“I Forgive You for Your Diaper”  is a hilarious and relatable book for new parents that captures the chaotic but joyous experience of parenting and the frequent task of changing diapers. With cute illustrations and witty humor, the book navigates the messy world of diaper changes with grace and laughter. We’ve all been there and most of us have survived … barely.

 

Written in the style of a children’s book, the target is parents, especially new parents who are (hopefully not) up to their elbows in diapers. Truth is, there is no greater joy than having a child, but it’s sometimes hard to remember that when you’ve been woken up for the billionth time in the wee hours of the morning by your crying little bundle of joy.

You stumble towards them, bleary and sleepy-eyed, stubbing your toe and whisper-muttering curse words you must have overheard from a motorcycle gang, only to open little cupid’s diaper to find something inside that almost makes you rethink the whole concept of parenting. If this is what it’s all about, maybe keeping humans around as a species is misguided? Anyways, you’re too tired to weigh these deep philosophical issues – you need to change this little angel and crawl back to bed and be ready to do it all again in the next hour or so!

This book recognizes the journey that all of us parents have been on and finds the humor in it – from start to finish. “I Forgive You for Your Diaper” is a great gift idea for new parents, baby showers, or for anyone who has ever opened a diaper and felt their eyes water.

Available on Amazon ($11.99 paperback / $4.99 kindle)

What readers are saying:

“Everything about this book was hilarious and will hands down be my new go-to book for baby showers!”

“I have to say this book really made me chuckle and boy could I relate … I was taken back to the days of diaper change and remembered some of the eye watering diapers.”

“We’ve all been there (I’m there 5 times a day!) Any new parent would love this.”

 

Rashes can be a big concern, particularly if they’re painful. Not to mention, their unsightly appearance can make us feel insecure, and desperately wondering what the cause is. The good news is that by understanding the reason behind your rash, you can hopefully calm it down, and ideally eliminate it altogether. Most importantly, you can prevent it from happening again in the future. To help you, here are some likely reasons you may have developed your rash.

Allergic Reaction

Many people dismiss the idea of an allergic reaction immediately, since they assume they’ve never been allergic to something before. However, people can develop an allergy even in their adult years to something they never had a reaction to before. Essentially, your immune system will reject something that it typically interpreted as harmless and now sees it as a threat. It usually results in itching and swelling and requires a trip to the doctor. Your doctor will help you identify whether they believe your rash is contact dermatitis or not.

Infection

Believe it or not, there are some infections that can lead to a rash. Did you know that chicken pox is considered an infection? That’s right, chicken pox is an example of a viral infection, and also includes other infections like shingles and measles–– typically widespread rashes.

On the other hand, you can develop a bacterial infection like impetigo which results in blisters in one localized part of the body. Lastly, fungal infections are red itchy, and scaly, and usually develop in patches.

Heat Rash

Heat rash occurs when your body gets so hot that your sweat ducts get clogged. In other words, you’re literally trapping sweat under the skin, and resulting in itchy red painful bumps. If you notice that your rash is developing in areas that are prone to sweating, like your neck, inner thighs, or armpits, then it may be a result of overheating.

For some people, particularly those who are overweight, heat rash can be unavoidable during the hot months. The best you can do is apply cream as needed, and wear loose-fitting and breathable clothing whenever possible.

Eczema

Do you have itchy patches all over your body that are extremely inflamed and sometimes even painful? It may be a result of eczema, which can be triggered by a wide variety of factors. Some people’s eczema comes on as a result of stress, while other people’s eczema is a result of an allergy.

Usually, eczema occurs on the hands and face, however it can develop anywhere on the body. If you suspect your rash is due to eczema, you want to stop applying over-the-counter creams or perfumes immediately. Talk to your doctor about topical steroids, and avoid strong soaps until the rash calms down.

 

Recreational vehicles (RVs) represent not just a mode of transportation, but a significant lifestyle investment for enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Protecting this investment becomes a priority for owners, leading many to consider the benefits of extended warranty coverage. Delving into the specifics of extended warranties can help RV owners make informed decisions about their vehicle’s protection plan. Below, we explore the intricacies of extended warranties for RVs and what you should consider.

Tips for Choosing the Right Extended Warranty Provider for Your RV

 

Identifying a reputable provider of extended warranty for RVs is crucial for nullifying the risks associated with RV repairs. Look for a provider with a strong customer service and claims fulfillment track record. Reading reviews from other RV owners and seeking recommendations from fellow enthusiasts can be informative and guide you toward a satisfactory decision.

