I'm so glad to have read this article because I was getting really worried about not saving for the kids when everyone else around me seems to already have started some sort of College Plan. It's not saying don't save. It's saying, it's ok if you haven't started and/or paying for other things right now.

From: http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/CollegeAndFamily/SavingForCollege/6ReasonsNotToSaveForKids.aspx

6 reasons not to save for kids' college
No, it won't make you bad parents. It's fiscally irresponsible to spend your retirement money on your children's education.

By Sally Herigstad

Links to info on corn mazes, haunted houses, train rides, hiking and apple picking on farms.

www.cnn.com/2006/TRAVEL/ADVISOR/09/07/fall.with.kids.ap

Where, why and how much

Last year we took the kids on a romp through the woods of a nearby Christmas tree farm in search of the perfect tree to cut down ourselves. This was a ton of fun even though we didn’t all agree on the same tree. My youngest wanted a “Charlie Brown” tree, my oldest a very large one. After the big debate, they helped cut and drag the tree uphill to the car. My oldest took great pride in paying for the family tree from her gift money. The whole experience created many wonderful memories. Unfortunately, scheduling pressures this year have us searching for the perfect pre-cut tree. Here’s a summary of our findings.

Great activity that also teaches numbers without the treats and candy

Looking for a fun way to countdown to Christmas without further inundating your child with gifts and candy?  Here's a very simple, inexpensive, homemade idea that gives back so much. You and your child will have fun creating this interactive (without the goodies) Advent calendar. This craft also teaches numbers and strengthens hand & motor skills.

Happy Holidays!

Gift certificates seem to be the gift of choice for teachers and staff members this time of year. They also make holiday shopping easy. However, they lack a personal touch and often exclude your child from the gift giving process. Popular in the magazines this year are themed gifts that allow children to add their own special ideas. There are so many benefits to personalizing a gift. It's a special way to spend time with them in an activity that teaches them the spirit of giving. Here are some of my favorites pieced together from various different sources.

Quick guide to comparing Holiday picture prices: Sears, Wal Mart, JC Penney, Picture People, Target

Time again for holiday pictures to include in those awaiting Christmas cards to write. If you are not taking your own or going to a independent professional studio, below are the major retailers with portrait studios along with cost & (hidden) fees. No surprise that Wal Mart pricing is hard to beat at $10 for a complete package (if you are willing to brave the wait)! Unless you already belong to the respective clubs, the other portrait studios will run you a minimum of $50. [Update: please read posted comment below on Target Portrait Studio pricing. It beats Wal Mart. Also, Google ads on the left will lead to respective retailer coupons.]

Boundaries with Kids
When to Say YES, When to Say NO, to Help Your Children Gain Control of Their Lives

by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend

Review by Esther Kim

Boundaries?!? In a society where children are encouraged to be “free” and where permissiveness tends to rule in parenting, the word “boundaries” can seem very un-PC. However, this book explores why kids need boundaries, and various boundary principles kids need to know, and gives you steps on how to implement boundary setting.

Virginia and Other State Laws on Breast Feeding

We are more than a little perplexed at how a well known lingerie chain got away with what amounted to soft core mannequin porn at their Tysons Corner, VA re-design but NURSING MOMS are still frequently asked to go feed their children in the restroom. Would anyone go eat their burger and fries or hang out and drink a cup of coffee in the loue? We already hate having to use a public bathroom for what it's intended, let alone nourish a new baby in an often foul environment.

State laws on this are very clear so arm yourself with knowledge and happily nurse away (at least in VA) while ignoring any rude glares!

Straight from La Leche's website, below are VAs laws on public breastfeeding. It will get you out of jury duty too! For other states, visit La Leche League's website at: http://www.lalecheleague.org/LawBills.html.