Well my heart is happy taody!  Why? Because I'm honored to receive another Blog Award!

Tracey from The Daily Mom Diaries presented me with this award a few weeks ago and I've finally gotten a few minutes to put together a post about it.

I would like to share this award with fellow Canadian Blogger Katrina from

Kat's Confessions

Not only is she a PROUD CANADIAN, she also has a great blog and she is an excellent networker. 

You can also visit her at

Canadian Moms

"The place for Canadian Moms and Canadian Mom Bloggers to meet new friends, support each other, and network"

Hope your enjoying your weekend.  Looks like thundershowers are heading our way in the tiny town of Omemee, Ontario!

Cheers Everyone

Freezee Holders

Well today's craft was put together "spur of the moment".  
Just a little background info before I get to this simple but useful craft. 

Over the past 24 hours Pearl's screaming and crying episodes have been endless.  Normally I would have praised her for such endurance but for this particular crying marathon I hadn't been adequately prepared. 
Typically, I would have made Sapphire and Opal canvass the neighbourhood; challenging people to sponser this impressive performance.
I believe her front tooth has pierced through, evoking this absolute misery.  Poor little darling.  I hate to see my baby suffer.
Eating and drinking were out of the question.  To alleviate some of her discomfort she found refuge in freezees and frozen yogart tubes.  There's just one problem.  Her darling little hands were getting cold from holding these "soothing" treats.
Therefore, I got out the glue gun of course!

Freezee holders

Initially I was going to use felt but craft foam worked much better and it's cheaper. 

{Yes, I agree.  Kids today are totally pampered!}

Have a great weekend everyone!

Junk Drawers

Me: Sweetie, have you seen the matches?  I need to light the barbeque 
My Husband:  Pretty sure they're in the Junk Drawer
Me: Which one?
My Husband:  The one closest to the fridge
Me:  Are you sure?  I don't see them
My Husband:  Check above the stove
Me:  Notta
My Husband:  Bathroom?
Me: Nope
My Husband:  Are you sure they're not in the Junk Drawer  I swear they were in there?
Me:  grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr


Sometimes I wonder if I'm the only person alive that has the most unique assortment of random items in my kitchen drawers. There really is no rhyme or reason to what goes into the bottomless pit that I like to refer to as my Junk Drawer. 
It's actually quite amuzing to see what ends up in the Junk Drawer after several months.
My curiosity is often sparked when I enter others' homes.  Often I wonder what I would find if I had the odacity to snoop in someone elses junk drawer.  Kind of like the temptation you get when you want to peek in someone's medicine cabinet.  I'm not sure what insight is gained by looking in someone else's Junk Drawer but the appeal of knowing others secrets definately fascinates me.
Today, I'm going to give you the opportunity to snoop through my kitchen drawers.  Have a good laugh because I did.
Let's see what could be hiding in my treasure chest Junk Drawers.

{click pic to enlarge}

What?  Doesn't everyone have a set of Rosary Beads in their kitchen drawer?  What about the copy of our homemade sex tape?  Bet you didn't expect that!  (I'm kidding, it's actually a Dora DVD)
What is the most unpredictable item currently in your Junk Drawer?  That is assuming you have a junk drawer like me!

Guest Blogger- Father's Day Post

Three Jewels In My Crown would like to welcome Jen B as today's guest blogger.

Jen is a local girl who grew up in Lindsay, moved away for university and to travel as a nanny, then returned  home to attend grad school. Here she met her husband of 4 years, and they have an 18-month old son, Carson (aka Toad). Jen is also the proud founder of Shop Little Jenny Wren, an Etsy shop where she sells her handmade acessories for mamas and chicks.  Jen loves being a stay at home mom to Carson, teaching online, and everything domestic: cooking, baking, canning/preserving, homekeeping, sewing and crochet. One of her mentors is The Pioneer Woman and she lives vicariously through her. Jen hopes to continue to grow her business in the future and enjoy sharing each moment with Toad.
Take it away Jen B....

It’s my pleasure to be a guest blogger on Three Jewels in My Crown.  As an avid follower, I thought that I would take a stab at sharing some information with Crystal’s readers.

Father’s Day is just around the bend—and although it can be a day to celebrate all the dads in our lives, sometimes it is a daunting task to find an appropriate gift.

