Dinnertime Can be a Fun Learning Experience

Throughout the holidays and beyond, make family meals a tradition in your home.

The holiday season will present many opportunities for families to gather together and share a meal. But for parents who are looking to promote learning and positive communication, family dinners should not be reserved for just festive occasions.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, eating dinner together as a family every night keeps the doors of communication open between parents and children. Furthermore, family dinners are also a perfect opportunity for moms and dads to teach children about eating healthy and making good food choices.

"Although hectic schedules have made family dinners a thing of the past, there is compelling evidence that sitting down at a table to share a meal is an ideal environment for family interaction," said Laura Olson, vice president of education for Kiddie Academy International. "In addition to discussing the school-related events, dinnertime is the perfect time to talk about healthy eating topics, such as the five food groups and the importance of having different colors of food on your plate."

Olson notes that families should aim to sit down to a meal most nights of the week for a minimum of 30 minutes. A home-cooked meal is not necessarily required; families can connect just fine over takeout served at the family dinner table.

For those parents wondering how they can make the most of family dinners, Olson offers the following tips:

· Be curious - Showing an interest in a child's likes and dislikes can result in the child feeling appreciated, respected and emotionally secure. Ultimately, the child experiences a surge in self-confidence, which can positively shape his or her developmental progress in the classroom.

· Get creative with conversation – Lively dialog is crucial to getting your kids to listen and share, so have all family members tell their favorite part or biggest challenge of the day. Not only will this give everyone a glimpse into each other's routine, but it will also help kids expand their vocabulary with new and intriguing words.

· Be specific in your questions – Instead of just inquiring about the day at school, ask about a particular book the child may be reading or an art project he or she may be crafting. This will help the child foster ideas and opinions about the assignment that he or she may not have previously considered.

· Let kids plan the menu – Getting children involved in the planning aspect of dinner gets them accustomed to thinking ahead and following step-by-step directions. Additionally, cooking is a great way to have them practice their math skills, such as adding fractions.

At Kiddie Academy, lunch is served in a family style dining environment, which offers children the opportunity to develop their “people” and communication skills. This approach mimics a family dinnertime experience and builds on Kiddie Academy’s character education concepts.
For more information about Kiddie Academy, please visit http://www.kiddieacademy.com/.

Inexpensive Outdoor Bird Treats

As the snow piles up in our Northern climates a good way to attract (and help out) birds is to supply a food source for them. However, some of these outdoor feeders can be pricey, as well as the feed that goes in them.

Here's an inexpensive recipe I use to help out my feathered friends throughout the winter months. Plus, it's only a few ingredients that most people have stocked in their cupboards.

Ingredients;

1 bagel

3 tbsp lard

2 tbsp peanut butter

bird seed (optional)

* Take a bagel (any flavour except chocolate) cut in half and freeze.

* In a small pot, melt 3 tbsp of lard then add 2 tbsp of peanut butter (crunchy is best) and blend together.

* Spread onto bagel halves (careful it will be hot and runny)

*Sprinkle bird seed on top while still warm

Refreeze

After the bagel is good and frozen, take it and hang close to tree trunk or put into a suet holder.

The birds love this, especially woodpeckers and will thank you for it by visiting your tree :)

Fun, Inexpensive Entertainment? Bird Watching

Did you know…

…according to a survey done by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, 51.3 million Americans watch birds?

…bird watching is the number one sport in the world over baseball, basketball, football and hockey?

…North America alone has over 800 species of birds and at least 100 species in any given area?

Even though it's winter, you can still gather up the family and take a peek at what nature has to offer. Bird watching or “Birding” has been gaining popularity and is an inexpensive, educational and fun way to spend some quality time with the kids. But before you grab your snow boots here are a few tips to help get the most out of your birding day.

Equipment:

Like any sport, bird watching requires some tools. First you’ll need a good pair of binoculars. These can range in price and in quality. Binoculars are identified by two numbers. The first number is the power of magnification level and the second number is the lens size, which determines how much light is let in. Example 7 x 25 set means the object will appear seven times closer and the field of vision is 25mm. For more specific information on binoculars visit Binoculars101.com - (http://www.binoculars101.com/). This web site is designed with specific information for all your binocular needs.

