Celebrity Dads Give Push Presents; Jewelry for Giving Birth? Sign Us Up!
Rich celebrities are accustomed to being gifted with expensive jewelry, and the trend extends to the day they give birth. Case in point: Pierce Brosnan gave wife Keely three gold and diamond bracelets when their son Paris was born. Ben Affleck presented wife Jennifer Garner with pricey purple jewelry after she delivered daughter Violet (which the unfussy and practical Mrs. Affleck reportedly made him return). Sarah Jessica Parker got a gorgeous charm bracelet from hubby Matthew Broderick when son James made his debut. Other celeb dads celebrate the arrival of their new babies by buying their wives and girlfriends expensive bling such as diamond rings, diamond earrings, pearl necklaces, pearl earrings, and jewelry made with their baby's birthstone.
Up until a few years ago, these "push presents,"—so named because they're tokens of appreciation for labor—were news to me. All I got when I delivered my son was…my son. Not to say that I'm not immensely grateful; he's my pride and joy. But a nice pair of diamond studs or a pearl cocktail ring, say, to show me that my husband appreciated my months of hard pregnancy and hours of even harder labor would have been "ice" on the cake.
What made the lack of gift worse was that many of my girlfriends got stunning jewelry from their thoughtful and grateful husbands. My favorites were a pearl bracelet, sapphire and diamond earrings, a diamond and yellow gold band, and a princess cut yellow diamond ring.
Poor dear, my husband didn't know it was done.
Apparently, he's not alone. In researching this article, I sent a query to all the guys on my e-mail list (whose wives can thank me later). In addition to wanting to know if they knew what a push present was, I also wanted know if they thought the idea was touching or silly. Did it put pressure on them? Was it just another damn thing they'd have to spend money on?
Naturally, the feedback I got was as varied as the guys on my e-mail list, which includes my boss, my trainer at the gym, my brother, my best friend's brother, my neighbors, my co-workers, and my dentist, to name a few.
First, for the sweet:
From Dave: "Yes, I gave my wife a gift. I didn't feel pressured. She deserved it and more."
From John: "I did buy my wife a charm bracelet after our daughter Lindsay was born. It had charms on it for both of our daughters."
From Taylor: "Yes, I bought my wife gifts both times in addition to flowers. The first time was a cultured pearl necklace (like she needs more jewelry). The last was a Kate Spade diaper bag."
From Wayne, father of four: "Maybe for one or two, certainly not all four." [I certainly remember: Wayne's wife, my friend Sandy, was the recipient of the highly coveted and aforementioned sapphire and diamond earrings.]
From Howie: "Considering my wife had a C-section with both girls, is there a cut present?" [Actually, there is, and it's called a 'cut your guts out' present. My friend's daughter Nicole got a sterling silver bracelet from her husband for her efforts].
"I gave my wife a birthstone for each girl, but forget the 'push present' idea. Those nine months are the easy part. It's for the 18 years afterwards that you have to give your wife the gifts! Honestly, those two girls can scream!"
Dennis: "Funny, before my wife was pregnant I never head of a push present. My buddy and his wife had a baby four months before us and his wife was sure to tell my wife about this gift thing. It's not that I wouldn't have gotten my wife and mother of my son a great gift, but it was put into the realm of 'did your husband get you a diamond bracelet?' type thing. It goes to show that keeping up with the Joneses makes some folks do things they might not otherwise do." [OK, maybe this answer doesn't technically fall under the sweet category as it's got some ambivalence tossed in.]
"Not sure spending thousands on a gift is the best thing for the new family. Was this gift idea created by the diamond companies? So, yes, I did get my wife a gift. Before I'd even heard of a push present, I had my son's birthstone set in a ring and necklace."
From Paul: "I gave her a day at the spa."
From Derek, "I gave her a Tiffany ring because it was a nice thing to do, I'd heard, and because she deserves it."
Now, for the incensed:
From Ben: "No, I didn't get my wife a push gift. The only thing on my mind was making sure all the important stuff was taken care of. To add something so stupid on top of this earth-shattering event is ridiculous. The special gift is the gift of life and the creation of a human being. Now when I look back at those times I wouldn't' even recall the insignificant gift. Sounds like some baloney cooked up by a jewelers' association."
