Know How to be A Good Mom

It is quite true that each one of us enters the phase of motherhood having a set of expectations and beliefs about what it needs to be a good mother. These beliefs are developed from the pressure of our society and communities as a whole, through the expectations of our family and friends and the experiences with our own parents. All these factors play such a powerful influence over us that it actually becomes difficult for us to listen to our own ideas about ‘good mom’ thing. Stop spending excess amounts of time on your phones Are you one of those people who are damn addicted to their phone? Is the first thing in the morning each day and the last thing at night you do is check your phone? Has the world of social media has gripped you in its hold? Spending your entire day just swapping through the various apps makes your family suffer without you actually realizing it. “Me-time” is definitely important, but little check-ins here or there are crucial as well. Know that this habit of yours is making your poor kids grow up with a device between them and their mother. Facebook and other social media are undoubtedly the ways to keep up with some of your cherished friends. But if your real-life relationships are struggling because of your ‘virtual’ friendships, then it truly needs to stop. Moms who know that it’s their family who is their number one priority and not their phone tends to be much more successful in their homes. Leave any kind of addiction, if it’s there Let’s agree on this fact- we all are addicted to something or the other. While some addictions are more serious and long-lasting, some get fine with time and efforts. The addictions we all have differ from one person to another. Some are addicted to drug or alcohol, some have addictions to food, sleep or TV. There are even addictions to certain good things such as spending time at the gym or exercise. But whatever addiction it is that is hampering your actions on a daily basis needs to be avoided. There are of course some dangerous addictions which need to be curbed as soon as possible, but certain small addictions can also hurt your relationships. So, whenever you notice that you are becoming consumed by something, just try to slow down or stop. If there is anything that you feel like hiding from your family, should be cut out of your life right away. And sometimes you can also confide in your family if you are struggling with something. This also makes your relationships stronger and makes you grow closer together. When you are free from any kind of addiction, whether small or something serious, you naturally tend to become a better mom. Say no to any ‘chaos’ Trying to keep your home and life in order has two parts- to keep the clutter and all messes picked up in the home and to make sure that you keep a schedule and aren’t missing on anything or aren’t always late. Teach your kids that taking care of home and life is important. When they pick up on these good habits, it automatically makes you a ‘good mom’. Wrapping up: So, these are some of the simple things you should practice on a daily basis to make your kids grow in a healthy and smart individual.

How to Let Go of 'Mom Guilt'?

If you are a mom, you must have experienced “Mom Guilt” sometime or the other. If you feel guilty about something that you are actually doing wrong, then it’s not mom guilt. It is a useful kind of guilt to alert you and motivate you to improve your parenting. However, if you experience guilt over things that you are doing right as a mom and shouldn’t be guilty about, but still you feel guilty just because you are a ‘mom’, then this is what mom guilt is. And it is definitely not a useful kind of guilt in any way. Such kind of unnecessary guilt experience is quite common for all kinds of mom (whether working moms, home moms or working from home moms). In spite of all the lifestyle differences,  if there is one thing which unites all these different kind of moms, then it is Mom Guilt. But, do not panic. There are ways to deal with this kind of misplaced guilt: Ask yourself questions It is human nature to inflate things much bigger than they actually are when the things go wrong. If your child has caught a cough, then surely it is a hassle especially when you are a working mom, but know that it is just a cough! It is important for you as a mother to remind yourself that you are doing all right. Do not feel bogged down with blame. The world continues to move regardless of any problems and you should also continue to move forward unaffected by what happens. Remember we all make mistakes Okay, so you have made a mistake but it was not intentional. No one here is perfect and blaming yourself as if you should have been won’t do you or your child any good. Mistakes often are your best teachers. So whenever things go wrong, instead of pulling the blame game yourself, learn the lesson. Analyze your mistake and the situation so that you could avoid it in case it happens the next time. Know that everything is not in your control There come many circumstances in life where we can blame ourselves as much as we could, but there isn’t anything that we can do about it. When we can’t change the situations, worrying about them is unhealthy. Sometimes, you need to accept the fact that no matter how hard you try, everything is not in your control. So, just letting it go is the best option. Give yourself credit Often it happens that we are so busy in playing the role of being a ‘mom’, that we forget to give ourselves credit for every good thing we did. Have a look through the last few days and you’ll get to see all the good that you have done. Holding your child all night as he cried, waking up early to feed him and many more things besides these. Wrapping up: Mom Guilt is a real thing. One must know that blaming yourself over and over again will only prevent you from enjoying motherhood. So, just stop setting unrealistic expectations for yourself and learn things in the process of becoming a good mom.