A bird guide book for the area you plan on visiting is a definite “must have.” This will help you locate and identify the species of birds you come across. Depending on the guide, these books can either have actual photographs of the birds or an artist’s rendition of them. They will also offer more detailed specifications of each species such as size, beak shapes, color/markings, tail feathers etc. As well as what areas the birds are most commonly found in, any call they make and what they like to eat. National Geographic: A Guide to Birding Hot Spots of the United States is highly recommended.

Destinations:

Okay so you have your equipment ready, now all you need is a destination. Depending on where you live, you may not need to go any further than your own window, local park or wildlife preserve. However, if you’re after more exotic birds to watch, BirdingPal.com is your ticket;(http://www.birdingpal.com/).

This web site is your complete guide to planning any birding vacation. Whether you’re looking for the Red-Lored Whistler of Australia or a Wreathed Hornbill in Thailand, Birdingpal.com gives you information on specific locations, accommodations, upcoming tours and even guides for hire once you get there. Of course with all vacations if you make your travel arrangements in advance there’s always a good chance you’ll get a discount.

Other good places to stay are Bed and Breakfasts. In fact http://www.bird-watching-vacation.com/ation.com/ lists B&B’s that are located in prime “Birding” areas.

National Wildlife Refuges http://www.fws.gov/refuges boosts 150 million acres dedicated to 550 national wildlife refuges. To find one near you simply visit their web site and type in your zip code.

The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in Chesapeake ,VA is any bird watchers dream. Located in SE Virginia and NE North Carolina, this forested wetland has over 200 species of birds in and among its 112,000 acres.

Deloras Freeman, Visitor Specialist with the Refuge tells us, “Spring is the best time to view songbirds. They are their most vocal when establishing territories and attracting mates.” However, she says, “Woodpeckers are entertaining all year, as are owls.” And the “Waterfowl migrate in large numbers in the spring and fall.” She recommends that you “Move slowly and quietly. If you are in a big group, stay relatively close together so you can move slowly as one. Be mindful of the noise your clothing may make and never disturb nesting birds.”

So whether you plan a vacation to watch birds or just start out in your own back yard, Ms. Freeman reminds us to “Be patient with young birders and make it fun. Help them first be able to recognize and name the birds they see most often in their neighbourhood.” This could lead to birding being a “lifetime hobby.”

For more information on The Great Dismal Swamp, check out their web site at; http://www.fws.gov/northeast/greatdismalswamp

Note - all these pictures were taken in my own backyard :)

HINT Cocktails

With Christmas over and New Years Eve just around the corner, I'm sure we've all over-indulged in too many tasty treats. But did you know the mixers you may be drinking can actually be packing on the pounds as well?

Why not try a “healthy cocktail” alternative to shake up your next holiday dinner party.

Instead of the usual spritzer, juice or soda, substitute your mixer with a HINT of Pomegranate-Tangerine or Mango-Grapefruit flavoured. Whether sipped alone or added as a mixer to your favorite vodka or rum, HINT is a perfect alternative for a healthy holiday drink. It has no carbs, calories, sugar or sodium and still gives your cocktail a delicious taste without adding on those extra pounds!

Plus, these recipes could easily be made into a "Mocktail" for a non-alcoholic, refreshing punch.

Have a safe New Years Eve and if you're going to drink, drink responsibly :)

http://hintwater.com/

Tips on Holiday Tipping

By Sheila Lirio Marcelo, Founder of www.Care.com (http://www.care.com/)

Gift-giving can be confusing, especially when it comes to caregivers and other service providers. Determining the etiquette behind finding the right gift for the right person is a tough challenge! I've put together a few tips and tricks to help guide your family when it comes thanking your caregivers this holiday season.

Tips for Child Care Providers:

• Nannies and Au Pairs: If you have a full-time nanny, offer them a tip or a "Christmas bonus" that reflects 10-15 percent of one week's pay.

• Regular babysitters: If you have a regular, go-to sitter who takes care of your children regularly, thank her (or him!) with a tip or a gift ranging from one or two night's pay—whatever equals about a week's worth of service.

• Coaches, tutors, and instructors: I always like to have Adam involved in thanking his teachers with a small gift or a thank-you card and a gift certificate.