From Steve: "I agreed to fund the kids for 22 years each. That was my gift."
Peter L: "Not a big fan of the push present. A woman gives birth to a child and now she expects a gift??? While I have absolutely no idea what it's like to be pregnant, I don't know of any woman who has regretted it. The whole expensive jewelry thing doesn't sit well with me. That's what birthdays and anniversaries are for." [Thank God I didn't marry Peter, not that he asked.]
From Dave H: When Meryl was born I gave my wife a new bike chain for her road bike ($60 value) and installed it for her (free of charge.) It was the least I could do, since I had taken the chains off of all of her bikes around the end of month seven when she refused to give up riding. She promptly began riding two weeks after popping out our kid and since she was lighter than what she was used to, she could climb hills faster than I could. The good news is that she's now four months pregnant and she's slowing down more and more by the day, which enables me to seem faster."
And last but not least, the clueless:
Peter C: "Can't remember but I'm sure I gave something."
Matt: "Oops, was I supposed to give something? Why doesn't anybody let us know these things?
Jim: "Color me thoughtless. It never occurred to me."
John S: "I must be a bad husband. Three kids in four years and I didn't get Kim a gift for any of them!"
What's a guy to do?
Whether you agree with the sweethearts, the cads, or whether you're one of the clueless, consider yourself duly informed, and remember that nine months of pregnancy topped off by excruciatingly painful labor (not to mention sore nipples) is no picnic. It's always nice to be appreciated, especially when you're a new mom, and your hormones are screaming what the heck have I done??? I used to be a sexy, carefree vixen, for Pete's sake!!!
What's more, the jewelry you give your child's mother can be passed down to that child when he or she marries or turns 21, say. Best of all, you don't have to spend thousands. Many quality jewelry pieces are just as affordable as they are sentimental.
To help you get started, here are my favorite push presents:
• Pearl studs: Timeless and elegant, pearl studs go perfectly with bathrobes and spit-up. Plus, high quality freshwater cultured pearl studs cost as little as $30 or $40 a pair.
• Diamond studs: A little pricier than pearl earrings, sure, but diamond studs are a jewelry staple. That means your efforts won't be in vain; these sparklers will get a ton of use. And you can have a nice pair for well under $500.
• Birthstone ring: Lots of options and price ranges here depending on the stone and the setting. (Leave out diamond accents and you probably won't break the bank.) Remember, an elegant ring can be handed down to your little one; so make sure you get something of good quality that won't tarnish.
• Nantucket Basket: A gorgeous gold basket pendant necklace that holds the birthstones of your children, the Nantucket Basket necklace is meant to be added to with subsequent births. You might find the necklace pricey, but once you buy the pendant all you have to do is add the birthstones for each subsequent child. (Push present out of the way forever.)
• Mother and child pendant: The sterling silver version of this sweet circle pendant can be had for less than $50.
• Charm bracelet: The sky's the limit here, but the initial investment shouldn't be too bad. Like the Nantucket basket, this piece can be added to on special occasions. Charms are priced all over the place; it's up to you what to spend. Baby birthstone booties are a favorite charm of new moms, though.
• Pearl strand: Traditional and classic, a pearl necklace is a gorgeous choice. If you have a baby girl, she can wear it in the future on her wedding day as her something borrowed and as a reminder of how much her mother means to you. If price is an issue, akoyas and freshwater cultured pearl strands are the way to go. Save the Tahitians and South Sea pearls for when your stock splits or your patent gets approved. You get the point.
Go Shopping!
Okay, future fathers, now that you know about push presents, there is no excuse not to get your children's mother a little (or big) token of your appreciation. And, no, you don't have to be rich and famous like Matt Damon or Michael Douglas, or blow future college savings. There are lots of affordable gift options that don't cost a bundle. Do a little research on the Internet and you can find unique and meaningful jewelry that fits your budget. (Just make sure to have it gift wrapped. We hate when you forget that.) And don't worry too much that we won't like it. It truly is the thought that counts. Not so sure? I'll let you in on a little secret: If you really want a foolproof way to be a hero in your wife's eyes, change a diaper once in a while!
A graduate of the Gemological Institute of America's Graduate Pearls program, Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for www.moonriverpearls.com. Check out her daily blog, Amy's Style Café, at http://cafe.moonriverpearls.com/amy. She welcomes your comments and questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com.
