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Traveling Sans Babies Has Its Advantages

babysugar — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:30:48 -0700

Look ma, no kids! Last weekend, mama got a break from pureed baby food, stinky diapers and bath time duty. The grandparents came to the rescue and watched my wee ones as I took off on a beach adventure with my hubby. While I missed the lil ones, there were certainly plenty of perks traveling as a childless passenger that I will never take for granted again.

Packing: For starters, instead of washing, folding and packing clothes for three people, I just tossed my clothes in a bag. Usually I skimp on my own wardrobe to ensure enough room for diapers and pajamas. This time, I packed extra dresses, a sun hat, more than enough shoes, and two, yes two, books!

Getting Ready: When the alarm went off, I showered, kissed the tots goodbye and walked out of the house. There was no race against the clock to clean, dress and buckle everyone. Also left behind? Prepared bottles, sliced fruit, crackers and a bag full of cartoon DVDs.

Getting There: When we pulled into the long-term parking lot, my husband and I jumped out of the car, grabbed the suitcases and ran to the shuttle. With kids, mama's got to unleash the car seats, strollers, and added baggage.

To see the rest of the reasons I look forward to adult travel and what bums me out, read more.

Security: Getting through security as an adult traveler is a breeze. It's as easy as taking off the shoes, putting the laptop in the scanner and walking through the detector. Add a toddler or two to the mix and mommy's tossing liquids left and right, de-robing wee ones, shoving car seats on X-ray machines and then putting it all back together again.

Flying: Ahhh... mum is seated, got her best book in her lap and her ear buds plugged in tight. She may even get to enjoy a glass of wine and a movie. If she's got baby with her, she's got someone tugging on her shirt, begging for a story, snack or a movie. Let's not even discuss diaper changing in the lavatory and keeping a screaming child quiet while other passengers glare at her.

Now that I sound like an ungrateful mother, let me tell you all the ways I missed my children terribly before I even left the house. The night before I left my babies with my parents, I took loads of pictures of them so I could stare at them on my camera during my trip. I also had to cuddle and love them to pieces. I snuck into my daughter's bed and cradled her before I finally crept into my own bed. I would have jumped in my son's crib if I didn't think it would wake him up. When I arrived at the airport, I ogled other tiny travelers wishing mine were with us. And, at the risk of sounding pathetic, I'll admit that I listened to the Dragon Tales soundtrack on my iPod because it made me feel closer to them. In the end, they had a terrific time with my parents and I'm 100 percent positive I am a better mother after a reinvigorating relaxing trip.

Do you have tips for traveling with or without the kids? Join our Mommy Club group and share your stories and tricks.

When Pigs Fly: Airline Travel and Swine Flu

FitSugar — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:00:32 -0700

With schools across the nation back in session, from universities to the elementary grades, swine flu cases are on the rise. This H1N1 virus spreads more quickly among children, teens, and young adults, but reported cases have been mild.

However, this uptick in cases indicates that flu season is coming early, and back-to-school season also means travel season for the business class. If you're flying soon, should you be worried about catching the flu? Read more to find out.

Mommy Dearest: Taking Children on Business Trip

LilSugar — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 07:00:58 -0700

Mommy Dearest,

I have an overseas business trip coming up to a beautiful European city. While I will be working during the day, my evenings and weekends will be free. In the past, I have used this time to sightsee and shop for gifts for my family back home. This time, I'd like to mix work with pleasure and bring my elementary-school-aged kids to experience a new country and culture. My husband would watch the kids during the day and we could take family adventures in the evening. He doesn't like the plan because he thinks a vacation should be free of distractions and that my colleagues will think it's unprofessional. What do you think?

– Jet-Setting Mommy

To see the response from Mommy Dearest, read more.

Jet-Setting Mommy,

Combining business and leisure is not a new concept. Plenty of parents add a few days onto a business trip for a little vacation time in a unique location. Adding kids to this equation can work, if it is done properly. First, you should ask your boss if there's an office policy and abide by it. If it's permissible, you can set up a schedule that provides ample time for you to concentrate on work and then allots for fun periods with the family. Also make sure your spouse is up for the challenge, otherwise it's best to schedule a work-free vacation.

– Mommy Dearest

Submit a question for this feature at the Mommy Dearest Group on TeamSugar.