Many factors come into play as you are racking your brain to come up with an idea for a Father’s Day gift! Instead of wandering around the local mall aimlessly, I hope to inspire you with some ideas to buy and/or make for your man.

Now that we've established how I’m going to help you, it’s your turn to figure out just what you want.

I’m going to call it High-Low.  Maybe you’ve seen this in the latest issue of Cosmo.  Basically, although designers and inventors come up with products that have a costly price tag—there always seems to be a "knockoff" version that costs much less or a DIY version (which is often more fun!) I’ll show you a bit of both, in a series of categories.

Gadgets
For those of you who like “practical” gifts here are a few ideas:


All men love gadgets.  Don’t ask why. We all have “junk” drawers full of the "things".  It’s basically because if a guy wants something they go ahead and purchase it.  We buy them gadgets because it's pretty much the only thing they don’t have.

High

Gaming Console (Wii, PS2, etc.) or iPod Touch or iPad.
A great gift if you’ve always wanted one yourself.  Buy it for the man in your life and then reap the benefits. Check out these online stores Future Shop, Staples, Best Buy to purchase the above mentioned
They NEVER go on sale, so don’t bother waiting.

Low
Dollar Store or DIY
You’d be surprised what they have at the dollar store!  For example, I saw an iPod carrying case.  This is a really cool thing for storing your memory cards and golfing accessories.

For creative ideas on DIY gadgets you should check out Coolest Gadgets.com 
You can definitely make a DIY gift with gadgets you already have at home.  I’m not sure if you could make up your own gadget but you could definitely modify something to make it a unique gift for you man.
I personally love the coffee cup lamp but check this out!

Food
Ok, so this may sound a bit obvious-everyone needs to eat, right? Well, food can be a great gift to give.  It is practical but I think it deserves its on category.  All men love to eat.  We all know the best way to their heart is through their stomach.

High

Personal Chef or Gourmet Food

Ok, so who wouldn’t want to receive a personal chef as a gift?  If you have the money you could hire a personal chef for a day, a week or even a month to come and cook for your man (Again, you will be the one reaping the benefits of this gift as well)
Visit Hire A Chef online.  I found a local chef who gives cooking lessons, caters dinner parties, organizes of your kitchen and implements meal planning. They don’t give prices.  Most likely, because most people can't afford it.  Otherwise, it may be fun idea for a special dinner!

Gourmet food is everywhere. Sometimes it can be ridiculously priced! For an extraordinary treats try
The Gourmet Food Store.  They have gift packages such as the “Caviar Sampler” for $75 and the 102 year old Basalmic Vinegar for $142. Wow.

Low
DIY Cookbook, Favourite Meal or A Unusual Treat

Obviously, DIY is an easy route for food. 
A few ideas include:

• First, you could gather your new and/or old favourite recipes and make a cookbook for your man.

• You could cook his favourite meal or make some coupons that promise you’ll cook his favourite liver and onions (even though you hate it)
• What about an unusal treat? Why not try chocolate covered bacon!  I was almost sick to my stomach when I looked at the strange list of food on this {site} Caution if you have a weak stomach ICK

Original
If you *must* think of something totally outstanding, here are some very unique, once-in-a-lifetime ideas for gifts.

• Tickets to  the theatre, concert or sporting event

High
Ticket Master is a "go to" site for purchasing tickets.  You could also try Stub Hub
( a site where people aka "scalpers" sell tickets.  Comes in handy for sold out or hard to find tickets) 

Low:
Pizza Pizza sponsors concerts at the Molson Amphitheatre. The lawn tickets are only $11.11 for some great bands! Tickets availabe {here}

You could also support local talent by checking your newspaper or radio.  Why not attend an event that you might never have tried!

• Name a Star-Why not name a star in the galaxy after the gift recipient? 

High
Star Registry.com sends you a certificate and claims to only sell one set of rights to each star in the sky.

Low
Make your own certificate. Who cares if you can’t point to  the star more than once. It’s the thought that counts.

• Buy him a share in the stock market

High
You can actually buy one share of stock for famous companies as a gift. Prices vary but it is legit and you’ll get a certificate to frame. Your man can always sell it later!
Try {this site}

Low
Same as above. Make a certificate that states they now own a share of Playboy. They’ll forget that it’s fake when they think about what to do with that kind of stock!


