Sunday, December 21, 2008

Update on Christmas Orders

It is with a BIG smile on my face that I can let you know that I have completed and shipped ALL regular and personalized jewelry orders placed through noon on Sunday, December 20th. The cutoff date for guaranteed Christmas delivery was December 5th. However, I've been working every single day since returning from my trip in November to be able to get out everyone's orders so that they can have them in time for Christmas. If you haven't received your order yet, it is on the way. Please note that delivery outside of the United States is not guaranteed, as we can't predict what date you'll be receiving your package.

There are a few special order Gold items that I'm still waiting to receive in from my suppliers. These will ship to you as soon as they arrive.

Custom Engraved Handprint and Footprint Jewelry and Photo Jewelry have been completed through the December 5th order date, even though the cutoff date was November 30th. Right after Christmas I will be working on the next batch of custom orders placed from Dec 6 to Dec 10.

I will be taking the next 4 days "off" to get my own Christmas shopping completed, and spending time with my family during this special holiday. However, we will still be shipping items from the Holiday Gift Ideas collection:

Click Here for Holiday Gifts with Immediate Shipping

We sincerely thank you for your business and continued support of My Forever Child. We are truly touched and inspired by the stories and feedback that you choose to share with us. We wish you Peace, Comfort, and Love during this Holiday Season. May you have a Blessed and Joyous New Year 2009!

Warm Wishes,
Sue and Rich Mosquera

Saturday, December 13, 2008

December 14th-Worldwide Candle Lighting for Deceased Children



The Compassionate Friends Worldwide Candle Lighting®, held annually the second Sunday in December, this year December 14, unites family and friends around the globe as they light candles for one hour to honor and remember children who have died at any age from any cause. As candles are lit at 7 p.m. local time, creating a virtual wave of light, hundreds of thousands of persons commemorate and honor the memories of children in a way that transcends all ethnic, cultural, religious, and political boundaries.


Now believed to be the largest mass candle lighting on the globe, the Worldwide Candle Lighting, a gift from TCF to the bereavement community, creates a virtual 24-hour wave of light as it moves from time zone to time zone. Hundreds of formal candle lighting events are held and thousands of informal candle lightings are conducted in homes as families gather in quiet remembrance of children who have died, but will never be forgotten.

Click Here to view services in the United States and around the globe visit events page.


Throughout the day, a Remembrance Book will be available from their home page. You are invited to leave a message to honor the memory of a special child in your life...that their light may always shine.

And ...While visiting the website take a few minutes to watch The Compassionate Friends new video "When a Child Dies".

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Holiday Gift Ideas with Immediate Shipping!

I have compiled a collection of gifts that are in stock and ready for immediate shipment. Perfect for Christmas, Hannukah, Stocking Stuffers, Grab Bags, Teacher Gifts, or just a Thinking of You gift for a special someone.

Click Here for Holiday Gift Ideas!

New Christmas Ornaments

As promised, five new pewter Angel Ornaments have arrived and they are simply adorable! Made from lead free pewter, these ornaments are 3 dimensional and double sided so that they will look great from any angle on your Christmas Tree or in a window. There are very limited quantities available, so be sure to place and order ASAP!

These ornaments are approximately 3 inches high by 2.5 inches wide. Click the images below to see the individual product descriptions for the actual sizes.


Heavenly Music Ornament


Painting the Stars Ornament


Angel Star Ornament


Gathering the Stars Ornament


Moonlight Seesaw Ornament

Friday, November 28, 2008

Nov. 30th is Last Order Day for Custom Handprint-Footprint & Photo Jewelry for Christmas Delivery

Just a reminder that November 30th will be the last day to place an order for Christmas delivery of Custom Engraved Handprint & Footprint Jewelry and Photo Jewelry.

December 5th is the last day to order for Christmas delivery of personalized, engraved, and hand stamped jewelry.

Please note that we can only guarantee Christmas delivery within the United States. We can't predict delivery dates on International shipping, and this time of year may take extra shipping time to reach it's destination.

I have several new styles of child angel pewter ornaments coming in this week. I'll post as soon as they are ready. I'll also be posting some product suggestions for quick shipping Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers.

My website was off line most of Friday due to a server issue. I apologize to everyone that was trying to log on, but only got an error message. It seems that the problem is resolved (I hope) and you should be able to order online for the November 30th cutoff.

Warm Wishes!

Sunday, November 23, 2008

We're Back!

I just wanted to let you all know that we're back from our vacation. We had a great time- a 5 day cruise to Grand Cayman and Cozumel, Mexico. Here are a few pictures I'd like to share with you:

We visited the ancient Mayan ruins at Tulum, Mexico. This was the temple for the Fertility Goddess. All women were expected to make the long trek at least once in their life to pay homage and pray for pregnancy and babies. The facade of the temple eroded a long time ago, and it's hard to make out the symbols used, but the story has remained intact.



This picture is from the outside of the fertility temple. It represents a sad reality of childbearing- stillbirth and neonatal death. I thought it was interesting that the Mayans publically acknowledged that death was a very real part of life, and that not all births turn out happily.



This was taken in front of our cruise ship, and about 20 minutes before I became violently ill while traveling to Tulum, lol.



Here is Rich at the cliff of the Mayan ruins. A gorgeous clear blue water beach is below, along with several large native iguanas. A real sight to behold!



Thank you to everyone who placed orders while we were out- I have plenty of work to keep me busy this week :-) We've already processed the shipping labels for what's going out this week, and many more supplies are on order.

I accidentally broke my digital camera after we came home. I have a lot of new products to roll out, but hadn't taken the pictures yet. I'm not sure what to do...I'll post the pics as soon as I'm able to.

Saturday, November 8, 2008

VACATION NOTICE: November 14th to 23rd

We will be out of the office from Friday, November 14th through Sunday, November 23rd. I will be back in the studio and catching up on orders on Monday, November 24th. Any engraved or personalized order placed after Tuesday, November 11th may not be shipped until we return. I will do my best to ship out all simple orders before we leave.

Rich and I will be going on a much needed and relaxing vacation alone. I hope to come back well rested and ready to tackle the craziness of the upcoming Holiday Season.

