tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17301434656261907382024-02-06T21:37:36.476-08:00Travel BaBees - Nationwide Baby Equipment RentalsTravel BaBees is the nation's premier baby equipment rental company, specializing in renting cribs, strollers, car seats and more. Our professional and courteous staff will deliver your baby items directly to a private residence, hotel or rental property. We carry a wide selection of baby equipment rentals to meet every budget, including short and long term packages. You can count on Travel BaBees to provide everything for the traveling baby!travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-48473573430382669012010-03-30T22:32:00.000-07:002010-03-30T22:33:53.955-07:00Planning for the pitfalls when traveling with your children<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ARMxd90UkR9DGLPPKt7i1_7RZ3Ccg5h5SCic9wFGSEiN0oxm70X9rC-p3kotBY8KeFPKNJs1JibMl9rLv5-zPqDesPdqjiny5G7lGjFQ67-ynYheK1hyLd4wXUlWHvEQ9JDFoy5z7eo/s1600/airport-stroller-300x192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ARMxd90UkR9DGLPPKt7i1_7RZ3Ccg5h5SCic9wFGSEiN0oxm70X9rC-p3kotBY8KeFPKNJs1JibMl9rLv5-zPqDesPdqjiny5G7lGjFQ67-ynYheK1hyLd4wXUlWHvEQ9JDFoy5z7eo/s320/airport-stroller-300x192.jpg" /></a></div>You might not give the baggage handlers at airports a lot of thought until that perilous point in your day when you are waiting for your suit cases to drop onto the baggage belts and for some reason, they don't. Or, you can wait in the special claims area section for your car seats and stroller, only to have them come down the chute with a seat missing or a stroller that has had the wheel ripped off. At that point, you can make your way over to the baggage office for your airline and stand in line with others who are waiting on their luggage as well. It's a frustrating end to a long day, or a unhappy beginning to a long awaited vacation.<br />
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Unfortunately for those in this situation, this happens more often than you would like to believe. In the crush of miles of luggage, our precious items can be misplaced and our expensive strollers can be crushed. If you plan on taking your children's safety seats and your stroller along on your vacation, there are a few ways you can protect them:<br />
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<ul><li>Place labels on car seats. Include your name, the dates of your travel, the hotel name where you will be staying, and your cell phone numbers. If your seats are lost, this will make it easier for them to be returned to you. </li>
<li>Put your car seats together in a large plastic bag. Often the airline will provide these bags, but bring your own just in case.</li>
<li>Fold your stroller up to it's most compact position and zap strap the wheels down. The wheels of a stroller are often the most damaged area, and many parents have their equipment returned to them with a missing wheel. </li>
</ul><div>Even with the utmost precaution, accidents will happen. Anyone who has experienced the irritation of having to fill out a claim form for a $1000 stroller will tell you that it's a frustrating experience. Your best bet for protecting the necessary gear you need to keep your children safe is to <i>leave it at home</i>. <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees has locations across the the USA</a>, and can provide you with a clean, sparkling stroller or car seats of any size. Before your next vacation, give us a call!</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-32567536952442862272010-03-23T21:54:00.000-07:002010-03-23T21:56:28.016-07:00Want to spend more time with your kids? Work from home!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are so many moms who struggle with their career and raising their children. It's difficult to manage on one income these days, especially since so many have lost their jobs and the economy is still rebounding. If you are one of the mothers who wishes that they could work from home, look no further than a Travel BaBees franchise. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite the pressure that the economy has placed on the Travel industry, there are still families heading out in droves to places of interest across the USA. More than 71% of those who are traveling use baby services. There is nothing that takes away the stress of travel than knowing that a nice stroller or fully set up crib is waiting for you at your destination.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Starting up a Travel BaBees franchise doesn't require a lot of capital and you can work from home. You have access to training and support along the way, whenever you need it. It's a great way to continue on your career path and still be sure that you aren't missing important school functions and those baby firsts that you will never see again. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For more information, visit Travel BaBees today! </span><a href="http://travelbabees.com/Franchise-Opportunities.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://travelbabees.com/Franchise-Opportunities.aspx</span></a>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-35061912928033214542010-03-16T13:01:00.000-07:002010-03-16T13:01:59.191-07:00Traveling with your baby? Fighting boredom while on the roadIf you are heading out on the road this spring break, you might be wondering what to bring along for your kids. Packing light with children is not an option, as they will always want to bring another toy or a beloved stuffy. <br />
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To keep them busy in the car this spring break, Travel BaBees has come up with a few tips for entertaining them along the way:<br />
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Movies - Whether they watch them on your iPhone or on a portable DVD player, movies will make your trip much more relaxing. If you have several children, consider loading a separate movie on to your phone for your toddler and another onto the portable DVD for your older child.<br />
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Road games - Counting the blue cars as they go by can be an entertaining game for a half hour. There are many driving games you can play with your children. Make a few up along the way and you'll watch the miles disappear.<br />
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Backpacks - Stuff your child's backpack with a new toy, coloring books, new markers, and a few other odds and ends that you've picked up at the bargain store before your trip. A backpack works very well if you surprise your child with it.<br />
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Books - Books are a no-brainer for long road trips, and they can make the time fly by. Be sure to put a pillow with your child so they can be comfy while reading, and don't be surprised if they doze off for a nap.<br />
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Your upcoming road trip doesn't have to be stressful. Be prepared for when they are bored and pack light, because <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees</a> can supply you with everything you need once you arrive.travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-74820098523372867842010-03-09T10:20:00.000-08:002010-03-09T10:20:07.029-08:00More Spring Break options from across the USA!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lDIApNzK-s5uWSx-1teuGWt25Rzbp002mp94gezmuVZ9uN-5bquhIa6yPX-NG60fycGHjGiFF7-CkC97vzW9rj6ZkH5h6N6OujMfD5V_IWbGT84nSyffX61Y5bixsLYMwp8u9qa1DuI/s1600-h/legolandaqua.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lDIApNzK-s5uWSx-1teuGWt25Rzbp002mp94gezmuVZ9uN-5bquhIa6yPX-NG60fycGHjGiFF7-CkC97vzW9rj6ZkH5h6N6OujMfD5V_IWbGT84nSyffX61Y5bixsLYMwp8u9qa1DuI/s200/legolandaqua.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>We had so many comments on Twitter about our list of fun things to do this Spring Break that we decided to add a few more. Travel BaBees has locations in major cities across the USA, so you can plan on us being wherever you are.<br />
