Recently, a reader commented about a Panda Express giveaway that had expired. I replied that such feedback was very helpful for me because if there’s a specific request, I can try to fulfill it. Knowing folks may want another chance to win a Panda Express gift card is awesome!

TJL is not just about me, my life, and my views. It is also a forum, where readers are encouraged to share whatever matters to them. So, I’m opening up the floor and inviting everyone to chime in.

What kind of posts would you enjoy reading? Giveaways are obviously the most popular, but we cover a wide range of topics around here. Pick a category, an issue, or ask a question. I will do my best to answer everyone.

Pools have a reputation for being all about fun, but we often overlook the potential danger. In only 20 seconds, a child can drown! Most of us, me included, know someone who has died in a drowning accident. The pain caused by that type of untimely death is almost unbearable. As parents, it is vital that we take the necessary precautions. Here are 5 important tips for pool safety:

1. Parent Supervision

Proactive observation is the number one way to prevent drownings. That means sitting close to the pool with your full attention on the child—not talking on the phone, reading, texting, or doing anything that distracts. Make sure to do regular headcounts and step in if playtime gets too rowdy. If you’re in a group, it can be helpful to designate a Water Watcher, and change shifts every 15 minutes.

Supervision is critical, but it unfortunately can and does fail, which is why additional layers of protection are needed. 

2. High locks on doors and windows

Locks installed up high and out of the reach of children should be on every door and window that leads to the pool area. Some drownings happen because a parent didn’t know their child had figured out the door knob, so don’t rely on the door being shut. Any pet doors that grant access to the pool should also be shut securely.

3. Safety Fence

Many cities and towns mandate fences with good reason. Even if yours doesn’t require it, the peace of mind provided by installing a fence is priceless. Fences should be at least 4 feet tall and have a self-closing, self-latching gate. Mesh pool safety fences, like Life Saver Pool Fence, have proven to be extremely effective. 

4. Alarms

Unlike what movies show with kids screaming for help and thrashing in the water, most drownings tend to be silent. Alarms break that silence. There are many alarm options to choose from—door/window alarms, alarms that sit in the pool, and one worn directly on the child. 

5. Swimming Lessons

As soon parents and pediatricians feel comfortable, a child should receive swimming lessons. There is no “magic age” to start, and truly, the younger the better! Some organizations even offer training for infants. Check what’s available in your local area. In my family, everyone knows how to swim, started young, and has no fear of the water.

While these 5 tips can help to prevent most tragedies, there is no method that will stop 100% of them. Knowing CPR can be a big benefit if something awful does occur and it’s easy to get trained. CPR classes are held around the country, often for free. Ones that do charge have a nominal fee that’s worth every penny.

It’s often said that rape is the most under-reported crime and after watching the Bill Cosby trial play out, it’s clear why. From the very beginning there has been an effort to shame, blame, and discredit all of the ladies who have come forward. (Personally, I find it impossible to believe that over 50 women are all lying!)

While we have progressed a lot as a society, some myths simply will not die. Take, for example, the theory that someone can “ask for it” or cause abuse by wearing “provocative clothes.” Surely, in the year 2017, with so much more awareness, this nonsense couldn’t be believed by anyone…

Not only do some people believe it wholeheartedly, it can even sway their vote. A male juror from Cosby’s trial is quoted as saying, “Let’s face it: She went up to his house with a bare midriff and incense and bath salts. What the heck?”

This is so sad, so shocking, and so illogical! Regardless of what type of clothing, or underwear, or shoes a person is wearing, it can not be an excuse for rape. Even if an individual was walking through the street in the nude, nobody has the right to molest, assault, or abuse them in any manner. A bare midriff is not an invitation to be manhandled like a piece of meat!

I truly wish we lived in a world where women and girls weren’t judged so harshly based on their appearance. A world where total equality was the norm. Unfortunately, we aren’t living in that kind of place, and until things change, we have to do everything we can to protect ourselves from vicious predators. Ladies need to carry mace in their purses, attend self defense classes, and take any reasonable safety measure. (Of course, it’s not always possible to prevent crime, but we still have to try!)

And, most of all, when a victim is brave enough to come forward, we can NOT talk about her clothes, or whether she was drinking, or her past dating history. Every victim deserves the right to be believed instead of harassed and doubted.

I am extremely disappointed by the jurors decision in the Cosby case. No matter how much I wish it had been a conviction, this is how the law works and we have to accept it. What I wonder, though, is how many others will stay silent because of what these victims were subjected to? Now, that is one scary thought to ponder…

How do you feel about the Cosby Case?

Getting ready to hit the road or the friendly skies soon? (My own family is planning a week-long trip in August for 10 people, and yes, I’m already overwhelmed just thinking about it!) This guest post from Kristy Rodriguez of Pure Nurture is full of stress-free family travel trips that will help minimize the hassle and maximize the fun.

This summer, more than 82% of Americans will take a family trip, according to the annual study conducted by Gas Buddy. While vacation can be fun for kids, studies have found that it’s often stressful and exhausting for parents. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be, with proper planning. These self-care travel tips are inexpensive, easy to find and helpful for the entire family!

Self-massage with a tennis or lacrosse ball:

These can be used to massage your back, neck, or hamstrings by resting the ball between your body part and a wall or floor, or even just holding it in your hand.

Essential oils for relaxation and rejuvenation:

Plug into a car diffuser and enjoy some uplifting, de-stressing or relaxing scents. My favorite oils for travel are lavender for relaxation, orange for a mood boost and peppermint for an energy boost.

Coloring books (adult and kid varieties):

They say coloring is the next best thing to meditation, so pack up some colored pencils, crayons, and/or markers along with plain paper or coloring books for you and the kids.

Bring your own snacks:

Highway gas stations and airports are two of the most challenging places to find healthy snacks! Grab a small bag and pack your own—ones that will keep your blood sugar and mood stable, as well as boosting your immune system, which is really important when you’re traveling. Aim for a nutrient-dense variety of items like fresh fruit, trail mix, and cereal bars, preferably the low-sugar kind.

Try a Kids’ club:

All-inclusive resorts can be a great option. Check out kid-friendly resorts in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica that  are relatively low cost. Food is included, which means you won’t be paying for a meal that your kids don’t end up eating (I know this situation very well). The kids’ clubs offer fun for all ages. While your kids are having a great time, you will have some down time to do whatever fills you up—reading on the beach, taking a nap, getting a massage, etc.

These are just a few ideas to help make your next family getaway feel more like a vacation and less like a trip. The better care you take of yourself, the better you’ll feel . . . and the more energy you’ll have to keep up with your kids, giving you a better chance of coming home feeling more relaxed and refreshed.

About the Author:

Kristy Rodriguez, pre- and postnatal wellness expert and advocate, is the owner and founder of Pure Nurture, a business devoted to educating and inspiring women to nurture and nourish themselves through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. As a Holistic Health Coach and Registered Yoga Teacher, Kristy works with individual clients, as well as teaching classes and workshops, both in person and online. She is also the author of Pure Nurture: A Holistic Guide to a Healthy Baby.