• Pet sitters: If you have someone regularly take care of your animals while you're at work or traveling, say thank you with a week's pay. And if your dog is like Blake and Sydney and requires regular visits to a groomer, don't forget them, either!

• Home-care attendants and caregivers: I suggest a thank-you of one week's pay, but give two weeks for extra special care or long-term service.

If money is tight, you can be creative about saying thank you for your regular caregivers. Often, families give them a few extra days in paid time off to use throughout the year. Your cost remains the same, but you don't have to worry about finding extra funds for gifts around the holidays.

But beyond the care providers you can find on Care.com, there are a lot of folks out there who bring care into our lives and deserve an extra thank you. Some of these people can be forgotten during the holidays—but not by you!

Other People You Should Tip:

• School bus drivers: I find they're often overlooked. A small thank you (a $10 gift certificate and a card signed by your children) is a nice "something extra" in December.

• Service industries: Think of the people that make your home life a little easier—your mail and newspaper delivery people and garbage collectors While you don't have to necessarily tip them a week's wage or the price of a recycling pickup, I always try to help them feel special around the holidays. A nice card with a $10 gift certificate for coffee or a plate of fresh cookies goes far when it's cold outside!

• Maintenance people: If you've hired a regular landscaper or have a building manager that regularly does work around the property, shovels walkways, and plows driveways, let them know they're appreciated. It doesn't have to be much—just slip 10-15% extra in their December bill as a thank you.

• Housekeepers: If you have a regular housekeeper or house cleaner, tell them thank you by giving them an extra week's pay during the holiday season. But if you only hire one for occasional tidying up, it's okay to just wish them a verbal "Happy Holidays!"

• Baristas/clerks: Some of us have those regular spots that we visit daily for our morning coffee or bagel. If you're used to seeing the same person and they give you great service, say thanks! Buy them a cup and give them a card. They'll be surprised, and pleased, by your consideration.

Again, just like mom always said, "It's the thought that counts." Don't feel like you have to get caught up in what you give or how much it cost. The point is to show gratitude for the people who matter to you and your family.

Happy...Merry...Boxing Day?

Christmas is "officially" over and we're left here today on Boxing Day. But what is Boxing Day? Most people view it as a time to sit back and relax; others a time to start hunting for those after Christmas deals.

Curiosity got the best of me, so I decided to do some research and find out once and for all, "what IS Boxing Day?"

Here's what good ole Wikipedia (I didn't say I did a ton of research ;) had to say...

The name derives from the tradition of giving seasonal gifts, on the day after Christmas, to less wealthy people and social inferiors, which was later extended to various workpeople such as labourers and servants.

The traditional recorded celebration of Boxing Day has long included giving money and other gifts to charitable institutions, the needy and people in service positions. The European tradition has been dated to the Middle Ages, but the exact origin is unknown and there are some claims that it goes back to the late Roman/early Christian era.

In the United Kingdom it certainly became a custom of the nineteenth century Victorians for tradesmen to collect their 'Christmas boxes' or gifts in return for good and reliable service throughout the year on the day after Christmas.[1]

The establishment of Boxing Day as a defined public Holiday under the legislation that created the UK's Bank Holidays started the separation of 'Boxing Day' from the 'Feast of St Stephen' and today it is almost entirely a secular holiday with a tradition of shopping and post Christmas sales starting.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing_Day

How ever you spend Boxing Day...Have a GREAT one :)

Christmas Wishes

From everyone at Bumples Magazine and Bumples Family First, we wish you a very Merry Christmas.

May your day be filled with peace, love, joy, much laughter and happiness.

On the Last Day Til Christmas...

...Bumples Interactive Magazine

Looking for that last minute yet unique gift for the child on your list? Check out Bumples Interactive Magazine (http://www.bumples.com/)

Unlike other online magazines, Bumples offers fun interactive games, facts and fun stuff that relates back to a story or poem in the issue. It's a great gift or stocking stuffer that keeps giving all year long.

I know when I got my first magazine subscription as a child, I couldn't wait to crack it open. But unlike normal paper magazines, Bumples takes the thrill of a getting "mail" and uses the technology of the computer to give kids a whole new experience in magazine fun.

