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In today’s world, where screens dominate our lives, it’s more important than ever to encourage our little ones to develop a love for reading. Not only does it improve their language skills and imagination, but it also provides a healthy escape from the digital world.
As parents, caregivers, and educators, we’re constantly seeking innovative ways to make reading fun and engaging for our children. That’s why we’re thrilled to share with you our free printable Bluey bookmarks!
If your household is anything like mine, Bluey is a beloved member of the family. The popular animated series has captured the hearts of both kids and adults alike, with its adorable characters, engaging storylines, and valuable life lessons.
So, what better way to encourage reading than with a familiar friend like Bluey?
These printable bookmarks are designed to be fun, colorful, and easy to use. They feature Bluey and her family, and are perfect for kids of all ages. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or librarian, we hope you’ll find these bookmarks a valuable resource in your quest to promote reading and a love for books.
Printing Instructions:
Click on the link to download the free printable bookmark template.
Print the template on card stock or thick paper.
Cut out the bookmark along the lines.
Laminate the bookmark for extra durability (optional).
Add a ribbon or tassel to the top (optional).
Ideas for Using Your Bluey Bookmarks:
Add them to boo baskets or trick-or-treat bags for a fun surprise.
Give them out as gifts to students or friends.
Use them as a reward for reading milestones or accomplishments.
Keep them for yourself (we won’t judge!)!
We hope you and your little ones enjoy these free printable Bluey bookmarks! Reading is such an important part of our lives, and we’re thrilled to be able to share this fun resource with you. So go ahead, print out a few (or a few dozen!), and get ready for some paw-some reading fun!
Happy reading, and don’t forget to share your love for Bluey with us!
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As parents, we want the best for our children, and that includes providing them with a safe and healthy environment to grow and learn.
One often overlooked aspect of creating a nurturing space is the furniture we choose for our kids’ reading nooks. Traditional bookshelves and bookcases can be made with toxic materials that can harm our children’s health and wellbeing.
In this article, we’ll explore the importance of non-toxic bookshelves and bookcases for kids and provide guidance on selecting the perfect safe and eco-friendly option for your little bookworm.
The Hidden Dangers of Traditional Bookcases
Conventional bookcases are often made from engineered wood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), or particleboard, which contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and pesticides.
These toxins can leach into the air, causing indoor air pollution and potentially harming your child’s health. Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and even cancer.
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) can lead to headaches, dizziness, and nausea, while pesticides can harm your child’s developing brain and nervous system.
The Impact on Children’s Health
Children are more vulnerable to the effects of toxic chemicals due to their developing bodies and brains. Exposure to these chemicals can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems, allergies, and developmental delays.
Moreover, many children spend a significant amount of time in their reading nooks, making them more susceptible to the harmful effects of toxic bookcases and other playroom furniture.
Benefits of Non-Toxic Bookcases
Non-toxic bookcases made from natural, sustainable materials offer numerous benefits for your child’s health and wellbeing. By choosing a non-toxic bookcase, you can:
Improve indoor air quality
Reduce the risk of allergies and respiratory issues
Enhance cognitive development
Support healthy growth and wellbeing
Choose eco-friendly and sustainable options
Materials to Look For When Choosing A Bookcase
When shopping for a non-toxic bookcase, it’s essential to choose materials that are safe and sustainable. Look for bookcases made from:
Solid hardwoods
Rubberwoods
Sustainable TSCA compliant engineered wood
Bamboo
Reclaimed or sustainably sourced wood
Low-VOC MDF or plywood
Natural finishes (e.g., water-based stains, wax)
The Importance of Natural Finishes
Natural finishes are a crucial aspect of non-toxic bookcases. Avoid bookcases with chemical-based finishes like polyurethane or varnish, which can emit harmful VOCs. Instead, opt for natural finishes like water-based stains or wax, which are non-toxic and eco-friendly.
