Teenage birthday parties should be chocked full of fun. Probably the best way to get the party started is to sit down with your teen and choose a theme. Unlike the themes of yesterday that involved a character like Dora, teen parties can revolve around things your child is interested in. If your child is in the band, plan a musical party complete with competition for first seat followed by a performance that they could videotape. Beach parties are also hot for teenagers (whether its winter or summer) and give you a great excuse to break out those Beach Boy albums. For the teen softball or baseball enthusiast, rent a field and host a scrimmage game that would make the pros jealous. You can also plan teenage parties that revolve around themes teens love such as Survivor, American Idol, Amazing Race, or House of Anubis.

Be sure to get your child’s input before you just plan a luau party. It could be that one of their friends just had the same type of birthday party, and copying them would be social suicide. Your child may want to forego themes altogether and instead opt for all night camp outs. If you go for the whole slumber party idea, be prepared for the fact that the teenagers – as opposed to the kids of yesterday – will likely stay up all night. And in the morning, it will be difficult or impossible to wake any of them up before noon. The key is finding a theme or party atmosphere that is considered ‘cool’ so your child won’t be on the receiving end of snarky comments. Plus, chances are their friends will love anything as long as the child gets the final vote as to the birthday party theme.

Next up, of course is food. When it comes to teenagers and food – the rule of thumb is to plan for a lot. Anyone who thinks a houseful of teenage girls having a slumber party aren’t going to eat a lot because they are worried about their figures is off their rocker! The good news is that teens love junk food, which means ordering pizza and having plenty of finger foods that you can either make yourself or order from a fast food restaurant – will definitely quench their appetites. While the soda fountain makes for a beautiful centerpiece, remember that it is far too easy to spike! Stick with liters of soda, cans, or even water bottles to keep the teenage kidneys flowing! If the party is going all night, then plan for an easy breakfast – something like pancakes or cinnamon rolls and don’t be surprised if most of the kids opt for leftover cold pizza instead.

Music will probably be the center of the activities. Make sure that you plan the party for a space that will be able to hold all the teens and give them plenty of room to boogie (although they wont call it that). If you are renting movies, make sure that you pre-watch the movies first or at least look them up online to make sure that you are presenting material that might be offensive to some of your child’s friend’s parents. Your best bet is to stick with a PG-13, type of rating despite the fact that your own child may want you to get the latest and greatest horror flick, which is definitely rated R for a reason! And you definitely don’t want to have to deal with the condescending glares or upset phone calls from parents of the children that you invite over. Other ideas for teenage parties are to get the Wii out! If you don’t have many remotes, see if you can borrow some or have the party goers bring some of their own. Teenage birthday parties would be complete without some form of gaming.

A few words to the wise. With so many teens in one place at one time, things can get out of hand quickly. Make sure that you don’t allow the teens access to your computer – and try to listen out for hints that they may be up to something troubling, like prank calling the class dork. And if the kids are staying the night, make sure you have an energy drink so that you aren’t responsible for a group of mischievous teens sneaking out of the house. Also, even though you aren’t actually invited to the party – it is a good idea to make your presence known at least once an hour. Obviously, you don’t want to run through the living room in your nightgown pretending to need yet another cup of tea – but moseying around and acting as if you are uninterested in the going ons, can be a great way to get to know your child’s friends and keep tabs on things.

The big question is whether you should do a birthday cake or not! The answer…of course you should. Even if your teenager declines the necessity of one – you have the parental right to trump them on this decision. Birthday cake is a part of birthdays, complete with candles and singing “Happy Birthday.” It doesn’t matter if you are hosting a birthday party for a 5 year old, or a teenage birthday party! It just isn’t complete without the cake.

The post Teenage Birthday Parties appeared first on .

At some point, you have to get over the loveliness of having twins. Your children get tired of always being mistaken for the other (whether they look alike or not) and as they get older, definitely begin developing traits all their own. This should be encouraged by parents and celebrated especially well on birthdays. The other big misconception is that twins need to have the same gifts. While you want to keep things equal, you do not have to buy two of everything. This will only result in your house being overloaded with toys and junk. You probably do this because you do not want your 5 year olds fighting over one item – however, you will find that as they learn to share they will. If you must get two of one item – at least make sure there is a difference in color. Once the newness of any new thing in your home wears off, you will find that neither toy gets played with. The only time this rule is not in play is when your twins are teens. If you are going to get one I-Pod touch, you better get two!