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Here are some quick ideas if you are heading out into the great wide open this spring break:<br />
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<ul><li>Atlanta - There is no better place to be a kid than Atlanta. If you have older children with you on your trip, the number one rated tourist attraction in Atlanta right now is Segway tours. It's a great way to view a beautiful city. </li>
<li>Orange County - At one time Orange County was full of orange trees. When Walt Disney bought up acres of land for his future amusement parks, he changed the face of Orange County forever. In California, there is no better place to spend Spring Break than Disney. It's kid friendly and great for adults as well. </li>
<li>Orlando - On the opposite coast, Orlando is much more than another city in Florida. Per capita, this vibrant city has more amusements per capita than almost anywhere else. Visit DisneyWorld, with four parks in one location or Universal Studios Islands of Adventure. Whether its Tigger and Pooh or Spiderman that your kid loves, it's all in Orlando.</li>
<li>Dallas - Put your cowboy boots on and take your kids out in this bustling city full of fun. Visit the world class Zoo, where you and the kids could spend the day exploring new vistas under the bright Texas sun. </li>
</ul><div>Spring break is fast approaching! Get our your to-do lists and start making your plans. Your kids are only young once, and you don't want to miss your opportunity to show them the world. </div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-42250002356369651392010-03-02T12:09:00.000-08:002010-03-02T12:09:58.533-08:00Spring break is on it's way! Need ideas for a fun week?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBnpffBJk54a1LJPmdqp0NV4ACAaaqqpu3F_T9MD9fP7MMvDU5Nm7MfFm8rUk42Y6Jvwkz3ZCoKzEEx34KCa6BPIqK5Ll4pKce7AI4WeBDPNetQUuUG4gK0DxHguWeR3AJiwm8y54Cv1o/s1600-h/kids-cancer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBnpffBJk54a1LJPmdqp0NV4ACAaaqqpu3F_T9MD9fP7MMvDU5Nm7MfFm8rUk42Y6Jvwkz3ZCoKzEEx34KCa6BPIqK5Ll4pKce7AI4WeBDPNetQUuUG4gK0DxHguWeR3AJiwm8y54Cv1o/s200/kids-cancer.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>With Spring break and Easter on it's way, parents are throwing their hands in the air and wondering how to entertain their kids for the duration. If you have the means, this is the best year to take your little ones on a trip of a lifetime. Travel deals are at record low, and you can definitely get more bang for your buck if you pack up the family and go this year.<br />
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With locations across the USA, Travel BaBees knows the best places for you to take your kids this break. Check out these great places at our different locations:<br />
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<ul><li>San Jose - For those with older kids, the Winchester Mystery House is a must see in the San Jose area. This house was built by a heiress who loved the mysterious and eclectic, so expect stairways that go no where and secret passageways. </li>
<li>San Francisco - Six Flags is reopening at the beginning of March, and with it comes an amazing choice of rides, characters, and kids activities. It's truly a great place to spend a few fun days with the kids. </li>
<li>Washington, DC - Beyond the White House and the Lincoln Memorial, there is a hub of educational and fun activities for families in Washington. No where else can you see the Smithsonian, a string of fantastic museums that house artifacts from space satellites to Kermit the Frog. </li>
<li>Phoenix - The Valley of the Sun will captivate you when you visit Phoenix. Enjoy the great weather, and visit local attractions like Rawhide Western Town. Your little cowboy or cowgirl will not be disappointed. </li>
</ul><div>Our franchisees know their local areas like the back of their hands, so when booking your next <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees rentals</a>, be sure to ask for tips on what to see and do. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Have a great spring break! </div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-80601133999949860132010-02-23T22:23:00.000-08:002010-02-23T22:26:01.806-08:00In a jam? Travel BaBees is great for much more than travel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47syU6gQld_ALpiYQrN9ru2yOpQki8-gZ0v4qmZrji4C1onL42nGQC3TtP4ymctJOhq8db2019sO6Qn9RWADi2ccQ8rDN6MNLrqTl50WY-E-t_Lhbe_O_7phEQGkgGrqvxYdLqBx4Xn0/s1600-h/logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47syU6gQld_ALpiYQrN9ru2yOpQki8-gZ0v4qmZrji4C1onL42nGQC3TtP4ymctJOhq8db2019sO6Qn9RWADi2ccQ8rDN6MNLrqTl50WY-E-t_Lhbe_O_7phEQGkgGrqvxYdLqBx4Xn0/s320/logo.jpg" /></a></div>Travel BaBees aims to make travel with your children as stress free and easy as possible, but did you know that we also have solutions for your life that have nothing to do with traveling?<br />
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The Stork Craft recall is a prime example of where a major inconvenience can turn into a stress free experience. When Stork Craft advised that parents immediately stop using their cribs, many were in a bind. Stores pulled cribs from their stock, and in many cases there were not enough replacements to go around. Travel BaBees was able to step in and provide a safe, secure sleeping environment through crib rentals. With a Travel BaBees crib rental you get economical weekly rates, and set up is entirely taken care of, saving you the hassle of putting together a new crib until your repair kit came.<br />
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Yet another benefit to renting from <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees</a>? Trying out new baby equipment before buying. If you've had your eye on a double jogging stroller but want to try it before you buy, rent one from Travel BaBees. You'll get a good feel for the stroller, as well as find out how it works for you before making a huge investment. A stroller rental is also great if you are watching a niece or nephew or a grandchild for a week or two.<br />
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No matter the bind, Travel BaBees is there to make sure your baby is safe and comfortable.travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-9853903782840299862010-02-16T09:56:00.000-08:002010-02-16T09:56:19.381-08:00Cabin fever relief for the snowbound<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmM-aNjeZdyOnTC9HEWmswYnJJ5_2i6MTrvg9bosW9bTr42emc7WXE7Aa53XeRDDYwwus_vjBFciH_a221WzhWHXIklH4XWYiBANC9ONo0i0iMjBc_UTAhg4JQuwD6UJIb2t_tOoPXFM/s1600-h/-f95ec389a08ac181_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpmM-aNjeZdyOnTC9HEWmswYnJJ5_2i6MTrvg9bosW9bTr42emc7WXE7Aa53XeRDDYwwus_vjBFciH_a221WzhWHXIklH4XWYiBANC9ONo0i0iMjBc_UTAhg4JQuwD6UJIb2t_tOoPXFM/s200/-f95ec389a08ac181_large.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
It's hard to believe that some parts of the country are experiencing spring like weather conditions when the other half is completely snow bound. If you are one of the unlucky few who have experienced a harsher than average winter, you are probably ready to explode from cabin fever. I'm sure you've run through every activity you can think of for your kids, so instead of posting arts, crafts, or games, here are a few web sites you might not have visited to get some fresh new ideas to keep you sane this winter:<div><br />
