Bump Editors' Blog

The Bump: About us

Bump Kaitlin — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 21:44:00 GMT

THE BUMP
The inside scoop on pregnancy and parenting

TheBump.com

From the creators of The Knot and The Nest, The Bump gives first-time parents the lowdown on fertility, pregnancy, birth, and babies with stage-by-stage advice, stylish ideas, local resources, and interactive tools -- all in one savvy online community. At The Bump, we aim to connect new parents and parents-to-be, as well as offer them personalized advice using a wide variety of user-generated content and up-to-date community features, including baby blogs, local reviews, checklists, personal profiles, photo galleries, topic-based message boards, and more...

* Expert Q&As with OB/GYNs, pediatricians, sleep experts, nutritionists, stylists, baby planners, and more
* Baby service and product reviews powered by LilaGuide.com, the web's largest searchable database of real-parent feedback
* Community forums with local events listings
* Weekly giveaways and community web wraps
* Message boards on topics ranging from getting pregnant to eco-friendly parenting.
* Interactive tools that will help you with everything from tracking ovulation to picking a name for baby

THE BUMP Magazine

Excited about your pregnancy but overwhelmed by all the choices? The Bump local magazines are the ultimate guides to being pregnant in your nabe. Our panel of nationally recognized experts provides the latest tips on pregnancy planning, nutrition, nursery design -- you name it. And to bring it all home, our guides give you the tools and resources you need to make the best possible choices in your area -- all at your fingertips. Find out if your city has a local guide, and where to buy it: Get The Bump Guide.

The Nest Baby Shop

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes... well, you know. But even if newlywed couples aren’t quite ready for the big step into parenthood, they undoubtedly know other couples who are. We created The Nest Baby Shop to help them easily find everything tot-related. From sentimental, personalized baby and nursery essentials to unique favors for a stylish baby shower, The Nest Baby Shop has an array of adorable, creative gifts for Mom, Dad, and baby.

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TO CONTACT THE BUMP

MEDIA INQUIRIES

To interview an expert or executive from The Bump or to obtain statistics, checklists, or high-resolution images:

Melissa Bauer, Public Relations Manager | (212) 219-8555 x1020 | pr@theknot.com

To interview an expert or executive from The Bump or to obtain statistics, checklists, or high-resolution images:

Jacalyn Lee, Public Relations Manager | (212) 219-8555 x1013 | pr@thebump.com

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES

For any product or story pitches, as well as questions about becoming an expert for the site or being a featured user, please contact:

Kaitlin Stanford, Assistant Editor, The Bump | (212) 219-8555 x1014 | kstanford@theknot.com

COMMUNITY INQUIRIES

For any community questions or message board issues, please visit our Help Center or email: community@thebump.com.

TO ADVERTISE

National Ad Sales: (877) 380-9919 | nationalsales@thenest.com

Local Ad Sales: (800) 843-4983 | localsales@thenest.com

REGISTRY INQUIRIES

Registry contact: Caroline Buenrostro I cbuenrostro@theknot.com

Customer service contact: customerservice@theknot.com | (877) THE-KNOT (877-843-5668); Hours: Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., PST

The Bump Help Center

Bump Dara — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 21:26:00 GMT

Why am I asked to log in every time I visit The Bump?

If you're being sent back again and again to the log in screen, your browser is probably not set to always accept cookies. To make your visit to The Bump as fast and carefree as possible, your browser preferences must be set to always accept cookies.

The Bump uses cookies to store your member number and the information you've input to the tools. If your browser is set to always accept cookies, you never need to log in more than once to The Bump -- and you can update your information and preferences in other tools at any time.

What are cookies?

A cookie is a very small text file placed on your computer by a web server and is essentially your identification card. It contains your member number and cannot execute code or deliver viruses.

The Bump uses cookies so that once you join the site, you never have to log in again. In addition to your member number, cookies let us store the information you've input to other tools. Cookies allow The Nest to be more efficient. Each time you return, we'll show you the information you request.

How do I update my preferences?

You can edit any personal information you give The Bump whenever you wish. Just follow the link below to go to your profile to make changes.

Update my preferences now.

How do I subscribe or unsubscribe from The Bump email list?

