Is That the Baby’s Nose?

Posted Tuesday, October 12, 2010 8:59 AM

by Abigail Green of “Diary of a New Mom”

In Tori Spelling’s book, “Mommywood,” she describes the experience of getting her first sonogram when she was pregnant with her son. She’s thrilled that he looks healthy, of course, but she’s alarmed by the size of the baby’s nose. Lest she seem superficial (A celebrity? Superficial?!) she keeps her worries to herself. Until later when she confesses to a girlfriend who reassures her it’s a normal reaction. Ha!

Even for us non-Hollywood types who haven’t gotten nose jobs, I can relate. I had the same thoughts, especially when I saw my second son’s prenatal pics. Those lips! That nose! Poor kid. I imagined years of schoolyard taunting and therapy in his future. Then he was born, and once the puffiness went down, he was adorable.

Those sonogram technicians could use some sensitivity training, though. The first one we got was, inexplicably, not quite as enthusiastic as we were. Can you imagine? Did she think “You’ve seen one unborn baby, you’ve seen them all?” Or, “Oh, look, the miracle of life. Yawn. Now what I should have for lunch?”

The second time, the tech disparaged our baby name. The nerve! Doesn’t she know you don’t mess with a bloated, hormonal woman who’s obsessed with the Social Security baby name database? [http://www.ssa.gov/OACT/babynames/]
The worst, though, was the sonogram I got at 41 weeks pregnant. (At my ob/gyn, they make anyone who’s overdue get checked to make sure you have enough amniotic fluid.) By that time, the baby was packed in there like 10 lbs. of potatoes in a 5 lb. sack. And he DID look very well-fed.

But still. The nurse actually laughed out loud and said, “The baby looks mad. Look at that scrunched-up face and those chubby cheeks! It looks like it’s storing up nuts for winter!” She continued laughing way past the point that it was appropriate. How dare she imply that our baby was funny-looking! Even though I did have to admit, that fat little mad face was pretty funny.

If, like Tori and me, your baby’s sonogram pics have you a little concerned, rest assured that you are not a superficial, ungrateful beast who doesn’t deserve to have children. You are normal. And most likely, so is your baby’s nose. You’ll just have to wait and see.

Abigail Green is a freelance writer and mom to two boys, ages 4 and 1. She blogs about the lighter side of life, writing, parenting, and more at http://www.diaryofanewmom.net.

Aden and Anais Sweepstakes Rules

Posted Monday, October 04, 2010 11:15 AM

Aden and Anais Sweepstakes

NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THIS SWEEPSTAKES. MAKING A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

TERM:
The “Aden and Anais” Sweepstakes (the "Sweepstakes") entry period commences at 12:00 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on October 4, 2010, and ends at 11:59 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on October 10, 2010 (the "Sweepstakes Entry Period"). 

ELIGIBILITY:
This Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 50 United States, and the District of Columbia, 18 years or older as of date of entry. Employees of the Sponsor; any promotional companies or advertising agencies participating in the Sweepstakes and employees of their respective subsidiaries and affiliates; any persons involved in the creation, development, or implementation of this Sweepstakes; and any other persons or entities directly associated with this Sweepstakes and any members of their immediate families or households are ineligible to participate. Entries for the Sweepstakes drawing must be received prior to the expiration of the Sweepstakes Entry Period. This Sweepstakes is void in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and wherever prohibited or restricted by law, and is subject to all federal, state, and local laws and regulations. By submitting an entry form, entrants agree to abide by these Official Rules and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations that govern Sweepstakes.

GRAND PRIZES/VALUE:

Two (2) Grand Prize winners will each receive one (1)  Aden and Anais gift pack to include, selected by Sponsor in its sole discretion, which includes one (1)  of each of the following:

• Jungle Jam Swaddle (4 pack)
• Mod About Baby - Frog Cozy Swaddle (single)
• Mod About Baby - Fish Sleeping Bag
• Jungle Jam - Giraffe Cozy Sleeping Bag (single)
• Water Baby Hooded Towel & Washcloth
• Splish Splash Washcloths (3 pack)
• Alpha Bit Burpy Bib (2 pack)
• YaYa - Green Stars Issie (2 pack)
• Jungle Jam - Monkey Dream Blanket
• Swaddle love book

Approximate Retail Value of each Grand Prize is $292.60. Actual retail value may vary.

The Grand Prizes are not transferable, assignable or redeemable for cash or any other consideration, and no substitutions will be allowed except by Sponsor, which reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value or nature if advertised prize is not available. Each Grand Prize winner is responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations, including, without limitation, the payment of all applicable taxes.

