Spring is tentatively showing itself in many parts of the country. (Not where I live; we just got almost 12 inches of snow.) For many families, this means the end of indoor recreation activities and a chance to get back outside and enjoy nature. You can help your kids learn to enjoy the outdoors -- and make great family memories -- by keeping a nature journal.

Nature Journal as a Family
One of the fun things you can do together is head outside and keep a nature journal. The National Wildlife Federation offers some helpful hints for making a nature journal. Possible subjects are included, and this can help you get a good start on what to do for a successful nature journal. You can look for such items as plants, animals and rocks, as well as listen to the different sounds being made. The wind in the leaves or the sound of a stream can make great subjects for the nature journal. Older children can learn how to identify different plants, animals and rocks that are common to your local area.

A nature journal should include observations about the things heard, seen and even smelled. Have your children describe their experiences. Older children can write for themselves, and you can help the younger children. Encourage your children to draw pictures of what they have seen, using crayons or markers. You can even take pictures and add them to the nature journal. Have your children see how close they can get to drawing what is seen in the picture. You can add pages as needed, using a three-ring binder or keep the nature journal in a series of notebooks.

Remember, though, that spring can still be a little chilly. Make sure that you have jackets and hats, and are dressed appropriately for the weather. Good walking shoes are a good idea. Once you start your nature journal, you can make a new journal for every season.

Though pregnancy is an exciting and happy time in a woman's life, it still has its own fair share of ups and downs. From swollen feet to an ever expanding belly (and likely the rest of your body, too), getting comfortable may be one of the most difficult parts of your pregnancy.

Thankfully, clothing designers have realized that maternity clothing can be stylish, fashionable and improve your comfort level during pregnancy. By filling your wardrobe with a few maternity clothing basics, you'll help make your entire pregnancy a bit easier. By starting with your undergarments, you can assure that you get the support and comfort that you need where it counts the most -- close to your skin.

Start with the basics when selecting your pregnancy wardrobe. Purchase maternity underpants and bras, like the Nummies and Belabumbum lines. Nummies bras are also designed to serve as nursing bras, so it won't go to waste after delivery. If you need to purchase larger bras and underpants early in your pregnancy, consider leaving a bit of room to grow. You'll appreciate it when your third trimester is in full swing. Belabumbum also makes maternity swimwear -- a must if you'll be out in the sun during your pregnancy.

Add a belly wrap to your maternity wardrobe, too. Not only are these fashionable, but belly wraps, like those designed by bao bei, also offer increased belly support. For moms-to-be toward the end of their pregnancy or for women suffering from back pain during pregnancy, belly wraps can prove to be an invaluable addition to your wardrobe. Plus, they prevent unwanted belly exposure when your shirt shifts out of place.

Once you've got the basics of a maternity wardrobe in your closet, you'll be ready to make the move and expand your collection to pants, shirts, dresses and comfortable shoes suited for pregnancy. Dressing right can help make pregnancy comfortable and easy from the start.

It's the 'magic formula' that savvy parents have learned to live by; buying just enough clothing to get you through the season and making sure it will keep your baby comfortable and happy during the days ahead. Here are some tips for selecting the right outfits for your newborn:

Choose the Right Fabrics
A baby's skin is super sensitive, so you'll need to make sure they're not experiencing any allergic reactions to new fabrics and that the cotton or polyester blends you pick allow your baby's skin to breathe. Keep an eye out for any rashes or breakouts and read the material labels closely to reduce the risk of skin irritation.

Stock up on Day and Night Outfits
You can dress up baby in lighter clothes by day, but you'll need to layer things up or buy thicker clothing for bedtime. Temperatures can fluctuate considerably during any season, and your baby will be the first one to feel it; make sure they're plenty warm and comfortable with the right type of clothing throughout the day and don't be afraid to undertake an outfit change a few times per day if needed.

Buy Packs of Multiples
If you can find multi-packs of onesies, socks and other ensembles, you can easily save some money on baby outfits. Many brands now offer multiple packs for basics, so you can shave off a few dollars from the clothing budget without compromising quality fabrics and designs for your little one.