13 Good Reasons To BreastFeed Your Baby
Breastfeeding is without any doubt the most excellent means to nourish your newly born baby. It has got a lot of benefits as compared to feeding with a bottle and barely any drawbacks.
1. Fat provides the calories necessary for growth and essential nutrients required for brain function. And Fat contains the vitamins A,D and E, which are essential to many of our bodies; processes. When babies are breast fed, over 50 percent of calories come from fat.
2. Calcium and other important nutrients in human milk are also better utilized by babies.
3. Antigens in cow's milk can cause allergic reactions in a newborn baby, whereas such reactions to human milk are rare.
4. Human milk also promotes growth, largely due to the presence of certain hormones and growth factors.
5. Breast fed babies have a very low risk of developing meningitis or severe blood infections, and have a 500 to 600 percent lower risk of getting childhood lymphoma. Breast fed babies also suffer 50 percent fewer middle ear infections.
6. Research also indicates that breast fed babies are less likely to become obese children. Bottle-fed children have far higher concentrations of insulin, the chemical that stimulates the laying down of fat cells. Obesity in childhood is known to be a risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease in later life.
7. Studies have found that infants who were breast fed have much lower rates of ear infections, rashes, diarrhea, allergies, hospital admissions and other medical problems than babies that were fed formula.
8. The infant will get a sense of security from this and will form a better attachment with the mother. Nursing is a source of comfort and warmth to a baby.
9. Breastfeeding helps moms lose weight and get back to their pre-pregnancy size.
10. Breast milk is free -- you save a lot of money not having to buy formula. And it is readily available.
11. Breastfeeding is effective in combating postpartum depression
12. Colostrum is the first food available to breastfeeding newborns, and is tailor-made to meet the nutritional needs of newborn infants, breastfeeding babies do not require the large volumes of fluid required for bottle-fed babies during the first few days of life.
13. Colostrum also contains high concentrations of antibodies called immunoglobulins which protect them against bacteria and viral infections.
The decision to breast-feed is yours. Take at least as much time to learn about breastfeeding as you did when you picked out your babies crib; more if you can spare it. Arm yourself with knowledge and then make a decision. Only you can decide if breastfeeding is right for you family.
Click Here to Find Out More About Bovine Colostrum At :
http://www.BuyBovineColostrum.com
Feel free to use this article on your website or ezine as long as the following information about author/website is included.
http://www.BuyBovineColostrum.com
Different methods of Contraception's
Contraception's are methods, which are used to stop the pregnancy. It is an age-old practice, where women used to take some precautions like some herbal potions, or simply the withdrawal method or total Abstinence to the act itself. It was just to check the childbirth. Mostly these methods proved unsuccessful, but at times worked fine. But now in the changing times, markets are flooded with the choices from a small pill to female condoms. These are not full proof methods but are used worldwide.
CONDOMS- Condom is the most used contraceptive worldwide. The men on his penis, just before the intercourse, use it. It keeps the sperm inside and thus, prevents the chances of pregnancy. Condoms are available in many brands, styles, sizes and even flavors! Made of latex, these condoms are in lubricant and non-lubricant material. Wide range of choice is there. Condoms are effective to prevent the pregnancy 84% to 98%. It is the only method, which stops the STDs and HIV.
PILLS- These are hormonal pills for the women and are to be taken before the intercourse, orally and daily. They are effective but carry the risk of side effects. These can cause nausea, heavy or low bleeding during menstruations, weight problem, high or low BP. Pill is 95% to 99.9% effective. One pill is there which can be taken orally after the intercourse. These pills can reduce the chances of pelvic inflammatory disease and ovarian cancer, and iron deficiency.
Copper T- Also known as Intrauterine Device (IUD), is a T shaped thing, which is to be inserted into the uterus. It is 99% effective, and it can be kept in the uterus for up to twelve years. A doctor or nurse should insert this device.
Diaphragm or Cervical Cap – These are cup shaped devices used by women to bar the sperm into womb. Made of latex, these are to be fitted by the doctor or nurse. These cap or shields must be kept for 24 hours inside, after an intercourse, to prevent the pregnancy.