HOW TO ENTER:
During the Sweepstakes Entry Period, you may enter the Sweepstakes by submitting a reply to the promotion message board thread on http://community.thebump.com/cs/ks/forums/43424591/ShowThread.aspx#43424591 Sweepstakes page before 11:59 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on October 10, 2010. Your full name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, date of birth and email address will be required for eligibility. Incomplete or late entries will be disqualified. Limit one entry per person. If an entrant is determined to have submitted more than one entry submission, that entrant will be disqualified. Entries must comply with file specifications on entry page and must be in English. Entries must be entrant’s own original work and owned solely and exclusively by entrant, have not won a previous prize or award and have not been previously published, must not infringe on, misappropriate or otherwise violate any third-party rights (including but not limited to copyright, trademark, rights of publicity or privacy or any other proprietary right), and must be deemed suitable by The Knot, Inc.  Entrant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless The Knot, Inc., Aden & Anais Inc.., and each of their respective affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and agents from any losses, damages, or expenses arising from or in connection with infringement, misappropriation or violation of any third party rights. Entries deemed lewd or offensive may be disqualified, in Sponsor’s sole discretion.  Entries that comply with format and suitability specifications may be acknowledged by e-mail, but remain subject to full eligibility determinations at the sole discretion of Sponsor.  Normal Internet access and usage charges imposed by your online carrier apply.  An entry that does not comply with entry guidelines will be deemed void and of no effect. An entry made will be deemed to have been made by the "authorized account holder" of the email address utilized at the time the entry is made. For purposes herein, the "authorized account holder" refers to the person assigned to an email address by an Internet access provider, online service provider, or other organization responsible for assigning email addresses. All entries will become the property of The Knot, Inc. and will not be returned. The Knot, Inc. is not responsible for transmission and/or computer error. For the avoidance of doubt, acceptance of entries or submissions will not be deemed to waive any provisions of these Sweepstakes rules, and the entrant may subsequently be disqualified.

RANDOM DRAWING/ODDS OF WINNING/WINNERS:

The potential winners of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing, on or October 13, 2010, from all eligible entries received, and will be contacted via email and/or phone on or about to September 29, 2010, using the contact information in the winners’ user profiles. Each entrant is responsible for the accuracy of the information included in his/her entry. The Grand Prize drawing will be conducted by The Knot, Inc. The Grand Prize drawing shall be final and conclusive. The odds of winning a Grand Prize will be determined by the actual number of eligible entries received. Potential Grand Prize winners will be required to sign and return an Affidavit of Eligibility,  Liability Release, Copyright Release, Assignment of Rights and where legal, a Publicity Release within ten (10) days of notification attempt. Noncompliance within this time period will result in disqualification and forfeiture of the Grand Prize, and Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, select an alternate winner at random from all eligible entries received. If Grand Prize notification is returned as non-deliverable, potential winner will be disqualified and forfeiture of the Grand Prize, and Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, select an alternate winner at random from all eligible entries received.  The names of the winners of the Sweepstakes will be available after November 1, 2010. To obtain this information, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: “Aden and Anais” Sweepstakes - Winner, c/o The Knot, Inc. 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

CAUTION:
Any attempt by any person to deliberately damage any web site or undermine legitimate operation of a Sweepstakes may constitute a violation of criminal and civil laws, and should such an attempt be made, The Knot, Inc. reserves the right to seek damages from and/or to prosecute any such person to the fullest extent permitted by law. Any such tampering also will result in ineligibility to win a Grand Prize in the Sweepstakes.

CONDITIONS:

By participating in this Sweepstakes, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of The Knot, Inc., which are final in all matters relating to this Sweepstakes and acknowledge compliance with these Official Rules. Each entrant acknowledges that the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use found on the www.thebump.com website are hereby incorporated by reference and apply to the submission of entries pursuant to these Official Rules.  By participating in this Sweepstakes, each entrant hereby agrees to The Knot, Inc.’s collection and usage of the entrant’s personal information and acknowledges that entrant has read and accepted the above-referenced Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. 

The Knot, Inc. is in no way liable for any damage, loss, or injury resulting from computer malfunctions, misdirected or incomplete entries, or acceptance and use of a Grand Prize. Sponsor and its agents shall have no liability or responsibility for injuries, damages or liabilities caused or claimed to be caused by participation in the Sweepstakes or the use or misuse of a Grand Prize. The Knot, Inc. reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to cancel, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes should virus, bugs, or other causes beyond the control of Sponsor corrupt the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper play of the Sweepstakes and award the Grand prize in a random drawing from all eligible entries received prior to cancellation or suspension.