Go for the Poppers
Popper buttons on onesies, jackets and dresses are much easier to manage than traditional buttons. When the daily schedule demands several diaper changes, popper buttons allow you to get baby in and out of their outfit in a snap. Look for small details like these to save you time and energy during those busy days ahead!

Aim for the Six-Piece Closet
Newborns will grow out of every piece of clothing within a few months; you'll need to shop only for three months at a time, and if you're on a very tight budget, aim for just six pieces of clothing per season.

*Babies grow fast and will quickly outgrow many of their firsts from the close*t. It won't take long to realize your baby is growing at a record pace; just when you've picked out the perfect baby jacket and matching shoes, don't be surprised to find that the shoe no longer fits a month or two later.

Instead of buying dozens of outfits every few months, you can save some money by planning ahead and buying a larger size whenever possible. Here are some other ways to cut back on baby expenditures so you can keep up with the family budget:

Rely on the Onesies
Outfits that snap on, zip on or are draped over baby's shoulders like a gown are some of the most versatile and cost effective baby clothes money can buy. Stock up on these outfits to make them the foundation of your baby's closet. You can buy these in a larger size so that they grow into them. Since most are made with a stretch fabric, they'll last much longer than your average cotton and polyester blends.

Consider the Weather
If your baby is going to be between 6 and 8 months come summer time, make sure you're buying clothes for that baby. It's easy to forget how quickly your newborn will grow by the end of the season, so plan on buying clothes that will fit them in the right season. If you're worried about the high price of new items coming in for the season ahead, shop the sales and clearance aisles for last year's lineup and make the most of the discounts.

Don't Be Afraid to use Hand Me Downs
While having a fresh new set of clothes for your newborn is important, you don't have to buy every item right off the rack. Consider asking friends, family members and neighbors for any gently used items or even nearly new items they mistakenly purchased for their newborn. You can focus on building up a basics baby wardrobe and count on used clothing for play wear or even baby accessories when the budget's tight.

If it's baby's first winter and the family's heading outside for a winter adventure, a pair of insulated boots will protect those teeny tiny feet from inclement weather. Layering up those sensitive feet with thick cotton socks will ward off frost bite when you head outdoors and insulated boots will get them in tip-top shape to make snow angels, build a snowman or even go sledding!

If your infant isn't ready to take his or her first steps in the snow, get them into the winter spirit with some stylish boots and warm socks; from tundra boots to insulated booties, here are some of the must-haves for the season:

Babybotte boots are the perfect winter weather warm up with their leather cover and insulated lining. The boots are covered with a patented Sympatex material to keep ice and moisture at bay, and the double hook closer gives your little one the ultimate secure fit. Get them ready for snow season in these versatile, lightweight boots, and they'll be well-trained for a future snowstorm.

Tundra boots will get them winter-ready for any Arctic winter wonderland and are a stylish pair for the snow bunny to-be. These boots are covered with a cute flower design and imitation fur trim for a fashionable and comfortable fit; they're a great match for toddlers ready to kick things up a notch this year and play in the snow banks.

If your little boy is anxious to get outdoors and play with the crew, dress him up in the Kamik Kids Tickle boots made with a thick layer of insulation and removable Zylex liner. The boots are waterproof with their windbreaker covering and made with a flexible outsole for extra traction. They're available in a bold black and red design, an eye-catching and stylish addition to any winter ensemble.

Whether your tiny tot is hitting the slopes for their first sledding lesson or benching it this season in a cozy cot, prepare them for the winter tundra with a pair of comfy boots that will weather the storm!

It's going to be a few months before your newborn will be ready to start socializing and playing with mom and dad, but that gives you plenty of time to stock up on playtime gear. Infant boys and girls can get away with one-piece suits for their first few months since the daily schedule consists of napping, eating, crying and napping some more. But they'll be ready to meet and greet friends and family members within a few short weeks and playtime can be officially added to the agenda. Dress them up for the part with:

Overalls
When they're not hiding underneath the baby blanket all day long, they can show themselves off in some cozy velour coveralls. The le top kids First Snow Velour Coverall comes with a matching cap and is designed with a smiling snowman on the front. Overalls are a versatile and comfortable piece of clothing for any infant eager to get out of the crib and play!