Female condoms-This barrier method is used by women. It is made of polyurethane material and is lubricated. This also gives the protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Female condoms are effective 79% to 95%.
Choice is wide, but the best contraceptive is what feels comfortable. One should always consult the doctor before choosing one. Contraception is hassle free and saves from life long trouble. One can indulge in the activity, without any tension.
We at Keepcondom.com are providing you the choices you can make, to select your condom brands according to your needs. Keepcondom.com
Up until a few years ago, these "push presents,"—so named because they're tokens of appreciation for labor—were news to me. All I got when I delivered my son was…my son. Not to say that I'm not immensely grateful; he's my pride and joy. But a nice pair of diamond studs or a pearl cocktail ring, say, to show me that my husband appreciated my months of hard pregnancy and hours of even harder labor would have been "ice" on the cake.
What made the lack of gift worse was that many of my girlfriends got stunning jewelry from their thoughtful and grateful husbands. My favorites were a pearl bracelet, sapphire and diamond earrings, a diamond and yellow gold band, and a princess cut yellow diamond ring.
Poor dear, my husband didn't know it was done.
Apparently, he's not alone. In researching this article, I sent a query to all the guys on my e-mail list (whose wives can thank me later). In addition to wanting to know if they knew what a push present was, I also wanted know if they thought the idea was touching or silly. Did it put pressure on them? Was it just another damn thing they'd have to spend money on?
Naturally, the feedback I got was as varied as the guys on my e-mail list, which includes my boss, my trainer at the gym, my brother, my best friend's brother, my neighbors, my co-workers, and my dentist, to name a few.
First, for the sweet:
From Dave: "Yes, I gave my wife a gift. I didn't feel pressured. She deserved it and more."
From John: "I did buy my wife a charm bracelet after our daughter Lindsay was born. It had charms on it for both of our daughters."
From Taylor: "Yes, I bought my wife gifts both times in addition to flowers. The first time was a cultured pearl necklace (like she needs more jewelry). The last was a Kate Spade diaper bag."
From Wayne, father of four: "Maybe for one or two, certainly not all four." [I certainly remember: Wayne's wife, my friend Sandy, was the recipient of the highly coveted and aforementioned sapphire and diamond earrings.]
From Howie: "Considering my wife had a C-section with both girls, is there a cut present?" [Actually, there is, and it's called a 'cut your guts out' present. My friend's daughter Nicole got a sterling silver bracelet from her husband for her efforts].
"I gave my wife a birthstone for each girl, but forget the 'push present' idea. Those nine months are the easy part. It's for the 18 years afterwards that you have to give your wife the gifts! Honestly, those two girls can scream!"
Dennis: "Funny, before my wife was pregnant I never head of a push present. My buddy and his wife had a baby four months before us and his wife was sure to tell my wife about this gift thing. It's not that I wouldn't have gotten my wife and mother of my son a great gift, but it was put into the realm of 'did your husband get you a diamond bracelet?' type thing. It goes to show that keeping up with the Joneses makes some folks do things they might not otherwise do." [OK, maybe this answer doesn't technically fall under the sweet category as it's got some ambivalence tossed in.]
"Not sure spending thousands on a gift is the best thing for the new family. Was this gift idea created by the diamond companies? So, yes, I did get my wife a gift. Before I'd even heard of a push present, I had my son's birthstone set in a ring and necklace."
From Paul: "I gave her a day at the spa."
From Derek, "I gave her a Tiffany ring because it was a nice thing to do, I'd heard, and because she deserves it."
Now, for the incensed:
From Ben: "No, I didn't get my wife a push gift. The only thing on my mind was making sure all the important stuff was taken care of. To add something so stupid on top of this earth-shattering event is ridiculous. The special gift is the gift of life and the creation of a human being. Now when I look back at those times I wouldn't' even recall the insignificant gift. Sounds like some baloney cooked up by a jewelers' association."
From Steve: "I agreed to fund the kids for 22 years each. That was my gift."
Peter L: "Not a big fan of the push present. A woman gives birth to a child and now she expects a gift??? While I have absolutely no idea what it's like to be pregnant, I don't know of any woman who has regretted it. The whole expensive jewelry thing doesn't sit well with me. That's what birthdays and anniversaries are for." [Thank God I didn't marry Peter, not that he asked.]