As you shop, try to remain equal in both the amount of gifts and money spent. With younger twins, they will just want to make sure that both kids get the same amount of presents. Then as your child gets older, they begin to realize that a guitar costs a bit more than a remote control car. And while selfish, ungrateful, and rude – they will bring this to your attention, ruining the moment. It isn’t because you have done a poor job in raising them, but rather because they have spent a lifetime trying to outwit, outdo, and outplay each other! There is a lot of pressure on twins that exists behind the scenes and often, it comes to a head on days like birthdays.

Your birthday party for twins also needs to take into account that each of your children may have different friends. It is easier if they like the same people – but that might not be the case. And that’s okay. Make sure that each child has friends that they choose at their birthday celebration. If your older twins have some conflicting friends – it can be difficult, but chances are things will still go well in your presence. Let each child pick certain things for the party. If one child picked the cups, allow the other to pick the plates. Who cares if it isn’t matching, as long as each child feels that they have ample ownership of the day – there will be less resentment.

As for the cake! Get two! Wasteful? Perhaps. But children deserve a cake on their birthday. This birthday cake should have their name on it. Okay, for toddler twins – one cake or cupcakes might be fine. Yet for older ones, allow each of them to have a cake to call their own, so they can say they picked it out. Don’t trade off years, because at some point the cake won’t really matter. While it does, let each have a personal cake. They have to share so much through the years that the least parents can do is give them their own cake. Not only will every guest at the party be able to eat two pieces of cake if they wish, but there will also be plenty of leftovers. In certain instances, it is not fair to try and force twins into a mutual decision. Birthdays are one of those times, and it will ALWAYS leave one child compromising.

Beyond the age of 5, birthdays for twins should not include matching t-shirts that have some dorky saying of twindom on them either. You shouldn’t buy them matching outfits and you certainly shouldn’t try to use their birthday to show them just how lucky they are to have a twin sibling. Instead, allow each to feel special. Even C-section twins were born at different times, and one idea is to celebrate based on these times. If they were born an hour apart, sing happy birthday to one at the time they were born and to the other when they were born. If they were born at night, just use the daytime hour matching time to sing “Happy Birthday!”

For twins, life is really different. There isn’t one thing that a singleton child can relate to – even if they have siblings. Sharing your birthday with someone else, sort of takes away the uniqueness and ‘special’ out of the day. It is only normal that twins feel the other is always stealing their thunder. This is why it is exponentially important that parents learn to see their twins as individuals – completely different from one another. Especially on their birthday. If you can master the birthday celebration for twins and make each feel like the most important person that day, you will avoid lots of resentment. Eventually, they will learn to love their twinship again. For now however, try to have compassion for how difficult it must be to share everything in life, even your birthday.

The post Birthdays for Twins – Making them Both Feel Special appeared first on .

Still, there are a wide array of things that are marketed to parents just like you – completely eager to drop an immense amount of money getting the perfect supplies from Disney Sesame Street.  You will no doubt be excited to send out invitations to family members from all over the place, and will over plan the day to the point that your baby will become over stimulated and cranky by noon.  And yes, this is understandable!  However, you can save yourself a lot of time and effort by scaling down the day just a bit.  Not to mention the disappointment you will feel when a one year old, with 100 people staring at him, crumbles under the pressure of being watched while eating his cake.  They might as well be standing over him with forks chanting cake, cake, cake, cake!  Because to your one year old – this is how it feels.

There are some simple things you can plan to properly celebrate the day without going overboard.  If you have friends who have a child about the same age, invite them.  Try not to invite too many people for the sheer fact that it will become too hectic and you won’t enjoy the day.  Close family members are also good candidates to come.  They will at least not be expecting much more than some cake, ice cream and a few great pictures to add to their family scrapbook or to post on FaceBook.  Plan the event in the early morning or in the evening, when your baby has had ample time to nap.

There are some things that are certainly best avoided if you are planning a birthday party for a one year old.  Steer clear of renting places to go like jump houses or bowling alleys.  First of all, there are too many older children there and you will have a hard time keeping your toddler from getting hurt.  Your only line of defense will be to climb up into the looming slides and towering playhouses yourself.  (Not a good thing).  You should also keep away from inviting clowns, or even your child’s favorite character to the party.  There are few, if any, one year olds who like to see a massive creature wearing a mask, colorful make-up and dancing around their living room.  It will simply frighten them.  Another bad idea for a birthday party for a one year old is a vacation to Disney or any event that will take more than an hour or two.  Whatever festivities are in store, your baby should not be forced to sit still or be the center of attention for too long.