Playful Pants
Declare it a casual day in your household and dress up your newborn in a pair of furry pants and a cozy jacket. The Widgeon Kids Pom Pom Pants are designed with multi-colored polka dots and a super-soft covering. They're trimmed with furry pom poms at the hem, and the matching furry jacket pulls together this cozy ensemble for a fun filled day ahead.

Sassy Romper Sets
If the day calls for cozying up by the fire and spending time lazing indoors, let the good times roll in a comfortable romper. Your newborn will be plenty comfortable for a day of activities in the Bindi Wear Koala Romper, a soft and lightweight romper with a snap button closure. The romper is covered in small koala footprints and an oversized koala design in front. It's a great match for any day where playtime is a top priority.

A Plush Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits are a fancy version of the classic onesie and work great for playtime and social hour. Let them show off their cute selves in the le top kids Petite Footed Velour Jumpsuit. The soft cotton and polyester suit is trimmed with fluttery cuffs and satin details for a regal touch. It's also machine washable, so you can make the most of this versatile piece.

When your little one is all decked out in their adorable onesie or dress-up ensemble, it's time to take care of mom and dad. Shopping for a newborn can be fun and exciting as you put together baby's first wardrobe, decorate the baby room and pick up the latest toys and gadgets that will help them learn and grow. Still, it might be high time for mom and dad to update their closets so they're well prepared for picture time when family paparazzi join in the fun!

Any new mom will make a good candidate for a mini-makeover, so now is the time to splurge a little on a fresh outfit. Pick up a sassy pair of heels from Betsey Johnson and show off those gams! Now that your pregnancy days are over, you are free to trot around in stilettos and platform heels as you please.

Moms will also fare well with an oh-so-versatile organizer bag to carry a day's worth of shopping lists, the wallet and other needed accessories while running errands. The Kavu Seattle Sling bag is an eye-catching collection of versatile bags that make it easy to stay organized during any chaotic day. The bags are made with a soft canvas material and ergonomically designed for extra comfort. Pack up your cell phone, PDA and other gadgets for those long days outside of the house.

Dads can blow off steam from the stressful days ahead with some new athletic and casual gear. Pick up a pair of rugged Oakley shoes for a comfortable fit and extra support for any outdoor activities. These versatile shoes have a unique tread pattern so you can head off on a hiking adventure, play a round of football or soccer, or just go on a run through the nearest nature trail for a much needed break.

When dad needs to dress up for an evening event with the family, a simple v-neck sweater made with cotton and nylon offers plenty of comfort. The Fitzwell sweater is designed with clean-cut lines and a ribbed trim along the neck and cuffs for an extra touch; he'll look plenty handsome for any casual evening event.

Decorating the baby's room and designing your baby's first wardrobe are some of the most significant activities for every new parent. The crib is one of the most important elements of your newborn's experience in their new home, so you need to select some practical but stylish accessories to make sure your baby is as comfortable - and safe - as possible during nap time, play time and those long days of rest ahead.

Outfitting the crib with a soft and comforting blanket, plenty of baby toys and some colorful pillows are the first steps to creating their ideal dream space. Make sure your crib is pulled together with the following essentials:

1. Cotton sheets. Look for some fun prints in cotton sheets for the crib so baby can enjoy some new colors and shapes! Cotton sheets covered with small animals, toy icons, cartoon characters or just some happy faces will set them up for some pleasant dreams.

2. Baby blanket. The baby blanket is sure to become their must-have accessory, so choose something that will last them for a few years ahead. The blanket can be used to wrap the baby from head to toe as they enjoy a snoozefest during the day, or it can be used on top of the sheets as a comforter.

3. Plush toys. Let your baby make some new friends inside his crib with a selection of smiley plush toys and dolls. Young babies love to be around smiling faces, and their toys will soon become crib buddies that they can play with as they develop their basic skills.

4. Hanging mobile. Add more color and shapes to your newborn's world with a colorful mobile or light display that hangs right above their crib. This can be turned on at night to help them sleep better, and gives them a chance to develop their visual skills as they watch the different shapes and colors float around by day.