From Dave H: When Meryl was born I gave my wife a new bike chain for her road bike ($60 value) and installed it for her (free of charge.) It was the least I could do, since I had taken the chains off of all of her bikes around the end of month seven when she refused to give up riding. She promptly began riding two weeks after popping out our kid and since she was lighter than what she was used to, she could climb hills faster than I could. The good news is that she's now four months pregnant and she's slowing down more and more by the day, which enables me to seem faster."
And last but not least, the clueless:
Peter C: "Can't remember but I'm sure I gave something."
Matt: "Oops, was I supposed to give something? Why doesn't anybody let us know these things?
Jim: "Color me thoughtless. It never occurred to me."
John S: "I must be a bad husband. Three kids in four years and I didn't get Kim a gift for any of them!"
What's a guy to do?
Whether you agree with the sweethearts, the cads, or whether you're one of the clueless, consider yourself duly informed, and remember that nine months of pregnancy topped off by excruciatingly painful labor (not to mention sore nipples) is no picnic. It's always nice to be appreciated, especially when you're a new mom, and your hormones are screaming what the heck have I done??? I used to be a sexy, carefree vixen, for Pete's sake!!!
What's more, the jewelry you give your child's mother can be passed down to that child when he or she marries or turns 21, say. Best of all, you don't have to spend thousands. Many quality jewelry pieces are just as affordable as they are sentimental.
To help you get started, here are my favorite push presents:
• Pearl studs: Timeless and elegant, pearl studs go perfectly with bathrobes and spit-up. Plus, high quality freshwater cultured pearl studs cost as little as $30 or $40 a pair.
• Diamond studs: A little pricier than pearl earrings, sure, but diamond studs are a jewelry staple. That means your efforts won't be in vain; these sparklers will get a ton of use. And you can have a nice pair for well under $500.
• Birthstone ring: Lots of options and price ranges here depending on the stone and the setting. (Leave out diamond accents and you probably won't break the bank.) Remember, an elegant ring can be handed down to your little one; so make sure you get something of good quality that won't tarnish.
• Nantucket Basket: A gorgeous gold basket pendant necklace that holds the birthstones of your children, the Nantucket Basket necklace is meant to be added to with subsequent births. You might find the necklace pricey, but once you buy the pendant all you have to do is add the birthstones for each subsequent child. (Push present out of the way forever.)
• Mother and child pendant: The sterling silver version of this sweet circle pendant can be had for less than $50.
• Charm bracelet: The sky's the limit here, but the initial investment shouldn't be too bad. Like the Nantucket basket, this piece can be added to on special occasions. Charms are priced all over the place; it's up to you what to spend. Baby birthstone booties are a favorite charm of new moms, though.
• Pearl strand: Traditional and classic, a pearl necklace is a gorgeous choice. If you have a baby girl, she can wear it in the future on her wedding day as her something borrowed and as a reminder of how much her mother means to you. If price is an issue, akoyas and freshwater cultured pearl strands are the way to go. Save the Tahitians and South Sea pearls for when your stock splits or your patent gets approved. You get the point.
Go Shopping!
Okay, future fathers, now that you know about push presents, there is no excuse not to get your children's mother a little (or big) token of your appreciation. And, no, you don't have to be rich and famous like Matt Damon or Michael Douglas, or blow future college savings. There are lots of affordable gift options that don't cost a bundle. Do a little research on the Internet and you can find unique and meaningful jewelry that fits your budget. (Just make sure to have it gift wrapped. We hate when you forget that.) And don't worry too much that we won't like it. It truly is the thought that counts. Not so sure? I'll let you in on a little secret: If you really want a foolproof way to be a hero in your wife's eyes, change a diaper once in a while!
A graduate of the Gemological Institute of America's Graduate Pearls program, Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for www.moonriverpearls.com. Check out her daily blog, Amy's Style Café, at http://cafe.moonriverpearls.com/amy. She welcomes your comments and questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com.
13 Good Reasons To BreastFeed Your Baby
Breastfeeding is without any doubt the most excellent means to nourish your newly born baby. It has got a lot of benefits as compared to feeding with a bottle and barely any drawbacks.