By entering this Sweepstakes, each entrant hereby voluntarily and irrevocably releases, holds harmless and agrees not to institute any claim against The Knot, Inc., Aden and Anais, or any of their respective affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and agents from any losses, damages, or expenses from any and all injuries, losses or damages of any kind arising from  or in connection with, either directly or indirectly, (1) the awarding, acceptance, receipt, possession, use and/or misuse of a Grand Prize awarded herein; and/or (2) participation in the Sweepstakes or Grand Prize related activities.

Under no circumstances will any entrant be permitted to obtain awards for, and each entrant hereby waives all rights to claim, punitive, incidental or consequential damages, or any other damages, including attorneys’ fees, and entrant further waives all rights to have damages multiplied or increased.

By accepting Grand Prize, each winner grants The Knot, Inc. permission to use his or her name and likeness for advertising and promotional purposes without any additional compensation (except where prohibited by law).  By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants shall be deemed to have agreed to have their entry information made available to the Sponsor. The Sweepstakes is subject to these Official Rules. By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants and winners agree to waive any right to claim any ambiguity, inequity or error in the Official Rules of the Sweepstakes, and/or of the Sweepstakes itself, and agree to be bound by these Official Rules and by all decisions of, and interpretations of these Official Rules by, the Sponsor, which in all respects shall be final and binding.

THE NEW YORK COURTS (STATE AND FEDERAL) SHALL HAVE SOLE JURISDICTION OF ANY CONTROVERSIES REGARDING THE SWEEPSTAKES AND THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO CONFLICTS OF LAWS PRINCIPLES, SHALL GOVERN THE SWEEPSTAKES. ENTRANTS WAIVE ANY AND ALL OBJECTIONS TO JURISDICTION AND VENUE IN THESE COURTS AND HEREBY SUBMIT TO THE JURISDICTION OF THOSE COURTS.

All rights reserved. Official Rules may be copied for personal use only and not for any commercial purpose whatsoever.

SPONSOR:
The Knot, Inc., 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

ADMINISTRATOR:
The Knot, Inc., 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

Belly Buds Sweepstakes Rules

Posted Monday, September 20, 2010 11:24 AM

Belly Buds Sweepstakes

NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THIS SWEEPSTAKES. MAKING A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

TERM:
The “Belly Buds” Sweepstakes (the "Sweepstakes") entry period commences at 12:00 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on September 20, 2010, and ends at 11:59 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on September 26, 2010 (the "Sweepstakes Entry Period"). 

ELIGIBILITY:
This Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 50 United States, and the District of Columbia, 18 years or older as of date of entry. Employees of the Sponsor; any promotional companies or advertising agencies participating in the Sweepstakes and employees of their respective subsidiaries and affiliates; any persons involved in the creation, development, or implementation of this Sweepstakes; and any other persons or entities directly associated with this Sweepstakes and any members of their immediate families or households are ineligible to participate. Entries for the Sweepstakes drawing must be received prior to the expiration of the Sweepstakes Entry Period. This Sweepstakes is void in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and wherever prohibited or restricted by law, and is subject to all federal, state, and local laws and regulations. By submitting an entry form, entrants agree to abide by these Official Rules and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations that govern Sweepstakes.

GRAND PRIZES/VALUE:

Twelve (12) Grand Prize winners will each receive one (1) Bellybuds prenatal music promo pack which includes bellyphones, buddons, rings and a dock, selected by Sponsor in its sole discretion. 

Approximate Retail Value of each Grand Prize is $42.99. Actual retail value may vary.

The Grand Prizes are not transferable, assignable or redeemable for cash or any other consideration, and no substitutions will be allowed except by Sponsor, which reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value or nature if advertised prize is not available. Each Grand Prize winner is responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations, including, without limitation, the payment of all applicable taxes.

