Fall and Holiday Centerpiece and Decorating Ideas

Over the summer, Better Homes and Gardens published an idea for a nautical centerpiece that used an old lantern, some sea glass and a lemon. While it wasn’t exactly my style, I though the idea could really be adapted to fall and holiday decorating, especially with a few changes. The concept is very flexible, and you can adapt it to suit your own particular style. For example, why not substitute the nautical lamp for a hurricane lamp? This may give you a more homey, New England or country feel to the decor. Actually, any type of container that has some … Continue reading

Frugal Decorating with Pine Cones

As you may know from some of my other blogs, our family is in the middle of a move. We found a nice little house in a more rural area. The house comes with two acres of mostly woods. We just can’t wait to move in. Well, yesterday, we drove out to the house to meet with our agent. On the way over to the house, my husband and I discussed holiday decorating. We’ve haven’t really gotten started, because of the move. I started doing a little bit with cranberries, and I liked the warm, natural appeal. While we were … Continue reading

How to Have a Natural Birth

Although natural birth has been done forever, you really need to plan for it. At first, it seems strange to prepare for something natural, but it is necessary. Doctors and hospitals have gradually taken over the birth process. In the process, women have gradually lost control over our own birth experiences. Regaining this control requires planning. One of the most important factors in having a natural birth is the attendant you choose to be with you. This is generally a doctor or a midwife. In many cases, a midwife is more receptive to natural birth. Some doctors are very accepting … Continue reading

Benefits of a Natural Birth

Natural childbirth, also called an unmedicated birth, refers to delivering your baby without drugs. This method is most often chosen by people who consider birth to be a natural part of life, rather than a medical event. Oddly, this method is often considered radical by both doctors and many women. In fact, this is how women have been birthing babies since babies have been on our planet. There are many advantages to both mother and baby with a natural birth. Mothers who have experienced natural birth often feel a greater sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. They enjoy a natural high … Continue reading

Communicating With Your Doctor

Communication with your doctor is very important during pregnancy. Having a doctor you can talk to will make all the difference in the world. Discuss your health prior to pregnancy and your philosophy about pregnancy, labor and delivery early in your pregnancy to be sure the provider you’ve chosen is a good match. Begin to open the lines of communication at your very first prenatal visit. Your doctor will take your medical history during this visit. Be open and honest about your history, any chronic conditions you have and lifestyle concerns, such as drinking or smoking, which may affect your … Continue reading

The Blessingway

Most lucky ladies that are having a baby get to partake in a fun filled afternoon with their closest female friends and relatives at some time late in their pregnancy. They will shower her with gifts for her new baby. They may even play some games like, “baby shower bingo” and my personal favorite, “guess how big her belly is by using this roll of toilet paper.” This is known as, the baby shower. A new ritual that seems to be gaining momentum is called a blessingway. It is focused more on the mother and less on the baby. During … Continue reading

Merry Christmas and Happy Decorating

Since Christmas will be here in just a few days, I thought I’d include a few last minute decorating ideas. These are handy for people who don’t have much time for decorating or who will be traveling during the holidays but would still like to add some festive touches to their homes. Spruce up your dining table, sideboard, and even your coffee table with these simple centerpieces. These projects are fun to make, using candles and a few extra touches. They are also quick and easy to disassemble and to put away. Candle Collection Place an assortment of white candles … Continue reading