InvitingSmiles Blog

If you are in the middle of your wedding planning, you may have had a few stressful moments when you have asked yourself the elusive question, ‘To elope, or not to elope… that is the real question!’

Eloping can be romantic and exciting. However, you will definitely offend some people. Your moms are going to be offended the most. They have dreamed of this wedding day as long, or longer, than you have. If you are seriously considering the idea of eloping, think of other’s feelings, as well as your own.

Finances, family feuds, and impatience are all reasons that couples finally decide to run off, and get married. While we are not suggesting elopement in any way, we thought we would research and discuss some options.

* Finances do not have to be such a factor in a wedding. The tabloids with their “Hollywood” weddings make everything so elaborate. However, a very meaningful private wedding can include only close family and friends. Your attire can be simple and decorations few. Focus on the meaning, not the money. Later you may wish to have a larger party, or reception to celebrate your marriage with more family and friends.

* Family feuds are difficult, especially when trying to plan a wedding. You and your fiancé may choose to get married privately with just the two of you and your best man and maid of honor. A small celebration with your family could follow at your home.

* Impatience is the scariest reason to elope. Ask yourself many questions: How well do you know the person that you are about to marry? Are they able to hold a job? Is this true love, or just a whim? If only one of you is impatient, ask yourself why. Is there a reason you need to be married so quickly? Besides, you will have the rest of your life together, right. Why get married so quickly.

Many couples, who have chosen to elope, later regret not having their big wedding day. If you are frustrated with wedding plans, take a day or two off. Go to the gym, or go to the spa. Choose something that will take your mind off your wedding and exhilarate you at the same time. Making hasty decisions is never a good idea.

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We have known for years that coupons save money. However, many of us do not like searching for them, analyzing where you can get them doubled, or tripled, and where the best deals are. In today’s economy, you may want to take a closer look at coupon shopping.

I’m a rookie Coupon Shopper. Recently, I scoured the Sunday newspaper for ads and coupons. Frankly, I didn’t find many coupons of things I normally buy. I did find a grocery store with a great offer. If I bought 10 certain items, I would get $5 off. I studied the items list and chose 20 items, so I knew I would get at least $10 off my bill. I also used my store card at checkout and was able to save a considerable amount of money.

So far, I have learned:

o Make sure the drive to the store is worth the savings. If you have to drive a considerable distance just to save $1, it is not worth it. Choose stores in close proximity to your home and your office.

o Use coupons wisely. If you have a coupon for $1 off two 9oz. boxes of cereal, but one 18 oz. box of cereal already costs less than two 9 oz. boxes minus the $1, there is no reason to use this coupon. Wait until you see the 9 oz. boxes go on sale.

o You can find coupons in your mail, newspaper, and on the internet. Search your favorite food makers’ websites for coupons and deals.

o Combine the coupons with store promotions and use your store card for excellent savings.

Coupon shopping takes time! However, once you have your methods set, the time it takes is definitely worth the savings.

Please, send in your comments and ideas and help us all become more efficient coupon shoppers!

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Many fathers are very excited they have a baby on the way, but soon they may wonder I’m a new Dad, now what?

Finding out that you are going to be a dad is a glorious moment. You may start planning your son’s first fishing trip and ballgame. If it is a girl, maybe she will like soccer and not ballet. Then, when the baby is born, you will experience a love that will equal no other. You may feel overwhelmed with this new feeling.

Emotions are overwhelming at times. Forget the first fishing trip, or ballgame. Now I wonder if I will be able to support the baby, What about college, Will I always be able to protect my little girl, How do I learn ballet, When will he stop crying, Why is she crying, She will not date until she is at least 30!

It is perfectly normal to be concerned. However, like anything new, you will learn as you go. Your baby will soon start giving you signs. You will learn which cry means ‘I’m hungry’, and which one means ‘I need a diaper change’. It is perfectly normal for a baby to be inconsolable at times. This does not mean you are a bad father.

Talking with other dads can be helpful. Finding out you are not alone with your concerns and feelings will be a great comfort. There are many books available, and information on-line that may help you feel better about your journey. Soon your little one will be cooing and smiling when he/she sees your face, or hears your voice, and you will know that you must be doing something right!

Help us help our dads. Send your comment with suggestions for new fathers!

Click here for more information on Bringing home the baby:
http://www.invitingsmiles.com/bringing-home-the-baby.html

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Many women who are pregnant, feel lightheaded at some time during their pregnancy. Their body and hormonal changes can be a cause for this.

Along with many other things, your cardiovascular system is experiencing some changes during your pregnancy. Your blood pressure will go up and down at certain times during your pregnancy and this may cause a dizzy feeling.

Here are some prevention methods to try:

 Go slowly when standing up or sitting up. This will allow your blood time to ‘catch up’ with your motion.

 Wear loose fitting clothing.

 Keep your shower and bath water warm, not too hot or steamy.

 Avoid standing in one place for long periods. Keep your legs active while standing.

 Eat small meals and snacks throughout the day.

 Keep hydrated.

Speak with your doctor if you are feeling lightheaded often, and these simple measures do not seem to be helping.

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Choosing your wedding photographer may be one of the most important steps you take. This person will be responsible for gathering your wedding images that will be viewed for many years.

Meet your photographer – Be sure to meet and speak with the actual photographer that will be taking the photos at your wedding.

View portfolio – Ask to view a portfolio of wedding photos taken by your photographer, not a collection of photos by all of the photographers of the company.

Consider location photo ops – Once the venue(s) of your ceremony and reception are established, make an appointment to have your photographer tour the facility(s). This will allow the photographer an idea of the available lighting. You may also speak of some photo opportunities the venue allows (sunset view, water view, fireplace, fountain, etc.)