HOW TO ENTER:
During the Sweepstakes Entry Period, you may enter the Sweepstakes by submitting a reply to the promotion message board thread on http://community.thebump.com/cs/ks/forums/42789193/ShowThread.aspx#42789193 Sweepstakes page before 11:59 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on September 26, 2010. Your full name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, date of birth and email address will be required for eligibility. Incomplete or late entries will be disqualified. Limit one entry per person. If an entrant is determined to have submitted more than one entry submission, that entrant will be disqualified. Entries must comply with file specifications on entry page and must be in English. Entries must be entrant’s own original work and owned solely and exclusively by entrant, have not won a previous prize or award and have not been previously published, must not infringe on, misappropriate or otherwise violate any third-party rights (including but not limited to copyright, trademark, rights of publicity or privacy or any other proprietary right), and must be deemed suitable by The Knot, Inc.  Entrant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless The Knot, Inc., The Belly Buds LLC., and each of their respective affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and agents from any losses, damages, or expenses arising from or in connection with infringement, misappropriation or violation of any third party rights. Entries deemed lewd or offensive may be disqualified, in Sponsor’s sole discretion.  Entries that comply with format and suitability specifications may be acknowledged by e-mail, but remain subject to full eligibility determinations at the sole discretion of Sponsor.  Normal Internet access and usage charges imposed by your online carrier apply.  An entry that does not comply with entry guidelines will be deemed void and of no effect. An entry made will be deemed to have been made by the "authorized account holder" of the email address utilized at the time the entry is made. For purposes herein, the "authorized account holder" refers to the person assigned to an email address by an Internet access provider, online service provider, or other organization responsible for assigning email addresses. All entries will become the property of The Knot, Inc. and will not be returned. The Knot, Inc. is not responsible for transmission and/or computer error. For the avoidance of doubt, acceptance of entries or submissions will not be deemed to waive any provisions of these Sweepstakes rules, and the entrant may subsequently be disqualified.

RANDOM DRAWING/ODDS OF WINNING/WINNERS:

The potential winners of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing, on or about September 29, 2010, from all eligible entries received, and will be contacted via email and/or phone on or about to September 29, 2010, using the contact information in the winners’ user profiles. Each entrant is responsible for the accuracy of the information included in his/her entry. The Grand Prize drawing will be conducted by The Knot, Inc. The Grand Prize drawing shall be final and conclusive. The odds of winning a Grand Prize will be determined by the actual number of eligible entries received. Potential Grand Prize winners will be required to sign and return an Affidavit of Eligibility,  Liability Release, Copyright Release, Assignment of Rights and where legal, a Publicity Release within ten (10) days of notification attempt. Noncompliance within this time period will result in disqualification and forfeiture of the Grand Prize, and Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, select an alternate winner at random from all eligible entries received. If Grand Prize notification is returned as non-deliverable, potential winner will be disqualified and forfeiture of the Grand Prize, and Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, select an alternate winner at random from all eligible entries received.  The names of the winners of the Sweepstakes will be available after November 1 , 2010. To obtain this information, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to: “Belly Buds” Sweepstakes - Winner, c/o The Knot, Inc. 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

CAUTION:
Any attempt by any person to deliberately damage any web site or undermine legitimate operation of a Sweepstakes may constitute a violation of criminal and civil laws, and should such an attempt be made, The Knot, Inc. reserves the right to seek damages from and/or to prosecute any such person to the fullest extent permitted by law. Any such tampering also will result in ineligibility to win a Grand Prize in the Sweepstakes.

CONDITIONS:

By participating in this Sweepstakes, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of The Knot, Inc., which are final in all matters relating to this Sweepstakes and acknowledge compliance with these Official Rules. Each entrant acknowledges that the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use found on the www.thebump.com website are hereby incorporated by reference and apply to the submission of entries pursuant to these Official Rules.  By participating in this Sweepstakes, each entrant hereby agrees to The Knot, Inc.’s collection and usage of the entrant’s personal information and acknowledges that entrant has read and accepted the above-referenced Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. 

The Knot, Inc. is in no way liable for any damage, loss, or injury resulting from computer malfunctions, misdirected or incomplete entries, or acceptance and use of a Grand Prize. Sponsor and its agents shall have no liability or responsibility for injuries, damages or liabilities caused or claimed to be caused by participation in the Sweepstakes or the use or misuse of a Grand Prize. The Knot, Inc. reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to cancel, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes should virus, bugs, or other causes beyond the control of Sponsor corrupt the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper play of the Sweepstakes and award the Grand prize from all eligible entries received prior to cancellation or suspension.

By entering this Sweepstakes, each entrant hereby voluntarily and irrevocably releases, holds harmless and agrees not to institute any claim against The Knot, Inc.,  Belly Buds LLC, or any of their respective affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and agents from any losses, damages, or expenses from any and all injuries, losses or damages of any kind arising from  or in connection with, either directly or indirectly, (1) the awarding, acceptance, receipt, possession, use and/or misuse of a Grand Prize awarded herein; and/or (2) participation in the Sweepstakes or Grand Prize related activities.