Top 5 Luxury Casino Resorts to Visit

A world of luxury, brick loads of money, expansive suites, and pretty bombshells - casinos have it all! Welcome to the world of Casinos: some of the most opulent places in the world that not only offer world-class dining, affluent gambling opportunities, but also give a chance to everyone to make it count or go home. Here, the stakes riding on the games are always high and curate enormous amounts money on the table; simply put, everything about these luxury casinos is larger than life. That said, if you are not much excited about gambling, maybe you want to spend a weekend away from home, enjoying the lap of opulence with your family at one of the most sensational casino resorts. To help you make a choice, here are the top four most popular casino resort destinations to travel. 1. Foxwoods Resort Casino (Ledyard, Connecticut) Located equidistant from both Boston and New York, Foxwoods is a perfect travel destination and weekend getaway, particularly, if are crazy about gambling. You will be surprised to know that once built in 1968 by the indigenous Mashantucket Pequot Indian Tribe, the Foxwoods was the biggest American casino back then. Furthermore, the resort today boasts of an amazing curation of over 7,000 slot machines and 17 different table games. If you don’t find slot machines or tables appealing, the Foxwoods Resort also features one of the biggest bingo halls in the entire US. Definitely, one of the best places to vacation for families and even self.  2. Atlantis Resort (Bahamas) You may know the island of Bahamas to be the perfect, dreamy beach destination, with its mesmerizing ensemble of pristine beaches, picturesque landscapes, and hordes of tourists all year round. However, there’s one more iconic structure on this island paradise: the Atlantis Resort. Popular among the elite, the picturesque resort offers immaculate panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, mesmerizing architecture, and a distinctive skylight. Just to give an overview of how things get rolling here - a high riding Bridge suit usually starts at more than $25,000. Therefore, it's only the affluents and avid gamblers, who can try their luck. one visit to this top, exotic travel destination and you'll be hooked for life! 3. Sun City (South Africa) The Sun City Resort in South Africa is probably one of the highlights in the illustrious skyline of South Africa and a world-class casino, no less than its Western counterparts. The expansive resort has managed to keep the spotlight on itself for a long time and offers the best of Las Vegas-style opulence while huddled in the picturesque, lively South African atmosphere. Talking about the architecture of the resort, the majestic structure features a daunting number of slot machines (852 in total) and 38 tables for Blackjack and American Roulette. That said, you don’t have to just indulge in gambling or slot machines; you can also some time off to explore the vast natural reserves of this beautiful African city in private safaris.    4. Bellagio (Las Vegas, Nevada) No list of the lavish, grand casinos is complete without mentioning the dream city for gambling, Las Vegas! Really, you will feel out of words when asked to describe the magnificence of this exotic desert oasis. One particular casino, The Bellagio is, however, stands an entire class-apart, whether you talk about design, opulence, or sheer personality. The Bellagio was built in 1996, and today, the $1.6 billion-worth casino features a staggering number of 200 gambling tables and 2,000 slot machines. Truly, Las Vegas is the Sin City of the world, and the Bellagio is its much deserved top-most attraction.   (All photographs are courtesy of the original owners unless otherwise indicated)  

What Causes Spotting During Pregnancy?

Spotting and bleeding from the vagina during pregnancy are common. It is reported that around 50% of the pregnant women experience vaginal bleeding and panic. Do you think this is a miscarriage symptom? Or is there any possibility of having periods during pregnancy? Well, before you get startled, know that vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy is not something that should worry you. It is, in fact, a good sign to show that you are a pregnant. The bleeding may range from light bleeding or spotting to massive bleeding. Light spotting during pregnancy is not a matter of concern; however, heavy bleeding can be an indication of a serious disorder. It is important to know the possible causes and undergo a check up to eradicate any complications. Light spotting in early pregnancy is usually not a serious condition. It can happen at the same time your menstrual period would have been due and lasts for one to two days. The other causes of bleeding in early pregnancy can be any of the following: Implantation Bleeding In the early pregnancy phase, about 20 to 30% women may experience spotting because of implantation of the embryo into the uterine wall. It will occur around the time of your expected menstrual period. It can be confusing if you mistake it for a normal period before you realize you are a pregnant. This is normal during pregnancy and should not be a cause of worry. Sex During pregnancy, the flow of blood to the cervical region increases. Therefore, it is quite normal to observe light spotting after intercourse. Also, the region will be tender and any kind of minor stress can cause spotting. Sometimes, benign growths will occur on the cervix, known to be cervical polyps, which can also cause spotting after having intercourse. Infections Conditions that are unrelated to pregnancy can also cause spotting. Vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infection or sexually transmitted diseases like herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea or trichomoniasis can cause inflammation or irritation of the cervix. The inflammation can lead to spotting on being ruptured by sex or other stress. Subchorionic Hemorrhage Chorion is the fetal membrane that encloses the placenta. The subchorionic hemorrhage is a condition wherein bleeding happens within the folds of the chorion and the placenta. It usually stops by itself and does not lead to problems during pregnancy. Still, a prompt diagnosis and required treatment are suggestible. Nearing Labor As your body prepares for labor, you will pass your mucus plug, a state where your cervix begins to dilate. It will be soaked in blood, that is also called ‘bloody show’. Passing your mucus plug will not be a concern if you are already into 37 weeks of pregnancy. But, if there is heavy bleeding, be sure to consult a gynecologist. Last Words Any kind of bleeding during pregnancy, no matter when you experience, you need to call your healthcare provider immediately, only to confirm nothing is wrong. You should be prepared to give out the answers in detail about the amount, color and period of bleeding to help your health care provider determine the cause. If you had a miscarriage due to any of the above reasons, it does not mean that you are infertile. And know that you are not alone who suffer such a tragedy. Most women experience the miscarriage at least once during their reproductive lifetime. Miscarriages can cause an emotional vacuum, but that is not the end of the world. You can become pregnant even after a miscarriage. A counseling session with the obstetrician or gynecologist is the best way to deal with pregnancy. All you need is a positive mindset and courage! Most of the time, a little spotting doesn’t pose any health risk to you and your little one, though, bleeding can sometimes specify a difficulty with your pregnancy. If you are pregnant, you need to be conscious about your bleeding. If you experience any irregular bleeding or period during pregnancy, contact your doctor immediately. Hope through this post we cleared your doubts regarding vaginal spotting and bleeding during pregnancy. Take care of yourself!