Additional Tips For Choosing A Non-Toxic Bookcase
Selecting the perfect non-toxic bookcase requires research and attention to detail. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Research manufacturers and their materials
Read reviews and ask questions
Consider the bookcase’s durability and longevity
Look for certifications like Greenguard Gold or Oeko-Tex
Creating a safe and healthy reading nook for your child is essential for their development and wellbeing. By choosing a non-toxic bookcase made from natural, sustainable materials, you’re providing a nurturing environment that promotes healthy growth and a love for reading.
Remember to always prioritize your child’s health and wellbeing when selecting furniture for their reading nook. With that said, below are our top picks for non-toxic and sustainable bookcases that are perfect for your little bookworm!
The 3 Sprouts recycled fabric bookshelf is a great addition to a kids’ reading nook, not only for its functional design but also for its eco-friendly credentials.
Made from recycled polyester, derived from recycled plastic bottles, this bookshelf helps divert plastic from landfills and reduces the need for new fibers. The production process of recycled polyester requires significantly fewer resources and generates fewer CO2 emissions, making it an eco-conscious choice for nursery and playroom furniture.
By choosing this bookshelf, parents can promote sustainability and teach their children the importance of reducing waste, all while creating a cozy and inviting reading space that’s safe and non-toxic.
The Guidecraft spinning book shelf for kids is a great non-toxic buy for parents seeking a safe and healthy storage solution for their child’s book storage.
Made from durable, Greenguard Gold Certified birch plywood, this bookshelf meets rigorous standards for low chemical emissions, ensuring a healthier indoor environment for your child.
The protective UV finish adds an extra layer of safety, while the acrylic sides provide a non-toxic and easy-to-clean surface.
With its rotating design and divided compartments, this bookshelf offers easy access and organization, making it a practical and healthy choice for your child’s reading nook.
The Delta Children Tree Bookcase is an excellent non-toxic buy for parents seeking a safe and healthy storage solution for their child’s books.
Made from sustainable, TSCA-compliant engineered wood, this bookcase meets stringent safety standards while minimizing environmental impact. Rigorous testing ensures it meets or exceeds government and ASTM safety standards for lead and other toxic elements.
Additionally, its Greenguard Gold certification guarantees low chemical emissions, creating a healthier indoor environment for your child to grow and learn. With its sturdy design and eco-friendly credentials, the Delta Children Tree Bookcase is a great buy.
The Wooden Teether front-facing Montessori style bookshelf is another great non-toxic buy for parents who are seeking a safe and healthy storage solution for their child’s books.
Made from sustainablyregeneratedtropicalrubberwood, a durable and eco-friendly natural hardwood, this bookshelf prioritizes both the child’s wellbeing and the environment. Did we mention that it also has a really cool blackboard on the back?
The surface and edges are carefully polished and coated with child-friendly, water-based paint, ensuring a smooth and rounded finish that allows children to interact with it freely, without the risk of exposure to harsh chemicals or toxins.
This thoughtful design makes it an excellent choice for parents committed to creating a non-toxic and nurturing environment for their child to grow and learn.
The solid wood bookcase by Petkaboo is a great non-toxic buy for a child’s reading nook because it is made from eco-friendly wooden material, ensuring a healthier environment for kids to play and learn.
The bookcase has undergone rigorous compliance testing by a CPSC-accredited laboratory, meeting all safety standards set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. This guarantees that the bookcase meets strict safety requirements, giving parents peace of mind.
Additionally, the easy-to-clean design makes maintenance a breeze, reducing the risk of harmful chemicals or toxins accumulating on the surface.
With its sturdy wooden construction and safety certifications, this bookcase is an excellent choice for parents seeking a non-toxic and durable storage solution for their child’s books and toys.
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Birthday parties are a time-honored tradition, a celebration of life, love, and another year of adventure! They’re a special day to shower our little ones with attention, affection, and joy, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
As we plan the perfect party, every detail matters – from the decorations to the games, and of course, the invitations. The invitation sets the tone for the entire celebration, giving guests a glimpse into the fun and excitement that awaits.
That’s why finding the perfect invitation is so important – it’s the first hint of the magic to come, and it deserves to be just as special as the birthday boy or girl themselves. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand bash, the right invitation will get the party started in style!
Now, if your child is utterly obsessed with Bluey, then these Bluey themed invites are an absolute must-have!