Must have Photos! – You may have a particular photo that you have always wanted: Dancing with dad, mom and dad dancing together, the whole family, etc. Be specific with your requests.

Next week we will discuss some personal, sweet and unique ideas for photo ops!

Until then, click here for more Wedding Photo ideas:
http://www.invitingsmiles.com/wedding-photos.html

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A creative flare and great imagination will turn your youngest child’s party into a wonderland based on his or her favorite book.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is really great!
We’re having a book party so don’t be late.

A and B have made it up the tree,
But, the rest of the letters need our help, you see.

Create a coconut tree:

• Design a tree on a wall, purchase a tree decoration from a party store, or decorate a small basketball goal like a tree.   
• Hang cardboard letters A and B from the ‘coconut tree’.
• Hide the rest of the letters around the house for a scavenger hunt. Throughout the party, the children will find the letters and get to hang them from the tree.
• If using a basketball goal ‘tree’: Blow up balloons and write one letter on each balloon. The children can bounce the balloons in the air until they get them into the ‘tree’ (the basketball net).

For your party decorations have a Hawaiian Luau:

• Chicka Chicka Boom Boom music 
• Alphabet shaped cookies
• Juice in coconut cups
• Grass skirts around the table and for dress up

Other activities can include:

• Splashing in a wading pool, or swimming pool
• Sing and Dance a long to the Chicka Chicka Boom Boom song
• Limbo contest

At the very start of the party, take time to read the book. Be sure to read with excitement and flare. The children will soon chime in and the PARTY will begin!

http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=752

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If all step parenting and blended families could result in the “Brady Bunch”, this would be a better world, maybe. However, this is an unrealistic expectation.

Blending two families is never going to be an easy task. Much will depend on the age of the children. The younger children are usually more accepting as soon as they realize that everybody still loves them. However, pre-teens and teenagers are another story. Kids this age are challenging to their own parents, they are certainly going to be a challenge for you. They have had rules from day one, and now someone else is coming into the family with more or different rules. For an adolescent seeking independence, this will not be a happy moment.

Keep one thing in mind; in most cases, the child still loves both their parents. They may be mad at one or both and may act out, but they still love them. If you come into their lives and bad-mouth one of their parents they will rebel!

This blending will take time and patience. There will be times when you will need to take a walk, allowing the biological parent time with their child. However, it is also important to not over indulge, or allow yourself to be taken advantage of. This may be a natural desire at first to ‘win’ the child’s love, but it will create future chaos. It is best for the children to understand their boundaries from the beginning.

Becoming active and interested in their lives is important. Respect the child’s wishes, but show that you are interested. Work with your new spouse on common rules and disciplinary actions. In fact, discuss your plans, assumptions, and expectations before blending the families. It is very easy to fall in love, not as easy to make it work.

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Children have wonderful imaginations and each time they open a book their dreams are endless. From all of the adventures of Spot to Harry Potter’s wizard world, our children have opportunities to visit mysterious places and experience adventures every time they open a book.  

Teach your child the love of reading from a very early age. Read with enthusiasm and flare. Show your enjoyment to start a new book and let your child see you reading with interest. Talk about the book you are reading, so your little one will witness how intriguing reading can be.

It is never too early to start a child’s library. Instead of a greeting card with your gifts, give a book. Encourage your family and friends to do the same. You may write a little note in the book like, “Jamie, I hope your 1st birthday is very special. You are the light of our lives. Love, Mom and Dad.” What a wonderful way to add to your child’s library and wonderful memories. 

Click here for some tips on Reading to your Baby:
http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=209

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Being pregnant and keeping safe from the heat is very important during these hot summer months. Here are a few simple suggestions:

□ Drink plenty of water – Keep water handy at all times. Try to drink at least eight cups of water during the day.

□ Eat small meals – Eat light meals throughout the day. Keep them low in salt and healthy. Include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

□ Lightweight clothes – Wear loose fitting clothing. Choose lightweight fabrics and cool colors; such as yellows, whites and pastels.

□ Stay home during the hottest part of day – Go out early in the morning, or late at night when the outdoor temperatures are cooler.

□ Take frequent naps – Napping will replenish your energy and help your body cool itself.

□ Frequent showers and swimming – Dips in cool water is a refreshing way to cool your body down.

You are carrying extra weight during these hot months and that causes extra stress on your body. Prop your feet up and allow plenty of time for relaxation. Ask for help when needed, drink plenty of water and plan your day to stay cool.

http://www.invitingsmiles.com/new-baby-checklist.html

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Do you want a ‘different’ kind of wedding? Are you tired of the same scenario? We are here to provide you with some unique wedding ideas that we have heard, seen, read about, or created.

Over the year’s Inviting Smiles has offered advice on making your wedding memorable. This week we will compile this advice in multiple links for your convenience.

The Wedding Cake

Bakeries can shape a cake into just about anything you want, a heart, a soccer ball, a carriage, a castle, etc. Whether creativity is used on the wedding cake, or the groom’s cake is up to you.

Click here for ideas for the groom’s cake:  http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=410
Click here for Wedding Cake ideas:  http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=368

Exiting the Reception

Last Friday we spoke of exiting the reception in a fire truck, or down an airport runway. 

Here are some more memorable exit ideas: http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=172

Theme Weddings

Theme weddings are always memorable. Here are some links to great theme ideas:
Theme Ideas: http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=304

Outdoor Wedding: http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=279
Winter Wedding: http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=252
Christmas Wedding: http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=231
Valentine Wedding: http://blog.invitingsmiles.com/?p=357

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