Under no circumstances will any entrant be permitted to obtain awards for, and each entrant hereby waives all rights to claim, punitive, incidental or consequential damages, or any other damages, including attorneys’ fees, and entrant further waives all rights to have damages multiplied or increased.

By accepting Grand Prize, each winner grants The Knot, Inc. permission to use his or her name and likeness for advertising and promotional purposes without any additional compensation (except where prohibited by law).  By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants shall be deemed to have agreed to have their entry information made available to the Sponsor. The Sweepstakes is subject to these Official Rules. By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants and winners agree to waive any right to claim any ambiguity, inequity or error in the Official Rules of the Sweepstakes, and/or of the Sweepstakes itself, and agree to be bound by these Official Rules and by all decisions of, and interpretations of these Official Rules by, the Sponsor, which in all respects shall be final and binding.

THE NEW YORK COURTS (STATE AND FEDERAL) SHALL HAVE SOLE JURISDICTION OF ANY CONTROVERSIES REGARDING THE SWEEPSTAKES AND THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO CONFLICTS OF LAWS PRINCIPLES, SHALL GOVERN THE SWEEPSTAKES. ENTRANTS WAIVE ANY AND ALL OBJECTIONS TO JURISDICTION AND VENUE IN THESE COURTS AND HEREBY SUBMIT TO THE JURISDICTION OF THOSE COURTS.

All rights reserved. Official Rules may be copied for personal use only and not for any commercial purpose whatsoever.

SPONSOR:
The Knot, Inc., 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

ADMINISTRATOR:
The Knot, Inc., 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

Time Management in the Kitchen

Posted Monday, September 13, 2010 4:49 PM

By Maureen of the popular online blog Dr. Maureen

 I used to be a pretty terrible cook. I could bake with reasonable capability, but cooking was a mystery to me. I think this is because baking requires close adherence to a recipe whereas the best cooking is spontaneous. And I am not spontaneous. I once took an entire month to plan a weekend trip in Florida and thought I was being crazily spur-of-the-moment.

 Over the past four years, however, my cooking has improved approximately ten-thousand-fold. Where I once used to be amazed at Andrew’s ability to look at what food we had in the kitchen and then just make something up for dinner, I now find myself throwing together our fresh-from-the-farm-share vegetables in surprising new combinations. Wait, that makes me sound super obnoxious. The combinations aren’t really all that surprising. But I’ve come a long way and dinner is usually a tasty affair appreciated by at least two, sometimes even three out of four members of the household!

 But this improvement didn’t happen overnight, of course, and I’ve had – and have – plenty of struggles getting dinner prepared. My goal is always to make only one dinner for everyone, but today, despite my careful planning and early prep work, 4:30 this very afternoon found me up to my wrists in raw chicken pieces while the baby cried and begged to eat. I generally avoid feeding my baby raw chicken pieces, so I gave her leftovers from last night while I finished prepping the chicken and then she fell asleep in the high chair. Again. So scheduling fail, there.

 The main problem I have is, of course, that dinner must be prepared just before dinnertime, also known as “the witching hour” or the “oh dear Lord it’s two more hours until Andrew gets home and I am all done” hour. But, all done or not, the children must be tended to even between the hours of four and six pm. Thus I have had lots of practice over the past four years, and have figured out a few things along the way which I have compiled into a list of helpful tips!

 Meal plan in advance, before you go grocery shopping. It took me at least three so years to figure out how helpful this is. I still sometimes backslide and neglect this chore only to find myself scrambling to think of something to make at 4:00 pm, but for the most part I come up with meals the night before I go to the store and make a grocery list accordingly.

Prep early in the day if possible! Despite what you may think if you knew me as a teenager, I am currently most productive in the morning. Thus, the day I realized that I was allowed to, say, chop all the vegetables in the morning even though I wasn’t going to make the stir fry until the evening? That was a good day.

Prep in general. You know how on cooking shows they get the food cooked in no time because all the ingredients are pre-measured in little bowls? You’re allowed to do that too! I always used to just measure out the spices at the point of adding it to the dish, but that wastes time and leads to errors. No, it’s best to read through the whole recipe and measure out any ingredients you can ahead of time.