 

Transparency is equally important. A trustworthy provider should clearly outline what is covered under the warranty without concealing limitations in fine print. Be wary of overly complex contracts and ask for clarifications if something isn’t clear; a reputable provider will patiently explain the terms until you’re confident in your understanding.

 

The warranty company’s financial stability should also influence your decision. Companies with a stable financial background are less likely to default on claims due to monetary issues. Agencies like A.M. Best rate the financial strength of insurance and warranty providers, providing a useful benchmark for assessing reliability.

 

It may also be beneficial to consider a provider specializing in RV coverage, such as offering an extended RV warranty. Their in-depth knowledge of common RV problems can lead to more comprehensive coverage tailored specifically to the needs of RV owners, and potentially smoother claims handling due to their familiarity with the intricacies of RV systems.

The Pros and Cons of Investing in RV Extended Warranty

 

The principal advantage of an RV extended warranty is financial protection from expensive, unexpected repairs. With a solid warranty plan, you could save yourself from the shock of a substantial repair bill, offering peace of mind during your travels. The comfort of knowing that you are covered can allow you to fully enjoy the RV lifestyle without being overly concerned about potential mechanical issues.

 

On the flip side, extended warranties are not always used to their full potential, leading some customers to question their value. If your RV remains relatively trouble-free, the warranty may seem like an unnecessary expense. The perceived benefit is highly dependent on the reliability of your RV and the frequency of its use.

 

Another consideration is the warranty’s impact on resale value. An extended warranty can be an attractive selling point for potential buyers, showcasing the care and attention given to maintaining the vehicle. However, this assumes the warranty is transferable, a feature that varies between providers.

 

While warranties can offer extensive coverage, they are also subject to terms and conditions that may include exclusions, limitations, and deductibles. It’s important to understand what is covered and to what extent, as well as your responsibilities in maintaining the warranty, like adhering to a proper maintenance schedule.

Navigating the Claims Process: What RV Owners Should Expect

When a covered issue arises, the claims process is the pivot on which the benefits of your extended warranty turn. Typically, the first step is contacting your warranty provider to check if the issue is covered. You may be required to take your RV to an approved service center or may have the option to choose your own; knowing these details beforehand prevents any undue stress during emergencies.

 

Documentation is your best ally during the claims process; ensure you keep accurate records of all maintenance and repairs. Warranty providers will often request this information before approving a claim. Clear records not only expedite claims but also serve as evidence of responsible vehicle stewardship, which can influence the processing of your claim.

 

While patience is a virtue, timely communication is key. Promptly notifying your provider about a claim and providing all the necessary paperwork as soon as possible can lead to a swifter resolution. Moreover, understanding the expected timeframe for claims processing will help manage your expectations and reduce any apprehension associated with the wait.

 

Bear in mind that the relationship with your provider is two-way. You must know your warranty’s stipulations, ensuring that any modifications or customizations to your RV do not void the warranty. Adhering to the specified protocol when a problem arises will aid in making the claims process smoother and more efficient.

 

Overall, the decision to purchase an extended warranty for your RV is complex, with many factors to consider. Weighing the advantages against the disadvantages while considering your unique travel habits and the reliability of your RV will guide you toward the best choice for your needs.

If you have a passion for photography but have only ever seen this as a hobby, you’ll be glad to know that starting your own photography business is something that’s perfectly attainable for you. With the right eye for photo design and the right equipment, anyone can be taught how to run their photography business and start bringing in some money.

To help you see how this can be done, here are three tips for starting your own photography business.

Start With The Basics

As with any business, a photography business has to be set up the right way in order for things to run smoothly and legally.

For starters, you’ll need to get a business license so that your work can be done legally and you can pay taxes. Along with this, you’ll need to look into things like business insurance, potential legal services, and software that can help make running a business easier, like a website and accounting services. Then, with all of these preliminary things set up, you can begin booking yourself for jobs and start making money from the pictures you’re taking.

Nail Down Your Services

Before you start booking photo shoots for people, you’ll want to make sure that you really understand your offerings and what your services should be costing people.

While it might seem like a good idea to take any job that comes your way, if it’s not something you know you can succeed at, it might be best to not take a job that could cause your reputation to take a hit. Because at the beginning of your career as a photographer, your reputation is really all you have. But once you’re able to book some photo shoots for the type of photos that you enjoy taking and do well, you can then start boosting the price for your services.

