*Baby-Wearing Benefits*

Most of you have heard of it, may have never tried it, tried it with the wrong appliance and decided it wasn't for you, or have never attempted to do it. Baby wearing has been around for centuries, but only recently has gained extensive popularity in the United States. Why baby wear?

Baby wearing enhances your bond with your child and calms them down. Research shows that worn infants barely ever cry. They are swaddled next to your chest. It mimicks the womb. Wearing your baby also allows you to complete household chores that could not be completed with a fussy baby. You don't have to worry about lugging around a stroller when your child is wrapped. Where should you inquire about wearing your child? Believe it or not, there are many Facebook support groups that discuss baby wearing and also have meet ups to show you how to baby wear. They give advice on baby wearing items and where to purchase them. You can go to a meetup and purchase one there. Personally, my favorite wrap is a woven wrap. My wrap is called the hip baby wrap. I purchased the item on amazon for $67.00. Wraps are expensive, but they're worth the cost. It will not disappoint you. You can wrap your child until they're two years old in my wrap. Many momma's wrap until 5 years old. It's a little complicated, but easy when you get the hang of it. YouTube tutorials help as well. Don't be afraid to wear your baby. If you're breastfeeding, it allows you to discreetly do it without a cover! Have fun wearing away!

*Uber vs. Cab Services: Why I Support Uber

Traveling a long distance to the airport? Have you called yellow cab to pick you up? You don't expect it to be too expensive. After all, you live about 30-35 miles from the airport. How much will it cost? Maybe $50.00? Wrong, about $150.00 considering the charge of $5.00 a minute. That's insane! Next time you'll just take a shuttle. Well, there's no more need, really. There's a new company, uber, which is half the price. Instead of spending your paycheck, you save half the price. Also, ubers are always on time. Cab drivers make you wait and sometimes take advantage of customers for a better tip. So, choose uber and your trip will not be a disappointment. 

*Traveling Abroad From the US?- You may be denied travel to Europe if your passport expires in less than 6 months*

All ready to board your flight, but denied at passport inspection? Well, don't be surprised if you are. If your US passport expires in less than 6 months, you may be denied access to Europe. It's a new law that requires US citizens to renew their passports 6 months prior to expiration. The recommendation states at least 3 months, but is better if their is a 6 month gap. Imagine how devastating it can be to be turned away from your flight at the airport? Well, this recently happened to a friend of mine and he had no idea about the new law. Why? Because it wasn't stated on the website where he purchased his ticket. Obviously, he was reimbursed and was able to enjoy travel elsewhere, but that wasn't the original plan. All travel booking websites should have this new law stated in bold letters on their websites. If my original destination is Europe, I expect to travel to Europe. I will not be turned away or booted. It's ridiculous that American citizens are turned away from travel if our passport expires. I understand Europe's concern, but why would we stay in their countries and attempt to become citizens? If you are traveling to Europe this summer, make sure your passport doesn't expire in less than 6 months. Happy travels! You can read about the new Schengen law at travel.state.gov for further information.

*Vaccines: Why I chose to do one at a time*

I know what you're thinking. "What a controversial topic to talk about? What kind of a mother are you? You're not right. You are wrong."

Listen, I am in no place to judge any parent on their choices. Guess what? Neither are you. I have chosen what I think is best for my child. Why I think it's best is what I will share with you. Everyone has their opinions on vaccines. Basically, you're damned if you do and you're damned if you don't. It's important to know that I am not against vaccinating my child. I am against giving a combinational dosage of vaccines. Why? Because I believe my child's body cannot handle it. I have done plenty of research on vaccines. When I was a baby, I received a combinational dose that left me with a fever for 23 days. The same thing happened to my niece. I refuse to put my child at risk. I agree, every infant is different, but you will not know until they have received the immunization. I am doing one shot at a time because vaccines have been linked to brain damage. Vaccines also have small dosages of mercury and other additives that may be harmful to my child. Vaccines may cause fevers, vaccines can cause seizures, and I repeat again, vaccines CAN CAUSE BRAIN DAMAGE. Personally, I know an infant that had brain damage linked to the MMR vaccine. The health department was sued and the family received a settlement from them. Will that ever bring their healthy child back? Will that ever reverse the neurological damage? Will that ever make up for the emotional and physical destruction their family has endured? The answer is, no. That will not bring back their healthy child and it will not fix the problem. It will help with medical issues and treatments the child is forced to endure its entire life. You can think whatever you want about me. I think I am human. I believe I am making the right choice. How do I know? Because a nurse approached me as my child was receiving her one dosage vaccine today and commended my parenting skills. Her exact words, "You're doing a great job. It's a lot for them." I thanked her and told her that not everyone would agree with her. I have been called a terrible parent. I have been called stupid and plenty of other names. I think I am doing it the safe way. I think that my child's risk of developing any side effects is more minimal than others. I think I am a smart mother. I think I am intelligent. You can call me whatever names you want, bring it on. I am being a good mother.