Visit Bumples at http://www.bumples.com/ and view the first issue for FREE. And with a whole new year of plans in the works, the issues are only going to get more exciting. What could be better than that?

On the 2nd Day Til Christmas...

...Gingerbread Cookies

by Laurel Hudson, culinary instructor at Wellspring Academies (http://www.wellspringacademies.com/).

Looking for some great low-cal, low fat cookies to make for your family today? These might just fit the bill :)

Ingredients:
½ cup Fiber One original bran cereal
1 package whole wheat gingerbread cake or cookie mix
1 tbsp cinnamon
1 tbsp ginger
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
¼ tsp baking powder
¼ cup granulated Splenda
Pinch of salt
½ cup canned pure pumpkin
¼ cup warm water
3 tbsp molasses
1 tsp vanilla
6 packets of Truvia no calorie sweetener
Pam spray

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. Line a baking pan with parchment paper and spray lightly with Pam.
3. In a food processor, grind the cereal until it looks like flour, then pour into a bowl.
4. Add the gingerbread mix, all the spices, the baking powder, Splenda, and salt and mix well.
5. In a small bowl, combine the pumpkin with the warm water, molasses, and vanilla and mix well.
6. Add the pumpkin mixture to the other bowl and stir until blended.
7. Knead the dough to combine.
8. Roll the dough into 1/2” balls, making 36 cookies dough balls total, and place them on the cookie sheet.
9. Flatten balls or scoops with the back of a spoon dipped in the Truvia, so the dough doesn’t stick to the spoon.
10. Bake in the oven for 10-20 minutes, or until the edges are firm.
11. Let cool for 5 minutes, then place in the refrigerator to cool completely.
12. Remove from the pan and enjoy!

Approximate Nutritional Information:
54 calories/0.1g per cookie

Yields 3 dozen cookies

On the 3rd Day Til Christmas...

JB- jenerations baby

Did you know?

• Most children’s hair and body products contain harsh chemicals.
• Sulfates, Parabens, Tea Tree Oil and Lavender found in most organic/natural products have shown to cause unhealthy increases in children’s hormone levels.

So what is a parent to do? JB – jenerations baby products.

After much research and scientific testing, this newly formulated hair and body care product line for babies and children is 100% free of sulfates and parabens, and made with no lavender or tea tree oils.

The jenerations baby® line is also completely hypoallergenic, physician-tested and includes two versions of children’s shampoo/bodywash, detangling conditioner, moisturizing lotion, and even hair gel, all made with only the safest natural and organic ingredients.

The shampoo and bodywash is all in one, so you can suds up baby from head to toe. In addition, it’s also;

• Full lathering
• Easy rinsing
• Absolutely fragrance free
• Made from extracts of comfrey, rosemary, chamomile (perfect for cradle cap)
• No irritation to eyes and skin
• 100% sulphate and paraben FREE
• No lavender and tea tree oil
• Pediatrician and Dermatologist tested
• Ages newborn and up

To learn more about JB – jenerations baby or to place an order visit their web site at;
http://www.jenerationsbaby.com/

On the 4th Day Til Christmas...

... Mommy Draw Stars on My Tummy

Research findings in babies show…

• Touch stimulates;
- brain development
- weight gain

• Touch improves;
- alertness
- responsiveness
- cognitive performance

• Touch Reduces
- aggression

Sometimes there’s nothing like a good hug to make you feel better. And of course, children are no different. The bonding and nurturing touch of a loving parent is crucial in promoting the health and well being in our growing children.

However, even though hugs are great, there’s now an innovative new children’s book out that enhances the nurturing touch in a fun and educational way.

Mommy Draw Stars on My Tummy by Martine Groeneveld, combines the loving feel of a parents touch with fun, Rhymes, Games, Songs and Stories. This allows you as a parent to take time out of a hectic day, slow down and focus on your child. The benefits are an enjoyable, closer and deeply personal relationship between you and your child. As well as creating some lasting memories.

This beautiful, hardcover book illustrated by Brad Kunkle, contains a series of “quiet-time” activities for bedtime and naptime and even some for "playtime." Some of these stories and rhymes are familiar classics like, Itsy Bitsy Spider and This Little Pig Went to Market. But there’s also some unique additions like Magic Body Painting and Guess the Letter.

