Seven Helpful Gardening Tips for May

Spring is trying to make its way in the high country and now is the time to get outdoors and swing into action with some high altitude gardening tips for May. The following gardening tips can be used at all altitudes, however, at high altitude the Spring season is much later and gardeners can’t work in their gardens too early or everything will freeze. At sea level or below 3,000 ft., these gardening tips still apply, however, you can start these gardening tips about a month earlier.

Gardening Tip #1

If you have potting or garden soil left over from last year, and it’s been in the garage all winter, you’ll need to bring it into the house for a few days to warm up before using it to plant seedlings or new plants. The same goes for any pots or hand tools that you intend to use for planting. This gardening tip is important because if the soil is too cold, your seedlings or plant may struggle or die. If you use plastic pots, they may crack when you water your plants if the pots have not been warmed up.

Gardening Tip #2

If there’s any indoor planting that needs to be done, now’s the time to do it. Spring brings longer days with more sunshine and new seedlings and plants will be encouraged to grow from the warmth of your home. The days and nights are still too cool to plant outdoors yet, so all planting must be done inside. Seeds for flowers, vegetables, and herbs should be started this month if you haven’t already done so.

Gardening Tip #3

During mid-April through mid-May, begin pruning all your plants and shrubs in your yard to encourage new growth. You may notice that some plants and shrubs have already begun their new growth. That’s what you want to see. This is an important gardening tip because once you prune your plants the new growth will grow faster. Use the pruned stems as mulch by cutting them into smaller pieces and placing them around the plants, not on top of the plants, or add them to your compost. Move mulch away from plant tops so that the sun can warm them up.

Gardening Tip #4

As the weather gets warmer, and if it’s not too windy, start hardening your plants (hardening means to slowly acclimate your plants to the outdoor weather). Bring pots of flowers, plants, or whatever you have onto the deck or in your yard in a semi-shaded area. They’re not ready for full sun yet, so make sure they’re in partial shade. Bring them back in if weather conditions change and become harsh, and bring them indoors each night as they’re not ready for night time conditions. Do not bring seedlings outdoors yet.

Gardening Tip #5

In May, begin feeding your outdoor gardens, plants, shrubs, and trees. This will help boost the growth of your plants and give them strength for the hot summer weather. An established garden or any established plant still needs to be fed. Check the weather and if you’ve got a few days of sunny or partly sunny days approaching, that’s when to feed your plants. Don’t feed them before a snow storm or rainstorm as you want the plants to absorb the plant food.

Gardening Tip #6

Here’s the fun gardening tip. Towards the end of May, when the weather is warm and more consistent, you can begin planting outdoors if your plants have been hardened. If your plants have not been hardened, don’t plant them yet as they’ll struggle and may die. Take the time to harden them. At this time you can also transplant any plants or shrubs that you need to. These plants are already outdoors so you don’t have to harden them.

Gardening Tip #7

Towards the end of May and when the weather becomes consistently warmer, check your gardens to see if more mulch is needed. This gardening tip is very important because more mulch may be needed to get your plants, shrubs, and trees ready for the hot summer. Mulch should be 2-3 inches deep to help hold moisture in for your plants. Using a cedar bark mulch will help keep bugs away.

Now that gardening season is nearly in full swing it is time to get on top of that beautiful outdoor space! Continue coming back to MommyMatter for many more great gardening tips all summer long.

TOMS Shoes Fans

Over the past few years, we've watched a company grow from a dream and become a success not only in the consumer market, but also with the millions of fans world wide. Recently, on April 5th 2011 millions of people throughout the world participated in the event, One Day Without Shoes, which is an event to raise awareness behind the millions of children that do not have shoes or the ability to get shoes. TOMS Shoes has a goal to put an end to this issue by giving away a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair purchased. Currently, over 1 million pairs of shoes have been given away, and the numbers continue to grow.

Here at MommyMatter we are not only huge TOMS Shoes fans, but we are addicted to everything they do. For the past year and a half we have done everything in our power to help raise awareness behind this amazing company and also be huge supporters as well. Every month someone in our family receives a pair of TOMS Shoes and they help get the word out about TOMS and their goals. Even my son, only 4 years old owns a pair of TOMS Canvas Classics!

If you know us, you always see us in TOMS! There isn't a day we aren't wearing them. I've purchased the brightest pair available, the Red Canvas Classics, just so I catch peoples attention and get them asking about my shoes. Trust me, they do! Currently we are awaiting the new styles from TOMS Shoes, Elephant's Womens Vegan Classics, Elephant's Tiny TOMS (for BabyGirl) and Faces Womens Vegan Classics because we know it will get people asking us where we got our shoes and give us the opportunity to explain why TOMS Shoes is such an amazing company.