1. Fat provides the calories necessary for growth and essential nutrients required for brain function. And Fat contains the vitamins A,D and E, which are essential to many of our bodies; processes. When babies are breast fed, over 50 percent of calories come from fat.
2. Calcium and other important nutrients in human milk are also better utilized by babies.
3. Antigens in cow's milk can cause allergic reactions in a newborn baby, whereas such reactions to human milk are rare.
4. Human milk also promotes growth, largely due to the presence of certain hormones and growth factors.
5. Breast fed babies have a very low risk of developing meningitis or severe blood infections, and have a 500 to 600 percent lower risk of getting childhood lymphoma. Breast fed babies also suffer 50 percent fewer middle ear infections.
6. Research also indicates that breast fed babies are less likely to become obese children. Bottle-fed children have far higher concentrations of insulin, the chemical that stimulates the laying down of fat cells. Obesity in childhood is known to be a risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease in later life.
7. Studies have found that infants who were breast fed have much lower rates of ear infections, rashes, diarrhea, allergies, hospital admissions and other medical problems than babies that were fed formula.
8. The infant will get a sense of security from this and will form a better attachment with the mother. Nursing is a source of comfort and warmth to a baby.
9. Breastfeeding helps moms lose weight and get back to their pre-pregnancy size.
10. Breast milk is free -- you save a lot of money not having to buy formula. And it is readily available.
11. Breastfeeding is effective in combating postpartum depression
12. Colostrum is the first food available to breastfeeding newborns, and is tailor-made to meet the nutritional needs of newborn infants, breastfeeding babies do not require the large volumes of fluid required for bottle-fed babies during the first few days of life.
13. Colostrum also contains high concentrations of antibodies called immunoglobulins which protect them against bacteria and viral infections.
The decision to breast-feed is yours. Take at least as much time to learn about breastfeeding as you did when you picked out your babies crib; more if you can spare it. Arm yourself with knowledge and then make a decision. Only you can decide if breastfeeding is right for you family.
Click Here to Find Out More About Bovine Colostrum At :
http://www.BuyBovineColostrum.com
Feel free to use this article on your website or ezine as long as the following information about author/website is included.
http://www.BuyBovineColostrum.com
Different methods of Contraception's
Contraception's are methods, which are used to stop the pregnancy. It is an age-old practice, where women used to take some precautions like some herbal potions, or simply the withdrawal method or total Abstinence to the act itself. It was just to check the childbirth. Mostly these methods proved unsuccessful, but at times worked fine. But now in the changing times, markets are flooded with the choices from a small pill to female condoms. These are not full proof methods but are used worldwide.
CONDOMS- Condom is the most used contraceptive worldwide. The men on his penis, just before the intercourse, use it. It keeps the sperm inside and thus, prevents the chances of pregnancy. Condoms are available in many brands, styles, sizes and even flavors! Made of latex, these condoms are in lubricant and non-lubricant material. Wide range of choice is there. Condoms are effective to prevent the pregnancy 84% to 98%. It is the only method, which stops the STDs and HIV.
PILLS- These are hormonal pills for the women and are to be taken before the intercourse, orally and daily. They are effective but carry the risk of side effects. These can cause nausea, heavy or low bleeding during menstruations, weight problem, high or low BP. Pill is 95% to 99.9% effective. One pill is there which can be taken orally after the intercourse. These pills can reduce the chances of pelvic inflammatory disease and ovarian cancer, and iron deficiency.
Copper T- Also known as Intrauterine Device (IUD), is a T shaped thing, which is to be inserted into the uterus. It is 99% effective, and it can be kept in the uterus for up to twelve years. A doctor or nurse should insert this device.
Diaphragm or Cervical Cap – These are cup shaped devices used by women to bar the sperm into womb. Made of latex, these are to be fitted by the doctor or nurse. These cap or shields must be kept for 24 hours inside, after an intercourse, to prevent the pregnancy.
Female condoms-This barrier method is used by women. It is made of polyurethane material and is lubricated. This also gives the protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Female condoms are effective 79% to 95%.
Choice is wide, but the best contraceptive is what feels comfortable. One should always consult the doctor before choosing one. Contraception is hassle free and saves from life long trouble. One can indulge in the activity, without any tension.
We at Keepcondom.com are providing you the choices you can make, to select your condom brands according to your needs. Keepcondom.com