If All Else Fails....
If you are pressed for time or just lazy http://www.gifts.com/  may be a life saver. This website lists sources for different gifts. It's the mother of all gift serach engines.  It allows you to search by occassion, recipient, personality traits, age, what celebrity dads like and types of gifts (gift cards, food, personalized). How easy is that?


Regardless of what gift you find and/or choose,  always remember that a heartfelt card can go a long way. You can send one online with www.americangreetings.com or buy one at a local store. You can also use free online photo manipulating software such as Picnik or Photobucket to make your own card. 
ou have a few more weeks before Father’s Day, so try to tune in on some clues that your man might be giving you. I’m sure he’ll love whatever you decide to give him!


This year Father's Day is on June 20, which means you  have 10 days left. 
So, start to tune into some clues that your man might be giving you. I’m sure he’ll love whatever you decide to give him!

Medical Monday-Ear Infection Fact Sheet

Medical Disclaimer-The contents and information on this blog are for your informational use only. My blog posts provide general health and parenting information. The information in this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read on this blog.

It's 2:00 am and you've been up all night with a screaming child who's trying to do back flips out of your arms.  You've been pacing the floors and your conversation with your loved one goes something like this:

Mom:  Take this kid for a second or I'm going to loose my mind.
Dad:  What do you want me to do with him?
Mom:  I don't know.  I'm not the doctor
Dad:  Well, then take him to emerg to see one
Mom:  Tonight?  Maybe it can wait until tommorow
Dad:  Whatever you think!
Mom:  I'm not sure either, what do you think?
{this conversation plays out for another 2 hours until finally someone packs the bags and off  you go to the local emergency room}

Ear infections are the #1 diagnosed childhood illness.  Affecting 90% of children before they ever hit school age.  As parents, we somehow become super detectives when our children are sick.  Looking for clues and trying to diagnose their illness.
The only thing most moms have to go by when reporting to a doctor is that their typically happy baby or child has suddenly become slightly "demon possessed"and they are seemingly no longer comforted by traditional means.  We've all had that same middle of the night experience when you ask yourself, is this teething or ears?
Unfortunately,  my kids have had countless ear infections which seems to be a somewhat inherited trait.  My husband has hearing loss as does his sister.  In fact, his sister has to wear hearing aids because of repeat ear infections as a kid. Opal has had 3 sets of tubes and Sapphire has had one. 

Today I put together a quick fact sheet to help everyone understand what Ear Infections are all about and what the possible treatment options are. 


What is Otis Media?
Otis Media is the medical term for a ear infection.
What are the two types of Ear Infections?
AOM(acute otitis media) This means that a part of the ear is infected and swollen.  Also known as a middle ear infection.
OEM(otitis media with effusion) This refers to the mucous or fluid that remains trapped in the ear after the infection has resolved.  Fluid and mucous can also accumulate because of the structure of the inner ear and because the eustachian tube does not drain the fluid properly.  Many children experience mild to moderate hearing loss as a result of fluid in the ear. Not only can it effect hearing but it also effects speech and language. 
What causes ear infections?
Ear infections are a direct result of viruses and/or bacterial entering the ear.  Ear infections also arise secondary to a previous cold or illness.
What is the eustchian tube and how does it contribute to ear infections?
When the ears are infected the eustachian tubes become inflamed and swollen. The adenoids can also become infected. The eustachian tubes are inside the ear. They keep air pressure stable in the ear. These tubes also help supply the ears with fresh air. The adenoids are located near the eustachian tubes. Adenoids are clumps of cells that fight infections.
Why do kids get so many ear infections and adults don't?
These tubes are smaller and straighter in children than they are in adults making it more difficult for fluid to drain out of the ear.
Most importantly, how do I know my child has AOM or OEM?
•Does she tug or pull at her ears?
•Does he cry more than usual?
•Do you see fluid draining out of her ears?
•Does he have trouble sleeping?
•Can she keep her balance?
•Does he have trouble hearing?
•Does she seem not to respond to quiet sounds?
Signs that fluid may be present in older children include delayed or difficulty with speech. 

