs allow you to download everything you need, including reading materials, lectures, assignments and other course-related materials. Some online programs give you access to video lectures and presentations. If you're not sure if online learning is right for you, consider taking one online class to see if it fits into your schedule.

Some online programs allow you to transfer some or all credits you may have from traditional schools. In reality, the only thing you need to earn a degree online is a desire to better yourself. Most programs are affordable. Schedules are flexible and you'll have plenty of support along the way. You already manage family responsibilities and a half dozen other little things everyday. The flexibility of an online degree program means that you can turn your natural management skills into a better, higher paying job or an entirely new career.

 

Christopher Jensen, a stay-at-home father of three, earned his journalism degree through an online program. He now writes about many topics including how to find the best auto insurance plans to meet the requirements of those looking for rhode island auto insurance coverage.

Gerber Voluntarily Withdraws a Batch of Gerber® Good Start® Infant Formula

Gerber Voluntarily Withdraws a Specific Batch of Gerber® Good Start® Infant Formula and Offers Replacement Product to Consumers

Gerber Products Company is proactively retrieving and offering a replacement to consumers who purchased Gerber® Good Start® Gentle powdered infant formula 23.2 ounce plastic package from batch GXP1684 expiration date of March 5, 2013.

The product poses no health or safety risk. However, this product might have an off-odor noticeable to some consumers. In some cases spit-up and other gastrointestinal complaints have been reported.
Consumers who have the product with the batch code and expiration date above should contact the Gerber Parents Resource Center at 1-800-487-7763 for replacement. Additionally, Gerber is working with retailers to retrieve any remaining product from this batch.

Please note, this is limited to only one Gerber® Good Start® Gentle powder manufacturing code, and no other Gerber® or Gerber® Good Start® products are affected or involved.
At Gerber, the safety and quality of our products is our top priority. If parents or caregivers have questions, Gerber is here for them. They can call the Parents Resource Center anytime, day or night, at 1-800-487-7763.

 

Kushyfoot Flats-To-Go

I love my high heeled shoes!  I have a closet full of uncomfortable but ultra cute shoes.  My husband is always telling me to stop wearing them and go with something more functional.  We always joke that I am more about fashion than function.  

Sadly for the past year my beloved shoes have sat quietly locked behind my closet door.  My new job required that (other than walking into or out of the building) I wear stark white plain tennis shoes, outside shoes, heels and open toes shoes are expressly forbidden.  I know BORING!!!!!

For Christmas, my sister-in-law presented my husband and I with tickets to a fancy New Years Eve party.  So, for the first time in 12 years, my husband and I went out for New Years this year.  We got all gussied up went to a fantastic party and danced the night away.  As the night went on, my feet started killing me since I was out of practice wearing fancy high heels. 

kushyfoot Flats-to-go to the rescue!

As the night came to a close, I had zero desire to continue wearing my heels and even less desire to walk the streets of downtown Portland in my bare feet.  So I slipped off my heels and pulled my Kushyfoot flats-to-go out of my purse and I was good to go.

About Kushyfoot: 
Kushyfoor legwear products are made by Doris International, one of North America's finest hosiery manufacturers available in more than 30 foot comfort based styles, they deliver unheard-of comfort and high-end quality at surprisingly reasonable prices.  In addition to Flats-to-go, the collection includes tights, almost invisible foot covers, toe covers, trouser socks, mitten socks, yoga socks, and athletic varieties plus shoe solution cushions - many with reflexology inspired soles that work with every different type of shoe silhouette.  All of these items are readily available nationwide and online at www.kushyfoot.com.  Prices range fron $3.99 - $9.99.
 
About Flats-to-go:
Soft, flexible faux leather Flats-to-go® are an instant and elegant solution to a perennial need for the relief of sore heels, blisters and scrunched up toes. Featuring an elastic back for a better fit, and a unique, 3-dimensional wavy sole that cushions and massages the foot as the wearer walks-perfect for indoor and smooth outdoor surfaces. They slip neatly and easily into their owner's purse, folded into a cute clear plastic carrier with its own little handles.


The full line from Kushyfoot are available online and at these retailers.  

Make sure to connect with Kushyfoot on Facebook & Twitter.

  **Disclaimer: I received a free product in exchange for my honest review. I was not compensated in any other manner.  All thoughts and opinions are my own. Other people may have different experiences with the products.**

Freschetta Rally for Real Pizza! Win Freschetta for a Year!

Freschetta Rally for Real Pizza! 