You can still place online orders during this time. They will be completed in the order that they are received in, when we return. Express orders can not be shipped until after November 24th.

If you have already placed an order for custom engraved handprint or footprint jewelry or photo charm by November 5th, it will be completed and shipped before we leave. Any custom photo or handprint-footprint jewelry placed after November 5th will be placed in queue for when we return.

Thanks for your patience. Speak to you again in a couple of weeks!

November Giveaway- Personalized Birthstone Crystal Suncatcher

Our originally designed crystal suncatchers really sparkle and reflect light gorgeously as they hang in a window or around a car rearview mirror. You can even hang them on your Christmas Tree! Or you can add your favorite necklace chain for a unique look.

For the month of November, I am giving away a Personalized Birthstone Crystal Suncatcher:




How do you enter to win this prize? Simply subscribe to our Blog Feeds by using the widgets in the top right corner of the blog. OR you can sign up for our Mailing List by entering your email address below. All subscribers are eligible for each Monthly Giveaway. The winner will be chosen on November 30th, so hurry to enter!

To Sign Up for our FREE Giveaways,
Product Updates, Articles & Specials,
please enter your email address:

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October Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to the subscriber whose email starts with:

acountrygirl78

You have won the October Giveaway- a Breast Cancer Mini Ribbon charm and Pregnancy & Infant Loss Lampwork Earrings!

Please contact me at info @ myforeverchild.com with your name and shipping address, and I'll be sure to get these right out to you.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Study Results: Fan Use May Decrease Risk of SIDS

First Candle is pleased to share with you an interesting new study on the use of fans in an infant’s room to help reduce the risk of SIDS.

Tummy sleeping and soft bedding in a baby’s sleep area can cause a buildup of carbon dioxide (exhaled air) around the baby’s face. Instead of breathing oxygen-rich fresh air, the baby may breathe the exhaled air which may increase the risk of SIDS. Many parents start getting nervous when their baby starts rolling over during sleep. A fan in the room can help disburse the exhaled air so the baby has more access to fresh air.

According to Dr. Fern Hauck, member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Task Force on SIDS and First Candle Medical and Scientific Advisory Council, more research is needed. “This is the first study that has looked at this issue,” Hauck said. “Because fan use is in line with theories, it may be worth considering.”

“While we can’t say conclusively that using a fan will reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS, First Candle has suggested the use of fans as a proactive step that parents and caregivers can take for several years,” said Laura Reno, Director of Public Affairs for First Candle. The best protection against SIDS is still to place your baby on his or her back in a safety approved crib on a firm mattress covered with only a sheet. There should be nothing else in the crib.” First Candle also reminds parents and caregivers babies who sleep in adult beds are at an increased risk for SIDS, suffocation and accidents during sleep. Placing your baby in a separate space along side your bed is safer.

If using a table or floor fan, use safety precautions to make sure the fan is not too close to the crib and that it can't tip over or onto the crib causing a finger hazard.


Use of a Fan During Sleep and the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Kimberly Coleman-Phox, MPH; Roxana Odouli, MSPH; De-Kun Li, MD, PhD Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2008;162(10):963-968.

Objective To examine the relation between room ventilationduring sleep and risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Design Population-based case-control study.

Setting Eleven California counties.

Participants Mothers of 185 infants with a confirmed SIDSdiagnosis and 312 randomly selected infants matched on countyof residence, maternal race/ethnicity, and age.

Intervention Fan use and open window during sleep.

Main Outcome Measure Risk of SIDS.

Results Fan use during sleep was associated with a 72%reduction in SIDS risk (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.28; 95%confidence interval [CI], 0.10-0.77). The reduction in SIDSrisk seemed more pronounced in adverse sleep environments. Forexample, fan use in warmer room temperatures was associatedwith a greater reduction in SIDS risk (AOR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.01-0.52)compared with cooler room temperatures (0.77; 0.22-2.73). Similarly,the reduction associated with fan use was greater in infantsplaced in the prone or side sleep position (AOR, 0.14; 95% CI,0.03-0.55) vs supine (0.84; 0.21-3.39). Fan use was associatedwith a greater reduction in SIDS risk in infants who shareda bed with an individual other than their parents (AOR, 0.15;95% CI, 0.01-1.85) vs with a parent (0.40; 0.03-4.68). Finally,fan use was associated with reduced SIDS risk in infants notusing pacifiers (AOR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.07-0.69) but not in pacifierusers (1.99; 0.16-24.4). Some differences in the effect of fanuse on SIDS risk did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion Fan use may be an effective intervention forfurther decreasing SIDS risk in infants in adverse sleep environments.

For more information on current SIDS and Stillbirth Research, please visit www.FirstCandle.org

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Today is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

October 15th is the U.S. National Recognition Day. Please light a candle at 7pm on October 15th. Leave it burning for at least an hour, so that there will be a continuous wave of light around the globe in remembrance of our precious little ones, gone too soon. For more information, please visit:
www.October15th.com


To view a downloadable pdf brochure of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Info, please visit http://myforeverchild.com/Oct15.pdf




To view remembrance events taking place in your area, please visit http://www.october15th.com/activities_walks.htm

Monday, October 6, 2008

October Giveaway- Breast Cancer Mini Charm AND Infant Loss Earrings

To help you raise awareness of Pregnancy and Infant Loss all year round, this month I am giving away my Lampwork Earrings with pink and blue ribbons and crystals and sterling silver findings.



In addition, in honor of October's Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I am giving away a sterling silver mini Breast Cancer charm. With it's trigger clasp, you can add it onto most bracelets or necklaces.



How do you enter to win these prizes? Simply subscribe to our Blog Feeds by using the widgets in the top right corner of the blog. OR you can sign up for our Mailing List by entering your email address below. All subscribers are eligible for each Monthly Giveaway. The winner will be announced on October 30th, so hurry to enter!

To Sign Up for our FREE Giveaways,
Product Updates, Articles & Specials,
please enter your email address:

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Monday, September 22, 2008

Child Loss in the Media

Here are some articles about child loss that have been in the media recently.
Feel free to link to this post, or post a comment if you have other articles to add to it.

Reader Advisory: these resources contain very heart wrenching, tear jerking material. Reader discretion advised.