Crack eggs into a bowl first. This particular tip has nothing to do with time management, but I can’t seem to crack an egg without losing bits of shell and I can’t tell you how many times I have had to fish tiny pieces of eggshell out of a cookie batter, or, worse yet, a hot frying pan. And then one day, the light dawned. 
 

So there you have it. Four tips that are fairly obvious in retrospect, but they nevertheless took me years to work out. Still, there must be someone else like me out there, and that’s who this list is for. I hope I can spare you years of eggshell-fishing and last-minute scrambling if at all possible.

Mom Skills

Posted Tuesday, August 31, 2010 11:39 AM

by Abigail Green of “Diary of a New Mom”

 

Let me just say this: you may become a mother overnight, but it takes a lot longer than that to really get the hang of it. In fact, there was a time when I feared I would NEVER figure out everything I needed to know in order to raise a child.

 

I was browsing through my blog archives the other day (because my memory is shot and written records are the only chance I have of recalling my pre-baby life) when I came across the following entry:

 

“The other day I had lunch with a couple of friends with small children. The littlest people in our party turned out to have a big impact on the day’s plans. First of all, lunch was delayed 45 minutes because 10-m.o. Emma had napped longer than usual.

 

Normally, this wouldn’t be a big deal, except there were two pregnant women in our party, including me. So we were ravenous by the time the others showed up. I was drooling enviously over 18-m.o. Maddie’s Tupperware container of Cheerios, which she was snacking on in her stroller.

 

Then we had to find a restaurant that appealed to 3.5-y.o. Cooper, whose current diet consists solely of chicken fingers and pizza. When we finally found a place, there was a minor situation when it turned out they didn’t allow strollers in the dining room. But high chairs were procured, strollers were stowed, and we were finally shown to our table.

 

When our meals arrived, I had heartily tucked into my tacos when I noticed that neither of my mom-friends had taken so much as a bite. They were busy laying out disposable plastic placemats, fastening bibs, retrieving sippy cups from the floor, and cutting up chicken into bite-sized chunks.

 

The one poor mom with two kids said, “It’s always like this when we go to a restaurant. I never get to eat.” No wonder she’d lost all the baby weight already.

 

Sitting there, I was in awe of these women. How did they know how to do all this stuff? How did they know that the baby was grunting for her milk and not more chicken? How did they know to pack placemats and individually wrapped snacks?

 

I know it sounds stupid. I guess they just figured it out along the way. And I’m sure I will. But at that moment, it was like I was an interloper in some mystical world of mommies -- a world that I’m going to become a part of in a little over 6 mos.”

 

Well, guess what? I AM one of those moms now. I’m the one with the plastic placemats and the Snack Traps and the cheese sticks. I’m the one ordering off the kids’ menu and cutting grapes in half. When did THAT happen?

 

Not overnight, I’ll tell you that. Or even during the first year. But somewhere along the line, I learned a thing or two and now I don’t even think twice about dining out with two small kids. Although maybe for my fellow diners’ sake, I should.

 

Abigail Green is a freelance writer and mom to two boys, ages 4 and 1. She blogs about the lighter side of life, writing, parenting, and more at http://www.diaryofanewmom.net.

 

hushamok sweepstakes rules

Posted Monday, August 09, 2010 2:44 PM

Hushamok Sweepstakes

 

NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THIS SWEEPSTAKES. MAKING A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

 

 

TERM:

The Hushamok Sweepstakes (the "Sweepstakes") entry period commences at 6:00 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on August 9, 2010, and ends at 11:59 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on August 15, 2010 (the "Sweepstakes Entry Period"). 

 

ELIGIBILITY:

This Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the 50 United States, and the District of Columbia, 18 years or older as of date of entry. Employees of the Sponsor; any promotional companies or advertising agencies participating in the Sweepstakes and employees of their respective subsidiaries and affiliates; any persons involved in the creation, development, or implementation of this Sweepstakes; and any other persons or entities directly associated with this Sweepstakes and any members of their immediate families or households are ineligible to participate. Entries for the Sweepstakes drawing must be received prior to the expiration of the Sweepstakes Entry Period. This Sweepstakes is void in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and wherever prohibited or restricted by law, and is subject to all federal, state, and local laws and regulations. By submitting an entry form, entrants agree to abide by these Official Rules and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations that govern Sweepstakes.

 

GRAND PRIZE/VALUE:

 

 

One (1 Grand Prize winner will  receive one (1) Okoa stand with Hammock selected by Sponsor in its sole discretion.  

Approximate Retail Value of the Grand Prize is $575. Actual retail value may vary.