Each new page contains clear massage instructions for you (drawing with your full hand or just your finger-tips on the child’s body), and what tune to use along with the words. And if you really want to have some fun, make up your own stories or games using the basics you’ve learned along the way.

This unique, touch-play book will encourage and stimulate your child in creativity and cognitive abilities. Mommy Draw Stars on My Tummy is sure to become a favourite for both you and your baby or toddler.

For more information please visit their web site at; http://www.mommydrawstarsonmytummy.com/

On the 5th Day Til Christmas...

... Touch-Free Soap Pump

With all the germs and super-viruses floating around, I think we’re all getting a bit paranoid, especially when it comes to bathrooms. We’ve been told about and shown a number of times the unseen, lurking germs on faucet handles, toilets, sinks and yes, even our soap dispensers.

So I was thrilled when simplehuman came out with a hands-free soap dispenser. Beautifully designed to fit into any décor, and so easy to fill and use, I’m not sure why anyone wouldn’t proudly display this state-of-the-art product.

Here’s how it works - Add the batteries, fill with you favourite liquid soap, set the volume dial for how much soap you want dispensed and you’re ready to go.

Your guests will thank you when they hold their hand under your beautiful bathroom dispenser and like magic the soap is squirted out.

No fuss. No mess. And most importantly…No GERMS.

simplehuman also carries a full line of other bathroom and kitchen aids like;
• recycle bins
• bathroom caddy’s
• canister garbage receptacles
• grocery bag holders
• dish racks
• and so much more

To see simplehuman’s full line of household-helpers, visit their web site at; http://www.simplehuman.com/

On the 6th Day Til Christmas...

...The Snowman’s Song – A Christmas Story

“There is not enough darkness in the world to extinguish the light of one small candle,” (Spanish proverb).

Never was there a truer statement, as a sad little snowman learns what a little faith and the love of a kind heart can do.

The little snowman’s sits quietly with his only thought - the longing to sing…
….”I want my voice to be like church bells or like harps that angels play in the clouds!”

But everyone knows that snowmen are silent and can only communicate through their thoughts. With a song in his heart and the longing to express it, the snowman soon becomes discouraged – that is until a small bird brings him some timely advice…“just believe.”

Could it be that simple?

Soon another small visitor with a kind and faithful heart inadvertently gives the snowman every thing he has ever longed for.

The Snowman’s Song – A Christmas Story, written by Marilee Joy Mayfield and illustrated by Tracy La Rue Hohn, is sure to become a Christmas favourite. This sweet book shows that love and a little faith will always prevail. The beautiful illustrations immediately pull you into the wintery tone of the story.

Winner of The Mom’s Choice Award, this book is a must have for Christmas. In addition, The Snowman’s Song even comes with a CD with author, Marilee reading her wonderful tale.

To learn more about this awesome book, check out their web site at; http://www.snowmanssong.com/

It’s also available on Amazon.com.

On the 7th Day Til Christmas...

...Twimericks

I read a lot of books and I must say Twimericks by Lou Brooks, is some of the most fun I’ve ever had reading a book.

What is Twimericks?

A Twimerick is a limerick added to a tongue – twister.

“It’s supposed to be a kids’ book,” says Brooks. “Or at least I think it’s a kids’ book. But when adults start to read it aloud to one another, they seem to get hooked on it.”

Being the author and illustrator of this quirky, little book, Brooks insists that you read the book aloud and as quickly as you can. He says, “I’ve wanted Twimericks to be a portable party that you can carry around with you.” Brooks is right. Bring this book out at any gathering and hilarity is sure to follow.

Here’s an example of what you can expect to find among the pages of Twimericks;

Fred’s False Teeth

Fred’s false teeth fell five hundred feet,
From the fifty-fourth floor onto 45th Street,
Fred flagged a fleet florist,
With five ferns from the forest,
Who said, “Fred, now how will you eat?”

Is your tongue tied in a knot yet?

Twimericks would make a great stocking-stuffer or gift for anyone (young or mature) on your holiday list this year.