 Win Freschetta for a Year!

Frozen pizza shouldn’t simply taste better. It should be better. Freschetta®frozen pizzas are made with top-quality ingredients and taste-tested recipes, just to make sure your pizza will always deliver Fresch® flavor.

You can join Freschetta's Rally for Real Pizza by submitting a photo to the Rally Mosaic on Facebook. Each week they will select 100 winners to each receive 5 Freschetta® Pizzas. On March 30, they will also select 10 winners who will each receive Freschetta® Pizza for a year!

"Rally for Real Pizza" by pledging to boycott "blah" and serve only the freshest frozen pizza - FRESCHETTA® pizza!

Details:

Date -	February 27, 2012 - March 30, 2012
What -	Rally for Real Pizza
Where -	From the comfort of your own home
Details -	Starting February 27, 2012 on www.Facebook.com/Freschettapizza

The makers of FRESCHETTA® products will be asking fans to take a stand for FRESCH® pizza! Fans will be able to submit a photo to a Rally Mosaic on our Facebook Fan Page for a chance to win FRESCHETTA® pizza. Each week, we will select 100 winners to receive 5 FRESCHETTA® pizzas. On March 30, we will select 10 winners who will receive a year supply of FRESCHETTA® pizza. You can find all the delicious details surrounding this campaign on the message board in FreschettaFreshConnection.com. 

Disclaimer: I occasionally receive compensation in the form of products for posts. However, the opinions I share are solely my own. I have the possibility of winning prizes for posting this.

Itzy Bitzy Klippie Klub Review and Giveaway

My daughter is a little fashionista!  She loves dressing up (what 3 year old doesn't) but it is so much more than that.  She loves shoes, purses (she got her first Coach purse at 11 months), hats, scarves, gloves, and anything else she can use to accessorize her outfit of choice for the day.

She received a Barbie Powerwheel Jeep from Santa for Christmas this year and had to get dressed up and accessorize before she would get in to ride it around the house.  That is how crazy she is about accessories.

About a month or so ago, right around her third birthday, she started to grow an affinity for hair clips. Now that she is showing interest in accessorizing her hair along with the rest of her body, I have started finding her cute hair clips, headbands and bows to complete her ensembles!

The hard part is that she likes to change it up on a regular basis and does not wear the same clips over and over.  That is where the Itzy Bitzy Klippie Klub comes in.

A Little About Itzy Bitzy
Itzy Bitzy Designs was founded in October 2007 by Michelle Ruesch, RDH and is based in Rancho Cucamonga, CA.  Itzy Bitzy is committed to providing "Adorable, yet still affordable footwear and accessories" for infants and toddlers as well as educating the public and increasing acceptance of children with differences.  For more information, visit www.itzybitzy.com

About the Klippie Klub
The Klippie Klub, clip of the month club, is the perfect way to build a hair accessories collection.  A Klippie Klub membership will insure that your little fashionista will always have the perfect hair accessory for any outfit, without breaking the bank.

How exciting will it be for your little on to receive a new assortment, each month, of unique, adorable hair accessories valued at $40 retail for a 50-70% savings! 

There are two membership levels for Klippie Klub members to select from:
Kasual $18.99 per month: Receive over 50% savings, Free Shipping, no commitment (cancel any time)
Krazy $15.99 per month: Receive over 70% savings, free shipping, 6 month commitment

In addition to a 70% savings on each monthly collection, Krazy Klippie Klub members also receive $65 in FREE products.  Krazy Klippie Klub members receive their first monthly kit ($40 retail value) and the Klippie Klutch Hair Accessories organizer and travel bag ($25 retail value) for no additional charge (pay only $4.99 for S&H)

Over Thirty Mommy's Thoughts:
I think the Klippie Klub is a wonderful idea.  My daughter LOVES to receive packages in the mail and was thrilled when she opened her first monthly shipment of Klippies from Itzy Bitzy.   She spent the rest of the evening running around trying on all her new clips with and with out the headband to see which was her favorite.  We loaded them all into her Klippie Klutch and off she went carrying it around like a purse.

I found the clips to be of a high quality and like that they can be worn both alone or as part of a headband making them very versatile and changing up the look for my ever demanding diva!