5. Fluffy pillows. A set of soft and fluffy pillows designed just for baby will help cradle their sensitive head at night and help them get a good night's rest. Select pillows that are covered with a removable (and washable) flannel or cotton pillowcase so that freshening up the crib is a breeze.

Now that bone-chilling temperatures and snow days are complementing your outdoor activities, making sure your little one is protected from winter's gifts can be a challenge. Thankfully, there are several key pieces that will keep them warm and toasty as they join you on errand runs, head out for a car ride or even when they're playing a supporting role in the family snowman-making event.

From super-insulated jackets to comfy bunting suits, here are a few essentials for those frightfully chilly days ahead:

Cozy Bunting Suit - Not only is this snuggly coverall a festive treat for the eyes, but it's made with a soft and cozy polyester that will trap in the heat with ease. The attached hood and mittens make this one perfect for a trip to the grocery store or mall as you gear up for the holidays, and the suit is machine-washable, so you don't have to stress about spills and 'oopsies' on any given day.

Warmplus Favorite Jacket - When you're in need of a fuss-free solution for getting them outside without the freeze factor, pick up one of these Polarfleece jackets, which act as a powerful shield against those chilly days. The plush, hooded jacket goes on easily and straps in place in a few seconds; it's also machine-washable and dryer-friendly, making it a super versatile addition to their winter wardrobe.

Puff Rider Overalls - Overalls are great fun for those outdoor sporting events, giving your little one a chance to bundle up and stay warm when they're ready to dive in the snow. The weather-resistant shell and insulated bib make it a great layering piece for any outdoor adventure. Even if they're just benching it this season, the overalls will provide plenty of warmth and comfort with multi-layer insulation and extra padding.

Other necessities for the season? A pair of mittens that will keep their precious hands guarded from the cold, and some thermal socks or booties to trap in the heat. Top off their winter ensemble with a fleece or polyester hat, and they'll be more than ready to brave those cold and blustery days ahead!

Making room for the new addition to the family can be a fun and exciting experience, and you can get started by creating an inviting space for your little one. Toys, snuggle-worthy blankets and play centers are just a few essentials when designing a fun but comfortable baby room.

Whether you're counting down the days to your new addition or baby's already arrived, get started on decorating the baby room with some of these too-cute essentials:

Show 'em Some Love
If you're not around to hold and comfort your little one at a moment's notice, let one of the Tender Begginings Giraffes help you out. These plush giraffes are huggable, loveable, super-soft toys that will accompany your baby on any troublesome day. These toys are also equipped with a machine washable blanket so you can create the ultimate snuggle space.

Create a Comfort Zone
Picking the right baby blanket is a top priority for any new parent, especially since baby blankets tend to stick around well beyond the baby years. Pick up a stylish blanket from Hatley Kids; these designer blankets are made with cute prints on one side and a solid jersey and animal appliqué on the other. Their 100-percent cotton material means they're also easy to wash and maintain, so your baby's blanket can last for years to come.

For the Future Movie Buff
Prepare a media center for your toddler-to-be with a set of classic children's movies and animated films. From Alvin & the Chipmunks to the Harry Potter movies, you can spark their imagination and give them a chance to enjoy a chuckle or two. Playing animated movies throughout the day provides some extra stimulation for that growing mind and may even ward off a temper tantrum when stress levels run high.

Make Room for Playtime
Give your baby a chance to play after a busy day of sleeping, eating and crying. The Gund Spunky Playmat features special toys and attachments to let their imagination soar. It's also easy to clean and maintain in case of a "baby emergency," and will give you a chance to take a break from keeping baby busy on any given day.

After the excitement of bringing the newborn home subsides, and you're preparing for a life with your new addition, getting organized can help you get back into your daily routine. Your days are now filled with lugging diapers, stocking up on baby formula and building a new wardrobe for your little one, so you'll need some tools and supplies to keep everything in order. From diaper bags to organizer totes, there are plenty of ways to keep track of all the essentials as you embrace and enjoy this new change in your life.

First, tap into your fashionable ways with a trendy child carrier. The MetroMamma child carriers are a stylish way to tote your little one along on that next errand run, giving you a chance to carry your newborn with flair. Take your pick of camo, dragon or crown designs with rhinestone embellishments or glitter for an extra touch of glam. These versatile child carriers are a must for any mod mommy who wants to show off her little one in style!