Simply visit http://global.thebump.com/join/Sites/TheBump/EmailPreferences.aspx to select the communications that interest you. Here you may also change your email format preference (html or text) and unsubscribe from any email offerings you’re not interested in receiving.

You can also unsubscribe from specific email by following the simple instructions included at the bottom of every email from The Bump.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

How do I find a list of commonly used abbreviations (like DH, DS, etc.)?

- While on any Bump board, you can scroll down to "My Boards" on the left-hand side.

- Click "Bump Board Glossary" for a full list of terms.

How do I put a picture in my signature?

- Upload your picture to a hosting site such as Photobucket.com or Shutterfly.com.

- Find the direct link to your photo by right-clicking on the picture and finding the URL under properties (it will end in .jpg or another file ending for a picture). If the URL is long, you may need to shorten it using a site like tinyurl.com.

- Go to the community page: http://community.thebump.com/cs/ks/community/default.aspx

- Under your name, click "Edit My Profile." Scroll down to the Signature field and enter in this code:

<img src*="YOUR URL HERE" width="180px"> Take out the * and then you can modify the size of the picture by adjusting the "180" higher or lower.

How can I unsubscribe from threads I'm watching or see all of them at once?

-Just head to this link to see all of the threads you're subscribed to: http://community.thebump.com/cs/ks/forums/MySubscriptions.aspx

-Click the "unsubscribe" box if you would no longer like to receive updates via email.

How do I change my due date/erase it, if I need to?

- Click Update Account at the top right-hand side of any page (or use this direct link: http://global.thebump.com/join/MemberProfile.aspx). Then, look for where it says “Pregnant?” and either click "Yes" and plug in your due date, or "No," and change the due date to “?”

How do I find all of my posts?

While on any board, scroll down to "My Boards" on the left-hand side. Underneath it you will see "My Posts."

Can I edit my post after it's submitted?

Yes, you can click the "edit" button on any of your posts and make corrections.

How do I as another question i don't see answered here, or suggest a new community board or story topic?

- Simple! Email all of your questions, tips, ideas, or suggestions to community@thebump.com.

Can I view my posts in order of last reply so that I don't miss anything?

Sure you can. At the bottom of every board you'll see a "Viewing Preferences" box. You can choose to sort by "Original Post Date" (the default) or "Last Post Date."

How do I send a Private Message?

If you would like send a private message to another member, just open one of their posts, click "Contact." and choose "Send so and so a Private Message." They will receive an email that they have a private message if their current email is updated on their Bump profile.

*Remember: Make sure your e-mail is up-to-date so that you'll receive an alert when someone sends you a Private Message!

How do I check to see if I have a Private Message?

While on any board, scroll down to "My Boards" on the left-hand side. Underneath it you will see "Check Private Messages."

How do I watch a thread?

At the top of every message board post there's an option that says "Watch this thread," which you can click on if you're interested in keeping up with responses to that particular thread. You will then receive email updates (to the email account you have registered to your Bump name) that will notify you every time someone comments on your thread.

You can reach all of your watched threads at once by clicking "All Boards" at the top of any board page. On the right side there's also a section called "My Subscriptions" -- underneath that you can click "Threads I'm Watching" to check on any responses.

How do I quote another user in my reply?

Instead of clicking "reply" under a post, click "quote" and begin typing under the text that pops up.

How do I edit my profile?

- Click on "My Bump" in the upper left-hand corner

- Click on "Edit Profile" under your avatar photo

How do I edit my bio?

- Click on "My Bump" in the upper left-hand corner

- Click on "Edit My Bio" at the top of the page. You can use our Bio Builder or skip to the green "Advanced" tab to insert your own HTML code.

How do I change my avatar?

- Click on "my bump" in the upper left-hand corner

- Click on "Edit Profile" under the "About Me" section

- The second option down is "Upload Your Photo" -- you can click on "Browse" to choose a photo from your desktop.

How do I report an inappropriate post?

At the bottom left of every post you will see a "Report" button. Let us know what the issue is and then hit "post."

How do I create a blog post?

Go to the Community Blogs page (hit "Blogs" at the top of your screen) and click "Create a Blog Post" at the top.

Q: Summer pregnancy?

Paula K — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 19:33:00 GMT

Q: It's so hot outside already! Are there any specific risks I need to watch out for during the summer? And how can I stay (relatively) comfortable?