Klippie Klub Giveaway

Nurture Yourself and Your Children Through a Car Accident

Nurture Yourself and Your Children Through a Car Accident

Few life events frighten mothers and children as much as traffic accidents. Unexpected, quick and traumatic, even minor accidents make moms and kids feel vulnerable, powerless and helpless. In the immediate aftermath of a traffic accident, however, you must summon the very best of your parenting skills and wisdom, doing everything in your power to make certain you and your children are safe and receive proper care. Marshall all your patience and courage to get through the rough stuff, promising yourself the luxury of falling apart later. Take three significant steps:

• Stay calm! Honor your responsibilities, and care for yourself first. You know your children will mirror or mimic your reaction to the accident. If you panic, they will panic; and your shared panic will exacerbate the difficulty of everything about the accident. Therefore, first and foremost, do everything you must to stay cool, calm, clear-headed, and composed. As the law requires, immediately but carefully move your car out of the flow of traffic, call emergency services and the police, and call your insurance company. If one of the best companies insures you, a claims representative may talk you through the whole situation until help arrives. If you are hurt, take care of your own needs first, because you cannot effectively care for your children if you are seriously impaired. Do not , however, get so caught-up in discussing the accident with your insurance rep or caring for your own wounds that you get distracted from the children, who require your undivided attention after you are stabilized. Briefly reassure the children that everything will be fine, and then focus on asking questions about how they feel.

• Do some serious “mommy triage.” As you assess the seriousness and extent of your children’s injuries, progress from youngest child to oldest, and follow a mental checklist that progresses from most serious injury to least serious. Check first for indications of head injury and the possibility of concussion. If younger children were belted securely in their car seats, they have only minimal risk of head trauma, but check them very carefully anyway. See if the straps have left marks on their skin, because those marks could indicate the possibility of soft-tissue injuries. Also ask if their tummies hurt, because the big safety buckles on car seats can sometimes injure abdominal organs or muscles.

If slightly older children were strapped into seat-belts, they may or may not have triggered the built-in restraint systems. Therefore, you have to check them out a little more carefully and with more aggressive questions. Check for concussion and soft tissue injuries by asking if they bumped their heads or if it hurts when they rotate their heads and shoulders. Ask them if they feel soreness in their stomachs or their backs. Because soft-tissue injuries take 24 to 48 hours to develop, keep checking the kids for signs of injury for at least three days after the accident. Do not trigger their distress by asking too many questions, though; instead, monitor their behavior and their sleep patterns. If they play, east, and nap like always, they’re fine.

After you assess the kids’ physical injuries, look for signs of extreme stress. Of course, the kids will feel shaken and scared, and you should encourage them to release as much of their stress as they can in tears. Feel free to release a few of your own tears, too. Because children show amazing resilience, they may calm down and get on with their regular play and learning almost as if nothing had happened. Do not fear that this quick return to normal is some sneaky coping mechanism; it really does mean the kids are fine. If, on the other hand, the children seem exceptionally needy, fearful or apprehensive, talk with them about their feelings and decide whether or not they should see a physician or counselor.

• Do not hesitate to get professional help. As always, your maternal instinct serves as the best barometer of the situation’s seriousness. If you harbor the least little doubt about the children’s physical or emotional health, get a physician’s or psychologist’s help. Your regular health insurance ought to cover these examinations; or, in most cases, car insurance will cover them—either your own or the insurance that covers the driver responsible for the accident. Do not allow worry about cost to prevent you from seeking the care your children need.

After a serious car accident, the cardinal rules of parenting apply with extra urgency. Pay more than usually careful attention to the kids’ behavior and affects, looking for signs of trauma or ongoing stress. If the children seem apprehensive about getting back into the car for the regular trips around town, get them to talk about how they feel, and consult them about what it will take for them to feel safe again. Experts stress, the more children feel empowered and believe they have some measure of control over their circumstances and safety, the quicker they will bounce back from accidents. Exert extreme caution about cultivating “the victim mentality,” because their feelings of weakness and vulnerability will seriously subvert their confidence and self-esteem. Remember, most of all, your children follow your examples. Therefore, get control of your own doubts and apprehensiveness, going out of your way to show your “normal,” natural mommy’s-driving face as you get behind the wheel for the first few weeks after the accident.

Lisa Tulley is a stay at home blogger and writes for www.Kanetix.ca, a site where you can get quotes for kanetix auto insurance. She knows this site can help you find your cheapest car insurance rates!