Movie Preview: Aniston, Eckhart in Love Happens

BuzzSugar — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:30:46 -0700

The romantic movie Love Happens used to be titled Traveling, and I'm not sure which title is better. Both are somewhat bland and nondescript, though after watching the trailer for this movie, I guess that's appropriate. Jennifer Aniston and Aaron Eckhart star in this drama about "a widower (Eckhart) whose book about coping with loss turns him into a best-selling self-help guru. On a business trip to Seattle, he falls for a woman (Aniston) who attends one of his seminars, only to learn that he hasn't yet truly confronted his wife's passing."

For a drama, it doesn't appear to be particularly dramatic. But who knows? Maybe Love Happens will shock and amaze. The romance happens Sept. 18. To check out the trailer, read more.

Where Do You Stand? Flying With a Sex Toy

DearSugar — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 10:00:00 -0700

A friend of mine went overseas for a long business trip, and since she wasn't going to be seeing her boyfriend for almost a month, she took her vibrator along for the ride.

Now I'm sure you can relate to missing your significant other - especially the lovemaking - but would you go as far as packing a vibrator in your carry-on? With the souped-up security in the airport, would you be worried someone would discover the treasure you packed, or do you feel safe traveling with anything (even your unmentionable) discreetly?

Source

Travel Without the Tummy Troubles

FitSugar — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:00:00 -0800

Hooray for the holidays! Traveling for the holidays - not so much. Get ready for traffic, waiting in lines, flight delays, and possibly constipation. For some people, switching time zones or being away from home always upsets their digestive system. Here are some ways to keep things moving while you're on the move and ways to keep your tummy at ease.

Pack your own snacks, and include high fiber foods such as whole grain crackers, cereal, granola bars, dried fruit, pears and apples, and nuts. Avoid bananas and dairy products since these foods can block you up.
Thirsty? Opt for straight up water, and drink lots of it. Staying hydrated will help your body keep its natural flow.
Medicine may be necessary. Pack some Pepto in case you have heartburn or diarrhea. If you're bloated and haven't gone to the bathroom for over 24 hours, pop some Citrucel caplets. They add bulk to your food to help you go, without causing gas.

What else can help tame your tummy? To find out read more.

Once you reach your destination, definitely splurge on the sweets and eggnog, but don't stuff yourself silly. If your system isn't used to all the sugar, fats, and alcohol, it can really affect your stomach.
Load up on the fresh veggies before and during dinner. They'll fill you up so you eat less food, which will help prevent that bloated feeling. Plus the fiber will help you stay regular.
If your stomach is uneasy after eating, sip on peppermint tea or eat a ginger candy.
Get exercise daily while on your trip. Pack some fitness gear in your suitcase, go for a walk, hit the gym at your hotel, or ski with the fam. Exercise is a wonderful way to prevent constipation.

Source

Let It Snow: Six Winter Getaways For Wee Ones

LilSugar — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 06:00:47 -0800

If you thought mountain resorts were reserved for those who spend their days racing down the slopes and hitting the lodge for a little après-ski socializing, you are mistaken. The snow-covered mountains are a draw for ski and snowboard fans, but most resorts have expanded their offerings to include a variety of activities that will attract non-skiers and those barely old enough to walk in snow boots. From sleigh rides to ice shows and snow hikes, these six getaways are sure to produce memories that will last your lil ones a lifetime. Source

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Do You Eat at Restaurants With Picture Menus?

partysugar — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 06:45:20 -0700

Fit Travel Tip: Wear Sneakers During Travels

FitSugar — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0700

Usually I try to dress up a little bit when I am traveling. My parents always made us dress up for plane rides, and it's one of those things that has stuck with me through my adult years.

Last weekend I broke my code and decided to wear sneakers and comfortable pants on the plane. I don't know about you, but comfortable clothes make me move a lot more than heels and a skirt, and I was pleased to be comfortable. Not only did I find myself walking around the terminal a lot more while skipping moving sidewalks and escalators, jogging to make my connection was not an issue with my sneaks on. You may already do this, but if not, think about traveling sporty on your next trip. You might find that you'll even end up burning calories while killing time. Happy travels!

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Jennifer Aniston Is a Business Traveler

Molly — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:30:55 -0800

Jennifer Aniston and Aaron Eckhart are still hard at work together in Vancouver filming Traveling. Of course Jennifer looks fabulous, though I doubt there's any occasion in real life that she really needs to be all business-woman-ed out for. At least she knows if she ever has to fall back on an office job, she looks good in the uniform. As for more typical leading lady wear, hopefully we will get to see her all dressed up soon to help host that star-studded pre-Oscars party. It's been too long since we've seen Jennifer do the red carpet thing.

To see more of Jennifer and Aaron just read more

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