Treatment Options

1. Initially it is important to treat the pain associated with an ear infection.  OTC pain relievers such as Tylenol or Motril are recommended.  I tend to alternate between the two.   Tylenol is excellent in reducing a fever while Motrin has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling within the ear.
2. To treat with Antibiotics or not has always been the  unanswered question when discussing ear infections.  After discussing this with many family physicans the consensus is that the majority of children
3. Surgery-Sometimes a surgery for the placement of small tubes ,lso known as a called a myringotomy is necessary to treat repeat or ongoing ear infections.  It has been performed since 1954 and is extremely safe. The tubes look like this][ and inserted through a very minute incision in the tympanic membrane(ear drum).  My two older kids have both had several sets of tubes.  The procedure took approximately 12 minutes start to finish and within 2 hours they were feeling mostly back to normal.  Expect the tubes to fall out within 6 months to a year as the ear canal grows.  Some children need a repeat myringotomy.  Another kind of surgery removes the adenoids. This is called an adenoidectomy. Removing the adenoids has been shown to help some children with otitis media who are between the ages of 4 and 8  Opal had his adenoids out with great results. If your child has 3 diagnosed ear infections in 6 months or 4 in 12 months then it may be time to consult a ENT(ears, nose and throat doctor).  Most refers are made through family physicians or nurse practitioners.

I also want to note that it is important children see a otiologist at least once to check their hearing prior to starting shool.  Undeteced hearing impariment can result in learning problems.

One final note on this topic of ears and ear infections.
Have you ever heard of the saying, "never put anything in a ear that's smaller than your elbow"?
Many parents feel the need to clear a child's ear canal of  the ear wax (aka cerumen).  Cerumen in the ear canal is actually a protective mechanism of the body.  It only becomes a problem when it prevents fluid in the ear from draining or if it prevents a health professional from visualizing the middle and inner ear components.  Most often ear wax falls out without any intervention.  Therefore, cue tips are best reserved for crafts and not for cleaning the ears.  By using cue tips you run the risk of pushing wax further into the ear canal which may result in ear wax impaction or even worse damage to the damage to the tympanic membrane the .  Ear wax impaction may require intervention.  To treat cerumen impaction you can place several drops of baby oil or olive oil in the affected ear to soften the wax so that it will be expelled by the body.  If this doesn't help than your Doctor may have to irrigate the ear or use a special instrument to remove the wax. To properly clean you child's ear you can wrap your finger around a warm wet cloth and wipe the outer ear.

I hope this helps with your questions and concerns in regards to ear infections.  Most importantly, trust your gut!  You know your child best!  Sometimes Doctors need to be reminded of this!

Do you have any other pediatric health questions that you would like me to answer or find the answers to?
Here are a few topics up for discussion.  Please let me know if you would like information on any of the following topics

• infant and toddler constipation
• allergies
• rashes
• vaccines

No health topic is off limits.  I will do my very best to provide you with the most accurate and up to date information on any health concern. 

Water Bracelets

This is definately a craft your gonna want to make with the kids.  They're insanely simple to make and cost less than a cup of coffee. 
They're called water bracelets. 

Here is the video tutorial

Tip:  make sure to have tiny beads becasue lacing beads are too large.

 

Materials:
2 feet of clear plastic tubing with a ¼-inch inner diameter
3 inches of clear plastic tubing with a 3/8-inch inner diameter (sold in most hardware stores)
Ruler and scissors
Tiny beads or glitter and water

Instructions:
To make each bracelet, cut an 8-inch-long piece from the 1/4-inch tubing and cut a 1-inch length from the 3/8-inch tubing (for a fastener). Slide both ends of the 8-inch tube into the fastener, as shown, and have your child try on the bracelet for fit. If it's too big, take it apart and trim it to size, remembering that it will need to slip over her hand.
Remove one end of the bracelet from the fastener. Use a finger to stopper one end while your child drops in tiny beads or pieces of glitter -- or anything she likes that fits in the tube and can be submerged in water.
When she's done, slowly fill the tube with water, leaving several inches of air so it has room to move. Carefully slide the free end into the fastener as far as it will go. This should create a snug fit that won't come undone without a good tug.

Cost:
I paid 39 cents per ft of tubing at the local hardware store {yes you read that correctly}  That's a whopping 80 cents for 4 bracelets.  We made lots of extras for Sapphire to hand out to her friends at school.  She was quite popular that day I must say. 

Here's our version of the water bracelets.  I didn't have tiny beads so we improvised and made some with glitter glue and some with glitter and tiny gem stones. 

Have fun!