Finding the Right Dentist Makes All the Difference

After almost 4 years of bad pictures, my son finally had his dead baby tooth pulled. This baby tooth stayed while the adult tooth grew in behind it. The root was still there after 1 year of the adult tooth coming in. I've heard this is pretty common.

Anyways, he had anxiety of going to the dentist, so we had to search for a pediatric dentist that would pull it. We found an awesome group (757kids.com) that is located in Maryland that completely got him over his anxiety for the dentist. They never restrained him, they hang toys from the ceiling to make them look up, there is a playhouse in the lobby, and let the kids watch dvds in some of the rooms while getting worked on and waiting. They are totally friendly to kids and their parents. If only adult dental offices were so much fun :)

My point is if you aren't happy with your current dentist check around. Don't be afraid of offending the dental offices - find one you and your family are comfortable with.

4 Ways to De-Stress and Sleep Better

Almost everyone knows the benefits of a good night's sleep. Increased energy. Ability to think clearly. These are just two of the many health benefits available, yet far too many people get less than 7 hours of sleep a night. They are constantly stressed - worrying about jobs, money, relationships and more.

Here are a four simple ways to de-stress and get a better night's sleep, and they don't cost a fortune.

Journaling
One of the easiest things you can do is to keep a journal. Now don't feel intimidated this is actually super easy. Get yourself a notebook. It can be a cheap spiral notebook or a fancy leather journal. They both work the same. Write one paragraph or an entire page or more. It's up to you. In your journal write everything that happened in the world and your life specifically that influenced you that day. All your happy times, stressful moments, and worries - everything good and bad. I call this "downloading" or "dumping" everything that is running through your mind. Once you write it down forget about it.

List Making
Have you ever tried to go to sleep, but could get your mind to shut off? Well, the second thing to do is keep a written to-do list. Before you go to bed each night list everything you want to do tomorrow or didn't get done today. This can get all things off your mind plus you'll be less likely to forget something.

Turn off the Electronics
Today's society stresses the importance of being connected all the time and getting as much done as possible. So many of us are glued to our cell phones almost 24 hours a day. Plus, there are those who stay online late into the night just surfing with no real reason.

Disconnecting is another great way to de-stress. Turn off your cell phone, internet and tv for a day or even a couple hours. Take that time to relax, go for a walk, or read a book. Do something you enjoy doing. Seriously, the world isn't going to stop just because you turned off your cell phone. People survived for thousands of years without a cell phone and you can certainly survive a couple hours.

Exercise
Perhaps the most beneficial way to de-stress and sleep better would be to exercise. By getting some moderate exercise throughout the day you will improve your health. Plus it is proven that people who exercise regularly report fewer instances of sleeplessness and it is been shown to reduce stress.

These are just a few ways to help improve the quality of your sleep and help you get over the stress in your life. Start living a healthier and more relaxed lifestyle today.
Kimberly Shavatt runs http://www.HelpingMomsAtHome.com and http://kimshavatt.blogspot.com. She shares lots of helpful hints and tips to help you save time, save money and save your sanity.

Tip #23 Family Game Night

Here is something my family has been doing for years and my parents did it when I was little. We had game nights. My parents had another couple over with their kids and we all played cards or board games. It doesn't cost a lot and it's a great way to create memories together.



As children we played Slap Jack, Old Maid, 500 Rummy or War. I mean a deck of playing cards costs about a $1 at the local dollar store or department stores. We had our own card playing area with snacks likes chips or m&ms.



For those who prefer to play board games try purchasing a new game when they are on sale or every month or so depending on what you can afford. Try yard sales, thrift stores, etc. when shopping for board games. You can always replace the batteries and use different pieces if some are lost.



Try holding family competitions. One example is to post the winners on the refrigerator for the month and whoever wins the most gets bragging rights.



For more high tech families try renting a video game for your gaming system. Let each person practices for a little while see who can pass a certain level or get the highest score.



Start creating fun and lasting memories with your family and the awesome thing is it doesn't cost a lot of money.