Are you a TOMS Shoes Fan just like us? We are always meeting other TOMS Shoes Fans everywhere we go. It is fun when we walk into TOMS Shoes distributors and talk to them about TOMS. It is amazing how many of these stores don't actually understand the TOMS Shoes mission, and we love telling them and seeing the joy in their faces when they learn more.

If you'd like to learn about TOMS Shoes do it! MommyMatter has endless amounts of pages talking about TOMS and everything they do for all those in need. We aren't kidding when we say we are TOMS Shoes fans. We also have TOMS Coupons so you can save on your pair of TOMS Shoes whether they are your first pair or your hundredth pair.

Help Raise Autism Awareness

There is one thing in this world that has always been very misunderstood. This happens to be Autism. As a Mom, it was something I was very concerned about affecting my family. I have always researched Autism, how it affects children, families and everyone involved. Over the years of having children, I have also learned that Autism is a very misunderstood diagnosis, and something many are led to believe is like the end of the world when it happens to their families.

One website I have been following for several years now, and one I am a huge supporter of happens to be Autism United. They are a website dedicated to helping raise Autism Awareness world wide. Here is some of the information that AutismUnited has provided to help us have a better understanding of what Autism is.


About Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism is what’s known as a “pervasive developments disorder.” What this translates to, is a condition that affects the social and communication skills of a person. To a greater or lesser degree, (depending on the severity of the condition), motor and language skills. When this diagnosis was introduced it was done so with such a broad range that there can be many variations. For example a person with autism can be fairly chatty or silent; they can range from high IQ’s to mental retardations. No two people with autism can be described as the same since one can be extremely affection and the other complete cold.

Autism can be characterized by impaired social interaction, verbal and no verbal communication or severely limited activities and interests. Autism is known as autism spectrum disorder and can include Asperger Syndrome, Rett syndrome and other disorders not otherwise categorized. There are three distinct behaviors that characterize autism. Autistic children have extreme difficulties with social interaction of any kind, the inability to communicate verbally and non verbally and the repetitive behaviors that are obsessive in interest. These behaviors can range from mild cases to disabling.

It is important to note that people with autism can be termed what known as “high functioning”. This means they are able to obtain an education, hold a job and can live independently. While others diagnosed with autism can need treatment and psychiatric care long term. There is a broad range in this diagnosis, but generally people with autism have trouble functioning in society.

Some who have been diagnosed with autism may benefit from behavioral therapy which will develop their social and interpersonal skills. With this diagnosis, it is highly unlikely that a person with autism will ever be able to form a relationship if their case is severe. With the inability to communicate, share information and discuss experiences, it can be next to impossible. Correctional therapy can be intensive, but if diagnosed early may assist in the difficulties which would present them selves on a daily basis.

Autism is a complex disorder. A comprehensive evaluation should be done by a team or multidisciplinary. This would include a psychologist, a neurologist, a psychiatrist and speech therapist. Having these team members conduct a thorough neurological assessment. These assessments include cognitive, language and hearing testing. With different issues, they can present similar to symptoms of autism. Having an evaluation done by a host of professionals who can diagnose autism is the most concrete way to get your information. Once your assessment is complete, you can then move forward to treatment.


Autism United's Objectives to Raise Awareness

Autism is a topic many do not fully understand. It is a topic that has many levels and many difficulties, making it an even harder topic to understand. Autism United has teamed up to help raise Autism awareness nationwide. Helping educate those in need is an important objective for many, including all those apart of Autism United. By becoming a quality resource of information, Autism United allows millions of people to develop a better understanding of Autism and what people are experiencing.

The following are a few of the Autism United objectives:

• Raise autistic awareness
• Bring together a community of people dealing with Autism
• Share stories of inspiration
• Provide quality information and help to those in need
• Work with top autistic research facilities
• Provide special education and developmental learning resources

Autism United wants to help empower those learning to deal with autism and all the trials that can be experienced. By providing the necessary education, training and information Autism United has the ability to help those in need of assistance with children with Autism.

There are several things a parent will want to become aware of when dealing with a child with Autism. By determining the levels of functioning within children with Autism people are given the ability to stay informed fully. It is important to understand the levels of Autism to understand your autistic child.