</div><div><ul><li>Do you have a budding astronaut on your hands? Spend some time on the <a href="http://www.nasa.gov/audience/forkids/kidsclub/flash/index.html">Nasa kids club</a>. You and your child can build a rocket or explore deep space. The best part? There are a variety of levels so your child can play solo. </li>
<li>The Smithsonian is out of reach for everyone who doesn't live in the area, but you can still visit the museum online by spending some time at <a href="http://www.smithsonianeducation.org/students/index.html">Smithsonian for kids</a>. Their interactive walkthroughs take you and your child through virtual exhibits. It's fascinating, and they can learn at the same time. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.howstuffworks.com/">How Stuff Works</a> is interesting for adults, but when you are trying to answer the endless questions that come out of your child's mouth, this is a great web site to find the answers. </li>
</ul><div>Although it's difficult to be cooped up in the house with your children, it's best to take advantage of the time you have together and make the most of it. The snow will melt eventually. Happy winter!</div><br />
</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-57006619590249729842010-02-09T21:04:00.000-08:002010-02-09T21:04:50.690-08:00Traveling can keep your kids in shape, if you do it rightOne of the little known benefits of traveling with your kids is the fitness aspect of it. Depending on where you go and what you do when you get there, you can turn almost any vacation into one that focuses on family fitness.<br />
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Fitness is at the forefront of the news as of late. Michelle Obama has taken on the task of slimming down USA children. In recent years there has been a growing problem with young children and obesity, whether that is due to personal diet, poor food in schools, and busy lives causing parents to prefer to line up at the drive through rather than prepare a home cooked meal. Children are spending more time being babysat by the television and less time running around outside. It's a formidable problem that the First Lady has taken on, one that affects all aspects of a child's life.<br />
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As a parent, when you take a vacation you'd like to kick back and relax. No cooking, no cleaning, and no stress! You can still have all of that, but you can also do yourself and your children a favour by incorporating a proper diet and exercise no matter where you plan on taking your vacation:<br />
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<ul><li>DisneyWorld/Land - Yes, Disney is a mecca of food, fun, and sweet treats, but it's also a huge place. There are endless opportunities to walk and many places for your children to run and play. It's easy to avoid bad food choices at Disney by purchasing fruit and plain water at the various kiosks. Many of the restaurants also sell healthy food choices. </li>
<li>Road Trips - Plan stops for driving breaks. Map out your route and find playgrounds along the way so your kids can run and play. Bring your own food to avoid stopping at fast food resturants. If you must stop, avoid sugary sodas and purchase fresh juices instead.</li>
<li>Beach - The beach is a great place to relax, but it can also be a wonderful place to excercise. If your family is staying right on the beach, get your kids out for a run each morning. There is nothing so beautiful as a run along the ocean. Play beach volleyball with your children or have a lively game of frisbee. BBQ fare is healthier than frying, and BBQ vegetables are often a hit at a beach picnic. </li>
</ul><div>No matter where you travel with your family, you can find ways to trim the fat and add some exercise. Taking a tip from the First Lady, we can all do our part to ensure our children have a long and healthy future. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Pack light on your next family vacation by renting from <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees</a>!</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-5566895849212207932010-02-02T10:45:00.000-08:002010-02-02T10:45:07.634-08:00Unplanned side effect of the Apple iPad: Stress-free travel with your kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_iMBt9VswsgdeuqKeOePa59Z9iOXWVQNlxXwqVhOJGZIQ68PNh7zpx5mGsEjVUGGxVElfb7J6JCd2o9e0yq5V1eEhNoOhijlkIm-5m4TQja6UeYkwTLk6HVEfrAmL99EjClj7JXWjxM/s1600-h/ipad-hero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_iMBt9VswsgdeuqKeOePa59Z9iOXWVQNlxXwqVhOJGZIQ68PNh7zpx5mGsEjVUGGxVElfb7J6JCd2o9e0yq5V1eEhNoOhijlkIm-5m4TQja6UeYkwTLk6HVEfrAmL99EjClj7JXWjxM/s200/ipad-hero.jpg" width="188" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande'; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Although we still can't get our hot little hands on an iPad right now, we are definitely on the pre-order list. It's not because of the iBook (but that is such a huge bonus) or the fact that those of us who still have BlackBerry phones have been dying to get our hands on the apps who always see in the iTunes store (BlackBerry apps are NOT apps at all). No, the main reason that you should pick up an iPad as soon as you possibly can is because they will de-stressify your life. How you may ask? An iPad is the perfect, must have accessory for those who are traveling with their children. If you've ever sat on an airplane with your kids for 4 hours, while they squirmed, wailed, and tried to run up and down the aisles, you will realize that spending $499 so you can just READ A BOOK is the best gift you can give yourself. Other wonderful reasons to purchase an iPad before your next trip with your kids:</span></span></span></span><br />
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<ul><li>You can get all touchy feel-y with it. The number one thing that drives me nuts about my kids coming near my computer is that they always touch the screen. With an iPad, you HAVE to touch the screen. You can chase after them with a cloth if you want, but the smears on the screen are necessary for playing. </li>
<li>10 hours of battery life. You can travel on an airplane, car, train, or all the way to Grandma's with it and it won't run out of battery. After years of Nintendo DS's and their limited battery operation, this is a breath of technological fresh air. </li>
<li>Apps. Apps are wonderful little pieces of software that could be games, maps, self-helping software, etc. You can't access Apps on anything other than an iPod Touch or an iPhone, leaving most of us frustrated because we haven't taken the leap into that technology yet. You can take your iPad on your next trip to Disney and download an app for ride wait times and the best routes to get to where you want to go. It's unbelievable, but it's true. </li>
<li>Kids are movers and shakers. With the iPad, if they are playing a racing car game and they turn the screen sideways when they are playing, the screen turns with them. Kids imitate real life, and so does the iPad. </li>
<li>It's not just for games. Did you see the demo of how iBook will revolutionize the way we read? Yes, there is Kindle and Sony e-Reader, but the iPad is going to bring books to life for both adults and kids. Think stories within the stories. </li>
</ul><div>Although some are saying they are going to wait for the second generation of iPads to come out, I don't plan on. I believe it will be much the same as the 1st generation MacBooks, which I am still loving as much as I did when I bought it in 2007. The only drawback I can see to taking an iPad on vacation? Getting it away from your kids. </div><div><br />