Of course, getting decorative cakes, cups, treats, and party favor is fun.  Your baby will more than likely enjoy the balloons more than any gift you could buy them.  Speaking of gifts – buying for a one year old can be tricky.  Not only are toys in this age group expensive, they often require a skill set that your child may or may not have.  The problem is if they are already walking or cruising around, then many of the ideal toys will be outgrown and become boring within a few weeks.  Baby toys in general are often wasted on the person buying them.  They always seem more entertaining in the packaging than they do cluttering up your living room floor.  If aunts, uncles, cousins and other people ask you what to get your baby – be honest.  Clothes are great.  Shoes are great.  As a big gift, you could even buy your child a toddler bed or something for their room to celebrate the occasion.  Some of the best gift ideas are simply the wrapping paper, a large box for them to play in and of course…the balloons.  If people don’t feel right giving your one year old a pair of jeans – then try to find toys that you think your child might actually like.  Some of the most long lasting toys for young children continue to be balls, blocks, and things that play music.

Once the party is planned, the invitations sent, the arrangements made – you can rest assured that your child will be sick that day.  Call it Murphy ’s Law or just bad luck.  Try and do your best the week before to keep them away from germy places and make sure you have plenty of infant Motrin or Tylenol in the house so you are prepared.

One really nice idea is to celebrate your own growth during this year.  Whether this one year old is your first or your fifth child, chances are they have taught you a lot.  Rather than embellish the child, plan a date with your spouse without the children, and reflect on how quickly your life is changing.  You may want to take a stroll down memory lane by reviewing old videos and pictures so you can be reminded quite clearly how fast times goes by.  This way you will remember to enjoy it.  Video tape your day, because there is no way in the world that your one year old will remember this birthday in a year from now or in 20 years.  Most importantly – remember that your birthday party for your one year old is a once in a lifetime experience.

The post Birthday Parties for One Year Olds appeared first on .

Baking versus buying a birthday cake is often felt to be one of those invisible things that measure the greatness of a mother. Most of today’s moms come from a generation where birthday cakes were loving made in the home while ready made, completely personalized icing laced grocery store cakes were just not available (Or unaffordable). So, there is some weird sense of pressure from our past to bake versus buy a birthday cake. Plus, baking a cake for your child is a rite of passage for a mother. Your child turns two and you host a birthday party hoping to duplicate a perfect reflection of how you feel about your child. The skies the limit and you spend hours trying to follow online directions to create your child’s dream birthday cake. And this is fine, if you have both the time and the talent to do so.

But if you are like most moms who are balancing work, raising a family, as well as other obligations the time (and inclination) to bake a birthday cake might not be there. Especially when you can bring a child into nearly any bakery at your nearest grocery store and elate them with the choices of ready made cakes that adorn their favorite characters. Does pleasing your child with a ready-made Elmo cake make you a bad mother? Hell no! Does your inability or lack of time for baking cakes mean your child won’t remember you as the best mom in the world? Absolutely not.

Truth is there is no right or wrong answer to whether you should buy or bake a birthday cake. You have to do what works for you. Chances are that in the first years you will at least attempt to bake the perfect cake. But unless your kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need to bake a cake, and cake baking is one of your favorite past times – chances are high you will be like the 70% of parents who admitted to Parent Magazine that they prefer purchasing cakes over baking cakes for their child’s birthday parties.

If you are on the fence, or are just trying to keep up with that friend of yours who makes the awesome cakes – consider the following pros versus cons list.

Pros and Cons to Baking a Cake

• If your child has allergies, you can bake a masterpiece using ingredients that are safe for your child. Most pre-bought cakes come with allergy warnings.
• You will feel extremely proud of yourself if it works out well.
• If you have all your baking supplies, it can be less expensive to bake.
• Can recreate favorite cakes and start or resume family traditions.
• On the flip side, baking takes up lots and lots of time.
• To bake a custom decorated cake you will likely have to purchase special baking supplies or kits from craft stores.
• If it doesn’t work out, you may have to purchase a cake at last minute.

Pros and Cons to Buying a Cake

• It’s quick, simple, and easy.
• You can choose from a variety of ready-made designs.
• You can typically purchase a cake for under $25 to feed around 24 people.
• You cannot control the ingredients used with the cake unless you use a bakery. If ordering from a grocery store ask whether you can exclude certain ingredients.
• You won’t impress ‘that friend’ who makes the awesome cakes!

When it comes down to it, buying, or baking a cake only makes a difference if it matters in your heart. Eventually, the birthday cake WILL BE eaten. And at the end of the birthday party, if things went well – the cake will be an unrecognizable mess of cake batter and icing that you can simply throw in the trashcan to make clean up a breeze. The success of a birthday party does not hinge on whether you bake or buy a cake. But if you really feel like you must provide a one of a kind baked piece of art, and aren’t much of a culinary genius, consider swallowing your pride and hiring ‘that friend’ of yours to create a birthday cake for you that will be the centerpiece of the party!

