Childfree v Childless: Actresses Kim Cattrall & Gabrielle Union reignite old debate

Posted on September 16, 2015

Two Hollywood actresses who do not have children have raised again in the press the age-old debate regarding childlessness and Child-freeness, and the controversy involving both.

Sex and the City alum Kim Cattrall told BBC radio recently that she has issues with the term “childless”.

It is a sensitive topic that seems to irk the vet stage actress.

“Child-less. It sounds like you’re less, because you haven’t had a child,” she said. “I think for a lot of women from my generation it wasn’t actually a conscious choice. It was a feeling of, ‘I’m on this road and things are going really well, and I’m very happy, and I’ll do it next year. I’ll do it in two years. I’ll do it in five years.'”

Cattrall added that though she is not a “biological” parent, she does consider herself a parent, nonetheless because of mothering she has done to young relatives.

“The thing that I find questionable about being childless or childfree is, are you really?” she asked. “There is a way to become a mother, in this day and age, that doesn’t include your name on the child’s birth certificate.”

Meanwhile Being Mary Jane star has been trying to get pregnant with husband NBA star Dwayne Wade but has been struggling and judged all the while by others for putting her career ahead of starting a family.

Union said being an older married woman without child is like having a “Scarlett letter” on your chest.

“There’s a certain amount of shame that is placed on women who have perhaps chosen a career over starting a family younger,” the Bring It On star told Redbook mag. “The penance for being a career woman is barrenness.”

Both recent comments speak towards societal expectations of women of child-bearing age and

Many people assume that they have the right to walk up to a woman and ask about her fertility, her family plans and many, casually, make assumptions about a very sensitive topic.

Often times, well-meaning adults will ask a couple in child-bearing age or who are newly weds when they will have a child. Many times, that couple may very well may be trying but have been unsuccessful and the incessant query from family and friends can serve to make a stressful situation even more difficult.

Other times, they may be among the hundreds and thousands of couples and women who have decided purposefully to not have children.

They could be treated as alien or as foreign beings for their personal choice.

It’s best to stay mum.

I had an awkward situation recently when I asked a mom at my kids school about her baby not knowing she lost the baby due to developmental and birth complications.

Although it was an innocent mistake, I would have preferred to avoid the awkwardness of the situation.

Instead, I joined the dozens of folks who she had to tell that she lost her baby. She will have to relive the loss over and over again with each unknowing person.

That is the additional thing with miscarriage, neonatal loss and infertility and why it’s best to tread carefully and minimize questioning women about their fertility and parenting choices.

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HBD to Motherhood Work/Life Balance Role Model Licia Ronzulli

Posted on September 15, 2015

Happy Belated 39th birthday to Licia Ronzulli, an Italian member of the European Parliament, who is well known for taking her daughter Vittoria to work with her in Parliament sessions beginning in 2010 when Vittoria was just a baby.

The legislator, born on September 14th, has received several honors and recognitions for being a model of motherhood and work/life balance, exemplifying the notion that, with the right supportive employer, you can have it all.

Granted, she is in a good powerful position to be able to demand flexibility, as is Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer who built a nursery near her office so she could have her baby next to her while she worked.

But still, the viral and often shared photos of Vittoria growing up in Parliament speaks to how exposure to big moments, events and places can do for a young girl in terms of her realizing there is nothing stopping her once she is determined.

At 5-years old, Vittoria is unstoppable.

Happy Birthday, Virgo!

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What Steve Jobs’ Widow Wants to Build to Fix America’s Inadequate Schools

Posted on September 15, 2015

Perhaps because America’s current public schools were never created with the goal of nurturing the future innovator, Steve Jobs‘ widow Laurene Powell Jobs is going to build them herself from scratch.

Today, the philanthropist announced that she has committed $50 million to the XQ: The Super School Project which is working to redefine and reimagine high school education in the U.S.

From now thru November 15 XQ will accept applications and select finalists in April 2016 with a goal to build between 5 to 10 Super Schools over the next five year period.

The purpose of the competition is to create a model of what an effective and innovative high school looks like.

“Teams will first self-assemble; then, immerse themselves in the leading thinking and research on how students learn today; spend time unearthing student needs and the changing demands of the world of work; and do rigorous systems-thinking to build their ideas into the next American high school,” the XQ website states.

Those that win will get money and expert mentor support to turn their idea into a reality.

Learn more:

h/t Mashable

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Starting Today, all US 4th Graders get in all Fed parks for FREE- Get Your Pass HERE (Link)

Posted on September 15, 2015

Starting today, every 4th grade child in America and their family can visit any federal Park for FREE!