People Magazine- "We Will See Maria Again"
When Gospel Star Steven Curtis Chapman's Youngest Daughter Was Accidentally Killed by An SUV Driven by His Son, the Family Faced a True Test of Faith. The Chapmans Share Their Story of Love, Loss and Healing



Stillborn Report from nbc11.com (video)

Newsweek Magazine- A Vast and Sudden Sadness
Every year some 26,000 babies die during or after the 20th week in their mothers' womb (a loss before that is considered a miscarriage) or die during birth. In at least half of all cases, doctors have no idea what went wrong. The impact is impossible to measure. Mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends—all must figure out how to absorb the vast and sudden sadness, to grieve and, in many instances, to reconcile with a God who has shaken their faith to its core.



Why infants still die from SIDS from cnn.com
  • Fewer than 2,500 infant deaths this year will be classified as SIDS
  • SIDS may be underreported because causes of infant deaths are mislabeled
  • Researchers investigate brain-stem problems and undiagnosed genetic anomalies
  • Babies who begin daycare before 4 months of age may be at increased risk



  • Redbook Magazine- The Shadow Side of Motherhood
    Becoming a mom is one of life's greatest joys. But for some of us, the path to motherhood takes a gut-wrenching turn. Seven women share their journeys — and how they made it through.



    O Magazine-This Does Not Have to Be a Secret
    "Every day as I love this baby in my lap, I think of my other baby. Poor older brother, poor missing one. I see the infant before me, the glory of the soles of the feet, the lips fattened and glossy with nursing, the nose whose future Edward and I try to predict daily. The love for the first magnifies the love for the second, and vice versa."


    Lily Allen opens up about her Miscarriage
    Songstress Lily Allen reveals how her despair over a January 2008 miscarriage led her to spend three weeks in a psychiatric ward. “I was really depressed because of the miscarriage and I’d kind of lost the plot a bit,”


    I Lost My Toddler To Cot Death
    "Even before I went into his room, I knew something was wrong. I was used to hearing him play with his five-year-old sister, Abi - their laughter was my daily alarm clock. Not this morning."


    Gorilla Grieves Over Death Of Her Baby
    "This, perhaps, is one of the greatest gifts that a zoo can bestow - to show animals are very much like ourselves, and feel elation and pain," Adler said. "Gana lost a child, but I think in that loss, she taught people here so much."



    From Redbook Magazine- The Fertility Diaries:
    Part 1 of this series is not linked properly. But here are the other installments:

    The Fertility Diaries: 3 Friends, 3 Paths to Pregnancy
    This month, Jody copes with the stressful reality of reproductive treatments, Jenny faces her fear about the health of her baby, and a pregnant Carrie learns from her friends' struggles and losses.


    Fertility Diaries: They Dreamed of Motherhood Together
    As Jenny, Jody, and Carrie each face their own unique challenges, the friendship that has supported them on the path to becoming moms only grows stronger.


    Mothers...at Last
    Jody, Carrie, and Jenny look back at how far they've come together and look forward to a sweet future with their daughters.

    Friday, September 19, 2008

    September Giveaway-Personalized Teardrop Pendant

    For September, I am giving away my NEW Personalized Teardrop Pendant. This is a pretty way to acknowledge someone you love that has passed on.

    A Sterling Silver teardrop shape is handstamped with your desired inscription. In this sample, our exclusive Angel Heart stamp is on top and Baby Feet are at the bottom. Please make note below if you would like different design stamps used.

    A Swarovski crystal in your choice of colors is attached to the top of the pendant. With Bali-Style spacers and all sterling silver findings.



    How do you enter to win this pendant? Simply subscribe to our Blog Feeds by using the widgets in the top right corner. OR you can sign up for our Mailing List by entering your email address below. All subscribers are eligible for each Monthly Giveaway. The winner will be announced on September 30th, so hurry to enter!

    To Sign Up for our FREE Giveaways,
    Product Updates, Articles & Specials,
    please enter your email address:

    Delivered by FeedBurner

    Monday, September 15, 2008

    September & October Upcoming Events

    September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. My Forever Child will be making donations to CureSearch.org and the Ronald McDonald House, which provides housing for families during their child's treatments.

    September is also Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In honor of all these far reach and devasting cancers, all of our Awareness Jewelry is on sale. Any of our designs can be customized with the crystal color of your choice to represent your cause. How touching it would be to give a survivor or someone going through the illness now, a personalized piece that shows your support and desire to give them hope!
    Click here for all our sale items

    October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. My Forever Child has been donating the Always in my heart lapel pins to numerous organizations that are distributing them to newly bereaved parents. We are also going to be making monetary donations to our favorite pregnancy and infant loss charities.

    October 15th is the U.S. National Recognition Day. Please light a candle at 7pm on October 15th. Leave it burning for at least an hour, so that there will be a continuous wave of light around the globe in remembrance of our precious little ones, gone too soon. For more information, please visit:
    www.October15th.com




    To view remembrance events taking place in your area, please visit http://www.october15th.com/activities_walks.htm

    For Long Islanders, there is the 5th Annual Walk to Remember hosted by Winthrop University Hospital Perinatal Bereavement Program on Saturday, October 4th from 10am to 2pm. At Eisenhower Park Field 5, in East Meadow. You can register on the day of the event, but if you are definitely going to attend, please call Margaret at (516)663-9363 with a head count of how many will be attending, so that they can order enough food. It is $25 per person, or $40 per couple, seniors $15, children under 12 are free. The Walk to Remember is a beautiful and solemn event that we have attended every year. There is a candle lighting with the baby's names read, various inspirational speakers, lots of food, and the picturesque walk through Eisenhower Park in memory of the babies that are not here to walk on earth.
    I will be there with a table displaying my handcrafted jewelry and keepsakes. It is a great opportunity for you to view the pieces in person and discuss any questions you have. For any of my previous customers, please stop by to say hello and introduce yourself. It's always nice to put a face on the names of those I've created pieces for. Hope to see you there!

    Tuesday, August 19, 2008

    Win our Custom Handprint-Footprint Heart Pendant- LAST DAY!!!

    Girl Indie Blog is running a free giveaway of my Custom Engraved Handprint-Footprint Pendant. This is also the design that won their recent Designers Contest- FOR MOM Category. Now you can enter to win your own custom pendant! But you have to hurry- the last day to enter is Wednesday, August 20th.