 

 

The Grand Prize is not transferable, assignable or redeemable for cash or any other consideration, and no substitutions will be allowed except by Sponsor, which reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value or nature if advertised prize is not available. The Grand Prize winner is responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations, including, without limitation, the payment of all applicable taxes.

 

 

HOW TO ENTER:

During the Sweepstakes Entry Period, you may enter the Sweepstakes by submitting a reply to the promotion message board thread on http://community.thebump.com/cs/ks/forums/40968234/ShowThread.aspx#40968234Sweepstakes page before 11:59 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time on August 15, 2010. Your full name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, date of birth and email address will be required for eligibility. Incomplete or late entries will be disqualified. Limit one entry per person. If an entrant is determined to have submitted more than one entry submission, that entrant will be disqualified. Entries must comply with file specifications on entry page and must be in English. Entries must be entrant’s own original work and owned solely and exclusively by entrant, have not won a previous prize or award and have not been previously published, must not infringe on, misappropriate or otherwise violate any third-party rights (including but not limited to copyright, trademark, rights of publicity or privacy or any other proprietary right), and must be deemed suitable by The Knot, Inc.  Entrant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless The Knot, Inc., Hushamok and each of their respective affiliated companies, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and agents from any losses, damages, or expenses arising from or in connection with infringement, misappropriation or violation of any third party rights. Entries deemed lewd or offensive may be disqualified, in Sponsor’s sole discretion.  Entries that comply with format and suitability specifications will be acknowledged by e-mail, but remain subject to full eligibility determinations at the sole discretion of Sponsor.  Normal Internet access and usage charges imposed by your online carrier apply.  An entry that does not comply with entry guidelines will be deemed void and of no effect. An entry made will be deemed to have been made by the "authorized account holder" of the email address utilized at the time the entry is made. For purposes herein, the "authorized account holder" refers to the person assigned to an email address by an Internet access provider, online service provider, or other organization responsible for assigning email addresses. All entries will become the property of The Knot, Inc. and will not be returned. The Knot, Inc. is not responsible for transmission and/or computer error. For the avoidance of doubt, acceptance of entries or submissions will not be deemed to waive any provisions of these Sweepstakes rules, and the entrant may subsequently be disqualified.

 

 

RANDOM DRAWING/ODDS OF WINNING/WINNER:

 

The potential winner of the Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from all eligible entries received, on or about August 16, 2010, and will be contacted via email and/or phone on or about August 16, 2010, using the contact information in the winner’s user profiles. Each entrant is responsible for the accuracy of the information included in his/her entry. The Grand Prize drawing will be conducted by The Knot, Inc. The Grand Prize drawing shall be final and conclusive. The odds of winning a Grand Prize will be determined by the actual number of eligible entries received. Potential Grand Prize winner(s) will be required to sign and return an Affidavit of Eligibility,  Liability Release, Copyright Release, Assignment of Rights and where legal, a Publicity Release within ten (10) days of notification attempt. Noncompliance within this time period will result in disqualification and an alternate winner will be determined. If Grand Prize notification is returned as non-deliverable, potential winner will be disqualified and an alternate winner will be determined. The winner will be shipped his or her prize within 6-8 weeks of the announcement of the Grand Prize winner.  The name of the winner of the Sweepstakes will be available after September 1, 2010. To obtain this information, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:Hushamok Sweepstakes - Winner, c/o The Knot, Inc. 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

 

CAUTION:

Any attempt by any person to deliberately damage any web site or undermine legitimate operation of a Sweepstakes may constitute a violation of criminal and civil laws, and should such an attempt be made, The Knot, Inc. reserves the right to seek damages from and/or to prosecute any such person to the fullest extent permitted by law. Any such tampering also will result in ineligibility to win a Grand Prize in the Sweepstakes.

 

CONDITIONS:

 

By participating in this Sweepstakes, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of The Knot, Inc., which are final in all matters relating to this Sweepstakes and acknowledge compliance with these Official Rules. Each entrant acknowledges that the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use found on the www.thebump.com website are hereby incorporated by reference and apply to the submission of entries pursuant to these Official Rules.  By participating in this Sweepstakes, each entrant hereby agrees to The Knot Inc.’s collection and usage of the entrant’s personal information and acknowledges that entrant has read and accepted the above-referenced Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. 