To help you in doing this, you might want to do some discounted or even free photos for people you know to help you grow your portfolio. These photos could be pivotal for creating your website or putting together a printed booklet of your work. With these kinds of things, it will be easier and easier to get future jobs.

Learn How To Market Yourself

If you don’t market yourself and your new photography business, you can’t hope to find success. The more people know about you and the work that you’re doing, the more bookings you’ll get and the more successful you’ll be. But to get to word out about yourself, you have to market your work.

Marketing your photography can be done by setting up a website, creating social media profiles, going to local events, and so much more. The more eyes on your work, the better.

If you want to do photography as part of your own small business, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you get this set up for yourself.

 

Admittedly, it can be tricky to teach teenagers for several reasons. Primarily teenage years are marked by chaotic changes – physically, emotionally, and even cognitively- and often this means fluctuations in motivation, attention, and behavior. Of course, teenagers can and should be taught and there are several proven ways to do just that.

In particular, teaching your teenager negotiation skills is something that’ll come in handy for them throughout their lives in many different scenarios – from negotiating with a tiling installation service to communicating with a difficult romantic partner; kudos!

Here are 3 tips to help you out.

Model Effective Negotiation

Really, you want to model effective negotiation because children learn a lot by observing the behavior of adults, especially their parents. How?

It’s a good idea to explain why they should do things. For example, “You want to clean your room because then you’ll have a clean and organized space.”

Then, show your teenager how to actively listen by making eye contact, nodding, and asking clarifying questions. For instance, “I hear that you want to stay out later with your friends. Can you help me understand your reasons?”

You should even demonstrate the art of compromise. When discussing curfew times, say something like, “I’m willing to extend your curfew by 30 minutes on weekends if you can promise to check in with me when you arrive at your friend’s house.”

Role-Play Scenarios

Role-playing scenarios mean your teenager gets to practice negotiation skills in a safe and controlled environment. How?

You want to select scenarios that are relevant to your teenager’s life, such as negotiating an allowance increase.

Also, play the other side of the negotiation and have your teen take the lead. Then, discuss what went well and what could be improved. Offer constructive feedback on their approach. For example, “You did a great job expressing your needs, but you could have asked more open-ended questions to understand the other person’s perspective better.”

Discuss Strategies

It’s a good idea to teach negotiation strategies because it helps your teenager build a toolkit of techniques for resolving conflicts and reaching mutually beneficial agreements. How?

• Explain the concept of win-win, where both parties gain from the negotiation. For example, when discussing a family vacation destination, say, “It’s best when we find a vacation spot that we all enjoy, so we can have a great time together.”
• Emphasize the importance of preparation. Before negotiating a later curfew, suggest that your teenager should gather reasons and supporting evidence, like good grades and responsible behavior.
• Teach the power of empathy. Say they want to borrow the car, encourage them to consider your concerns and express empathy, such as, “I understand you’re worried about the car, but I’ll be careful, and I promise to refill the gas tank.”

Teaching your teenager negotiation skills it’s a very worthwhile decision that’ll benefit them for a lifetime. Try out these tips and make things easier!

 

If you have kids that are finally getting to know on some school field trips this year, their teacher would probably love to have your help and support on the big day. However, if you’re not used to being around a large group of kids, the idea of helping chaperone a school field trip can be very overwhelming. Luckily, there are some simple things that you can do to help make this a successful experience for you and the rest of the class.

To help you see how this can be done, here are three tips for going on your first school field trip with your kids.

Start Prepping The Night Before

In order to have a great, stress-free school field trip, you’re going to want to start preparing for the experience well in advance. Once you have all of the information from your child’s school and teacher, you’ll want to make sure that you have all the details down pat the day before the trip.

As you’re getting ready the night before, make sure you have a bag packed with everything you’ll need to bring. This could include things like water, snacks, a few bandages, some cash, and other necessities or items that you could use in an emergency. You’ll also want to make sure that you get lots of rest the night before so that you aren’t dragging all day when you’re supposed to be upbeat and helpful.

Dress Comfortably

As you’re getting ready for the field trip in the morning, you’ll want to make sure that you choose comfortable clothes. Especially if the field trip is going to last all day long and you’ll be up and going for a large portion of it, you’ll want to wear very comfortable shoes that you’ve already broken in well as opposed to the cute new leather shoes you just bought. The last thing you want to be dealing with while you’re a chaperone is blisters.

Along with wearing comfortable shoes, it’s also a good idea to dress in layers so that you can keep yourself at a safe and comfortable temperature regardless of how the weather might change or what you might be experiencing throughout the day.