For more information on Twimericks or any other Workman Publishing products, check out their web site at: http://www.workman.com/

Direct link to Twimericks; http://www.workman.com/search/search.pl?query=Twimericks

On the 8th Day Til Christmas...

Wii Family Football

TECMO® (video game developer and publisher) has done it again – Come out with another family-friendly game. It’s called Family Fun Football and it’s sure to have the kids and probably even Dad hooting with laughter.
And even if you’re not a big football fan (like me), this game is simple enough to pick up on, yet offers the right amount of depth for those die-hard ‘football fanatics’ in your home.

Before you start the actual game you get to choose from 8 wacky teams that all come with their own strengths on the field.

• Monkeys – fun & quick
• Gearheads – crushing offense
• Pride – rough and tough
• Predators – can sense fear
• Warts – quick reflexes/strong players
• Quasars – from another planet
• Toros – speed/strength
• Tuskers – unstoppable defensive line

And if you play well two additional teams are unlocked. Want to know who they are? You’ll have to play Family Fun Football to find out.

In addition, you can also choose where you play;

• Shoulderpad Stadium – traditional where history comes alive
• Blast Field – expect the unexpected
• Temple Bowl – a shrine
• Tecmodome – state of the art full of glitz
• Moon Rock Field – Outer reaches of Space

If this isn’t enough fun, you can even play Minigames that offer quick, accessible, frenetic action for the whole family. Plus, each Minigame comes with its own set of wacky rules and game-play.

For more information, check out Family Fun Football’s cool web site at; http://www.familyfunfootball.com/

On the 9th Day Til Christmas...

Return to Sawyerton Springs

The quirkiness of a small town is brought to life among the pages of ‘Return to Sawyerton Springs.’ Based on Andy Andrews real life, this book draws you into a what a small community is really like. Even though it’s based in a small town, you don’t have to be from one in order to appreciate the story behind Sawyerton Springs….

…”It is a place where the paper comes out once a week, and everyone already know what’s in it. When the pastor speaks on Sunday morning, his congregation already knows what he will say. As the children bring home their report cards, the parents already know their grades. This is a place of character and love and memories. Good memories…”

Whether it’s the idiosyncrasies of the town folk, or the way in which a small town newspaper and businesses are run, Andrews humour and love for this town is prevalent throughout. I found myself at least smiling if not laughing out loud several times. This book will even have you reflecting back on your own childhood – Halloween fun, fears of staying alone for the first time, camping, ghost stories and strange neighbours, it has it all.

In addition to a great read, ‘Return to Sawyerton Springs,’ also has a ‘Readers Guide’ at the very back, with general questions on every chapter. This is perfect for book clubs or even for further personal reflection.

Return to Sawyerton Springs by Andy Andrews is available at all major bookstores or on any electronic location.

On the 10th Day Til Christmas...

If uniqueness is on your list, then a visit to Henry Road is an absolute must.

"Henry Road is a Los Angeles-based design studio and store. Its' collection of textiles designed by Paula Smail, is supplemented by an eclectic, fun collection of home goods and gifts."

Ms. Smail is a self-taught designer that has definitely risen to the top. At Henry Road, "we design our own fabric and make piles of colorful printed cotton pillows and other things here in Los Angeles. We then add a selection of great books, decorative accessories, gifts and vintage finds to create a happy eclectic castle in the sky."

Think toys are just for kids? Check out Henry Roads. These toys are a 'blast from the past' that any adult would love to see under their Christmas tree.

Plus, up until December 31st, all orders over $25 dollars within the USA and Canada won't pay any shipping costs.

For more gift ideas check out Henry Road on the web at; http://www.henryroad.com/

On the Eleventh Day Til Christmas...

...Tinycandy’s Gift

It’s never easy when you feel you don’t fit in and Tinycandy is no exception. If being born with a limp and rounded ears wasn’t bad enough, Tinycandy was also the smallest of all the elves. And worst of all…

“…Each elf could create a special toy-
One unique for each girl and boy.
Everyone except Tinycandy, that is.
He had yet to discover what specialty was his…”

Santa Claus loved Tinycandy and made him a wooden cane. The other elves seeing Santa’s affection for Tinycandy soon became upset…

“…With hurtful words they’d taunt and offend,
Jealous because they thought he was Santa’s best friend…”

Tinycandy knew in order to fit in he must design something special like all the other elves….