    Click Here to Enter Giveaway

    Wednesday, August 13, 2008

    New Cremation Pendants



    I am happy to announce the addition of cremation pendants to My Forever Child. It's been something I've been considering for a long while now. I had jump at the chance when I saw the new cremation pendant line from Deborah Birdoes. She is a jewelry designer that creates the Inspirational Blessings line. I carry two other pendants by her and she emailed me to personally thank me and to make other recommendations that would appeal to my customers.



    All of Deborah's pendants are solid sterling silver with a rhodium plated finish, which resists tarnish. They all come with necklace chains and product cards which have scripture passages and poems. Plus, they are at a great price that I can pass along to my customers. Typically, cremation pendants purchased through funeral homes can be very expensive, especially when added to the cost of the funeral services. At the price of these new cremation pendant necklaces, you can buy two or three for the rest of the family, at the same price as purchasing one through a funeral home.

    Click Here to view the Cremation Pendants


    Friday, August 8, 2008

    Blogging For Blood Cancer Event

    If you have a blog or a website, please help us promote our “Blogging for Blood Cancer” Event. The first annual “Blogging for Blood Cancer” event will take place from August 11-18, 2008. This first time event will bring bloggers from across the United States together to raise awareness for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and its mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

    The event is being hosted by Goodies for Mom in conjunction with the Friends of Heroes (FOH) National Light The Night Team. We are asking that bloggers post on your blogs throughout the event about the importance of the LLS mission, share your personal stories of those you have come to know who have been affected by blood cancer, or share some of the stories you read here and on the FOH site during the week that have touched your hearts.

    All bloggers participating will have the opportunity to be entered to win prizes donated by event sponsors by leaving a Mr. Linky link on the Goodies for Mom post for the event. The event post will go up on August 11, 2008 at 8:00am. Even if you do not have a blog, visitors to the Goodies for Mom and Friends of Heroes blogs during the week will also have opportunities to win as they learn more about the importance of LLS’s research and patient services in the fight against blood cancer.




    My Forever Child has donated a sterling silver Precious Images Round Charm with ball chain necklace. The winner can choose one of our eight signature images for the front of the charm, and up to 3 lines of engraved personalization on the back of the charm.

    Tuesday, August 5, 2008

    Win our new Birth Tag Necklace!

    Fun and Free Giveaways Blog is featuring my new Birth Tag Necklace!

    I handcraft each birth tag from sterling silver sheet stock and file, polish, and hand stamp with personalization. The front of the tag features the child's first name and middle names, and birth date. Weight, length and time of birth are on the back. Each tag is approximately .75inch long x .5 inches wide x 1mm thick.

    These Birth Tags can be used as a memorial remembrance keepsake or as a gift for a mother of a newborn baby. These adorable necklaces are precious and will be cherished for years to come.

    You can place your entry until midnight of August 11th. The winner will be announced on August 12th. Good Luck!

    Click Here to Enter Drawing!



    Fun and Free Giveaways

    Personalized Birth Tag Necklace


    Personalized Birth Tag Necklace

    Tuesday, July 29, 2008

    Sidewalk Summer Sale

    I've been doing a little summer inventory clearance. Now is a great time to get a head start on Christmas shopping. They make wonderful stocking stuffers! Some items are limited edition and won't be stocked again-so snap them up while you can!

    Click here for our Summer Sidewalk Sale

    Tuesday, July 15, 2008

    Cast your vote for My Forever Child in a Design Contest!

    UPDATE:
    I am ecstatic to report that my design won with 26% of the votes in the FOR MOM category!! Thank you to everyone who went over to vote.

    Check out this cool graphic that they made for me:



    And I'll be receiving other great prizes like a Mommy Millionaire Book, free advertising and graphics, and an engraved trophy! I'll post the picture when it arrives.

    ***********************************************************************************
    My Custom Engraved Handprint-Footprint Heart Pendant is currently in the Grand Prize of a design contest.

    Click here to cast your vote

    It is Entry #4, and this is what it looks like:



    The voting runs until Thursday, July 31st.

    Thanks for your support!!

    Thursday, July 10, 2008

    Silver Jewelry Care Tips

    Do you know why silver darkens and tarnishes so fast in the summer? Heat, humidity, sweat, and body chemicals mix with the alloys in sterling silver, making it oxidize faster, resulting in the dull and darkened patina on your pieces. Some people mistake this oxidation thinking that the sterling silver is not "real". However sterling silver will come clean easily with silver polishing agents. Especially for the summertime, I have the Sunshine Polishing Cloth on sale for $5, including shipping within the USA!

    My Silver Jewelry Care Tips:

    ~Don't wear your jewelry in the swimming pool or hot tub. The harsh chemicals can break down the elements of the metal

    ~Rub your jewelry with the Sunshine Polishing Cloth after each wear. This will help to remove the body oils and take off any oxidation that has occurred.

    ~Store your jewelry in an airtight zip bag, like the one your piece initially comes in. If you've received a 3"h x 2"w milky-white zip bag with a red horizontal line across the top, that's actually an anti-tarnish bag! You can keep your jewelry stored in there for up to 2 years with minimal ozidation happening!

    ~Rub your jewelry with the Sunshine Polishing Cloth before each wear. This will help to remove any oxidation that has occurred while it was in storage.

    Wednesday, July 9, 2008

    Cowboys’ Ware Fulfills a Challenge for Fatherhood

    Sports / Pro Football
    Cowboys’ Ware Fulfills a Challenge for Fatherhood
    By GREG BISHOP
    Published: June 15, 2008

    DeMarcus Ware and his wife, Taniqua, believe they appreciate their daughter, Marley, more because they adopted her after three failed pregnancies.

    Click Here for Full Article

    "Facelift"

    I finally designed and added in our new home page. I wanted something clear and concise for the first time visitor. What do you think?

    Come see at www.MyForeverChild.com

    Tuesday, July 1, 2008

    Precious Images Line Expands



    My Precious Images line has been around for over a year and a half. But I recently revamped the line and made a separate sub-category for it under our
    Handprint-Footprint Jewelry.