Autism United has taken the time to become a qualified resource for families and friends of autistic children. By helping raise public awareness of Autism through community education and services, Autism United has allowed themselves to become a renowned source for autistic help and information.

There are many Autism objectives that millions of people are trying to achieve. By teaming together to help reach all these objectives, people are successfully completing many of these objectives. Every autistic child deserves the opportunity of great success and happiness, and by helping raise Autism awareness, these Autism objectives are becoming easier to complete every year.

It is time to stand together and make those simple words, I love you, have even more meaning by helping raise awareness now. Autism is something affecting millions of people nationwide, and it is time more become informed of what Autism is. Help raise Autism awareness now and complete the many objectives and goals easily together.

Must Have Gardening Tools for Kids

One thing we all know about kids is they want to do what those around them are doing. The second is they like to play in the dirt. If Mommy or Daddy wants to get some yard work done or plant some flowers or vegetables get the items listed below for the kids.

This will engage them in helping in the yard and keep them busy so you can get your work done too.

If you do not provide kids with their own shovel they will be using yours. It is not suggested to purchase them the heavy duty gardening shovel you will be using nor the $1.00 value set for the sandbox (because guess what...it will break and they will be using yours).

It is the time of year for planting grass and removing the mess left behind from winter. In order to prepare, you will need a rake. And because you have a rake, the kids will need one too. And why not, they may not relieve you of the entire job but any help is appreciated.

If you are planting you will be watering. Get the kids a watering can that is small enough for them to carry when full. Then let them be in charge of watering the garden.

Safety is always important (for you and the kids). In addition to sunscreen on any exposed areas they should also have a large brim hat to keep the sun out of their eyes and off their face.

A plastic bucket is the most important and diverse tool a kid will need for gardening. It will be used to carry away dirt or add fertilizer. It may also be used for water. And even transporting bags of flower or vegetable seeds.

Since your kids will be playing in the dirt and water (which creates mud) getting them a pair of rubber boots is a must. Kids will want to wear them because they can get them dirty, that is the point. And Mom and Dad wont spend time telling the kids to not get their shoes dirty, washing dirty shoes, cleaning the carpet because of dirty shoes or buying new shoes because the others are ruined. This is a winner for everyone.

Don't forget to buy some packages of seeds or small plants for the kids to put in the garden. This will give them a focus while you work on your own planting and keep them entertained. Plus they will have a plant to water and nourish as it grows. They will practice patience while waiting for the plant to grow and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment when it is done.

And the most important tool of all...FUN!

TOMS Shoes

Are you a TOMS Shoes enthusiast like us at MommyMatter? Always wondered what TOMS Shoes is all about? Let us answer all your questions about TOMS Shoes now.

Who Are TOMS Shoes?

TOMS Shoes is a for-profit footwear company that is based in Santa Monica, California, which also operates a non-profit subsidiary, Friends of TOMS. The company was founded in 2006 by Blake Mycoskie, an entrepreneur from Arlington, Texas. The company designs and sells lightweight shoes based on the Argentine alpargata design. With every pair sold, TOMS donates a new pair of shoes to a child in need.

Who Wears TOMS Shoes?

Here are some stars that we've caught wearing TOMS Shoes supporting the One for One cause!

• Scarlett Johansson
• Anna Kendrick
• Kristen Stewart
• Liv Tyler
• Zac Efron
• Maggie Grace
• Mary-Kate Olsen
• Mila Kunis
• Shenae Grimes
• Keira Knightley
• Julia Roberts

Is TOMS Shoes Just Shoes?

NO! TOMS is now also selling clothing & accessories. All purchases of TOMS Clothing and TOMS accessories also support the One for One mission.

Where Can You Buy TOMS Shoes?

TOMS Shoes is available all across the United States, Canada and Australia. There are many in store distributors available and also you have the option to purchase your very own pair of TOMS Shoes online and have your TOMS delivered directly to your home.

What Forms of Payment Does TOMS Shoes Accept?

TOMS Shoes accepts the following forms of payment. Please be advised that they do however only accept one form of payment per order.

• Visa
• MasterCard
• American Express
• Discover

What Size TOMS Shoes Should I Order?

TOMS Shoes have been designed to be true to size and are currently only available in medium width. It is recommended to by your TOMS Shoes in the sizes you'd wear in a casual or dress shoe. For those that are generally a half size, it is suggested to go with a smaller size because TOMS Shoes do stretch slightly as you wear them.

Will TOMS Shoes Stretch?