</div><div>A word of advice: if you are out by the pool, soaking in some sun and reading your favourite iBook, remember that you are holding technology and not paper. On a real book, the paper will get soggy but you will still be able to read it. On an iPad, you drop it in the pool and it's game over. </div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-30654480512512265762010-01-26T11:27:00.000-08:002010-01-26T11:27:05.736-08:00Myths mothers believe about booking travel with their kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnPTIOQPCiE3VKIv-U3uNWWgKfv7llcWj2G7SyNh9BTIXkGd_pJ4WMA-iRAb_zF9SmCFpuzdCdLb_GyN0p7PsNug_xSob6APfVcmZ5C1Rm9cupNp1gsaFO-lbh2IaYXe7UL0ihwROsxI/s1600-h/eyeful_drop_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnPTIOQPCiE3VKIv-U3uNWWgKfv7llcWj2G7SyNh9BTIXkGd_pJ4WMA-iRAb_zF9SmCFpuzdCdLb_GyN0p7PsNug_xSob6APfVcmZ5C1Rm9cupNp1gsaFO-lbh2IaYXe7UL0ihwROsxI/s320/eyeful_drop_300.jpg" width="298" /></a><br />
</div>When it comes to traveling, it is so difficult to research everything you need to research. When viewing online, you find such a plethora of web sites that a variety of choices in airfare costs, tickets, and accommodation.<br />
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How do you narrow down the true offers from the misleading? Simply by knowing myth versus fact with regards to traveling.<br />
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<b>Myth #1</b> - The "Kids Free" programs: Have you ever seen an offer that says "Kids Fly Free" or "Kids eat free?" Chances are, the cost of your kids flying or eating is worked into the price of the overall package. When your kids fly free, you must purchase hotel and airfare accommodations together. Often you can also choose a rental car with your package or catch a break on theme park tickets. The catch is that most of the kids free hotels can be booked at a better rate directly through the hotel, or the room you can get is completely wrong for staying in with small children. Do your research prior to booking these packages.<br />
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<b>Myth #2 -</b> Travel Web sites will get you the best deal on airfare - Nope, not even close. Occasionally you will find a great deal on airfare through these sites, and many of them no longer charge booking fees, but the logic is that they have to make money from somewhere. Find a flight on these sites that looks appealing, then go straight to the airlines web site for a better deal. Often you'll find it, and more flexibility with time and dates as well.<br />
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<b>Myth #3 -</b> Hotel rooms that are labeled "Kid Friendly" really are - Have you ever booked a junior suite in a hotel and thought it would be perfect for you and your two children? You can watch TV while they sleep and the morning noise will be diminished. When you walk into these 'Suites' your hopes are dashed as you see a simple half-wall between the couch and bed, while still allowing direct view of the bright TV screen. Junior suites are not designed for privacy. If you want quiet for your baby, book a one bedroom suite in a hotel that caters to those with children.<br />
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Yes, it's difficult to narrow down your travel choices because there is such an amazing amount of web sites who want your business. Ask your friends, do some research, and try not to stress when you finally do decide on a package. Vacations are meant to be fun, even when you are traveling with your children!<br />
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For the best baby equipment rentals on the web (and that's a fact), visit us at <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees</a>.travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-13636976038763364712010-01-20T16:28:00.000-08:002010-01-20T16:29:31.646-08:00Traveling Bug but kids have you putting on the brakes? Travel BaBees can help<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHiBOu-81WyWzvf7NtOa0v6VqJ7rAuDT8ANI5HpEuZ4nIUR2YhRzYO_ounWysjjIyv3uuke30Lw16Mxbegwpyu51TvcXl1wYSMbNw8zakv7GpJzNbe0nUcwHJCDPgE1Img0D1qJVyNbms/s1600-h/16638-Clipart-Picture-Of-An-Ant-Bug-Mascot-Cartoon-Character-With-His-Hand-Out-Holding-A-Stop-Sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHiBOu-81WyWzvf7NtOa0v6VqJ7rAuDT8ANI5HpEuZ4nIUR2YhRzYO_ounWysjjIyv3uuke30Lw16Mxbegwpyu51TvcXl1wYSMbNw8zakv7GpJzNbe0nUcwHJCDPgE1Img0D1qJVyNbms/s320/16638-Clipart-Picture-Of-An-Ant-Bug-Mascot-Cartoon-Character-With-His-Hand-Out-Holding-A-Stop-Sign.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>If you are a mama with the bug to travel, you might have felt suddenly 'restricted' when you took your first trip with your child. My first trip with my 3 month old was on a 6 hour flight across country, and I was a bundle of nerves not only because I had her with me, but because of all the extra luggage and crippling cargo I had to take.<br />
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</div><div>Yes, it's harder to travel with your kids than it is to fly solo. Going through security alone is a breath of fresh air compared to lugging children through those scanners. Unfortunately, once you have kids, if you still want to see the world you are going to have to bring them along.<br />
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</div><div>Here are a few tips for making travel with your children ever so slightly easier on you:<br />
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</div><div><ul><li>Get rest the night before - Traveling is draining, not only on you but on your children as well. Be sure everyone gets adequate sleep the night before. Everything seems more stressful when you are exhausted.</li>
<li>Pack snacks. Although many airlines will not let you bring a bottle of water, soda, or juice onto an airplane any longer, there are approved snacks you can still bring. Alternately you can purchase juice or milk once you have gone through security, but don't be surprised if you are restricted from bringing that on as well. It is up to the airline whether or not you are able to bring any outside items on board with you. </li>
<li>Give your children a flying gift - If you want to occupy your kids on the plane, get them a gift that you give them right when you take off. A colouring book, video game, or new barbie doll will give you some much needed peace and quiet while flying. </li>
<li>Rent your travel accessories - If you need a crib at your destination, don't bring along the playpen. Need a stroller? Leave yours at home and rent a brand new, spiffy stroller that will get your baby around in style. <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees</a> is set up so your baby can be pampered wherever you travel. </li>
</ul><div><a href="http://www.twitter.com/travelbabees">Follow us on Twitter! </a><br />
</div><br />
</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-91203476756455344772010-01-12T21:17:00.000-08:002010-01-12T21:17:41.349-08:00Grandchildren on their way? Be prepared!<div class="MsoNormal">Grandparents love when their grandchildren come for a visit. If you struggle for activities that everyone will find fun, here are a few quick ideas for you:<o:p></o:p><br />
</div><ul><li> Play dough. Licensed character kits such as Littlest Pet Shop, Barber Shop, or Chunky Monkey are a must have when the grandkids are over, and they can entertain the kids for hours. Play dough is generally non-staining and low mess, so you don’t need to worry about your furniture. </li>
<li> Crayons and coloring books are a staple, and you would be amazed at the variations that Crayola has come up with in the recent past. You can purchase extra large coloring books that are almost the same size as the child, or character coloring books like Disney Princess, Bob the Builder, or the Wiggles. The differences in crayons is significant, and you can get them for little fingers, big fingers, liquid form that only comes out when you shake them, and markers that dissolve with water. </li>