It’s all part of the White House’s Every Kid in a Park program announced earlier in the year but opens today.

To get a pass, students only need to go to www.everykidinapark.gov, complete an activity, and obtain a pass good through August 31, 2016.

Passes will allow the student and his/her family free entry to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas including national parks.

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Parenting

10 Ways to Encourage Early Reading in Your Child

Posted on September 15, 2015

It’s back to school time but independent reading continues to be something all children should be doing on a daily basis. Reading is a fundamental skill that all children master eventually. Each child learns at their own pace and parents need to be patient, however, there are things that you can do to foster and nurture healthy reading habits in your child. 4Nannies.com shared these 10 with us for you to consider:

1. Visit the library – The library is a magical place for children! Help your child register for her own library card so that she can check out books independently. This independence will allow her to choose the books she’d like to read and help her become responsible for taking care of those treasures. Encourage her to look for books she is interested in, show her where to ask for help if she can’t find something and allow her to make her own choices.

2. Read to and with your child daily – About 30 minutes of reading per day is what is recommended to encourage healthy reading habits in your child. Start at a young age by reading to your child and then gradually transition to him reading out loud to you. The reading doesn’t have to be done all at once, but can be broken up into smaller, more manageable slices of time.

3. Role model at home – Children who see the adults around them engaging in reading are more likely to follow your example.

4. Write short notes to your child – Put them in lunch boxes, backpacks or leave them on the counter for your child to read. You can write about anything; tell her that you love her, leave her a small fact to read or even write down her chores for her!

5. Ask open-ended questions about the story that you are reading – Asking your child open-ended questions will encourage him to think about what is going to happen next in the story and to put together what has already happened. Ask him how he’d have the story end or to predict what he thinks will happen next in the story. Once you read more of the story, look back on your discussion and compare his thoughts to the actual story line.

6. context to check vocabulary words – Throughout your life you use context to check the meaning of words you don’t know, so encourage your child to do the same. It’s an essential life skill.

7. Practice writing skills – Reading and writing go hand in hand because you learn one while you are learning the other! Have your child practice sounding out words while she is writing, encourage her to create her own story with illustrations and have her write letters to people in your family (and have others write back to her!).

8. Let them pick the books that they read – Giving your child ownership of the books he chooses will mean that he is more involved in the reading process from the beginning. Encourage him to read the classics as well, but let him pick out what he is interested in reading.

9. Make reading fun – While you are reading together have her act out stories, recreate them or illustrate them how she thinks it should be done!

10. Play reading related games – Choose games that require reading to play together. Games that involve word play (Scrabble or Boggle), games with cards that you read (Fluxx or Pictionary) or games that require you to read spaces (Life or Monopoly) all encourage children to read independently while playing.

It’s important to remain patient and calm during the learning to read process with a young child, help him when he needs help, but stand back and allow him to navigate the words on his own as much as possible. Eventually the day will come that you are sitting side by side on the sofa, each reading your own books, and all that effort and hard work will pay off.

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Celebrity

Bump Watch: Kelis rocks ‘Bestival’ in the UK

Posted on September 14, 2015

Second-time mom-to-be Kelis rocked the stage at the Bestival music festival at the Isle of Wight in the UK Sunday night.

The “Milkshake” singer revealed her growing bump in a print top with a sheer portion in the front and slit on the aides revealing her hip tattoos and cute baby belly.

Kelis announced that she and new husband are expecting their first child together last month.

She has. 6-year old son with her ex -fiancé and long time beau Rapper Nas.

photos: Getty

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News

Certify with Ease: Your Updated Guide to Microsoft 70-535 Exam

Posted on September 14, 2015

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The IT industry has witnessed rapid changes over the years with the most notable development being the shift to cloud computing technology. The concept of cloud computing stems from the desire to employ better ways to manage information technology.

It’s fair to say that cloud computing has revolutionized business as more and more individuals come to terms with its efficiency and cost benefits.

One of the most prominent cloud computing technology providers is Microsoft with its Azure platform. The company offers specialized Azure certifications for interested candidates.

Microsoft Azure certification exams are meant to validate your knowledge of Microsoft cloud-related technologies.

Passing a Microsoft Azure test puts you in a better position to not only advance your career but also remain relevant in the highly volatile IT industry.

This post is for you if you need a prestigious Microsoft Azure certification that will set you apart from the crowd and help you remain competitive in the volatile IT industry.

We’ve compiled a detailed guide about Az-103 – Pass Here, one of the most important Azure exams, and its related certification. So, lest get started.

Why 70-535 exam?