The post Baking Versus Buying a Birthday Cake appeared first on .

So where to start. The obvious choices for Valentines Day gifts are chocolate, flowers, perfumes and of course…jewelry. This time of year, you can go into any store and find something representative of the heart made out of silver, gold or diamonds. The same is true for chocolates. And if you really don’t like to be original, you can also choose this day to get married or propose. But, wouldn’t it be great to step out of the box a little and give something more special and personal? Here are just a few ideas.

Shopping for Women on Valentines Day!

Women love to be thought of. Regardless if you are getting gifts for wife or significant other, you must know a little about her. What does she love to do? For instance, giving a muffin tin and cookbook on Valentines Day might not seem romantic, but to the woman dreaming of opening up her own bakery, it definitely shows you are paying attention. Think about the females in your life and make some lists of what they love to do. Do they like to read? If so, choosing a hot book they have been dying to curl up with or purchasing some sort of Ereader, can be just the perfect thing. Do they love to be pampered? How about a gift certificate for a day at the spa, pedicure or manicure? If you know your wife or girlfriend has been eyeing an expensive pair of jeans but just cannot bring herself to spend that much on one pair of pants, splurge. This type of thoughtfulness will go a long way and give you plenty of brownie points.

The perfect reason to give unconventional Valentines Day gifts is because it proves to a woman that you know her in that deep and loving sort of way that others don’t. It also shows that you want to give her something because you truly care, and not just because you feel obligated to fulfill the marketing purposes of the holiday.

If you aren’t so sure about the hobby angle, then look for personalized gifts. Order some jewelry with her name or initials, her children’s names or that combines gift giving with picture taking. Another great picture idea, especially if you have been married for a long time is to recreate an image from ‘back in the day.’ Take a wedding picture or something that the two of you shared and have it enlarged and framed. Not only will you tug on her heartstrings, but also she will feel certain that she married the right person in her life.

There also isn’t a woman alive who wouldn’t appreciate something sexy. Even if lingerie isn’t ‘her thing’, it feels great to a woman to be given it. It means that you still think she’s hot and desirable, and it is something truly personal that the two of you can share. It also means that you took a leap of bravery and shopped at Victoria’s Secret despite how awkward you felt.

Valentines Day Gifts for Men

Shopping for a man? They really aren’t much different from women. They too want gifts, and they certainly don’t want a tie, some new underwear, or a pack of wife beaters to round out their wardrobe. Sorry girls, but far too many men are given last minute gifts that they could care nothing about. Instead, wow them with something technological or perfect for the do it yourselfer. If your guy isn’t the outdoor type – then look for personalized micro brews, Tabasco sauces or other things that they will love. Many men love to cook and February can be a great way to kick off the grilling season by finding some new tools to make his Valentines Day steak absolutely perfect!

Think about what he is interested in? You would be surprised how far parts for his motorcycle, guitar, or tractor could go in spreading around the love. If the man in your life works at the office all day, then give him something to break the monotony and help remind him of the family he has at home that loves him. Framed pictures can be a nice touch to the office décor. The same goes for DVD collector packs or some music that he has been dying to get. If he IS a music lover, then what about an Ipod loaded with all of his favorite songs? In fact, part of the gift can be the song selection that you choose to load on the device. This way you can bring back memories of your times together that were marked by the lyrics of a song, and he will have some great music to lessen the stress of his work commute.

Another great gift idea for men is tickets to an event that they would love. Even if you aren’t the sporting fan, could care less about the races, and wouldn’t enjoy a day putting on the greens, the fact that you chose something personal for HIM is a great touch. And if you go along, sans the complaining, the day really could be romantic.

Remembering that Valentines Day Gifts Should Be Personal & Special

Much of the hubbub surrounding Valentines Day seems to clump people together in one group, without realizing that the love you share is personal. It cannot be defined by a generic gift, mass-produced with the hopes that millions of desperate people will indulge because they cannot think of ‘something better.’ And Valentines Day gifts do not have to expensive! In fact, there are millions of things that you can give one another that aren’t symbolic of the holiday itself. In other words, a necklace doesn’t have to have a heart on it to qualify for Valentines Day romantic.

Think out of the box. Gift giving isn’t about just having something wrapped with a bow. In fact, it is about giving of your heart, effort, and time above money. When you search for a gift for a man, woman, friend, or even a child – it should always say something about the state of your relationship and the way you feel about each other. This way no one will be left with pie in their face on Valentines Day because they didn’t have the perfect gift. (Or not gift at all)

The post Valentines Day Gift Ideas – Show Them How Much Your Love Them appeared first on .