Next, pick out your favorite color and style of diaper bag. You can spread the word of peace with the DanteBeatrix Diaper Stroller Tote, a trendy messenger-style bag with plenty of compartment space, or just share your love for metallic with this eye-catching silver bag from Diaper Dude. These diaper bags are made with comfort and versatility in mind to help you carry around all those baby essentials with ease.

When it's time to hit the road for a weekend of traveling, don't forget to pack your own must-haves and accessories in a chic tote. Mom needs her own travel tote to carry books, magazines, snacks and perhaps a fresh set of clothing on those overnight stays. Pick up the spacious Hurley Ace of Spades to show off your trendy side or go for a laid back and casual look with a sherpani tote in bold colors.

Staying organized in the midst of chaos is one of the best ways to overcome the challenges of change and get into your regular routine. Pick up any of these essential accessories when baby comes home so you can adjust to your new lifestyle with ease!

Holiday season is finally underway, and getting the kids dressed up for their first Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukah and other special events is even more fun when they're decked out in a designer ensemble. Shoe styles that are sure to spread some holiday cheer might include sweet Mary Jane booties, patent leather 'pumps' for the girls, and for the boys, a pair of dapper leather sneakers.

Pick up the Armani Junior sneakers for your little boy so he can get a head start in life in the fashion lane. These sneakers are emblazoned with the signature 'Armani' logo and made with a rich black and white leather design; a fresh import from Italy, these are ready to turn your baby or toddler into a prince for the night.

Or you can give your boy a chance to show off his sporty side with some colorful kicks from Moschino; these red, white and blue sneakers are made with flexible leather and extra padding for extra comfort. They're covered in sports-inspired insignia and will let him play up his casual-cool personality.

Let your little girl play princess for the night's revelries in a pair of patent leather bow shoes from Dolce & Gabbana. These adorable shoes are made with soft leather lining and super-glossy patent leather construction for an elegant touch to her ensemble. She'll be ready to strut her stuff in no time, because these shoes even have an oh-so-ladylike 3/8-inch heel!

For the girl who really wants to get into the holiday spirit, a pair of bright red, suede Mary Janes is the ticket to fun at that upcoming event. The D&G Junior Mary Janes are designed with festive, red suede upper and finished with a D&G metal plate. She'll be ready to turn a few heads and keep those toes toasty and warm on the cold winter days ahead.

When it's time to kick off holiday celebrations and get your baby or toddler dressed up for the occasion, make sure to finish off their ensemble with a pair of designer shoes. From Armani to Dolce & Gabbana, your little one is sure to be the star of the show with any of these designer picks!

When your little one will be spending most of their days snoozing and napping through winter season, they'll need some comfortable sleepwear and cozy accessories to make the most of their hibernation. 'Tis the season to wrap your kids up in snuggle-worthy clothing and onesies made with fleece, keeping them warm and toasty when temperatures drop and enjoy their daily snooze sessions in peace. Onesies and PJs designed especially for newborns are the versatile necessity for the season. Here are a few sleepwear must-haves for those chilly days ahead:

Your little lady is sure to enjoy life in la-la land in the Hurley Kids Footsie; this zip-down onesie comes in a hot pink design and is covered with an all-over screen print. It's made of 100-percent cotton and will easily trap in any extra heat both day and night. It's a 'Footsie,' because it's an all-in-one suit that keeps those toes well-protected against the elements; you can add a pair of booties or socks on top of the suit for extra protection on any brisker days ahead.

Your little prince will be pampered like royalty in an uber-comfortable velour onesie - an outfit that might also get him some extra attention during his snooze fest. The Petit Bateau Velour Footie is a super-soft pajama made with an 80/20 cotton and polyester blend. This one features a curious bunny and kangaroo pocket on the front and is a snap to put on and take off with the simple closure design.