<li>No need to run out and buy a bunch of toys when the Grandkids come and visit. Rent a tub of toys from <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBee</a>s. The tub includes books and videos, and are from varied brand names like Fisher Price. <br />
</li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black;">A great visit with your grandchildren starts with being prepared. Rent them a comfy bed, a safety gate, or a double stroller for walks from <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees</a>. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-45579092538985190322010-01-05T10:24:00.000-08:002010-01-05T10:24:46.709-08:00Winter Cold Snap? Time to take the kids on a ski vacation!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRFyFrusmMC4j61h4iP5dCS_xRIUoNe-D58zUJLw-QynMmcWSk1ENqyklYlwI89irmuzeRUCwkyZwCky5sKWAhwuC4Io8o1jKJO0QkSeVfX-08RdH5CGQmofuiT3FgmCD3rCTf3EoHIA/s1600-h/skischulen02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRFyFrusmMC4j61h4iP5dCS_xRIUoNe-D58zUJLw-QynMmcWSk1ENqyklYlwI89irmuzeRUCwkyZwCky5sKWAhwuC4Io8o1jKJO0QkSeVfX-08RdH5CGQmofuiT3FgmCD3rCTf3EoHIA/s320/skischulen02.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">If you've ever thought about taking a ski vacation with your family, you probably picture a roaring fire, days spent effortlessly gliding down the slopes, and buckets of hot chocolate. If you have small children, the odds that your ski vacation will be as effortless as what you picture is slim to none. Skiing, although a great sport for your family to enjoy, it is not as easy as it looks. If you plan on taking your children for a ski holiday, here are a few tips to get you on the right track. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">You have their equipment on and they are ready to go. How do you teach them? The answer is: YOU don’t. The best thing you can do for your children is to avoid teaching them to ski yourself. Not only is it difficult if you’ve never taught anyone to ski before, they can also pick up on any bad ski habits you may have. Ski school is especially formulated to teaching young children the ins and outs of beginning to ski, and they include games and fun. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">If your child is slightly older and has been to ski school, you may want to hire a personal instructor or sign them up for group lessons. Professional ski instructors know the ins and outs of progressing ability levels and can assist your child to overcome any obstacles that he or she may be experiencing. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">Ski hills are often out of the way from major cities. Traveling light is your best bet! If you want a backpack for wandering through the resort in the evenings, rent one from Travel BaBees. Skiing is exhausting, and that afternoon nap will ensure your continued energy on the slopes. Be sure that your baby will have the best nap as well, but renting a full crib with organic linens. </span></span><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;"><span style="font-size: 13pt;">Enjoy your time swooshing down the slopes! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-74316560182694050952009-12-30T10:45:00.000-08:002009-12-30T10:45:46.966-08:00Travel BaBees in the news<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The media is buzzing with news on Travel BaBees. Here are the most recent media mentions for Travel BaBees franchises:</span><br />
<h1 class="entry-title" style="-webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.1em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 12px; vertical-align: baseline;"><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><a href="http://www.azfamily.com/community/blogs/arizona-travel/Travel-Babees-makes-traveling-with-kids-easier-79403047.html"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Travel BaBees makes traveling with kids easier </span></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">- Featured on AZFamily.com</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 27px;"><a href="http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/bus/stories/DN-p2travelbabies_20bus.ART.State.Edition1.3cfaac3.html"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Company's rentals mean you don't have to drag everything for your baby along on vacation</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - Dallasnews.com</span></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://www.9news.com/seenon9news/article.aspx?storyid=129416&catid=509"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Traveling Parents don't have to pack the stroller</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - Colorado Online News</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><a href="tp://www.wlbt.com/Global/story.asp?S=11711431"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rentals could make traveling with kids easier, cheaper</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - WLBT 3, Jackson, MS</span></span></li>
</ul></h1><div><br />
</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-89671224285106504252009-12-29T10:07:00.000-08:002009-12-29T10:07:52.425-08:00Traveling with your children and the new airline restrictions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1HiJCxKSdx6nyg44Y8m9wp9aZuu1SVdzHU-iZ-582da5Xga0XC-Alq-NJLtxDw5IKHaRKSOMUOaZmPBCdrIlJrYLCdwAjwY5NkRfUkmdtHhFVzhLCECh8tNTBLcuXEodOUapTQ1QIHU/s1600-h/air-travel-727379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1HiJCxKSdx6nyg44Y8m9wp9aZuu1SVdzHU-iZ-582da5Xga0XC-Alq-NJLtxDw5IKHaRKSOMUOaZmPBCdrIlJrYLCdwAjwY5NkRfUkmdtHhFVzhLCECh8tNTBLcuXEodOUapTQ1QIHU/s200/air-travel-727379.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>In light of the new airline restrictions, air travel is getting that much more stressful for parents everywhere. In the middle of this busy travel season, it's important to be prepared for delays, and the new restrictions are only adding to them.<br />
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Taking a quick look at how these new restrictions can affect you is vital to being prepared for your flight:<br />
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<ul><li><b>Staying in your seat for the last hour of the flight:</b> It was announced today that the TSA has relaxed some of it's flight restrictions and has left the protocol for the <a href="http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=comm&id=news/INFLIGHT12299.xml&headline=U.S.%20Relaxes%20New%20In-Flight%20Restrictions">last hour of the flight up</a> to the crew. For the most part, you won't be asked to remain in your seat without the necessary diapers, bottles, or books. If you find that you are on a flight where you are asked to remain without your baby's gear, be sure to have changed their diaper prior to the last hour, fed them as much as you possibly can, and attempt to occupy baby as much as possible. </li>
<li><b>Clearing security</b>: For the past 9 years, security has changed to the point that you feel you must almost strip down to get through. Our belts, our shoes, and our bags are searched, and this is a good thing. However, with kids, it's stressful trying to get them through security then dressed again. Be sure to dress them in elastic clothing, with no belts, buckles, or fancy shoe straps. Slip in shoes that they can get in and out of on their own are the best option for a quick exit through security. </li>