While some do not believe in the Zodiac chart’s authenticity, many cannot deny that the uncanny elements of their personality are captured brilliantly by their sign –while others argue that anything can be twisted to “fit” if you really look hard enough or offer enough options to make it so. Believer or not, tarot readings along with horoscopes explore the spiritual side of many.

So are you a believer? Read on to find out “what does my birthday say about me” . . . then . . . decide for yourself.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Aries signs are known for their vibrant stamina, their endless energy and drive to succeed. Many are so driven that they will wear themselves to the bone trying to achieve their goals and daily to-do lists. Their drive makes them make wonderful athletes and explorers. Some are also attracted to becoming doctors or soldiers.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Taurus signs are loyal at heart, thrifty and kind hearted. They possess a certain charm and often are very attractive. They make excellent parents and can be trusted to oversee people and pets. This makes them excellent managers but surprisingly, even with these strong leadership skills, many lean toward opera careers.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Known for the sign of the twins, Gemini are bright, inquiring and can adapt to most any situation socially. They can conform themselves to fit into most any crowd. Gemini often become writers, scientist and preachers, all of which require an ability to understand people and a need for bright intelligence.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Very organized, generous and supportive, Cancer signs are often home bodies. Thus, their love for home drives them to work in real estate which is centered around providing homes . . . they also make great gardeners – Though some rebellious Cancers become sailors.

Leo (July 23-August 22)

Very self confident, dramatic and dynamic, Leos make terrific actors, painters and orchestra instrument players – the organ specifically. Women with the sign of Leo also make amazing welfare workers and make a strong voice for change.

Virgo (August 23-September 21)

Extremely patient, smart and humble, Virgos patience can sometimes work against them. They are often understanding to a fault. They make wonderful nurses and doctor. Other professions include physicists, editors and chemists which are great compliments to their intelligence.

Libra (September 22-October 23)

Artistic and peace seeking, you won’t find Libra starting many fights. Often they are the ones to end the fight with a kind word or a creative solution to problems. Thus Libras make diligent diplomats, lawyers and critics. They also make wonderful antique dealers because they are often very in touch with the past.

Scorpio (October 24-November 21)

Strong willed, passionate and often extreme, Scorpios downfalls can become strengths when they are paired with the field of law. Many Scorpios can be best served become detectives and using their extreme tendencies for the greater good. They also make creative writers.

Sagittarius (November 22- December 21)

Smart and understanding, but above all freedom loving, Sagittarius is known for its need to “just be me.” This wild hair of freedom makes Sagittarius desire a change of pace and scenery quite often. These wondering spirits often find themselves in jobs that require traveling such as coaching, sports related fields, scientist and missionaries.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

Practical and hard working, Capricorns are controlled and self aware. This set of unique skills makes them excellent bankers, estate brokers and contractors.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

The Aquarius is a free thinker and fiercely independent. The most in touch with the psychic realm of all signs, Aquarius make great astronomers, psychics, artists and healers. Specifically, those who have the gift of psychic healing have a knack for healing mental illnesses.

Pisces (February 1-March 20)

The Pisces is always in touch with who they are, strong in their emotions and strong on the outside as well. Their ability to feel their emotions for what they are without covering them or warding them off makes them excellent mediums and church leaders. They also excel at catering.

If you want to know more about “what my birthday says about me” many Zodiac charts go in depth and reveal the best zodiac matches for your sign, personalities to steer clear of, even weaknesses in your personality you need to be ever aware of so that they do not interfere with your happiness.

Whether you believe or do not believe in the Zodiac . . . one thing is for sure, the horoscope page is a fun way to spend your time around the breakfast table.

The post What Does My Birthday Say About Me? appeared first on .

“Nifty Nifty David is 50,” is a popular roadside taunt left to poke fun at people for turning the supposed “Over the Hill” age of 50. The truth is in today’s world, there are many 50 year olds who are living healthy, active, and happier lives than their 30-year-old counterparts. It seems true that with age comes wisdom, and with this wisdom comes a more confident and satisfying approach to life that enables people to become passionate about their goals and invested in their happiness.

Certainly, for must of us turning 50 means that you have lived far past half of your life since the expectant life span of human beings is not 100 years old. However, turning 50 does not have to be looked at as the end of the world. The reality is that age is just a number, another candle on a birthday cake, another notch on the belt of life. For many people 50 is the beginning of the golden years where you can begin to look forward to a life that involves less work and more pleasure. Today’s 50 year old normally lives an active and healthy lifestyle, and is still able to participate and enjoy many of the same activities as someone who is 30 or 40. The difference is that they are no longer caring for families and are typically more financially secure than they were a decade earlier.