*Where to Shop for Summer Vacation at Low Cost: Women and Men*

Looking for fashion trends at low costs? Not willing to spend $100 on a summer outfit? Tired of shopping at top brand stores and buying cheap material? 

Whether you're a man or woman, tj Maxx, marshalls, or Ross has the best solutions. Not only are their prices affordable, but they have top designer brands at low costs. If you can't afford that Gucci or Guess brand anymore, these places are perfect for you. If you're not too stuck up, I dare you to try them. You can find some Ralph Loren, Juicy, Tommy Hillfiger, Anne Klein, and other designer brands for $30.00 or less. Best part is, no one ever has to know where you got your clothes. Not only is the material durable, but it fits anyone's budget. Instead of spending $200 on one outfit, you can spend that on a few different things. So, broaden your horizons, leave your comfort zone, and explore these affordable shops. You won't be disappointed.

* Coyote Epidemic- South Florida *

"Coy-what? No way? Not in my neighborhood!"

People it's time to wake up! Coyotes are in our neighborhoods. They have left the Everglades and made it to Boca Raton. They're going after small pets and have even killed a small York Shire Terrier. People who live in surrounding areas, such as Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, Deerfield Beach, West Palm Beach, Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and etc. should be concerned. Just because it's not in your exact location, does not mean it could not reach you. Children and small pets are in danger. It's becoming a small epidemic. I've never heard of coyotes in south Florida. The Everglades aren't enough for them anymore. They're leaving because of fires  and lack of food. They are coming to our towns hungry. This is extremely frightening. They don't only come out at night, they attack during the early morning hours. My husband caught sight of a coyote on the turnpike off the Sample Road exit. They're closer thank you can imagine and small pets and children shouldn't be left unattended. If you can avoid walking pets for the time being, use a dog pad or your back yard if you have one. Take them to a dog park if you have time. Ensure that small children aren't left unattended and are playing in fenced areas. Coyotes are wild animals and they aren't afraid to attack. If you see one, it's important not to panic. Stay perfectly calm and do not run. If it approaches you, act as if you're bigger than the animal. Start throwing rocks or pennies. Use an authoritative voice. If you can manage, call Florida Fish and Wild Life Conservation Commission (FWCC) at (888-404-3922)immediately for further assistance. Obviously, do not approach the animal head on. Signal for as much help as possible. Also, contact the local law enforcement agency.

*Comparing Self Identity Crises: Caitlyn Jenner vs. Rachel Dolezal*

Who are you? Can you answer it comfortably? So many people go through life struggling with the question. Many of us wonder what it's classified as.  The proper words to define a struggle with ourselves is called a self identity crisis. Most of us reach this stage at puberty and overcome it once we hit our later teen years. Sometimes, it reappears in late adulthood as we struggle to find our meaning and place in the world. When does it become a serious issue? When we are forced to lie or alter our natural born identities because we are uncomfortable with them, then it becomes a psychological issue that dwells within the soul. When an individual cannot accept themselves or live in their own bodies, the identity crisis becomes their life. Bruce Jenner and Rachel Dolezal are perfect examples of individuals trapped in a self identity crisis that stems from a psychological stand point. Both individuals are not comfortable with who they truly are and have altered their appearances. Jenner feels that he always has been a she, Caitlyn Jenner, on the inside and Dolezal has always connected as an African American, although, she was born white. They have had a arduous time transitioning in life and chose to alter their  identities. The only way to become comfortable with their "true" selves is to endure extensive psychological treatment. They must except who they are on the inside and who they've become. Caitlyn has accepted her transition from male to female, but Dolezal has not accepted her white roots.  The only way she can accept her origins is to go through treatment and figure out why she chose her identity. She has hurt many people along the way, including her parents. It's one thing to transform into another individual with acceptance and truth, but it's another issue when it becomes a harsh lie that affects the lives of our loved ones. I hope these individuals find peace in their own and original skins because it's not easy. Many people with a self identity crisis turn to self harm when they lack self love. Don't be afraid to reach out for help! Be comfortable with who you are. If not, it's never to late to talk to someone.

If you or someone you know, is in need of serious help, don't hesitate to call the national suicide hotline toll free at: 

1 (800) 273-8255