Managing your small business

Managing your small business

The article written by Alonso Kramer

When it comes to managing your small business have you thought about how you are going to do it? There are many small business that will start up this year but most of them will not still be around by Christmas. Part of the reason for that will be poor planning and bad management. I think that people think you can just up and start charging people for something with no plan or forethought whatsoever. The fact of the matter is that planning and management are two of the key things that you have to do when you start a business. One of the things that you will most definitely need no matter what kind of company it is will be internet connection. Most businesses will need a fast one. I recommend t1.xo.com. They have been great for my small business over the past year since I started using them and I would recommend them to any friend or family member. The next thing I would recommend that you do is make a business plan.

Gevalia Kaffe Review and Giveaway

About Gevalia Kaffe:

Gevalia Kaffe is much more than your average ‘cup of joe.’ It’s a Swedish-style break from the usual coffee grind. Perfected by the Swedes’ passion for quality coffee for more than 150 years, Gevalia is an exquisitely rich smooth coffee experience that is never bitter. Gevalia isn’t just coffee, it’s ‘Kaffe’ to savor.

• The Swedes know a thing or two about coffee. They know quality coffee should be savored and enjoyed. They also know you deserve a more unique/special coffee experience than what you can pick up on every street corner.
• Gevalia is a luxurious departure from the everyday, an escape from the routine cup of coffee. Whether it’s a morning ritual made just for you, or the finishing touch at a dinner party, it brings the taste of Swedish-style luxury into your home.
• In Sweden, where the citizens drink more coffee than almost anywhere else in the world, Gevalia is their preferred brand.
  • In fact, Gevalia enjoys the honor of being an official coffee of the Swedish Royal Court.

Gevalia, now available at Safeway, brings unexpected Swedish-style luxury and rich, never bitter taste to the Safeway grocery aisle.

• Gevalia has been refining the art of luxurious coffee since 1853 and has a deep history of finding and blending the finest Arabica coffee beans from locations around the world.
• Gevalia is expertly made with carefully selected beans, ground extra fine, to produce a rich coffee experience.
• Previously available online only, Gevaliais now offering its top-ten varieties in U.S. coffee supermarket aisles nationwide in 10 varieties, including roast and ground, whole bean, flavored and decaffeinated varieties:
  • Gevalia Traditional Roast (ground and whole bean):
    Gevalia Traditional Roast provides a perfectly balanced taste every time. Our most beloved blend – made of choice, mountain-grown Arabica beans – this coffee has a distinctive body and flavor with a lighter intensity. (Medium Roast).
  • Gevalia House Blend:
    A Gevalia favorite, House Blend is a robust yet never bitter coffee. This roast has a captivating aroma that is only matched by its exceptional flavor. (Medium/Dark Roast).
  • Gevalia House Blend Decaf :
    Delivering the same rich, never bitter flavor, House Blend Decaf has the same robust taste without all the caffeine. (Medium/Dark Roast).
  • Gevalia French Roast (ground and whole bean):
    Gevalia French Roast is a coffee of impressive richness and dimension, expertly crafted from prized Arabica beans grown in Colombia and Brazil. Hints of aromatic smoke give this dark-roasted French Roast blend an intense, yet uniquely satisfying flavor. (Dark Roast).
  • Gevalia Colombia:
    Grown high in the Colombian Andes, these beans produce a rich, bright and well-bodied Colombian coffee. This single origin classic is world-renowned, which is why we have sourced these beans for decades. (Medium Roast).
  • Gevalia Espresso Roast:
    Gevalia Espresso Roast is made of premium, mountain-grown Arabica beans from East Africa and Central and South America. This roast is bold and full-bodied with a hint of caramel undertones. (Dark Roast).
  • Gevalia Vanilla:
    This rich blend with vanilla flavor notes is crafted from choice mountain-grown Arabica beans, then roasted for exceptional body and flavor. GevaliaVanilla is a flavorful and balanced experience with a heavenly aroma.
  • Gevalia Chocolate Mocha:
    Gevalia Chocolate Mocha allows you to indulge your passion for decadent flavor. Rich, velvety chocolate flavor is blended with mountain-grown Arabica beans for a sweetly satisfying experience.

With its Swedish heritage and rich, never bitter taste, Gevalia is a premium coffee unlike any other.

• Having Gevalia in your kitchen means you care about the quality of the coffee you consume and enjoy rich, authentic flavors.
• Gevalia offers a variety of authentic rich flavors that are perfect for everything from a relaxing morning cup of coffee to an indulgent after dinner compliment.

Gevalia Kaffee Prize Pack Giveaway

One lucky US reader will win

• 1) sample of the House Blend from Gevalia Kaffe
• (1) sample of the French Roast Blend from Gevalia Kaffe
• A Gevalia Kaffe branded coffee mug