This freedom, is what makes turning 50 such a wonderful thing. According to AARP, most adults upon turning 50, can expect at least 25 more years of an active lifestyle. Currently physical and mental demise that becomes limiting most often occurs after the age of 75 for moderately healthy adults. The AARP also says that many adults at the age of 50, are starting new careers and following dreams that their younger years did not allow time for. And each year in all of the popular sporting events such as marathons and tennis matches – there are ample amount of people 50+ years of age who are participating. In fact, quite often people at the age of 50 are healthier and more health conscious than their younger generation because they feel like they have to be in order to maintain a fruitful and satisfying life.

One study from the University of Pennsylvania indicated that people over the age of 50 were four times as likely to be at a healthier weight, and to eat a healthier diet as well as partake in more weekly exercise than people just ten years younger. So rather than seeing 50 as the slow demise toward old age and senility, many people reach the age of 50 and are exuberated with a feeling of renewal. Perhaps reaching the latter years in life is something that prompts and encourages older people to finally take control of their lives and truly participate in the pursuit of personal happiness.

The following are some of the benefits to turning 50!

• According to experts, more people at or beyond the age of 50 report more happiness and more enjoyment than younger people do.
• Most people at the age of 50 are more fiscally responsible and are living within more comfortable financial means. Often this is because many people have their kids out of the house, mortgages and cars paid off, etc.
• People at the age of 50 and above have a sense of life achievement, and are more direction in their lives than younger people.
• Spending time with family ranks high with people who are 50years of age or older. Experts believe that as older people have more time enjoy family members, they live happier lives.
• 2/3rds of 50 year people report more confidence at 50 than ever before in their life.
• 85% of people 50 and above admitted to worrying less and recognizing the things in life that are important as opposed to the things that are not.
• As life expectancy increases due to advances in medical technology – 50 years old is no longer considered advanced age.
• 50-year-old married people or those in relationships, report healthier and happier relationships than those that are younger, probably due to both experience and self-confidence.
• More 50 year olds spend time indulging in their passions and personal interests than those from a younger generation. Vast research has shown that spending time doing what you love, increases health and happiness.

What it boils down to is perception. If you believe that you are over the metaphorical hill, or nearing the end of your life, or that turning 50 will make you an old fuddy duddy, than it likely will. However, on the flip side if decide to look for the positive things about turning 50, about reaching yet another milestone in life – you can continue to set personal goals for yourself and continually add abundance to your life. Turning 50 is NOT the end of the world. In fact, with age and experience, you can become more adept at living a truly authentic life and can add even more achievements to your life.

If you are close to 50, then take some time to reflect on where you came from, where you have been, and how far you have come in the past half century. Chances are you will find plenty of things to be proud of and plenty more things to look forward to.

The post Turning 50 is Not the End of the World appeared first on .

A popular trend is fast becoming giving money to charities in lieu of gifts. In fact, if you contact NASA, you can have a star named after your favourite person, for a small fee of course. And this star will remain forever in the astronomical archives. Sweet gesture, right? After all, so many of us have so much, that we don’t really need gifts or token presents. wouldn’t anyone with enough appreciate others who are eager to share their philanthropy spirit? Or is this going just a tad too far?

How would the kids in your family if on Christmas every year, rather than giving presents you bought bricks in their honor to be used in a local Habitat for Humanity project. Would the kids feel ripped off?

Giving is truly an essential part of humanity. In fact, the unwritten rule is that those who can help others, should in some form or another. If you are in a position to improve someone else’s life by giving, or doing, or donating then it is your duty as part of humanity to do so. However, doing it in someone else’s honor especially if that someone doesn’t share the same philanthropist spirit, may not be the greatest gift idea.

One organization called Just Give dot org, encourages people who are hosting everything from a birthday party, to a bridal shower to encourage guests to give to charities rather than give gifts. If this is hat the bride and groom, or parents to be want then it can be a wonderful gesture. But going out on a limb and donating money or gifts in someone else’s name, isn’t exactly romantic or thoughtful. In fact, it is actually more self serving to the giver to indulge his or her own vision of ‘giving’’ upon someone else. And in many cases, no gift at all may be a better option.

This same idea of donating to charities in lieu of gifts is becoming commonplace among corporate America. Many companies feel that investing money in a cause or charity rather than giving out gifts during the holidays is a better way to spend their money. In the corporate world, this type of giving is seemingly being accepted and puts the organization in a position to show its compassion and concern for the world around us. On a more personal level, not everyone is sold on the idea.