Imagine their face lighting up when they see their favorite furry friend starring on their very own birthday invitation. Our free printable Bluey invites are specifically designed to bring a smile to your little one’s face and set the tone for a tail-wagging good time.
With Bluey by your side, you’ll be creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime!
Our free printable Bluey birthday party invitations are super easy to download and print! With just a few clicks, you’ll have adorable, customizable invites ready to delight your little one and their guests!
Our printable invitations offer:
Easy download and print capabilities
Customizable fields for party details (must be hand-written)
Vibrant, high-quality Bluey designs
Instant access – no waiting or shipping required!
With our free printable Bluey invitations, you can:
Focus on the fun aspects of party planning
Save time and energy for more important things
Ensure a cohesive, themed look for your party
Downloading Your Free Bluey Themed Birthday Party Invites
We’re excited to share these adorable Bluey themed Birthday invitations with you! To make it easy to get started, we’ve included a simple download button below each printable sheet.
Here’s how to download:
Scroll down to the printable sheet you’d like to download.
Click the “Download Now” button below the image.
The file will automatically download to your device as a PDF or JPEG file.
Open the file and print the invitations on your printer using regular paper or cardstock.
Cut out the individual invitations and deliver them to friends and loved ones!
Tips:
Make sure to adjust your printer settings to “fit to page” or “scale to fit” for best results.
You can print as many copies as you like, whenever you need them.
Happy downloading and we wish your little one a very happy birthday!
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Car seats are an essential item for parents with young children—especially since we need them to bring baby home from the hospital.
But, did you know that many traditional car seats contain harmful chemicals and flame retardants that can affect baby’s health long term?
In this blog article, we will discuss the dangers of flame retardants, otherwise known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers or PDBEs, and explore the benefits of non-toxic car seats that are flame retardant free.
We will also delve into the details of why these car seats are a safer and healthier option for your child, and provide recommendations for some of the best non-toxic car seats on the market!
Why Are Flame Retardants Bad For Babies?
Whether you’re a new or seasoned parent, you’re probably wondering about the health impacts of flame retardants, and I’m more than happy to share some concerning facts with you.
Babies are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of flame retardants because they have a higher exposure to these chemicals through dust, breast milk, pajamas, cribs and other sources—like car seats.
If you thought lead and mercury were dangerous, here are several examples of what flame retardants can do to our little ones’ physical and mental health that a lot of parents may not be familiar with:
Flame retardants can disrupt brain development, which can lower your child’s IQ—resulting in reading problems, ADHD and hyperactivity.
Flame retardants contain toxic chemicals that can cause developmental delays, cancer, and other health problems in babies.
Flame retardants can disrupt the endocrine system in babies, leading to hormonal imbalances and other health issues.
Most flame retardants are structurally similar to thyroid hormone chemicals and increase the risk for thyroid cancer (National Institutes Of Health).
It’s never too late to make changes and improve your baby’s environment. The important thing is to start taking necessary steps to reduce baby’s exposure to these chemicals and create a safer space for them.
What Are The Benefits Of Non-Toxic Car Seats?
Investing in a non-toxic car seat is a smart choice for parents who want to prioritize their baby’s health and well-being, and they have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the numerous benefits mentioned below. Here are some of the advantages of using non-toxic car seats:
Non-toxic car seats are made without harmful chemicals such as flame retardants, which have been linked to developmental delays and cancer.
They are made from natural materials such as merino wool which are naturally flame resistant and much safer for babies to be in contact with.
Non-toxic car seats are also more eco-friendly, as they do not release harmful toxins into the air or contribute to landfill waste.
In addition to these benefits, non-toxic car seats are also more comfortable for babies to sit in, as they are made with softer and more breathable materials.
Wait, What If There’s An Actual Fire? Won’t Flame Retardants Be Helpful?
Flame retardants in your baby’s car seat wouldn’t be much help in the event of a large car fire because they are designed to slow down the spread of flames, not prevent them entirely.
Additionally, if the fire is already too large, the heat and smoke could still harm your baby before the flame retardants have a chance to take effect.