“…So off to the workshop to gather some wood,
Certain he’d create something especially good…”

But when Tinycandy’s attempts at toy making are less than desirable, it’s Mrs. Claus to the rescue. Will her idea be the one that Tinycandy may actually be good at? Find out in ‘Tinycandy’s Gift’ by Susan E. Estes.

This book is charming and sweet. I could see this fast becoming a Christmas Eve tradition, right up there with ‘The Night Before Christmas.’ Mike Motz lends his talent in bright, bold illustrations that draws your eyes all over the page. In addition, at the very back of the book there’s a “Simple Candy Cane Recipe,” and the deluxe edition of this book comes with a ‘Read-a-long’ CD.

Don’t miss out on a very special Christmas book. For more information on Tinycandy’s Gift, or to purchase an autographed copy, please visit their web site at http://seecreativeconcepts.com/

On the 12th Day Up Till Christmas...

...Luggage Charms

Looking for a unique gift for the traveller on your list? Check out Luggage Charms by My Charmed Life.

These sturdy decorative tags will make finding your luggage at the airport or bus station fast and easy. The long, durable ribbon can easily be fastened to any handle, and the laminated tag is large enough to put all your contact information on in case your luggage is lost.

Luggage Charms come in a variety of styles and colours. You can choose a themed tag (e.g. golfing, baby, bridal, or tennis) or get a monogrammed one for that extra personal touch.

Not sure a Luggage Charm is what you’re looking for? No problem. My Charmed Life has a wide selection of merchandise from bracelets and necklaces to pins, key rings, zipper pulls, and so much more.

Still can’t decide? My Charmed Life also offers gift cards.

So don’t waste another moment! Pop on over to My Charmed Life at http://www.mycharmedlife.com/.

About Us

Thanks for stopping by.

Bumples Family First is a cross-promotional Blog for Bumples Interactive Magazine. Here at Bumples Family First we strive to bring you the latest in family-friendly product reviews, book reviews and interviews with experts in their fields. We also take one week at the end of every month to just have some fun. We love to hear your comments or answer any questions you may have, so please, don't be shy, let us know what's on your mind.

Check back often as Bumples Family First is always updated on a regular basis. We will also try to host at least one giveaway or contest per month so come join the fun at Bumples Family First :)

Happy Holidays to Come

Season's Greetings

Today wraps up our book giveaway (The Little General and the Giant Snowflake). However, you still have a few hours left did get your comment in and be eligible for the draw, (scroll down to Blog Spot).

Hey! It's a cute book and it's FREE, what could be better than that? You have until 7:00 pm EST tonight.Also, tomorrow kicks off our Twelve Days of Christmas. But you won't find any turtle-doves, or maids-a-milkin' on our list. Each day up until December 24th, I will showcase a new item and, possibly, a great gift idea for that hard-to-buy for person on your list.

I will have specific product reviews and some unique companies for your perusal. So be sure to check back every day for new and exciting gift ideas.

Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping :)

Born Free Products - Review

As parents we’re concerned about everything to do with our little ones – Our parenting skills, the food we feed them, toys they play with, basically everything that comes in contact with baby is scrutinized and yes, sometimes agonized over.

You may feel pretty good about the decisions you’ve made so far when it comes to baby, but did you know that ordinary bottle, pacifier, or trainer-cup may be toxic to your child?

A Chemical called Bisphenol-A (BPA) is used in the production of epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics, which is used to develop most bottles on the market. This chemical compound is used to create hard, clear plastic and recent scientific research shows that small amounts of BPA may leach into foods and beverages stored in polycarbonate containers.

The problem with BPA in the human body is it mimics our natural human hormones. To a baby and growing child’s body this risk is particularly harmful as they are still undergoing many hormone-related developments.

However, there is good news. The BornFree Company has developed baby products that are 100 percent free of BPA, Phthalates, PVC and Aluminum. BornFree baby products are made from Polyethersulfone (PES) often used in medical devices, which is what gives them their honey-colour.