 

 

The Knot, Inc. is in no way liable for any damage, loss, or injury resulting from computer malfunctions, misdirected or incomplete entries, or acceptance and use of a Grand Prize. Sponsor and its agents shall have no liability or responsibility for injuries, damages or liabilities caused or claimed to be caused by participation in the Sweepstakes or the use or misuse of a Grand Prize. The Knot, Inc. reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to cancel, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes should virus, bugs, or other causes beyond the control of Sponsor corrupt the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper play of the Sweepstakes and award the Grand Prize from all eligible entries received prior to cancellation or suspension.

 

By entering this Sweepstakes, each entrant hereby voluntarily and irrevocably releases, holds harmless and agrees not to institute any claim against The Knot, Inc., Hushamok, or any of their respective affiliated companies, and their respective officers, directors, shareholders, employees and agents from any losses, damages, or expenses from any and all injuries, losses or damages of any kind arising from  or in connection with, either directly or indirectly, (1) the awarding, acceptance, receipt, possession, use and/or misuse of the Grand Prize awarded herein; and/or (2) participation in the Sweepstakes or prize related activities.

 

Under no circumstances will any entrant be permitted to obtain awards for, and each entrant hereby waives all rights to claim, punitive, incidental or consequential damages, or any other damages, including attorneys’ fees, and entrant further waives all rights to have damages multiplied or increased.

 

By accepting the Grand Prize, the winner grants The Knot, Inc. permission to use his or her name and likeness for advertising and promotional purposes without any additional compensation (except where prohibited by law).  By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants shall be deemed to have agreed to have their entry information made available to the Sponsor. The Sweepstakes is subject to these Official Rules. By entering the Sweepstakes, entrants and the winner agree to waive any right to claim any ambiguity, inequity or error in the Official Rules of the Sweepstakes, and/or of the Sweepstakes itself, and agree to be bound by these Official Rules and by all decisions of, and interpretations of these Official Rules by, the Sponsor, which in all respects shall be final and binding.

 

 

THE NEW YORK COURTS (STATE AND FEDERAL) SHALL HAVE SOLE JURISDICTION OF ANY CONTROVERSIES REGARDING THE SWEEPSTAKES AND THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, WITHOUT REGARD TO CONFLICTS OF LAWS PRINCIPLES, SHALL GOVERN THE SWEEPSTAKES. ENTRANTS WAIVE ANY AND ALL OBJECTIONS TO JURISDICTION AND VENUE IN THESE COURTS AND HEREBY SUBMIT TO THE JURISDICTION OF THOSE COURTS.

 

All rights reserved. Official Rules may be copied for personal use only and not for any commercial purpose whatsoever.

 

SPONSOR:

The Knot, Inc., 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

 

ADMINISTRATOR:

The Knot, Inc., 462 Broadway, 6th floor, New York, NY 10013.

 

Mysteries of the Universe

Posted Thursday, July 08, 2010 11:54 AM

by Abigail Green of “Diary of a New Mom”

 

Motherhood is a mysterious business. There are some questions you simply can’t answer. Like, will I be in labor for 2 days or will I get a single contraction and push the baby out 30 seconds later like Claire on the finale of “Lost”? (I’d bet on the first scenario if I were you.)

 

I have a long list of these mysteries of the universe, a list that keeps growing along with my children. Here are some I wrote down shortly after my first baby was born:

 

How can I love someone so much who’s only been alive for 4 ½ months? I have lettuce in my fridge older than that.

 

How can I love someone so much who’s constantly grabbing fistfuls of my hair and pulling REALLY HARD?

 

How can I love someone so much whose idea of fun is cramming his socks into his mouth?

 

How can I change a sopping wet diaper, undershirt, and sleeper without opening both eyes when I can’t cross my bedroom without banging my shin on the bed?

 

How can the baby nurse, burp, and repeat without opening his eyes when he couldn’t find his own foot until recently?

 

How can I be bored to tears some days when I’m too busy to brush my teeth?

 

How can I be lonely when I am never alone anymore?

 

How can I be giddily happy and so sad I can’t breathe in the same day?

 

How does spit-up get in the baby’s ear when he’s lying on his stomach?

 

How can the baby be crying hysterically one second and dead asleep the next?

 

How can the baby grow 6 inches taller in 4 months and his hair not grow a millimeter?

 

How come on the rare occasions the baby sleeps through the night I’m wide awake worrying that something’s wrong?

 

Got any of your own to add, readers?

 

Abigail Green is a freelance writer and mom to two boys, ages 3 and 1. She blogs about the lighter side of life, writing, parenting, and more at http://www.diaryofanewmom.net.