    There are new shapes and sizes including small and large square, X-Large Heart and X-Large Round Pendants.
    Click Here to view the sizes of our Sterling Silver Engraveable Pieces


    Click Here to view the sizes of our 14K Gold Engraveable Pieces


    You can select from our 12 different exclusive signature images to be diamond engraved on a high quality sterling silver or 14K gold charm, pendant, keychain, or bracelet. The Precious Images include 1 Hand, 2 Hands, 1 Foot, 2 Feet, Hand & Foot together, 2 Feet in Heart, Dragonfly, 1 Butterfly, 2 Butterflies, 3 Butterflies, Baby Angel and a Cross.
    Click here to view the Precious Images Selections

    This is the perfect option for gift giving or if you don`t have a copy of your child`s own handprints or footprints.



    Our Precious Images Handprint and Footprint charms, pendants, and keychains are our most popular Remembrance & Memorial jewelry mementos for Baby-Infant Loss. However, these pieces also are great as birth necklaces and adoption commemoratives.

    Thursday, June 26, 2008

    New York Legislators Kill Bill for Grieving Mothers

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    CONTACT: Jeff and Lori Tieger
    718-698-1055
    908-256-2362 cell

    New York Legislators Kill Bill for Grieving Mothers

    Albany, NY (June 26, 2008) --- A8960 would have helped to provide much-needed comfort, dignity, and accurate documentation to women and their families experiencing the death of a baby just prior to or during birth. Yet, despite overwhelming support from individual legislators, including 53 Democrat and Republican sponsors, a powerful minority of reproductive rights activist legislators have “killed the bill” as of 11:00 p.m. on the last day of session.

    All states, including New York, wherein nearly 2000 babies are stillborn each year, require the family to pay for funeral expenses, and a death certificate/report is issued after a stillbirth. Yet, New York, unlike 23 other states, will not offer women the choice of a Certificate of Birth Resulting in Stillbirth. During a presidential election year, when women’s choices are a top priority for candidates, this topic is highly provocative.

    “There is an enormity to this public health issue,” says Dr. Joanne Cacciatore, an expert in traumatic child death. “More than ten times the number of babies die of stillbirth than those who die of SIDS, yet it’s virtually invisible.” Part of the problem, according to grieving parents, Jeff and Lori Tieger of Staten Island, is that families experiencing stillbirth have been silenced due to abortion politics. On June 15th, the Tieger’s held an important Father’s Day Press Conference on the steps of City Hall in New York City, where they also had a brief conversation with Speaker Sheldon Silver who assured grieving parents personally that, “We’re moving your bill.”

    However, by the end of session just a few days later, the bill was being held for consideration due to vociferous opposition from Helene Weinstein (D-Brooklyn). Yet, Weinstein's own county has the highest number of stillbirths in all of New York. In addition, one in 90 births results in stillbirth in that same county. “Assemblywoman Weinstein did not act on behalf of her constituents. She attended to the demands of large lobbying organizations supporting her position in the Assembly, and together they fought against grieving mothers,” said activist Paige Ricci of Malta. “I mean, how can you say you’re pro-woman, pro-children, and pro-choice and yet oppose a bill that advocates for women, children, and choices?”

    Dr. Cacciatore asserts that, “grieving mothers are being thrust into the middle of an acrimonious, long standing battle, as pawns in a political debate that has absolutely nothing to do with them.” Advocates for the legislation will continue their ongoing battle in New York for the seventh legislative session. Lori Tieger is committed to this fight in memory of her son, Daniel, who died just prior to birth at full term for unknown causes. “I’ll keep coming back and fighting this year after year until we are successful. It is time for New York to do what is right for all women.”

    For more information, please visit the legislative page at:
    Missing Angels Bill

    Sunday, June 22, 2008

    Going on a much needed break

    So I've finally carved out a couple of days from our never ending crazy schedule to go on a mini-vacation. I'll be out of town this Monday-Tuesday for a little R&R.

    Although I don't know how much rest I'll get. Monday is the last day of session in the New York Assembly. I'll be making numerous phone calls to some hard-headed New York Assembly Members to try to get them to move our Certificate of Birth Resulting in Stillbirth Bill into a full floor vote. If it doesn't happen by Monday, then we have to start from square one in September, and we don't want to have to go through all that again. Please say a prayer for us and our stillborn babies that we are trying to get acknowledged.

    Will be back on Wednesday.

    New Engraveable Pieces Size Chart

    Inspired by a customer's suggestion, I compiled all of the engraveable charms and pendants into one size chart. This lists the size in millimeters (more accurate than in inches), including the thickness of each piece. You can also see the relative size to each other. And if you print out the chart, it comes pretty close to the actual size. You'll need to double check with your ruler to make sure.



    Thursday, June 19, 2008

    'LIL CARE Angel to raise funds for First Candle



    I am so excited to announce that I have created the 'LIL CARE Angel Charm as a fundraiser for First Candle. First Candle is a national, nonprofit health organization dedicated to promoting infant health and survival during the prenatal period through age two with programs of advocacy, education, and research; while at the same time providing compassionate grief support to those affected by the loss of a baby.

    For each 'LIL CARE Angel sold, $25 will donated to First Candle to help babies survive and thrive. The acronym stands for:
    L- Lessen
    I- Infant
    L- Loss (with)
    C- Comprehensive
    A- Awareness
    R- Research and
    E- Education

    Sterling Silver charm engraved with our exclusive image of a baby angel holding the heartstrings of mom and dad.

    This charm is available in:
    Square~ 12/16 inch or 18mm square
    Round~ 11/16 inch or 18mm round
    Up to 3 lines of personalization is included on the back of the charm.

    Click Here to View the new 'LIL Care Angel Charm

    For Immediate Release

    My Forever Child Supports Leading Infant Health Organization
    Percentage of sales donated to First Candle


    [Baltimore, MD – June 2008] In an effort to create awareness and raise funds to save infant lives, My Forever Child has launched a new partnership with First Candle; the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to infant health and safety. My Forever Child will be donating fifty percent from the sale of its 'LIL CARE Angel charm and fifteen percent of sales generated by First Candle-referred customers in the form of product. The proceeds will be used to support SIDS and stillbirth research and bereavement support programs at First Candle.