In addition to being safe from toxins, BornFree products also feature:
• A Revolutionary Venting System – reduces vacuum pressure
• Soft Silicone Nipples
• Spill Proof Caps
• Easy to Clean

BornFree products are also endorsed by the Children’s Health Environment Coalition. And you may have even seen pictures of some famous actors using this product with their own children.

For more information on the benefits of switching to BornFree products, see their full product line or to place an order, please visit their web site at; http://www.newbornfree.com/

The New Name in Stickers

It’s so frustrating when you spend a bundle on stickers only to have them rub or fall off. And with so many unique names being given to children these days, good luck trying to find a sticker that’s all there own.

Not anymore. Name Bubbles has taken stickers to a whole new level. These personalized, durable stickers aren’t just for paper products, but for clothes, shoes, plastic containers or anything you want labelled - minimizing the problem of your kids’ items “wandering off.”

Name Bubbles are also;
• non-toxic
• eco-friendly
• fade-resident
• waterproof (stick in -60 degrees to 220 degrees)
• dishwasher safe
• laundry safe
• cute/colourful/personalized

Name Bubbles aren’t just for kids. They also make a line for Nursing Homes, Medical Alert, Sports, Daycares, Camp, Luggage, College, School, Birthday and Holidays.

Name Bubbles would make a great stocking-stuffer, baby shower gift, or just a fun treat for the kids. Gift Certificates are also available.

For more information on Name Bubbles, visit their web site at; http://www.namebubbles.com/

The Warmest Place of All - Review

I remember as a child coming in from an afternoon of wintery-fun; bundling in front of the fireplace until my feet and face thawed.

In the Warmest Place of All, little Sophie searches for her very own place to warm up after playing out in the snow.

Will it be in the kitchen with a cup of steaming hot cocoa or the bathtub with hot water and bubbles? Perhaps, cuddling with her big dog, Baby Bear will do the trick? But none of these feel right and Sophie soon finds out where the warmest place of all is.

Author Licia Rando M.Ed. reminds us that, “Even the simple act of holding hands releases Oxytocin, which decreases blood pressure and acts as a sedative. Imagine what a snuggle with a parent and a good book will do for a child.”

Check out Licia’s web site at http://www.liciarando.com/ for more information and a printable teaching idea.

The Warmest Place of All, is also available at Pleasant St. Press http://pleasantstpress.com and on Amazon.com

Matcha Source Tea - Review

We all lead busy lives so eating (and drinking) healthy is a must to keep us up to par.
I know, you’re probably thinking - But I don’t have time to eat healthy or it’s just easier to grab something from my local fast-food restaurant…they have salad.

The occasional “McMeal” certainly won’t harm us it's what we do on a daily basis that counts.

I’ve always been a huge advocate of green tea. The benefits of this warm, mellow beverage far out number that of black teas or even fruit juices. Green tea contains, EGCG – (epigallocatechin gallate) in the Polyphenol family which has twice the antioxidants as red wine.

Recently, I was introduced to Matcha Source. This company has a careful and proven process in the way they cultivate the green tea...

...“The tea plants are covered with bamboo screens several weeks prior to harvest. Under the screens, plants must work harder to grow and they increase their levels of chlorophyll and amino acids. Harvested tea leaves are then steamed, air-dried, de-veined and stone-ground into powder.”

The end result means you’re getting the benefits of the whole tea leaf, not just steeped water as with traditional bagged tea.

Here’s what Matcha Source Can Do For You;

• Antioxidant Protection
Exponentially Higher in Antioxidants than Blueberries and Spinach

• Renown Cancer Fighting Catechin EGCg
Renown Cancer Fighting Catechins are Only Found In Green Tea

• Cleansing the Body of Toxins
Rich in Chlorophyll, A Renowned Detoxifying Agent

• Naturally Mood Enhancing Amino Acids
Theanine Improves Mood and Concentration

• Suited for Meditative Practice
Create Your Own Ceremony and Relieve Stress

In addition, just one cup of Matcha Source tea is like drinking 10 cups of normal green tea. Plus, Matcha Source can be mixed into a smoothie so you can still get the full benefits while enjoying your morning fruit-fix.

For more information on Matcha Source Teas, recipe ideas or to place an order, check out their web site at http://www.matchasource.com/