A: With your belly getting bigger and bigger just as we head into summer, you may find yourself wondering if you’ll make it out alive. But don’t worry -- while it’s true that a summer pregnancy isn’t always easy, here are a few tricks to ease your hot-weather woes.

Summer Bummer #1: Dehydration
Getting enough fluids is especially tough in the hot summer months. Ordinarily, you should try to drink two liters of clear liquids every day, but in the summer, you need to add eight ounces for every hour you spend in the heat, according to NYC nutritionist Lara Englebardt Metz, MS, RD, CDN. That’s basically the amount you’ll be sweating out.

Cool Fix: Icy concoctions
Since you’ll be constantly sipping, make your drink a fun one. Try out Lara’s favorite mocktail: chilled seltzer with a splash of mango juice and lime. The mango is loaded with vitamin C and iron. Pretend you’re relaxing on a tropical beach by sipping from a super-cute cup like this coconut-shaped one from Target ($16.99 for set of 4, target.com). Or, if you get sick of sipping, go for a homemade Popsicle. Lara suggests blending nonfat yogurt, walnuts, and blueberries and pouring into Popsicle molds for a sweet snack loaded with H2O (not to mention omega 3s, calcium, antioxidants, and fiber).

Summer Bummer #2: Swelling
Edema can be worse in summer, causing your calves, ankles, and feet to become one wide, bloated mass. Sounds like fun, doesn’t it?

Cool Fix: Kick up your heels!
“To help reduce swelling, make an effort to keep your legs up whenever you can -- even in the office,” says Lara. For an extra-relaxing way to lounge, try a comfy hanging seat like the colorful, handmade, Mayan hammock chair (from $38.99, hammocks.com). If your swelling persists, Lara suggests munching on watercress, celery, citrus fruits, or small bits of parsley, which may act as natural diuretics.

Summer Bummer #3: Extreme heat
Obvious but true: It’s steaming. You’re huge. It stinks.

Cool Fix: Get wet
Be sure to wear sun protection (at least SPF 30), but don’t shy away from the pool. Water is a mama-to-be’s best friend! An afternoon dip will not only lower your body temp, the buoyancy will also ease the stress on your squished organs, and splashing around provides a great low-impact workout. Plus, you’ll have the chance to really show off that belly! Go on -- be brave and bare your bump in a colorful printed suit like the sungarden bikini from Maternal America ($92, blossommaternity.com). No access to a pool? Try the plastic kiddy version. Baby can use it later.

Summer Bummer #4: Sticky sweat
Okay, so the summer may have you chafing a bit. But the best thing about a summer pregnancy: lightweight and comfy maternity clothes!

Cool Fix: Breathable maternity wear
For maximum cuteness and comfort, go for loose, light-colored clothes. This helps keep you from overheating and allows sweat -- especially beneath and between your boobs -- to evaporate, preventing nasty rashes. Some cool options to try: Juicy Couture’s floral printed maternity dress ($220, juicycouture.com), A Pea in the Pod’s linen/cotton shift dress in tiki print ($225, apeainthepod.com), or Gap’s smocked tube top ($25, gap.com).

Summer Bummer #5: Boredom
The simplest way to keep your body temp on track? “Stay indoors in an air-conditioned home,” says Lara. But how’s a girl to keep her sanity when she’s hanging out on the couch in the living room all day?

Cool Fix: Fun summer rentals
Beat the heat with a few belly laughs courtesy of some baby-focused DVD favorites. Your, er, “condition” might have you looking at a couple of ’80s and ’90s classics in a whole new light. Remember Junior? How about Father of the Bride Part II? Look Who’s Talking and Nine Months are great for a chuckle too. Renting (rather than hitting the theaters) will give you the freedom to pause the flick and walk around to ease your aches (or pee every 10 minutes).

-- Erin Walters

Conner Herman and Kira Ryan

The Bump Editors — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 17:39:00 GMT

Conner and Kira are New York City moms and lovers of sleep. They are the co-founders of Dream Team Baby, an infant and toddler sleep consultancy based in Manhattan . They help babies (and their parents) across the country get some much deserved rest. In their free time, they enjoy planning the 2035 spring time wedding of their toddlers, Wyatt and Emilia. Learn more about their services at www.dreamteambaby.com.