Currently, 70-535: Architecting Microsoft Azure Solutions exam qualifies you for the Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification. Like all Microsoft Azure tests, exam 70-535 assesses the candidate’s knowledge of Azure technology.

It’s worth reminding that this test will retire soon, as part of the massiveMicrosoft certification program update. Exam 70-535 will be replaced by two exams, AZ-300 and AZ-301. So, you might be wondering, what’s the essence of taking this test? The thing is that 70-535 can still earn you the Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification provided that upon completion of this test you also pass a special transition exam – AZ-302.

That being said, 70-535 exam is still worth your time and effort. Read on to find more details about this test and its importance in the modern IT industry.

Skills measured

Microsoft exam 70-535 tests a variety of skills associated with the Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert credential with every concept contributing a specific weight in the actual test. The topics tested include:

• Designing data implementation and compute infrastructure

• Designing identity and security solutions

• Designing solutions by using platform services

• Designing for operations

This test will most likely include 40-60 questions (drag-and-drop, case studies, build list, multiple-choice, and other). The fee for this exam is $165.

What is the main goal ofpassing exam 70-535? First of all, passing this test along with AZ-302 transition exam will earn you one of the most coveted expert-level Azure credentials in the world. The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification, in its turn, will open many doors for you. Here are some of the benefits of being Microsoft Azure certified:

• Career growth

Possessing a valid Microsoft Azure certification not only proves your proficiency in cloud computing technologies but also provides an avenue for career advancement. It’s the ideal way to attain global recognition as any Microsoft Azure credential depicts you as a committed individual with a great mastery of the required skills.

• Growth factor

If you’re already part of a team, then the Microsoft Azure certifications will undoubtedly help you fulfill your potential. Such credentials lead to salary increments and open more doors for optimum career growth.

• Global recognition

Microsoft certifications are globally recognized. So, attaining the Microsoft Azure credential puts you ahead of the pack. The hiring managers will see you as a reliable professional who can efficiently carry out projects related to cloud computing.

70-535 exam preparation option: start from the Microsoft official website

How should you study for your 70-535 exam? Well, much can be said about Microsoft, but failing to support the candidates in the course of their certification journey is not one of them. All individuals preparing for 70-535 exam should visit the Microsoft official website to find effective study materials for certification exam success.

To begin with, candidates can enroll in an official instructor-led course to prepare adequately for the test. This platform features Azure certified experts with unmatched knowledge of 70-535 exam topics to help candidates certify hassle-free. The 20535: Architecting Microsoft Azure Solutions course that is designed by the mentioned experts is available on this platform to bring your certification journey to life. Other official training options worth checking out include the reference books such as the Exam Ref: 70-535 Architecting Microsoft Azure Solutions and the official Microsoft practice test for exam 70-535.

Top online resource for Microsoft 70-535 exam preparation – PrepAway!

Download real and updated study materials from the PrepAwaywebsite for guaranteed exam success. This website provides quality exam dumps (questions and answers) to help you get ready for your tests and boost your confidence.

But you know the best part? PrepAway provides instant downloads, meaning you can start using their resources as soon as you make your purchase. It should be mentioned that the exam dumps provided by this website for 70-535 exam should be used to supplement your learning and not as an independent study material.

Also, be sure to use the ETE software that simulates the actual exam testing environment to help you register a passing score in your test.

Conclusion

Are you willing to build a career in the IT industry? Cloud computing is here to stay, and there has never been a better time to become Microsoft Azure certified. Use the above tips to pass Microsoft 70-535 exam and attain your Microsoft Certified: Azure Architect Solutions Expert certification hassle-free.

Also, don’t forget that there are two ways to obtain the Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert. Apart from the path described above, soon you will be able to get your credential by passing exams AZ-300 and AZ-301. No matter what path you choose, remember that PrepAway is always here to help you certify easily and quickly. Good luck!

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Back to School Review: Clark’s Cloud Steppers Sillian Firn

Posted on September 14, 2015

From NYC to Nagasaki to Newcastle, kids have returned back to school.

Our team of Bellyitch Moms and their broods are no exception.

Our product reviewer, Chelsea Social, “walks” us through a day in the life of a Clark Cloud Stepper. ($85 retail)

Back to School

So my eldest son has just begun PK3, which means the sleepy time summer morning routine is over. So when my Sillian Firn Walking Shoes came in the mail, I was excited. Growing up, a new school year always meant new shoes. Now this time, as a mom, I have new mommy school shoes.

The first test of the Clarks was…you guessed it, walking! You can’t have the name walking in your shoes label and not expect someone to walk in them. My son’s school is only 0.2miles from home. So it’s a 10 minute walk with the toddler and baby in tow.