    “We are pleased to have My Forever Child as the newest partner in our Gifts that Give program,” said Development Manager Heather McGraw. “This innovative program allows consumers to shop for the products and services they need most, while at the same time knowing that a portion of their purchase is going to a worthy cause.”
    Consumers can shop from the comfort of their own home through the First Candle web site at www.firstcandle.org

    “Ever since my son was stillborn in 2002, I have wanted to help raise funds for stillbirth research,” said My Forever Child founder Susan Mosquera. “Over 70 babies are stillborn every single day in the United States. This is a national health crisis that must be stopped. Children are irreplaceable; we have an obligation to protect them.”

    As an added bonus, consumers will receive critical lifesaving messages on reducing the risk of infant death with all on-line purchases of the 'LIL CARE Angel charm.

    For more information on First Candle’s Gifts that Give program, please contact Heather McGraw at 800.221.7437.
    ###

    First Candle is a national, nonprofit health organization dedicated to promoting infant health and survival during the prenatal period through age two with programs of advocacy, education and research, while at the same time providing compassionate grief support to those affected by an infant death. For more information on helping babies survive and thrive, to access local support services or to make a donation, please call 1.800.221.7437 or visit www.firstcandle.org
    *****************************************************
    Created by a stillbirth mother, My Forever Child is a leading international source for Personalized Remembrance Jewelry and Memorial Keepsakes to comfort those touched by the loss of a Child. Specializing in miscarriage, stillbirth, infant-baby loss, and fertility. For more information please call 1-888-325-2828 or visit www.MyForeverChild.com

    Tuesday, June 17, 2008

    How Photographs are helping families to heal their heartbreak

    This is a terrific story on the TODAY SHOW about how a great nonprofit organization called Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep is helping families capture those precious few moments with their stillborn or terminally ill baby. Make a donation!


    Sunday, June 15, 2008

    CPR & Water Safety Tips

    With the summer is full swing, it is prime season for drownings. Please be extra vigilant of your children in the water, even if they can swim. It only takes a few seconds for a healthy person to die from drowning.
    Red Cross Water Safety Tips

    The CPR Guidelines issued by the American Heart Association have been updated as of March 31, 2008. Check out the link below for the new, EASY TO LEARN basics of CPR. There is even video which shows the proper techniques, and printable pocket guides to carry with you always. Review it from time to time to keep it fresh in your mind, you never know if you may need to use it!
    LEARN CPR

    Here is an article about child swimming safety and secondard drowning


    A good video on how to avoid and get out of the dangerous rip currents at the beach:




    Have a Safe and Fun Summer!

    Thursday, June 12, 2008

    New York Government Letting Stillbirth Parents Down!!

    PRESS RELEASE

    Albany- NY, For the past 5 years a bill (A8960) has been before the New York State Government that would allow parents of stillborn babies to request and pay for a Certificate of Birth Resulting in Stillbirth. The Senate has passed this bill with an overwhelming majority in each of the last two sessions while the Assembly has continued to stall it in the Ways & Means committee.

    Currently, New York State does not issue any certificate to legally acknowledge the existence of these little loved ones who deeply touched our hearts – nearly 2,000 every year.

    Stillbirth is the ultimate woman’s issue. An issue that, up until this very moment in time, has been swept under the rug, hidden in the closet, pushed into the shadows. Mothers and fathers have been denied the acknowledgment, the comfort and the dignity, that is due them. This is not a complex issue - it should not fall victim to anyone’s political agenda. These women- these mothers- carried and gave birth to their babies. Parents are required by the state to bury or cremate their baby. How can you die if you were never born? Recognizing the birth of these babies is the psychologically humane, medically appropriate, and logical thing to do.
    In recent years, our bill has been re-written to address the concerns of opposing groups. Its current language is medically accurate and abides New York State laws. In fact, this bill does not change existing NYS Public Health Law, which already recognizes a fetal demise as both a birth and a death; it simply gives official recognition of the childbirth parents who face this tragedy have endured.

    In 2001, Arizona was the first state to pass this bill. Since that time, twenty-two (22) states have passed this bill: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia and Wisconsin. Over seven years and in twenty three (23) states there have been absolutely no repercussions in regard to any of the issues in which this bill raises concern. . The certificates being issued are not certificates of live birth; hence they will have no ramifications legally, or for insurance, inheritance, or prosecutorial purposes. Yet still, behind the scenes, powerful lobbies work to oppose the Assembly bill, marginalizing grieving families across New York. As the Senate continues to pass the bill each session, it has stalled twice in the Assembly. A8960 has been twice approved by the Health Committee, which deals directly with the groups that most aggressively oppose us. Why isn’t this bill on the agenda for the Ways and Means Committee? There is NO financial cost to the state. In fact, the attached fee for the certificate would be revenue generating.

    As one of the most politically influential state governmental systems, New York should be a leader in the fight to recognize those who have endured the physical and emotional pain of the birth process without the joy of being able to take their babies home. Second only to California in number of stillbirths each year, New York should be leading the charge to support this woman’s issue and to advance research to uncover causes and warnings signs that could save countless lives. Nearly 2,000 babies are born still in New York – a number ten times more than SIDS, a number comparable to AIDS related deaths each year.

    The current language of Assembly bill 8960 makes it unmistakably clear that its purpose is to recognize the love of parents whose birth experience will be the most tragic time of their lives. Still, our strongest opposition comes from pro-choice groups that continue to thrust grieving families in the middle of a battle that is not theirs: Abortion. Stillbirth and abortion are mutually exclusive events. Stillbirth is unintended and naturally occurs late in the pregnancy. Abortion is intentional, medically induced, and statistically occurs early in pregnancy. We have done everything to assuage the concerns of these lobby groups, including adding language that defined stillbirth as an “unintended intrauterine death post twenty weeks gestation” and reiterating that the certificate is not proof of a live birth. That could not be more clear.