For instance, Fox News ran an article about a woman who asked that her friends, family and co-workers gave a donation to the Susan Komen Breast Cancer fund instead of buying her gifts for the holidays or birthdays. As a breast cancer survivor, this was a cause close to her heart, and she felt confident that she already had all she really needed. Most people did so willingly, and lovingly especially since there was a personal connection between the woman involved and the cause. However, very few of us feel personally connected to the need to give a Ugandan a goat. And furthermore, so many of these charities are unregulated, that you never really know where your money is going. So while the thought is good, it could be a complete waste of time.

Some schools have asked students to collect money and supplies such as jeans or coats to give to homeless shelters during the year. The difference with this type of giving is that the kids are involved in the giving and therefore feel that they are making a difference in the world. However, give those same kids a birthday card with a note that says, ‘I bought a pair of jeans for you and donated them to a homeless boy,’” may not be teaching the same lessons of having a giving heart.

Perhaps a better way to allow people to use their gifts as a donation is to contact an organization such as Charity Gift. With this charity, people can donate funds on a person’s behalf, and then that person can direct and choose the path of how the money is disbursed. This way the recipient plays a part in choosing the charities that they feel are worthwhile.

Most of us can admit that we have more than we need. When holidays or birthdays or special occasions role around, it can be difficult to ascertain what you really need versus what you really want. Certainly, there is room for all of us to donate. However, we should be able to dictate where we donate so that the gifts and donations resonate with whom we are and what is important to us.

Do you think giving money to charities in lieu of gifts is an effective way to engage in gift exchanging?

The post Giving Money to Charities In Lieu of Gifts appeared first on .

It’s interesting that in countries like the United States celebrating adult birthdays is not heralded as morally correct or appropriate. Adults are relinquished to having dinner with friends, perhaps going out to a movie with their spouse and without the children and rarely expect or ask for presents. In fact, the adult who gets pricked with the childhood excitement about his or her own birthday is often looked at as shallow. Phrases like, “Presents aren’t important, I don’t need anything, I would rather forget this birthday or even, it’s just an ordinary day” are common adult gestures in response to their own birthdays. And these same adults, who write their birthday off as nothing more than a silly excuse to have cake, are also at the mercy of waiting for others to plan birthday festivities.

Let’s be real, we all know that those sayings and statements, regardless of how strongly we affirm their truth, are just for show. It’s your birthday, and at some level, every single person wants to be celebrated. And with each year, there are marked internal insights that make a person more whole.

In many countries around the world, celebrating your birthday is a joyous event. In Russian (as well as in hundreds of other countries), celebrating adult birthdays is not only common, but also expected – and surprisingly it isn’t just the birthdays that mark passed decades that are important. These celebrations are regarded as celebration of life parties. Another interesting fact is that the birthday boy or girl, is the ones responsible for planning the event and even bringing the cake. In Germany, it is customary for adults celebrating their birthday to invite many people out to a dinner of their choosing…and to pick up the tab. And gifts…suffice it to say no one would show up without one. And seriously, why should they?

Adopting the mentality that birthdays are important at every age, also gives the birthday boy (or girl) the right to make sure they spend the day as they wish. Remember when you turned 14 and your mom planned a party complete with a clown that embarrassed you in front of your friends? Wouldn’t you have just rather her allowed you to plan the day? After all, it was YOUR birthday. Carry this thinking forward into your adult life and you can see that your birthday gives you a very special right and free pass to make things happen that only bring YOU joy! If the family hates Chinese and you have endured a year eating pizza and Mexican food, they should all respect YOU enough to go out for Chinese on your birthday. And none of them have the right to complain.

As adults when it comes to most things, we have too carefully learned the art of compromise. And in many instances, even though it seems that we are compromising in order to please the masses – what we are really doing is giving up our own ideas about what makes us happy. Certainly, when celebrating your birthday, you are the one that should be in charge, right?

It is also important to point out, that just because you are grown doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be appreciated. In many families, the parents take such a back seat to the children’s needs that the kids never learn to do nice things for others. Especially their parents. In fact, it isn’t uncommon for adults with kids to plan their own birthday celebrations doing something that the kids love, just to make the day enjoyable. The reality is, it shouldn’t be this way.

Life is shorter than we think. A birthday marks a year, and with each one, it is difficult not to look back and see just how far you have come in what now feels like a very short period of time. You shouldn’t have to wait for the big 4-0, or 5-0 to feel that a celebration for your birthday is in order. And with each year you are alive, you change the landscape of life, as you know it. Not just for you, but also for everyone that knows you. And this should be celebrated in style. Your birthday is a good time for family and friends to appreciate you, to think about how much you have added to their life, and to participate in a day that is all about doing what YOU love.