Your TOMS will stretch with wear. They should fit snug out of the box with your toes touching the end. After a few hours of wearing TOMS, they will stretch slightly to conform to your feet. If you are unsure whether or not they will fit, please try your TOMS Shoes on a carpeted surface to see how they stretch.

Are TOMS Shoes Hard to Return?

Follow these easy steps for returns and exchanges:

• IMPORTANT: Only shoes purchased from TOMS.com, unworn, and in the shoebox or canvas bag they came in can be returned.
• A fully completed return/exchange form MUST be included with all returns. Failure to do so may result in processing times up to 30 days from time of receipt.
• An invoice number from the original order must be written on the form. Please contact us if you need help locating the invoice number.

What is TOMS Shoes' Exchange/Return Policy?

TOMSShoes.com accepts exchanges and returns within 30 days of receipt of your order. They can only exchange/return unworn products purchased from TOMS.com. They do not refund or reimburse shipping charges. Any merchandise considered worn upon return will be subject to a $10 re-stock fee.

Get your very own TOMS Shoes now! We are now offering Coupons for TOMS so that you can help the cause with us and make a difference in the world.

Whining: It Can Drive You Nuts

A child’s whine—that awful cross between crying and talking—can drive some parents to the breaking point. It grates like nails on a chalkboard and can push the buttons of the most mild-mannered and patient adult. My children are both quite whiny, and it can send everyone in hearing range for a whirl. We've been trying to put an end to the pesky whining, and I thought I'd do a little research on the topic. I know this is something every parent experiences so hopefully my findings can help you put an end to the whining!

When Whining Starts and Stops

Whining first appears around age 2, when a child has the basic language skills he needs to ask for the things he wants. The subtleties of tone are beyond the child at this point. He’ll combine a word with a cry just as he’ll mix one with a giggle. Unfortunately, he quickly learns that whining often gets him extra attention.

For most children, whining disappears in a few years. By the time they are in grade school they have learned more sophisticated and more effective ways of getting what they want.

Still, the toddler and preschool years can be trying times for the parents of a chronic or even an occasional whiner. Let’s take a closer look at what’s going on when a child acts this way.

Why Your Child Whines

All children whine at some point when they are tired, hungry, or ill. In these situations, no amount of parental skill or psychological insight is as effective as a nap or a snack. This type of whining is an expression of just how emotionally or physically overwhelmed the child is feeling and reflects the child’s limited skills in expressing his emotions verbally.

Toddlers and preschoolers also whine when they’re frustrated, such as when they want another child’s toy or when they realize they don’t have the coordination to do something that an older child is doing. When this happens, the best solution is to distract the whining child with an activity that he can do. If he’s really upset, quiet activities such as putting together a puzzle or reading a story with you can help him regain his composure.

Smart Strategies

What can you do if your child is whining more than you’d like? Here are some suggestions:

• Remember that whining is a child’s solution to a problem. Often that problem is a desire for attention, though it may sound like he’s asking for a cookie or a toy. In this case, help him practise more appropriate ways of asking for attention (“Mommy, please play with me!”). Give him lots of attention when he behaves more appropriately. When he whines, remind him to ask more appropriately. If he does not, simply ignore him. If you’re consistent and have reasonable expectations, he’ll quickly stop most of the whining.
• Catch your child being good. All too often we focus our energy on correcting our children when they do things we don’t want. Instead, spend more time rewarding the behaviours you’d like from your child.
• Remember that it’s fruitless to ask a cranky toddler or preschooler to justify his feelings or to explain what’s bothering him. That doesn’t mean that a child this age can’t communicate with you. Instead of asking open-ended questions like “What’s wrong?” make an educated guess and ask an upset child a simple yes-no question (“Are you hungry?” “Are you angry at your friend?” “Do you want my attention right now?”). This will make it easier for your child to identify his feelings and give you the information you want.
• Establish some ground rules for whining. Do this when your child isn’t upset. Explain that you’ll never give him something he wants if he whines about it, but that you’ll consider his request if he asks politely. Expect your child to test you on this later to see if you’re serious.
• If nothing’s working, consider joining your child in two minutes of joint whining. Put your arm around him and whine together. Take turns complaining about your day in as whiny a way as you can each muster. Although it sounds silly, it can have a wonderful effect. By joining in on the whining without mocking your child, you’re letting him know that his feelings are legitimate even though his tone of voice is wrong. Besides, after a few rounds of this you’ll probably both be giggling, your child will feel better (as will you), and the whining will stop.