Tips | Techniques | Advice at Mommy Living the Life of Riley

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October
6
Posted by: Melissa @ Mommy Living the Life of Riley on October 6th, 2011    Filed in: Tips, Techniques, How-Tos & Advice

Breast Cancer If every month of the year was assigned a color, then pink would surely belong to October. Breast Cancer Awareness Month turns even the manliest organizations (think National Football League) into pink-laden landscapes, all in support of breast cancer research.

One way consumers can show their support is by shopping for the cause. Many popular retailers and brands are currently offering products with some or all of the proceeds going to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. For a more comprehensive list of participants, consult the organization's Corporate Partners page.

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October
6
Posted by: Melissa @ Mommy Living the Life of Riley on October 6th, 2011    Filed in: Tips, Techniques, How-Tos & Advice

NannyThere are many unanswered questions when it comes to hiring a nanny – a decision that affects your child’s life: Where can I find a nanny? How can I train a nanny? How can I make sure a nanny treats my child well?

“We watch troublesome stories in the news of how a nanny abuses a child, yet we see very few parents take the proper steps to ensure their child’s safety and well-being,” said Kim Cassford, co-founder of Cassford Management. “Most recently, a babysitter was charged with murdering 23-month-old Aaliyah Ali. In the wake of horrific stories such as this, we want to help parents understand the importance of selecting, screening and hiring the right person to care for your child.”

We all want to make sure the person we leave our child with is qualified, professional and reliable. Cassford says this is achievable, but you must take the necessary steps to keep your child in good hands. Here are some important things you should know when looking for the perfect nanny:

STOP, THINK, ACT

Stop! Carve out the time to think about what you need from your nanny to ensure the most precious person in your life is safe and sound. Invest 30 minutes to an hour to list requirements, duties, hours of service, days of service and a realistic salary range. Parents who do not take this first step often end up in trouble. Only then can you begin the search.

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October
1
Posted by: Melissa @ Mommy Living the Life of Riley on October 1st, 2011    Filed in: Tips, Techniques, How-Tos & Advice

Safe Driving One of the greatest fears for parents is an unexpected accident when their teenage child is behind the wheel. Each year, the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are the deadliest 100 days for teen drivers and their passengers, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). To minimize this risk, parents should learn the facts and teach their children how to drive safely.

Sarah Robinson — engineer, Michelin test-track driver and one of the few female test drivers— teaches teens safe-driving skills. She also offers parents tips on maintaining a safe vehicle and how to effectively teach their young drivers about safety.

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September
30
Posted by: Melissa @ Mommy Living the Life of Riley on September 30th, 2011    Filed in: Tips, Techniques, How-Tos & Advice

Company Kids These days, it seems like families are being pulled in a thousand different directions.  Between jobs, managing the household and chauffeuring kids to out-of-home activities, it’s easy to lose track of the importance of spending quality time together.

The Company Store, a home and lifestyle brand now celebrating their 100th anniversary, is kicking off National Family Pajama Night™, a fantastic cause-marketing campaign.

Slated for the evening of Saturday, November 19th, 2011, National Family Pajama Night™ is aimed at helping families create a fun-filled evening at home doing unique activities that create special memories for the children.

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September
30
Posted by: Melissa @ Mommy Living the Life of Riley on September 30th, 2011    Filed in: Tips, Techniques, How-Tos & Advice

Babymoon Dear Expecting Parents:  Before you dive into the world of dirty diapers and sleepless nights, take advantage of your current freedom and go on a babymoon! This pre-baby vacation helps you connect as a couple while relaxing and rejuvenating before the stress of parenthood hits. If you're planning on having more than one child, make sure you take an extra long babymoon, since you may not have the luxury of traveling sans children for many more years.

Consider the following tips to ensure comfort, value and fun as you plan this important getaway.

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September
27
Posted by: Melissa @ Mommy Living the Life of Riley on September 27th, 2011    Filed in: Tips, Techniques, How-Tos & Advice

Beauty Products When it comes to shaving our budgets, most ladies put beauty products in the "need" category. A study commissioned by Mintel validates this assumption, reporting consumers spent $2.32 billion on shampoo and $1.71 billion on conditioner in 2010 alone.

So what's the best way to save on essentials without resorting to dollar-store cosmetics? Here are nine tips to keep both your beauty and your budget intact.

1. Hair Products
Consider extending the life of your shampoo (and hair color) by using dry shampoo or baby powder in between washes. When using shampoo and conditioner, check out these great tips and best bargain buys from DailyFinance.com.

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