    It is time for New York legislators to act upon what is right. It is time for New York legislators to act upon what is right. It is what families want. It is pro-woman. It is pro-family. It is pro-choice. The choice of a Certificate of Birth Resulting in Stillbirth is what is right.
    ###

    Father's Day Poems for fathers of Angels

    Don't cry for Me Daddy

    Don't cry for me Daddy,
    I'm right here.
    Although you can't see me
    I see your tears.
    I visit you often,
    I go to work with you each day,
    And when it's time for you
    to close your eyes ,
    On your pillow is where I lay.
    I hold your hand &
    stroke your hair,
    And whisper in your ear.
    If you're sad today Daddy,
    Remember, I am here.
    God took me home.
    This we know is true.
    But you'll always be My Daddy
    Even though I'm not with you.
    We will never be apart,
    For everytime you think of me,
    Please know I'm in your Heart..........
    ~Author Unknown



    Oh Father, My Father

    Close your eyes and feel me near
    keep me inside your heart
    let me live in your soul
    you see through tears
    the things we will never do
    running across the fields of my youth
    games never played
    but it is not gone
    those dreams you hold so close
    for I live on in every child you see
    little ones standing a lone... lost
    or laughing in a playground
    swinging so high
    touching the tree tops
    that is I
    wanting just to love
    feel my happiness in the song of a bird
    see my sorrow in mother
    hold her close forever
    feeling your strength
    for there will be one to come behind me
    whether through God's grace or
    from a different calling
    a child chosen through His hand.
    For in darkness, a light will appear
    even if it is just the dawn
    signaling a new beginning
    and as you gather my mother to your heart
    release your tears
    let the healing begin
    and discover that I am here
    in your dreams
    in your tomorrows
    Every rainbow is the path home
    and if you should stumble
    I am the wings that shall lift you
    Love, your child

    Author: Theresa Cochrane
    Copyrighted by: Growing Family, Inc.
    Used by permission

    Wednesday, June 11, 2008

    Free Jewelry Gift Packaging

    Recently I was thinking that I wanted to freshen up my packaging a bit. While I love my black velveteen pouches with the gold foil embossed logo, I wanted the recipient to have a "receiving a present" type feeling when they open up their order. I decided that the presentation is important to conveying how special and unique the item(s) they are receiving is. This is what I came up with:

    New Jewelry Gift Packaging

    Our signature jewelry pouch is inside a folded "packette", which includes a little surprise inside. The gift wrap features a floral motif in muted tones. A cream satin ribbon and bow add a coordinating finishing touch. If a gift card message was specified at checkout, the gold gift card is attached to the bow. I like that this new packaging is appropriate for all recipients, including men, and it enhances the experience of receiving a treasured keepsake.

    And for those who are purchasing a gift, but are shipping it to themselves, fear not! There is no tape involved and the packaging can easily be unwrapped for a peek at the contents, then rewrapped for gift giving.

    The new jewelry packaging is included free with all Priority and Express Shipping methods. It's a little added bonus to choosing the upgraded shipping. The new packaging is not available on First Class shipment, as it doesn't fit into the bubble envelope used.

    Sunday, June 1, 2008

    Studio Tour


    Welcome to my newly redesigned studio! I have to thank my husband Rich for all his hard work and skill in making this dream come true. Here are a few pictures. You can click on them for a larger view. You can also see more detailed pictures by visiting my Studio Tour page.



    Office area for ordering and paperwork. I love my window views! It is so peaceful in here. The only problem is that I want to keep working till the wee hours of the morning in here.



    Engraving Area; Orders ready to be made and shipped.



    Area for beading, assembling, and packing orders.



    Metalsmithing area


    Storage area. I love when things are organized!

    It's our 3rd Anniversary!

    Three years ago today, I officially launched www.MyForeverChild.com online shop. Although I had been making the child loss jewelry for several months before that, it took a while to get the website up and running. It was opened to the public in June 2005.

    I'm so proud of how much we've accomplished and done in three years. Extremenly happy that we were able to bring comfort to over 5,000 people internationally so far.

    Thank you for being such a wonderful and caring clientele. Your hearfelt testimonials and emails really help me to go on and continue what I'm doing.

    May God bless you all,
    Sue

    Tuesday, May 27, 2008

    Proposed U.S. Legislation for Stillbirth!

    Dear Friends,

    We have exciting news!

    Representative Peter King from New York has introduced a bill to raise awareness about stillbirth that seeks to standardize the definition of stillbirth, and the method in which stillbirth data is collected, so there can be a national repository for stillbirth data with which to conduct comprehensive research efforts. The bill also authorizes a campaign to increase public awareness of good prenatal care practices that may decrease the risk of stillbirth, including monitoring movements during the last trimester. The proposed bill and supporting documents are attached.

    Now we need your help! We are asking that you write a letter to your Representative asking them to co-sponsor this bill. The more co-sponsors the bill has, the more likely it is to pass. Please note, this is for the House of Representatives only. Do not contact your Senators at this time.

    If you could do this within the next couple days to one week, we will be able to maximize the momentum Representative King has initiated!

    Members of Congress receive hundreds of messages from their constituents every day. This communication is important to them because it helps them better understand what issues are important to those they serve. Through your requests, congressional leaders will support legislation, add their names as co-sponsors or even introduce legislation to assist constituents in their districts.

    The compelling testimony provided by parents at First Candle’s 2007 Advocacy Day-on-the Hill is what prompted Representative King to introduce this important bill!

    · The first step is to identify the Representative for the District you live in. If you already know that, or have had direct contact with him/her, you are one step ahead of the game!

    · If you do not know who your Representative is, or if you do not have contact information, you can find that information at https://forms.house.gov by putting in your 9-digit zip code (if you do not know your 4 digit extension, you can get it at http://zip4.usps.com/zip4/welcome.jsp.) You will then be able link directly to your Representative’s website. There you will find all the information you need, as well as the ability to email directly to their office.

    · Once you have the contact information, write your letter. We have provided a sample letter below, but encourage you to add your personal story where indicated. Personal stories always have a greater impact and are taken more seriously than form letters! Of course, you can write your own letter if you have the time or desire. Just remember to keep the statistics and information about the bill consistent with that of the sample letter.

    · Sending a hard copy or email letter are both equally effective. If you are mailing a hard copy, feel free to send along the documents attached to this email. It is not a good idea to attach documents to email letters, as they will most likely be rejected. Do not let this discourage you from using email though, as the vast majority of constituent letters do not include supporting documentation. Your email letters can be sent directly through your Representative’s website.