That’s why it’s best to just go with Merino wool car seats, which are a non-toxic and natural alternative to traditional car seats that rely on flame retardants.
Due to their natural flame resistance, you can rest assured that your child is safe without the need for added chemicals.
What To Look For When Shopping For A Non-Toxic Car Seat
When shopping for a non-toxic car seat, it is important to look for seats that are free of harmful chemicals such as flame retardants, phthalates, and heavy metals.
Look for seats that are certified by third-party organizations such as GreenGuard Gold or Oeko-Tex, which test for harmful substances. Additionally, consider seats made from natural materials such as Merino wool.
Remember to always read the label and do your research before purchasing a car seat.
With that said, here are some of the best non-toxic car seats available on the market today, many of which are GreenGuard Gold Certified!
Best Chemical-Free Car Seat Brands For Safe Travel
In early 2022, CHICCO announced that several of their products have earned GREENGUARDGoldcertification. And if you’re a parent who’s used CHICCO products in the past (and love them), then this is very exciting—because they’re affordable!
What I love most about the OneFit ClearTex All-in-One Car Seat is that it has a slim design, and takes up less space in the vehicle without compromising comfort. It also has room to grow, and turns from a rear-facing infant seat into a booster seat that’s able to hold up to 100 pounds.
When it comes to finding a sustainable car seat that is also non-toxic, CHICCO is the best option for those on a budget. Not only is it affordable, but it also meets safety standards and is made with eco-friendly materials.
Top 5 Features
Weighs 25 Pounds
Accommodates growth from birth through booster (5-100 lb)
No fire retardant chemical treatments, PFAS, BPA and phthalates
9-Position recline in each mode of use with ReclineSure leveling system
I am loving the entire Nuna car seat line. Not only is each and every model flame-retardant free, Nuna has some of the most stylish car seats around.
Nuna baby gear is made with GOTS certified organic cotton and Merino wool. The gear is also extensively tested before it leaves the factory, and to ensure compliance with safety standards, the company regularly has every gear tested at accredited, independent labs.
With that said, Nuna car seats are a top choice for parents who prioritize safety for their babies. With their advanced safety features, non-toxic construction and rigorous testing, Nuna car seats provide peace of mind for parents on the road.
Top 5 Features
Weighs only 5.3 lbs
Suitable for use from 4 to 32 lbs, and up to 32” height
Uppababy is a highly recommended baby gear brand with a great reputation for its quality and safety features. The car seats are easy to install, and parents love the cozy designs.
The MESA V2 is made with fabric that is free from fire retardant chemicals for all fashions and textiles, including the large UPF 25+ hideaway Canopy (this also goes for their models: Knox, and Alta).
This sustainable car seat is also GREENGUARD® GOLD Certified to support healthier air quality and low chemical emissions. It also has a cocoon-like shape that makes babies feel super cozy!
The Clek Liing infant car seat is free of brominated and chlorinated flame retardants, and can be installed without a base thanks to its unique European path belt design.
I also love that this particular car seat can be recycled! In 2013, Clek became the first and only car seat manufacturer to operate a car seat recycling program.
The Clek Liing is an easy to install, eco-friendly and super comfortable, making it a non-toxic option for parents looking to prioritize their child’s safety, health and comfort.
Top Pick: Primo Viaggio Convertible Kinetic (Merino Wool)
❌ GREENGUARD Gold Certified
✔️ FAA Approved
Though it doesn’t have the GREENGUARD Gold certification, the Peg Perego, which is made in Italy, is 100% chemical-free, and has been certified by the ISO 9001. In other words, they meet or exceed international safety standards.
The Peg Perego non-toxic car seat is really a wise investment. It is made with high-quality materials, and is free from harmful chemicals, ensuring the safety of your child. The car seat is also designed to be comfortable and easy to use, making it a practical choice for parents.
Overall, the Peg Perego non-toxic car seat is a great choice for parents who prioritize safety and comfort for their children. It’s also available on Amazon.
Top 5 Features
Weighs 24.4lbs
Made from 100% Merino Wool.
Can be used rear facing for children 5 to 45 pounds and forward facing for children 22 to 65 pounds.