The Essential Packing Checklist for Flying with an Infant

Traveling with a baby is not an easy task, especially with infants. You have to be very cautious about every little thing. To help you out in this, we have created an essential packing checklist you should carry while traveling on a plane. Parents traveling with babies really deserve a salute. With hands full of heavy bags and odd looks, shows their struggle in the plane. We are not saying that you can get rid of this. No. not at all! But yes, we can help you remember all the important stuff to carry while flying with an infant. Have a look at it. What are some of the Essentials? Diapers: Well, the actual number of diapers required totally depends upon the duration of your travel. But in any case, make sure you have more than 5 to 6 diapers in hand. Make sure you carry enough diapers for situations like travel delay and more. Diaper Cream: Carrying the diaper cream helps your baby skin retain moisture throughout the travel. Plus, it protects his body against rashes and infections. So, do not forget to include the baby diaper cream on your pack list. Milk Powder/Formula: Don’t risk getting stranded without milk powder as you never know when your child asks for that. Even if you are a breastfeeding mother, carrying the formula milk powder is a must. This will keep your baby full even when you are not lactating. Water Bottle: Separate bottle carrying warm water is one of the most important things that should pack in your carry bag. Milk Bottle: Make sure you triple check your bag for the milk bottle. Baby Wipes: From cleaning dried poops to cleaning baby’s hands and feet, baby wipes can help you multiple times while flying on a plane. Baby Food: For all those babies who are 1+ years of age, baby food is very important. Be available with enough food, when asked. Baby Cereals and Fruits: If you used to give baby cereals to your child, make sure you carry the same on a plane. For your child, having a cereal snack might have become a habit and he will ask for that for sure. So, make sure you have the same on the plane as well. Blanket for Baby: And you know why you need this. Keep your baby warm through the travel. A Pair of Clothes to Change: To keep your baby’s clothes clean and dirt-free, make sure you change them at least once during your travel. First Aid Kit: Though you will get the same from the staff but carrying the same with you minimizes time and makes you a responsible mother. Medications (if any):  If your child is allergic to any food, drink or any other thing, make sure you carry the anti-allergic medications with you. Apart from that, if he is taking particular medicines, do not forget to pack the same in your carry bag. Toys: Amuse your baby with toys and other stuff or be ready to hear them shouting and crying throughout the journey. Nasal Aspirator or Saline Solutions:  A pack of nasal aspirator and saline solution is all that you need to keep your baby away from nose and stomach related health problems. Plastic Bags for Dry & Wet Clothes: Maintain proper hygiene by using separate plastic bags for dirty clothes and diapers. Last Minute Tips Pack your bag a few days before you travel. Keep the packing list with you till you reach the airport. Be ready for the leaky diapers on the airplane. Pack an extra shirt for you as well. Keep babies clothes in transparent organizers so you don't have to hunt around for tiny socks, shirts, and so on. Make sure your mobile phone remains charged through the journey. For that, keep a battery charger with you. Conclusion Be smart and make traveling with baby a fun. For better results, write the essentials in the form of a checklist and take a print out of the same. It will help you cross-check the packed things, efficiently and effectively. Did we miss anything in this list? If yes, let us know about that. Tell us what you would have packed while traveling in flight with your baby. We would love to add that to our list. Have a Safe Journey!