    · First Candle would very much appreciate knowing who you have sent a letter to. This way we can conduct follow-up if and when that becomes necessary. Simply send an email to jennifer.johnson@firstcandle.org with your name and the name of the representative or staffer you sent the letter to. Hard or email copies of your letters are also welcome!

    · And finally . . . please share this email with anyone that you think would be interested in supporting this effort, including family, friends, your favorite support organizations, groups, websites, etc.

    · If you have any questions regarding the bill or this process, feel free to contact Marianne Adezio at 703-741-7053 or madezio@golinharris.org

    We thank you in advance for your prompt attention to this important matter! By working together, we stand to gain the most in our quest to spare families the devastation of stillbirth . . . in the belief that every baby should live.

    Sincerely,

    The Board and Staff of First Candle

    Sample Letter

    Dear Representative ________________:

    I am writing to ask you to co-sponsor legislation that would help the CDC and researchers better determine the risk factors associated with stillbirth and convey those risk factors to expectant parents.

    House of Representative Bill 5979, the Stillbirth Awareness and Research Act of 2008, was introduced by Representative Peter King of New York in an effort to address the lack of standardized data collection nationally with regard to stillbirth.

    Each year more than 25,000 babies in the United States are stillborn. More than 50 percent of these deaths occur in the last trimester of pregnancy and 15 percent occur during labor and delivery. Due to a lack of autopsy/investigation and inconsistencies in diagnosing these, more than 50 percent of all stillbirths remain unexplained.

    With standardized investigation and reporting of these deaths, researchers would be better able to determine the risk factors. H.R. 5979 would both standardize the definition of stillbirth and the method in which data is collected, in order to create a national repository of stillbirth data to assist researchers in conducting comprehensive studies in to the causes of, and possible preventive strategies for, stillbirth. The bill also authorizes a public awareness campaign promoting good prenatal practices, including monitoring movements during the last trimester of pregnancy, to reduce the risk of stillbirth.

    This legislation is important to me because (insert your personal story here)

    Thank you so much for your consideration of my request.

    (insert name and contact information here)

    Certificate of Birth Resulting in Stillbirth- NEW YORK




    Time is running out to pass the New York Certificate of Birth Resulting in Stillbirth -- Bill# A8960.

    Legislative sessions end on June 23rd. We have less than 5 weeks left.

    The Bill has continued to STALL in the Ways & Means committee (since January 29, 2008).

    It is their responsibility to review bills and determine the financial impact on the state. 23 states have now passed similar bills and reported no negative fiscal impact. Instead, states have generated income via the certificate fees.

    They know this. They need to be good stewards of their position and move this bill out of their committee.

    The Senate passed the bill 58-1. They need to give the Assembly its turn.

    Time is running out. Will you continue to help with the passage of this bill?

    Go here: http://tinyurl.com/yqokqh

    It will take less than 30 seconds to send an email to the Ways & Means Committee members. Join us in asking the committee members to move Bill A8960 out of their committee so it can come in front of
    the full Assembly for a floor vote.

    Pass this email to EVERYONE you know and ask them to show their support of the Certificate of Birth Resulting in Stillbirth Bill for you.


    For every family that has faced the tragedy of a stillbirth; for every family that will face this tragedy ...help us pass the CBRS Bill. Thank you.

    www.CBRSbill.blogspot.com

    Sunday, May 4, 2008

    Survey- Stillbirth & Neonatal Death

    I am a bereaved parent who had a
    stillbirth three years ago. I am currently
    co-conducting a survey about medical bad news delivery
    and the communications between patients and care
    providers about their diagnosis. I am specifically
    hoping to reach parents who have had a stillbirth,
    neonatal death (death of a child within 28 days of
    birth) or a pregnancy loss.
    Click Here for Survey


    We are hoping to learn more about this kind of
    communication and offer insights to care-providers
    about the effects of these interactions. Data
    collected from this confidential survey will be used
    for completion of a course project in the master's
    program at San Francisco State University. The survey
    is confidential and should take approximately 25
    minutes to complete.


    If you have any questions, I would be happy to
    answer them. I can be reached by email at
    spullen@sfsu.edu.


    I also have hard copies of the surveys and if you
    send me an email with the street address, I would be
    happy to mail them to you.


    I send my sincere thanks for considering helping get
    the word out about this study,


    Suzanne Pullen
    spullen@sfsu.edu
    www.surveymonkey.com/nld
    More about my story here

    Tuesday, April 29, 2008

    Spring Fling Giveaway



    Enter the Spring Fling Giveaway for a chance to win one of several unique WAHM made products.

    My Forever Child is giving away an "In Mom's Heart" necklace with up to 6 birthstone crystals to represent each child.

    Hurry, the last day to enter the contest is April 30th. Good luck!!

    Click Here to Enter the Spring Fling Giveaway

    Monday, April 28, 2008

    New Beaded Bookmarks



    Here's a fun project that I've been working on- beaded bookmarks/ bookthongs. Beautiful art glass beads are strung onto color coordinated waxed Irish linen cord. The designs are complemented by silver toned spacer beads and charms.



    You'll enjoy reading even more with these bookthongs. The string lies snugly into the spine of the book without stretching or damaging it. The two colored cords can hold two different pages at once. The beads hang at either end of the book for a delightful reader's companion.



    The center of the cord is 12 inches long. This is long enough for a hard cover or soft cover book.

    Click here to see all of our bookmark styles

    Mother's Day 2008 Exclusive Bracelets




    We designed this stunning bracelet specifically for Mother's Day 2008 in mind. This simple and classy pearl bracelet is comfortable enough to be worn everyday or can be treasured for special occassions.

    6mm genuine freshwater pearls in cream and blue/grey colors alternate around the bracelet band. A sterling silver "Mother" or "Grandma" message bead is the central focal bead.

    A sterling silver extenension chain allows the bracelet to be adjusted from 7 inches to 8.25 inches. A sterling silver filigree angel charm is the finishing touch to represent the family's angel(s) either on earth or in heaven.

    In stock and ready for quick shipment!!
    Click here to order the Mother's Bracelet
    Click here to order the Grandma's Bracelet