</ul><div>As always, packing light is your best option for a stress free trip, so leave the stroller and car seat at home. Having your stroller scanned and placed through Xray is highly inconvenient, and can add just that little bit of extra burden to your trip. Renting through <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees</a> can lighten your load in more ways than one!</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-24335238899167429782009-12-23T14:24:00.001-08:002009-12-23T14:24:09.840-08:00Travel BaBees on NBC!If you didn't see Travel BaBees on NBC, here is a link to the online edition.<br />
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<a href="http://www.nbcsandiego.com/around-town/shopping/Baby-Rentals-Go-on-Vacation-79264187.html">http://www.nbcsandiego.com/around-town/shopping/Baby-Rentals-Go-on-Vacation-79264187.html</a>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-23654895729181307142009-12-22T08:58:00.000-08:002009-12-22T08:58:25.133-08:00Stuck in the airport? The best kids play areas in airports around the country<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhw9rFnFmMXV_C-xRL_micZGRhYRrL1ts-W-6uoTqdLAAEq_gcUzjQd4jfwb2v80leh7YE446OnstnNTZVgzxwgnhKj2C-d52PV8ZBARMlTG85RPiEGLSmFBOQp0KpINU5p6z0Hd1K3oY/s1600-h/gadgets_keep_em_happy.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhw9rFnFmMXV_C-xRL_micZGRhYRrL1ts-W-6uoTqdLAAEq_gcUzjQd4jfwb2v80leh7YE446OnstnNTZVgzxwgnhKj2C-d52PV8ZBARMlTG85RPiEGLSmFBOQp0KpINU5p6z0Hd1K3oY/s200/gadgets_keep_em_happy.jpg.scaled.1000.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Snow hit the Eastern coast this past weekend, and with snow came the grinding halt of flights everywhere. Unfortunately for many, the cancelation of flights has come at a time when everyone is trying to get to family for the holidays.<br />
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If you find you are stuck in an airport right now with your children bouncing off the walls, take a look at Travel BaBees quick guide to airport play areas:<br />
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<b>Boston: Logan International - Indoor playgrounds</b><br />
Logan International has two play areas for kids, and they are both work the trek to Terminal C or A. Kidport has a model airplane to climb on or slide down, tunnels, and a fun kid friendly baggage claim. The Kidport in Terminal A also has a mini-control tower. Great for kids who love airplanes, and a break for you.<br />
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<b>Dallas Fort Worth International - Play areas abound!</b><br />
DFW is a very family friendly airport. They feature three play areas in three terminals, including a junior flyer themed area with runway, plane, and air traffic control (Terminal B by Gate B12). In Terminal D by Gate D33 you can find a McDonalds that will let you buy a happy meal and give your kids a place to play, which is great for long layovers. Terminal C at Gate C14 has a smaller version of the junior flyer play area.<br />
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<b>Seattle-TAC (SEA)</b><br />
Let your kids run wild at the huge children's play area while you catch up on your reading. This playground is soft foam, and features an airplane theme. If you are nursing, there is a parents room with rocking chairs for feeding your baby privately. The playground is located on the left, once you pass through security and go through the Central Terminal on your way to Concourse A.<br />
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We hope you don't get stuck in the airport this holiday season, but if you do, at least there are places for your kids to burn off some steam and for you to catch a much needed breather.<br />
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Happy Holidays!travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-40469150713046841002009-12-14T21:58:00.000-08:002009-12-14T21:59:03.456-08:00We're thinking of Military Moms this holiday season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7W5hGg58bYk0V39wUffZBitBThZMd8PRNNnP7QByiF-juefNwXwWYy-YC0xiK7YdV9jX_PvXNmnHHGeP53wQXo5EqYknEg_lRJkBFjBn47YmIa1DTwAMPuN6s4vOaE2OvJvJmUJxc04U/s1600-h/2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7W5hGg58bYk0V39wUffZBitBThZMd8PRNNnP7QByiF-juefNwXwWYy-YC0xiK7YdV9jX_PvXNmnHHGeP53wQXo5EqYknEg_lRJkBFjBn47YmIa1DTwAMPuN6s4vOaE2OvJvJmUJxc04U/s320/2.gif" /></a><br />
</div>Let's face it, it's not easy to be on your own with your kids for long periods of time. You cook, clean, play, and take care of them; eventually you are going to need a break. Most moms can have that break, because Dad comes home after work or they have family they can rely on. Imagine being in a strange city or country and not having your husband there to support you. You have no friends and family around you, and you are the full-time mom of your children. For me, it sounds like the hardest situation I could imagine, but it is a reality every single day for thousands of military moms who stay back and take care of their families when their husbands are deployed. <br />
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It wouldn't be easy for those who are serving our country either. The men and women deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan worry endlessly about the families they have left behind. Not only do they deal with the stress of leaving their wives and children, they have financial concerns to worry about as well. It is a huge sacrifice that they make to fight for our country, and I am glad that there are programs out there to take a little bit of the stress from them.<br />
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This holiday season, Travel BaBees has sponsored a military family through Operation Homefront. The "Adoptafamily" program pairs families in need with people who want to help provide a Christmas dinner and presents for the kids. If you are able, check out <a href="http://www.operationhomefront.net/holiday.htm">http://www.operationhomefront.net </a>today. It might be too late to donate for Christmas, but there many other programs that assist military personnel and their families.<br />
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Wishing all military personnel and their families a very Happy Holidays!travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-51184180939616854562009-12-08T09:51:00.000-08:002009-12-08T09:51:05.098-08:00TravelBaBees Atlanta's best picks for your kid's this Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSsGEokMeHERI1qMBjRzDuyV-ZM13b9uwzLmh6yA3xB-yiB9w_PO14gXy6mcLECB6JxLrJ-Fr2zwgNvXjr7HEoWsgujw74f2UE_CbVktx9ym93mpXM5ITUrx770WmJXOMIQTQ704ajX8/s1600-h/CGswans_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSsGEokMeHERI1qMBjRzDuyV-ZM13b9uwzLmh6yA3xB-yiB9w_PO14gXy6mcLECB6JxLrJ-Fr2zwgNvXjr7HEoWsgujw74f2UE_CbVktx9ym93mpXM5ITUrx770WmJXOMIQTQ704ajX8/s200/CGswans_holiday.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>There is nothing, and I mean nothing, like a Southern Christmas. Those lucky folks living down south just seem to know how to do it all right, whether they have snow or not. If you are one of the lucky few traveling down to Atlanta or the general area this holiday season, here is a quick list of fun stuff to do with your kids (and <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">don't forget to rent</a>, not bring, your stroller!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.cabbagepatchkids.com/Cart_Pages/Tour/02_stork_sign.html">Babyland General Hospital</a> is widely known as the birthplace of the Cabbage Patch Kid. Take your kids on a tour of the hospital, allow them to choose their own new baby, and go through the fun adoption process. It's always exciting to bring home a new family member, and even more so at Christmas.<br />
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The Santa Express is rolling through town, and if your child loves trains or the Christmas movie "The Polar Express", he or she will love taking a ride on the <a href="http://brscenic.com/?page_id=55">Santa Express.</a> Sing carols, visit with the elves, and end your time on the lap of the big man himself. Taking a trip on The Blue Ridge Express is a very festive way to kick off your holiday season.<br />