If it's the classic PJs you're after, make sure you pick up a set of Sara's Print Kids Pajamas, a loose fitting cotton pajama with a rib trim for extra comfort. You can pick from fun designs including red fire trucks, royal dinos and space travel or even tap into his sporty side with a pair of PJs with basketball hoops or a hockey theme. These extra-soft pajama sets can be accessorized with a pair of fleece booties and a fun beanie to trap in even more heat on any chilly evening.

When you're looking for winter weather basics for your little girl or boy, you'll need to stock up on a few sets of flannel, cotton and polyester pajamas for those casual days at home. Machine-washable sets are the most versatile choice for your hectic schedule, and buying a flame-resistant set will keep your little one safe and warm for nap time.

When cold winter days rear their ugly head, but you want to take your newborn out for a day on the town, dolling him or her up in a few winter weather basics will keep them safe, comfortable and more than ready for the road. Your newborn will need several layers of clothing and blankets to face those brisk mornings and chilly evenings like a winter veteran. From fleece-lined onesies to layered bodysuits with mittens, there's something for all tastes and styles for the chilly season ahead.

They may be too young for a snowball fight, but a puffy jacket is an absolute must for staying well-protected from the elements. The Puff Rider Jacket from Patagonia is designed just for babies, with a deluxe polyester shell and a water-resistant layer. The quilted jacket will fend off that brisk wind and keep baby plenty warm with extra hand-warmer pockets and Quallofil insulation. The jacket is also machine-washable, so you don't have to worry about spills and accidents ruining this winter must-have.

Keep your little girl cozy and comfortable in a fur-lined Bunting Suit that comes with its own set of mittens. This suit is designed with a hood and closed feet to trap heat in for the long haul. This super-sweet pink set is also easy to take on and off - a must for those last-minute trips - and is machine washable.

Whether you're off to the park or just heading out for a tour of the town, layer up your tot with some fleece-lined pants designed with eco-friendly materials. The Patagonia Baby Synchilla Pants are a playful and fun addition to your newborn's ensemble. This pair of super-comfortable pants is made with soft fleece and designed with an elastic waist. The pants can be worn by themselves or layered with various onesies and other bottoms for extra warmth.

And when the day calls for chilling out at home and steering clear of chilly weather outdoors, packing your newborn up in a fleece vest can keep them warm and toasty all day long. The Baby Synchilla Vest is made with double-faced fleece and a relaxed fit for easy layering. It's another super-soft addition to baby's winter wardrobe and a versatile piece for indoor or outdoor activities.

Your little one won't be trekking across the snow banks any time soon, but they can still show their winter spirit with a pair of cozy booties. Booties for newborns are designed to keep those toes and feet plenty toasty when the temperatures drop. A pair of fleece-lined booties can help keep your baby girl or boy well prepared for the season and enjoying those chilly months in style!

Let them show off their Alpine tastes with the Lamb Play'N'Wash sheepskin booties. These super soft booties make it easy to stay warm when the wind chill rears its ugly head, and they slide on and off easily with a side hook-and-loop closures - no laces to worry about! These booties are also great for traveling, just fold them up tight and plop them into that tote or carryall for easy travels over the winter season.

It's never too early to unleash their inner style god (or goddess), so a pair of fleece-lined booties with flair can take things up a notch this season. The Robeez winter booties are a plush and stylish pair with a fur-lined trim and extra soft finish. They're made with textured suede outsoles for extra comfort and protection, and they ensure your newborn will stay fashionable and warm on those chilly days ahead.

Sheepskin Uggs are another must have for winter weather, a snug and stylish bootie with the famous UGG label. These booties are fully lined with plush fleece that keeps moisture at bay even if your little one does end up catching a few snowflakes. The base of these booties is also made with a thick layer of fleece, which means they'll be wrapped up in a cloud of fleece from the top of their ankles to the tip of their toes.

If your little boy is anxious to charm the crowds and show off his trendy side, make sure to pick up the ultimate stylish essential: the Ralph Lauren Embossed Bear Bootie. This suede bootie is made with a deep blue fleece and beige trim and finished with a cute white bear on the vamp. For the girl who insists on playing princess for the day, the pink suede Pampili booties are sure to please. These luxurious booties are made with soft leather upper and bow details, and they're a stylish and cozy pair for any dreary day ahead.