Kinetic pods help to move forces away from your baby in case of a side collision.
The anti-rebound bar protects baby by minimizing forces and reducing rotation in case of a front or rear collision.
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Aside from being totally adorable and wallet-friendly, cloth diapers can be very intimidating for many curious parents who are considering switching over from disposables.
After all, there are about 8 different cloth diaper styles on the market right now (possibly more), and each design has a different fit. So how do you know which cloth diaper will work best for your baby?
First, let’s go over all the different styles of cloth diapers that are available to you.
What Are The Different Styles Of Cloth Diapers?
Flat Diapers
Flat diapers predate all diapers. They are a single layer of cloth (typically cotton or bamboo), and they need to be folded into multiple layers for absorbency. They are economical, but the downside to flat diapers is that they can leak without a cover, and they require safety pins to secure them in place.
Pre-FoldDiapers
Prefold diapers are rectangular pieces of cloth with multiple layers of fabric for absorption, and can be used inside pocket diapers or reusable covers. Prefolds are economical, versatile, flexible and easy to wash. However, they can be bulky, inconvenient, and must be upgraded in size as baby grows.
Fitted Cloth Diapers
Fitted cloth diapers resemble a disposable diaper in that they have an hourglass shape, leg elastics to keep messes contained, and they are easy to fasten. The downside to fitted cloth diapers is that they are not waterproof, and you need to purchase covers; they are also more expensive than prefold diapers.
Pocket Diapers
Pocket diapers are cloth diapers that contain a waterproof cover and inner pocket that can be stuffed with absorbency layers—like prefolds or inserts. They can grow with your baby and come in really cute designs. The downside to pocket diapers is that they can leak, they tend to be bulky, and stuffing/removing inserts can be inconvenient.
All-In-One Diapers (AIO)
All-In-One diapers have a simple design with a trim fit that prevents leaks, and they are made with several absorbency layers along with a waterproof outer shell. They are considered the most convenient reusable diapers for daycares, and can be used throughout the potty training stage as well. The downside to All-In-One diapers is that they are expensive and take longer to dry.
All-In-2 Diapers(AI2)
All-In-2 cloth diapers are very similar to pocket diapers. They contain a waterproof outer shell, but the inserts snap inside of the diaper instead of getting placed inside of a pocket. Parents love these reusable diapers because most of the time (unless there’s a blow out, you only need to swap out the insert.
Hybrid Cloth Diapers
Hybrids are a cross between disposable and cloth diapers. They have a flexible design, a waterproof shell, and can use any absorbency layer (cloth or disposable). These cloth diapers are also cost-effective, daycare friendly, and travel-friendly. The downside to hybrid cloth diapers is that some designs can leak, and beginners might find them a bit complicating.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Cloth Diapers
Cloth diapers are reusable, which means that while you may fork up a descent amount of money in the beginning, you’ll actually end up saving money in the long run. Depending on the brand, the average household spends between $600-$900 a year on disposable diapers—and you’ll keep spending this amount yearly until they are potty trained.
Cloth diapers are hypoallergenic and don’t cause skin issues such as chemical burns, rashes or dermatitis. A majority of disposable diapers are packed full of toxic chemicals (including fragrance) that are actually harmful to your baby and their sensitive skin. Cloth diapers are breathable and lined with gentle and non-toxic fabric such as cotton, hemp, and bamboo.
While they do use up much more water due to laundering, cloth diapers are zero-waste because they do not need to be discarded like disposable diapers, and can be reused for many years if cared for properly.
How Many Cloth Diapers Do I Need?
The amount of cloth diapers that you will need depends on the age of your baby and how often you plan on doing laundry. However, many cloth diaper brands recommend about:
24-26 diapers for a newborn
20-22 diapers for a 3-12 month old
16-18 diapers for a 12-24 month old
12-14 for an older toddler who is potty training
But, because of the overwhelming number of diaper changes in the newborn stage, many parents postpone switching over to cloth diapers until their baby is around 4-6 months old—and that’s understandable.
Do Daycare Centers Allow Cloth Diapers?