Take Your Responsibility Seriously

While this might be a fun experience for you to have with your child and the other kids in their class, it’s important that you remember what your responsibilities are as a field trip chaperone and that you take those responsibilities seriously. The safety of part of the class is dependent on you, and you want to make sure that you’re watching over the children just as you’d want someone to watch over your own child.

If there are any rules that you’ve been given or suggestions that have been made to help everyone stay safe and have a great time, make sure you abide by those rules and put them into practice to the best of your ability.

If you’re going to be chaperoning your child’s school field trip for the first time, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you do so successfully.

 

Finding a job while going to college is a practical way to generate income, and also gain experience and valuable skills. Whether you’re looking for a part time job during the school year, or just a summer gig, there are many different options for you to consider. Here are some great ideas for you to get started with.

Freight Unloader

A gym membership is expensive, and as a student, chances are you’re pinching your pennies as much as you can. Getting a job as a freight unloader can be an excellent choice for physical activity alone. Beyond that, unloading freight offers flexible hours, which can be a plus for college students with rigorous schedules.

Lastly, freight unloading jobs often provide pretty competitive pay rates which can be great for a student looking to earn the most amount of money for the least amount of time possible.

Freelance Writing

Freelance writing can be a great choice for students who are looking for work outside of school hours. Since writing is typically deadline based as opposed to a typical 9 to 5 schedule, it means you can work whenever you have time in your schedule. Whether it’s in the middle of the night or early in the morning, freelance writing can be a great way to work from anywhere around your workload at school.

Delivery Driver

A job as a delivery driver is the perfect job for students since often businesses are only looking for part time delivery drivers. More and more people opt for delivery over going directly to a restaurant themselves, so there are plenty of businesses looking for delivery drivers. The best part is delivery jobs are not limited to food and beverage, either. There are plenty of businesses in ecommerce that are looking for someone to deliver their products and services to customers.

Childcare

Childcare makes a great choice for students because it’s often evening work which is often when you don’t have classes. Depending on your level of experience, and number of kids under your care, you may be able to request a hefty sum for your childcare skills.

One of the greatest perks of childcare is that if you manage to get a babysitting job in the evenings while the children are asleep, you can get your school work done and manage to get paid for it at the same time. Score!

Online Surveys

There are all sorts of businesses looking for people just like you to take online surveys. In exchange for payment, you can fill out surveys or perform small tasks on a flexible schedule. It’s important to note, however, that these are usually pretty low paying gigs. But if that’s all you’re looking for, then it may be the perfect fit!

 

Buying a first car for your teenager is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important considerations. Ensuring their safety, affordability, and suitability requires careful planning. Firstly, prioritize safety features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Secondly, consider fuel efficiency and maintenance costs to make it affordable in the long run. Thirdly, opt for a reliable make and model with a good reputation for durability. Lastly, involve your teen in the decision-making process to teach them responsible ownership. By following these tips, you can make a well-informed choice and provide your teen with a safe and suitable vehicle. If you are interested in exploring more check out the infographic below.

Infographic created by Capital Auto Auction

After a few mishaps, you are just starting to get the hang of potty training your new puppy on a pee pad.

A crisis occurs just as everything appears to be going as planned.

As a pet owner, dealing with soiled and smelly washable pee pads is an inevitable part of your routine. But the question remains, how do you effectively clean them?

Washable Pee Pads: Cleaning Instructions

However, it’s important to note that the lifespan of the pad will depend on the size and breed of your dog, as well as their bathroom habits.

Place the pad in the washing machine or water, mixing water and a little detergent together. It is not advisable to use bleach since it might irritate the skin and cause allergies and damage the pad’s absorbency.

To ensure that the pads are thoroughly cleaned, it’s recommended to wash them on a hot cycle. The high temperature will kill any bacteria and eliminate odours. Once the cycle is complete, hang the pad outside to dry or tumble dry on low heat. It’s important to avoid using high heat as it can damage the pad’s waterproof layer.

In conclusion, washable pee pads are an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable ones. However, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for your pet’s health and hygiene. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your furry friend has a clean and comfortable space to do their business.

What if it’s covered with poop?

If the stool is solid enough, you may be able to pick it up with a scoop or some toilet paper and flush it. As a result, a clean pad won’t end up in the trash.

However, if the droppings are mushy or runny, clean it with a hose. The washer should be used after that. It makes sense to use an odor-eliminating spray. A disinfectant spray is another option for getting rid of harmful chemicals.