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Take a tour of the lights and sounds of Georgia with a trip to <a href="http://www.callawaygardens.com/callaway/info/fantasy-lights.aspx">Callaway Gardens </a>Fantasy in Lights. Established in 1992, this drive through spectacular is sure to get you feeling festive.<br />
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Happy Holidays!travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-87368001379066729422009-12-06T14:33:00.000-08:002009-12-06T14:33:00.493-08:00TravelBaBees Recipe #3 - Red Velvet Cake & 19 sleeps until ChristmasAlthough I do have a great family recipe for Red Velvet Cake myself, I'm bound by family rule to not share it. However, I do have this wonderful Red Velvet Recipe that I found on All Recipes, and it's just as good (if not better!) Enjoy!<div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Red-Velvet-Cake-II/Detail.aspx">Red Velvet Cake </a><br />
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<div class="ingredients" style="margin-top: 10px;"><h3>Ingredients</h3><ul><li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 2 1/2 cups self-rising flour</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 1/2 cups white sugar</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 cup vegetable oil</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 2 eggs</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 cup buttermilk</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 2 ounces red food coloring</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 4 cups confectioners' sugar</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap"> 1/2 cup chopped pecans</li>
</ul></div><div style="border-top: 1px dotted rgb(204, 204, 204); margin-top: 20px; width: 300px;"> </div><div class="directions" style="margin-top: 10px;"> <h3> Directions</h3><ol><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="overflow: visible;"><span> Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour three 8 inch round pans. </span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="overflow: visible;"><span> In a large bowl, mix together sugar, oil, and eggs. Add food coloring and vinegar to buttermilk. Add baking soda to flour. Add flour mixture and buttermilk mixtures alternately to the sugar mixture. Mix well. Stir 1 teaspoon vanilla into batter. Pour batter into prepared pans. </span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="overflow: visible;"><span> Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until done. Remove from oven, and cool on wire racks. </span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="overflow: visible;"><span> Mix together cream cheese, butter or margarine, confectioners' sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in nuts. Frost cooled cake. </span></li>
</ol></div><div class="recipe-details-lg"> <div class="nutri-div"> <h3></h3></div></div><br />
</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-64871600196776143122009-12-05T10:55:00.000-08:002009-12-05T10:55:02.963-08:00On to Grandma Rosella's Recipe #2 - Sugar Cookie Icing<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">Heaven in a bowl! Thanks Grandma!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"></span><br />
<div class="ingredients" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1 cup icing sugar</span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">2 teaspoons milk (I use whole milk, it's richer)</span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">2 teaspoons light corn syrup</span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">assorted food colouring</span></span></li>
</ul></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 20px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 300px;"></div><div class="directions" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><h3 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #7a7a7a; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Directions</span></span></h3><ol style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 16px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 16px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">In your mixer, beat together icing sugar and milk until smooth. </span></span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Beat in corn syrup and vanilla until icing is smooth and glossy. </span></span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Icing too thick? Add a touch more corn syrup (Grandma didn't like measuring spoons, she just added stuff as she went)</span></span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Get some small bowls and add a dollop of icing to each. Add food colouring in varying shades to each. </span></span></span></li>
</ol><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Now that you have sugar cookies, you can decorate them with this icing, then add candy or other sprinkles. </span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 16px;">Follow me on Twitter @travelbabees</span></span></div></div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-20210773149190472082009-12-04T13:50:00.000-08:002009-12-04T13:52:04.941-08:00Recipe # 1 - 20 days left until Christmas, so let's have some Sugar Cookies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistLm6aBm9RCgQtDMZvcY2oMgmgcuISxccMWOtJGt3TEYh810C7M4UiMyKq8k5RSDVPQetDGk-6Jflc7ftAXCe6QPgnas5B5YpzJ2IUBdWKn5ciDjFBsbCQBKqobw4wKIFzqJmvqurBgs/s1600-h/sugar-cookies-sl-1673189-l1202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistLm6aBm9RCgQtDMZvcY2oMgmgcuISxccMWOtJGt3TEYh810C7M4UiMyKq8k5RSDVPQetDGk-6Jflc7ftAXCe6QPgnas5B5YpzJ2IUBdWKn5ciDjFBsbCQBKqobw4wKIFzqJmvqurBgs/s200/sugar-cookies-sl-1673189-l1202.jpg" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande';">The first index card I pulled today from Grandma's recipes is Sugar Cookies. A Christmas staple, sugar cookies are easy to make and fun for the kids to cut out and decorate. Light and fluffy, these cookies are so yummy that she said they couldn't possibly be fattening (Grandma was a little hippy, so take that with a grain of salt)<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;"><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Times, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><br />
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<div class="ingredients" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Grandma Rosella's Sugar Cookies</span></b></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1/2 cups butter (take it out of your fridge about 2 hours before you bake so it's nice and soft)</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;">2 cups white sugar</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;">4 eggs</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1 teaspoon vanilla (She always used the real vanilla.)</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;">5 cups all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;">2 teaspoons baking powder</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-size: medium;">1 pinch Cream of Tartar </span></li>