SO this year, when it comes your turn to celebrate – instead of feeling guilty about wanting a party, about desiring a chocolate cake or about spending the day fishing – feel justified and excited about the fact that you have lived and learned another year. Perhaps we have a lot to learn from other cultures that see birthdays as an event, just as spectacular as any other major holiday across the calendar. And the day should be all about you! After all, it is YOUR birthday. Don’t feel silly wishing for a party, sneaking around the home to see if the family is planning something big and making your wants and desires known! Hey, it is your birthday, and you never quite know what the next one will bring – or whether you will have it.

The post Celebrating Your Birthday – There is Nothing Wrong with Celebrating appeared first on .

There are plenty of people in this world who defy age, at least outwardly – and seem to indicate that they aren’t bothered by how old they are. Yet inwardly, it is likely safe to say that each of us feels a reining disappointment that mixes with optimistic hopefulness each and every time we reach a milestone birthday.

When it comes to turning 40, either you can look at your life as half full or half empty.

The half-full cup of turning 40 looks something like this. You are finally done with reliving and rehashing all of those ridiculous mistakes that you made when you were younger. Though you may be still living through the consequences of your mistakes, you are finally at a place in life where the world takes you seriously. And why not, with 40, comes a certain amount of entitled respect. You are no longer a kid, no longer an immature ‘learning’ young adult – but a 40 year old who is entering middle age. Apply for a job at 40, and your resume immediately comes with a dash of something extra, like maturity and life experience, that no 25-year-old can beat with their college education or recent internships.

If you are a parent at 40 – chances are you have moved from the annoying helicopter phase of parenting to one that gives you some wings of your own. Your children are slightly more self sufficient, and you can even begin to realize some of your own inner passions once again. Luckily, you’re still young enough to climb mountains, water ski, or become a Zumba fitness trainer. Sure, you’ll have to work a little harder than you did a decade ago, but you aren’t hooked up to oxygen yet. One of the reasons 40 is a great time to revisit old interests is because in retrospect, as you celebrate your 40th birthday, you will see clearly just how quickly life passes. It seems like just yesterday that you got your first job, got married, or had your first child. Now look where you are. It is exactly this burst down memory lane that will pluck you into high gear to start truly living again by following your passions.

40 is also a great age to be in a relationship. Gone are the maddening and hyper days of constantly feeling the pinches of drama that come with trying to make a relationship simply work. By now, you know exactly what you want, exactly what you will, (and wont) tolerate and have much less patience for people in your life who let you down. This same attitude normally transcends into your professional life as well. You have lived long enough to see through the facades and games other people play, and have likely learned to be a pretty straight shooter. This might not make you the office favorite, but it will definitely make you more difficult to fire or take advantage of.

The big question of course is how to celebrate this monumental halfway point of life. Chances are you will teeter-totter between throwing a huge party for yourself, escaping to the remotest islands your continent has to offer, or purchasing a Harley. Why a Harley? Because not only are you finally financially secure enough to own one, but you also cannot imagine spending the next decade or so of life being cooped up by the confines of a mini-van or Buick LeSabre. And after all, haven’t you earned it?

Inwardly, as you turn 40, you will probably find yourself thinking deeply about your life past and present. You may look back at choices you have made and feel some regrets for your decisions. You also may spend a lot of time mapping out the future in your head and making New Year styles resolutions for yourself to ensure you spend the second half of your life living the life you really and truly want for yourself. You will experience moments of sadness and remorse that mix with such extreme feelings of pride and freedom to have finally made it to this point in life, that you could suffer emotional whiplash.

Newly celebrated 40 year olds are often the people making impulse purchases of an enormous RV, indulging in a quick affair (just to see if they still ‘got it’) or quitting their 9 to 5 job on the spur of the moment to start the home business they have always dreamed about having. Often seen as the halfway point in life (if you are lucky) 40 is a time to look ahead and filter out the good and bad in your life so you will be left with only the things that make you happy.

The good news is that these overly dramatic feelings about turning 40 will be over before you know it. The first time someone asks you how old you are, and you tell them you are the big 4-0, you will feel a tremendous amount of pride and accomplishment! You made it! You did it. You are finally a ‘real’ adult and now you have the rest of your life to live exactly how YOU want to and no one can stop YOU. Don’t worry, these feelings wont last long….soon you will wake up and realize that 40 really doesn’t change anything and you still have 20 years to go before you can get the senior citizens discount.

The post Celebrating Your 40th Birthday – Where did the Years Go? appeared first on .