Clean Your Home Regularly to Control Odour

Along with washing them, you may need to put in a bit extra effort to remove the stink from these pee pads. For instance, you need to replace and wash your dog’s pee pads often to keep smells under control. Additionally, you can:

Cleaning Washable Puppy Pads with Baking Soda

Before adding some cold water, add 1 cup of baking soda to 4 cups of boiling water. Before being laundered, the dirty pads should soak in this mixture for 2-4 hours.

Using this method, you will mix the laundry detergent with a tiny quantity of vinegar—roughly one tablespoon. The pee pads should then be cleaned as normal to get rid of the scent; if it’s too strong, add a little more vinegar—about 1/2 cup.

Do Washable Puppy Pads Make Sense?

Washable puppy pads are a useful tool for housebreaking puppies, but there are also good reasons to avoid using them.

Pros:

• Puppies have tiny bladders and need to pee regularly. They also still don’t have a fully developed sense of self-control, so they’ll urinate when it’s required.
• You won’t always be able to get outdoors in time, but potty pads provide a great, hassle-free option.
• If you are old or live in an apartment, it could be challenging to constantly take your puppy outdoors for potty breaks.
• If your puppy hasn’t had all of its vaccinations, it may not be safe to let it outdoors due to possible diseases.
• They are, after all, a straightforward method of getting rid of canine waste—just wrap them up!
• • Your dog has a simple place to relieve himself thanks to pee pads. As a consequence, positive behaviour are created.
• The last thing you want to do in a storm is let your puppy out into the rain. If they’re used to using pads even indoors, they won’t have any trouble taking toilet breaks.
• Adult dogs that were taught to use their pads still recall it. If you travel or if it ever develops sick and becomes immobilised, this may be helpful.

Cons:

• The cost of dog pads is a drawback. On average, the cost of a pack of disposable pee pad may vary from $20 to $30.
• The environmental effect of disposable pads is significant since they are designed to be thrown away after usage. Because they are constructed of plastic and foam, they are not easily biodegradable.
• The majority of pups love to chew and will cheerfully swallow everything. Pee pads work the same way. If given the opportunity, puppies will be able to create a significant mess!

These problems can easily be solved if you use dry paw-made, reusable puppy pads. Puppy pads are washable 200 times or more. You won’t have to purchase them as regularly as before. It will save the environment and is biodegradable and reusable.

 

Bonding with your partner is essential for so many reasons. It means better communication, understanding, and trust between both of you. Plus, when you make time for bonding activities, it makes your relationship feel more meaningful and allows both of you to connect on a deeper level. But finding time to bond can be tricky, what with work, family, and likely several other obligations. Bonding at home can simplify things when done correctly.

Here are some tips on how to bond with your partner at home.

Cook Together

Cooking is an awesome bonding activity that you and your partner can do together at home. There’s something special about sharing meals that creates an intimate connection with people. Plus, cooking is a creative task that lets you explore different flavors and textures — something that you can both enjoy doing together.

First off, make shopping for ingredients into a small outing. It’s an easy way to get out of the house and explore different markets. Then, create simple recipes that don’t require too much preparation — such as an easy-to-make taco night or salads with various toppings. Lastly, share your thoughts about the food you make together; it gives you both a chance to express your opinions and taste preferences.

Create Art Together

Creating art is another great way to bond with your partner. Not only does it tap into your creative side, but it’s also a fun activity that you can do together. Whether you paint, sculpt, or do something else entirely — there’s no wrong way to create art.

So decide on a project together and then split the tasks among yourselves — such as one partner doing the sketches while the other paints. After that, take turns critiquing each other’s work; this will give you both an opportunity to see things from different perspectives. Lastly, find a place to display the artwork you create — it will be nice to see your joint efforts every day.

Bathe Together

Taking a bath is one of the oldest and most relaxing bonding activities that couples can do together. Not only does it feel great physically, but it also has psychological benefits — such as promoting trust and connection between both of you.

A perfect way to make bathing more intimate is by adding elements that both of you like. For example, you can put out some candles for a more romantic atmosphere or turn on some music to make it even more relaxing. You can also customize the bath with essential oils, salts, or colored water; this can even be something fun to do together. You also want to make sure that the tub is in working order; check the bathtub overflow plate for example.

Bonding with your partner is essential for the health of your relationship. Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do at home to make sure that you both get some quality time together. From cooking up something delicious to creating art or taking a sensual bath — it’s all about making time for one another and doing activities that you both enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Get to bonding with your partner today!