When it comes to cloth diapers and childcare facilities, each daycare center is different. Most daycare centers in the United States allow cloth diapers, and there aren’t any state or federal rules that prohibit daycares from allowing cloth diapers.
When it comes to diaper style, if your little one is attending daycare and the facility does indeed allow cloth diapers, then the all-in-one style is the easiest reusable style for daycare workers to manage (they won’t need to struggle with inserts and diaper changes will be quick and easy).
What Type Of Cloth Diaper Is Best Overall?
I will recommend, however, that it’s best to choose brands that strive to make their cloth diapers as non-toxic, eco-friendly and hypoallergenic as possible—because babies have sensitive skin.
Cloth diapers are like infant formula—not all brands will work for your baby and you’ll most likely need to try a few different styles before you find one that works best.
Mama Koala is an environmentally conscious cloth diaper company that uses sustainable and non-toxic material to create the softest and most absorbent diapers with beautiful aesthetics. They also come with 6 5-layer natural cloth inserts, which is a great deal.
Features
The diapers contain a bamboo interior lining that wicks moisture away from your child’s skin and keeps them dry.
Contain wing snaps to prevent wing droop.
Contain cross-over snaps for new born fit as well as a wrap and snap feature for soiled diapers, and rise snaps for customized fit.
Charlie Banana is a 2-in-1 reusable fleece cloth diapering system that grows with your baby. In other words, it’s a one size diaper with adjustable sizing straps and snug fit straps. Inserts can be placed inside or over the pocket, and the brand offers inserts made of fleece, cotton, bamboo and disposable varieties. Charlie Banana is Climate Neutral and a member of 1% for the Planet.
The hypoallergenic Rumparooz One Size Cloth Diaper is a pocket diaper system that grows with your child. They are designed with a patented leak protection technology and each diaper comes with a free set of microfiber absorbent pads called the 6r Soaker.
The AlvaBaby brand is a nice budget-friendly alternative to most other cloth diaper brands, and there are a ton of fun fabric designs to choose from. The “one-size” pocket diapers come with (2) 3-layer microfiber inserts that draw moisture away from baby’s skin, and the adjustable snaps allow the diapers to grow with your baby.
Features
Contain hip snaps and crossover snaps to prevent wing droop.
Washable, waterproof and breathable.
Comfortable elastic legging area to prevent leaking.
The Weegreco cloth diapers are super stylish and affordable. Not only do you get multiple diapers for around $30, they also include 6 bamboo inserts and a wet bag. They have really great Amazon reviews, and moms love the value, comfort, absorbency, quality and versatility. There are mixed reviews on leak issues, but based on experience, that’s with any cloth diaper—even the most expensive varieties.
Features
Waterproof outer layer.
Comes with (6) 4-Layer bamboo inserts.
Micro-suede interior that keeps moisture away from skin.
Grows with your baby.
Gentle elastic around legs and waist provide protection against leaks.
The eco-chíc looking Bambino Mio Miosolo All-In-One Reusable Cloth Diapers are super soft, and the one-size design means it will grow with your little one from baby to toddler. It also contains an inner pocket for inserts to maximize absorbency for heavy wetters. The material is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified which ensure that they are hypoallergenic and safe to use on baby’s sensitive skin.
Features
Each set contains 6 diapers and starter accessories.
The size of the diaper can be changed using the adjustable snaps and hook and loop fastenings to suit the shape of your little one.
Super stay soft fabric remains soft wash after wash, providing the softest and most comfortable diaper for your baby’s bottom.
This hidden gem is well worth the buy for many reasons. They are a small family-owned business, and all of their 7 pack bundles come with 4-layer bamboo viscose inserts and wet bags for around $69. We also love the whimsical earthy color palettes and boho designs. They have very positive Amazon reviews, and moms love the value, fit, leakage, absorbency, comfort, and ease of cleaning.
Features
Contain super absorbent 4-layer bamboo polyester inserts.
Adjustable snap layout fits babies and toddlers from 10 to 33 pounds.
![Best Eco-Friendly Disposable Diapers [That Actually Don’t Leak]](https://ecomomdiaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2dc87387-d99d-4870-9998-0b76baaec04d.png?w=474)
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