</ul></div><div style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 20px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; width: 300px;"></div><div class="directions" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><h3 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #7a7a7a; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Directions</span></h3><ol style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 16px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 16px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">In your mixer (I used my Kitchen Aid) cream your butter and sugar together until it's fluffy. </span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Beat in eggs one and a time and add the vanilla. </span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. I like to add my dry ingredients all at once and let the mixer take care of it.</span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Scoop your dough onto plastic wrap, then cover it completely. Be sure to chill dough for at least 2 hours.</span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Turn your oven on to 400 degrees. Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes. *Quick Tip* Use parchment paper and roll out the dough directly on the paper. You can remove the excess dough from the cookies as opposed to moving the cookies from the cupboard to the pan. Lessens the likelihood of having snowmen with broken arms. </span></span></li>
<li class="plaincharacterwrap" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; line-height: 16px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: visible; overflow-y: visible; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Bake 6 to 8 minutes. Cool completely on wire racks.</span></span></li>
</ol><div><span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span><br />
</div><div><span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">These cookies are good on their own. My mom always liked to eat them plain, but I decorate them with my kids. </span></span><br />
</div><div><span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span><br />
</div><div><span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Tomorrow's recipe: Grandma's Icing! </span></span><br />
</div></div><div class="recipe-details-lg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; float: left; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative;"><div class="nutri-div" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-color: rgb(192, 192, 192); border-top-style: dotted; border-top-width: 1px; clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 4px; width: 500px;"></div></div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-5465556665388416482009-12-04T13:41:00.000-08:002009-12-04T13:41:02.901-08:0020 Recipes until Christmas!My Grandma was an amazing baker/cook. She had 13 kids, lived on a farm, and barely ever got to leave the house other than Church on Sundays or the occasional grocery trip into town. Because of this, Grandma had to make her own fun, and one of the ways she entertained herself was baking.<br />
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I have a small, wooden box that is full of recipes from her. I cherish this as a keepsake, and you can bet if there was ever a fire at my house that I would be grabbing for that box as soon as my family was safely out the door. Recipes like hers are tradition, and they are meant to be shared with others.<br />
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My gift to you this season is 20 recipes in 20 days. I hope you enjoy them as much as we have.<br />
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Visit me on Twitter for more updates! @travelbabeestravelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-73129357336877301942009-11-30T10:21:00.000-08:002009-11-30T10:22:11.791-08:00Welcome Charlotte, North Carolina to Travel BaBees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGn_tWmhTEhnf5BhGPZmfffoc6imcl7mj603Hf-bOlaGWFAneBLaXgDTZRBGF6ewA_CE_qzSIJeVrg_UOluDM4VEr41AgDljcgmm8Tieq7wK_aUy1gknun-kWMe6Rx8DHL7YdIWZF8Kxc/s1600/2delivering-the-white-house-christmas-tree-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGn_tWmhTEhnf5BhGPZmfffoc6imcl7mj603Hf-bOlaGWFAneBLaXgDTZRBGF6ewA_CE_qzSIJeVrg_UOluDM4VEr41AgDljcgmm8Tieq7wK_aUy1gknun-kWMe6Rx8DHL7YdIWZF8Kxc/s200/2delivering-the-white-house-christmas-tree-2.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>In honor of the Charlotte, <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">North Carolina Travel BaBees</a> location opening on December 1st, let's talk about Christmas in North Carolina!<br />
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Who wouldn't want to spend time in North Carolina, and what better time of year to go there than Christmas? The temperatures are moderate, the scenery is beautiful, and there is nothing in the world like a Southern Christmas.<br />
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If you live in the State, you've probably already visited <a href="http://www.mcadenville-christmastown.com/">Christmas Town, USA</a> (otherwise known as McAdenville, NC). The entire town lights up, and it's free for visitors. Everything lights up tomorrow, December 1st.<br />
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<a href="http://www.biltmore.com/">The Biltmore Estate in Ashville</a> is a must see at Christmas time. An American castle, this home was built in 1859 by George Vanderbilt. Still family owned, this is the most beautiful place to visit at Christmas time. Until January 2nd, visit one of their Candlelit evenings for a true Christmas experience.<br />
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Sometimes, looking for a Christmas tree is an adventure in itself! North Carolina has an estimated 50 million Fraser fir trees, and you can find the perfect one for Christmas on a day out at a tree farm with your family. <a href="http://www.AWhiteChristmasTreeFarm.com/">Visit A White Christmas Tree Farm</a> where you can pick out what they fondly call, "The Cadillac of Christmas Trees," a Fraser Fir.<br />
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No matter where you go in North Carolina this Christmas, be sure to leave the baby gear at home and reserve a rental from <a href="http://www.travelbabees.com/">Travel BaBees</a>. We take the stress out of traveling with your kids! Happy Christmas!<br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, geneva, lucida, 'lucida grande', arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></span>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1730143465626190738.post-57789169881573106582009-11-30T09:38:00.001-08:002009-11-30T09:38:53.156-08:00Storkcraft Crib Recall<div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">Travel BaBees would like to acknowledge the recent crib recall by Stork Craft and advise our customers that we do not currently use nor rent the StorkCraft brand.<br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">The CPSC states 'We urge parents and caregivers to immediately stop using the recalled cribs, wait for the free repair kit, and do not attempt to fix the cribs without the kit.<br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">'They should find an alternative, safe sleeping environment for their baby.<br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">'Consumers should contact Stork Craft to receive a free repair kit that converts the drop-side on these cribs to a fixed side.'<br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">If you are waiting for your repair kit, Travel BaBees has crib rentals on a weekly basis. Please contact us or fill out a reservation form to reserve yours today.<br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 15.0px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: 13.0px Consolas; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">For more information on the crib recall, visit <span style="color: #2b00ff; text-decoration: underline;">http://www.storkcraft.com</span> or follow them on twitter at <span style="color: #2b00ff; text-decoration: underline;">http://twitter.com/StorkCraft</span><br />
</div>travelbabeeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05337600694612570209noreply@blogger.com0