First off, Clark spoils you! The first time you put on the shoes it feels like your walking on a memory foam mattress. The soles of the shoe babies your feet. And the Sillian Firn design has an elastic wrap over the face of your foot. The total effect makes you feel like your foot is being held by someone giving you a foot massage. If you’re like me – this is heavenly! I was skipping around the house before my husband asked what was going on.

Off to School

As an avid walker, the Clarks really are comfortable walking shoes. The foam cushion, though not as high as my athletic shoe, supported my heels and high aches. The elastic top grip meant that my foot didn’t feel like it would slip out with every step. By the time we arrived at school, my feet didn’t feel like they had gone for a walk at all. No shin splints. No aching heels. The walk home was equally pleasant.

Not Your Mother’s Clarks

From the moment you open the box to the first time I slipped on the shoes, I knew these were my Clarks. I remember my mom telling me stories about growing up in Trinidad. How after Christmas, my grandmother would set money aside in the family budget each week so that my mom and her siblings would have a new pair of Clarks for Easter. It was that serious!

Her old Clarks were her best Sunday shoes until she grew out of them or gave them to her younger sister.

By comparison my Clarks Sillian Firn Walking Shoes are amazing.

They are comfortable without being fussy. And the style is espadrille chic with an elastic grip. Clarks has always been known to make good quality shoes. So I wasn’t surprised to see the elastic topsides were dual stitched making the shoes harder to unravel.

These are everyday, running errand and taking kids to school shoes. While my mom was only allowed to wear her Clarks on Sundays, my Clarks are the Monday to Saturday shoe.

Buy, Try, or Say Bye-Bye

Definitely a buy! I’ve worn the shoes off and on now for about three weeks. The memory foam in the soles are not as forgiving as when they were new. The shoes seems to have adjusted to my hard walking stance. But besides that the shoes are still very comfortable and have withstood some longer treks. These are definitely the new mom shoe to have for the fall!

–Chelsea Social

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22 Sexy & Fashionable Virgo Celebs

Posted on September 14, 2015

Early Adopter

As this month is a fashionable one with all the various designers unveiling their Spring 2016 and Fall 2015 collections on runways at various cities’ respective Fashion Weeks, and it being Virgo season, I thought I would highlight all the fashionable celebrity moms and designers we’ve covered in Bellyitch over the years.

Tom Ford also infamously said, “You know, the world might be a very scary place if it were only run by Virgos.” True, but every organization needs a Virgo in it to keep it running smoothly. So does the world!

ha!

I admit I am biased given my birthday was on September 6 and I myself am a proud Virgo and share a birthday with at least one spouse of a Bellyitch Bumpwatch alum and the sign with other alums (above) including the Queen Bee Beyonce (Sept. 4), Country singer Jennifer Nettles, (Sept. 12), TV host and former model Padma Lakshmi (Sept. 1) , Songstress P!nk (Sept. 8) and powerhouse singer and actress Jennifer Hudson (Sept. 12).

Our Virgo Bellyitch Bumpwatch alums who are actual designers include Stella McCartney (Sept. 13), Nicole Richie (Sept. 21), and Rachel Zoe (Sept.1)

Male Fashion Icons and Designers I love and admire (either for their fashion sense, work ethic or a combo of both) include: my birthday mate and alum Idris Elba (Sept. 6), Tom Ford (Aug. 27), Karl Lagerfeld (Sept. 10); and guys whose S.O. we recently covered Wiz Khalifa, ex to Amber Rose (Sept. 8) and Evan Ross, spouse to Ashlee Simpson (Aug. 26).

Young and/other influential in-demand Fashionable women I enjoy seeing dressed up as fashion muses for several designers: Taraji P. Henson (Sept. 11), KeKe Palmer (Aug. 26), Misty Copeland (Sept. 10), Zendaya Coleman (Sept 1) and Angela Simmons (Sept 18).

Finally, fashion forward and super sexy Salma Hayek (Setp. 2), Jada Pinkett Smith (Sept 18) and Sanaa Lathen (Sept. 19) also rock the Virgo Virgin sign well.

And of course Ludacris (Sept 14), rounding up for pops of recent alum Eudoxie.

Happy Birthday, Virgos!

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Parenting

Happy Grandparents Day!

Posted on September 13, 2015

Our publishing day wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t acknowledge all of the wonderful grandparents out there that provide love, support, comfort, advice and sometimes shelter!

Happy Grandparents Day!

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Jeneba Jalloh Ghatt

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