Conner & Kira's Advice
Helping Baby Sleep

Got a question for Conner & Kira? Send it to experts@thenestbaby.com
Make sure to include your user name. Conner and Ryan are not able to provide personal responses, and are not able to guarantee an answer to your question. Please consult your personal healthcare provider with urgent questions and emergencies.

Posted by The Nest Baby Editors

So what? My boy loves his kitchen!

Nest Amy — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 19:57:00 GMT

When I told my husband that Wyatt really wanted a kitchen for the holidays, he was a bit shocked. But, there was no denying our top-chef-in-training of his cool blue compact cooking center.

We told Nana and Poppie that this big ticket item (Play Wonder Kitchen from Target, $99) was going to be the hit of the season. Sure enough: not only does it look good in my house; but it is also his favorite new item ... alongside trains, firetrucks, kicking the ball in the house (yikes!), pirates and all those delicious "boy" things.

I say, why not let the kid learn to love the kitchen, the vacuum cleaner and the laundry basket. Maybe encouraging him to tidy up as a tot will make his wife very happy one day!

What's on your kids' wishlist this year?

The Best Bibs

Bump Lori — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 21:43:00 GMT

When Cooper started eating solids, my laundry increased dramatically due to all the bibs. Every meal resulted in a terrycloth mess of smushed sweet potatoes or apples. Gross! The last thing a busy mom needs is more clothes to clean -- so what to do?

Enter Bumkins, which I have now dubbed "the laundry-less bib." From the first time I tried them -- on a recommendation from our nanny -- I was hooked. Bumkins not only come in stylish graphic patterns, they are made of a special waterproof fabric that cleans in a breeze. After Cooper wolfs down another jar of carrots, all I have to do is run the bib under the faucet for a few moments and the food and stains are gone. You don't even need soap to clean it -- though I prefer to use a dab of dish doap. When we're on the go, I just quickly wash the bib down with a baby wipe, and then it's ready to be used again! Doesn't get much easier than that.

Any other Bumkins fans out there? What are some of your favorite feeding products?

Hollywood Baby Boom

Bump Lori — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 15:30:00 GMT

The new year is poised to be bouncing with new celebrity babies -- and that means showers with tons of trendy baby gear! Nicole Richie, who looks to be due sometime in the next month or two, recently celebrated her bundle of joy with a Wizard of Oz-themed shower. Nicole reportedly received a Jack Boy T-shirt by Tummy, which has caused some chatter that she and Joel Madden are expecting a boy, though they remain mum on their child's gender. Christina Aguilera is due in January and celebrated her baby boy's impending arrival with a carnival-themed baby shower. Famous guests like Gwen Stefani (who has been spotted in Prague pushing son Kingston around in a limited edition gold stroller by Mamas and Papas) came armed with gear for the tiny man, including the adorable and surprisingly affordable Johnny Socks by Trumpette (shown here). These socks make tiny newborn feet look like they're wearing high-top sneakers. Too cute!

A solution for droopy maternity pants

Bump Kate — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 22:44:00 GMT

As soon as I started really showing, I was lucky enough to be offered a whole slew of maternity clothing by a friend who had just had a baby herself. I was beyond thrilled because she included quite a few pairs of corduroy pants – one of my absolute favorite fall and winter staples. Only problem? They wouldn’t stay up. Ever. I tried various other types of maternity pants only to discover that this issue wasn’t limited to just corduroys. I did not have a single pair of maternity pants that would stay up. I spent entire days pulling up my pants. Truthfully, I feel like I lost years of my life pulling up maternity pants. Step step…pull up the pants…step step…pull up the pants. I figured I’d have to give up. Clearly, maternity pants were just never going to stay up on me and there was either something wrong with my body or pregnant women all over the world were pulling their pants up every 30 seconds.

Google to the rescue. In desperation, I did a search for “maternity pants won’t stay up” and eventually found my way to a blog where women were chatting about a pair of maternity suspenders called Belly Ups. I didn’t even think, I just clicked and ordered. I was willing to try anything to end the torture. They arrived a few days later and, sure enough, they worked! I could wear my pants and they never fell down. It was like a miracle. You do have to attach them to the non-stretchy part of your pants and then to your bra, so you’re better off not using a really nice bra when you wear them because they do stretch out the material a bit. Anyone else have any “miracle” products that helped them through pregnancy?